Wishlist0
0
Continue Shopping

 +91 91155 12977

Home / News (Page 981)

Category: News

BCCI Introduces Test Cricket Incentive Scheme to Reward Players

BCCI Introduces Test Cricket Incentive Scheme to Reward Players

By March 10, 2024 0

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a new ‘Test Cricket Incentive Scheme’ to reward players for their participation in the longest format of the game. The scheme aims to encourage players to prioritize Test cricket and ensure its financial viability.

Under the scheme, players who participate in 75% or more of the scheduled Test matches in a season will receive an additional incentive of Rs 45 lakh per game. This incentive is in addition to the existing match fee of Rs 15 lakh, meaning that a player who plays all 10 Tests in a season could earn up to Rs 4.50 crore in incentives alone.

The scheme is designed to provide financial security to Test players and reduce the uncertainty surrounding their earnings. This is particularly important for players who may not be guaranteed a place in the playing XI or who may not have lucrative IPL contracts.

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah said that the scheme will cost the board around Rs 45 crore for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons. He emphasized that the board is committed to giving highest priority to Test cricket and ensuring its financial growth and stability.

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir praised the BCCI’s decision, saying that “freedom from uncertainty is extremely important for performance.” He added that the scheme is a “great step” that will encourage players to take part in Test cricket.

The scheme is expected to have a positive impact on the quality and competitiveness of Test cricket in India. By providing financial incentives, the BCCI is sending a clear message that it values Test cricket and is committed to its long-term success.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Shardul Thakur Rescues Mumbai in Ranji Trophy Final Opener

Shardul Thakur Rescues Mumbai in Ranji Trophy Final Opener

By March 10, 2024 0

Mumbai’s Shardul Thakur Rescues Team in Ranji Trophy Final Opener

Mumbai’s Shardul Thakur once again proved his batting prowess, rescuing his team from a precarious position on the first day of the Ranji Trophy final against Vidarbha at the Wankhede Stadium.

After Vidarbha’s bowlers, Yash Thakur and Harsh Dubey, had reduced Mumbai to 104 for 5, Shardul stepped up with a blistering 37-ball half-century. His innings, which included 10 fours and 2 sixes, helped Mumbai reach a respectable total of 224.

Shardul’s knock was crucial as Mumbai’s middle order had collapsed either side of lunch. Captain Ajinkya Rahane and Shreyas Iyer both fell cheaply for 7 each. However, Shardul’s partnership with Sarfaraz Khan (37) and Shams Mulani (25) steadied the innings.

When Shardul was eventually dismissed for 75 off 69 balls, Mumbai were still in a precarious position. However, Umesh Yadav’s quickfire 20 helped them add valuable runs to their total.

In reply, Vidarbha lost three early wickets to Shardul and Dhawal Kulkarni, who was playing his farewell game. Atharva Taide (21*) and nightwatchman Aditya Thakare (0*) will resume batting on day two with Vidarbha trailing by 193 runs.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Australia's Belief Tested as Lyon's Body Language Contradicts Words

Australia’s Belief Tested as Lyon’s Body Language Contradicts Words

By March 10, 2024 0

Nathan Lyon’s words may have expressed optimism, but his body language and tone hinted at a different story as Australia faces an uphill battle to salvage the second Test against New Zealand at Hagley Oval.

Trailing by 279 runs, Australia stumbled to 34 for 4 in their pursuit of victory. Lyon, once again tasked with the nightwatchman role, was not required to bat as Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh guided the team to stumps without further loss. However, the task remains daunting, with 202 runs still needed and only six wickets in hand.

Despite the precarious position, Lyon maintained Australia’s belief in their ability to pull off a remarkable escape. “It would be a great Test match win if we’re able to pick this off,” he said. “There’s a lot of belief in that change room… we can win from any position.”

Lyon pointed to Australia’s successful chase of 282 at Edgbaston in the Ashes last year, where he and Pat Cummins shared an unbeaten 55-run stand for the ninth wicket. However, such high-scoring fourth-innings chases are rare for Australia, with only 13 successful instances and only two since 2006.

Lyon’s words of confidence were somewhat contradicted by his demeanor. Just days earlier, he had exuded optimism in Wellington, declaring that Australia would create the necessary chances to win. In Christchurch, his tone was more subdued, his body language suggesting a different reality.

