T20 Archives

RCB vs PBKS: Clash of the Titans in IPL 2024

By Nilay March 25, 2024 0

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season is underway, and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are set to face off against the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a highly anticipated match. Both teams are coming off contrasting results in their opening matches, with RCB suffering a defeat to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and PBKS securing a thrilling victory over the Delhi Capitals (DC).

RCB, led by Dinesh Karthik, will be eager to bounce back from their disappointing start. Despite a challenging start, RCB’s middle-order batsmen, Anuj Rawat and Karthik, rescued the team from a precarious position of 78 for 5 to 173 for 6. However, their bowling fell short as they struggled with length, allowing the CSK batters to capitalize and secure a 6-wicket victory.

On the other hand, PBKS, led by Mayank Agarwal, began their IPL 2024 campaign with a resounding 4-wicket victory against DC. Arshdeep Singh and Harpreet Brar impressed with the ball, restricting DC to a total of 174 runs. With the bat, Sam Curran’s remarkable innings of 63 runs off 47 balls, supported by Liam Livingstone, guided PBKS to victory.

Looking at the head-to-head record, PBKS have faced off against RCB in 31 matches, securing victory in 17 of them. However, RCB emerged victorious in their last encounter in 2023. PBKS will be confident in their ability to reverse the outcome this year and come out on top.

The match between RCB and PBKS promises to be an exciting contest. RCB will be looking to return to winning ways, while PBKS will aim to maintain their winning streak. Both teams have a wealth of talent and experience, and the outcome of the match could have a significant impact on their respective campaigns in IPL 2024.

Categories: Cricket

Naman Dhir Impresses in IPL Debut for Mumbai Indians

By Nilay March 25, 2024 0

Mumbai Indians have a history of fielding iconic T20 batters at the crucial No. 3 position, including Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma, and Cameron Green. However, in a recent match against Gujarat Titans, a relatively unknown name, Naman Dhir, took the stage at No. 3 after Ishan Kishan’s early dismissal.

Dhir, a 24-year-old hard-hitting batter from Punjab, has played only five T20 matches in his professional career and is yet to make his debut in 50-over domestic cricket. Despite his limited experience, he was acquired by Mumbai Indians for INR 20 lakh at the last auction.

Dhir’s selection is a testament to Mumbai Indians’ scouting prowess. He has impressed with his big-hitting abilities, particularly in the Sher-e-Punjab T20 Cup last year, where he amassed 466 runs at a strike rate of 192.56.

In his IPL debut, Dhir showcased his power-hitting skills, smashing three consecutive fours and a six against Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai. He also lofted a six over long-off in the third over. However, Omarzai eventually dismissed Dhir lbw with the help of a review.

Despite Dhir’s impressive start, Mumbai Indians fell short by six runs in the end. However, his performance has raised eyebrows and suggests that he could be a valuable asset to the team in the future.

Categories: Cricket

Virat Kohli’s Consistency and Aggression Elevate T20 Teams

By Nilay March 12, 2024 0

Virat Kohli’s unwavering consistency and infectious aggression have left an indelible mark on the cricketing world, according to former India captain Anil Kumble. Kohli’s relentless pursuit of excellence has not only elevated his own game but also the intensity of every T20 team he represents.

Kumble, who witnessed Kohli’s rise from a U-19 World Cup winner to a global superstar, believes that consistency is Kohli’s most significant legacy. As the only player to have played 16 seasons for a single IPL franchise, Kohli has consistently delivered match-winning performances for Royal Challengers Bangalore.

“His aggression and attitude on the field help the team gain intensity,” Kumble said. “The kind of inspiration and intensity that he brings lifts everybody within the group.”

England’s World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan echoed Kumble’s sentiments, describing Kohli as one of the greatest cricketers of the modern era. “When you have a player of that calibre in your side, it’s crucial that you’re constantly asking him to get the best out of himself,” Morgan said.

Mike Hesson, who coached Kohli at RCB, provided a different perspective, highlighting Kohli’s calm demeanor off the field. “He’s very calm off the field,” Hesson said. “When youngsters come into the team or overseas players, he’d spend time getting to know them.”

Robin Uthappa, who has played alongside and against Kohli, described the experience of facing him as “annoying.” “As an opposition, he could be grating, in your face,” Uthappa said. “You’d always feel like there’s a battle happening with a bowler.”

Kohli’s combative instincts extend beyond his batting, according to Uthappa. “There’s an extra battle happening with an extra-cover fielder because he’s coming at you all the time,” he added.

As Royal Challengers Bangalore prepare for the upcoming IPL season, Kohli’s leadership and unwavering determination will once again be crucial to their success. His ability to inspire and elevate his teammates makes him an invaluable asset to any team he represents.

Categories: Cricket

Sri Lanka Triumphs in T20 Series Finale, Thushara Shines with Hat Trick

By Nilay March 10, 2024 0

Sri Lanka’s cricket team secured a thrilling 28-run victory over Bangladesh in the final T20 match of their series, claiming the series 2-1. Opener Kusal Mendis played a pivotal role, scoring a brilliant 86 runs off 55 balls, including six fours and six sixes. His innings propelled Sri Lanka to a competitive total of 174-6.

Bangladesh’s chase got off to a shaky start, with pacer Nuwan Thushara making an immediate impact. Thushara, playing his first game of the series, ripped through the top order, taking four wickets in his two overs, including a hat trick. His victims included captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, and Mahmudullah.

Despite Rishad Hossain’s valiant effort with a 30-ball 53, Bangladesh’s batting lineup crumbled under Thushara’s relentless bowling. The team was eventually bowled out for 146 in 19.4 overs, falling short of the target.

Thushara’s career-best performance of 5-20 earned him the Player of the Match award. Sri Lanka captain Wanindu Hasaranga praised Thushara’s contribution, saying, “This is our last series before the World Cup, so we take a lot of confidence from this.”

The victory marks a significant boost for Sri Lanka as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The team’s bowling attack, led by Thushara, proved to be a formidable force, while Mendis’ batting prowess provided a solid foundation.

Categories: Cricket

Bangladesh’s Hossain Strikes to Halt Sri Lanka’s Momentum in Third T20

By Nilay March 9, 2024 0

Bangladesh’s Rishad Hossain struck a crucial blow in the third and final Twenty20 against Sri Lanka, dismissing Kamindu Mendis for 14 runs. The wicket came in the eighth over, with Mendis attempting an ambitious over-the-top shot that was caught by long off.

Earlier, Sri Lanka’s Kusal Mendis had provided some momentum with a six off Hossain in the seventh over. However, Hossain’s timely wicket prevented a further surge in the Lankan innings.

Mahedi Hasan also played a key role for Bangladesh, bowling a tidy over in the sixth over, conceding just three runs. Hasan’s efforts helped restrict Sri Lanka to a modest total in the Powerplay.

Sri Lanka’s innings got off to a shaky start, with Taskin Ahmed dismissing Dhananjaya de Silva for 10 runs in the third over. Kamindu Mendis and Kusal Mendis then steadied the ship with a 30-run partnership, but Hossain’s wicket broke the momentum.

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto won the toss and elected to bowl first, hoping to exploit the conditions. Sri Lanka made three changes to their lineup, bringing in Dhanajaya de Silva, Nuwan Thushara, and Wanindu Hasaranga.

Bangladesh fielded an unchanged squad, looking to secure a series victory after winning the first two matches. The third and final T20 will determine the series winner.

Categories: Cricket

Sri Lanka Snatch Dramatic Three-Run Victory Over Bangladesh in T20 Opener

By Nilay March 4, 2024 0

In a thrilling opening Twenty20 international of a three-match series in Sylhet on Monday, Sri Lanka emerged victorious over Bangladesh by a narrow margin of three runs. Chasing a challenging target of 207 runs, Bangladesh’s lower middle-order batsman Jaker Ali played a valiant innings, scoring a maiden fifty and bringing his team close to victory. However, Sri Lanka’s captain Dasun Shanaka displayed nerves of steel in the final over, claiming two crucial wickets to secure the win.

Bangladesh’s pursuit of the target began with a solid start, but former Sri Lankan captain Angelo Mathews made an early impact by dismissing two key batsmen. Mahmudullah Riyad then played a crucial role, striking a quickfire 54 off 31 balls to revive the home side’s hopes. However, Shanaka’s heroics in the final over proved decisive.

Earlier, Sri Lanka had set a formidable total of 206-3 after being sent in to bat. Sadeera Samarawickrama and Kusal Mendis played key roles, scoring fifties and sharing a 96-run partnership for the third wicket. Stand-in skipper Charith Asalanka also contributed with an unbeaten 44 from 21 balls.

The series marks the start of Sri Lanka’s month-long tour of Bangladesh, which will also include three one-day internationals and two Tests.

Categories: Cricket

Is Hardik Pandya Team India’s next white-ball leader?

By Sports Analyst June 6, 2023 0

Team India’s all-rounder cricketer Hardik Pandya is likely to replace Rohit Sharma as the next white ball skipper in ODI and T20I series. According to ANI, the Board of Control for Cricket in India is currently carrying out this transition strategy. The opportunity has reportedly been discussed with Hardik Pandya, and the BCCI is waiting for his response.

The star all-rounder only plays white-ball cricket and has been consistent since his comeback to international cricket in June 2022. Cricketer Hardik proved his potential as a captain by leading Gujarat Titans to an IPL triumph in their debut season and was also in the lead in the competition to become the Indian cricket team’s T20I captain. Now it appears that Pandya could be granted full control of the white-ball teams to become the new captain of the Indian Cricket Team.

Following the 2021 T20 World Cup, Rohit was given leadership of the T20I team and the home series against New Zealand. In December 2021, he succeeded Virat Kohli as the ODI captain. Rohit was the full-time captain for the Men in Blue, but owing to an injury, he was unable to lead the team in his first ODI series against South Africa. Additionally, he was absent for the Bangladesh Test Series.

Rohit took over the Test captaincy in 2022 after Kohli stepped down but was only able to lead the Men in Blue in 2 Test matches due to his fitness issues. Since February 2022, Sharma has been facing injuries. Due to a calf injury, the Indian cricket captain was unable to participate in the ODI and Test series against the Kiwis during their early 2020 visit to New Zealand. The cricketer injured himself while batting in Mount Maunganui’s fifth and final T20I of the series.

After the New Zealand trip, there was an unforeseen respite for the Indian cricket team when COVID-19 caused chaos throughout the world. It was necessary to postpone even the Indian Premier League (IPL). Even when cricket returned many months later, not much had changed for Rohit in terms of his injury problems.

After suffering a hamstring injury, Rohit missed a few IPL 2020 games for the Mumbai Indians (MI) team. He was not included in either of the teams chosen for the Australia tour in October 2020 due to worries about his fitness. India was slated to play four tests, three ODIs, and three T20Is in Australia.

In the elimination rounds, he led MI once again, and in the championship game against the Delhi Capitals (DC), he top-scored with 68 runs in 51 balls. Mumbai went on to win the IPL title, but several supporters and detractors questioned if he would be fit to play in the Test matches in Australia.

High expectations were placed on the Indian captain for the South Africa tour of 2021–2022, following his outstanding performance in the Test series in England during the 2021 trip. Rohit was India’s best scorer in England, hitting 368 runs in four games at an average of 52.57, opening the innings in foreign Tests for the first time.

Unfortunately, the Indian batter’s Test tour of South Africa was cut short after he injured his left hamstring during a nett session in Mumbai. He was replaced in the Test team by Priyank Panchal.

Prior to the start of the Test series, Rohit was selected as the team’s captain for the ODI series. He did not, however, make a quick recovery and also missed the three-match one-day series. In his absence, KL Rahul led the squad as India was defeated 0-3 in the match.

After much uncertainty over his health, the Indian skipper was ultimately permitted to play in the final two Tests of the Australian tour. He performed admirably, earning ratings of 26, 52, 44, and 7. Rohit’s inconsistency in maintaining fitness had forced the BCCI to seek a replacement in the leadership.

After helping the Gujarat Titans win the IPL for the first time in 2022, Hardik’s reputation as a captain improved. India’s current captain, Rohit Sharma, has an outstanding track record in international T20 games. Although he has never lost a series while leading India, the team’s failure to claim the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup has cast doubt on his track record.

Let’s look at Hardik Pandya’s track record in the Indian Premier League

Hardik has displayed his extravagant stroke play throughout his IPL career and has amused himself by dismantling bowling attacks. He has defeated the finest bowlers in the past to establish his dominance in the IPL arena, proving that he is capable of defeating even them when on form. Cricketer Hardik has also played the ball flawlessly, giving his team important breakthroughs.

Hardik, though, struggled to settle in the lucrative T20 competition. The right-handed hitter had a few memorable hits in his first IPL season, but he was quite erratic overall, scoring just 112 runs in nine games. He then had a disastrous 2016 season with the bat, scoring only 44 runs in 11 games. Furthermore, in his first two editions, he also struggled to make an impression with the ball.

The Mumbai Indians supported Hardik and showed faith in him despite his setbacks in the 10th Indian Premier League. The Indian all-rounder earned the team’s trust by putting on a performance at the plate. In 17 games, he scored 250 runs at an astounding strike rate of 156.25, including 20 maximums. Additionally, he claimed six wickets for an 8.19 economy. Pandya’s accomplishments helped Mumbai win the trophy that particular year.

Later, in the 2018 campaign, Hardik’s all-around prowess caused a stir in the premier competition. He played in 13 games and scored 260 runs with a 133.33 strike rate. The flashy bowler had an economy rate of 8.92 while taking 18 wickets in those matches.

Hardik became a force in the 2019 IPL and was a key figure in Mumbai’s fourth title victory. In 16 games, he scored 402 runs at a mind-blowing strike rate of 191.42, including a scorching 91-run knock off just 34 balls against the Kolkata Knight Riders in the 47th round of the league. He completely destroyed every bowling attack that came his way. The talented all-rounder also had a brilliant bowling performance, taking 14 wickets with an economy of 9.17.

Pandya continued his stellar play with the Mumbai franchise in the 13th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), scoring 281 runs in 14 matches at an incredible strike rate of 178.98. However, he did not bowl because of a back problem. The great all-rounder was once again utilised as a real batter the next season to help him control his workload, but he performed only passably, scoring 127 runs in 12 games with a strike rate of 113.3.

Cricketer Hardik Pandya played a key role in Mumbai’s triumph in the T20 tournament. However, the five-time IPL champions also featured elite athletes like Suryakumar Yadav, Kieron Pollard, Jasprit Bumrah, and Rohit Sharma in their ranks. The team administration chose the foursome instead of keeping Pandya for the 2022 season due to concerns about his fitness.

The Gujarat Titans made Hardik their top draught choice and gave him control of the team before the 2022 mega auction. Gujarat’s ruse sparked a lot of questions because the Indian all-rounder has no prior experience leading a team on a major stage. But what happened next was really something.

Is Hardik Pandya the next MS Dhoni?

Gujarat won the IPL in their first season because of Hardik’s outstanding leadership abilities. With 487 runs in 15 matches at an economy of 131.27, he finished the main event as GT’s leading run-getter thanks to his exceptional batting. Additionally, he filled in as the sixth bowler when necessary and contributed eight wickets at an economy of 7.28, including a remarkable three-wicket haul in the championship match against the Rajasthan Royals.

The Indian Premier League is now Hardik’s happy hunting ground because of his amazing achievements. The legendary all-rounder has left his mark on history several times during the course of his illustrious IPL career with his feats on the cricket field.

