Rohit Sharma's DRS Blunder Leaves India Captain Red-Faced

Rohit Sharma’s DRS Blunder Leaves India Captain Red-Faced

Rohit Sharma, India’s esteemed captain, has faced criticism for his questionable DRS decisions. During the first Test against Bangladesh in Chennai, Rohit’s refusal to review a caught-behind decision left him with a face-palm moment.

In the 62nd over, Bangladesh batter Hasan Mahmud faced Ravichandran Ashwin’s delivery. The ball spun sharply and bounced high, hitting Mahmud’s glove before being caught by wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant. However, replays suggested the ball may have grazed Mahmud’s forearm before entering Pant’s gloves.

Despite Pant’s insistence on taking DRS, Rohit remained adamant. The replays later confirmed that the ball had indeed touched Mahmud’s glove, meaning a review would have resulted in an overturned decision.

Pant couldn’t resist teasing Rohit, saying, “Out tha, abe yaar replay dekh to lo (it was out, at least see the replay).”

Despite the DRS blunder, India secured a comprehensive 280-run victory, taking a 1-0 lead in the series.

After the match, Rohit praised Pant’s remarkable return to Test cricket after a 600-day absence. “He’s been through some really tough times. The way he has managed himself through those tough times was superb to watch,” Rohit said.

Rohit’s DRS decision-making has been a topic of discussion among cricket pundits. Some believe his reluctance to review decisions stems from a desire to maintain control on the field. Others suggest it may be a lack of confidence in the DRS system.

Regardless of the reasons, Rohit’s DRS decisions have raised questions about his captaincy. As India prepares for the upcoming Test series against Australia, Rohit will need to improve his DRS decision-making to ensure the team’s success.

India's Chess Teams Clinch Historic Gold Medals at Chess Olympiad

India’s Chess Teams Clinch Historic Gold Medals at Chess Olympiad

India’s chess teams made history on Sunday, claiming gold medals in both the men’s and women’s categories at the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest.

The men’s team, led by D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, and R Praggnanadhaa, defeated Slovenia 3-0 in the final round to secure the title. Gukesh, playing with black pieces, displayed his technical prowess against Vladimir Fedoseev, while Erigaisi and Praggnanadhaa also emerged victorious.

The women’s team, featuring Tania Sachdev, Koneru Humpy, and Harika Dronavalli, clinched the gold with a 3.5-0.5 triumph over Azerbaijan. Sachdev and Humpy won their matches, while Dronavalli drew hers.

This marks the first time that India has won gold medals in both the men’s and women’s categories at the Chess Olympiad. The men’s team had previously won bronze medals in 2014 and 2022, while the women’s team had won bronze in 2022.

After their victory, the Indian contingent celebrated with a unique gesture, imitating the iconic slow-walk celebration of Rohit Sharma and Lionel Messi after winning the T20 World Cup 2024 and FIFA World Cup 2022, respectively.

The Indian men’s team finished the tournament with an impressive 21 points out of a possible 22, conceding only a single draw to Uzbekistan. The women’s team also performed exceptionally, scoring 3.5-0.5 against Azerbaijan.

This historic victory is a testament to the growing strength of chess in India and the dedication and hard work of the players and coaches. It is a proud moment for the nation and a significant milestone in the history of Indian chess.

Sam Elliott's Historic Bowling Leads Victoria to One-Day Cup Victory

Sam Elliott’s Historic Bowling Leads Victoria to One-Day Cup Victory

Victoria’s Sam Elliott etched his name into Australian One-Day domestic cricket history with a remarkable performance against Tasmania in Melbourne. Elliott’s devastating spell of 7 for 12, the second-best figures in the competition’s history, propelled Victoria to a thrilling four-wicket victory.

On a challenging pitch at the Junction Oval, Elliott wreaked havoc on Tasmania’s batting lineup. His extra bounce and late seam movement proved too much for the visitors, who were dismissed for a paltry 126. Elliott’s victims included Jordan Silk, Jake Weatherald, and Brad Hope, all of whom were caught behind.

Victoria’s chase got off to a shaky start, losing six wickets for 72 runs. However, Elliott and skipper Will Sutherland combined for an unbeaten 56-run partnership to guide their side to victory. Elliott’s 19 not out included some impressive pull shots, while Sutherland contributed a composed 36 not out.

