Tom Moody Revisits 1999 World Cup Triumph at Lord's

Tom Moody Revisits 1999 World Cup Triumph at Lord’s

Tom Moody, the former Australian all-rounder and current coach of Oval Invincibles, recently revisited Lord’s Stadium, the site of his 1999 Cricket World Cup triumph. As he prepared his team for The Hundred final, Moody reflected on Australia’s dominant campaign 25 years ago.

Despite being favorites entering the tournament, Australia faced early setbacks with losses to New Zealand and Pakistan. However, they rallied to secure a Super Six berth, setting the stage for a remarkable run to the title.

“We came in as favorites, but we played poorly for the first half of the tournament,” Moody admitted. “We basically had to win seven in a row to be crowned champions. Being part of that journey for those seven games was pretty special.”

Australia’s resurgence culminated in a resounding eight-wicket victory over Pakistan in the final. Chasing a modest target of 133, Australia cruised to victory in 20.1 overs, powered by Shane Warne’s four-wicket haul and Adam Gilchrist’s blistering half-century. Moody himself contributed with the wickets of Abdul Razzaq and Azhar Mahmood.

The victory sparked jubilant celebrations in the Australian dressing room, a moment etched in Moody’s memory. “We had a long period of time in the dressing room to enjoy the experience of the journey and the occasion,” he recalled. “All sorts of people came through, from family to famous cricket fans, but we were in our own bubble.”

Moody’s 1999 World Cup performance was instrumental in Australia’s success. He scored 117 runs at an impressive average of 117.00, including a half-century, and chipped in with seven crucial wickets.

As he aimed to guide Oval Invincibles to victory at the home of cricket, the memories of his own triumph at Lord’s served as a potent reminder of the power of resilience and teamwork on the biggest stage.

Aleem Dar's Heartbreaking Secret: Daughter's Death Concealed During World Cup

Aleem Dar’s Heartbreaking Secret: Daughter’s Death Concealed During World Cup

Pakistan’s most experienced umpire, Aleem Dar, has shared the heartbreaking story of how his family concealed the death of his seven-month-old daughter from him during the early stages of his international career in 2003.

The 56-year-old umpire recounted on a Pakistani television channel that his wife and family chose not to inform him about the tragic loss while he was officiating in the 2003 World Cup. “It was the beginning of my career as an ICC panel umpire, and it was a crucial assignment for my career,” Dar said. “They knew that if I learned about my daughter’s passing, I would immediately return home.”

Dar, who has officiated in 145 Tests, 231 ODIs, and 72 T20 Internationals, said that when he eventually discovered the truth, it was the most devastating moment of his life. “I was kept in the dark for almost a month after her passing, and I only found out by chance in Johannesburg when a Pakistani man from my hometown of Sialkot came to offer his condolences,” he said.

“It was a huge shock to me at that time, and I immediately informed the ICC and returned home,” Dar added. He recalled that when he called his wife, she broke down in tears over the phone.

Dar’s family had strictly instructed the media not to report the news, fearing it would affect his performance on the field. “I came to know later that my father had strictly told the media friends not to print the story,” he said.

Despite the immense personal tragedy, Dar continued to excel in his umpiring career, earning widespread respect for his integrity and professionalism. He is considered one of the most respected umpires in the world and has officiated in some of the most high-profile matches in cricket history.

Manu Bhaker Considers Skipping World Cup for Three-Month Break

Manu Bhaker Considers Skipping World Cup for Three-Month Break

Paris Olympic double medalist Manu Bhaker is considering skipping the upcoming World Cup in New Delhi in October due to a planned three-month break from shooting. The 22-year-old made history in Paris, becoming the first Indian woman to win two Olympic medals in shooting. She earned bronze in both the women’s 10m air pistol and the 10m air pistol mixed team event with Sarabjot Singh.

Bhaker’s coach, Jaspal Rana, confirmed her decision to take a break. “I am not sure whether she will be at the Shooting World Cup in October because she is taking a three-month break. It’s a normal break, she has been training for a long time,” Rana told PTI Videos.

The Shooting World Cup is scheduled to take place in New Delhi from October 13 to 18. Rana, who played a crucial role in Bhaker’s Olympic success, said they will focus on peaking at the 2026 Asian Games and Commonwealth Games after her break.

