India's Batting Disaster: Lowest Test Total at Home

India’s Batting Disaster: Lowest Test Total at Home

India’s Humiliating Collapse: Lowest Test Total at Home

The Indian cricket team endured a catastrophic collapse on Thursday, registering their lowest-ever Test total at home against New Zealand in Bengaluru. After rain washed out the opening day, India opted to bat first in overcast conditions, a decision that proved disastrous.

The Indian batting lineup crumbled under the relentless pressure of New Zealand’s pace attack. Five batters—Virat Kohli, Sarfaraz Khan, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, and R Ashwin—were dismissed for ducks, while openers Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal managed only 2 and 13 runs, respectively.

Rishabh Pant emerged as the top-scorer with a meager 20 runs, highlighting the team’s abysmal performance. The collapse sparked widespread criticism on social media, with fans and pundits calling for the return of veteran batters Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara.

At lunch, India was reeling at 34 for 6, and their slide continued after the break. R Ashwin and Pant fell in quick succession, followed by Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav, who contributed only 1 and 2 runs, respectively.

The humiliating collapse has raised serious questions about India’s batting depth and the team’s ability to perform under pressure. The selectors’ decision to move on from Rahane and Pujara has come under scrutiny, as the younger players have failed to live up to expectations.

Mithali Raj Calls for Harmanpreet Kaur's Removal as India's T20 Captain

Mithali Raj Calls for Harmanpreet Kaur’s Removal as India’s T20 Captain

India’s disappointing exit from the Women’s T20 World Cup has sparked calls for a change in leadership, with former captain Mithali Raj advocating for a younger skipper. Raj believes that the time is ripe for a transition, as India has failed to progress under Harmanpreet Kaur’s captaincy.

Raj suggests that Jemimah Rodrigues, who has impressed with her energy and leadership qualities, would be a suitable replacement. She highlights Rodrigues’ ability to build momentum and connect with her teammates.

Raj attributes India’s poor performance to their inability to adapt quickly to the slow wickets in South Africa. She contrasts this with the adaptability shown by New Zealand captain Sophie Devine, who scored a crucial half-century against India.

Beyond the captaincy issue, Raj expresses concern about the team’s lack of growth in recent years. She believes that India has become complacent in beating lower-ranked teams and has failed to challenge themselves against top sides like Australia.

Raj also questions the team management’s tactics, particularly their decision not to give opportunities to fringe players in the lead-up to the World Cup. She argues that this lack of depth has hindered India’s ability to compete at the highest level.

Furthermore, Raj criticizes the fitness levels of some players, which she believes contributed to dropped catches. She emphasizes the need for a consistent fitness benchmark throughout the year, rather than relying on short-term camps.

Kohli's Brilliant Fielding Sets Social Media Abuzz Ahead of India-New Zealand Test

Kohli’s Brilliant Fielding Sets Social Media Abuzz Ahead of India-New Zealand Test

Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli has set social media ablaze with his exceptional fielding skills in the lead-up to the highly anticipated first Test between India and New Zealand. A recent video showcases Kohli’s remarkable reflexes and dedication as he engages in intense slip-catching drills alongside KL Rahul.

During the practice session, Kohli displayed his agility and precision by pulling off a stunning low catch to his right, eliciting laughter from both players. The video highlights the focused preparation of India’s key players as they gear up for the three-match Test series, commencing on October 16 at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Kohli and Rahul, both eager to regain their peak form, have demonstrated their commitment to fielding excellence, leaving no stone unturned in their quest to maintain India’s dominance in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings.

However, the team’s preparations encountered a setback as heavy rain washed out India’s practice session on Tuesday morning. With forecasts predicting continued rainfall throughout the week, the weather could significantly impact the series opener.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert across parts of Karnataka, warning of potential disruptions during the first two days of the match. The weather could play a crucial role, especially considering recent matches. India’s previous Test in Kanpur against Bangladesh was marred by rain delays but ultimately resulted in a home victory.

New Zealand, on the other hand, faced similar challenges during their tour of the subcontinent, with their scheduled game against Afghanistan in Greater Noida abandoned due to poor drainage.

India enters the series with momentum, having secured a 2-0 series win over Bangladesh, while New Zealand aims to bounce back from a 2-0 defeat in Sri Lanka. The hosts currently lead the WTC table, while the Kiwis, the reigning 2021 WTC champions, are eager to regain their footing.

Shubman Gill's Injury Casts Doubt on Availability for New Zealand Test

Shubman Gill’s Injury Casts Doubt on Availability for New Zealand Test

India’s Test opener Shubman Gill is facing a potential setback ahead of the first Test against New Zealand, scheduled to begin on October 16. According to reports, Gill has complained of neck and shoulder pain, raising concerns about his availability for the match.

The 25-year-old informed the team management about his discomfort on Monday, and a final decision on his selection will be made on the morning of the Test. Gill’s absence could pave the way for Sarfaraz Khan or Dhruv Jurel to make their way into India’s playing XI.

Gill has established himself as a key figure in India’s Test batting lineup, particularly at the No. 3 position. He played a pivotal role in India’s recent Test series victory over Bangladesh, scoring a century in the first Test.

In fact, Gill boasts an impressive batting average in the second innings of Test matches since 2020, making him one of India’s most reliable batsmen in challenging conditions.

Sarfaraz Khan, who recently scored a double century for Mumbai in the Duleep Trophy, is the frontrunner to replace Gill in the lineup. After a promising start to his Test career against England, Sarfaraz was unfortunate to miss out on selection after KL Rahul’s return from injury.

However, if Sarfaraz does enter the XI, India’s batting order may need to be adjusted. The team will have to decide whether to promote Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, or Rishabh Pant up the order to fill the No. 3 spot.

India will face New Zealand after a dominant 2-0 Test series win over Bangladesh. History favors India, as New Zealand has never won an away Test series in the World Test Championship (WTC).

However, the weather could play a significant role in the outcome of the match, with rain predicted to impact play on all five days. The overcast and rainy conditions could also influence India’s team selection.

Jasprit Bumrah Named Vice-Captain for India's Test Series Against New Zealand

Jasprit Bumrah Named Vice-Captain for India’s Test Series Against New Zealand

Jasprit Bumrah Appointed Vice-Captain for India’s Test Series Against New Zealand

New Delhi: India’s premier fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, has been elevated to the role of vice-captain for the upcoming three-match Test series against New Zealand, commencing on October 16 in Bengaluru. This strategic move signals a potential shift in leadership dynamics within the Indian team.

Bumrah’s appointment as vice-captain suggests that he is being groomed to assume a more prominent leadership role in the future. Notably, no vice-captain was named during the recently concluded two-match Test series against Bangladesh.

The Indian squad for the New Zealand series remains largely unchanged from the one that faced Bangladesh, with the exception of left-arm pacer Yash Dayal being dropped. Rising pace sensations Mayank Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna have been added as traveling reserves.

Mohammed Shami continues to be absent as he recovers from an injury sustained during the World Cup final against Australia last year. Shami’s return to the team remains uncertain.

The second Test of the series will be played in Pune from October 24, while the third and final Test will take place in Mumbai from November 1.

India’s Squad for the Three Tests Against New Zealand:

* Rohit Sharma (Captain)
* Jasprit Bumrah (Vice-Captain)
* Yashasvi Jaiswal
* Shubman Gill
* Virat Kohli
* KL Rahul
* Sarfaraz Khan
* Rishabh Pant (Wicket-keeper)
* Dhruv Jurel (Wicket-keeper)
* Ravichandran Ashwin
* Ravindra Jadeja
* Axar Patel
* Kuldeep Yadav
* Mohd. Siraj
* Akash Deep

Traveling Reserves:

* Harshit Rana
* Nitish Kumar Reddy
* Mayank Yadav
* Prasidh Krishna

Joe Root's Weakness: Jasprit Bumrah, the Only Bowler He Struggles Against

Joe Root’s Weakness: Jasprit Bumrah, the Only Bowler He Struggles Against

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has heaped praise on Joe Root after the latter scored his 35th Test century, surpassing the likes of Sunil Gavaskar and Brian Lara. However, despite Root’s remarkable consistency, Vaughan believes he has a weakness against one particular bowler: India’s Jasprit Bumrah.

Vaughan acknowledged that Bumrah is the “only” bowler who poses a significant challenge to Root. “The only bowler he does not quite line up is Jasprit Bumrah, I reckon, but who does?” Vaughan wrote in his column for The Telegraph UK.

Vaughan attributed Root’s difficulty against Bumrah to the latter’s exceptional pace and ability to release the ball quickly. “To be as good as he is you have to pick up the ball so quickly out of the hand, which gives him that extra bit of time,” Vaughan explained.

Despite this weakness, Vaughan emphasized that Root has no major flaws in his technique. “There is no obvious way to get him out, against pace or spin. At the moment, bowlers are waiting for him to make a mistake,” Vaughan said.

Root’s 35th Test century came in the first Test against Pakistan in Multan, where he remained unbeaten on 176 at the end of Day 3. He is now eyeing his sixth double century on Day 4.

Bumrah and Root are likely to face off again in June 2025 when India tours England for a five-match Test series. This series will be part of the next World Test Championship (WTC) cycle (2025-27).

Yuvraj Singh Slams Abhishek Sharma for Run-Out Blunder

Yuvraj Singh Slams Abhishek Sharma for Run-Out Blunder

India’s Abhishek Sharma Faces Criticism from Mentor Yuvraj Singh After Run-Out Blunder

In the first T20I against Bangladesh, India’s opening batsman Abhishek Sharma faced criticism from his mentor, former India cricketer Yuvraj Singh, after a disappointing run-out. Chasing a modest target of 128 runs, Sharma and Sanju Samson started well, but Sharma’s dismissal for 16 runs off 7 balls left a sour taste.

