Wishlist0
0
Continue Shopping

 +91 91155 12977

Home / Tagged "WorldCup"

Tag: WorldCup

Jos Buttler Returns to Barbados with Renewed Purpose

Jos Buttler Returns to Barbados with Renewed Purpose

By November 9, 2024 0

Jos Buttler, England’s white-ball captain, has returned to the scene of his World Cup disappointments with a renewed sense of purpose. Five months ago in Barbados, England’s World Cup campaign ended in a disappointing defeat to Australia, with Buttler’s tactical decisions coming under scrutiny.

However, Buttler has revealed that he feared losing his captaincy after England’s consecutive World Cup failures. He had candid conversations with Rob Key, the ECB’s managing director of men’s cricket, and expressed his desire to continue leading the team. Key’s belief in Buttler’s abilities has given him the confidence to move forward.

Buttler’s captaincy has been marked by emotional highs and lows. His face often betrays his feelings, and he has admitted that the pressure of leadership has weighed heavily on him. However, a calf injury that sidelined him for four months has given him time to reflect and reassess his priorities.

The appointment of Brendon McCullum as head coach has also provided Buttler with a fresh perspective. McCullum’s experience as New Zealand’s white-ball captain has inspired Buttler, who believes that this stage of his career can be the most rewarding.

Buttler is now determined to play as much as possible and help develop the next generation of English white-ball cricketers. He has dropped wicketkeeping for the T20 series against West Indies to experiment with his preferred captaincy position.

Winning will be important, but Buttler’s primary focus is on creating an environment where players can flourish. He wants to see young players like Jacob Bethell and Dan Mousley seize their opportunities and contribute to English cricket’s future success.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
India and South Africa Clash in T20I Rematch with World Cup Grudge

India and South Africa Clash in T20I Rematch with World Cup Grudge

By November 7, 2024 0

India and South Africa Set for T20I Rematch with World Cup Grudge

The upcoming T20I series between South Africa and India holds both a sense of unfinished business and a glimpse into the future. In the 2024 T20 World Cup final, India snatched victory from South Africa’s grasp, leaving the Proteas heartbroken.

While many key players from that final will be absent, the series remains significant as both teams prepare for the next World Cup in 15 months. India, fresh off a 3-0 series win against Bangladesh, will look to continue their aggressive approach. South Africa, on the other hand, will aim to bounce back from their recent struggles.

Form Guide and Key Players

South Africa’s form has been inconsistent, with losses to West Indies and a draw against Ireland. Aiden Markram, who has struggled for runs this year, will be under pressure to deliver. India, meanwhile, has been in impressive form, posting a massive 297 for 6 in their last T20I. Tilak Varma, who has yet to make a significant impact at the international level, will be eager to prove his worth.

Team News and Debuts

South Africa may hand debuts to allrounder Andile Simelane and legspinner Nqabayomzi Peter. India is likely to give batting allrounder Ramandeep Singh his T20I cap and recall Axar Patel.

Pitch and Conditions

The match will be played at Kingsmead in Durban, a high-scoring venue with an average first-innings total of 184. However, rain could disrupt the proceedings, with a 40% chance of precipitation.

Stats and Trivia

* India has a strong head-to-head record against South Africa in South Africa, with six wins and three losses in nine T20Is.
* Suryakumar Yadav has the highest strike rate (169.48) among players with at least 1000 T20I runs.
* Arshdeep Singh is India’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is this year, with 28 scalps in 14 games.
* Heinrich Klaasen has three half-centuries and a strike rate of 168.09 in nine T20I innings against India.

Quotes

“It has been a testing few months now… But you lock into the bigger picture, you lock into how much it is going to help cricket in South Africa moving forward,” said Aiden Markram on South Africa’s recent struggles.

“It has always been challenging playing against South Africa… Hopefully, we will have a game [tomorrow]; last time we missed out on the game here,” said Suryakumar Yadav on facing South Africa for the first time since the T20 World Cup final.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Messi Uncertain About 2026 World Cup Participation

Messi Uncertain About 2026 World Cup Participation

By November 2, 2024 0

Lionel Messi, the legendary Argentine footballer, remains uncertain about his future with the national team, including his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite achieving his childhood dream of winning the World Cup in 2022, Messi is taking a cautious approach to his decision.

In an interview with Fabrizio Romano, Messi expressed his indecision about playing in the next World Cup. “I don’t know,” he said. “I hope to finish this year well and start the year having a good preseason, which I didn’t have last year due to all the trips we had.”

