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2022-10-03 20:21

Irani Trophy: Saurashtra delay inevitable vs Rest with spirited batting show

Rajkot, Oct 3 (Cricket News) Saurashtra's middle and lower-order showed a lot of stomach for fight, adding 281 runs by No. 6 to 8 batters, but Rest of India remained firm favourites to win the Irani Cup match here on Monday.

At stumps on third day, Saurashtra reached to 368/8, riding on half-centuries from the quartet comprising Sheldon Jackson (71), Arpit Vasavada (55), Prerak Mankad (72) and skipper Jaydev Unadkat (78 batting).

The overall lead is 92 runs now and Saurashtra will like to stretch it to at least 175 in order to set the cat among the pigeons.

With 276 runs in arrears, Saurashtra were literally staring at a humiliating innings defeat after being reduced to 87 for 5 before lunch.

However, Jackson and Vasavada, who have bailed Saurashtra out many-a-times in the past, added 117 runs for the sixth wicket to steady the ship.

But, it was the 144-run eighth wicket stand between Unadkat and all-rounder Mankad that raised visions -- however improbable it may look at the moment -- of pulling off a heist.

The duo not only had a century stand but also scored the runs at a quick clip -- in only 29.3 overs -- to keep the contest alive.

If it was Jackson who took the attack back to the opposition by repeatedly stepping out to left-arm spinner Saurabh Kumar (3/80 in 25 overs) to disturb his length, the pair of Unadkat and Mankad used the extra pace of Kuldeep Sen (3/85 in 16 overs) and Umran Malik (0/59 in 16 overs) to their advantage.

They hit six sixes from the bowling of Jackson, Vasavada and Unadkat.

Pujara fails again =========== Cheteshwar Pujara (1) would like to forget this Irani Cup match in a hurry as a rookie pacer like Kuldeep made life difficult for him with his extra pace and bounce.

On this ground, Pujara has hardly failed but his lack of feet movement and late reaction to deliveries with that extra kick will surely not go unnoticed as far as selectors Chetan Sharma and Sunil Joshi are concerned.

The problems that has been his undoing at the Test level is now resurfacing at the domestic level where he earlier used to rule.

Bowlers with extra pace at the domestic level are also asking Pujara probing questions.

Kuldeep got one to rear up from length on the off-stump and Pujara just dangled his bat with KS Bharat taking an easy catch.

Brief Scores: Saurashtra 98 and 368/8 (Jaydev Unadkat 78 batting, Prerak Mankad 72, Sheldon Jackson 71, Cheteshwar Pujara 1, Saurabh Kumar 3/80, Kuldeep Sen 3/85).

Rest of India 374.

Saurashtra ahead by 92 runs.

Also Read : Meghana dazzles as India beat Malaysia by 30 runs via D/L method

News Source : PTI

2022-10-03 20:17

Indian men's hockey team to play 5-match 'Test series' in Australia in Nov-Dec

New Delhi, Oct 3 (Cricket News) The Indian men's hockey team will tour Australia to play a five-match 'Test series' in November-December.

The Indians, currently ranked fifth, will face the world number one Australians in five matches between November 26 and December 4 at the MATE Stadium in Adelaide.

The second, third and fourth matches will be played on November 27, November 30 and December 3.

It will be the first time the two sides will be meeting since the Kookaburras beat India for the gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in August.

The five-match 'Test series' will be invaluable outings for both the side in preparation for the 2023 Men's World Cup to be held in Odisha in January next year.

The Indian women's team will also be playing against the Australian women in a series of matches in May next year, for which the dates are yet to be confirmed.

A senior national Indian hockey team has not played in Australia since the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast.

"From the moment we raised the prospect of hosting these matches in Adelaide, the South Australian Government has shown enormous enthusiasm and eagerness to host, so we are delighted to bring these series to South Australia," said Hockey Australia CEO David Pryles in a statement.

"Australia and India have developed a fierce rivalry on the hockey pitch in recent times. Coupled with there being a large and passionate Indian population in Adelaide, there is no doubt this series will be a hot ticket to get hold of and attract terrific crowds," he added.

Highly decorated Kookaburras co-captain Eddie Ockenden will make his 400th international appearance in the series. The 35-year-old is currently on 398 matches.

The Indian men's team is currently coached by Australian and former Kookaburra Graham Reid. They will arrive in Australia after playing back-to-back double-headers against Spain and New Zealand in the FIH Hockey Pro League 2022-2023 season in Bhubaneswar.

"This is a great opportunity for both the Indian Men and Women’s Team as these matches will serve as an ideal preparation ground ahead of marquee events like the FIH Odisha Hockey Men's World Cup Bhubaneswar-Rourkela 2023 and the Asian Games next year,” newly-elected Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey said.

"Playing against a world-class team like Australia will prove beneficial for both our Men and Women's Hockey Teams. I wish them the very best, and thank Hockey Australia for organising these Test matches," Tirkey said in the Hockey Australia statement.

Also Read : Meghana dazzles as India beat Malaysia by 30 runs via D/L method

News Source : PTI

2022-10-03 17:41

Meghana dazzles as India beat Malaysia by 30 runs via D/L method

Sylhet, Oct 3 (Cricket News) Opener Sabbhineni Meghana (69) batted with authority to record her maiden T20I half-century as India defeated Malaysia by 30 runs via the Duckworth-Lewis method in the rain-curtailed Asia Cup match here on Monday.

Replacing vice-captain Smriti Mandhana at the top, Meghana hit a career-best 69 off 53 deliveries to help India post 181 for 4.

In reply, Malaysia were tottering at 16/2 in 5.2 overs when rain stopped play, far behind the 46-run mark which was the D/L par score when the match was called off.

With the win, India moved to the second spot on the points table -- with four points -- behind Pakistan.

Meghana took the Malaysian bowling attack to the sword as she brought up her career-best score in the format after India were asked to bat.

The big-hitting Shafali Verma, who is struggling for form, also pitched in but the teenager looked scratchy for the most part of her 46-run knock.

Meghana made most of the opportunity provided to her as she donned the role of the aggressor from the very first ball.

She milked boundaries every over, hitting the ball all across the ground in the powerplay as India fetched 47/0 in the first six overs.

She was dropped on 14 by skipper Winifred Duraisingam (2/36) in the third over and the right-hander made the Malaysian's pay for the error as she raced to fifty with a boundary.

Poor fielding only added to Malaysia's woes as the Indian women looked on course for a 200-plus score.

However, Duraisingam got the big-wicket of Meghana. The Indian looked to drive only to chip the ball straight into the hands of extra cover, sending the entire Malaysian team into frenzy.

Shafali, who had played the second second fiddle to perfection, smashed a couple of sixes but failed to carry on the momentum once Meghana was out.

Richa Ghosh was elevated to the number three spot and the young wicketkeeper played a fluent 33-run knock, finding the gaps beautifully.

But Shafali struggled to accelerate as Malaysia tightened their bowling and fielding while also triggering a mini-batting collapse.

In the eventful penultimate over, Shafali was bowled by 17-year-old Nur Dania Syuhada (2/9) off the first delivery before the spinner got rid of Kiran Navgire (0) in the next ball.

It would have been three-wicket haul for the teenager had Richa not been dropped at deep mid-wicket on 31.

Defending 181, spinners Deepti Sharma (1/10) and Rajeshwari Gayakwad (1/6) got rid of openers Winifred Duraisingam (0) and Wan Julia (1) before rain stopped play.

Also Read : Is leaving out Shami from the ODI squad vs South Africa a mistake?

News Source : PTI

2022-10-03 16:47

Is leaving out Shami from the ODI squad vs South Africa a mistake?

(Cricket news) The BCCI has announced the squad that will take on South Africa in the 3 ODIs. As expected none of the players in the T20 World Cup squad will be playing the ODIs. Three of the reserves for the World Cup i.e Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Chahar and Ravi Bishnoi are in the squad while Mohammed Shami is not. The 3 matches will be played at Lucknow, Ranchi and New Delhi. The series will be very important for the players to try and break into the first team with the ODI World Cup coming next. It is unclear whether South Africa will be playing their first choice squad but it will still be a good challenge for the men in blue.

India’s ODI squad: Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubhman Gill, Shreyas Iyer (vice-captain), Rajat Patidar, Rahul Tripathi, Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Shahbaz Ahmed, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan, Mohd. Siraj, Deepak Chahar

There are 4 changes to the squad that faced Zimbabwe. Prasidh Krishna misses out due to injury while Axar Patel, Deepak Hooda and KL Rahul are playing in the T20 World Cup. Shabaz Ahmed retains his form while Ravi Bishnoi comes back after being rested against Zimbabwe. Bishnoi unfortunately missed out on the T20 World Cup squad but he will be looking to make a mark in the ODI format. Mukesh Kumar and Rajat Patidar who have been performing well for India A have received their maiden international call-up. There is still no place in the squad for Prithvi Shaw who has been in good form in domestic cricket.

The big absence is that of Mohammed Shami. Earlier this year there were reports that Shami would not be considered for T20Is. The only white ball series he played was against England and he has been rested for the other series. After the disappointment of the Asia Cup, the selectors brought back Shami into the T20 set up by selecting him for the series against South Africa and Australia and naming him in the reserves for the T20 World Cup. He was ruled out for both the series due to Covid but now has reportedly recovered. It is understandable for Shami to be rested for a few series but right now he is being rested way too much. If he has recovered from Covid then the seamer definitely deserves to be in the squad because he hasn't played cricket in a while.

Jasprit Bumrah is likely to be ruled out of the World Cup and Shami is in line to replace him which gives the selectors another reason to make him play the ODIs to reach match fitness. It will be very difficult for Shami to go into the World Cup, having not played an international game in such a long time. Siraj and Chahar, who are also in contention if Bumrah is ruled out of the World Cup are both in the squad and unless Shami still has Covid, there is no reason for him to be excluded from the squad.

Also read: Batting heroics help India to series win over South Africa

2022-10-03 16:42

SA Series: Series in bag but India face stern bowling test in final T20, Iyer likely to replace rested Kohli

Indore, Oct 3 (Cricket News) It may be an inconsequential game on paper but Indian bowlers await another tough test against South Africa ahead of the T20 World Cup when the two teams meet in the final game of the three-match series here on Tuesday.

Having sealed their first-ever series against South Africa at home, Indian team management has decided to rest its premier batter Virat Kohli for the final game.

"He has been rested from the final T20I," said a BCCI official.

After the final game against the Proteas, Kohli will link up with the squad in Mumbai from where the team is scheduled to leave for Australia on October 6 for the T20 World Cup.

It is expected that standby batter Shreyas Iyer will replace Kohli for the final game in the playing XI.

Since their early exit from the T20 World Cup 12 months ago, the Indian batting has come a long way and looks formidable ahead of the next edition beginning later this month.

Majority of the batters remain the same from the UAE edition but it is the drastic change in approach which has made the difference.

Heading into the ICC event, India's high-profile top-three have hit top form including K L Rahul who allayed concerns about his strike rate with a sublime effort on Sunday.

Kohli has batted a 140 plus strike rate since the Asia Cup that includes three 50s and a much-awaited hundred. Skipper Rohit has come up with impactful innings over the course of the six games at home against Australia and South Africa.

Number four Suryakumar Yadav is in a league of his own and seems to be batting at a much higher level than his teammates, so much so that Rohit is contemplating to play him straight in the team's World Cup opener against Pakistan on October 23.

Rishabh Pant is yet to bat in the series and though Dinesh Karthik got seven balls in the second T20, he too would be hoping to get a hit in the middle.

Jasprit Bumrah's absence has compounded India's bowling woes, especially in the death overs, but the team needs to find a way if the star pacer doesn't get fit in time for the ICC event.

Deepak Chahar, who is among World Cup reserves, has been impressive with the new ball but question marks remain over his efficacy towards the back end of the innings.

Arshdeep Singh has made an impact both with new and old ball but was unusually expensive on Sunday. Having bowled as many as three no balls, it was a forgettable night for the left-arm pacer who would be eager to bounce back.

The variations that Harshal Patel relies on to keep the batters in check have not been producing the desired results since his return from injury.

Red ball great R Ashwin is yet to get a wicket in the series and India will be looking to him for wickets in the middle overs.

Drafted into the squad in Bumrah's absence, Mohammad Siraj could also get to play at Holkar Stadium but India might continue with the out of rhythm Harshal Patel as he would need more game time post injury.

In the extreme humidity of Guwahati, the South Africa pacers struggled to grip the ball and ended up offering far many full tosses to the Indian batters. They would want to rectify that.

Despite the series loss, there has been plenty of positives for the visitors in the batting department. Continuing his menacing form this year, David Miller smashed an unbeaten hundred while Quinton de Kock got much needed runs before the World Cup.

The biggest concern for the Proteas is the form of their skipper Temba Bavuma, who is yet to score a run in the series.

Teams (from) India: Rohit Sharma (captain), KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Umesh Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Shahbaz Ahmed and Mohammad Siraj.

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (captain), Quinton de Kock, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Rilee Rossouw, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs.

Match starts 7 pm IST.

Also Read : Batting heroics help India to series win over South Africa

News Source : PTI

2022-10-03 15:00

Batting heroics help India to series win over South Africa

(Cricket news) India defeated South Africa by 16 runs to seal the T20I. This is the first time India has won a T20I series against South Africa at home and it is also India's 11th consecutive bilateral T20I series win. India went into the game unchanged while South Africa brought in Lungi Ngidi for Tabraiz Shamsi. There was rain expected but it didn't interrupt the match but there were a couple of other delays. The first one was due to a snake entering the ground and the other one was when one of the light towers lost its power. While the first match was a bowlers victory, the 2nd belonged to the heroics of the batters. South Africa won the toss and put India into bat first.

The Indian openers pretty much reversed their roles as Rohit Sharma was cautious while KL Rahul played the role of aggressor. The openers added 96 before Rohit Sharma was dismissed for 43 off 37 balls after hitting 7 fours and a six. The Indian skipper continues to give India a good start by making the most of the powerplay. KL Rahul played an incredible knock of 57 off just 28 balls, he hit 5 boundaries and 4 maximums to give his side a perfect start. After Rahul was dismissed, India's ever reliable middle order duo Suryakumar Yadav and Virat Kohli added 102. Virat Kohli was playing 2nd fiddle but still had a strike rate of 175 as he scored 49 off just 28 balls. SKY once again showed his quality as he got 61 off just 22 balls. Dinesh Karthik was promoted to finish the innings as he scored 17 off just 7 balls to take India to a total of 237 runs in 20 overs.

South Africa's chase got off to a sluggish start as Temba Bavuma and Rilee Rossouw were dismissed for a duck once again. David Miller was the sole warrior as he scored an unbeaten 106 off just 47 balls hitting 8 fours and 7 sixes. Quinton de Kock was also unbeaten on 69 but it came from 48 balls which was not ideal in a big run chase. India bowled well up front and in the middle overs but the death bowling is still an issue for the men in blue. The bowling in the final overs is possibly the only concern India have as everything else looks pretty solid. The management may be looking to rest a few players while giving others a chance in the next match.

Also read: Dawid Malan masterclass help England clinch the series 4-3

2022-10-03 14:22

Series in bag but India face stern bowling test in final T20 against Proteas

Indore, Oct 3 (Cricket News) It may be an inconsequential game on paper but Indian bowlers await another tough test against South Africa ahead of the T20 World Cup when the two teams meet in the final game of the three-match series here on Tuesday.

Having sealed their first-ever series against South Africa at home, India can afford to rest a few of their key players but the hosts will be determined to put up a complete performance before they take the flight to Australia on October 6. Since their early exit from the T20 World Cup 12 months ago, the Indian batting has come a long way and looks formidable ahead of the next edition beginning later this month.

Majority of the batters remain the same from the UAE edition but it is the drastic change in approach which has made the difference.

Heading into the ICC event, India's high-profile top-three have hit top form including K L Rahul who allayed concerns about his strike rate with a sublime effort on Sunday.

Virat Kohli has batted a 140 plus strike rate since the Asia Cup that includes three 50s and a much-awaited hundred. Skipper Rohit has come up with impactful innings over the course of the six games at home against Australia and South Africa.

Number four Suryakumar Yadav is in a league of his own and seems to be batting at a much higher level than his teammates, so much so that Rohit is contemplating to play him straight in the team's World Cup opener against Pakistan on October 23.

If Suryakumar indeed is rested, then Shreyas Iyer is likely to take his place.

Rishabh Pant is yet to bat in the series and though Dinesh Karthik got seven balls in the second T20, he too would be hoping to get a hit in the middle.

Jasprit Bumrah's absence has compounded India's bowling woes, especially in the death overs, but the team needs to find a way if the star pacer doesn't get fit in time for the ICC event.

Deepak Chahar, who is among World Cup reserves, has been impressive with the new ball but question marks remain over his efficacy towards the back end of the innings.

Arshdeep Singh has made an impact both with new and old ball but was unusually expensive on Sunday. Having bowled as many as three no balls, it was a forgettable night for the left-arm pacer who would be eager to bounce back.

The variations that Harshal Patel relies on to keep the batters in check have not been producing the desired results since his return from injury.

Red ball great R Ashwin is yet to get a wicket in the series and India will be looking to him for wickets in the middle overs.

Drafted into the squad in Bumrah's absence, Mohammad Siraj could get to play at Holkar Stadium.

In the extreme humidity of Guwahati, the South Africa pacers struggled to grip the ball and ended up offering far many full tosses to the Indian batters. They would want to rectify that.

Despite the series loss, there has been plenty of positives for the visitors in the batting department. Continuing his menacing form this year, David Miller smashed an unbeaten hundred while Quinton de Kock got much needed runs before the World Cup.

The biggest concern for the Proteas is the form of their skipper Temba Bavuma, who is yet to score a run in the series.

Teams (from) India: Rohit Sharma (captain), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Umesh Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Shahbaz Ahmed and Mohammad Siraj.

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (captain), Quinton de Kock, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Rilee Rossouw, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs.

Match starts 7 pm IST.

Also Read : Not much to worry about, Australians won title despite struggles before World Cup: Miller

News Source : PTI

2022-10-03 14:15

Not much to worry about, Australians won title despite struggles before World Cup: Miller

Guwahati, Oct 3 (Cricket News) Formidable South African batter David Miller has a firm belief that the series-defeat against India won't make them a lesser force at the fast-approaching T20 World Cup as he cited Australia's title triumph in the previous edition despite their wretched run ahead of the big-ticket event.

South African top-order batters struggled badly while their bowlers were also not at their best on Sunday as India took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series with a 16-run win in the second game here.

The loss will hurt them little, said Miller, saying Australia had also struggled badly in 2021 but eventually they became the world champions. Australia had entered the World Cup after five back-to-back series defeats in the format.

"There're a lot of stories in the past with one being Australia not doing too well before the World Cup, and then they end up winning the World Cup. So I don't think it's too much to worry about," Miller told reporters at the post-match interaction here.

"We've built up a really good squad over the last year and a half. We get on really well with each other. We've linked in nicely, great partnerships. We've won a lot of series last year.

"To have lost the series tonight was obviously very disappointing, but in the past we've really competed well and at least we can walk away with our heads held high, but it is still disappointing losing the series." The Temba Bavuma-led side was set a stiff target of 238 but the skipper departed without bothering the scorer for the second successive time. Rilee Rossouw also scored a duck.

However Miller produced a counter-attacking knock of 106 not out from 47 balls and was well-supported by Quinton de Kock's 48-ball 69 not out to make a match of it.

"We didn't bat well the previous game. We didn't start this game too well but we managed to get a really good partnership and put on a competitive game at the end of it," he said.

Miller, though, chose not be very "harsh" on his bowlers.

"There were over 400 runs in the game, I don't want to be too harsh on the bowlers, but I think that there was a little bit of lack of execution at times.

"But they were really good in the previous game -- extremely good. A few areas that we can work on still leading up to the World Cup, so we still have time." Miller had a special mention for the packed Barsapara Stadium.

"It is tough coming here as an opposition to play in Indian conditions with the crowd behind India the way they are. They are very loud. You can use that to your advantage as well. Just enjoy the atmosphere. You don't get this kind of atmosphere anywhere in the world." The match witnessed interruptions twice -- first when a snake entered the field and then one of the floodlights went off during the South African innings.

But Miller said it gave them a welcome break.

"You know, that's out of our control, and it kind of just gave us a bit of time to just process what actually happened in the power play -- the first couple of overs. It gave us a little bit of time to chat about it and think about the way forward.

"And then, there was the issue with the snake as well. So, I mean, there was a lot going on today."

Also Read : Dawid Malan masterclass help England clinch the series 4-3

News Source : PTI

2022-10-03 13:18

Dawid Malan masterclass help England clinch the series 4-3

(Cricket news) England brought on their A game as they were impressive with both bat and ball to register a comprehensive win in the seventh T20I at Lahore and clinch a hard-fought series 4-3. England set a mammoth target of 209 with the bat, then England stayed on top with the ball as well with Pakistan falling short by 67 runs. England had small contributions right through the batting order but the majority of the work was done by Dawid Malan, who scored a 47-ball 78. His stand of 106 with Harry Brook powered England and then Malan went onto add 62 with Ben Duckett which steadied the innings after a wobbly start.

After a quickfire opening partnership between Phil Salt and Alex Hales, they fell in the space of three balls. Hales was trapped LBW by Mohammad Hasnain while Salt was run out when he was involved in a mix-up with Malan. With England in danger of setting a low target, Malan and Duckett took a watchful approach initially and gave England the much needed base to build on from. Malan then went on to get his fifty off 34 balls, and after the run out of Duckett, he began to increase his strike rate. He was very fortunate to have been dropped once on 29 by Babar Azam at cover, while his partner Harry Brook had similar faith when Babar dropped him on 24. Both Brook and Malan upped the ante in the final four overs with 55 runs coming, including 20 runs off the final over.

In the second innings, Pakistan were dealt with a massive blow early on as first Babar Azam chipped a catch to cover in the first over and then one ball later, Mohammad Rizwan was bowled by Reece Topley leaving Pakistan on 5/2 and on the backfoot straight away. It was Chris Woakes who set the tone early with the wicket of Azam but he was supported well by the other England bowlers. In the middle overs, Adil Rashid proved to be difficult to hit against, especially on a track that offered turn right in the second innings. The pacers remained in the game for long periods by taking the pace off the ball, which resulted in three of the wickets. For Pakistan, Shan Masood scored a fifty but he struggled to up the ante right through against a very good bowling line up. Now England have three T20Is against Australia while Pakistan travel to New Zealand to play in a tri-series also involving Bangladesh as preparation for the World Cup.

Brief Scores: England 209/3 (Dawid Malan 78*, Harry Brook 46*) beat Pakistan 142/8 (Shan Masood 56; Chris Woakes 3-26) by 67 runs

Also read: Surya, Rahul show seals T20I series win over India against SA

2022-10-03 11:48

Higher strike rate was a demand of innings: Rahul

Guwahati, Oct 3 (Cricket News) Shortly after he let his bat do the talking amid criticism regarding his slow strike rate, India opener KL Rahul countered his detractors, saying he bats according to the "demand of the innings." Rahul sizzled with a 28-ball 57 in the India's series-clinching 16-run win over South Africa in the second T20I to silence his critics on Sunday.

The Indian vice-captain's strike rate had come under scanner during the Asia Cup and his 56-ball 51 against South Africa in the series opener at Thiruvananthapuram.

"Yes, going at a higher strike rate was a demand of this innings," Rahul said at the post-match press conference.

"When you are batting first you obviously want to give yourself a couple of overs to assess the conditions to see what are the shots that you can play, you talk to your partner," "You sort of give yourself a target and then you try and play accordingly. We've always tried to be more aggressive, take a lot of risks. that was what needed from me today and I'm happy that it came off today," he added.

Rahul was seen hitting a couple of sixes effortlessly over fine square leg with his impressive wrist work.

"Yes, there's a certain gift all of us have, that's why we are playing for the country. We have gotten this far because there's naturally certain talents.

"It's T20 cricket, you have to get in position to try to hit sixes. When the balls come at 145kmph, you don't have much time to see the ball and react, you hit with instinct. It's a lot of practice over the years," he said.

Their aggressive approach while batting was a conscious effort post the last T20 World Cup debacle in UAE where India failed to make the knockouts.

"That effort has been there for last 10-12 months since the last World Cup, that (scoring big runs batting first) is something that we have consciously tried to get better at. We've done it whenever we've gotten opportunities. something took back and that was our learning." Bowling not a concern ============== Rahul also came to the rescue of India's under-fire pacers who capped another poor outing here on Sunday.

Defending 237, India reduced the South Africans to 47/3 but the hosts were unable to break the 174-run partnership between David Miller and Quinton de Kock as the duo almost led the Proteas to a memorable victory.

"If it was such a big concern then I don't think we would've won so many games. It's never that one skill that wins you games," Rahul said.

"We always want to keep getting better as a team. Today was one of those days when our bowlers couldn't execute seven out of 10 balls or so but that doesn't mean it will keep happening. This is something we need to learn and get better at." "In the last game they restricted the team to 106 and today they went for runs. You have to take into consideration the conditions also, the pitch," the 30-year-old added.

Arshdeep Singh, who dismissed Temba Bavuma and Rilee Rossouw in three balls in his first over, leaked 62 runs in his four overs, while Harshal Patel had the poor figures of 4-0-45-0. Both of them are in the World Cup-bound squad.

The Indian opener, who hit a successive half century, added that the dew made it difficult for the bowlers to grip the ball.

"It was humid and there was dew, so it was hard for the bowlers to grip the ball and when the opposition is chasing 240, you know batters are gonna come hard, try and smash every ball." "In a format like this, you will have good and bad days both as batters and bowlers. It's a high intensity and high-risk game."

Also Read : To bowl and bat in death overs is very tough but we need to get our act together: Rohit

News Source : PTI

2022-10-03 10:58

To bowl and bat in death overs is very tough but we need to get our act together: Rohit

Guwahati, Oct 3 (Cricket News) Rohit Sharma admitted that T20 contests are pretty much settled during the death overs and India skipper wants a better execution of plans from his team mates, though he is not overly worried about his team's consistent struggle at that crucial stage of the match.

Invited to bat, India posted a mammoth 237 for 3 in the second T20 on Sunday but the Proteas took the game deep before eventually falling short by 16 runs as the hosts claimed their first series-win over South African at home.

"The team wants to play and bowl in a certain way and we want to give them that confidence. Yes, we have not bowled well at the death in the last five or six games. We are doing the same to the opposition as well," Rohit said during the post-match presentation ceremony.

"To bowl and bat at the death is very tough. That is where the game is decided. It is not concerning, but we need to pick ourselves and get our act together." India's top four batters once again came up with splendid effort and Rohit said they would look to continue their ultra-aggressive approach.

"It is something that all of came together and said was what we wanted to do as a team. It might not come across at times, but we want to stick to it," he said.

"What I have seen in the last 8-10 months is individuals putting their hand up and getting the job done for the team. Guys without too much experience did this as well." A disappointed South Africa captain Temba Bavuma put the blame on his bowlers.

"It wasn't our best performance, the conditions were different. We couldn't execute our plans. Late with the bat, I thought we could have given it a good go with 220 but 240 was too high," he said.

For South Africa, David Miller yet again put on display his big-hitting prowess with a 47-ball 106 not out, studded with eight fours and seven sixes.

"Miller was looking good, lot of confidence to be taken from his performance. The conditions were tough, we tried to get it swinging the ball early. But when it reduced, we saw how easy it was," the SA skipper said.

India will next take on South Africa in the third and final T20I on October 4 in Indore.

Also Read : Surya, Rahul show seals T20I series win over India against SA

News Source : PTI

2022-10-03 10:41

Surya, Rahul show seals T20I series win over India against SA

Guwahati, Oct 2 (Cricket News) Indian batters were at their ruthless best with Suryakumar Yadav and opener KL Rahul leading the charge as they defeated South Africa by 16 runs despite David Miller's unbeaten century in the second T20I to clinch the thee-match series here on Sunday.

Rahul (57 off 28 balls) and Yadav toyed (61 off 22 balls) the Proteas attack with sensational fifties as the Indian top-four batters once again put up a superlative display to post a massive 237 for 3 -- their highest score against South Africa.

That 178 runs came from boundaries -- 25 fours and 13 sixes -- showed the Indians dominance against the Kagiso Rabada-led South African attack which looked mediocre all through.

Chasing a massive target of 238, the South Africans could score 237 for 3 in their 20 overs with David Miller remaining not out on 106 off 47 balls.

This was the first ever series win for India over South Africa in the T20I format on home soil.

India had won the first match by eight wickets on September 28. The third and final match of the series is slated in Indore on October 4.

Arshdeep Singh gave India a perfect start while defending 237, extending the run of ducks of South African skipper Temba Bavuma and Rilee Rossouw to two matches. Arshdeep, however, leaked runs at the death overs to return with figures of 4-0-62-2.

South Africa were put into submission at the score of 1/2 inside two overs and they could never recover from there.

At the other end, Deepak Chahar (4-1-24-0) held up firmly before R Ashwin (4-0-37-0) joined in the act to take the match out of the Proteas reach with some tight bowling.

The highlight of South Africa innings was David Miller's roaring return to form with his second T20I century with an unbeaten 106 from 47 balls.

Quinton de Kock too was back among runs in a 48-ball 69 not out as the duo put together 174 runs from 84 balls but it proved not enough.

Earlier Rohit Sharma (43 off 37 balls), who became the first Indian to play 400 T20 matches, started it all before Rahul took off.

Replying to his critics, Rahul (57) was back at his aggressive best, slamming a 24-ball fifty, his second in a row, as he and Rohit put on 96 runs for the opening wicket that came off just 59 balls.

Yadav then continued his insane 360-degree assault with a third successive half-century that came off just 18 deliveries and India crossed the 200-mark in the 18th over.

Virat Kohli gave him a perfect support and became the first Indian to get to 11,000 T20 runs during his 49 not out.

Playing a selfless knock, he gave designated finisher Dinesh Karthik the maximum strike. Karthik slammed 17 not out from seven balls to cap a perfect batting display for India.

The South African pacers looked lacklustre and bowled full and the Indians feasted on to them.

Also Read : Indian batters toy SA attack, post massive 237/3

News Source : PTI

2022-10-02 21:09

Indian batters toy SA attack, post massive 237/3

Guwahati, Oct 2 (Cricket News) The Indian top-four batters once again put up a superlative show to post a massive 237 for 3 in the second T20 International against South Africa here on Sunday.

A sellout crowd witnessed raining boundaries at the small ACA Barsapara Stadium as the Indian batters smashed 25 fours and 13 sixes. They scored 178 runs in boundaries.

Rohit Sharma (43 off 37 balls) and KL Rahul (57 off 28 balls) started it before Suryakumar Yadav (61 off 22 balls), Virat Kohli (49 not out) and Dinesh Karthik (17 not out) finished it off in style.

Replying to his critics, Rahul (57) was back at his aggressive best, slamming a 24-ball fifty, his second in a row, as he and Rohit put on 96 runs for the opening wicket that came off just 59 balls.

Yadav then continued to raise his standards higher with a third successive half-century that came off just 18 deliveries and India crossed the 200-mark in the 18th over.

With the top-four doing the bulk of the scoring, India's designated finisher Karthik got just seven balls but he made the most of the opportunity, smashing two sixes and one four in his quickfire 17 not out.

The South African pacers looked lacklustre and bowled full and the Indians feasted on to them.

Rohit first began the onslaught and Rahul followed it up in style after Temba Bavuma put them in.

After being hit on his hand from Wayne Parnell in the second over, Rohit came out all guns blazing while Rahul was a mute spectator with nine from five balls.

It was then the turn of Rahul who whipped the ball over square leg with perfect demonstration of his wrist work.

It was a shot that summed up his dominating innings as he took on Nortje in a similar fashion, this time whipping the bowler a little deep.

There was no signs of tentativeness in Rahul's batting that had copped much criticism as he raced to his fifty in just 24 balls, stepping down to Aiden Markram for a six over long-on.

India were 57 for no loss inside the power play and there was no stopping the duo when a snake gave South Africans a bit of a breather.

In a rare sight, the snake slithered out onto the field from the extra cover region to stop play for about five minutes before the groundsmen captured it in a bucket.

Also Read : Mukesh, Rajat earn maiden India call-up for SA ODIs

News Source : PTI

2022-10-02 14:10

When KL Rahul feels he has got nothing to lose, he can even strike at 180: Shane Watson

New Delhi, Oct 2 (Cricket News) KL Rahul bats at his best when he has a "nothing to lose" approach and that is how former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson wants the opener to play at the T20 World Cup beginning later this month.

Rahul's strike rate came under scanner during the Asia Cup and the ongoing home series against South Africa.

Though India had to chase down only 107 in the first T20 against the Proteas, questions were raised over Rahul's intent as he ended with 51 not out off 56 balls.

Speaking to PTI, Watson said Rahul needs to be aggressive from ball one in the World Cup Down Under.

"KL Rahul is is one of my favourite batters. To me when he is batting at his best, when he is aggressive, he takes the game on and is not trying to control the game.

"He has got that skill, when he is just reacting to the ball coming down, he has all the shots all around the ground against the best bowlers in the world.

"I love seeing him when he feels like he's got nothing to lose, then he can even strike at 180 without taking too much risk. If he is able to do that (in Australia), there will be a lot of bowlers in trouble," said one of the best all-rounders to have played for Australia.

Watson is currently in India for Legends League Cricket.

"Biggest concern is India's fast bowling" ======================== With serious question marks over the availability of the injured Jasprit Bumrah for the ICC event, India's pace attack seems like their weakest link.

Watson thinks on similar lines and wants Mohammad Siraj to take Bumrah's place if the latter is deemed unfit for the World Cup.

"India have certainly got the batting to do incredibly well in Australian conditions but the biggest question mark is around their fast bowling.

"The spinners, Axar Patel and Yuzi Chahal, are as good as anyone in the world in all conditions but the fast bowling without Bumrah in particular, whether they can execute skills under pressure at the back end of the game. That is where teams will be trying to expose India." India need a bowler who can bowl in excess of 140kmph in the absence of Bumrah, said Watson.

"It is a genuine concern (lack of express pace), that is why Siraj will be a good option if Bumrah isn't there.

"The pace at which he bowls and the skills he has got, swinging it away and pushing towards 150 kmph with the brand new ball and he can execute well in the end as well.

"He provides that element that other Indian bowlers don't necessarily have," said the 41-year-old adding that he would pick Siraj over Mohammad Shami in the squad.

"Way Hardik is batting and bowling is special" =========================== From one top all-rounder to another, Watson heaped praise on Hardik Pandya, saying he can make a huge impact in every game he plays for India.

Ever since his comeback from injury, Hardik has done the job with both bat and ball.

"I love nothing more than seeing an all-rounder who is bowling at good pace and hits the ball like Hardik does. To be able to see him work through his body issues and bowling like he is right now, it is something very special.

"He is a match-winning kid. Every time he bowls in the game, he can make a huge impact. His batting continues to go through the roof.

"Everyone knew he had the genuine technique to bat trough the middle overs and not just be a power hitter in the end. He has shown that. And he's bowling at 140 plus," said Watson.

The affable Australian is also backing Virat Kohli to get a bagful of runs in Australia like he has done in the past.

"It's awesome (that he's back in form). The great thing is he was able to have some time off to be able to re-energise his batteries. Some of the shots he played against Australian quicks (in the recent series), you knew he was back to his best." Speaking a bit about Australian cricket, Watson said Steve Smith and David Warner should be considered to captain the ODI side after Aaron Finch's retirement.

He feels the duo has paid for the mistakes it made, referring to the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

"It's going to be interesting to see which way Australia go. They have got two players waiting, Warner and Smith. I am not sure whether they would go down that route, I personally feel they definitely should because they have paid for their mistakes in a huge way.

"We need to move on from and pick the most appropriate person who can do the job under pressure."

Also Read : Great to play alongside Gayle, Harbhajan in Legends League Cricket: Brett Lee

News Source : PTI

2022-10-01 19:12

Won't go deep in medical reports, will wait for official confirmation: Dravid on Bumrah

Guwahati, Oct 1 (Cricket News) Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is set to miss the T20 World Cup due to an injury but head coach Rahul Dravid on Saturday said he won't go deep into his medical reports and will wait for an official confirmation regarding his availability for the showpiece in Australia.

India suffered a big setback when their pace spearhead Bumrah was ruled out of their final preparatory series against South Africa due to stress fracture in his lower back.

"We are awaiting the official confirmation on the next steps. As of now, he's officially ruled out of this (SA) series. But we will see what happens over the next few days," Dravid told reporters on the eve of the second T20I against South Africa.

Usually a stress fracture in the back takes about six months to heal completely but Dravid said they are still "hopeful".

"Honestly, I've not gone deeply into the medical reports, I rely on the experts to tell me what it is. They ruled him out for this series and he's being assessed. We will know in due course what happens in the future," the 49-year-old said.

"Obviously till he's completely ruled out, and we get an official confirmation that he's ruled out, we will always be hopeful. We will always hope for the best just for us as a team and Jasprit as an individual." Bumrah, who has been out of action since the India tour of England in July, had recently made a comeback during the home T20I series against Australia but the 28-year-old has been forced to head back to the National Cricket Academy for rehab again.

Bumrah's spate of injuries, despite his workload being carefully looked after by the think-tank, has become a matter of debate.

Bumrah played all the 14 IPL matches for his franchise Mumbai Indians and since then he only featured in six Internationals in four months.

Doing rehab at the NCA, Bumrah made a comeback in the preceding Australia series where he played two matches and travelled with the team to Thiruvananthapuram for the 1st T20I against South Africa only to be ruled out ahead of the game.

"To a large extent we manage to get everything. Not everything will be perfect. It happens, it's part and parcel of the game, we are not the only team which suffers from injuries.

"Obviously if they happen closer to big tournaments they can upset your plans a little bit. Everyone is making good efforts to minimise the injuries as much as possible," Dravid defended their workload management.

The former India skipper said it's normal to have injury issues and added they really work hard with their sports science team to manage the players' workloads.

"I don't think there is a team in the world which can say they don't have injuries at all. It's part of the game, you play the game a lot, you play it all the time, people will get injured, that's the nature of the sport," he said.

There has been a lot of debate on who is going to replace Bumrah if he is officially ruled out as only two weeks are left for their World Cup warm-up fixture against Australia.

But Dravid said they are in their comfort zone, having got all the skill sets for different conditions and rival sides in Australia.

"We are quite comfortable that we have got all the skills that allow us to play different combinations and different kinds of XIs based on the wickets and oppositions. That's really important in a World cup when you play in 4-5 different venues.

"You need to have that little bit of versatility and flexibility in your squad that allows you to change things.

"Over the last few series, we probably have not been able to play that squad due to a variety of reasons. But most of the guys in the 15 now have had a pretty decent amount of cricket in the last six months." Dravid said they have absolute clarity on the roles assigned to each of the players in the World Cup-bound squad.

"Within the group, within the team, we have been pretty clear about the kind of combinations we want, the kind of players that we are likely to play in the XI. You can't pick an XI months in advance, you don't know the wicket, and what it's like.

"We have been pretty clear about the skills we want in the 15. For me, that is really important. The kind of squad we pick to the World cup, barring injuries, what were the skills that we are looking for, different kinds of bowlers, certain batting skills, we have been very clear about."

Also Read : India beat Sri Lanka by 41 runs in women's Asia Cup

News Source : PTI

2022-10-01 15:08

It's difficult to defend when Surya attacks bowlers: Parnell

Guwahati, Oct 1 (Cricket News) Suryakumar Yadav's incredibly strong and powerful batting has made him one of the most feared T20 batters at the moment and South African all-rounder Wayne Parnell says the bowlers will have to stay strong and focussed while tackling him.

Surya slammed a 33-ball 50 in India's eight-wicket win over South Africa on a tricky track in the series-opener.

"Personally from what I've watched in the last couple of months, I think he's probably the best T20 batters at the moment. He scores 360-degree which is very difficult for bowlers to defend," he said on the eve of the second and penultimate T20I of the series.

"It's about being strong and focussed on each ball. He's allowed to play good shots, but the other day he was lucky as well. He's certainly a guy whom I enjoyed watching the last couple of months. He's certainly playing good cricket," Parnell said.

