Harmanpreet Kaur Breaks Record, Becomes Fastest Indian to Score T20 World Cup Fifty

Harmanpreet Kaur Breaks Record, Becomes Fastest Indian to Score T20 World Cup Fifty

Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur has etched her name in the record books as the fastest Indian to score a half-century in a Women’s T20 World Cup. In a blistering display of power-hitting, Kaur reached the milestone in just 27 balls against Sri Lanka in Dubai.

Kaur’s innings was a masterclass in aggression, as she unleashed a barrage of boundaries and sixes, putting the Sri Lankan bowlers under relentless pressure. She surpassed the previous record held by Smriti Mandhana, who reached the mark off 31 deliveries against Australia in 2018.

Coming in at a crucial stage, Kaur wasted no time in settling, targeting both spinners and pacers with equal authority. She cleared the boundary with ease, dispatching deliveries at her own will. The rapid fifty not only showcased her explosive batting but also shifted the momentum in India’s favor, as they posted a commanding 172-run total.

With this knock, Kaur also joined an elite group of batters, becoming only the third player after Suzie Bates of New Zealand and her compatriot Smriti Mandhana to amass 3500 runs in Women’s T20Is. Her fearless approach and ability to dominate the bowling attack in high-pressure situations have become her signature, further cementing her reputation as one of the premier batters in women’s cricket.

In 176 T20Is till date, the seasoned 35-year-old has amassed an impressive tally of 3522 runs. Her batting prowess is evident in her commendable average of 28.63 and a strike-rate of 108.13. Harmanpreet’s consistency is further highlighted by her single century and 13 half-centuries in the shortest format of the game.

India vs Pakistan: A Rivalry of Close Encounters in T20 World Cups

India vs Pakistan: A Rivalry of Close Encounters in T20 World Cups

India vs Pakistan: A Rivalry Defined by Close Encounters in T20 World Cups

India and Pakistan, two cricketing powerhouses, have engaged in a captivating rivalry in the T20 World Cup, with each encounter marked by intense competition and thrilling finishes. Their first meeting in the inaugural Women’s T20 World Cup in 2009 set the tone for a series of memorable clashes.

India has dominated the head-to-head record, winning 12 of the 15 matches played so far. However, Pakistan has shown resilience, triumphing in three games, including a narrow two-run victory in the 2016 edition.

In the T20 World Cup, India has maintained its dominance, winning five of the seven matches against Pakistan. The upcoming encounter on Sunday in the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup promises to be another nail-biting affair.

Key Moments in India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup Encounters:

* 2009: India’s Priyanka Roy claimed a five-wicket haul to restrict Pakistan to 75, leading India to a five-wicket victory.
* 2010: Poonam Raut’s unbeaten 54 guided India to a nine-wicket win, chasing down Pakistan’s 104/6.
* 2012: Pakistan’s Nida Dar’s three wickets helped restrict India to 97/8, securing a one-run victory for Pakistan.
* 2014: India’s Soniya Dabir took three wickets to restrict Pakistan to 100/9, securing a six-run victory.
* 2016: Rain played a crucial role, with Pakistan declared the winner by two runs (DLS) after being ahead of the par score.
* 2018: Mithali Raj’s 56 off 47 led India to a seven-wicket victory, chasing down Pakistan’s 133/7.
* 2023: Jemimah Rodrigues’ whirlwind 53 not out helped India chase down Pakistan’s 149/4, securing a seven-wicket victory.

Upcoming Clash:

India and Pakistan will face off on Sunday in the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup. India, coming off a heavy defeat to New Zealand, will be eager to bounce back, while Pakistan will be confident after their victory over Sri Lanka. The match promises to be a high-stakes encounter, with both teams determined to secure a crucial victory.

Bangladesh's Historic T20 World Cup Victory Ignites Momentum for Women's Cricket

Bangladesh’s Historic T20 World Cup Victory Ignites Momentum for Women’s Cricket

Bangladesh’s historic victory in the Women’s T20 World Cup opener against Scotland has ignited a surge of emotions and optimism within the team and the nation. Captain Nigar Sultana Joty expressed her elation, stating that the win after a decade-long drought was “very emotional.”

Joty, who played her 100th T20I in the match, emphasized the significance of the victory for the development of women’s cricket in Bangladesh. “We have been waiting for this victory for a long time,” she said. “It means a lot for women’s cricket. We have always said that we have to create momentum, and now it seems like we are going to dream of doing something bigger.”