Earlier, Tasmania’s innings had been hampered by the early dismissals of Mitch Own and Caleb Jewell. Elliott’s introduction into the attack proved disastrous for the visitors, who lost their middle order in quick succession. Matthew Kuhnemann and Gabe Bell’s 34-run partnership for the 10th wicket provided some consolation for Tasmania.

Victoria’s victory was a testament to Elliott’s exceptional bowling performance and the resilience of Sutherland and Elliott’s partnership. The result leaves Victoria with a 1-0 lead in the One-Day Cup series against Tasmania.

Ashwin, Jadeja Indispensable to India's Test Dominance, Says Kamran Akmal

Ashwin, Jadeja Indispensable to India’s Test Dominance, Says Kamran Akmal

India’s Test Dominance Hinges on Ashwin and Jadeja, Says Kamran Akmal

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal has highlighted the pivotal roles played by Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in India’s Test team, particularly on home soil. His comments come after India’s emphatic 280-run victory over Bangladesh in the first Test in Chennai.

Akmal emphasized the duo’s match-winning partnership in the first innings, which turned the tide in India’s favor. After the hosts found themselves struggling at 144/6, Ashwin and Jadeja combined for a crucial 199-run stand. Ashwin scored a brilliant 109, while Jadeja contributed with a valuable 86.

“What an all-round performance from Ashwin,” Akmal said on his YouTube channel. “He took six wickets in the second innings and scored a century. It was a match-winning partnership from Jaddu. Without these two players, India can’t form a Test playing XI at home. They are big performers.”

Ashwin’s brilliance extended to the bowling department, where he claimed six wickets in Bangladesh’s second innings. Jadeja provided excellent support, finishing with combined figures of 5/77 across both innings.

Akmal also praised Shubman Gill’s return to form, noting his unbeaten 119 in the second innings. “Shubman Gill showed his form. He is a remarkable player, and it is important for him to score runs,” Akmal said.

Another highlight of the match was Rishabh Pant’s comeback to Test cricket. After recovering from a serious car accident in December 2022, Pant scored a gritty 109 in the second innings. Akmal commended Pant’s resilience and the efforts of the medical team that facilitated his return.

“It was an incredible performance from Pant,” Akmal said. “I salute the medical panel and the trainer who brought him back to the field.”

India’s victory in Chennai has further solidified their dominance in Test cricket at home. With Ashwin and Jadeja leading the charge, the team looks well-equipped to continue their success in the upcoming matches against Bangladesh.

Pratyasa Ray Wins Prestigious Ekalabya Puraskar for Swimming Excellence

Pratyasa Ray Wins Prestigious Ekalabya Puraskar for Swimming Excellence

Pratyasa Ray, a rising star in Indian swimming, has been selected for the prestigious Ekalabya Puraskar for 2024. The award recognizes her exceptional performance at the Khelo India University Games in Guwahati earlier this year, where she secured an impressive haul of six medals, including four gold, one silver, and one bronze.

The Ekalabya Puraskar committee, comprising jury members from various sectors, unanimously selected Ray for the award at a meeting in Bhubaneswar. She will be awarded a cash prize of Rs 7 lakh, an increase from the previous Rs 5 lakh, along with a citation at a ceremony to be held at a later date.

Ray’s selection is a testament to her hard work and dedication to the sport. She has consistently performed at a high level, representing Odisha and India in various national and international competitions. Her achievements have not only brought glory to her state but have also inspired aspiring swimmers across the country.

In addition to Ray, sprinter Dondapati Mrutyam Jayaram and badminton player Tanvi Patri will also be felicitated for their remarkable performances in various international and national-level events. Each of the citation winners will receive a cash prize of Rs 1.5 lakh, up from Rs 1 lakh, along with citations at the award ceremony.

The Ekalabya Puraskar was instituted by the charitable body IMPaCT in 1993 and is managed by IMFA, the leading ferro alloys producer in the country. It is now considered the most prestigious sports award in Odisha. The award is given every year to young sportspersons of Odisha in recognition of their outstanding performance in the preceding two years.

Announcing the names of the award winners, Baijayant Panda, chairperson of the Ekalabya Puraskar Committee and Trustee of IMPaCT, said, “The award was instituted to encourage young sportspersons of the state to perform at the national and international arenas.”