Pandya had already been selected as the captain of the Indian team that travelled to Ireland to play two T20Is. The series was won 2-0 by India. The following T20I series between India and the West Indies, which India won 4-1, saw cricketer Pandya appointed vice-captain.

Pandya, who appeared in 27 T20 matches and amassed 607 runs in 25 innings at an average of 33.72, with three half-centuries and the top individual score of 71*, has been in exceptional form last year. Additionally, he has taken 20 wickets in the 20-over format this year. Pandya has scored 100 runs in two innings in three One-Day Internationals this year, with a high score of 71*. Additionally, he has six wickets this year in the 50-over format.

Rohit’s withering form and Hardik Pandya’s meteoric rise in the shortest format of white ball cricket is reason enough for the BCCI to appoint Pandya as the new white ball leader for Team India.

Categories: Sports360

MS Dhoni is batting in Chennai Super Kings Jersey

MS Dhoni successfully undergoes knee surgery in Mumbai

By Sports Analyst June 2, 2023 0

Chennai Super Kings skipper and former Team India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni who was seen struggling with his knee in the 16th edition of the Indian Premier League has successfully undergone surgery on his left knee in a Mumbai hospital.

As per Cricbuzz, the operation went well and Dhoni is perfectly fit. Initially, it was expected that he would remain in the hospital for two more days, but later in the evening, it emerged that Dhoni had been discharged.

Dhoni, who led Chennai Super Kings to their fifth IPL title, had flown to Mumbai from Ahmedabad after the IPL final and consulted renowned sports orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, who is also on the BCCI medical panel and had performed surgeries on a number of top Indian cricketers, including Rishabh Pant.

According to John Gloster, former India and current Rajasthan Royals physio, who has worked with Dr Pardiwala, Dhoni is in safe hands.

“Dr Dinshaw is a very competent surgeon, particularly for knees and shoulders. We are lucky to have someone of his capability in India. He is a surgeon who would intervene only when he is assured that the outcome will be significant,” Gloster told Cricbuzz.

CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan revealed that he spoke to Dhoni after the surgery. “I spoke to him after the operation. I cannot explain what the surgery is about but we have been told it is a keyhole surgery. He sounded fine in our conversation,” the CSK official confirmed.

Dhoni had played the entire IPL season with heavy strapping on his left knee and while he looked absolutely fine during wicket-keeping, he came into bat as low as No. 8 at times and didn’t look in his element while running between the wickets. However, things will be better now as the wicketkeeper-batsman will look to recuperate and rebuild.

Categories: Trending News

Famous IPL cricketers who haven’t represented India in T20Is

By Sports Analyst May 3, 2023 0

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a breeding ground for some of the world’s best T20 cricketers over the years. While many players have gone on to represent their countries in T20Is after making a mark in the IPL, there are a few who have been unlucky in that regard.

Over the years, the IPL has produced a plethora of talented cricketers who have gone on to represent their countries in T20Is. However, there are still a few players who have not been able to break into the Indian T20I team, despite their consistent performances in the league.

These players have proven their worth time and again in the IPL, with some of them even becoming fan favorites due to their match-winning performances. Despite their popularity and success in the IPL, they continue to wait for their chance to represent India in the shortest format of the game. In this article, we will shed light on some of these players and take a look at their performances in the IPL.

The IPL has undoubtedly become one of the most prestigious T20 leagues in the world, attracting some of the biggest names in cricket from across the globe. With intense competition and high stakes, the league has served as an excellent platform for young and talented cricketers to showcase their skills and make a name for themselves. However, despite their outstanding performances in the IPL, there are a few Indian cricketers who are yet to receive their call-up to the national T20I team.

The reasons behind their exclusion from the national team could vary, ranging from a highly competitive selection process to the presence of established players on the team. Nevertheless, the IPL has played a significant role in shaping the careers of these cricketers and has helped them gain recognition as some of the best T20 players in the country. In this article, we will take a look at six famous IPL cricketers who have not yet represented India in T20Is, despite their impressive performances in the league.

Famous IPL cricketers who haven’t represented India in T20Is

Yashasvi Jaiswal

Yashasvi Jaiswal, the current holder of the Orange Cap in IPL 2023, is a promising young talent in Indian cricket who has been making waves with his impressive performances. At just 21 years old, he has already established himself as one of the top players in the tournament and has the potential to represent India at the highest level in the future. With his aggressive style of play, Jaiswal could be a perfect replacement for Rohit Sharma in the T20I circuit and form a formidable opening partnership with Shubman Gill.

In the ongoing IPL 2023, Jaiswal has been in sensational form, becoming the fourth youngest player to score a century in the tournament during Rajasthan Royals’ match against Mumbai Indians. He has scored a total of 428 runs in just nine games at an impressive average of 47.55 and a blistering strike rate of 159.70. With such consistent performances, Jaiswal has certainly made a strong case for a call-up to the Indian team and could be a valuable addition to the national squad in the future.

IPL 2023: Yashasvi Jaiswal equals Buttlers unprecedented record after maiden IPL ton

Creator: PUNIT PARANJPE | Credit: AFP via Getty Images

Yashasvi Jaiswal’s journey in cricket is truly an inspiration for everyone, especially those coming from modest backgrounds. His rise to become one of the most promising young talents in Indian cricket is a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and dedication to the game.

