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India's Test Season Begins with Bangladesh Challenge

India’s Test Season Begins with Bangladesh Challenge

By September 17, 2024 0

India’s Test cricket team, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir, is poised to embark on a new season with a positive outlook. The team will face a spirited Bangladesh side in a two-match series, marking the beginning of a busy schedule that includes 10 Tests in the upcoming months.

Gambhir and his men are eager to make a strong start in the World Test Championship, with a series of crucial matches lined up. After the Bangladesh series, India will host New Zealand for three Tests in October, followed by a five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia starting in November.

Former India player Dinesh Karthik and Australia legend Michael Bevan expressed their excitement for the upcoming series. Karthik believes the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will be a challenging test for India, as they face an in-form Australian side. However, he remains confident in the team’s resilience and determination.

Bevan, who will coach the Southern Superstars in the Legends League Cricket, also anticipates a competitive series. He acknowledges the strength of the Indian team but believes the Australian team is forging a new culture under Pat Cummins.

Regarding the first Test against Bangladesh, Karthik warns that the visitors will enter the match with confidence after their recent triumph over Pakistan. He emphasizes that India must be aware of the threat posed by a slightly different Bangladesh team.

The jersey launch for the Southern Superstars was attended by actress Aishwarya Rajesh and franchise spokesperson Srinadh Chitoori. Former India players Parthiv Patel and Kedar Jadhav were also present as team members.

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Virat Kohli Poised for Test Return as India Eyes WTC Glory

Virat Kohli Poised for Test Return as India Eyes WTC Glory

By September 17, 2024 0

Virat Kohli’s return to Test cricket is a highly anticipated event for Indian cricket fans. After a nine-month hiatus, the star batsman is set to rejoin the team for a grueling schedule of 10 Test matches, starting with a two-Test series against Bangladesh in Chennai.

Kohli’s return is crucial for India’s aspirations in the World Test Championship (WTC). The team currently leads the WTC table with a commanding 68.52% win percentage, but the scars of two consecutive WTC final defeats, against New Zealand and Australia, remain. This season presents an opportunity for India to exorcise those demons and claim the coveted Test mace.

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has expressed immense confidence in Kohli’s ability to excel in this crucial period. Raina predicts a run-fest from the star batsman. “Rohit is a fantastic captain and he proved it when the Indian team lifted the T20 World Cup Trophy. But the focus will be on Virat Kohli’s return to Red-ball cricket. He loves Test matches and gives a lot of respect to them. Leading to the WTC, India will play around 10 matches and I believe Virat will score a hell of runs in this Test cycle,” Raina told IANS.

This anticipation is fueled by Kohli’s track record of thriving under pressure, evident in his recent performances at the T20 World Cup. Raina believes that the challenging bowling attacks of Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia will only serve to elevate Kohli’s game.

“Virat thrives under pressure, and this whole Test season will see him at the centre of action. Bangladesh has strong pacers, but Kohli has shown his prowess against bowlers like Haris Rauf. Challenges boost him, and I expect him to shine,” Raina added.

While Rohit Sharma’s captaincy has been instrumental in India’s recent successes, including their T20 World Cup victory, Kohli’s return is an invaluable asset for India as they aim to solidify their position at the top of the WTC standings.

The upcoming series against Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia are not mere stepping stones for India. Bangladesh, ranked fourth in the WTC standings, will be eager to upset the top-ranked team and climb the table. New Zealand and Australia, both formidable opponents in Test cricket, will test India’s mettle in their own backyard.

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New Zealand Embarks on Packed Test Schedule to Secure World Test Championship Final Berth

New Zealand Embarks on Packed Test Schedule to Secure World Test Championship Final Berth

By September 17, 2024 0

New Zealand’s Test cricket schedule is set to intensify as they embark on a packed itinerary to conclude the World Test Championship cycle. After a break since March, the Black Caps will face Sri Lanka in a two-Test series in September, followed by a three-Test tour of India in October and November. They will then return home to host England for three more Tests in November and December.

These eight matches will determine New Zealand’s fate in the World Test Championship, with the team needing to win at least five to have a chance of reaching the final at Lord’s. While the one-off Test against Afghanistan was canceled due to rain, the Black Caps have been preparing diligently for the subcontinental conditions.

Captain Tim Southee emphasized the importance of the upcoming Tests, saying, “We’ve got an important part in terms of the Test championship cycle. We’ve got eight games between now and December, so it’s an exciting time for us as a Test side.”

New Zealand’s strength lies in their diverse bowling attack, with spin-bowling coach Rangana Herath providing valuable insights. The team boasts three left-arm spinners in Mitchell Santner, Ajaz Patel, and Rachin Ravindra, as well as seam bowlers Matt Henry, Ben Sears, and Will O’Rourke.

Southee acknowledged the historical significance of the upcoming matches, as he is just 20 wickets away from becoming the 18th player to reach 400 Test wickets. “Every game you’re going out and trying to do your role and take some wickets for your side,” he said. “It’d be nice if you do achieve those milestones along the way.”

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Ashwin Eyes Records as India Prepares for Home Test Series

Ashwin Eyes Records as India Prepares for Home Test Series

By September 16, 2024 0

Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s premier off-spinner, is poised to make history as he prepares to bowl on home soil in the upcoming five-Test series against Bangladesh and New Zealand. With 100 Tests under his belt and the distinction of being the world’s No. 1 Test bowler, Ashwin is eager to showcase his skills on spin-friendly Indian wickets.

Ashwin’s return to his home ground, the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, for the first Test against Bangladesh on September 19 holds special significance. He is on the cusp of several records, including becoming India’s highest wicket-taker in international matches played in India. With 455 wickets in 126 matches across formats, he trails only Anil Kumble’s tally of 476.

In the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, Ashwin is poised to surpass Nathan Lyon as the leading wicket-taker. With 174 wickets in 35 Tests, he is just 13 behind Lyon’s 187. Ashwin also holds the record for most five-wicket hauls in WTC matches, with 10 in 34 games.

Another milestone within reach for Ashwin is becoming India’s leading wicket-taker in Tests against Bangladesh. Currently, Zaheer Khan holds the record with 31 wickets, while Ashwin has 23. With nine more wickets, he will surpass Zaheer’s mark.

Beyond the upcoming series, Ashwin has his sights set on India’s tour of Australia later this year. The 37-year-old is likely to make his final appearance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he will aim to continue his impressive record against the Aussies.

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Australian Cricketers Identify Yashasvi Jaiswal as India's Future Superstar

Australian Cricketers Identify Yashasvi Jaiswal as India’s Future Superstar

By September 16, 2024 0

India’s World Test Championship (WTC) campaign will culminate in a highly anticipated five-Test Border Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. Ahead of this crucial series, Australian cricketers have identified Yashasvi Jaiswal as a rising star from India.

In a video shared by Star Sports Tamil, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, and Nathan Lyon named Jaiswal as a future superstar. Marnus Labuschagne also included Jaiswal alongside Shubman Gill.

Jaiswal, 21, has impressed in his limited international appearances. In nine Tests, he has amassed 1028 runs at an astonishing average of 68.53, including two double centuries. His T20I record is equally impressive, with 723 runs at an average of 36.15 and a strike rate of 164.32.

Gill, on the other hand, has established himself as a key member of India’s batting lineup. He has played 25 Tests, 47 ODIs, and 21 T20Is, scoring 1492, 2328, and 578 runs respectively.

Cameron Green and Travis Head voted for Gill as the future superstar, while Labuschagne recognized both Jaiswal and Gill’s potential. Head praised Gill’s ability to make bowling look slow and his proficiency in playing off both the front and back foot.

India, currently leading the WTC table, will embark on a busy schedule of 10 Tests over the next four months. They will host Bangladesh for two Tests, followed by a three-Test series against New Zealand. The Border Gavaskar Trophy will be the ultimate test for India’s WTC aspirations.

The WTC final is scheduled to be held at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London from June 11. India will be aiming to defend their title and cement their status as the world’s leading Test team.

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Gautam Gambhir Begins India's Test Preparations with Secrecy and Intensity

Gautam Gambhir Begins India’s Test Preparations with Secrecy and Intensity

By September 14, 2024 0

Gautam Gambhir, the newly appointed head coach of the Indian cricket team, has commenced his tenure with a rigorous training session at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The session marked the beginning of India’s preparations for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, which commences in five days.

Gambhir, along with his coaching staff comprising Morne Morkel (bowling coach), Abhishek Nayar (assistant coach), and Ryan ten Doeschate (fielding coach), oversaw the training session under strict secrecy. The media was barred from attending, and no footage was allowed to be captured.

The session focused on getting the players back into game mode after a prolonged break following the T20 World Cup triumph in June. Virat Kohli, who arrived from England late on Thursday, was among the first to take to the nets and face the bowling of Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja.

With a place in the World Test Championship Final in June 2025 at stake, India faces a challenging schedule of 10 Tests over the next five months. After the two Tests against Bangladesh, they will host New Zealand for a three-Test series, followed by a five-Test tour of Australia.

Gambhir aims to secure four wins and a draw from these 10 games to qualify for the WTC Final. For the first five home Tests, he will need to manage the rotation of his pace bowlers. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj are likely to play at Chepauk, while Mohammed Shami is on the comeback trail.

Left-arm pacer Yash Dayal and Bengal’s Akash Deep are also in contention for a debut, depending on their performance in practice. Another key decision for the coaching staff is the choice between KL Rahul and Sarfaraz Khan as the No. 5 batter.

Rishabh Pant remains the first-choice wicketkeeper, but his fitness after a recent accident will be closely monitored. Dhruv Jurel, who impressed on his debut against England, provides a capable backup option.

Gambhir, known for his demanding nature, will expect his players to perform at their best. Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and R Ashwin are all likely to feature in the first Test.

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New Zealand's Afghanistan Test Canceled, Leaving Team Disappointed

New Zealand’s Afghanistan Test Canceled, Leaving Team Disappointed

By September 13, 2024 0

New Zealand’s Test match against Afghanistan was canceled due to persistent rain and outfield issues, leaving the team disappointed and without any match practice before their upcoming series against Sri Lanka and India. Head coach Gary Stead expressed frustration over the missed opportunity to acclimatize to subcontinent conditions.

The one-off Test was not part of the World Test Championship, but Stead emphasized its importance to the team. “Test cricket is very, very dear to the team’s hearts,” he said. “Every Test you get to play in is a big one.”

Despite the cancellation, Stead praised Afghanistan’s recent achievements in white-ball cricket, including their victory over New Zealand in the 2024 T20 World Cup group stage. He welcomed the prospect of playing more Tests against Afghanistan in the future.

“Afghanistan have knocked just about every top team in the world over now,” Stead said. “They’re certainly a force and becoming more and more of a force in world cricket.”

New Zealand’s remaining eight Tests in the World Test Championship cycle will be played in Asia, and Stead is confident in the team’s ability to adapt to the conditions. “We’ve been there once in the past, and we are desperate to get there again,” he said of the World Test Championship final.

“The conditions that we face in Galle will be, I’m sure, different to Bangalore, Pune, and Mumbai when we come back here again,” Stead added. “So it’s still about adapting to the different surfaces.”

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WTC Race Heats Up: Sri Lanka, India, Australia Lead the Charge

WTC Race Heats Up: Sri Lanka, India, Australia Lead the Charge

By September 10, 2024 0

The World Test Championship (WTC) is heating up as teams vie for a spot in the Lord’s final. With 12 series remaining, the race for the top two positions is intensifying.

Sri Lanka:

Sri Lanka’s victory at The Oval has boosted their chances of a top-two finish. If they win all six remaining matches, they will reach 69.23%, likely securing their place in the final. Five wins would still keep them in contention with 61.54%.

England:

England’s defeat to Sri Lanka has dashed their hopes of reaching 60%. Their maximum achievable percentage is now 57.95%, which could be enough if other results favor them. However, they will need help from other teams to finish second.

India:

India remains atop the standings with 68.52%. To maintain their percentage above 60%, they need 63 more points, which they can achieve with five wins and a draw. Six wins would increase their percentage to 64.03%, while seven wins would match their current score of 69.3%.

Australia:

Australia, currently in second place, needs 47 more points from their remaining seven Tests to stay above 60%. They can achieve this with four wins or three wins and three draws. Their final standing will largely depend on their performance in the five-Test home series against India.

Bangladesh:

Bangladesh’s series win in Pakistan has propelled them to fourth place. If they win all six remaining Tests, they will reach 72.92%, while four wins would keep them at 56.25%.

Pakistan:

Pakistan’s loss to Bangladesh and slow over-rate penalties have dropped their percentage to 19.05%. Their maximum achievable percentage is 59.52%, which requires them to win all seven remaining Tests.

New Zealand:

New Zealand has played only six of their 14 Tests. They need at least 65 points from their remaining eight Tests to reach 60%. However, three of those Tests will be in India, making it a challenging task.

South Africa:

South Africa can reach 69.44% if they win all six remaining Tests. They have home series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan, but a two-Test series in Bangladesh could prove tricky.

West Indies:

West Indies have only scored 20 points from four series. Even if they win their last four Tests, they can only finish on 43.59%.

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South Africa's Bangladesh Test Tour Decision Looms Amid Security Concerns

South Africa’s Bangladesh Test Tour Decision Looms Amid Security Concerns

By September 9, 2024 0

Cricket South Africa (CSA) is facing a crucial decision regarding the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, scheduled to commence on October 21. The decision hinges on security assessments currently underway, following concerns raised after anti-government protests in Bangladesh earlier this year.

CSA, in collaboration with the South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA), will make a final call by the end of this week. The Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, initially slated for Bangladesh, was relocated due to the unrest.

Sources within CSA indicate that the situation in Bangladesh has improved, but the organization emphasizes that player safety remains paramount. A collective decision will be made, with individual players unlikely to have the final say on whether to tour.

South Africa’s Test schedule has been condensed to two-match series in this World Test Championship cycle, prioritizing the launch of the SA20 domestic T20 league and cost-cutting measures. The team has played six Tests so far, winning two, losing three, and drawing one.

To qualify for the WTC final at Lord’s next year, South Africa needs to win at least five of their remaining six matches. If they tour Bangladesh, they are unlikely to field Marco Jansen or Gerald Coetzee, who are expected to return to action in November.

South Africa’s next assignment is a white-ball series against Afghanistan and Ireland in the UAE, where several new faces are expected to feature.

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New Zealand Arrives for Historic Test Against Afghanistan

New Zealand Arrives for Historic Test Against Afghanistan

By September 5, 2024 0

New Zealand’s formidable Test squad, led by veteran pacer Tim Southee, has arrived in India for their historic one-off Test against Afghanistan. The match, scheduled for September 9 at the Greater Noida Sports Complex Ground, marks the first red-ball encounter between the two nations.

The BlackCaps boast a star-studded lineup, including former skipper Kane Williamson, who recently opted out of a central contract. Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra add depth to the batting order, while Tom Latham remains the vice-captain.

Recognizing the importance of spin bowling in Indian conditions, New Zealand has included five spin options in Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner, Ajaz Patel, and part-timers Phillips and Ravindra. They will hold their first practice session on Friday.

This Test serves as a crucial preparation for New Zealand’s upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka, which is part of the World Test Championship (WTC). After Sri Lanka, the BlackCaps will return to India for a three-match Test series against Rohit Sharma’s men, also part of the WTC calendar.

The three games against India will be played in Bengaluru, Pune, and Mumbai in October and November. New Zealand currently sits third in the ICC WTC points table, behind India and Australia.

This historic Test against Afghanistan provides a valuable opportunity for both teams to showcase their skills and gain valuable experience ahead of the upcoming WTC challenges.

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