The Ekalabya Puraskar has played a significant role in promoting sports in Odisha and has helped to identify and nurture young talent. The award winners have gone on to represent India at the highest level and have brought laurels to the country.

Sri Lanka Crush New Zealand by 63 Runs in Galle Test, Jayasuriya Stars

Sri Lanka Crush New Zealand by 63 Runs in Galle Test, Jayasuriya Stars

Sri Lanka’s relentless bowling attack, led by Prabath Jayasuriya’s exceptional performance, secured a resounding 63-run victory over New Zealand in the first Test at Galle. The triumph marks a significant milestone for Sri Lanka, propelling them to third place in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings.

Jayasuriya, the left-arm spinner, was the architect of Sri Lanka’s triumph, claiming a match-winning haul of 9 for 204. His eight-wicket haul in the second innings, including a five-wicket burst on the final morning, proved decisive in dismantling New Zealand’s resistance.

After Sri Lanka posted a formidable 305 in their first innings, New Zealand responded with a competitive 340, thanks to a gritty 70 from Tom Latham. However, Sri Lanka’s bowlers, including Ramesh Mendis and Jayasuriya, kept the pressure on, restricting New Zealand’s lead to just 35 runs.

In their second innings, Sri Lanka amassed 309, with Dimuth Karunaratne contributing a crucial 83. New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Ajaz Patel and Will O’Rourke, fought back, but Sri Lanka’s batting depth proved too strong.

With a target of 275, New Zealand began the final day with hope, but Jayasuriya’s early strike against Rachin Ravindra (92) shattered their momentum. O’Rourke’s dismissal shortly after sealed New Zealand’s fate, handing Sri Lanka a comprehensive victory.

O’Rourke, despite his disappointment, emerged as a standout performer for New Zealand, claiming eight wickets in the match. However, it was Jayasuriya’s brilliance that ultimately proved the difference, earning him the Player-of-the-Match award.

The result has significant implications for both teams in the WTC. Sri Lanka’s victory keeps their hopes of reaching the final alive, while New Zealand’s defeat complicates their path to qualification.

With just a two-day break, the two teams will reconvene in Galle for the second Test, starting on Thursday. Sri Lanka will be aiming to seal the series, while New Zealand will be desperate to bounce back and level the contest.

Shubman Gill's Puzzling Batting Statistic: Dominance in Second Innings, Struggles in First

Shubman Gill’s Puzzling Batting Statistic: Dominance in Second Innings, Struggles in First

Shubman Gill’s peculiar batting statistic has left cricket pundits scratching their heads. Since 2020, Gill has boasted the highest average among Indian Test batters in the second innings, but his overall Test average remains a modest 35. This glaring disparity suggests a consistent underperformance in the first innings.

In the ongoing first Test against Bangladesh, Gill’s pattern repeated itself. After a disappointing duck in the first innings, he rebounded with a magnificent 119 in the second. Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar expressed his bewilderment at this recurring phenomenon.

“I have no idea. I just cannot apply a cricketing reason to this,” Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo. “His Test career went off the rails slightly. He started very well against Australia in Australia – got a 90. After that, he had a few opportunities against not-so-great oppositions in India and didn’t quite cash in, didn’t get the big scores, and then had the tough tours.”

Gill’s struggles in the first innings have hindered his overall Test average. Despite his impressive second-innings performances, his career average remains below par. This inconsistency has raised questions about his ability to perform consistently at the highest level.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh ended Day 3 of the Chennai Test at 158/4, trailing India by 357 runs. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto (51*) and Shakib Al Hasan (5*) remained unbeaten at the crease. India’s bowlers, led by Ravichandran Ashwin, picked up four wickets in the post-Tea session to keep Bangladesh in check.

Iga Swiatek Surpasses Barty, Becomes Seventh-Most Weeks at WTA No. 1

Iga Swiatek Surpasses Barty, Becomes Seventh-Most Weeks at WTA No. 1

Iga Swiatek’s reign at the pinnacle of women’s tennis continues to extend, as she surpasses Ashleigh Barty to become the seventh-most weeks at No. 1 in WTA rankings history. With 122 weeks at the top, Swiatek has cemented her place among the all-time greats.