Lyon admitted to feeling nervous as the nightwatchman, a role he has been forced to play twice in this series. “Too often I seem to be batting in the top six,” he said. “Happy to do the role but it’s nice that I didn’t have to walk out there tonight.”

While Lyon refrained from direct criticism of his batting group, his tone hinted at frustration. “It’s not a frustration. I think it’s a learning curve for us,” he said. “We’re on a path… to become one of Australia’s great cricket teams.”

Lyon’s words reflect the challenges facing an aging Australian team, with nine of the 11 members over the age of 30. While victory at Hagley Oval remains a possibility, the team’s actions and words currently seem out of sync.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
MS Dhoni Returns to CSK Training Camp, Hints at Final IPL Season

MS Dhoni Returns to CSK Training Camp, Hints at Final IPL Season

By March 10, 2024 0

MS Dhoni Returns to CSK Training Camp, Hints at Final IPL Season

Legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni has officially joined the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) training camp in preparation for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The highly anticipated tournament kicks off on March 22, and Dhoni’s presence has sent ripples of excitement through the CSK camp.

In a viral video, Dhoni was spotted wearing CSK’s training gear and carrying a couple of bats. The 42-year-old looked sharp and focused as he took part in the practice session at Chepauk on Thursday.

Dhoni’s return to the CSK camp has fueled speculation that this season could be his last as a player. The former India captain has been battling a knee injury, but he guided CSK to a record-equalling fifth IPL title last season.

Despite undergoing knee surgery in Mumbai after the final, Dhoni is determined to lead CSK once again. This will be his 14th season as captain of the franchise, a testament to his enduring leadership qualities.

Last week, Dhoni hinted at a “new role” in a cryptic Facebook post. “Can’t wait for the new season and the new ‘role’. Stay tuned!” he wrote.

The post sparked rumors that Dhoni might be transitioning to a coaching role. However, he later clarified that the “new role” referred to a promotional campaign for the IPL.

“New season, double role!” Dhoni wrote in a subsequent Facebook post. “Excited to be back in action with @ChennaiIPL and also to be a part of the @IPL’s new campaign. #DoubleRole #IPL2024.”

Dhoni’s return to the CSK camp has boosted the team’s morale and raised expectations for the upcoming season. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter remains a key figure in the CSK setup, both on and off the field.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Gavaskar Lauds Root's Admiration for Ashwin's Bowling Prowess

Gavaskar Lauds Root’s Admiration for Ashwin’s Bowling Prowess

By March 10, 2024 0

Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary Indian cricketer, recently expressed his admiration for England batter Joe Root’s high regard for Ravichandran Ashwin’s bowling prowess. In a heartfelt conversation with Ashwin after the conclusion of the India vs England Test series, Gavaskar highlighted the significance of Root’s praise for the seasoned all-rounder.

Root had earlier acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Ashwin to premier batters, emphasizing the spinner’s ability to consistently trouble opponents with his crafty bowling variations. Gavaskar echoed these sentiments, stating that Ashwin’s ability to outfox batters with a diverse array of deliveries and tactical maneuvers has always been a highlight of his career.

Ashwin, who marked his 100th Test appearance for Team India in the series, delivered a stellar performance, claiming nine wickets as India clinched victory by an innings and 64 runs. He set a new record by registering the best bowling figures (9 for 128) in a 100th Test, surpassing Muthiah Muralitharan’s record.

Gavaskar conveyed the sentiment shared by many cricket enthusiasts, emphasizing Ashwin’s ability to outwit batters with a diverse array of deliveries and tactical maneuvers. “A lot of good players of spin bowling will be thinking a hundred times about how to cope with you,” Gavaskar remarked, echoing Root’s sentiments.

In response, Ashwin credited his adaptability and willingness to experiment, acknowledging the evolving nature of modern cricket and the importance of staying ahead in a game increasingly influenced by detailed analysis and strategic planning.

Ashwin’s remarkable achievements in Test cricket, including his record-breaking 36 five-wicket hauls, underscore his status as one of India’s premier bowlers. With a stellar performance in the series against England, Ashwin further solidified his reputation as a key asset for the Indian team across all formats.

As Ashwin embarks on his journey beyond the milestone of 100 Tests, his contributions to Indian cricket continue to inspire admiration and reverence from fans and peers alike. With upcoming challenges on the horizon, including the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Bangladesh Test series, Ashwin’s leadership and expertise are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s cricketing fortunes in the times to come.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Sabalenka Survives Match Point Scare to Advance at Indian Wells

Sabalenka Survives Match Point Scare to Advance at Indian Wells

By March 10, 2024 0

Aryna Sabalenka, the reigning Australian Open champion, faced a stern test in her opening match at the Indian Wells Masters, battling back from the brink of defeat to secure a thrilling 6-7 (2/7), 6-2, 7-6 (8/6) victory over American qualifier Payton Stearns.

Sabalenka, ranked second in the world, struggled from the outset against the 64th-ranked Stearns, who pushed the Belarusian to the limit in a match that ebbed and flowed throughout. The American outsider served for the upset at 5-4 in the third set, but Sabalenka broke back and saved four match points to force a tiebreaker.

In the tense tiebreaker, Sabalenka’s resilience shone through as she saved another match point with a blistering backhand winner. Stearns, feeling the pressure, tightened up, allowing Sabalenka to break back for 5-5. The American broke Sabalenka again, but couldn’t serve out the match, and Sabalenka ultimately prevailed in the tiebreaker.

The double Grand Slam winner advanced into the third round after a grueling three-hour battle, letting out a roar of triumph and relief. “This match will definitely go into the book of craziest matches and the best matches of my career,” she said.

Despite rolling her ankle during the intense match, Sabalenka expressed confidence in her fitness for her next match. “I was trying so hard to get to every ball and to put every ball back,” she said. “Now I feel OK, we’ll see tomorrow. But I have a great team, and I’m pretty sure they will take care of it so for the next match I will be ready.”

Sabalenka praised Stearns’ performance, acknowledging that she had to dig deep to overcome the American’s challenge. “I’m super happy that I didn’t give up on that score, and I was really pushing myself hard,” she said. “Even though I didn’t play my best tennis and she was crushing it like crazy, I was trying to stay in the game and keep fighting for every point.”

Sabalenka, who finished runner-up to Elena Rybakina in Indian Wells last year, will face 2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu of Britain in the third round.

Categories: Tennis
Read more
Sinner and Sonego Triumph in Indian Wells Doubles Debut

Sinner and Sonego Triumph in Indian Wells Doubles Debut

By March 10, 2024 0

Jannik Sinner Extends Unbeaten Streak in Indian Wells Doubles Debut

INDIAN WELLS, Calif. – Jannik Sinner’s remarkable start to 2024 continued on Saturday as he teamed up with compatriot Lorenzo Sonego to claim victory in their Indian Wells doubles opener.

Fresh from his triumph at the Australian Open, Sinner showcased his versatility by transitioning seamlessly to the doubles court. The Italian duo faced a stern test in the form of Karen Khachanov and Andrey Rublev, but they ultimately prevailed in straight sets, 7-5, 6-1.

The match began with both teams trading blows, but it was Sinner and Sonego who seized the initiative in the first set. They broke Khachanov’s serve at 5-4, putting themselves in a commanding position. However, the Russian-German duo fought back to level the set at 5-5.

Undeterred, Sinner and Sonego regained their composure and broke Khachanov’s serve once again to take the first set. The second set was a one-sided affair as the Italians dominated their opponents, winning it 6-1.

Throughout the match, Sinner and Sonego displayed excellent chemistry and coordination. They covered the court effectively, with Sinner’s powerful groundstrokes complementing Sonego’s deft touch at the net.

The victory extends Sinner’s unbeaten streak to 10 matches in 2024. The 21-year-old has now won two titles this season, including the Australian Open and the Montpellier Open.

Sinner’s success in doubles is a testament to his all-around ability as a tennis player. He is not only a formidable singles player but also a capable doubles competitor.

Categories: Tennis
Read more
Hogg Advocates Jurel as India's Test Wicket-Keeper, Urges Caution with Pant's Return

Hogg Advocates Jurel as India’s Test Wicket-Keeper, Urges Caution with Pant’s Return

By March 10, 2024 0

Former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has urged India to retain Dhruv Jurel as their specialist wicket-keeper in Test cricket, even after Rishabh Pant recovers from his injuries. Pant has been sidelined since late 2022 due to a car accident, but is expected to return to action in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL).

Hogg believes that Pant should prove his fitness and form in domestic cricket before being considered for the national team. “I think they will keep with Jurel and not go back to Pant quickly,” Hogg said on his YouTube channel. “I think they will make him go and play some first-class cricket in the longest format so that they make sure his body can withstand it and make sure, from a batting perspective, he still has the ability that he had before the accident.”

Hogg emphasized the importance of caution in Pant’s return to Test cricket. “I really hope that Pant gets back to playing Test cricket, but I feel it is a huge risk if they rush him back,” he added.

Meanwhile, in the ongoing fifth Test between India and England in Dharamsala, Kuldeep Yadav starred with a five-wicket haul to dismiss England for 218. Yadav’s performance, along with Ravichandran Ashwin’s four wickets in his 100th Test, gave India a strong start on the opening day.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Rohit Sharma's Leadership and Batting Guide India to 4-1 Test Series Victory Over England

Rohit Sharma’s Leadership and Batting Guide India to 4-1 Test Series Victory Over England

By March 10, 2024 0

India’s resounding 4-1 series victory over England in the recently concluded five-match Test series was a testament to the team’s resilience and the exceptional leadership of Rohit Sharma. After losing the opening Test in Hyderabad, India staged a remarkable comeback, winning the remaining four matches to clinch the series.

Rohit Sharma, who took over the captaincy from Virat Kohli, played a pivotal role in India’s triumph. Not only did he lead from the front with his batting, scoring 400 runs in five Tests, but he also displayed astute leadership qualities.

In the crucial Rajkot Test, where India were struggling at 33/3 in the first innings, Rohit played a captain’s knock, scoring a magnificent 133 off 196 deliveries. His partnership of 204 runs with Ravindra Jadeja rescued India from a precarious position.

India’s head coach, Rahul Dravid, praised Rohit’s contribution, saying, “It has been a pleasure watching him bat since I saw him as an 18-year-old. It is always pleasing to the eye. But I think he has added a lot of steel and grit to that. Sometimes, we forget that a little bit. Look at his numbers. He was shy enough not to mention the critical situation where he won the toss in Rajkot, and we were 3 down in the first hour. You need somebody to step up and get a hundred, and the captain does that for you.”

Rohit’s leadership was also evident in his ability to motivate his team and create a positive atmosphere within the squad. Despite the challenges they faced, India remained focused and determined throughout the series.

India’s victory was a collective effort, with contributions from all members of the team. However, Rohit Sharma’s leadership and batting prowess were undoubtedly key factors in their success.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
BBL and WBBL Overhaul: Multi-Year Overseas Deals and WBBL Reduction

BBL and WBBL Overhaul: Multi-Year Overseas Deals and WBBL Reduction

By March 10, 2024 0

Cricket Australia is revolutionizing its Big Bash League (BBL) and Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) with significant changes aimed at retaining overseas talent and enhancing the overall quality of the competitions.

Overseas Player Multi-Year Deals:

Clubs will now be permitted to sign overseas players to multi-year contracts before the draft. These deals will require players to commit to the entire tournament, preventing them from leaving for other leagues. This move is designed to address the issue of players departing the BBL before the finals, which has weakened the competition in recent years.

Impact on Draft and Player Selection:

The signed overseas players will count towards the minimum of three internationals that each club must select during the draft. They will occupy either a platinum, gold, or silver-round pick based on their salary. Clubs will have the flexibility to poach overseas talent from other franchises, adding an element of strategy to the draft process.

Flexibility and Timing:

Players who have existing contracts elsewhere will be granted some flexibility next summer. However, from the 2025-26 season onwards, they will be locked in for the duration of their multi-year deals. The timing of the UAE-based ILT20 competition is expected to shift from January-February to November, reducing the pressure on the BBL, as ILT20 teams will no longer be able to raid BBL stocks.

WBBL Changes:

The WBBL is also set for a shake-up, with a likely reduction from 56 games to 40. This move is intended to create a more balanced schedule and provide greater context for matches. The timing of the Women’s T20 World Cup in Bangladesh means the competition could begin without international talent if it maintains its longer season.

State-Based T20 League:

To compensate for the reduction in WBBL games, Cricket Australia is considering introducing a state-based T20 league. This could provide financial benefits for players, who currently earn match fees in state cricket but salaries in the WBBL.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Main Menu
Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart