India vs. Bangladesh: Test Cricket Returns to Chennai with Gautam Gambhir at the Helm

India vs. Bangladesh: Test Cricket Returns to Chennai with Gautam Gambhir at the Helm

The Indian Premier League’s adrenaline rush and the historic ICC T20 World Cup triumph have ignited a surge of energy within India’s leading cricketers. As the nation transitions from the thrill of limited-overs cricket to the slow-burn intensity of Test cricket, the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai will host the opening Test of the two-match series between India and Bangladesh, commencing on Thursday.

Rohit Sharma’s men last played a Test against England in Dharamshala in March, and now they must reset their playing style as they prepare for a series of crucial encounters against Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia. These games are part of the World Test Championship, which India currently leads, making them critical for the team’s progress.

The upcoming clashes will also mark the beginning of Gautam Gambhir’s era as coach. The former India opener, who honed his leadership skills during the ODIs in Sri Lanka, now faces the daunting task of guiding a squad in transition towards greater glory. Stepping into Rahul Dravid’s shoes, Gambhir must steer the team to higher heights.

India, playing on home soil, will enter the series as the favorite. However, Bangladesh, fresh from their 2-0 Test series victory over Pakistan in Rawalpindi, is eager to prove their mettle against their larger neighbor. From their independence in 1971 to their Test debut in 2000, Bangladesh has always found India lending a helping hand. Yet, the desire to demonstrate their equality fuels the visitors’ determination.

While Dhaka recovers from political turmoil, Najmul Hossain Shanto’s men continue to carry the weight of hope on their shoulders. Rawalpindi was a testament to their potential, but Chennai and Kanpur may pose greater challenges.

India’s return to home soil is marked by the remarkable comeback of Rishabh Pant, who has recovered from a life-threatening accident. Virat Kohli, who took a paternity break and missed the series against England, is also back in the mix. K.L. Rahul’s return adds to Rohit’s experienced core, providing him with a solid foundation to rely on.

With Jasprit Bumrah as the spearhead and R. Ashwin leading the spin department, the Indian skipper has ample resources at his disposal. The surface is expected to favor both fast and slow bowlers, ensuring an intriguing contest.

For Bangladesh, a glimpse of the Bay of Bengal upon arrival and the proximity of Greams Road, with its distinct Bengali vibe, may evoke a sense of familiarity. However, having never defeated India in a Test while being a formidable opponent in ODIs, especially during the 2007 World Cup in the Caribbean, the Tigers face a formidable challenge.

Veterans Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan know what it takes to surprise India, but Bangladesh will need contributions from others like Litton Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Taskin Ahmed to embody that spirit.

Yuki Bhambri and Albano Olivetti Triumph in Chengdu Doubles Pre-Quarterfinals

Yuki Bhambri and Albano Olivetti Triumph in Chengdu Doubles Pre-Quarterfinals

Yuki Bhambri and Albano Olivetti of France emerged victorious in the doubles pre-quarterfinals of the $1,269,245 ATP tennis tournament in Chengdu, China, on Wednesday. The duo defeated Toshihide Matsui of Japan and Adam Walton of Australia 6-3, 6-3.

In other results from the tournament:

* $1,081,395 ATP, Hangzhou:
* Doubles: Pre-quarterfinals: Rinky Hijikata (Aus) & Mackenzie McDonald (USA) bt Rithvik Bollipalli & Arjun Kadhe 6-3, 7-5.

* $60,000 ITF women, Perth:
* First round: Shrivalli Bhamidipaty bt Alexandra Bozovic (Aus) 6-3, 6-0.
* Doubles: Pre-quarterfinals: Naiktha Bains (GBR) & Ankita Raina bt Isabelle Criddle & Karin Hiramatsu (Aus) 6-1, 6-0.

* $25,000 ITF women, Kyoto:
* First round: Honoka Kobayashi (Jpn) bt Ashmitha Easwaramurthi 6-0, 2-0 (retired).

* $15,000 ITF, Monastir:
* Women: First round: Milana Maslenkova (Uzb) bt Jennifer Luikham 4-6, 7-6(5), 6-3.
* Men: First round: Karan Singh bt William Hsieh (USA) 6-2, 6-1.

* $25,000 ITF men, Darwin:
* First round: Preston Brown (USA) bt Suraj Prabodh 6-1, 6-2.

* $25,000 ITF men, Guiyang, China:
* Doubles: Pre-quarters: Rishab Agarwal & Kim Min Seong (Kor) bt Cao Yitao & Pan Weiwen (Chn) 6-4, 6-2.

* $15,000 ITF men, Bali:
* Pre-quarterfinals: Andre Ilagan (USA) bt Sidharth Rawat 6-3, 6-0; Yuvan Nandal bt Nathan Barki (Ina) 6-4, 6-3.
* Doubles: Pre-quarterfinals: Claudio Lumanau & Renaldi Salim (Ina) bt Aldhito Kurniawan (Ina) & Abhinav Sanjeev Shanmugam 6-4, 6-3.

* $15,000 ITF men, Tehran:
* First round: S.D. Prajwal Dev bt Kiarash Hanifi (IRI) 6-3, 6-7(4), 6-3; Parth Aggarwal bt Samyar Elyasi (IRI) 7-6(6), 6-3; Raghav Jaisinghani bt Aliaksandr Shymanovich 6-4, 6-4; Denis Kiok bt Maan Kesharwani 7-6(4), 6-2; Dev Javia bt Dmitry Dolzhenkov 6-0, 6-0; Lorenzo Bocchi (Ita) bt Jagmeet Singh 6-2, 6-2.

Team Europe Favored to Win 2024 Laver Cup

Team Europe Favored to Win 2024 Laver Cup

The Laver Cup, a prestigious tennis tournament pitting Team Europe against Team World, is set to return to Berlin in 2024. With the competition heating up, our editors and writers from the United States and Germany have weighed in on their predictions for the outcome.

Team Europe Dominates Predictions

Overwhelmingly, our experts predict a victory for Team Europe. The team boasts a formidable lineup, including world number one Carlos Alcaraz, who is widely considered the favorite for the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Other key players for Europe include Grigor Dimitrov, Alexander Zverev, and Casper Ruud.

Team World’s Underdogs

Team World, on the other hand, faces an uphill battle. However, they have some talented players in their ranks, including Frances Tiafoe, Daniil Medvedev, and Taylor Fritz. Tiafoe, in particular, has been a standout performer in recent months and could be a potential MVP candidate.

Unsung Heroes

While the MVPs are likely to grab the headlines, our experts also identified several unsung heroes who could make a significant impact. Jan-Lennard Struff, Francisco Cerundolo, and Ben Shelton are all players to watch for Team Europe. Daniil Medvedev and Grigor Dimitrov are also expected to play key roles for Team World.

Predicted Score

The consensus among our experts is that Team Europe will emerge victorious with a score of 13-8. This would be a comfortable margin of victory, but Team World is capable of springing an upset if they can perform at their best.

Conclusion

The 2024 Laver Cup promises to be an exciting and competitive event. Team Europe is the clear favorite, but Team World has the potential to surprise. With a talented roster of players on both sides, the outcome is far from certain.

Sachin Baby's Century Powers Aries Kollam Sailors to KCL Title

Sachin Baby’s Century Powers Aries Kollam Sailors to KCL Title

Sachin Baby’s masterful century propelled Aries Kollam Sailors to a resounding six-wicket victory over Calicut Globstars in the inaugural edition of the KCL at the Greenfield stadium.

Baby’s unbeaten 105 off 54 deliveries, studded with eight fours and seven sixes, was the cornerstone of the Sailors’ successful chase of 214. His 114-run third-wicket partnership with Vatsal Govind (45) proved decisive in turning the tide in favor of the Sailors.

The Globstars had earlier posted a competitive 213/6, thanks to a blistering start by captain Rohan Kunnummal and a late surge by M. Ajinas. Kunnummal’s 51 off 30 balls, including two sixes, set the tone for the innings, while Ajinas’ 56 off 33 balls, featuring three sixes and a four, provided a late boost.

However, the Sailors’ bowlers, led by leg-spinner Midhun (2/42), kept the Globstars in check, restricting them to just 23 runs in the final three overs.

In the chase, the Sailors lost openers Abhishek Nair and Arun Polouse early, but Baby’s unwavering presence at the crease steadied the innings. He manipulated the field placements with ease, punishing loose deliveries with boundaries and sixes.

Govind provided valuable support, attacking the Globstars spinners and contributing 45 runs. The pair’s partnership laid the foundation for the Sailors’ victory.

Despite the loss of Govind, Baby continued to dominate the bowling, finding boundaries at will. He reached his century with a boundary off Akhil Dev in the 19th over, sparking jubilation among the Sailors’ camp.

The Sailors eventually reached their target with 19.1 overs to spare, securing the inaugural KCL title. Baby’s match-winning performance earned him the Player of the Match award.

Forca Kochi FC Forces Draw Against Calicut FC in Mahindra Super League Kerala

Forca Kochi FC Forces Draw Against Calicut FC in Mahindra Super League Kerala

Forca Kochi FC staged a remarkable comeback to salvage a 1-1 draw against high-flying Calicut FC in the Mahindra Super League Kerala at the EMS Corporation Stadium on Wednesday night.

Calicut, playing at home in front of a boisterous crowd, began as the favorite after its impressive away victory over Malappuram FC. Despite Kochi’s promising start, Calicut took the lead through its local forward Gani Nigam, who had scored twice against Malappuram, just before halftime.

Kochi’s goal came as a surprise to Calicut. Jijo Joseph skillfully evaded several defenders and sent a precise pass to Nigam. The Calicut forward, despite being closely marked, calmly lifted the ball over Kochi goalkeeper S. Hajmal, who could only watch helplessly as it sailed into the net.

The home side nearly extended its lead early in the second half, but Richard Osei’s dangerous header from a corner was expertly saved by Hajmal.

Kochi emerged from the break with renewed vigor, and within 10 minutes, the Calicut goal came under intense pressure. However, goalkeeper Vishal Joon thwarted three consecutive attempts by the visiting players.

The equalizer finally arrived in the 75th minute when South African Ngubo Siyanda headed in a long cross from the right by Kamalpreet Singh.

The result leaves Calicut with five points from three matches, while winless Kochi has two points.

Gukesh-Ding Super-Fight Fizzles as Ding Rests in Olympiad

Gukesh-Ding Super-Fight Fizzles as Ding Rests in Olympiad

The highly anticipated clash between reigning World Champion Ding Liren and rising star D. Gukesh at the 44th Chess Olympiad in Budapest took an unexpected turn when Ding was “rested” by China for Round 7. In his absence, Wei Yi stepped up to face Gukesh, who has been in scintillating form with four wins and a draw in six rounds.

Despite the absence of Ding, Gukesh pressed for an advantage with White in an objectively drawish position. The Indian prodigy’s recent trajectory has been remarkable, propelling him into the top five while Ding has struggled, dropping out of the top 20 and failing to win a single game in Budapest.

Former World No. 4 GM Peter Svidler expressed surprise at Ding’s absence from Board 1 in such a crucial match. Ding’s recent defeat to Vietnam’s Quang Liem Le may have influenced China’s decision to rest him.

Five-time World Champion Viswanathan Anand believes Gukesh is now a clear favorite to become World Champion based on momentum and statistics. However, he cautioned that Ding is still a formidable opponent and the match in November will be a true test.

On Board 2, Yu Yangyi and R. Praggnanandhaa played a quick 17-move draw. P. Harikrishna was brought into the action for the first time since the opening round, replacing Vidit Gujrathi on Board 4.

In the women’s section, India defeated second seeds Georgia 3-1, maintaining their lead in the tournament. Vantika Agrawal pulled off a stunning victory against Bella Khotenashvili, showcasing her tactical prowess.

Pakistan Levels T20I Series with 13-Run Victory over South Africa

Pakistan Levels T20I Series with 13-Run Victory over South Africa

Pakistan’s women’s cricket team displayed a remarkable performance in the second T20I against South Africa, leveling the series with a 13-run victory in Multan.

Pakistan’s batting lineup showcased a collective effort, with Muneeba Ali leading the charge with a blistering 45 off 34 deliveries. Her innings included six boundaries and two maximums, providing a solid foundation for the team. Sidra Amin contributed with a steady 37, while captain Fatima Sana and Nida Dar chipped in with valuable runs. Aliya Riyaz’s late cameo of 16 off 3 balls propelled Pakistan to a competitive total of 181 for 4.

South Africa’s chase got off to a promising start, with Laura Wolvaardt and Anneke Bosch forming a 50-run partnership. However, Pakistan’s left-arm spinners, Nashra Sandhu and Sadia Iqbal, proved to be a formidable force. Sandhu dismissed Wolvaardt for 36, while Iqbal accounted for Bosch and Nadine de Klerk in quick succession.

With South Africa needing 94 runs off 42 balls, Sune Luus and Chloe Tryon stepped up with an impressive 80-run stand. Luus remained unbeaten on 53 off 29 deliveries, while Tryon contributed a quickfire 30 off 16 balls. Despite their valiant efforts, they were unable to guide South Africa to victory.

Sandhu finished with impressive figures of 2 for 20, while Iqbal claimed 2 for 27. Their economical bowling and crucial wickets played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s triumph.

Tennis Stars Fritz and Berrettini Stun at Milan Fashion Week

Tennis Stars Fritz and Berrettini Stun at Milan Fashion Week

Tennis Stars Fritz and Berrettini Dominate Milan Fashion Week Runway

ATP stars Taylor Fritz and Matteo Berrettini made a bold statement at Milan Fashion Week, showcasing the latest collection from German fashion brand BOSS. The event marked a significant moment for the sport, as tennis fashion continues to gain traction in the cultural zeitgeist.

