India Overwhelming Favorites in Women's Asia Cup Semifinal Clash Against Bangladesh

India Overwhelming Favorites in Women’s Asia Cup Semifinal Clash Against Bangladesh

India vs Bangladesh: Women’s Asia Cup Semifinal 1 Live Score

In the highly anticipated semifinal clash of the Women’s Asia Cup, Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana won the toss and elected to bat first against India. The match is being played at the Dambulla International Cricket Stadium in Sri Lanka.

India, the overwhelming favorites, have been in impressive form throughout the tournament, winning all three of their group matches convincingly. Bangladesh, on the other hand, has shown glimpses of their potential, but they will need to play at their best to upset the Indian juggernaut.

Bangladesh’s slow bowlers, led by Nahida Akhter and Rabeya Khan, will be key to their chances of success. Both bowlers have claimed five wickets apiece in the tournament so far and will look to put pressure on India’s experienced batting lineup.

India will be relying on their star-studded batting unit to deliver once again. Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, and Harmanpreet Kaur are all in good form and will be looking to make significant contributions.

The start of the innings will be crucial for India, and Shafali Verma will be eager to give her team a solid foundation. The young opener has been in excellent touch throughout the tournament and will be looking to continue her impressive run.

India will also need their bowlers to step up and deliver. The likes of Renuka Singh, Deepti Sharma, and Rajeshwari Gayakwad will be tasked with containing Bangladesh’s batters and picking up regular wickets.

The match promises to be an exciting contest between two teams with contrasting styles of play. India will be looking to impose their dominance and secure a place in the final, while Bangladesh will be aiming to pull off an upset and make history.

Jasprit Bumrah Breaks Silence on Captaincy Snub, Defends Bowlers' Intelligence

Jasprit Bumrah Breaks Silence on Captaincy Snub, Defends Bowlers’ Intelligence

Team India is gearing up to face Sri Lanka in a white-ball series, commencing with three T20I matches from Saturday. The absence of former skipper Rohit Sharma from the shortest format has sparked discussions about his replacement. While all-rounder Hardik Pandya seemed like a potential candidate, the newly appointed head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar have surprisingly named batter Suryakumar Yadav as the captain for the T20Is against Sri Lanka.

The decision has raised questions about star pacer Jasprit Bumrah’s exclusion from the captaincy race. Bumrah, who played a pivotal role in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 triumph, has expressed his views on the matter.

“I cannot approach the team and demand to be made captain. It’s beyond my authority. I believe bowlers are the intelligent ones because we have to dismiss batters. We constantly face challenges due to shorter grounds and superior bats. I can’t recall any technology or innovation that significantly enhances ball swing. People enjoy watching the ball being hit around and sixes being scored,” Bumrah stated at the Indian Express Adda.

“Bowlers are doing the difficult work. They’re not hiding behind a bat or a flat wicket. When a game is lost, bowlers are blamed. It’s a demanding task. I take great pride in it. You face numerous obstacles. Bowlers develop innovative strategies to succeed because of these challenges. Facing adversity makes you more courageous, and leadership requires courage. We’ve seen Pat Cummins excel. I’ve witnessed Wasim Akram lead. Kapil Dev and Imran Khan have won World Cups. Bowlers are the intelligent ones. Sometimes, it’s physically demanding, which is why batters often assume leadership roles. In my opinion, bowlers are the smart ones,” he added.

Traditionally, bowlers have not been considered for team captaincy. However, Bumrah cited the example of Australia’s skipper Pat Cummins, who led his team to ODI World Cup and World Test Championship titles.

“Perception shifts with results. I faced the perception that my bowling action wouldn’t work, but now people try to imitate it. You don’t need to say anything; let your results speak for themselves. Pat Cummins is a prime example. I’ve achieved many positive outcomes. He won the World Cup and WTC. I don’t believe it’s a burden. When you play cricket, you want responsibility,” said Bumrah.

“You don’t want to hide and be a backbencher. You must have the mindset that if you give me the ball, I will make a difference. I believe there is no greater feeling than having responsibility. Injuries can happen to anyone,” he added.

Gautam Gambhir Appointed as New India Head Coach, Ravi Shastri Endorses

Gautam Gambhir Appointed as New India Head Coach, Ravi Shastri Endorses

Ravi Shastri, the former head coach of the Indian cricket team, has expressed his support for the appointment of Gautam Gambhir as the new head coach. Shastri believes that Gambhir’s contemporary approach, fresh ideas, and experience make him the ideal candidate for the role.

Gambhir, who recently led the Kolkata Knight Riders to victory in the Indian Premier League (IPL), brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Indian team. Shastri highlighted Gambhir’s understanding of the current players, especially in the white-ball format, as a key advantage.

“He’s contemporary, he just had a great season in the IPL,” Shastri said. “I think he’s the right age where he’s young, he’ll come with fresh ideas. He knows most of the players, especially in the white-ball format, having been part of teams in the IPL.”

Shastri also emphasized the importance of player management in the role of a coach. He believes that Gambhir’s ability to understand his players as individuals will be crucial for success.

“Obviously, player management becomes the key as a coach,” Shastri said. “So it’ll be interesting to see how he goes. I think he’s got the tools, he’s got the goods for the job and he’s got the experience.”

Gambhir’s first assignment as head coach will be the white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, starting with the three T20Is on Saturday in Pallekele. He will then take over in all formats, with major assignments including the five home Tests starting in September and the ICC trophies in 2025 and 2026.

Shastri believes that India needs to find the right mix for the T20I format, especially with the departure of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja. However, he is confident that Gambhir has the talent and experience to guide the team to success.

“I think a lot of the players that won this T20 World Cup will still be around two years later,” he said. “So I don’t think there’s much to be done there. In fact, you will get a problem on your hands because you’ll have to choose from the new lot that’s coming and there’s some real exciting talent there.”

Suryakumar Yadav Embraces Leadership Role as India's T20 Captain

Suryakumar Yadav Embraces Leadership Role as India’s T20 Captain

Suryakumar Yadav, the newly appointed Indian T20 captain, has expressed his enthusiasm for leading the team on the field, despite not having previously held the captaincy role. He credits his leadership skills to the lessons he has learned from various skippers throughout his career.

Yadav was named India’s T20 captain last week, succeeding Hardik Pandya after Rohit Sharma’s retirement from the format. His first assignment will be the three-match T20 series against hosts Sri Lanka, beginning on Saturday.

“I have always enjoyed being a leader on the field even though I was not the captain. I have always learnt a lot of things from different captains. It’s a good feeling and a great responsibility,” Yadav told BCCI.TV.

Yadav’s appointment marks the beginning of a new era for Indian cricket, with Gautam Gambhir taking over as head coach. Yadav and Gambhir share a strong bond from their days together at Kolkata Knight Riders in 2014.

“This relationship is special because in 2014 I played under him in KKR. It was special because from there only I got opportunities. The relationship is still strong,” Yadav said.

Yadav emphasized the importance of humility and staying grounded while leading the team. He believes that cricket is just a part of life and that it should not define one’s self-worth.

“I think most important thing what I have learned from this sport is how humble you are after achieving or even after not doing well. I have learned when you do something on the ground you have to leave it on the ground,” he said.

“This is not your life, this is just a part of your life. So you can’t be when you are doing well you stay on the top and when you are not doing well, you are underground.”

Yadav’s leadership style is likely to be influenced by the experiences he has gained from playing under different captains. He has learned the importance of communication, adaptability, and decision-making.

As India embarks on a new chapter in its cricketing history, Yadav’s leadership will be crucial in shaping the team’s future. His experience, skills, and passion for the game make him an ideal candidate to lead India to success in the T20 format.

Washington Freedom Secure Final Berth in Major League Cricket Qualifier

Washington Freedom Secure Final Berth in Major League Cricket Qualifier

Washington Freedom emerged victorious in the Qualifier of the 2024 Major League Cricket, securing their spot in the final. The team’s commanding seven-wicket triumph over the San Francisco Unicorns was orchestrated by a stellar bowling performance led by Rachin Ravindra and an explosive batting display by Travis Head and Glenn Maxwell.

Ravindra’s exceptional spell of 4/11 restricted the Unicorns to a modest total of 145. Marco Jansen and Saurabh Netravalkar also contributed with crucial early breakthroughs. Despite a valiant 57 from Hassan Khan and a quick 26 from Corey Anderson, the Unicorns were bowled out in 19 overs.

Washington’s chase was a swift and emphatic affair, thanks to the unbeaten 85-run partnership between Head and Maxwell. Head remained unbeaten on 77 off 44 balls, hitting three sixes and 10 fours, while Maxwell provided ample support with a blistering 54 not out off 23 balls, including five sixes and four fours. The duo took Washington home with 27 balls to spare and seven wickets in hand.

Travis Head was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance. Reflecting on his innings, he said, “Feels nice, was stuck in the 50s for a bit so happy to get a match-winning score today. I don’t try to play deep too much; my job is just to get a fast start. A few wickets fell today, so I just tried to adjust. It has been a good wicket, and there was a bit of swing today, but when the ball swings, it gives you a chance to score. Ricky Ponting and Smith’s support has been great; they have left me alone and let me do my thing.”

Washington captain Steve Smith praised his team’s performance, noting the excellent chemistry and execution. “Good fun, we have a good bunch of guys who have gelled together quickly. Been a good campaign, helps when you’re winning along the way. Credit to us, we played really well. Nice to get to the big dance. We wanted to take wickets with the new ball, and the bowlers did well to keep them to 145, which was a bit under par. Travis and Maxi then played unbelievably well.”

San Francisco will now face the Texas Super Kings in the Challenger match on Saturday for another chance to reach the final and set up a rematch with Washington Freedom in the summit clash.

Pakistan Players Feared Sachin Tendulkar, Reveals Former Batter Basit Ali

Pakistan Players Feared Sachin Tendulkar, Reveals Former Batter Basit Ali

The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is one of the most intense and captivating in the world of sports. The two nations have faced off in numerous iconic matches over the years, with each encounter carrying immense significance and passion. While India has produced some of the greatest batters the game has ever seen, Pakistan’s strength has traditionally been in their bowling attack, particularly their pace bowlers.

Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali recently shared some fascinating insights into the dynamics of the Pakistan dressing room during his playing days. In a video on his YouTube channel, Ali revealed that the Pakistan players held a deep respect and fear for Indian batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar.

“He (Tendulkar) was a top-order batter, and I was a middle-order batter, so we used to see his batting closely,” Ali said. “In our team meetings, our captain at that time, Wasim Akram, used to emphasize everywhere, even during practice and meals, ‘Dismiss Sachin, and we’ll win the match.'”

Ali went on to explain that as soon as Tendulkar was dismissed, Pakistan would often go on to win the match. “Even though the great Azharuddin was there, we were not scared of him, but definitely scared of Sachin Tendulkar,” he added.

Tendulkar’s dominance in the India-Pakistan rivalry is evident in the statistics. He leads the ODI run-scoring charts with 2526 runs in 67 innings across 69 matches. In Test cricket, he scored 1057 runs against Pakistan, averaging over 42.

Known as the “Master Blaster” for his ability to effortlessly dispatch any bowling attack, Tendulkar mesmerized the world with his batting from 1989 to 2013. The Maharashtra-born player made his Test debut at the tender age of 16 in 1989 and played his first ODI match later that year.

With 34,357 runs in 664 international appearances, Tendulkar is the highest run-scorer in international cricket. He has scored an astonishing 100 centuries and 164 half-centuries, the most in international cricket history. He remains the only player to have scored a century of centuries.

Indian Cricket Embarks on New Era Under Gambhir and Suryakumar

Indian Cricket Embarks on New Era Under Gambhir and Suryakumar

Indian cricket is poised for a transformative chapter as it embarks on a three-match T20I series against hosts Sri Lanka on Saturday. This series marks the dawn of a new era under head coach Gautam Gambhir and T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav.

Gambhir, who recently succeeded Rahul Dravid following India’s triumphant T20 World Cup campaign, has swiftly implemented significant changes to the team. One of the most notable decisions was appointing Suryakumar Yadav as the T20I captain, replacing Hardik Pandya. This choice sparked considerable debate, but as the series opener approaches, the focus shifts to the present and future.

Suryakumar Yadav, renowned for his aggressive batting style and innovative shots, shared insights into his relationship with Gambhir, describing it as both special and strong. “This relationship is very special. When I joined KKR in 2014, I played under him. It was special because I got the opportunity to play for the franchise and… As they say, if you take three steps, he takes two steps, and somewhere in the middle, we meet. That’s the kind of relationship we had. And even now, the relationship remains the same, strong,” Suryakumar said in a video released by BCCI on its social media handle.

Reflecting on their past experiences at Kolkata Knight Riders, Suryakumar emphasized the mutual understanding and support that has defined their relationship. He is optimistic about how this dynamic will translate into their new roles within the Indian team.

“But he knows how I work. What my mindset is when I come to practice sessions. How he tries to work as a coach. And it’s all about that lovely relationship we have and very excited to see how it goes forward,” Suryakumar concluded.

As India prepares for the series against Sri Lanka, the team’s strategy and performance under the new leadership will be closely scrutinized. Gambhir’s tenure as head coach and Suryakumar’s captaincy promise a fresh approach, aiming to build on India’s recent successes and take the team to new heights.

India's Participation in Pakistan-Hosted Champions Trophy Uncertain Amid Political Tensions

India’s Participation in Pakistan-Hosted Champions Trophy Uncertain Amid Political Tensions

Pakistan’s hosting rights for the ICC Champions Trophy have ignited uncertainty over India’s participation due to ongoing political tensions between the two nations. Bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan has been suspended since 2013, leaving the BCCI facing the prospect of not receiving travel clearance from the Indian government for the tournament in Pakistan.

However, Pakistan’s recent visit to India for the 2023 fifty-over World Cup has sparked discussions about a potential thaw in relations. The initial Champions Trophy schedule designates Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium as the venue for all of India’s matches, including the highly anticipated clash against Pakistan.

Amidst the ongoing debate, former Pakistan captain Younis Khan has implored India to travel to Pakistan, emphasizing that it is the “only thing left” in Virat Kohli’s illustrious career. Kohli, who made his international debut in 2008, has never played a Test match against Pakistan and has not played a bilateral series in the country since 2006.

The BCCI has reportedly proposed a hybrid model similar to the one used for last year’s Asia Cup, where India’s matches were held in Sri Lanka. The PCB has entrusted the ICC with the responsibility of persuading the BCCI to send its team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.

According to a PCB source, the budget for the tournament has been approved, but the schedule and format have yet to be finalized. The PCB has proposed hosting all of India’s games in Lahore, including a potential semi-final and final if India qualifies.

The outcome of the Champions Trophy hosting rights for Pakistan hinges on the BCCI’s decision, which will be influenced by the political climate between the two countries. If India does not participate, it would be a significant blow to the tournament and a missed opportunity for fans to witness some of the world’s best cricketers in action.

Suryakumar Yadav Named T20I Captain, Hardik Pandya's Fitness Concerns Cited

Suryakumar Yadav Named T20I Captain, Hardik Pandya’s Fitness Concerns Cited

The Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) decision to appoint Suryakumar Yadav as captain for the Sri Lanka T20Is raised eyebrows, as many expected Hardik Pandya to take over the role. However, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar explained that Hardik’s injury concerns and workload management prompted the board to look beyond him.

Agarkar also highlighted Suryakumar’s leadership abilities and positive feedback from players as factors in his appointment. Former India cricketer Pragyan Ojha believes the selectors considered Suryakumar’s maturity and experience, especially with the 2026 T20 World Cup in mind.

Ojha also pointed out the connection between Suryakumar and newly-appointed head coach Gautam Gambhir, who played together at Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). He believes their understanding and trust played a role in Suryakumar’s selection.

While Hardik’s fitness issues were a concern, Ojha praised Suryakumar’s street-smartness and ability to handle pressure. He believes Suryakumar is the best choice for the captaincy role, given his experience and leadership qualities.

The decision to appoint Suryakumar as captain has sparked discussions about the future of Hardik Pandya in the T20I setup. However, the BCCI has made it clear that Hardik remains an integral part of the team and will continue to play a key role in the future.

Bumrah on Pandya's Mumbai Indians Captaincy Challenges: Mental Resilience Key

Bumrah on Pandya’s Mumbai Indians Captaincy Challenges: Mental Resilience Key

Jasprit Bumrah Offers Insights on Hardik Pandya’s Challenges as Mumbai Indians Skipper

India’s premier fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, has shed light on the challenges faced by Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya during the 2024 IPL season. In an exclusive interview with The Indian Express, Bumrah discussed the difficulties Pandya encountered and the importance of mental resilience in dealing with criticism and adversity.

Pandya, who took over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma, faced intense scrutiny and frequent booing from fans, particularly at the Wankhede Stadium. The team’s poor performance, finishing last in the IPL standings with only four wins in 14 matches, further exacerbated the situation.

Bumrah emphasized the importance of blocking out negative thoughts, a strategy Pandya employed during the challenging period. He acknowledged the impact of fan reactions on players, especially when playing in front of a home crowd.

“It’s not that simple saying ‘just don’t focus on it.’ They’re screaming, and you can hear it, but then, the inner circle helps you. We, as a team, don’t encourage that, we don’t promote that, we don’t think that is warranted,” Bumrah said.

Bumrah highlighted the significance of team support and family during such times. “Now, the world can think what they want to. We as a team were talking to him, if he needed support, his family will always be there. Certain things are beyond your control. If it happens, it happens.”

The Indian pacer also pointed out the dramatic shift in public perception of Pandya following his outstanding performances in the T20 World Cup. However, he cautioned that the narrative could quickly change again with just one loss.

Reflecting on the nature of sports and its emotional highs and lows, Bumrah remarked, “You understand it now, because we play a sport that is so popular, every sportsman will go through these things. In football, you see fans booing the best players in the world. This is a part of the sportsman’s journey, things will happen that are not great, sometimes, it might not be fair also, but it is the way it is.”

Bumrah concluded by encouraging Pandya and others to take challenges in stride. “We have had a great life, we’re doing good things in our sport and for ourselves. All these challenges will come, but it will be better if you take it in the right manner.”

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