Messi acknowledged the limited time remaining before the 2026 World Cup but emphasized his desire to take things day by day. “From there, I will see how I am doing and feeling,” he added. “We are close, but at the same time it’s a lot of time and anything can happen in football.”

The 37-year-old Messi has been in exceptional form since joining Inter Miami in the MLS. He has led Argentina to another Copa America title and continues to score goals with ease. However, he is aware that his career is nearing its end.

“I didn’t set any date or deadline about my future,” Messi said. “I’m just enjoying all this. I am more emotional than ever and taking all the love from the people because I know these can be my last games.”

Messi also discussed the current phase of his career with Argentina, where he is surrounded by younger teammates. “It’s a joy to be present and appreciate this moment,” he said. “Being surrounded by younger teammates, given my age, makes me feel like a kid again.”

As Messi contemplates his future, he remains focused on the present and contributing to the Argentine team. “As long as I maintain that feeling and can continue contributing to the team, I plan to be here enjoying [the national team],” he added.

Categories: Football
Read more
Former Brazil Defender Ze Carlos Dies at 56

Former Brazil Defender Ze Carlos Dies at 56

By October 26, 2024 0

Former Brazil Defender Ze Carlos Passes Away at 56

Former Brazil full-back Ze Carlos, a member of the 1998 World Cup runner-up squad, has passed away at the age of 56. The cause of death has not been officially disclosed, but local media reports suggest it was due to cardiac arrest.

Ze Carlos, born Jose Carlos de Almeida, played for Sao Paulo from 1997 to 1999. He was a surprise inclusion in the 1998 World Cup squad, replacing Flavio Conceicao. Despite being uncapped at the time, he made his international debut in the semi-final against the Netherlands, replacing the suspended Cafu. Brazil won the match on penalties, but Ze Carlos was an unused substitute in the final, a 3-0 defeat to France.

Ze Carlos’s only other international appearance came in a friendly against Yugoslavia in 1999. He retired from professional football in 2005.

Sao Paulo FC released a statement expressing their condolences: “It is with great sorrow that Sao Paulo FC announce the death of Jose Carlos de Almeida, Ze Carlos, this Friday in Osasco, near Sao Paulo.”

Ze Carlos’s passing is a sad loss for the football world. He was a talented defender who represented his country with pride. His contributions to the 1998 World Cup squad will always be remembered.

Categories: Football
Read more
Messi Returns with Hat-Trick, Argentina Crushes Bolivia 6-0

Messi Returns with Hat-Trick, Argentina Crushes Bolivia 6-0

By October 16, 2024 0

Lionel Messi returned to the Argentina national team with a bang, scoring a hat-trick and providing two assists in a 6-0 home win over Bolivia in a South American World Cup qualifying match on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

The superstar, who missed the two rounds of the competition in October due to a right ankle injury, played from start to finish on Tuesday in front of raucous fans at the Monumental de Nuñez Stadium, who chanted his name after he opened the scoring in the 19th minute.

Messi’s first goal came after a mistake by a Bolivian defender, who missed a pass and allowed the 37-year-old Messi to run freely and finish unchallenged in front of goalkeeper Billy Viscarra.

The result kept the World Cup champions as leaders of the round-robin competition with 22 points after 10 matches, three points clear of second-place Colombia, who earlier beat Chile 4-0. Uruguay is in third position with 16 points after a goalless draw with Ecuador.

Messi’s second goal came in the 42nd minute, assisted by Lautaro Martínez. He then provided a decisive pass once again in added time on a goal by Julián Álvarez.

Argentina appeared to slow its pace after the break, but scored again with Thiago Almada in the 69th minute. The striker scored from close range after a low cross by Nahuel Molina.

Messi’s show had two great finishing touches from the edge of the box, the first in the 84th and the second in the 86th minute.

“We enjoyed this, we are happy to be here playing in Argentina,” said Messi, who once again refused to say whether he will play in the next World Cup in 2026. “This could be one of the last (matches in front of the Argentinian crowd).”

Bolivia, which is seeking to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in 30 years, remains in contention with 12 points.

Chile’s loss to Colombia has placed the job of coach Ricardo Gareca at risk. Davinson Sánchez, Luis Díaz, Jhon Durán, and Luis Sinistierra scored the goals for Colombia. Chile is in last place in the qualifying group with only five points.

Paraguay beat Venezuela 2-1 and moved into a qualifying position in the standings. Jon Aramburo opened the scoring for the visitors in the 25th minute, but striker Antonio Sarabia came from the bench to win it for the hosts with goals in the 59th and 74th minutes.

Two more rounds of South American World Cup qualifying will be played in November.

Categories: Football
Read more
Chetan Sharma's Historic Hat-Trick: A Milestone in Indian Cricket

Chetan Sharma’s Historic Hat-Trick: A Milestone in Indian Cricket

By October 12, 2024 0

Chetan Sharma’s Historic Hat-Trick: A Defining Moment in Indian Cricket

On October 31, 1987, Indian cricket history was etched in gold when Chetan Sharma became the first Indian bowler to claim a hat-trick in a World Cup match. This remarkable feat occurred during a group stage encounter against New Zealand in Nagpur, propelling India to a comfortable nine-wicket victory.

Sharma’s hat-trick unfolded in the 42nd over of New Zealand’s innings. With sharp and accurate deliveries, he clean bowled Ken Rutherford, Ian Smith, and Ewen Chatfield in succession, leaving the Kiwi batsmen in disbelief. His bowling performance played a crucial role in restricting New Zealand to a modest total of 221/9.

India’s batting lineup, led by Sunil Gavaskar’s unbeaten century (103 off 88 balls) and Kris Srikkanth’s 75 off 58, made light work of the chase, reaching the target in just 32.1 overs. However, it was Sharma’s hat-trick that stole the show, becoming the defining moment of the match.

Sharma’s hat-trick not only marked a historic milestone for Indian cricket but also set a high standard for future generations. Since then, three other Indian bowlers have achieved hat-tricks in ODIs: Kapil Dev, Mohammed Shami, and Kuldeep Yadav (twice).

Mohammed Shami remains the only Indian bowler after Sharma to take a hat-trick in an ODI World Cup. During the 2019 World Cup, Shami dismissed Mohammad Nabi, Aftab Alam, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman in three consecutive deliveries against Afghanistan, echoing Sharma’s historic achievement.

Chetan Sharma’s hat-trick in the 1987 World Cup remains an iconic moment in Indian cricket history, showcasing the skill, determination, and legacy of one of the country’s greatest bowlers.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Arshdeep Singh: From Newcomer to Leader in India's Pace Attack

Arshdeep Singh: From Newcomer to Leader in India’s Pace Attack

By October 9, 2024 0

Arshdeep Singh, the rising star of Indian cricket, has emerged as a leader within the pace attack. His sage counsel to debutant Mayank Yadav during the first T20I against Bangladesh in Gwalior is a testament to his growing stature.

Arshdeep’s journey to the top has been meteoric. Just two years ago, he was a newcomer to the international scene. Today, he is a key figure in India’s white-ball setup, renowned for his death-over prowess. His ability to execute a mix of pace variations and pinpoint yorkers has made him a formidable force.

Arshdeep’s crowning moment came in Barbados, where he bowled a miserly 19th over to scuttle South Africa’s chase in the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final. The World Cup title, a lifelong dream for many, was achieved in quick time.

Despite his rapid ascent, Arshdeep remains grounded. “I don’t know how quickly these last two years have gone. I just try to enjoy and stay in the present,” he said.

The 25-year-old is also embracing new challenges. Last month, he featured in the long-format Duleep Trophy for India ‘D’. A nine-wicket match-haul against India ‘B’ proved to be a highlight. Arshdeep’s dismissal of India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav twice in that game showcased his versatility.

While it is too early to suggest that Arshdeep is ready for Test duty, his experience bowling long spells with the red ball was invaluable. “Playing red ball cricket teaches you patience. In T20s, you don’t need patience. I want to do my best in all formats wherever I get the opportunity,” Arshdeep said.

Arshdeep’s rise to prominence is a testament to his hard work and dedication. He is a role model for aspiring cricketers, demonstrating that anything is possible with determination and perseverance.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
New Zealand to Tour India for Crucial Women's ODI Series

New Zealand to Tour India for Crucial Women’s ODI Series

By October 8, 2024 0

New Zealand’s women’s cricket team will embark on a three-match ODI tour of India later this month, a series that was initially postponed due to scheduling conflicts. The matches, scheduled for October 24, 27, and 29 in Ahmedabad, will serve as a crucial step in both teams’ quest for direct qualification to the 2024 Women’s Cricket World Cup.

The series holds particular significance for New Zealand, who currently sit sixth in the ICC Women’s Championship standings, just one spot below India. With West Indies and Bangladesh potentially threatening their position, the matches against India are vital for the White Ferns’ hopes of securing an automatic berth in the World Cup.

The hosts, India, will also be eager to perform well in the series, as they aim to solidify their position among the top five teams in the championship standings. The top five teams, along with the hosts, will earn direct entry to the World Cup, while the remaining teams will have to compete in a global qualifier.

Both teams will be coming off the Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE, which concludes on October 23. If they reach the final, they will have less than 72 hours to prepare for the ODI series. This could potentially impact the availability of key players, including India’s Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Deepti Sharma, and New Zealand’s Sophie Devine.

The series will mark New Zealand’s first ODI matches in India since 2015, when they overcame a 1-0 deficit to clinch the series. The White Ferns will be hoping for a similar result this time around, as they look to strengthen their position in the championship standings and secure their place in the World Cup.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Johan Neeskens, Dutch Football Legend, Dies at 73

Johan Neeskens, Dutch Football Legend, Dies at 73

By October 8, 2024 0

Johan Neeskens, a legendary Dutch footballer who played a pivotal role in the development of “total football” in the 1970s, has passed away at the age of 73. Neeskens was an integral member of the Ajax and Netherlands teams that captivated the world with their innovative and dominant style of play.

As a midfielder, Neeskens possessed exceptional tackling skills, sublime vision, and an uncanny ability to convert penalties. He was a key figure in Ajax’s three consecutive European Cup triumphs from 1971 to 1973. Alongside Johan Cruyff, Neeskens formed a formidable partnership that revolutionized the game.

Neeskens’ impact extended beyond the club level. He was a vital cog in the “Clockwork Oranje” Dutch national team that reached the World Cup finals in 1974 and 1978. His 49 caps for the Netherlands showcased his unwavering commitment and exceptional talent.

After retiring from playing, Neeskens embarked on a successful coaching career, sharing his knowledge and expertise around the world. Despite his fierce competitive spirit on the pitch, Neeskens was known for his gentle and compassionate nature off the field. He was a devoted family man and a respected figure in the football community.

The Dutch football federation (KNVB) paid tribute to Neeskens, describing him as “a legend” and “one of the leading players that Dutch football has ever produced.” Ajax and Barcelona, where Neeskens played after leaving Ajax, also expressed their condolences and hailed him as a true icon.

Johan Neeskens’ legacy will forever be etched in the annals of football history. His contributions to the development of “total football” and his unwavering passion for the game have left an enduring mark on the sport. His passing is a profound loss for the football world, and his memory will continue to inspire generations of players and fans alike.

Categories: Football
Read more
Rohit Sharma Retires from T20Is, Cites Time for 'Other Things'

Rohit Sharma Retires from T20Is, Cites Time for ‘Other Things’

By September 29, 2024 0

Rohit Sharma Explains Decision to Retire from T20Is: ‘Time for Me to Move On’

After leading India to victory in the T20 World Cup earlier this year, Rohit Sharma made the surprising decision to retire from the format in international cricket. While many believed he was still fit enough to play both white-ball formats and Test cricket, Sharma felt it was the right time to step aside.

In a recent podcast, Sharma, who was also part of MS Dhoni’s team that won the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007, shed light on his reasons for retiring from T20Is.

“The only reason I retired from T20Is is because I have had my time,” Sharma said. “I enjoyed playing the format, I played for 17 years, I did well and all of that. Then, you won the (2024) World Cup. This was the best time for me to decide that ‘okay, this is now time for me to move on and look after the other things’. There are a lot of good players who can do well for India.”

Sharma emphasized that his decision was not based on any physical limitations. “It (decision to quit T20Is) was not because I felt anything. I just felt this was the right time. I could still play all three formats easily. That’s why I say fitness is in your mind, how you train your mind.”

“I believe everything is in the mind. I am a person who has got a lot of self-belief because I know that I can control my mind when I have to. Sometimes it’s not easy. I know most of the time I can do that. If you tell your body that you are young, you can do this, you can do that, (then) of course you can,” Sharma added.

Sharma’s retirement from T20Is has paved the way for Suryakumar Yadav to take over the role. Yadav has been in impressive form in recent months and is expected to play a key role in India’s future T20I campaigns.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Main Menu
Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart