Prasad's Iconic Dismissal of Sohail: A Moment of Cricket Folklore

Prasad’s Iconic Dismissal of Sohail: A Moment of Cricket Folklore

The 1996 World Cup quarterfinal between India and Pakistan, held in Bangalore, witnessed one of the most iconic confrontations in cricket history. The match, known for its intense rivalry, was marked by a legendary moment between Indian fast bowler Venkatesh Prasad and Pakistani opener Aamir Sohail.

India batted first, posting a competitive total of 287, thanks to contributions from Navjot Singh Sidhu and Ajay Jadeja. Pakistan, chasing 288 to win, started strong with openers Saeed Anwar and Aamir Sohail. Sohail’s bold strokes made it clear that he intended to dominate India’s bowling attack.

It was during this high-pressure chase that one of cricket’s most famous confrontations occurred. With Pakistan cruising at 109/1 in 14.4 overs, Sohail, after smashing Prasad for a boundary through the off-side, pointed his bat towards the boundary and gestured aggressively at Prasad as if to taunt him, signaling that he would hit another one in the same direction.

Prasad, known for his calm demeanor, did not respond with words. Instead, he let the ball do the talking. On the very next delivery, Prasad bowled a sharp, precise delivery that uprooted Sohail’s off-stump.

The Indian crowd erupted, and the moment became etched in World Cup folklore. The bold celebration from Sohail turned into a moment of silence, and Prasad’s calm yet emphatic reaction added to the drama.

This dismissal marked a turning point in the match. Pakistan, despite a strong start, began to lose wickets in quick succession and eventually folded for 248, handing India a famous 39-run victory and a place in the semifinals.

For Indian cricket fans, this encounter between Prasad and Sohail remains a symbol of mental toughness and composure under pressure. It was more than just a wicket – it was a moment that embodied India’s fighting spirit and resilience in one of the fiercest rivalries in the sport.

Prasad’s dismissal of Sohail not only broke Pakistan’s momentum but also became one of the most cherished memories in India’s World Cup history.

Hardik Pandya's World Cup Place in Doubt After Mumbai Indians Defeat

Hardik Pandya’s World Cup Place in Doubt After Mumbai Indians Defeat

Mumbai Indians’ recent 20-run defeat against Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 has raised concerns about Hardik Pandya’s place in India’s T20 World Cup squad. Pandya, who has been struggling with both bat and ball, has come under fire from former cricketers and fans alike.

Former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad took to social media to express his doubts about Pandya’s inclusion in the World Cup team. “I hope and pray that the best 15 T20 players in India are on the plane for the T20 World Cup. We can win the tournament with the talent we have, but it’s important to pick the best,” Prasad tweeted.

Pandya’s all-round abilities have made him a mainstay in India’s white-ball teams, but his recent form has been a cause for concern. Former New Zealand bowler Simon Doull suggested that Pandya should not be picked for the World Cup squad if he cannot consistently bowl.

After the defeat against Chennai Super Kings, Pandya admitted that the target was gettable but Mumbai Indians failed to find a solid partnership in the middle order. “The target was definitely gettable, but they bowled pretty well. Pathirana was the difference. They were smart with their plans and approach,” Pandya said.

Pandya’s struggles have coincided with Mumbai Indians’ poor start to the IPL season. The team has lost three of its first four matches and is currently languishing at the bottom of the points table.

With the T20 World Cup just months away, the pressure is mounting on Pandya to rediscover his form. If he fails to do so, he could find himself out of the Indian team for the tournament.

India's 2024 T20 World Cup Squad: Riyan Parag, Shivam Dube Emerge as Contenders

India’s 2024 T20 World Cup Squad: Riyan Parag, Shivam Dube Emerge as Contenders

With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 in full swing, the anticipation for the announcement of India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad is reaching fever pitch. The deadline for naming the squad is May 1, and the selection committee faces the daunting task of choosing the best players to represent India in the global tournament.

India’s quest for an ICC trophy since 2013 has been a long and arduous one, and the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies presents a golden opportunity to break the drought. In recent years, there has been a growing clamor for the inclusion of young and fearless players in the T20 format.

One player who has emerged as a strong contender for a spot in the squad is Riyan Parag. The Rajasthan Royals batsman has been in scintillating form in the IPL, scoring three half-centuries in his last four matches. In his last 15 T20 innings, Parag has amassed 771 runs at an astonishing average of 90 and a strike rate of 170.7.

“He is somebody that the selection committee has kept an eye on. All he needs to do is keep playing,” said legendary commentator Sunil Gavaskar about Parag.

Another player who has impressed the selectors is Shivam Dube. The all-rounder has showcased his exceptional striking ability against spinners, making him a valuable asset in the middle order. Venkatesh Prasad, a former India pacer, has advocated for Dube’s inclusion in the squad, along with Rinku Singh and Suryakumar Yadav.

“Shivam Dube for his striking ability against spinners, Surya for being the best T20 international batter, and Rinku Singh for his exceptional finishing ability. It will be great if India finds a way to have these 3 in the 11 in the T20 WC,” Prasad posted on social media.

However, the wicket-keeper’s spot remains a contentious issue. Prasad did not mention any specific names, leaving the door open for a number of players to stake their claim.

The selection committee will have a tough decision to make when it comes to the batting unit. With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma being automatic selections, the remaining spots will be fiercely contested. The likes of Hardik Pandya, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul will all be hoping to prove their worth in the IPL and earn a place in the World Cup squad.

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart