Sanju Samson Unfazed by Snubs, Focuses on Team Success

Sanju Samson Unfazed by Snubs, Focuses on Team Success

Sanju Samson, the enigmatic wicketkeeper-batter from Rajasthan, has been a constant subject of debate among cricket enthusiasts. Despite his impressive performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and sporadic appearances for the national team, Samson has often found himself on the sidelines of the Indian squad.

Samson’s international debut came in 2015, but he has since struggled to cement his place in the team. He was overlooked for the Asia Cup 2023 and ODI World Cup 2023 squads, despite his consistent performances in the IPL. He was eventually included in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad but did not feature in any matches.

Recently, Samson played two matches in India’s three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, but failed to score a single run. Despite these setbacks, the 29-year-old remains unfazed.

“I will just go and play whenever they select me. That’s it! End of the day, our team is doing well. I am the kind of person who believes in higher purpose. I just try to take things positively under controllable circumstances and put up the efforts,” Samson said at a recent event.

Samson’s resilience is evident in his performances for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL. In the 2024 season, he emerged as the fifth highest run-scorer with 531 runs in 15 matches.

Overall, Samson has played 30 T20Is for India, scoring 444 runs, and 16 ODIs, scoring 510 runs. He has also played 167 IPL matches, amassing 4419 runs.

Despite his impressive record, Samson’s omission from the Indian team has raised questions about the selection criteria. Some experts believe that his inconsistent performances in international cricket have cost him his place, while others argue that he deserves more opportunities.

As the Indian team prepares for the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2024, Samson’s form and selection will be closely monitored. If he can replicate his IPL performances on the international stage, he could prove to be a valuable asset for the team.

Former England Cricketer Graham Thorpe Took His Own Life

Former England Cricketer Graham Thorpe Took His Own Life

Graham Thorpe, the former England cricketer who passed away on August 5, 2023, at the age of 49, took his own life, his family has revealed.

Thorpe’s wife, Amanda, told The Times that her husband had been suffering from depression and anxiety in recent years. “He was so unwell in recent times and he really did believe that we would be better off without him,” she said. “We are devastated that he acted on that and took his own life.”

Thorpe, who played 100 Test matches for England, was a highly respected figure in the cricket world. He was known for his elegant batting and his ability to score runs in all conditions. He also played 82 One-Day Internationals for England, scoring 2,380 runs.

After retiring from playing, Thorpe worked as a coach for England and Surrey. He was widely regarded as one of the best coaches in the world and helped to develop some of England’s most talented young players.

Thorpe’s death has sent shockwaves through the cricket community. He was a popular figure among fans and players alike, and his loss will be deeply felt.

In a statement, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Graham Thorpe. Graham was a fine cricketer and a wonderful ambassador for the game. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.”

Thorpe’s family has asked for privacy at this difficult time. They have also set up a JustGiving page to raise money for the mental health charity Mind.

Gambhir's India: Contrasting Start as T20 Dominance Meets ODI Disappointment

Gambhir’s India: Contrasting Start as T20 Dominance Meets ODI Disappointment

Gautam Gambhir’s tenure as Team India’s head coach has witnessed a contrasting start, marked by a dominant T20I series victory over Sri Lanka followed by a disappointing ODI series loss.

In the T20I series, India under Gambhir’s leadership showcased their prowess, securing a 3-0 sweep against Sri Lanka. Suryakumar Yadav emerged as a key performer, showcasing his exceptional batting skills. However, the euphoria was short-lived as Sri Lanka bounced back in the ODI series, claiming a 2-0 victory.

The ODI series exposed India’s batting frailties on turning pitches, despite the presence of star players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa attributed the team’s struggles to the departure of Rahul Dravid as head coach, leaving a significant void to fill.

Uthappa expressed confidence in Gambhir’s ability to guide India to continued success, particularly in the T20 format. He highlighted Gambhir’s leadership qualities, tactical acumen, and ability to create a positive team environment.

“He’s always been someone who thrives under pressure and has consistently sought out big stages to deliver. As far as I’m concerned, I see the same qualities in him as a leader within this group,” Uthappa said.

India’s next challenge lies in a series against Bangladesh, commencing on September 19. The tour will feature two Tests and three T20Is, providing Gambhir with an opportunity to further shape the team’s performance and establish his coaching credentials.

Underdogs Triumph at Paris 2024 Olympics, Upsetting Favorites

Underdogs Triumph at Paris 2024 Olympics, Upsetting Favorites

The Paris 2024 Olympics witnessed a series of astonishing upsets, proving that even the most dominant athletes can be dethroned.

Tennis:

Zheng Qinwen of China stunned the tennis world by defeating Iga Swiatek, the reigning French Open champion, in the women’s singles semifinals. Zheng’s victory marked the first time an Asian player had won Olympic gold in singles tennis.

Athletics:

Noah Lyles, the favorite in the men’s 200m, was upset by Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo. Lyles, who had won the 100m gold earlier in the Games, finished with a bronze medal. In the men’s 1500m, USA’s Cole Hocker set a new Olympic record and claimed the gold medal, leaving world champion Josh Kerr and defending champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen behind.

Wrestling:

India’s Vinesh Phogat defeated Japan’s Yui Susaki, the reigning Olympic champion in women’s wrestling. However, Phogat’s triumph was short-lived as she was disqualified for failing to make the weight cut for her final bout.

Swimming:

China ended the United States’ 64-year unbeaten streak in the men’s 4x100m relay swimming medley. The Chinese team delivered an incredible performance, with Pan Zhanle executing a remarkable comeback in the anchor leg.

Table Tennis:

Wang Chuqin of China, the world’s top-ranked player, was upset by Swedish player Truls Moregard in the men’s singles table tennis competition. Moregard fought back from a 2-0 deficit to win the match 4-2.

Other Upsets:

Jamaica failed to win a medal in the men’s 100m, 200m, or 4x100m relay for the first time in decades. The U.S. women’s water polo team, considered the most dominant in the world, was knocked out in the semifinals and failed to win a medal. The U.S. men’s and women’s 3×3 basketball teams also struggled, with the men’s team failing to qualify for the Games and the women’s team settling for bronze.

These upsets serve as a reminder that even the most favored athletes can be defeated, and that the Olympic Games are a stage where anything is possible.

Toronto Nationals Crowned Global T20 Canada Champions

Toronto Nationals Crowned Global T20 Canada Champions

Toronto Nationals emerged victorious in the fourth season of the Global T20 Canada, dethroning defending champions Montreal Tigers by a dominant 8-wicket margin in a thrilling final.

Toronto skipper Colin Munro’s decision to field first proved fruitful as Montreal’s batting lineup collapsed, managing a meager 96/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Australian pacer Jason Behrendorff led the charge with an impressive 3/8 in his four overs, triggering a top-order collapse that put Toronto in control.

Despite challenging batting conditions and a rain delay, Toronto’s Andries Gous played a pivotal role in securing victory. Despite suffering a broken finger, Gous remained unbeaten on 58 runs off 49 balls, guiding his team to a comfortable win.

Montreal’s innings was characterized by a series of early setbacks. Opener Praveen Kumar was dismissed in the second over, followed by Gerhard Erasmus and Tim Seifert in consecutive deliveries. Chris Lynn and Sherfane Rutherford also departed cheaply, leaving the Tigers in disarray.

Corbin Bosch and Jaskaran Singh provided some resistance with a 46-run partnership, but it was not enough to prevent Toronto from taking control of the match.

Toronto’s chase got off to a shaky start with Munro dismissed for nought. However, Gous and Rassie van der Dussen (30 not out) forged an unbeaten 85-run partnership to seal the victory without further hiccups.

Romario Shepherd was named the bowler of the tournament for his 14 wickets, while George Munsey was recognized as the batter of the tournament for his 218 runs. Canadian youngster Dilpreet Bajwa was awarded the Emerging Player of the tournament, and Junaid Siddique was named the Player of the tournament.

Toronto Nationals’ triumph marks their maiden title in the Global T20 Canada, solidifying their status as one of North America’s premier T20 teams.

India Bags Six Medals at Paris Olympics 2024, One Short of Tokyo Haul

India Bags Six Medals at Paris Olympics 2024, One Short of Tokyo Haul

India’s Paris Olympics 2024 campaign concluded with a respectable six medals, just one shy of their historic Tokyo 2020 haul. The nation’s most successful Olympic outing remains Tokyo 2020, where they secured seven medals.

Manu Bhaker emerged as a shooting star, claiming two bronze medals in the individual and mixed team events. Swapnil Kusale also contributed a bronze in shooting. Neeraj Chopra, the reigning Olympic champion in men’s javelin throw, added a silver to his collection. The men’s hockey team fought valiantly to secure a bronze medal against Spain. Aman Sehrawat rounded out India’s medal tally with a bronze in wrestling.

The possibility of India matching their Tokyo 2020 medal count remains open, pending the outcome of Vinesh Phogat’s appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). If successful, she could be awarded a joint silver medal.

India's Paris Olympics Performance: Mixed Bag with No Gold Medals

India’s Paris Olympics Performance: Mixed Bag with No Gold Medals

Abhinav Bindra, India’s first individual Olympic gold medalist, expressed mixed emotions about India’s performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics. While acknowledging the team’s achievement in matching its London 2012 medal haul, Bindra lamented the absence of a gold medal.

India sent a 117-member contingent to Paris, hoping to surpass its previous best Olympic performance in Tokyo. However, the team returned with six medals: five bronze and one silver. Bindra believes this result falls short of expectations, particularly in terms of gold medals.

“The Olympics is an incredibly challenging platform to perform on,” Bindra said. “External and internal expectations can hinder athletes from letting go and performing at their best.”

India’s campaign began promisingly with Manu Bhaker winning two bronze medals in shooting. Swapnil Kusale added a third bronze in the men’s 50m rifle 3 position. However, the badminton, boxing, and archery contingents failed to deliver medals.

In the final days of the Games, Neeraj Chopra won a silver medal in javelin throw, while the men’s hockey team and wrestler Aman Sehrawat clinched bronze. Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification prevented India from potentially winning a gold medal in wrestling.

Despite the disappointment, Bindra emphasized the importance of continued investment in Olympic sports. “We must consolidate the gains that have been made and work harder to get there,” he said.

Bindra believes that India’s athletes have performed well overall, but the lack of gold medals remains a concern. He urged athletes to focus on their own performance rather than external expectations.

Domestic Cricket Contracts Announced: Hinds, Magicians Make Key Additions

Domestic Cricket Contracts Announced: Hinds, Magicians Make Key Additions

New Zealand’s domestic cricket season is set to kick off soon, and several provinces have announced their contracted players for the upcoming campaign. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the latest updates:

Central Hinds:

Central Hinds captain Natalie Dodd has opted out of the contracting process due to her pregnancy. The team has signed Anna Gaging, who joins her twin sister Kate on the roster. Last season’s young additions, Aniela Apperley, Emma McLeod, and Flora Devonshire, have retained their spots. The captaincy remains undecided, with Hannah Rowe a potential candidate.

Canterbury Magicians:

Kate Anderson has returned to the Canterbury Magicians after missing out on an NZC central contract. Harriet Graham has earned her first domestic contract after impressing in the wider squad. The team is committed to developing young talent, with senior players providing guidance and support.

Other Updates:

Other provinces have also announced their contracted players. Northern Districts has retained the core of its squad, including White Ferns stars Suzie Bates and Lauren Down. Wellington Blaze has signed promising all-rounder Georgia Plimmer, while Otago Sparks has added experienced batter Katey Martin.

Key Points:

* Natalie Dodd’s absence creates an opportunity for other players to step up for Central Hinds.
* Canterbury Magicians are focused on developing young talent and providing a supportive environment.
* Several provinces have retained their key players, while others have added promising additions.
* The upcoming domestic season promises to be competitive and exciting, with a mix of experienced and emerging players.

Punjab FC Triumphs Over Mumbai City FC in Durand Cup Group C Finale

Punjab FC Triumphs Over Mumbai City FC in Durand Cup Group C Finale

Punjab FC emerged victorious in their final Group C match of the 133rd Durand Cup, defeating Mumbai City FC 3-0 at the Kishore Bharati Stadium on Sunday. The win propelled Punjab FC to the top of the group standings, while Mumbai City FC, fielding a young reserve team, finished without a point.

Norwegian forward Mushaga Bakenga was the star of the show for Punjab FC, scoring twice, including a crucial penalty in injury time. Croatian midfielder Filip Mrzljak also found the net for the winning side.

The match began with Punjab FC dominating possession and creating several chances. However, Mumbai City FC’s young defenders held firm, preventing the Shers from finding the breakthrough.

As the first half progressed, Mumbai City FC grew into the game and began to threaten Punjab FC’s goal. However, the Shers’ defense remained resolute, and the teams went into the break with the score still 0-0.

The second half saw Punjab FC continue to press for the opening goal. Their efforts were rewarded in the 62nd minute when Bakenga broke the deadlock with a clinical finish.

Mumbai City FC responded well to the setback and pushed for an equalizer. However, Punjab FC’s defense held strong, and the Shers doubled their lead in the 90th minute through Mrzljak.

In the dying moments of the match, Mumbai City FC conceded a penalty, which Bakenga converted to seal the victory for Punjab FC.

The win sees Punjab FC finish their group league engagements tied with Kerala Blasters on seven points. However, Kerala Blasters took the top spot in the final standings for having a superior goal difference. Punjab FC remains the best second-placed team currently in the tournament and will now have to wait for the results of the other matches to confirm its place in the knockouts.

Samarawickrama's 86 Powers Sri Lanka to T20I Victory over Ireland

Samarawickrama’s 86 Powers Sri Lanka to T20I Victory over Ireland

Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team made a triumphant start to their T20I series against Ireland in Dublin, securing a comfortable seven-wicket victory in the first match. The victory was largely orchestrated by the brilliance of Harshitha Samarawickrama, who smashed an unbeaten 86 off just 45 deliveries.

Ireland, after being sent in to bat, posted a competitive total of 145 for 6. Opener Gaby Lewis (39) and Oria Prendergast (29) provided a solid foundation with a 59-run partnership for the second wicket. Captain Laura Delany (25) and Rebecca Stokell (21*) also made valuable contributions.

However, Sri Lanka’s batting lineup proved too strong for Ireland’s bowlers. Samarawickrama, fresh off her top-scoring performance in the Asia Cup final, once again led the charge. She combined with Vishmi Gunaratne (30) for an 83-run opening stand, setting the platform for a successful chase.

Samarawickrama continued to dominate the innings, hitting 15 fours and a six. She received support from the rest of the top order, with Nilakshi de Silva (15) and Kavisha Dilhari (14) making useful contributions.

Ireland’s bowlers struggled to contain Samarawickrama’s onslaught. Freya Sargent, Arlene Kelly, and Delany each picked up a wicket, but they were unable to stem the flow of runs.

On the bowling front, Sri Lanka’s left-arm seam duo of Udeshika Prabhodani and Sugandika Kumari kept Ireland’s scoring in check. Offspinner Inoshi Priyadharshani was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 2 for 35.

The victory is a significant boost for Sri Lanka, who are without their star player Chamari Athapaththu. Samarawickrama’s 86 not out is the fourth-highest T20I score by a Sri Lanka batter and the highest by anyone other than Athapaththu.

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