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Rohit Sharma Consoles Omitted Rinku Singh After T20 World Cup Squad Announcement

Rohit Sharma Consoles Omitted Rinku Singh After T20 World Cup Squad Announcement

By May 3, 2024 0

India’s skipper Rohit Sharma, who also leads the Mumbai Indians franchise, recently interacted with Rinku Singh, a left-handed batter who was surprisingly omitted from the 15-player squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad on Tuesday, leaving many fans and former cricketers perplexed by Rinku’s exclusion.

After addressing the media at a press conference at BCCI headquarters, Rohit met with Rinku at the Wankhede Stadium ahead of Mumbai Indians’ clash with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday. A video posted by Mumbai Indians on Twitter shows Rinku beaming as Rohit approaches him. In the subsequent clip, Rohit engages in a serious conversation with the KKR star.

Rinku’s omission from the World Cup squad came despite his impressive performance for India in 15 T20Is, where he amassed 356 runs with an average of 89 and a strike rate of 176.24. However, he was named as a traveling reserve.

During Rohit’s press conference, chief selector Ajit Agarkar explained that Rinku’s exclusion was one of the “toughest decisions” the selectors had to make. He called it “unfortunate” for the 26-year-old hitter and attributed it to the team’s decision to select four spinners.

“It’s probably the toughest thing that we have had to discuss. He has done nothing wrong nor Shubman Gill for that matter. It’s about the combination. Like Rohit said, we are not quite sure what conditions we will get. So, we wanted to have enough options. A couple of spinners were included in the squad…It’s just unfortunate. I don’t think it has anything to do with Rinku Singh. It is not his fault that he has missed out. It is more than the 15 that we felt…At the end of the day, you can only pick 15,” Agarkar said.

Rohit also interacted with KKR team mentor Gautam Gambhir and skipper Shreyas Iyer during the encounter.

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Rinku Singh's Exclusion from T20 World Cup Squad Raises Eyebrows

Rinku Singh’s Exclusion from T20 World Cup Squad Raises Eyebrows

By May 3, 2024 0

Rinku Singh’s exclusion from India’s T20 World Cup squad has sparked controversy, with many questioning the selectors’ decision. The left-handed batsman has been in impressive form for India, scoring 356 runs in 11 innings at a strike rate of 176.23 and an average of 89.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar acknowledged that Singh’s omission was a “toughest decision,” but explained that the team needed more bowling options. “We’re not sure of the conditions we’ll get (in the USA) and we wanted to have enough (bowling) options,” Agarkar said.

Despite calls for fresh blood in the T20 team, the selectors opted for experience, with the top six in the batting order remaining largely unchanged from the 2022 T20 World Cup. Agarkar defended this decision, stating that the experienced players have been “good enough to be around.”

“We’ve tried to get in players who are going to bat a certain way in the middle of the innings, where a lot of teams will use spin sometimes,” Agarkar said. “We have tried to address that. We have tried to get in some left-handers as well through the middle of that innings.”

Agarkar also addressed concerns over Virat Kohli’s strike rate, which has been a topic of debate. “We have not been discussing it,” Agarkar said. “He has been in great form, no concerns there at all.”

The selectors also defended the inclusion of Hardik Pandya as Rohit Sharma’s deputy. “Nothing was discussed with regard to vice-captaincy,” Agarkar said. “About form, he has come after a longish year off. The good part that we have looked at is he has got through all the games so far for MI.”

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Virat Kohli: Still the Chase Master in Twilight of Career

Virat Kohli: Still the Chase Master in Twilight of Career

By May 3, 2024 0

Virat Kohli’s consistent performance in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) and his inclusion in India’s T20 World Cup squad underscore his enduring value to the team. Despite concerns about his strike rate, cricket experts unanimously included him in their 15-member line-ups.

Former India pacer Irfan Pathan believes Kohli will be the key player in crucial chases during the T20 World Cup. “When it’s required, he is the player who stands alone,” said Pathan. “There will be a point during the T20 World Cup when there will be need, and the guy you will find chasing it till the end will be him, Virat Kohli.”

Kohli’s impressive IPL record, with over 500 runs including a century and four fifties at a strike rate of 147.49, further supports his inclusion. Pathan highlighted Kohli’s proven track record in chases, earning him the nickname ‘chase master.’ He cited the India vs Pakistan match in Melbourne during the T20 World Cup where Kohli’s 53-ball 82 not out led India to a famous four-wicket win.

“Pick all the big matches, especially when chasing, you won’t find a bigger player than him in T20 cricket,” said Pathan. “He has a calculative mind. He keeps talking about chasing runs and the target.”

Kohli’s experience and big-match temperament make him a crucial asset for India in the upcoming T20 World Cup. The tournament runs from June 2 to 29 and will be jointly hosted by the West Indies and USA. India play their opening group match against Ireland on June 5 in New York, followed by the highly anticipated clash against Pakistan at the same venue on June 9.

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Pant and Samson Selected as Wicketkeepers for India's T20 World Cup Squad

Pant and Samson Selected as Wicketkeepers for India’s T20 World Cup Squad

By May 3, 2024 0

Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson have been selected as the wicketkeeper-batters for India’s 15-member squad for the upcoming Men’s T20 World Cup. This marks Samson’s first inclusion in an India squad for a senior men’s World Cup, while Pant returns to the national set-up after recovering from injuries sustained in a car accident.

In the ongoing IPL 2024, Samson has amassed 385 runs in nine innings at a strike rate of 161, while Pant has scored 398 runs in 11 innings at a strike rate of 159. Samson has hit 36 fours compared to Pant’s 31, but Pant has smacked 24 sixes compared to Samson’s 17.

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Ajay Ratra believes Pant would be his first choice over Samson, citing his strong performances since returning to competitive cricket. Ratra highlights Pant’s left-handed batting in the middle order and his experience in international cricket as advantages.

However, Samson’s strike rate in the first ten balls (138) is better than Pant’s (119), and his strike rate in overs 7-15 (159) is also higher than Pant’s (139). Pant, on the other hand, has the edge in overs 16-20, with a strike rate of 229 compared to Samson’s 206.

Ratra also praises Pant’s wicketkeeping skills, noting his swift movement behind the stumps and his ability to take impressive catches. He believes Pant’s unique style of wicketkeeping has been successful so far.

Ratra expresses disappointment over KL Rahul’s omission from the squad, stating that Rahul’s experience and ability to perform in pressure situations would have been valuable. However, he acknowledges the selectors’ difficult task in choosing between Rahul and Samson.

Ratra also laments the omission of Rinku Singh from the main squad, citing his exceptional performances as a finisher with a strike rate of 176.23. He believes Singh’s ability to score runs against both spinners and pacers, as well as his fielding skills, would have been beneficial to the team.

Ratra concludes by observing that India has a strong spin-bowling contingent, comprising Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Yuzvendra Chahal. He notes that drop-in pitches tend to be slower, but it remains to be seen what kind of matches the World Cup will produce.

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Rohit Sharma Remains India's Best Captain, Says Irfan Pathan

Rohit Sharma Remains India’s Best Captain, Says Irfan Pathan

By May 3, 2024 0

Rohit Sharma’s appointment as India’s T20 World Cup 2024 captain has sparked discussions about the BCCI’s decision-making process. While some have questioned the timing of the announcement, former India cricketer Irfan Pathan believes Rohit is the ideal leader for the team.

Pathan, speaking on Star Sports, emphasized the importance of leadership in cricket and praised Rohit’s abilities in this regard. He compared Rohit to legendary captains like Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Virat Kohli, highlighting his impact on the team’s performance.

“As far as captaincy is concerned, he is the best leader you have,” Pathan said. “We always talk about the players, but leadership is a totally different thing. We saw what happened in this IPL with quite a few captains; it’s not easy.”

Pathan acknowledged the potential of other players like Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, and Rishabh Pant as future captains. However, he believes Rohit remains the best choice for the time being.

“In the future, they will be keeping an eye on Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah as far as captaincy is concerned,” Pathan said. “Now we have Hardik Pandya as the Vice Captain, Rishabh Pant is also there in your leadership role group if he gets going because he was there in the leadership role before he got injured. So there are three or four guys who are ready, but Rohit is the number one.”

Pathan’s comments highlight the importance of leadership in cricket and the challenges associated with the role. He believes Rohit’s experience and proven track record make him the best choice to lead India in the upcoming T20 World Cup.

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India's T20 World Cup Bowling Plan Relies Heavily on Spin

India’s T20 World Cup Bowling Plan Relies Heavily on Spin

By May 3, 2024 0

India’s T20 World Cup Bowling Strategy Relies Heavily on Spin

In preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Caribbean, India has devised a bowling plan centered around a heavy reliance on spin. The team’s decision is based on the slow and sluggish wicket conditions expected in the region, as well as the early start times for India’s matches.

Captain Rohit Sharma justified the inclusion of four spinners and just three pacers in the 15-member squad. He explained that the morning start times, typically around 10 am local time, present technical challenges that favor spin bowling.

“With a morning start at 10-10.30am, there’s a little bit of technical aspect involved in this,” Rohit said. “The reason for picking four spinners is something I won’t reveal now.”

The four spinners in the squad are Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Yuzvendra Chahal. Jadeja and Patel are left-arm spinning all-rounders, while Yadav and Chahal are wrist spinners.

Rohit also highlighted the need for a middle-order power hitter to accelerate the scoring against spinners. He identified Mumbai all-rounder Shivam Dube as the player to fill this role.

“The one thing we really looked at was middle-overs hitting,” Rohit said. “We picked Shivam Dube based on the IPL and a few games before the IPL as well.”

Dube has been in impressive form for the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL, smashing 350 runs in 10 matches at a strike rate of 171.56. He is expected to contribute with the ball as well, despite bowling only one over in this IPL.

Rohit revealed that he had a clear idea of the World Cup squad before the IPL. “You make the playing XI in your mind and work around it,” he said. “The talk of what our final 15 started much before the IPL.”

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Will Pucovski's Cricket Future Uncertain Amid Concussion Concerns

Will Pucovski’s Cricket Future Uncertain Amid Concussion Concerns

By May 3, 2024 0

Will Pucovski’s cricketing future remains uncertain as Cricket Victoria (CV) has received a special exemption from Cricket Australia (CA) to delay his state contract decision. The 25-year-old has been suffering from extended symptoms following a concussion in March, prompting a medical panel assessment.

Pucovski’s latest concussion has raised concerns about his long-term health, given his history of head injuries. The assessment panel, comprising CV, CA, and independent experts, will evaluate his situation and determine his future playing prospects.

Victoria has offered Pucovski a contract for 2024-25, but it is contingent on the panel’s medical advice. If he is deemed unfit to continue playing, he will receive significant injury compensation and support services from CV and CA.

Pucovski’s symptoms have reportedly eased in recent weeks, but the panel’s assessment was delayed due to their persistence. The decision on his future will be made once the panel has convened and provided its recommendations.

Victoria’s general manager of cricket performance, Graham Manou, emphasized the importance of Pucovski’s health and well-being. “We’ll take the advice from that panel on the appropriate way forward this season,” he said.

Pucovski has expressed optimism about his recovery and a potential return to form. However, he has also acknowledged the challenges he has faced with mental health issues linked to his concussions.

Victoria’s contract list for 2024-25 includes several new faces, including Josh Brown, Harry Dixon, and Dylan Brasher. The departures of Nic Maddinson, Travis Dean, and Wil Parker have created opportunities for these emerging players.

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Tasmania Overhauls Cricket Squad with Kuhnemann, MacMillan Additions

Tasmania Overhauls Cricket Squad with Kuhnemann, MacMillan Additions

By May 3, 2024 0

Tasmania’s cricket team has undergone a significant overhaul, with the signing of Test spinner Matthew Kuhnemann and Under-19 World Cup winner Raf MacMillan. The recruitment drive has resulted in the omission of Paddy Dooley from the Tigers’ contract list.

Dooley, who joined Tasmania from Queensland last season, played seven Marsh Cup games and claimed nine wickets. However, the arrival of Kuhnemann, who has represented Australia in Tests and ODIs, has made Dooley expendable.

MacMillan, a 19-year-old off-spinner, impressed in the Under-19 World Cup, taking wickets in every game and contributing with the bat. He joins Tasmania from New South Wales.

The Tigers have also signed young fast bowler Will Prestwidge from Queensland. Prestwidge made his List A debut last season and showed promise with both bat and ball.

Tasmania coach Jeff Vaughan expressed satisfaction with the new recruits, stating that they will help the team improve upon last season’s Sheffield Shield final loss.

“We took a massive step forward as a program last year with some big changes to our squad,” Vaughan said. “We are confident the quality of players we are bringing into our squad will help us go to the next level.”

Tasmania’s contract list for the 2024-25 season includes:

* Gabe Bell
* Iain Carlisle
* Nick Davis (rookie)
* Jake Doran
* Kieran Elliot
* Jarrod Freeman
* Bradley Hope
* Caleb Jewell
* Matt Kuhnemann
* Raf MacMillan (rookie)
* Riley Meredith
* Lawrence Neil-Smith
* Aidan O’Connor (rookie)
* Mitch Owen
* Will Prestwidge
* Nivethan Radhakrishnan (rookie)
* Jordan Silk
* Billy Stanlake
* Charlie Wakim
* Tim Ward
* Jake Weatherald
* Beau Webster
* Mac Wright

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Bayer Leverkusen Extends Unbeaten Streak to 47 with Roma Victory

Bayer Leverkusen Extends Unbeaten Streak to 47 with Roma Victory

By May 3, 2024 0

Bayer Leverkusen’s remarkable unbeaten streak continued with a resounding 2-0 victory over Roma in the first leg of the Europa League semifinals. The German club, fresh from their Bundesliga triumph, silenced the Stadio Olimpico crowd with a clinical performance that extended their unbeaten run to 47 matches across all competitions.

Leverkusen’s dominance was evident from the outset, as they soaked up Roma’s early pressure and struck on the counterattack. A failed back pass from Rick Karsdorp allowed Alex Grimaldo to set up Florian Wirtz for the opening goal in the 13th minute.

Roma threatened sporadically, but Leverkusen’s defense held firm. In the 73rd minute, Robert Andrich sealed the victory with a long-range strike, capitalizing on a moment of hesitation from the Roma defense.

The result marked a measure of revenge for Leverkusen, who had been eliminated by Roma at the same stage last season. It also extended their unbeaten streak to a record-breaking length among Europe’s top five leagues.

“We take things game by game and we are not thinking about being unbeaten,” said Leverkusen midfielder Amine Adli. “We are not thinking about making history or things like that — that’s why we are playing like this and the team is strong. We just want to enjoy ourselves.”

In the other semifinal, Atalanta and Marseille played out a 1-1 draw in France. Gianluca Scamacca gave Atalanta the lead, but Chancel Mbemba equalized for Marseille.

The second legs of both semifinals will be held next Thursday, with the final scheduled for May 22 in Dublin. Leverkusen will be confident of reaching the final, having maintained their unbeaten record throughout the season.

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Nitish Kumar Reddy Emerges as Rising Star in IPL

Nitish Kumar Reddy Emerges as Rising Star in IPL

By May 3, 2024 0

Nitish Kumar Reddy, the rising star of Sunrisers Hyderabad, has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The 20-year-old all-rounder has showcased his exceptional batting prowess, guiding his team to victory against formidable opponents like Rajasthan Royals.

Reddy’s stellar performance against the Royals drew praise from cricketing experts. Former India batter Mohammad Kaif lauded his classy shot-making ability, particularly against experienced bowlers like Yuzvendra Chahal. “Reaching there by using the shoulders and then smacking it straight for a six is not an easy task,” Kaif remarked. “Inka naam sunenge aap, bhavishya mai bahut sunenge [You will hear his name; you will hear it a lot in the future].”

Irfan Pathan, another former India all-rounder, echoed Kaif’s sentiments, highlighting Reddy’s potential as a future star in Indian cricket. “Indian selectors will keep an eye on him completely… He could be used in India A matches… He doesn’t care what your reputation is,” Pathan emphasized, praising Reddy’s fearless approach to batting.

Pathan further commended Reddy’s composure under pressure, noting his ability to dominate top-quality bowlers like Chahal, Ravi Ashwin, Trent Boult, Sandeep Sharma, and Avesh Khan. “Everyone will notice,” Pathan predicted, as Reddy notched up his second fifty of the season with a blistering 76 not out off 42 balls.

Travis Head, SRH opener and witness to Reddy’s onslaught, hailed his teammate’s effortless knock. “Nitish played out of his skin… It made it look really easy,” Head remarked, acknowledging Reddy’s pivotal role in the partnership that yielded 96 runs off just 47 balls.

Reddy’s performance against the Royals was a testament to his growing maturity and confidence. Despite Head’s dismissal, he remained unbeaten, guiding SRH past the 200-run mark for the fifth time in the season.

With crucial partnerships and consistent performances, Nitish Kumar Reddy’s star continues to rise in the cricketing world. His all-round abilities and fearless approach make him a valuable asset for Sunrisers Hyderabad and a promising prospect for Indian cricket at large.

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