Parnell insisted that their flop show in the first T20I was an aberration and there's no need to panic before the T20 World Cup in Australia.

"It's just one of those things. It wasn't a good T20 wicket and they bowled really well, but our batters have been world class in the last couple of years so there's nothing to panic about," he said.

On their meek show in the powerplay when they were stuttering 9 for five, Parnell said, "It's a bit of a Catch-22 situation really. Certainly experience tells you that new ball does swing so you have to have a look at the first one-two overs." "We have to credit the Indian seamers who bowled really well. We will have to define ways to counter that in the second game." Kagiso Rabada and Parnell hit the right lengths but the likes of Anrich Nortje and Tabraiz Shamsi struggled badly in the first match as the visitors looked one seamer short.

"Competition is good for the spots. Every single fast bowlers is different and has different skill sets. It's a positive sign for us. It also means that when we are presented with any particular condition, we can play a certain set of fast bowlers so I think personally having the variety that we have is really exciting," he said.

On World Cup preparation, he said: "It's been very good over the last few months. We were here in June, then went on a UK tour, coming back here again before going to Australia. Everyone is in really good spirits and looking forward to next couple of T20Is and the ODIs as well."

Also Read : Jemimah powers India to 150/6 in Asia Cup opener against SL

News Source : PTI

2022-10-01 14:34

It's where it all started for me: Gaikwad eager to play at Chepauk with CSK

Chennai Oct 1 (Cricket News) India batter Ruturaj Gaikwad is looking forward to compete for Chennai Super Kings at the Chepauk "where it all started" for him as the IPL goes back to its traditional home-and-away format from the next season.

The IPL has been held at only a few venues since the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 but with the pandemic under control, the cash-rich league will return to its old format in which each team plays one home and one away match against all teams.

Gaikwad was with the India A side for the unofficial ODIs against New Zealand A in the city, played a few days back.

"I had seen the atmosphere, I had seen the electrifying noise. I have experienced everything" Gaikwad said in video posted by CSK.

"So, obviously that was going on in mind when I would practise for two days (with India A in Chennai). I was imagining the crowd and CSK entering the stadium. So actually, I am just waiting for the moment," he added.

The opener joined CSK in 2019 but made his debut for the Yellow Army in 2020 and has thus never played at the Cheapuk with the IPL side.

"But the first time when I played here was actually special because I feel this is the place where I started my journey.

"Coming to CSK and getting to learn a lot of things, getting to know the first experience of what it is at the higher level. So this is the place where it all started." Gaikwad’s breakthrough year came in 2021 when he finished as the highest run-getter (635 runs in 16 matches) in CSK’s triumphant campaign.

Former CSK pacer Sharduk Thakur, who was also part of the recently-concluded India A series, also recalled his experience at the Chepauk.

"It feels really great, I mean, the moment I entered the stadium, it felt all nostalgic," Thakur said.

"Yes, I have had my times with CSK, I have played a few games here, but even before that, I have played Ranji (Trophy) games." Thakur was with the CSK for four seasons and was also their leading wicket-taker in IPL last year.

"2010 was my first game here in Chepauk. The stadium and the ground have changed a lot since then but I would say the weather is still the same.

"(It's an) amazing experience, I would always look forward to playing in Chepauk whenever there is an opportunity."

Also Read : Phil Salt’s blitz helps England level the series against Pakistan

News Source : PTI

2022-10-01 13:48

Team India grapple with Bumrah riddle as it chases rare series win vs SA

Guwahati, Oct 1 (Cricket News) It may be unsettled after an unexpected injury to Jasprit Bumrah but the Indian team would aim to continue its winning run and complete a rare home-series win against South Africa when the two sides clash in the second T20 International, here Sunday.

From the tranquility of Thiruvananthapuram, the Team India atmosphere, suddenly, wears a chaotic look -- much like the traffic of Guwahati, thrown out of gear in the midst of Durga Puja rush and construction of flyovers.

Bumrah was expected to play a key role in Indian team's campaign in the Australian conditions but his "back stress fracture" has ruled him out of the ICC flagship event, starting in three weeks' time.

The ongoing series was originally planned as the final tune-up for Rahul Dravid's team but Bumrah's absence from the remaining two T20Is has now thrown more questions than answers.

Umesh Yadav and Mohammad Siraj have been added to the squad as injury replacements but they do not figure in the World Cup-bound squad, as of now.

The burning question is, will the two remaining T20Is give the team management scope to test Bumrah's replacement.

The seasoned Mohammad Shami, who is in the World Cup squad as stand-by, is not here for the South Africa series.

Shami has recovered from COVID-19 and has more chances of making it to Australia because of his experience Down Under.

If that's the case, he might end up having little game time before their World Cup warm-up fixture against the reigning champions on October 16.

For the SA series, the team has a fit-again Deepak Chahar who also figures in the World Cup standby.

Chahar (4-0-24-2) looked in fine mettle when he along with young left-arm pace gun Arshdeep Singh (4-0-32-3) reduced the Proteas to 9/5 inside the power on the Greenfield track as India took a 1-0 lead.

But swing will be out of equation in conditions Down Under and Chahar is more in the mould of Bhuvenshwar Kumar, who is in the World Cup XI along with Arshdeep.

Siraj, on the other hand, has struggled of late and has inspired very little confidence.

It's a different debate altogether that Bhuvneshwar, who is short on experience -- three T20Is -- in Australia has started leaking runs and no longer holds the ace, as it was seen in their Asia Cup elimination last month.

Ditto for World Cup-bound Harshal Patel as it remains to be seen how the think-tank manages to arrange the jigsaw.

In the past, they have overcome bigger hurdles, like when in 2020-21 they won a back-to-back series in Australia with their fifth or sixth choice bowlers.

The Axar effect ============ Thankfully, it's not the case in the spin department.

Axar Patel has been a revelation after Ravindra Jadeja's knee surgery finally cemented his spot. From struggling to find a spot, Patel, a like-for-like replacement for the ace Indian all-rounder, has ticked all the boxes.

He was the top wickettaker -- eight wickets at an average of 7.87 -- in India's 2-1 win over the world T20I champions in their last series here.

And against South Africa too he was at his miserly best -- 1/16 -- bowling in the middle-overs along with Ravichandran Ashwin as it's a department that looks sorted.

For someone who has a career strike-rate of 136-plus from 30 T20Is, it's his batting that has inspired confidence in skipper Rohit Sharma: "I would like to see him batting as well." But India will head to Australia with their star-studded batting providing the big confidence. The top four, including their star batter Virat Kohli, look in their zone.

That KL Rahul also returned among runs with a slow but steady fifty in the first T20I was a big confidence-booster.

It's just that their middle-order with the likes of Rishabh Pant and Dinesh Karthik seemingly looks short on game time.

Pant, who is likely to be the X-factor in Australia, has not got any batting opportunities at all since returning from the Asia Cup where he had a mixed campaign.

Karthik, the designated Indian finisher, on the other hand has faced nine balls in last seven games as pushing them higher would not be a bad ploy.

Elusive series win in sight ================ From the series' perspective, India will be chasing their first ever victory over the Proteas in the format at home soil and a win will seal it. It's a different thing that it would hold little significance in the bigger picture.

That they have struggled in the world tournaments is not a secret and the 2007 champions, who last made the semifinal in 2016, would hope to avoid a repeat of 2021 UAE edition when they failed to make the knockouts.

Boasting the likes of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje, the South African bowling lacked the sting after the duo dismissed Rohit and Kohli cheaply.

Bavuma would hope that they put up a much-improved show and also the toss of the coin comes in his favour so as to test the Indian batting up front.

Teams (from) India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Umesh Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Shahbaz Ahmed and Mohammad Siraj.

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (Captain), Quinton de Kock (wk), Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Rilee Rossouw, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs.

Match starts 7pm IST.

Also Read : Former India A fielding coach Abhay Sharma roped in as Delhi head coach

News Source : PTI

2022-10-01 09:36

Former India A fielding coach Abhay Sharma roped in as Delhi head coach

New Delhi, Sep 30 (Cricket News) Former India A and U-19 fielding coach Abhay Sharma has been appointed as the head coach of the Delhi cricket team ahead of the domestic season beginning October 11.

Former India spinner and selector Sarandeep Singh was another strong contender for the job but Rohan Jaitly led DDCA has gone ahead with Sharma, who has more coaching experience.

The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) comprising Nikhil Chopra, Gursharan Singh and Reema Malhotra had recommended Sharma's name to the president.

Former India selector Gagan Khoda has been appointed chief selector of the senior team, while former India pacer Pankaj Singh has been appointed head coach of U-25 side. Khoda, who played two ODIs for India, hails from Rajasthan.

Anil Bhardwaj and Mayank Sidana (former Punjab Ranji cricketer) are the other new faces in the senior selection panel.

Former Rajasthan Royals fielding coach Dishant Yagnik has been given charge of the senior women's team while India pacer Arshdeep Singh's childhood coach Jaswant Rai will coach the men's U-19 unit. Rai represented Himachal Pradesh in his playing days.

"Abhay Sharma has been chosen as the head coach of the senior team," said a DDCA source.

Sharma has worked extensively with India A, India U-19 and most recently the national women's team.

The 53-year-old, who played 89 first-class games representing Delhi, Railways and Rajasthan, was also the fielding coach of the Indian team which travelled to Zimbabwe in 2016. He also travelled with the Indian team on the tour of USA and the West Indies in the same year.

With Delhi scheduled to open their Syed Mushtaq Ali campaign against Manipur, Sharma has less than two weeks to work with the squad which is yet to be announced.

A lot of dilly dallying took place before the DDCA zeroed in on Sharma.

"It should have happened at least two weeks ago. But the good thing is most of coaching staff which has been recruited has come from outside Delhi," said another DDCA source.

Delhi had a forgettable last season when they failed to qualify for the knock outs of all three competitions -- Mushtaq Ali, Vijay Hazare and Ranji Trophy.

The team was coached by Virat Kohli's childhood coach Raj Kumar Sharma last season and captained by Pradeep Sangwan.

Also Read : It's a bit better for the bowlers: Hazlewood on Australian conditions for T20 WC

News Source : PTI

2022-09-30 18:05

Irani Cup: Pujara and 'five openers' in focus as Saurashtra take on ROI

Rajkot, Sep 30 (Cricket News) Veteran Cheteshwar Pujara would strive to stay relevant in the national team's scheme of things with a purposeful knock when Saurashtra clashes with Rest of India, a side that is packed with five specialist openers, in the Irani Cup clash starting here Saturday.

While Madhya Pradesh are the 2021-22 Ranji Trophy champions, Saurashtra will be playing the Irani Trophy by virtue of being the 2019-20 champions as the one-off match wasn't held for successive seasons due to COVID-19.

Gone are those days when the Rest of India versus Ranji champions' encounter used to be a virtual national team trial game where a good performance was a sure shot ticket towards an entry into the national dressing room.

An Irani Cup in 2022 is more about being in the scheme of things as far as reserve bench is concerned and majority of the Rest of India squad comprises of players, who have all featured in the recent A series against New Zealand.

The Saurashtra team has a battle-hardened pro in Pujara, whose Test career is at the crossroads and he wouldn't like to put a foot wrong before the away series in Bangladesh.

He has had a dream run for Sussex in both red ball and white ball (List A) games but whether the selectors will persist with him in Tests going forward is another matter.

But on his home ground where he has scored truckloads of runs, Pujara can prove to be more than a handful for the young speed guns like Umran Malik, Kuldeep Sen, Arzan Nagwaswalla or the upcoming spinners namely R Sai Kishore and Saurabh Kumar.

However the primary problem that Rest of India face is having too many openers -- all in-form in their squad of 15.

There is India 'A' pair of Priyank Panchal and Abhimanyu Easwaran that did well against New Zealand 'A' while Yashasvi Jaiswal was in regal form in the Duleep Trophy, scoring 265 in the final.

Then there is Test opener Mayank Agarwal who is trying to make a comeback and young Yash Dhull who has scored 770 runs in five first class games in his debut season.

Only skipper Hanuma Vihari and in form Sarfaraz Khan are the two specialist batters apart from keeper Kona Bharat.

The Saurashtra bowling attack will be manned by Jaydev Unadkat, a pro in domestic cricket, who is sure to feel short changed on not getting a national call up after 65 wickets in 2019-20 season.

There is Chetan Sakariya who will bring the ball back into the right handed batters.

On a slow batting surface, the spinners of both sides will come into play from third day onwards.

Squads: Saurashtra: Jaydev Unadkat (Captain), Cheteshwar Pujara, Sheldon Jackson, Arpit Vasavada, Chirag Jani, Kamlesh Makwana, Dharmendrasinh Jadeja, Prerak Mankad, Chetan Sakariya, Snell Patel, Vishvarajsinh Jadeja, Kushang Patel, Harvik Desai, Samarth Vyas, Parth Bhut, Kishan Parmar.

Rest of India: Hanuma Vihari (Captain), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Yash Dhull, Sarfaraaz Khan, Yashasvi Jaiswal, K.S.Bharat, Upendra Yadav, Jayant Yadav, Saurabh Kumar, R Sai Kishore, Mukesh Kumar, Umran Malik, Kuldeep Sen, Arzan Nagwaswalla.

Match starts at 9:30am.

Also Read : It wasn't part of plan but was very much within rules: Harmanpreet on controversial run out

News Source : PTI

2022-09-30 13:03

Favourites India look to carry ODI momentum into Asia Cup T20

Sylhet (Bangladesh), Sep 30 (Cricket News) An in-form India would look to carry forward the momentum of a historic ODI series sweep in England while trying to put behind the "Mankading" controversy as they open their women's Asia Cup T20 campaign against Sri Lanka here on Saturday.

The Indian women haven't had a lot of success of late in the T20 format but at the continental level, Harmanpreet Kaur's team will start as clear favourites.

Barring their only blemish in the last edition of the tournament, India have won all the Asia Cup titles since the event's inception in 2004 (4 titles in ODI format and 2 in T20 version).

The Asia Cup was transformed from ODI to T20 format in 2012 and India have won twice, while losing to hosts Bangladesh in the last edition in 2018.

And, India would look to assert their continental dominance in the tournament, which returns after a hiatus of four years.

The 2020 edition of the event in Bangladesh was first postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic before being cancelled altogether.

After claiming a historic silver medal at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, where women's cricket made its debut in T20 format, India suffered a 1-2 away defeat against England earlier this month.

But the Harmanpreet-led side made a fantastic turnaround in the ODIs, clean sweeping England 3-0 to record a historic series victory, which marked a glorious end to Indian bowling legend Jhulan Goswami's international career.

The Indian series win, however, reignited an intense debate over the spirit of the game after all-rounder Deepti Sharma ran out Charlie Dean during the series-clinching third ODI as the English batter backed up at the non-striker's end.

The Indian team would be desperate to move on from the incident and focus on the Asia Cup.

On the team's front, Harmanpreet has been in imperious form. Smriti Mandhana too is in good touch but Shafali Verma, Sabbhineni Meghana and Dayalan Hemalatha need their bats do the talking.

Jemimah Rodrigues' return to the side after missing the tour of England due to a hand injury, augurs well for India. Wicket-keeper Richa Ghosh, who made a comeback in England after being dropped from the Commonwealth Games, is also in the mix.

India's seam bowling attack will be led by Renuka Singh, while Radha Yadav, Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Deepti will be in charge of the spin department.

Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will be heavily relying on skipper Chamari Athapaththu to deliver the goods with the bat in the absence young Vishmi Gunaratne, who is out due to a back stress fracture.

The island nation's middle-order will revolve around Hasini Perera and Harshitha Samarawickrama, while the bowling attack will heavily depend on spinners Inoka Ranaweera and Oshadi Ranasinghe.

The tournament involves seven teams -- India, Pakistan, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, UAE and hosts Bangladesh. All sides will play each other in a round-robin format -- a total of six matches each -- with the top four qualifying for semi-finals. The Teams (from) India: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Smriti Mandhana, Deepti Sharma, Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Sabbineni Meghana, Richa Ghosh (wk), Sneh Rana, Dayalan Hemalatha, Meghna Singh, Renuka Thakur, Pooja Vastrakar, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Radha Yadav, KP Navgire.

Sri Lanka: Chamari Atapattu (c), Nilakshi de Silva, Kavisha Dilhari, Achini Kulasuriya, Sugandika Kumari, Harshitha Madhavi, Madushika Methtananda, Hasini Perera, Oshadi Ranasinghe, Inoka Ranaweera, Anushka Sanjeevani (wk), Kaushani Nuthyangana, Malsha Shehani, Rashmi Silva, Tharika Sewwandi.

Match starts at 1 PM.

Also Read : How catastrophic is Jasprit Bumrah's injury for team India?

News Source : PTI

2022-09-30 12:34

How catastrophic is Jasprit Bumrah's injury for team India?

(Cricket news) After playing 2 T20Is against Australia, Jasprit Bumrah missed the 1st T20I against South Africa due to a niggle. Now Bumrah has been diagnosed with a back injury and he has been officially ruled out of the South Africa series. Even though the BCCI hasn't said anything about his availability at the T20 World Cup, reports suggest that he has been ruled out. The physios at the NCA will now take a call on whether Bumrah will have to undergo surgery. If he does go through a surgery then he will not be back until March 2023 at the very least. Mohammed Siraj has been added to the squad for the South Africa series as Mohammed Shami hasn't recovered from Covid.

Shami and Deepak Chahar are the stand-bys in the World Cup squad. Shami is the ideal choice to replace Bumrah as he is the option who can generate pace like no other. The problem is that Shami hasn't played a T20I game in the lead up to the World Cup which is exactly what happened in the last two World Cups as well. There are reports which suggest that he could play the ODI series against South Africa to get match fit. Just over a month ago, the BCCI were not going to consider Shami for T20Is but now they basically have no other option. Shami had a very good IPL where he led the Gujarat Titans bowling attack as they won the trophy. He will be a different bowler to Jasprit Bumrah as Shami excels with the new ball but isn't particularly good at the death.

Siraj is likely to be named as a backup for the World Cup squad and it could depend on his performance against South Africa. Siraj isn't a bad option to have and it is a mystery of sorts as to why he wasn't in the mix before, especially in the Asia Cup. Bumrah's absence is nothing short of a nightmare for India as he is up there with the best seamers in the world. He doesn't have any direct replacement either and his injury significantly affects India's chances at the World Cup. As per how the pecking order is looking at the moment, India's pace trio at the World Cup should be Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh and Harshal Patel, which is an attack that lacks pace. It is now time for Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma to come up with a solution and make do with what is available.

Also read: MCG my home ground: Rauf sends warning to India ahead of T20 World Cup opener

2022-09-29 16:43

Rizwan and the bowlers shine to take a 3-2 series lead against England

(Cricket news) Pakistan beat England by 6 runs in a final-over thriller between the two sides on Wednesday. Mark Wood continued his fiery return after his injury as his spell had the Pakistani batters rattled. Mohammad Rizwan's knock helped set a target of 145 on a two-paced pitch. But in the end, it came down to the final over that fell on the shoulders of debutant Aamer Jamal who was up against Moeen Ali as he defended 14 runs. Barring one delivery that went for six, Jamal was great with his execution of wide yorkers to help Pakistan clinch the fifth T20I as they took a 3-2 series lead.

Six bowlers were used by Babar Azam as Pakistan had to defend a small total of 145 runs. They went in with a combination of three pace options, and three spin options as England were reduced to 85/6 in the 15th over, all of those six bowlers had a wicket apiece. Nawaz took the first wicket in the first over itself, removing Alex Hales. Haris Rauf was the next bowler to strike, and was followed by Mohammad Wasim Jr and Shadab as England tumbled inside the first 10 overs failing to get any momentum in their innings. England’s best player in the series Brook fell to a googly from Shadab, and Malan missed a straight one from Iftikhar.

Struggling at 83/5 after 14 overs on a two-paced pitch, England were in trouble which was about to get even deeper as Jamal was introduced in the attack, he removed Sam Curran whose miscued shot was caught at extra cover. At that stage, Pakistan were firm favourites as England needed 58 off the last five overs with just four wickets in hand but Moeen Ali kept England in the hunt. The timing started getting better as the innings progressed and so did the frequency of connecting his shots, and going into the final over with 15 needed and a newcomer up against him, it was really anybody's game but the youngster kept his cool and eventually won the game for Pakistan.

Earlier in the evening, England won the toss and opted to bowl. There were many changes from both teams. In the first innings, Rizwan held the innings together as he got off to a slow start, and was never really allowed to play freely given the situation. Despite the struggles he kept the scoreboard ticking and started to accelerate once he brought up his fifty off 37 balls. In the 18th over he went for a high full toss from Curran but he only holed out a fielder in the deep. His efforts ensured a competitive score that gave the bowlers a fighting chance. For England they will take a lot of positives from the bowling performance as Mark Wood capped off a fine return with figures of 3/20.

Brief scores: Pakistan 145 in 19 overs (Mohammad Rizwan 63; Mark Wood 3/20) beat England 139/7 in 20 overs (Moeen Ali 51*; Iftikhar Ahmed 1/16) by 6 runs.

Also read: Sky and Arshdeep inspire India to a 8 wicket win over South Africa

2022-09-29 15:25

Buttler, Moeen not in favour of running out batters at non-striker's end

London, Sep 29 (Cricket News) England white ball captain Jos Buttler and his deputy Moeen Ali said that running out a non-striker for backing too is not "their thing" and that they would rather call the player back if any of their teammates used it as a mode of dismissal.

Custodians of the laws of cricket MCC have re-affirmed that a non-striker's run out while backing up is within the laws of the game but there has been no end to the debate in the aftermath of the third and final women's ODI between India and England where Deepti Sharma ran out Charlie Dean to complete clean sweep for visitors.

"No, I am calling the batsman back," the 32-year-old Buttler, who is recovering from a calf injury ahead of the World Cup, told TalkSPORT.

Incidentally, in IPL 2019, Buttler was at the receiving end as Rajasthan Royals opener when he was dismissed in a similar fashion by veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Aswhin, who was back then playing for Kings XI Punjab.

"No one wants to see them (mode of dismissal) in the game because they always create such a talking point when it should be about the battle between bat and ball and watching great games of cricket. They always seem to happen at unsavoury times." Moeen, the stand-in captain in their current T20I series against Pakistan, echoed similar sentiments: "No, it's not my thing." "I don't think I'll ever do it unless I was really angry with someone. It's in the laws and there's nothing illegal so people that do it have the right, but I just hope it doesn't become a common thing, or something that's regularly done," Moeen told the 'Telegraph'.

"You are not really working to get a wicket. At least with a run-out, there's a bit of work that has to be done, and with all the other dismissals. This is just waiting for the guy and taking the bails off. Even when I played cricket as a kid in the garden, it's not my thing to do." The mode of dismissal currently listed in the MCC's 'Unfair Play' section of the laws (41.16.1) is to be moved to the 'Run Out' section from October 1, when an update to the ICC Playing Conditions comes into effect.

"Whilst (the dismissal) was indeed an unusual end to an exciting match, it was properly officiated and should not be considered as anything more," a statement from the MCC has said earlier.

"Where one person sees the bowler as breaching the Spirit in such examples, another will point at the non-striker gaining an unfair advantage by leaving their ground early." While Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur has said that they have committed "no crime", Deepti on her arrival in Kolkata told reporters that they had "warned" Dean after she was repeatedly backing up at the non-striker's end.

England’s captain Heather Knight, who pulled out of the series, later shot back accusing Deepti of "lying".

Also Read : Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of T20 World Cup

News Source : PTI

2022-09-29 13:44

Sky and Arshdeep inspire India to a 8 wicket win over South Africa

(Cricket news) A potent opening spell from Arshdeep Singh (3/32) and Deepak Chahar (2/24) set up a dominant eight-wicket win over South Africa on a very testing Thiruvananthapuram pitch to go 1-0 up in the three-match series on Wednesday. India's new-ball bowlers had the Proteas on the mat at 9/5 halfway through the third over, before Keshav Maharaj's spirited innings inspired a fightback that helped them post a respectable target of 106/8. Despite losing two wickets up top cheaply, Suryakumar Yadav and KL Rahul finished off the chase in the 17th over with both hitting half-century.

The match was nearly all decided in the first 15 balls itself as the frontline pacers were rested but a match-defining display of swing bowling by Arshdeep and Chahar upfront with the new ball ensured that the hard hitting South African batsmen were in check. The tinge of green on the pitch helped both the seamers. In the first over Chahar set up Temba Bavuma with a series of outswingers before bringing one back in sharply which completely bamboozled the South African captain. Arshdeep then got three strikes in his opening over as Quinton de Kock chopped one onto his stumps, Rilee Rossouw edged one behind trying to drive the ball and David Miller was undone by another brilliant inswinger. Tristan Stubbs was the third batter to go for a golden duck when Chahar picked his second wicket.

At 9 for 5, South Africa showed some fight as Adien Markram (25 off 24) and Wayne Parnell's (24 off 37) took them to 30/5 at the end of powerplay. The only batter to show proper impetus was Maharaj, who smacked two sixes and five boundaries in his 35-ball cameo of 41. Harshal Patel removed South Africa's last proper batter in Markram with the help of DRS. Maharaj was batting on 5 off 16 but broke the shackles with an authoritative shot as he ultimately hit 17-runs from Arshdeep’s 19th over which saw the tourists crawling their way into triple digits.

After a brief drizzle in the second innings, Kagiso Rabada began the match with a maiden and then in his next over sent Rohit Sharma packing for a duck with a peach of a delivery. At the other end, Rahul continued to play test match style cricket as he dodge the slew of in and outswingers from Parnell with India finishing with their lowest powerplay score in T20s with a score of 17/1 in 6 overs. Virat Kohli saw an opportunity to break the shackles at the sight of a bowling change when Anrich Nortje began with a short and wide delivery but Kohli could only manage to get a thick outside edge to the 'keeper.

Suryakumar and Rahul ensured there were no more hiccups as Sky got off the mark with back to back sixes off Nortje to give India the move on. The pair rotated the strike well as Rahul got into his element with a classic wristy flick over long-on for six. India went past the fifty in the 11th over before the duo took the attack to the spinners. Parnell did some damage control and finished with impressive figures of 4-0-14-0 but Nortje continued leaking runs as they brought up India's 100. Rahul then finished the match with a slog sweep into the stands to close the chase in some style and also get his half century.

Brief scores: South Africa 106/8 in 20 overs (Keshav Maharaj 41; Arshdeep Singh 3-32, Deepak Chahar 2-24) lost to India 110/2 in 16.4 overs (KL Rahul 51*, Suryakumar Yadav 50*; Kagiso Rabada 1/16) by 8 wickets.

Also read: Focus is on adaptability ahead of T20 WC: Arshdeep

2022-09-29 11:52

South Africa need to find ways to combat new ball: Maharaj

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 29 (Cricket News) South Africa left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj feels the Proteas need to re-assess how to combat the new ball which swung "prodigiously" in the first few overs of the series opener against India.

South Africa's batting unit crumbled as Indian seamers Arshdeep Singh (3/32) and Deepak Chahar (2/24) swung the ball both ways to set up an eight-wicket win for the hosts in the first T20I here on Wednesday night.

"I don't think it's a chapter we need to dwell too much on. However, we do need to chat about how we started," Maharaj said at the post-match press conference.

"The application we saw upfront, we need to re-assess that and find ways to combat the swing. The ball did swing prodigiously in the first couple of overs." Maharaj, who top-scored for the visitors with a 35-ball 41, feels some adjustment and a change in mindset could help them combat the swing.

"Something that we need to address is the new ball, the way we are playing it, there is a lot of swing in it. So maybe just adjust our plan and mindset and take it from there," he added.

South Africa were reeling at 9/5 within the first three overs before Aiden Markram (25) and Wayne Parnell (24) steadied the ship before Maharaj took them over the 100-run mark.

"We didn't expect the ball to swing so prodigiously. It wasn't an easy wicket to bat on, it was two paced, the odd balls skidded through, a lot of tennis ball bounce at various points," Maharaj said.

"I don't think we want to dwell too much on what has transpired, but it is something that we can address going forward and hopefully we can rectify that," he added.

The left-arm spinner felt the team did well to make a match after being in such a precarious position at the beginning of the game.

"When you are put under pressure it is difficult to comeback but the boys showed a little bit of fight and character.

"The character that we showed coming back from 29/5 and get 106 and still sort of make a game of it, we can take a lot of positives from that." The 32-year-old rued the "small moments" that didn't go in South Africa's favour that could have change the complexion of the game.

"The seam bowlers did extremely well in the Powerplay -- KG (Kagiso Rabada) and Wayne (Parnell), got the wickets, didn't give away much. I don't think it became easier to bat but the small moments could have gone our way." "When Surya (Kumar Yadav) came to bat the top edge went of hand it could have been a different situation. But full credit to the Indian batting unit KL (Rahul) and Surya batted extremely well," Maharaj said.

The two teams will meet again in the second T20I in Guwahati on Sunday.

Also Read : Focus is on adaptability ahead of T20 WC: Arshdeep

News Source : PTI

2022-09-29 11:37

Focus is on adaptability ahead of T20 WC: Arshdeep

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 29 (Cricket News) Young India left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh said "adaptability" is the main focus of the team ahead of the T20 World Cup, starting later this month in Australia.

The T20 World Cup will be held in Australia from October 16 to November 13, and Arshdeep said the Indian bowlers are geared up for the tough challenge that awaits them.

"Adaptability is the big motive of our team. The main motive is adapting to the situations and demands of the team, whatever the situations and conditions are," said the 23-year-old pacer, who made a sensational comeback after a disappointing outing in the Asia Cup recently.

"When we go there (Australia) we will see how the conditions are. I'm looking forward to doing well." Arshdeep (3/32) and Deepak Chahar (2/24) broke South Africa's backbone to help India register an easy eight-wicket win over the Proteas in the low-scoring first T20I of the three-match series here on Wednesday night.

"We are trying to tick all the boxes in the practice sessions and trying to execute all our plans on the field. Today (Wednesday) was really a good example of showing a good power play bowling and we are looking forward to do amazing things in the coming days," Arshdeep said.

The left-arm pacer, a key arsenal in India's death bowling scheme of things for the ICC showpiece next month, missed the preceding three T20Is against Australia after he was sent to the NCA for conditioning.

"The purpose of the last 10 days was to get refreshed and come back stronger and fitter that will help me in my bowling. I feel really refreshed and looking forward to doing good things on the field," Arshdeep said after his exploits with the ball.

Bowling with the new ball in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep came back with a bang, grabbing three wickets in five balls to reduce South Africa to 8 for 4 inside the second over.

The visitors never recovered from Arshdeep's early blows to lose the opening match of the series, which is the last leg of preparation for both the teams before heading to Australia.

In the preceding T20 series against Australia, India had defeated the reigning world champions 2-1 after losing the first match.

Arshdeep, who made his debut in the tour of England in July this year, said he always strives to give his best on the field without bothering about selection.

"They told me you're 'in the plan' back end of the IPL, that I'm in the scene... I guess the main motive was to keep doing well whatever opportunities I get, that's my job and I don't think much about the selection part," he said.

Arshdeep had a forgettable Asia Cup campaign in the UAE, where he struggled to get wickets in the power-play and also made headlines for dropping a sitter in their loss to Pakistan in the 'Super 4' stage.

But with some assistance from the Greenfield track, he dismissed Quinton de Kock, Rilee Rossouw and David Miller in the second over to silence his critics.

"Getting the wickets early on was always a great feeling. The plan was really simple, the ball was swinging. I had to pitch it in the right places and it worked well. It was about hitting the right areas and making sure the line was good." He also credited his senior teammate Chahar for holding up the pressure from the other end.

"We practice in every type of situation, our job is to adapt to the situations and do well for the team. Today (Wednesday) it was more about the new ball and we worked really well as a pair, a lot of credit goes to DC bhai as well," he signed off.

Also Read : You learn a lot playing on tricky wickets: Rohit Sharma

News Source : PTI

2022-09-29 09:50

You learn a lot playing on tricky wickets: Rohit Sharma

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 28 (Cricket News) India captain Rohit Sharma is happy that his team got to "learn a lot" in their eight-wicket victory over South Africa in a low-scoring chase on a "tricky track" in the first T20 International.

Suryakumar Yadav's unbeaten 50 off 33 balls ensured that India didn't face too many hiccups despite KL Rahul's struggles on a track where South Africa were left tottering at 9/5 at the start of the game.

"The wicket was tricky. You learn a lot playing such a game. You understand what the team needs to do in tough conditions. It was nice to play a game like that. We knew the bowlers will get something seeing grass on the pitch, but we didn't expected help for the full 20 overs," Rohit said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

Rohit admitted that the pitch was a bit damp and that made South Africa stay in contest despite a paltry score of 106/8.

"It was still damp. Both teams were in the contest and the team that played better won the game. We started well, got five wickets in quick time and that was the turning point. It was a perfect showcase of how to bowl when there is help for the pacers." While Rahul scored a half-century (51) off 56 balls, Rohit said that one got to respect the conditions.

"We knew it wasn't going to be easy. Got to respect the conditions. Lost two wickets and that partnership between KL and Surya got us home." Surya's attacking batting helped me take my time =============================== KL Rahul, whose scratchy batting got papered over by Suryakumar Yadav's regal half-century, said that his partner's attacking intent allowed him to take his own time.

It was because of Rahul's struggles, India scored only 17 in six Powerplay overs but Surya's imperious form didn't allow South Africa to make a comeback.

"Definitely, right up there (as the toughest pitch)," Rahul said when asked if it was the toughest strip he has batted on in T20Is.

"We have played in some difficult conditions like this but I haven't got runs. So this was hard work." He was all praise for Surya's approach.

"It was unbelievable for Surya to come out there and play those shots. we have seen how balls were flying, nipping around, two-paced and everything that can be hard for a batter that was the wicket today.

"And for Surya to come with that approach after the first ball that hit him, he just woke up and wanted to play his shots, be aggressive and take on the bowling. That helped me take my time and play one end." Rahul said that he expected the track to do a bit but not to the extent it did.

"Not that much. We did practice here yesterday and that was a humbling experience as well, we all came in prepared mentally as it was not going to be an easy wicket and I was ready to do the dirty work, ready to be challenged and get the job done for the team." Rahul also praised young Arshdeep Singh, whose three wickets in his first over set-up the game.

"He's (Arshdeep) growing with each game and with each outing he gets better, he is somebody who has a big heart and I have seen him in close quarters while playing in the IPL. This season what he did for his franchise was phenomenal and to be the number one death bowler in a team (Punjab Kings) which has Rabada speaks highly of him.

"We always want a left-arm seamer and it is great to have someone like Arshdeep."

Also Read : Swing It Like Seamers: Arshdeep, Chahar set it up as India win low-scoring opener by 8 wickets

News Source : PTI

2022-09-29 07:50

Swing It Like Seamers: Arshdeep, Chahar set it up as India win low-scoring opener by 8 wickets

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 28 (Cricket News) Arshdeep Singh and Deepak Chahar hit the South Africans hard with some magical swing bowling before Suryakumar Yadav's little gem on a difficult track ensured an easy eight-wicket victory for India in the first T20 International here on Wednesday.

A target of 107 on a pitch with underlying moisture and more than waist high bounce at times was a struggle before Suryakumar (50 not out in 33 balls) released the pressure created by KL Rahul (51 not out, 56 balls) as India won the game in 16.4 overs to go 1-0 up in three-match series.

The pitch that former India head coach Ravi Shastri on air termed "not ideal for T20 cricket" had batters of both teams finding it difficult to cope with both pace and movement.

It was Arshdeep (3/32) and Chahar (2/24), who basically clinched the issue for India within first 15 deliveries of the start after skipper Rohit Sharma called it right at the toss. Once South Africa were reeling at 9/5 in 2.3 overs, the game as a contest was over and 106/8 even on a difficult track was a sub-par score.

The South Africans did bowl their heart out in defence.

Kagiso Rabada bowled an ideal Test match delivery that pitched on length and reared up while moving a shade and all Rohit Sharma (0) could do was to dangle his bat at the corridor of uncertainty.

Virat Kohli (3) got an express delivery from Anrich Nortje that kept climbing as he tried to have a go away from his body and the edge was taken by Quinton de Kock.

Surya, India's best T20 batter by a distance, got a streaky six when his attempted flick turned into an outside edge that flew over third-man for a maximum off Nortje.

The next six was a picture-perfect whip over deep square leg and then an inside out six off Keshav Maharaj indicated that he is India's in-form man.

Rahul's batting at the other end on the same strip became an ordeal as India had their lowest ever Powerplay score on board.

Just that there was no scoreboard pressure, Rahul could once play his waiting game and the only shot worth appreciating was a six off Nortje.

Earlier, Arshdeep and Chahar made the white Kookaburra talk with some incisive swing bowling after Jasprit Bumrah pulling out of the game due to his recurrent back problem which has resurfaced yet again.

The duo moved the ball both ways, making full use of the nip in the air and the bounce off the surface.

Temba Bavuma (0) was nicely set up by Chahar with stock outswingers, which the skipper left alone before a banana inswinger had him bowled through the gate. The deviation into the batter was as big as it could be.

Arshdeep started by taking the ball shade away from the left-hander and Quinton de Kock (1) in his bid to get a move-on dragged one back onto the stumps.

The other left-hander Rilee Rossouw (0) also chased a wide outswinger (inswinger by the bowler) to nick one to Rishabh Pant behind the stumps.

But it was the delivery by Arshdeep to David Miller (0) that will be remembered for a long time to come.

Miller was anticipating an outswinger and had committed on the front-foot only to find that the bowler had got one to bend back into him. His atrocious across-the-line shot would have resulted in only one thing and that was getting castled.

New T20 sensation Tristan Stubbs (0) didn't get enough wood to his slash over deep to a delivery from Chahar that bounced a shade more. The result was Arshdeep taking a well-judged catch diving in-front.

With five wickets gone, there was no coming back for South Africa and predictably there wasn't any change in the script.

Also Read : Delhi Cricket: No big names in fray, two-way fight between Sarandeep and Abhay for chief coach's post

News Source : PTI

2022-09-28 18:37

Suryakumar equals career-best second position in ICC T20I rankings

Dubai, Sep 28 (Cricket News) India batter Suryakumar Yadav jumped a place to reach a career-best-equalling second position in the latest ICC men's T20I Player rankings issued on Wednesday.

Suryakumar now has 801 rating points after smashing a match-winning 69 off 36 deliveries in the third match against Australia in Hyderabad on Sunday that helped India clinch the series 2-1.

He had reached the second spot in T20 rankings for the first time in August this year following his exploits against the West Indies.

India captain Rohit Sharma was at the 13th position after scores of 46 not out and 17 in the second and third T20Is respectively against Australia. Virat Kohli also climbed a spot to 15th but KL Rahul slipped four places to 22nd.

Only a couple of rating points separate Suryakumar and Pakistan captain Babar Azam, who also improved a spot to grab the third position.

Babar, who had occupied the No.1 position for 1,155 days before being overtaken by teammate Mohammad Rizwan earlier this month, was named Player of the Match for an unbeaten 110 in the second T20I against England.

He followed it up with scores of eight and 36 in the third and fourth matches, which were also played over the past week.

India spinners Axar Patel (18th) and Yuzvendra Chahal (26th) and pacer Harshal Patel (37th) have moved up the bowlers' list, which continues to be led by Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood.

India pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, however, dropped a spot to the 10th position in the chart.

Among others, Matthew Wade (62nd), Cameron Green (67th) and Tim David (109th) are the Australian players to move up the batting rankings.

Green and David had notched up half-centuries in the final match of the series.

England batter Harry Brook's scores of 31, 81 not out and 34 in Pakistan have lifted him to 29th position, while Ben Ducket has reached 32nd position after scoring 43, 70 not out and 33 in those three matches.

In the latest weekly update, Reece Topley moved to 23rd and is the third third-highest ranked England bowler after Adil Rashid and Chris Jordan.

Pakistan speedster Haris Rauf climbed to 14th position after taking five wickets in the last three matches, while Mark Wood (40th) and Sam Curran (47th) have also progressed.

Also Read : Naseem Shah rushed to hospital with viral infection, to miss 5th T20I against England

News Source : PTi

2022-09-28 15:17

Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma rise in ICC T20I Player rankings

Dubai, Sep 28 (Cricket News) India batter Suryakumar Yadav jumped a place to reach a career-best-equalling second position in the latest ICC men's T20I Player rankings issued on Wednesday.

Suryakumar now has 801 rating points after smashing a match-winning 69 off 36 deliveries in the third match against Australia in Hyderabad on Sunday that helped India clinch the series 2-1.

He had reached the second spot in T20 rankings for the first time in August this year following his exploits against the West Indies.

India captain Rohit Sharma also moved up one place to 13th position after scores of 46 not out and 17 in the second and third T20I against Australia.

Only a couple of rating points separate Suryakumar and Pakistan captain Babar Azam, who also improved a spot to grab the third position.

Babar, who had occupied the No.1 position for 1,155 days before being overtaken by teammate Mohammad Rizwan earlier this month, was named Player of the Match for an unbeaten 110 in the second T20I against England.

He followed it up with scores of eight and 36 in the third and fourth matches, which were also played over the past week.

India spinners Axar Patel (up from 33rd to 18th) and Yuzvendra Chahal (up from 28th to 26th) have moved up the bowlers' list, which continues to be led by Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood.

Among others, Matthew Wade (up six places to 62nd), Cameron Green (up 31 places to 67th) and Tim David (up 202 places to 109th) are the Australian players to move up the batting rankings.

Green and David had notched up half-centuries in the final match of the series.

England batter Harry Brook's scores of 31, 81 not out and 34 in Pakistan have lifted him 118 places to 29th position, while Ben Ducket has soared 1,070 places to 32nd position after scoring 43, 70 not out and 33 in those three matches.

In the latest weekly update, Reece Topley is up 14 places to 23rd and is the third third-highest ranked England bowler after Adil Rashid and Chris Jordan.

Pakistan speedster Haris Rauf is up seven places to 14th position after taking five wickets in the last three matches. Mark Wood (up 29 places to 40th) and Sam Curran (up five places to 47th) have also progressed.

Also Read : Deccan Gladiators bolster squad ahead of Abu Dhabi T10 Season 6

News Source : PTI

2022-09-28 14:53

Deccan Gladiators bolster squad ahead of Abu Dhabi T10 Season 6

(Cricket news) With another thrilling season of the Abu Dhabi T10 unfolding from November 23, 2022 to December 4, 2022, defending champions Deccan Gladiators have drafted a power-packed team. The draft for this season was held on September 26, 2022 in Abu Dhabi, and Deccan Gladiators summed up with a 16-player squad consisting of an excellent line-up of batsmen, bowlers, and all-rounders.

Eyeing another title in their kitty, the defending champions had already retained Andre Russell, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Zahoor Khan, Odean Smith, and David Wiese. The Odean Smith-David Weise pair played a superb knock of 62 off 24 against Delhi Bulls to take Deccan Gladiators into the final last season, while Andre Russell and Tom Kohler-Cadmore’s spectacular unbeaten 159/0 won them the trophy.

The West-Indian T20I and ODI captain Nicholas Pooran had already joined the Deccan Gladiators squad as the team announced ahead of the draft. The aggressive all-rounder adds a great punch to the team. Joining him in the squad is English star-opener Jason Roy, who is revered for his hard-hitting knocks.

Deccan Gladiators has roped in young Afghan bowling sensation Mujeeb Ur Rahman, along with Luke Wood, Joshua Little, Will Smeed, Zahir Khan, Curtis Campher, Sultan Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, and Adeel Malik.

Commenting on the exciting line-up of players in the squad, Gaurav Grover, Owner of Deccan Gladiators said, “We are quite excited with the line-up we have got. In the fastest format of the game, we have to be strategic with our approaches. We are glad to have a team that represents experience and youthful energy. We’ll work on grooming this team for the battle ahead and we hope for the best.”
“We have got the team that we’re planning for. The team looks well in shape as we’ve got some that come with a plethora of experience and some that are quite promising with their tactics. It’s now time to prepare in full swing for the season ahead and stay resilient in our efforts,” said Head Coach Mushtaq Ahmed.

Deccan Gladiators has drafted a carefully-picked front that reflects a blend of strength, agility, and grit. With another title in sight and with the inclusion of two new teams, the Abu Dhabi T10 Season 6 will see eight teams fighting for glory in the world’s fastest format of cricket.

The full squad: Andre Russell, Nicholas Pooran, David Wiese, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Jason Roy, Odean Smith, Luke Wood, Joshua Little, Will Smeed, Zahir Khan, Curtis Campher, Sultan Ahmed, Zahoor Khan, Taskin Ahmed, Adeel Malik.

Also read: England 'offers' to be neutral venue for Indo-Pak Test series, BCCI 'not interested'

2022-09-27 19:44

India 'A' crush NZ 'A' by 106 runs in 3rd ODI to sweep series 3-0

Chennai, Sep 27 (Cricket News) Shardul Thakur's blazing 33-ball 51 was well complemented by debutant Raj Angad Bawa's fine bowling show (4/11) as India 'A' crushed New Zealand 'A' by 106 runs in the third and final unofficial ODI to clinch the series 3-0 here on Tuesday.

Captain Sanju Samson (54 off 68 balls) and and Tilak Varma (50 off 62 balls) also scored half-centuries after India opted to bat but it was Thakur's blitzkrieg down the order that took the home side to 284 all out in 49.3 overs.

Thakur struck four boundaries and three sixes during his 33-ball entertaining knock.

Chasing 285 for a victory, the visitors were bowled out for 178 in 38.3 overs despite getting a good start from the openers Chad Bowes (20) and Dane Cleaver (83 off 89 balls).

The 19-year old Bawa, who shone in the ICC Under-19 World Cup earlier this year, ran through the middle and lower order of New Zealand 'A' batting line-up with a four wicket haul.

The young all-rounder picked up three of the last four NZ 'A' wickets to fall for fine figures of 4 for 11 to finish as the best Indian bowler.

Earlier, Abhimanyu Easwaran (39 off 35 balls), brought into the playing XI in place of Prithvi Shaw, and Rahul Tripathi got off to a brisk start. The duo added 55 runs in 8.5 overs.

Easwaran hit two boundaries to signal his intent while Tripathi smacked a pull to the square-leg boundary.

Against the run of play, Easwaran nicked one to the 'keeper off Matthew Fisher.

Samson, who came in at No.3, saw Tripathi (18) fall with the score at 65. The captain joined forces with the talented Tilak Varma to put together an impressive stand.

Varma, who had impressed many with his knocks for Mumbai Indians in this year's IPL, got off the mark with a six over long-off region from the second delivery he faced.

The two scored briskly and added 99 runs in 106 balls, with neither hesitating to go aerial. Varma fell to the left-arm spin of Rachin Ravindra for an impressive 50.

K S Bharat, playing his first game of the three-match series, did not last long, dismissed by Fisher for 9.

Samson looked good for a big score before falling LBW to medium-pacer Jacob Duffy for a 68-ball 54 (1 four, 2 sixes). Bawa fell to the same bowler for 5 and India 'A' slipped to 206 for 6.

Thakur, who batted with aplomb in the second match, came up with a blazing 33-ball 51 and his furious assault left the NZ 'A' bowlers clueless. His aggressive knock helped the host post a challenging total of 284.

The visiting team's opener Cleaver batted in an enterprising manner and powered the chase but lack of support from the other end resulted in the challenge falling flat.

Save for the half-century partnership for the first wicket, the rest of the batters failed to raise to the occasion.

Leg-spinner Rahul Chahar (2/39) struck the first blow, removing Bowes to a catch in the deep off a sweep.

Ravindra, who shone in the previous game, made just two, becoming Chahar's second victim.

Cleaver, meanwhile, kept getting the runs but the Kiwis kept losing wickets at regular intervals.

Tripathi, bowling medium-pace, got a wicket too, dismissing NZ 'A' captain Tom Bruce for 10.

Michael Rippon (29) helped Cleaver add 31 runs from 24 balls before the latter fell to Rishi Dhawan (1/27).

Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who picked up a hat-trick in the second match, grabbed two wickets including that of Robert O'Donnell (6).

From 175 for 6, the NZ 'A' innings folded quickly as Bawa picked up the wickets of Rippon, Duffy (1) and Fisher (0).

Brief Scores: India 'A' 284 all out in 49.3 overs (Sanju Samson 54, Shardul Thakur 51, Tilak Varma 50, Michael Rippon 2/43, Jacob Duffy 2/45) beat New Zealand 'A' 178 all out in 38.3 overs (Dane Cleaver 83, Raj Angad Bawa 4/11, Kuldeep Yadav 2/29, Rahul Chahar 2/39).

Also Read : Facing new ball quite a challenge in India: Temba Bavuma

News Source : PTI

2022-09-27 18:42

Facing new ball quite a challenge in India: Temba Bavuma

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 27 (Cricket News) South Africa captain Temba Bavuma feels facing the swinging ball in the powerplay will be one of the main challenges for his team in the three-match T20 series against India, beginning here on Wednesday.

India relied on their batting might to bounce back from being 0-1 down to post a 2-1 win in the recently-concluded three-T20 series against Australia.

The focus will now shift to an identical match-up against the Proteas, the final dress rehearsal for both the teams before the T20 World Cup in Australia next month.

"Facing the new ball bowlers (in India) is quite challenging, they make the ball to swing and move in quite a bit, a bit more than what we are accustomed to in South Africa. That's obviously a challenge you have to manoeuvre around," the South African white-ball skipper said on the eve of the opening T20 here.

The chinks in India's pace bowling armour were badly exposed in the three-match T20s against Australia.

In the series decider in Hyderabad on Sunday, the two seasoned pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar together conceded 79 runs from seven overs, with the latter claiming one wicket.

Harshal Patel, who is considered a death over specialist, also was a big letdown and the South African skipper knows what it takes to succeed in India.

"The key is to limit the damage and not allow the wickets to fall and try and get the momentum going. But yeah, Bhuvi and Bumrah they always challenge you with the new ball up front," he added.

Bhuvneshwar, by the way, is rested for the series ahead of the World Cup as the pace workload will be shared among Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Patel and Arshdeep Singh.

India's batting looks in safe hands with Virat Kohli's return to form and Rohit Sharma leading from the front.

"Obviously, those -- Rohit and Virat -- are big names with big pedigree behind them, and obviously as you saw in their last while their performances have boosted the confidence of the team.

"We expect to come leading from the front, and good for us to come up against the best. You expect those guys to bring a lot of confidence and X-factor into the team," the South African skipper said.

That said, Bavuma will have an 'unfinished business' as their last series -- a five-match T20I rubber -- ended in a 2-2 result after rain washed out the decider in Bengaluru.

"The last time we were here we were tested, we were challenged, but I think we answered it quite well. We expect this to be a good series, a competitive one as well. This is the last series before the World Cup, we will be looking to fill up the gaps whatever they are," he added.

Personally, Bavuma has a lot to prove after being snubbed in their SA20 auction, the country's inaugural T20 League.

Dismissing it as 'side-show', the skipper said his role is to lead the country and keep everyone in a good space before the World Cup.

"I’m here to make sure the guys are in the best space possible going into that big World Cup tournament. All the other distractions, side-shows as I would call it, I will deal with on a personal level.

"But being here within the team, as long as I am still wearing the shirt, it will be to serve and lead the team as best as I can," the 32-year-old said.

Also Read : Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur moves up to fifth in ICC rankings

News Source : PTI

2022-09-27 15:33

Kohli's power game is coming back at right time: Manjrekar

New Delhi, Sep 27 (Cricket News) Virat Kohli has got back his "power game" and things have started falling in place for him ahead of the T20 World Cup, feels former India Test cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar.

Kohli had endured a lean patch for nearly three years before he decided to take a month-long mental health break while reinventing himself during last month's Asia Cup.

He finished as India's highest run-getter and since then continued his good form in the just-concluded T20s against Australia, where his half-century in the series decider gave glimpses of vintage Kohli that the fans have been yearning to see.

"...right from the Asia Cup every match that he (Kohli) got runs, not just the runs, there was some improvement coming. I think the power game is back. He is trusting his power game," Manjrekar told in Sports 18's 'Sports Over The Top' show. "There was a time when he was getting runs but his power game was not coming at his beck and call. That is starting to happen," Manjrekar said.

The fact that he is being able to hit good balls for boundaries is a welcome sign, said Manjrekar.

"He is dispatching good balls for big boundaries and sixes. It's all about confidence. This is a guy who's damn self-confident and drives himself to excellence but for long-time runs weren't coming and his confidence was tender.

Kohli was the second highest overall run getter in the Asia Cup, scoring 276 in five innings at an average of 92.00, a strike rate of 147.59 with two half-centuries and a ton.

"During the Asia Cup, slowly and steadily, certain things start to happen, the pull shots came in, and the sixes started going more into the stands than just going over the rope as it was going in the IPL. So, the pieces falling back to frame the perfect picture. Now it's all about putting all these kinds of performances in the main event," he added.

In the following three-match T20 series against Australia at home, which India won 2-1, Kohli totalled 76 runs from three innings at an average of 25.33, with 63 being his highest individual score.

Seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel, who made a comeback from injury, leaked runs in the series against Australia, ending with an economy rate of 12 plus.

And Manjrekar pointed out the reasons behind the duo's lacklustre performances.

"Bhuvneshwar is over-worked" ================== The cricketer-turned-commentator feels Bhuvneshwar is overworked. "With Bhuvneshwar Kumar, it's never a very simple answer but you've got to give one of the simple answers and one of the main reasons why Bhuvi seems to be off the boil - is playing too much cricket. In the sense, that he's played all the matches coming into this series as well," he said.

"The Bhuvneshwar Kumar I have seen over the years, he's not one of the strongest guys going around, he's not somebody who takes a lot of workload, he plays one format and hardly any other.

"He's somebody if you notice, barring injury, if he comes later a break to play in any tournament, he is at his best in the first few games. So, I am going to put down Bhuvneshwar Kumar's current performance to just match fatigue." Manjrekar said Harshal has limitations as a pacer.

"Harshal Patel has limitations as a seam bowler, but India must look as one of the third seaming options and must look at a couple of others as options and I keep stressing on Mohammed Shami as the other option."

Also Read : India's ideal playing XI for the T20Is Vs South Africa

News Source : PTI

2022-09-27 14:14

India look to address death bowling concerns in final tune up ahead of T20 WC

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 27 (Cricket News) India will be looking to round off their T20 World Cup preparation with a marked improvement in their death bowling besides providing crucial game time to its untested players in the three-match series against South Africa, beginning here on Wednesday. India skipper Rohit Sharma, expectedly, singled out death bowling as an area that requires improvement following the series win over Australia.

The hosts will be without two of their key bowlers, Hardik Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who have been rested ahead of the ICC event next month.

Mohammad Shami, who is one of the World Cup reserves, is yet to recover from COVID-19 and will be missing the three games against the Proteas after being unavailable the rubber against Australia.

Harshal Patel did not have the best of times in his comeback series against Australia but he will be expected to get back to his best in the final three games before the World Cup.

His career economy rate stands at 9.05 but he conceded more than 12 runs per overs against the Aussies.

Deepak Chahar, who is also on standby for the Word Cup, did not get a game in the previous series and he could get a chance if the team decides to rotate its pacers over the three games. Arshdeep Singh will return to bolster the team's resources in the slog overs, making an effective combination alongside Jasprit Bumrah, who will aiming to regain his full rhythm after coming back from injury.

In the the series decider against Australia, Yuzvendra Chahal showed what he can do if the ball is gripping and turning after looking flat in the first two games. Keeping the Australian conditions in mind, the wily leg-spinner will be looking to up his game on docile pitches. As Rohit spoke about the importance of giving all the players game time ahead of the World Cup, R Ashwin could get a look in.

In the batting department, K L Rahul would like to make the most of these three games after missing out in the last two games against Australia.

With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are looking in good touch, it is important that Rahul too is in full flow before the team travels to Australia. Dinesh Karthik got to play all of eights balls against Australia and Rohit has already said the designated finisher in the squad needs more time in the middle. World Cup bound Deepak Hooda will end up missing all the six games before the mega event as he has been ruled out of the South Africa T20s with a back injury. Shreyas Iyer is expected to take Hooda's place in the squad.

Over the next week, India will be competing against a team they are yet to beat at home in a bilateral series. South Africa and India will face each other in a group game in Australia and though conditions are totally different here, both teams can pick out areas to target in the coming three games.

"The pitches in Australia will be different and ground size will be a lot bigger, but as a bowler there is always something you can work on. It is a great opportunity to be bowling at these Indian batters and pick up on a few things and use against them in the World Cup," said Tabraiz Shamsi.

All eyes will also be on the young Tristian Stubbs who has made the World Cup squad on the back of his good show in franchise cricket.

Squads: South Africa: Temba Bavuma (captain), Quinton de Kock, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Rilee Rossouw, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs.

India: Rohit Sharma (captain), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah.

Match starts 7 PM IST.

Also Read : India's ideal playing XI for the T20Is Vs South Africa

News Source : PTI

2022-09-27 12:33

India's ideal playing XI for the T20Is Vs South Africa

(Cricket news) After defeating Australia in the T20I series 2-1, India now prepares to take on South Africa in a 3-match T20I series. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Hardik Pandya have been rested for the series while Arshdeep Singh is back after resting against Australia. Deepak Hooda is suffering from a back injury and is ruled out of the series while Mohammed Shami still hasn't recovered from Covid. Umesh Yadav will continue with the squad while Shahbaz Ahmed and Shreyas Iyer will also join the team. The focus will be on death bowling which has been a major issue as far as India are concerned.

Openers: KL Rahul & Rohit Sharma

The skipper and his deputy are the first names on the team sheet. The pair have just got back amongst the runs but are far from their best as an opening combination. India seems to have a concrete plan to make the most out of the powerplay. Rohit Sharma usually doesn't wait and starts attacking straight away while KL Rahul takes around 3-4 overs to get going. The big issue is that none of the openers have managed to stay till the end and play a big innings which may or may not be what the team wants but a big innings from Rahul and/or Rohit is long overdue. Virat Kohli, Suryakumar and Rishabh Pant could open the batting if necessary.

Middle order: Virat Kohli & Suryakumar Yadav

India are very secure with these two in the middle order. The pair are in good form and on top of that they always seem to put on important partnerships. SKY and Kohli compliment each other really well in the middle. In Australia this is going to be a very important partnership for India and South Africa will be a good test for both of them. Kohli always plays 2nd fiddle when Suryakumar is in his zone and then takes off again after SKY is dismissed.

Wicket keepers: Rishabh Pant and Dinesh Karthik

Hardik Pandya's absence will be a good opportunity for India to play both Karthik and Pant. It seems like India have already decided on Karthik as the first choice keeper but this series is a good opportunity for Pant. India will not have a proper 6th bowling option even though there is a slight possibility of Kohli bowling. It is a risk worth taking to give Pant some games and also because there is no real replacement. The other batting all-rounder Deepak Hooda is injured and it doesn't make sense to play Shahbaz Ahmed because he is not even in the mix.

All-rounder: Axar Patel

Axar has stepped up his game in the past couple of years and he is finally getting a long run in the team due to Ravindra Jadeja's injury. He was the Player of the Series against Australia for his incredible bowling performance. His batting is something which needs to be tested in this particular format which is why Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma might push him up the order. Shahbaz Ahmed is also in the squad who can play if required as can Ravichandran Ashwin.

Seamers: Harshal Patel, Jasprit Bumrah & Arshdeep Singh

In Bhuvneshwar Kumar's absence these 3 are obvious choices. It will be interesting to see how Rohit Sharma uses them because all 3 are death bowlers. Out of the 3 Bumrah is probably the best new ball option. There is a chance that the team management decides to play Umesh Yadav or Deepak Chahar just to get a proper new ball bowler into the side but the trio are in the T20 World Cup squad and need game time.

Spinner: Yuzvendra Chahal

Chahal had a decent series against Australia but he isn't picking up as many wickets as one would expect. The good thing is that he is keeping things tight most of the time. His form is going to be extremely crucial in the World Cup which makes this series very important for him. Ravichandran Ashwin is also an option but Chahal is the clear choice.

Also read: Here's why the 'spirit of cricket' conversation needs to be stopped

2022-09-26 19:27

India shouldn't feel need to justify run-out by lying about warnings: Heather Knight

New Delhi, Sep 26 (Cricket News) England skipper Heather Knight, who is currently recovering from a hip surgery, has accused the Indian women's team of "lying" about having warned Charlie Dean before Deepti Sharma ran her out at the non-striker's end in the final ODI.

India pulled off a win against England on Saturday after all-rounder Deepti ran out Dean (47), the last England batter, for backing up too far at the non-striker's end.

Dean was out of her ground and Deepti simply held the ball to remove the bails, leaving the English team flabbergasted and also triggering an intense debate over 'spirit of the game'.

After returning to the country, Deepti on Monday revealed that Charlie Dean was warned against backing up multiple times before she effected the run out.

However, Knight dismissed the claims made by Deepti in a series of tweets.

"The game is over. Charlie was dismissed legitimately, India were deserved winners of the match and the series. But no warnings were given," Knight wrote on Twitter.

"They don't need to be given, so it hasn't made the dismissal any less legitimate. But if they're comfortable with the decision to affect the run out, India shouldn't feel the need to justify it by lying about warnings." Chasing 170, England were reduced to 118 for nine before No 9 batter Dean revived their hopes with her last wicket partnership with Freya Davies.

However, with 17 needed to win, Dean was run out for 47 with Deepti clipping the bails during her delivery stride to put an end to their 35-run partnership that gave India 3-0 sweep.

"Woh plan tha hum logon ka, kyunki woh baar baar... Hum warn bhi kar chuke the usko. Jo rules mein hain, jo guidelines hain, uske according hi humne kiya (We had planned this as she was not paying heed to our repeated warnings. We acted according to the rules and the guidelines," Deepti told reporters upon her arrival here.

While Dean was left in tears, the guardians of the laws of cricket MCC stamped its seal of approval on the dismissal, saying "it was properly officiated and should not be considered as anything more." Recently, the ICC while modifying the playing conditions had moved this kind of dismissal from 'unfair play' to 'run out'. The changes would come into effect from October 1.

Also Read : We warned her multiple times: Deepti on controversial run out

News Source : PTI

2022-09-26 17:25

We warned her multiple times: Deepti on controversial run out

Kolkata, Sep 26 (Cricket News) India all-rounder Deepti Sharma on Monday revealed that Charlie Dean was warned against backing up multiple times before she effected a controversial run out of the England batter in the third and final ODI.

The dismissal reignited an intense debate over the 'spirit of the game'.

"Woh plan tha hum logon ka, kyunki woh baar baar... Hum warn bhi kar chuke the usko. Jo rules mein hain, jo guidelines hain, uske according hi humne kiya (We had planned this as she was not paying heed to our repeated warnings. We acted according to the rules and the guidelines," Deepti told reporters upon her arrival here.

Reduced to 118 for nine in their pursuit of 170 in the third ODI, England's chase was led by their No 9 batter Dean who revived their hopes with her last wicket partnership with Freya Davies.

With 17 needed to win, Dean was run out for 47 with the veteran Indian off-spinner deciding to clip the bails during her delivery stride to put an end to their 35-run partnership that gave India 3-0 sweep. It was also Jhulan Goswami's swansong game. The run-out is currently listed in the 'Unfair Play' section of the laws but is set to be moved to the 'Run Out' section at the start of next month when an update in the ICC Playing Conditions comes into effect.

Deepti further pointed out that they had informed the umpires before running out Dean.

“Umpires ko bola tha hum logon ne, but still woh wahin par thi. Hum log kuchh nahin kar sakte the. (We did inform the umpires, but she continued to do it. There was nothing we could do)," the 25-year-old added.

The 39-year-old Jhulan, who has a record 355 wickets across formats, retired from international cricket in the final ODI as India secured their first-ever 3-0 sweep on English soil to give the legendary Indian pacer a fitting farewell.

Having made her debut in 2002, Jhulan ended up playing 12 Tests, 204 ODIs and 68 T20Is.

"Har team ko jeetna hota hai, aur last match mein hum chahte the ki hum jitke unko (Jhulan) acha farewell de, toh uske hisaab se, as a team, jo effort daal sakte the woh humne diya. (Every team wants to win and we as a team gave our best effort to win it for Jhulan Goswami," she said.

Jhulan and Deepti, who also plays for Bengal in domestic cricket, landed in the city to a rousing welcome at the airport by several women's cricketers.

Also Read : Bangladesh defeat Ireland in final of Women's T20 World Cup Qualifier

News Source : PTI

2022-09-26 17:19

Bangladesh defeat Ireland in final of Women's T20 World Cup Qualifier

(Cricket news) Despite an excellent fielding and disciplined bowling display, Ireland Women fell seven runs short in the run-chase against Bangladesh in the Final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier tournament at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Both sides had already qualified for the 2023 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa courtesy of their semi-final wins, but the Final lacked no drop in intensity as the teams battled for the trophy.

Ireland had set the match up well after being asked to bowl first – captain Laura Delany (3-27), Cara Murray (2-21) and Arlene Kelly (2-17) were the pick of the bowlers, while in the field it was evident the Irish side were on the top of their game for the Final, holding on to a series of difficult catches – and Mary Waldron once more displayed quick hands in a stumping off Kelly that saw the experienced keeper pull in a wide ball and quickly remove the bails before the batter was safe.

During the match, Delany became only the second Irishwoman to claim 50 T20 International wickets - behind her teammate Eimear Richardson. After winning the toss, the Bangladesh openers started cautiously with two runs from the first 10 balls, but soon after it was the experienced Fargana Hoque Pinky who began to find the boundary. Hoque struck seven boundaries in an innings of 61 from 55 balls, anchoring the innings until she was dismissed in the 17th over.

While Bangladesh held plenty of wickets in hand for much of their innings, the Irish bowlers never released the pressure on the scoring rate that they built up early. Murshida Khatun (6) and Niger Sultana Joty (6) played support roles for Hoque – and when Joty fell in the 10th over, the Bangladesh score was a pedestrian-looking 47-2.

Rumana Ahmed then joined Hoque and the pair put on a 49-run third wicket partnership off just 37 balls, a partnership that was broken when Ahmed skied a ball off Murray and was caught safely by Waldron. Hoque followed shortly after, and Ireland sensed an opening. The Irish bowlers kept their line mainly wicket-to-wicket and finished much the stronger side with the last 25 balls producing six wickets for just 24 runs – Delany’s last over finished with a remarkable 3-3. Bangladesh finished their 20 overs on 120-8 and required an inspired bowling performance to defend a total that looked 10-15 runs below par.

Sensing pace-off on a slow pitch under lights was the best approach, Bangladesh bowled spin for all 20 overs of the Irish reply. From the moment opener Gaby Lewis (4) was deceived by left-arm off-spinner Shanjida Maghla in the second over – bowled through the gate – the Irish batters rarely looked settled. Delany (12 from 22 balls) and Eimear Richardson (18 from 15 balls) gave Irish fans a brief sense of hope with a counter-attacking 23-run stand for the fourth wicket, but the regular fall of wickets proved fatal in the end.

At 58-7 in the 13th over, Waldron (19 off 17 balls), a composed Kelly (28* off 24 balls) and Murray (13 from 10 balls) played impressive cameos, but the lack of wickets on hand was a challenging prospect to a lower-order battling hard against a mounting run rate. Eventually Ireland finished a heart-breaking seven runs short.

During the post-match interview, Delany praised the bowling effort at the top by her bowlers but indicated that lack of partnerships with the bat hampered the run chase. Asked about the team’s overall tournament performance, Delany said the squad was pleased, had gained great experience and that their fielding was an area they had targeted and felt had developed well over the tournament.

The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup will be held in February 2023 – the first world cup Ireland has qualified for since the 2018 Women’s T20 World Cup.

MATCH SUMMARY

Bangladesh v Ireland, T20 World Cup Qualifier Final, Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, 25 September 2022

Bangladesh 120-8 (20 overs; Hoque Pinky 61, R Ahmed 21; L Delany 3-27)

Ireland 113-9 (20 overs; A Kelly 28*, M Waldron 19; R Ahmed 3-24)

Bangladesh won by 7 runs

Also read: Here's why the 'spirit of cricket' conversation needs to be stopped

2022-09-26 16:33

Here's why the 'spirit of cricket' conversation needs to be stopped

(Cricket news) India recently won the 3rd ODI against England to clinch the series 3-0. The series was the perfect farewell to the legendary Jhulan Goswami who has retired from all forms of cricket. The game ended in controversy as India took the last match winning wicket by running out Charlie Dean at the non striker end which is also called as 'Mankading'. Mankading is in the official rulebook of cricket and If it is against the spirit of the game or not should not matter. It goes back as far back as the early 1800s when it was named after Indian cricketer Vinoo Mankad. The batsman is supposed to run 22 yards to complete a run and if running out a batter when he is outside of the crease is against the so-called spirit of the game then the non-striker might as well stand in the center of the pitch. Players like Kapil Dev, Murali Karthik and Ravichandran Ashwin are infamous for mankading and have defended the mode of dismissal.

After Charlie Dean's dismissal, many cricketers like James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Sam Billings criticized Deepti Sharma while Alex Hales and Ravichandran Ashwin among others lauded her. The discussion about the spirit of cricket is a never ending one but it should reach a point where it becomes a personal choice. A player running out a batter at the non striker end is often criticized and called a 'disgrace' for doing something which is well within the rules. Adam Gilchrist, who started the trend of walking when he knew he was out without waiting for the umpire's decision once said that it was a personal choice. He said that just because I believe in walking doesn't mean I'm questioning other people's values. That sort of narrative has to be built around the whole Mankading debate.

Due to the social stigma around the dismissal, it takes a lot of courage for a bowler to do it. Right now is counted as 'Unfair Play' in the ICC rules, the unfair play in this case is not the bowler running out the batter but the batter going out of his crease. From 1st October it will officially be counted as a run out as per the new ICC rules. When Ravichandran Ashwin mankaded Jos Buttler in the IPL a few years ago, he was criticized a lot for it. This time around Deepti Sharma has a lot more support which is a sign that things are changing. People, especially professional cricketers, need to get on with it and accept the fact that it is a rule and there is nothing they can do about it. Targeting people who do something within the rules just because you don't believe in it is incredibly arrogant.

Also read: India whitewash England to give Jhulan Goswami a perfect send off

2022-09-26 15:47

Everyone thought Jadeja’s absence would weaken India but Axar was outstanding: McDonald

Hyderabad, Sep 26 (Cricket News) Ravindra Jadeja’s absence from the T20 series was expected to weaken India but the hosts found an able replacement in "outstanding" Axar Patel, said Australia coach Andrew McDonald.

Left-arm spinner Axar, who was shoed in as a like-for-like replacement for the injured Jadeja, impressed everyone with his bowling, ending as the leading wicket-taker in the three-match series.

“Axar, in particular, had an outstanding series. With Jaddu out everyone thought that it might become a bit of a weakness for India, but they've found another one again, which tends to happen,” McDonald said at the post-match press conference after India clinched the series.

The Australian bowling attack, comprising the pace duo of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, was taken to the cleaners by the Indian batters.

Asked if it’s a concern heading to the World Cup, McDonald said: “Across the series the run rate was high, it was entertaining cricket from the get-go. Bat dominated the ball, so there was really no place to hide for bowling units, in particular death.

“We worked our way through some plans. We saw some good results with some of the plans that we implemented that might be able to transition to the World Cup.” McDonald added that Australia will have reinforcements in the form of Mitchell Starc when they begin the defense of their World Cup title at home next month.

“The connection between here (India) and Australia might be slightly different, a little bit more bounce, different tactics. Mitchell Starc comes back into the picture being one of our best death bowlers. So, we feel like we'll get reinforcements there.” McDonald feels most of the bowling attack is “under the pump” due to the skills of the batters.

“The conversations always going to be can you get better at your death bowling? The answer to that is yes.

“We encourage our guys to make good decisions and execute them. Sometimes the batter out-executes you and we've seen that with Hardik (Pandya) across the series.

“Suryakumar Yadav was outstanding today and he's gonna be dangerous in the World Cup but he showed what he can do.” Australia were without a few of their World Cup-bound players due to injuries but the head coach feels the defending champions have enough depth to overcome the situation.

"It's fortuitous that some of the guys got the opportunity here. We got a couple of injuries which are concerning leading into a World Cup. You don't like to see some of your mainstay players out of the team leading in but we feel as though we've got some good options in depth.” In the absence of David Warner, who was rested, Cameron Green “embraced the challenge of opening".

The all-rounder amassed 118 runs, including two belligerent half-centuries to give Australia great starts.

"I've asked him to show great intent on top of the order and everything that we're seeing so far shows that he's doing that.

“It's probably opportunistic the way that he's come into the opening position with obviously David Warner not being here and a couple of other players from our World Cup 15.

“And that's all you can do, given an opportunity... Before we came over here we thought he had the skill sets to be able to succeed there, and he's taken on some of the best bowlers in world cricket.”

Also Read : India whitewash England to give Jhulan Goswami a perfect send off

News Source : PTI

2022-09-26 12:45

Takeaways as India win thrilling series against Australia

(Cricket news) India defeated Australia by 6 wickets with a ball to spare in the 3rd T20I. The Men In Blue sealed the series 2-1 which was Rohit Sharma's 9th consecutive bilateral series win as the Indian captain. It was an incredible series as both the teams played some really good cricket. From India's point of view, there were a few positives and also a few negatives to take away from the series. India needed to bounce back after a disappointing Asia Cup and they did exactly that. Even though Australia were missing 4 crucial players, they were still a handful. India played what would be their strongest XI at the World Cup in this series which is a really good way to get the momentum going.

Axar Patel was the biggest positive for India as he was named the Player of the Series. Jadeja's injury left a big void in the Indian side and Axar is filling that void at least with the ball. The left hander took 8 wickets in 3 games with an economy of 6.3 in what was a high scoring series. He will need to be tested more with the bat but with the ball, India will not be missing Jadeja. He has the ability to bowl in the powerplay and in the middle overs, both of which are equally effective. Australia will be a different challenge but with the bigger grounds in play, Axar Patel will be a tough customer for opposition batters to take on.

KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat all played good innings in each game which is an incredible sign for India. The top 3 are incredibly crucial as far as India's batting is concerned. Even though they haven't been consistent recently, they have played well in this series. It is about time that the trio play a good innings in the same match. Suryakumar Yadav continued his incredible run of form as he finished as India's highest run scorer in the series. The right hander manages to play some ridiculous shots at tricky situations and gets India out of trouble more times than not. India's top 4 looks incredibly potent at this point in time. Hardik Pandya and Dinesh Karthik are also playing their role perfectly by finishing things off.

Perhaps the only negative has been death bowling as India's premium death bowlers Harshal Patel and Jasprit Bumrah are just back from injury. The South Africa series will be a big test for death bowling which is where India is truly lacking. Axar Patel bowling in the powerplay means that India will have more options in the death overs. Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel aren't a bad death bowling line-up but they need to step up their game in the South Africa series. Hardik Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar will be resting in the South Africa series while Arshdeep Singh will be back. It is still unclear whether Mohammed Shami will be available for the series.

Also read: Kuldeep Yadav hat-trick, Shaw blitzkrieg help India 'A' beat NZ 'A' and seal series

2022-09-26 07:03

Green, David hit fifties to take Australia to 186/7 against India

Hyderabad, Sep 25 (Cricket News) India all-rounder Axar Patel continued to impress but Cameron Green and Tim David hit belligerent fifties to guide Australia to 186 for 7 in the series-deciding third T20I here on Sunday.

With the pitch offering grip and turn, the left-arm spinner (3/33) picked three wickets, while also executing a sensational run out.

Yuzvendra Chahal (1/22) was also in his element, bowling an economical spell. But Green (52) scored upfront while Tim David (54) provided the final flourish for Australia.

Sloppy fielding from India towards the end only added to Australia's total.

Invited to bat, Green (52) was on the offensive from the start. He smashed the second delivery to square leg for a massive six, which was followed by a boundary as Australia collected 12 off the first over.

Green continued the onslaught, smashing Bumrah for a four before hitting back-to-back sixes, including one that went to the second tier much to the dismay of the partisan crowd.

With Australia going over 13 runs per over, Axar provided the home side with the first breakthrough as he bowled a slower one, forcing Aaron Finch (7) to mistime the shot with Hardik Pandya collecting the ball at mid-on.

Green brought his 50 in 19 balls in the fifth over, his innings studded with seven fours and three sixes. But the opener was soon sent packing by Bhuvneshwar Kumar (1/39), who bowled slightly wide only for the Australian to slash the ball to KL Rahul.

Australia plundered 66 runs for the loss off two wickets from the Powerplay.

But Glenn Maxwell's (6) woeful run continued as Axar executed a brilliant run out with a direct hit from the boundary.

There was some doubt whether it was a run-out as wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik's glove had knocked out one bail but in the end the decision went in India's favour.

Just before the halfway mark Karthik stumped Smith (8) who was deceived by Chahal's wrong 'un as the Australian innings seemed to fall apart.

But Josh Inglis (24) and David steadied the Australian innings as the visitors made a comeback.

Skipper Rohit Sharma introduced Harshal Patel (1/18) in the 13th over but his struggles continued. The medium pacer was first hit for six, which was followed by a no-ball and a wide.

Rohit then brought Axar back into the attack and the left-armer immediately repaid the skipper's faith by getting rid off Inglis and danger-man Matthew Wade.

The strapping David slammed two consecutive sixes and a four off Bhuvneshwar, who missed his length in the 18th over.

It rained boundaries and sixes towards in the end as Australia crossed the 180-run mark.

Also Read : Kuldeep Yadav hat-trick, Shaw blitzkrieg help India 'A' beat NZ 'A' and seal series

News Source : PTI

2022-09-25 19:16

Kuldeep Yadav hat-trick, Shaw blitzkrieg help India 'A' beat NZ 'A' and seal series

Chennai, Sep 25 (Cricket News) Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav's sensational hat-trick and Prithvi Shaw's quick-fire half century (77) set up a four-wicket win for India 'A' against New Zealand 'A' in the second unofficial ODI to clinch the three-match series here on Sunday.

Electing to bat, New Zealand 'A' were all out for 219 in 47 overs as Kuldeep picked up the last four wickets, including the hat-trick. From 210 for 6, the visiting team collapsed to 219 all out as Kuldeep ran amok. After dismissing Sean Solia for his first scalp of the match, Yadav picked up the wickets of Logan Van Beek, Joe Walker and Jacob Duffy to complete a memorable hat-trick.

India 'A' chased down the target with 16 overs to spare to notch-up a series-clinching win, reaching 222 for 6 in 34 overs.

The home side won by seven wickets in the first match on Thursday. The third and last match will be played on Tuesday.

"A hat-trick at any level is special. This is a very special one," Kuldeep told reporters later. Rachin Ravindra (61 off 65 balls) and Joe Carter (72 off 80 balls) set the platform for the Kiwis before Kuldeep got into the act.

The openers -- Chad Bowes (15) and Ravindra -- set the ball rolling, putting on 32 runs. Ravindra was the dominant partner in a 31-run stand with No.3 Dane Cleaver (6).

Ravindra played some pleasing shots and looked set for a big score before he fell to a catch by Ruturaj Gaikwad in the point region off Rishi Dhawan's bowling after the score had crossed the 100-mark.

NZ 'A' captain Robert O'Donnell fell for a duck to Dhawan, dragging a delivery on to his stumps while attempting a pull.

Indian under-19 World Cup winning player and medium-pacer Raj Angad Bawa then sent back Tom Bruce (10) to leave the Kiwis at 133 for 5.

Carter, who was the top-scorer with an enterprising 72, hit the first six for the visitors and continued to push the score along. A miscued slog off leg-spinner Rahul Chahar (2 for 50) led to his dismissal.

Solia became Kuldeep's first victim after a watchful 28 off 49 balls.

In his final over, Kuldeep got van Beek (4), whose attempted reverse sweep took an edge and flew to Shaw in the point region. Next ball, he had Walker (0) caught behind by Samson with a superb delivery and finished things off by trapping Duffy (0) LBW.

Chasing a modest 220 to win and seal the series, Shaw got off to a flier and smashed the ball around as the Indian score reached 50 in the seventh over.

There was no stopping the diminutive Shaw as he reached 50 from 26 balls with a sweep shot. He hit 11 fours and 3 sixes in his superlative 48-ball knock.

Gaikwad, who was sedate in comparison, fell for 30 off 34 balls.

The in-form Rajat Patidar then fell for 20 at team score of 131 for 2 while Shaw fell to Walker two runs later.

Skipper Samson went after the bowling and hit 37 off 35 balls, studded with four boundaries and two sixes before a superb diving catch by Chad Bowes cut short his stay.

Tilak Varma and Bawa fell for ducks and India 'A' appeared to be in some trouble but Rishi Dhawan (22 not out off 43 balls) and Shardul Thakur (25 not out off 24 balls) saw the team home.

Brief Scores: NZ 'A' 219 all out in 47 overs (Joe Carter 72, Rachin Ravindra 61, Kuldeep Yadav 4/51) lost to India 'A' 222 for 6 in 34 overs (Prithvi Shaw 77, Sanju Samson 37, Shardul Thakur 25 not out, Logan van Beek 3/46)) by four wickets.

Also Read : India win toss, opt to field (Third and final T20 International)

News Source : PTI

2022-09-25 15:17

End of an era, BCCI says after one of greatest Jhulan's retirement

New Delhi, Sep 25 (Cricket News) The BCCI has described Jhulan Goswami's two decade-long international career as "monumental", saying an era has come to an end with the retirement of one of women's cricket's greatest players.

The 39-year-old Jhulan retired from international cricket following the conclusion of the ODI series in England, in which the visitors secured a first-ever clean sweep to give the legendary seamer a fitting farewell.

In an international career spanning over two decades – the second longest in women's international cricket - Jhulan, who made her debut in 2002, represented India in 12 Tests, 204 ODIs and 68 T20Is, picking 355 wickets across formats.

"With Jhulan announcing her retirement from international cricket, an era has come to an end. She took immense pride in representing India and always put her best foot forward as she served Indian cricket with distinction," BCCI president Sourav Ganguly said in a press release.

"She was the leader of India's bowling attack and her feats will continue to inspire the present and budding cricketers. Her contribution to the game has been monumental.

"While her inspiring presence on the field will be missed, her achievements will continue to motivate the upcoming cricketers," Ganguly added.

Jhulan, who went on to play five ODI World Cups -- 2005, 2009, 2013, 2017 and 2022 -- remains the leading wicket-taker in the history of the Women's World Cups. She also remains the only pacer in women's cricket to have 250-plus wickets in ODIs.

BCCI secretary Jay Shah said: "Jhulan Goswami is one of the greatest to have ever graced the game. She, with her exceptional bowling skills, led India's bowling attack with elan for numerous years and will remain a benchmark for the young cricketers who wish to represent the country at the highest level.

"As she embarks on a new journey and starts a new inning, I wish her all the very best." In her farewell game, Jhulan finished with excellent figures of 2/30 in her full quota of 10 overs, including three maiden overs.

The competitive Indian has seen the game evolve during her long journey that was marked with some unforgettable moments and few unpleasant days, something that the board's treasurer Arun Singh Dhumal also observed.

"As women's cricket continued to grow in the country, Jhulan Goswami, along with Mithali Raj, remained at the forefront. Jhulan never shied away from going that extra mile, be it with her performances on the field or be it for the preparations to seek excellence," said Dhumal.

"Her stellar achievements and tremendous work ethics were there for everyone to see and her outstanding contributions towards our game will continue to inspire her teammates and budding cricketers."

Also Read : Rahane sets example, asks Jaiswal to leave field for indiscipline

News Source : PTI

2022-09-25 13:40

West Zone annexes Duleep Trophy with big win over South

Coimbatore, Sep 25 (Cricket News) West Zone thrashed South Zone by 294 runs to win the 2022 Duleep Trophy here on Sunday, completing the formalities before lunch on the fifth and last day's play.

Set an improbable target of 529 runs for an outright win, South Zone were bowled out for 234 in 71.2 overs, with left-arm Shams Mulani (4 for 51) picking up three of the four wickets to fall on the final day.

Resuming at 154 for six, South batters Ravi Teja and R Sai Kishore defied the West attack for nearly two hours. Most of the South Zone's experienced batters failed and fell to the pace duo of Atit Sheth and Jaydev Unadkat on the fourth evening, leaving the team in a hopeless situation.

Teja (53) batted with resolve and was well supported by lanky Sai Kishore, who kept the bowlers at bay for 82 deliveries for his seven.

The duo added 57 runs in 157 deliveries, handling the West bowlers with circumspection. While Teja got three boundaries and hit a six, Kishore was content in defending and spending time in the middle.

Medium-pacer Chintan Gaja broke through with the score at 203 when he had Kishore caught by Priyank Panchal.

Karnataka off-spinner K Gowtham who joined Teja made sure the West bowlers were made to work hard for more success. They added 23 runs and threatened to extend the game past the lunch break.

Mulani trapped Ravi Teja leg before wicket after he had scored a half-century.

Basil Thampi (0) was the next to go, caught by Sarfaraz Khan off Mulani before Tanush Kotian had Gowtham (17) to end South's resistance.

West Zone had amassed 585 for four before declaring in their second innings after conceding a 57-run first-innings lead to their opponents.

Prolific run-scorer Sarfaraz Khan recorded a fine, unbeaten century (127 off 178 balls) while Yashasvi Jaiswal made a monumental 265 in the second innings to help set the game up for the Ajinkya Rahane-led West Zone.

Kerala Opener Rohan Kunnummal waged a lone battle, scoring 93, in South's second innings.

Meanwhile, West captain Rahane decided to ask Jaiswal to leave the field after opposition batsman Teja complained of sledging, which had led to a couple of warnings.

"The way everyone contributed was magnificent. Just looking to play one game at a time, not thinking too much for the future. Excited about the season ahead, first full season after Covid, looking forward to playing for Mumbai," winning captain Rahane said.

The Duleep Trophy returned to the zonal format this season after an experiment with three teams for a few years.

"I think zonal cricket is very important for those players who have been doing well for their states - Ranji Trophy, Irani Trophy and Duleep Trophy are very important for picking out Test cricketers for India in the future," Rahane added.

Brief Scores: West Zone 270 and 585/4 declared in 128 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal 265, Shreyas Iyer 71, Sarfaraz Khan 127; R Sai Kishore 2/157, K Gowtham 2/235) beat South Zone 327 and 234 in 71.2 overs (Rohan Kunnummal 93; Ravi Teja 53, Shams Mulani 4/51, Jaydev Unadkat 2/28, Atit Sheth 2/29).

Also Read : Whatever we have done I don't think it was any crime: Harmanpreet

News Source : PTI

2022-09-25 11:29

Whatever we have done I don't think it was any crime: Harmanpreet

London, Sep 25 (Cricket News) India women's team captain Harmanpreet Kaur says her side had committed "no crime" after completing a first-ever whitewash in ODIs on English soil with a legal yet debatable run out.

Harmanpreet was responding to questions on the run out effected by her bowler Deepti Sharma at the non-striker's end to claim the crucial wicket of Charlie Dean, after the batter had backed up too far, and end England's innings 17 short of the target of 170 in the third and final ODI here on Saturday.

Batting at number nine, Dean had staged a dramatic recovery with a fighting 47 and shared a 35-run stand with No. 11 Freya Davies to put England within reach of the target after the hosts had slipped to 65 for 7 and then 103 for 8.

"Today whatever we have done I don't think it was any crime," Harmanpreet said at the post-match press conference.

"It is part of the game and it is an ICC rule and I think we just need to back our player. I'm actually very happy she was aware of that, and the batter she is taking too long a stride I think. I don't think she has done something wrong and we just need to back her." The India skipper, who was named the Player of the Series, did not agree that the controversy took the sheen off the legendary Jhulan Goswami's farewell game.

"I don't think so, because, like I said, I don't think we have done any crime. I don't think we need to talk about that because the first nine wickets were also very important and everybody was working so hard.

"It was a chaseable total but the way our bowlers bowled and the whole team putting in the effort, there were a lot of things to celebrate other than just talking about the last wicket." Harmanpreet was annoyed with the line of questioning at the presentation ceremony, when the presenter kept harping on the the run out, instead of the Indian team's historic series triumph that was built on the back of a terrific all-round display.

"Well, to be honest I thought you will ask about the nine wickets which was not easy to take as well. It's part of the game. I don't think we have done something new. It shows your awareness, what batters are doing," Harmanpreet said.

"I will back my players, she hasn't done something outside the rules. After the first game we discussed, we wanted to do really well, we have that much potential. We want to continue this kind of cricket." At the post-match presser, she also pointed out how India suffered when Smriti Mandhana was given out in the third match of their T20I series, which England won 2-1, despite the ball touching the ground after Sophie Ecclestone went for the catch.

Very recently only the ICC reiterated the dismissal was completely legitimate, moving it from 'unfair play' to 'run out'.

The MCC Law 41.16.1 states: "If the non-striker is out of his/her ground at any time from the moment the ball comes into play until the instant when the bowler would normally have been expected to release the ball, the non-striker is liable to be run out." Weighing in on the run out, England's senior seamer Kate Cross, who grabbed 4/26 with the ball, said this sort of dismissal will always divide opinion.

"I think it's a dismissal that's always going to divide opinion. That's all that's ever going to get said about it: some people are going to like it, some people aren't.

"Deepti chose to dismiss Charlie Dean that way. I'm more disappointed for Charlie Dean that she couldn't get a fifty at Lord's today because she looked set to do that," Cross said.

"If we're looking at the real positives, then maybe that's the only way they could have got Deano out today.

"Losing any game of cricket is disappointing. Ultimately it's Deepti's choice how she goes about that, and we've lost that game of cricket. What we did say in the dressing room was that we didn't lose that game of cricket because of that last wicket," Cross added.

A teary-eyed Dean, after an initial show of anger when she also threw her bat to the ground, composed herself and shook hands with the Indian players.

Also Read : Jhulan is a go-to person, backed me in my rough time: Harmanpreet

News Source : PTI

2022-09-25 07:57

Jhulan is a go-to person, backed me in my rough time: Harmanpreet

London, Sep 24 (Cricket News) Heaping praise on the retiring Jhulan Goswami, Indian women's team skipper Harmanpreet Kaur on Saturday said the iconic seamer was "a go-to person" and supported the batter in her difficult phase.

India provided a fitting farewell to the 39-year-old Jhulan as they won the third and final ODI against England by 16 runs here on Saturday to complete a first ever clean sweep on English soil.

Speaking about Jhulan at the presentation ceremony, Harmanpreet said, "When I debuted she was a leader, before the game I told her when I was going through the best time people supported me but when I was in a rough time she was the one who supported me.

"I wanted to thank her and tell her she is always with us. She is a go-to person, I always called her at low times and she was someone always guiding me." Charlotte Dean run out: captain says will back my players =================================== Sent in to bat, India were all out for a paltry 169, but that proved enough in the end.

The Indians managed to eke out a win as Charlotte Dean (47) was adjudged run out in controversial fashion, for backing up.

Dean, who nearly pulled off a stunning win for the hosts after they were reeling at 65 for seven and then 103 for eight, was out of her ground and Deepti Sharma simply held the ball to remove the bails, leaving the English flabbergasted.

When probed about it, the India captain said, "To be honest, I thought you will ask about all the 10 wickets which was not easy to take as well. It's part of the game. I don't think we have done something new. It shows your awareness, what batters are doing.

"I will back my players, she hasn't done something outside the rules. After the first game we discussed, we wanted to do really well, we have that much potential. We want to continue this kind of cricket." The India skipper, who was also named Player of the Series, added, "This wicket was not easy to bat on, our batters did a decent job. We were looking for 170 after losing four wickets.

"After that we knew we have the pace attack and spin attack to take the wickets. We never thought we were out of the game." On her own form, she said, "I'm enjoying my time, I want to be there for the team because if I'm there the team is in a positive mode. Today was unfortunate, but otherwise I was watching the ball and batting accordingly." England captain Amy Jones, who contributed 28 and looked to lift her side from a precarious situation along with Charlie Dean, felt they needed partnerships.

"Not happy with the result, we bowled really well, we just needed a bigger partnership. The last dismissal divides opinion. I'm not a fan but it depends how India feel about it. It's within the rules, hopefully doesn't take the shine off the summer.

"A massive learning experience. Learnt the hard way in the 2nd ODI with some practical errors. The girls have been supportive. Looking forward to have Heath (Knight) back. The average age is pretty low and Capsey, Kempy and it has been a brilliant summer fo us.

On Dean, she said, "She looked good out there, She absorbed the pressure and knuckled down - not sure she was getting out any other way."

Also Read : Indian women's team records first ever series sweep on England soil with win in 3rd ODI

News Source : PTI

2022-09-24 17:42

She would spit fire even while bowling at me in nets: Mithali pays tribute to longtime teammate Jhulan

New Delhi, Sep 24 (Cricket News) Jhulan Goswami's commitment to the game was such that she would "spit fire" even while bowling in the nets, and at the receiving end of it often was her longtime teammate and captain, Mithali Raj.

India's finest ever batter Mithali, who called time on a glorious career in July, on Saturday welcomed her contemporary and fast-bowling great Jhulan into the former cricketers' club.

Having shared the dressing room for close to two decades, Mithali and Jhulan saw the massive growth of women's cricket in India, shared many memorable wins and also some heartbreaking losses.

Speaking to PTI on Jhulan's immense impact, longevity and relentless hardwork over the years, Mithali began by talking about the 'Chakdaha Express'' early days when she came into the Indian team as a 19-year-old.

"We are of the same age, so we have that comfort level and communication. It was always very easy to reach out to her and speak to her. Someone who was always high on energy on the ground, may be because she is a fast bowler," said Mithali.

The 39-year-old became the leading wicket-taker in ODIs through sheer dedication. Though swing was not her biggest weapon, accuracy and use of the seam got her a bagful of wickets.

The competitive spirit in Jhulan was very much evident even in the nets, recalled Mithali.

"In the nets, I would often ask her 'why are you spitting fire, you are my teammate only na'. Then she would say 'to get out is the toughest'. She always had the competitive streak including domestic cricket where we played against each other often. I enjoyed that rivalry as well." A fast bowler is expected to have a tough exterior but Jhulan was also gentle at heart. Mithali recollected a game in domestic cricket that revealed Jhulan's softer side.

"We were playing in the semifinals (Railways versus Bengal). I did not carry my helmet during that domestic season. Jhulan was aiming right at my head and I did leave a lot of her bouncers.

"After a while she came up to me and said 'why are you not wearing a helmet? I was like 'I did not carry helmet', how will I wear one?' Those were the fun times." The former India captain said even the opposition would give her due respect, especially when she was at her peak.

"What her stood out was her accuracy. She was not much of a swing bowler, she was more of a bowler who would get the ball in and out. The cutters were her strength. At her peak, she would hardly give loose balls." After the retirement of pacers Rumeli Dhar and Amita Sharma, Jhulan was the constant in India's pace attack, even as the team relied heavily on spin.

"She was a lone ranger from one end for a very long time. She would get support at times but often she would be the only one trying to put pressure. That holds true even in the recent times." Both Mithali and Jhulan started playing at a time when women's cricket was a neglected sport. It finally came under the BCCI's umbrella in 2006.

"We had a lot of fun probably early in our careers though she was more at the receiving end of my pranks. As we got older and matured, we saw many of our teammates leave the game and both of us were left among a bunch of new faces.

"Having her in the team helped because she was also that person who would speak to everybody and communicate. Whenever I needed an opinion she would always give one." Mithali also fondly remembers their partnerships in the middle.

"I enjoyed batting with her as well and I always thought she could contribute a lot more with the bat.

"There were some good partnerships, some amazing wins, some bad losses, we have seen it all through. It is a sad moment (that she is retiring) but also a moment to celebrate someone who played for such along time. It is not easy to have a career like that as fast bowler." Talking about Jhulan's interests off the field, Mithali came up with interesting revelations.

"She enjoys reading about politics, wants to know what is happening in the world. Her knowledge of men's cricket also stands out. I would always tell her if I was ever on the hot seat (KBC) and a cricketing question came, she would be the first person I would call."

Also Read : Ireland Women’s team secure qualification for the T20I World Cup

News Source : PTI

2022-09-24 16:04

Ireland Women’s team secure qualification for the T20I World Cup

(Cricket news) Ireland Women’s cricket team survived a nail-biting semi-final to beat Zimbabwe by four runs, and ensure qualification to the 2023 ICC T20 World Cup in South Africa. In a true all-round team performance, Ireland’s top six batters registered double-figures, while the bowlers remained composed under mounting pressure - with stand-out bowlers Jane Maguire and Arlene Kelly taking four crucial wickets between them - as Ed Joyce’s team held on to claim one of the two T20 World Cup spots on offer.

Having been sent in the bat, Ireland started off with positive intent - Gaby Lewis slapping the second ball of the day to the deep square leg boundary. Along with her opening partner Amy Hunter, the pair punished any short deliveries as they looked to take the early initiative. However, Lewis (11) fell in the fourth over after she top-edged one to backward point, with Ireland 25-1. Orla Prendergast entered the fray and looked in fine touch once again - striking two fours and a six from her first nine balls, as Ireland moved on to 44-1 after the powerplay

Following a 31-run stand, Hunter (19) advanced down Audrey Mazvishaya but was stumped in 9th over. Prendergast tried to take advantage of a second life after being dropped earlier in her innings and powered her way to 28 before holing out at cover off the bowling of Kelis Ndlovu. At 68-3, Ireland’s innings was in the balance, but several dropped catches saw Ireland ride their luck. A quickfire 30-run partnership between Laura Delany (22) and Eimear Richardson (14), followed by a 27-run partnership between Delany and Rebecca Stokell (26* off 12 balls) saw Ireland regain control.

Stokell’s late cameo saw her smash 20 runs off the 18th over, as 37 runs flowed from the final three overs – Ireland finished on 137-6 from their 20 overs. Jane Maguire claimed two early wickets in the Zimbabwean run-chase – Ndlovu (8) and Chipo Tiripano (4) – but began to recover with Sharne Mayers and Mary-Anne Musonda posting a 50-run partnership. That partnership was broken by Kelly in the 13th over when she clipped the off stump of Mayers (39), and Zimbabwe were 71-3.

Zimbabwe upped the scoring rate in the latter overs – needing a feasible 39 from 30 balls, Cara Murray struck, removing Musonda (31) with a flighted delivery that spun away from the right-hander leaving her stranded, and Mary Waldron duly completed the stumping. Delany took the ball for the final over with 15 runs required by the batting side, but despite finding a boundary with the second ball, Ireland held on for the win. Ireland will progress to the Qualifier Final on Sunday against the winner between Bangladesh and Thailand but have already secured qualification to next year’s T20 World Cup through today’s victory.

MATCH SUMMARY

Ireland v Zimbabwe, T20 World Cup Qualifier, Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, 23 September 2022

Ireland 137-6 (20 overs; O Prendergast 28, R Stokell 26*; N Sibanda 2-24)

Zimbabwe 133-6 (20 overs; S Mayers 39, M Musonda 30; J Maguire 2-18)

Ireland won by 4 runs

Also read: Bangladesh, Ireland qualify for 2023 Women's T20 World Cup

2022-09-24 14:23

Harshal, Chahal's form in focus ahead of series decider against Australia

Hyderabad, Sep 24 (Cricket News) India will be hoping their key bowlers, Harshal Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal, are back to their best when the hosts take on Australia in the series-deciding third T20 International here on Sunday.

India were able to plug the gaps in Nagpur to level the three-match series with a comprehensive win in the eight-over-a-side contest. But they will need their bowlers, especially Harshal and Chahal, to overcome their struggles ahead of the T20 World Cup.

India had got off to an electric start in the last game with Axar Patel bowling a fiery two-over spell that included a couple of wickets but they are struggling at the back end of the innings.

While Jasprit Bumrah is sure to carry the responsibility, senior seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s poor show at the death overs is a real concern. He struggled in the Asia Cup and in the opener against Australia.

He was dropped for the second T20, perhaps, because skipper Rohit Sharma felt he needed only four bowlers for the eight overs but Bhuvneshwar’s form is worrisome.

Death overs specialist Harshal, who is returning from an injury, also hasn’t inspired confidence and perhaps needs a couple of matches more to find his rhythm.

The right-arm medium pacer, who relies on his variations to be effective, has conceded 81 runs in his six overs at an economy rate of 13.50 and is the most expensive bowler in the series. He has struggled to get his lengths right, remaining wicketless.

India rely on their spinners in the middle overs and while Axar has been a big positive, Chahal has faltered. He went for a lot of runs in the Asia Cup and the trend has continued against Australia.

India will, however, breathe a sigh of relief as Bumrah was his vintage best, showing no signs of rust after returning from his back injury.

In the batting department, the famed top order comprising Rohit, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli needs to be more consistent. The trio has not fired in unison for a while. Suryakumar Yadav has also been patchy in the past few games with Hardik Pandya churning out match-winning performances.

Another chink in the Indian batters' armour is leg spin. The have continued to struggle against leggies and Adam Zampa has utilised this weakness well.

Dinesh Karthik, who played his role of a finisher to perfection in the previous game, is likely to get more game time.

Skipper Rohit would also like to give Axar, who is a like-to-like replacement for the injured Ravindra Jadeja, a go with the bat to see how the all-rounder performs in crunch situations. Additionally, he is the only left-hander in the side apart from Rishabh Pant.

The Australians, on the other hand, would also be concerned with their bowling.

After outplaying India in the first game, the Australians were at the receiving end in the second match, eventually losing by a massive six wickets. While Aaron Finch and Matthew Wade managed to put runs on the board, their bowling department failed miserably once again.

In the absence of the injured Nathan Elis, pacers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Daniel Sams leaked over 11 runs an over. All-rounder Cameron Green has also been expensive.

Wade has been brilliant with the willow but with a World Cup to defend in their backyard, the Australian team management would like the big-hitting Glenn Maxwell, who has scored just a run in two games, to pick up form.

Come Sunday, both teams will try to iron out the chinks in their armours and come on top, as a series win this close to World Cup will be a real moral booster.

Teams From: Australia: Aaron Finch (C), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Daniel Sams, Steve Smith, Matthew Wade, Adam Zampa.

India: Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (vc), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav. Match starts at 7pm IST.

Also Read : Brook and Duckett help England take 2-1 lead in the T20I series

News Source : PTI

2022-09-24 12:34

India win shortened 2nd T20I to level the series against Australia

(Cricket news) India defeated Australia by 6 wickets with 4 balls to spare in an 8 over game. The start of the match was delayed due to the wet surface and it was cut down to 8 overs a side with 2 over powerplay. Both the teams made a couple of changes as India brought in Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant for Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Umesh Yadav while Australia replaced Nathan Ellis and Josh Inglis with Daniel Sams and Sean Abbott. India decided to go with an extra batter as they needed only 5 bowling options. The crowd at Nagpur despite the delay was absolutely buzzing as they witnessed international cricket after 3 long years. Both the captains and the other players gave a special mention to the crowd that was anything but quiet right from the beginning.

After losing the toss Australia were put into bat first. The approach changed for the 8 over game and rightly so as all the batters looked for boundaries immediately. Aaron Finch started off with a 31 off just 15 balls including 4 fours and 1 six. Axar Patel was India's best bowler as he picked up 2/13 in his two overs. The all-rounder is continuing to impress in the absence of Ravindra Jadeja and has definitely cemented his place in the playing XI. Jasprit Bumrah on his return looked fully fit and rapid as he dismissed a set Aaron Finch with a rocket yorker. Matthew Wade picked up exactly where he left off at Mohali by scoring an unbeaten 43 off just 20 balls. The gloveman's explosive innings included 4 boundaries and 3 maximums as it took Australia to a good total of 90.

Chasing 91, India got off to a great start but then Adam Zampa spun his webs by picking up 3 wickets to get Australia back in the game. Pat Cummins, who had a good day with the ball, got rid of the dangerous Hardik Pandya. Rohit Sharma was the player of the match as he scored an incredible 20 ball 46 hitting 4 fours and 4 sumptuous sixes. Dinesh Karthik finished the game with 2 boundaries in the last over as India chased down the total with 4 balls to spare. An 8 over game is very dependent on luck especially at the toss but India did play some good cricket in the match. The two teams are now all set for the decider in Hyderabad which will add to their experience before the T20 World Cup.

Also read: Jhulan Goswami prepares for a dream farewell game at Lord's

2022-09-24 11:06

I don't practice too much but like to be specific: Dinesh Karthik

Nagpur, Sep 24 (Cricket News) Specific practice and not 'too much of it' helps Dinesh Karthik come up with the big hits in extreme pressure situations.

One such case was on Friday night when he smashed a six and four to seal the game for India after nine runs were needed off the last six balls.

Asked about his process, the designated finisher in the team said creating scenarios in the nets helps him perform in the middle.

"Over a period of time, I've been practising for this, I've been doing it for RCB now and I'm happy doing it here. So it's a consistent routine for a period of time.

"I do a lot of scenario practices and also Rahul (Dravid) bhai and Vikram (Rathour) bhai has been accommodating of how I want to practice, what are the kinds of shots I want to practice.

"I have been very specific with it. I don't practice too much but I like to keep it as specific as possible," said Karthik after India levelled the series against Australia.

In the first game, Karthik came to bat after Axar Patel while on Friday he was sent ahead of the left-arm spinner.

"I think it's something that we are trying, there are times when there could be a couple of overs where an Axar Patel could target a spinner and take them on.

"So that is the kind of logic at that stage and having a left hander and leg spinner bowling is a good matchup. So we try and use that option sometimes.

"So that's one of the reasons why we try and do it depending on how the game is unravelling at that point of time," said the 37-year-old.

Karthik played ahead of Rishabh Pant in the opener but a truncated game allowed the management to accommodate both in the playing eleven for the second T20.

"Today we required four bowlers to finish off the 8 overs as each bowled two but we actually had five options. So when you have five options, that's the luxury of having a world class all rounder in Hardik Pandya," said Karthik.

"When Hardik Pandya is there in the 11, then 11 gets balanced very well, an extra batsmen or extra bowler can play, that's the luxury you have and that's what makes him so special." The wicketkeeper batter was all praise for his skipper Rohit Sharma who hit an unbeaten 46 off 20 balls in the run chase. The game was reduced to 8-over a side contest due to a wet outfield.

"It was terrific batting from Rohit Sharma. On that pitch, against new ball bowlers to play such shots is not easy. It shows why he is such a great player, not only in Indian cricket but also in world cricket.

"His ability to play fast bowling is second to none in his world and that's what makes him really special as a batsman," he said.

While Pandya has been sensational form ever since he returned from a injury, Axar has also slipped into his role of a spin all-rounder after being included in the squad in place of an injured Ravindra Jadeja.

"There are very few players like him (Pandya) who are able to balance the side out and that's where I think India have been blessed and touchwood if he does well it's always great for Indian cricket," Karthik said.

"I think Axar Patel is also coming good with the bat at different points of time, will help India because that helps the balance of the team.

"All are aware of Rishabh Pant's quality as a batter. He would have been very useful in this game. Yes, he couldn't back right up to the end but we all know what quality he brings to the table. So I think I think India definitely made the right choice by playing Rishabh."

Also Read : Six-hitting Rohit guides India to series-levelling win in 2nd T20I

News Source : PTI

2022-09-24 11:02

Six-hitting Rohit guides India to series-levelling win in 2nd T20I

Nagpur, Sep 23 (Cricket News) Rohit Sharma displayed his six-hitting prowess with an unbeaten 46 after Axar Patel snapped two wickets in a fiery spell as India notched up a series-levelling six-wicket win over Australia in the rain hit second T20I here on Friday.

The India skipper smashed four sixes and as many fours as he single-handedly helped India chase down a target of 91 with four balls to spare in a match which was reduced to eight-overs-a-side due to a wet outfield.

Earlier, Matthew Wade smacked an unbeaten 20-ball 43 to fire Australia to 90 for five.

Wade hit four boundaries and three towering sixes -- all maximums in the final over off Harshal Patel (0/32) -- while skipper Aaron Finch hit 31 off 15 after Rohit invited Australia to bat in a match that was delayed by two-and-half hours.

Chasing the target, Rohit made his intention clear as he went on a six-hitting spree, unleashing three monstrous hits off Josh Hazlewood in the opening over to give India's chase a flying start.

The India opener then deposited Pat Cummins' (1/23 in 2 overs) slower delivery into the stands before lifting Adam Zampa (3/16 in 2 overs) over long-off for another maximum.

But the spinner came back to disturb the stumps of KL Rahul (10), who looked to go for a slog-sweep.

Virat Kohli (11) then picked up a boundary off Daniel Sams, before smacking one over Zampa's head for another four.

However, the spinner won the battle of wits as his quicker delivery beat the Indian and disloged the stumps.

Zampa dealt a double blow as he trapped Suryakumar Yadav (0) in the very next ball as India slipped to 55 for 3 in 4.3 overs.

Unfazed by the fall of wickets, Rohit continued to go strong as he chipped one over cover and then pulled one wide of short fine as Sean Abbott conceded 11 runs.

Hardik Pandya scored a four off Cummins but he couldn't stay long as he holed out to Finch in the seventh over.

Designated finisher Dinesh Karthik then played his part to perfection, knocking off the remaining runs with a six and a four off Sams.

Earlier, Australia looked to put up a show for the capacity crowd at the VCA stadium but Axar Patel (2/13 in 2 overs) snapped two wickets in an impressive spell to leave them at 31 for 3.

Jasprit Bumrah (1/23 in 2 overs), who has been out of action since the end of England tour due to back injury, produced a sensational yorker to get rid of the dangerous Finch during his spell.

However, Wade ensured the visitors ended things in a flourish as he along with Steve Smith (8) added 44 runs in the final 18 balls.

Harshal had another forgettable evening as he conceded 32 without a wicket in his two overs.

The two teams will now move to Hyderabad for the series-deciding third T20I on Sunday.

Also Read : Cuttack to host Legends League Cricket (LLC) final

News Source : PTI

2022-09-23 19:27

Duleep Trophy Final: Jaiswal scores double hundred to bring West back in game

Coimbatore, Sep 23 (Cricket News) Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal smashed his way to a double hundred in just about two-and-half sessions as West Zone took control of proceedings despite South's 57-run first innings lead on the third day of the Duleep Trophy final here.

At the end of third day's play, West Zone were 376 for 3, courtesy Jaiswal's unbeaten 209 off 244 balls that had 23 boundaries and three sixes.

West now have a lead of 319 runs and even if they declare at lunch on Day four, they will have five full sessions to force an outright victory although the track is getting easier for batting with no considerable wear and tear.

For South, it will be about batting out in the fourth innings and winning the trophy by virtue of first innings lead.

Jaiswal had a 169-run third wicket stand with Shreyas Iyer (71) and another 58 for the unbroken fourth wicket with Sarfaraz Khan (30 batting).

It was a day that will be best remembered for the duel between two powerhouse performers in this year's domestic cricket -- left-handed opener Jaiswal and left-arm spinner Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore.

While Jaiswal had failed in the first innings, he came out with a lot more positive intent in the second essay after South were dismissed for 327 with an addition of only nine runs to their overnight score of 318/7.

Once West came out, Jaiswal was severe on South pacers Basil Thampi (0/67 in 9 overs) and CV Stephen (0/27 in 6 overs) as he and Priyank Panchal (40) added 110 runs at little under five per over for the opening stand.

South skipper Hanuma Vihari missed the trick when he introduced Sai Kishore (27-5-100-2) only as second change after the opening stand yielded 80 plus runs.

Panchal was caught off Sai Kishore's bowling and Ajinkya Rahane was then trapped leg before by the off-spinner Gowtham (33-1-139-1).

But the joy of two wickets was short-lived once Jaiswal started using his feet to good effect with two spinners in their combined 60 overs went for 239 runs, which was nearly four runs per over.

He got good support from Iyer, who did make amends and hit four fours and two sixes before getting dismissed while going for a glory shot off Sai Kishore's bowling. Iyer, thus missed a half-century in the first innings and didn't show enough patience to score a hundred in the second.

Jaiswal hit off-spinner Gowtham with the turn for a six and didn't let Sai Kishore settle to one line as he repeatedly came down the track to disturb his line. He also had a six off seamer Stephen's bowling.

There were many boundaries between cover and extra-cover region and one such shot off Gowtham brought up his double hundred.

It was like a release of emotions as he let out a war-cry as he got a standing ovation from the West dressing room.

Brief Scores: West 270 and 376/3 (Yashasvi Jaiswal 209 batting, Shreyas Iyer 71, R Sai Kishore 2/100, K Gowtham 1/139). South Zone 327 (Baba Indrajith 118, Jaydev Unadkat 4/52).

Also Read : Legends league Cricket hits record-breaking viewership

News Source : PTI

2022-09-23 16:44

Farewell To Cricket: Indian women gear up for memorable Lord's dance for legendary Jhulan

London, Sep 23 (Cricket News) Jhulan Goswami, a name synonymous with 'fast bowling' in women's cricket, will walk into her cricketing sunset at the Lord's on Saturday and the Indian team will strive to make it a memorable swansong for her by completing a historic ODI series clean sweep on English soil, here.

Playing one game at Lord's is an ultimate dream for a cricketer.

Scoring a hundred or taking a five-for is a different high but bidding adieu to the game following an illustrious career at the 'Mecca of Cricket' is only reserved for a few chosen ones.

Sunil Gavaskar (although he played his last first-class game there) didn't get that opportunity. Neither did a Sachin Tendulkar or a Brian Lara or a Glenn McGrath got that opportunity to step down the stairs of the hallowed Long Room on their final playing day.

Even Goswami's colleague for nearly 20 years, Mithali Raj, couldn't retire from a cricket field.

But call it destiny or design, Goswami's last hurrah is happening at Lord's.

There couldn't have been a more iconic setting as the strapping 5 feet 11 inch lady walks her way through that Long Room where the MCC's 'suits' will stand up and give her a 'Guard of Honour' and she will enter the ground with her teammates.

A series already won with an unassailable 2-0 lead, Harmanpreet Kaur and her team would leave no stone unturned to make it a fitting farewell for one of the 'poster girls' of Indian cricket.

Having lost the T20I series, India did extremely well against a depleted England side in the two games where they dominated while chasing as well as while setting the target.

If the biggest gain is skipper Harmanpreet getting her touch and free-flowing self back with innings of 74 not out and 143 not out, the worry has been Shafali Verma's patchy form throughout the tour.

Harleen Deol has done well to establish herself as a dependable middle-order batter but with Goswami's retirement, the seam attack comprising Meghna Singh, Renuka Thakur and Pooja Vastrakar would need to step-up a lot more.

As far as England is concerned, the absence of skipper Heather Knight (due to injury) and star all-rounder Nat Sciver (mental health break) impacted the team's balance hugely.

Goswami -- Impact then and now ====================== The last time Indian women won an ODI series in England was way back in 1999 when Goswami hadn't made her international debut.

So as she appears for her 204th and last game, Indian team's revered "Jhulu Di" would know that she is a contented soul.

May be an ICC silverware (she had two shots at that in 2005 and 2017 when India played final) would have looked nice but sometimes some things are not meant to be.

When she makes her bowling mark for one last time, and strides up that Lord's slope to add to his 353 international wickets (across formats), she might remember a lot of things.

From a small town Chakdah in remote West Bengal to winning 'ICC Woman Cricketer of The Year' and shouldering the Indian pace attack for 20 years, you can only doff your hat to her.

It wasn't an easy journey to take the first local train to Kolkata and start with routines at North Kolkata's Shradhhananda Park (a small non-descript ground).

Even after her India debut, when she would go back home, from Chakdah station, she would be seen sitting in an open Van Rickshaw.

When she had first played for India, Shafali Verma and Richa Ghosh were not even born and Jemimah Rodrigues was perhaps in her nappies.

Harmanpreet was still a dreamy-eyed Moga girl, who wanted to play cricket.

When she is retiring, Harmanpreet is her captain and Shafali, Jemimah, Richa and Yastika Bhatia are her teammates.

And yes, the IPL for women is about to start, women cricketers have central contracts and most of them are driving Mercedes, BMWs and Audis, with the kind of money that has come in.

She has been a bridge between the struggles of travelling in second class compartments, living in dormitories and youth hostels with common washrooms to business class travels and stay at swanky five-stars with proper central contracts and financial security.

In between, a lot of water has flown through both Hooghly and Thames as she went on her journey undeterred.

The delivery to Meg Lanning in the semi-final of the 2017 World Cup will be one such piece of cricketing action that you would want.

As India aim for a 3-0 clean sweep after a couple of dominant shows, one can assure that there will be no let up in her intensity.

There won't be another Jhulan Goswami.

Teams (from): India: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Sabbineni Meghana, Deepti Sharma, Yastika Bhatia (wk), Pooja Vastrakar, Sneh Rana, Renuka Thakur, Meghna Singh, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Harleen Deol, Dayalan Hemalatha, Simran Dil Bahadur, Jhulan Goswami, Taniyaa Bhatia and Jemimah Rodrigues.

England: Amy Jones (c and wk), Tammy Beaumont, Lauren Bell, Maia Bouchier, Alice Capsey, Kate Cross, Freya Davies, Alice Davidson-Richards, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Eclestone, Freya Kemp, Issy Wong and Danni Wyatt.

Match starts at 3.30pm IST.

Also Read : Not winning a WC title remains retiring Jhulan Goswami's only regret

News Source : PTI

2022-09-23 14:14

Babar and Rizwan power past England in the 2nd T20I

(Cricket news) Babar Azam scored his second T20I hundred as he made 110* off 66 which included 11 fours and 5 sixes, it came in a record stand with Mohammad Rizwan who also contributed with a well made 88* off 51( 5 fours and 4 sixes). Pakistan prevailed in a high-scoring encounter at the National Stadium in Karachi in the second T20I to square the series against England. In the first innings, Moeen Ali made a 23-ball fifty as they posted an imposing target of 199 . But the hosts did not break a sweat winning with three deliveries to spare thanks to the record breaking opening stand of Babar and Rizwan. Pakistan became the first team to achieve success in a 200 plus run chase with all their wickets intact.

Pakistan got off to the best possible start in the chase as the openers made a half-century stand inside the powerplay. By the time the power play ended, Babar struck five fours while Rizwan had scored two fours and one six as Pakistan raced to 59/0. In comparison to England at the same stage of the innings, Pakistan were seven runs ahead and had all their wickets intact. Rizwan got lucky when Salt failed to grab the ball after Adil Rashid balled a beautiful googly which got a thick outside off Rizwan’s bat. The Pakistani opener went on to bring up a 30-ball fifty for his 18th T20I half-century. After the power play both the batters dealt in sixes, making most of the conditions that had improved for the batters in the second innings, as they raced down to 151/0 after 15 overs, bringing down the equation to 48 off 30.

It was the beginning of the Babar as he only took 22 deliveries to go from 50-100, hitting four sixes and three fours, becoming the first Pakistan player to score two centuries in T20Is. Pakistan needed 20 off the last two overs and they coasted to the target with 10 wickets in hand. Alex Hales and Phil Salt gave England a good start, they got a boundary every other over in the powerplay. They managed to get a quick-fire 42-run stand, however, Hales was bowled by Shahnawaz Dahani when he attempted a pull while Dawid Malan was bowled around his legs. England ended the first six overs with a score of 48/2.

On a wicket that was on the slower side, especially in the first innings Pakistan tried to strangle the England batters with spin at both ends. But Duckett brought out the sweeps, reverse-sweep and scoop to ensure regular boundaries. Salt slowed down by not adding to his boundary count as he eventually fell to Haris Rauf who cleaned up after a 27-ball 30. Duckett then fell to Nawaz when he deflected a sweep onto the stumps ending a fine 22-ball knock for 43 runs. Harry Brook brought some parity in the England innings when they collected 85 runs in the middle overs while they scored 66 runs in the last five overs. Hasnain was the most expensive Pakistani bowler conceding 51 runs as Moeen finished off the innings with two sixes to get to his sixth T20I fifty.

Brief scores: England 199/5 in 20 overs (Moeen Ali 55*, Ben Duckett 43; Haris Rauf 2-30) lost to Pakistan 203/0 in 19.3 overs (Babar Azam 110*, Mohammad Rizwan 88*) by 10 wickets.

Also read: Bumrah set to return as India look to bounce back against Australia

2022-09-23 12:46

Thakur, Sen star in India 'A' win over New Zealand 'A' in first ODI

Chennai, Sep 22 (Cricket News) A superb performance by medium-pacers Shardul Thakur (4 for 32) and Kuldeep Sen (3 for 30) helped set up a seven-wicket win for India 'A' against New Zealand 'A' in the first unofficial ODI here on Thursday.

Sent in to bat by India 'A' captain Sanju Samson, incisive bowling by Thakur and Sen had the visiting team in trouble from the start.

At one stage, the New Zealanders looked in danger of being bundled out for less than 100 but some rearguard action by Michael Rippon (61, 104 balls, 4 fours) and Joe Walker (36, 49 balls, 3 fours, 1 six) helped them post 167 in 40.2 overs.

The Sanju Samson-led team overhauled the target set by the Kiwis in 31.5 overs with the captain (31 not out, 1 four, 3 sixes) and Rajat Patidar (45, 41 balls, 7 fours) finishing the job.

There were also useful contributions from opener Ruturaj Gaikwad (41, 54 balls 3 fours, 2 sixes) and Rahul Tripathi (31, 40 balls, 4 fours).

Earlier, on a pitch offering pace and bounce for the bowlers, Thakur struck the first blow by castling Chad Bowes (10) with NZ 'A' at 14 in the third over. In his next over, he had Dane Cleaver (4) caught by Sen.

Sen got into the act by dismissing Joe Carter (1) and Rachin Ravindra (10) in the space of three balls to leave the Kiwis at 26 for 4.

In his next over, Sen dismissed Tom Bruce for a duck to leave the opposition in shambles at 27 for 5.

Captain Robert O'Donnell and Sean Solia got down to the job of resurrecting the innings and took the score to 51 before the latter was run out by Rishi Dhawan.

O' Donnell batted for 39 balls for his 21 before nicking one to 'keeper Samson. Logan Van Beek (1) fell to Kuldeep Yadav and NZ 'A' slumped to 74 for 8.

Rippon was joined by off-spinner Walker and the duo slowly but surely mounted a fight. Rippon was the more cautious of the two and gathered runs and reached 50 from 82 balls.

No.10 batter Walker hit the first six of the match in the 29th over, slogging Shahbaz Ahmed over mid-wicket.

The duo took the score past 150 and looked good for some more before Rajat Patidar's throw from the cover caught Walker short of his crease. The Rippon-Walker partnership for the ninth wicket yielded 89 runs and gave respectively to the total.

Rippon fell to Thakur for a well-compiled 61 as the Kiwis folded for 167.

In reply, Gaikwad batted in an enterprising manner even as the usually aggressive Prithvi Shaw (17, 24 balls, 1 six) was cautious.

Gaikwad hit a couple of boundaries and a six and kept the scoreboard ticking. Tripathi, who came in after the dismissal of Shaw to Matthew Fisher, got runs without taking too many risks.

Ruturaj missed out on a fifty, falling to a caught and bowled to left-arm spinner Rippon (1 for 28).

Medium-pacer Lorgan Verjus van Beek (1 for 38) bowled Tripathi before Samson and Patidar took over and saw the team home.

Patidar, who has been in good form recently and got a ton in the unofficial Test against New Zealand 'A' played some some attractive shots in his unbeaten 45 (41 balls, 7 fours).

Samson finished the match with a huge six.

Speaking after the game, Thakur, the star performer, said he was surprised to see New Zealand lose five wicket in the PowerPlay. "Because of 9 AM start, there was something in the air which we were able to exploit," he added.

Brief Scores: New Zealand 'A' 167 all out in 40.2 overs (Michael Rippon 61, Joe Walker 36, Robert O'Donnell 22, Shardul Thakur 4 for 32, Kuldeep Sen 3 for 30) lost to India 'A' 170 for 3 in 31.5 overs (Rajat Patidar 45 not out, Ruturaj Gaikwad 41, Rahul Tripathi 31, Sanju Samson 29 not out).

Also Read : Experience of playing IPL in India helped to stay calm, says Tim David

News Source : PTI

2022-09-23 12:31

Bumrah set to return as India look to bounce back against Australia

(Cricket news) After a disappointing loss in the 1st T20I, India will look to comeback and level the series. Jasprit Bumrah is finally fit and ready to go which is a massive boost for the men in Blue. Bumrah alone will not work wonders as the other bowlers also need to step up. The Australian bowlers also need to do a better job. Cameron Green was a revelation as an opener in the last game and he will look to further assert his position. The pitch in Nagpur wouldn't be as friendly as the one in Mohali which means that both the teams could rope in an extra spinner. Rain could play spoilsport as Nagpur has experienced showers in the past few days and the weather during the match is forecasted to be cloudy.

India possible playing XI:

Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal

Bench:

Rishabh Pant, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Deepak Hooda, Umesh Yadav

Umesh Yadav will be making way for Bumrah even though he did take two crucial wickets in Mohali. India need to have an additional spinner in Nagpur and Ravichandran Ashwin is the obvious candidate. Harshal Patel is most likely going to be the one to miss and plus he is also coming back from an injury which means that playing back to back games might not be in his best interest. Dinesh Karthik is also likely to keep his place for this series at least while Rishabh Pant could get an opportunity against South Africa.

Australia possible playing XI:

Aaron Finch (c), Cameron Green, Steven Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis, Tim David, Matthew Wade (wk), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood

Bench:

Nathan Ellis, Sean Abbott, Daniel Sams, Kane Richardson

Ashton Agar is the spin bowling option who will definitely come in handy while Glenn Maxwell could get more overs. Cameron Green had a good game with the willow and he can definitely do more with the ball. Adam Zampa had a rare off night at Mohali and he will be looking to come back stronger as will Josh Hazelwood. Without Mitchell Starc, Australia lack a death bowler which is where Cummins needs to step up to the task.

Also read: Is Suryakumar more important than Rohit and Virat in the Indian T20 side?

2022-09-23 11:05

Experience of playing IPL in India helped to stay calm, says Tim David

Nagpur, Sep 22 (Cricket News) The experience of playing in Indian conditions during his IPL stint helped him to stay calm under pressure during the opening T20I, said big-hitting Singapore-born Australian Tim David on Thursday.

The 26-year-old made his IPL debut for Royal Challengers Bangalore in Sharjah against Chennai Super Kings last year. He was then bought by Mumbai Indians and played eight matches for the franchise this year.

"I think having had the experience of playing in India before and playing a fair bit of T20 cricket recently, I felt calm the other night because I knew that we're in a good position to be able to chase those runs," said David during a virtual press conference.

"And the way the pitch was playing so I think to get over the line, you know, that still has to happen. It doesn't just happen straight away. And that was some brilliant performances from our batsman, the chase that score down." David scored a 14-ball 18 on debut and added 62 with Matthew Wade (45) to guide Australia to a four-wicket win in the first T20 on Tuesday.

"Having some good experience playing in India, I think finishing off games and understanding how it can go and how the pitches can play or when it kind of lights up in front of you, so you know, there can be an advantage batting second in Indian conditions.

"That was a good experience - that IPL - to draw on to the other night out there in the middle," added David, who is 6 ft 5 inches tall." David said the experience of sharing the dressing room with Wade in the Hobart Hurricanes helped him during the chase in Mohali.

"I played a fair bit with Maddie (Wade) but I haven't batted with him that much. So it was nice to have a familiar face out there the other night and I think he did most of the heavy lifting," he said.

"So to be stood the other end and watch him finish the game off was great. And that's I guess it's good stuff." Talking about his role in the Australian team, David said: "I think my role on the team here is to be batting in the middle order. So that means that I'm not going to be facing a lot of balls in matches.

"And I'm probably going to try and put the foot down with my batting first or if we're chasing, trying to finish off the game. So I've got to tick off my boxes of trying to play powerful shots, trying to clear the boundary and I think that's a big part of my training.

"So I try and get volume in the nets because, let's say, in a three-match series here I like face 20 balls ...so I've got a lot of my work done in the nets. And be prepared to kind of be on for every ball." "I think it's pretty straightforward. It's very similar to what I've been playing T20 cricket over the last year and 18 months so I guess I'm trying to bring my experiences that I've had so far and just take the game on and help the team win games." Asked if he had ever thought that he would be playing the T20 World Cup for Australia, David said: "To be honest, I didn't give it very much thought. It's just it's kind of evolved naturally to be here at this stage. Yeah, I haven't thought about that too much.

"I just look to win a game which is in front of me and don't put any expectations on that.

"I just try and keep the game very simple. I don't look too far ahead of myself. I'm trying to stay pretty grounded and train harder than that and just improve as much as I can."

Also Read : Ponting's T20 WC face-offs: Bumrah has edge over Afridi, wants both DK, Pant in Indian XI

News Source : PTI

2022-09-22 19:10

ICC chairmanship not in my hands, says Sourav Ganguly

Kolkata, Sep 22 (Cricket News) BCCI president Sourav Ganguly on Thursday said the ICC chairmanship is "not in my hands", playing down strong speculation that the former India captain could head to Dubai.

In July, the International Cricket Council (ICC) Board approved the process to elect the next chairman of the world body in November. After the meeting in Birmingham, it was decided that with Greg Barclay ending his tenure this year, the election will be decided by a simple majority and the term of the Chair will be for a two-year period between December 1, 2022, to November 30, 2024.

Ganguly's name has been doing the rounds since then. But when asked about it, the elegant batter of yesteryear just had this to say: "ICC chairmanship is not in my hands." The ICC Board has decided that a two-thirds majority is no longer required to be elected as the chairman. According to the latest recommendations, the contestant bagging 51 per cent votes will be elected as the winner.

In a 16-member board, the candidate needs just nine votes from the directors to get elected.

The Indian men's team hasn't been in the best of form of late, and Ganguly acknowledged that not being able to do well in big tournaments is a matter of concern.

"Rohit Sharma has a winning percentage of almost 80. India has lost last three-four matches but before that... He has led in 35-40 matches and lost just five or six.

"I am sure Rohit and Rahul Dravid will be concerned about the team and everything, and they will improve.

"I am not worried about one or two losses, but yes, we have not done well in big tournaments. We will talk about that..

"The team will leave (for T20 World Cup in Australia) two to three weeks, will get time to acclimatise and play practice matches." Regarding Virat Kohli's recent century, he said, "It's very good news that Virat has done well in Asia Cup, and hopefully, he will continue in that vein." The seasoned Jhulan Goswami is retiring from international cricket after playing the third and final ODI against England, and Ganguly called the pacer "an absolute legend".

"Jhulan is an absolute legend... Last three as BCCI president, we have maintained very good relations... she had a fantastic career. She is almost 40.

"Jhulan will leave a mark in women's cricket she is a role model, she should get the highest honour when she finishes at Lord's. She is an absolute champion." It's been a while now, but Ganguly still can't believe that India lost the Commonwealth Games final in Australia.

"Still wonder how we have lost the CWG final, we were cruising, we were winning... The BCCI is putting in a lot of effort for women's cricket. We have won two matches in England.. I am happy with the progress."

Also Read : Absolutely nothing to worry about, Bumrah is ready: Suryakumar Yadav

2022-09-22 18:48

Absolutely nothing to worry about, Bumrah is ready: Suryakumar Yadav

Nagpur, Sep 22 (Cricket News) India batter Suryakumar Yadav on Thursday played down concerns regarding Jasprit Bumrah's fitness, saying there is "absolutely nothing to worry about" and the pace spearhead is ready to return after recovering from his back injury.

Bumrah didn't feature in the opening T20I against Australia with the team management deciding to give the pacer a little more time since he was returning after recovering from a back injury.

The India pacer has been out of action since the end of the England tour and also skipped the Asia Cup due to the injury.

"Actually I am not aware of any such communication, it is not my department, you should not ask me about it (laughs), these are for physios and team management to answer.

"But in the team, the environment is good and all are first-class fit and ready for second T20I," Suryakumar said during a virtual press conference when asked about Bumrah's match fitness and also where Umesh Yadav fit in the scheme of things.

When he was probed further on Bumrah, Suryakumar said: "Absolutely, he is ready, nothing to worry." India, sans Bumrah, put up a shoddy performance as they failed to defend 208 in the series opener, with the pacers going for 150 runs.

However, Suryakumar came out in defence of the bowlers.

"Actually after the last game, we didn't have any discussion but as you have seen last day the match went on long and there was also dew, and you also have to give credit to them, they kept attacking, we are trying our best," he said.

In his comeback match, Harshal Patel conceded 49 runs for no wicket, which included a 22-run 18th over. Asked if Harshal's variations are becoming predictable, Suryakumar said: "He is very deceptive. I don't bat in net sessions much, but as much as I have played him and also Bhuvi (Bhuvneshwar) bhai is also difficult to decipher...

"But Harshal's slower balls and his different variations are really deceptive and he has just come from an injury, so this much benefit of doubt should be allowed." In batting, India's aggressive approach reaped dividends as KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav took the team across the 200-mark after top order batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were dismissed early.

"Assessing the pitch is very important. Everyone is playing their role, they know their responsibility, what they have to do in different situations.

"The openers know their role really well and then it comes down to middle order how we need to set up the game of what they have to do so, and it was set up well by the finishers, everything is going on really well and we will look to do it again and again," he said.

Asked if any particular role has been assigned to him to attack the spinners in middle orders, Suryakumar quipped: "I have hit two sixes against fast bowlers also, so I should get a little credit for that, what say?" "I'm very flexible, no particular role. Actually plan myself for every situation. I am flexible to bat in anywhere, whichever number I'm asked to bat, I know I just have to do my role and I am happy to do it." Suryakumar had scored a 25-ball 46, which was studded with two fours and four sixes, in the opening match.

India skipper Rohit Sharma was quite animated in Mohali, and on one occasion, he was seen grabbing wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik after the India skipper went with his instinct for a DRS call, which saw Glenn Maxwell walking back to the hut in the 12th over.

Asked about the situation, Suryakumar said, "In the field, there is a lot of pressure, so it is important to have some laughter to lighten the situation but the focus is always there on the game.

"In DRS, what happens is sometimes, the sound of an edge doesn't reach the back and Rohit and Dinesh know each other very well, they have been playing for so long, so they engage in banters." Karthik was not quite convinced as he didn't hear anything, but eventually, DRS showed that Umesh Yadav had induced a fine nick off Maxwell's bat.

Also Read : Gaby Lewis and Orla Prendergast lead Ireland to victory over Scotland

News Source : PTI

2022-09-22 17:05

Gaby Lewis and Orla Prendergast lead Ireland to victory over Scotland

(Cricket news) Under intensively hot conditions, Ireland’s Gaby Lewis and Orla Prendergast produced heroic batting performances to inspire Ireland Women to a 19-run victory over Scotland and ensuring a semi-finals berth at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier today. Both players scored rapid-fire half-centuries in a dominant batting performance by the Irish top-order in temperatures tipping mid-40s celsius. Ireland’s bowlers then followed up the batting display with a professional performance, with Jane Maguire (2-19) and Cara Murray (2-27) excelling, while Arlene Kelly (1-19) looked dangerous with her in-swingers.

In a game that Eimear Richardson was presented with her 100th international cap, Ireland captain Laura Delany won the toss elected to bat first. Lewis looked composed from the beginning - hitting three boundaries in the first over - as Ireland started with intent. However, Amy Hunter (3) fell early on, skying one to mid-on, to leave Ireland on 35-1 in the fifth over.

Prendergast entered the fray and found her rhythm quickly, and was dove-tailing quite nicely with Lewis, scoring at roughly a run a ball. As the partnership grew, Lewis was playing with effortless freedom and brought up her fifty off the 28 balls with a boundary in the 10th over. The 62-run partnership was broken in the 12th over when Lewis (66) was trapped lbw, but Delany continued the flow of runs as Ireland moved on to 121-2 after 15 overs.

The extreme heat was causing difficulty for Prendergast, who was visibly struggling. However, she dug deep and hit three boundaries in the 18th over to push Ireland over the 140 mark. She went on to score 55* from 46 balls in an exceptional knock. Delany (29) was selflessly run out late on looking for an extra run, and Ireland finished on 164-3 – their fifth-highest total in T20I cricket. Maguire struck early with two wickets inside the powerplay - Saskia Horley (7) and Ailsa Lister (16) with the latter falling to a sensational diving catch by Prendergast at mid-wicket.

The Bryce sisters, Kathryn and Sarah, stabilised the innings but when Kathryn fell for 18, the Scots were 53-3 in the 8th over. A dangerous 44-run partnership between Sarah Bryce and Lorna Jack was ended by Kelly, before Sarah Bryce (49) hit straight to Prendergast at extra cover. Scotland’s lower-order tried valiantly, but they ultimately fell 19 runs short of their target.

Ireland now plays a semi-final on Friday (opponent not yet confirmed), the winner of which qualifies for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 in South Africa.

MATCH SUMMARY

Ireland v Scotland, T20 World Cup Qualifier, Tolerance Oval, Abu Dhabi, 21 September 2022

Ireland 164-3 (20 overs; G Lewis 66, O Prendergast 55*; K Bryce 1-27)

Scotland 145-7 (20 overs; S Bryce 49, A Aitken-Drummond 23; J Maguire 2-19)

Ireland won by 19 runs

Also read: Is Suryakumar more important than Rohit and Virat in the Indian T20 side?

2022-09-22 14:04

India eager to give befitting farewell to retiring Jhulan Goswami at Lord's: Harmanpreet

Canterbury, Sep 22 (Cricket News) The series already in the pocket, India women's cricket team captain Harmanpreet Kaur wants to give a befitting farewell to veteran pacer Jhulan Goswami by winning the "special" final ODI against England at the iconic Lord's on Saturday.

Goswami, 39, is set to bid adieu to the game after a glorious two decade-long career at the end of the ongoing tour of England, and Harmanpreet feels a series sweep would be the perfect gift to the fast bowler.

"The Lord's game is very special for us because it's Jhulan's retirement and we wanted to enjoy that game without any pressure and I'm really happy that we were able to win today and now we can just have fun in that game," the India skipper said after trouncing hosts England by 88 runs to win a series on their soil after 23 years.

The last time the Indian women won an ODI series in England was in 1999 when they triumphed 2-1.

"It's very important (to win) because that will be her last game. It will be a very emotional moment for all of us and we definitely want to win that game," Harmanpreet said.

"Moreover, after winning the series now we just want to have fun because I know it's the last game for her." The skipper said Goswami has been a true inspiration for all the players, including herself.

"She's someone who has taught us a lot," said Harmanpreet, who made her ODI debut at the 2009 World Cup under Goswami's leadership.

"When I debuted she was a leader and I learned a lot from her and now our young bowlers, like Renuka (Singh) and Meghna Singh, they are also learning from her. They are learning how she bowls and getting that rhythm from her. She's been a great inspiration for all of us and we've learned a lot from her." Harmanpreet, who scored a sensational unbeaten 143 off 111 balls on Wednesday night, said with the series already sealed, India will play freely at Lord's.

"When you win the first game, the second game is always important and we always try to finish that game as a winning side and today (Wednesday) also we were looking at that only because we don't want to carry any extra pressure on ourselves going to Lord's," she said.

The third ODI will be the first time both the sides will play at Lord's since their meeting at the 2017 World Cup final, which England won by nine runs.

Harmanpreet, who took over as full-time captain after veteran Mithali Raj retired earlier this year, said she enjoys the leadership role.

"Was a crucial win today (Wednesday) as everybody stepped up. I always enjoy leadership as I'm always in the game and it feels good. When I was batting, during the first 50 runs, it wasn't all that easy." England stand-in skipper Amy Jones said the ongoing series against India was a good learning experience for their young bowlers.

"Every loss is tough and they got away from us at the end with the bat. Harman batted extremely well. We didn't get close enough, didn't get partnerships. She is very tough to bowl to, and for our young talents, this is a good learning," she said.

"Wherever we bowled, she was finding the boundary. With lot of the senior ones missing, it's about giving opportunities to the youngsters and Lord's is one more step in that direction. Lot to play for as there are points to play for still."

Also Read : IPL to return to its old home and away format in 2023, confirms Ganguly

News Source : PTI

2022-09-22 13:45

IPL to return to its old home and away format in 2023, confirms Ganguly

New Delhi, Sep 22 (Cricket News) The Indian Premier League (IPL) will return to its original, pre-COVID-19, home-and-away format from the 2023 season, BCCI President Sourav Ganguly has conveyed to the Board's affiliated state units.

The IPL has been held at only a few venues since the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 as the lucrative league unfolded behind close doors across three venues in UAE -- Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.

In 2021 too, the tournament was held across four venues -- Delhi, Ahmedabad, Mumbai and Chennai.

However, with the pandemic under control, the cash-rich league will return to its old format in which each team plays one home and one away match.

"The next season of men's IPL will also go back to the home and away format with all ten teams playing their home matches at their designated venues," read a Ganguly's note to state units.

The note gave them a "snapshot" of the ongoing domestic season.

The BCCI is conducting a full-fledged domestic season for the first time since 2020 and all multi-day tournaments will also return to the traditional home and away format.

Expecting Women's IPL to to start early next year =============================== The BCCI is also working to host the inaugural edition of the much-anticipated Women's IPL early next year.

PTI had last month reported that the tournament is likely to take place in March after the Women's T20 World Cup in South Africa.

"The BCCI is currently working on the much-awaited Women’s IPL. We are expecting to start the first season early next year," Ganguly wrote in the letter dated September 20.

The Women's IPL is expected to raise the standard of women's cricket in India.

Besides the the Women's IPL, the BCCI is also launching a girls under-15 ODI tournament.

"We are glad to introduce a girls U15 One Day tournament from this season. Women's cricket has seen phenomenal growth across the world and our national team has been performing well. This new tournament will create a pathway for our young girls to play at the national and international level," Ganguly wrote.

The inaugural women's under-15 event will be played from December 26 to January 12 across five venues -- Bangalore, Ranchi, Rajkot, Indore, Raipur, Pune.

Also Read : Boom Time: Bumrah mystery amid death bowling woes

News Source : PTi

2022-09-22 12:40

India women seal ODI series vs England after comfortable 88 run win

(Cricket news) India women won the 2nd ODI against England by a mammoth 88 runs to seal the series. It was an incredible performance by the Indian side in the ODIs as they are on course to give a perfect farewell to Jhulan Goswami. The pressure will be off in the next match at the legendary Lord's stadium as the series is already won. England were missing 3 key players but despite that they will be disappointed with their underwhelming performance. The ODI series win was Indian women's first on English soil in 23 years. Amy Jones won the toss and put India into bat first as England made two changes by replacing Isy Wong and Alice Davidson-Richards with Freya Kemp and Lauren Bell. India also made two changes by bringing in Dayalan Hemalatha and Renuka Singh Thakur for Sneh Rana and Meghna Singh.

Batting first, India lost Shafali Verma early but once again Smriti Mandhana and Yastika Bhatia took control. Mandhana got out after scoring 40, she completed 3000 ODI runs in the process. The left hander became the fastest Indian women and the 3rd fastest Indian after Virat Kohli Shikhar Dhawan to reach the mark. After losing Bhatia and Mandhana, Harleen Deol and Harmanpreet Kaur lead India to a total of 333. Deol scored 58 off 72 balls which was her first ODI half century. Her innings included 5 fours and 2 sixes as she provided perfect support for her captain Harmanpreet Kaur. The Indian skipper led from the front and played a knock for the ages that destroyed the England bowlers. Harmanpreet Kaur scored an unbeaten 143 off 111 balls hitting 18 boundaries and 4 maximums. Pooja Vastrakar and Deepti Sharma fired at the end as India put on a mammoth total for England to chase.

England never looked in the chase as the asking rate was constantly rising up. Dani Wyatt with her 65 off 58 was the only batter who looked up for it while Amy Jones and Charlie Dean also played small cameos. India's bowlers bowled really well throughout the innings. Renuka Thakur continued her incredible form as she got 4/57 in her 10 overs. Dayalan Hemalatha picked up 2 wickets while Shafali Verma and Deepti Sharma got a scalp each. It was a very convincing performance by India as they started a new era in one day cricket without Mithali Raj. Jhulan Goswami's retirement is also going to leave a big hole but Renuka Singh Thakur is showing great promise of being the perfect replacement.

Also read: You can't tell people 'I am an opener or I am a finisher': Samson

2022-09-22 12:19

Boom Time: Bumrah mystery amid death bowling woes

Nagpur, Sep 22 (Cricket News) Jasprit Bumrah's fitness status will be a matter of attention when an out of sorts Indian team will look at course correction options against Australia in the second T20 International and strive to keep the three-match series alive, here Friday.

Bumrah, who has been out of action since the end of England tour, skipped the Asia Cup due to back injury.

However, to everyone's surprise, the team management didn't play him during the high-scoring first T20I in Mohali, raising doubts whether he has still attained peak fitness or not.

To compound the team's worries, the 'three-and-a-half' pronged pace attack, including Hardik Pandya, conceded 150 runs in 14 overs.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar, the seasoned pro, has already been taken to cleaners. He has leaked 49 runs in the three penultimate overs (19th) that he bowled against Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Australia.

In this backdrop, a fit and fiery Bumrah is a pre-requisite for India as the home bowlers are increasingly being found out on batting belters.

The worst part about the team is that with five more official T20Is left before the opening T20 World Cup game against Pakistan on October 23, the Indian team looks highly unsettled.

If the approach of top three was a problem going into the Asia Cup, the bigger worry has been the bowling which has been exposed in good batting conditions.

Yuzvendra Chahal, who has been India's go-to spinner in all conditions, isn't looking menacing anymore. He has been expensive in the last few games and he will have to find a way to trouble the batters on wickets which doesn't offer much purchase.

However, all-rounder Axar Patel, who was shoed in as a like-for-like replacement of injured Ravindra Jadeja, has once again proved his worth with a three-wicket haul on Tuesday.

India were also sloppy on the field, as they were guilty of dropping three catches, which drew criticism from former head coach Ravi Shastri.

In batting, India's aggressive approach reaped dividends as KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav took the team beyond the 200-mark after top order batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were dismissed early.

Designated finisher Dinesh Karthik didn't get much chance on Tuesday and is likely to be given extended game time with the management looking to keep all options open going into the world cup.

Australia, on the other hand, have looked like a well-oiled machine, despite the absence of key players such as David Warner, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis and Mitchell Marsh.

All-rounder Cameron Green nicely slipped into the shoes of Warner with a sizzling fifty at the top in only his second T20I, while Steven Smith and debutant Tim David also gave the team the required impetus with crucial cameos.

The experienced Matthew Wade too lived up to the finisher's role with a stellar 45 not out off 21 and India will have to pull up their socks to stop Australia from going on a rampage.

Australia, however, would hope for a more disciplined show from their bowling unit after the pace trio of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Green bled runs in Mohali.

The wicket at VCA stadium, however, will be different than the Mohali track. It is expected to be on the slower side, which will make bowlers' role more prominent in this game.

With dew setting in the evening, teams will prefer to chase than defend totals.

Squads: Australia: Aaron Finch (C), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Daniel Sams, Steve Smith, Matthew Wade, Adam Zampa.

India: Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (vc), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravichandaran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav.

Match starts at 7.30 IST.

Also Read : Harmanpreet powers India women to first series win in England in 23 years

News Source : PTI

2022-09-22 11:17

Harmanpreet powers India women to first series win in England in 23 years

Canterbury, Sep 22 (Cricket News) Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur smashed a scintillating unbeaten ton to power India to a comprehensive 88-run win in the second ODI, that sealed country's first series win against England since 1999.

A vintage Harmanpreet rekindled the memories of 2017 World Cup with a magnificent 143 not out which came off just 111 balls as India put on board a mammoth 333 for 5.

India bundled out England for 245 in 44.5 overs with medium pacer Renuka Singh (4/57) claiming four wickets on Wednesday night.

Danni Wyatt's 58-ball 65 was the lone bright spot, in an otherwise, dismal show by England batters.

The last time Indian women won an ODI series in England was in 1999 when they triumphed 2-1.

Chasing the imposing total, what England needed was a brisk start, but Renuka denied them by dismissing two top-order batter in Emma Lamb (15) and Sophia Dunkley (1).

Tammy Beaumont (6) was run out as the hosts were reduced to 47 for 3 by the end of the eighth over.

Alice Capsey (39) and Wyatt stitched 55 runs for the fourth wicket and then Wyatt shared another 65 runs with skipper Amy Jones (39) before the England's chase fell apart with Renuka cleaning up Wyatt in the 30th over.

Towards the end, Charlie Dean (37) and Kate Cross (14) tried their best but the asking was too tall as India recorded a magnificent win.

Sent into bat, Harmanpreet smashed 18 fours and four sixes en route her 111-ball knock and also enjoyed a fine 112-run stand for the fourth wicket with Harleen Deol (58 off 72 balls).

She also added 50 with Pooja Vastrakar (18) and another 71 runs in four overs with Deepti Sharma (15 not out) for the unbroken sixth wicket stand.

However, it was in the last three overs in which Harmanpreet literally took the game away from England's grasp as the 334-run target in a WODI always looked improbable even though the pitch being a batting belter.

In the last three overs, the Indian team scored 62 runs, courtesy its skipper, who was in imperious touch while reaching her fifth hundred in WODIs.

The innings had Harmanpreet's trademark slog sweeps over cow corner which fetched him a couple of sixes while there were disdainful sixes over cover region.

With the pitch offering little help for bowlers, hitting through the line was very easy and England's bowling attack did suffer a bit with only off-spinner Charlie Dean (1/39) ending with respectable figures.

The worst sufferer was debutant left-arm seamer Freya Kemp, who did decently till the end of her seventh over in which she had conceded only 28 runs.

Such was Harmanpreet's dominance that Deepti Sharma, who still holds the individual record (188) by an Indian batter in WODIs, was more of a spectator during their sixth wicket stand.

Brief Scores: India Women 333/5 in 50 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 143 not out, Harleen Deol 58, Freya Kemp 1/82).

England: 245 all out in 44.2 overs (Danni Wyatt 65; Renuka Singh 4/57).

Also Read : You can't tell people 'I am an opener or I am a finisher': Samson

News Source : PTI

2022-09-21 16:52

Ireland set to play Test match at Lord's in 2023

(Cricket news) Ireland Men’s cricket team is set to return to Lord’s for a Test match against England Men, the England and Wales Cricket Board has announced today as part of its home summer programme reveal. The four-day Test match will be played between 1-4 June 2023 in a highly anticipated return four years after the memorable first Test between the two sides at the Home of Cricket. There will also be a three-day warm-up game for Ireland to be played from 26-28 May with details to be announced in due course.

In September, England Men will also host Ireland Men for three ODIs:

20 September: England Men v Ireland Men – 1st ODI (Headingley; starts 12.30pm; D/N match)
23 September: England Men v Ireland Men – 2nd ODI (Trent Bridge; starts 11am)
26 September: England Men v Ireland Men – 3rd ODI (Seat Unique Stadium, Bristol; starts 12.30pm; D/N match)

Andrew Balbirnie, Ireland Men’s captain, said:

“As a player, there’s no doubt that Test cricket is the absolute pinnacle of our sport. We were fortunate to play a Test against England at Lord’s back in 2019 – which was a memorable occasion for players and fans alike - so the news that we will be returning to play at Lord’s next year is very welcome.

“That match against England in 2019 was the last Test we have played, so we are excited to be returning to play the red-ball game next year. It’s one of four Test matches we are scheduled to play in 2023, which is so important for such a relatively young squad. There is no better place to really learn, develop and test your game as in multi-day cricket.”

Warren Deutrom, Chief Executive of Cricket Ireland, said:

“Without doubt, Lord’s is a very special place for any cricketer to play and we are delighted that Irish cricket will once again be centre stage in a Test at the Home of Cricket. The Test we played there in 2019 was a memorable occasion and, for me, the Ireland team playing against that opposition, in that format, at that venue exemplified everything about our then new Full Member status.

“While the action on the field at the Lord’s Test in 2019 was compelling, I have to say that just as compelling were the fans. We saw a full house for three days, with the vocal and celebratory atmosphere created by the Irish fans making the match truly memorable. Indeed, we learned afterwards that about half of the fans at that match had never been to Lord’s before, while the TV audience was among the highest ECB had for any Test opposition that decade outside of India and the Ashes. We hope to see many returning and new fans lining up for this next Test, supporting the boys in green and showing not just that Test cricket has a vibrant future, but that Ireland is a worthy addition to its ranks.

“Equally as important to our season next year will be the three ODIs in September at three iconic English grounds. Our thanks to the ECB for their support in arranging these fixtures – they make 2023 a very enticing season for Irish fans.”

Also read: Australia complete record run chase to win opening T20I against India

2022-09-21 13:06

Important to give Bumrah enough time after comeback from injury: Hardik

Mohali, Sep 21 (Cricket News) Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya said the team will not put too much pressure on Jasprit Bumrah and give him ample time to make his comeback from an injury after the pacer was not included in India's playing XI for the first T20I against Australia here. Bumrah was missed badly in the series opener against Australia on Tuesday as the visitors chased down 209 rather comfortably to register a four-wicket win and take the lead in the three-match series. Barring Axar Patel, all Indian bowlers leaked more than 11 runs per over.

Bumrah, who did not play the Asia Cup due to a back injury, has been named in the T20 World Cup squad and the preceding series against Australia and South Africa.

"We all know what he brings to the table and how important he is for us. There will be concerns here and there (about bowling) which is fine. We got to trust our boys. These are the best 15 in the country and that is why they are there in the squad," Hardik said.

"Jasprit not being there obviously makes a big difference. He is coming back after an injury, it is important for him to get enough time to kind of come back and may be not put a lot of pressure on himself." Hardik smashed 71 not out off 30 balls to take India past 200. He has been the team's stand out player ever since his comeback post the IPL.

Talking about his performances of late, he said: "I have gotten a lot of success recently but for me, what is more important is that even on my good days how can I get better? The kind of career graph I have had, I don't make a big deal about my performances whether success or failure.

"I had a good game today (Tuesday night). They could target me in the next game and I need to be one step ahead." Australia went hammer and tongs in the run chase, making a mockery of the Indian attack.

Hardik gave credit to the opposition batters.

"There was no dew. You have to give credit to them the way they batted. They played good cricket. We could not execute our plans with the ball, with our deliveries.

"You can't pin point why we lost. It is a game. It is a bilateral series. We got two more matches and we will try to perform better." He also praised Cameron Green, who smashed 61 off 30 balls on his opening debut and shocked the Indians with his assault.

"Good on him the way he played. We have seen a lot of videos but it is all about executing your plans. He played some good shots and credit where it is due," added Hardik.

Also Read : Women's T20 Asia Cup: India to meet Pakistan on October 7

News Source : PTI

2022-09-21 12:45

Bhuvneshwar's death over bowling is real concern: Gavaskar

New Delhi, Sep 21 (Cricket News) The legendary Sunil Gavaskar feels senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's poor show at the death overs is a "real concern" for India, going into next month's T20 World Cup.

Bhuvneshwar has leaked quite a lot of runs at the death in the last few matches. His 16-run 19th over allowed Australia to pull off a record chase of 209 in the first T20I in Mohali on Tuesday night.

"I don't think there was too much dew. We didn't see the fielders or bowlers trying to use the towel to try and dry their fingers. That's not an excuse. We didn't bowl well. For example, that 19th over... that's a real concern," Gavaskar said on 'Sports Today'.

"Somebody like a Bhuvneshwar Kumar is going for runs every single time, when he is expected. In 18 deliveries he has bowled in three matches against Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and now Australia, he has given away 49 runs.

"It is almost three runs per ball. Somebody with his experience and calibre, you expect he will give 35-36 runs in those 18 deliveries. That really is an area of concern." The former skipper said India have not been able to defend good totals but hoped a fit-again Jasprit Bumrah's return will strengthen the bowling department.

Bumrah has been out of action since the limited-overs series against England in July earlier this year as he was recovering from an old back injury.

"What we have seen in last few years is that it has been one of the areas where India have suffered. They have not been able to defend good scores," said Gavaskar.

"Maybe when Bumrah comes in, it might be a completely different situation because he gets wickets at the top. India didn't get those today (Tuesday) as Australia got off to a flying start.

"Having said that, it's only the first match. Don't forget, Australia are world champions. They are expected to do extraordinary things." Former head coach Ravi Shastri also came down heavily on India for their "sloppy standard of fielding" in the first T20I.

Defending 208, Indian fielders dropped as many as three catches, including that of Cameron Green (61 off 30 balls) and Matthew Wade (45 not out off 21 balls).

"If you look at all the top Indian teams over the years, there is youth and experience. I find the youth missing here and hence the fielding," Shastri, who was in the commentary box, said.

"If you look at the last five-six years, I think this side is no match to any of the top sides when it comes to fielding. And that can hit badly in big tournaments.

"It means that as a batting side you have to get that 15-20 runs game after game, because if you look around the field, where is brilliance? There is no Jadeja. Where is that X-factor?" Axar Patel was the first offender as he dropped a regulation catch at deep mid-wicket to give a life to Green when he was on 42. KL Rahul then failed to grab a chance in long-off in the next over.

However, the catch that proved costly was that of Matthew Wade, who was dropped by Harshal Patel on his own bowling in the 18th over when the batter was on 1.

Wade went on to score an unbeaten 45 off 21 balls to take Australia home with four balls to spare.

"What I was disappointed today with was the standard of fielding. I mean, it looks sloppy and I think you need a big upping of the ante when it comes to the fielding if you have to beat big sides in big competitions," Shastri said.

India will next face Australia in the second T20I at Nagpur on Friday.

Also Read : 1st T20I: Australia defeat India by 4 wickets

News Source : PTI

2022-09-21 12:30

Australia complete record run chase to win opening T20I against India

(Cricket news) Australia defeated India in the 1st T20I by 4 wickets and 4 balls to spare. Aaron Finch had won the toss and elected to bowl first due to the dew factor. Cameron Green was asked to open the batting while Daniel Sams was selected as the 3rd seamer. Tim David made his much awaited debut while Josh Inglis also got an opportunity. India went with Dinesh Karthik ahead of Rishabh Pant while Jasprit Bumrah wasn't fit enough to play. Umesh Yadav returned to the Indian T20 side after 3 years while Harshal Patel also came back from his injury.

Batting first India got off to a decent start despite losing Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli cheaply. KL Rahul scored an incredible 55 off 34 and showed what he is capable off if he plays freely. The Karnataka batter hit 4 fours in 3 sixes in his aggressive innings which got India off to a flyer. Suryakumar Yadav provided excellent support with his 25 ball 46 which included 2 boundaries and 4 maximums. The pair made the most of the powerplay hitting some exquisite strokes along the way but they couldn't manage to stick around for longer when they should have. From then on it was the Hardik Pandya show as the ace all-rounder scored 71 off just 30 balls. Despite not having a consistent partner at the other end he played an excellent knock to get India to a formidable total. His innings included 7 fours and 5 sixes all around the ground which just proves that he is at the peak of his powers. India managed to reach a total of 208/6 which was their highest ever T20I total against Australia.

Australia also got off to a flying start thanks to Finch and Green. The latter was opening in international cricket for the first time and scored 61 off just 30 balls hitting 8 fours and 4 sixes. Steve Smith came into bat at number 3 and played a nice little cameo of 35. He hit 3 fours and a six in his 24 ball innings. India managed to pick up a few wickets to slow things down but Matthew Wade finished in exquisite style scoring 45 off 21 balls. Axar Patel was the only Indian bowler who was not expensive as he picked up 3/17. In a high scoring game Axar's bowling was extraordinary and it showed why he deserves to be in this Indian side. Umesh Yadav was expensive in his first over but came back well to pick up 2 wickets. He was only asked to bowl 2 overs and finished with the figures of 2/27. Harshal Patel and Bhuvneshwar Kumar had a day to forget as they leaked way too many runs as did Hardik Pandya and Yuzvendra Chahal. India's bowling is a big problem and Jasprit Bumrah's return will solve a few problems but not all. The next match at Nagpur will be a must win for team India.

Also read: All state units must honour domestic players not just international ones: Yuvraj

2022-09-20 21:48

I don't judge myself on runs I score, want to keep improving as player: Ruturaj Gaikwad

Chennai, Sep 20 (Cricket News) Seeking to keep growing as a player, India batter Ruturaj Gaikwad on Tuesday said he does not judge himself on the basis of the amount of runs scored by him.

"If you look at my last two years they have been very progressive... you can't judge by the amount of runs I scored because the runs will go up and down. In my first IPL I scored 600 runs and in the next edition I scored 400 but people still say that I didn't have a good IPL.

"I think that's the standard I've set, there will be ups and downs. I just need to make sure that I keep progressing as a human being, as a player and a cricketer. The main goal is to keep on improving whichever team I am with.

"Each and every day you go out for practise sessions you try and improve and try and rectify whatever mistakes you've made," said Gaikwad, who is part of the India 'A' team which will play three unofficial ODIs against New Zealand 'A' at the M A Chidambaram Stadium here from Thursday.

He scored 635 runs for Chennai Super Kings during their title winning run in the 2021 edition of IPL and made people take notice with his graceful batting and ability to hit big shots too. In this year's IPL, he scored 368 runs as the team struggled to make an impact.

The stylish right-hander who scored a ton in the third unofficial Test against New Zealand 'A' said he was looking forward to the opportunity to play in the one-dayers against the visiting Kiwis.

"I have not played much (in recent times) and even the three matches (the first class match) were a great opportunity to play. So it is the same with the one-day series. I am looking forward to a good opportunity to play, spend some time in the middle and enjoy," said the 25-year-old.

About his century in the last 'Test' against New Zealand 'A', Gaikwad said, "I think it was good because I got to spend some time in the middle. I was playing red ball after a long time so it was a bit challenging but happy that I made progress from the last two innings I played when I got out early.

"I am not judging myself by the runs I made. There was a change in the mindset and a change in the thought process I can see that I made progress from the first two innings I played, my game awareness has improved according to what the red ball demands." He further said in red ball cricket, a batter can't be as expressive as in white ball (game) and one has to put the team and situation first.

"In white ball there is only one way to express yourself but in red ball you can't be as expressive as you want because you've to put the team first, put the situation first, you've to respect the bowlers for you've to give that time to yourself," Gaikwad said.

Asked how it was to work VVS Laxman, the India 'A' coach and what he had learnt from him, the Maharashtra batter said the former Test maestro was one who gave him a lot of confidence.

"He has always been a great support... he doesn't go too much into technical aspects. He has been a pillar of support right from the Ireland tour and even now. He is someone who gives a lot of confidence and makes sure that you back your ability," Gaikwad added.

Touching upon 'A' tours, he said they were a great opportunity and a challenge as well and that it gave one a sense of what it was like to play at a higher level.

"I think 'A' tour(s) is more like an international tour for me because in domestic cricket you are familiar with most of the opponents and I've played them throughout my career. But in 'A' tour you've players who you've not played enough against and don't know what their strengths are and it is one step below representing your country.

"I think it makes a huge difference and you get a sense of what it is like to play at a higher level and how to deal with pressure. I think it's a great opportunity and a great challenge as well," he added.

Also Read : Hardik Pandya, Rahul power India to 208/6 in first T20I

News Source : PTi

2022-09-20 17:39

Tristan Stubbs bags the highest bid in the maiden SA20 auction

(Cricket news) Tristan Stubbs drew the biggest bid in the first ever SA20 auction, with the Sunrisers Eastern Cape shelling out a massive 9.2 million for the 22-year old. Stubbs was at the centre of a bidding war with the MI Cape Town. It marked a whirlwind six-month period for Stubbs, who earned an IPL call-up as a replacement player, after that he turned heads at the CSA T20 Challenge in 2022 where he scored 293 runs at an unbelievable strike-rate of 183.82. Stubbs has gone on to make his South Africa debut and has been named in the Proteas squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Sunrisers and the Pretoria Capitals began the day with the biggest purse and made a big splash on Marco Jansen for 6.1 million while the Capitals signed South African batter Rilee Rossouw with the second-highest bid of 6.9 million after an intense battle with Super Kings and MI Cape Town. The Capitals also signed Wayne Parnell for 5.6 million while Sisanda Magala went to the Sunrisers for R 5.4 million.

The surprise came when hard-hitting West Indian all-rounder Odean Smith, whose base price was 1.75 million, found no takers. Eoin Morgan and James Neesham were other big name players that earned no bids. The big shock came when South Africa's T20I captain Temba Bavuma and Test captain Dean Elgar went unsold as they found no buyers. However, in an accelerated auction, Smith was picked by MI Cape Town, Morgan went to the Royals and Neesham went to the Capitals.

Full Squads:

Durban SuperGiants: Quinton de Kock, Prenelan Subrayen, Jason Holder, Kyle Mayers, Reece Topley, Dwaine Pretorius, Heinrich Klaasen, Keemo Paul, Keshav Maharaj, Kyle Abbott, Junior Dala, Dilshan Madushanka, Johnson Charles, Matthew Breetzke, Christiaan Jonker, Wiaan Mulder, Simon Harmer

Jo'burg Super Kings: Faf du Plessis, Gerald Coetzee, Maheesh Theekshana, Romario Shepherd, Harry Brook, Janneman Malan, Reeza Hendricks, Kyle Verreynne, George Garton, Alzarri Joseph, Leus du Plooy, Lewis Gregory, Lizaad Williams, Donavon Ferreira, Nandre Burger, Malusi Siboto, Caleb Seleka

MI Cape Town: Kagiso Rabada, Dewald Brevis, Rashid Khan, Liam Livingstone, Sam Curran, Rassie van der Dussen, Ryan Rickelton, George Linde, Beuran Hendricks, Duan Jansen, Delano Potgieter, Grant Roelofsen, Wesley Marshall, Olly Stone, Waqar Salamkheil, Ziyaad Abharams, Odean Smith

Paarl Royals: David Miller, Corbin Bosch, Jos Buttler, Obed McCoy, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi, Jason Roy, Dane Vilas, Bjorn Fortuin, Wihan Lubbe, Ferisco Adams, Imraan Manack, Evan Jones, Ramon Simmonds, Mitchell van Buuren, Eoin Morgan, Codi Yusuf

Pretoria Capitals: Anrich Nortje, Migael Pretorius, Rilee Rossouw, Phil Salt, Wayne Parnell, Josh Little, Shaun von Berg, Adil Rashid, Cameron Delport, Will Jacks, Theunis de Bruyn, Marco Marais, Phil Salt, Kusal Mendis, Daryn Dupavillon, Jimmy Neesham, Eathan Bosch, Shane Dadswell

Sunrisers Eastern Cape: Aiden Markram, Ottniel Baartman, Marco Jansen, Tristan Stubbs, Sisanda Magala, Junaid Dawood, Mason Crane, JJ Smuts, Jordan Cox, Adam Rossington, Roelof van der Merwe, Marques Ackerman, James Fuller, Tom Abell, Aya Gqamane, Sarel Erwee, Brydon Carse

Also read: India lock horns with Australia for the 1st T20I in Mohali

2022-09-20 16:40

Saliva ban made permanent as ICC announces changes to playing conditions

Dubai, Sep 20 (Cricket News) The use of saliva to polish the ball was on Tuesday banned permanently as the ICC announced a slew of changes to its Playing Conditions, which will come into effect on October 1.

The game's governing body also changed running out of the non-striker by the bowler from the 'Unfair Play' section to the 'Run out' section.

The changes were announced after the Chief Executives' Committee (CEC) ratified recommendations made by the ICC Cricket Committee, led by former India captain and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly.

The ICC had earlier barred use of saliva to shine the ball in view of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Custodian of cricket laws, the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) in March had completely banned its application in its amendments to the 2022 code.

"This prohibition has been in place for over two years in international cricket as a Covid-related temporary measure and it is considered appropriate for the ban to be made permanent," the ICC said in a statement.

Regarding the position of the new batter at the crease when his teammate is caught, the ICC said: "When a batter is out Caught, the new batter will come in at the end the striker was, regardless of whether the batters crossed prior to the catch being taken." The game's governing body also said that "an incoming batter will now be required to be ready to take strike within two minutes in Tests and ODIs, while the current threshold of ninety seconds in T20Is remains unchanged." Regarding run-outs at non-striker's end, the ICC said the playing conditions will follow "the Laws in moving this method of effecting a Run out from the 'Unfair Play' section to the 'Run out' section." Earlier, running out a non-striker for backing up too much was considered unfair but such dismissals have often triggered heated debates on spirit of the game with several players such as off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin advocating for it as a fair mode of dismissal.

Among other changes to the Playing Conditions, the ICC said some part of the striker's bat or person has to remain within the pitch and "should they venture beyond that, the umpire will call and signal Dead ball." "Any ball which would force the batter to leave the pitch will also be called 'No ball'," it said.

The apex body also said, "any unfair and deliberate movement while the bowler is running in to bowl could now result in the umpire awarding five penalty runs to the batting side, in addition to a call of Dead ball." In another change, the practice of bowlers throwing the ball towards striker's end before delivery in an attempt to run-out the batter will not be considered now.

"Previously, a bowler who saw the batter advancing down the wicket before entering their delivery stride, could throw the ball to attempt to Run out the striker. This practice will now be called a Dead ball," he said.

In another major decisions, ICC said the penalty of having one fielder less outside the 30-yard circle in T20s if teams fail to keep up with the scheduled time and are guilty of slow overrate will now be adopted in ODIs as well.

"The in-match penalty introduced in T20Is in January 2022, (whereby the failure of a fielding team to bowl their overs by the scheduled cessation time leads to an additional fielder having to be brought inside the fielding circle for the remaining overs of the innings), will now also be adopted in ODI matches after the completion of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League in 2023." "I was pleased with the productive contribution of the Committee members which resulted in key recommendations being made. I thank all members for their valuable input and suggestions," Ganguly said.

Also Read : Amy Hunter and Gaby Lewis guide Ireland to victory over the USA

News Source : PTI

2022-09-20 16:35

Amy Hunter and Gaby Lewis guide Ireland to victory over the USA

(Cricket news) Ireland’s Gaby Lewis and Player of the Match Amy Hunter combined for a 91-run partnership as they guided their side to a 9-wicket victory over the USA at the Tolerance Oval in Abu Dhabi. Captain Laura Delany took 1-7 from four overs with the ball - along with a run out and three catches in the field, Eimear Richardson again bowled superbly with 2-19 from four overs and Arlene Kelly 2-17 from her four overs. Lewis’ 44* from 38 balls was a great response after her first-ball duck in the last match, while Hunter struck 43 before being frustratingly bowled with one run to win.

Earlier in the day the USA won the toss and elected to bat first. The Irish bowlers began well, with the recalled Jane Maguire taking the new ball with Richardson again bowling in the powerplay. The early pressure they exerted led to the run out of opener Mehika Kandanala (6). After a partnership of 44 by Disha Dhingra and Sindhu Sriharsha, it was Cara Murray that created the breakthrough in the tenth over, getting Dhingra to top edge one straight to Delany at backward point - USA were then 57-2.

From there Ireland’s bowling unit tightened the screws further and regular wickets began to fall. Delany removed the dangerous Sriharsha (25), while Rebecca Stokell effected a quick thinking run out of Lisa Ramjit (3). Richardson then took her 50th T20 international wicket (Isani Vaghela for 14), then followed up with her 51st four balls later. The end came quickly with the last six wickets falling for just nine runs in just over two overs, and the USA were all out for 91.

It was then that Irish openers Lewis and Hunter initiated an aggressive run chase with both batters looking commanding at the crease. However, in the shadow of a possible 10-wicket win, Hunter was bowled. Lewis didn’t take long to hit the winning run a couple of balls later, and Ireland won by nine wickets with 6.5 overs remaining.

Ireland will face Scotland for a place in the semi-finals on Wednesday at 12pm Irish time.

MATCH SUMMARY

USA v Ireland, T20 World Cup Qualifier, Tolerance Oval, Abu Dhabi, 19 September 2022

USA 91 (20 overs; S Sriharsha 25, D Dhingra 23; A Kelly 2-17)

Ireland 92-1 (13.1 overs; G Lewis 44*, A Hunter 43; S Eyyunni 1-22)

Ireland won by 9 wickets

Also read: Ireland announce Men's squad for ICC Men's T20 World Cup next month

2022-09-20 16:27

Legends League Cricket matches to be broadcasted worldwide

(Cricket news) With the Legends League Cricket (LLC) underway in India, the spectacle of various cricketing legends playing together is set to have a global footprint as the league secures worldwide broadcast across the US, Australia and India. Willow TV in the US and Kayo Sports, Fox Cricket in Australia are the league’s exclusive broadcaster and streaming partners. Star Sports, Disney+ Hotstar and Fancode are partners for India and the subcontinent

Along with Star Sports, both Disney+ Hotstar and Fancode are live streaming Cricket’s biggest names from around the world simultaneously in what is a first of its kind broadcast coup. While Disney+ Hotstar enjoys a massive and hardcore cricketing fan base all over India, Fancode is a pioneering platform with more than 50 million users, it offers an unique opportunity for Sky247.net Legends League Cricket to engage with the millennials.

"Having Disney+ Hotstar and Fancode sharing broadcasting rights has never happened before but it feels great that we could do the same as our belief is to reach maximum cricket fans and engage with them and get them closer to the icons of the game. There is a lot of excitement, be it the Cricketers themselves or the fans and we are happy that we are in the centre of this," said Raman Raheja, CEO and Co-founder of Legends League Cricket.

Willow TV, one of the leading sports broadcasters in the United States, is the league's broadcast partner in USA. With cricket gaining traction in the US, this league broadcast will surely provide a massive boost in expanding the popularity of the sport further. Australia has always been one of the giants of the sport with passionate fans all over the country and Kayo Sports, their official broadcast partner together with Fox Cricket, the official digital streaming partner will propel the league and its fan base.

Talking about the significance of this global broadcast opportunity, Raman Raheja added, "The primary objective of this League has been to connect with every Cricket fan and bring forth a nostalgic factor and bring back the excitement among the fans. Huge Indian and Asian populations in US and Australia are there to be tapped along with global footprint, and we are glad that we are able to connect with them and more."

Legends of the game have assembled to play together in the Sky247.net Legends League Cricket that commenced on September 16 and will conclude on October 5, 2022. The league stage matches are currently being played in Lucknow and will be followed by Delhi, Cuttack and Jodhpur.

Also read: India lock horns with Australia for the 1st T20I in Mohali

2022-09-20 15:49

India to aim for rare series win in England (women's ODI)

Canterbury, Sep 20 (Cricket News) A confident Indian team will back itself to seal its first series victory in England since 1999 with another win over the hosts in the second women's ODI here on Wednesday.

Having endured a woeful 1-2 defeat in the T20I series, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian side raised its standards in all the departments of the game to bounce back in three days' time and defeat England by seven wickets in the series-opener at Hove on Sunday.

England are missing some of their senior players but India looked a much better team in the first game and they would be looking to ride the momentum.

In 1999, the Indian team had won the ODI series 2-1 with Anjum Chopra striking a hundred and a half-century.

It is also a farewell series for the great Jhulan Goswami as India do not have any 50-over assignment till June 2023.

Playing her first game since March, the 39-year-old world record holder for most wickets showed little signs of rustiness and was the most economical among the lot, returning with figures 10-2-20-1.

Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana led the batting show with a sublime 99-ball 91, while wicketkeeper batter Yastika Bhatia also struck a fifty, before skipper Harmanpreet finished off the clinical chase with an unbeaten 74.

The captain will be expecting the middle-order to step up and hope opener Shafali Verma does well as she has not scored a half-century in more than 10 innings now.

England on the other hand will hope that their batters put up a big total as they will rely heavily on in-form Sophia Dunkley, who had a successful T20I series.

Dunkley and Alice Capsey once again looked dangerous in the middle before a one-handed catch by Harmanpreet broke the partnership and triggered a collapse.

If India manage to win the second game, it will be a massive confidence booster for a team trying to find its feet in 50-over cricket.

Teams (from): India: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Sabbineni Meghana, Deepti Sharma, Yastika Bhatia (wk), Pooja Vastrakar, Sneh Rana, Renuka Thakur, Meghna Singh, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Harleen Deol, Dayalan Hemalatha, Simran Dil Bahadur, Jhulan Goswami, Taniyaa Bhatia and Jemimah Rodrigues.

England: Amy Jones (c and wk), Tammy Beaumont, Lauren Bell, Maia Bouchier, Alice Capsey, Kate Cross, Freya Davies, Alice Davidson-Richards, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Eclestone, Freya Kemp, Issy Wong and Danni Wyatt.

Match starts at 3.30pm IST.

Also Read : India look to give Goswami the perfect farewell series win Vs England

News Source : PTI

2022-09-20 13:20

India lock horns with Australia for the 1st T20I in Mohali

(Cricket news) India will be looking to bounce back after their disappointing performance in the Asia Cup. A series against current T20 World Champions Australia is a pretty good challenge, especially before the World Cup. India have a full strength squad apart from Arshdeep Singh who is injured and Mohammed Shami who has COVID-19. Australia on the other hand are without star bowler Mitchell Starc as well as all-rounders Mitchell Marsh and Marcus Stoinis all of whom are injured while David Warner is rested. Nathan Ellis, Sean Abbott, Daniel Sams and Cameron Green are their replacements. Warner, Starc, Stoinis and Marsh will come back for the T20 World Cup. Tim David has been called up to the squad for the first time and he is set to make his debut in the 1st match itself.

India's possible playing XI:

Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal

Bench:

Rishabh Pant, Deepak Hooda, Ravichandran Ashwin, Umesh Yadav, Deepak Chahar

The choice between Rishabh Pant and Dinesh Karthik is going to be extremely difficult but Karthik has been performing better in T20Is. India did go with Deepak Hooda in the Asia Cup Super 4s but Axar Patel will fit so much better for the balance of the team. The return of Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel is incredible news. Virat Kohli is back in form after a brilliant Asia Cup and he will continue to play a very crucial role for them. KL Rahul said in his press conference that he is working on improving his strike rate which is what everyone is demanding from him. It will be interesting to see how he changes his approach.

Australia possible playing XI:

Aaron Finch(C), Steven Smith, Tim David, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis, Matthew Wade, Cameron Green, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, A Zampa

Bench :

Kane Richardson, Nathan Ellis, Sean Abbott, Daniel Sams

Australia are a little short without 4 of their most important players but they are not weak in any sense. The combination of 3 spinners and 3 seamers in the squad is the perfect blend for them. Steve Smith at the top of the order will give some stability and opening the batting also allows him to take a little time. Aaron Finch has now retired from ODIs and now he only has the T20Is to focus on. It is important for him to not carry his ODI form into the T20Is. Tim David is set to make his long awaited debut and it will be very exciting to watch him play as he is a serial match winner.

Also read: India women breeze past England to win the opening ODI by 7 wickets

2022-09-20 12:49

Guptill set to play 7th T20 World Cup as NZ name 15-member squad

Christchurch, Sep 20 (Cricket News) Batting stalwart Martin Guptill is set to play a record seventh T20 World Cup as New Zealand on Tuesday named a 15-member squad, led by Kane Williamson, for the ICC showpiece beginning in Australia on October 16.

The 35-year-old batter found a place in the team, even as the Black Caps made three changes to the squad that featured in the final of the T20 World Cup last year.

Finn Allen and Michael Bracewell will be representing in their first senior World Cup and the duo along with Lockie Ferguson will replace Kyle Jamieson, Todd Astle and Tim Seifert respectively, who were part of the last T20 World Cup squad.

Two players who recently declined a central contract -- Trent Boult and Jimmy Neesham also featured in the squad.

New Zealand have a strong pace attack at their disposal consisting of Boult, Ferguson, Tim Southee, and Adam Milne. Ish Sodhi will lead the spin attack and will be supported by Bracewell and Mitchell Santner.

Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Santner, Bracewell and Neesham will provide the perfect balance with their ability to contribute both with bat and ball.

Devon Conway has been named as the front-line wicket-keeper after wearing the gloves in the UAE and in the recent series against the West Indies.

For Williamson, it will be the third time that he will lead New Zealand in the ICC T20 World Cup.

"It's always a special time announcing a World Cup squad and I'd like to congratulate the 15 players selected today," said New Zealand coach Gary Stead in a release.

"It's especially exciting for Finn and Michael who are set for their first ICC events, while Martin Guptill is preparing for his 7th T20 World Cup - which in itself is an incredible achievement.

"It's great to have this tournament so soon after last year's event in which we played some really good cricket, but couldn't quite get over the line at the end. With the nucleus of that squad retained along with the exciting additions of Finn and Michael, we should go into the tournament with plenty of optimism." New Zealand will open their T20 World Cup campaign against Australia at the SCG on October 22.

Squad: Kane Williamson (c), Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi, Mitchell Santner, Glenn Phillips, Jimmy Neesham, Daryl Mitchell, Adam Milne, Martin Guptill, Lachlan Ferguson, Devon Conway, Mark Chapman, Michael Bracewell, Trent Boult, Finn Allen.

Also Read : Never say never with Virat, can go past Tendulkar: Ricky Ponting

News Source : PTI

2022-09-20 12:42

Never say never with Virat, can go past Tendulkar: Ricky Ponting

Melbourne, Sep 19 (Cricket News) Surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's feat of 100 international centuries is "possible" for Virat Kohli, Australian great Ricky Ponting has said looking at the Indian superstar's new-found hunger for runs.

Kohli recently ended a wait of 1,020 days for his 71st international hundred when he smashed 122 not out off 61 balls against Afghanistan in the Asia Cup earlier this month.

"Look, I'll never say never with Virat, because you know once he gets on a bit of a roll, you know how hungry he is and how keen for success he is. I'll never say never that’s for sure," the two-time Aussie World Cup winning skipper said.

In the course of his century, Kohli equalled Ponting's feat of 71 tons. Kohli has now only one name on the list of most centuries above him -- Tendulkar.

Thirty international centuries may be a lot, but Ponting said: "I still think he has got a number of years ahead of him, but I guess to still be 30 international hundreds behind, that's a lot.

"That's five or six Test hundreds a year, maybe for the next three or four years. If you throw a couple of one-day ones, maybe the odd T20 ones on top of it," the 47-year-old added.

With Kohli back to his best, a debate doing the rounds now is whether he should open in place of KL Rahul, who has struggled to get into rhythm after coming back from an injury layoff.

Kohli has opened for India in nine T20Is, scoring 400 runs at an average of 57.14 with a superb strike rate of 161.29.

"The question we're going to keep asking is -- well I'm sure, the Indian selectors are asking the same question -- does that create more of a problem than we thought with Virat getting that 100 opening the batting? What are we going to do now going into the World Cup? "So there's a few other questions that are probably raised on the back of that magnificent 100 that he made. He was even on record saying that he was surprised himself that the first 100 back was actually in a (T20I) game. He thought that that'd be the last option he’d have to score his first hundred in a couple of years." Kohli returned to the Indian team in the Asia Cup after a month-long break.

Team India will take on Australia in three T20Is beginning at Mohali on Tuesday. Then they will face South Africa in three ODIs and T20Is before flying to Australia.

Asked whether Kohli should be rested again: "Yes, that's a really good question and that's probably a question only he could answer," Ponting said.

"It's just going to depend on how he is feeling mentally again.

"When you're playing, you don't ever realise how tired you are till you do take a step back, because you’re always bluffing yourself and convincing yourself that you are a 100 per cent right physically and mentally.

"Sometimes you're nowhere near that. And I think Virat has actually come out and said that as well that, he just didn't realise sort of how bad a space he was in until he got that extended break.

"If he keeps scoring runs now, I'm sure he'll play the next series. If he plays that and plays well and starts getting on a bit of a role, I think he'll want to keep playing. He'd want to keep that momentum going.

"But if he does have a bit of a lean patch again, it'll probably be in his interest and India's interest to try and freshen him up mentally as much as they can going into the World Cup," Ponting added.

Also Read : Australia confirm Shelley Nitschke as full-time women's coach

News Source : PTi

2022-09-20 11:52

No one is perfect but I am working on my strike-rate: KL Rahul on criticism

Mohali, Sep 19 (Cricket News) Numbers can be deceptive and not always tell the whole story, feels Indian vice-captain KL Rahul, whose endeavour ahead of the T20 World Cup is to improve his strike-rate in the powerplay overs.

Rahul has copped a fair bit of criticism of late for his strike rate and the stylish batter believes that it is difficult to maintain the same tempo throughout an innings.

"It is something that every player works towards (strike-rate). No one is perfect. Everyone is working towards something," said Rahul, who batted at a strike-rate of 122.22 during the Asia Cup in UAE.

However, Rahul's career T20I strike-rate is 140 plus across 61 games but it is primarily because he makes it up during the back-10 of an innings.

"Strike-rates are taken on an overall basis," he said and the gave his rationale behind the argument.

"You never see that a batter has played at a certain strike-rate (throughout). Whether it was important for him to play at a strike-rate of 200 or whether the team could have still won with the batter playing at 100 or 120, these things are not always analysed. So when you look at (overall), it looks slow," Rahul said.

But Rahul is working on his strike-rate.

"It is something I am working on. Obviously, the goals have been defined to each player in the last 10-12 months. Everyone has a clear understanding as to what is expected out of him. I am just working towards how can I better myself as an opening batter," said the India vice-captain ahead of first T20 against Australia.

Rahul made a comeback with the ODIs in Zimbabwe, having recovered from sports hernia.

"I am feeling good about my game. Getting some game after the injury was very important. Going to Zimbabwe was very crucial. It will be fun to play at home, It has been a while for me." "Team environment has allowed players to learn from their mistakes" ========================================= Rahul is happy to be a part of a dressing room that allows players to learn from their mistakes.

"The most important thing for the player in the room is what captain and coach and teammates think of him and we know what is expected out of each person. everyone is trying to give best not every time a player will succeed.

"We have created an environment where players are not afraid to fail or not afraid to make mistakes. Even if mistakes happen this is what we do. We work the hardest for this." Criticism will be there but what this Indian team believes is self criticism.

"Criticism everyone does but we criticise ourselves the most. We are playing for the country and when we don't do well it hurts us the most," he said.

Karthik or Pant? Depends on conditions ========================= On the Dinesh Karthik versus Rishabh Pant debate, Rahul added: "It depends what kind of combination we are going with on that day. It depends on surface and what teams we play against, these are not easy decisions to take. Both of them are high quality players and both have different roles." Different mistakes happened at different events =============================== India will be looking to finalise their combinations for the T20 World Cup in the six home games against Australia and South Africa. Rahul said the team is yet to play to its full potential.

"Skill wise our performance was only 80-85 percent. We are still not very good in terms of batting or excellent in bowling or fielding. There are a few things we need to fix.

"You can only win big events if all these are done well and the team comes together to win championship." At last year's T20 World Cup and this year's Asia Cup, the mistakes committed were different.

"What happened in Asia Cup and 2021 World Cup (both early exit), we made (committed) different mistakes in those two events. We are very clear about what went wrong and we are trying to learn from it," he said.

Also Read : India's ideal playing XI for the T20Is against Australia

News Source : PTI

2022-09-19 16:59

India's ideal playing XI for the T20Is against Australia

(Cricket news) After the disappointment of the Asia Cup, India is back and they will be taking on Australia in a 3 match T20I series. The series will be very important for the men in blue in preparation for the T20 World Cup. India have the same squad that will play the World Cup except for Arshdeep Singh who is rested. The 3 games will be played at Mohali, Vizag and Hyderabad. It will be interesting to see if India women pick their team according to the conditions or according to what they want to do at the World Cup. A series in India demands them to play 3 spinners but India will not play 3 spinners in Australia for the World Cup. This is a tough decision for Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid to make because they will also want to play all the players they have available.

India's ideal playing XI:

Openers: KL Rahul & Rohit Sharma

In the pre series press conference, Rohit Sharma has been clear that KL Rahul will be opening the batting at the World Cup. There have been a lot of calls for Virat Kohli to open but both Rohit and Rahul have said that the opening pair will not change while Virat Kohli will be the 3rd opener. It is important that the pair get off to a good start to lay the platform for the rest of the team. Rahul can sometimes take time to get set but that is when Rohit Sharma will have to make up for it and play really aggressive cricket.

Middle order: Virat Kohli & Suryakumar Yadav

These two pretty much pick themselves and they will have a big responsibility. The pair are likely to interchange positions according to the situation. Suryakumar could bat ahead of Kohli if India need to keep the high run rate going. The very few times that these two have batted together it has been incredible to watch as they compliment each other really well. Deepak Hooda and Rishabh Pant are the other two options.

All-rounders: Hardik Pandya & Axar Patel

Hardik Pandya is arguably India's most important player and the team really needs him to be in good rhythm before the big tournament. His prowess with both bat and ball will be extremely crucial for India. In the absence of Jadeja, Axar Patel is the obvious choice but India did go with Deepak Hooda in Asia which proved to be a mistake. Hooda and Ashwin are the other options to play the spin bowling all-rounder's role but Axar is clearly the most sensible choice.

Wicket keeper: Dinesh Karthik

By far the toughest choice for the team management and the captain to make is between Rishabh Pant and Dinesh Karthik. India not having a left hander in the Asia Cup Super 4s made them go with Pant. Now with Axar in the line-up, Karthik might get the nod simply because he has been a better player in this format of the game. He will be playing the finishers role where there is practically no room for error.

Seamers: Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar & Jasprit Bumrah

With Arshdeep Singh rested, these are the 3 seamers who are going to the World Cup and it doesn't make sense to not play them especially in the first game of the series. The trio compliment each other really well with the varied set of skills. Bhuvneshwar Kumar will predominantly bowl with the new ball while Harshal Patel is the death over specialist. Bumrah is the strike bowler and will do pretty much everything his captain asks from him. Mohammed Shami was supposed to be in the squad but he was tested positive for Covid 19. Umesh Yadav is his replacement who is a good option as a backup for Bhuvneshwar Kumar as he is great with the new ball as is the other option Deepak Chahar.

Spinner: Yuzvendra Chahal

Chahal is the clear choice to play as the sole spinner. The leggie has the ability to change the game at any point and he also has a good record against Australia. Ravichandran Ashwin is a good option to have and can be played in case there are a lot of left handers in the opposition line-up. It will be interesting to see if Rohit Sharma changes his approach with Chahal and bowls him more in the powerplay.

Bench: Rishabh Pant, Deepak Hooda, Ravichandran Ashwin, Umesh Yadav, Deepak Chahar

Also read: India women breeze past England to win the opening ODI by 7 wickets

2022-09-19 14:17

India look to lock middle-order, sixth bowler ahead of T20 World Cup

Mohali, Sep 19 (Cricket News) India will look to sort out their combinations, especially in the middle-order, while giving a final shape to their plans and preparations for the T20 World Cup when a three-match home series against Australia begins here Tuesday.

Though a few fast bowlers will be rested over the course of six games before the World Cup -- three matches against South Africa to follow after the Australia series -- India have a full strength squad at their disposal to finalise combinations.

The T20 format is a lot about being flexible but as he mentioned ahead of the first T20, India skipper Rohit Sharma would like to get 'all the answers' from his players before the flagship ICC event in Australia.

Though India did bat well in the Asia Cup, they did resort to a lot of changes during the tournament. Their lack of depth in the bowling department was also exposed but Harshal Patel and Jasprit Bumrah are now back to bolster the attack.

Rohit has made it clear that K L Rahul will be his opening partner in Australia but there is a possibility that Virat Kohli gets to open alongside him. With the star batter scoring a memorable hundred in his last T20 innings, there will always be a temptation to make him bat at the top.

The top-four are pretty much sorted but the jury is still out on the role of wicketkeepers Rishabh Pant and Dinesh Karthik in the playing eleven.

With Ravindra Jadeja injured, will India keep the left-handed Pant over Karthik who is a designated finisher in the squad? Karthik, who hardly got to bat in the Asia Cup, would be hoping for substantial game time over the next two weeks.

Deepak Hooda played all the Super 4 games in the UAE but lack of clarity remains over his role in the side.

Jadeja's injury during the Asia Cup upset the bowling balance of the team. From six bowling options, India were forced to play with five bowlers.

If India play both Hardik Pandya and Jadeja's like-for-like replacement, Axar Patel, the team will have the extra bowling option.

Axar and Yuzvendra Chahal can be the two spinners with Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal and Hardik forming the pace attack.

The conditions in Australia will be vastly different from here and the management will go about its business keeping that in mind.

Australia, on the other hand, have come to India without few of their main players including David Warner (rested).

Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis and Mitchell Marsh, who are nursing minor injuries ahead of the World Cup, have also stayed back in Australia.

The focus will be on skipper Aaron Finch, who recently retired from ODIs after a prolonged lean patch. He will be aiming for a bagful for runs ahead of the World Cup at home.

Another player who has attracted a lot of attention is power-hitter Tim David who is set to make his Australia debut after playing international cricket for Singapore.

David has made a name for himself with his performances in the T20 leagues around the world and he would be looking to replicate that at the highest level.

Squads: Australia: Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Finch (c), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Daniel Sams, Steve Smith, Matthew Wade, Adam Zampa.

India: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravichandaran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav.

Match starts 7.30 IST.

Also Read : Will take very brave man to write Kohli off: Finch

News Source : PTI

2022-09-19 14:10

Will take very brave man to write Kohli off: Finch

Mohali, Sep 19 (Cricket News) Australia skipper Aaron Finch on Monday said it will take a very brave man to write Virat Kohli off and what the former India captain has achieved in the last 15 years is just "ridiculous".

Kohli overcame a prolonged lean patch at the Asia Cup earlier this month and also scored his 71st international century. The hundred was his first since November 2019. "It will be a very brave man to write Virat Kohli off. At any stage, he has shown for 15 years now that he is one of the greatest players of all time," Finch said on the eve of the series-opener against India. "Particularly in T20 cricket, he's someone who has developed and grown his game over such a long period that you always plan and prepare the best when you're coming up against him.

"He is super and has 71 international centuries. That's just ridiculous," Finch said in a virtual media interaction.

Finch will be in focus during the series after he announced his retirement from ODIs following his struggles with the bat.

He will be expected to be at his best ahead of the T20 World Cup at home.

"Over a long period of time, you get pretty comfortable with criticism but in T20 cricket, I feel my form has been really good for quite a while now. I think if you separate the ODI form and the T20 form, then they're totally different, they're two different formats of the game," said Finch.

Australia will go about their plans here with one eye on the World Cup at home where the conditions will be very different. The Finch-led side go into the ICC event as defending champions.

"Every decision that we make, I think, has one eye towards the World Cup and seeing the wicket yesterday, it looked like there was quite a bit of grass on it," Finch said.

"And we know in Mohali, the ball can swing around and it can carry through quite a bit, so I think we will be mindful of not being too narrow-minded in terms of our focus.

"What we've tried to do over the last sort of six-eight-ten months is make sure that everything that we're doing in the T20 space ties back into the World Cup and, for us, it's about making sure that once we get there that we've had plenty of different combinations of teams that we can play." Australia have rested a lot of senior players including David Warner, Marcus Stoinis and Mitchell March for the India series.

T20 globetrotter Tim David, who has played international cricket for Singapore, is set to make his Australia debut. He is being seen as the x factor in the squad.

Finch confirmed that Steve Smith will bat at number three on Tuesday.

Also Read : Pathan brothers help Bhilwara Kings beat Manipal Tigers in LLC

News Source : PTI

2022-09-18 22:58

1st WODI: Elegant Smriti wins it for India as Jhulan rolls back time

Hove, Sep 18 (Cricket News) The graceful Smriti Mandhana once again enhanced her reputation as one of India's biggest match winners with an attractive 91 that literally decimated England by seven wickets in the opening WODI, here on Sunday.

Harmanpreet Kaur won a good toss and veteran India pacer Jhulan Goswami was accuracy personified with 42 dot balls in one of of her last international games as England managed a sub-par 227 for seven, largely due to efforts from the lower middle-order.

India were never in trouble during the chase as Mandhana (91 off 99 balls) literally drove and pulled her way before missing out on a deserving sixth WODI hundred by nine runs.

But by the time she was dismissed, Mandhana ensured a 45th over finish for the Women In Blue, who now go 1-0 up in three-match series.

Yastika Bhatia (50 off 47 balls), who hasn't done justice to her enormous talent, also notched up her third half-century and scored at more than run-a-ball strike-rate.

Yastika-Mandhana second wicket stand of 96 in just 16.1 overs set the foundation and then Harmanpreet (74 not out in 94 balls) eased her way to a another fifty as she added 99 runs with her deputy and then finished it off in style with a slog sweep six.

Mandhana's innings had 10 fours and a lovely six over long-on off seamer Issy-Wong.

While both Yastika and Mandhana drove majestically through the covers during the Powerplay, the Indian vice-captain also played a lot of pull-shots with English bowlers drifting down the leg-side.

It must be said that Harmanpreet read the conditions at the County Ground in Hove way better than her England counterpart Amy Jones.

While Indian spinners Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Deepti Sharma varied pace of their deliveries to make strokeplay difficult, England's seamers Kate Cross (2/43 in 10 overs), Alice Davidson-Jones (0/48 in 7.2 overs), Wong(0/35 in 5 overs) along with off-spinner Charlie Dean (1/45 in 10 overs) allowed the visiting team batters to use the pace of their deliveries to score runs behind the square.

In the first 15 overs, India hit 13 fours and a six (by Yastika) and it was all over for England. Earlier, Goswami, the 39-year-old legend, was parsimonious, giving away only 20 runs in 10 overs with as many as 42 dot balls.

She didn't concede a single boundary or six and also bowled a fine off-cutter to get rid of the seasoned Tammy Beaumont (7).

On a track where ball wasn't always coming onto the bat, India captain Harmanpreet Kaur did the correct thing by opting to field.

After seamer Meghna Singh (1/42 in 8 overs) hurried the other opener Emma Lamb (12) with a short ball, Goswami and the two spinners Deepti (2/33 in 10 overs) and Gayakwad (1/40 in 10 overs) choked the run flow consistently.

However, Sneh Rana (1/45 in 6 overs) and Pooja Vastrakar (0/20 in 2 overs) along with Meghna did leak a few runs as the home team did put up a 220 plus score in the end.

Dani Wyatt (43 off 50 balls), Alice Davidson-Richards (50 not out off 61 balls) and Sophie Ecclestone (31) were the notable contributors for England.

Even Charlie Dean played a nice cameo (24 no off 21 balls) towards the end to beef up the target.

Harmanpreet will be a touch disappointed that despite getting England on the mat at 128 for 6 by the 34th over, England's Nos. 7, 8 and 9 added more than 100 runs to give the total some respectability.

Also Read : 1st WODI: Jhulan impresses but lower middle-order takes England to 226/7

News Source : PTI

2022-09-18 21:54

Saurabh takes five-for as India A clinch 'Test series' with 113-run win

Bengaluru, Sep 18 (Cricket News) Left-arm spinner Saurabh Kumar grabbed five wickets to play a big role in India A's series clinching 113-run victory over New Zealand A in the third and final 'Unofficial Test' here on Sunday.

The target of 416 was out of question but New Zealand A at one point did look like trying to play for a draw before they lost the last five wickets for less than 50 runs to be bowled out for 302 in 85.2 overs.

Saurabh, who has been on the fringes of the senior national team, had figures of 5/103 in 27.2 overs and a match-haul of nine wickets, having picked up four in the first innings.

The interesting aspect of Saurabh's scalps were all came through leg-before decision, with at least three being arm balls to the right-handers.

Sarfaraz Khan (2/48), who had a disappointing series with the bat, did play a significant hand as his leg-breaks got rid of senior international Mark Chapman (45), who shared shared 82 runs for the fourth wicket with centurion Joe Carter (111).

More than the number of runs, the pair had batted for 20 overs and taken the game into the second session with New Zealand A comfortably placed at 197 for three.

Chapman was holed out while trying to attack Sarfaraz. The bowler got a second wicket with a googly that trapped Robert O'Donnell (19) plumb in-front.

Once New Zealand A were 222/5 with still a couple of hours play left, it became easier for Saurabh to step up the pressure as he started attacking the stumps more, forcing the Black Caps second team to go on the defensive.

Carter, who defied the Indian attack was finally cleaned up by Mukesh Kumar before Saurabh came back to trap Jacob Duffy leg before.

Patidar, Mukesh shine brightly -------------------------------- While the first two 'Tests' were curtailed ones due to rain, India's batting has been satisfactory throughout the series with almost all the specialist batters being among runs.

Skipper Priyank Panchal had two half-centuries and one near 50 (47) score while his opening partner Abhimanyu Easwaran had a hundred in the opening game.

But the man, who looked cut above the rest was Rajat Patidar, who could well pip Sarfaraz Khan in the long-run as far as India call-up is concerned.

Patidar, who has gained instant stardom after last IPL, was class apart in his maiden India A series with two hundreds in three games.

While Ruturaj Gaikwad redeemed himself in the final game with a century and 94, Sarfaraz is the only one who missed out on scoring runs when it mattered.

While he did score an attacking half-century in the final Indian innings, but Sarfaraz would be the first to know that he didn't score those runs under pressure.

Among bowlers, Bengal man Mukesh Kumar was the surprise package as he troubled the New Zealand batters consistently with the new ball in all the games. Saurabh also kept himself in Test team contention with this performance.

Brief Scores: India A 293 and 359/7 decl vs New Zealand A 237 and (target 416) 302 (Joe Carter 111, Mark Chapman 45, Saurabh Kumar 5/103, Sarfaraz Khan 2/48).

Also Read : Virat might have to bat at top in some games but Rahul will open at T20 WC: Rohit

News Source : PTI

2022-09-18 12:23

KL should open, probably got more ability than Kohli, Rohit: Gambhir

New Delhi, Sep 18 (Cricket News) Dismissing suggestions that Virat Kohli should open the batting in the T20 World Cup, former India opener Gautam Gambhir has firmly backed KL Rahul to do the job, and said the out-of-form batter has "probably got more ability".

Kohli's return to form in the Asia Cup, especially as an opener when he ended his long wait for a century with a 61-ball 122 against Afghanistan, fuelled debate whether he should be preferred over Rahul at the top in the next month's showpiece in Australia.

"You know what happens in India? The moment someone starts doing very well, for example, when Virat Kohli scored a hundred in the last game, we all start forgetting what Rahul and Rohit have done over a long period of time," Gambhir said on Star Sports during a virtual press conference ahead of India's three-match T20I series against Australia.

"When you talk about Kohli opening the batting, imagine what happens to KL Rahul... Imagine the amount of insecurity he (Rahul) must be feeling. Imagine if he gets a low score in the first game, there will be another debate on whether Kohli should open in the next game." Returning from a long injury layoff post the IPL, Rahul is yet to hit the straps and has scored one half-century from seven innings. In the Asia Cup, he averaged 26.40, with 132 runs from five innings.

But Gambhir, who mentored the Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL earlier this year, said the batter should be allowed to play freely. Under Rahul, LSG bowed out in the Eliminator, going down to Royal Challengers Bangalore by 14 runs.

"You don't want your top class players in that position, especially KL Rahul who has probably got more ability than Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli." "Imagine KL Rahul going into the World Cup thinking, 'what if I don't score runs against Pakistan? What if I get replaced by Virat Kohli?' You don't want that. We should start thinking about how India can flourish, rather than certain individuals," Gambhir said.

With Dinesh Karthik and Rishabh Pant both in the Australia-bound squad, there's also no clarity on the designated wicketkeeper's role.

Karthik was preferred ahead of Pant in their Asia Cup opener against Pakistan, but the left-hander returned in the Super 4 matches against Pakistan and Sri Lanka, while both featured against Afghanistan when skipper Rohit Sharma sat out.

In fact, the legendary Sunil Gavaskar has also spoken about playing both the keeper-batters, but Gambhir disagreed.

"You can't do that. If you do that, you will miss out on a sixth bowler and you would not go into the World Cup with five bowlers. You need to have a backup.

"Unless you drop someone like a Suryakumar Yadav, or KL Rahul has a bad tournament, and you can start with Rishabh Pant opening the batting. Otherwise, I don't see both of these players in the middle-order," he said.

DK has no interest batting higher up ====================== Gambhir further said Karthik, who plays the role of a finisher, has "shown no interest" in batting at higher positions.

"I have said it in the past as well, you don't pick a T20 player only to play 10-12 balls. There is no guarantee that he is going to win you games. And Dinesh Karthik, unfortunately, has shown no interest in batting in the top-5.

"Your wicketkeeper has to be able to bat in the top-5 and Rishabh Pant has that quality to bat at any number for that matter," he added.

"I will definitely have Rishabh Pant in my batting order. I don't believe in the notion that you need a left-hander in the middle-order. That's not the criteria, especially in a side like India.

"The criteria should be -- do you have the ability to win a game?. Rishabh Pant has that. So yeah, Pant to start with at No. 5, Hardik Pandya at 6, Axar at 7 and see if you want Ashwin at 8, followed by three seamers," he concluded.

Also Read : Mohammed Shami out of Australia T20 series due to COVID19, Umesh called back

News Source : PTI

2022-09-17 19:03

Duleep Trophy: Sai Kishore's 7-wicket haul gives South big lead vs North; West sets Central huge target

Salem (TN), Sep 17 (Cricket News) Left-arm spinner R Sai Kishore stole the show with a seven-wicket haul as South Zone seized the all-important lead against North Zone on the third day of the Duleep Trophy semifinal here on Saturday.

Meanwhile in Coimbatore, Prithvi Shaw's blistering 142 (140 balls, 15 fours, 4 sixes) helped West Zone set Central Zone a massive target of 501 in the other semifinal.

Tamil Nadu spinner Sai Kishore, who has been impressive in the white ball formats, came up with a superb showing, snaring seven wickets including that of the talented Yash Dhull (39, 70 balls, 4 fours, 1 six) to help dismiss North Zone for 207 in 67 overs.

Resuming at 24 for no loss, Dhull and Manan Vohra (27) pushed North Zone's first innings score to 67 before off-spinner K Gowtham (2 for 68) struck the first blow, removing the latter, caught by Rohan Kunnummal.

Dhull, who had slammed a ton in the quarterfinal against East Zone, could not carry on his good form, following Vohra into the pavillion four runs later. He nicked one to keeper Ricky Bhui to give Sai Kishore his first scalp.

North slipped to 116 for 4 as captain Mandeep Singh (14) and Dhruv Shorey (28) were dismissed in quick succession.

Himanshu Rana (17) and Nishant Sindhu (40, 64 balls, 4 fours, 2 sixes) put on 48 runs for the fifth wicket.

However, the exit of Rana, who was trapped leg before by Sai Kishore, saw North lose another wicket quickly.

Sindhu kept fighting but he did not get much support from the other end and Sai Kishore ran through the lower order.

North were dismissed for 207, giving South a mammoth first innings lead. The lanky spinner finished with 7 for 70 and played a huge role in the team securing the first innings advantage.

South did not enforce the follow-on and chose to bat a second time. Rohan Kunnummal, who scored a ton in the first essay, came with a quickfire 77 (72 balls) as the batters enjoyed the time out in the middle.

At stumps, South were 157 for 1.

Brief scores: South Zone 630 for 8 declared in 172.overs (Rohan Kunnummal 143, Hanuma Vihari 134, Ricky Bhui 103 not out) and 157 for 1 in 28 overs (Rohan Kunnummal 77, Mayank Agarwal 53 batting) vs North Zone 207 all out in 67 overs (Nishant Sindhu 40, Yash Dhull 39, Dhruv Shorey 28, R Sai Kishore 7 for 70). (Toss: South).

Central 33 for 2 in pursuit of 501 for win ========================== West Zone reduced Central to 33 for 2 after setting a massive target of 501 to win the other semifinal.

Prithvi Shaw, who went after the bowlers on Friday and hit a whirlwind ton, continued to torment the Central bowlers. He moved to 142 from 140 balls (15 fours, 4 sixes) to help extend the lead.

Shaw was dismissed by Karan Sharma with the West score at 200 but that did not end the ordeal of the Central bowling unit. Armaan Jaffer (49) and wicketkeeper-batter Het Patel (67) frustrated the opposition attack and put the match virtually out of Central's grasp.

Patel was the last wicket to fall for 67 as West was bowled out for 371.

Left-arm spinner Kumar Kartikeya Singh was the best among Central bowlers taking three wickets to add to his first innings haul of 5 for 66.

When Central began its chase of 501, Chintan Gaja struck an early blow by removing Yash Dubey (14).

Later, spinner Shams Mulani got Himanshu Mantri (18) to leave the team in trouble at 33 for 2 with the last day's play remaining.

Brief scores: West Zone 259 all out in 85.4 overs (Rahul Tripathi 67, Prithvi Shaw 60, Shams Mulani 41, Kumar Kartikeya Singh 5 for 66) and 371 all out in 104.4 overs (Prithvi Shaw 142, Het Patel 67, Armaan Jaffer 49, Kartikeya Singh 3 for 105) vs Central Zone 128 all out in 40.1 overs (Karan Sharma 34, Tanush Kotian 3 for 17, Jaydev Unadkat 3 for 24) and 33 for 2 in 9.2 overs. (Toss: Central).

Also Read : Third 'Test': Patidar scores 2nd ton, Gaikwad misses by 6 runs as India A close in on win

News Source : PTI

2022-09-17 18:48

Third 'Test': Patidar scores 2nd ton, Gaikwad misses by 6 runs as India A close in on win

Bengaluru, Sep 17 (Cricket News) Rajat Patidar's dream season just got better with a second hundred of the rubber while teammate Ruturaj Gaikwad missed out on a ton by a whisker as India A closed in on a series win against New Zealand A in the third 'Test' here.

With the previous two unofficial 'Tests' of the three-match series ending in tame draws, largely due to inclement weather, Priyank Panchal's team has opened up an opportunity as New Zealand A ended the third and penultimate day on 20 for one, chasing a mammoth 416.

After left-arm spinner Saurabh Kumar was brought into the attack early, he dismissed Rachin Ravindra to set the ball rolling.

This was after an impressive second innings show by the India A batters, with only Abhimanyu Easwaran (8) failing to cross the 50-run mark, as the hosts declared their second innings at 359 for seven.

Patidar continued his love affair with the Chinnaswamy Stadium, smashing 109 off 135 balls, his third first-class hundred at the same venue in three months. Earlier, he had scored a hundred here in the Ranji Trophy final, followed by 176 on his India 'A' debut a fortnight ago.

For Gaikwad, it was a match to remember as he topped up his first innings 108 with a delectable 94, which had 11 boundaries in it.

It was off-spinner Joe Walker, who had him caught by Mark Chapman but by then, the CSK batter was involved in two century plus partnerships -- 122 with his skipper Priyank Panchal (62) for the second wicket and 102 with Patidar for the third wicket.

Patidar, who hit 13 fours and two sixes, then found an able ally in Sarfaraz Khan (63 off 74 balls) and they added 108 runs in just 20 overs, as India A looked for a 400 plus total before letting New Zealand A bat for the day's last 90 minutes.

Sarfaraz used his feet to good effect against Ravindra and Walker, hitting seven fours and two sixes in the process.

It was a fine knock, but his failure in the preceding matches could come back to haunt him, as the fifty came when the pressure was literally off.

Brief scores: India A 293 and 359/7 decl (Rajat Patidar 109, Ruturaj Gaikwad 94, Priyank Panchal 62, Sarfaraz Khan 63, Rachin Ravindra 3/65) New Zealand 237 and (Target 416) 20/1 (Saurabh Kumar 1/13).

Also Read : Jadeja's absence massive loss but Kohli's return to form augurs well for India in T20 WC: Mahela

News Source : PTI

2022-09-17 14:00

Jadeja's absence massive loss but Kohli's return to form augurs well for India in T20 WC: Mahela

Dubai, Sep 17 (Cricket News) Ravindra Jadeja's absence due to injury is a "massive loss" but Virat Kohli's return to form and Jasprit Bumrah's comeback would still make India a force to reckon with in the upcoming T20 World Cup, feels Sri Lanka legend Mahela Jayawardene.

Jadeja was left out of the 15-member Indian team for the T20 World Cup in Australia in October-November after the all-rounder suffered an injury during the Asia Cup.

"It is a challenge. They had fitted him (Jadeja) nicely in that No.5 role. He has been batting really well and him and Hardik (Pandya) being in that top six - two guys who can give that all-round options - gave India much more flexibility in that batting order," Jayawardena was quoted as saying in The ICC Review.

"It is a tough one for them, and probably a concern not having that left-hander. They’ve switched to leaving out DK (Dinesh Karthik) and bringing in Rishabh (Pant) in that role, batting at 5 or 4. Those are things they have to settle going into the World Cup.

"But not having Jadeja, the form that he was in... it will be a massive loss for them," the batting legend said of Jadeja.

Jayawardene said India can take solace in the return to form of star batter Kohli who broke his century drought that spanned 1,020 days, scoring his 71st international hundred when he smashed an unbeaten 122 against Afghanistan in the Asia Cup, though it was an inconsequential match.

"He (Kohli) was there and thereabouts pretty much. He just didn’t have that big score under his belt to get that confidence, especially in white-ball cricket, which is always going to happen," said Jayawardene, who has been IPL side Mumbai Indians' head coach.

“There were a few injury concerns in the last 12 months. He had little niggles and they rested him and India kept on giving people rest, with the workload that they had. So not having that consistent run also makes it tough." "It’s good to see him (Kohli) batting like that. We need all these brilliant players to be at their best form in a World Cup, and that’s what the World Cup deserves as well. Everyone going at each other at that level. It will be a fascinating World Cup in Australia.

"For me the way they played, the skills, the talent, everything is there. They just need a little bit of confidence with the bat, with the ball and in the field. These are little things that India will want to improve. It’s just the confidence of bowlers being able to get wickets and then executing skills." Jayawardene said India would be further bolstered by the return of pace ace Bumrah.

“Obviously, not having Jasprit (in Asia Cup) was also a factor. He fills a big gap for them with the new ball and at the back end. That will settle them as well when he is back in Australia."

Also Read : Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club becomes regional host for East Midlands

News Source : PTI

2022-09-17 12:57

Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club becomes regional host for East Midlands

(Cricket news) Following a tender process, Nottinghamshire CCC has been announced as the Regional Host for the East Midlands in the Women’s Regional Structure. From November 1, Nottinghamshire CCC will replace Loughborough University who have been one of the eight Regional Hosts since the structure came into place in 2019.

In conjunction with the ECB, Loughborough University have decided that the future development of this programme is now best served at a county cricket club and will work with all involved to seamlessly transition the Regional Host. Loughborough will continue to offer world-class cricket programmes for its students and compete as a university.

Head of Women’s Domestic Cricket Jo Kirk said: “We’d like to place on record our thanks to Loughborough University for their hard work, commitment and collaboration across the last seven years. As well as being an important part of the Kia Super League, they have played a vital role in forming Lightning, and since 2019 establishing the regional model in their part of the country.

“We’re really looking forward to working with the team at Nottinghamshire CCC as they move to leading within their region, alongside Derbyshire CCC, Leicestershire CCC and Lincolnshire. The continued growth of the Women’s Regional Structure and the impact it has had on the overall health of women’s cricket in England and Wales is something we should be really proud of, and we’re looking forward to continuing that momentum with a new Regional Partner in the East Midlands.”

Ian Read, CEO of Lightning Regional Host at Loughborough University, said: “Athletes are always at the centre of our thinking and it’s clear that working directly with a First-Class County is the best option to continue their development and the development of the game. We have worked closely with the ECB throughout the process of making our decision to pass the baton and are proud to continue working with Nottinghamshire alongside all the other East Midlands partners. Loughborough University remains committed to cricket for both genders and will continue to develop players and compete as a university as we have for many years.”

The final of the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy will be played at Lord’s on Sunday September 25.

The Women’s Regional Structure (Regional Hosts in italics)

Central Sparks (Warwickshire CCC & Worcestershire CCC, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire)

East Midlands* (Nottinghamshire CCC, Derbyshire CCC, Leicestershire CCC, Lincolnshire) *name tbc

Northern Diamonds (Yorkshire CCC, Durham CCC, Northumberland)

Thunder (Lancashire CCC, Cheshire, Cumbria)

South East Stars (Surrey CCC, Kent CCC)

Southern Vipers (Hampshire Cricket Ltd, Sussex CCC, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Dorset, Isle of Wight, Oxfordshire)

Sunrisers (Middlesex CCC, Essex CCC, Northamptonshire CCC, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Huntingdonshire, Norfolk, Suffolk)

Western Storm (Glamorgan CCC, Gloucestershire CCC, Somerset CCC, Cricket Wales, Cornwall, Devon, Wiltshire)

Also read: England give maiden call-ups to Alice Capsey and Freya Kemp

2022-09-17 12:35

India women take on England to kick start the 3 match ODI series

(Cricket news) After losing the T20Is, India now take on England in 3 ODIs. According to various reports, the series will be Jhulan Goswami's final one as an Indian player as she plans to retire after this. The Indian side will have extra motivation to win the series to give a proper farewell to the legendary bowler but they must not let the occasion get to them. The women in blue need to keep things simple and win matches. England are severely understaffed as they are missing Heather Knight, Nat Sciver and Kathrine Brunt. This is a good chance for India to win an ODI series in England which will be a very big feat. This is India's 2nd ODI series post Mithali Raj's retirement and the team is in transition which will continue even further as Jhulan Goswami is also planning to hang her boots.

India's ideal playing XI:

Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Yastika Bhatia (wk), Harmanpreet Kaur (c ), Dayalan Hemalatha, Harleen Deol, Deepti Sharma, Pooja Vastrakar, Sneh Rana, Renuka Singh, Jhulan Goswami

Bench:

Simran Bahadur, Taniya Bhatia, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Jemimah Rodrigues, S. Meghna, Meghna Singh

India has a couple of tough calls to make in selection. Yastika Bhatia should get the nod ahead of Tania Bhatia as the wicket keeper. The bowling combination is also a tricky pick but 3 seamers and 2 spinners in English conditions is always ideal. It will be very informative for Meghna Singh to miss out but Renuka Singh, Jhulan Goswami and Pooja Vastrakar are undroppable at this moment in time. There is still no clarity on the availability of Jemimah Rodrigues who has been out with injury. If Rodrigues is available then she will definitely be in the side but it looks unlikely.

England's ideal playing XI:

Tammy Beaumont, Emma Lamb, Sophia Dunkley, Maia Bouchier, Alice Capsey, Dani Wyatt, Amy Jones, Sophie Ecclestone, Kate Cross, Issy Wong, Freya Davies

Bench:

Lauren Bell, Alice Davidson-Richards, Charlie Dean, Freya Kemp,

The England ODI team looks completely different from the T20 side. The hosts are missing Heather Knight, Nat Sciver and Kathrine Brunt but they are still a very good team. Kate Cross should come into the side after sitting on the bench for the entire T20I series. Issy Wong is likely to be preferred as the 3rd seamer ahead of Charlie Dean and Lauren Bell. Emma Lamb was the Player of the Series in England's last ODI series against South Africa and this will be a very good test for her.

Also read: What went wrong for Indian Women in the T20 series against England

2022-09-16 19:16

India have taken risk by picking only four specialist pacers for T20 World Cup: Mitchell Johnson

New Delhi, Sep 16 (Cricket News) India's squad composition for the T20 World Cup seems a "bit risky" as they are probably "a pacer short" for the bouncy pitches Down Under, feels former Australia speedster Mitchell Johnson.

The skillful Mohammad Shami has been kept on standby which has surprised a few experts of the game as Indian selectors kept faith on the quartet led by Jasprit Bumrah with Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel and Arshdeep Singh in its ranks. "If you got an all-rounder (fast bowling) and couple of spinners, four fast bowlers it is a bit of a risk. But India are probably looking at playing two pacers and an all rounder (Hardik Pandya) and two spinners," Johnson, who is in India to take part in Legends League Cricket, told PTI.

"In Australia you surely need to play three fast bowlers, possibly four in certain conditions, for example Perth. I guess they have a plan going in but it is a bit of a risk if you only take four (pacers)," the former left-arm tearaway quick.

In Indian set-up, only Bumrah is the man, who can consistently clock 140 clicks upwards but pace can't be the only criteria to form a potent bowling unit, Johnson opined.

In the recently held Asia Cup in the UAE, India were criticised for their bowling depth (or lack of it) in the absence of Bumrah while Pakistan boasted of bowlers who rattled the batters with their express pace.

However, Johnson finds the emphasis on pace funny.

"Those kind of things are funny (That all should bowl at 145 plus). If someone can bowl 145 plus, you don't need another guy bowling at the same pace. You need guys that back each other up, work together." He then cited how Ryan Harris and Peter Siddle, two fast medium seam bowlers complemented him during the 2013-14 Ashes where England were literally drubbed.

"During the 2013-14 Ashes, there was a lot of talk about me bowling fast and that was great but at the other end I had Peter Siddle and Ryan Harris who had their own strengths and could also hit 140s. So it is all about the balance in the team.

"The main thing in Australia is the extra bounce and pace and adjusting your length, you can get carried away and bowl a bit too short." 'Warner or Smith should not be made Australia captain' ================================= Aaron Finch's retirement from ODIs has ignited an intense debate over his successor.

David Warner, who had copped a lifelong leadership for his role in the ball tampering scandal in 2018, has expressed a strong desire to lead Australia while Steve Smith, who had a received a two-year captaincy ban after the incident in South Africa, is another option.

Johnson however feels both players are at the fag end of their careers and therefore, the team should have a younger leader.

"Pat Cummins (Test skipper) may not able to do all formats. It might be too much workload for him, but then I look and check who is available.

"The selectors have someone in in mind may be Glenn Maxwell. Cameron Green will also be a good choice if you are looking a the future but there is already heavy workload for him as an all-rounder. Travis Head is there but he needs to be more consistent.

"Both Warner and Smith should not be captains. No issue with them being advisors of the the team which they already are. I don't see why this needs to be brought up all over again, it brings back the old stuff (the scandal)....

"They are also towards the end of their careers so it should be someone who has got more time in the game." On growth of domestic T20 leagues across globes =============================== Johnson ended the conversation with his thoughts on the debate over mushrooming T20 leagues and international cricket. Players are giving up national contracts to play in leagues around the world.

"When I first heard about all this, emotions rise, you think about loyalty to your country and things like that but the game has changed, players are changing," he said referring to Trent Boult's decision to let go of his central contract with New Zealand.

"There are many leagues around, players have to be smart about what they play in. There is going to burn-out in T20 leagues as well. I rather be more traditional, players wanting to play for their country but I understand the need to earn a living as well. It is a concern going forward," said the left-arm pacer.

In India for Legends League Cricket, Johnson is excited about catching up with his rivals from all around the world.

"I got here tomorrow. I never wanted to play after I retired and bowling again doesn't come naturally (after you are done) but it is exciting to be able to meet all the players you played with and against," he added.

Also Read : Hardik Pandya has got to mature a bit more: Tim Bresnan

News Source : PTI

2022-09-16 19:11

Hardik Pandya has got to mature a bit more: Tim Bresnan

Kolkata, Sep 16 (Cricket News) Hardik Pandya needs to mature a bit more, feels former English cricketer Tim Bresnan, who expects the India all-rounder to play a significant role in the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Besides his exploits with the bat and ball, Pandya has also displayed his leadership skills since coming back from an injury layoff, leading Gujarat Titans to the IPL 2022 title on debut.

At the recently-concluded Asia Cup too, Pandya showed how crucial he is to the Indian team, when he fashioned a five-wicket win over Pakistan in the tournament opener.

"Definitely, a pace bowling all-rounder is quite crucial, it balances your team, it gives you two cricketers in one," the 37-year-old Bresnan, who is representing LNJ Bhilwara Kings in the second edition of Legends League Cricket here, told PTI in an interaction.

Pandya has battled injury in the past and the team think-tank is mindful of his workload management, giving him rest for the upcoming T20I series South Africa.

Bresnan remarked that it's because of the demanding nature of his position.

"It's a tough position to play because you are always involved in the game, so it's quite demanding physically. Fast bowling all-rounders are worth the weight in gold.

"Hardik is really good on the field as well, he's a very good athlete. He's got to mature a bit more, then he is going to be a top, top player," Bresnan, who called it quits after playing for 20 years, added.

Bresnan has not followed the Asia Cup and India's early exit but picked the Rohit Sharma-led side as one of the semifinal contenders alongside Australia, New Zealand, England for the T20 world Cup.

"You can't discount India ever... But I think England, Australia and New Zealand probably are the three favourites. But India and Pakistan have the same chance and Sri Lanka have done really well in the Asia Cup, so you never know, whoever brings on the day." Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is also back after missing the Asia Cup because of injury-related issues and Bresnan thinks he will hit his straps straightaway.

"He's got genuine pace, he's got too much quality to be rusty. He is too professional, I think he would be fine for the World Cup," he said.

As for England, the Jos Buttler-led side will not have opener Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow, but Bresnan believed they are a well-balanced side.

"We have got a really good batting lineup. If we can keep the seamers fit that will be key for the English team. We've got all departments covered." Talking about Test cricket, Bresnan rated James Anderson and Stuart Broad as the best pace attack in world cricket at the moment, and said their domination in the recent win against South Africa is a testament to that.

Anderson and Broad bagged 24 wickets between them as England sealed a come-from-behind 2-1 home series win over South Africa last month.

"I think they are the best attack at the moment, probably in all conditions as well... They are coming on the back of a really good series against New Zealand, the one-off Test against India, and a really good series against South Africa.

"They managed to come out on top. It (against SA) was a series where bowling attacks were dominated, that's always the same in English conditions. They came out on top so you got to say they are the best," he said.

"Hopefully Jimmy (Anderson) plays for as long as he wants. Broad is just getting better and better. He's four years behind Jimmy in terms of age. They will be allowed to decide when it's enough." Back to playing after about a year, Bresnan can't wait to be on the field.

"I can't wait for it. It's good to be playing in front of the Indian fans again. It's a special place to play cricket, there is so much engagement and love for the game here. It's infectious," Bresnan, who played two matches at Eden Gardens in 2011, added.

Also Read : Spinners shine as India A take upper hand against NZ A in 3rd unofficial Test

News Source : PTI

2022-09-16 16:57

Three doubts India need to clear before the T20 World Cup

(Cricket news) India's failure to make it to the Asia Cup finals is still fresh in cricket fans memories but the team doesn't have time to grieve about it as there is just 1 month left for the T20 World Cup. India have two 3 match series at home against Australia and South Africa to prepare for the World Cup. Rohit Sharma before the Asia Cup said that "more or less 80-90 percent of your team is set, of course there could be three-four changes if at all depending on the conditions." India have selected the 15 member squad with 4 stand-bys but there are still some things in the Playing XI which need to be addressed.

3) Who will be the Wicket-keeper

India have dabbled between Rishabh Pant and Dinesh Karthik in the past 3 months. Both the glovemen are in the squad and India do play both of them whenever they can. Due to the combination of the side, the likelihood is that India will have to play only one. Both the players play different roles as Pant comes in at number 4 or 5 to accelerate the run rate and get a left hand right hand combination in while Karthik plays the finishers role. If Ravindra Jadeja was in the squad then India would've had a left hander and India would most likely have gone with Karthik just like they did in the Asia Cup.

With Jadeja being injured, India don't have a left hander who can bat at 4 or 5 like Jadeja and even if they do play Axar Patel he will bat lower down because he isn't good enough to bat at 4 or 5. This means that India will not have any left hander in the top 6 which is not ideal. As of this moment Axar Patel isn't even guaranteed to play as India have used Deepak Hooda in that role. In that case without Rishabh Pant there is no left hander at all which doesn't make sense. The other argument in favour of Pant is that Karthik's role as a finisher can be played by other players. Pant has been playing really well for the past couple of years but T20I is the one format in which he has struggled while Karthik is in good form. The decision will be touch and go but could have a massive impact on the result. These 6 matches will be very crucial in making that decision.

2) Who is Ravindra Jadeja's replacement

Ravindra Jadeja has injured his knee and will miss the World Cup which leaves India in a spot of bother. Jadeja was one of the first names in the Playing XI due to his immense ability with both ball and willow. Now that he is not there, India has a few options to replace him. The like for like replacement would be Axar Patel but in the Asia Cup, India went for Deepak Hooda in that role. The problem with playing Hooda is that even though he is better with the bat then Axar, with the ball he is significantly worse. On top of that Axar is a left hander which is an added advantage. Axar Patel has been putting in good performances with both bat and ball for a long time now and he definitely deserves to get an opportunity. Ravichandran Ashwin is also an option as is Harshal Patel but both of them are not good enough to bat at number 7.

1) Who will be the 3rd seamer

Hardik Pandya is the fast bowling all-rounder who will be in the side. In Australian conditions India will most likely go with 3 pure seamers, 1 pure spinner which is either Ashwin or Yuzvendra Chahal along with Pandya and a spin bowling all-rounder which is either Axar, Hooda or the outside the box option which is Ashwin. They could also go with 4 seamers and Hardik Pandya along with just 1 spinner who could be any of the available options. In the likely case of 3 spinners comes the big dilemma. Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar will definitely be in the playing XI. The 3rd spot is a little tricky choice between Arshdeep Singh and Harshal Patel. Both the bowlers are death over specialists which is the role they will be playing in this side. Arshdeep Singh has been doing it for the last month or so in which Harshal has been injured but Harshal has been the go to man before that. Arshdeep is a left arm seamer which is a slight advantage but a lot will depend on how each of them performs in the 6 games before the World Cup.

Also read: What went wrong for Indian Women in the T20 series against England

2022-09-16 11:52

India batters flop as England win by 7 wickets in 3rd T20; concede series

Bristol, Sep 16 (Cricket News) Indian bowlers put up a valiant effort with a below par total to defend before rookie Alice Capsey held her nerves to guide England to a seven-wicket win in the third women's T20 International and also clinch the series 2-1.

India put up an inept batting performance, scoring only 122 for eight, courtesy wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh's 22-ball 33 and all rounder Pooja Vastrakar's unbeaten 19 off 11 deliveries.

Indian batter were unable to navigate through the England spin bowling as the trio of Sophie Ecclestone (3/25), Sarah Glenn (2/11) and Bryony Smith accounted for six wickets.

England scored the runs in 18.2 overs, courtesy opener Sophia Dunkley's 49 off 44 and 18-year-old Caspey's unbeaten 38-run knock that took the hosts over the line and seal the three-match series 2-1.

"I think we were 20 runs short. Credit to our bowlers for keeping us in the game," India captain Harmanpreet Kaur said after the game.

"We just need to stick to our strengths. One needs to have a decent total in any format of the game. We need partnerships with the bat," she added.

Chasing 123, the home side was off to a brilliant start with both openers Dunkley and Danni Wyatt (22 off 23 balls) sharing a 70-run stand before India triggered a mini batting collapse by snaring three quick wickets in as many overs.

Spin all-rounder Sneh Rana (1/32) provided the first breakthrough for the visitors as Wyatt miscued a shot.

Dunkley, who hit six fours, followed next as she was cleaned up with an excellent delivery by Vastrakar (1/16). Captain Amy Jones' (3) stay in the middle was then cut short by Radha Yadav (1/14).

But, Capsey, considered one of England's brightest young talents, continued to attack and played shots all around the ground. She was ably supported by Smith, who remained unbeaten on 13, as the two steered England to victory.

Earlier, India were in all sorts of trouble as they slipped to 75 for 7 before Ghosh and Vastrakar joined forces to take the visitors to a respectable total.

Both openers, the big hitting Shafali Verma (5 off 12) and Smriti Mandhana (9 off 8) were dismissed in the first four overs.

Verma was first to go as she misjudged the pace of the delivery by Issy Wong (1/24) with the ball deflecting off her pads on to the wicket.

Smith then got the prized wicket of Mandhana as Ecclestone held on to a brilliant catch.

Sabbhineni Meghana (0) and Dayalan Hemalatha (0) struggled to open their account while skipper Harmanpreet (5) also had a forgettable day.

Deepti Sharma (24) tried to repair the innings along with Ghosh but the all-rounder too perished as she attempted to sweep left-arm spinner Ecclestone but missed, with Jones completing the stumping.

Ghosh, who slammed five boundaries, and Vastrakar added 43 runs in the last three overs to take India over the 100-run mark.

Brief Scores: India Women: 122 for 8 in 20 overs (Richa Ghosh 33 not out, Deepti Sharma 24; Sophie Ecclestone 3/25) England Women: 126 for 3 in 18.2 overs ( Sophia Dunkley 49, Alice Capsey 38 not out; Radha Yadav 1/14)

Also Read : Sehwag versus Kallis charity match to kickstart Legends League

News Source : PTI

2022-09-15 18:36

Duleep Trophy: Rohan Kunnumal, Vihari tons put South in command vs North Zone

Salem (Tamil Nadu), Sep 15 (Cricket news) Debutant opener Rohan S Kunnumal and skipper Hanuma Vihari's unbeaten hundreds powered South Zone to 324 for 2 at stumps against North Zone in the semifinal of the Duleep Trophy cricket tournament here on Thursday.

Opting to bat, South got off to a solid start with Kunnumal and Agarwal (49, 59 balls, 6X4, 1X6) matching each other stroke for stroke.

The 24-year-old Kunnumal from Kerala was the first to reach the half-century as they two added 100. Agarwal, who looked in good touch, was bowled by spinner Nishant Sindhu.

Kunnumal appeared to be at ease in the middle, playing some good-looking drives and Vihari, who joined the Kerala right-hander in the middle, played himself in and allowed the young opener to play his shots.

Kunnumal cashed in whenever the spinners erred in line and length.

The duo was involved in a 167-run partnership that deflated the North Zone bowlers. Vihari brought up his 50 from 108 balls.

Kunnumal hit some lovely shots and reached his ton off 172 deliveries with a huge six down the ground. He was lucky to survive a chance when he was dropped off Nishant Sindhu's bowling on 77.

He continued to get runs while the captain too appeared to pick up the pace of scoring. The huge stand between Kunnumal and Vihari was broken by pacer Navdeep Saini when he had the former bowled for 143.

His 225-ball innings was studded with 16 fours and 2 sixes.

The ton continued Kunnumal's superb run including last season's Ranji Trophy which included three centuries.

Vihari, on his part, did what comes best to him, bide his time and wait for the bad balls to score off.

At stumps, he was on 107, while Tamil Nadu batter B Indrajith was giving him company on 20.

Brief scores: South Zone 324 for 2 in 90 overs (Rohan Kunnumal 143, Hanuma Vihari 107 not out, Mayank Agarwal 49) vs North Zone.

Central Zone reduces West to 252 for 9 -------------------------------------- In Coimbatore, the formidable West Zone team was restricted to 252 for 9 at stumps on the opening day of the other semifinal against Central Zone with left-arm spinner Kumar Kartikeya Singh picking up a five-wicket haul.

Coming into the match after making a massive total against North East Zone in the quarterfinal, the strong West batting line-up could not quite live up to the reputation.

Central Zone captain Karan Sharma won the toss and opted to field.

Despite losing opening partner Yashasvi Jaiswal for a duck, Prithvi Shaw hit a quick 60 (78 balls, 10 fours) and shared a 57-run stand for the third wicket with Rahul Tripathi (64 batting, 137 balls, 5 fours, 1 six).

Tripathi was also involved in a half-century partnership with Armaan Jaffer (23) but Central zone kept striking at regular intervals to keep the West batters in check.

Skipper Ajinkya Rahane, who had hit a double ton in the quarterfinal, fell leg-before to Gaurav Yadav for 8.

Jaffer looked in good nick before he hammered a delivery from Karan Sharma (1 for 32) straight into the hands of Aniket Choudhary.

All-rounder Shams Mulani (41) and Tanish Kotian (36) made handy contributions but it did not seem to be enough.

Kartikeya Singh's scalps included Atit Sheth, Shaw, Kotian, Het Patel and Jaydev Unadkat. His superb effort put the brakes on the West batting line-up.

Tripathi and Chintan Gaja (5 batting) were at the crease when stumps were drawn.

Brief scores: West Zone 252 for 9 in 82 overs (Rahul Tripathi 64 batting, Prithvi Shaw 60, Shams Mulani 41, Kumar Kartikeya Singh 5 for 66) vs Central Zone.

News source: PTI

Also read: Indian Women set to lock horns with England in Bristol for decider T20I

2022-09-15 18:33

Masood gets maiden call-up, lead Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi named in T20 WC squad

Karachi, Sep 15 (Cricket news) Shan Masood on Thursday received his maiden T20 call-while experienced batter Fakhar Zaman was dropped from the Pakistan team picked for the World Cup in Australia.

A fit again Shaheen Shah Afridi has also been named in the squad.

Masood, who captained Derbyshire in the Vitality Blast in England and did outstandingly well in red and white ball formats, replaces Zaman who is out with a knee injury.

Fakhar despite being discarded for the World Cup and home series against England has been named as travelling reserve for the World Cup.

Chief Selector Muhammad Wasim announced the World Cup squad besides 18 players for the home series of seven T20 matches against England in Karachi and Lahore at the PCB headquarters in Lahore on Thursday.

While the selectors have avoided any experiments in the World Cup squad they have named two uncapped players, allrounder Aamir Jamal and mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed in the home squad besides including a reserve wicketkeeper batsman in Muhammad Haris.

Wasim said despite the fact that there was concern over the failures of the middle and lower order batting in the Asia Cup they had decided to stick with the same set of players who had been playing in the T20 set up since last year’s World Cup in UAE.

“We have reposed faith in the same set of players who have won us matches frequently in this format and we also feel these players brought us several positive victories,” the former Test batsman said.

Conceding that Pakistan’s batting was a problem in the Asia Cup he said the team’s strength remained the opening pair of captain Babar Azam and keeper Muhammad Rizwan.

The good news for Pakistan was the return of tall left arm pacer and lynchpin of the bowling attack, Afridi who has not played any cricket since mid July due to a knee injury.

Shaheen, who is under treatment in London, is expected to resume bowling in the nets in early October and will join the team in Australia.

Pakistan besides playing the seven matches against England will also go to New Zealand for a tri-Series with the hosts and Bangladesh before flying to Australia.

The chief selector also said that Shan Masood had been included in the team because of his form in red and white balls formats including the PSL this year.

“Shan has batted in the ongoing National T20 Championship in the middle order and done well for Balochistan so we felt this was right time to recall him.” Shan has already played 25 Tests and 5 ODIs and last appeared for Pakistan in a Test match in New Zealand in late 2020 after which he was discarded by the selectors.

About the squad for the home series against England, Wasim said that they would try out different combinations keeping in mind the future as well.

Pakistan WC squad and traveling reserve: Babar Azam (captain), Shadab Khan (vice-captain), Asif Ali, Haider Ali, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Wasim Junior, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shan Masood and Usman Qadir.

Traveling reserves: Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Haris and Shahnawaz Dahani.

Pakistan squad for home series v England: Babar Azam (captain), Shadab Khan (vice-captain), Aamir Jamal, Abrar Ahmed, Asif Ali, Haider Ali, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan Mohammad Wasim Junior, Naseem Shah, Shahnawaz Dahani, Shan Masood and Usman Qadir.

News source: PTI

Also read: Indian Women set to lock horns with England in Bristol for decider T20I

2022-09-15 18:07

Vettori backs 'adaptable' Ashwin to do well in T20 WC Down Under

Kolkata, Sep 15 (Cricket news) Former New Zealand spinner Daniel Vettori feels R Ashwin's ability to adapt quickly and his vast knowledge of the Australian conditions will help him during the T20 World Cup.

When it comes to pace and bouncy pitches Down Under, spin bowlers are not that effective and India have the likes of Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal and Axar Patel in their ranks for the ICC event in October-November.

"We all know Ashwin has been exceptional in Tests. The thing for him is he's coming off a great IPL, and he's obviously included in the T20 squad for India," the former New Zealand captain, who is here to play the second edition of the Legends League Cricket, told reporters.

"He's one of those guys who's very adaptable, he understands what he needs to do in all situations. I think if he's picked he will know how to perform. He's been to Australia on a number of occasions," the 43-year-old said.

With Ravindra Jadeja injured, Ashwin can fit the bill for the spin-bowling all-rounder spot in the upcoming T20 World Cup, he said.

"India does have a plethora of spin bowlers, a lot to choose from. The fact that most of the spinners are all-rounders as well I think that sets him apart and give the team a good balance." The former left-arm spin legend further said the key to success for a spinner in Australia is to bowl more topspin and get bounce like the way Nathan Lyon does for the home side.

"The best chap to see would be Nathan Lyon and the way he bowls on Australian wickets. His ability to get bounce through top spin, I think that's where he sets himself apart.

"Countries like New Zealand, Australia and England to a lesser degree, it's about the drift and the amount of topspin you get on the ball.

"Someone like Lyon has been so successful, because of his seam release. It's almost a topspin release and he gets that bounce.

"In the sub-continent, you can rely on the wicket doing a bit more work for you. But the key to success in Australia, is the ability to probably get more top spin than side spin which happens more and more in the sub-continent," he explained.

Talking about India's future in the spin bowling department, he said: "Particularly when you see those legends at the top, the likes of Ashwin, Jadeja in Test cricket and their ability to transition through all three formats, so many young spinners aspire to that level.

"I can't talk much about the young group coming through but the Indian spin group is in good hands because of the players that I've mentioned.

"Ravi Bishnoi, Rahul Chahar coming through as well on the back of the IPL so when they play for India in pressure situations they are ready to succeed," he concluded.

The Kiwi great will represent Virender Sehwag-led Gujarat Giants in the second edition of LLC.

News Source: PTI

Also read: Indian Women set to lock horns with England in Bristol for decider T20I

2022-09-14 11:23

Mandhana guides India to series-levelling eight-wicket win over England in T20I

Derby, Sep 14 (Cricket News) Opener Smriti Mandhana hit a stroke-filled unbeaten fifty after off-spinner Sneh Rana snarred three wickets to hand India women a comprehensive eight-wicket win over England in the second T20 International and level the series 1-1 here.

England's decision to bat first on Tuesday night backfired as Indian bowlers raised their performance by a notch to reduce the hosts to 54 for five inside 10 overs.

England found the going tough in the initial overs, losing wickets at regular intervals before teenager Freya Kemp (51 not out off 37 balls) and Maia Bouchier (34 off 26) shared 65 runs for the sixth wicket to resurrect their innings.

While the 17-year-old Kemp struck three fours and as many sixes during her rearguard knock, Bouchier decorated her innings with four boundaries.

But once Rana broke the dangerous-looking partnership, taking the wicket of Bouchier stumped by Richa Ghosh in the 18th over, the writing was on the wall for England.

Kemp, though, tried hard her level best and used her long handle to great effect to pick up 23 runs in the remaining 15 balls in the company of Sophie Ecclestone to take England to 142 for six and give their bowlers at least something to defend.

Rana was the wrecker-in-chief for India returning with fine figures of 3 for 24 from her four overs, while Renuka Singh (1/30) and Deepti Sharma (1/21) picked up two wickets at the top.

India began their chase in a fine fashion with Mandhana (79 not out off 53) and Shafali Verma (20) adding 55 runs in the first six overs.

Ecclestone finally got the breakthrough for England when Verma hipped back to the bowler, who dived to her right to complete a fine caught and bowled opportunity.

Dayalan Hemalatha (9) once again disappointed as Freya Davies cleaned her up 16 balls later.

Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (29 not out off 22) then joined her deputy Mandhana at the crease and the duo played effortlessly, stitching unconquered 69 runs for the third wicket to comple the formalities as India 146 for two in 16.4 overs.

In fact, Mandhana hit three boundaries off Davies in the 17th over -- first smashing throgh backward covers, then creaming through midwicket and then completed the chase with smacking shot over the bowler's head to the long-on boundary.

There were no sixes in the match from the Indian batters but Mandhana found the fence 13 times, while Harmanpreet and Verma struck four boundaries each.

It was a ordinary bowling display from the home team as Ecclestone (1/22) and Davies (1/30) were the only two wicket takers.

England had won the first match by nine wickets. The third T20 of the three-match series will be played in Bristol on September 15.

Brief Scores: England Women:142 for 6 in 20 overs (Freya Kemp 51 not out, Maia Bouchier 34; Sneh Rana 3/24).

India Women: 146 for 2 in 16.4 overs (Smriti Mandhana 79 not out, Harmanpreet Kaur 29 not out; Sophie Ecclestone 1/22).

Also Read : India pacer Mohammad Siraj takes five wickets on county debut

News Source : PTI

2022-09-13 19:06

BCCI's Asia Cup Review: Slow batting during middle overs is an issue

New Delhi, Sep 13 (Cricket News) India's batting in the middle overs, between overs 7 to 15, is the main area of concern ahead of the all-important ICC T20 World Cup, the BCCI has concluded after reviewing the team's forgettable outing at the Asia Cup.

The showpiece will be held from October 16 to November 20 and India's first match is in Melbourne against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 23.

On Monday, the BCCI announced the team for the marquee event along with the six T20I matches against Australia and South Africa, starting September 20.

However, apart from the squad selection, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah along with the national selection committee did discuss the underwhelming performance of the national team during the continental championship.

"Yes, the Asia Cup performance was discussed. But obviously, more than problems, the focus is on solutions and what are the things that needs to be improved during the T20 World Cup," a senior BCCI official privy to developments told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

While there were a few issues, all agreed in unison that India's pedestrian batting approach in the middle overs is becoming an issue against better teams and was a problem during the Asia Cup.

"There is an obvious issue with batting during the middle overs, especially between 7th to 15th where we haven't done well in the Asia Cup. Obviously, the team's think-tank is aware and we have some world class players, who can obviously change their game as per team's needs," the official said.

If one looks at India's batting, whether while setting a target or chasing, they have faltered between overs 7th to 15th.

Against Pakistan in the opening game, 59 runs were scored in those nine overs losing three wickets. Against Hong Kong, it was 62 runs, while in the Super 4s against Pakistan, it was 62 for 1.

The best performance (barring Afghanistan game) was against Sri Lanka when 78 runs came off those nine overs.

The problem has been negotiating the slow bowlers, where some of the top order players haven't been up to the mark.

Samson's name was not discussed for WT20 ------------------------------------------------ Prior to the Indian team's selection, there was a lot of buzz about Sanju Samson's possible inclusion in the 15-member squad in place of Rishabh Pant but it has been learnt that the Rajasthan Royals skipper was not even in contention.

"Sanju in any case will be playing the ODIs against South Africa as selectors will maintain the continuity from the Zimbabwe tour. Also there was never any discussions on dropping Pant. He is the only left-hander we have at the top and he can win a match on his day," the BCCI source said.

Also Read : Renuka Singh jumps to 13th among bowlers, Deepti Sharma static at 7th

News Source : PTI

2022-09-13 15:38

Ireland’s Arlene Kelly sets aim for World Cup qualification

(Cricket news) Ireland Women will today play a warm-up match against Papua New Guinea in Dubai marking the start of their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier campaign. The tournament proper begins on Sunday when the Irish squad faces Bangladesh in Abu Dhabi and all-rounder Arlene Kelly is hoping the team’s recent winning run can continue. Kelly received a call-up to the Irish squad to play South Africa - tasting victory in her first match. Over the subsequent months she has become a regular feature of the senior international set-up and was rewarded with a full-time central contract. The 28-year-old is now looking forward to ending the year on yet another high, by helping Ireland Women qualify for the 2023 ICC T20 World Cup in South Africa next February.

Speaking ahead of today’s warm-up match, Kelly said: “I love a bit of pressure cricket; I think it brings out the best in players. I mean, there's always going to be pressure when you’re playing against the world's best. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being able to compete against some of the world's best this summer, they have been some of the highest-pressure situations I've experienced. Obviously, you've got to focus on controlling the controllables in those situations, and as a team we have spoken about that. We know we're going to be faced with obstacles and things aren't necessarily going to go our way at times, but I think addressing those scenarios early puts us in a better position to be able to adapt when that does happen.

“We’ve had some good wins of late and it's great to have a bit of momentum heading into these qualifiers. The vibe within the squad is really good. This is a great team to be a part of. I've been involved in a number of different teams and the culture here is something special, so hopefully, we can continue to improve on this. Plus, a bit of pressure is always good for that. Personally, it has been an unbelievable year, and a bit of a whirlwind for me to be honest. I've loved every second of it and I think I'm very lucky to have the opportunities that I've got. Following these qualifiers, I'll need to take some time to sit down and reflect on what’s actually happened. But I’m thoroughly enjoying the experience and long may it continue.”

Kelly had to adapt to Irish conditions after arriving early this year, and knows that adapting quickly to new conditions will be vital if Ireland are to progress in the tournament: “Conditions-wise, I did find it challenging initially. I think the wickets are far lower in Ireland, so from a batting perspective, it was playing the ball a lot later, which I'd like to think I've adapted to now. It'll be the same challenge looking ahead to these qualifiers - It's about how quickly you can adapt. There's been a big focus on that from a team perspective too, and we're really looking forward to getting things underway.”

The all-rounder has played club cricket with Malahide this season, a partnership she hopes to continue: “Malahide have been fantastic. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time with the club. My commitments changed from what the initial expectation would've been. It was really cool to be able to contribute to the girls because it is quite a young side. To be able to help them out and hopefully do the same moving forward, and develop cricket there as well will be a fantastic opportunity. I also feel the people are a fantastic part of the club. I’m looking forward to building more relationships moving forward.”

Is there anything from her experience of playing cricket in New Zealand that she thinks can help improve Irish cricket: “I think the biggest learning for me since coming to Ireland is just you need to be playing against quality opposition as much as possible. You want to be playing against the best, and I think the more that Cricket Ireland are able to create those opportunities and experiences, the better it’ll be for the game. Just continuing to build depth, obviously now with these full-time contracts in place and with the opportunity to be playing cricket all year round, more young girls might see that as a potential career opportunity. Getting them involved at a younger age will help them love the game for longer.”

Kelly decided to choose the number 11 jersey when making her Ireland debut, and explains the reason why: “Funnily enough my shirt number back in Auckland is usually 16 and that's what I was used to. However, that number was taken, which was totally fine. And during the women's cricket world cup, my brother got really interested in cricket. They've always supported me in my cricket, so it was awesome to see him get involved in a top-tier women’s sporting tournament and so his birthday is on the 11th of March. So when the opportunity to pick a new number came about it was without hesitation that I picked number 11, just to support him and remind myself of the impact that this game does have on people.”

Ireland Women’s squad

Laura Delany (capt), Rachel Delaney, Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Shauna Kavanagh, Arlene Kelly, Gaby Lewis, Sophie MacMahon, Jane Maguire, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Eimear Richardson, Rebecca Stokell, Mary Waldron.

Warm-up fixtures

13 September: Ireland Women v PNG (Dubai; start 11am)
16 September: Ireland Women v PNG (Tolerance Oval; start 12pm)

ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers

18 September: Ireland Women v Bangladesh Women (Zayed Cricket Stadium; start 4pm)
19 September: Ireland Women v USA Women (Tolerance Oval; start 4pm)
21 September: Ireland Women v Scotland Women (Tolerance Oval; start 12pm)
23 September: Semi-Final (if Ireland qualifies)
25 September: Final (if Ireland qualifies)

Also read: India announce squad for T20 World Cup, Australia and South Africa series

2022-09-13 13:31

Warner and CA to discuss overturning lifetime captaincy ban

Sydney, Sep 13 (Cricket News) David Warner is set to have discussions with Cricket Australia to end his lifetime leadership ban in the coming weeks as the board looks for a replacement for former ODI skipper Aaron Finch.

Finch retired from ODI cricket on Sunday after a poor run of form with just over 12 months left for the 50-over World Cup in India next year.

While Test skipper Pat Cummins is favourite to take over the job if he can mange his workload, Warner may also be in the reckoning, especially as several former and current players have called for the southpaw's life ban to end.

"I have spoken to Nick Hockley, we're going to try and have a catch up," Warner was quoted as saying by 'foxsports.com.au'.

"It's very difficult at the moment … but I'm sure in the next couple of weeks we might be able to. But there’s no rush for anything." In the aftermath of the 2018 ball-tampering scandal in South Africa, former skipper Steve Smith was stripped of the captaincy and banned from leading Australia for two years, while Warner was handed a more severe punishment -- a lifelong leadership ban.

For Warner, it would be a privilege to be entrusted with a leadership role again.

"I haven't had any conversations at all. But look, I think at the end of the day, any opportunity to captain would be a privilege," Warner said.

"But, from my end, there’s a lot of water to go under the bridge, to have those conversations with Cricket Australia and my main focus is just actually playing cricket." The 35-year-old feels the ban was not just punishment for the ball tampering incident.

"Unfortunately a lot of the events before 2018 were with the board. The MOU stuff and all that. There was a lot of stuff that was… things got over and above in terms of more than the Cape Town stuff. There was more to it.

"I think that's where my decision, the penalty that was handed down was more of stuff that was happening before that." Warner, Smith and batter Cameron Bancroft were banned from playing domestic or international cricket as punishment for their roles in the infamous ball-tampering scandal.

Warner and Smith had been banned for one year, while Bancroft was suspended for nine months.

Asked about what conversation he will have with the board, Warner said:"I think at the end of the day it's about what questions do they want to ask me. That's where the conversation starts and then we can lead from there." "At the end of the day, it's almost a completely new ball game from when 2018 happened. I would be interested to see and hear what their thoughts are and what not. And then we can probably go from there." However, Warner feels Cummins will be offered the job first.

"Obviously, Pat has the Test captaincy and he will be offered the job if he wants to take it, and rightfully so." "For me, I know everyone is talking about it and I'm being endorsed by a few people but it's something for me, it's just about making sure Cricket Australia, if they are going to have those conversations with me that they do have those conversations."

Also Read : Mandhana considering pulling out of Women's Big Bash to manage workload

News Source : PTI

2022-09-13 12:33

India announce squad for T20 World Cup, Australia and South Africa series

(Cricket news) India have announced their squad for the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia. Unlike last time there are absolutely no surprises in the squads which is probably a good thing. The squads for the Australia and South Africa series are also identical with a few changes here and there. India have 3 T20Is each against Australia and South Africa before they play 2 practice matches in Australia for the World Cup. India had a very disappointing Asia Cup as they couldn't reach the finals but the T20 World Cup is the big fish which India desperately wants and needs.

India's squad for the T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya, R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh.

Standby players - Mohd. Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar.

India Squad for Australia T20Is: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya, R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohd. Shami, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah.

India squad for South Africa T20Is: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Mohd. Shami, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah.

The T20 World Cup squad has three changes from the Asia Cup squad. Ravindra Jadeja is injured and hence will not be a part of the squad. Avesh Khan and Ravi Bishnoi have been dropped from the squad. Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel come back into the side after recovering from injury. The pair are also a part of the Australia and South Africa series after having got a long time out of the squad. Axar Patel comes in as Jadeja's direct replacement. Ravichandran Ashwin keeps his place in the squad as does Arshdeep Singh. India have gone ahead with both Rishabh Pant and Dinesh Karthik and it is likely that the team chooses between them according to the combination and conditions.

All the batters and spinners in the World Cup squad are a part of the squads for Australia and South Africa series. The seamers who played the Asia Cup have been rested for 1 series each. Hardik Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar are both rested for the South Africa series while Arshdeep Singh is rested for the Australia series. Mohammed Shami and Deepak Chahar are in those squads and are also stand-bys in the World Cup squad. The decision to bring Shami back in the mix is a good one even if he is just a stand-by for the World Cup. Both Chahar and Shami are likely to get a couple of games against Australia and/or South Africa to get back in the T20I groove.

The decision to drop Avesh Khan is understandable and long overdue as his performances have not been upto standard. As far as Ravi Bishnoi is concerned, it is a brutal call as he hasn't done anything wrong in his short international career so far. The decision is understandable as in Australian conditions, India don't need more than 3 spinners in the squad. The men in blue will play maximum 2 spinners in the XI and they needed 3 different kinds of spinners in the squad. In the last World Cup, India made a change in their squad by replacing Axar Patel with Shardul Thakur and it will be interesting to see if something like this happens again.

Also read: Were Harmanpreet's complaints after the 1st T20 against England valid?

2022-09-12 17:45

Bumrah, Harshal back for T20 World Cup; Shami among stand-bys

New Delhi, Sep 12 (Cricket News) A fit-again pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and death overs specialist Harshal Patel were predictably back in the India squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in Australia starting October 16.

India will play their first match against Pakistan on October 23.

Bumrah, who was suffering from back injury and Harshal, who had a side strain, had done an intense rehabilitation programme at the National Cricket Academy and the BCCI medical team has deemed them fit for the marquee series.

The two players, who missed out on World Cup berth were pacer Avesh Khan and leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, who was pipped by senior off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin.

However, veteran pacer Mohammed Shami was back in the T20 scheme of things as he has been picked for the T20 series versus Australia and South Africa prior to the big event and is also among the four stand-bys who will travel Down Under.

The other three reserve players are Shreyas Iyer, Bishnoi and seamer Deepak Chahar.

Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh and Bhuvneshwar Kumar will be reporting to the NCA for conditioning-related work during the course of the home series against Australia and South Africa.

Bhuvneshwar will miss the South Africa series while Hardik and Arshdeep will skip the Australia series beginning September 20.

Squads: For World Cup: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya, R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh.

Standby players - Mohd. Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar.

For Australia T20Is: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya, R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohd. Shami, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah.

For South Africa T20Is: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Mohd. Shami, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah.

also Read : Raza, Mcgrath win ICC Player of Month for August, Jemimah Rodrigues misses out

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2022-09-12 16:52

Raza, Mcgrath win ICC Player of Month for August, Jemimah Rodrigues misses out

Dubai, Sep 12 (Cricket News) India's Jemimah Rodrigues missed out as Australia's Tahlia McGrath and Zimbabwe's Sikandar Raza were on Monday voted as ICC Player of the Month for August following their outstanding international performances in their respective categories.

Rodrigues was nominated for the award in the women's category, which also featured Commonwealth Games gold medal-winning Australian duo of Beth Mooney and Tahlia McGrath.

However, McGrath became the latest Australian star to win the ICC Women's Player of the Month award after helping her country claim the Commonwealth gold in Birmingham.

Following in the footsteps of Alyssa Healy, who claimed the award in April, McGrath amassed 114 runs at an average of 57 during the month, together with five wickets at 13.40.

Amongst a series of strong displays, undoubtedly her star performance came in the victory over Pakistan, where McGrath scored an unbeaten 78, before her three wickets and a run out helped maintain her side's unbeaten path to glory.

"I'm honoured to have been named the ICC Women's Player of the Month for August given there are so many great players who are at the top of their game at the moment," McGrath said.

"I'm loving being back in the Australian team and being part of some really special moments, including making history as the first women's team to win a Commonwealth Games gold medal." Along with team success at the Commonwealth Games, McGrath's excellent month also saw her reach a career-high ranking of 12 among all-rounders in the ICC Women's T20I Player Rankings. Raza, on the other hand, became the first Zimbabwe international to win the award among men.

On his way, the 36-year-old overcame leading all-rounders Mitchell Santner of New Zealand and England's Ben Stokes who also starred during an action-packed month of men's cricket.

"I'm incredibly humbled and honoured to have won the ICC Men's Player of the Month award from the ICC. It's even more humbling being the first Zimbabwean to ever win the award," he said in an ICC release.

"I would like to thank everybody who has been in the changing room with me over the past three to four months, namely the technical staff and the players. Without them this would not have been possible.

"Lastly, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the fans in Zimbabwe and overseas for all your prayers and all your wishes, they are well received and I'm forever grateful." Raza produced an unforgettable series of scores against Bangladesh and India in Harare across two ODI series.

The all-rounder struck two magnificent unbeaten centuries (135 not out and 117 not out) during the historic 2-1 series victory over Bangladesh, on both occasions securing win for his side in dramatic fashion while chasing big targets.

He scored another memorable century against India later in the month, albeit in a defeat, continuing his sensational form shown throughout 2022.

In addition to his exploits at the crease, Raza also highlighted his bowling threat in the shorter format, taking seven wickets during the month.

Also Read : Disney Star gets broadcast rights for Legend League Cricket season 2

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2022-09-12 15:04

Were Harmanpreet's complaints after the 1st T20 against England valid?

(Cricket news) On Saturday, India women lost against England by 9 wickets in the first T20I. Rain delayed the match by half and hour after which India were completely outplayed. After being put into bat first India managed only 132/7 in 20 overs. Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur and Deepti Sharma were the only 3 players to score 20 or more runs. England spinner Sarah Glenn was the star of the show as she picked up 4 wickets. Jemimah Rodrigues was arguably India's best player at the Commonwealth Games and she was surprisingly dropped from the side. The lack of a big hitter in the side was a really big issue and India tried to fix it by bringing in Richa Ghosh, K.P Navgire and Dayalan Hemalatha. While this was a progressive move, dropping Rodrigues was incredibly harsh after the kind of performances she gave in the high pressure Commonwealth Games.

Having just 133 runs to defend, India never looked up for the task. They dropped a catch and got a wicket off a no ball early on but nothing after that. Left arm spinner Radha Yadav got injured while fielding and couldn't bowl a single ball. India were a mess in the field and gave away too many extra runs. In the post match presentation when asked about the match, skipper Harmanpreet Kaur said "I just feel today we forcefully played because it was not 100% conditions for cricket to play. Still I am happy with the way girls put in the effort because when there are chances to get injured they are ready to play. one of our players got injured also. She was our main bowler and that's why we were lacking."

Harmanpreet Kaur's comments after losing weren't exactly what you expect from a captain. England had to play on the same ground and on top of that they had to field before India. The fielding of this Indian team barring a couple of players was absolutely abysmal. Even the running between wickets is not up to international standard. Harmanpreet Kaur is the long term captain of team India and these kinds of comments will not be helpful in her reign. The match was not even a close contest, hence it is surprising that Harmanpreet Kaur didn't express any disappointment over her team's performance and rather decided to complain about the conditions. India will have a chance to level the series but they will have to play a lot better than they did in the first match.

Also read: Sri Lanka's Asia Cup hero Rajapaksa dedicates Asia Cup title to 'crisis-hit' countrymen

2022-09-12 11:07

Sri Lanka's Asia Cup hero Rajapaksa dedicates Asia Cup title to 'crisis-hit' countrymen

Dubai, Sep 12 (Cricket News) Sri Lanka's Asia Cup winning hero Bhanuka Rajapaksha, whose stellar show with the bat played a pivotal role in his side's sensational Asia Cup victory, has dedicated the title to his crisis-hit island nation.

Sri Lanka defeated Pakistan by 23 runs in the summit clash on Sunday night to clinch the Asia Cup crown after 2014, their sixth overall.

Batting first, Sri Lanka were reduced to 67 for 5, but made a brilliant turnaround riding on Rajapaksha (71 off 45 balls) and Wanindu Hasaranga (36 off 21 balls) to reach a competitive 170 for 6.

"We always wanted to show the world - a couple of decades back, we had aggression in our side, and we wanted to create those moments (again) as a unit," a beaming Rajapaksa said at the post match press conference.

"Looking forward, we want to keep up this momentum ahead of the World Cup. With the crisis happening back home, this is a tough time for all the Sri Lankans, but hope we brought some smiles on the faces of our people." "This is to the whole nation; they were waiting for this for so long," a smiling Rajapaksha added.

Sri Lanka clinched the much-needed Asia Cup title in the backdrop of the country's worst economic crisis coupled with political unrest.

Sitting beside Rajapaksha was Sri Lanka's captain Dasun Shanaka and the 31-year-old praised his teammates for responding so well throughout the tournament despite losing to Afghanistan in their tournament opener.

"After that first loss, we had a serious discussion." Shanaka said.

"We knew we had the talent, but it was about applying those in game scenarios and all the players stood up. It's the environment we created as a team and coaching staff that has paid off," he added.

The Sri Lankan skipper also had a message for the fans back home following the title win.

"Believe in our cricketers. A lot of bad things are going around. As cricketers, they too should enjoy their lives as well, not spreading bad things. They have private lives too. Keep believing, that is the key. As a captain, I give confidence to the players, (whatever) I can. I can't ask more than that," Shanaka said.

Shanaka further said that the Asia Cup win could be a stepping stone for greater things to come for Sri Lanka cricket, which is going through a transition phase for a long time.

"Even two-three years back, the team used to play good cricket, but the winning factor wasn't there," he said.

"This could be the turnaround in our cricket, this lot can continue to play for five-six years, which is a very good sign as well.

"The World Cup qualifiers will also help because it will allow us to play in that conditions before the main tournament happens. It will be really good (opportunity for us)," he added.

With a morale-boosting Asia Cup silverware now in their kitty, Shanaka said the same unit can achieve greater success in future.

"It's not like that. When it comes to India-Pakistan, we know it's a different game. Our cricketing history is also good, so we didn't have anything to prove about us being a good team," he said.

"The only thing is we weren't probably ranked high enough, but with this team, we can do better and become that high-ranking team," Shanaka signed off with a smile.

Also Read : Sri Lanka beat Pakistan by 23 runs to win Asia Cup title

News Source : PTI

2022-09-11 22:21

Rajapaksa flays Pakistan attack to take Sri Lanka to 170 for 6

Dubai, Sep 11 (Cricket News) Pakistan pacers started with a bang before Bhanuka Rajapaksa's brilliant 71 not out took Sri Lanka to a challenging 170 for 6 in the Asia Cup final here on Sunday.

It was a good toss to win for Babar Azam until Rajapaksa's calculated assault at the death saw 50 runs being scored off last 4 overs.

Young Naseem Shah (1/40 in 4 overs) and the uber cool Haris Rauf (3/29 in 4 overs) bowled with a lot of pace and fire extracting movement off the track as they broke the backbone of the Lankan batting within the Powerplay overs before Rajapaksa scored one of his finest fifties considering the situation that his team was in.

The spinners leg-spinner Shadab Khan (1/28 in 4 overs) maintained his prolific consistency that has been one of the hallmarks of Pakistan team in this tournament.

However, Rajapaksa (71 of 45 balls) and Wanindu Hasaranga (36 off 21 balls) added 58 quick runs after Sri Lanka were left gasping for breath at 58 for 5.

There was another 54 run stand with Chamika Karunaratne and Sri Lanka did cross the 160-run mark. Shah, the 19-year-old pace sensation bowled one of the most lethal off-cutters seen in this tournament as it pitched back of length but moved in sharply, giving no time to in-form Kusal Mendis (0) to bring his bat down.

While Dhananjaya de Silva (28 off 21 balls) did hit some picturesque cover drives, there was no support literally from the other end.

Pathum Nissanka (8), got a fuller outswinger from Rauf, which he mistimed while Danushka Gunathilaka (1) got a nice outswinger (inswinger for left-hander) which was fast and full, pegging his stumps back.

Once the pacers dismissed three out of the top four batters, the pressure increased and De Silva offered a simple return catch to Iftikhar, who isn't even their regular spinner.

While pacers forced the Lankan batters with pace and movement, if any player, who could be blamed for atrocious shot selection would be Dasun Shanaka, who was clean bowled by Shadab trying to hoick a fuller delivery from the wrist spinner over cow corner.

However Rajapaksa with his all-round strokeplay did give Sri Lankan total lot of respectability. He hit six fours and three sixes and the flick off Naseem for a maximum was a treat for the eyes.

Also Read : Duleep Trophy: West & North Zones advance to semifinals on basis of first-innings lead

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2022-09-11 17:01

Duleep Trophy: West & North Zones advance to semifinals on basis of first-innings lead

Chennai/Puducherry, Sep 11 (Cricket News) West Zone and North Zone secured semi-final berths in the Duleep Trophy by taking the first-innings lead in their matches against North East Zone and East Zone respectively.

While West obtained a massive 367-run lead over North East Zone at the M A Chidambaram Stadium and opted for batting practice on the fourth and final day on Sunday, North rode on a superb ton by debutant Yash Dhull (193) to overhaul East Zone's total.

The Ajinkya Rahane-led West Zone were 268 for five when the match ended. Aith Sheth remained not out on 102 (101 balls, 10 fours, 1 six), and Shams Mulani fell for 97 (115 balls, 12 fours), as the match meandered to a draw.

North East bowlers did a lot better in the second innings and had their opponent three down for 49 and 65 for 4 before Mulani and Sheth came together for a 179-run partnership.

Medium-pacer Dippu Sangma (3 for 70) removed Het Patel (7), Rahul Tripathi (24) and Hardik Tamore (24) to keep the West batters in check.

In Puducherry, North, resuming on overnight 433 for three, added a further 112 runs before being dismissed for 545. Himanshu Rana made 81 and captain Mandeep Singh hit a patient 63.

North Zone looked set for a huge total but the hard-working left-arm spinner Shahbaz Ahmed came up with a five-wicket haul to restrict Mandeep Singh & Co.

Shahbaz Ahmed's scalps included Mandeep, Himanshu Rana, Nishant Sindhu. He ended the 131-run stand between Mandeep and Himanshu Rana which went a long way in helping East stop North's charge.

Earlier on Saturday, the talented Dhull hammered a superb 193 (243 balls, 28 fours, 2 sixes) to power North Zone's reply to East's first innings score of 397.

Brief scores: At Puducherry: East Zone 397 all out in 136.4 overs (Virat Singh 117) and 102 for 3 drew with North Zone 545 all out in 148.5 overs (Yash Dhull 193, Dhruv Shorey 81, Mandeep Singh 63, Himanshu Rana 62, Manan Vohra 44, Shahbaz Ahmed 5 for 86). (North took first- innings lead and qualified) At Chennai: West Zone 590 for 2 in 123 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal 228, Ajinkya Rahane 207 not out, Prithvi Shaw 113) and 268 for 5 in 64.3 overs (Atit Sheth 102 not out, Shams Mulani 97, Dippu 3 for 70, Bishworjit 2 for 39) drew with North East Zone 235 all out in 81.5 overs (Ankur Malik 81, Ashish Thapa 43, Hokaito Zhimono 32, Jaydev Unadkat 3 for 35, Chintan Gaja 4 for 38). (West took first-innings lead and qualified).

Also Read : We forcefully played in wet conditions, says Harmanpreet

News Source : PTI

2022-09-11 11:46

Ordinary India lose by nine wickets against dominant England

Chester-le-Street, Sep 11 (Cricket News) The Indian women's cricket team failed to click with both the bat and ball, proving to be a no match against a dominant England side in a nine-wicket drubbing in the first T20 Internationals here.

Sent into bat by England skipper Amy Jones, the Indian batters came a cropper against leg-spinner Sarah Glenn's four-for and were restricted to a measly 132 for seven in their stipulated 20 overs at Riverside Ground on Saturday night.

Bowling her full quota of four overs, Glenn finished with excellent figures of 4/23 and posed problems for the Indian batters throughout. With luck on her side, Sophia Dunkley raced to a 44-ball 61 to complete the chase in just 13 overs, even as India endured a forgettable night on the field in wet conditions.

All-rounder Deepti Sharma top-scored for the tourists with a 29-ball 24 and the second best score was 23 by opener Smriti Mandhana.

In between, captain Harmanpreet Kaur blazed away to 20 off 16 balls before being bowled by Glenn.

That summed up India's batting as none of them managed to make a substantial contribution.

Wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh too got a start but fell to medium pacer Freya Davies after racing to 16 in 12 balls.

The big-hitting Shafali Verma gave up her wicket after making 14 off 13 balls, caught by Bryony Smith off the bowling of Glenn, to leave India at 47 for two in the seventh over.

Even as they maintained a good run rate, India lost wickets at regular intervals to give England the upper hand in the first of the three T20Is.

India were 83 for four when Ghosh got out in the 12th overs. But all they could manage in the next overs was just 49 runs.

Chasing 133, England were off to a blistering start with both Dunkley and here opening partner Danielle Wyatt (24 off 16 balls) getting quick runs to put up 60 in only 6.2 overs.

First up, Dunkely survived a caught behind courtesy of a no-ball from Renuka Singh, then Shafali fluffed a straightforward catch at mid-off when the batter was on 15. Renuka was the unlucky bowler again.

There were a number of thick edges too, in between.

Having got the reprieves, Dunkley went on to record her highest score in the format while sharing a stand of 74 runs for the second wicket with Alice Capsey, who remained not out on a breezy 32 off 20 balls.

During her unbeaten stay in the middle, Dunkley hit eight fours and a six.

Brief scores: India Women: 132/7 in 20 overs (Deepti Sharma not out 29, Smriti Mandhana 23; Sarah Glenn 4/23) England Women: 134/1 in 13 overs (Sophia Dunkley not out 61, Alice Capsey not out 32).

Also Read : Virat Kohli is more skilful than me: Sourav Ganguly

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2022-09-11 07:50

Virat Kohli is more skilful than me: Sourav Ganguly

New Delhi, Sep 10 (Cricket News) Back in form with a blazing century at the Asia Cup, Virat Kohli has earned praise from BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, who said the star Indian batter is "more skilful" than him as a player.

Both played aggressive brand of cricket as captains, but Ganguly said in terms of skill set, Kohli is ahead of him.

"I don't think that (captaincy) should be the comparison... The comparison should be in terms of skill as a player. I think he is more skilful than I'm," Ganguly said of Kohli in the 'Ranveer Show' on YouTube.

Having returned after a month-long break, Kohli recently recorded his first international century in 1020 days, when he slammed a 61-ball 122 not out during India's final Super 4 clash against Afghanistan in Dubai on Thursday.

Showering praise on Kohli, Ganguly further said: "We played in different generations, and we played a lot of cricket. I played in my generation, and he will continue playing, probably playing more games than I did.

"Currently, I have played more than what he has but he'll get past that. He is tremendous." "Cricket has become a bit more hectic, busy. COVID for the last two seasons has made it even tougher because of quarantine and all that went on. But the rewards are good." Asked whether he gave Kohli any advice when he was struggling for form, Ganguly said: "I don't get to see them. The poor guys travel a lot." "Everybody has been under media scrutiny. Just the names keep changing over a period of time. I won't get to know half of it because I didn't read so much. I would enter a hotel and the first thing I would say at the reception, 'Boss, don't put the newspaper under my door in the morning'.

"But now, obviously, it's a lot more; social media is on your computer and phone. But I think cricketers find a way to shut that off," Ganguly added.

Kohli reached the elusive three-figure mark after almost three years, albeit in a format "he least expected to".

His 71st international hundred also put him alongside the great Ricky Ponting in the list of most centuries. Sachin Tendulkar remains way ahead with 100 tons.

During his playing days, Ganguly too went through many ups and downs, especially after his showdown with then India coach Greg Chappell.

Ganguly said cricketers should take the setbacks positively.

"I didn't go through any trauma. I just had good days and bad days. I had less pressure, a bit more pressure and too much pressure... I don't consider it as trauma.

"Young people should also look at it that way. I can say it now because I'm a bit more experienced. But the young ones should look at it as an opportunity and move on." On today's fast-paced game, Ganguly said: "The game is different. It has gotten faster, shorter, more sixes, more boundaries, and not many deliveries left outside the off stump. The game has changed."

Also Read : Is Aaron Finch's decision to retire from ODIs good for Australia?

News Source : PTI

2022-09-10 15:07

Is Aaron Finch's decision to retire from ODIs good for Australia?

(Cricket news) Australia's white ball captain Aaron Finch has announced his retirement from ODI cricket. The 3rd ODI against New Zealand will be his final one in Australian colours but he will continue to lead the side in T20Is. Finch in a statement said “It has been a fantastic ride with some incredible memories. I have been extremely fortunate to be a part of some brilliant one-day sides. Equally, I have been blessed by all those I have played with and the many people behind the scenes. I thank all of those who have helped and supported my journey to this point. It is time now to give a new leader the best possible opportunity to prepare for and win the next World Cup. I thank all of those who have helped and supported my journey to this point."

Finch has been a true legend for Australia over the years. ODI as a format has always been his strength as he was an integral part of the 2015 World Cup winning team. He took over the whiteball captaincy after the sandpaper gate and has done a phenomenal job. He led Australia to the semi finals of the 2019 World Cup and also won the 2021 T20 World Cup. The reason for his retirement is definitely a significant drop in form as he has only scored 27 runs in his last 7 ODIs and he also has 5 ducks in his last 12 innings. It would have been the right time to move on if he was just a player but the fact that he was captain makes it more complicated. A new captain will have only a year to prepare for the World cup while the management will also have to find an apt replacement for Finch as an opener.

The next step would be to find a new ODI captain. It is very likely that Finch will not remain T20 captain after the World Cup next month and the whiteball team will have one captain. Alex Carey has been vice captain of the ODI team from time to time and he has been captain as well in Finch's absence. He could be the next in line but he doesn't have a lot of experience. Test captain Pat Cummins could be an option but his workload management will become very tricky. Steve Smith could also be the captain as his leadership ban has been lifted. He has been ODI captain before and is also the current Test vice-captain.

David Warner's leadership ban hasn't been lifted but there are a lot of talks that it should be. If it is lifted then Warner is a perfect candidate to take over the captaincy. Australia's next ODI series is on 17th November against England so Cricket Australia have a lot of time to think about their next step. Australia's ODI form hasn't been good recently, they need to make some changes and the captaincy might just be the start.

Also read: Should India take the gamble and make Virat Kohli open the batting?

2022-09-10 10:53

Sri Lanka win dress rehearsal ahead of Asia Cup final

Dubai, Sep 9 (Cricket News) Opener Pathum Nissanka slammed an unbeaten half-century to complement a superb bowling show as Sri Lanka overcame a shaky start to beat Pakistan by five wickets in the final Super 4 clash of the Asia Cup here on Friday.

Chasing a paltry 122 in the dress rehearsal ahead of Sunday's summit clash, Sri Lanka were reduced to 29/3 inside five overs but the 24-year-old Nissanka held the innings together with his unbeaten 55 off 48 balls.

Mystery spinner Wanindu Hasaranga led Sri Lankan's brilliant bowling effort with a three-wicket haul as Pakistan were bundled out for 121 in 19.1 overs.

Hasaranga returned with 3/21 including two in successive balls in his last over as the Sri Lankan spin troika accounted for 5/60 in 12 overs.

The spinner, who also took two catches in the deep, iplayed a fine cameo smashing two boundaries off three balls in his 10 not out from three balls to take them over the line with three overs to spare.

Defending a below par total, Pakistan's pace and swing was on full display inside the powerplay as the duo of Haris Rauf and Mohammad Hasnain claimed three wickets between them.

Hasnain gave them a perfect start dismissing Lankan leading run-getter Kusal Mendis for a golden duck with a fiery outswinger.

His pace partner Rauf struck twice in two overs to tighten the noose around Sri Lanka but it was Hasan Ali who was the weak link in their pace armoury in absence of Naseem Shah.

His slower pace failed to trouble the batters and the duo of Nissanka and Rajapaksa were happy to go all out against him to rebuild their innings.

The duo put together a crucial stand of 51 runs before Bhanuka Rajapaksa (24) fell victim to Usman Qadir before skipper Dasun Shanaka chipped in with 21 from 16 balls to take them near the finishing line.

Needing 15 runs from the last four overs, Hasnain dismissed the Lankan skipper with a slower ball before Hasaranga hitting the winning four.

Earlier, the off-spin duo of Maheesh Theekshana (2/21) and Dhananjaya de Silva (1/18) were at their tidy best restricting Pakistan to a below-par score after birthday 'boy' Dasun Shanaka opted to field.

The wily Hasaranga deceived Babar Azam with a slower one when the Pakistan skipper stepped out only to be cleaned up. Hasaranga also took two catches in the deep.

The stage was just perfect for Azam to get back into form.

But the star batter, who has just 33 runs from four innings in the Asia Cup, looked under pressure after Mohammad Rizwan (14) and Fakhar Zaman (13) got out cheaply and got out for a 29-ball 30.

The spinners then stymied the flow of runs in the middle overs and it was a big ask for the tailenders to take Pakistan near the 150-run mark.

Debutant Pramod Madushan started it all, claiming the prized wicket of in-form Pakistani opener and No 1 T20I batter Mohammad Rizwan (14) inside the power-play.

It was almost two in two balls for Madushan when out-of-form Azam mistimed the next delivery but the ball just flew over the cover region. Madushan finished with a memorable 2/21 from his 2.1 overs on debut.

With the pressure mounting, Fakhar Zaman tried to break free only to hole out at sweeper cover region. Pakistan lost their last five wickets for 30 runs.

Also Read : On comeback trail, Ajinkya Rahane slams double ton in Duleep

News Source : PTI

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