CricketRivalry

India-South Africa T20 Series: World Champions Aim to Extend Dominance

By Nilay November 7, 2024 0

India and South Africa are set to reignite their rivalry in a highly anticipated four-match T20 series, commencing on Friday in Durban. The series holds immense significance as a rematch of the thrilling T20 World Cup final, where India emerged victorious to claim their second title.

Heading into the series, India boasts a slight edge in the head-to-head record, having won 15 out of 27 T20I encounters against South Africa. Since the World Cup final, both teams have experienced contrasting fortunes in the shortest format.

India has been on a winning streak, triumphing in three consecutive T20I series. They defeated Zimbabwe 4-1, Sri Lanka 3-0, and Bangladesh 3-0, showcasing their dominance in the format. In contrast, South Africa has struggled since their narrow loss to India in the World Cup final. They were whitewashed 3-0 by the West Indies and drew 1-1 against Ireland, losing four of their five T20I matches since the tournament.

As the two sides prepare to clash, South Africa will be eager to turn their fortunes around at home, while India, high on confidence, will aim to continue their winning momentum. The first T20I in Durban promises to be an exciting contest, as the World Champions look to extend their dominance, and South Africa seeks redemption.

Categories: Cricket

Brett Lee Recalls ‘Hated’ Bowling to Harbhajan Singh’s Sledging Antics

By Nilay November 6, 2024 0

Brett Lee, the legendary Australian fast bowler, has opened up about his intense on-field rivalry with former India spinner Harbhajan Singh. Lee revealed that he “hated” bowling to Harbhajan due to his constant sledging and bizarre antics.

Harbhajan’s tactics included incessant chatter, hopping around the crease, and even mocking Lee’s pace. “He would sledge and he would hop in and going after me ‘You’re quick’. I could never get him; I was always exhausted,” Lee recalled on the LiSTNR Sport podcast.

Lee acknowledged that sledging was common in cricket, but Harbhajan’s antics were particularly effective in disrupting his rhythm. “He used to annoy the hell out of me,” Lee admitted. “He is an absolute legend of a bloke, but he used to frustrate the sh out of me when I bowled to him.”

Lee believes that the 2001 Test series, where India famously defeated Australia, was a turning point for Indian cricket. “It was them saying ‘We can match Australia. Not just match; we can beat them’,” Lee said.

Since then, Indian players have become increasingly aggressive on the field, matching the intensity of their Australian counterparts. Lee praised Virat Kohli’s leadership and MS Dhoni’s quiet but determined approach.

“I love the way Kohli plays. He is such a good player… with that aggression,” Lee said. “And you’ve got different guys like back in the day, MS Dhoni… didn’t say anything. Just did what he had to do and wouldn’t back down.”

Lee’s comments highlight the fierce rivalry between Australia and India, which has produced some of the most memorable moments in cricket history. Despite the on-field battles, Lee holds Harbhajan in high regard, recognizing his skill and the impact he had on the game.

Categories: Cricket

India vs Pakistan: Women’s T20 World Cup Clash Promises Thrills and Rivalry

By Nilay October 6, 2024 0

India vs Pakistan: A Clash of Titans in the Women’s T20 World Cup

The highly anticipated India vs Pakistan match in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup promises to be a thrilling encounter. While India has historically dominated the rivalry, Pakistan’s recent resurgence has added an intriguing twist to the contest.

Pakistan, buoyed by their impressive victory over Sri Lanka, will be brimming with confidence. Their spinners, led by Fatima Sana, proved their mettle in defending a modest total. Sana, who also contributed with the bat, is a key player for Pakistan, capable of influencing the game in multiple ways.

India, on the other hand, faces a stern test after their disappointing loss to New Zealand. Their bowlers need to step up and analyze the pitch conditions better. Leg-spinner Asha Shobhana, who made a promising debut, will be eager to make a greater impact. Pooja Vastrakar and Arundhati Reddy will also be crucial in providing early breakthroughs.

