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Dravid Explains Kuldeep Yadav's Inclusion, Praises Young Talent

Dravid Explains Kuldeep Yadav’s Inclusion, Praises Young Talent

By March 12, 2024 0

Indian cricket team head coach Rahul Dravid has shed light on the decision to include Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI for the second Test against England, despite the absence of all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Dravid explained that the team’s focus on taking all 20 wickets prompted them to opt for a specialist spinner over an all-rounder.

“When I saw Axar batting at No. 6, I remember looking at Vikram (Rathour) and thinking, ‘Jeez, VVS (Laxman) used to walk out at that position’,” Dravid said. “With due respect to Axar, he is a lovely player, but that’s the bottom line of what me and Rohit have always spoken about. That’s what wins you Tests… being able to take 20 wickets as quickly as possible.”

Dravid praised the team’s young talent for stepping up in the absence of senior players like Virat Kohli and KL Rahul. “It does make you feel really proud and happy for the way the team’s evolved, the team’s grown and just happy for the boys,” he said.

Despite losing the first Test, India bounced back to clinch the series 4-1, showcasing the depth and resilience of the team. Dravid’s decision to prioritize wicket-taking over all-round balance proved to be a winning formula, as Kuldeep Yadav played a crucial role in the team’s success.

The inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI highlights the team’s commitment to attacking bowling and their belief in the importance of taking wickets. Dravid’s decision to prioritize wicket-taking over all-round balance has paid off, as India has emerged victorious in the Test series against England.

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Ponting on Smith's T20 World Cup Chances and Australia's Captaincy

Ponting on Smith’s T20 World Cup Chances and Australia’s Captaincy

By March 12, 2024 0

Ricky Ponting Weighs In on Steve Smith’s T20 World Cup Prospects and Australia’s Captaincy

ICC Hall of Famer Ricky Ponting has offered his insights on the potential inclusion of Steve Smith in Australia’s squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Ponting also shared his views on who he believes should lead the team in the shortest format.

Speaking on The ICC Review, Ponting acknowledged Smith’s limited T20I appearances but highlighted his experience as a valuable asset for Australia. “You love having guys like him around because of the experience and the calming influence that you can have around a team during a World Cup,” Ponting said.

However, Ponting suggested that Smith might not secure a spot in the starting XI due to the team’s batting combinations. “But the other thing you always have to be mindful of is what role can he play? So I would think if Steve Smith does find his way into the squad, I don’t think he will be in the starting XI,” Ponting added.

On the topic of Australia’s T20 captaincy, Ponting expressed his support for all-rounder Mitchell Marsh. “I think he will (be T20I captain) and I think he deserves it as well as he has matured a lot as a player,” Ponting declared. “He’s certainly a leader of men…Leadership has always been in the back of the selectors’ minds as far as Mitchell Marsh is concerned.”

Ponting’s comments shed light on the strategic decisions facing Australia ahead of the T20 World Cup. Smith’s potential inclusion and Marsh’s captaincy candidacy are crucial considerations for the team’s success in the tournament.

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Rohit Sharma’s India Silences Critics, Extinguishes “Bazball”

By March 12, 2024 0

Rohit Sharma’s India has silenced critics and extinguished the “Bazball” hype with a resounding 4-1 Test series victory over England. The Indian skipper, who faced criticism for his perceived lack of Test credentials, has silenced his detractors with two centuries, including a match-winning ton in the final Test at Dharamsala.

Rohit’s appointment as captain in 2022 raised eyebrows, but he has proven his mettle both as a leader and a batsman. Despite missing the England series due to the birth of his second child, Virat Kohli’s absence has allowed Rohit to establish his own style of captaincy.

Former England captain Nasser Hussain praised Rohit’s approach, which he believes is often misconstrued as “laidback.” Hussain highlighted Rohit’s tactical acumen, particularly his decision to use Ravichandran Ashwin with the new ball to counter England’s aggressive batting.

“Rohit has had to learn and adapt his own style of captaincy,” Hussain said. “He’s not the same as Virat Kohli, who was very aggressive. But Rohit has that fire burning within.”

India’s loss in the first Test in Hyderabad was a setback, but they rallied to win the next three and seal the series. The final Test in Dharamsala was a fitting end to a dominant performance, with Rohit leading from the front with a century.

Rohit’s success has not only silenced his critics but also put an end to the “Bazball” phenomenon. England’s aggressive batting approach, which had been successful in recent months, was unable to match India’s skill and determination.

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Boycott Urges England to Plan for Future, Phase Out Anderson

Boycott Urges England to Plan for Future, Phase Out Anderson

By March 12, 2024 0

Geoffrey Boycott, the legendary England cricketer, has urged selectors to prioritize the future and phase out 41-year-old pace maestro James Anderson. Boycott’s plea comes after Anderson’s historic achievement of 700 Test wickets against India.

While acknowledging Anderson’s remarkable longevity and skill, Boycott believes it’s time to prepare younger seamers for the upcoming Ashes series in Australia, where Anderson will be 43. He advocates for giving opportunities to emerging talents like Josh Tongue and Matthew Potts.

“England cannot keep wrapping him in cotton wool and picking him on sentiment forever,” Boycott asserted. “In a year-and-a-half, England’s next big challenge will be going to Australia to try and win back the Ashes.”

Boycott also criticized England’s current bowling lineup, describing it as lacking potency and intimidation. He singled out inexperienced spinners Tom Hartley and Shoaib Bashir, an “ineffectual” Mark Wood, and an unfit Ben Stokes.

“It would not frighten anyone: two raw kids in Tom Hartley and Shoaib Bashir with little first-class bowling as spinners, an ineffectual fast bowler in Mark Wood who just bangs the ball into the track with little movement,” Boycott criticized.

The former cricketer also lamented England’s batting struggles against Kuldeep Yadav, expressing surprise at their inability to counter the spinner’s deliveries.

Boycott concluded by casting doubt on England’s ability to learn from their defeat to India, suggesting they might revert to their usual form against weaker opponents.

“Stokes says they will learn from this tour. I am not convinced. They will go back home and revert to type and beat ordinary West Indies and Sri Lanka teams and India will be forgotten as a distant memory,” Boycott remarked.

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Australia's Test Wins Overshadowed by Concerns Ahead of India Series

Australia’s Test Wins Overshadowed by Concerns Ahead of India Series

By March 12, 2024 0

Australia’s thrilling chase in Christchurch capped off a successful southern hemisphere summer, where they emerged victorious in six out of seven Tests, including both matches in New Zealand. However, despite their impressive record, concerns linger about the team’s performance and the challenges they may face in their upcoming series against India.

One of the most pressing issues is the performance of Steven Smith as an opener. While he produced an exceptional 91 not out in Brisbane, his subsequent returns have been underwhelming. Coach Andrew McDonald has defended Smith, arguing that he needs more time to adjust to his new role. However, Smith’s struggles against the new ball have raised questions about his suitability as an opener.

The batting unit as a whole has also faced criticism. They have only passed 300 once in six completed innings and have relied heavily on lower-order contributions. McDonald acknowledges the need for improvement but believes they have the best seven batters in the country.

Another concern is the workload of the “big three” bowlers: Cummins, Hazlewood, and Starc. They have played seven consecutive Tests this summer and 10 out of 11 ODIs at the World Cup. While the pitches this summer have been favorable, the selectors will need to consider their long-term fitness ahead of the India series.

The back-up bowlers remain Scott Boland and Michael Neser, with hopes that Lance Morris and Jhye Richardson can return to full fitness. However, Richardson’s injury troubles remain a major concern.

On a positive note, Australia’s bowlers have made significant contributions with the bat in New Zealand, which has been a major win for the team.

Nathan Lyon’s performance against India looms as a key battle. While he has been excellent in New Zealand, his record against India at home has not been as impressive. However, he will be coming off a full County Championship season with Lancashire and will hope to thrive on surfaces that offer extra bounce.

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Cricket Scotland Faces Fresh Crisis Over Misogyny and Prejudice

Cricket Scotland Faces Fresh Crisis Over Misogyny and Prejudice

By March 12, 2024 0

Cricket Scotland’s reputation has been further tarnished by the release of the McKinney Report, which exposes a pervasive culture of prejudice and misogyny within the organization. The report, commissioned after the damning “Changing the Boundaries” review in 2022, found that “antiquated attitudes and behavior towards women in the game are still prevalent, particularly at club level.”

The 35-page report analyzed behaviors, cultures, and practices within Cricket Scotland over the past four years. It identified six key themes: culture and inclusion, leadership, general behaviors, employment practices and wellbeing, psychological safety, and sexism and misogyny.

The report’s nine recommendations focus on addressing general behaviors, sexism, and misogyny. Cricket Scotland CEO Trudy Lindblade expressed deep regret and apologized to those affected by the organization’s failures. She acknowledged the need for significant improvements to create a welcoming and safe environment for women and girls in cricket.

The report highlights the ongoing challenges faced by women in Scottish cricket. Despite the resignation of the entire Cricket Scotland board in 2022 following the “Changing the Boundaries” report, the McKinney Report indicates that progress has been slow.

Cricket Scotland has implemented some of the report’s recommendations, including establishing a robust disciplinary and complaints process. However, significant work remains to be done by the governing body, regional associations, and clubs to eradicate misogyny, sexism, and discrimination from the sport.

The McKinney Report serves as a wake-up call for Cricket Scotland and the wider cricket community in Scotland. It underscores the urgent need for a fundamental shift in attitudes and behaviors to ensure that women and girls are treated with respect and dignity in the sport.

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Yashasvi Jaiswal Needs to Adapt Game for Australian Conditions, Says Brad Hogg

Yashasvi Jaiswal Needs to Adapt Game for Australian Conditions, Says Brad Hogg

By March 11, 2024 0

Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal’s exceptional performance in the recent home series against England has raised expectations for his potential in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. However, former Australian spinner Brad Hogg believes Jaiswal will need to adapt his game to the unique challenges of Australian pitches.

Hogg emphasized the need for Jaiswal to develop a new range of shots to counter the pace and bounce of Australian surfaces. He suggested that Jaiswal should utilize the pace of the ball to his advantage by playing hook and pull shots instead of relying solely on power.

“Jaiswal played exceptionally well. Now how he is going to play when he comes here (Australia), he is going to have to change his game. Maybe look to use the pace while playing hook and pull shots instead of hitting hard,” Hogg said on his YouTube channel.

Hogg also praised another young Indian batter, Sarfaraz Khan, who made his international debut in the England series. Hogg noted that Khan’s impressive shot-making against fast bowlers indicates that he is working on improving his game against pace.

“Sarfaraz Khan, I was worried about his game against fast bowling. But some of the pull shots he has played against sheer pace, I can say that he has been working on his game. I think he is just about ready to take on Australia’s pace attack in Australia with some of the pull shots he has played,” Hogg said.

Jaiswal and Khan will be key players to watch in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, as India aims to retain the trophy on Australian soil. Their ability to adapt to the unique conditions and execute their shots effectively will be crucial to India’s success.

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Alex Carey Joins Gilchrist, Pant in Elite Wicketkeeper-Batter Club

Alex Carey Joins Gilchrist, Pant in Elite Wicketkeeper-Batter Club

By March 11, 2024 0

Alex Carey’s heroics in the second Test against New Zealand have etched his name alongside legendary wicketkeeper-batters Adam Gilchrist and Rishabh Pant. Carey’s unbeaten 98 guided Australia to a thrilling three-wicket victory, securing a 2-0 series sweep.

Carey’s innings was a masterclass in resilience and composure. With Australia reeling at 80/5, he steadied the ship, forging a crucial partnership with skipper Pat Cummins. His 123-ball knock featured 15 boundaries, showcasing his exceptional strokeplay.

Carey’s performance was not limited to his batting. He also equaled Gilchrist’s record for most dismissals in a Test match for Australia, with 10 catches and a stumping. This all-round brilliance earned him the ‘Player of the Match’ award.

Carey’s achievement is particularly significant considering the elite company he joins. Gilchrist, known for his explosive batting, holds the record for the highest score by a wicketkeeper in a successful run-chase, with his 149* against Pakistan in 1999. Pant, India’s dynamic wicketkeeper-batter, is third on the list with his 89* against Australia in 2021.

Carey’s heroics have not only cemented his place in Australian cricket history but also highlighted the growing importance of wicketkeeper-batters in the modern game. Their ability to contribute significantly with both bat and gloves makes them invaluable assets to any team.

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Deepti Sharma's Heroics Fall Short as Gujarat Giants Edge UP Warriorz

Deepti Sharma’s Heroics Fall Short as Gujarat Giants Edge UP Warriorz

By March 11, 2024 0

In a thrilling Women’s Premier League encounter, Gujarat Giants narrowly defeated UP Warriorz by eight runs, despite a valiant effort from all-rounder Deepti Sharma.

Chasing 153 for victory, Warriorz stumbled to 35 for 5 before Deepti (88* off 60) and Poonam Khemnar (36 off 36) forged a remarkable 109-run partnership. However, with 26 runs required in the final over, the duo fell short, handing Giants a consolation win.

16-year-old pacer Shabnam Shakil emerged as a star for Giants, claiming 3/11 to stifle Deepti’s brilliance and extinguish Warriorz’s playoff hopes.

Earlier, UP Warriorz’s spin trio of Sophie Ecclestone (3/38), Deepti, and Rajeswari Gayakwad (1/28) restricted Gujarat Giants to 152 for 8. Beth Mooney’s unbeaten 74 provided some respite for Giants, but their Indian contingent struggled with poor shot selection and game sense.

Despite the loss, Deepti’s performance showcased her exceptional talent. Her unbeaten 88 included nine fours, while Khemnar’s contribution kept Warriorz in the hunt. However, Shabnam’s impressive bowling and Giants’ fielding prowess ultimately proved decisive.

The result leaves Warriorz with a negative net run-rate of -0.371, effectively ending their playoff aspirations. Giants, on the other hand, finish their dismal campaign with a win, but their overall performance has been disappointing.

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Suryakumar Yadav's IPL Availability Uncertain After Ankle Surgery

Suryakumar Yadav’s IPL Availability Uncertain After Ankle Surgery

By March 11, 2024 0

India’s star T20 batter Suryakumar Yadav is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru following ankle surgery. While his recovery is progressing well, it remains uncertain whether he will be available for the Mumbai Indians’ first two matches in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL).

The Mumbai Indians will kick off their campaign on March 24 against last year’s runners-up Gujarat Titans. Yadav, the world’s No. 1 T20 batter, is working diligently at the NCA to regain peak match fitness.

“Surya’s rehabilitation is on track, and he will definitely return to play in the IPL,” a BCCI source told PTI on condition of anonymity. “However, it is still unclear whether the NCA’s Sports Science and Medical Team will clear him to play in the first two away games against Gujarat Titans and Sunrisers Hyderabad (March 27).”

Yadav’s Instagram posts indicate that he has been engaging in extensive Strength and Conditioning (S&C) routines. However, he has yet to share any batting videos, which would provide a clearer indication of his progress.

“There are still 12 days to go before MI play their first game, but it could be a race against time to get fit by the first match itself,” the source added.

Yadav is a crucial player for both India and the Mumbai Indians. His exceptional strike rate of 171-plus and 2,141 runs in 60 T20 games make him a formidable force. He has also scored four T20I centuries.

India’s chances in the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Americas will heavily depend on Yadav’s performance. Similarly, the Mumbai Indians’ success in the IPL hinges on his availability from the start.

Yadav last played for India in South Africa, where he led the national team in the T20 format.

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