Despite India’s comprehensive victory, Sharma’s run-out drew criticism. Taking to Instagram, Sharma shared a post expressing his commitment to the team, but Yuvraj Singh left a pointed comment: “Only if we apply our brains properly.”

Sharma’s dismissal was particularly disappointing given his recent maiden T20I century. In a video released by the BCCI, Sharma had revealed that Yuvraj Singh had been happy when he was dismissed for a duck in the previous match.

“I spoke to him (Yuvraj) yesterday and he said I don’t know why but he was very happy when I was out on zero. He said that’s a good start. I think he must be very proud of me just like my family,” Sharma had said.

The bond between Yuvraj Singh and Abhishek Sharma goes beyond the traditional relationship between a former and current cricketer. Sharma credits Yuvraj Singh for his success at the international level.

“I am playing at this level because of him. The hard work he has put on me. For the past two, three years he has really worked hard not only on my cricket even off the field as well,” Sharma had said.

Yuvraj Singh’s criticism of Sharma’s run-out highlights the importance of mental focus and decision-making in cricket. While Sharma’s commitment to the team is commendable, he will need to improve his situational awareness and avoid such costly mistakes in the future.

India's No. 3 Batting Conundrum: Mandhana Emphasizes Match Conditions

India’s No. 3 Batting Conundrum: Mandhana Emphasizes Match Conditions

India’s No. 3 batting position in the ongoing Women’s T20 World Cup has become a topic of discussion, with vice-captain Smriti Mandhana stating that the choice will be based on match conditions and situations.

Initially, head coach Amol Muzumdar had indicated that captain Harmanpreet Kaur would occupy the crucial spot. However, after Kaur’s injury scare, Jemimah Rodrigues and Yastika Bhatia have also been considered for the role.

Mandhana emphasized that the conditions in the UAE have been challenging, but the difference between day and night games has not been significant. She noted that teams have struggled to score over 140 runs in the tournament, regardless of the time of day.

Regarding India’s cautious approach against Pakistan, Mandhana stressed the importance of securing points on the board. She acknowledged the need to balance the desire to improve net run rate with the priority of winning matches.

Mandhana also addressed the perception that Asian teams would be more comfortable with the conditions in Dubai and Sharjah. She believes that all teams have faced challenges in adjusting to the pitches and that India’s performance in the first match against New Zealand was an isolated incident.

She emphasized that India’s batting unit needs to be smarter and understand their limitations in these conditions. She expressed confidence that the team can improve their performance and play to their full potential in the remaining matches.

India's Aggressive Batting Approach Draws Praise and Controversy

India’s Aggressive Batting Approach Draws Praise and Controversy

India’s aggressive batting approach in the second Test against Bangladesh has garnered widespread praise, but former England captain Michael Vaughan’s comparison to England’s “Bazball” has sparked controversy.

Despite rain washing out two and a half days of play, India secured a comfortable seven-wicket victory on the final day. Vaughan’s comment, posted on social media, suggested that India was adopting England’s ultra-aggressive approach under coach Brendon McCullum.

However, Indian batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has taken a sharp dig at certain former experts, without naming anyone, for trying to claim credit for India’s current approach. Gavaskar argues that the Indian team has been playing in this manner for the past couple of years, led by captain Rohit Sharma.

Gavaskar praised Sharma for his transformative impact on the team’s playing style, noting that he has been batting aggressively and encouraging his teammates to do the same. He dismissed the suggestion that India’s approach is due to the influence of coach Gautam Gambhir, who has only been in the role for a few months.

Gavaskar emphasized that the credit for India’s aggressive batting belongs solely to Sharma. He also criticized the tendency to label new approaches with names derived from scandals or other events, such as “this-ball” or “that-ball.”

India's Champions Trophy Participation Uncertain, PCB Confident of All Teams' Presence

India’s Champions Trophy Participation Uncertain, PCB Confident of All Teams’ Presence

India’s participation in the upcoming Champions Trophy in Pakistan remains uncertain, contingent upon approval from the Indian government. However, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed confidence that all teams, including India, will attend the tournament.

During a press conference at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Naqvi provided updates on the ongoing renovations at the venue in preparation for the Champions Trophy. He emphasized the PCB’s readiness to host the event and asserted that all teams would participate.

When questioned about the potential visit of Jay Shah, the newly elected ICC Chairman, Naqvi stated that the details of his meetings were yet to be finalized. He reiterated his belief that there were no factors that would prevent the Indian team from participating.

India has not yet confirmed its participation, with speculation that the tournament could adopt a hybrid format, with India’s matches potentially being played at a venue outside Pakistan, similar to the Asia Cup.

The PCB has reportedly expressed willingness to accommodate the logistical needs of the Indian team and fans by hosting all India matches in Lahore, which is conveniently located near Amritsar.

The Champions Trophy, which returns to the ICC calendar after a seven-year hiatus, is scheduled to take place in February-March 2023. The tournament will feature the top eight ODI teams in the world, competing for the coveted trophy.

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