Fritz, the top-ranked American tennis player, opened the show, leading models through a picturesque urban garden at the Palazzo del Senato. The collection, titled “Out of Office,” emphasized the importance of rest and relaxation as a form of luxury. Fritz, who wears BOSS both on and off the court, believes that tennis fashion has become a versatile trend that can be worn in various settings.

Berrettini, the 2021 Wimbledon finalist, also graced the runway, showcasing a collection featuring muted colors, relaxed silhouettes, and utilitarian bags. The Italian tennis star, who has been working his way back to full fitness after injuries, sees fashion as an escape from the daily grind of tennis. He appreciates the creative freedom and collaboration that BOSS offers.

Both Fritz and Berrettini are global ambassadors for BOSS, joining the brand in 2023 and 2022, respectively. Their presence at Milan Fashion Week further solidifies the growing connection between tennis and fashion.

The event highlighted the increasing influence of tennis in the fashion world, as brands recognize the sport’s growing popularity and cultural impact. Tennis fashion has become a unique blend of style and functionality, appealing to both athletes and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Brad Gilbert and Coco Gauff Part Ways After 14 Months

Brad Gilbert and Coco Gauff Part Ways After 14 Months

Brad Gilbert and Coco Gauff’s coaching partnership has come to an end after a successful year together. Gilbert announced the split on social media, expressing gratitude for their time together and wishing Gauff continued success.

Gilbert, a renowned coach who has worked with Andre Agassi, Andy Murray, and Andy Roddick, joined Gauff’s team in 2023. Under their guidance, Gauff enjoyed a remarkable run, winning three titles and her first Grand Slam singles title at the US Open.

However, after a strong start to 2024, Gauff’s form declined. She struggled in the spring and summer, losing in the round of 16 at both Wimbledon and the US Open. Gauff also failed to medal at the Paris Olympics and lost in the second round of both WTA 1000 events leading up to the US Open.

Gilbert’s departure leaves Gauff without a head coach. She is expected to return to action at the WTA 1000 China Open in Beijing on September 25th.

Gauff’s recent struggles have raised questions about her mental resilience and the need for a new coaching approach. Gilbert’s departure may provide an opportunity for Gauff to reassess her game and find a coach who can help her overcome her current challenges.

Sunil Gavaskar: Introductions Still a Source of Amusement for Cricket Legend

Sunil Gavaskar: Introductions Still a Source of Amusement for Cricket Legend

Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary Indian cricketer, believes that even at the age of 75, he still requires an introduction at events celebrating his life and achievements. Despite retiring from the game 40 years ago, Gavaskar appreciates being introduced, as it allows him to hear positive things said about him.

During the official release of a book titled ‘Sunny G’, which compiles anecdotal accounts about Gavaskar from his friends, family, and fellow cricketers, the Little Master shared a few amusing incidents related to introductions.

He recounted a story about his uncle Madhav Mantri, who played Test cricket for India, and how a school principal introduced him based on the students’ favorite cricketer. “This takes me back to an incident which concerned my uncle. Mantri, as those of you who follow the game know, played four Test matches for India and he was called for a school sports day presentation. And the principal of the school asked him how do I introduce you?”

“And he said ‘look, none of these boys know me. I played many years ago, I retired many years ago. So you just ask all these people, all the boys, who is your favourite cricketer is and then say I’m his uncle.”

“The principal said, it’s a very good idea. So, at the assembly where all the boys were there, he asked the boys, ‘before I introduce the chief guest here today who’s come to distribute the prizes, I want to ask all of you who is your favorite cricketer?”

“And in one voice they all said Kapil Dev. So, you can imagine what happened with the introduction,” said Gavaskar while extracting pearls of laughter from the gathering.

Gavaskar also shared his own experiences from his early days in the Indian team. In his debut series against the West Indies, he was fortunate enough to be dropped by Garfield Sobers twice, which allowed him to score crucial runs and contribute to India’s first-ever Test victory against the West Indies.

However, during the celebrations, the master of ceremonies introduced Gavaskar as “the person who Gary Sobers dropped three, four times” instead of using his name. Similarly, after India’s first series victory against England, Gavaskar was introduced as “the man who John Snow shoved to the ground” due to an on-field incident involving the England fast bowler.

Throughout his early career, Gavaskar was often introduced as Madhav Mantri’s nephew, and later, after a lean period, as Gundappa Vishwanath’s brother-in-law.

Gavaskar advised readers to take some of the incidents mentioned in the book with a pinch of salt, as people tend to exaggerate things a little. Nonetheless, the book offers a fresh perspective on the life of one of cricket’s greatest legends through the eyes of those who have known him for decades.

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