Jonny Bairstow Available for Entire IPL Despite Recent Test Tour

Jonny Bairstow Available for Entire IPL Despite Recent Test Tour

England’s Jonny Bairstow, despite recently returning from a grueling Test tour of India, will be available for the entirety of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which commences on March 22. During the Dharamsala Test, BCCI officials engaged in discussions with their ECB counterparts regarding the availability of English players for the IPL.

While Test regulars Ben Stokes, Joe Root, and Mark Wood have opted out of the lucrative T20 league due to ECB’s workload management strategy, Bairstow has confirmed his participation. “Bairstow is expected to arrive in India on March 18 or 19 and will be available for the team’s first game against Delhi Capitals on March 23,” revealed an IPL source.

Bairstow, who reached the milestone of 100 Tests in Dharamsala, endured a disappointing batting performance in India. The IPL provides him with an opportunity to regain his form and contribute to his team’s success.

Meanwhile, Punjab Kings have made significant changes to their coaching staff. Sanjay Bangar, appointed as cricket director ahead of the 2024 edition, will also serve as the batting coach. Bangar’s previous experience includes stints with RCB and as India’s batting coach.

Consequently, Wasim Jaffer, who held the position of batting consultant last season, has been released by the franchise. Punjab Kings, despite reaching the final in 2014, have consistently underperformed in the IPL. Head coach Trevor Bayliss’ contract expires after the season, and the team must qualify for the play-offs for him to be considered for an extension.

Dharamsala is expected to host Punjab’s final two home games, as it did last season. The remaining five home games will be played at the new stadium in Mullanpur, Mohali.

Gavaskar Blasts Sarfaraz Khan for Reckless Shot Selection

Gavaskar Blasts Sarfaraz Khan for Reckless Shot Selection

Sunil Gavaskar’s fury erupted when Sarfaraz Khan recklessly threw away his wicket shortly after the tea break on day two of the fifth and final Test between India and England in Dharamsala. Making his third Test appearance, the 26-year-old Khan had settled into a promising 56 but opted for an ill-advised cut shot against spinner Shoaib Bashir. The ball found an edge and was gratefully accepted by Joe Root in the slips.

Gavaskar, providing commentary during the live broadcast, was scathing in his criticism of Khan’s shot selection. “The ball was pitched up, it wasn’t short enough for that shot,” Gavaskar lamented. “Goes for it and pays the price. I mean you are playing the first ball after tea. Give yourself a little sighter.”

Gavaskar’s ire stemmed from a meeting with Khan the previous day, where he had emphasized the significance of shot selection. A crestfallen Khan later apologized to Gavaskar through Dubai-based businessman Shyam Bhatia, who had arranged their meeting. “Sir, please say sorry to Mr Gavaskar – I made a mistake! I won’t make that mistake again,” Khan reportedly conveyed through Bhatia.

Gavaskar’s anger was not unfounded. Khan’s dismissal was a glaring example of poor decision-making, especially considering the crucial stage of the match. India was looking to consolidate its position after a dominant first day, and Khan’s wicket gave England a much-needed boost.

The incident highlights the importance of shot selection in Test cricket. Batsmen must carefully assess the situation and play shots that are appropriate for the conditions and the match situation. Impulsive or reckless shots can have disastrous consequences, as Khan’s dismissal demonstrated.

Despite Khan’s lapse, India went on to win the Dharamsala Test inside three days, securing a 4-1 series victory. However, the incident served as a reminder of the importance of discipline and shot selection in the longest format of the game.

Rishabh Pant Declared Fit to Return as Delhi Capitals Captain in IPL 2024

Rishabh Pant Declared Fit to Return as Delhi Capitals Captain in IPL 2024

Rishabh Pant Cleared to Return as Delhi Capitals Captain in IPL 2024

After a harrowing car crash in December 2022, Delhi Capitals captain Rishabh Pant has been declared fit to resume his role as wicket-keeper batter in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The National Cricket Academy (NCA) has cleared Pant to keep wickets, ending weeks of speculation about his availability.

Pant’s return is a major boost for the Delhi Capitals, who have been eagerly awaiting his leadership and wicket-keeping skills. The 26-year-old has undergone extensive rehabilitation and is ready to shoulder the dual responsibility in the event starting March 22.

“After undergoing an extensive 14-month rehab and recovery process, following a life-threatening road mishap on December 30th, 2022, near Roorkee, Uttarakhand, Rishabh Pant has now been declared fit as a wicket-keeper batter for the upcoming IPL 2024,” the BCCI said in a statement.

Pant’s determination to return to action has been evident throughout his recovery process. In an interaction with Star Sports, he recalled telling his doctor that he would shave off at least six months from his recovery timeline.

“I asked the doctor how long will it take for me to recover. I told him that everybody is speaking different things, but you will give me the most clarity about it. He (Doctor) said it would take 16 to 18 months. I told the doctor from whatever timeline you give me, I will reduce six months from it,” Pant had told the official TV broadcasters of IPL.

The Delhi Capitals welcomed Pant’s return with a heartfelt post on social media. “Ready to ROAR. Welcome back, Rishabh Pant. Can’t wait to see you,” the franchise captioned a graphic.

However, one fan took a humorous jab at the editing skills of the DC admin, saying that even he could have made a better graphic for the returning Pant. Pant, known for his sense of humor, responded to the comment with a laughing emoji.

Pant’s return to the Delhi Capitals will be a major storyline in IPL 2024. The franchise will be hoping that their skipper can lead them to their maiden IPL title.

Gavaskar Slams England's Arrogance After India's Test Triumph

Gavaskar Slams England’s Arrogance After India’s Test Triumph

India’s resounding 4-1 victory over England in the Test series has sparked a scathing attack from former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar. Despite missing key players and losing the first Test, India’s young team led by Rohit Sharma displayed exceptional resilience and dominance.

Gavaskar’s criticism centers on England’s perceived arrogance and condescending attitude towards India. He contrasts this with the more affable and adaptable nature of Australian players, who have embraced the Indian culture and the lucrative opportunities offered by the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Gavaskar argues that the Aussies’ willingness to integrate and respect Indian culture has fostered a positive relationship between the two teams, despite the intense rivalry on the field. In contrast, he believes England’s “supercilious attitude” has created a sense of animosity.

Gavaskar’s comments come after he expressed disappointment with Sarfaraz Khan’s reckless shot selection in the fifth Test. He emphasized the importance of patience and discipline, even for experienced batsmen.

India’s victory has solidified their position at the top of the World Test Championship points table, while England languishes near the bottom. The series has highlighted the depth and talent of India’s young players, who have stepped up in the absence of senior stars.

R Ashwin Reclaims No. 1 Test Bowling Spot, India Dominates ICC Rankings

R Ashwin Reclaims No. 1 Test Bowling Spot, India Dominates ICC Rankings

R Ashwin’s stellar performance in the fifth Test against England has propelled him back to the top of the ICC Test bowling rankings. The Indian offspinner’s nine-wicket haul in Dharamsala has earned him the No. 1 spot for the sixth time in his career.

Ashwin’s resurgence has coincided with a dip in form for Jasprit Bumrah, who has slipped to No. 3. However, India’s bowling attack remains formidable, with Kuldeep Yadav rising to a career-best 16th after his seven-wicket haul in Dharamsala.

In the Test batting rankings, Rohit Sharma has moved up to sixth, while Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill have also made significant gains. Jaiswal’s impressive start to his Test career has seen him accumulate 740 rating points, placing him behind only Don Bradman and Mike Hussey among batters with nine or fewer Tests.

The ICC rankings also reflect the dominance of India across formats. The Men in Blue are ranked No. 1 in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, with Australia and England trailing in the Test and ODI rankings, and England and Australia in the T20I rankings.

In the ODI batting rankings, Harry Tector’s impressive performances against Afghanistan have lifted him to fourth place, while Babar Azam remains at the summit. In the ODI bowling rankings, Keshav Maharaj, Josh Hazlewood, and Adam Zampa occupy the top three spots.

The T20I batting rankings are led by Suryakumar Yadav, Phil Salt, and Mohammad Rizwan, while Adil Rashid, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Akeal Hosein are the top three bowlers.

In the allrounder rankings, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Nabi, and Shakib Al Hasan are the top-ranked players in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, respectively.

Sri Lanka Openers Give Solid Start in First ODI Against Bangladesh

Sri Lanka Openers Give Solid Start in First ODI Against Bangladesh

Sri Lanka’s opening batsmen, Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando, got off to a solid start in the first ODI against Bangladesh in Chittagong on Wednesday. Nissanka struck a six over mid-wicket off Taijul Islam, while Fernando hit a boundary through covers off Tanzim Hasan Sakib.

However, Sakib provided the breakthrough for Bangladesh, dismissing Fernando for 24. The left-arm spinner bowled a full and wide delivery outside off, which Fernando edged to the keeper.

Nissanka continued to play aggressively, hitting another boundary off Sakib and a four off Shoriful Islam. He was eventually dismissed for 35, caught behind off Taijul Islam.

Kusal Mendis, the Sri Lankan captain, came to the crease and played a patient innings, scoring 25 off 40 balls. He was supported by Sadeera Samarawickrama, who made 22 off 33 balls.

Bangladesh’s bowlers kept the Sri Lankan batsmen in check, with Taijul Islam and Shoriful Islam taking two wickets each. Taskin Ahmed and Tanzim Hasan Sakib also bowled economically.

At the end of 20 overs, Sri Lanka were 105/3, with Mendis and Samarawickrama at the crease.

Kohli's Iconic Shot Fuels Fan Support Amid T20 World Cup Speculation

Kohli’s Iconic Shot Fuels Fan Support Amid T20 World Cup Speculation

Amidst the ongoing speculation surrounding Virat Kohli’s inclusion in India’s T20 World Cup squad, fans have rallied behind the cricketing icon, reminiscing about his unforgettable performance in the previous edition of the tournament in Australia.

Kohli’s iconic shot against Pakistan’s Haris Rauf during the 2022 T20 World Cup has become a symbol of his unparalleled skill and nerve under pressure. The momentous six, hailed as the ‘shot of the century,’ captivated cricket enthusiasts worldwide and showcased Kohli’s ability to deliver in high-stakes situations.

Social media platforms have been flooded with videos of Kohli’s memorable shot, with fans expressing their unwavering support for his inclusion in the Indian squad. Former Pakistan cricketers Danish Kaneria and Mohammad Irfan have also voiced their support, echoing the sentiments of countless fans who believe in Kohli’s prowess on the cricket field.

England legend Stuart Broad took to social media to question the authenticity of the news surrounding Kohli’s potential exclusion, further fueling the debate about his place in the team.

Kohli’s memorable encounter with Rauf occurred on October 23, 2022, during a high-stakes match at the T20 World Cup in Melbourne. With India facing a challenging chase against Pakistan, Kohli’s steely resolve and masterful stroke play came to the fore as he smashed Rauf for two crucial sixes, igniting a roar of approval from the packed crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

The electrifying display of skill and composure by Kohli during that pivotal moment serves as a reminder of his ability to thrive under pressure and deliver when it matters most. As fans eagerly await the final squad announcement for the T20 World Cup, their unwavering support for Kohli remains steadfast, underscoring his status as a cricketing icon and a source of inspiration for millions around the globe.

Queensland Hold Slender Lead Over NSW in Thrilling Shield Clash

Queensland Hold Slender Lead Over NSW in Thrilling Shield Clash

Queensland and New South Wales are locked in a thrilling battle at Allan Border Field, with the home side holding a slender lead of 115 runs heading into the final day.

NSW resumed play on Wednesday well-placed at 222 for 5, and Ollie Davies took the game by the scruff of the neck to post a deserved century. The 23-year-old thumped 131 off 147 balls, lifting his side to a competitive total of 316.

Queensland’s response got off to a shaky start, as they slumped to 42 for 4 and 118 for 5. However, Jimmy Peirson and Jack Wildermuth combined to help them avoid an innings loss. Peirson, who scored 64 in the first innings, is still unbeaten on 57, while Xavier Bartlett has contributed a valuable 57 not out.

The pair will resume at the crease on Thursday, with captain Peirson still hopeful of pulling off an upset victory. “I’d love another 50 or 60 runs,” Peirson said. “There’s a crack developing at one end for the quicks to hit that, and there’s certainly some divots there to play with as well. So if we can get another 50 or 60 runs – it’s a funny game.”

NSW spinner Tanveer Sangha has been the pick of the bowlers, finishing the day with 4 for 116. The most special of those dismissals was that of Jack Clayton, with Davies snaring a one-handed reflex catch at leg slip.

NSW opener Sam Konstas suffered a potential concussion after hitting his head on the turf while dropping a catch late on day three. Konstas is set to miss the final day, which could be a blow to NSW’s hopes of victory.

BCCI to Control State Associations' Foreign Cricket Engagements

BCCI to Control State Associations’ Foreign Cricket Engagements

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is implementing a new policy that will require state cricket associations to route all proposals for training camps and competitions with foreign boards through the parent body. This decision will be finalized at the BCCI’s Apex Council meeting on March 18.

The move comes after several state units, including Delhi and Puducherry, held discussions with foreign boards, primarily associate nations, to host them on exposure trips. The Delhi and Districts Cricket Association (DDCA) has reportedly received a proposal from the Nepal Cricket Association.

“State units can certainly partner with foreign boards for cricket-related activities, but those agreements must be facilitated by the BCCI as it is the parent body. All proposals must go through the BCCI,” said a BCCI source.

The upcoming Apex Council meeting will include a discussion on “state cricket associations collaborating with foreign boards for organizing cricket.” The BCCI will then take matters into its own hands.

Nepal is expected to visit India for an exposure trip ahead of the T20 World Cup in the USA and Caribbean in June. Officials from the Cricket Association of Nepal met with BCCI secretary Jay Shah last month.

The BCCI has a history of assisting associate nations. Afghanistan used India as its home base for an extended period before the COVID-19 pandemic, utilizing facilities in Dehradun and Greater Noida for training and competition.

The new policy aims to streamline the process of organizing international cricket events and ensure that all such activities are conducted in accordance with BCCI regulations. It will also provide the BCCI with greater oversight and control over the activities of state cricket associations.

Rishabh Pant Declared Fit, Set for IPL Comeback After 14-Month Recovery

Rishabh Pant Declared Fit, Set for IPL Comeback After 14-Month Recovery

Rishabh Pant, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, is poised to make a triumphant return to competitive cricket after a grueling 14-month recovery from a devastating car accident in December 2022. As the Indian Premier League (IPL) approaches, Pant reflects on the challenges and triumphs he has faced during his rehabilitation journey.

In an exclusive interview with TOI, Pant candidly shared the emotional toll of missing the ODI World Cup hosted by India last year. “It was very upsetting,” he admitted. “We had set our sights on the World Cup, but my knee couldn’t handle the load.”

Undeterred, Pant embraced the setback as an opportunity for growth. “I started pushing myself more,” he said. “When you set shorter goals, it helps you stay motivated. It’s like building a good Test innings.”

The official declaration of fitness by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has filled Pant with immense satisfaction. “This was the thing we were waiting for,” he exclaimed. “I just want to go out there and play and have fun.”

Pant has already joined the Delhi Capitals camp in Vizag, where he will prepare for the team’s IPL opener against Punjab Kings on March 23. The wicketkeeper-batsman is eager to contribute to his team’s success and prove that he is back to his best.

Pant’s return to competitive cricket is a testament to his resilience and determination. After enduring a life-threatening accident, he has emerged stronger than ever, ready to once again showcase his exceptional skills on the field.

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