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Rishabh Pant's Comeback Raises Questions About Captaincy Decision

Rishabh Pant’s Comeback Raises Questions About Captaincy Decision

By November 7, 2024 0

Rishabh Pant’s remarkable comeback from a horrific car crash has once again cemented his status as one of India’s most indispensable cricketers. After missing over a year of action, Pant returned to competitive cricket with the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2024, followed by a triumphant T20 World Cup victory with the national team.

However, Pant’s exclusion from the captaincy of India B in the Duleep Trophy raised questions about his leadership credentials. Despite his impressive performances in the subsequent Test series against Bangladesh and New Zealand, the decision to overlook him as captain left many cricket experts perplexed.

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has questioned the rationale behind this move, highlighting Pant’s exceptional performances since his return. “When the Duleep Trophy teams were picked, Rishabh Pant was selected, but Abhimanyu Easwaran was the captain of that team. Pant featured as a player but not a captain in that tournament. We were left wondering if he is no longer a captaincy candidate,” said Chopra.

Chopra further praised Pant’s resilience and dominance in Test cricket, emphasizing his ability to play with confidence and hit sixes while also possessing a solid defensive game. “He is the only one who can play with dominance, playing with so much confidence, he can hit sixes and has the defensive game,” said Chopra.

Pant’s performances have led to renewed calls for him to be considered as a captaincy candidate. His ability to lead from the front and inspire his teammates has been evident in his recent performances. Whether or not he is given the captaincy in the future remains to be seen, but there is no doubt that Pant has once again proven his immense value to the Indian cricket team.

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Kohli, Rohit's Duleep Trophy Absence Contributed to India's Test Series Loss

Kohli, Rohit’s Duleep Trophy Absence Contributed to India’s Test Series Loss

By November 5, 2024 0

Team India’s disastrous 0-3 Test series defeat against New Zealand has sparked a torrent of criticism, with former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar pinpointing the absence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from the Duleep Trophy as a contributing factor.

Kohli and Sharma had initially agreed to participate in the domestic red-ball event but withdrew at the last moment, citing a “lack of motivation.” Manjrekar believes this decision was a mistake, arguing that the duo would have benefited from the match practice.

“The big learning for the selectors from this home season is that do not rest the already well-rested players because of their stature,” Manjrekar wrote on social media. “I say this again, both Rohit & Virat would only have benefited from playing the Duleep Trophy start of the season.”

The Indian team’s middle-order fragility, Rohit Sharma’s captaincy, and Gautam Gambhir’s insistence on turning tracks have also been identified as potential reasons for the series loss. However, Manjrekar’s comments highlight the importance of match readiness, especially for senior players.

Kohli and Sharma will have a significant responsibility when India travels to Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, particularly in the absence of experienced batsmen like Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara. Some experts believe that this could be the last Test series at home for Kohli, Rohit, and the spin duo of R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja.

The Indian team must address these issues and find a way to regain their form if they want to avoid a similar fate in Australia. The Duleep Trophy could provide an opportunity for players to prove their worth and earn a place in the Test squad.

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India's Test Debacle: Lack of Match Practice Blamed

India’s Test Debacle: Lack of Match Practice Blamed

By November 4, 2024 0

Team India’s dismal performance in the Test series against New Zealand has sparked a debate about the players’ preparation. Despite a comprehensive victory against Bangladesh, India’s lack of match practice has been cited as a major factor in their 0-3 loss.

According to reports, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, R Ashwin, and Jasprit Bumrah had initially agreed to participate in the Duleep Trophy as part of their preparations for the Bangladesh and New Zealand series. However, they later withdrew, citing “lack of motivation.”

The selectors had made arrangements for the quartet’s participation in the tournament, which was held from September 5 to 22. However, their withdrawal left a void in the domestic competition, which was intended to provide match practice for players ahead of the international assignments.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes that the lack of practice contributed to India’s poor performance. “They should have had some practice, definitely. It’s a long gap,” he said. “New Zealand, obviously, had a better attack, with cricketers who have played in India and in the IPL, who have a sense of what Indian pitches do.”

The report also claims that Ravindra Jadeja was pulled out of the Duleep Trophy campaign by the selectors after Kohli, Rohit, Bumrah, and Ashwin’s withdrawal. Among those India stars who featured in the Test series against the Kiwis, only Shubman Gill, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, and Washington Sundar had participated in the domestic tournament.

While Jadeja made an impact with a 10-wicket haul in the Mumbai Test, Rohit, Kohli, and Ashwin struggled. Bumrah, on the other hand, had little help from the spin-friendly tracks.

The lack of match practice has raised questions about the BCCI’s preparation strategy for the Indian team. Experts believe that the players need more competitive matches to stay sharp and adapt to different conditions.

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Ishan Kishan Hungry for India Return After Domestic Success

Ishan Kishan Hungry for India Return After Domestic Success

By October 29, 2024 0

Ishan Kishan, the 26-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, has been away from the Indian cricket team for the past eleven months. After a T20I against Australia in Guwahati, Kishan took a break from the national side to focus on domestic cricket.

During his time away, Kishan has played in various domestic tournaments, including the DY Patil T20, Buchi Babu multi-day tournament, Duleep Trophy, Irani Cup, and Ranji Trophy. His impressive performances in the Duleep Trophy and Ranji Trophy earned him a recall to the India A squad for the tour of Australia.

Kishan credits his time away from the national team with helping him rediscover his hunger for the game. He spent a month in Baroda with Hardik Pandya, where he underwent a rigorous training regimen that included yoga, meditation, and early morning workouts.

“I had a reality check in Baroda about my hunger towards the game,” Kishan said. “The process was just too good. It was like starting your life again, your cricket again.”

Kishan also received valuable advice from Pandya, who encouraged him to adopt a more practical mindset. “Hardik is a very practical guy,” Kishan said. “He keeps sharing ideas with me. I am in a very practical zone right now.”

Despite the challenges he has faced, Kishan remains optimistic about his future. He is eager to return to the Indian team and make a significant contribution.

“I am very hungry to get an international match,” Kishan said. “I know what happens in team meetings when someone makes a comeback to the team. How light banter happens and I am very excited about those things also. Whenever I get that opportunity, I am going to go all-in for sure.”

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Mukesh Kumar Knocks on Selectors' Doors with Stellar Domestic Performances

Mukesh Kumar Knocks on Selectors’ Doors with Stellar Domestic Performances

By October 16, 2024 0

Mukesh Kumar, the rising star of Indian cricket, has made a compelling case for his inclusion in the national team with his exceptional performances in domestic competitions. Despite the departure of several senior players, the competition for places in the Indian team remains fierce.

In the recently concluded Duleep Trophy, Kumar emerged as the second-highest wicket-taker for India B, claiming 15 wickets at an impressive average of 28.60. His tally included two four-wicket hauls, showcasing his ability to strike consistently.

Kumar’s impressive form continued in the Irani Cup, where he picked up a five-wicket haul for the Rest of India team against Mumbai. His performance in this prestigious match further solidified his credentials as a potential candidate for the Indian team.

Speaking to Sportstar after his standout performance in the Irani Cup, Kumar expressed his focus on executing his plans and justifying the trust placed in him by the captain. He acknowledged that selection is an ongoing process and that he will continue to strive for excellence.

Kumar’s aspirations extend beyond representing India in one format. He aims to play for the country in all three formats, recognizing the pride and honor associated with representing India on the international stage.

With Mohammed Shami’s fitness still a concern, Kumar could be a viable backup option for the upcoming tour of Australia. The wickets in Australia are known to favor pacers, and Kumar’s ability to generate pace and bounce could prove valuable.

Kumar’s determination and consistent performances have put him on the radar of the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee. If he continues to impress in domestic competitions, he is likely to earn a call-up to the Indian team in the near future.

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Sanju Samson Aspires to Become All-Format Player for India

Sanju Samson Aspires to Become All-Format Player for India

By October 15, 2024 0

Sanju Samson, the dynamic Indian wicketkeeper-batsman, has expressed his ardent desire to establish himself as an all-format player for the national team. In an exclusive interview, Samson revealed his aspirations to play Test cricket and his belief in his ability to succeed in the red-ball format.

“I believe I have the skill-set to succeed in red-ball cricket,” Samson asserted. “I don’t want to be restricted to just white-ball cricket. I desire to play Tests for India.”

Samson’s determination stems from the support he has received from the Indian team management. During the recent Bangladesh series, he was given the opportunity to open the batting, a role he embraced with aplomb. “I was told three weeks in advance that I would be playing as an opener against Bangladesh,” Samson said. “I was mentally prepared for the new role.”

The 28-year-old’s confidence was further boosted by his century in the Duleep Trophy, a tournament that featured some of the best bowlers in the country. “The century in the Duleep Trophy has given me a lot of confidence,” Samson admitted.

Samson’s journey to the national team has been marked by both highs and lows. He has been praised for his exceptional batting skills, but has also faced criticism for his inconsistency. However, he remains undeterred and is determined to prove his worth in all formats of the game.

“I believe in playing fearless cricket and not shying away from taking the odd risk,” Samson said. “It was my dream to hit five sixes in a match, and I was in my zone that day and it came off.”

Samson’s desire to play Test cricket is a testament to his ambition and his belief in his own abilities. As he continues to develop and mature as a player, it is likely that he will get his chance to represent India in the longest format of the game.

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Abhimanyu Easwaran: Determined to Earn Elusive Test Cap

By October 10, 2024 0

Abhimanyu Easwaran, a prolific run-scorer for Bengal in domestic cricket, has been patiently awaiting his Test debut for India. Despite an impressive record of 7506 runs in 98 first-class games at an average of 47.65, the elusive Test cap remains out of reach.

As the Ranji Trophy approaches, India’s search for a back-up opener for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy intensifies. Easwaran remains determined to earn his place, focusing on controlling the controllables. “I try and focus on one day at a time. The dream has always been to play for the country,” he says.

Easwaran’s recent performances in the Duleep Trophy and Irani Cup have showcased his talent. He scored 157 not out, 116, and 19 in the Duleep Trophy, followed by a remarkable 191 in the Irani Cup against Mumbai.

Despite his impressive performances, Easwaran acknowledges that selection is beyond his control. “I can just control the things which I have in control – that is how hard I work, look forward to the games, and prepare for it,” he says.

Easwaran has gained valuable experience as part of the Indian Test team, including the historic victory over England at Lord’s in 2021. He has observed the meticulous preparation of senior batters like Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara, learning from their specific game plans and practice routines.

The ‘A’ tours have played a crucial role in India’s Test success, providing players with exposure to international cricket and overseas conditions. Easwaran believes these tours are a “great bridge between domestic cricket and international cricket.”

Easwaran fondly recalls his century against England Lions in 2019, where he partnered with KL Rahul. He also praises the aggressive intent displayed by the Indian team in the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur, where they chased down 95 on day five to secure a remarkable victory.

Easwaran believes that Test cricket remains vital, especially with the World Test Championship points at stake. “Every Test match is more like a World Cup game,” he says. “Red-ball cricket will keep going like this and a lot of people will keep watching it, I’m sure.”

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Over-Rate Menace Dampens Duleep Trophy and Irani Cup

Over-Rate Menace Dampens Duleep Trophy and Irani Cup

By October 6, 2024 0

The Duleep Trophy and Irani Cup, two prestigious tournaments in Indian First Class cricket, showcased the cream of the crop. While the quality of cricket lived up to expectations, the sluggish pace of play, with teams and captains seemingly indifferent to adhering to the prescribed over-rate, cast a shadow over the proceedings.

Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane, a veteran of 85 Test matches, has called for the imposition of run penalties to curb the over-rate menace in domestic cricket. “There is no penalty for the overs short… if they start penalising the team by the number of runs for every over that the fielding team is short by, for instance 12 runs for one over, 24 for two and so on and it should be added after every day’s player,” Rahane suggested after leading Mumbai to its 15th Irani Cup triumph.

The over-rate in the Irani Cup was so abysmal that the game was repeatedly brought to a standstill. While Rest of India (RoI), led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, bowled 68 and 70 overs on the first two days, respectively, the final day’s play was the most bizarre. With RoI in no hurry and Mumbai batters employing time-wasting tactics to secure a draw, only 38 overs were bowled in 240 minutes before the teams shook hands.

Currently, the fielding captain and team face monetary sanctions for over-rate violations – 10 to 50% of the match-fee for the team and 20 to 100% for the captain. Monetary and disciplinary sanctions are also imposed on the batting side for time-wasting.

“I always believe that players should maintain that discipline. They should play within the rules. But at the moment there is no penalty, so I cannot comment too much about the rules. Whoever is managing domestic cricket, I feel if they can add a strict run penalty, it will be a huge thing,” Rahane emphasized.

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Shams Mulani: Consistent Performer Knocking on the Door of Indian Team

Shams Mulani: Consistent Performer Knocking on the Door of Indian Team

By October 5, 2024 0

Shams Mulani, the Mumbai all-rounder, has been a consistent performer on the domestic circuit for the past three seasons. Despite missing out on the first round of the Duleep Trophy, Mulani made an immediate impact when he got his opportunity. In his first match for India A, he top-scored with 89 and took four wickets to set up their win over India D. In the next match against India C, he scored a crucial 44 and took three wickets.

Mulani’s performances in the Duleep Trophy have put him in contention for a place in the Indian team. However, the 27-year-old is focused on his performance and helping his team win.

“My target always is to help the team win. Personal milestones will come and go, but the more important thing is the team’s win,” Mulani said. “Personally, I would like to do what I am continuing to do for the past three seasons where I’ve been picking up wickets and scoring runs. I must be ready for whatever opportunity I get. For that, I need to score runs and take wickets-…just keep knocking on the door.”

Mulani’s consistent performances have not gone unnoticed. He was included in the India A squad for the upcoming tour of Bangladesh. This is a great opportunity for Mulani to showcase his skills and push for a place in the Indian team.

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Duleep Trophy to Return to Zonal Format Next Year

Duleep Trophy to Return to Zonal Format Next Year

By September 29, 2024 0

The Duleep Trophy, a prestigious domestic cricket tournament in India, is set to revert to its traditional zonal format starting next year. This decision was made at the 93rd Annual General Meeting of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The Duleep Trophy was originally played on a zonal basis, with teams representing different regions of India. However, in 2023, the BCCI experimented with a new format, where four teams were selected by four teams. This experiment was met with mixed reactions, with some members of the BCCI expressing concerns that it was diluting the competitive nature of the tournament.

After a prolonged discussion at the AGM, the BCCI decided to move away from the experimental format and reinstate the zonal format. This decision was based on the recommendations of a working group consisting of then head coach Rahul Dravid, chief selector Ajit Agarkar, NCA head VVS Laxman, and Abey Kuruvilla, general manager of operations.

The working group had argued that the zonal format would maintain the competitive nature of the tournament and provide a better platform for players to showcase their skills. They also pointed out that the zonal format had a long history and tradition in Indian cricket.

The BCCI also authorized its office-bearers to finalize the BCCI’s representative for the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) meetings as an ICC Director. With BCCI President Jay Shah set to take over as the ICC chair on December 1, a new ICC representative will need to be selected.

The AGM also passed a resolution to maintain the BCCI’s legal status as a society. The members further resolved that the tournaments of the BCCI, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), shall not be converted to a company.

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