Rohit Sharma: The GOAT of Modern-Day Batting

Rohit Sharma: The GOAT of Modern-Day Batting

Rohit Sharma, the Indian cricket team’s captain, is widely regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time. His exceptional skills in both classical and aggressive batting have earned him a reputation as a modern-day batting maestro.

Sharma’s dominance in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) is evident in his impressive average of over 49 and nearly 11,000 runs scored. He has also established himself as a formidable force in Test cricket, averaging over 45 and showcasing his ability to open the innings with aplomb.

In June 2023, Sharma announced his retirement from Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), but he remains the format’s leading run-scorer with 4231 runs in 159 matches. His India teammate, Dhruv Jurel, has hailed Sharma as the “Greatest of All Time” (GOAT).

“When I watched him on TV, we thought he had a lot of time, but when you watch him bat live, you realize that the deliveries you are struggling against, he’s picking them nicely. Everybody knows about his famous pull shot,” Jurel said.

Sharma will lead the Indian team in a two-match Test series against Bangladesh, starting September 19. The squad includes several notable additions, such as pacers Akash Deep and Yash Dayal, and the return of wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant after his recovery from a life-threatening accident.

Virat Kohli, India’s former captain, will also make his Test comeback after missing the home series against England due to the birth of his son. KL Rahul and Jasprit Bumrah have also returned to the Test set-up after injuries.

The spin quartet of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav will provide the team with both batting and bowling depth. Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Yash Dayal will form the pace attack.

PCB Confirms Pakistan to Host England Test Series Despite Venue Concerns

PCB Confirms Pakistan to Host England Test Series Despite Venue Concerns

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has firmly denied rumors that the upcoming Test series against England will be moved out of the country. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has emphasized that Pakistan will host the series as scheduled, despite concerns over the availability of venues due to ongoing construction work.

The three-match Test series is set to commence on October 7, with Multan, Karachi, and Rawalpindi designated as the host cities. However, the PCB’s international cricket department has yet to finalize the itinerary, leaving the board frustrated.

“With less than a month remaining for the first Test, the international department is yet to even decide where the first match would be held,” a PCB insider revealed.

Despite Naqvi’s insistence on hosting the series in Pakistan, the department has not formally announced the tour itinerary. The delay has raised concerns among the English Cricket Board and Barmy Army members, who are eager to know the venue for the first Test.

The insider expressed concerns that the delayed announcement is affecting the PCB’s revenue generation opportunities. Broadcasters are struggling to sell the telecast rights of the series abroad, particularly in the UK.

“The more the announcement is delayed, the more it is hitting the PCB’s chances of earning good revenues from the England series,” the insider said.

The PCB has also faced criticism for postponing the National Under-19 Championship after just one day of play. The postponement was attributed to complaints about the selection process and the lack of an approved budget.

The PCB’s handling of the upcoming Test series and the National Under-19 Championship has raised questions about the board’s efficiency and planning. The PCB must address these concerns promptly to ensure the smooth conduct of the England series and the development of young cricketers in Pakistan.

Indian Cricketers Gear Up for Bangladesh Test Series

Indian Cricketers Gear Up for Bangladesh Test Series

Indian cricketers have commenced rigorous training for the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh, scheduled to begin on September 19 in Chennai. The second Test will take place in Kanpur on September 27.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) released a video on Saturday showcasing the intense practice session at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The video features star players such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, and KL Rahul undergoing demanding batting drills.

India’s pace attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah, also displayed their prowess during the practice session. The team is currently ranked seven places above Bangladesh in the official Test rankings published by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and leads the World Test Championship standings.

After facing Bangladesh, India will host New Zealand for three Tests before embarking on a five-match Test series in Australia.

Bangladesh, on the other hand, is brimming with confidence after defeating Pakistan in a Test series for the first time. They will be led by Najmul Hossain Shanto in the upcoming series against India.

Panthers Triumph in Champions One-Day Cup with Usman Khan Century and Hasnain Five-For

Panthers Triumph in Champions One-Day Cup with Usman Khan Century and Hasnain Five-For

The Panthers roared to their maiden victory in the Champions One-Day Cup, crushing the Dolphins by 50 runs on the back of a century from Usman Khan and a five-wicket haul by Mohammad Hasnain.

Batting first, the Panthers amassed a formidable 328, thanks to Usman’s 111, Shadab Khan’s 65, and Haider Ali’s 63. The Dolphins’ chase got off to a promising start with a 68-run opening stand, but Hasnain’s pace and accuracy proved too much to handle.

Usman and Haider’s 103-run partnership laid the foundation for the Panthers’ imposing total. Usman’s century was a masterclass in timing and placement, while Haider’s quickfire knock kept the scoreboard ticking.

The Dolphins’ bowlers struggled to contain the Panthers’ onslaught, with Usman Qadir’s three wickets in the final over coming too late to make a significant impact.

In response, the Dolphins showed resilience, with Qasim Akram and Sahibzada Farhan scoring half-centuries. However, Hasnain’s devastating spell of 5-74 shattered their hopes.

Hasnain’s pace and bounce proved too much for the Dolphins’ middle order, as he ripped through the heart of their batting lineup. His five-for was a testament to his skill and determination.

The Panthers’ victory was a testament to their all-round strength. Usman’s century provided the foundation, while Shadab and Haider’s contributions kept the momentum going. Hasnain’s five-wicket haul was the icing on the cake, securing the win for his team.

Venus Williams’s “Strive”: Empowering Others with Her Health and Wellness Journey

Venus Williams, the legendary tennis champion, has embarked on a new mission to empower others with her health and wellness journey. Her recently released book, “Strive,” encapsulates her eight essential tenets that have guided her through her illustrious career and beyond.

Williams’s health journey began in 2011 when she was diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that affects the body’s moisture-producing glands. This diagnosis forced her to re-evaluate her approach to health and wellness, leading her to develop a holistic approach that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

In “Strive,” Williams shares her eight core tenets: observe, appreciate, balance, enrich, soothe, believe, and inspire. These principles have been instrumental in her ability to overcome challenges, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and achieve success both on and off the court.

Williams emphasizes the importance of self-observation and self-awareness in her book. By paying attention to her body and mind, she has been able to identify her needs and make informed decisions about her health. She also stresses the power of gratitude, encouraging readers to appreciate the good things in their lives and to focus on the positive aspects of their health journey.

Balance is another key tenet for Williams. She believes in finding a harmonious equilibrium between different aspects of life, including work, relationships, and personal time. By prioritizing self-care and setting boundaries, she has been able to maintain a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.

Enrichment is also essential for Williams. She encourages readers to engage in activities that nourish their minds, bodies, and souls. This can include reading, learning new skills, or spending time in nature. By enriching her life with meaningful experiences, Williams has found greater purpose and fulfillment.

Soothing is another important aspect of Williams’s wellness routine. She emphasizes the importance of taking time for relaxation and stress reduction. Whether it’s through meditation, yoga, or spending time with loved ones, Williams believes in the power of self-care to promote overall well-being.

Belief is a fundamental tenet for Williams. She encourages readers to believe in themselves and their ability to achieve their health goals. By setting realistic goals and celebrating small victories, she has been able to maintain a positive mindset and overcome obstacles.

Finally, Williams emphasizes the importance of inspiration. She believes that surrounding oneself with positive and supportive people can make a significant difference in one’s health journey. By connecting with others who share similar values and goals, Williams has found motivation and encouragement to stay on track.

Through her book, Williams hopes to inspire others to embrace a holistic approach to health and wellness. By sharing her personal experiences and insights, she aims to empower readers to make smart choices, develop healthy habits, and live their best lives.

Nottingham Forest Stun Liverpool with 1-0 Anfield Upset

Nottingham Forest Stun Liverpool with 1-0 Anfield Upset

Nottingham Forest pulled off a stunning upset on Saturday, September 14, 2024, as they defeated Liverpool 1-0 at Anfield. The victory marked Forest’s first at the iconic stadium since 1969 and sent shockwaves through the Premier League.

Liverpool dominated the opening half, but their profligacy in front of goal proved costly. Luis Diaz and Dominik Szoboszlai both came close to breaking the deadlock, but their efforts went wide. Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels also made a series of crucial saves to keep the Reds at bay.

The second half saw a more determined Forest side emerge. They pressed Liverpool high up the pitch and created several chances of their own. In the 72nd minute, substitute Callum Hudson-Odoi received a brilliant crossfield ball from Anthony Elanga and curled a superb effort past Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson.

Liverpool threw everything forward in search of an equalizer, but Forest held firm. Virgil van Dijk’s late header flew over the bar, and the Reds were left to rue their missed opportunities.

The victory was a major statement of intent from Forest, who have now won their first three league games under new coach Arne Slot. Liverpool, on the other hand, were left to lick their wounds after a disappointing performance.

Vinith Venkatesh's Match-Winning Goal Gives Bengaluru FC Winning Start

Vinith Venkatesh’s Match-Winning Goal Gives Bengaluru FC Winning Start

Five years ago, Vinith Venkatesh was a mere ballboy, witnessing Bengaluru FC’s Indian Super League campaign from the sidelines. On Saturday, he etched his name into the club’s history, scoring the match-winning goal in a 1-0 victory over East Bengal FC.

Making his debut at the iconic Sree Kanteerava Stadium, the 19-year-old Venkatesh emerged as the hero. In the 25th minute, Edgar Mendez’s pinpoint assist found an unmarked Venkatesh inside the box. With a deft first touch and a powerful low strike to the far post, he sent the home crowd into raptures.

Senior statesman Sunil Chhetri, a veteran of Indian football, rushed to celebrate with the local lad. Venkatesh, who joined the club academy at the tender age of eight, had come full circle.

The match was a scrappy affair, with nearly 12,000 spectators witnessing a physical and cynical encounter. Six players received yellow cards, while East Bengal’s Lalchungnunga was sent off for a second booking. Tempers flared at times, forcing referee Crystal John to intervene.

East Bengal remained in the hunt for an equalizer, pressing forward with intent. Their best chance came late when substitute Cleiton Silva fired over the crossbar from close range. In the first half, Jeakson Singh tried his luck from long range, but Bengaluru FC goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh was up to the task.

Mendez, making his BFC debut, nearly got on the scoresheet with a crisp shot that narrowly missed the target. A few minutes later, Mendez and Venkatesh combined to ensure that Bengaluru FC started its ISL season on a winning note.

The result: Bengaluru FC 1 (Venkatesh 25) bt East Bengal FC 0.

Abhimanyu Easwaran Anchors India-B with Gritty Century in Duleep Trophy

Abhimanyu Easwaran Anchors India-B with Gritty Century in Duleep Trophy

Indian Test cricket’s long-standing fringe player Abhimanyu Easwaran showcased his resilience and determination in the second-round Duleep Trophy match against India-C at the Rural Development Trust (RDT) Stadium B-ground.

Easwaran, who has often been on the cusp of Test selection, anchored his team’s innings with a gritty 143 (262b, 12×4, 1×6) on Saturday. His unbeaten knock helped India-B end the third day on 309 for seven, still 216 runs behind India-C’s first-innings total of 525.

Easwaran’s innings was a testament to his patience and ability to grind out runs in challenging conditions. He shared a 129-run opening partnership with N. Jagadeesan (70), who was caught behind off medium-pacer Anshul Kamboj.

However, India-B’s progress was hampered by a middle-order collapse. Musheer Khan and Sarfaraz Khan fell cheaply to Kamboj, while Rinku Singh and Nitish Kumar Reddy were dismissed by Kamboj and Markande, respectively.

Kamboj emerged as the star performer for India-C, claiming a five-wicket haul. His incisive bowling put India-B under pressure and restricted their scoring rate.

Despite the setbacks, Easwaran remained unyielding at the crease. He brought up his 24th first-class hundred off 178 balls, displaying his unwavering focus and determination.

Easwaran’s innings was a reminder of his potential and the value he can bring to the Indian Test team. His ability to bat for long periods and anchor the innings could prove invaluable in the future.

Alcaraz Grilled by Peers in Hilarious Q&A Session

Alcaraz Grilled by Peers in Hilarious Q&A Session

Carlos Alcaraz, the prodigious tennis star, recently faced a unique challenge: an interview conducted by his fellow ATP peers. In a lighthearted Q&A session, Alcaraz’s fellow players grilled him on various aspects of his on-court and off-court life.

Jannik Sinner, the Italian rising star, inquired about the development of Alcaraz’s signature drop shot. Alcaraz humorously responded that he was “super skinny” as a child, implying that his agility and finesse on the court were not always evident.

Daniil Medvedev, known for his aggressive playing style, asked if Alcaraz’s attacking tendencies were present even in his childhood. Alcaraz confirmed that his aggressive approach has been a constant throughout his tennis journey.

Novak Djokovic, the 21-time Grand Slam champion, quizzed Alcaraz about his favorite sneakers. Alcaraz expressed his preference for Air Jordan 1s, which he has been wearing extensively lately.

Grigor Dimitrov, the stylish Bulgarian player, jokingly asked Alcaraz, the Louis Vuitton ambassador, if he could secure a discount on the brand’s pricey products. Alcaraz responded with a laugh, acknowledging his lack of influence in that regard.

Casper Ruud, Alcaraz’s 2022 US Open final opponent, asked about his dream foursome for a round of golf. Alcaraz named former Masters winner John Rahm and Rafael Nadal, his idol and fellow Spaniard.

Hubert Hurkacz, the Polish player, posed a thought-provoking question: what goes through Alcaraz’s mind during matches. Alcaraz replied with a wry grin, “I’m thinking just to enjoy. I’m thinking about making good shots, drop shots, go to the net, playing great tennis.”

Alcaraz’s responses throughout the interview showcased his wit, humility, and passion for the sport. The Q&A session provided a glimpse into the camaraderie and respect among the ATP players, as well as Alcaraz’s unique personality and approach to tennis.

India Overcomes Challenges, Triumphs in Olympiad

India Overcomes Challenges, Triumphs in Olympiad

India Faces Challenges in Olympiad, Emerges Victorious

The Indian chess team encountered its first significant challenges in the ongoing Olympiad, facing off against formidable opponents Serbia and France. The matches were characterized by extended play, intense competition, and dramatic moments, particularly on the women’s boards.

Tania Sachdev, amidst the chaos surrounding her, opted for an aggressive approach against International Master Natacha Benmesbah. Despite the complexity of her position, she set up a clever trap with e5, forcing her opponent to exchange rooks. Harika Dronavalli skillfully navigated a knight endgame, securing a full point and leading India to a 3.5-0.5 victory over France.

In the Open section, R Praggnanandhaa drew against Serbia’s strongest player, Alexey Sarana, while Arjun Erigaisi maintained his flawless record with a 4/4 score in Budapest. Erigaisi’s consistent performance has been a boon for India, providing a reliable source of points in each match.

The Indian women faced their toughest test yet against the French team. Captain Abhijit Kunte closely monitored the boards of Harika and Divya as the other games concluded. Iranian-French WGM Mitra Hejazipour posed a significant threat, putting Divya under pressure. However, the Indian player displayed resilience and managed to turn the game in her favor, securing a crucial victory.

Beyond the Indian boards, the Olympiad witnessed major upsets. Defending champions Uzbekistan fell to Vietnam, while legendary Vasyl Ivanchuk orchestrated an upset of top seeds USA by Ukraine. Ding Liren, the reigning world champion, drew his game against Armenia’s Haik Martirosyen, dropping to world No.18 in the live ratings.

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