Gautam Gambhir Appointed as India's New Head Coach

Gautam Gambhir Appointed as India’s New Head Coach

Gautam Gambhir, the former Indian cricketer, will take over as the new head coach of the Indian cricket team on July 27th. He will lead the team in a three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, followed by a three-match ODI series starting on August 2nd. Gambhir replaces Rahul Dravid, whose tenure ended after India’s victory at the T20 World Cup 2024.

Gambhir, who was a key member of India’s 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup-winning teams, is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the team. Former India wicketkeeper-batter Robin Uthappa has praised Gambhir’s leadership qualities, describing him as “approachable” and “empathetic.”

Uthappa, who played under Gambhir’s captaincy at Kolkata Knight Riders, said, “He has been an incredible man manager. He is someone who is always available, he is very empathetic, and he is there for his players.”

Uthappa believes that Gambhir’s leadership style will be different from Dravid’s, but equally effective. “I think he will be a very fair leader and he is someone who provides security to his group,” he said.

Gambhir’s appointment has been met with mixed reactions. Some experts believe that his aggressive and outspoken nature may not be suitable for the role of head coach. However, others believe that his passion and intensity will be beneficial for the team.

It remains to be seen how Gambhir will perform as India’s head coach. However, his experience as a player and his strong leadership qualities suggest that he has the potential to be successful.

Shubman Gill Praises Gautam Gambhir's Clear Approach, Sets Sights on Versatility

Shubman Gill Praises Gautam Gambhir’s Clear Approach, Sets Sights on Versatility

Shubman Gill, the rising star of Indian cricket, has expressed his admiration for the newly appointed head coach, Gautam Gambhir, and his clear and concise approach to the game. Gill, who has been named the vice-captain for both the T20I and ODI series against Sri Lanka, believes that Gambhir’s guidance will be invaluable as the team prepares for the upcoming challenges.

Gill has also set his sights on becoming a versatile batsman, capable of performing consistently across all formats and in various playing conditions. His ultimate aim is to contribute to the team’s success, but he also recognizes the importance of solidifying his position as a reliable player in any situation.

Despite being part of the Indian squad during the T20 World Cup as a travelling reserve, Gill was unable to secure a spot in the final 15-man roster. The young right-hander has identified this as an area that requires improvement and is determined to work on his skills to ensure he becomes an indispensable member of the team in the future.

However, the 24-year-old is now focused on the upcoming five-match Test tour to Australia later this year, as well as the subsequent Champions Trophy. He believes that these matches will provide him with the opportunity to showcase his skills and cement his place in the team.

Gill also mentioned that Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav, the current T20I captain, have quite similar thinking processes regarding their vision for the team. He expressed confidence that their partnership will be successful and that he will have a good understanding with his new opening partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Gill also praised Abhishek Nayar, the newly-appointed assistant coach of India, with whom he had previously worked at the Kolkata Knight Riders. He highlighted Nayar’s dedication and commitment to helping players improve their skills.

Pant vs. Samson: Gambhir Faces Selection Dilemma for Sri Lanka T20Is

Pant vs. Samson: Gambhir Faces Selection Dilemma for Sri Lanka T20Is

The upcoming three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka presents a challenging selection dilemma for Team India’s new head coach, Gautam Gambhir. The choice between wicketkeeper-batters Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson has become a crucial decision, as both players possess exceptional skills and a desire to prove their worth.

Pant, a seasoned campaigner with 74 T20I appearances, has established himself as a formidable force in the shortest format. His aggressive batting style and ability to clear the boundary with ease have made him a valuable asset to the Indian team. In the recent T20 World Cup, Pant finished as India’s third-highest run-scorer, amassing 171 runs at a strike rate of 126.67.

Samson, on the other hand, has played 28 T20Is, scoring 633 runs at a strike rate of 133.14. Despite making his debut in 2015, Samson has only played 27 of those matches since 2020. His inconsistent selection has hindered his ability to establish himself as a regular member of the Indian team.

Statistically, there is little to separate the two players. Pant holds a slight edge in terms of average (22.70 vs. 21.14) and strike rate (126.67 vs. 133.14). However, Samson has a higher number of fifties (3 vs. 2) and has displayed an impressive ability to hit boundaries against the fastest bowlers.

The decision between Pant and Samson will ultimately depend on the team management’s assessment of their current form and suitability for the role. Pant’s experience and recent performances may give him the edge, but Samson’s potential and ability to play match-winning innings cannot be ignored.

Srikkanth Slams Selectors for Pandya Captaincy Snub

Srikkanth Slams Selectors for Pandya Captaincy Snub

Former Indian opener Krishnamachari Srikkanth has expressed his displeasure over the reasons given by India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar for not appointing Hardik Pandya as the T20I captain. Agarkar had cited Pandya’s injury history and uncertain availability as the primary reasons for overlooking him for the captaincy role.

Srikkanth, however, believes that fitness should not have been a factor in the decision-making process. He pointed out that Pandya played the entire IPL season and bowled regularly, despite Mumbai Indians’ failure to qualify for the playoffs. He also highlighted Pandya’s performance as vice-captain during India’s T20 World Cup triumph last month.

“Fitness is something that I will not agree with,” Srikkanth said. “He played the entire IPL. He also bowled. Yes, he might not have done well (in the IPL). That’s another issue. Mumbai Indians didn’t qualify. At the World Cup, he was the vice-captain and he played well.”

Srikkanth also criticized the selectors for not being transparent about their decision. He believes they should have clearly stated that they were dropping Pandya as captain and moving forward with Suryakumar Yadav as a long-term option.

“The reasons that they are giving they could have said it in a straightforward manner ‘we are dropping Hardik Pandya as captain, we want to move forward. We are looking at Suryakumar as a long term’. Make it clear. Say it without fear,” he added.

Agarkar, on the other hand, maintained that fitness was a major concern for the selectors. He explained that they wanted someone who was likely to be available more consistently.

“Fitness has been something that he’s struggled with,” Agarkar said. “As selectors, it becomes difficult then. The thought behind it was that we want someone who is likely to be available more.”

Agarkar also praised Suryakumar’s fitness level and positive feedback from the team management as key factors in his selection as captain.

“Why Surya was made captain? Because he is one of the deserving candidates. The one we know has been around the dressing room over the last one year, you get feedback from the dressing room a lot. He has got a good cricketing brain and he is still one of the best T20 batters in the world,” he said.

Hardik Pandya's Gesture Eases Concerns Over India's T20I Captaincy Dynamics

Hardik Pandya’s Gesture Eases Concerns Over India’s T20I Captaincy Dynamics

India’s T20I Captaincy: Hardik Pandya’s Gesture Eases Concerns Over Leadership Dynamics

As India’s captaincy in the shortest format remains a topic of discussion, the relationship between Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya has come under scrutiny. However, a recent gesture by Pandya has allayed concerns over any potential rift within the team.

Before the T20I captaincy was handed over to Yadav, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar revealed that Pandya had been consulted. Despite this, questions lingered about the leadership dynamics in the team.

However, Pandya’s warm embrace of Yadav as they departed for Sri Lanka for a white-ball series has put such talks to rest. The video shared by the BCCI captured the moment, showcasing a genuine bond between the two players.

Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir addressed the media at a joint press conference, explaining the rationale behind Yadav’s appointment as captain. Agarkar emphasized Yadav’s cricketing acumen, consistency as a T20 batter, and proven fitness record.

“We wanted a captain who’s going to be more likely to play all the games,” Agarkar said. “We think he’s a deserving candidate and hopefully we’ll see over time how he develops into the role.”

Agarkar also confirmed that Pandya remains a crucial part of the Indian team in the white-ball circuit. “He’s still a very important player for us,” Agarkar said. “We’re trying to now, we’ve got a bit more time till the next T20 World Cup when we can look at a few things.”

Pandya’s fitness has been a concern in the past, and Agarkar acknowledged this factor in the decision-making process. “The fitness is a clear challenge and we want someone who’s likely to be available more often than not,” Agarkar said.

The gesture between Pandya and Yadav suggests that the leadership transition has been handled smoothly and that the team remains united under Yadav’s captaincy. As India prepares for the upcoming white-ball series in Sri Lanka, the focus will be on Yadav’s performance as captain and the team’s overall performance under his leadership.

Sri Lanka's Pathirana Eyes Confidence Boost from India Series

Sri Lanka’s Pathirana Eyes Confidence Boost from India Series

Sri Lanka’s young pace sensation, Mathisha Pathirana, is eagerly anticipating the upcoming T20I and ODI series against India, scheduled to commence later this month. The 22-year-old believes that a strong performance in this series could provide a much-needed boost to the island nation’s cricket.

“I think it will be a good challenge. India is coming with a new coach and some new players. Their combination will be slightly different. But it will be a good challenge for us because they are world champions,” Pathirana told The Hindu.

Pathirana, who has quickly risen through the ranks in the last two years, is confident in his team’s abilities. “We have a very good side and a lot of talent. Unfortunately, we didn’t do well in the T20 World Cup. But if we can win this series, it will be a confidence-booster for the next three years,” he added.

The right-arm pacer has made a name for himself with his impressive performances for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since 2022. Pathirana expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, which has accelerated his career.

“After my under-19s, I was not in any squad in Sri Lanka. But since my debut for CSK, I got those chances and got selected for Sri Lanka’s main team. Playing for CSK is a gift from god for me. Until I played for CSK, not many knew me. Sharing the dressing room with Mahi bhai (M.S. Dhoni) is very special for youngsters like me, especially coming from Sri Lanka,” he said.

In a short span, Pathirana has become one of the most reliable bowlers in the death overs. However, he is not content with that tag alone. “A lot of people say I am good at the death. But that is not enough for me. I want to be good with the new ball and in the middle overs too. If I can get swing and accuracy with the new ball, it will be good for me and the teams I play for,” Pathirana stated.

The upcoming series against India will be a crucial test for Pathirana and his Sri Lankan teammates. A strong showing could not only boost their confidence but also provide a much-needed shot in the arm for Sri Lankan cricket.

India Women Aim to Finish Asia Cup Group Stage as Toppers

India Women Aim to Finish Asia Cup Group Stage as Toppers

India Women Dominate Asia Cup, Aim for Group Topper Spot Against Nepal

India’s women’s cricket team has showcased their prowess in both batting and bowling at the ongoing Women’s Asia Cup. As they prepare to face Nepal in their final Group A match, the defending champions are poised to secure the top spot in the group.

In their opening match against Pakistan, India’s swashbuckling openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma set the tone with a blistering start. The bowlers then stepped up, restricting Pakistan to a manageable total. In the subsequent match against the UAE, skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh took center stage, guiding India to a massive 200-plus total in T20Is. Ghosh’s destructive 64 off just 29 balls was a highlight of the innings.

While Kaur played the anchor’s role, Ghosh’s blazing knock propelled India to their first-ever 200-plus total in T20Is. This dominant performance has put India in a strong position to enter the semifinals.

Meanwhile, Pakistan has improved their net run rate with a comfortable win over Nepal, lifting them to second place in Group A. However, India remains unfazed and will focus on maintaining their momentum heading into the knockout stages.

Nepal, on the other hand, faces a daunting task after their heavy defeat to Pakistan. The minnows will have little time to recover before taking on the tournament favorites.

India will be aiming to extend their winning streak and seal the top berth in Group A when they face Nepal. A victory would not only secure their place in the semifinals but also give them a psychological advantage heading into the knockout rounds.

Indian Batters Harmanpreet, Shafali Rise in ICC T20I Rankings

Indian Batters Harmanpreet, Shafali Rise in ICC T20I Rankings

Indian Batters Rise in ICC T20I Rankings After Asia Cup Performances

Indian batters Harmanpreet Kaur and Shafali Verma have made significant strides in the latest ICC Women’s T20I Player Rankings, thanks to their impressive performances in the ongoing Women’s Asia Cup in Sri Lanka.

Harmanpreet, the Indian captain, and opener Shafali are now jointly ranked 11th in the T20I batting rankings. Harmanpreet’s unbeaten 5 against Pakistan and 66 against the United Arab Emirates have helped her gain one spot, while Shafali’s scores of 40 and 37 have lifted her four positions.

Sri Lanka’s off-spinner Inoshi Priyadharshani has also made a notable jump, advancing three places to a career-best fourth position after taking two wickets against Bangladesh and one against Malaysia.

Other notable movers in the batting rankings include India’s wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh (up four places to 24th), Bangladesh’s Murshida Khatun (up six places to 47th), Sri Lanka’s Vishmi Gunaratne (up seven places to 51st), and Thailand’s Nattaya Boochatham (up 10 places to 76th).

Among the bowlers, Bangladesh’s Nahida Akter has risen nine places to 21st, while Marufa Akter is up one place to 26th. Sri Lanka’s Udeshika Prabodhani has progressed four places to 30th, and India’s Shreyanka Patil has surged 19 places to 41st.

England captain Heather Knight has re-entered the top 20 in the batting rankings, gaining two spots after scoring a match-winning 46 not out off 31 balls in the final match of their home series against New Zealand. Her teammate, new-ball bowler Lauren Bell, has moved into the top 10 following a three-wicket haul.

New Zealand’s Amelia Kerr has advanced two places to 13th in the batting rankings, while her sister Jess Kerr has moved up five places to joint-42nd in the bowling rankings.

Afghan Fan Misbehaves with Pakistan's Shaheen Afridi in Dublin

Afghan Fan Misbehaves with Pakistan’s Shaheen Afridi in Dublin

Pakistan Pacer Shaheen Afridi Faces Misbehavior from Afghan Fan in Dublin

During Pakistan’s second T20I match against Ireland in Dublin, an Afghan fan reportedly engaged in inappropriate behavior towards star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi. The incident occurred as Afridi made his way from the dressing room to the field.

Initially, Afridi ignored the fan’s foul language. However, when the fan persisted, Afridi alerted security personnel. The security team swiftly intervened and removed the fan from the ground.

The incident marred an otherwise successful outing for Pakistan. Babar Azam’s team chased down Ireland’s competitive total of 193/7 with ease, thanks to a 140-run partnership between Mohammad Rizwan (75*) and Fakhar Zaman (78). The victory marked a record-breaking 45th T20I triumph for Babar Azam as captain.

Afridi also achieved a significant milestone during the match, reaching 300 wickets in international cricket. He dismissed Ireland captain Paul Stirling to reach the landmark. Overall, he finished the game with figures of 3/40 in his four-over spell.

Despite Babar Azam’s early dismissal, Rizwan and Fakhar took control of the chase. Fakhar showcased his power-hitting abilities with six sixes, while Rizwan provided steady support. The pair put up 140 runs in quick succession, effectively ending Ireland’s hopes.

Fakhar’s dismissal in the 15th over gave Ireland a glimmer of hope, but Azam Khan’s unbeaten 30 from just 10 deliveries guided Pakistan home. The seven-wicket win leveled the series 1-1.

The series will be decided in the third and final game, which will be played in Dublin on Tuesday.

Ramiz Raja Slams Pakistan Bowlers for Leaking Runs Against Ireland

Ramiz Raja Slams Pakistan Bowlers for Leaking Runs Against Ireland

Pakistan’s former cricket board chairman, Ramiz Raja, has expressed his disappointment with the performance of the team’s bowlers in the second T20I against Ireland. Despite Pakistan’s comprehensive victory, Raja criticized the bowlers for conceding 162 runs in the first innings.

Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Naseem Shah, and Abbas Afridi combined to give away runs at a hefty economy rate, with Shaheen and Amir proving particularly costly. Shaheen conceded 49 runs in his four-over spell, while Amir gave away 44 runs.

Raja believes that Pakistan’s bowlers have been struggling since last year’s World Cup in India. He pointed out that the team’s success has been built on the strength of its pacers, but they have been inconsistent in recent times.

“Pakistan’s top bowlers giving away so many runs against Ireland, then it will become hard for the team in future,” Raja said. “Pakistan’s forte, and success are based on the bowlers, especially pacers, they have been struggling since last year’s World Cup in India. Two balls are good and then three deliveries are bad, this makes the situation tough.”

Pakistan’s decision to bowl first backfired as Ireland posted a competitive total of 193/7. Lorcan Tucker led the charge with 51 runs, while Harry Tector and Curtis Campher provided valuable support.

In reply, Mohammad Rizwan and Fakhar Zaman laid the foundation for Pakistan’s chase with half-centuries. Azam Khan then sealed the victory with three consecutive sixes.

The series is now level at 1-1, with the third and deciding match scheduled for Tuesday at the Clontarf Cricket Club in Dublin.

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