Bhaker’s decision to take a break highlights the importance of rest and recovery for athletes. Despite her recent success, she recognizes the need to recharge and prepare for future challenges. The three-month break will allow her to physically and mentally reset, ensuring she returns to competition stronger and more motivated.

The Indian shooting contingent has performed exceptionally well in recent international events, including the Paris Olympics and the Commonwealth Games. Bhaker’s decision to take a break is a testament to the team’s commitment to long-term success and their understanding of the importance of athlete well-being.

Manjrekar Sparks Debate: Coaches Not Key to India's World Cup Success

Manjrekar Sparks Debate: Coaches Not Key to India’s World Cup Success

Sanjay Manjrekar’s recent comments on the role of coaches in the Indian cricket team’s success have sparked a heated debate on social media. Manjrekar, a former India cricketer, suggested that there is no direct correlation between the presence of a coach and the team’s ability to win World Cups.

Manjrekar’s remarks came just as Gautam Gambhir, another former India cricketer, prepares to take over as the head coach of the Indian men’s national team. Manjrekar argued that India’s success in cricket is more dependent on the overall functioning of the system rather than the individual coach.

He pointed out that India won its first ODI World Cup in 1983 without a designated head coach. The team also enjoyed successful stints under MS Dhoni in 2007 and 2011, despite having different coaches on both occasions.

Under Rahul Dravid’s mentorship, India lifted the T20 World Cup 2024 title in Barbados, ending their 11-year-long ICC title drought. India also came close to winning the World Test Championship final and ODI World Cup final against Australia last year.

Manjrekar believes that the focus should be on the players and the system, rather than the coach. He emphasized that India’s success in cricket is a result of the collective efforts of the players, the support staff, and the overall cricketing ecosystem.

“No coach, Lalchand Rajput, Gary Kirsten & Dravid. Coaches when India won WCs in 1983, 2007, 2011 & 2023. It’s really about Indian cricket, not who the coach is. Time we stop thinking there is a direct correlation,” Manjrekar wrote on Twitter.

Many fans took to social media to criticize Manjrekar’s comments, especially considering the timing. Gambhir’s first coaching assignment will begin in Sri Lanka later in the day as Suryakumar Yadav-led India will take on the hosts in the first T20I of the three-match series in Pallekele.

Sri Lanka Women Triumph in T20 World Cup Qualifier, Defeat Scotland by 68 Runs

Sri Lanka Women Triumph in T20 World Cup Qualifier, Defeat Scotland by 68 Runs

Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team emerged victorious in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2024, defeating Scotland by a commanding 68 runs in the summit clash. The triumph secured their spot in the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in Bangladesh.

Batting first, Sri Lanka posted a formidable total of 169/5 in their allotted 20 overs. Skipper Chamari Athapaththu led the charge with a scintillating century, smashing 102 runs off just 63 deliveries. Her innings was a masterclass in power-hitting, peppered with boundaries and sixes.

Scotland’s bowlers struggled to contain Athapaththu’s onslaught, with only Abtaha Maqsood managing to pick up a wicket. However, fortune smiled upon Athapaththu in the 17th over when she survived a close call. An inside edge saw the ball touch the stumps, but the bails remained intact, much to the dismay of Scotland’s wicketkeeper Sarah Bryce.

Chasing a challenging target of 170, Scotland’s openers Saskia Horley and Megan McColl started brightly, but their momentum was halted by the early dismissals of Horley and McColl. Skipper Bryce also fell cheaply, leaving Scotland in disarray at 23/4.

Priyanaz Chatterji attempted to revive Scotland’s chase with a brisk 30, but her efforts were in vain as Sri Lanka’s bowlers maintained a tight grip on the game. Udeshika Prabodhani emerged as the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets, including the crucial scalp of Chatterji.

In the end, Scotland were restricted to 101/7, falling well short of Sri Lanka’s total. The victory not only secured Sri Lanka’s place in the Women’s T20 World Cup but also earned them a spot in Group A alongside Australia, New Zealand, India, and Pakistan.

Chess Legend Praises Praggnanandhaa's Efficient Autograph Technique

Chess Legend Praises Praggnanandhaa’s Efficient Autograph Technique

Chess prodigy R Praggnanandhaa has garnered praise from legendary grandmaster Gary Kasparov for his quick and efficient autograph-signing technique. In a video posted on Twitter, Kasparov remarked, “Smart lad; a fast and short signature means your hand doesn’t get sore so quickly!”

Praggnanandhaa’s rise to stardom has been meteoric. In 2023, he became the youngest player to reach the World Cup final, following in the footsteps of Viswanathan Anand. His impressive victories over Magnus Carlsen in 2022 brought India’s chess prowess into the spotlight.

The Chennai-based prodigy began his chess journey at the tender age of 5. By 12, he had become India’s youngest and the world’s second-youngest Grandmaster. Praggnanandhaa’s love for mathematics and his ability to unwind with Tamil music and television shows add to his multifaceted personality.

In 2023, Praggnanandhaa secured a silver medal at the Hangzhou Asian Games. His achievements have cemented his status as one of the most promising young chess players in the world.

Kasparov’s praise for Praggnanandhaa’s autograph-signing technique highlights the importance of efficiency and practicality in the world of chess. The ability to conserve energy and maintain focus during long tournaments can give players a competitive edge.

Praggnanandhaa’s success is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and natural talent. As he continues to climb the ranks of chess, he is sure to inspire future generations of players and bring further glory to India on the global stage.

Marsh to Miss Bowling Until Final Week Before World Cup

Marsh to Miss Bowling Until Final Week Before World Cup

Mitchell Marsh’s recovery from a hamstring tear has been slower than anticipated, but Australia’s coach, Andrew McDonald, remains confident that the skipper will be fully fit for the opening game of the World Cup. Marsh was ruled out of the IPL last month and has been undergoing rehabilitation since returning home from India.

McDonald confirmed that Marsh will not be fit to bowl until the final week before the squad departs for the Caribbean on May 25. However, he emphasized that Marsh has made significant progress and will be able to ramp up his bowling intensity once the team arrives in the Caribbean.

“We’ve got plenty of time now that he has been ruled out the IPL,” McDonald said. “The first game is just short of a month away now. So ample time for him to get ready.”

McDonald also addressed concerns about Marsh’s lack of match practice, stating that Australia will have practice games before their opening clash with Oman. “We’ve got a couple of practice games when we get to Trinidad in the support period,” McDonald said. “So he’ll likely get plenty of match opportunities.”

The coach also confirmed that Australia will likely take one traveling reserve but has yet to decide on the type of player they need as cover for the 15-man squad.

McDonald defended the age profile of Australia’s squad, which includes only one player under the age of 28. “I’m a big believer in you don’t know when the end is going to be,” McDonald said. “And a lot of people write off those players just based around their age.”

He highlighted the strong performances of senior players such as David Warner, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Starc in recent months. “Those players that are probably the elder statesman of the team are still performing at international level,” McDonald said. “And that goes a long way.”

Rinku Singh's World Cup Omission: A Grave Injustice

Rinku Singh’s World Cup Omission: A Grave Injustice

In the lead-up to the World Cup, Team India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar revealed that Rinku Singh’s selection was a subject of intense debate. Agarkar explained that the committee prioritized a specific team combination, which ultimately left Rinku on the sidelines. Captain Rohit Sharma’s preference for four spinners further limited the options for the selectors.

However, this decision has raised eyebrows among experts and former players. Rinku Singh, a 26-year-old batter from Aligarh, has emerged as a reliable performer in high-pressure situations. His recent performances in the IPL and T20Is have showcased his ability to deliver under immense pressure.

India’s struggles in knockout matches at the World Cup have been well-documented. The team has failed to replicate its regular season form in these crucial games. Rinku Singh’s inclusion could have provided a much-needed spark to the lower batting order, which has lacked a proven finisher.

Rinku’s statistics speak for themselves. In 15 T20Is, he has remained unbeaten in 7 innings, contributing invaluable runs in each of them. His strike rate of 176 and average of 89 are testament to his ability to accelerate the scoring rate.

In crucial matches against Nepal, Australia, South Africa, and Afghanistan, Rinku has consistently delivered under pressure. His unbeaten 37 against Nepal, 31 against Australia, 46 against South Africa, and 68 against Afghanistan were all match-winning contributions.

Despite his impressive form, Rinku was relegated to the reserves, while players with inferior recent performances were selected. This inconsistency in selection logic has raised questions about the decision-making process.

The omission of Rinku Singh from the World Cup squad is a grave injustice. His ability to perform under pressure and his proven track record in high-stakes matches make him an invaluable asset to any team. India’s chances of success at the World Cup would have been significantly enhanced with Rinku in the lineup.

Gary Kirsten's Appointment Boosts Pakistan's White-Ball Hopes

Gary Kirsten’s Appointment Boosts Pakistan’s White-Ball Hopes

Pakistan’s limited-overs skipper, Babar Azam, expressed optimism about the appointment of Gary Kirsten as the head coach of the white-ball side, believing it will significantly enhance the team’s performance. Kirsten, a seasoned coach with experience guiding India and South Africa, has been contracted for two years.

Azam highlighted Kirsten’s extensive experience and his proactive approach in planning for the upcoming World Cup. He revealed that Kirsten is actively involved in strategy discussions with the team management and is providing valuable insights. The skipper emphasized that Kirsten’s daily communication with the team ensures constant feedback and support.

Addressing concerns over team selection, Azam dismissed any internal rifts and stated that the squad for the Ireland tour will be finalized based on form and fitness. He clarified that the top-order batting positions are not set in stone and decisions will be made in the best interests of the team.

Azam also acknowledged the need to provide opportunities for young players like Ayub, Azam, Irfan Khan, and Usman Khan. He emphasized that these players require time to settle into international cricket and the management will fully support them in the lead-up to the World Cup.

Regarding Pakistan’s strategy against India’s star batter, Virat Kohli, Azam emphasized that the team plans against all eleven players and does not focus solely on one individual. He acknowledged Kohli’s exceptional abilities but stressed that Pakistan will devise a comprehensive plan to counter his threat.

Azam expressed confidence in the team’s unity and his own leadership abilities. He attributed his previous success as captain to the support of his teammates and expressed gratitude for the board’s backing.

Hazlewood Laments Smith, Fraser-McGurk Omissions from World Cup Squad

Hazlewood Laments Smith, Fraser-McGurk Omissions from World Cup Squad

Australia’s veteran paceman Josh Hazlewood has expressed his belief that rising star Jake Fraser-McGurk will eventually don the Australian colors, despite his omission from the 15-man World Cup squad. However, Hazlewood lamented the absence of both Fraser-McGurk and former captain Steven Smith, acknowledging that Smith’s leadership and experience will be sorely missed in the Caribbean.

The Australian selectors’ decision to exclude Fraser-McGurk and Smith from the World Cup squad sparked controversy, with many fans expressing frustration over the snubbing of the 22-year-old T20 sensation. Hazlewood, who was among the non-IPL squad members attending a training camp in Brisbane, acknowledged Fraser-McGurk’s exceptional talent but sympathized with the selectors’ dilemma.

“He’s a special talent, there’s no doubt about that,” Hazlewood said of Fraser-McGurk. “But it’s tough to fit him into that top order with the experience we have there. Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, and David Warner are all established players, and the middle order is also very strong.”

Hazlewood expressed confidence that Fraser-McGurk’s time will come, emphasizing his youth and potential. “He’ll definitely get his chance,” Hazlewood said. “He’s only young, and I think he’ll be in the team sooner rather than later.”

Hazlewood also expressed disappointment over Smith’s omission, citing his batting prowess in spinning conditions and his leadership qualities. “Marshy will miss having him as captain,” Hazlewood said. “Smudge is someone you can always turn to for advice on the field. And his batting and fielding are also top-notch.”

Hazlewood, who missed the IPL this year due to the birth of his son, expressed mixed feelings about the tournament’s recent developments. While acknowledging the entertainment value of high-scoring matches, he questioned the impact of the impact sub rule.

“Batting line-ups seem to be never-ending now,” Hazlewood said. “You have guys like Tim David coming in at number eight or nine, and it makes it difficult to attack and take wickets in the powerplay. It’s an interesting rule, but it might need some tweaking.”

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