Despite the disappointment of not hosting the tournament as planned due to political unrest, Joty expressed gratitude for the support they received in the United Arab Emirates. “It was heartbreaking initially, but the people who came here today were brilliant,” she said. “We are fortunate to be able to play here and represent our country.”

Scotland’s Saskia Horley, who took three wickets in the match, acknowledged the disappointment of losing but expressed pride in competing at the World Cup. “Our captain said we’re going to be history makers here,” she said. “Anything above that is a bonus.”

Bangladesh’s victory has created a wave of excitement back home. “They were very happy,” Joty said of her family and fans. “They’re in a very good mood right now.”

The team’s next challenge will be against England on Saturday, while Scotland will face the West Indies on Sunday. The momentum gained from this historic win will undoubtedly fuel Bangladesh’s aspirations for further success in the tournament.

Billie Jean King Unveiled in Bronze at Cal State LA, Returns to Complete Degree

Billie Jean King Unveiled in Bronze at Cal State LA, Returns to Complete Degree

Billie Jean King, the legendary tennis icon, returned to California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA) on October 2nd, 2023, for a momentous occasion. The university unveiled a statue of King, capturing her at the peak of her powers, a testament to her unwavering determination and exceptional achievements.

King’s visit marked a significant milestone in her life, as she announced her intention to complete her bachelor’s degree in history at Cal State LA, where she had attended as a student from 1961 to 1964. The campus holds a special place in her heart, as it was where she first met her husband, Larry King, and where her feminist awakening began.

The statue, created by renowned sculptor Brian Hanlon, showcases King in her signature “Madame Superstar” dress, a symbol of her groundbreaking efforts to elevate women’s tennis. King expressed her gratitude for the honor, stating, “There’s a sense of permanency, which is unbelievable… What really makes me happy is that I’m wearing what used to be called the ‘Madame Superstar’ dress that Ted Tinling made for me… and all the people that have helped me.”

Prior to the statue unveiling, King addressed Cal State LA’s varsity athletes, emphasizing the importance of relationships, continuous learning, and problem-solving. She shared her belief that “relationships are everything” and encouraged the athletes to “keep learning” and “be a problem-solver and an innovator.”

King’s journey at Cal State LA was marked by both personal and professional growth. Despite the lack of college scholarships for women at the time, she held two jobs while pursuing her education. Her passion for tennis and her desire to make a difference in the world fueled her determination.

In 1964, King left college to train in Australia, a decision that propelled her to become the world’s best tennis player. She went on to found the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) and played a pivotal role in the “Battle of the Sexes” match against Bobby Riggs.

Now, 60 years after leaving Cal State LA, King is returning to complete her degree, a testament to her lifelong commitment to education and her belief in the power of knowledge. The campus where her journey began will once again be a place of growth and inspiration for the tennis legend.

Captains' Day Sets Stage for Thrilling ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024

Captains’ Day Sets Stage for Thrilling ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 kicked off with a grand Captains’ Day at the Dubai International Stadium, bringing together the leaders of all 10 participating teams. The event marked the beginning of the ninth edition of the tournament, which promises to be a thrilling spectacle for cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

India’s captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, emphasized the continuous learning journey in cricket. She stressed the importance of constant improvement and the value of learning from both victories and mistakes. Kaur expressed her gratitude for the support of her team and their dedication to achieving their goals.

Australia’s captain, Alyssa Healy, highlighted the competitive nature of the tournament. She acknowledged that all 10 teams have a legitimate chance of winning the World Cup and that her team is excited for the challenge of facing formidable opponents.

West Indies captain, Hayley Matthews, reflected on the extensive preparation leading up to the World Cup. She emphasized the significance of the event and the team’s aspirations for success. Bangladesh’s captain, Nigar Sultana, expressed optimism despite the initial disappointment of the event being moved from Bangladesh.

Scotland’s captain, Kathryn Bryce, emphasized their competitive spirit and aim to perform well on the big stage. England captain, Heather Knight, discussed the challenges and growth in her captaincy, highlighting the importance of adaptability and learning from others.

Pakistan captain, Fatima Sana, expressed her approach to leadership, emphasizing self-expression and support from management. New Zealand captain, Sophie Devine, highlighted the remarkable growth in women’s cricket, particularly in the area of fast bowling.

South Africa captain, Laura Wolvaardt, spoke about their focused approach and the team’s changes. Sri Lanka captain, Chamari Athapaththu, embraced their underdog status and expressed confidence in their young squad.

The World Cup will feature 23 matches held over 18 days in Dubai and Sharjah. The opening match will see hosts Bangladesh face Scotland, followed by Pakistan against Sri Lanka. The tournament promises to entertain and inspire a new generation of cricket fans while serving as a transformative platform for women’s cricket.

Bangladesh Skipper Nigar Sultana Targets Victory in Women's T20 World Cup 2024

Bangladesh Skipper Nigar Sultana Targets Victory in Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

Bangladesh Skipper Nigar Sultana Eyes Victory in Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

Ahead of the highly anticipated Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, Bangladesh skipper Nigar Sultana has expressed her team’s determination to make a mark on the global stage. Bangladesh will embark on their World Cup journey on Thursday, facing Scotland in their opening match.

Sultana believes that this tournament presents a golden opportunity for her team to showcase their talent and potential. “It is a huge opportunity for the team, playing this kind of event in front of the world, to show the talent and the potential we have,” she said.

The Bangladesh skipper has set a clear goal for her team: to secure a victory in every match. “Individually, this will be my fourth T20 World Cup for Bangladesh, but I’m yet to win a game – so first and foremost, as a team or as an individual player, my goal is to get a win,” Sultana stated.

Bangladesh’s aspirations extend beyond just winning matches. They aim to push for a semi-final berth in the prestigious tournament. “That will give us momentum we can use throughout the tournament as we try and push for a semi-final spot,” Sultana added.

Bangladesh finds itself in a competitive Group B, alongside England, Scotland, South Africa, and West Indies. Despite a disappointing defeat to Sri Lanka in their first warm-up match, Bangladesh bounced back with a victory over Pakistan, instilling confidence within the team.

Sultana acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained optimistic about her team’s chances. “We are trying to push for the semi-final spot. We know it will be tough, but we are confident that we can do it,” she said.

The Bangladesh squad for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 comprises:

* Nigar Sultana (C, WK)
* Nahida Akter
* Murshida Khatun
* Shorna Akter
* Ritu Moni
* Sobhana Mostary
* Rabeya Khan
* Sultana Khatun
* Fahima Khatun
* Marufa Akter
* Jahanara Alam
* Dilara Akter
* Taj Nehar
* Shathi Rani
* Disha Biswas

Jemimah Rodrigues: Adaptability and Team Spirit Key for India's T20 World Cup Success

Jemimah Rodrigues: Adaptability and Team Spirit Key for India’s T20 World Cup Success

Jemimah Rodrigues, a key member of the Indian women’s cricket team, believes that adaptability and a team-first mentality will be crucial for India’s success at the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup. India, who finished runners-up in the 2020 edition, will begin their campaign against New Zealand on October 4.

Rodrigues, who scored a half-century in India’s first warm-up match against West Indies, emphasized the importance of assessing conditions and playing to the situation. “I just want to keep it simple and do whatever it takes to help the team win,” she said. “When I put things in that perspective, it gets the best out of me and motivates me.”

The 24-year-old also highlighted the need to play to the situation, regardless of the bowler. “It’s not about specific bowlers but about playing to the situation,” she said. “Bowlers can have off days, and as a batter, I need to assess which bowler to attack and when to hold back.”

Rodrigues praised the team’s blend of youth and experience, with players like Richa Ghosh and Shafali Verma having already played in World Cups. “This team is special,” she said. “There’s something in this team, a fire to win, and at the same time, an energy and bond that’s very special.”

Speaking about New Zealand legend Sophie Devine, Rodrigues said, “I’ve always admired her game. We’ve prepared well to bowl against her, and now it’s just about executing our plans.”

India will also face Australia in the group stage, and Rodrigues believes execution will be key against the former champions. “We’ve prepared well and put in the work,” she said. “Now it’s time to execute our plans.”

Rodrigues also praised senior teammates Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur. “Smriti is young, but she understands the game and her role so well,” she said. “Harman di is a big-match player. We want to win it for India and for her.”

Jemimah Rodrigues: From Mumbai's Legacy to Global T20 Star

Jemimah Rodrigues: From Mumbai’s Legacy to Global T20 Star

Jemimah Rodrigues, the 22-year-old Indian batter, has emerged as a key player in the national team and various T20 franchise leagues. Her journey has been marked by challenges and triumphs, shaping her into a resilient and versatile cricketer.

Rodrigues’ international debut in 2018 was met with high expectations, and she has since navigated numerous obstacles to establish herself as a top-order batter. Her participation in the Kia Super League (KSL) in England proved transformative, not only enhancing her on-field performance but also fostering her independence and maturity.

Despite the ongoing debate surrounding club versus country loyalties, Rodrigues embraces the opportunity to play alongside and learn from the best in the world in T20 leagues. She credits her Delhi Capitals captain, Meg Lanning, for instilling in her a sense of calmness under pressure.

In the recent Women’s Caribbean Premier League (WCPL), Rodrigues played a crucial role in Trinbago Knight Riders’ success, showcasing her ability to finish matches. This experience has boosted her confidence ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup in the UAE.

Rodrigues acknowledges that the Indian team is focusing on their own strengths rather than dwelling on their opponents. She recalls the pressure she faced in last year’s T20 World Cup semi-final against Pakistan, but credits her faith and the support of her parents for helping her overcome her nerves.

In the lead-up to the T20 World Cup, Rodrigues has been working on adapting to the number five batting position, where she aims to make a significant impact for India. She emphasizes the importance of aggression and adaptability in this role.

While power-hitting is not her natural game, Rodrigues is developing this aspect of her batting. She draws inspiration from Virat Kohli, who relies on timing and gap-hitting to excel in T20 cricket.

The Indian team has prioritized fielding and fitness in their preparations for the T20 World Cup. Rodrigues highlights the role of the support staff in enhancing these skills.

Rodrigues dreams of a grand reception in Mumbai if India wins the T20 World Cup. Her name, meaning “dove” in Hebrew, symbolizes her hope for a successful campaign for the Indian team.

England Women Cricketers to Receive Equal Minimum Salaries from 2025

England Women Cricketers to Receive Equal Minimum Salaries from 2025

England’s women cricketers have taken a significant step towards gender parity with the announcement that minimum starting salaries in domestic cricket will be equalized across the men’s and women’s professional games from 2025. This move aligns with the recommendations of the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket (ICEC) report, which called for a “fundamental overhaul” of the pay structure in women’s cricket.

The equalization of salaries will apply to both ‘Rookie’ level, which is being introduced into the women’s game for the first time, and ‘Senior Pro’ level for established first-team players. This decision reflects the ECB’s commitment to providing equal opportunities for young players considering cricket as a career choice.

The announcement comes after the ICEC report revealed that the average England Women’s salary was significantly lower than their male counterparts. The report set targets for equalizing pay at domestic level by 2029 and for internationals by 2030.

In addition to equalizing starting salaries, the ECB has also confirmed that the eight Tier 1 counties in the new women’s competition will have minimum squad sizes of 15 contracted players. Each first-class county is required to invest at least £500,000 on player salary costs in 2025, with a salary cap of £800,000 per year agreed for those clubs.

Emma Reid, PCA Director of Player Rights and Women’s Cricket, welcomed the announcement, stating that it is a “big step towards reaching parity.” She emphasized that the PCA remains committed to achieving full parity across all areas of the professional game.

The equalization of minimum starting salaries is a testament to the growing recognition of the value and talent of women cricketers. It is a positive step towards creating a more equitable and sustainable environment for women’s cricket in England and Wales.

Sakshi Malik's Memoir: An Honest Account of a Wrestling Icon's Journey

Sakshi Malik’s Memoir: An Honest Account of a Wrestling Icon’s Journey

Sakshi Malik, one of India’s most celebrated women wrestlers, is set to release her highly anticipated memoir, “Witness,” in October. Co-authored by Jonathan Selvaraj and published by Juggernaut Books, the book promises an “honest account” of Malik’s life, both on and off the mat.

From her humble beginnings in Rohtak to her historic bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, Malik’s memoir chronicles her journey with raw honesty. She delves into the challenges she faced as a woman wrestler in India, including body image issues, financial struggles, and the complexities of dating.

Malik also sheds light on the inner workings of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), revealing the recent public battle that played out on the streets of New Delhi. Her insights into the world of women’s wrestling in India are both fascinating and eye-opening.

“It’s a really honest account of my life – the highs, lows, and everything in between,” Malik says of her literary venture. “I gave this book my all and I hope readers like it.”

Chiki Sarkar, publisher of Juggernaut Books, describes “Witness” as “one of the great memoirs of our time.” She adds, “Sakshi has written a no-holds barred book that not only talks about her struggles with the WFI but also brings vividly alive her childhood, the world of wrestling, and what it takes to be an Olympic medalist.”

Malik’s memoir is a testament to her resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of sports, women’s empowerment, and the human journey.

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