England to Face South Africa in Opening Match of 2024 Women's T20 World Cup

England to Face South Africa in Opening Match of 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup

The 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup is set to kick off on October 3 in Dhaka, Bangladesh, with a thrilling opening match between England and South Africa. The tournament schedule, released on Sunday, promises an exciting and competitive event.

Defending champions Australia will begin their title defense on October 4 in Sylhet against one of the qualifiers. The highly anticipated India-Pakistan match, always a highlight of the tournament, is scheduled for October 6 in Sylhet.

The tournament features 10 teams divided into two groups. Group A consists of Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and one qualifier, while Group B includes South Africa, England, West Indies, Bangladesh, and the other qualifier.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, which will be held on October 17 in Sylhet and October 18 in Dhaka. The final will take place on October 20 in Dhaka.

Bangladesh, which is hosting the tournament for the second time, will be eager to make a strong impression in front of their home crowd. The hosts will open their campaign on the opening day against one of the qualifiers.

The Women’s T20 World Cup is one of the most prestigious events in women’s cricket, and the 2024 edition promises to be no exception. With a talented field of teams and a packed schedule, fans can expect plenty of thrilling matches and unforgettable moments.

RCB Bowlers Show Improvement, But Team Remains in Playoff Limbo

RCB Bowlers Show Improvement, But Team Remains in Playoff Limbo

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have shown signs of improvement in their bowling department, but they still have a long way to go before they can be considered playoff contenders, according to former India all-rounder Ajay Jadeja.

RCB’s bowlers played a crucial role in their four-wicket win over Gujarat Titans on Saturday, restricting the opposition to a paltry 148. However, the team’s batting lineup once again faltered, losing six wickets in quick succession after a solid start by Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli.

“The chinks in the armor are visible, what happened at the end,” Jadeja said. “But the chance is there. They’re off the ventilator but they’re still in the ICU.”

Jadeja praised the bowlers for their performance, saying that it was the “real work” that set up the win. He believes that the bowling department has started to click for RCB, which is crucial for their chances of success in the business end of the season.

However, Jadeja cautioned that qualifying for the playoffs remains a “very tough ask” for RCB. He said that the team needs to develop a mentality where they can rely on someone to bail them out of difficult situations.

Despite the team’s struggles, Jadeja was impressed with RCB’s aggressive approach with the bat in the small chase. He said that the team’s decision to start the game with two sixes in the first over showed a different mindset.

“What Faf did, he was operating at a different pace,” Jadeja said. “Later, there was some excitement in the match but at no point did it seem like this was (GT win) going to be successful.”

Pakistan's Shahnawaz Dahani Recalls Memorable Encounter with MS Dhoni

Pakistan’s Shahnawaz Dahani Recalls Memorable Encounter with MS Dhoni

MS Dhoni’s Global Fanbase: Pakistan’s Shahnawaz Dahani Recalls Memorable Encounter

Former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni’s immense popularity extends beyond national boundaries, captivating fans worldwide, including those in neighboring Pakistan. One such ardent admirer is fast bowler Shahnawaz Dahani, who recently shared a heartwarming recollection of his meeting with the Indian legend.

During the 2021 T20 World Cup, Dhoni served as the Indian team’s mentor, providing guidance and support to the players. It was during this time that Dahani had the opportunity to meet his idol. In a video that has resurfaced on social media, Dahani recalls the encounter with great fondness.

“He is a personality that people all over the world admire,” Dahani said. “I am one of his many fans. When I knew we were playing India the following week, I couldn’t resist telling him, ‘Aap Dhoni hain, mai Dahani hu.'”

Dhoni’s response was met with laughter, and the two shared a brief but memorable moment. After the match, Dahani approached Dhoni again, this time for a photograph. Dhoni obliged, and the image quickly went viral on social media.

“It was a dream come true for me,” Dahani said. “Meeting Mahendra Singh Dhoni was an unforgettable experience.”

Dahani’s admiration for Dhoni is a testament to the Indian legend’s enduring legacy. Despite retiring from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni continues to inspire and captivate fans around the globe.

Mohammed Siraj's Resurgence Boosts RCB and India Ahead of T20 World Cup

Mohammed Siraj’s Resurgence Boosts RCB and India Ahead of T20 World Cup

Mohammed Siraj’s resurgence has been a pivotal factor in Royal Challengers Bangalore’s recent resurgence in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The pacer’s impressive form has not only boosted RCB’s chances but has also instilled confidence in the Indian team ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Siraj’s transformation was evident in his devastating spell against Gujarat Titans, where he claimed two wickets in the Power Play, dismissing Wriddhiman Saha and Shubman Gill. His figures of 2-0-9-2 were a testament to his newfound control and aggression.

RCB assistant coach Adam Griffith attributed Siraj’s resurgence to his ability to “swing the ball again.” He praised Siraj’s leadership qualities and his unwavering determination to take wickets. Griffith also highlighted the importance of Siraj’s fitness and rhythm, which have been crucial to his success.

Siraj’s absence from the Sunrisers Hyderabad game due to a nine-day break may have contributed to his renewed focus and sharpness. Griffith emphasized the importance of rest for players, especially those who rely on rhythm and pace.

Since his return from the break, Siraj has been in exceptional form, claiming wickets in each of his four matches. His performances against Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Gujarat Titans have been particularly impressive.

Griffith believes Siraj has struck a balance between rest and preparation. He noted that Siraj understands his body well and knows when he needs to push himself or take a break.

Siraj’s resurgence has had a positive impact on the entire RCB bowling unit. Youngster Yash Dayal has also impressed with his frugal and productive spells upfront. As a result, RCB has recorded three consecutive victories and has the lowest Power Play score in the IPL this season.

Griffith attributed the team’s success to their collective ability to hit a better line and attack the stumps. He emphasized the importance of challenging batters and forcing them to play aggressive shots.

Siraj’s impressive form is a welcome boost for the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup. His ability to swing the ball and take wickets in the Power Play will be crucial for India’s success in the tournament.

Gary Kirsten Appointed as Pakistan's White-Ball Head Coach

Gary Kirsten Appointed as Pakistan’s White-Ball Head Coach

World Cup-winning coach Gary Kirsten has been appointed as the white-ball head coach of the Pakistan men’s cricket team for a two-year term. Pakistan will participate in two T20 World Cups (2024 and 2026) and one Champions Trophy during Kirsten’s tenure.

Upon assuming his role, Kirsten outlined his vision for the team’s future, emphasizing the importance of winning major ICC tournaments. “If you can win one of those three ICC Events, that will be an amazing achievement on its own,” he said. “My job is to make sure that the team operates at its best, and if the team is operating at its best, we will always have a good chance of winning a trophy.”

However, former Pakistan player Ahmed Shehzad criticized Kirsten’s statements, questioning his understanding of the team’s dynamics. “Gary Kirsten is a renowned coach, but he will be fed information by those who will select the team,” Shehzad said. “He does not have a base in Lahore nor has he grown up in Pakistan to understand the nature of different players.”

Shehzad also expressed concern over Kirsten’s cautious approach, stating that “he is keeping himself in a safe position” by suggesting that Pakistan may not win the upcoming T20 World Cup but could perform better in the future. “This is not how a winner talks,” Shehzad added.

Despite Shehzad’s criticism, Kirsten remains confident in his ability to guide Pakistan to success. He has a proven track record of success, having coached India to the 2011 World Cup title and South Africa to the top of the ICC Test rankings.

Kirsten’s appointment is part of a broader restructuring of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which has also seen the appointment of former captain Shahid Afridi as the chief selector. The PCB is hoping that these changes will help Pakistan regain its status as a cricketing powerhouse.

T Natarajan's Exclusion from India's T20 World Cup Squad Raises Eyebrows

T Natarajan’s Exclusion from India’s T20 World Cup Squad Raises Eyebrows

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has expressed his astonishment over the exclusion of SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) pacer T Natarajan from India’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad. Natarajan, with his impressive performance in the ongoing IPL season, has emerged as a strong contender for the Purple Cap, having claimed 13 wickets in just seven matches.

Watson highlighted Natarajan’s exceptional ability to consistently deliver yorkers, a skill that could have significantly benefited the Indian team. “His ability to put that yorker in, his variations of speed when he needs to bowl that, it’s something he continues to produce over and over again,” Watson said. “That’s why I was surprised that he wasn’t in the Indian T20 squad because of his consistency of performances, especially when he’s bowling in crucial times of the game when batters are going strong.”

Watson’s sentiments were echoed by former India captain Sunil Gavaskar, who also praised Natarajan’s performances in IPL 2024. “I was thinking more like T Natarajan, the left-arm pacer bowler. He has been bowling extremely well. So, I thought maybe he could have been in the team,” Gavaskar said.

Despite the exclusion of Natarajan, India’s T20 World Cup squad boasts a formidable pace attack led by Jasprit Bumrah. Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh are expected to compete for the second spot in the playing XI, while Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan have been included in the list of travelling reserves.

India’s squad for T20 World Cup 2024:

* Rohit Sharma (C)
* Hardik Pandya (VC)
* Yashasvi Jaiswal
* Virat Kohli
* Suryakumar Yadav
* Rishabh Pant
* Sanju Samson
* Shivam Dube
* Ravindra Jadeja
* Axar Patel
* Kuldeep Yadav
* Yuzvendra Chahal
* Arshdeep Singh
* Mohammed Siraj
* Jasprit Bumrah

Reserves:

* Shubman Gill
* Rinku Singh
* Khaleel Ahmed
* Avesh Khan

Gary Kirsten's Virtual Coaching Sparks Controversy in Pakistan

Gary Kirsten’s Virtual Coaching Sparks Controversy in Pakistan

Gary Kirsten, the former South African cricketer and renowned coach, has been appointed as the head coach of Pakistan’s white-ball team. However, his virtual interaction with the players has sparked controversy among fans.

Kirsten, who is currently in India as the batting coach of Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL), conducted a virtual meeting with the Pakistani players. This move has drawn criticism from fans, who question the effectiveness of online coaching.

“How do players learn from a coach through a laptop screen?” one fan asked. “Like Mickey Arthur, he will also do online coaching. PCB, is this cricket or is it a joke?” another fan commented.

Despite the criticism, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has defended Kirsten’s virtual coaching. A PCB official stated that if Gujarat Titans fail to qualify for the IPL playoffs, Kirsten will be available from the start of the T20 series against England.

Until Kirsten joins the team, Azhar Mahmood, the former Test all-rounder, will lead Pakistan on its tour of Ireland and England. Mahmood, who has been appointed as the assistant coach to Kirsten, will act as head coach in the interim.

The PCB has also appointed Muhammad Yousuf, the former Test batsman, as the batting coach, and Saeed Ajmal, the legendary spinner, as the spin bowling coach.

Kirsten’s appointment has been met with mixed reactions. Some fans believe that his experience and expertise will benefit the Pakistani team, while others are skeptical about the effectiveness of virtual coaching.

Kohli's All-Round Brilliance Powers RCB to Victory Over GT

Kohli’s All-Round Brilliance Powers RCB to Victory Over GT

Virat Kohli’s all-around brilliance propelled Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to a thrilling four-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match on Saturday.

Before the match, Kohli faced criticism from former cricketer Sunil Gavaskar for his comments on cricket experts. However, he silenced his critics with a blistering 42 off 27 balls, including four sixes, to help RCB chase down a modest target of 148.

Kohli’s innings was not just about his batting prowess. He also showcased his exceptional fielding skills, running out GT’s Shahrukh Khan with a stunning one-handed throw. The effort left even his teammate Cameron Green in awe.

RCB’s bowlers had earlier restricted GT to 147, with Mohammed Siraj and Yash Dayal picking up two wickets each. David Miller and Shahrukh Khan provided some resistance with a 61-run partnership, but the Titans lacked a substantial innings to build a formidable total.

RCB’s chase got off to a flying start, with Kohli and captain Faf du Plessis adding 92 runs in just 35 balls for the opening wicket. Du Plessis played a blistering knock of 64 off 23 balls, hitting 10 fours and three sixes.

However, RCB’s middle order faltered, losing three wickets in quick succession. Kohli’s dismissal in the 10th over triggered a collapse, but Glenn Maxwell (23) and Dinesh Karthik (14*) steadied the ship.

Despite some nervous moments, RCB managed to cross the finish line with four wickets to spare. The victory lifted them to seventh place on the IPL table, keeping their playoff hopes alive.

Kohli Reclaims Orange Cap, RCB Triumphs Over Gujarat Titans

Kohli Reclaims Orange Cap, RCB Triumphs Over Gujarat Titans

Virat Kohli, the talismanic batter of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), has reclaimed the Orange Cap as the leading run-scorer in IPL 2024. His 42-run knock against Gujarat Titans on Saturday propelled him past Chennai Super Kings’ Ruturaj Gaikwad, who had briefly held the coveted cap.

Kohli’s innings came off just 27 deliveries, showcasing his exceptional strokeplay. He formed a formidable opening partnership with RCB skipper Faf du Plessis, who struck a blistering 62 off 23 balls. The duo put up a 92-run stand, laying the foundation for RCB’s eventual four-wicket victory.

However, RCB’s middle order faltered against the impressive bowling of Joshua Litle, who claimed four wickets. But the damage had already been done by Kohli and du Plessis, and veteran finisher Dinesh Karthik (21* off 12) and Swapil Singh (15* off 9) guided the team home in the 14th over.

Kohli’s knock not only earned him the Orange Cap but also sparked a moment of camaraderie with Karthik. After receiving the cap from his teammate, Kohli playfully bowed to him, eliciting smiles from both players.

RCB’s bowlers also played a crucial role in the victory, restricting Gujarat Titans to a below-par 147. Yash Dayal, Vijaykumar Vyshak, and Mohammed Siraj picked up two wickets each.

Despite the win, RCB’s playoff hopes remain uncertain. They currently sit seventh in the points table, with their qualification chances hanging in the balance. However, Kohli’s return to form and the team’s overall performance in recent matches provide a glimmer of hope for their fans.

Gilchrist's Six-Wicket Haul Leaves Lancashire in Tatters

Gilchrist’s Six-Wicket Haul Leaves Lancashire in Tatters

Lancashire’s batting woes continued unabated as Kent took complete control of their Vitality County Championship match at Emirates Old Trafford. Nathan Gilchrist’s career-best 6 for 24 and Wes Agar’s 4 for 35 reduced Lancashire to a paltry 92 in their first innings.

Kent’s 169-run first-innings lead allowed skipper Daniel Bell-Drummond to enforce the follow-on. Lancashire’s misery compounded as they lost three wickets for as many runs late in the day, finishing on 119 for 4, still 50 runs in arrears.

Gilchrist and Agar exploited the cloudy conditions to wreak havoc on Lancashire’s batting. Luke Wells, Josh Bohannon, Keaton Jennings, Tom Bruce, George Bell, George Balderson, and Tom Hartley all fell cheaply, leaving Lancashire reeling at 40 for 7.

Matty Hurst’s defiant 36 helped Lancashire avoid their lowest first-class score against Kent, but Gilchrist’s fifth wicket ended their innings. In their second innings, Wells and Jennings showed some fight, but Gilchrist’s brilliance continued as he dismissed both batsmen.

Joey Evison’s unbeaten 71 in Kent’s first innings proved invaluable, as Lancashire’s batting collapse handed Kent a commanding position. The visitors will be confident of securing victory on the final day, while Lancashire faces an uphill battle to salvage a draw.

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