Australia Crush England by 68 Runs, Extend ODI Dominance

Australia Crush England by 68 Runs, Extend ODI Dominance

Australia’s dominance in the ongoing ODI series against England continued as they secured a comprehensive 68-run victory in the second match at Headingley. The world champions, despite facing a precarious situation at 221-9, were propelled to a competitive total of 270 all out thanks to a valiant 74 from wicketkeeper Alex Carey.

Carey’s blistering knock, which included eight boundaries and three towering sixes, formed a crucial 49-run partnership with Josh Hazlewood for the last wicket. This proved to be the difference as England’s inexperienced batting lineup crumbled under pressure, dismissed for a mere 202 with nearly 10 overs remaining.

The Australian bowling attack, led by Mitchell Starc and Hazlewood, played a pivotal role in England’s downfall. Starc, returning from illness, struck early, removing Will Jacks for a golden duck and trapping England captain Harry Brook lbw for just four. Hazlewood also made an impact, dismissing opener Phil Salt and Jamie Smith, who top-scored for England with 49.

Paceman Aaron Hardie further dented England’s hopes, claiming two wickets in two balls to leave the hosts reeling at 65-5. Ben Duckett and Liam Livingstone both fell victim to Hardie’s variations, while Carey’s diving catch sent Livingstone back to the pavilion for another golden duck.

Earlier, Australia’s top order struggled to make significant contributions, with Mitchell Marsh (60) being the only batsman to surpass 29. However, Carey’s heroics ensured that Australia posted a challenging target.

The series now moves to Chester-le-Street for the third ODI on Tuesday, with Australia aiming to extend their winning streak and England desperate to salvage some pride.

Hardik Pandya's Test Return Prospects Downplayed by Ravi Shastri

Hardik Pandya’s Test Return Prospects Downplayed by Ravi Shastri

Hardik Pandya’s Test return prospects have been downplayed by former India coach Ravi Shastri, despite the all-rounder’s recent social media post showcasing his bowling practice. Pandya was removed as Team India’s vice-captain in white-ball cricket after Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as head coach, and his Test comeback has been a subject of speculation.

Shastri, who coached Pandya during his tenure with the Indian team, believes that Pandya’s return to the Test setup depends on his physical and mental readiness. “If he feels he is strong enough to take the load, then why not? Don’t want it to be a case where he comes in too early, plays and gets injured and then you miss him for the white-ball as well,” Shastri said during commentary of the India-Bangladesh first Test.

Shastri emphasized that Pandya’s mindset and approach to the situation will be crucial. “Depends on how his mindset is. That would be ideal from India’s point of view. I think he is someone who knows his body better than anyone,” Shastri added.

However, Shastri also suggested that Pandya may need to prioritize certain formats if he is not confident about his fitness and workload. “Got to see where he is most suited, in which format of the game. And stick to that,” he said.

Pandya played a pivotal role in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 triumph as vice-captain, contributing with both bat and ball. However, he was replaced by Shubman Gill as India’s vice-captain in T20Is and ODIs after Gambhir’s appointment.

Pandya’s Test chances appear slim, as he did not participate in the Duleep Trophy 2024. The all-rounder’s last Test appearance was in 2018, and his return to the Test setup remains uncertain.

10-Man Kombans Hold Warriors to 1-1 Draw in Thrilling Encounter

10-Man Kombans Hold Warriors to 1-1 Draw in Thrilling Encounter

Thiruvananthapuram Kombans, despite playing with a numerical disadvantage for much of the match, managed to salvage a 1-1 draw against Kannur Warriors FC in the Chandrasekharan Nair stadium on Saturday.

The match started with Warriors dominating possession and creating early chances. Praygan Sundar Gogoi’s free-kick in the fifth minute was tipped over by Kombans goalkeeper Michel Santos. However, Kombans’ defense held firm, despite the relentless pressure from the visitors.

The turning point of the match came just before half-time when Kombans captain Patrick Mota received two yellow cards in quick succession for needless fouls. This gave Warriors a numerical advantage and they capitalized on it in the second half.

In the 56th minute, Warriors’ Cameroonian player Ernesten Lavsamba scored a spectacular volley from the top of the box to put his side into the lead. Kombans, now playing with 10 men, faced an uphill battle.

However, the home team showed great resilience and determination. They fought back and created several chances of their own. In the 86th minute, substitute Ganesan scored a crucial equalizer for Kombans. He crashed in a rebound from a free-kick, much to the disappointment of the Warriors.

The goal came against the run of play and gave Kombans a valuable point. The draw keeps them in contention for a playoff spot, while Warriors remain in the hunt for the championship.

Sunrisers Crowned Regional Champions in Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy Finale

Sunrisers Crowned Regional Champions in Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy Finale

Sunrisers, once the perennial underdogs of the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, have emerged as the final regional champions of the tournament. Their remarkable turnaround culminated in a 27-run DLS victory over South East Stars, a testament to their newfound resilience and determination.

Kate Coppack, a formidable new-ball bowler, played a pivotal role in dismantling the Stars’ top order. Her career-best figures of 4 for 27 left the Stars reeling at 53 for 4. Alice Davidson-Richards, however, provided a glimmer of hope with a valiant 93, forming crucial partnerships with Aylish Cranstone and Phoebe Franklin.

Despite Davidson-Richards’ heroics, the Stars were eventually bowled out for 212. Cordelia Griffith, in scintillating form, then led the Sunrisers’ chase with a blistering half-century. Her 54-ball 57, adorned with elegant cover drives and powerful pulls, propelled the Sunrisers to a comfortable position.

As the rain intensified, the match was halted with the Sunrisers well ahead of the DLS par score. Their victory marked a historic moment, as they became the last team to lift the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy in its regional format.

Sunrisers’ triumph is a testament to their unwavering spirit and the exceptional performances of their players. Coppack’s accuracy and Griffith’s explosive batting proved to be the difference-makers in their remarkable journey from wooden spoon winners to regional champions.

Ashwin Surpasses Kumble as India's Leading Wicket-Taker in Fourth Innings of Tests

Ashwin Surpasses Kumble as India’s Leading Wicket-Taker in Fourth Innings of Tests

Indian spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin has etched his name in the annals of Test cricket history by surpassing legendary Anil Kumble to become the highest wicket-taker for India in the fourth innings of a Test match. Ashwin achieved this remarkable feat during the first Test against Bangladesh at Chennai on Saturday.

After going wicketless in the first innings, Ashwin turned the tide in the final innings while defending a mammoth total of 515 runs. By the end of day three, he had claimed three wickets for 63 runs in 15 overs, with an economy rate of 4.20.

With this performance, Ashwin has now taken 96 wickets in the fourth innings of a Test in just 35 innings, at an astonishing average of 19.4 and a strike rate of over 45. His best bowling figures in the fourth innings stand at an impressive 7/59. He has also registered six five-wicket hauls in the fourth innings of a Test match.

Ashwin’s remarkable achievement has not only placed him above Kumble, who had 94 fourth innings wickets, but also tied him with West Indies legend Courtney Walsh as the eighth-highest wicket-taker in Tests. In 101 Tests, Ashwin has amassed 519 wickets at an average of 23.78, with best figures of 7/59 and a total of 36 five-wicket hauls. Walsh, on the other hand, took 519 wickets in 132 Tests between 1984-2001.

In the ongoing Test match, Bangladesh won the toss and elected to field first. India’s top-order collapsed, leaving them at a precarious 34/3. However, opener Yashasvi Jaiswal (56) and Rishabh Pant (39) stitched a crucial 62-run partnership for the fourth wicket, bringing India back into the game.

After India was reduced to 144/6, Ashwin (113) and Ravindra Jadeja (86*) forged a magnificent 199-run partnership, helping India reach a respectable 376 in 91.2 overs. Hasan Mahmud (5/83) was the standout bowler for Bangladesh, while Taskin Ahmed also chipped in with three wickets.

In their first innings, Bangladesh struggled to keep up with India’s pace attack. Shakib Al Hasan (32), Litton Das (22), and Mehidy Hasan Miraz (27*) offered some resistance, but Jasprit Bumrah (4/50) and Akash Deep (2/19) proved too strong, dismissing Bangladesh for 149 runs and leaving them trailing by 227 runs.

In their second innings, India once again lost their top-order quickly, but centuries from Shubman Gill (119*) and Rishabh Pant (109) helped them reach 287/4 before declaring their innings. Bangladesh was set a daunting target of 515 to win.

Bangladesh started their run-chase positively, with openers Zakir Hasan (33) and Shadman Islam (35) putting up a 62-run opening stand. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto (51*) held the innings together as Ashwin (3/63) and Bumrah (1/18) picked up wickets. At the end of day three, Bangladesh was 158/4, with Shanto and Shakib Al Hasan (5*) unbeaten.

Shakib Al Hasan Battles Finger and Shoulder Discomfort, Affecting Bowling Performance

Shakib Al Hasan Battles Finger and Shoulder Discomfort, Affecting Bowling Performance

Former Indian spinner Murali Kartik has shed light on the struggles faced by Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, revealing that he is battling discomfort in his spinning finger and shoulder. This revelation comes after Shakib’s underwhelming performance in the ongoing Test match against India, where he conceded 64 runs in just seven overs.

Kartik, who is currently involved in broadcasting duties for the match, stated that Shakib has undergone finger surgery on his bowling finger. The injury has caused swelling and rigidity, affecting his grip and feel for the ball. Additionally, Shakib is also experiencing shoulder issues, further hindering his bowling ability.

“He has had a finger surgery on his bowling finger, which is the point of his finger of his left hand. It is swollen, it is rigid, there is no movement, no suppleness to it. So he feels he is not getting any feeling out of it. As a spinner, you need the feeling,” Kartik explained.

Shakib’s finger injury dates back to the 50-over World Cup last year, where he sustained a left index finger injury against Sri Lanka. This injury kept him out of action for several months. He also faced an eye problem that delayed his return to the Bangladesh team.

Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal expressed concern over Shakib’s injuries, stating that if he is playing despite these issues, Bangladesh is effectively playing with one bowler short. He questioned whether the team management was aware of Shakib’s injuries.

However, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) chief physician Dr. Debashish denied any knowledge of Shakib experiencing discomfort due to an injury. He acknowledged that Shakib had a fractured finger from the World Cup but stated that he had not recently complained about any finger or shoulder injuries.

Despite the BCB’s denial, Kartik’s revelation raises questions about Shakib’s fitness and the team’s decision to field him in the Test match. With Bangladesh struggling to contain India’s batting lineup, Shakib’s absence as a frontline bowler could prove costly.

Rain Threatens to Delay India's Victory Push in Chennai Test

Rain Threatens to Delay India’s Victory Push in Chennai Test

India vs Bangladesh Test: Rain Threatens to Delay India’s Victory Push

The first India vs Bangladesh Test in Chennai has been marred by bad light and the threat of rain, forcing an early end to Day 3 and casting doubt over India’s chances of securing a victory.

As India tightened their grip on the match, a cloud cover descended over the Chepauk Test in the final session, prompting the umpires to call off play with 10 overs remaining. The weather forecast for Sunday is equally concerning, with showers predicted that could further delay India’s bid for a 1-0 series lead.

Overnight rain and thunderstorms are expected in Chennai, with cloudy weather persisting throughout the fourth day. The Weather Channel predicts rain after midnight, potentially carrying on until 5 am. This could lead to a delayed start or even a stop-start game, depending on the condition of the field.

At the close of play on Day 3, Bangladesh were 158 for 4, still requiring 357 runs to chase down India’s mammoth total of 515. Ravichandran Ashwin was the star performer for India, claiming three wickets, while Jasprit Bumrah took one. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto and all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan were unbeaten on 51 and 5, respectively, when play was halted.

If the rain does not interfere, India will be looking to wrap up the match quickly. The overcast conditions are expected to favor fast bowling, which could give India an advantage. However, the threat of rain remains a major concern and could potentially spoil India’s victory push.

