India's Fast Bowlers Pose Challenge for Australia in Border-Gavaskar Trophy

India’s Fast Bowlers Pose Challenge for Australia in Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Australia’s hopes of ending their decade-long Border-Gavaskar Trophy drought against India have been dealt a blow by the visitors’ formidable fast bowling attack, according to star batter Marnus Labuschagne.

India has dominated the bilateral Test series against Australia since 2014-15, winning the last two series 2-1 in 2018-19 and 2020-21. Labuschagne believes that India’s fast bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj, pose a significant challenge in Australian conditions.

“India’s fast bowling is very good, which is really what brings them in Australian conditions and make them such a tough team to beat in Australian conditions,” Labuschagne told Star Sports.

The middle-order mainstay emphasized that the rivalry between Australia and India is always intense, regardless of where it is played.

“There is always high anticipation. To these two teams, it doesn’t matter where we’re playing, if it’s in England, Australia, or India, it’s always a tough contest,” he said.

Australia spinner Nathan Lyon echoed Labuschagne’s sentiments, describing the Indian players as “superstars” and expressing his eagerness to renew his on-field rivalry with India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin.

“I’ve always said throughout my whole career (that) I want to compete against the best and you look through the whole Indian line-up, the whole squad, there’s absolute superstars everywhere,” he said.

“I know Ashwin, we debuted around similar times and we’ve competed against each other in a number of series. I have got nothing but respect for him. He is an absolute master in the craft of off-spin bowling and it’s been an absolute privilege to play against him and learn off him,” said Lyon.

All-rounder Cameron Green suggested that the five-Test series between India and Australia, starting on November 22 at Perth, could be a “preview” for the final of the World Test Championship next year.

India leads the WTC table for the 2023-25 cycle with 68.52 percentage points and 74 points, followed by Australia with 62.50 percentage points and 90 points.

The WTC final will be played at Lord’s from June 11-15 next year and could feature both the current top two teams once again. India have featured in the summit clashes of the WTC on both occasions but have lost to New Zealand (2019-21) and Australia (2021-23).

“Every single point is pretty crucial for the World Test Championship. Anyway you can kind of (or) get an idea of (to) how to get one up on your opponent, we’ll try and take,” Green said.

“If it is a bit of a preview for a World Test Championship final again, yeah, we’ve been trying to get as much information out of India and see how we can win it again,” he added.

No-Balls in Cricket: A Guide to Illegal Deliveries and Consequences

No-Balls in Cricket: A Guide to Illegal Deliveries and Consequences

No-Balls in Cricket: A Comprehensive Guide

In cricket, a no-ball is an illegal delivery by the bowler, resulting in a free hit for the batsman in limited-overs matches. This rule is enforced by umpires to ensure fair play and safety.

Common Reasons for No-Balls

* Overstepping the Popping Crease: The bowler’s front foot must remain behind the popping crease at the moment of delivery.
* Bowling Above Waist Height: The ball must be delivered below the batsman’s waist height in their normal stance.
* Overextended Bowling Arm: The bowler’s bowling arm must not be extended beyond 15 degrees at the elbow.
* Illegal Bowling Actions: Certain bowling actions, such as chucking or throwing, are deemed illegal and result in a no-ball.
* Dangerous Deliveries: Deliveries that pose a safety risk to the batsman, such as bouncers that are too high or wide, can also be called as no-balls.

Consequences of a No-Ball

* The batting side is awarded one run.
* The next ball is a free hit, during which the batsman cannot be dismissed by any means except run out or stumping.

Rare No-Ball Decision in Vitality T20 Blast

During a 2024 Vitality T20 Blast match between Somerset and Northamptonshire, a rare no-ball decision was made. Upon reviewing a stumping appeal, the third umpire determined that the wicketkeeper’s gloves were ahead of the stumps at the time of delivery, rendering the delivery illegal. This no-ball gave the batsman a free hit, which he capitalized on by hitting a six.

Somerset’s Victory

Somerset, led by Lewis Gregory, posted a formidable 215/3 in their 20 overs, thanks to half-centuries from Tom Banton and Tom Kohler-Cadmore. In response, Northamptonshire managed 198/5, giving Somerset a 17-run victory. Somerset will now face Surrey in the semifinals on September 14 in Birmingham.

Rohit Sharma's Father: A Guiding Force in His Cricketing Journey

Rohit Sharma’s Father: A Guiding Force in His Cricketing Journey

Rohit Sharma’s Fatherly Influence: A Guiding Force in His Cricketing Journey

Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has consistently expressed his profound respect and admiration for his father, Gurunath Sharma. Rohit credits his father’s unwavering support and sacrifices as instrumental in his cricketing success.

Despite facing financial constraints, Gurunath Sharma worked tirelessly to provide Rohit with the necessary resources to pursue his passion for cricket. Rohit’s father instilled in him the importance of staying true to oneself and setting an example for others.

“My father always told me, no matter where you reach in life, the most important thing is to be yourself,” Rohit said in a viral video. “Be the man you are and set an example for the rest to follow.”

Rohit’s father emphasized the significance of simplicity and focus. “I’m a person who wants to keep things very simple even when I’m on the field,” Rohit explained. “There are so many things around you to distract you, so I believe that the easier you keep things, the better it is for your team, yourself, and the people around you.”

Rohit’s father’s guidance has extended beyond cricket. He has taught Rohit the importance of gratitude, humility, and perseverance. Rohit has often acknowledged his father’s sacrifices, saying that his success wouldn’t have been possible without his unwavering support and belief in him.

Rohit’s relationship with his father is grounded in love and gratitude. He has expressed how his father’s guidance has been pivotal in shaping his career and personal life.

Harshit Rana's Flying Kiss Celebration Returns, This Time with a Twist

Harshit Rana’s Flying Kiss Celebration Returns, This Time with a Twist

Harshit Rana’s impressive performance in the Duleep Trophy 2024 has reignited his hopes for an India call-up. However, his signature flying kiss celebration, which earned him a ban during IPL 2024, has resurfaced, albeit with a twist.

During the first innings against India C, Rana claimed four wickets, including those of Sai Sudharshan and Ruturaj Gaikwad. After dismissing Gaikwad, Rana blew a flying kiss towards his own dressing room, a departure from his previous practice of aiming it at the dismissed batter.

Rana’s flying kiss celebration has been a subject of controversy. In IPL 2024, he was fined and banned for aiming it at Mayank Agarwal. However, this time, he directed it at his teammates, possibly as a gesture of appreciation or camaraderie.

Despite his impressive bowling performance, Rana’s celebration has raised questions about the appropriateness of such gestures in professional cricket. Some argue that it is disrespectful to the opposition, while others view it as a harmless expression of joy.

Rana’s celebration has also drawn comparisons to the iconic flying kiss performed by KKR owner Shah Rukh Khan and the team after winning IPL 2024. However, it remains to be seen whether Rana’s version will be met with the same level of acceptance.

As Rana continues to impress on the field, his flying kiss celebration is likely to remain a topic of discussion. Whether it is seen as a harmless gesture or a breach of etiquette, it has undoubtedly added an element of intrigue to his performances.

Laura Wolvaardt Dominates CSA Awards with Five Wins

Laura Wolvaardt Dominates CSA Awards with Five Wins

Laura Wolvaardt, the captain of South Africa’s women’s cricket team, emerged as the star of the CSA Annual Awards, bagging five prestigious accolades, including the coveted Women’s Player of the Year award. Her exceptional performance in the 2023-24 season earned her recognition as the leading run-scorer in both ODIs and T20Is for South Africa.

Wolvaardt’s leadership qualities and popularity among her teammates and fans were evident as she also claimed the Players’ Player of the Year and Fans’ Player of the Year awards. Marco Jansen, the all-rounder, was named Men’s Player of the Year for his impressive contributions, including 17 wickets at the ODI World Cup and notable performances in the Boxing Day Test against India.

The awards celebrated achievements from May 1, 2023, to April 30, 2024, excluding performances at the Men’s T20 World Cup and Test and T20I series in West Indies, which will be considered at next year’s event. The ceremony was held in September to accommodate the availability of nationally contracted players, who are required to attend the event.

David Bedingham, who made a strong debut against India and impressed in New Zealand, was recognized as the Test Player of the Year. Quinton de Kock, now retired from ODI cricket, was named ODI Player of the Year for his four centuries at the 2023 World Cup. Reeza Hendricks won the T20I Player of the Year award, being the only South African batter to score a half-century in the period under consideration.

Keshav Maharaj, the left-arm spinner who made a remarkable comeback from an Achilles rupture, was voted Players’ Player of the Year. Marizanne Kapp’s inswinger that dismissed Beth Mooney in South Africa’s first ODI win over Australia was adjudged the Best Delivery of the Season. Masabata Klaas, a single mother who overcame adversity to pursue her cricket career, received the Makhaya Ntini Power of Cricket Award.

In the domestic arena, Nqabayomzi Peter, the legspinner who led the Lions to victory in the CSA T20 Cup, was named Men’s Domestic Newcomer of the Season and T20 Challenge Player of the Season. Wiaan Mulder, the Lions’ allrounder, was recognized as Four-Day Domestic Player of the Season. Mihlali Mpongwana, the Western Province allrounder, won the One-Day Domestic Player of the Season award.

In the women’s domestic competition, Nonkululeko Mlaba was named Women’s One-Day Player of the Season, while Tazmin Brits won the Women’s T20 Player of the Season award for her outstanding run-scoring performance.

Sachin Tendulkar's Unforgettable Innings with Tissue Paper in Underwear

Sachin Tendulkar’s Unforgettable Innings with Tissue Paper in Underwear

Sachin Tendulkar’s Unforgettable Innings with Tissue Paper in Underwear

In his autobiography, “Playing It My Way,” cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar revealed a remarkable incident during the 2003 ICC World Cup match against Sri Lanka in Johannesburg. Despite battling an upset stomach, Tendulkar played a pivotal innings, scoring 97 runs off 120 balls.

However, the most surprising aspect of his performance was that he batted for 160 minutes with tissue paper inside his underwear. Tendulkar’s stomach discomfort was so intense that he had to make frequent trips to the dressing room during drink breaks.

“I added a teaspoon of salt to my energy drinks, thinking it would aid recovery, but it upset my stomach. The discomfort was so intense that I had to bat with tissues in my underwear. I even returned to the dressing room during one of the breaks, feeling very uncomfortable out in the middle,” Tendulkar recalled.

Despite the physical discomfort, Tendulkar played a crucial role in India’s 183-run victory. His innings was a testament to his determination and resilience. However, the Man of the Match award went to Javagal Srinath for his remarkable bowling figures of 9-1-35-4.

Tendulkar’s performance in that match was just one highlight of his exceptional tournament. He emerged as the highest run-scorer, amassing 673 runs in 11 matches at an average of 61.18. His tally included 1 century and 6 half-centuries.

Tendulkar’s heroics helped India reach the ICC 2003 World Cup final, where they faced Australia. However, Australia proved too strong, posting a massive total of 359/2. India’s chase faltered, and they were bowled out for 234 in 39.2 overs.

Despite the disappointing result in the final, Tendulkar’s performance in the tournament cemented his status as one of the greatest cricketers of all time. His ability to overcome adversity and deliver under pressure is a testament to his unwavering spirit and exceptional talent.

Vaughan and Gilchrist Debate: Root vs. Kohli for Test Supremacy

Vaughan and Gilchrist Debate: Root vs. Kohli for Test Supremacy

In a recent discussion, former England captain Michael Vaughan and former Australia wicketkeeper-batter Adam Gilchrist engaged in a lively debate over who they considered the best Test batter in the world. While both agreed that India’s Virat Kohli reigns supreme in limited overs cricket, their opinions diverged when it came to the longest format of the game.

Vaughan staunchly backed his compatriot Joe Root, citing his exceptional recent form in Test cricket. Root’s remarkable achievement of scoring centuries in both innings of the second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord’s last month propelled him past Alastair Cook as England’s player with the most Test centuries.

However, Gilchrist countered Vaughan’s argument by highlighting Root’s lack of a Test century in Australia. He also lauded Kohli’s unforgettable 123 against Australia at Perth in 2018, describing it as one of the finest knocks he had ever witnessed.

“In the last short while, over a long period, Joe Root’s stats are…well, he is the best England ever had,” Gilchrist said on the Club Prairie Fire podcast. “Virat scored one of the best tons I’ve seen at the Perth stadium in the first Test match ever played there, that was probably different gravy. I’d probably say Virat.”

Vaughan conceded that Kohli was the superior batter in Australia but maintained that Root was his choice elsewhere. “I wouldn’t argue with that in Australia. I would say Virat in Australia against the Aussies, anywhere else I’m going Joe Root,” Vaughan responded.

Root’s current form is undeniable. His 33rd and 34th Test centuries at Lord’s showcased his exceptional batting prowess. Kohli, on the other hand, has endured a lean patch since his last century against West Indies in July 2023.

Statistically, Kohli holds a slight edge over Root in Test cricket. He has amassed 8,848 runs from 113 Tests, with 29 hundreds to his name. Root, meanwhile, has accumulated 12,377 runs from 145 Tests, boasting a stunning average of 50.93.

Ultimately, the debate over who is the best Test batter in the world remains subjective. Both Root and Kohli possess exceptional skills and have achieved remarkable feats in the longest format of the game. Their rivalry promises to continue captivating cricket fans for years to come.

Hyderabad Declares at 273, Sets 260 Target for TNCA President's XI

Hyderabad Declares at 273, Sets 260 Target for TNCA President’s XI

On the final day of the Buchi Babu semifinal between TNCA President’s XI and Hyderabad, the visitors declared their innings at 273 for nine, setting a target of 260 for the hosts. Hyderabad’s C.V. Milind (53) and Ravi Teja (42) forged a crucial 92-run eighth-wicket partnership to bolster their total.

TNCA President’s XI’s chase began confidently with openers S. Radhakrishnan (40) and Vimal Khumar putting on a 60-run stand. However, left-arm spinner Aniket Reddy broke the partnership and went on to claim the wickets of Radhakrishnan and A. Badrinath.

As the match progressed, the drama intensified. Aniket’s delivery to K.T.A. Madhava Prasad pitched on the rough and turned square, leading to a caught-behind appeal. The Hyderabad team erupted in celebration, but the umpire remained unmoved.

The match took a decisive turn when left-arm spinner Tanay Thyagarajan removed Andre Siddharth, the architect of President’s XI’s victory in the previous match. With the score at 84 for four, the hosts were in a precarious position.

Despite a valiant effort, TNCA President’s XI fell short by 65 runs, unable to overcome Hyderabad’s determined bowling attack. Mohammed emerged as the star performer for Hyderabad, claiming a five-wicket haul.

Gambhir's India Dominates Sri Lanka, Iyer Returns for ODIs

Gambhir’s India Dominates Sri Lanka, Iyer Returns for ODIs

Gautam Gambhir’s tenure as head coach of the Indian cricket team has commenced with a resounding start, as the Suryakumar Yadav-led side has secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka. The two teams will face off in the series finale on Tuesday, followed by a three-match ODI series commencing on August 2.

India’s squad for the ODI series will witness the return of star batter Shreyas Iyer, who was dropped from the England Test squad earlier this year and subsequently omitted from the BCCI’s central contract list. However, wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan remains absent from the team.

Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali has attributed Kishan’s prolonged absence to the player’s preoccupation with fashion. “Ishan Kishan has fallen down the pecking order. He got into fashion a bit,” Ali remarked on his YouTube channel.

Kishan’s last appearance for India was in the third T20I of a five-match series against Australia in November 2022. He was included in the subsequent tour of South Africa but withdrew from the Test series due to personal reasons. Kishan also opted out of Ranji Trophy matches, prompting the BCCI to remove him from the central contracts list.

Sources indicate that Kishan’s return to the team is contingent upon a full season of domestic cricket. His absence from the IPL is reportedly hindering his chances of selection. Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, and Sanju Samson are currently the designated keepers in the two white-ball formats.

Musheer Khan's Unconquered Century Rescues India B in Duleep Trophy

Musheer Khan’s Unconquered Century Rescues India B in Duleep Trophy

Musheer Khan, the younger brother of Indian cricketer Sarfaraz Khan, showcased his exceptional batting skills on the opening day of the Duleep Trophy match between India A and India B in Bengaluru. Despite facing a formidable pace trio of Khaleel Ahmed, Akash Deep, and Avesh Khan, Musheer remained unyielding, scoring an unbeaten 105 to rescue India B from a precarious position.

Musheer’s innings was a testament to his resilience and adaptability. Coming in at No. 3, he witnessed the early dismissals of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sarfaraz, and Rishabh Pant. Undeterred, he absorbed the pressure exerted by the fast bowlers and patiently built his innings.

Initially, Musheer struggled to gauge the seam movement on the green-tinged surface. However, he gradually adjusted his technique, walking down the pitch to defend and counter the exaggerated movement. As the innings progressed, he found his rhythm, hitting delicate paddles and full-blooded sweeps to accumulate runs.

Musheer’s century was a significant milestone in his young career. It marked his third first-class century and further cemented his reputation as a promising batsman. His innings was particularly impressive considering the challenging conditions and the quality of the opposition’s bowling attack.

As Musheer raised his bat to acknowledge the applause from his teammates, his brother Sarfaraz was among the first to congratulate him. It was a poignant moment, as Musheer had often been the one applauding Sarfaraz’s achievements.

Musheer’s performance in the Duleep Trophy has caught the attention of national selectors. He has proven his ability to handle pressure and perform at the highest level. As he continues to develop, Musheer has the potential to become a valuable asset to the Indian cricket team.

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