Jaiswal’s story is one of struggle, as he had to overcome numerous challenges to make his mark in the world of cricket. He had to endure the hardships of living on the streets of Mumbai, where he sold panipuri to make ends meet. Despite the difficult circumstances, he never gave up on his dreams of playing cricket at the highest level. Jaiswal’s talent was evident from an early age, and he honed his skills by practicing in the local grounds of Mumbai. He went on to play for various clubs and teams in the city, and his consistent performances caught the attention of the selectors.

His breakthrough came in the 2019-20 Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he scored 564 runs in just six matches, including a double century. His performances in the tournament earned him a place in the Rajasthan Royals squad for IPL 2020. In his debut IPL season, Jaiswal showed glimpses of his talent, and in the current season of IPL 2023, he has been a revelation, showcasing his full range of skills with the bat.

Mayank Agarwal

Mayank Agarwal is a prolific Indian opener who has had a successful career in domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). He has been a consistent performer for his IPL franchise and has even been a part of the Indian T20 squad in the past, but has not yet played a T20I for India.

There could be various reasons behind Agarwal not being able to make his T20I debut for India. One reason could be the intense competition for a place in the Indian T20 squad, with several established and talented players vying for a spot in the team. India has a wealth of top-order batting talent, which means that Agarwal has to compete with the likes of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Shikhar Dhawan for a place in the team.

IPL 2023: Mayank Agarwal excited about the prospect of playing for a new franchise in IPL 16

Creator: Nathan Stirk-ICC | Credit: ICC via Getty Images Copyright: 2021 ICC

Another reason could be Agarwal’s style of play, which may not be ideally suited for T20 cricket. While he is a technically sound batsman and a good striker of the ball, his strike rate in T20s has been slightly lower than some of his counterparts. Additionally, Agarwal has not been a regular feature in domestic T20 leagues outside the IPL, which may have hindered his chances of being selected for the national T20 squad.

Despite his absence from the national T20 team, Agarwal remains a valuable asset to his IPL franchise and has been a consistent performer in the league. It remains to be seen whether he will be able to break into the Indian T20I team in the future, but his impressive performances in domestic cricket and the IPL suggest that he could be a valuable addition to the team.

Rinku Singh

Rinku Singh’s extraordinary performance in the IPL 2023 has established him as one of the most valuable players for KKR. His remarkable hitting ability and consistent form have played a pivotal role in KKR’s success this season.

His sensational knock of five consecutive sixes off Yash Dayal in the last over to win the match for KKR against GT will be remembered as one of the greatest moments in IPL history. This feat has cemented Rinku Singh’s place in the pantheon of IPL legends, and his name will be remembered for years to come.

220 Rinku Singh Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images

Creator: INDRANIL MUKHERJEE | Credit: AFP via Getty Images

Rinku Singh’s outstanding numbers in the current season are a testament to his skill and tenacity. He has already scored 270 runs in just nine innings, with an impressive average of 54.00 and a phenomenal strike rate of 151.69. His ability to find gaps and hit boundaries with ease has made him a force to be reckoned with, and he has been a crucial cog in KKR’s batting lineup.

As the IPL 2023 season progresses, Rinku Singh will undoubtedly continue to be a key player for KKR. His consistency and big-hitting ability make him a nightmare for opposing bowlers, and he will be looking to guide KKR to their third IPL title. The future looks bright for Rinku Singh, and his performances will undoubtedly create room for him in the Indian setup soon.

Sourav Ganguly

Sourav Ganguly is a former Indian cricket captain and one of the most successful opening batsmen in Indian cricket history. He is credited with transforming the Indian cricket team as captain, leading them to several notable victories at home and abroad. Despite his immense contributions to Indian cricket, Ganguly never played a T20I for India.

One of the main reasons for Ganguly’s absence from the Indian T20I team is the timing of his retirement from international cricket. T20 cricket became popular only towards the end of his career, and he announced his retirement from international cricket in 2008, just before the inaugural T20 World Cup. Additionally, Ganguly’s style of play was better suited for the longer formats of the game, and he was known for his patience and ability to build innings.

Sourav Ganguly didn't allow me to be traded from Pune Warriors to Chennai Super Kings: Murali Kartik

Creator: PRAKASH SINGH | Credit: AFP via Getty Images

Another reason for Ganguly’s absence from the Indian T20I team could be the presence of other established and talented players. When T20 cricket gained popularity in India, India had a strong pool of players to choose from, and Ganguly had to compete with younger and more agile players for a place in the team. Additionally, the selectors may have opted for players better suited to the demands of the T20 format, such as explosive batsmen and agile fielders.

Despite not playing T20Is for India, Ganguly’s contributions to Indian cricket remain unparalleled, and he is regarded as one of the greatest captains in Indian cricket history. His aggressive leadership style and astute cricketing mind have inspired a generation of cricketers and laid the foundation for India’s success in the 21st century.

Wriddhiman Saha

Wriddhiman Saha is a highly skilled Indian wicketkeeper-batsman who has represented India in Test and ODI cricket. However, he has not played a T20I for India despite his impressive performances in domestic T20 cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL).

One reason for Saha’s absence from the Indian T20I team could be the strong competition for a place in the team. India has a wealth of top-order batting talent, and with the likes of Ishan Kishan and Rishabh Pant vying for the wicketkeeper-batsman spot in the team, Saha has found it challenging to break into the T20I squad.

Wriddhiman Saha pulls out of the Ranji Trophy 2022 after being told he won't be picked for SL Tests - Report

Creator: Philip Brown/Popperfoto | Credit: Popperfoto via Getty Images Copyright: 2020 Philip Brown/Popperfoto

Another reason could be Saha’s style of play, which may not be ideally suited for the demands of T20 cricket. Saha is known for his solid technique and patient approach, which is better suited for the longer formats of the game. While he has shown glimpses of his T20 skills in the IPL, he has not been able to consistently replicate his performances at the international level.

Additionally, Saha has not been a regular feature in domestic T20 leagues outside the IPL, which may have hindered his chances of being selected for the national T20 squad. The selectors may prefer players who have performed well in multiple T20 leagues and have experience playing in different conditions.

Despite not playing T20Is for India, Saha remains a highly skilled cricketer and a valuable asset to his IPL franchise. His solid technique and excellent wicketkeeping skills make him an indispensable member of any team, and it remains to be seen whether he will be able to break into the Indian T20I team in the future.

Rahul Tewatia

Rahul Tewatia is a talented Indian all-rounder who has made a name for himself in domestic T20 cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). He is known for his explosive batting and effective leg-spin bowling, which make him a valuable asset to any T20 team. However, Tewatia has not yet played a T20I for India despite his impressive performances.

One possible reason for Tewatia’s absence from the Indian T20I team could be the strong competition for a place in the team. India has a wealth of all-rounders who are fighting for a spot in the team, and that can be the reason why Tewatia has found it challenging to break into the squad. Additionally, the selectors may prefer players who have performed consistently well over a longer period and have more experience at the international level.

Gujarat Titans' Rahul Tewatia plays a shot during the Indian Premier... News Photo - Getty Images

Creator: PUNIT PARANJPE | Credit: PUNIT PARANJPE

Another reason could be Tewatia’s inconsistency with both bat and ball. While he has shown flashes of brilliance in the IPL and domestic T20 cricket, he has not been able to maintain a high level of performance consistently. The selectors may prefer players who have a proven track record of performing well under pressure and in different conditions.

Additionally, Tewatia has not played in many other domestic T20 leagues outside the IPL, which may have hindered his chances of being selected for the national T20 squad. The selectors may prefer players who have experience playing in different conditions and against different opposition.

Despite not playing T20Is for India, Tewatia remains a highly talented cricketer who has the potential to make it to the national team in the future. His impressive performances in domestic T20 cricket and the IPL have caught the attention of selectors, and it remains to be seen whether he will be able to break into the Indian T20I team in the future.

Categories: Sports360

Top 10 IPL stars who flopped on the international stage

By Sports Analyst April 24, 2023 0

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a launching pad for several young cricketers, who have gone on to become stars on the international stage. However, not all IPL performers have been able to replicate their success at the highest level. The tournament provides an ideal platform for upcoming cricketers to showcase their skills alongside international players in a world-class competition. This presents them with an opportunity to prove their abilities and match the highest standards of the sport. The IPL’s motto in Sanskrit translates to “Where talent meets opportunity,” highlighting its focus on providing a platform for emerging players to shine.

In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 IPL stars who have failed to make a mark on the international stage despite their success in the IPL. These players have been hyped up as potential superstars but have failed to deliver when it mattered the most. We will examine their IPL performances and their struggles in international cricket to understand why they were unable to translate their IPL success into the international arena.

Top 10 IPL stars who flopped on the international stage

Mohit Sharma

Mohit Sharma, who is currently playing for GT in IPL 2023, made a name for himself during his initial stint with the team in 2013. He was bought for a whopping INR 5 Crore by CSK in the 2023 auction of the cash-rich tournament. Mohit Sharma made a significant impact in the IPL 2013 season, taking 20 wickets and playing a crucial role in Chennai Super Kings’ campaign.

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Sharma’s performances caught the attention of the national selectors, and he was rewarded with a place in the Indian team later that year. In the following season of IPL, Mohit was even more impressive, winning the Purple Cap by taking 23 wickets. He was particularly known for his deceptive slower deliveries that bamboozled many batsmen.

Mohit Sharma made his debut for the Indian team on August 1, 2013, in an ODI against Zimbabwe, and his T20I debut followed in 2014 against Australia. In his international career, Mohit played 26 ODIs, taking 31 wickets at an average of 32.90, and 8 T20Is, picking up 6 wickets at an average of 30.83. Despite being part of the Indian squad for the 2015 World Cup, he failed to make much of an impact in the tournament.

Overall, Mohit’s international career was relatively forgettable, with only a few noteworthy performances to his credit. Mohit Sharma’s inconsistent performances eventually led to his exclusion from the Indian team. Within two years of making his debut, he lost his place in the squad and struggled to make a comeback despite his strong performances in the IPL.

Mandeep Singh

Mandeep Singh, who is currently playing for KKR in IPL 2023, initially gained recognition for his outstanding performances during the 2010 Under-19 World Cup. He subsequently made his first-class debut with Punjab. In 2010, Kolkata Knight Riders acquired him, but he received minimal playing time, facing only 11 balls that season. Kings XI Punjab purchased him the following year, but Mandeep still struggled to secure regular opportunities to play. Nonetheless, he persevered and continued to develop his skills.

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At the age of 21, Mandeep Singh finally had his breakthrough season during IPL 2012. He emerged as the top scorer for Kings XI Punjab, amassing 432 runs across 16 matches. Mandeep’s impressive performance earned him the title of “Rising Star of the Tournament”. As a result, he was selected as one of the 30 probable for the T20 World Cup but unfortunately did not make the final cut. Nonetheless, his performances in IPL 2012 established him as a rising talent in Indian cricket.

Following his impressive performances in domestic cricket, Mandeep Singh was selected for his T20I debut for India in 2016 during their tour of Zimbabwe. He played in three T20I matches, showcasing his batting skills and scoring an aggressive unbeaten 52 off 40 balls in one of them. Overall, Mandeep scored 87 runs in the series but unfortunately was not picked for the national team after that.

Stuart Binny

Stuart Binny was a dependable player for the Rajasthan Royals franchise in the initial years of the IPL, particularly in 2013 when he had a standout season. In that year’s tournament, Binny scored 293 runs in 17 matches with an impressive strike rate of 147.23. He also contributed with the ball, taking 6 wickets at an economy rate of 6.75.

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Stuart Binny’s strong IPL performances led to him being recognized as a valuable all-rounder, and he made his Test and ODI debut for India in 2014, followed by his T20I debut in 2015. Binny’s best performance in international cricket was a six-wicket haul against Bangladesh in a Test match. He also took 14 wickets in 14 ODIs, with an average of 21.95, and scored 205 runs in the format, averaging 28.75.

Despite being given multiple opportunities in international cricket, Stuart Binny struggled to replicate his IPL success at the highest level. He only managed to take 3 wickets in 6 Test matches, while scoring 194 runs. In the T20I format, he scored 35 runs and took just 1 wicket in the 3 matches he played, with an average of 54. Unfortunately, Binny failed to make the most of the opportunities he was given and eventually found himself out of the national team as well.

Abhishek Nayar

In Indian cricket, finding an all-rounder who excels both with the bat and ball is a rare occurrence. This makes players like Hardik Pandya all the more valuable to the team. Pandya’s significance in the current Indian squad is a testament to this fact. He is an excellent all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball, which gives the team more balance and flexibility. Pandya’s presence in the team adds an extra dimension to the Indian side and makes him a crucial player in their lineup.

A similar case happened when Indian cricket fans were hopeful of witnessing some stellar performances from another promising all-rounder, Abhishek Nayar. Hailing from Hyderabad, Nayar made a name for himself in Mumbai’s domestic cricket circuit, where he established himself as a dependable all-rounder.

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Abhishek Nayar was picked up by his home franchise, Mumbai Indians, in the first season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). In his debut season, Nayar batted in the lower order and scored 161 runs in 14 matches. He also bowled six overs of medium-pace and managed to pick up one wicket. In the following season, Nayar showed improvement in his all-around performance, scoring 193 runs and picking up four wickets.

Abhishek Nayar’s performances in the IPL, coupled with his impressive showings in the Ranji Trophy for Mumbai, earned him a place in the national team. He was selected for the West Indies tour in 2009, where he played in his first two ODIs but did not get a chance to bat or bowl. Nayar was then included in the squad for the 2009 Champions Trophy, where he played a single match, remained not out on zero, and conceded 17 runs in his three overs. Unfortunately, Nayar was not given any more opportunities in the national team after that and was not considered for selection.

Albie Morkel

Albie Morkel, the former South African cricket player, was highly regarded for his all-around skills. Known for his ability to hit big shots and take crucial wickets, he played a total of 91 IPL matches for various franchises. However, his most successful stint was with the Chennai Super Kings. During the 2010 IPL season, Morkel set a record for the highest third-wicket partnership with Murali Vijay against the Rajasthan Royals. His contributions to the team’s success during that season were highly valued, and he became a fan favorite for his performances on the field.

In 2012, Albie Morkel won the Super Sixes tournament by hitting a ball over a distance of 105 meters. Throughout his IPL career, he has maintained an impressive batting average of over 24, with a strike rate of nearly 142, indicating his ability to score runs quickly. Additionally, Morkel has also taken a total of 85 wickets, showcasing his skills as a wicket-taking bowler. His all-around abilities have made him a valuable asset for his various teams, and he continues to be remembered as one of the most versatile players in IPL history.

Despite his success in the IPL, Albie Morkel’s international career was not as prolific. He represented South Africa in one Test match, 58 ODIs, and 50 T20Is, scoring a total of 58, 782, and 572 runs respectively. As a bowler, he took one wicket in Tests, 50 in ODIs, and 26 in T20Is, indicating his ability to contribute in all formats of the game. Morkel made his ODI debut for South Africa in 2004 and played his last international match in 2015. In January 2019, he announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, bringing an end to his long and illustrious career.

Saurabh Tiwary

Hailing from Jamshedpur, Jharkhand (formerly Bihar), Manoj Tiwary was frequently compared to the legendary Mahendra Singh Dhoni due to his left-handed batting style and physical resemblance to the iconic cricketer from his state. Tiwary represented the Indian under-19 team in the 2008 World Cup, showcasing his cricketing abilities at a young age.

Mumbai Indians identified the immense talent of Saurabh Tiwary and signed him as an emerging youngster. The turning point in Tiwary’s career came during the IPL 2010 season when, at the age of 21, he displayed his potential by accumulating an impressive total of 419 runs in just 14 matches. As a result, he was recognized as the Under-23 player of the tournament. Before this, Tiwary had already scored three centuries in the Ranji Trophy, showcasing his batting prowess.

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Saurabh Tiwary’s impressive performance in the IPL paved the way for his inclusion in the Indian squad. In June 2010, he was selected for the Asia Cup and eventually earned his maiden cap for India in an ODI against Australia in Visakhapatnam. Despite batting at number seven, Tiwary contributed to the team’s successful chase of a daunting target of 290, scoring 12 not out from 22 deliveries.

Saurabh Tiwary played his next international match against New Zealand in December 2010, where he scored an unbeaten 37 runs. However, he did not get a chance to bat in the following ODI and was subsequently left out of the Indian team. Unfortunately, Tiwary also lost his form in the IPL and injuries further derailed his career.

Chris Lynn

Chris Lynn has been a crucial player for both Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League until he played in the league in 2021. He has played many unforgettable innings for his teams, often single-handedly carrying them to victory. Besides his remarkable batting abilities, Lynn is also known for his exceptional fielding skills, exemplified by his incredible catch to dismiss AB de Villiers a few years back. This catch garnered a lot of attention for Lynn and cemented his status as a gifted all-around player.

Despite his success in the Indian Premier League, Chris Lynn’s transition to international cricket was not as smooth. After being selected for the national team following a stellar IPL season, Lynn struggled to solidify his place in the playing XI. To date, he has played four One Day Internationals and 18 Twenty20 Internationals for Australia, scoring 75 and 291 runs, respectively. Despite having a strike rate of over 130 in T20Is, Lynn’s position in the squad remained uncertain.

Parvinder Awana

Parvinder Awana emerged as a promising right-arm fast bowler for India, capable of consistent bowling at speeds exceeding 140 kmph. He made his first-class debut for Delhi in 2007 and quickly established himself, picking up 40 wickets in his first 12 matches across two seasons. His impressive performances in the 2011-12 season helped him earn a place in the IPL, and he was picked up by Kings XI Punjab.

Parvinder Awana of Kings XI Punjab bowls during match 6 of the the Pepsi Indian Premier League ( IPL) 2013 between The Pune Warriors India and the Kings XI Punjab held at the Subrata Roy Sahara Stadium, Pune on the 7th April 2013
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Parvinder Awana made the most of his opportunity with Kings XI Punjab in the IPL. In the 2012 season, despite not playing in all the matches, he finished as the team’s leading wicket-taker, picking up a total of 17 wickets in just 12 matches while maintaining an economy rate of fewer than eight runs per over. Awana’s impressive performance in the IPL boosted his claims for selection in the Indian team, and he became a contender for a spot on the national side.

Parvinder Awana’s international cricket career was brief, lasting only three days. He played two T20I matches for India against the touring England team, but unfortunately, he had a disappointing outing. Awana conceded a total of 71 runs in the six overs he bowled across the two matches, which ruled him out of the national side. Despite his good performance in the 2013 IPL season, he was not considered for selection again, and his international cricketing career ended abruptly.

Sohail Tanvir

Sohail Tanvir made his debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008 as part of the Rajasthan Royals team. He had a remarkable season, emerging as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker. Tanvir played 11 matches and took 22 wickets at an average of 12.09, with an economy rate of 6.46. He also claimed a record-breaking six-wicket haul, conceding only 14 runs, which stood as the best bowling figures in the tournament for a long time. However, in 2019, Alzarri Joseph broke Tanvir’s record by taking six wickets for just 12 runs.

Page 4 - IPL 2017: Purple Cap holders through the seasons

Sohail Tanvir was a promising left-arm pacer who was expected to do well for Pakistan. He started his career on a high note and showed early promise. However, his form began to dip due to inconsistencies and a lack of focus on the game, which ultimately led to him losing his place on the national team.

Jaydev Unadkat

Jaydev Unadkat went through a lean phase in the 2015 and 2016 editions of the Indian Premier League (IPL), failing to take a single wicket in both seasons. However, he bounced back strongly after moving to the Rising Pune Supergiants in 2017. Unadkat had a fantastic season, picking up 24 wickets in 12 matches at an economy rate of 7.03. It was his best season in the IPL, and he played a crucial role in Pune’s journey to the final.

India’s Virat Kohli speaks with India’s Jaydev Unadkat during the second T20I cricket match between South Africa and India at Super Sport Park Stadium in Pretoria on February 21, 2018. / AFP PHOTO / Christiaan Kotze (Photo credit should read CHRISTIAAN KOTZE/AFP via Getty Images)

Jaydev Unadkat’s impressive performances in the 2017 IPL earned him a recall to the Indian T20I team. However, his form did not carry over to the international level as he managed only 10 wickets in six matches with an economy rate of 9.88 in 2018. As a result, he lost his place in the team and has struggled to make a comeback since then. Currently, Unadkat is part of the LSG (Lucknow Super Giants) set up in the 2023 IPL season.

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