Jemimah Rodrigues, another star player for India, has emphasized the need to bounce back quickly from the defeat. The team’s batting, which struggled against New Zealand, will need to find its rhythm against Pakistan’s formidable bowling attack.

The India-Pakistan rivalry always carries immense significance, and this match is no exception. While India holds a significant advantage in head-to-head encounters, Pakistan’s recent form suggests that they are not to be taken lightly.

With Australia lurking in the group, a loss in this game could jeopardize India’s campaign. Harmanpreet Kaur’s team must therefore perform at their best in all departments to keep their hopes alive in the tournament.

Categories: Cricket

India-Bangladesh T20I Rivalry: Memorable Moments and Thrilling Encounters

By Nilay October 5, 2024 0

The India-Bangladesh rivalry in T20 internationals has been marked by thrilling encounters and unforgettable moments. Here are some of the most memorable clashes between these two teams:

1. 2016 World Cup Final-Over Thriller (Bengaluru)

In the 2016 ICC T20 World Cup, India and Bangladesh faced off in a Super 10 match that ended in a dramatic finish. Chasing 147, Bangladesh needed 11 runs off the last over with four wickets in hand. Hardik Pandya bowled the final over, and Bangladesh seemed poised for victory with just 2 runs needed off 3 balls. However, Pandya took two wickets in two balls, leaving Bangladesh requiring two off the final delivery. Shuvagata Hom tried to sneak a single, but MS Dhoni’s lightning-fast sprint to run out Mustafizur Rahman sealed a miraculous 1-run victory for India.

2. Karthik’s Last-Ball Heroics – Nidahas Trophy Final (2018)

In the Nidahas Trophy final in 2018, India needed 167 to win against Bangladesh. India struggled in the chase, and with 34 runs needed off the last two overs, Bangladesh seemed to have the upper hand. Enter Dinesh Karthik. His unbeaten 29 off just 8 balls, including three sixes and two fours, turned the game on its head. The match went down to the last ball, with India needing 5 runs to win. Karthik struck a sensational flat six over extra cover off Soumya Sarkar’s bowling, sealing a nail-biting 4-wicket victory for India.

3. Asia Cup T20 Final (2016)

In the 2016 Asia Cup final in Dhaka, India and Bangladesh met in a rain-shortened 15-over match. Bangladesh posted a challenging total of 120, and India’s chase was led by Shikhar Dhawan, who played a fluent knock of 60 off 44 balls. While Bangladesh kept the pressure on, MS Dhoni once again finished the game in style, hitting a towering six to seal an 8-wicket win for India.

4. Deepak Chahar’s Record-Breaking Spell (Nagpur 2019)

In the 2019 T20I series decider in Nagpur, India and Bangladesh were tied at 1-1. Bangladesh was in control of their chase of 175, but Deepak Chahar produced a sensational spell of bowling, taking 6 wickets for just 7 runs, including a hat-trick. Chahar’s spell not only turned the game in India’s favor but also set a new record for the best bowling figures in T20 internationals. Bangladesh was bowled out for 144, handing India a series-clinching 30-run victory.

5. Bangladesh’s Only Win vs India, 2019

Bangladesh secured their first and only T20I victory against India at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi in November 2019. Batting first, India posted 148/6. Bangladesh, in reply, chased down the target with three balls to spare, thanks to Mushfiqur Rahim’s unbeaten 60 off 43 balls.

Categories: Cricket

India vs Pakistan: A Rivalry of Close Encounters in T20 World Cups

By Nilay October 5, 2024 0

India vs Pakistan: A Rivalry Defined by Close Encounters in T20 World Cups

India and Pakistan, two cricketing powerhouses, have engaged in a captivating rivalry in the T20 World Cup, with each encounter marked by intense competition and thrilling finishes. Their first meeting in the inaugural Women’s T20 World Cup in 2009 set the tone for a series of memorable clashes.

India has dominated the head-to-head record, winning 12 of the 15 matches played so far. However, Pakistan has shown resilience, triumphing in three games, including a narrow two-run victory in the 2016 edition.

In the T20 World Cup, India has maintained its dominance, winning five of the seven matches against Pakistan. The upcoming encounter on Sunday in the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup promises to be another nail-biting affair.

Key Moments in India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup Encounters:

* 2009: India’s Priyanka Roy claimed a five-wicket haul to restrict Pakistan to 75, leading India to a five-wicket victory.
* 2010: Poonam Raut’s unbeaten 54 guided India to a nine-wicket win, chasing down Pakistan’s 104/6.
* 2012: Pakistan’s Nida Dar’s three wickets helped restrict India to 97/8, securing a one-run victory for Pakistan.
* 2014: India’s Soniya Dabir took three wickets to restrict Pakistan to 100/9, securing a six-run victory.
* 2016: Rain played a crucial role, with Pakistan declared the winner by two runs (DLS) after being ahead of the par score.
* 2018: Mithali Raj’s 56 off 47 led India to a seven-wicket victory, chasing down Pakistan’s 133/7.
* 2023: Jemimah Rodrigues’ whirlwind 53 not out helped India chase down Pakistan’s 149/4, securing a seven-wicket victory.

Upcoming Clash:

India and Pakistan will face off on Sunday in the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup. India, coming off a heavy defeat to New Zealand, will be eager to bounce back, while Pakistan will be confident after their victory over Sri Lanka. The match promises to be a high-stakes encounter, with both teams determined to secure a crucial victory.

Categories: Cricket

Rishabh Pant: Master of Sledging in India-Australia Rivalry

By Nilay October 4, 2024 0

Sledging: A Fiery Element in the India-Australia Test Rivalry

Sledging, the art of verbal jousting on the cricket field, has become an integral part of the intense rivalry between India and Australia. While Australian teams have traditionally been known for their aggressive sledging tactics, India has gradually embraced this aspect of the game, particularly under the leadership of Sourav Ganguly and Virat Kohli.

In recent years, India has not only triumphed in their last two tours Down Under but has also matched the Australians in the art of sledging. Rishabh Pant, in particular, has emerged as a master of behind-the-wickets banter, often targeting Australian batters with his witty remarks.

In a recent video shared by Star Sports, Australian players unanimously named Pant as the Indian player who sledges and banters the most. Pant, however, clarified that he does not engage in sledging with any specific purpose but simply enjoys the banter.

The upcoming five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy, beginning on November 22 in Perth, promises to be another fiery encounter between these two cricketing giants. India’s recent Test series win against Bangladesh has solidified their position atop the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, with a points percentage of 74.24.

If India manages to defeat New Zealand 3-0 at home, they will secure their place in the WTC final at Lord’s in June 2025 before even heading to Australia. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy will then become a contest of pride, with the world’s No. 1 team aiming to retain the series.

Categories: Cricket

India vs Pakistan: Mushtaq Ahmed’s Five-Wicket Haul Seals Sahara Cup Final for Pakistan

By Nilay September 23, 2024 0

The 1996 Sahara Cup final between India and Pakistan at the Toronto Cricket Club was a thrilling encounter that showcased the intense rivalry between the two cricketing giants. The match was the culmination of a five-match series that had drawn significant attention due to the high stakes and the presence of some of the best players from both sides.

India started the series strongly, winning the first ODI by 8 wickets. However, Pakistan bounced back in the second game, securing a narrow 2-wicket victory. India regained the lead in the third ODI, defeating Pakistan by 55 runs in a low-scoring affair. Pakistan dominated the fourth ODI, winning by a massive 97 runs, setting the stage for a decisive fifth match.

In the final ODI, Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first. Aamer Sohail, Saeed Anwar, and Ijaz Ahmed made solid contributions, but it was Saleem Malik’s 43 runs off 47 balls that helped Pakistan reach a total of 213/9.

In reply, India faced a daunting challenge against Pakistan’s formidable bowling attack, led by the talented Mushtaq Ahmed. The leg-spinner turned the tide in Pakistan’s favor, claiming five wickets for just 36 runs, leaving Indian batsmen in disarray. He dismissed key players, including Ajay Jadeja, Rahul Dravid, Sunil Joshi, Mohammad Azharuddin, and Aashish Kapoor.

Despite some resistance from the Indian batsmen, they struggled to form partnerships and ultimately fell to the pressure exerted by Pakistan’s bowlers. India were bowled out for 161 runs, handing Pakistan a convincing victory by 52 runs. Mushtaq Ahmed’s outstanding performance earned him the Man of the Match award, further solidifying his impact in this historic rivalry.

The 1996 Sahara Cup final remains one of the most memorable matches between India and Pakistan, showcasing the intense competition and high-quality cricket that has characterized their rivalry over the years.

Categories: Cricket

Indian Team Targeted on Australian Tours, Alleges Aakash Chopra

By Nilay September 19, 2024 0

The rivalry between India and Australia in cricket is one of the most intense in the sport, and it’s set to reach new heights when the two teams face off in a five-Test series Down Under for the Border Gavaskar Trophy, beginning this November. The build-up to the much-awaited clash is fast gaining momentum, and it has been further fueled by former India opener Aakash Chopra, who has exposed how Indian team and players are targeted on Australian tours.

Sharing a story from his commentary stint during India’s 2018-19 tour, Chopra not only criticised the actions but also revealed how specific portions of play from live broadcast are clipped and shared with the Australian media to bring the Indian players into disrepute.

India registered a historic first ever Test series win in Australia under Virat Kohli’s captaincy, and the story Chopra shared on the ‘2 Sloggers’ podcast is from the second Test of the series in Perth. Chopra claimed that the broadcasters amplified the stump microphone to highlight a heated on-field exchange between Ishant Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja in an attempt to tarnish the image of the visiting team.

Chopra was in the commentary box when the said incident happened. “They (Australian media) used to release videos. They did it in front of me when Ishant Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja had a heated exchange with each other while standing in the 30-yard circle. The broadcasters amped up the stump mic as they were abusing each other,” Chopra said on the podcast.

“They cut the clip and shared it with the press in front of me. After that, when we were talking off the field, I was like, ‘What are we actually trying to achieve because it’s nothing’,’ the 47-year-old former opener added.

Chopra went on to add that Ricky Ponting, who was present in the commentary box when this happened, first condemned what he saw but said something exactly the opposite as soon as the former Australia captain went on air. “Ricky said they are ‘Making a mountain out of a molehill’. The moment he went on air, he tore into the Indian team, and I was stunned that he had just said something else a few minutes back,” Chopra recalled.

Chopra’s revelations have sparked outrage among Indian fans and former players, who have accused the Australian media of bias and unfair treatment of the Indian team. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has also taken note of the matter and is expected to raise it with the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy series is expected to be one of the most fiercely contested in recent memory, and the off-field drama is only adding to the anticipation. It remains to be seen how the Indian team will respond to the allegations of unfair treatment, but one thing is for sure: the rivalry between India and Australia is set to reach new heights in the coming weeks.

Categories: Cricket

Harbhajan Singh vs. Ricky Ponting: The Rivalry That Defined India-Australia Cricket

By Nilay September 17, 2024 0

The 1998 Coca-Cola Cup tri-series in Sharjah witnessed the birth of one of the most iconic rivalries in cricket history: Harbhajan Singh vs. Ricky Ponting.

Harbhajan, a young and promising off-spinner, had just made his ODI debut for India. In his fourth match, he faced the formidable Australian batsman Ponting, who was known for his aggressive batting style.

Ponting, batting at No. 3, started off strongly, hitting Harbhajan for boundaries. However, Harbhajan had the last laugh. In the same over, he had Ponting stumped by wicketkeeper Nayan Mongia. The dismissal was followed by a fiery send-off from Harbhajan, igniting a rivalry that would last for years to come.

Ponting, not one to back down, retaliated by barging into Harbhajan and exchanging words. The incident set the tone for their future encounters, which were often marked by intense competition and verbal exchanges.

The match itself was a high-scoring affair, with Australia posting 284 for 7 thanks to centuries from Michael Bevan and Mark Waugh. India, despite a brilliant 143 from Sachin Tendulkar, could only manage 250 for 5 in a weather-shortened game. Australia won by 26 runs.

The Harbhajan-Ponting rivalry became a defining feature of the India-Australia cricket rivalry. Harbhajan, with his guile and accuracy, often had the upper hand over Ponting, who was known for his attacking batting. Their battles on the field were always intense and often spilled over into verbal exchanges.

The rivalry reached its peak during the 2008 Sydney Test, where Harbhajan was accused of racially abusing Ponting. The incident led to a diplomatic row between India and Australia and cast a shadow over the relationship between the two cricketing nations.

Despite the controversies, the Harbhajan-Ponting rivalry remains one of the most memorable in cricket history. It was a clash of two contrasting styles and personalities, and it produced some of the most memorable moments in the sport.

Categories: Cricket

Suresh Raina Silences Pakistani Fans with Iconic Catch in 2012 T20 World Cup

By Nilay September 16, 2024 0

The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is one of the most intense and passionate in the world, with every match between the two nations carrying immense significance. One such memorable encounter occurred during the ICC T20 World Cup 2012, where former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina silenced Pakistani supporters in a unique and unforgettable way.

In a Super 8s match at the packed R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Pakistan struggled against India’s bowling attack, with Lakshmipathy Balaji and R Ashwin taking three and two wickets respectively. Pakistan’s innings lacked substantial partnerships, with only Shoaib Malik managing a top score of 28.

The turning point came when Pakistan’s captain, Mohammad Hafeez, was caught behind off Virat Kohli’s bowling for 15. Umar Akmal provided some resistance, scoring a quick-fire 21 off 18 balls, but his dismissal by Suresh Raina off Ashwin’s bowling proved to be the decisive moment.

As Akmal attempted a big shot over midwicket, Raina took a fantastic catch, silencing the Pakistani fans who had been chanting “Pakistan! Pakistan!” after Akmal’s six off Irfan Pathan. In a moment of triumph, Raina cupped his ear towards the crowd, implying that he couldn’t hear their cheers anymore.

Pakistan were eventually bowled out for a modest 128 in 19.4 overs, with India comfortably chasing down the target in just 17 overs, thanks to a brilliant unbeaten knock of 78 off 61 balls from Virat Kohli.

Raina’s catch and subsequent celebration became an iconic moment in the India-Pakistan rivalry, showcasing his skill as a fielder and his ability to silence the opposition’s supporters. Despite India’s victory, they finished third in the Super 8s and did not progress to the semifinals of the tournament.

Categories: Cricket

India-South Africa T20 Series: World Champions Aim to Extend Dominance

Brett Lee Recalls ‘Hated’ Bowling to Harbhajan Singh’s Sledging Antics

India vs Pakistan: Women’s T20 World Cup Clash Promises Thrills and Rivalry

India-Bangladesh T20I Rivalry: Memorable Moments and Thrilling Encounters

India vs Pakistan: A Rivalry of Close Encounters in T20 World Cups

Rishabh Pant: Master of Sledging in India-Australia Rivalry

India vs Pakistan: Mushtaq Ahmed’s Five-Wicket Haul Seals Sahara Cup Final for Pakistan

Indian Team Targeted on Australian Tours, Alleges Aakash Chopra

Harbhajan Singh vs. Ricky Ponting: The Rivalry That Defined India-Australia Cricket

Suresh Raina Silences Pakistani Fans with Iconic Catch in 2012 T20 World Cup

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