Since the inception of the WTA rankings in 1975, only six players have held the No. 1 ranking for more weeks than Swiatek. Steffi Graf leads the pack with an astonishing 377 weeks, followed by Martina Navratilova (332), Serena Williams (319), Chris Evert (260), Martina Hingis (209), and Monica Seles (178).

Swiatek’s dominance has been remarkable, with her current streak of 44 consecutive weeks at No. 1 being the longest since Serena Williams’ 186-week reign from 2013 to 2016. Her consistent performances and Grand Slam victories have solidified her position as the world’s top player.

However, Swiatek’s grip on the No. 1 ranking could face a challenge in the coming months. Her withdrawal from the WTA 1000 event in Beijing due to personal matters has opened the door for World No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka to close the gap. Sabalenka can potentially catch up to Swiatek in Beijing and further threaten her position at the WTA Finals, where Swiatek is defending the title.

Despite the potential threat, Swiatek remains the favorite to retain her No. 1 ranking. Her exceptional form and determination will make it difficult for her rivals to dethrone her. As the season progresses, the battle for the top spot promises to be intense and captivating.

India's Bowling Attack Compared to Pakistan's Legendary Trio

India’s Bowling Attack Compared to Pakistan’s Legendary Trio

India’s bowling attack has drawn comparisons to Pakistan’s legendary fast-bowling trio of Wasim Akram, Shoaib Akhtar, and Waqar Younis, according to former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali.

Ali’s praise comes after India’s comprehensive 280-run victory over Bangladesh in the first Test in Chennai. India’s pacers, led by Jasprit Bumrah (4/50), Mohammed Siraj (2/30), and Akash Deep (2/19), outclassed Bangladesh’s batting lineup, dismissing them for a meager 149 in the first innings.

Bumrah’s four-wicket haul and Akash Deep’s early breakthroughs, combined with Siraj’s consistency, left Bangladesh reeling. The dominant performance has drawn comparisons from Basit, who likened India’s current pace attack to Pakistan’s legendary fast-bowling trio.

“The Indian bowling unit is so impactful that they are on the level with pacers Wasim Akram, Shoaib Akhtar, and Waqar Younis. Right now, Mohammed Shami is not even playing,” Basit remarked on his YouTube channel.

Basit also expressed excitement about India’s emerging pace talent, particularly 22-year-old Mayank Yadav. The young speedster impressed during the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL), clocking the fastest delivery of the season at 156.7 kph for Lucknow Super Giants. Basit believes Mayank’s pace could be a game-changer in India’s upcoming Test assignments, specifically against Australia.

“Mayank Yadav’s ball is very dangerous. His bouncer is accurate. I wish to see him play a Test match in Australia,” Basit said.

With India’s established pacers performing brilliantly, all eyes will be on how the selectors integrate budding talents like Mayank Yadav into the squad for future challenges.

Rohit Sharma's Playful Antics and Ashwin's Brilliance Lead India to Victory

Rohit Sharma’s Playful Antics and Ashwin’s Brilliance Lead India to Victory

Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma’s jovial nature and expressive on-field antics have made him a fan favorite. During the first Test against Bangladesh in Chennai, Rohit’s playful demeanor was once again on display.

In a viral video, Rohit was seen performing his signature bail flip while fielding. The video captured the essence of Rohit’s relaxed yet competitive approach to the game. His animated conversations with teammates and humorous exchanges with opposition players showcase his ability to balance intensity with a sense of fun.

India’s victory in the first Test was largely due to the brilliance of R Ashwin. After going wicketless in the first innings, Ashwin claimed six wickets in the second innings, including the crucial dismissal of Bangladesh captain Mominul Haque.

Ashwin’s contributions extended beyond bowling. In the first innings, he scored a gritty century, rescuing India from a precarious position. His partnership with Ravindra Jadeja propelled India to a respectable total of 376.

For his outstanding performance, Ashwin was named Player of the Match. The focus now shifts to Kanpur, where the second Test match is scheduled to take place from September 27. India, with a 1-0 lead in the series, will be the favorites heading into the second game.

Bangladesh, on the other hand, have never managed to defeat India in a Test match. However, they will be determined to make history and level the series in Kanpur.

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