Kohli's Controversial DRS Decision Sparks Debate

Kohli’s Controversial DRS Decision Sparks Debate

Virat Kohli’s decision not to review an LBW decision against him in the second innings of the first Test against Bangladesh sparked controversy and became a major talking point on social media. The incident occurred when Kohli was trapped by Bangladesh spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz for 17 runs. Umpire Richard Kettleborough raised his finger in favor of the bowler, but Kohli opted against reviewing the decision.

However, replays later revealed that there was an inside edge on the ball, which even Kohli was unaware of. This costly error left Indian captain Rohit Sharma visibly baffled, as he appeared frustrated with Kohli’s decision not to take the DRS review. Kettleborough, on the other hand, couldn’t help but smile upon realizing that the star Indian batter had made a blunder.

During the final innings of the first Test, Kohli approached Kettleborough for a brief conversation. The umpire’s comment, accompanied by a pat on Kohli’s back, left the Indian skipper laughing uncontrollably. Although the video capturing this interaction quickly spread across social media platforms, the absence of audio made it impossible to discern the exact words exchanged between the two.

Kohli’s decision not to review the LBW decision has been widely criticized by experts and fans alike. Many believe that it was a reckless and impulsive decision that cost India a crucial wicket. However, some have defended Kohli’s decision, arguing that he may have felt confident that he had not hit the ball.

Despite the controversy surrounding Kohli’s decision, India managed to close in on victory in the first Test thanks to centuries from opener Shubman Gill and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant. Bangladesh started their chase of 515 runs briskly but lost wickets to reach 158-4 when bad light stopped play on day three. The visitors still need 357 runs for a win.

India D Dominate India B in Duleep Trophy Final

India D Dominate India B in Duleep Trophy Final

India D has taken a commanding lead over India B in the final Duleep Trophy fixture in Anantapur. Resuming on 210 for 6, India C added 72 runs to their overnight score, thanks largely to Washington Sundar’s 87. Saurabh Kumar claimed the remaining four wickets to finish with a five-wicket haul.

India D’s second innings got off to a shaky start as Navdeep Saini and Mukesh Kumar reduced them to 18 for 3. However, Shreyas Iyer counterattacked with a quickfire 50, hitting seven fours and a six. Sanju Samson, who scored a century in the first innings, contributed 45, while Ricky Bhui remained unbeaten on 90.

At stumps, India D were 244 for 5, with Bhui and Akash Sengupta at the crease. They lead India B by 311 runs with five wickets in hand.

India B, currently second on the table, face an uphill task to win the title. They need to win outright and hope that neither India C nor India A win outright.

Kerala Blasters Seek Redemption Against East Bengal FC

Kerala Blasters Seek Redemption Against East Bengal FC

Kerala Blasters, eager to bounce back from their season-opening loss, will face East Bengal FC at the Nehru Stadium on Sunday. However, the Kochi-based side will once again be without their midfield maestro Adrian Luna, who remains sidelined due to illness.

In the absence of Luna, Blasters struggled to find their rhythm in a 1-2 defeat against Punjab FC. “We came out pretty poor, it was a hard loss in the dying seconds, hard to handle but we have to move forward,” said Blasters head coach Mikael Stahre.

Stahre emphasized the need for improvement in several areas, particularly in crossing and creating chances inside the box. “We have to cross the halfway and more often, with control, so that we can bring more numbers higher up, create more crosses and have more players inside the box,” he said.

East Bengal FC, who also lost their season opener, will be under pressure to perform in front of the Blasters’ home crowd. “We have to do a good job in front of the Blasters fans. Kerala is going to be under pressure, they have to fight a lot too,” said EBFC coach Carles Cuadrat.

Both teams will be desperate for a victory to kick-start their ISL campaigns. Blasters will rely on the likes of Dimitrios Diamantakos and Sahal Abdul Samad to provide attacking impetus, while EBFC will look to their experienced players such as Cleiton Silva and Antonio Perošević for inspiration.

The match promises to be an intriguing battle between two teams eager to prove their worth. Blasters will be determined to make amends for their poor start, while EBFC will be keen to show that they can compete with the top teams in the league.

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart