Dubai, Jan 20 (Cricket News) Australia displaced India from the top of the Test rankings after their 4-0 drubbing of England in the recently-concluded Ashes series, even as the Virat Kohli-led side squandered a 1-0 lead to go down against South Africa.

After suffering a 1-2 series loss in South Africa, India dropped to the third spot while inaugural World Test Championship (WTC) winners New Zealand held onto their second position after a 1-1 drawn series at home against Bangladesh, which included the hosts' first ever loss to Bangladesh at home across formats.

South Africa's 2-1 win over India at home took them one spot up to fifth place, while England were in fourth position after a disastrous Ashes campaign Down Under.

India lost the top spot by losing the second and third Tests after winning the first in Centurion.

Australia, with 119 points, are three ahead of India in the rankings.

Overall, India played 14 Tests in 2021 and managed to win eight out of them. They lost three Tests last year, including the heart-breaking defeat in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against New Zealand.

Pakistan went down one spot to sixth, while Sri Lanka, West Indies, Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, Afghanistan and Ireland retained their positions.

The South Africa tour was Kohli's final assignment as India Test captain as he stepped down following the series defeat.

Before the T20 World Cup last year, Kohli announced his decision to quit as India's T20I captain and in December, he was replaced as the ODI skipper too, by Rohit Sharma. 

Also Read : Rohit, Pant and Ashwin feature in ICC's 'Test Team of Year' but no Indian in ODI XI

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Jan 20 (Cricket News) The flamboyant Rohit Sharma featured as opener, Rishabh Pant as wicketkeeper and R Ashwin as the lone specialist spinner in the ICC men's 'Test Team of the Year' but no Indian player was included in the global body's ODI XI for 2021.

After going unrepresented in the ICC men's 'T20 Team of the Year' due to a disastrous World Cup campaign in the UAE, it was no surprise to see the Indians miss out in the apex body's ODI side as well after playing just six matches, even as the list featured two players from minnows Ireland.

India, the world number one in Tests, however have three representatives in the year's best team for the game's longest format, with New Zealand talisman Kane Williamson as its skipper.

Overall, India played 14 Tests in 2021 and managed to win eight out of them. They lost three Tests last year, including the heart-breaking defeat in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against New Zealand.

Rohit, who was recently elevated as India's white-ball captain as Virat Kohli's successor, cracked 906 runs in the calendar year at an average of 47.68 with two centuries.

Both of Rohit's centuries were memorable knocks in contrasting conditions against England -- one in Chennai and the other in overcast conditions away from home at the Oval.

Pant, who established himself as India's first-choice wicketkeeper-batter in all the three formats, scored 748 runs in 12 matches at an average of 39.36 with one memorable ton against England at Ahmedabad. He also accounted for 39 dismissals in 23 innings, with his glovework continuing to improve.

The seasoned Ashwin scalped 54 wickets in nine matches at an average of 16.64, making a big impact in the home series against England and New Zealand. He also chipped in with 355 runs at an average of 25.35, which included a vital century against England in Chennai.

Besides the Indian trio and Williamson, the ICC Test team has one Sri Lankan in Dimuth Karunaratne, one Australian in Marnus Labuschagne, England captain Joe Root, New Zealand's Kyle Jamison and three Pakistanis in Fawad Alam, Hasan Ali and Shaheen Afridi.

Leading the 2021 ICC Test Team of the Year, Williamson was an influential captain for New Zealand, leading them to glory at the inaugural World Test Championship Final against India in Southampton.

He was also steady with the bat, scoring 395 runs in 4 matches at an average of 65.83 with one century.

Besides the absence of India players, the ODI team also doesn't have anyone from Australia, English, New Zealand or West Indies.

The team, which has Pakistan's Babar Azam as its captain, has two of his team-mates, including Fakhar Zaman.

South Africans Janneman Malan and Rassie van der Dussen, Bangladeshis Shakib Al Hasan, Mustafizur Rahaman and Mushfiqur Rahim, who is also the designated wicketkeeper, Sri Lankans Wanindu Hasaranga and Dishmantha Chameera along with Irishmen Paul Stirling and Simi Singh form the rest of the squad.

India, in the year 2021, played six ODIs and won four while losing two.

The non-selection of Indian players in the XI is more to do with lack of matches rather than poor show since they have won both the series that they played in 2021.

The only Indian player who has played all the ODI matches in 2021 is veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan, who had 297 runs from six games.

The likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma only played three ODIs in 2021 and ditto for premier bowlers, who also didn't play all the six games.

Buvneshwar Kumar was there in five of those six games with his tally of wickets not in double digits (9 from 5 matches).

In order to make it to the team of the year, there has to be enough impactful performances to earn points which Indians didn't have.

Ireland's Stirling had a whopping 705 runs in 14 ODIs in 2021 with an average of 79.66 which made him an automatic selection.

Proteas opener Janneman has scored 509 runs in 8 games with an average of nearly 85.

Babar, who has played least among the 11 players, also has 405 runs in six games with two hundreds while team-mate Zaman has 369 runs in the year. 

Also Read : ICC ODI men's Team of The Year: After T20s, no Indians in this one too

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Jan 20 (Cricket News) After going unrepresented in the ICC's men's 'T20 Team of the Year' due to a disastrous World Cup campaign in the UAE, no Indian player featured in the global body's 'ODI Team of the Year' which features two players from minnows Ireland.

Incidentally, the team also doesn't have any Australia, English, New Zealand or West Indies players.

The team, which has Pakistan's Babar Azam as its captain, has two Pakistanis including Fakhar Zaman.

South Africans Janneman Malan and Rassie van der Dussen, Bangladeshis Shakib Al Hasan, Mustafizur Rahaman and Mushfiqur Rahim, who is also the designated wicketkeeper, Sri Lankans Wanindu Hasaranga and Dishmantha Chameera along with Irishmen Paul Stirling and Simi Singh form the rest of the squad.

India, in the year 2021, played six ODIs and won four losing two.

The two 50-over series that they played were against England at home, which they won 2-1, and the other was an away clash against Sri Lanka in the island nation which was also won by an identical margin.

The problem with non-selection of an Indian player in the XI is more to do with lack of matches rather than poor show since they have won both the series that they played in 2021.

The only Indian player, who has played all the ODI matches in 2021 is veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan, who had 297 runs from six games.

The likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma only played three ODIs in 2021 and ditto for premier bowlers, who also didn't play all the six games.

Buvneshwar Kumar was there in five of those six games with his tally of wickets not in double digits (9 from 5 matches).

In order to make it to the team of the year, there have to be enough impactful performances to earn points which Indians didn't have.

For example, Ireland's Stirling had a whopping 705 runs in 14 ODIs in 2021 with an average of 79.66 which made him an automatic selection.

Proteas opener Janneman has scored 509 runs in 8 games with an average of nearly 85.

Babar, who has played least among the 11 players also has 405 runs in six games with two hundreds while country mate Zaman has 369 runs in the year.

In the middle-order, Rassie van der Dussen had an average of 57 in the year 2021 with 342 runs in eight games while Shakib was superb as an all-rounder with 277 runs and 17 wickets.

Mushfiqur Rahim had 400 plus tally along with stumpings and catches while Wanindu Hasaranga scored 356 run and picked 12 wickets.

The two pacers Mustafzur Rahaman and Duhmantha Chameera had 18 and 20 wickets respectively while off-spinner Simi had 19 scalps to his credit. 

Also Read : U-19 World Cup: Zimbabwe's Chirwa suspended from bowling in international cricket

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Jan 20 (Cricket News) Zimbabwe's Victor Chirwa has been suspended from bowling in international cricket with immediate effect after the Event Panel of the ICC U-19 World Cup confirmed that he uses an illegal action.

The Event Panel comprised members of the ICC Panel of Human Movement Specialists.

Chirwa was reported by the match officials during Zimbabwe's match against Papua New Guinea on Saturday. Video footage of him bowling in the event was shared with the Event Panel for review.

The Event Panel concluded that Chirwa employed an illegal bowling action and, as such, in accordance with Article 6.7 of the regulations, he is immediately suspended from bowling in international cricket, the ICC said in a media release. 

Also Read : India outclassed in all three departments by South Africa in 1st ODI

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Jan 19 (Cricket News) Star India opener Smriti Mandhana was on Wednesday named in the ICC T20 women's Team of the Year for her superlative show in the format in 2021 but no Indian made the men's side.

The stylish Southpaw, who is the Indian team's vice-captain in the format, was the country's highest scorer in the format in 2021 with 255 runs at an average of 31.87.

The 25-year-old scored two fifties in the nine matches she played and got her team off to rapid starts regularly, as evident up by her strike-rate of 131.44.

While Mandhana was the only Indian, several members of the English side feature in the team with Nat Scriver being named captain.

The experienced England all-rounder produced many impactful performances throughout the year. Batting in the middle-order, Sciver scored a total of 153 runs, including one fifty, and she also picked up 10 wickets at an excellent average of 20.20.

Accompanying Mandhana at the top is England's Tammy Beaumont. The 30-year-old's reliable presence at the top of the order helped England off to steady starts regularly. She played nine matches and amassed 303 runs at an average of 33.66, including three fifties.

Danni Wyatt, wicketkeeper Amy Jones and spinner Sophie Ecclestone are the other English players in the side.

Gaby Lewis of Ireland, South African trio of Laura Wolvaardt, Shabnim Ismail and Marizanne Kapp and Zimbabwe's Loryn Phiri make up the rest of the playing XI.

No Indian in the ICC Men's T20 Team of the Year ============================== There was no Indian representation in ICC Men's T20I Team of the Year 2021, which featured three Pakistanis including skipper Babar Azam, who has been named captain.

Apart from Azam, opener Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi, who had a sensational T20 World Cup were name in the squad.

All-rounder Mitchell Marsh and pacer Josh Hazelwood, who played a vital role in winning Australia's maiden T20 World Cup title, featured in the team while the trio of South Africans Aiden Markram, David Miller and Tabraiz Shamsi also made it to the playing XI.

Flamboyant wicketkeeper batter Jos Buttler was the sole member of the England team in the ICC side.

Teams: Women: Smriti Mandhana (India), Tammy Beaumont (England), Danni Wyatt (England), Gaby Lewis (Ireland), Nat Sciver (c) (England), Amy Jones (England), Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa), Marizanne Kapp (South Africa), Sophie Ecclestone (England), Loryn Phiri (Zimbabwe), Shabnim Ismail (South Africa).

Men: Jos Buttler (England), Mohammad Rizwan (Paksitan), Babar Azam (c) (Pakistan), Aiden Markram (South Africa) , Mitchell Marsh (Australia), David Miller (South Africa), Tabraiz Shamsi (South Africa), Josh Hazlewood (Australia), Wanindu Hasanranga (Sri Lanka) , Mustafizur Rahaman (Bangladesh, Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan). 

Also Read : Kohli, Pant and Bumrah move up in latest ICC Test rankings

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Jan 19 (Cricket News) Indian star Virat Kohli on Wednesday moved up two places to seventh after scores of 79 and 29 in his last Test as captain in the latest ICC rankings for batters in the five-day format.

Wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant's unbeaten century in the second innings of the series-deciding third Test against South Africa lifted him 10 places to 14th, while fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah's six wickets in Cape Town took him back to the top 10 in the bowling chart.

Kohli decided to quit Test captaincy a day after India lost the three-match series against South Africa 1-2, ending his seven-year reign at the helm.

In the latest weekly update that takes into account the third match of the South Africa-India series in Cape Town which the hosts won by seven wickets to clinch the World Test Championship (WTC) series, Keegan Petersen has shot up 68 places to 33rd after match-winning scores of 72 and 82.

He scored the maximum runs to claim the Player of the Series award, his 276-run aggregate helping him surge up after starting the series in 158th position.

Temba Bavuma (up seven places to 28th) and Rassie van der Dussen (up 12 places to 43rd) are the other South Africa batters to advance while fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada (up two places to third) and Lungi Ngidi (up six places to 21st) have also made notable progress.

Australia's Travis Head has reached a career-best fifth position among batters after his Player of the Match performance in the fifth match of their Ashes series against England.

Head, who scored 101 in the first innings in Hobart to finish with a series topping 357 runs that also got him clinch the Player of the Series award, has advanced seven spots to joint-fifth with India's Rohit Sharma.

Head's previous best ranking was the 10th position that he occupied last month.

All-rounder Cameron Green is another Australia player to gain after the 146-run victory that helped Australia win the series 4-0 and climb to second in the WTC points table.

Green was up 23 places to joint 66th after his scores of 74 and 23 and has also moved up 13 places to 62nd in the bowlers' list. Scott Boland has moved from 49th to 43rd with four wickets in the match.

England opener Jack Crawley has progressed nine places to 68th after scores of 18 and 36. Among their bowlers, Stuart Broad has moved up two places to 12th position after finishing with six wickets in the match while Ollie Robinson (up one place to 24th) and Mark Wood (up seven places to 31st) have also advanced.

In the ODI player rankings that consider performances from the last two matches of the West Indies-Ireland series and the first two of the Sri Lanka-Zimbabwe series, Ireland off-spinner Andy McBrine has gained 17 slots to move into the top 10 with two four-wicket hauls.

West Indies spinner Akeal Hosein has moved up two places to joint-59th.

In other major movements, Zimbabwe's Sean Williams has advanced eight places to 40th after scores of 100 and 40 and Sri Lanka batter Kariyawasa Asalanka's knocks of 71 and 23 have helped him move up 16 places to 52nd. 

Also Read : Laughable to blame The Hundred for England's Ashes defeat, says limited overs skipper Morgan

News Source : PTI

For anyone starting their fitness journey, there is tons of information out there to get you the body you want. With most new age fitness regimes originating from the west, most have forgotten that India also has age old fitness techniques and natural nutrition diets that place greater emphasis on mobility and three dimensional movements.

In this exclusive interview with SPOGO, Nithin Jayaraj, a traditional workout tools trainer speaks about making bodybuilding a profession, selling traditional fitness tools and their benefits, popularizing traditional Indian techniques amongst the younger generation and much more!

Q1) How did you get into bodybuilding and what made you choose it as a profession?

At a young age, watching all the Hollywood movies and looking at the physiques of all the action stars, I got into bodybuilding. I then switched to traditional Indian fitness because my mobility was reduced in body building and I suffered injuries as well because of having bigger muscles and due to the fact that my joints weren't getting worked out. Traditional Indian fitness has 3 dimensional movements whereas bodybuilding has only 2 dimensional motion where it's only push and pull along with lifting. In traditional Indian fitness there is swinging which works on your joints and your mobility. People need awareness about traditional Indian fitness and its benefits.

Q2) How did shredded farmers take its shape and what inspired you to come up with the idea of making and selling traditional tools?

I was born here but raised in Dubai since my schooling and college life was there. That was all city life and in 2018 when I came back to India I really wanted to pursue traditional fitness. It is much easier to pursue here, my house is situated on a farm and I grow my own food so it is healthy nutrition wise. In this kind of fitness, we do need a lifestyle like this to see the difference between diets in bodybuilding. Here we just have to eat what grows around you, we cannot have the same type of diet as the westerners while living in India.

I want to show people that we can eat normal healthy food but have to work out. We have to burn what we eat and then take equal rest. It is possible to get fit through by eating home food instead of supplements or lifting heavy or having a strict diet.

I started making tools when the pandemic started and I started experimenting with wooden logs in the carpenting shop. It came out really well, I only make them on an order basis and don't keep any stock. Whenever a client wants a particular Mudgar, Sumtola or a Gada, I build these tools through mahogany wood.

Q3) Can you explain the benefits of using these tools over the currently used gym equipment? Are these used for specific exercise or for overall body building?

This is called traditional Indian workout, bodybuilding mostly focuses on your muscles where you lift iron weights in a gym. In traditional fitness, it is more about swinging where the movement is different since it's rotational. When swinging these tools, your arm, joints, core and the whole body gets affected in just one swing. Let’s say if you weigh 80 kgs, you divide the weight by 8 then divide by 2 which gives you 5 kg and you start with a 5kg Mudgar. Every single wood has its own medicinal value which is the oil and when you lift them it goes into the bare hands which is good for the body.

These rotational movements help you with your body balance. The joints get pulled and pushed and keeps it stretched. Your muscle gains won’t be as much as bodybuilding but it will grow according to your height and it will look aesthetic. The muscles will be proportional to your height and you will have good mobility. In bodybuilding, you keep growing your muscles and you become rigid which affects your movement which reduces body balance.

Also read: Sports Physiotherapy plays a vital role in increasing the longevity of an athlete’s career- Dr.Richa Kulkarni

Q4) How do Gada, Mudgar, Indian clubs, Persian meels and Sumtola help in improving body strengths?

In traditional tools, the common thing is the rotation and the weight distribution of the tool is different from a dumbbell. A 4kg dumbbell will look much lighter than a 4kg Mudgar because of the shape and weight distribution of the tool. A Gada will be harder than a Mudgar because the further away the weight is away from your grip it gets harder to swing. Indian club is the western name for a Mudgar, it is cone shaped and Sumtola is an Indian version of a barbell. All of these are used in the same technique which is the rotational movement as these movements help in your joint strength as it also increases the mobility in the body so the more you do it the more muscles you will get according to your height.

Q5) As these are traditional formats of yesteryears, how do you intend to popularize these amongst the youth of today?

The only way we can popularize this method is through social media and my clients. My main platform is Instagram. My perception is that you reach the youth you need to interact with them through social media.

New Delhi, Jan 17 (Badminton News) Former India coach Vimal Kumar is impressed with the title-winning performance of Lakshya Sen at the India Open but said the young shuttler still needs to work on his endurance and tactical acumen to have a consistent run in the international circuit.

The 20-year-old from Uttarakhand stunned world champion Loh Kean Yew of Singapore 24-22 21-17 in men's singles final to clinch his maiden Super 500 crown at the season-opening India Open here on Sunday.

"Lakshya was tactically much better, he was in control of the match, never allowed Loh to attack. His counter attack was very good. His net dribbles were excellent and with the same action he was flicking the shuttle to the back of the court. Overall, he played a very mature game," Vimal told PTI.

"He is at par with anybody, but he still needs to work on his tactical side, strength and conditioning. He can work on stability around the net areas, his endurance can be better. So, technically there are all the areas where he can work on.

"There are many youngsters from Europe, Thailand and Japan, who will be gunning for him now. It will be tough ahead. I don't want to put pressure on him by talking about the 2024 Olympics, it's all about how best he can play, how best he can take care of his body," he added.

Sen was not selected to represent India at the Sudirman Cup mixed team competition in Finland and Thomas Cup Finals in Aarhus, Denmark after he lost his first match to Sai Charan Koya at the round-robin group stage during the selection trials.

But a training stint with Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen and Loh Kean Yew in Dubai rejuvenated him.

"He was shattered after missing the Sudirman Cup and Thomas cup," said Vimal, who has guided Sen since his young age as part of the Padukone Dravid Centre for Excellence (PDCE) in Bengaluru.

"But then (Viktor) Axelsen phoned him and invited him for a two week training stint in Dubai. Loh was also there. So he stayed there and trained. That stint helped him to brush aside the disappointment," he said.

A rejuvenated Sen entered the final at the Dutch Open, played some close matches against Japan's Kento Momota, reached the semifinals at Hylo, reached the knockout stage at World Tour Finals on debut before sizzling at the World Championships with a bronze.

"Right from Europe circuit, he has been consistent in last three months. It is very important that he plays consistently well from now on. This performance will give him a clear understanding where he stands." Vimal, a former Olympian, said Sen is known for his attacking game but in the last few months he has shown that he can also outlast his opponents in gruelling three-game matches.

"There has been criticism in the past that once his attack doesn't work, he runs out of ideas. But in World Championships, he played some tremendous rallies, and long exhausting matches and prevailed in those long matches and that gave him the confidence," he said.

"He is playing better badminton overall and he is grabbing the opportunities. In the semifinals, it was tough against the Malaysian but he pulled through, he employed his smashes well. Also against HS Prannoy he had a long match, winning these matches shows his maturity." "Many players can't get that breakthrough, can't convert opportunities. But Lakshya has the ability to beat good players." Sen was in rampaging form three years back, winning five titles including two Super 100 tournaments but then the COVID-19 pandemic forced the suspension of the BWF circuit.

"He was in good rhythm in 2019 but the pandemic was a damper. If he could have had that opportunity, I was confident that he could have qualified for Tokyo," Vimal said.

"Many players suffered due to the pandemic, sometimes it kills the spirit of youngsters when you are not able to compete. I am glad he survived that phase and found the enthusiasm to play." 

Also Read : Sindhu looks to end title drought at Syed Modi International

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jan 16 (Badminton News) India's top doubles player Satwiksairaj Rankireddy says they were desperate for a podium finish after a mixed 2021 season and described their performance at the India Open finals as "one of the best ever" in their career.

Satwik and Chirag Shetty became the first team from the country to win India's flagship tournament after registering a 21-16 26-24 result over three-time world champions Mohammad Ahsan and Hendra Setiawan.

"It was a dream match for us, we still can't believe it. We had a clear plan and we wanted to implement that and give 100 percent. I feel we played one of the best matches ever," Satwik said during a virtual press conference. "We stayed calm. I could see they were under pressure. So happy with the win." The Indian pair had lost thrice to the world number 2 Indonesian pair in four meetings but they came up with a plan to extend the rallies and play a more defensive game against the experienced pair.

"We know how to play them, we played against them in Thailand Open last year. We wanted to stay neck to neck, we wanted to keep them under pressure. We thought let them make mistakes and let's not give easy points.

"They are best in taking quick points but we kept calm and played big rallies, that was the positive point. Even when we were 24-24, we wanted to play big rallies. I kept telling Chirag that we should just try to keep the shuttle inside." Satwik and Chirag had failed to cross the group stages at their maiden Olympics despite notching up stunning wins in two of the three matches.

They ended the World Championships in Spain with a pre-quarterfinal loss, last month.

"Yeah, 2021 was a mixed feeling for us. We wanted to win a tournament, wanted to play a final. After world championships, I cried a lot, I wanted to win a medal," Satwik said.

"I was crying literally, I had a fire that I wanted to finish at the podium as much as possible, so that hunger was there and luckily we could win here, hopefully we will continue this form." His partner Chirag had expressed their target of reaching the world's top five this season.

After stunning Ahsan and Setiawan, Chirag said it was a performance worthy of being in top 5. "We usually don't play this kind of a game, it is a new thing for us and it is working well and it shows that we can get points and win matches while defending, so I think we definitely played like a top 5 pair today," he said.

"That is one thing which kinds of differentiates the top five pair and top 10 because things go your way, you try to change and play a plan 'B' kind of game, that in something that worked really well." World Championships bronze medallist Lakshya Sen then made it a double delight, securing his maiden Super 500 title with a stunning 24-22 21-17 victory over world champion Loh Kean Yew of Singapore.

"This is the biggest world tour tournament I won. Winning feels good. In the match, in the closing stages I was nervous and anxious to finish it off as it was a big tournament but I am happy I could pull it off," Sen said.

"I think I played some good physical matches since quarterfinals. It will give me a lot of confidence to go ahead and play the whole season. Winning a world tour 500 event is a big thing for me." Talking about the final, Sen said he was anxious in the closing stages.

"I gave couple of easy points towards the end but after being a match point down, I played calmly. I took a break and it helped me to think better and play calmly." Sen and Loh have trained together in Dubai last year and so far have played each other four times in the international circuit with each winning two matches each.

"We know each other's game well, what to expect. I had beaten him last few months ago, I was confident and had a game plan and it worked well. I am happy I won today and again it was a close game," Sen said. 

Also Read : Satwik-Chirag pair claims maiden India Open title

News Source : PTI

The United Arab Emirates has become a go-to destination for cricketing events, especially during the pandemic. Whether it’s the Indian Premier League or the World Cup, the presence of three cricketing grounds in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah combined with the ICC Academy means that it has infrastructure that can be considered at par with the best in the world. 

Mr. Anis Sajan, Vice Chairman of Danube Group, more popularly known as Mr. Cricket UAE has played an integral role in the development of the sport, having mentored Team Bengal Tigers and then Team Delhi Bulls in the Abu Dhabi T10 league. Moreover, he was honored with the Hon. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Bharat Puraskar award for Sports category and kept the world entertained with ‘Cricket Unplugged’, featuring interviews with cricketers from around the world during the lockdown.

In this exclusive interview with SPOGO, Mr. Anis Sajan speaks about his interest in cricket, how the sport has evolved in the last two decades, being a mentor for Bengal Tigers and Delhi Bulls, the potential of UAE to become a cricketing powerhouse, importance of yoga during the pandemic and launching Cricket Unplugged.

Q 1. Being a businessman, when and how did you cultivate your interest towards cricket?

My passion for the sport began — like the many millions in India — after the team under Kapil Dev won the Prudential Trophy in 1983. That triumph by the rank outsiders against the mighty West Indies gave everyone in the country the belief that India could be a force to reckon with. There was no looking back for me after that. Everyone who knows me is aware of the fact that I eat, sleep and breathe cricket. So much so that my wife started calling me Mr. Cricket UAE and that name has stuck with me till date. I feel I am fortunate to be able to live this passion for the game and share it with all other cricket lovers through various activities. 

Q 2. You have been contributing so much to the sport for the past two decades, what do you think has changed a lot about cricket?
 
Cricket has become more fast paced, there have been more results in Test cricket. Secondly the big 3, i.e. India, England and Australia get to play more matches than any other countries and the most important thing happening for India after the evolution of IPL, there is a lot of talent emerging.

Q 3. How was your experience being the mentor for Bengal Tigers and Delhi Bulls in the Abu Dhabi T10 league?
 
It was a great learning experience for me.  Not only did I get a chance to associate with some of the biggest names in the cricket fraternity but also learnt quite a few lessons both on and off the field. Got to understand all the hard work that goes behind the game, how decisions are taken by the coaches as well as the temperament of the players.

Also read: Our primary goal is to empower physically impaired individuals through sports - Noor Nahain, Founder and President, Bangladesh Wheelchair Sports Foundation

Q 4. With the ongoing historic US vs Ireland series, what other countries including the UAE do you think will enter the mainframe formats next?
 
To my knowledge I don’t see any other country, because they do not get enough exposure. UAE has the best infrastructure when it comes to cricketing grounds, be it the Dubai Cricket Stadium, ICC Academy, Sharjah & Abu Dhabi stadium. If they get the right exposure of rubbing shoulders with bigger teams, they can be a force to reckon with.

Q 5. How has Yoga been a part of fitness and why do you think people need to practice it especially during the pandemic?

Without an iota of doubt, I can say that Yoga has been my life savior. I have been a strong advocate of yoga for a good 7-8 years now, especially since I have personally experienced the benefits of it. As a daily routine, I practice yoga for 2 hours; first 45 minutes of proper yoga asana, 15 min brisk walking and then Aqua Yoga exercises for 30 minutes, followed by 20 minutes of meditation and 20 minutes of pranayama. This regime keeps me refreshed, energetic, youthful and full of life. In this pandemic, I would urge people to at least do the Pranayama, i.e breathing exercises daily. Studies have shown that the most common problem experienced by covid patients is breathing difficulties. Practicing pranayama for twenty minutes daily helps in passing oxygen to lungs and makes your immunity strong and in this battle to fight Covid.

Q 6. What made you launch Cricket Unplugged and are there more cricket ventures in the making?

Well to be honest, Cricket Unplugged was started during the pandemic when the world had come to a standstill and everyone was stuck at home. With no games happening either, I thought why not keep the spirit of the game alive and started Cricket Unplugged, where I would have conversations with international players and known sporting personalities. The interactions would revolve around historical moments as well as unveiling personal memories of the interviewed players during their respective careers. Till date, I have had the honour to interview the likes of Dinesh Karthik, Shane Watson,Dwayne Bravo, Eoin Morgan, Virendra Sehwag, Micheal Hussey, Harpreet Brar, Zaheer Khan, Jason Roy, Muhammed Nabi, Angelo Mathews, Wasim Jaffer, Harpreet Brar and many others.

Dubai, Jan 13 (Cricket News) Afghanistan's late arrival into the Caribbean has forced the ICC to "rework" the fixtures in Group C for the 2022 U-19 World Cup, to be held in the West Indies from Friday.

"After successfully obtaining the necessary visas for travel, Afghanistan will arrive in the West Indies and undergo their required quarantine period," the ICC said in a statement.

The changes in the schedule were approved by the Event Technical Committee which comprises Chris Tetley, ICC Head of Events (Chair); Ben Leaver, ICC Senior Event Manager; Fawwaz Baksh, Tournament Director; Roland Holder, WICB Representative; Alan Wilkins and Russel Arnold.

"We are delighted that the Afghanistan squad have received the necessary visas and will be able to travel to participate in the ICC U19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2022," Tetley said.

"We have reworked the fixtures for group C to ensure that all matches can take place within the allocated time frame and would like to thank the participating Members for their flexibility in finding a solution," he added.

To ensure all fixtures could be completed, four out of the six Group C matches in Trinidad and Tobago have been rescheduled as follows: January 15 - Zimbabwe v PNG -- Queens Park Oval. Rescheduled from January 20.

January 17 - Pakistan v Zimbabwe -- Diego Martin Sporting Complex. Rescheduled from January 22.

January 18 - Afghanistan v PNG -- Diego Martin Sporting Complex. Unchanged.

January 20 - Pakistan v Afghanistan -- Brian Lara Cricket Ground. Unchanged.

January 22 - Pakistan v PNG -- Queens Park Oval. Rescheduled from January 15 January 22 - Afghanistan v Zimbabwe -- Diego Martin Sporting Complex. Rescheduled from January 16. 

Also Read : U-19 World Cup: Australia skipper optimistic despite warm-up defeat to India

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jan 12 (Badminton News) Young shuttler Tasnim Mir on Wednesday became the first Indian to grab the world no 1 ranking in the under-19 girls singles in the latest BWF junior rankings.

The 16-year-old from Gujarat was rewarded for last year's stellar run when she had secured titles in three junior international tournaments to jump three places to grab the top position in the junior world rankings.

"I can't say that I expected this. I thought I will not be able to become no 1 as tournaments were getting affected by COVID-19 but I won three events in Bulgaria, France and Belgium. So I am really excited and happy that finally I could become the world no 1. It is a great moment for me," Tasnim told PTI from Guwahati.

"I will completely focus on the senior circuit from now on and looking forward to playing at Iran and Uganda next month. My aim now is to improve my senior ranking. If I can weave some good performances and get into top 200 by end of the year that would be great." Tasnim, who is supported by OGQ, is currently ranked a lowly 602 in the women’s singles.

Tasnim's feat has never been achieved by any Indian girl, including two-time Olympic medallist P V Sindhu and London bronze winner Saina Nehwal.

While Sindhu was world no 2 in her under-19 days, Saina didn't make the cut for being a junior with the BWF junior rankings starting only in 2011. Another Indian Samiya Imad Farooqui of Telangana came close but could only reached the second spot in the BWF junior rankings.

In Boys singles, Lakshya Sen, Siril Verma and Aditya Joshi had become the world no 1.

Tasnim was part of India's campaign at the Thomas and Uber Cup held late last year in Denmark and says it had a huge impact on her game.

"It was a huge moment for me, it was first time that I was among the seniors, playing against world class players in big stadiums, it was a great experience. I also met Viktor Axelsen there, I like his game. I also like to watch players such as Tai Tzu Ying and An Seyoung," she said.

Tasnim has been training under Indonesian coach Edwin Iriawan at the Assam Badminton Academy in Guwahati for the last four years.

"I have been training for last four years under Edwin, it has been great experience, we get to train with men players, so I has helped to improve my game," said the teenager, who won the 2019 Dubai Junior International.

Tasnim got her first lessons on badminton from her father Irfan Mir, who is a badminton coach and also ASI in Mehsana police.

"My father is a badminton coach and also works for Mehsana police. He has always been interested in sports and used to take me alongwith him when I was about 7-8 years old," she said. I Tasnim, whose younger brother Mohd Ali Mir, a Gujarat state junior champion, also trains with her in Guwahati, has been an achiever right from her young days.

She won the national junior champion (U-19) at the age of 14 and also claimed the national crown in the under-13, under-15 and under-19 girls’ singles categories.

Tasnim also won U-15 singles and doubles titles at the All-India Sub-Junior ranking tournaments in Hyderabad and Nagpur in 2018.

At the 2019 World Junior Championships in Russia, she could not go past the round of 32 but returned to win the title at the Asian U-17 & U-15 Junior Championships the same year in Indonesia.

She also emerged victorious at the President Cup Nepal Junior International Series 2020 in Kathmandu.

"I will need to work on my stamina and mental aspect of my game, which will play a big role. I have confidence on my shots but it is important to focus on mind," she signed off. 

Also Read : I've a point to prove, I can be in top 5: Prannoy

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Jan 12 (Cricket News) Out-of-action India opener Rohit Sharma and skipper Virat Kohli continue to remain static at the fifth and ninth positions respectively in the latest ICC Test rankings, issued on Wednesday.

While Rohit has 781 rating points, Kohli is just inside the top-10 with 740 points.

The batting list is being headed by Marnus Labuschangne of Australia with 924 points, while England skipper Joe Root (881) and Steve Smith (871) are in the second and third spots respectively.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson (862) is at the fourth position.

Mayank Agarwal has dropped a rung and is the next best-placed Indian in the 13th spot.

Among Indian bowlers, veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has managed to hold on to his second spot with 861 rating points.

No other Indian features in the top-10 rankings of the Test bowlers list. The Test bowlers rankings is being headed by Australia skipper Pat Cummins, followed by Ashwin and Kyle Jamieson of New Zealand, who has moved up six places.

Ashwin also held on to his second spot in the Test all-rounders rankings, which is being led by West Indies Jason Holder.

Among others, after twin hundreds in the fourth Ashes Test at the SCG, Usman Khawaja has rocketed back into the Test batting ranking fray, re-entering at 26th place.

The left-hander made 137 and 101 not out across the two innings at the ground he made his Test debut 11 years ago, though the Australians were unable to take the last wicket for victory in the fourth Ashes Test in Sydney. 

Also read : It's certainly on the table: Starc on returning to IPL

News Source : PTI

(Football news) Floyd Mayweather is currently in the final stages of negotiations to return to the ring next month to take on 20 year old internet personality Rashed Belhasa a.k.a Money Kicks. The Dubai based Youtuber and influencer is known for his luxurious lifestyle, sneaker collection and many exotic pets. The clash is set to take place over eight rounds at the helipad of the seven star hotel Burj Al Arab Jumeirah hotel. 

Belhasa has said that he was inspired by the fight between KSI and Logan Paul and gave him the confidence that Youtubers can compete at the highest level in boxing. He has already staged two boxing events in Dubai and won both of them. In an interview, Rashed Belhasa said “I never thought I would ever fight Floyd. He is the best fighter ever. When I was young, I would collect his 'The Money Team' caps! Mayweather's team asked my team for a meeting. We thought: 'No way will this happen!' The same day of the meeting, I saw Mayweather saying: 'I would love to fight Rashed'. He is serious. It is an honour that he has called me out. I thought: 'This will go viral!’”

Last week, Mayweather teased the fight by saying “Money Kicks is doing big things and I like what I am seeing." The 44 year old retired in 2017 with a 50-0 and has featured in a few exhibition bouts since then. He defeated Tenshin Nasukawa and went eight rounds against Youtuber Logan Paul. "Logan made history," said Money Kicks. "The whole world was talking about their fight. He has already given me tips on how to fight Mayweather. He told me to flinch a lot, and to move a lot, because Mayweather is a fast guy who has experience. If I knock him out, I would not sleep for a year!"

Apart from the highly anticipated clash against Floyd Mayweather, Money Kicks has four other fights in the pipeline across Saudi Arabia and London. Money Kicks said: "I grew up with lions - I am not scared of any human being. I will never fear any human. People think I'm crazy because boxing is big in London, but here? In Dubai boxing is fresh. People think I am a professional fighter. They go crazy when they see me. Everybody thinks I'm the Mayweather of Dubai!"

Also read: IBA and the International Testing Agency renew anti-doping partnership

Dubai, Jan 11 (Cricket News) New Zealand fast bowler Kyle Jamieson was on Tuesday fined 15 per cent of his match fee for using "inappropriate language" after dismissing Yasir Ali during the just-concluded second Test against Bangladesh in Christchurch.

According to an ICC statement, Jamieson was found to have breached Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to "using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an International Match." In addition to this, one demerit point has been added to the disciplinary record of Jamieson, for whom it was the third offence in a 24-month period, taking his cumulative demerit points to three.

Jamieson's previous breaches were on March 23, 2021 during an ODI against Bangladesh in Christchurch, and on December 28, 2020 in a Test match against Pakistan in Tauranga.

The incident occurred in the 41st over of Bangladesh's first innings on Monday, when Jamieson used inappropriate language after dismissing Yasir Ali, the ICC stated.

Jamieson admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by match referee Jeff Crowe and ratified by the ICC Cricket Operations department as per the COVID-19 interim playing regulations.

On-field umpires Chris Gaffaney and Wayne Knights, third umpire Chris Brown and fourth umpire Shaun Haig levelled the charge.

Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player's match fee, and one or two demerit points.

New Zealand won the second Test against Bangladesh by an innings and 117 runs to level the series and hand a befitting farewell to veteran batter Ross Taylor, who retired from the red-ball format on Tuesday after having represented the Kiwis 112 matches. 

Also Read : Documentary on Aussie spin legend Warne to be available on BookMyShow in India

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jan 10 (Badminton News) Reigning men's singles world champion Loh Kean Yew hasn't got enough time to train after his triumph in Spain, but wants to start the New Year by putting his best foot forward in the India Open badminton.

The tournament is starting here on Tuesday.

The 24-year-old from Singapore, seeded fifth at the India Open, defeated Kidambi Srikanth in the World Championships final and the Indian is expected to be his biggest challenger at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall along with bronze medallist Lakshya Sen, who is playing in this tournament for the first time.

"There are a lot of good players here and it is not going to be an easy competition for sure. Everyone is coming here to do well... same for me too. I also want to do well and I also want to win this tournament," said Loh, who will open his campaign against Canada's Xiaodong Sheng on Tuesday.

Before going to Spain, Loh had trained in Dubai with Tokyo Olympics champion Viktor Axelsen and Sen and said the young Indian is an extremely talented player.

"He is a very good friend of mine and I actually have a very good relationship and I am happy to see him do well in his first world championship," Loh added.

Singapore's first world champion in badminton, Loh is aware that he would be the player to beat this year after the stupendous run in the World Championship but pointed out that it won't be easy to maintain the same form in every tournament.

"I ended the year on a high so it was a good year... Nobody will always win. The pressure is always there. I just hope that I can play the best and I can perform," he added.

Manu Atri-Sumeeth Reddy withdraw from doubles ----------------------------------------------------- Meanwhile, the experienced Indian men's doubles combination of B Sumeeth Reddy and Manu Atri along with men's singles fourth seed Kantaphon Wangcharoen of Thailand have withdrawn from the competition.

However, Sumeeth will be in action in mixed doubles alongside Ashwini Ponnappa with the pair taking on second seeds Rodion Alimov and Alina Davletova in the opening round.

Among women's players, eighth seed Fitriani Fitriani and women's doubles top seeds Jongkolphan Kititharakul and Rawinda Projongjai of Thailand have also pulled out. 

Also Read : Badminton in times of COVID-19: Sindhu, Srikanth eye glory at India Open

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Jan 10 (Cricket News) India-born New Zealand cricketer Ajaz Patel on Monday won the ICC Player of the Month award for December following his stupendous 10-wicket haul against Virat Kohli and Co. in the second Test in Mumbai.

The left-arm spinner was nominated for the award alongside India opener Mayank Agarwal and Australian pacer Mitchell Starc but beat them to it on the back of his incredibly rare feat.

Ajaz picked up 14 wickets in the Mumbai Test match in early December against India, including all 10 in the first innings, to become only the third player in Test history, after Jim Laker and Anil Kumble, to achieve the remarkable milestone.

The Mumbai-born Ajaz made a fairy tale comeback to his city of birth in his first-ever tour of India with the Test team.

Ajaz ended the first day of the Test with all four Indian wickets to fall under his name and made an impact on the first session the following day with wickets off back-to-back deliveries.

While he was denied a hat-trick, Ajaz went on to take all 10 wickets in the innings, prompting applause from even the opposition camp.

"Personally I think one of the greatest cricketing days in my life. And it will probably always be," Ajaz had said at the conclusion of the Test match.

JP Duminy, a Member of ICC Voting Academy for December, hailed the achievement.

"What a historic achievement! Taking 10 wickets in an innings is a feat that needs to be celebrated. There's no doubt that Ajaz's performance is a milestone that will be remembered for years to come," the South African cricketer said. 

Also Read : Cape of 'Good Hope': All eyes on batter Kohli helping 'skipper' to win historic Test series

News Sources : PTI

New Delhi, Jan 9 (Badminton News) World Championships bronze medallist Lakshya Sen says he will look to build on his rich vein of form and return with a maiden title when he begins the new season with a debut appearance at the India Open Super 500 here on Tuesday.

The 20-year-old from Almora had a good outing in the last season as he reached the final of Dutch Open, made it to the semifinals at Hylo, and then entered the knockout stage of the World Tour Finals on debut.

However, the icing on the cake was his bronze at the World Championships, which helped him to emulate his mentor Prakash Padukone and compatriot B Sai Praneeth.

"This is the first time I will be playing the India Open as the last two editions were cancelled due to the pandemic. So I am looking forward to making the most of this opportunity and win the title," Sen told PTI after arriving in the national capital.

"I had a 10-day break after the world championships and started training from January 1st. I had some niggles but now I am back to full fitness." Walking down memory lane, Sen talking about the time when he would come as a fan to watch greats such as Lin Dan and Taufik Hidatay compete in the tournament.

"I remember coming to India Open as a 10-year-old in 2011-12. I was inspired a lot by Lin Dan and Taufik Hidayat. I have always loved Taufik's game, it influence me a lot." Sen will open his campaign against Egypt's Adham Hatem Elgamal and a win will pit him against Sweden's Felix Burestedt in the next round.

"I have a good draw. In the first round, I am playing a player from Egypt and in next round, it will be Felix. I had trained with him in Dubai.

"I will take one match at a time and the way I am playing, I am confident of winning the tournament." The year will be a hectic one with big-ticket events such as the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games lined up, apart from the regular BWF World Tour events.

Sen said his entire focus will be to stay injury free and peak at the right time.

"It is an important year as there are lots of important tournaments lined up. I have to come up with a proper training plan ahead of these important events, also pick and choose events," the world number 17 said.

"I have to perform well so that I can qualify for important events. So the focus will be on staying injury free and peaking at the right moment." Organised by the Badminton Association of India (BAI), the India Open is all set to kick off on Tuesday at the Indira Gandhi Stadium's KD Jadhav Indoor Hall.

Most players have started arriving in the capital for the tournament.

"All the participating players will be taking the necessary safety precautions right from their arrival in New Delhi as per protocol, and will be tested everyday at the hotel and from there they will be having shuttle buses to come to the stadium, play matches and go back to the hotel again," the BAI said in a release. 

Also Read : England shuttlers pull out of India Open badminton after 2 positive cases in contingent.

News Sources : PTI

Dubai, Jan 8 (Cricket News) India opener Mayank Agarwal was on Saturday nominated for the ICC Player of the Month award for December following his stellar performance in the Test series against New Zealand and South Africa.

Besides Agarwal, New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel and Australian pacer Mitchell Starc were also short-listed for the award.

With regular openers Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul all missing games at some point last month, Agarwal grabbed the opportunity with both hands against New Zealand and South Africa.

In two matches, he scored 276 runs at an average of 69.00, which included two fifties and a century.

Agarwal was the architect of the win in Mumbai against New Zealand with a Player of the Match-winning performance of 150 and 62 in the two innings.

He also played a crucial role in India breaking the Centurion hoodoo for the very first time.

Batting first in overcast conditions, KL Rahul and Agarwal set the platform with a brilliant opening partnership of 117. During the stand, he was tested by the fiery Proteas pace attack but came out shining with a brilliant 60.

India posted 327 in the first innings, which eventually proved to be the difference between the two sides.

India-born kiwi spinner Ajaz Patel's name was immortalised in cricketing history in December, when he picked up 10 wickets in an innings against India, becoming the third player in Tests to achieve the feat after Jim Laker and Anil Kumble.

The left-arm spinner played just one Test in the month, where he picked up 14 wickets at an average of 16.07. He picked up all 10 wickets in the first innings but was disappointed by the Kiwi batters who were bundled out for 62.

In the second innings, he picked up four wickets, including that of Agarwal and Cheteshwar Pujara. He finished with figures of 14/225, the best bowling figures in a Test match in 2021.

Starc also had standout performances both with the bat and ball in hand as Australia retained the Ashes with two games to spare.

In three games last month, he picked up 14 wickets at an average of 19.64 and was more than handy with the bat, scoring 117 runs at an average of 58.50.

He set the tone for the whole series by dismissing Rory Burns with the first ball of the first Test. While batting, he kept Travis Head company with an innings of 35 and added 85 crucial runs for the eighth wicket.

In the second Test in Adelaide, Starc snapped six wickets and scored 58. This included a brilliant four-wicket haul in the first innings that helped reduce England to 236, giving Australia a massive lead of 237 runs.

In the Boxing Day Test, Starc picked two crucial wickets in the first innings, including that of England's captain Joe Root.

His innings of 24 not out helped Australia gain an 82-run lead, which proved to be enough as England were bundled out for 68. He picked up three wickets in the second innings as Australia won by an innings to retain the urn. 

Also Read : Our goal is to create opportunities for recently retired cricketers - Raman Raheja, Co-Founder and CEO of Legends League Cricket

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Jan 7 (Cricket News) The ICC on Friday announced that slow overrate in T20 Internationals will result in a fielder less outside of the 30-yard circle for the remaining overs of the innings, starting this month.

The governing body also introduced an optional drinks interval midway through the innings in bilateral T20 international cricket as part of its updated playing conditions.

The in-match penalties are in addition to the sanctions for slow over rate outlined in Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel.

"The over rate regulations are captured in clause 13.8 of the playing conditions , which stipulate that a fielding side must be in position to bowl the first ball of the final over of the innings by the scheduled or rescheduled time for the end of the innings," the ICC stated.

"If they are not in such a position, one fewer fielder will be permitted outside of the 30-yard circle for the remaining overs of the innings." The change was recommended by the ICC Cricket Committee, which regularly discusses ways to improve the pace of play in all formats, after considering reports on the effectiveness of a similar regulation that was included in the playing conditions for the Hundred competition conducted by the ECB.

In another change, an optional drinks break of two minutes and thirty seconds may be taken at the mid-point of each innings subject to agreement between Members at the start of each series.

The first men's match to be played under the new playing conditions will be the one-off tie between the West Indies and Ireland at the Sabina Park in Jamaica on January 16.

The first T20I of the three-match series between South Africa and the West Indies in Centurion on January 18 will be the first women's match played under the new playing conditions. 

Also Read : Batting great Desmond Haynes named new lead selector of West Indies team

News Source : PTI

While cricket in Malaysia is still finding its own two feet, the country has its share of talented cricketers who are aspiring to compete at the top level. With passionate supporters and a hardworking team, it seems only a matter of time before Malaysia establishes itself as a cricket playing nation and gives the big names such as Australia, England and India a run for their money.

In this exclusive interview with SPOGO, Malaysian national cricketer Pavandeep Singh speaks about his journey as a professional, his childhood cricketing idols, overcoming challenges, memorable performances, playing alongside his brother in the national team and his future goals.

Q 1) How old were you when you first started playing cricket and what got you interested in it?

I first got involved in the game at the age of 9 at my primary school, Sekolah Kebangsaan Bukit Bandaraya, Kuala Lumpur. Back then it was compulsory for students to play at least one sport as part of the extra curricular activity and since my dad played a little cricket during his school days, he suggested I should give it a try. I had then no clue what the game was about but decided to give it a try and joined the cricket programme at the school held every Monday from 2pm-3pm.

My first cricket coach was Mr Munusamy who taught me the basics of the game and just like every beginner, I first started playing with a plastic bat and tennis ball. A year later, we had a change of coach at the school. A gentleman from Sri Lanka, Mr Damith, was brought in as a replacement. He had a very different coaching style and emphasised more on making training sessions fun. He used to let us play games using alternative scenarios and this really got me  involved during training sessions. I started developing a keen interest in the game and he then suggested that my brother, Virandeep, and I join the Royal Selangor Club to start playing with the hard ball and to train more regularly as the club conducted three sessions weekly.

I was soon selected to represent the Kuala Lumpur U15 state team and with good enough performances, was then selected to represent Malaysia U16’s. There was no turning back since and I subsequently made my debut for the Malaysian National Team in 2013, at the age of 16. 

Q 2) Who was your favourite player growing up and what did you like about him?

Growing up, I was a big fan of the Indian cricket team. I made it a point to subscribe to the sports package on television every time India was playing. My favourite player was and still is MS Dhoni. His ability to hit the ball, especially that trademark helicopter shot just made me a big big fan of his. I truly admire his leadership skills as well his ability to remain calm in any situation. He reads and understands the game well and has the quality to bring the best out of his players. Amongst all his brilliant innings, his 91 runs of 79 balls in the 2011 World Cup final is my personal favourite. I wish to meet the great man one day…

Q 3) What are some of the challenges you have faced in your career and how did you overcome them?

One of them would be finding a balance between playing cricket and studying. It was a big challenge during my school days as I used to be away for months and missed a lot of classes. The only time I would be back in school was for exams. To keep up with the syllabus, I had to do a lot of self studying after matches and training and had to attend tuitions at night. I must thank my parents for always allowing me to continue my passion in cricket and of course my school and tuition teachers as well for always being patient and understanding. As cricket is not a main-stream sport in Malaysia, it is important to have an education as we cant solely depend on cricket to make a living in the future. 

Although things are improving and cricket is gaining popularity in Malaysia, I still feel it's important to have an education. I’m currently doing my Bachelor’s degree in International Business Management at Asia Pacific University under their sports scholarship. It is a lot easier to balance both cricket and studies now and I must thank the Malaysian Cricket Association for their efforts in securing sport scholarships for National cricketers at the Asia Pacific University. 

I think the challenge all cricketers face is having a bad patch. When I'm going through a bad patch, I always try to keep things simple and just remind myself why I actually started playing this game. Just thinking of my love and passion for this game helps bring me back to my zone.  Another challenge faced mostly by Associate Cricketers is a lack of competitive matches. The ongoing pandemic has only made matters worse, for us here in Malaysia. We only played four T20 internationals matches last year which is a lot less compared to the previous year. I am hoping things get better this year and we get to play a lot more matches.

Also read: Our aim is to be synonymous with gaming in India - Rahul Bhattacharya, Co-Founder & MD, Microgravity

Q 4) What was the most satisfactory performance in your career so far?

As a team, I would say winning our first ever gold medal at the 2017 Sea Games is one moment that I will remember for a long long time. Playing at our home ground, Kinrara Oval, in front of passionate Malaysian fans just made that moment extra special. If i may add another one, it would be winning the T20 Bilateral series vs Hong Kong here in Kuala Lumpur. Prior to the tournament, we had been struggling as a team but I think we showed some strong character by coming back and winning our first ever T20 international series. Individually, it would be my spell of 3 for 13 in 10 overs vs Hong Kong during the 2018 Asia Cup Qualifier. I was also awarded as the Man Of the Match for that game.

Q 5) How does it feel to play with your brother on the Malaysian side?

It feels great. We both started our cricket journey from the same school, club and even state. In 2012, we made our debut for the Malaysian U16 team together and ended up winning our first ever ACC championship beating Nepal in the finals. The following year, we made our debut for the Malaysian U19 side and soon after we were both playing for the Malaysian National side. I still remember our first senior team tournament together in 2015 which was played in Dubai. Unfortunately, i missed out in the first couple of games but it was the game against Singapore which was our first ever game together for Malaysia. 

Having him around really helps as I can always share and discuss a lot with him. In cricket, you always need someone to talk to about your game and how things are going and for me, he’s always the person to talk to. We constantly discuss how we can get the Malaysian team to the next level and improve ourselves as cricketers as well. Recently, he became the first Malaysian ever to be a part of a global franchise league (Everest Premier League). It was a proud moment for all of us at home as well as for the Malaysian cricket community. Having said that, I still believe both of us have a long way to go and we hope to keep playing and performing to the best of our abilities so that we can take Malaysia Cricket to greater heights.

Q 6) What are your future ambitions and what steps are you taking to achieve them?

My main goal is to help Malaysia qualify for a World Cup. We recently heard that the 2024 T20 World Cup will be expanded to 20 teams. Malaysia is currently ranked 30th in the ICC T20I rankings and if we can keep moving up the ranks I strongly believe we will create a strong opportunity for ourselves to qualify for the mega event. Personally, I feel the best way for us to keep improving would be to consistently play competitive matches. Going for short stints overseas to cricket playing nations would also be really beneficial as we will be moving out of our comfort zone and playing in different conditions.

If there’s not much international cricket in store for the national team this year, I would most definitely be going abroad, maybe to the UK and Australia to get some exposure. In addition, given the opportunity, I  endeavour to be  part of a global franchise league and for that to happen I will need to consistently perform for my country. Not many know that I was born in Australia but moved to Malaysia when I was one. I do have plans of going down under to play some good cricket at a higher level. I’m not looking too far ahead but if the opportunity arises then play in the Sheffield Shield or the Big Bash league or other franchise leagues around the world.

Dubai, Jan 5 (Cricket News) India opener KL Rahul has made a huge gain of 18 slots to reach the 31st position among batters in the latest ICC Test rankings after his Player-of-the-Match effort that helped India defeat South Africa by 113 runs in the first Test.

With the win in Centurion, India took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series which is a part of the World Test Championship (WTC).

Rahul, whose best in the format is eighth position that he attained in November 2017, struck 123 in the first innings and was associated in an important 117-run opening partnership with Mayank Agrawal (60) as India became the first Asian team to win a Test match at the venue while gaining important points in the WTC points table.

Agarwal has gained one place for his contribution, while Ajinkya Rahane is up two places to 25th in the latest update that is carried out on Wednesdays and includes all matches that are completed by Tuesday each week.

Fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Shami are other Indians to move up the rankings.

Bumrah was up three spots to ninth after finishing with five wickets in the match while Shami's eight wickets, including a five-for in the first innings, saw him move up two places to 17th.

For South Africa, captain and opener Dean Elgar has progressed two spots to 14th after a fighting 77 in the second innings, while Temba Bavuma was up 16 places to 39th for his scores of 52 and 35 not out.

Kagiso Rabada, who grabbed seven scalps, has advanced one place to sixth position while his fellow fast bowler Lungi Ngidi has gained 16 slots and is 30th on the list after finishing with eight wickets in the match.

Debutant left-arm fast bowler Marco Jensen entered the rankings in 97th position. 

Also Read : Mohammad Hafeez retires from international cricket after 18 years

News Source : PTI

Gaming and esports is more than just a recreational pass time. It has quickly become a viable career option for many athletes around the world and the pandemic has further accelerated the growth of this industry, resulting in various gaming leagues in India organizing tournaments on mobile and console platforms, thereby providing a platform not just for those who wish to participate but also generating viewership amongst the masses.

In this exclusive interview with SPOGO, Rahul Bhattacharya, Co-Founder & MD, Microgravity speaks about what inspired him to begin his venture, Microgravity Gaming League, his goals and vision, leveraging AR and VR technologies, overcoming challenges and building communities around gaming content.

Q 1) As co-founder of Microgravity Ventures, what inspired you to come up with a brand that promises to deliver a world-class multi-player gaming experience?

Video gaming had a cult following for generations. The latest and the best of them now attract even more fan-following as seen in my own house. I did spend a lot of time trying to master console-based gaming along with my son. I found the quality and the depth of the content taking major leaps in the last few years. Compelling content and great graphics have added to this excitement. Also, major metropolitan centers like New York, London, Dubai, and Melbourne have some of the best gaming hubs that are also multiplayer. My frequent travels to these locations during my consulting days at Accenture prompted me to bring such a platform to India. You can do a lot at home using your consoles and devices but the real fun in gaming is when you come together with friends and family. We wanted to set a new benchmark, not just in India but in this part of the world in terms of the quality of experience.

Q 2) Tell us about the Microgravity Gaming League and how it looks to enhance and promote the esports league format?

Microgravity Gaming League was conceptualized to promote communities around esports. We wanted to deliver the same quality of experience to people engaging purely online. At some point drive them to these locations to experience the best tech has to offer. As a company, we wanted to quickly acquire the know-how of hosting tournaments at scale. We have already managed 5 large tournaments, four on the mobile and one on the console. We want to be synonymous with gaming in India and therefore we will search for formats that are bigger and brighter. Last but  not least these esports leagues are not just played or competing. They are also watched. When top players compete against each other, the quality of content and the story becomes even more compelling. I have had the good fortune to see India’s best competing at Microgravity Gaming League. We want to take this content to everyone who is an enthusiast or is seeking an experience.

Q 3) What is your vision for Microgravity Ventures and how do you plan to achieve your goals? 

We want to capture the gaming enthusiasts’ mindshare. We want to be a platform where he satisfies all his needs. Setting up world-class destinations across major metros and tier 2 cities is  part of the plan along with the ability to bring in the crowds onto our esports platform to satisfy  the mobile gaming community. We are also working on an e-commerce website that is only gaming that can carry an enthusiast up the value chain whatever be his budget. So whether it’s  playing or competing, experiencing multiplayer, or shopping it has to be Microgravity. That’s the vision.

Also read: Orangutan Elite is an indestructible unit and being In-Game Leader of this team is a huge accomplishment - Dev “Iconic” Kumar

Q 4) How is the company looking to leverage AR and VR technologies to bring solutions to the  industry? 

The team is gathering know-how and skills that are cross transferable across industries. At some point, we will look to explore other allied industries like Retail, Hospitality, and Travel. Travel is already part of our plan where you can walk the city of New York in the heart of Gurgaon.  

Q 5) What are some of the challenges that you have faced as co-founder and MD of Microgravity  Ventures? How did you overcome them? 

We started small and needed to bring in the right team to achieve our short-term goals. We want to continue our search for the best talent in this space. It is a team effort and therefore building  a good team from scratch has been a compelling need. I also feel we may be a little ahead in time in terms of monetization options but going forward this industry is going to explode. Working on raising capital has been an important part of this journey. We are actively searching for strategic  partners to take this idea forward. There is a lot to do in this space and we are taking one step at  a time. 

Q 6) How are Microgravity Ventures building communities around popular gaming content? What are the various games that are promoted by the league? 

We wanted to bring in a differentiated experience whether it’s online or an offline format for the gaming enthusiast. We would like to constantly bring in new products and offerings that operate in both the worlds and where possible deliver the best experiences across popular content in a multiplayer format. I can only say that we are working with some of the best  principals globally and please watch this space.

Mumbai, Jan 3 (Cricket News) Head coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar has said the Indian team's triumph in the U-19 Asia Cup is a step in right direction with not just one but many players excelling before the ICC World Cup begins in the West Indies later this month.

India reaffirmed their supremacy in the tournament with a record eighth title as they hammered Sri Lanka by nine wickets in a rain-hit summit showdown in Dubai on Friday.

"I think it's a step in the right direction. What I felt is, like you said, quite a number of people performed and we won games," Kanitkar told PTI over phone from Dubai after the India Colts won the tournament.

India's only loss in the competition came against arch-rivals Pakistan who lost to Sri Lanka in the semifinals.

"We didn't have to depend on certain players only and from the coaching point of view, that's always a good sign, when more people contribute to a win and we don't depend on just a few players.

"So, from that point I'm satisfied (and) it's been very good high-level matches also, and we have been challenged in three out of four games or five games.

"It's been so far great preparation in terms of match practise, now the big goal is the World Cup," Kanitkar, who has played 2 Tests and 34 ODIs, added.

The India team will now head to the West Indies for the World Cup, which is to be played from January 14 to February 5, and according to Kanitkar, who has 10,400 runs from 146 first-class matches, the Yash Dhull-led team is taking one step at a time.

"We are planning to take one step at a time, not (think) too far ahead into the future, so once the quarantine is over in the West Indies, we will start practicing and focus on the practise games first and take it forward like that," said Kanitkar.

The U-19 boys hadn't played any cricket for a long period of time due to the COVID-19 pandemic and in that backdrop, Kanitkar termed the Asia Cup win as "significant".

"It's very significant, it's a very positive thing and another challenge was that, they haven't played as a team as well, so you know combining together and playing as a team also was a goal and I think we have done that very well.

"And so that way it is very significant that, you know, a group of players coming together, having not played together before, are gelling so well and combining so well." Kanitkar has been associated with the Bengaluru-based National Cricket Academy (NCA) and his first major assignment was with the U-19 team.

"It is challenging because it tests all your abilities as a coach, your communication skills with U19, younger boys, how you explain to them, you know your options that you can use with them, if option A doesn't work, then you go to option B, C, whatever it may be.

"There is scope to work on their technique as well, you can work on player's technique at this age if it is not correct yet.

"So all these things matter and they are challenging but the role is also satisfying because the player develops right in front of your eyes and it is possible for you to make a difference to a player and a team in a major way," the former left-handed batter elaborated.

There are three Maharashtra players -- Kaushal Tambe, Rajvardhan Hangargekar and Vicky Ostwal -- who were part of the Asia Cup-winning team and also feature in a 17-member squad announced for the World Cup.

Asked whether the trio can carry forward the legacy of Maharashtra players like Chandu Borde, the 47-year-old said, "Yes they have what it takes for sure. All three of them have performed in various matches over here.

"I think they have a good future, they need to just keep working hard and be focussed, that's all. They will do well." 

Also Read : Blow for Bengal's Ranji preparation as 7 members test COVID positive

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jan 1 (Cricket News) National Cricket Academy (NCA) head VVS Laxman feels the Indian Under-19 team's Asia Cup title triumph becomes more praiseworthy as it came despite the players' preparations being hit by inclement weather in the run-up to the tournament.

India reaffirmed their supremacy in the continental age-group meet with a record eighth title as they hammered Sri Lanka by nine wickets in the rain-hit summit showdown in Dubai on Friday.

Laxman also called the result an "ideal confidence-booster" ahead of the ICC U-19 World Cup, which is scheduled to be held in the West Indies from January 14 to February 5 in the West Indies.

"Congrats to the India U-19 side on the #AsiaCupU19 triumph! Their preparations were hit by the weather, among other things, but it's heartening to see them improve by the game.

"That's as satisfying as the title win itself. Ideal confidence-booster for the World Cup," Laxman tweeted.

In the final, the Indian bowlers were all over Sri Lanka, who were gasping at 74 for seven in 33 overs, when heavy rain lashed the Dubai International Cricket Stadium and stopped play for more than two hours.

It became a 38-overs-a-side contest when play resumed with Sri Lanka limping to 106 for nine.

India were set a revised 102-run target via DLS method which they reached in 21.3 overs with opener Angkrish Raghuvanshi scoring an unbeaten 56 off 67 balls.

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah too congratulated the team on its victory. 

Also Read : Ruturaj will do wonders for Indian team, feels chief selector Sharma

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Dec 31 (Cricket News) England captain Joe Root, New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson and the Pakistan duo of Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mohammad Rizwan were on Friday short-listed for the ICC Men's Cricketer of the Year Award for their stellar performances across formats.

The award will be given to the best overall performer in men's international cricket (Tests, ODIs and T20Is) during 2021. The winner, who will lift the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy, will be announced on January 24.

Root enjoyed a year that will go down in the pages of the history books, scoring 1855 runs in 18 international matches at an average of 58.37 with six centuries. He though endured disappointment as captain with England suffering Ashes humiliation.

His year began with a marathon knock in 228 against Sri Lanka in Galle and he has only gone from strength to strength.

He would follow up his exploits against Sri Lanka with a memorable knock in Chennai, a brilliant 218 against India in the sweltering heat against a spin attack of the highest calibre.

Root continued his sublime form against India in the return leg of the Test series at home, aggregating 564 runs in four matches with three centuries to his name.

His performance also helped him reach the summit of the ICC Test Player Rankings for batting, where he would be eventually displaced by Marnus Labuschagne.

Despite failing to convert his starts into big scores, Root continued being England's best batter against Australia in the first three Ashes Tests.

As compared to Root, Williamson's 693 runs in 16 internationals at an average of 43.31 with one century was a modest total but the admirable Kiwi cannot only be judged on the basis of the runs he scored.

It was also his influential leadership that helped the Blackcaps scale unchartered heights during the year. None more so important than the ICC World Test Championship Final against India in Southampton.

Williamson played a crucial role in that game with the bat as well, scoring a vital 49 in the first innings against a quality bowling unit in conditions assisting the seamers. He followed it up with a crucial 52 not out in the run chase of 139, taking his side home before lifting the mace.

His leadership would again be vital during the T20 World Cup in UAE and Oman, with his tactical nous helping New Zealand reach the final.

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Rizwan had a stunning year with 1915 runs in 44 internationals at an average of 56.32 with two centuries. He also had 56 dismissals behind the wickets.

Rizwan ruled the roost in 2021 when it came to the shortest format of the game. Aggregating a staggering 1326 runs in only 29 matches, Rizwan struck at an average of 73.66 and a strike-rate of 134.89.

Apart from his exploits with the bat, he was as solid as ever behind the stumps, playing a key role in Pakistan's run to the semifinals during the T20 World Cup.

Rizwan also upped his game in Test cricket, scoring 455 runs in nine matches at an average of 45.50.

Swing, seam, sheer pace and sizzling yorkers -- Shaheen Afridi gave an exhibition of it all in 2021 with 78 wickets in 36 internationals at an average of 22.20. He had his best bowling figures of 6/51 The tall Pakistani fast bowler was on fire throughout 2021, knocking some of the best batters over across all three formats of the game. He especially had a year to remember in Tests and T20Is, reaching his absolute peak during the T20 World Cup in UAE where he impressed one and all with his sheer speed and skills.

He would scalp seven wickets in six matches during the tournament in Pakistan's run to the semi-final. He ruled the shortest format throughout the calendar year, scalping 23 wickets in 21 matches with his death bowling improving by leaps and bounds.

He scalped 47 wickets in nine Tests at a staggering average of 17.06. 

Also Read : India beat Sri Lanka by 9 wickets to win U-19 Asia Cup title

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Dec 31 (Cricket News) India on Friday clinched a record-extending eighth Under-19 Asia Cup title beating Sri Lanka by nine wickets via DLS method in the rain-hit summit clash here.

Opting to bat, Sri Lanka could only manage 106 for 9 in the revised quota of 38 overs.

India then required just 21.3 overs to chase down the target that had been reduced to 102 off 38 overs under the DLS method.

Opener Angkrish Raghuvanshi (56 not out) scored a brilliant half century, while Shaik Rasheed also remained unbeaten on 31.

For India, left-arm spinner Vicky Ostwal was the pick of the bowlers, registering figures of 3/11, while off-spinner Kaushal Tambe snared two wickets.

Brief Scores: Sri Lanka U19: 106 for 9 in 38 overs (Raveen de Silva 15; Vicky Ostwal 3/11) India U19: 104 for 1 in 21.3 overs (Angkrish Raghuvanshi 56 not out, Shaik Rasheed 31 not out; Yasiru Rodrigo (1/12). 

Also Read : India's tremendous year breaching fortresses in red ball cricket

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Dec 31 (Cricket News) India produced a dominating bowling performance to restrict Sri Lanka to 106 for nine in the rain-hit U-19 Asia Cup final here on Friday.

Sri Lanka opted to bat though early morning showers made conditions ideal for seam bowling first up.

The Indian pace duo of Rajvardhan Hangargekar and Ravi Kumar made the ball talk though the former was a tad unlucky to not get a wicket.

Left-arm pacer Ravi got the first wicket of the match by removing Chamindu Wickramasinghe in the fourth over. The left-hander opener went for a big hoick over mid wicket but ended up mistiming it straight into the hands of Raj Bawa at third man.

Wickramasinghe's opening partner Shevon Daniel tried to pull Bawa but the ball got big on him, taking a faint edge to wicketkeeper Aaradhya Yadav to leave Sri Lanka at 15 for two in the 11th over.

India, who have won a record seven Asia Cup titles, looked a far superior team. Hangargekar was the most impressive pacer in the first 10 overs, generating good pace that hurried the batters besides extracting movement off the pitch.

The Sri Lanka batters looked completely at sea against the Indian bowlers, be it fast bowlers or the spin pairing of Kaushal Tambe and Vicky Ostwal. Both off-spinner Tambe and left-arm spinner Ostwal got the odd ball to turn sharply.

Ostwal got two in one to leave Sri Lanka in dire straits at 57 for seven. Southpaw Dunit Wellagle attempted a slog sweep to break the shackles but ended up getting caught in the deep.

Two balls later Ranuda Somarathne missed Oswal's arm ball on the back foot, trapping him in front of the stumps.

With India set to bowl out Sri Lanka for a sub-100 total, heavy rain lashed Dubai International Cricket Stadium with the Islanders at 74 for for seven in 33 overs.

After a long delay, the match resumed and was revised to 38 overs a side.

In the five overs Sri Lanka had, they managed 32 runs for the loss of two wickets.

Hangargekar got a much deserved wicket on the last ball of the innings with Antriksh Raghuvasnshi taking a diving catch at the square leg boundary to dismiss Matheesha Pathirana. 

Also Read : Kirsten interested in coaching England Test side

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Dec 30 (Cricket News) India opener Smriti Mandhana was on Thursday nominated for the ICC Women's T20 Player of the Year 2021 award along with three more cricketers.

Besides Mandhana, England cricketers Tammy Beaumont and Nat Sciver and Ireland's Gaby Lewis are the other contenders for the honour.

In 2021, Mandhana scored 255 runs in nine T20 matches at an average of 31.87 with two half-centuries.

She played a major role in the first of the two wins, smashing 48 off just 28 balls against South Africa, chasing 113 in the final T20I. The win saved India the blushes, as they managed to avoid the clean sweep.

Mandhana was India's top run-scorer in the T20I series against England with 119 runs but didn't find enough support from the rest of the batters. She was India's top-scorer in both the matches that India lost, including a 51-ball 70 that went in vain in the final T20I.

Mandhana scored her second T20I half-century of the year against Australia in the final match of the series, but India fell short by 14 runs.

However, no Indian features among the nominees for ICC Men's ODI Player of the Year 2021.

The four players who are in the running for the recognition are Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan, Pakistan skipper Babar Azam, Janneman Malan of South Africa and Ireland's Paul Stirling.

The ICC Awards 2021 will recognise the outstanding achievements and feats in cricket over the past year. 

Also Read : Rasheed hits unbeaten 90 to guide clinical India to U-19 Asia Cup final

News Source : PTI

Sharjah, Dec 30 (Cricket News) Shaik Rasheed hit an unbeaten 90 as India dished out a clinical performance to thrash Bangladesh by 103 runs here on Thursday and set up a summit clash with Sri Lanka in the Under-19 Asia Cup.

One-down Rasheed made his runs in 108 balls to help India post 248 for eight after being invited to bat.

Rasheed paced his innings to perfection after India had lost both their openers -- Angkrish Raghuvanshi (16) and Harnoor Singh (15) -- inside the 50-run mark, in the 17th overs.

The Indian bowlers, then, produced a cohesive effort to bundle out Bangladesh for 140 runs in 38.2 overs.

Ariful Islam top-scored for Bangladesh with a 77-ball 42, while opener Mahfijul Islam made 26.

Bangladesh's chase never got going as the Indian bowlers picked up wickets at regular intervals, with only Ariful providing some resistance.

For India, Ravi Kumar (2/22), Vicky Ostwal (2/25), Raj Bawa (2/26) and Rajvardhan Hangargekar (2/36) shared eight wickets between them, while Kaushal Tambe (1/5) and Nishant Sindhu (1/25) picked up a wicket each.

Earkier, the Indian openers found the going tough and it was only after their dismissals that the run rate started to improve.

India lost Nishant Sindhu (5) cheaply before Rasheed and skipper Yash Dhull (26 off 29) stitched 41 runs for the fourth wicket to stabilise the innings.

Raj Bawa (23), Vicky Ostwal (28 not out off 18 balls) and Rajvardhan Hangargekar (16) also played useful hands to provide Rasheed support from the other end.

Even though it wasn't an extravagant knock from Rasheed, he did enough to give the Indian bowlers a target to defend. He struck three boundaries and one six during his unconquered innings.

For Bangladesh U-19, left-arm orthodox spinner Rakibul Hasan was the pick of the bowlers with figures of three for 41 from his 10 overs.

India will face Sri Lanka in the title clash in Dubai on Friday.

Sri Lanka defeated Pakistan by 22 runs in another semifinal clash.

Sri Lanka made a modest 147 all out after opting to bat and then restricted Pakistan to 125.

Brief Scores: India U-19: 243 for 8 in 50 overs (Shaik Rasheed 90; Rakibul Hasan 3/41) beat Bangladesh U-19: 140 all out in 38.2 overs (Ariful Islam 42; Ravi Kumar 2/22, Vicky Ostwal 2/25, Raj Bawa 2/26, Rajvardhan Hangargekar 2/36) by 103 runs. 

Also Read : 2021 will go down as one of the greatest years in Indian cricket: KL Rahul

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Dec 29 (Cricket News) Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh and Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan were on Wednesday named among four players shortlisted for the ICC Men's T20I Player of the Year award.

The other two players are Sri Lankan all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga and England wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler.

A part of the T20 World Cup winning Australian team, Marsh scored 627 runs in 27 matches at an average of 36.88 while also taking eight wickets at 18.37 during the year.

Throughout the calendar year, he was Australia's best batter in the shortest format, improving his game by leaps and bounds, especially against spin and when it came to rotating the strike.

"Australia's success at the T20 World Cup can be traced back to the decision to move Mitchell Marsh up the batting order to No.3, instead of designating him the role of being a finisher lower down," the ICC said in a release.

In the T20 World Cup held in the UAE and Oman, he aggregated 185 runs in six matches at an average of 61.66 and a healthy strike-rate of 146.82. He would reserve the best for the last, playing a match-winning knock of 77 not out off 50 deliveries in the final against New Zealand.

Rizwan aggregated a staggering 1326 runs in only 29 matches at an average of 73.66 and a strike-rate of 134.89. He was also solid behind the stumps, playing a key role in Pakistan's run to the semifinals during the T20 World Cup, where he ended up as the third-highest run-scorer.

He also scored the maiden T20I century of his career against South Africa in Lahore early in the year and ended it continuing his form with a brilliant knock of 87 against West Indies in Karachi.

Hasaranga took 36 wickets in 20 matches at 11.63 and scored 196 runs with one half-century during the year to establish himself as one of the best spinners in the shortest format while also being a player who could contribute with the bat.

A consistent performer throughout the year, Hasaranga's star shone the brightest during the T20 World Cup in UAE and Oman. He claimed a memorable hat-trick against South Africa and ended the tournament as the leading wicket-taker with 16 scalps. He also played some handy knocks with the bat, like his 71 against Ireland.

England wicketkeeper-batter Buttler was also brilliant during the year with 589 runs in 14 matches at 65.44 with one century. He also had 13 dismissals.

Buttler was in sublime touch during the T20 World Cup, always getting his side off to brilliant starts. His two best knocks came in consecutive matches -- first against age-old rivals Australia and then against Sri Lanka who faced his full wrath.

He ended the tournament as England's leading run-scorer with 269 runs, including a hundred against Sri Lanka. 

Also Read : South Africa 94/4 at stumps on Day 4 in chase of 305

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Dec 29 (Cricket News) Seasoned India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin on Wednesday retained his second position in both the ICC Men's Test Player Rankings for bowlers and all-rounders.

Ravindra Jadeja managed to hold to his third position in the Test all-rounders list.

Rohit Sharma and skipper Virat Kohli also retained their positions in the Test batters' chart -- at fifth and seventh respectively.

While Rohit has 797 rating points in his kitty, Kohli has collected 756 points.

The Test batting chart is being led by Australia's Marnus Labuschagne (915 points), followed by England captain Joe Root (900) while New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson (879) has dislodged Steve Smith (877) from the third position.

Rohit, David Warner, Kohli, Dimuth Karunaratne, Babar Azam and Travis Head complete the top-10.

Among Test bowlers, Ashwin is the only Indian in the top-10, steady at the second spot with 883 rating points.

Australia Test captain Pat Cummins continues to lead the pack, while Pakistan left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi is placed third ahead of Tim Southee and James Anderson.

Australia Test debutant Scott Boland also made his first appearance in the ICC Men's Test Player Rankings for bowlers for his outstanding performance in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.

By virtue of his six for seven run spell in England's second innings on Tuesday, the 32-year-old Victoria fast bowler is ranked 74th with 271 points.

Boland finished with a seven-wicket match haul in a thumping innings and 14 run victory for Australia.

In the Test all-rounders list, Indian duo of Ashwin (360) and Jadeja (346) are below leader Jason Holder (382) of the West Indies.

Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan is fourth, while Mitchell Starc nudged ahead of Ben Stokes into fifth place.

The Test Team ranking is being led by India with 124 rating points, while New Zealand and Australia occupy the second and third positions respectively.

England are fourth ahead of Pakistan. 

Also Read : Ganguly stable, maintaining oxygen saturation of 99% on room air: Hospital

News Source : PTI

(Tennis news) Dominic Thiem has announced that he won't be taking part in the 2022 Australian Open. Thiem has been battling with a wrist injury since June this year, he had last played at Mallorca where retiring midway in the opening match against Adrian Mannarino. He has only played 18 matches this season and will see his ranking drop once he comes back in action at the end of next month.

"As you all know, I came back home to Austria to recover after the hard practice sessions I had in Dubai and the slight setback in my preparation. I am now feeling well again, my wrist is in optimal conditions and I am practicing normally with a very good intensity", said Thiem.

"After the short holidays, my team and I have assessed all matters and we have decided to make some changes to my initial tournament schedule: I will start the season in South America at the Cordoba Open in Argentina, end of January, and therefore I will not play this year at the Australian Open in Melbourne, a city that I love and where I have great memories of unforgettable matches in front of amazing crowds. I will miss the Australian fans but I will be back in 2023.”

The 2020 US Open champion will miss the Australian Open for the first time since making his debut in 2014. He had reached the finals last year by defeating Alexander Zverev and Rafael Nadal on the way, Novak Djokovic defeated Thiem in the final as the Serbian came back from a 2-1 set deficit in a four hour match. Thiem’s absence will also mean Austria taking a backseat at the ATP Cup as World number 119 Dennis Novak will be leading the team.

The 28 year old also won his first Grand Slam last year at the US Open and at Roland Garros he reached the quarterfinals to cap off the year as the world number 3. His current rank is 15 which will see a further fall after the first three three weeks in January. He was playing his 10th year on tour this season and failed to reach a final including a shock first round exit at Roland Garros.

Thiem has now joined Roger Federer, Milos Raonic, Stan Wawrinka as the list continues to grow for the 2022 Australian Open. Nadal so far has not given statements about missing the Slam although he tested positive a few days back. There are also questions looming about Novak Djokovic’s participation especially regarding the vaccination rules for the players entering the event. The 2022 Australian Open is set to start from 17th January as the next gen players will again play in a similar situation like the 2021 US Open.

Also read: Spaniard Garbine Muguruza back on top three in WTA tour

Dubai, Dec 28 (Cricket News) Seasoned India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was on Tuesday shortlisted as one of the four nominees for the ICC Test Cricketer of the year award.

The 35-year-old from Chennai snapped 52 wickets from eight Tests at an average of 16.23 and also contributed 337 runs with the bat at 28.08 with one century in the last one year.

Besides Ashwin, England skipper Joe Root, New Zealand pacer Kyle Jamieson and Sri Lanka opener Dimuth Karunaratne were the others to be nominated for the prestigious award, which recognise the outstanding achievements and feats in cricket over the past year.

The winner of the award will be announced on January 24.

"One of India's greatest match-winners in the longest format, R Ashwin again asserted his authority as one of the world's finest spinners in 2021. Apart from his wizardry with the ball, Ashwin also made invaluable contributions with the bat," the ICC said in a release.

Ashwin started the year on a high, scoring a patient 128-ball 29 against Australia in the Sydney Test. His partnership with Hanuma Vihari helped India achieve a memorable draw that kept the series level at 1-1.

At home against England, Ashwin was adjudged the Player of the Series after he claimed 32 wickets from four matches at 14.72, while also contributing 189 runs with the bat.

The off-spinner had also picked up four wickets in the ICC World Test Championship Final against New Zealand on a seam-friendly wicket in Southampton.

After sitting out of all four Tests in England, Ashwin shone bright in the home series against New Zealand, winning another Player of the Series award after picking up 14 wickets in two matches at 11.36 while also chipping in with a couple of handy knocks in the Kanpur Test.

The ICC Awards will comprise a total of 13 individual recognitions in all, as well as five Team of the Year announcements for each format across both men's and women's cricket.

The other individual categories include Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for men's Cricketer of the Year, Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy for Women's Cricketer of the Year, men's ODI Cricketer of the Year, women's ODI Cricketer of the Year, men's T20I Cricketer of the Year, women's T20I Cricketer of the Year, Emerging men's Cricketer of the Year, Emerging women's Cricketer of the Year, Men's Associate Cricketer of the Year, women's Associate Cricketer of the Year, Spirit of Cricket Award and Umpire of the Year.

"The nominees for each of the first seven categories will be announced from 28 December to 31 December," ICC said.

"Each of those seven categories will have a shortlist of four nominees, comprising players who have had the most impactful performances in the period under consideration -- January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021.

"The nominees will be decided by the Awards panel, comprising prominent cricket journalists and broadcasters from across the globe along with Geoff Allardice, the ICC's CEO." The apex body said that "the winners for each category will be announced in January", while "the official ICC Teams of the Year are set to be announced on 17 and 18 January." "The individual awards pertaining to women's cricket will be announced on 23 January. The men's awards, as well as the Spirit of Cricket and Umpire of the Year award, will be announced on 24 January," it further stated. 

Also Read : South Africa reach 21/1 at lunch in reply to India's 327 on day three

News Source : PTI

(Tennis news) Garbine Muguruza has had a great season on the WTA Tour, climbing back into the top three of the rankings. Muguruza played 59 matches this year in which she won 42 of them. She started the year ranked 15 and had a gradual rise to the top three.

The 28 year old reached the final in the second event of the season at Yarra Valley Classic, even beating Sofia Kenin on the way to the final where she lost to Ashleigh Barty. At the Australian Open, she reached the fourth round before losing to champion Naomi Osaka. In the next event at Qatar, Muguruza reached her second final in two months but lost to Petra Kvitova in the final. She came back to reach another final in Dubai, beating Aryna Sabalenka for the second consecutive time and then defeated Barbora Krejcikova in the final.

The Spaniard then did not reach the last four in the next 10 events after three finals in the first 5 events of the season. She also could not secure a medal at the Tokyo Olympics, losing out to Elena Rybakina in straight sets. After a gap of almost 6 months, Muguruza won the title in Chicago after beating Ons Jabeur in the final. At the WTA Finals, Muguruza was the second most experienced player after Karolina Pliskova and the senior most player handed her a defeat in the second match. Muguruza lost only one match on the way to win the biggest title of the season.

 "It's been a crazy season with the Olympics involved as well. It has been a year with many challenges, but at the same time, very successful for me.” Muguruza didn't enjoy success at the Grand Slam level in 2021 but still she felt it was the best season of her career.

"I truly believe this has been my best career season, even though I haven't won slam tournaments," Muguruza claimed. "It was a season in which I managed to find continuity in the game, albeit with ups and downs in the result.”

The two time Grand Slam winner was ranked number 1 four years ago and this year she has given herself a second chance to reclaim the top spot. Muguruza struggled at the Grand Slams as she reached the fourth round in Australia and at the US Open meanwhile at Roland Garros she was knocked out in the opening match. At Wimbledon where she last won a Grand Slam, she reached the third round, Muguruza winning the finals title was a stern reminder that next year she can pick up her usual speed at the majors. At the 2022 Australian Open, she will try to avenge her 2020 final loss and lift a crown that can boost her chances of becoming the world number again.

Also read: Angelique Kerber looking to repeat glorious past in 2022 season

Dubai, Dec 27 (Cricket News) A match-winning 65-run seventh wicket stand between Raj Bawa and Kaushal Tambe ensured a fighting four-wicket victory for India over a gritty Afghanistan as they entered the semi-final of the U-19 Asia Cup tournament here on Monday.) Bawa (43 not out) and Tambe (35 not out) joined forced when India were in trouble at 197 for six but they kept calm to take the 'Boys in Blue' to their required 260-run target with 10 balls to spare.

This was after in-form opener Harnoor Pannu (65) and his partner Angkrish Raghuvanshi (35) added 104 for the opening stand. However, the middle order caved in with skipper Yash Dull (26) and Nishant Sindhu (19) failing to convert starts. It was left to Bawa and Tambe to take the team home.

With this win, India wee placed second in the group behind Pakistan team, which won all its matches.

India will face the winners between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, who are pitted against each other in the last group league encounter.

With India finishing second, they would meet the topper of the other group.

It was a game where India returned to winning ways.

Put into bat at the ICC Academy – Oval 2 here, Afghanistan skipper Suliman Safi’s patient 73 coupled with a blistering unbeaten 86 off 68 balls by Ijaz Ahmad Ahmadzai propelled Afghanistan to respectable 259/4.

Chasing 260, Harnoor, who hit nine boundaries and Angkrish were off to a flyer as India raced to 44 for no loss in six overs.

It was raining boundaries at the ground, with the two openers hammering the Afghan attack with utmost ease.

India was cruising at 74/0 after 12 overs. However, Raghuvanshi was trapped in the front by left-arm unorthodox spinner Noor Ahmad (4/43) as he broke the 104-run opening stand.

India slipped to 116/3, as Afghanistan removed Harnoor and Shaik Rasheed (6) cheaply. Then skipper Dhull and Sindhu tried to take the game deep, but Khalel Khalel pegged back India by removing Sindhu with India reeling at 162/4.

Then Noor Ahmad got his third, after Ishaq stumped Dhull in the 36th over, as India lost half its side for 183. Noor then trapped Aaradhya Yadav (12) to leave India teetering at 197/6. Bawa and Tambe had an enormous task at hand but they forged a match-winning stand to take their side to the last four stage with Tambe fittingly finishing the game with a boundary.

Brief Scores: Afghanistan U19 259/4 (Ijaz Ahmad Ahmadzai 86 not out, Suliman Safi 73; Kaushal Tambe 1/25) lost to India U19 262/6 (Harnoor Singh 65; R Bawa 43 not out; Noor Ahmad 4/43) by four wickets. 

Also Read : Right way to go: Shastri backs split captaincy in times of pandemic

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Dec 25 (Cricket News) Pakistan edged out a mediocre Indian side by two wickets in a last-ball thriller in the U-19 Asia Cup here on Saturday.

Pakistan rode on a stroke-filled 81 by one-down Muhammad Shehzad and a late cameo by Ahmad Khan (29 not out) to chase down a target of 238.

Ahmad hit Ravi Kumar for a boundary in the game's final delivery to seal the game for his side.

Earlier in the day, the Pakistan U-19 bowlers, led by right-arm medium pacer Zeeshan Zameer (5/60), wreaked havoc as they bundled out the opposition for a sub-par 237.

India lost opener Angkrish Raghuvanshi (0), Shaik Rasheed (6) and skipper Yash Dhull (0) cheaply, with Zameer accounting for all the wickets to leave the batting side reeling at 14/3.

Nishant Sindhu (8) became Awais Ali's first victim as India slipped to 41/4.

Harnoor made a patient 59-ball 46, striking six boundaries. When it looked like he would score big, Ali dismissed him in the 19th over to leave India at 96/5.

However, wicket-keeper Aaradhya Yadav's 83-ball 50, in which he hit three fours, coupled with Kaushal Tambe's 32 and Rajvardhan Hangargekar's brisk 33 off 20 balls, took India past the 230-run mark.

Chasing 238, Pakistan lost opener Abdul Wahid (0) early as Hangargekar castled him. Then, Maaz Sadaqat (29) and Shehzad (81) rallied the innings with a 64-run stand for the second wicket.

Shehzad, who hammered four boundaries and five towering sixes, was in belligerent mood as Sadaqat played second fiddle. Left-arm medium pacer Raj Bawa (4/56) broke the stand by removing Sadaqat.

Bawa struck again by dismissing Haseebullah (3) as Pakistan slipped to 69/3. Skipper Qasim Akram (22) also fell cheaply as Pakistan found themselves in a spot of bother at 115/4, even as Shehzad continued to tore apart the opposition attack.

Hangargekar ran out Shehzad in the 37th over to bring India back into the contention as Pakistan lost half its side for 159.

However, Irfan Khan (32) and Rizwan Mehmood (29) took the game deep by adding 47 runs for the sixth wicket.

Then, Bawa pegged back Pakistan by removing Mehmood and Irfan Khan, but a composed Ahmad Khan, who hammered three boundaries and a six, completed the job for his team.

Brief scores: India U-19 237 all out (Aaradhya Yadav 50, Harnoor Singh 46; Zeeshan Zamir 5/60, Awais Ali 2/43) lost to Pakistan U-19 240/8 (Muhammad Shehzad 81, Irfan Khan 32; Raj Bawa 4/56) by two wickets. 

Also Read : Sometimes you need to have difficult conversations with players: Dravid on selection conundrum

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Dec 23 (Cricket News) Harnoor Singh struck a fine hundred before the Indian bowlers ran through the opposition to complete a 154-run rout of UAE in their opening U-19 Asia Cup match here on Thursday.

Put in to bat, India put up 282 for five, courtesy Harnoor's 120 off 130 balls and skipper Yash Dhull's 63 off 68 balls. Rajvardhan Hangargekar's unbeaten 48 off 23 balls provided the final flourish.

UAE used as many as nine bowling options at the ICC Academy Ground but the move did not help their cause.

The home team's batters came a cropper against the Indian bowling line up, folding up for 128 in 34.3 overs.

Hangargekar took three wickets for India while Garv Sangwan, Vicky Oswal and Kaushal Tamble took two each.

India next play arch-rivals Pakistan on Saturday.

In the other matches played on Thursday, Pakistan beat Afghanistan by four wickets and Sri Lanka hammered Kuwait by 274 runs.

The tournament is being played ahead of the U-19 World Cup in the West Indies next month. 

Also Read : If possible, I would play for KKR forever: Gill

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Dec 22 (Cricket News) Indian captain Virat Kohli slipped a notch to be placed seventh in the latest ICC rankings for Test batters even as Australia's Marnus Labuschagne, riding on his prolific Ashes form, displaced England skipper Joe Root to become the new world number one.

India's Rohit Sharma remained static at fifth position.

Among bowlers, Ravichandran Ashwin is still in second place behind Australia skipper Pat Cummins.

Kohli, who played the second Test against New Zealand, was earlier placed sixth and now with 756 points is in seventh position.

Labuschagne has climbed to the top of the ICC rankings for batters for the very first time after sensational performances in the two matches of the Ashes so far.

With career-best 912 rating points, he went past Root (897), who has dropped to the second spot.

Ranked fourth before the series, Labuschagne rose two spots to No.2 after scoring 74 in Australia's win in the Brisbane Test. In the second Test at Adelaide, he scored a hundred and fifty (103 and 51) as Australia routed England by 275 runs to go 2-0 up in the Ashes.

His teammate Mitchell Starc broke into the top 10 for Test bowlers after returning figures of 6/80 in the second Test, which included a four-for in the first innings that helped reduce England to 236. He moves up to the 9th spot.

In the Player Rankings for T20Is, Pakistan captain Babar Azam reclaimed the top spot in the list for batters after just one week of losing it.

With scores of 0 and 7 in the first two T20Is against the West Indies, Bazar dropped two spots to No.3 in last week's rankings update.

He came roaring back and is now tied at the top of the rankings with Dawid Malan after a brilliant 79 in the final T20I that helped Pakistan complete a clean sweep over West Indies.

His fellow opener Mohammad Rizwan, who has had a tremendous 2021, capped the year by climbing to No.3 in T20I batters' rankings with career-best ratings of 798.

India's new white ball vice-captain KL Rahul is best placed Indian at fifth position in the table. There are no Indian bowlers in top 10 T20 list. 

Also Read : Positive COVID cases will be isolated but matches will continue: CSA Medical Officer Manjra on India tour

News Source : PTI

(Cricket news) CricFlix, in association with Fanatic Sports and RevSportz is set to conduct its first ever cricket non-fungible token (NFT) auction in Dubai on December 24. Sports NFT’s have quickly become game-changing digital assets in recent times and CricFlix’s rare NFTs will give fans the unique opportunity to have ownership rights along with generating revenue by accumulating treasured moments from a digital sporting collection. The unique AI (augmented intelligence) backed and block chain based certifications proprietary to CricFlix will provide true value to the fans to not only become investors and shareholders for the first time through NFT purchase as well as avail an opportunity to immortalise these exclusive digital artefacts.

“We, at CricFlix, are providing powerful transformations into the metaverse by bringing world class cricket memorabilia with a renowned history behind it. It is an investment piece of a rare asset class for the future generations where the metaverse and physical world come together and thrive,” said Anwar Hussein, Co-Founder of CricFlix.

As the date of the auction approaches, CrickFlix will also aim to create market valuations so that cricket fans can turn fandom moments into profitable moments. Cricket fans will have access to authentic cricket memorabilia from the playing days of legendary CK Nayudu, Sachin's Retirement Test Collection  Jhulan Goswami and other significant collectables like match ticket from the 1936 India tour of England, legendary Donald Bradman’s rare signed stamp, signed memorabilia from the 1983 team and Lata Mangeshkar’s concert recording for the 1983 World Cup - winning cricketers alongside various other memorable cricketing artefacts from global cricket which will be up at the NFT auction.

Talking about benefits of NFT purchase, Prantik Mazumder, Co-Founder of RevSportz, said: “The most powerful use case for NFTs is about empowering the ordinary fan. He or She can now own a piece of history in the form of digital memorabilia and this is what makes
NFT technology such a game changer. By bringing decentralisation to the world of sports, NFTs also provide athletes at all levels an opportunity to start earning an income from fans.”

With this collaboration, fans will also get VIP access to some of the biggest sporting events around the world, dinner with legendary cricketers, a stay at team hotels, only by-invitation celebrity events and signed merchandise among various other exciting benefits. “This is the world's first hybrid cricket NFT auction providing valuable collectible investment opportunities along with ‘Once in a lifetime’ sports experiences worldwide. We believe combining a tangible experience with the NFT auction is a game-changer and unique proposition for the passionate fan. Imagine watching the most viewed match from the best seats in the stadium and interacting with the legends of the game and providing immersive and unforgettable experiences is our speciality,” said Raghav Gupta, Founder & CEO, Fanatic Sports.

Also read: Test series between India and SA to be played without spectators: CSA

(Tennis news) The 2022 Australian Open may have more absentees as the latest updates about Rafael Nadal and Dominic Thiem added doubts about their participation. Nadal has tested positive after playing at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship exhibition event in Abu Dhabi last week. The Spaniard was playing after a gap of almost 3 months, he played two matches last week against Andy Murray and Denis Shapovalov. Although he lost both the matches, Nadal was looking in shape and is now doubtful about participating in the year’s first Grand Slam.

Nadal has been playing the Australian Open since 2004 and has only missed it twice since then. He did not play in 2006 and 2013, his only title here came in 2009 while defeating Roger Federer in the final. This year, Nadal had lost in the quarter final stage to Stefanos Tsitsipas and lost to Thiem in the same round last year.

“The idea is to go there and try my best there in Australia, being 100% honest, I can’t guarantee it," Nadal said. “I need to speak with my team. It's been more than six months since the last real official match. Things are difficult and I accept that I was able to compete in both matches and even had my chances, so if we put that in perspective it’s a very positive thing.

“I went through this process unfortunately a lot of times in my tennis career but I need to practice and I need to be healthy enough to go through this process. If that happens, I’m confident that I will be back."

Meanwhile Dominic Thiem also announced that he will be missing the ATP Cup and Sydney Tennis Classic next month. His absence will be a big loss for Austria, Thiem had injured his wrist this year and was out of tour for six months. Six months back he failed to record a win at Roland Garros for the first time in his career and broke his streak of winning at least one title every season since 2015.

"I caught a cold while I was in Dubai and was unable to practice last week. I will therefore not be in the physical condition to be able to compete in the ATP Cup and Sydney ATP 250. After not competing for the last six months I cannot take the risk of coming back too early and picking up a further injury. My aim is still to play the Australian Open, but we will make a final decision on my participation by the end of December,” said Thiem.

Thiem has been featuring in the Australian Open since 2014 and reached the final last year as he lost to Novak Djokovic after taking the first two sets. The 28 year old will look to add to his US Open win last year when he comes back on tour in 2022.

Also read: Jennifer Brady confirms absence for 2022 Australian Open

(Motorsport) Former rally driver Mohammed Ben Sulayem has been elected as the new FIA president, after collecting 61.62% of the votes at the FIA General Assembly. The UAE national is the first non-European president of motorsport’s world governing body and replaces Jean Todt who had served in the role for 12 years and three terms.

Having been born in Dubai, Mohammed Ben Sulayem is a 14 time Middle East rally champion and has also served as vice-president at the FIA along with being a member of the World Motor Sport Council. Speaking after being elected, the 60 year old said “I am very honored to have been elected FIA President at the conclusion of the Annual General Assembly in Paris today. I thank all the Member Clubs for their esteem and trust.

“I congratulate Graham for his campaign and his engagement to the Federation. I wish to express my infinite gratitude in the name of the FIA and that of its Members to Jean Todt for all that has been achieved over the past 12 years. I am committed to pursuing the important work and make motor sport and mobility take further steps forward."

Amongst his election promises during his four year term has been to put the best practice governance structures, double motorsport participation and strengthen diversity and inclusion. Ben Sulayem has his work cut out for him as he takes over the role just five days after the controversy surrounding the Abu Dhabi GP. Following the events of the weekend, the FIA promised Mercedes to conduct a full analysis and review to understand the events around the Safety Car in the final laps at the Yas Marina Circuit and implement learning into the 2022 season.

Also read: Max Verstappen formally crowned F1 2021 World Champion

A statement released by the FIA said “The FIA's primary responsibility at any event is to ensure the safety of everyone involved and the integrity of the sport. The circumstances surrounding the use of the Safety Car following the incident of driver Nicholas Latifi, and the related communications between the FIA Race Direction team and the Formula 1 teams, have notably generated significant misunderstanding and reactions from Formula 1 teams, drivers and fans, an argument that is currently tarnishing the image of the Championship and the due celebration of the first Drivers' World Championship title won by Max Verstappen and the eighth consecutive Constructors' World Championship title won by Mercedes.

“Following the presentation of a report regarding the sequence of events that took place following the incident on Lap 53 of the Grand Prix and in a constant drive for improvement, the FIA President proposed to the World Motor Sport Council that a detailed analysis and clarification exercise for the future with all relevant parties will now take place.

"This matter will be discussed and addressed with all the teams and drivers to draw any lessons from this situation and clarity to be provided to the participants, media, and fans about the current regulations to preserve the competitive nature of our sport while ensuring the safety of the drivers and officials. It is not only Formula 1 that may benefit from this analysis, but also more generally all the other FIA circuit championships."

Dubai, Dec 17 (Cricket News) England have been penalised eight World Test Championship penalty points and not five, as announced earlier, for maintaining a slow over rate in the first Test against Australia in Brisbane, the ICC clarified on Friday.

The International Cricket Council had earlier announced that England were fined 100 per cent match fee and five WTC points for the over-rate offence in Brisbane last week.

England were eight overs short (not 5 overs short as previously announced) but were only fined 100 per cent of their match fee due to the limit.

"However, the points deduction for penalty overs is not capped and must reflect the actual number of penalty overs a team is short of the minimum requirement as per Clause 16.1.2 of the ICC Playing Conditions, hence they have been penalised one point for each over they were short," said the ICC in a statement.

"As per Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined 20 per cent of their match fee for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time, up to a maximum fine of 100 per cent of the match fee," it added.

England are trailing 0-1 in the five-match Ashes series and are struggling in the ongoing second Test in Adelaide. 

Also Read : England lose 2 wickets late in the day after Smith and Carey fire on day 2

News Source : PTI

Karachi, Dec 16 (Cricket News) The PCB has managed to convince the West Indies touring side hit by Covid-19 positive cases to play the third and final T20 international on Thursday but the three match ODI series remains in doubt.

The third and final match got underway at the national stadium in Karachi on time with a very sparse crowd in attendance as West Indies went into the match with just 14 available players out of their touring 21-member T20 and ODI squads.

Six of their players have tested positive for Covid-19 along with three team officials while one player Devon Thomas is out with a finger injury sustained in the first T20 match.

Earlier in the day there was suspense and doubt over whether the match would take place after the West Indies board confirmed that ODI captain, Shai Hope left-arm spinner, Akeal Hosain and all-rounder, Justin Greaves along with assistant coach, Roddy Estwick and team physician, Dr AKshai Mansingh had all tested positive in latest RT-PCR tests carried out on Wednesday. Earlier West Indies on December 9 had already missed three players Kyle Myers, Sheldon Cottrell and Roston Chase to positive cases before the start of the T20 series and had been placed in isolation at the team hotel.

A reliable source said that the high number of Covid-19 cases in the West Indies camp were being put down to the fact that the contingent had travelled to Karachi via New York and Dubai and had stopovers during which time some of the players are said to have frequented restaurants and bars at the airports.

The source said that with 14 available players now and also Chase, Myers and Cottrell due to come out of isolation by Saturday, the PCB was trying to convince the West Indies board to complete the tour and play the three ODIs.

"The problem is that since the ODIs are part of the ICC World Cup qualifying rounds the West Indies already without key players are reluctant to carry on with the ODIs," he said. 

Also Read : Kohli Saga: BCCI unlikely to take any hasty step with Test series round the corner

News Souce : PTI

(Tennis news) The ATP announced the winners in two more categories on Wednesday as Aslan Karatsev won the most improved player of the year award and the doubles pair of Pierre-Hugues Herbert and Nicolas Mahut won the Fans’ Favorite doubles team.

Aslan Karatsev had a breakthrough season by becoming the first man in the Open Era to reach a semifinal on his Grand Slam debut at the Australian Open. He started the year ranked 112 and reached his career best of 15 in November, he is currently ranked 18. Karatsev won titles at Moscow and Dubai, he also reached the finals at Belgrade. Karatsev had won 34 matches this year and reached the third round at the US Open. He last played at the Davis Cup, partnering with Karen Khachanov against Germany in the doubles match and last played a singles match at Paris Masters 1000 where lost the opening match to Sebastian Korda.

Karatsev had immense success in singles but in doubles he was ranked 422 at the start of the season and now is ranked 91. He won the doubles title at Doha with Andrey Rublev and the pair reached the finals at Indian Wells.

 “I am really happy to win this award,” Karatsev said. “It means a lot to me and I am really happy to get this. Thank you very much.”

The doubles pair of Pierre-Hugues Herbert and Nicolas Mahut won the Fans’ Favorite doubles team of the year award. The pair had reached 5 finals this year, they won three of them including the Nitto ATP finals and the Roland Garros title. They became the eighth pair to complete the career by winning the 2019 Australian Open and have been playing together since 2015.

“Just want to thank all of you who voted for us,” said Mahut. “Winning on the court is a personal accomplishment, but receiving the Fans’ Favorite Award is a different kind of pride. Pierre-Hugues and I are very touched and hope to share some great moments next year together and with you. Thanks again and see you next year.”

Herbert added: “It’s the first time we've won this award. We had an amazing year and we’re so happy and so proud about it. We hope to be back next year, enjoying on the court and on the ATP Tour.”

Also read: Mackenzie McDonald and Marcus Daniell win ATP player awards

Dubai, Dec 15 (Cricket News) India will open their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan in the Women's ODI World Cup beginning in New Zealand on March 4, the ICC announced on Wednesday.

The first set of games will see two massive rivalries take the centre stage, with Australia taking on defending champions England at Seddon Park in Hamilton on March 5 and last edition's runners-up India facing Pakistan in Tauranga on March 6.

A total of 31 games will be played across 31 days, with the eight teams clashing to get their hands on the coveted World Cup trophy. Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Hamilton, Tauranga, and Wellington will be the six cities that will host the tournament.

Australia, England, South Africa and India qualified for the event on the basis of their position in ICC Women's Championship 2017-20 while New Zealand automatically qualified as hosts.

On the basis of team rankings, Bangladesh, Pakistan and West Indies were the final three teams to book their berth for the World Cup after the Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier was called off due to COVID-related uncertainty.

The tournament will be played in the league format, where all eight teams will face each other once, at the end of which the top four sides will qualify for the semi-finals.

The first semi-final will be played at The Basin Reserve in Wellington on March 30 while The Hagley Oval in Christchurch will host the second semi-final on March 31 and the final on April 3. Both the semi-finals and the finals will have a reserve day in place.

The last global women's event played was the T20 World Cup in Australia in March 2020 when the hosts won by beating India in the final.

India will be touring New Zealand before the World Cup, serving as ideal preparation for the mega event. 

Also Read : Delhi finish dismal fifth in group stage, Saurashtra, UP qualify for knock-outs

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Dec 13 (Cricket News) Explosive Australia opener David Warner and West Indies all-rounder Hayley Matthews were on Monday adjudged the men's and women's ICC Players of the Month of November after their superlative performances.

Warner's crucial efforts in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup which Australia won for the first time helped him pip Pakistan opener Abid Ali and New Zealand seam bowler Tim Southee to grab the men’s award.

Matthews' all-round show in the ODIs won her the women’s award ahead of left-arm spinners Anam Amin of Pakistan and Nahida Akter of Bangladesh.

Warner won the award on his maiden nomination following his Player of the Tournament show at the recent T20 World Cup, in which he smashed 53 in the final against New Zealand after 49 in the semifinal against Pakistan.

He was also named Player of the Match in an earlier Super 12 match against the West Indies for a blistering 89 not out off 56 balls. Warner aggregated 209 runs at an average of 69.66 and a strike rate of 151.44 in four T20Is during the period.

“David was back to his scintillating best during the T20 World Cup and his aggression at the top of the order was outstanding. His 209 runs at a strike rate of 151 in four innings simply tells the story," Jury member Russel Arnold said about Warner.

"There was no recovering from the early onslaught by Warner and his stroke play was pleasing to the eye.” Matthews won the award on her second nomination. She was earlier nominated in July along with her captain Stafanie Taylor, who was the winner then.

Matthews scored 141 runs and grabbed nine wickets at an average of 13.11 during the period. She starred in a series win over Pakistan, scoring 57 runs and taking three for 31 in the first match before a four for 26 runs in the second.

"Hayley was the star, performing with both bat and ball. Her all-round performance was one of the reasons the West Indies won against Pakistan, and she deserves to be the women's Player of the Month," jury member Irfan Pathan said about Matthews.

The selection process for the monthly awards, which were instituted in January, combines votes cast by former players, prominent journalists and global cricket fans. 

Also Read : A series like India can set the ball rolling in right direction for SA cricket: Lungi Ngidi

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Dec 11 (Cricket news) England have been fined 100 per cent of their match fee and penalised five ICC World Test Championship points for maintaining a slow over-rate against Australia in the lost first Test in Brisbane.

David Boon of the Elite Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanction after Joe Root’s side was ruled to be five overs short of the target after time allowances were taken into consideration.

In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined 20 per cent of their match fee for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time.

"In addition, as per Article 16.11.2 of the ICC World Test Championship playing conditions, a side is penalised one point for each over short. Consequently, five World Test Championship points have been deducted from England’s points total," said the ICC in a statement.

Meanwhile, Australia batter Travis Head has been fined 15 per cent of his match fee for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct.

Head was found to have breached Article 2.3 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to “use of an audible obscenity during an International Match".

In addition to this, one demerit point has been added to the disciplinary record of Head, for whom it was the first offence in a 24-month period.

The incident occurred in the 77th over of Australia’s first innings on Thursday, when Head used inappropriate language after he was beaten on a delivery from Ben Stokes.

"Head admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by the Match Referee and ratified by the ICC Cricket Operations department as per the COVID-19 interim playing regulations. There was no need for a formal hearing," the statement added.

On-field umpires Paul Reiffel and Rod Tucker, third umpire Paul Wilson and fourth official Sam Nogajski levelled the charges.

Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player’s match fee, and one or two demerit points.

Also Read : England batters collapse once again as Australia win 1st Ashes Test at the Gabba

News Source : PTI

(Football news) Anthony Martial has requested to leave Manchester United, the French forward’s agent Philippe Lamboley has said. The 26 year old has started just two Premier League games, scoring once and has not been picked by new interim manager Ralf Rangnick in either of the two games so far after picking up a minor knock in training last week.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Martial’s agent said “Anthony wishes to leave the club in January. He just needs to play. He doesn’t want to stay in January and I will speak to the club soon”. It’s fair to say that Martial has failed to live up to the expectations at Manchester United this season and has not developed into the player he was expected to be when the Frenchman was signed by Louis Van Gaal from Monaco. Moreover, Manchester United’s attacking prowess is formidable with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Edinson Cavani, Mason Greenwood, Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Jesse Lingard so the side is expected to cut their losses short and let the 26 year old leave if a suitable offer comes their way.

Manchester United’s new interim manager Ralf Rangnick has already stated that it is not his job or anyone else at the club to convince any player of staying at the club. The 63 year old said “Players have to want to stay and play for the club, for a big club like Manchester United, if a player does not want to play for a club like Manchester United, even in the long term, I don't think it makes sense to convince him to change his mind. This is such a massive club [with] such fantastic support, I don't think that anyone in the club should then try to convince the player to stay”.

Also read: Steven Gerrard returns to Anfield while City, Chelsea, Arsenal and Man United expected to secure three points in the Premier League

Martial might not be the only Frenchman departing from the club in the foreseeable future as Paul Pogba’s contractual situation has been at a standstill for a long time and the midfielder is expected to leave for a free transfer in the summer window. Rangnick has already said he has spoken to Pogba this week but the midfielder is expected to be sidelined for another month. Pogba is currently undergoing warm-weather recovery in Dubai after suffering a thigh injury during international duty last month. 

Rangnick said, “He is better to come back today, and then we will get to know each other in person on Sunday. We had a telephone call for about 10 or 15 minutes. He told me he is getting better but obviously he is still not fully fit, so it will take another couple of weeks until he is fit for training again and then of course he has been idle for quite some time, so I guess it will take another couple of weeks to get match-fit. In the first instance it's important he gets fully fit in order to be able to train with the rest of the group and then we have to develop him physically and tactically to be fit to play in the Premier League."

Manchester United will next face Norwich City at Carrow Road on Saturday, 11th December at 11:00 pm IST.

New Delhi, Dec 9 (Badminton news) It can be intimidating to be hailed as the future of Indian badminton but young shuttler Aditi Bhatt, who has produced some good results in the past few months, is trying to steer clear of the pressure by focussing on her "strokes and stamina".

The 18-year-old from Uttarakhand made heads turn when she took a game off world No.13 Busanan Ongbamrungphan during India's clash with Thailand in the Uber Cup Final recently.

She lost the match in hard-fought three games but won a lot of hearts with her performance and many hailed her as someone who can bring the country laurels like star players Saina Nehwal and P V Sindhu.

"Sometimes, it can be intimidating when people say you are the future and we want to see you in the Olympics. People expect a lot from you but it's fine, there is no pressure. I am going with the flow," Aditi, who won two out of her four matches in Denmark, told PTI during an interaction.

"After winning two matches against higher ranked players (Ania Setien of Spain and Rachel Sugden of Scotland) I was confident but honestly I didn't think I will be able to pull off a set. I was playing well and she was under pressure as she was playing a junior. It turned out to be a great match.

"My instagram kept buzzing, even though I lost, my followers, everybody were messaging me, that feeling was massive. It was a confidence booster. I was getting so much appeciation." She carried the confidence to Hungarian International championships, where she reached the finals.

Aditi made it to the Indian team for the Sudirman Cup and Uber Cup Final after coming through the selection trials and she says it was a huge learning experience.

"It was a dream come true moment when I got selected for the Sudirman Cup and Uber Cup," said Aditi.

"I learnt a lot, just watching the seniors train, preparing before a match was a learning experience. All the seniors in the Indian team like Ashwini Ponnappa helped me a lot." Her first match was against the Olympic champion Chen Yu Fei and Aditi said it gave her an idea on what she needs to work on to be successful in the senior circuit.

"I was both excited and nervous to play Chen. Her court movement and accuracy was superb. While I was running, she was walking around the court. I have to work on my footwork, stamina, accuracy and strokes really well." It was winning an under-13 state championship as an 11-year-old that gave her the confidence that she would like to pursue sports but then came a phase when she couldn't reach the finals of the under-12, under-13 and under-15 nationals.

"I got so demotivated, I thought of quitting and focus on studies but my parents were supportive. They pushed me and I won the U-17 national championship in 2018," said Aditi, who shifted to the Sports Authority of India (SAI) academy in Almora to train under DK Sen in 2014.

"I shifted to the Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy (PPBA) in 2018 after coach Sen also moved there. I have been training there since." She had a good run in 2019 when she won the U-19 singles and doubles titles in All India Ranking, reached the quarters at the World Junior Championship in Russia.

She also won the doubles and reached the singles semifinals at the Dubai Junior International, claimed the doubles crown in the Bulgarian Junior International Championships.

She soon rose to number 10 in the World Junior rankings and was set to compete at the Dutch and German Open but an ankle injury scuttled her plans before COVID-19 disrupted the calender.

"I had an achilles' heel injury. I was selected to play at Dutch and German junior but I ended up with three months rest and rehab," she said.

"I didn't play any event for a year and a half after that and the selection trials for the Thomas and Uber Cup and Sudirman Cup was my first event since the injury."

Also Read : Defending champion Momota pulls out of World Championships

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Dubai, Dec 8 (Cricket news) Senior India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin climbed a rung to second while his teammate and opener Mayank Agarwal, along with New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel also made huge progress in the ICC Test Rankings issued on Wednesday.

Agarwal's Player of the Match effort in the second Test in Mumbai, where he scored 150 and 62, has helped him gain 30 spots and reach 11th position in the latest update to the men's rankings.

He is just one spot below a career-best 10th position that he first attained in November 2019.

The Mumbai-born Patel, who became only the third player to take all 10 wickets in a Test innings, emulating Jim Laker and Anil Kumble, has moved up 23 slots to 38th after finishing with 14 wickets in the match.

The left-arm spinner’s previous best ranking was 53rd and he had started the series in 62nd position.

Others to move up in the rankings after the Mumbai Test, which was a part of the ICC World Championships, are India opener Shubman Gill (up 21 places to 45th), fast bowler Mohammad Siraj (up four places to 41st) and New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell (up 26 places to 78th).

Ashwin has bridged the gap with top-ranked bowler Pat Cummins after finishing with four wickets in each innings in India's 372-run victory.

Ashwin has gained 43 rating points to reach a total of 883 and is 67 points ahead of third-placed Josh Hazlewood.

He has moved up one place to second among all-rounders even as his compatriot Ravindra Jadeja has slipped to fourth in the list led by West Indies’ Jason Holder.

Holder has gained one spot to reach 14th among bowlers in Wednesday’s update, that also considers performances from the Galle Test that Sri Lanka won by 164 runs to complete a 2-0 series victory and remain atop the ICC World Test Championship points table.

Kraigg Brathwaite (up 10 places to 39th) and Nkrumah Bonner (up 17 places to 42nd) are the batters to move up for the West Indies but the one to gain the most after the Galle Test is Player of the Match Dhananjaya de Silva, who has advanced 12 places to 21st after his unbeaten 155 in the second innings.

Spinners Lasith Embuldeniya and Ramesh Mendis too have made substantial gains. Embuldeniya has gained five slots to reach 32nd position after finishing with seven wickets in the match, while Mendis has progressed 18 places to 39th with an 11-wicket match haul.

Among batters, Rohit Sharma, who did not play in the Mumbai Test, and Virat Kohli (0 and 36) remained on fifth and sixth respectively.

Also Read : Captain Cummins grabs maiden Ashes fifer to give massively swing the game Australia's way at the Gabba

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Dubai, Dec 7 (Cricket news) Explosive Australia opener David Warner, Pakistan batter Abid Ali and New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee were on Tuesday shortlisted for the ICC men's player of the month award for November.

Left-arm spinners Anam Amin of Pakistan and Nahida Akter of Bangladesh are in the running to scoop the women's award, alongside West Indies all-rounder Haley Matthews, who is nominated for the second time.

The nominations for the month of November were announced based on performances across formats and including matches from the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and Oman.

An independent ICC Voting Academy and fans around the world can vote to decide the winners, which will be announced next week. Fans are invited to cast their votes until Sunday.

Warner, who was Player of the Tournament at the T20 World Cup, had standout performances of 49 in the semifinal against Pakistan and 53 in the final against New Zealand.

In four T20Is during the period, he aggregated 209 runs at an average of 69.66 and a strike rate of 151.44, proving to be a crucial figure as his team secured their first ICC Men's T20 World Cup trophy.

Pakistan opener Abid Ali was named Player of the Match after scores of 133 and 91 in the first match of their ICC World Test Championship (WTC) series against Bangladesh in Chittagong.

Southee took eight wickets in the drawn opening Test of the WTC series against India in Kanpur, soon after excelling in the shortest format.

He had taken seven wickets during his November matches at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, helping guide his team to the summit clash in Dubai. In between these two milestones, he took three more T20I wickets against India in Ranchi.

Among the nominees for the women's award, Bangladesh's Nahida grabbed 13 wickets in four ODIs during the period at an economy rate of 2.22.

Pakistan's Anam accounted for 13 ODI scalps in November at an economy rate of 3.00. She was the leading wicket-taker in the ODI series against the West Indies with nine wickets and followed that up with four wickets in two matches during the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2021.

West Indies all-rounder Hayley Matthews, who was shortlisted alongside her captain Stafanie Taylor in July, wins her second nomination after some consistent performances in four ODIs in which she scored 141 runs and grabbed nine wickets at an average of 13.11.

Also Read : England gear up to take on the Gabba challenge without Jimmy Anderson and Johnny Bairstow

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Mumbai, Dec 6 (Cricket news) India did to us what we have done to the other teams around the world, New Zealand stand-in skipper Tom Latham said on Monday after their whopping 372-run defeat against the hosts in the second Test.

After their tail-enders secured a thrilling draw in the Kanpur Test, New Zealand managed just 62 and 167 runs in the final game as India took less than an hour on fourth day morning to walk away with a massive 372-run win -- their biggest winning margin at home.

"It's one of those things in cricket where everything you do doesn't tend to work. It's one of those days," Latham, who led the side in the absence of an injured Kane Williamson, said at the post-match interaction.

"It happens in cricket. We have done that to teams at different times around the world. Unfortunately it was our time and things didn't quite unfold the way we would have wanted." Except the first innings in the Mumbai Test, New Zealand batters showed great character. Latham said they planned to attack the spinners but it did not work.

"Ross (Taylor) obviously had the approach where he wanted to put the bowlers under pressure. As soon as you do that, the sub-continent teams tend to take players from under the bat pretty quickly.

"Unfortunately for Ross, it didn't quite work out for him but I'm sure that was the plan Ross had getting into the innings," he said.

Wily off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who was adjudged Player-of-the-Series, was simply unplayable. He used the new ball and old ball with consummate ease to rattle their top-order and finish with 4/34.

Then spin all-rounder Jayant Yadav grabbed a career-best 4/49 to wipe out the Kiwi middle and lower order.

"In these conditions, you can't just allow them to bowl. They are very good. They are very accurate, and they don't give you much to hit.

"For us it was about trying to put a little bit more pressure on them to get a few more fielders away from the bat. Because you know they don't miss that often.

"For us it was about guys having a certain plan and being able to stick to that. If you have a plan and you get out, that's just the game of cricket. It's up to individuals how they approach their innings." Latham said a bit of discussion happened after they were bowled out for just 62 but that innings was an exception.

"It's something that we talked about with the character in the group and trying to have a presence and try to put in as much effort as you can. We've certainly done that over the last four days. If you take the first innings out of it, then obviously it's a little bit of a different story," he added.

Their batters failed both against the pace and spin attack and Latham said: "I think it's a mixture of everything.

"Over here, you're going to be faced with the seamers with the new ball, as well as you will be challenged with the spinners with the new ball. As cricketers, you're always looking to improve and I'm sure the guys would be looking to do that when they get home at different times." For New Zealand, Mumbai-born left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel was the only talking point. He finished with match figures of 14/225 for the best match haul in Test cricket for any visiting bowler in India which included a 10-for in the first innings.

In the first Test, it was their opener Will Young who impressed with a resolute 89 off 214 balls, while Indian-origin debutant Ravindra played a steely 18 off 91 balls under fading lights to help them eke out a draw.

"It's their -- Ravindra, Young and Ajaz -- first time in this part of the world, for them to step up at different times for us, and to make contributions throughout the series was outstanding," Latham said.

"It is great for the depth of New Zealand cricket to have more exposure in these conditions. The more you play in this part of the world, the more you sort of learn and are able to grow your game." For the reigning World Test champions, it has been a crammed calendar playing the India series less than a week after they lost the T20 World Cup final to Australia in Dubai.

Asked if the fatigue factor contributed to their loss, he said: "Different guys have been away from home for different periods of time." "The T20 guys have been away from home for a long time. But it's part of our job in International cricket and that's what we need to do." They have slumped to sixth place just ahead of laggards Bangladesh in the 2021-23 cycle. New Zealand will now play two Tests against Bangladesh at home.

Also Read : I can't judge Rahane's form, only he knows what he is going through: Kohli

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Dubai, Dec 6 (Cricket news) India on Monday reclaimed the top spot in the ICC rankings after winning the two-match series against New Zealand, the reigning World Test Champions. India beat New Zealand by 372 runs in the Mumbai Test on the fourth day after drawing the opening match in Kanpur.

India had lost to New Zealand in the World Test Championship final in June.

The Virat Kohli-led side now has 124 rating points and is followed by New Zealand (121), Australia (108), England (107), Pakistan (92), South Africa (88), Sri Lanka (83), West Indies (75), Bangladesh (49) and Zimbabwe (31).

On the WTC table, India are third with 42 points and win percentage of 58.33.

Sri Lanka lead the standings with two wins in as many games and Pakistan are second with win percentage of 66.66.

Also Read : MCA felicitates Ajaz Patel for his rare feat

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(Tennis news) Aslan Karatsev had three tour level victories before playing this year and now he has ended with 37 career wins. He started the season at No. 112 in the rankings and is currently ranked 18. The 28-year-old Russian created a sensation by reaching the semifinals of the Australian Open as a qualifier, becoming the first man in the open era to reach the last four in a Grand Slam debut. He defeated Diego Schwartzman, Felix Auger-Aliassime and Grigor Dimitrov on his way to the semifinal where he lost to Novak Djokovic.

Karatsev is a right hander with a two handed backhand, his aggressive style makes him lethal in hardcourts. Since he is a risk taker in most of the matches the unforced errors are winners are more. Karatsev hits the ball flat but hard down the court and at times finishes with a well set up volley. He takes the ball on the rise and does not give the opponent much time to move around the court. Karatsev is not the fastest mover on the court but has groundstrokes from both the ends which can give him winners.

While winning the title in Dubai, Karatsev earned his second top 10 win when he defeated Andrey Rublev in the semifinals. His biggest win came at Belgrade where he defeated Novak Djokovic to reach the final and lost in the final to Matteo Berrettini. He also beat Daniil Medvedev in their only career meeting at Rome Masters 1000 in the third round, Karatsev had a 16-3 win/loss record on hard courts in the first quarter of the season. In the next 12 events, he failed to reach the quarterfinals until at San Diego where lost to Dimitorv in the last eight and then won at Moscow defeating Marin Cilic in the final.

Karatsev is nominated in the most improved player of the year along with Carlos Alcaraz, Cameron Norrie and Casper Ruud. Karatsev is the oldest of the four as he is 28 but along with two singles titles and a runner up, he also won one doubles title at Doha along with a runner up finish in Indian Wells all with Andrey Rublev. The ATP cup was also won by Russia where Karatsev played in the doubles but lost all the three matches he played.

Karatsev is currently playing doubles at the Davis Cup for Russia and has won all the three matches he has played so far with Rublev. Russia will be playing against Germany today in the semifinals of the Davis Cup and will look to win a third title. It has been a great year for Russian tennis fans as there are two players in the top five and a total of four players in the top 30.

Also read: Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic steer Croatia into the final of the Davis Cup

Nassau (Bahamas), Dec 2 (Golf news) With an eye on the top spot in the rankings list, Collin Morikawa will aim to end his impressive 2021 campaign on a high at the Hero World Challenge golf tournament but standing in his way is field studded with major champions and PGA Tour winners, including the likes of a resurgent Rory McIlroy.

The tournament, which was cancelled last year due to the pandemic, will include two additional players after the field was permanently expanded from 18 to 20 this year.

Tournament host Tiger Woods, who is still recovering his near-fatal car crash in February, will not be competing but the veteran golfer has assembled plenty of star-power for the event.

World No. 2 Morikawa, who will make his maiden appearance, heads into the Albany Golf Club on the back of a sensational year that includs winning his second Major (the Open Championship) besides clinching the Ryder Cup and claiming the European Tour’s season-long points race, the Race to Dubai.

The 24-year-old, who joined Woods as the only player to win a major and WGC before turning 25, could end the year as the top ranked golfer, overthrowing Spaniard Jon Rahm with a win here.

Asked how he will approach the tournament Morikawa said, "I could have thought about scenarios and obviously there's one scenario here, I have to win, but I've got to focus on the tournament." “I said it all two weeks ago in Dubai, I've got to be ready on Thursday. I've got to be ready once I tee it up and that's the focus.” However, Morikawa will face stiff competition from four-time majors winner McIlroy who will also be making his debut.

The world No. 8 from Northern Ireland seems to have found his mojo back after an inconsistent run earlier this year. He won the CJ Cup in October. He was agonisingly close to winning the DP World Tour Championship but a bad break in the final round saw him finish sixth last month.

Talking about his year, McIlroy said,"Obviously there was a stretch during the year where I didn't feel like I was playing my best and went on a different path in terms of sort of looking for answers and came back sort of down that road, came back up that road and learned some things.

"Feel like I'm certainly a more like a wiser player than I was maybe nine months ago. It's been a year where I've struggled in parts, but I still got two wins on Tour, which is still pretty good. I got myself -- I was tied for the lead with nine holes to go in the U.S. Open.

“I played well in parts, I just didn't do it consistently enough. I go back to 2019 and had like 19 top-10 finishes or whatever it is, that's the level I want to play at.” Tokyo Olympics gold medallist Xander Schauffele will also be eager to register a win on the Tour.

The world No. 5 from USA has had eight top-10 finishes, including three second place finishes but a victory has eluded him.

Others in the field include three-time major winner Jordan Speith, Justin Thomas, Bryson DeChambeau, Viktor Hovland, Patrick Cantlay and defending champion Sweden’s Henrik Stensen, who will look retain his title.

The tournament purse is USD 3.5 million and the winner gets USD 1 million.

Also Read : Chadha on top with 63 on rain-marred opening day

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Dubai, Dec 1 (Cricket news) Lancer Capital, headed by top English football club Manchester United's co-chairman Avram Glazer, has made its first foray into cricket by acquiring a franchise in the UAE Lleague.

UAE T20 League chairman and vice-chairman of Emirates Cricket Board, Khalid Al Zarooni, welcomed Glazer into the league.

"To have a partner who has invested into sports properties with a long term investment perspective is a testament to the strength of the UAE T20 League's business model and its value proposition to its stakeholders," Zarooni said in a release.

Lancer Capital has investments in a variety of best-in-class assets. Glazer is an owner of the Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He has also been the co-chairman of Manchester United since 2005.

Lancer Capital chairman Glazer said, "I am very excited to be a part of UAE T20 at its formation. UAE T20 promises to be a world class event that will be transformative to the growth of cricket in the Emirates."

Also Read : Who will make way for Virat Kohli? Rahul Dravid's big selection headache ahead of the Mumbai Test against New Zealand

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Dec 1 (Cricket News) Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli continued to be best-placed Indians in the batting chart, while off-spinner Ravichandra Ashwin also held on to the second spot among bowlers in the latest ICC Test Player ranking release on Wednesday.

While Rohit (5th), Kohli (6th) and Ashwin retained their spots, pacer Jasprit Bumrah slipped one place to the 10th position.

Save Ashwin, all the other three players were not part of the first Test against New Zealand which ended in a draw in Kanpur on Monday.

Debutant Shreyas Iyer's Player-of-the-Match effort of 105 and 65 helped him enter the batting rankings in 74th position, while opener Shubman Gill (up six places to 66th) and Wriddhiman Saha (up nine places to 99th) also made notable progress after notching half-centuries in the first Test.

Ravindra Jadeja is up two places to 19th among bowlers with five wickets in the match and is also up one place to second among all-rounders. Ashwin is the third-ranked all-rounder and 79th among batters.

For New Zealand, Tom Latham's knocks of 95 and 52 placed him back in the top 10 among batters as he goes up from 14th to ninth.

Kyle Jamieson is ninth among bowlers, his three wickets in each innings resulting in a gain of six places.

Tim Southee has gained 15 rating points to reach within one point of second-placed Ashwin (840) after his eight-wicket match haul.

The latest weekly update also includes the first Test between Sri Lanka and the West Indies at Galle, which the hosts won by 187 runs and the opening Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Afridi made it to the top five for the first time in his career after a fine show in the first Test which his side won by eight wickets.

The 21-year-old left-arm bowler, who grabbed seven wickets including a haul of five for 32 in the second innings of the Chittagong Test, has moved up three places to fifth position after overtaking James Anderson, Kagiso Rabada and Neil Wagner.

Shaheen's new-ball partner Hasan Ali jumped five places to a career-best 11th after finishing with a similar seven-wicket match haul that included a five-for in the first innings.

Among batters, Abid Ali may have missed out on a century in each innings but his scores of 133 and 91 helped him shoot up 27 slots to a career-best 20th position, while Abdullah Shafique enters the rankings at 83rd with scores of 52 and 73.

For Bangladesh, Mushfiqur Rahim is up four places to 19th with scores of 91 and 16, while Liton Das has moved up 26 places to a career-best 31st position after accruing 114 and 59.

Left-arm spinner Taijul Islam has progressed two places to 23rd after an eight-wicket match haul that included seven scalps in the first innings.

Sri Lanka, whose win in their first match of the ICC Test Championship put them on top of the table, also had some improvements after the Galle Test.

Captain Dimuth Karunaratne's Player-of-the-Match effort of 147 and 83 has lifted him four places to seventh, while Angelo Mathews (up two places to 23rd) and Dinesh Chandimal (up four places to 46th) have also moved up. 

Also Read : We need to be tighter with our line and length in Mumbai: Ajaz Patel

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Dubai, Nov 30 (Cricket News) India batters Mithali Raj and Smriti Mandhana held on to their third and sixth spots respectively while allrounder Deepti Sharma was also steady at the fifth position in the latest ICC women's ODI rankings released on Tuesday.

While Mithali had 738 points, Smriti had 710 points in her kitty in the batting ranking, which had South Africa's Lizelle Lee at the top with 761 points.

West Indies duo of Stafanie Taylor and Hayley Matthews have risen in ODI batting and all-rounder rankings respectively.

The pair stood up for their side in Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier action, with Taylor moving into the top ten in batting (676) and holding on to her No.4 all-rounder ranking (319), as her teammate moved to equal eighth.

Matthews moved to her highest career rating (272) joining England's Katherine Brunt and New Zealand's Jess Jonassen in a three-way tie.

Taylor is only bettered by Marizanne (384), Natalie Sciver (372) and Ellyse Perry (365).

Deepti was fifth with 299 points in the list. 

Also Read : South Africa promises secure bio-bubble for Team India; appreciates BCCI for continuing 'A' tour

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New Delhi, Nov 25 (Badminton news) India's Lakshya Sen is set to become the youngest shuttler from the country to qualify for the season-ending HSBC BWF World Tour Finals which will be held in Bali, Indonesia from December 1.

The 20-year-old from Almora has enjoyed an impressive run on the BWF world tour and is currently ranked fifth in the World Tour rankings.

He will join Kidambi Srikanth (ranked 3rd) in the men's singles competition, two-time Olympic medallist P V Sindhu (4th) in women's singles and women's doubles pair of Ashwini Ponnappa and N Sikki Reddy (6th) at the event, which was shifted from Guangzhou to Bali due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Srikanth, Sameer Verma, Sindhu and London bronze- medallist Saina Nehwal have competed in the year-ending tournament in the past.

While Sindhu is the only Indian to win the BWF World Tour Finals in 2018, Saina had reached the summit clash of the BWF Superseries Finals in 2011.

Srikanth and Sameer have reached the knockout stage but couldn't enter the finals.

Lakshya, who claimed five titles in 2019 before COVID-19 suspended the international circuit, has been on a roll with a final finish at Dubai Open and semifinal results at Denmark Masters and Hylo Open.

In the Indonesia leg, Lakshya couldn't progress deep in the draw after losing twice to top seed and two-time world champion Kento Momota of Japan.

The official list of players qualifying for the World Tour Final will be announced after the conclusion of the ongoing Indonesia open Super 1000 event.

The top eight players and pairs for each category in the Road to Bali Rankings will be invited to compete, where only a maximum of two players or pairs per Member Association are eligible to participate in the World Tour Finals.

Also Read : Sindhu cruises into Indonesia Open quarterfinals

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 24 (Cricket news) India opener KL Rahul gained a slot to occupy the fifth spot while middle-order batter Suryakumar Yadav galloped 24 places to the 59th position in the ICC men's T20I player rankings released on Wednesday.

Pakistan's wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan, too, gained a slot to occupy the fourth position.

Rizwan's upward movement is courtesy his 90 runs in the three-match series against Bangladesh that his side won 3-0, while opener Rahul is only six rating points behind after scoring 80 in two matches against New Zealand, a series also won 3-0 by India.

New Zealand's Martin Guptill has gained three slots to reach 10th position scoring 152 runs against India while Rohit Sharma is 13th, gaining two places after topping the series with 159 runs.

Pakistan's Fakhar Zaman is another one to move up the batters' list, from 40th to 35th.

The rankings for bowlers see Mitchell Santner gain 10 slots to reach 13th position with four wickets in the series against India and Bhuvneshwar Kumar up five to 19th with three scalps. Deepak Chahar has moved up 19 slots to reach 40th position.

Others to progress in the list include Mahedi Hasan (up six places to 12th) and Shoriful Islam (up three places to 40th) of Bangladesh, and the Pakistan pair of Shadab Khan (up two places to 14th) and Hasan Ali (up 16 places to 44th).

Also Read : Heroic Harmanpreet Kaur becomes the first Indian to win the WBBL Player of the Tournament award

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 23 (Cricket news) India captain Mithali Raj retained her number three spot among batters while her veteran compatriot Jhulan Goswami maintained her second position among bowlers in the ICC women's ODI rankings issued on Tuesday.

Raj, who has 738 rating points to her kitty, is behind Lizelle Lee (761) of South Africa and Alyssa Healy (750) of Australia as there was no change in the top-10 batters from the previous rankings.

Another India batter Smriti Mandhana also remained on sixth spot with 710 points.

Among the bowlers, Goswami (727) is behind leader Jess Jonassen (760) of Australia.

Pakistan left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu climbed four places to 17th spot after her impressive figures of 2/24 against Bangladesh in the ICC Women's World Cup Qualifier in Zimbabwe on Sunday.

Bangladesh batters were also among the top gainers with Fargana Hoque and Rumana Ahmed making significant progress.

Hoque's 90-ball 45 that laid the foundation for Bangladesh's victory helped her gain one slot to reach the 25th position, whereas Rumana Ahmed, who remained unbeaten on 50 climbed five places to reach the 29th spot.

Also Read : Ireland Women to face West Indies at first World Cup Qualifier

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Phuket (Thailand), Nov 23 (Golf news) Veteran golfer Jeev Milkha Singh, Shiv Kapur and Rashid Khan are among 14 Indian players who will compete at the Blue Canyon Phuket Championship as action is set to resume on the Asian Tour after 20 months.

The event, carrying a purse of one million dollars, will be held from November 25 to 28 at the par-72 Blue Canyon Country Club.

India will have as many as 14 players in the 144-man field, which signals a new era for Asian Tour, which now has a tie up with Greg Norman-led Liv Golf Investments, who have committed to 10 events of a one million dollars each in the season 2022.

Ajeetesh Sandhu, S Chikkarangappa, Viraj Madappa, Aman Raj, SSP Chawrasia, Honey Baisoya, Udayan Mane, Khalin Joshi, Aadil Bedi, Karandeep Kochhar and Veer Ahlawat are the other Indians in the fray.

The Dubai-based Kapur, who just won the Jeev Milkha Singh International on the Indian Tour, said, "It will be nice to see action on the Asian Tour once again." "It's been a long time and I am glad many of the youngsters and newcomers who were eager for competition in 2020 never got to see any of it since March 2020. The events in Thailand and Singapore should be a good start as the Asian Tour promises much more with its new tie-ups." Ajeetesh Sandhu and SSP Chawrasia did see some starts in Europe during the pandemic, but were both happy to see tournaments return to the Asian Tour.

"It is great for Asian golfers and youngsters,” said Chawrasia, a six-time winner on the Asian Tour. “We hear a strong schedule will be in place next year, so lets see how it goes.” India’s Khalin Joshi and Chikkarangappa S have also tasted wins recently on the Indian Tour and are in fine form.

The top contenders include American John Catlin, who has had a great season in Europe, Korean prodigy Joohyung Kim, Thai master and reigning Order of Merit champion Jazz Janewattananond and Malaysian star Gavin Green.

Catlin is the highest world ranked player in the field at 123 and he has won win three events on the European Tour.

The current Order of Merit leader Wade Ormsby of Australia who won the 2020 Hong Kong Open will also return to challenge for more honours. Korean sensation Joohyung Kim, who won the Panasonic Open India in only his sixth start on the Asian Tour, is also one of the fan favourites and Thai hotshots include Sadom Kaewkanjana and Phachara Khongwatmai.

Also Read : Sandhu clinches maiden title with dominating final round of 64

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 22 (Cricket news) The ICC on Monday asserted that a two-year T20 Word Cup cycle is important for the growth of the game as it is the format that is contested by all the members.

The global governing body last week announced the schedule of ICC events from 2024-2031 with a tournament slated to be played every year.

"We've got different events in different formats. I think the decision to play T20 World Cups every two years is a conscious one to try and position T20 as the growth format of the game across all of our members," ICC CEO Geoff Allardice said, replying to PTI's query during a media round table.

"The tournament we've just finished in the UAE and Oman was the first one in five years which, given the amount of T20 International cricket being played and the fact that so many of our members are playing that format, is too long.

"The aim is to get it on a two-year rotation so that in terms of that event that becomes a more consistent frequency.” Talking about the ICC Champions trophy which was last held in 2017 and will next be played in 2025, Allardice said the tournament is a "focal point" for ODI cricket midway the four-year World Cup cycle.

"In terms of the Champions Trophy it's a very popular, well supported event. I think it's short and sharp and you know, high entertainment in the ODI format and it also provides a focal point for ODI cricket in the midway between the Cricket World Cup cycle of four years.” In the recent T20 Word Cup, there was a trend that teams winning the toss and opting to bowl would emerge victorious. Asked about it, Allardice assured that the same wouldn’t be the case during the next edition.

“One of the things about cricket is that when a certain trend establishes itself, the teams and opponents work out a way to counter that. I think if there's a perception that winning the toss, winning the game existed in this tournament, I'm sure when the teams gather in Australia in 12 months the dynamic will be different.

“And I think, whether it's tactics, talking to various people, it didn't seem to be one obvious reason why that was the case. And I'm sure that coaches and the analysts and the players will work out a way to counter that.” ICC encouraging Afghanistan to take inclusive approach =================================== A Working Group was set up last week by the ICC to review the status of cricket in Afghanistan in the light of recent political developments in that country.

ICC chair Greg Barclay asserted that the body will continue to support Afghanistan as member of the ICC while encouraging them to continue to take an inclusive approach to cricket.

“At the moment Afghanistan are a full member of the ICC. Now, the position is that we want to continue to help them with the cricket programmes in the country, both men’s and women’s.

“We will continue to do that. Having said that there are certain criteria that any country needs to comply with to remain a member of the ICC, we haven't seen the transgression of the membership criteria.

“We will continue to support them as member of the ICC, and encourage them to continue to take an inclusive approach to cricket and continue the progress that's being made and that includes men’s and women's cricket. And if that is the case, we will do what we can to support them.” Cultural assessment to be held annually by the ICC ================================ The ICC had put Former CEO Manu Sawhney on forced leave after a workplace culture investigation earlier this year, subsequent to which he resigned from the post.

Shedding light on the investigation, Barclay said, "The ICC took a cultural assessment for two reasons. One, it’s good governance to have an ongoing sanitary check into how the organisation is operating, which is what we did.

"And secondly, the last few years, through COVID, have been difficult particularly at a board level, so we just want to make sure that the other key tenants have a good operating board, trust, free speech, communication, all of those things were where they should be.” Barclay added that he plans to undertake a cultural assessment every year.

“Cultural assessments are pretty usual, certainly, as far as I'm concerned in terms of ensuring best practice procedures are followed. I'll be carrying out probably on an annual basis." Discrimination has no place in the sport: ICC on racism =================================== With English cricket being rocked by allegations of racism, the ICC maintained that it doesn't stand for discrimination of any kind.

Former Yorkshire player Azeem Rafiq has alleged several former English internationals and the club of racism.

“It's something we have been watching really closely and watching with the degree of interest, cricket is for everybody, it's an inclusive sport. And we've got to ensure that we do everything that we can to support our members if they go through issues like this,” Barclay said.

“Discrimination has no place in the sport of any kind. We'll do everything we can to support all of our members.

"We accept we've got 106 of them at various stages and phases in terms of the way they promote the sports. The various issues will come along from time to time, we'll do whatever we can to ensure that we achieve those core values and objectives of this organization."

Also Read : ICC confident teams will have no problem playing 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan

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Dubai, Nov 22 (Cricket news) The ICC is confident that teams will have no reservations travelling to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy despite over a decade-long scepticism about playing in that part of the world.

The ICC last week awarded the hosting rights of the 2025 Champions Trophy to Pakistan. It will mark the return of major cricketing event to Pakistan after more than two decades.

The last time Pakistan had an ICC event on its soil was when it co-hosted the 1996 World Cup along with India and Sri Lanka.

It has not been able to host many international games in the country since the 2009 terrorist attack on Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore.

"The answer is, from what we can see so far, absolutely (teams will travel)," ICC chair Greg Barclay said replying to PTI's query during a media roundtable.

"ICC cricket event is coming back to Pakistan after many years. All of it with the exception of what happened in the last few weeks has gone ahead without any any issues at all," added Barclay, who was joined by ICC CEO Geoff Allardice.

In September, New Zealand and England had pulled out of their bilateral tours to Pakistan due to security concerns.

Barclay insisted that the governing body wouldn't have awarded the hosting rights to Pakistan if it wasn't confident of the event going ahead successfully.

"So, we wouldn't have awarded the event if we didn't think the Pakistan were capable of hosting it.

"We think it's an exciting opportunity, a prospect for them to be able to host a world's event for the first time for a period of quite a period of time." "It's not until 2025 and I'm sure that they will, as all countries are required to do, put together the appropriate security plans and assurances to ensure that they can been as delivered.

"So yes, we were comfortable and confident that we'll go ahead," Barclay added.

India's participation in the tournament remains a doubt as no bilateral cricket has taken place between the two neighbours since 2012 due to diplomatic tensions after terror attacks in India.

Sports Minister Anurag Thakur last week said a decision on India's participation in the Champions Trophy will be taken when the time comes as there are still security issues for international teams to tour the neighbouring country.

Barclay acknowledged that it will be challenging issue to work through and hoped the cricket could bring improvement in the relations between the two neighbours.

"We know that it is particularly challenging issue to work through. I mean, from my point of view, I can't control geopolitical forces are working on what we do.

"But I just hope that cricket can be forced to perhaps help improve relationships between them.

"One of the great things that sport can do is to help to bring people in nations together. So,if we can do something and in a small way to contribute to that, then that's fantastic," he added.

Also Read : With Shubman set for new middle-order slot, India to modify Test match ploy

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Kolkata, Nov 22 (Cricket news) Ravichandran Ashwin is "always an attacking option" in the middle overs of a T20I match when a team needs wickets, India captain Rohit Sharma said of the seasoned off-spinner.

Rohit, the newly-appointed T20 skipper, picked his team's bowling as the biggest positive in the 3-0 sweep of New Zealand.

Having made a splendid white-ball comeback after four years in the T20 World Cup earlier this month, the 35-year-old Ashwin made quite an impact in the three-match series against the Kiwis, giving crucial breakthroughs while restricting the runs in the middle overs.

"He's always an attacking option for a captain. When you have someone like him in your squad, it always gives you the opportunity to take wickets in the middle and we understand how important that phase is," Rohit said.

The captain was speaking at the post-match press conference after their seven-wicket win over New Zealand in the final T20 at Eden Gardens on Sunday night.

"It's been a great comeback ever since he played in Dubai and till now. He's a quality bowler, we all know that.

"Over the years he's proved himself with the red ball and even in white ball he doesn't have a bad record. The way he has come back and bowled in Dubai and then two games here. It shows the quality that he has." Ashwin returned with tidy figures of 4-0-23-2 and 4-0-19-1 in Jaipur and Ranchi. Along with Axar Patel, he restricted the run flow in the middle overs.

"You know, that's where (middle overs) you need to put the brakes on the run rate, the scoring rate and try and keep taking wickets so I think Ashwin provides that to us in the middle along with Axar.

"Both of these guys are wicket-taking options in the middle and the goal is never about surviving, it's always about 'how I can get the batter out or how I can put the pressure on the batter'.

"That's what they come up with all the time. So it's always a good option for a captain to have someone like them in the middle, bowling those crucial overs and trying to put the pressure back on the opposition by taking wickets," Rohit said.

Asked what the new regime, under Rahul Dravid and himself, did to turn things around after their T20 World Cup debacle, Rohit said: "We're trying to create a healthy atmosphere in the team, trying to give players the security so that they can go out and play fearlessly.

"The first meeting that we had, we spoke of this very clearly to all the players that if you're trying to do something for the team, that act will never go unnoticed.

"It will always be recognised when you're trying to put up your hand and take the pressure on yourself and try to do something for the team. That is the job of the captain and the coach to tell the players that we do understand what you're trying to do for the team, you go and take your chances.

"With the talent we have in India, it's not easy, you have to see so many options. You try and fit everyone into the squad but only 11 can play so it's not easy.

"It's always tough but we will try our best to ensure that whenever the players step out they don't have any baggage," he said about the duo's philosophy going forward." Opting to bat, Rohit struck 56 off 31 balls while Ishan Kishan made 29 off 21 deliveries as India posted 184/7 in the final game of the series.

In reply, New Zealand were bundled out for 111 following a fine effort by the bowlers and fielders.

"Bowling was our biggest plus in the series. We came back really in the first two matches after explosive starts by New Zealand. To restrict such a strong New Zealand batting lineup in the 160-mark is really commendable." He also stressed on saving those extra runs on the field.

"We did well in all the three games. Whenever I go ground, I always want to think how much runs we have saved and in all the three matches we have saved about 15 runs and also had two run outs today."

Also Read : Venkatesh's bowling important going forward: Rohit

News Source : PTI

Kolkata, Nov 21 (Cricket news) Newly-appointed India chief coach Rahul Dravid says the 3-0 result over New Zealand augurs well for the team in the long-run but at the same time, he is realistic enough to not read too much into the overall outcome with Black Caps having to play the series three days after the T20 World Cup final.

Some of the key players from both teams were rested for the series as part of workload management.

"It was a really good series win. Everyone played really well right through the series. It feels good, nice to start well. We are also quite realistic. We have to keep our feet on the ground and be a bit realistic about this win," Dravid said at the post-match presentation here.

The series was also Dravid's first assignment as head coach.

The Kiwis had reached Jaipur for the series opener less than 24 hours after losing the World Cup final to Australia in Dubai.

"Not easy for NZ to play a World Cup final and then to turn up three days later and play three games in six days, was never going to be easy for them. It was nice from our perspective but we have to learn from this series and move forward.

"It's a long journey ahead over the next two years and we'll have our share of ups and downs." India also rested some of their crucial players including the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja. New Zealand gave rest to their skipper Kane Williamson.

India also gave debut caps to IPL performers Venkatesh Iyer (Kolkata Knight Riders) and Harshal Patel (Royal Challengers Bangalore) in the series.

"It's been really good to see some of the young guys come through. We have given opportunities to some of the boys who haven't played a lot of cricket over the last few months.

"We have seen some of the skills available to us and we have to keep building on those skills as we go forward. It's going to be a long season between now and the next World Cup being realistic with how much cricket some of our experienced players will play," Dravid signed off.

Also Read : Rohit guides India to clean sweep in his first series as full-time captain

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 21 (Cricket news) Australian Geoff Allardice has been appointed as permanent CEO of the International Cricket Council after serving the role on an interim basis for more than eight months, the game's governing body said on Sunday.

Allardice thus replaced Manu Sawhney, who had resigned from his position in July.

"It's a great privilege to be appointed as the CEO of the ICC and I would like to thank Greg and the ICC Board for the opportunity to lead the sport as we enter an exciting new phase of growth," Allardice said in a release issued by the governing body.

"My continued focus will be on doing the right thing for our sport and working closely with members to deliver long-term success and sustainability.

"I would also like to thank the ICC staff for their commitment and support over the last eight months and I'm looking forward to continuing to serve cricket with such a talented team." Allardice, a former Australian first-class cricketer and administrator, was the ICC General Manager, Cricket for eight years. He had previously held a similar role at Cricket Australia.

"I am delighted that Geoff has agreed to take the role of ICC CEO on a permanent basis," Greg Barclay, ICC Chair said.

"He has shown tremendous leadership during an extremely challenging period culminating in the successful delivery of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021.

"Geoff has unrivaled knowledge of the global cricket landscape and its stakeholders and has consistently demonstrated he is the right person to work in partnership with our members to shape the sport for the next decade as we embark on delivering a new strategy and our next commercial rights cycle." Sawhney had been sent on "leave" in March pending an inquiry after he came under scrutiny for his "abrasive behaviour" with colleagues. He eventually resigned from his position in July.

Also Read : Better bats, smaller boundaries reducing bowlers to virtual bowling machine: Chappell

News Source : PTI

Srinagar, Nov 20 (Sports news) Jammu and Kashmir alpine skier Arif Mohammed Khan has qualified for the 2022 Winter Olympics to be held in Beijing.

Khan, who hails from North Kashmir, booked the Winter Games ticket in an Olympic qualifier alpine skiing event in Dubai. He has earlier represented the country in many international events, including World Championships.

"Arif Khan qualified for Beijing Winter Olympcs in ski and snow board," Indian Olympic Association Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said in a tweet.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah congratulated Khan on qualifying for the winter sports showpiece.

"Congratulations Arif, well done for qualifying for #Beijing2022. We will all be rooting for you," Abdullah tweeted.

The Winter Olympics will be held in Beijing from February 4 to 20.

Also Read : Olympian sailor Vishnu Saravanan aims Asiad gold after best finish by an Indian in World C'ships

News Sourcee : PTI

Dubai, Nov 20 (Cricket news) Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali was on Saturday reprimanded for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct, while Bangladesh were fined 20 per cent of their match fees for maintaining slow over-rate during the first T20I in Dhaka.

The incident occurred in the 17th over of Bangladesh’s innings, when Hasan gave an inappropriate sendoff to batter Nurul Hasan after dismissing him caught behind the wicket.

Hasan was found to have breached Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to "using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an International Match." "In addition to this, one demerit point has been added to the disciplinary record of Hasan, for whom it was the first offence in a 24-month period," the ICC said in a statement.

Bangladesh players have been fined 20 per cent of their match fees for maintaining slow over-rate in the match as they were ruled to be one over short of the target after time allowances were taken into consideration.

"In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined 20 per cent of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time," the ICC said.

Hasan and Bangladesh captain Mahmudullah admitted the offences and accepted the sanctions proposed by Neeyamur Rashid of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees and ratified by the ICC Cricket Operations department as per the COVID-19 interim playing regulations. There was no need for formal hearing.

On-field umpires Sharfudoulla Ibne Shahid and Masudur Rahman, third umpire Gazi Sohel and fourth official Tanvir Ahmed levelled the charges.

Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player's match fee, and one or two demerit points.

Also Read : Ready for clean sweep, Rohit's India may try new combinations

News Source : PTI

Jaipur, Nov 17 (Cricket news) Venkatesh Iyer has walked into the Indian team's dressing room with an open mind and he aims to absorb everything that the legendary head coach Rahul Dravid has to offer.

Venkatesh, an IPL sensation this year, has been fast-tracked into the national T20 side, being a pace bowling all-rounder, and is expected to keep No. 1 choice Hardik Pandya on his toes.

"I just want to learn whatever I can with Rahul sir being a stalwart and he has lots to share," Venkatesh told 'bcci.tv' ahead of the T20 International against New Zealand.

"It's just about how we will pick things depending upon whats asked of us and I have come with a blank mind and whatever comes in, I will take it in that manner." Skipper Rohit Sharma has given him some valuable tips and it indeed was a special moment.

"If Rohit Sharma being one of the best batter in the world shares something with me, it's going to be special. I hope to enjoy each and every moment of this tournament," a beaming Venkatesh said.

"I spoke with the captain ,coach and had a word with Rishabh (Pant) as well. They were very welcoming and they welcomed me to the squad and gave me a lot of confidence and a little bit of pep talk on how to go about things," he added.

His first day at the nets wasn't a typical opening day as he has already been a net bowler during the T20 World Cup in Dubai.

"Not a typical opening day and I was welcomed with open arms which shows the culture of the team which is very good and they are very welcoming for a new player joining team.

"It was lovely for me to be there and I think I had a wonderful practice session today and we got to learn a lot. They are the pillars of how our batters are and huge credit to throw-down specialists as they have been doing a wonderful job in grooming the batters. I think its a wonderful place to be," the eloquent player from Indore said.

For Venkatesh, it's not about playing a few matches here and there, but to be in the team for a long period of time.

"I have been playing domestic cricket for sometime now and not just me but how my team (MP) has progressed that is the result that I am getting. The dream is not just to play for but to win tournaments for the country," he signed off.

Also Read : Rahul drops to 6th, Kohli static at 8th in latest ICC T20I rankings

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 17 (Cricket news) India's KL Rahul dropped a spot to sixth but Virat Kohli retained his eighth place in the latest ICC men's T20I rankings issued on Wednesday.

Rahul, who scored three consecutive half-centuries in India's last three matches at the recently-concluded T20 World Cup, has 727 points.

The 29-year-old, who has been appointed India's new T20 vice captain, scored 69, 50 and 54 not out against Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia but the knocks came too late for India as they exited the tournament in the Super 12 stage.

On the other hand, Kohli who has stepped down as India's T20 skipper, has 698 points and remains static on eighth.

Rahul and Kohli are the only Indians to feature in the top 10 in T20 rankings.

Among others, Australians Mitchell Marsh and David Warner made notable progress after helping their side win its first men's T20 World Cup in Dubai on Sunday.

All-rounder Marsh, who struck an impressive 77 not out off 50 balls to be named Player of the Match in the final against New Zealand, has progressed six spots to reach joint-13th position among batters.

While Player of the Tournament Warner’s scores of 49 against Pakistan in their semifinal and 53 in the final have helped him move up eight places to 33rd position.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, who top-scored in the final with a knock of 85, has gained seven places to reach 32nd position while Devon Conway is up three places to fourth position after scoring 46 against England in the first semifinal in Abu Dhabi.

Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman is up eight places to 40th following his unbeaten 55 against Australia in the second semifinal in Dubai and spinner Shadab Khan has moved up seven places to 16th position after bagging four for 16 in the same match.

Other bowlers to gain in the latest update include Australia leg-spinner Adam Zampa, who is up two places to third, and fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, whose haul of three for 16 in the final sees him move up two places to sixth position.

New Zealand’s left-arm seamer Trent Boult is up seven places to 14th position after taking two for 18 in the final while Pat Cummins (up 24 places to 37th) and Chris Woakes (up 21 places to 46th) have also moved up the bowlers’ list.

England’s Liam Livingstone is up seven places to third among all-rounders.

Meanwhile, Canada batter Navneet Dhaliwal’s consistent performances in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Americas Regional Qualifier have lifted him 36 places to 36th position. Dhaliwal’s scores included 65 against Panama, 49 against Argentina and 44 against Canada.

Also Read : India's ideal playing XI for the 1st T20I against New Zealand

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 17 (Cricket news) BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has been appointed as the Chairman of the ICC men's Cricket Committee, the game's governing body said on Wednesday.

Ganguly will replace fellow Indian Anil Kumble, who stepped down after serving a maximum of three, three-year terms.

"I am delighted to welcome Sourav to the position of Chair of the ICC Men's Cricket Committee," ICC Chair Greg Barclay said in a release.

"His experience as one of the world’s best players and latterly as an administrator will help us shape our cricketing decisions moving forward.

"I would also like to thank Anil for his outstanding leadership over the last nine years which has included improving the international game through more regular and consistent application of DRS and a robust process for addressing suspect bowling actions." The Board also approved that first-class status and list A classification will be applied to women's cricket to align with the men's game and applied retrospectively.

Going forward the ICC Women's Committee will be known as the ICC Women’s Cricket Committee and will assume all decision making responsibility for women's cricket reporting directly to the CEC.

Johnny Grave, CEO of Cricket West Indies has been appointed to the ICC Women’s Cricket Committee.

Also Read : Now captain and coach, Rohit and Dravid recall their first interaction in 2007

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 17 (Cricket news) Pakistan Cricket Board chief Ramiz Raja will be a part of the ICC Working Group appointed by the game's governing body to review the status of cricket in Afghanistan in light of the recent political developments in the country.

The group, comprising Imran Khwaja (Chair), Ross McCollum, Lawson Naidoo and Raja, will report back to the ICC Board over the coming months.

Afghanistan cricket was plunged into uncertainty due to the drastic changes in the political landscape following the takeover of the country by the Taliban.

Taliban's opposition to women's cricket also led to the postponement of the one-off Test of the men's team against Australia.

ICC Chair Greg Barclay said: "The ICC Board is committed to continuing to support Afghanistan Cricket to develop both men’s and women’s cricket moving forward.

"We believe the most effective way for this to happen will be to support our members in their efforts to achieve this through its relationship with the new government." Afghanistan, however, fought against all odds and grabbed a spot in the Super 12s for the 2022 T20 World Cup after winning two games out of five in the recently-concluded editions of the ICC event.

"Cricket is fortunate to be in the position to influence positive change in Afghanistan with the national men's team a source of great pride and unity in a country with a young population that has experienced more upheaval and change than most," Barclay said.

"We should protect that status and continue to try to influence change through the ACB but will continue to closely monitor the situation and take any decisions accordingly." In other updates, the ICC Board decided to continue "the ICC World Test Championship in its current form of a nine-team league over a two-year period with a final between the top two teams at the conclusion." The Board has also accepted Chief Executives' Committee's recommendation that the primary avenue for qualification for the event is based on rankings at a pre-determined cutoff date with the 10 highest-ranked teams on the ODI Rankings qualifying automatically, and the remainder being determined via a global qualifier."

Also Read : I'll be ready if I have to: Cummins on potential captaincy role during Ashes

news Source : PTI

Hyderabad, Nov 16 (Golf news) Her confidence on a high after winning the 10th leg of the Hero Women's Pro Golf Tour, Amandeep Drall, who had a fine season in Europe, would look to continue her fine form at the 12th event of the Tour to be played at the Hyderabad Golf Club here this week.

The tournament will carry a purse of Rs nine lakh.

Amandeep won the 10th leg at Chandigarh and was runner-up in the 11th leg at Panchkula. The event was won by amateur Avani Prashanth, who is not playing this week.

With many stars busy due to international engagements and the promising youngsters also skipping the event, Amandeep will face the big challenge from the seasoned Vani Kapoor, Gaurika Bishnoi and Ridhima Dilawari, besides the young Bakshi sisters -- Jahanvi and Hitaashee and also Pranavi Urs.

Among the amateurs who played for India at the Women's Amateur Asia-Pacific was Sneha Singh, who missed the cut in Dubai last week. She will be hoping to make up this week.

Among other past winners in this week's field are Pranavi, Lakhmehar Pardesi, Neha Tripathi and Seher Atwal.

The field includes four amateurs.

Amandeep leads the combined Hero Order of Merit for the truncated 2020 season and 2021.

Also Read : Varma finishes inside top-10 in Abu Dhabi

News Source :PTI

Dubai, Nov 16 (Cricket news) Major cricket event will return to Pakistan after more than two decades with the country set to host the 2025 Champions Trophy, an ICC flagship tournament.

The ICC board on Tuesday awarded the hosting rights of the 2025 Champions Trophy to Pakistan, while picking United States and West Indies as co-host of the 2024 T20 World Cup. This will be the first ever global event hosted in North America.

According to the announcement, India will get to host three ICC events in the next cycle, including the 2026 T20 World Cup and 2031 50-over World Cup, where the country will be Co hosts along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh respectively. India will also host the 2029 Champions Trophy singularly.

Pakistan, who had last co-hosted the 1996 World Cup along with India and Sri Lanka, have not been able to host many international games in the country since the 2009 terrorist attack on Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore.

The Champions Trophy was last held in UK in 2017 and it will be making its return in the ICC calender after a gap of eight years.

New Zealand and England have recently pulled out of a tour of the country and it will be interesting to see if teams finally get ready to travel to Pakistan.

"In all probabilities, they might have to host in UAE," a source said as there will certainly be a certain degree of reluctance to travel to that part of the world.

The game's governing body on Tuesday said that as many as 14 ICC members will host ICC men's events from 2023 to 2031.

"11 Full Members and three Associate Members have been selected to host two ICC Men's Cricket World Cups, four ICC Men's T20 World Cups and two ICC Men’s Champions Trophy events," the apex body said in a release.

"The USA and Namibia will host an ICC World Cup event for the first time. Whilst Australia, Bangladesh, England, Ireland, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, Scotland, South Africa, Sri Lanka, West Indies and Zimbabwe have previously staged major events and will do so again over the next decade." ICC Chair Greg Barclay thanked every member that submitted a bid and congratulated the successful bidders.

"To have 14 Members hosting 8 events is a reflection of the truly global nature of our sport," he said.

"It is fantastic to be returning to so many previous hosts, but what is really exciting about this process is the countries who will stage ICC events for the first time including the USA which is a strategic growth market for us.

"This gives us the opportunity to deepen our connection with fans in traditional cricket nations and also reach new fans around the world." The hosts were selected via a competitive bidding process overseen by a Board sub-committee chaired by Martin Snedden along with Sourav Ganguly and Ricky Skerritt.

The ICC Board accepted the recommendations of the committee who conducted a thorough review of each bid along with ICC management.

A similar process to identify the hosts for ICC Women's and U19s events for the next cycle will be undertaken early next year.

Ricky Skerritt, Cricket West Indies President and ICC Board member said: "The success of this joint bid by CWI and USA Cricket will be a huge boost for our cricket. It offers a vital strategic opportunity to promote and develop cricket, and related commercial activity, in North America and the Caribbean..." The awarding of the events to preferred hosts is subject to the completion of the host agreements and the ICC will now work closely with Members to finalise arrangements.

Also Read : Virat Kohli's role as batter will remain the same: Rohit Sharma

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Dubai, Nov 16 (Cricket news) Indian duo of Mithali Raj and Smriti Mandhana were static at the third and sixth spots respectively in the latest update to the ICC women's ODI player rankings on Tuesday.

Veteran pacer Jhulan Goswami was at the second place among ODI bowlers, while Deepti Sharma stayed at the fifth position in the ODI all-rounder rankings.

West Indies captain Stafanie Taylor moved up in the list of batters after a match-winning century against Pakistan that helped complete a 3-0 series win.

Tuesday's updates by the ICC, which take into account the second and third ODIs between Pakistan and the West Indies as well as the three Zimbabwe versus Bangladesh matches, saw Taylor move up two slots to 12th position after an unbeaten 102 in the third ODI in Karachi.

Taylor's compatriot Hayley Matthews is another big gainer, moving up four slots to 25th among batters and up three slots to 20th among bowlers. She is also up two places to 12th in the all-rounders' list after a match-winning four-wicket haul in the second match and a score of 49 in the third.

For Pakistan, Aliya Riaz (up three places to 37th) and Omaima Sohail (up two places to 39th) have moved up the list for batters and Nashra Sandhu (up one place to 21st) and Anam Amin (up four places to 43rd) have progressed among bowlers.

Bangladesh's Fargana Hoque has gained seven places to reach joint-26th position after smashing a 53 not out in the second ODI against Zimbabwe while her team-mate Rumana Ahmed has moved up two places to 34th.

Captain Salma Khatun (up five places to 39th) and Nahida Akter (up 11 places to 45th) have advanced in the bowlers' list.

Also Read : Amy Hunter looks forward to the World Cup Qualifier next week after becoming youngest international centurion in an ODI

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Jaipur, Nov 16 (Cricket news) New Zealand's stand-in captain Tim Southee feels long periods in bubble life does take a toll on the cricketers' physical and mental health and hopes that they don't have to play in protected environments for far too long.

In less than 72 hours of playing the T20 World Cup final against Australia in Dubai, New Zealand play India in a three-match bilateral series in a space of five days.

Southee, who has been in bubbles since the IPL resumed in September, said the scheduling in COVID times is beyond their control but it does impact the players.

"With what's happened in the world in the last last couple of years (COVID), it had made things a lot tougher with bubbles and quarantine and it does take its toll after a while," said Southee, who will also stay back for the two-Test series against India though his new ball partner Trent Boult will head back after T20s.

"We don't know what's going to happen in the future. Whether we're gonna have to continue to play in bubbles and I guess you are put under more pressure with the quarantine time thrown as well." Skipper Kane Williamson has been given much needed rest for T20s ahead of the Test series in India.

Leading players including Virat Kohli has spoken about how bubble life is not sustainable in the long run.

After New Zealand's loss to Australia in the World Cup final in Dubai on Sunday, head coach Gary Stead spoke about the unusual scheduling scenario his team finds itself in. The squad's chartered flight landed here on Monday evening.

Southee understand that some of the things are beyond control.

"So it's something we can't control something we just have to, I guess adapt to and get used to but but it does take its toll. I know a few players that have been a number of bubbles for long periods of time it does take its toll we down after a while so hopefully, we don't have to have to deal with bubbles for too much longer," wished Southee.

The pacer said the workload of players will be managed throughout the series.

"Yes, it is something we're going to have to look at throughout the series, three games and in five days, with travel days in between and then a couple of days and then we're into the Test series.

"The guys will be managed throughout the series, but we've got a squad of 15 here that were involved in the World Cup which I'm sure will be used throughout the series," said Southee.

Talking about conditions being similar to the UAE, Southee said the team is looking forward to playing in India as it is always a special experience.

"Guys are disappointed (after the loss to Australia). We played some pretty good cricket throughout the tournament and was disappointing not to be able to have won the other night but but we're going to shift their focus to this series.

"It is a new challenge of playing in India and the conditions will be similar but I'm sure we will need to adapt slightly." 

Also Read : Mayank Agarwal excited to work with “approachable” Dravid

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Jaipur, Nov 16 (Cricket news) After a rude reality check in the T20 World Cup, India will aim to press the reset button for the 2022 edition under new captain Rohit Sharma and an illustrious head coach in Rahul Dravid, starting with the three-match series against New Zealand beginning here on Wednesday.

The duo in the next 11 months will underline the 'Men In Blue''s template and philosophy in the shortest format after it became clear that some rejigging will be needed as a part of course correction. The disappointment in the UAE edition has forced India to look beyond Hardik Pandya, who for long has not been able to bring his all-round skills to the table.

Star IPL performer Venkatesh Iyer has been brought in as Hardik's replacement and the three games is likely to give an indication if he can be groomed for the much needed fast bowling all-rounder's slot.

India can also do with more power hitters in the batting department and Venkatesh, who played for KKR this IPL, has shown his ability to hit long and big. The other IPL performers who have been picked in the squad are Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan and Yuzvendra Chahal, who makes a comeback after controversially being left out of the World Cup squad.

With Jasprit Bumah rested for the series, India will be looking to find another pacer, who can consistently clock 140kmph and above. As it was seen in the UAE, the extra pace always comes in handy, bringing Avesh and Mohammad Siraj into the picture.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who was not at his best in the UAE, has been given another opportunity to find his A game.

The think tank comprising skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid will also assess a player's utility keeping the Australian conditions in the mind as the country hosts the World Cup in less than 12 months time.

There are five shortest format openers in the side and slotting them in various middle-order position will be a challenge.

Rohit and vice-captain K L Rahul are expected to open on Wednesday but India might be tempted to experiment in the presence of more options like Ishan Kishan and Gaikwad. In fact, even Venkatesh got all his runs opening for KKR but he is set to bat in the middle-order.

Suryakumar Yadav could not find his rhythm during the World Cup but he is one player India would be looking to groom at number four, especially for the true pitches in Australia. In the absence of rested Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel can fill the spin bowling all-rounder slot while R Ashwin is expected to retain his place in the playing eleven after an impressive white-ball comeback in the UAE.

India had only five bowlers to choose from for most part of the World Cup while other top teams had up to seven options. Therefore, one might see one of the specialist batters rolling his arm over.

Their opponents New Zealand, who effectively knocked India out of the World Cup, have reached Jaipur on a chartered flight from Dubai with little time to reflect on their loss to Australia in the title clash.

Head coach Gary Stead has already spoken about how the challenges his team faces, having to regroup so quickly after a draining event like the World Cup. Skipper Kane Williamson has been given rest for the T20s so that he is fresh for the following Test series. Seasoned pacer Tim Southee will lead the team in his absence.

However with Trent Boult for company and dangerous Daryl Mitchell in the top-order, New Zealand will be more than a handful in this series. New Zealand could give opportunities to players who did not have much to do in the UAE including Kyle Jamieson who only played the warm-up games.

One of the interesting match-ups will be skipper Rohit against Ish Sodhi as the India captain has had problem against wrist spinners in the past.

Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (captain), KL Rahul, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan, Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Harshal Patel, Mohammad Siraj.

New Zealand: Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Kyle Jamieson, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee (captain).

Match starts 7 PM IST.

Also Read : New Zealand team arrives in Jaipur for India tour day after T20 World Cup final loss

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Dubai, Nov 16 (Cricket news) Seven Australian cities, including Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, will host the ICC Men's T20 World Cup from October 16 to November 13 next year.

The other two cities which will in all likelihood host the Round 1 matches include Geelong and Hobart with the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground hosting the final.

"The event which is scheduled to take place between 16 October and 13 November next year will see a total of 45 matches hosted across Adelaide, Brisbane, Geelong, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney," ICC press release stated.

The semi-finals will be held at the Sydney Cricket Ground and Adelaide Oval on November 9 and 10, respectively.

Among the countries that have directly qualified for the Super 12 are defending champions Australia and runner-up New Zealand.

Along with the finalists, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, England, India, Pakistan and South Africa, which are the next highest ranked teams, will gain direct entry into the Super 12 stage.

Namibia, Scotland, Sri Lanka and the two-time champions West Indies will play in Round 1.

The four remaining spots at Australia 2022 will be filled via the ongoing qualification pathway, culminating in two global qualifying tournaments one to take place in Oman in February and the other in Zimbabwe in June/July.

Head of Events, Chris Tetley said:"We are looking forward to seeing the return of ICC events to Australia and are delighted to announce the seven host cities for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022.

"Following the success of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup in 2020 and a two year postponement, our sights are now firmly set on planning for the 2022 event in collaboration with the LOC.

"With 12 teams already confirmed in the line-up, we eagerly await the culmination of the qualification process to see which other teams will join them," he stated.

Also Read : T20 WC final heroics 'will carry little weight' in Ashes selection: chief selector Bailey on Marsh

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Jaipur, Nov 15 (Cricket news) The New Zealand squad arrived here on a charter flight a day after losing the T20 World Cup final to Australia in Dubai.

Since it is a bubble to bubble transfer, the Black Caps will not have to quarantine before the first T20I against hosts India on Wednesday.

"They arrived in the evening and will be tested as per protocol before they have their practice session tomorrow," confirmed a Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) official.

New Zealand lost their maiden T20 World Cup final by eight wickets.

It is expected to be tough for the Kiwis to regroup quickly for the three games against India.

"It's the first time that I can remember that we're so quickly into another series immediately at the back-end of the T20 World Cup. It's definitely tough and challenging but it is what is in front of us," head coach Gary Stead was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo on the hectic scheduling.

Nine members of the Test side, including Ross Taylor and Tom Latham, who were not part of the T20 squad, had arrived last week.

The Indian team, which failed to qualify for the World Cup semifinals, had its first training session on Monday under new head coach Rahul Dravid.

India are scheduled to play three T20 Internationals against New Zealand on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday respectively, after which the two teams will engage in a two-match Test series.

Also Read : Rohit as leader will bring a lot of calm into dressing room, Dravid big on team culture: Rahul

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Mirpur, Nov 15 (Cricket news) Pakistan's swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan skipped the team's training session here on Monday as he recovers from a chest infection that required hospitalisation before their T20 World Cup semifinal against Australia in the UAE.

An Indian doctor, who helped in getting Rizwan back on his feet a day before the last-four clash in Dubai, recently praised the opener's indomitable spirit and courage as he battled a severe chest infection on an ICU bed.

Rizwan, now getting ready for a three-match T20I series against Bangladesh, said he will resume training from Tuesday.

''I am fine now I had some breathing problem in Dubai but now I am fine and hopefully I will start training from tomorrow. The doctors and physio prescribed some rest and I have completed it," he was quoted as saying by 'Cricbuzz'.

Rizwan was not present during Pakistan team's opening day training session at the Sher-e-Bangla National Academy premises.

The series begins on Friday and will be followed by a two-match Test rubber.

In the T20 World Cup semifinal against Australia, the Pakistan opener overcame all odds to score 67 off 52 balls but his team still lost the match.

Rizwan also defended the team's approach to preserve their wickets in the powerplay.

At the T20 showpiece, Pakistan managed an average of 32 runs in the powerplay, which is significantly lower than the likes of Australia (46.71), New Zealand (42), England (47.66), India (52) and Afghanistan (44.8).

"We must assess the condition and I admit that the powerplay did not happen as we would have liked but you have to realise that even teams with power hitters they were scoring 42 to 43 or at 45 runs in the powerplay.

"If you bring out our average it will end up at 40 (32) but the thing is that we did not lose wickets in the powerplay. You might see that we have not hit sixes but for me and my captain what is more important is that we execute the plans that we have," Rizwan said.

Also Read : Yasir Shah misses out on Test series against Bangladesh; Imam, Bilal recalled

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Melbourne, Nov 15 (Cricket news) Australia's chairman of selectors George Bailey says Mitchell Marsh's incredible match-winning knock in the final of the T20 World Cup "will carry little weight" when the Ashes squad is picked as both are completely different formats.

Marsh clobbered a 50-ball 77 and powered Australia to their maiden T20 World Cup triumph with an eight-wicket victory over New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday night.

Overall, Marsh made 185 runs at an average of 62 in the UAE, prompting former Australian stars such as Ian Healy to back his selection in the team for the upcoming challenge against their traditional rivals England.

But Bailey refused to commit when asked about the 31-year-old 'Player of the Match'.

"Not much, to be honest. They're (T20s and Tests) about as far removed, we joke internally that they're different sports in many respects," Bailey told SEN's Dwayne's World on Monday.

"There's not much flow on, (but) you love to see players perform well internationally because you know it gives them great confidence going forward, and there's no better time to pick someone than when they are up and about and confident.

"I don't think necessarily that individual form in one format flows into another, and I don't necessarily think that winning the T20 World Cup gives us any great advantage heading into the Ashes," Bailey added.

Marsh has played 32 Tests but has not been able to cement his place in the side, averaging 25 in the format. With the ball, he averages 39.

"We're 12 hours since he played the innings of his life in T20 (World Cup), there will be lots of time to talk Ashes going forward.

"I think it's really important that we celebrate the tournament and the role he's played in that team, and celebrate the fact that he's an Australian hero for a day and he's very much a catalyst behind us holding the trophy above our heads.

"As I said, I think the formats are so completely different," the chief selector said.

Bailey, though, has not slammed the Test doors shut on Marsh, saying that he has a good three-four years of cricket ahead of him.

"We know Mitch is a very, very good player and he's played Test cricket in the past, so we know he's capable of it.

"What I can say about Mitch is that we have full confidence that the next two, three and hopefully four years are going to be the best cricketing years of his career, so hopefully we get to see him playing all three formats for Australia.

Bailey took over as the chairman of selectors from Trevor Hohns in August.

Also Read : From IPL to World T20: The Incredible turnaround story of David 'The Bear' Warner

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Dubai, Nov 15 (Cricket news) No Indian cricketer figured in the ICC's T20 World Cup 'Team of the Tournament' which comprises players from six different countries, including Sri Lanka and South Africa, with Pakistan's Babar Azam being named 'captain' of the squad.

India were ousted at the group league stage after being thrashed by Pakistan and New Zealand before winning three inconsequential games against Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia.

The jury members did not think any of the Indian players deserving to be picked while South Africa's Aiden Markram and Anirch Nortje and Sri Lanka's Charith Asalanka and Wanindu Hasaranga were the players whose teams didn't qualify for the semi-finals but fore the ICC team.

Stars players from champions Australia, runners-up New Zealand, semi-finalists England and Pakistan also feature in the star-studded line up.

Opening batter and 'Player of the Tournament' David Warner, leg-spinner Adam Zampa and seamer Josh Hazlewood all made the cut for Australia after helping steer their side to their first ever T20 World Cup title.

There were also spots for England's Jos Buttler as wicketkeeper and New Zealand left-armer Trent Boult, besides Pakistan's Babar as captain and Sri Lanka star Hasaranga -- the tournament’s leading wicket-taker -- in the line-up.

One of the jury members, former West Indies pacer Ian Bishop, said: "As with any team selection there will be varying opinions, and robust discussion on the final composition of the squad.

"The panel respects that, and we encourage the strong debate that will ensue. This team was incredibly difficult to select over such a highly competitive tournament. Selections were based predominantly on the Super 12 onward to the final." The Team David Warner (Australia) Jos Buttler (wk) (England) Babar Azam (captain, Pakistan) Charith Asalanka (Sri Lanka) Aiden Markram (South Africa) Moeen Ali (England) Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka) Adam Zampa (Australia) Josh Hazlewood (Australia) Trent Boult (New Zealand) Anrich Nortje (South Africa) 12th: Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan). 

Also Read : From IPL to World T20: The Incredible turnaround story of David 'The Bear' Warner

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Dubai, Nov 15 (Cricket news) New Zealand coach Gary Stead says his team is bracing up for a "tough and challenging" schedule as it heads to India for a three-match T20 series, starting just three days after the T20 World Cup final which the Black Caps lost to Australia here.

New Zealand on Sunday lost to Australia by eight wickets in the showpiece but Kane Williamson's men will hardly have any time to regroup as it faces India in the opening T20I at Jaipur on Wednesday.

It will be followed by the second and third T20Is on November 19 and November 21, before they kick off their World Test Championship defence with two games in Kanpur and Mumbai.

"It's the first time that I can remember that we're so quickly into another series immediately at the back-end of the T20 World Cup," Stead was quoted as saying by 'ESPNcricinfo'.

"It's definitely tough and challenging but it is what is in front of us." The members of the Test side, who are not part of the T20 squad, are already in India.

It will be a busy time for the kiwi support staff as they juggle with training the Test players in the morning and the T20 cricketers in the evening in the next few weeks.

"We've got nine-ten guys in India already, who are preparing for those Test matches, and hopefully we can get up and have a really great performance against India." New Zealand cricketers have been in the bio-bubble for varying time period with 10 members of the T20 squad also competing at the IPL in UAE which preceded the ICC event, while others like Glenn Phillips and Jimmy Neesham played at the Hundred.

There were others like Martin Guptill, Mark Chapman and Ish Sodhi, who also stayed in the UAE bubble following New Zealand's decision to call off their tour of Pakistan due to security concerns in September.

In some good news for New Zealand, pace spearhead Lockie Ferguson, who missed the T20 World Cup due to a calf injury, is likely to return to action.

Ferguson, who was sidelined just hours before New Zealand's opening match against Pakistan in Sharjah, has resumed bowling at the nets in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

"In terms of Lockie, I think he is pretty close," Stead said.

"We will just make sure we get over there, travel okay and there's no issues like seizing up on the flight or anything like that. But I'd expect that he's going to be available for selection, which will be fantastic.

"With all the guys that are going to prepare for the Test matches, we just have to make that call over there - whether we think it's in the best interests of them and also in the best interests of the team being that the Test matches are more of our priority, I think, in the next month than what the T20 matches will be."

Also Read : Bit frustrating but you win some and lose some: Williamson

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Dubai, Nov 15 (Cricket news) It's a "little bit frustrating", said New Zealand captain Kane Williamson after losing a third ICC trophy final but he also admitted that there was very little that his side could have done against an Australian team which didn't give an inch in the T20 World Cup summit clash here.

Having lost the 2015 and 2019 ODI World Cup finals to Australia and England, the World Test champions lost another white-ball final, this time to Aaron Finch's men in the global T20 meet.

"You sign up to play the game, and you win and you lose, and these are things that can happen on any day," Williamson said in a pragmatic tone after his team's eight-wicket defeat at the hands of Australia.

"Credit to the way Australia chased it, they didn't give us an inch. Wasn't to be today, but proud of how we've operated.

"You know, if you look at the campaign on a whole, which we do, and the type of cricket that we have been able to play, I can say that we are very proud of our efforts throughout this period of time. You get to a final and anything can happen," he further explained.

Williamson tried to put things in perspective and, in a roundabout manner, said that 2019 World Cup final hurt even more.

"You mentioned perhaps that white ball in 2019, which might be a longer discussion if you have some time.

"And all these different fine lines and results, they happen, you know, and today, we turned up and played some really good cricket. And it wasn't quite good enough. That's sort of just the way it goes, you know, and for us, it's still putting our energy into the right areas," he reasoned.

For a team that has now played four finals in the last six ICC events, Williamson spoke about the positives.

"There are a lot of positives in the statements that you made, and for us, it's still trying to build on that and grow as a team. You want to win these comps. You want the fruits, and so did say lot of other teams.

"When you do turn up on the day, anything can happen, and we can see how competitive this competition has been right through the group stages, as well, and there were so many sides that were more than capable of winning this competition,' he added.

"But like I say, really proud of the efforts that have gone in from our side across the board." He agreed that on Sunday night, New Zealand couldn't create enough opportunities when Australia batted.

"The guys worked hard to get to what we thought was a competitive total. Unfortunately we weren't able to create many opportunities and get those breakthroughs. Yeah, it was a little bit frustrating." He felt that the conditions became easier for batting as the day progressed.

"We sort of thought on that surface that we had a few opportunities to do that and build some pressure. Yeah, I think we've seen the conditions throughout be fairly consistent, and the ball did skid on a little bit.

"But the Aussies were outstanding in their chase and very, very clinical. They have had a fantastic campaign, and they are a brilliant side and they thoroughly deserved it." Batting during the first 10 overs, when they could only manage 57, was tough, conceded the Black Caps skipper.

"It did feel tough. It was just holding in the wicket a little bit. Sort of normal characteristics I think of your Dubai surfaces. It was nice to sort of build a platform and accelerate from there which we were able to do." Williamson stressed on the importance of "looking at the bigger picture" with only 12 months left before the next T20 World Cup.

"The picture is always big. You sort of narrow it down and look at sort of one game here, one game there and the wins and losses that come as part of what we do.

"But the bigger picture is the important one, and it is trying to continue to improve as a group. I thought we came here with some relatively -- or a mix.

"I suppose, of experience and younger players, that a lot of them, it's their first time in a World Cup and they played extremely well and are much better for the experiences they have had and there's a lot of growth here." 

Also Read : There were some high hopes coming in, so we're feeling it a bit: Williamson

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(Cricket news) Australia maintained their 100% record over the Kiwis in ICC knockout games, defeating their neighbours by eight wickets to secure their first T20 World Cup title in Dubai. The Black Caps scored a reasonably impressive 172-4 in 20 overs with Kane Williamson scoring 85 runs from 48 balls but it was not enough as Australia will go into the next T20 World Cup as the reigning champions and hosts.

New Zealand got off to a slow start, scoring 57-1 in 10 overs and just 32-1 in the powerplay, with Kane Williamson (85 runs off 28) being dropped at 21 by Josh Hazlewood (3-16). However, the 31 year old put up an impressive performance, scoring 10 fours and three sixes in his innings but the trend of the side batting second emerging as victors continued in Dubai for the 10th consecutive time in 10 games with the likes of Marsh (77* runs off 50), Warner (53 off 38) and Glenn Maxwell (28* runs off 18) playing a crucial role in winning the finals.

It was Hazelwood who eventually took the wicket of Williamson who was caught at long-off by Steve Smith in the 18th over, ending the 31 year old’s partnership with Glenn Phillips (18 runs off 17); the pair had mustered 68 runs from 37 balls between them. James Neesham (13 runs off 7) and Tim Seifert (8* runs off 6) both managed to score a boundary as New Zealand finished with a score of 172-4.

The Kiwi’s then started their defense brightly, taking the wicket of captain Aaron Finch (5 runs off 7) after he was caught at midwicket by Daryl Mitchell off Trent Boult’s (2-18) delivery. However, David Warner (53 runs off 38) and Mitchell Marsh (77* runs off 50) put up a partnership of 92 runs from 69 balls which proved to be the turning point in Australia’s innings. Adam Milne conceded 15 runs in the fourth over with Marsh hitting two fours and a six, the likes of Ish Sodhi (0-40) and Neesham (0-15) also proved to be expensive.

David Warner was bowled out by Trent Boult, giving some hope to New Zealand but it was short lived as Glenn Maxwell (28* runs off 18) entered the fray to score boundaries off Milne (0-40) and Tim Southee’s (0-43) deliveries to ensure his partnership with Marsh of 66 runs from 39 balls was enough to guide Australia to victory in 18.5 overs.

Also read: Writing Warner off was like poking a bear: Aaron Finch after World Cup triumph

Dubai, Nov 15 (Cricket news) Big-hitting all-rounder and Australian cricket's man of the moment Mitchell Marsh has thanked the country's selectors for giving him an "amazing six weeks" at the T20 World Cup by promoting him to the top-order.

Often criticised throughout his injury-plagued career for not living up to his immense talent, Marsh on Sunday hogged the limelight with an unbeaten 50-ball innings which steered Australia to an eight-wicket win over New Zealand in the finals. It was Australia's first T20 World Cup title.

The 31-year-old Marsh, who scored 185 runs at an average of over 61 in six matches, said it was the selectors' decision to put him at number 3 in the batting order that paid off in the end.

"The coaching staff came up to me in the West Indies about six months ago and said I was going to bat three for this tournament and series – and I absolutely jumped at the idea of that," Marsh said during the post-match interview.

"I'd done a little bit for the (Perth) Scorchers back home, but I've obviously got all the staff and everyone involved In the Australian setup (to thank) for backing me and getting me up the top there.

"I just love playing my role for this team. I feel like a lot of people say this, but I don't really have words right now. What an amazing six weeks with this group of men – I absolutely love them to death and we're world champions." Coming to the crease after the fall of his captain Aaron Finch in the third over, Marsh added 92 with David Warner (53) and shared an unbeaten 66 off 39 balls with Glenn Maxwell (28) as Australia chased down a target of 173 with seven balls to spare.

Marsh said it wasn't a well thought-out innings and he just looked to make his presence felt in the final.

"I'll be honest with you, there wasn't a whole lot of thinking that goes into that," he said.

"I just wanted to get out there and have a presence. Marcus Stoinis always talks to me about having a presence and getting in the contest.

"That allows me to go out there and play my game – I can't believe it and it's unbelievable."

Also Read : To be able to put up with critics for so long shows quality of human being Mitch is: Finch

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Dubai, Nov 15 (Cricket news) Mitchell Marsh had once declared that most of Australia "hates" him for failing to make good of the promise he held out early in his injury-plagued career.

On Sunday, after the all-rounder played a starring role in Australia's maiden T20 World Cup triumph with a brilliant unbeaten 50-ball 77, his skipper Aaron Finch said Marsh copped unnecessary criticism all though his career and still kept his chin up, a reflection of the amazing human being that he is.

"To be able to put up with the critics for so long, when his performance hasn't been bad by any stretch of the imagination and any format of the game, if you look at his ODI numbers they are very good," Finch said after Australia outplayed New Zealand by 8 wickets to claim the top prize.

"For him to keep coming back after people keep doubting him shows how much of a quality person he is," he added about the 31-year-old all-rounder, who has suffered a lot due to injuries.

The latest setback for Marsh was last year when he suffered an ankle injury.

Marsh, who has now spent a decade in the Australian set-up and never really got going save a couple of Ashes hundreds in 32 Tests and one three-figure mark in ODIs, finally hogged the limelight as an unlikely No.3 for Australia in the T20 World Cup.

A few years back, he had famously said, "Most of Australia hates me" and when Finch was asked a question with reference to that, the skipper had a lot of praise reserved for the big all-rounder.

"He is the nicest person you will ever meet in your life. He's obviously a special player," Finch said.

Promoting Marsh up the order turned out to be a master-stroke, something the Australians had put a lot of thought to during their tour of the West Indies.

"Mitch's move to No. 3 was a really important one in the West Indies. We felt as though he's someone who could play -- he obviously plays fast bowling very well.

"Growing up in the WACA (Perth), he's very, very dominant off the back foot. He's someone who loves the contest, loves the challenge," Finch explained the rationale behind the move.

"And we just backed him from the start. We committed to him batting at No.3 for a long time. He knew that, and that's all you need sometimes. You need a little bit of backing and you need some confidence from everybody else," he added.

There are times when one shot or a good delivery is a prime indicator of getting back to form and Finch saw that in Marsh's case quite early heading into the World Cup.

"...I think, it was the first ball he faced in the practice game, the first practice game against New Zealand where he hit it for six, also. That just shows the confidence that he has, the confidence we have in each other. It was brilliant," Finch recalled.

The decision to have Marsh at No.3 was also linked with the hard call to demote Steve Smith from his preferred batting position in the format.

"No, not at all. To be honest, it was something we chatted about before the West Indies, and then after (we took it) probably just reassured us. Smithy was so open to it, and he'll do anything the team needs," Finch clarified.

"The way we wanted to structure up was to be more aggressive in the power play. We saw how important that was -- battle of balls.

"Smudge's (Smith's nickname) ability to play spin through the middle added that extra layer of confidence in our group with (Marcus) Stoinis and Matty Wade behind him as well...that's the way we tried to structure that up...it turned out to be a nice move," there was a sense of satisfaction in his voice.

Marsh, for all the limelight, was dropped against England during the World Cup and Finch knew that he was disappointed.

"Yeah, he bounced back beautifully. He was obviously disappointed; everyone is when they get dropped. I don't know of anyone who is over the moon when they get dropped.

"It was only a structural change, we went with a different makeup. That's all that was. But the way he's bounced back has been unbelievable," Finch couldn't stop praising his match-winner.

All's well with JL, the skipper sends a message ============================= Since Australia's home series loss to India, the position of head coach Justin Langer and his relationship with players in the dressing room became a raging topic of discussion.

Asked if this victory would ease up things, Finch didn't duck the question but spoke how honest conversations helped.

"There's been no tension or awkwardness whatsoever. It's about having honest conversations and being really up front and being really honest," Finch said.

"The only time there's awkwardness is when things are happening behind the scenes and you're trying to work things out or you're trying to pull things under or pull the wool over someone's eyes.

"No, there's none of that whatsoever. It's been a great campaign," Finch played it with the straightest bat possible after a memorable first.

Also Read : Writing Warner off was like poking a bear: Aaron Finch after World Cup triumph

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Dubai, Nov 14 (Cricket news) New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson says his players showed big heart in the T20 World Cup with their performances but since it did not result in a title, they are "feeling it a bit." Williamson himself led the New Zealand charge with a majestic 85-run knock after his side struggled in the first half of their innings.

They put on board a competitive 172 for four but Australian batter Mitchell Marsh crushed their hopes with a scintillating unbeaten 77.

"There was a lot of heart shown, always nice to get to the big dance. But credit to Australia again. Some high hopes coming in, some good cricket played, so we're feeling it a bit," Williamson said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

"There are only two possible outcomes, shame we couldn't get the job done." New Zealand managed only 57 runs in first 10 overs and that pegged them back a bit though Williamson's incredible effort still helped them post a fighting total.

Williamson said the pitch behaviour did play a part in their slow run-rate.

"We were trying to get a platform, the surface was holding a fraction. Nice to build some partnerships and get what we thought was a competitive total, only to be chased superbly. They're a fantastic side, had a brilliant campaign and came out and turned it on. " The Black Caps captain said it can't be said what total would have been good or if he thought, they had enough runs on board. "You never really know. At halfway, we made every effort to get a good total. We weren't far away. Credit to the way Australia chase it, they didn't give us an inch. Wasn't to be today, but proud of how we've operated," he said.

"Guys committed to what we tried to do in venues that varied a lot."

Also Read : Marsh powers Australia to maiden T20 World Cup title

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Dubai, Nov 14 (Cricket news) Victorious Australia captain Aaron Finch says writing David Warner off at the start of the tournament was like "poking the bear" as the opener emerged 'Player of the tournament' with big knocks in semi-final and final.

The attacking left-hander scored 289 runs in the tournament after being unceremoniously dumped by his IPL side Sunrisers Hyderabad.

In the final, he scored 38-ball-53 and added 92 with 'Player of the Match' Mitchell Marsh, who remained unbeaten on 77 to guide Australia to its first ever T20 World Cup title.

"I can't believe people wrote him off a couple of weeks ago. It was almost like poking the bear," the skipper said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

"This is huge, to be the first Australia team to do it. So proud of how the guys went about the campaign," Finch said .

He was all praise for his heroes Adam Zampa, who was brilliant with his leg breaks throughout the tourney and Marsh, who won the final for them.

"[Zampa] is 'Player of the tournament' for me. He controlled the game, got big wickets, super player. Mitch Marsh, what a way to start, put pressure on from the start. Matt Wade came in under an injury cloud and got the job done. He came in in the semi-final alongside Marcus Stoinis and did the business." He agreed that the team's rhythm got better when they demolished Bangladesh.

Asked if Bangladesh game was the turning point, Finch replied,"Certainly it was. Our backs were against the wall. We had to fight and certainly did that, had some great team and individual performances." Former skipper Steve Smith also echoed his current captain's sentiment about Warner.

"Warner's last two weeks have been amazing. A lot of people were writing him off. He came in with exceptional intent and took the game away at the start." For Warner, it was always about being pumped up but at the same time going back to his basics.

"I always felt good, for me it was about going back to basics, getting on some hard, synthetic wickets in order to hit volumes of balls.

"(This tournament is) definitely up there with 2015 (World Cup). Losing to England a decade ago really hurt. These are a great bunch of guys, great support staff, and great support around the world, especially back home.

"Always pumped, wanted to put on a spectacle. There were some nerves around as always in a final but great to see the guys deliver." Man of the match Marsh was over the moon and thanked the coaching staff which had told him that he will bat at number three in the tournament.

"I don't really have words, what an amazing six weeks with this group. Love them to death. World champs. The coaching staff came up to me in the West Indies and said you're going to bat three for this tournament, and I jumped at it.

"Have the staff to thank for backing me and getting me up the top there."

Also Read : Marsh powers Australia to maiden T20 World Cup title

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Dubai, Nov 14 (Cricket news) An injury-ravaged Mitchell Marsh finally found his night of reckoning and glory as he led Australia to their maiden T20 World Cup title with his stroke-filled 77 that fashioned his team's comfortable eight- wicket win over New Zealand, here on Sunday.

A target of 173 in a global final is never easy but Marsh with his power and reach made it look like a walk in the park in company of David Warner (53 off 38 balls), who also turned the wheels of fortune for himself and his team during a victory, achieved in 18.5 overs.

Marsh, a man of immense potential, who has never really done justice to his enormous talent, lit the Dubai's skyline with some ruthless stroke-play and it was one such night when Kane Williamson's touch of class was left in the shadow.

It's never the great feeling to watch Williamson as a 'tragic hero' but even in defeat, the graceful Black Caps skipper would doff his hat for Marsh, who became Australia's 'Man for the Job', having been promoted to number three for this tournament.

There were twitched eyebrows for the better part but no more after the 'Super Sunday'.

It was a night when brute power defeated sheer artistry. Marsh hit six fours and four sixes, including a couple off monster ones off Ish Sodhi's (0/40 in 3 overs) bowling. One was a slog sweep and the second was a straight one down the ground.

Marsh, who took 50 balls for his knock, also ensured that Justin Langer got some breathing space ahead of the big Ashes after a tumultuous year at the helm.

And for all the sceptics, who believe T20 cricket only needs short-format specialist, Australia won their first title with five Test specialists -- three pacers Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood -- along with Warner and Steve Smith in the side.

After five ODI World Cup titles, Australia finally exorcised the ghosts and in the most professional manner under a cool but under-rated skipper Aaron Finch.

Warner, who was humiliated at this very venue by an Indian IPL franchise, who made him sit in the gallery with a flag in hand, played his part in their stand of 92 in just under 10 overs.

It was a tournament where Warner made a comeback after being down in dungeons for a very long time and showed the world that one should never mess with champions' egos.

Unlike New Zealand, who wasted the first 10, Marsh started the counter attack within the Powerplay as he took apart Adam Milne with a six, four and four to set the tone.

When Warner played the 'slap' shot off Sodhi, one knew that New Zealand will again have to come second best in this Trans-Tasman battle.

Put into bat, Williamson was brutal and artistic during his beautifully crafted knock of 85, which took New Zealand to a competitive 172 for four.

New Zealand literally struggled in the first 10 overs with Martin Guptill's painful 28 off 35 balls slowing the proceedings.

Williamson made the stage his own own with a grace of a 'ballet dancer' hitting 10 fours and three sixes in his 47-ball knock.

In the last 10 overs, New Zealand scored an astounding 115 runs to make a match of the 'Grand Finale'.

Williamson shifted gears with such ease that it was a treat to watch him play. The first 16 deliveries that he faced fetched him only 15 runs as Adam Zampa was back then in the midst of a good spell while Guptill's scratchy form also affected the skipper.

But once, he decided that he needed to get a move-on, he hit all those copybook shots at his own free-will scoring 70 off the next 31 deliveries.

The Black Caps skipper showed why he is one of the modern-day greats during the back-10 as he strategically took the attack back to the opposition camp. He became the captain with the highest score in a T20 World Cup final surpassing Kumar Sangakkara.

He first turned the tide in the 11th over when he launched into Mitchell Starc (0/60 in 4 overs) taking 19 off his over including a dropped catch behind square by Josh Hazlewood.

The manner in which he creamed Starc through mid-off by charging down the track, was the most delightful one among the three that he smashed in that over.

When Starc came for his third over and team's 16th, his confidence was already shaken and Williamson made a mockery of him with class of Test match batting mixed with a dash of T20 flair.

One for the ages was a 'pick-up flick' when Starc dragged one into his pads and it soared into the Dubai skyline before landing in the gallery.

If Starc's second over was very bad, the worse came in his third which yielded the Kiwis 24 runs including four fours and a six.

It was a 'half-century' of ignominy that he would like to forget and also forgive Josh Hazlewood for what could possibly have been a 'match-turning' bungle. Hazlewood (3/16 in 4 overs) though was pick of bowlers along with Adam Zampa (1/24 in 4 overs).

The first half of the night certainly belonged to Williamson, who again reiterated the age-old saying -- a technically accomplished Test batter can play any format with authority as he did during an en evening when it mattered the most.

Also Read : Mitchell replaces injured Conway for two Tests against India

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Chandigarh, Nov 14 (Golf news) Shiv Kapur prevailed over Rashid Khan in a playoff at the Rs. 1.5 crore Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational 2021 to register his first ever win at a PGTI event, here on Sunday.

The tournament was decided in a playoff for the fourth year in succession.

The Dubai-based Kapur (64-68-67-70), who hails from Delhi and Khan (65-67-69-68), another Delhi golfer, were in a deadlock at 19-under 269 at the top of the leaderboard after regulation play having shot final rounds of 70 and 68 respectively at the Chandigarh Golf Club.

Olympian Udayan Mane (69-68-67-67) took third place at 17-under 271 after returning a second straight 67.

Shiv, a six time international winner, who also has two previous wins on the Indian domestic tour to his name, came up with a brilliant second shot from the rough to make a two-putt for par on the playoff hole (18th hole) even as two-time Asian Tour winner Rashid hit his second shot into the water which effectively ended his challenge.

Earlier in the day, the 39-year-old Shiv, the overnight leader by one shot, struggled with his hitting and as a result dropped three bogeys on the front-nine with just one birdie in exchange.

A monster 50-feet birdie conversion on the 11th seemed to be the defining moment of the day for him.

Thereafter, Kapur kept landing it within six feet to pick up birdies on the 13th, 16th and 17th.

He missed a four-footer for birdie and outright victory on the 18th but came back stronger in the playoff to lift the title at his close friend Jeev Milkha Singh's event and take home the winning cheque worth Rs. 24,24,750.

Kapur said, "It was not my prettiest round of golf. I had no rhythm and was all over the place to begin with. The first bit of good luck I had was with the long putt on the 11th." "That's when I told my caddie that this is like the fourth quarter of a basketball game and we can get back. I then had a good back nine and am proud of the way I came back and won despite not having my A game. I was pretty happy with the way I played the last three holes." "Winning Jeev's event is also special since he's like my elder brother and his family is like my second family. Without Jeev's guidance I wouldn't be half the player I am." Khan, who was two shots off the lead at the start of the day, went steady on the front-nine with two birdies and a bogey before emerging as a hot contender for the title with a much better back-nine that saw him make three birdies.

Khan, a three-time PGTI Order of Merit champion, sank a 30-feet birdie putt on the 17th. He made par on the 18th but found the water with his second shot on the playoff hole where he had a bad lie.

Khan had earlier lost out in a marathon playoff to Ajeetesh Sandhu at the 2019 edition of the event. He took home a prize money cheque worth Rs. 16,74,750, while climbing from 16th to seventh position in the PGTI Order of Merit.

While Pune-based Udayan Mane ended third, two shots behind the winner, Chandigarh's Aadil Bedi, who was overnight second and one off the lead, closed the week in fourth after his final round of 72 took his tally to 16-under 272.

Kshitij Naveed Kaul of Delhi was fifth at 15-under 273.

The four Chandigarh golfers, other than Aadil, who finished inside the top-10 were Yuvraj Singh Sandhu (tied sixth at 12-under 276), Abhijit Singh Chadha (eighth at 11-under 277), former champion Ajeetesh Sandhu and last year's champion Karandeep Kochhar (both tied 10th at nine-under 279).

Kochhar continues as the PGTI Order of Merit leader with season's earnings of Rs. 49,59,880.

Among the other marquee names in the field, Gaganjeet Bhullar shot the day's best score of 66 to finish tied 13th at eight-under 280, SSP Chawrasia and former champion Chikkarangappa were both tied 16th at seven-under 281 while Jyoti Randhawa was tied 33rd at three-under 285.

US-based Varun Chopra won the trophy for the best performing amateur as he closed the week in tied 26th at four-under 284.

Also Read : Kapur leads by one stroke at Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational

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Karachi, Nov 14 (Cricket news) Pakistan fast bowler Hasan Ali has apologised for his forgettable outing against Australia in the T20 World Cup semifinal, saying he is more disappointed than anyone else and pledged to come back stronger from this bad phase of career.

In the 19th over of the match, Ali dropped Matthew Wade off Shaheen Shah Afridi at deep midwicket and the error proved to be costly for Pakistan as the Australian stumper then hit three consecutive sixes to take his side into the final by registering a five-wicket win in Dubai on Thursday.

This ended Pakistan's fabulous campaign in the tournament. The Babar Azam-led side had entered the semifinal clash with five consecutive wins under its belt.

"I know you all are upset because my performance didn't meet your expectations but not more disappointed than me. Don't change your expectations from me. I want to serve Pakistan cricket at the highest level possible, so back to hard work.

"This patch will make me stronger. Thank you for all the messages, tweets, posts, calls and duas (prayers) - needed them," Ali tweeted.

Ali, a star of Pakistan's 2017 Champions Trophy campaign, became a national villain following his dropped catch, with the pacer being subjected to a lot of trolling and negativity on social media.

Australia will take on New Zealand in the final of the T20 World Cup in Dubai on Sunday night.

Also Read : Ahsan Ali becomes 9th player to hit triple century in Pakistan's Quaid-e-Azam Trophy

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 13 (Cricket news) Fast-bowling great Allan Donald on Saturday said his former teammate Shaun Pollock was the Glenn McGrath of a South African team that dominated world cricket alongside Australia.

Pollock, a former South African captain, was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame on Saturday ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup final alongside Sri Lanka's Mahela Jayawardene and ex England women's team skipper, late Janette Brittin.

In a letter to Pollock, which was uploaded on the ICC website, Donald heaped high praise on his former pace bowling partner.

"What I admire a lot about you is the way you were able to adapt your game. When you first came into the Proteas side, you were this fast bowler who could terrorise batters.

"...Despite injuries later in your career, you always managed to be effective, even if you didn't quite have the pace you once had, and that's a remarkable quality. You were our Glenn McGrath, the sort of bowler who could lock down an end and let the rest of us run free at the other," Donald wrote in the letter.

Pollock was one of the finest bowling all-rounders the game has ever seen and was the first player to achieve the 3,000 run and 300 wicket double in both Test and ODI cricket.

"We could throw you the ball and say 'See you tonight'. You would pile up the dots at one end and then I would have licence to express myself," Donald wrote.

"Where my style was to combine control with pace, you did so with swing, getting so close to the stumps that batters would have to play almost every ball. It took incredible stamina and concentration because you gave them nowhere to hide." "I think we were never better than when the West Indies came to South Africa in 1998/99. Between us we took 52 wickets in a 5-0 series victory. There was also the tour to India in 2000 when we won 2-0 and the two of us, along with the rest of the pace attack and Nicky Boje just seemed to click."

Also Read : You're one of most important players in Lankan cricket history: Muralitharan tells Jayawardene

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Dubai, Nov 13 (Cricket news) Sri Lankan spin legend Muttiah Muralitharan has called his former teammate and the ICC's latest Hall of Fame inductee Mahela Jayawardene one of the game's "great thinkers".

Lauding him for his contribution to not just his country but world cricket, Muralitharan wrote in an open letter that Jayawardene is one of the most important players in Sri Lankan cricket history.

"You played so many wonderful innings and were always happy to be in the team, getting a lot of runs. There was less pressure on me to take wickets because once you put on all those runs, my job became easy. That is why you are one of the most important players in Sri Lankan cricket history," Muralitharan said.

"More than that though, you are a great human being and a very soft, kind guy away from cricket. In sport, everyone sees that champions are always very competitive. On the field, you had this ability to switch on, you were a great person to be around and play with.

"You were much quieter than me! You know I talk a lot and there were a few others in the dressing room to do the talking but you were quieter, you concentrated so much on the game at the time, you were glued to the match even while in the dressing room." The 44-year-old Jayawardene retired as one of Sri Lanka's greatest ever players, a key member of the team that won the T20 World Cup in 2014 and reached four other major ICC finals.

The former Sri Lankan captain was inducted into the Hall of Fame on Saturday ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup final alongside former South Africa all-rounder Shaun Pollock and ex England batter Janette Brittin.

He is the third Sri Lankan player to be inducted into the Hall of Fame after another batting great and former skipper Kumar Sangakkara and Muralitharan himself.

"It isn't just for one individual moment that you are being inducted into the Hall of Fame, it’s a reward for the toil over the years and everything you contributed for Sri Lanka," Muralitharan wrote.

"Those are all taken into consideration when choosing who is inducted and the ICC thinks it is right that you are the next Sri Lankan to be chosen, to join Kumar Sangakkara and me in the Hall of Fame.

"You have been selected because as a captain you were very successful, you consistently delivered as a batter and then as a fielder, you took a lot of catches ­– more than anyone else. You have done everyone in Sri Lanka proud."

Also Read : Jayawardena, Pollock, Brittin to be inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 13 (Cricket news) New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson on Saturday played down the hype around their big final against Australia in the T20 World Cup, terming it "a one-off match for us" where the focus will be on extending their fine run in the tournament.

From reaching back-to-back ODI World Cup finals in 2015 and 2019, to winning the inaugural World Test Championship in June this year, the Black Caps have been one of the most consistent sides in world cricket.

"It's a reflection of a lot of hard work, but tomorrow's is a one-off match and for us, it is about trying to make those small adjustments again and keep the focus really close and what it needs to be," Williamson said during a virtual media interaction on the eve of the title clash.

"The side has been operating well as a collective and certainly playing for each other. For us, it's important that we've try to grow and learn throughout and I think we've seen that a little bit. And tomorrow's another opportunity." Despite their consistency, the Kiwis always enter a tournament final with the "underdogs" tag, but the skipper does not mind that.

"It's sort of doesn't have a lot to do with us really. We focus on our cricket and try our best keep improving as a side. The different tags and whatnot that's not really something that we control," Williamson said.

The last time the two rivals met in the final -- 2015 ODI World Cup -- New Zealand were bowled out for just 183 with Australia cantering home in the 34th over for the loss of three wickets.

But the Kiwis have peaked at the right time here, firing on all cylinders to oust 2019 ODI World Cup champions England with a superlative batting show from Daryl Mitchell and Jimmy Neesham in the first semifinal.

"It would be quite an achievement. But where it stands at the moment is there's a game of cricket to play and for us it's about focusing on that and looking to go out there and implement those things that are important to us.

"So that is very much where we are at the moment," said Williamson.

In the semifinals, wicketkeeper Devon Conway also played a crucial hand of 46 runs during his 82-run partnership with Mitchell for the fourth wicket, but he will miss the final as he broke his hand when he punched his bat after getting out against England.

"The loss of Devon is a big one, he's been a big part of all formats for us and it's disappointing. It's really a freak thing to happen. But we're keeping our focus on the task," Williamson said.

On paper, New Zealand have played Australia 212 times across the three formats and won only 51 times -- their worst win-loss record against any team in international cricket.

"When you play each other I suppose both teams get a reasonable look at one another. Probably not too many advantages to either side, except that we do play each other and have done so recently on a number of occasions and had some really good contests.

"It's great that we're playing our neighbour on the other side of the world and in a World Cup final, and a really exciting prospect for both teams. It's another match and another opportunity for us as a team to go," Williamson said.

Also Read : We were written off but reaching the final wasn't unexpected: Finch

News Source : PTI

Abu Dhabi, Nov 13 (Golf news) Anika Varma on Saturday carded one-under 71 in the final round to become the first Indian to post a top-10 finish in the history of the Women's Amateur Asia-Pacific (WAAP) championship.

The 17-year-old Varma picked up three birdies against two bogeys in the final round to finish tied ninth in the premier regional tournament, which was won by Japan's Mizuko Hashimoto.

On Saturday at Abu Dhabi Golf Club's National course, the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) No.483 once again struggled with her putting, but she fought hard for a fourth consecutive sub-par round.

Her 10-under par 278 was six adrift of champion Hashimoto (16-under-par 272).

Thai duo of Kan Bunnabodee (66) and overnight leader Natthakritta Vongtaveelap (72), along with Australia's Kelsey Bennett (68), were tied second at 15-under-par 273.

Among other Indian players, Natalii Gupta (70), who is Dubai born and nominated for the tournament by the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF), finished tied 13th place at six-under par.

Bengaluru's Avani Prashanth improved her first three day's scores of 71 with a two-under par 70 to finish on five-under par 283 and in tied 16th place.

Sifat Sagoo (70) and Kriti Chowhan (69) were tied 25th and 34th respectively at three-under 285 and even-par 288 respectively.

A late bogey on the 17th hole saw Varma slip a bit and she could not repair the damage on the par-5 18th, where she had a birdie putt from eight feet.

"My week's been filled with a lot of ups and downs. Some really good and amazing holes and some not so great. One of the highlights is that I only made three bogeys this week, which is pretty good," said the Sacramento, US-based player.

"It is really nice to make a top-10 finish. But the only way is going up from here. So, hopefully, it gets closer and closer to winning a tournament." Varma was most pleased with how she approached the game.

"It has been so good this week. I want to carry it on for my next few tournaments and keep the momentum going.

"If I can finish in the top-10 in such a big tournament, it means I do know how to play golf, I am pretty good at it, and I just need to trust myself while playing." In the inaugural WAAP in Singapore in 2018, none of the six Indian players could make it to the weekend, while three players advanced in Japan the year after.

Seher Atwal was the best placed at tied 28th. In comparison, five players made the cut this year, including Natalii Gupta, who was nominated by the hosts Emirates Golf Federation (EGF).

It was a wonderful finish for Gupta.

The 17-year-old, born and brought up in the UAE, said: "I had a blast this week. It was so much fun. I’m thankful to be here. Thankful to be given the opportunity to play this week. It was not the best finish today, but I had fun.

"I’ve never played an event that’s this important and of this class. And it was pretty good to see the standards. But I thought I hit my goal this week." Prashanth, just 15 and winner of two Hero Women’s Golf Association of India (WGAI) Tour events this season, said: "I really enjoyed my round of 70 today, just because I was getting tired of shooting 71s! "I am happy to finish inside the top-20 in my first WAAP, but it should have been better as I made so many birdies this week. I need to make less mistakes." Hashimoto, who made an eagle two on the par-4 third hole, continued an outstanding year for Japan golf.

In April this year, Tsubasa Kajitani and Hideki Matsuyama were winners in back-to-back weeks in Augusta National Women’s Amateur and The Masters, and a similar story unfolded in the UAE with Keita Nakajima winning the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship down the road in Dubai last week.

Apart from the trophy, the 19-year-old Hashimoto also secured guaranteed starts next year in AIG Women's British Open, The Amundi Evian Championship (both majors), as well as the Hana Financial Group Championship and an invitation to play in the Augusta National Women’s Amateur.

Also Read : Tvesa Malik grabs a Top-10 finish in Aramco Series in Jeddah

News Source : PTI

Chandigarh, Nov 13 (Golf news) Experienced golfer Shiv Kapur turned in five-under 67 to grab a slender one-shot advantage in a packed leaderboard after the third and penultimate round of the Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational here on Saturday.

Kapur (64-68-67), a four-time winner on the Asian Tour, was 17-under 199 after three days in the Rs. 1.5 crore event Presented by TAKE Sports.

The Dubai-based golfer, one of the pre-tournament favourites, built on his solid previous rounds to be the leader for the third day running at the Chandigarh Golf Club.

Aadil Bedi (68-65-67), a winner on the PGTI in early 2020, kept local hopes alive as he went error-free for the second straight day during his 67 to move up one spot to second position at 16-under 200.

Delhi's Rashid Khan (65-67-69), a two-time Asian Tour winner, slipped out of the overnight joint lead and dropped to third place at 15-under 201 following his 69.

Delhi's Kshitij Naveed Kaul (69) occupied fourth place at 13-under 203.

Gurugram-based Dhruv Sheoran carded the day's best score of eight-under 64 to climb 10 places to tied fifth at 12-under 204. Olympian Udayan Mane (67) was also tied for fifth along with Sheoran.

The 39-year-old Kapur, looking for his first title on the PGTI, had a brisk start as he made four birdies on the first eight holes which included three conversions from a range of 10 to 25 feet.

Kapur, who was bogey-free through his first 44 holes of the tournament, then hit a rough patch dropping three bogeys in exchange for a lone birdie between the ninth and 12th holes.

He missed a couple of par putts on that stretch, including a two-footer on the 12th.

Kapur, originally hailing from Delhi, rallied with three birdies thereafter as his accurate wedge shots set up short birdie putts on the 13th, 16th and 17th that gave him the sole lead for the first time this week.

"Heading into round four, I'll look to continue doing what I've done since the start of the event," Kapur said.

"The focus will be on keeping it in play, giving myself opportunities and making those crucial putts to keep the momentum going." Aadil Bedi carded five birdies and the ones that stood out were his 40-feet conversion on the ninth and his chip-in from the bunker on the 13th. He has so far dropped just one double-bogey in the tournament and there are no bogeys on his card.

Rashid made gains with two birdies on the first 10 holes followed by an eagle on the 13th. He conceded a bogey on the 16th but came back with a superb recovery from the trees to salvage a par on the 17th and keep himself in contention.

Besides Bedi, there were three other Chandigarh professionals in the top-10 as Yuvraj Singh Sandhu and Abhijit Singh Chadha were tied seventh at 11-under 205, while defending champion Karandeep Kochhar climbed 12 spots to tied ninth at nine-under 207 after his round of 65.

Among the other marquee names in the field, former champion Ajeetesh Sandhu of Chandigarh and SSP Chawrasia were both in tied 11th at eight-under 208 while Jyoti Randhawa was another three shots back in tied 18th.

Former champion Chikkarangappa of Bengaluru was tied 23rd at four-under 212. Gaganjeet Bhullar was tied 34th at two-under 214.

The two amateurs to make the cut, US-based Varun Chopra (three-under 213) and Aryan Roopa Anand (even-par 216) of Bengaluru, were placed tied 26th and tied 49th respectively.

Also Read : Lahiri fighting to stay afloat in Houston Open

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Dubai, Nov 13 (Cricket news) Australia's march into the final of the T20 World Cup is not surprising, skipper Aaron Finch said on Saturday, stressing that his team has the depth to go the distance and clinch a maiden title.

Australia had come into the ICC event after losing all the series played this year. They lost to New Zealand, West Indies and Bangladesh in the lead-up to the tournament.

On Thursday however, Australia beat Pakistan by five wickets in the second semifinal of the T20 showpiece to set up a summit clash against New Zealand.

"It wasn't unexpected. We came here with a clear plan to try and win this tournament. We always felt that we have the depth and quality to do that," Finch said on the eve of Sunday's final. "Lot of people had written us off from the start, so it has been really impressive the way we have gone about our business. Everyone has prepared really well and had match-defining performances at some point, the guys are up and about for tomorrow.

"We had a lot of confidence within, we were confident about how we were preparing, our strategy was coming together. So it has not defied expectations, we came with a clear plan to win the tournament and we still feel we have the squad to do that." Finch was out for a first-ball duck after Pakistan's left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi trapped him in front of the wicket and the skipper admitted he is "vulnerable" when the balls nips back in.

"That was a good ball. Any time it nips back a little bit is where I am probably most vulnerable," he said.

"So that would be another challenge with Trent Boult's left-arm swing and Tim Southee who can swing the ball away and also knocks it off the seam and slides it a little bit. I had a really good hit in the training, so feeling good going into tomorrow." Five-time ODI World Cup champions Australia have never won the T20 title and Finch is hopeful that his team can change that on Sunday.

"Absolutely, it is one that has eluded us in the past and the fact that we are in the finals, it gives us a great opportunity to rectify that," he said.

"It will be a great game, New Zealand is a great team, they have been to all finals over the last six years, so looking forward to it." Talking about New Zealand, the 34-year-old said: "They can't be underestimated... they have the firepower, experience and class, so I am not surprised one bit." "New Zealand side has got a huge amount of quality, they have shown that over long period of time, they have been best powerplay performing team with the ball, that's going to be a challenge," he said.

"They have got Daryl Mitchell, who played a great knock against England, Martin Guptill, who has got class and power and then you got Kane Williamson, who is also world class as the top 3. So they have match winners with both bat and ball." Finch also said he is not too worried about the toss as "at some point, you have to win a game batting first." "Obviously the trend of the tournament and the IPL has been chasing has been the way to go. In the last game, I was hoping to lose the toss actually, I wouldn't have mind batting first, but I won the toss.

"I think if we can put decent score on board, we can put pressure on opposition chasing." Australia had suffered a loss against England and Finch said they had decided to stay aggressive after that defeat, and it paid off.

"We were disappointed but a couple of days helped to regroup... to freshen up mentally and physically, we talked about staying really committed to being aggressive, we felt in that game we were timid and got outplayed in the powerplay. It is about staying really aggressive." Former skipper and middle-order batter Steve Smith hasn't fired in the tournament but Finch said he is "not concerned one bit" about his form.

Also Read : 7 years since Rohit Sharma scored the iconic 264* against Sri Lanka at the Eden Gardens

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Kaec, Nov 13 (Golf news) Indian golfer Tvesa Malik carded a fine three-under 68 in the final round to finish tied 10th in the individual segment of the Aramco Team Series Jeddah, her first top-10 finish after more than three months.

Malik finished with a creditable 10-under 206 in the individual segment. However, her team finished T-18.

Diksha Dagar, part of the winning team in the Aramco series event in London, was T-38 with rounds of 68-73-72.

Tvesa, who was bogey free in her round of 67 on the second day had five birdies against one bogey for 68 in the third and final round.

Team Pedersen claimed victory at the Aramco Team Series – Jeddah after they beat Team Lydia Hall in a two-hole playoff at Royal Greens Golf & Country Club.

The quartet of Emily Kristine Pedersen, Hannah Burke, Krista Bakker and amateur Ahmed Al Subaey began the day five shots behind the overnight leaders and produced a final round of -18 to reach a total of 51-under-par.

With the floodlights turned on in Jeddah, captain Pedersen headed back down to the 18th to compete in a playoff against Lydia Hall, with an eagle on the second playoff hole for the Dane ensuring she won the Team event for the second successive year.

It was a second LET title for England's Burke, with her last coming back in 2015 at the Tipsport Golf Masters in the Czech Republic, while it was a first for Finland’s Bakker.

But it was on holes one to nine where they picked up momentum, with the quartet of Lydia Hall, Becky Brewerton, Luiza Altmann and amateur Victor Green – a former NFL player – coming in 10-under in their final six holes to also be 51-under-par.

Slovenia's Pia Babnik secured the Aramco Team Series – Jeddah individual title with a birdie on 18 sealing the victory on 16-under-par.

The 17-year-old fired rounds of 70, 65 and 65 to clinch her second LET title of the year while Team Babnik finished third on 50-under-par.

Germany's Olivia Cowan ended the individual tournament in second place one shot back having found the water on the 18th hole with Hall and Carlota Ciganda finishing T3.

England's Georgia Hall was in fifth place on 12-under with four players T6 including 2021 Race to Costa del Sol champion Atthaya Thitikul, Dubai Moonlight Classic winner Bronte Law, 2021 AIG Women's Open champion Anna Nordqvist and England’s Gabriella Cowley.

India's Tvesa Malik, Australian Stephanie Kyriacou and Finland's Sanna Nuutinen rounded out the top ten on -10.

Also Read : Jeev misses the cut at Jeev Invitational; Shiv, Rashid share lead

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Dubai, Nov 13 (Cricket news) Sri Lankan great Mahela Jayawardena, former South Africa all-rounder Shaun Pollock and ex England batter Janette Brittin will be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame before the T20 World Cup final gets underway here on Sunday.

The three cricketers will be formally inducted by fellow ICC Hall of Famer, Sir Clive Lloyd, before the much-anticipated final between New Zealand and Australia starts at the Dubai International Stadium.

The ICC Hall of Fame recognises the achievements of the legends of the game from cricket's long and illustrious history. 106 players have been inducted since its launch in 2009, with Brittin, Jayawardena and Pollock as the latest inductees.

Brittin, who died in 2017, was a mainstay of the England Test team for 19 years and paved the way for women's cricket between 1979 and 1998.

Jayawardena retired as one of Sri Lanka's greatest ever players, a key member of the team that won the T20 World Cup in 2014 and reached four other major ICC finals.

Pollock was one of the finest bowling all-rounders the game has ever seen and was the first player to achieve the 3,000 run and 300 wicket double in both Test and ODI cricket.

Reacting to the news of Brittin's induction, her friend Angela Bainbridge, said: "I would like to extend my thanks to the ICC for the incredible honour they have bestowed on Jan by inaugurating her into the Hall of Fame.

"I along with Jan's parents Maggie and Kevin are incredibly proud of her and her achievements and this award recognises both the player and the person that she was.

"You could not wish to meet a more humble or talented player and she always gave 100% whether she played for club, county, or country. It is sad that Jan is not able to collect this trophy herself, but her memory will live on." Jayawardena follows Kumar Sangkkara and Muttiah Muralitharan into the Hall of Fame.

"It's a very special honour to follow in the footsteps of legends Sanga and Murali from Sri Lanka and so many other great cricketers of the past.

"I am very grateful for the recognition and would like to enjoy and share the moment with all those that have helped me on my journey, including my family, friends, coaches, team-mates and, most importantly, Sri Lanka cricket fans who passionately supported and inspired me during my career," he said.

Pollock added: "It's an amazing honour to be included in the Hall of Fame alongside the very illustrious company that has already been inducted.

"It's a real cherry on the top or maybe even a book end of what has been a thoroughly enjoyable cricketing experience and I'd like to thank my teammates who played such a massive part along the journey."

Also Read : Shivnarine Chanderpaul appointed West Indies Under-19 batting consultant

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(Cricket news) The current World Test Champions and the 5 time World Cup winners Australia will fight it out in the Trans-Tasman rivalry to win their first T20 World Cup. Interestingly neither teams were touted as the pre tournament favourites to reach the final, however both the teams have played some quality cricket and deserve to reach the finals. Both have endured heavy losses against Pakistan and England but have bounced back by playing exceptional cricket against top quality opposition.

Australia over the tournament have discovered a winning combination not only with the bat but also with the ball. Warner in this tournament has shown that class is permanent and form is temporary as he has been on fire scoring crucial runs especially in the last two matches, on the other hand, Finch’s form going into in the final is not great but he has scored 251 runs against New Zealand in T20’s and will be hoping to add to that tally. Glenn Maxwell has been an integral cog in the team as Australia have moved away from their bowling heavy approach to play Mitchell Marsh instead of Ashton Agar, Glenn Maxwell now has to bowl four overs and act as a finisher in the squad also.

Australia’s pace trio have picked up 11 wickets in the powerplay which is the joint second highest in the tournament and will be interesting to see how the New Zealand opening batsman tackle the pace attack. Adam Zampa has slowly gone about his business in this tournament, he is the leading wicket taker in the middle overs since the super 12 and holds a massive threat for the New Zealand middle order.

New Zealand will be without Devon Conway in this clash as he is ruled out with a fractured hand, the main question will be who will replace him. Whether New Zealand would replace him with another leftie in Mark Chapman or will they go for Seifert will be the lone selection dilemma. Martin Guptill and Daryl Mitchell are probably the two most in form batsmen of the team and will be looking to continue the same, Guptill holds an exceptional record against Australia in T20’s as he has scored 435 runs in 12 innings. Kane Williamson and Jimmy Neesham will have an integral part to play in the middle overs especially with Devon Conway out. Kane Williamson needs to be wary of his poor record against the Australian spinner, he  has a poor head-to-head against both Zampa and Glenn Maxwell in T20 cricket: 38 balls, 37 runs, two dismissals vs Zampa and 10 balls, six runs, two dismissals vs Maxwell. 

Ish Sodhi and Mitchell Santer have provided the team with the right balance between spin and pace, against Australia they have a top six where only Warner bats left-handed while the rest matchup poorly against the New Zealand spin duo as both of whom turn the ball from right to left. Tim Southee and Trent Boult will hold the key for New Zealand as they are the second most economical team in the powerplay with conceding only 5.89 rpo.   

Head to head: Australia 9 - 5 New Zealand (In T20 World Cups, New Zealand 1-0 Australia)

Pitch and weather report: The “ring of fire” over the past few matches have produced some batting belters, Spinners can come handy in the middle overs while there is very little margin of error for the death bowlers. Dew factor will play a massive role in the finals as well. The captain winning the toss always looks to bowl first and the trend will likely continue in the finals as well. The weather in Dubai will remain hot as the temperature will hover around 28°C on the matchday with 54 % humidity and 14 km/hr wind speed. There are no chances of precipitation during the game.

Interesting facts:

• Aaron Finch needs 25 runs to become the second Australian and sixth player overall to complete 10,000 T20 runs
• David Warner needs 4 sixes to complete 100 sixes in T20’s
• Guptill also needs 49 runs to go past Brendon McCullum’s tally of 637 runs and become New Zealand’s leading run-scorer in T20 World Cups
• Glenn Phillips has scored 1376 T20 runs this year, third-most by any player in 2021.
• Australia have five wins winning the toss and only lost the toss once when they lost to England 

Also read: T20 WC Final: Trans-Tasman rivals Australia and New Zealand lock horns in battle of contrasting styles

Probable XI for Australia:

David Warner, Aaron Finch (c), Mitchell Marsh, Steven Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade (wk), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood

Probable XI for New Zealand:

Martin Guptill, Daryl Mitchell, Kane Williamson (c), Tim Seifert (wk)/Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Adam Milne, Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi, Trent Boult

Dubai, Nov 13 (Cricket news) The fiestiness of Australia will clash with the tactical shrewdness of a perennially understated New Zealand when the Trans-Tasman rivals battle for their maiden T20 World Cup trophy here on Sunday.

Considering how both Australia and New Zealand won their respective semifinals against fancied opponents, one can expect another dramatic finish at the "Ring of Fire".

Australia, who have won a record five World Cup titles in 50-over cricket, have surprisingly not got their hands on the T20 showpiece.

New Zealand, on the other hand, have always been consistent in ICC events but now seem to have the self-belief of going all way under Kane Williamson's astute leadership.

It will be their first T20 World Cup final and if they do end up winning it, it will be a remarkable achievement for a country of five million which keeps churning out world-class players.

Australia hold the upper-hand over the reigning world Test champions in overall T20 meetings but the Black Caps won their only meeting in the World Cup back in the 2016 edition in India.

Their last meeting in a World Cup final, in the 50-over format in 2015, was bossed by the Aussies, who have not won an ICC event since then.

Fans of both the teams will have to work against their body clock to watch the game from their TV sets with the final starting well past midnight in both the countries.

New Zealand, who have been the best bowling side of the group stage, showed their batting class in the semifinals against pre-tournament favourites.

Martin Guptill enjoys a good record against Australia in T20s and his opening partner Daryl Mitchell goes into the final having played the innings of his life.

Skipper Kane Williamson is due for a big score and expect him to rise to the occasion on Sunday.

Jimmy Neesham proved his value in the middle-order against England but New Zealand will miss the services of Devon Conway who punched his bat in frustration after getting dismissed in the semifinal and ended up breaking his right hand. Tim Seifert is set to replace him.

The seasoned pace duo of Tim Southee and Trent Boult will be expected to keep Australian openers Aaron Finch and David Warner quiet in the powerplay.

Adam Milne has also done a decent job as the third pacer and leg-spinner Ish Sodhi has been impressive in the middle overs.

Finch, who could do little with fast inswingers of Shaheen Shah Afridi the other night, will be looking to add to his 251 runs against New Zealand, the most by an Aussie batter against the Kiwis.

In his last two innings, Warner has shown class is permanent and form is temporary and trust him to fire in the all important final. More is expected from Glenn Maxwell and Steve Smith who are yet to make a big impact in the tournament.

Marcus Stoinis and Matthew Wade pulling off a remarkable chase against Pakistan makes the Australians better prepared for another close finish.

Leg-spinner Adam Zampa, who was taken 12 wickets at 10.91 average in the tournament, will be expected to deliver in the middle overs once again while Maxwell can also chip in with his off spin.

The envious pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood will be playing their first T20 against New Zealand. Hazlewood had an off night against Pakistan and will be itching to bounce back.

Teams (from): Australia: Aaron Finch (c), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Swepson, Matthew Wade (wk), David Warner, Adam Zampa New Zealand: Kane Williamson (c), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Adam Milne, Martin Guptill, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert (wk), Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee.

Match starts 7.30 PM IST.

Alsso Read : For greater success as batsman, Kohli should give up captaincy in all formats: Afridi

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Dubai, Nov 12 (Cricket news) An Indian doctor who helped in getting Pakistani cricketer Mohammad Rizwan back on his feet a day before the World cup Semifinal in Dubai has praised the wicket keeper batter's indomitable spirit and courage as he battled a severe chest infection on an ICU bed.

Specialist Pulmonologist at Medeor Hospital, Saheer Sainalabdeen, who treated the cricketer, was astonished at Rizwan's quick recovery.

"Mujhe Khelna he. Team ke saath rehna he, (I want to play and be with the team)," Rizwan used to say to doctors who treated him in the ICU.

The Pakistan opener overcame all odds to score 67 off 52 balls in the knock out game his team lost to Australia by five wickets.

"Rizwan had a strong desire to play for his nation in the crucial knockout match. He was strong, determined, and confident. I am astonished at the pace he had recovered,” recalled Saheer.

Rizwan had been suffering from intermittent fever, persistent cough, and chest tightness for 3-5 days before being hospitalised.

The medical team immediately stabilized him and gave him symptomatic medications to ease his pain. “His pain at the time of admission was 10/10. So, we subjected him for a detailed evaluation to diagnose the condition,” said Saheer.

The results confirmed that the player had severe laryngeal infection leading to an esophageal spasm and bronchospasm. It is painful contraction of muscles within the esophagus. “Esophageal spasms can feel like sudden and severe chest pain that lasts for a few minutes to hours,” said Saheer.

The medical team shifted the 29-year-old cricketer to the ICU and monitored his condition continuously. Rizwan had to manage severe pain and other issues induced by the medical condition.

“Rizwan had a severe infection. Recovery and gaining fitness before the semifinal seemed unrealistic. It would have normally taken 5-7 days for anybody to recover,” maintained Saheer.

However, the cricketer was confident and displayed tremendous willpower. “He seemed very focused and believed in God. His only thoughts were about the semifinal,” the doctor added.

Two nights in the ICU, Rizwan responded well to symptomatic medications and showed significant improvement. HThe doctor believes various factors might have contributed to his faster recovery.

“Rizwan was firm, courageous, and confident. His physical fitness and endurance level as a sportsman had been key in his recovery. He had been in the ICU for 35 hours” said Saheer.

After being evaluated by a multidisciplinary team of doctors, Rizwan was discharged from the hospital on Wednesday around noon.

The team officials were in constant touch with the medical team. “During sporting events, we have seen players coming up with injuries. But this is the first time a player with a severe infection of this scale had recovered so quickly.

"When Rizwan hit the big sixes, we were all happy. The power he has regained after the illness has been amazing. His dedication, commitment, and courage are truly commendable,” Saheer added.

A grateful Rizwan thanked the doctor and the medical team for their support and care. He also gifted a signed jersey to Saheer as a token of gratitude.

Medeor Hospital Dubai is a unit of VPS Healthcare, the group that guards the bio bubble and provides medical services for the ongoing T20 World Cup.

Also Read : Don't single him out: Pak cricket fraternity backs Hasan Ali after costly dropped catch in T20WC

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Chandigarh, Nov 12 (Golf News) Tournament host Jeev Milkha Singh missed the cut while Shiv Kapur and Rashid Khan were tied for the top spot at the halfway stage of the Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational Presented by TAKE Sports at the Chandigarh Golf Club here on Friday.

While Dubai-based Shiv (64-68) went bogey-free for the second day in succession with a four-under 68, Delhi-based Rashid (65-67) brought in a card of five-under 67 featuring seven birdies and two bogeys as both players enjoyed the joint second round lead at 12-under 132.

Chandigarh's Aadil Bedi (68-65) shot the day's best score of seven-under 65 to move up five spots to third place at 11-under 133.

The cut came down at even-par 144 and 60 professionals and two amateurs managed to get in for weekend rounds.

Jeev (75-72), however, missed the cut despite a steady even-par 72 in round two. He totalled three-over 147 for the week.

Shiv, who admitted to being rusty at the start of the week having not played a tournament for about a month, seemed to have shaken off the rust.

The six-time international winner, who began his round from the 10th, had a scrappy start as he made pars on the first six holes. Shiv then found the hole from a range of seven to eight feet for his three consecutive birdies from the 16th through the 18th.

On the front-nine, he was steady with eight pars and a lone birdie on the sixth where he sank his longest putt of the day, a 15-footer.

"I was a bit scrappy today especially on the first six holes as the conditions were a little different in the morning with the ball not travelling too far. It took some time adjusting to the different distances the ball was travelling.

"What I did well was make a number of par putts to keep the momentum of the round going," he said.

"I'm still making a few mental mistakes out there having not played tournament golf for a while. However, if you told me before the start of the week that I'd be bogey-free through 36 holes, I'd take it in a heartbeat." Two-time Asian Tour winner Rashid jumped from overnight third to tied first. Rashid was one-under through the front-nine and then pushed ahead with a four-under on the back-nine. Khan attributed his low score to his good course management.

On the other hand, Bedi, who has just recovered from a wrist injury which kept him out of action from three PGTI events in September, sank a 40-footer for birdie on the 15th and converted four more birdies from a range of 10 to 15 feet.

Olympian Udayan Mane (68) is tied ninth at seven-under 137.

Gaganjeet Bhullar was in tied 34th place at one-under 143.

The two amateurs to make the cut were Aryan Roopa Anand of Bengaluru, who is tied 34th at one-under 143, and US-based Varun Chopra who is tied 51st at even-par 144. 

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Karachi, Nov 12 (Cricket News) Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali, who has been in the eye of a storm after dropping a crucial catch in the T20 World Cup semifinal loss to Australia, has got full support from the country's cricket stalwarts like Wasim Akram and Misbah-ul-Haq.

Pakistan's former captains Akram, Waqar Younis, Rashid Latif, Misbah and Inzamam-ul-Haq backed Hasan and said it would be unfair to hold him responsible for Pakistan's five-wicket defeat on Thursday night.

"I don't understand why one player should be singled out. Hasan has been an outstanding performer for us and won us matches. Anyone can drop catches or have an off-day…does that make him a bad player?" questioned Akram.

"What we don't want is that the whole country gets after poor Hasan Ali now. I have been through this, Waqar Younis has been through it. In other countries, it's just a game for people. Next day, you say well tried, bad luck, better luck next time, and move on," he said on 'A Sports' channel.

Inzamam also agreed and noted that in such high pressure games mistakes can happen.

"The Australians also dropped catches. Hasan is very low on confidence and I think it is the responsibility of the team management to ensure he does not fall down completely," he added.

Waqar echoed the sentiment.

"No one does anything intentionally. As a former player myself I know I have been through such bad times...had off days in bowling...dropped catches. I remember how people criticised me after the 1996 World Cup quarter final but I think we need to understand it is a sport," he recalled.

Needing 22 runs off the second last over, Matthew Wade's wild swing at Shaheen Shah Afridi's third ball sent a skier towards Hasan who spilled the catch on the leg-side.

Wade responded by hitting three more sixes to complete the winning chase against Pakistan.

Hasan also conceded 44 runs from four overs against the Aussies.

"Harsh criticism and trolling on social media can hurt these players mentally and I can tell you the entire Pakistan team will be down after losing such a big match," Latif said.

"The players will go to their rooms, they'll be quiet, they won't talk to their families and the defeat will haunt them. But I think we need to move on and come back strongly," he added.

He said Pakistan team had given a good account of themselves in the tournament and there was a lot to build on for next year's World T20 Cup in Australia.

"The way he came back from his injury problems was a miracle and he has won so many matches. So I would just ask the cricket fans if he made a mistake, he is human and don't discourage him further," said Misbah.

Pakistan fast bowler, Wahab Riaz said it was not always easy to pick up the ball under lights at the Dubai stadium.

"Catches are dropped by everyone. I think Hasan needs to pick himself up and move on. He has not had a very good World Cup and he is short on confidence." 

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Karachi, Nov 12 (Cricket News) Top Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi has been reprimanded by former captain Shahid Afridi for conceding three successive sixes in the T20 World Cup semifinal against Australia.

Flamboyant all-rounder Shahid, who is known for his straight forward views, said he was not happy with the way Shaheen had bowled in the 19th over of the semifinal on Thursday night in Dubai.

Matthew Wade played a sensational knock, which included three sixes off Shaheen in the penultimate over, to ensure a five wicket win for Australia.

“I am not happy with Shaheen in one area. Okay so Hasan Ali dropped a catch but that does not mean you will bowl badly and get hit for three successive sixes,” Shahid Afridi said on Samaa TV channel.

“Shaheen has so much pace and he should have used it sensibly. Even if the catch was dropped. He should have used his head and tried to bowl outside off stump fast Yorkers with his pace. He is not that sort of bowler to be hit like that," the former Pakistan captain.

Afridi said he believed that the semifinal would be a big learning experience for Shaheen and he should benefit from it.

Shahid however praised Shaheen for his bowling throughout the tournament, especially with the new ball.

“I would say he was brilliant in the tournament and I have only seen either Wasim bhai (Akram) or perhaps Muhammad Amir bowl like this with the new ball,” he added.

“He is giving good performances. I hope he learns from this cricket experience and prepares himself for the future.” Shaheen set the World Cup on fire when he got rid of top players like Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul with the new ball in Pakistan's big match against India and even in the semifinal sent back Australian captain Finch in the first over. 

Also Read : Kohli might give up captaincy in other formats to focus on his batting: Shastri

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Dubai, Nov 12 (Cricket News) South Africa's Marais Erasmus and England's Richard Kettleborough were on Friday appointed as the on-field umpires for the T20 World Cup final between Australia and New Zealand for India's Nitin Menon will act as the TV umpire.

The final is scheduled to be held on Sunday.

"Umpires Marais Erasmus and Richard Kettleborough will assume on-field duties in the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 to be played between Australia and New Zealand at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday," the ICC said in a statement.

Menon, who is the only Indian umpire in the ICC elite panel, will be the TV umpire while former Sri Lanka spinner Kumar Dharmasena will be the fourth umpire.

Considering he is officiating in his first men's World Cup, it is a significant feat for Menon.

While Australia defeated Pakistan in the semifinals, New Zealand put it past England for the summit clash slot.

The final will be overseen by match referee Ranjan Madugalle.

Match Officials for the final: Match Referee: Ranjan Madugalle On-field umpires: Marais Erasmus and Richard Kettleborough TV umpire: Nitin Menon Fourth umpire: Kumar Dharmasena. 

Also Read : You don't come halfway around the world just to win a semifinal: Neesham

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 12 (Cricket News) New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham, who knows a thing or two about heartbreaks on a cricket field, held back his celebrations when his teammates jumped in joy after the tense semifinal win over England in the T20 World Cup.

Neesham had his reasons to not move an inch in the dugout after scoring a momentum changing 27 off 11 balls in the first semifinal.

For someone who was involved in a nerve wracking Super Over finish in the 2019 ODI World Cup final where England controversially won on the boundary count rule, Neesham said he and his teammates have their eyes firmly set on the final against Australia on Sunday.

Both teams are yet to win a T20 World Cup title.

"It's a situation worthy of celebrating I guess - winning a semi-final - but you don't come halfway around the world just to win a semi-final," Neesham told New Zealand Cricket when asked about his rather muted celebrations.

"We've got our sights pretty firmly set on the game in a few days' time... I'm personally, and we as a team, are not getting ahead of ourselves. One game to go and I'm sure there will be a bigger outpouring of emotion if we manage to get across the line." New Zealand are one of the most consistent teams in world cricket and especially at ICC events. Neesham said their robust planning is the reason behind their consistency.

"Look, I think we're experienced at it. We've done so well and so consistently in tournaments across five or six years. We know how to I suppose hit the reset button and put a win or a loss behind us pretty quickly.

"We've got pretty robust strategies around how to prepare for games with scouting, planning, and all that kind of stuff. So, those strategies will all kick over the next couple of days and we will get back on the training paddock tomorrow I think and prepare as best as we can." Talking about his match winning partnership with opener Daryl Mitchell, who stayed unbeaten till the end, Neehsam said his plan was to try for a six every ball.

"I just said to Daz (Daryl Mitchell), I hit CJ (Chris Jordan) for a six second ball and Daz sort of came down and said: 'what do you think?' I just said I'm going to try and hit every ball for six.

"It doesn't always come out of the middle but chunked a couple and got enough to get over the rope. Yeah, ended up doing reasonably comfortably in the end." New Zealand were able to score 60 off the last 29 balls for a memorable win. 

Also Read : After claiming Hasan Ali's dropped catch was turning point, Babar says players can drop catches

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(Cricket news) The final of the ICC T20 World Cup is all set to take place in Dubai with Australia taking on New Zealand on November 14. New Zealand had reached the semifinals in the inaugural 2007 T20 World Cup and in the previous edition. Australia had reached the finals in 2010 and had reached the semifinals in 2007, 2012 but have never won the trophy. There are a few players who can break milestones at the final.

Tim Southee: New Zealand

Southee is set to play his 90th T20 international match in the final and needs one more wicket to overtake Lasith Malinga’s record of 107 wickets to become the second highest wicket taker in the format. Southee is currently level with Malinga with Shakib Al Hasan leading the list with 117 wickets. Southee has played 6 matches in the ongoing World Cup while taking 8 wickets and is one of the most experienced players in the side after Martin Guptill.

Martin Guptill: New Zealand

Guptill is currently the most experienced player in the side as he has played over 108 matches. Guptill is also the second highest run scorer in T20 internationals with 3119 runs, the 35 year old has scored 498 runs this year and can become the first batter from the team to score more than 500 runs in a season. Colin Munro scored 500 runs in 2018 and Guptill is only two runs away from breaking the record.

Mitchell Marsh: Australia

Marsh has scored 550 runs in 20 matches in T20 this year for Australia. He beat Aaron Finch’s record of 531 runs in 2018, Marsh scored 28 in the match against Pakistan as he looks to be the first Australian player and 10th overall to score 600 runs or more in a single season. Marsh has scored 108 runs in 4 matches at the ongoing World Cup and needs to score 50 more runs in the final to reach the 600 run mark.

Adam Zampa: Australia

Zampa has been the leading wicket taker for the team at this World Cup as he has taken 12 wickets in 6 matches. He needs four more to be the leading wicket taker of the tournament and three more to break the record of Ajantha Mendis who took 15 in the 2012 edition. Zampa has the ability to break down the batting order and needs to do the same against New Zealand in the final.

Also read: After claiming Hasan Ali's dropped catch was turning point, Babar says players can drop catches

Dubai, Nov 12 (Cricket News) Pakistan captain Babar Azam sought to make amends for his comment that Hasan Ali's dropped catch of Matthew Wade was the turning point of their T20 World Cup semifinals defeat to Australia, saying players dropping catches was part of game and the costly mistake was not the reason for his team's ouster.

After Pakistan suffered a five-wicket defeat, courtesy Wade's sensational three consecutive sixes off Shaheen Shah Afridi in the 19th over, Babar had said at the post-match presentation that the scenario of the match could have been different had the catch been taken.

At the post-match press conference, he repeated some of what he said but insisted that dropping catches was part of the game and he and the team would back Ali to the hilt.

"On the day, catches were dropped and because of that the match changed. Had the catch not been dropped, the scenario would have been different. But this is part of the game and the more we learn from our mistakes the better," he said.

When a reporter asked if he now realised that Ali's form was not good throughout the tournament and his dropped catch was the reason for Pakistan's ouster from the tournament, he said, “I don’t feel like that." "He is our main bowler and has won many matches for Pakistan. Players do drop catches sometimes." Babar, who was one of the standout performers among batters in the tournament, said Ali is "a bit down" but "fighting out" and the team will support him.

"He is fighting it out and I will keep backing him. Every player cannot perform in every game. Some individuals who are having a good day try to make the most of it and come up with good performances,” he said.

“Yes, he is a bit down. We will keep backing him and giving him confidence. People will say a lot of things, but we are behind him,” he added.

Besides the costly dropped catch, Ali was also off colour with the ball as he leaked 44 runs from his four overs without any wicket. But Babar refused to entertain any suggestion that Ali should not have been in the team.

"As a player you need confidence, we have backed Hasan Ali. From the management and from my side I have given him backing. Performing or not performing on a day is not in your hands, the important thing is the effort and he gave the effort.

"Unfortunately, it (performance) did not happen but it's all right and he will do better going ahead." Babar also defended the team combination and refused to accept the theory that Pakistan should have used more spin options against Australia, who normally play fast bowling well.

"We had spin options including Shoaib Malik and (Mohammad) Hafeez, we had four spinners. But because of the situation and conditions we did not utilise them. Hafeez bhai looked a bit off colour today so I did not give him more overs.

"Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf did very well, Shadab Khan was outstanding. We had belief in our combination and we stuck to it. The result did not go our way but we will try to learn from this defeat." Babar said overall his side played well in the tournament and the players should be proud of their performance.

"It was disappointing to lose the match. We put up a good total but unfortunately it did not finish the way we wanted. The effort throughout the tournament and the way the boys fought, I have full belief and confidence that this will continue like this.

"It's T20 cricket, there will be runs and bowlers will get hit. We gave outstanding performance in the group stage, faster we learn better it will be for us. We learn something every day and will try to ensure that we don't commit mistakes going forward." 

Also Read :Pathetic display of spirit of game: Gambhir on Warner's six off double-bounced ball

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Dubai, Nov 11 (Cricket News) Battling lung infection a day before the T20 World Cup semifinal, Pakistan opener Mohammad Rizwan came out of hospital like a "warrior" to score his third fifty of the tournament, albeit in a losing cause against Australia in the second semifinal here on Thursday.

Ahead of the match there were concerns about Rizwan's availability for the match as he was down with flu, and Pakistan batting consultant Matthew Hayden later confirmed that the wicketkeeper batter, in fact, had to be hospitalised for a night due to a "lung condition".

"Mohammad Rizwan was in hospital a night ago suffering with some sort of lung condition. This is a warrior. He's been brilliant through the campaign and he has great courage," Hayden said.

Pakistan's unbeaten run in the tournament finally came to an end on Thursday when Australia defeated them by five wickets to enter the final of the tournament. They will take on New Zealand on Sunday. 

Also Read : Indian women's cricket team to tour New Zealand ahead of World Cup next year

News Source : PTI

(Cricket news) Pakistan’s unbeaten run at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup came to an end when Australia defeated the tournament’s in-form team by five wickets in Dubai. Having not won the T20 World Cup since 2009, Pakistan started off strongly with openers Mohammad Rizwan (67 runs off 52) and skipper Babar Azam (39 runs off 34) sharing an opening stand of 71 runs. Babar became the fastest batsman to reach 2,500 runs in T20 internationals in 62 innings, six quicker than Virat Kohli.

Pakistan’s skipper was dismissed at 38 runs off Adam Zampa’s delivery with David Warner catching Azam’s shot at long-on. However, Rizwan continued his fine form, reaching a half century in 41 balls while Fakhar Zaman (55 runs off 32) supported him. In the 17th over, Rizwan scored his third and fourth sixes of his innings but was then caught by Steve Smith at mid-off on Mitchell Starc’s delivery. 

Zaman continued to knock Australia out of the park, scoring two sixes in the final three balls of the innings as Zaman scored 55 runs with Pakistan posting a score of 176/4 in 20 overs. Shaheen Afridi began Pakistan’s bowling in the best possible fashion, taking Aaron Finch’s wicket in the very first ball of the innings with an lbw. Mitchell Marsh (28 runs off 22) was also almost dismissed in the next delivery which was a yorker with David Warner (49 runs off 30) getting runs off Imad Wasim, scoring 14 runs off 3 balls. Australia regained momentum after their early setback to post a score of 51-1 after the powerplay.

However, Marsh was soon caught by Asif Ali off Shadab Khan’s delivery as he attempted a slog-sweep. The spinner then went on to take the wickets of Steve Smith (5 runs off 6) and Glenn Maxwell (7 runs off 10) with David Warner also being dismissed at the start of the 11th over. With Australia at 89-4, Marcus Stoinis (40 runs off 31) took the crease and his partnership with Matthew Wade (41 runs off 17) proved to be the turning point with 50 runs scored between them in 32 balls, thereby ensuring that Australia scored 177/5 in 19 overs.

With this result, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup finals will be between New Zealand and Australia on Sunday, 14th November at 7:30 pm IST at the Dubai International Stadium.

Also read: Wade thought semifinal against Pakistan could be his last opportunity to represent Australia

Dubai, Nov 12 (Cricket News) Wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Wade thought the T20 World Cup semifinal against Pakistan would "potentially be his last opportunity to represent Australia" before becoming the star of the show with a sizzling 41-run knock that helped his side reach the final.

Player of the Match Wade blazed his way to an unbeaten 17-ball effort to play a pivotal role in Australia's dramatic five-wicket victory against Pakistan here on Thursday.

"I was a little bit nervous coming into the game and knowing potentially it could be the last opportunity to represent Australia," Wade said at the post-match press conference.

"I just wanted to do well and really wanted us to win this game, give us an opportunity to win the whole thing.

"(The final) might be my last game too. As I've said in the past, I'm comfortable with it. I'm sure when I get the tap on the shoulder, I'll look back on the last three or four years and be proud of the way I could come back," he added.

With Australia needing 62 off 30 balls, Wade smashed three consecutive sixes off Shaheen Shah Afridi in the penultimate over to seal the game for his team.

Asked if he was targeting Afridi, regarded as one of the finest T20 bowlers, Wade said: "We didn't really target him, to be honest. Marcus Stoinis played a terrific innings to be able to get it to a total we started to think could be chaseable toward the end there.

"I think the way he played freed me up to be able to do what I did at the end there.We certainly didn't go into the game targeting. He's a terrific bowler, and I just got lucky tonight, I suppose." Wade's international career had seemed all but over when he was dropped before the 2017-18 Ashes.

The 33-year-old also went three years without an international T20. Since then he has reinvented himself as a specialist batter.

Asked to reflect on his journey, Wade said "It's hard to reflect on tonight so quickly, to be honest. Hasn't sunk in yet. I'm sure when we get back to the hotel and tomorrow morning it will sink in more about how we went about it than what we just had.

"But I'm happy that I got the opportunity to reinvent myself, go away and come back with more confidence and really feel like I belong at the international level now. I reinvented myself into a batsman and all of a sudden now I'm playing as a keeper batsman now batting at 7." Wade, who has also led the limited overs team on occasions, said he doesn't worry about his batting position or whether he is captaining the side as he gets older.

"I feel like the older I am, the more eyes wide open I am a little bit more about the opportunity I got. Didn't worry me to go down the order. Hasn't worried me at all whether I captained or not. I am just grasping every opportunity I get, like I spoke about before.

"I don't know when my last game will be. I treat every one like it potentially could be. I'm sure when it's all over, when I get the tap on the shoulder, I'll look back on the last three or four years and be proud of the way I could come back." Opener David Warner, who powered Australia in the initial stage of their innings with a 30-ball 49, didn't review his caught-behind dismissal.

It was later revealed the Southpaw had not edged the ball. Wade revealed what happened.

"Haven't had too much time to chat about it. Just passing comments. I think there was a noise, he wasn't sure. Maybe his bat handle clicked or his hand on his bat.

"He didn't think that he hit it. But I think Glenn (Maxwell) at the other end heard the noise. To be fair, the bat was out there. That was the only thing maybe it could have been. He was potentially thinking that he might have hit it.

"It's tough in those situations, how many times you see a batter think they haven't hit it and they have. So you need a little bit of reassurance from the other end I suppose." Australia will take on New Zealand in the summit clash on Sunday. 

Also Read : Rohit to skip entire NZ Test series, Kohli opts out of 1st game; new support staff checks in

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Dubai, Nov 11 (Cricket News) Matthew Wade, played the innings of his life to send Australia into their second T20 World Cup final, credited his batting partner Marcus Stoinis for showing him the way to bat on the Dubai pitch in the second semifinal against Pakistan on Thursday.

Wade (41 not out off 17) and Stoinis (40 off 31) shared an unbeaten 81-run stand for the sixth wicket to pull off a five-wicket win over Pakistan.

Pakistan were on top when Wade joined Stoinis in the middle.

"I was talking to Stoinis at the other end and tried to work out what they're doing. I got a little more pace on than expected, I probably could have used it a little bit earlier, but yeah.. glad to get a couple at the end. There wasn't a lot of chat before I went in as we lost quick wickets," he said at the post match presentation.

He smashed three consecutive sixes off Shaheen Shah Afridi in the penultimate over to seal the game for his team. Australia needed 62 runs off the last 30 balls.

"But when I got out there, Me and Marcus (Stoinis) had batted together in the first game and got some momentum today as well. I was a bit unsure but Marcus showed me the way out.

"There was one short side and I was confident that if I had to target that then I could pull it off, but it got down to two-a-ball and you had to hit everything in your arc.

"I got a boundary away early on and then stalled for 5-6 balls, but Marcus got the boundary away and got us to a total where I was confident in the last two overs." Wade's knock will be remembered for a long time but he is just happy to justify the faith his team showed in him.

"It hasn't sunk in but probably when I sit down tonight it might sink in. I was out of the team for 2-3 years, just came back 20 games ago and happy to have repaid the faith." Australia chased down 177 in 19 overs. Skipper Aaron Finch was all praise for Wade and Stoinis.

"Never thought it was in the bag. It was a great game of cricket. The way Wade held his nerve at the end was amazing. That partnership with Stoinis was crucial." Both teams dropped catches and Finch said his side will need to better against New Zealand in the final on Sunday.

"We were sloppy today in the field, a couple of tough ones. We need the support of all 17 players to get across the line. We have played some really good cricket in the back end.

"Teams chasing have been successful. There is no dew, the lights take effect. I was hoping I'd lose the toss, bat first and put up a good score on the board," he said.

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam said dropping Wade in the third ball of the 19th over proved costly. The match was in balance before Hasan Ali dropped Wade at deep midwicket.

"I thought we scored as many runs as we had planned in the first innings. I think if we give such teams a chance in the back end, it is going to be costly. The turning point was that dropped catch. Had we taken it, the scenario could have been different." On the team's unbeaten run in the group stage, he added: " The way we gelled and played the entire tournament, I am satisfied as a captain. Hopefully we'll learn from this for the next tournament.

"When you play so well throughout, there were small mistakes that cost us the match in the end. We gave players roles and they executed it really well," he added. 

Also Read : Australia beat Pakistan by 5 wickets to enter T20 WC final

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 11 (Cricket News) Australia defeated Pakistan by five wickets to enter the final of the ICC T20 World Cup here on Thursday.

Sent into bat, Mohammad Rizwan and Fakhar Zaman smashed quick fifties as Pakistan posted a challenging 176 for four. Opening the innings, Rizwan scored 67 off 52 balls during which he hit three boundaries and four sixes, while Zaman remained unbeaten on 55 off 32 balls with the help of three fours and four sixes.

Together with skipper Babar Azam (39), Rizwan shared 71 runs for the opening stand before stitching 72 runs with Zaman.

For Australia, Mitchell Starc picked up two wickets for 38 runs.

Chasing, David Warner made 49, while Matthew Wade smashed a 17-ball unbeaten 41 and Marcus Stoinis was not out on 40 off 31 deliveries as Australia overhauled the target with an over to spare.

Shadab Khan was the best bowler for Pakistan with figures of 4 for 26.

Australia will now face New Zealand in the final on Sunday.

Brief scores: Pakistan: 176 for 4 wickets in 20 overs (Mohammad Rizwan 67, Fakhar Zaman 55 not out; Mitchell Starc 2/38).

Australia: 177 for 5 in 19 overs (David Warner 49, Matthew Wade 41 not out, Marcus Stoinis 40 not out; Shadab Khan 4/26). 

Also Reaad : Kohli has achieved a lot, but Babar's ability to react to ball is second to none: Hayden

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Chandigarh, Nov 11 (Golf news) Six-time international winner Shiv Kapur and Abhijit Singh Chadha got off to flying starts with splendid rounds of eight-under 64 to share the first round lead at the Jeev Milkha Singh Invitational 2021 golf tournament, Presented by TAKE Sports here on Thursday.

While Dubai-based Kapur had a bogey-free day, two-time PGTI winner Chadha, playing at his home course, fired an eagle, seven birdies and a bogey.

Delhi's Rashid Khan produced an impressive error-free seven-under 65 to be placed third.

The 39-year-old Kapur, who has had a few starts on the European Tour this year, picked up his first birdie of the day on the fifth hole and didn't look back thereafter as he collected seven more birdies, including two on the 16th and 17th.

Interestingly, Kapur had enjoyed a similar start at the 2018 edition of the event when he had shot a first round of 65 to be the joint leader.

"I was solid all the way round. I didn't birdie two of the short par-5s and left a couple of putts out there but overall it was a clean card with no bogeys. I also holed my fair share of putts," Kapur said.

"I hit lots of fairways and all 18 greens in regulation. However, it's a long way to go and I will look to try and build from here.

"I've not played enough competitive golf of late, so I was worried about being a little bit rusty. But the good start to the week helped me shake off the rust. This is a great tune-up for me ahead of the restart of the Asian Tour in a couple of weeks from now." The 30-year-old Chadha, who began his round from the 10th tee, recorded a 64 courtesy his hot putter. After sinking his first birdie on the 13th, the tall and lanky golfer added an eagle, six more birdies and a bogey to his card. He sank a 45-footer on the fifth and a 30-feet putt on the seventh.

The newly-married Chadha, said, "The two 30-feet plus putts were the highlight of the round. It's been a slow season for me but I've worked a lot on my putting and things are coming together now. Playing in home conditions also always helps." Chandigarh's Yuvraj Singh Sandhu, the seasoned Gaurav Ghei of Delhi, Kshitij Naveed Kaul, another Delhi-based player and Gurugram's Tapy Ghai were all in tied fourth place, having shot scores of 67.

Aadil Bedi was the third Chandigarh player in the top-10 as he struck a 68 to be tied eighth.

Among the marquee names in the field, Jyoti Randhawa, SSP Chawrasia, Udayan Mane and former champion Ajeetesh Sandhu of Chandigarh carded 69s to be tied 12th while Gaganjeet Bhullar and former champion S Chikkarangappa were a further shot back in tied 26th place.

Chandigarh's Karandeep Kochhar, the defending champion and PGTI Order of Merit leader, shot a 72 to be tied 50th.

Tournament host Jeev Milkha Singh, who had good friends and fellow Chandigarh professionals Amritinder Singh and Gurbaaz Mann as his playing partners, returned a 75 to be placed tied 89th.

Jeev said, "I was pleasantly surprised that I turned at even-par despite being so rusty. I managed myself quite well off the tee and kept it in play.

"On the front-nine I made three bogeys from the centre of the fairway so that was a little disappointing and just showed that my iron-play was patchy today. I'm looking forward to a better second round.

"I had a good time out there with Amritinder and Gurbaaz as we relived the old memories. We were serious where we needed to be and at other times we joked around and egged each other on and pushed each other for better shots."

Also Read : Lahiri recovers from early errors to stay inside Top-20 in Mexico

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Karachi, Nov 11 (Cricket news) Pakistan's Australian batting consultant Matthew Hayden has no doubt that Virat Kohli has so far achieved a lot more than the younger Babar Azam but the Pakistan skipper is second to none when it comes to "consistently reacting to the ball".

During an interaction with Pakistani journalists from Dubai, Hayden said comparisons between Babar and Kohli were expected because of their high batting calibre and since both were captains.

Hayden, who has worked with the Pakistan team in the T20 World Cup in UAE, however, felt that Babar was not overly flamboyant like Kohli.

"Babar and his personality is, as you see, what you get," Hayden said.

"He is very consistent. He is very stable. He is not overly flamboyant." "They are opposites the way I look at it. Babar is pretty calm most of the time and goes about his captaincy and batting meticulously while Kohli is very animated, very passionate, and very boisterous on the field," he added.

Hayden, one of Australia's best openers, said that Kohli had achieved a lot more as a world-class batsman and had also led the Indian team with distinction in all formats.

"Babar is still young as a captain but from what I have seen he is learning everyday and he is a quick learner." Hayden also talked about Babar's qualities as a batter.

"I think I see Babar has a lot of control when batting and he has a solid temperament. Just to give you an insight into that talent, his ability to consistently react to the ball is second to none from what I've seen." Hayden felt that Babar's ability to quickly pick up the line and the length of the ball is quicker than the average cricketer.

"That is the mark of someone that is a very fine player," he added.

"I think his consistency stems from these attributes: the way he reacts quickly and how quickly he learns things.

"His reaction time and his ability to play a consistent version of his best self means he doesn't have to have all the innovations, he doesn't have to be striking with any increase or decrease in his temperament. He can remain neutral," he said.

Hayden also felt that Babar has the ability to up his strike rate in the middle overs through natural and conventional cricket shots.

Also Read : CSA announces South Africa 'A' Squad for three-match series against India 'A'

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 11 (Cricket news) Pakistan batters Mohammad Rizwan and Shoaib Malik are suffering from "mild flu" and they could be doubtful starters for the T20 World Cup semifinal against Australia on Thursday.

Rizwan and Malik, who missed the team's training session on Wednesday, though tested negative for COVID-19. The team has also cleared the regular testing through the tournament.

"Both players were tested for COVID-19 and both tested negative," 'ESPNCricinfo' reported.

"As with the rest of their squad, they have cleared regular COVID-19 testing through the tournament, including one a couple of days ago. That is part of the ICC's policy to encourage teams to test as often as possible," it added.

According to the report, the two players woke up on Wednesday morning with "light flu and low fever" and were first advised to delay practice but were later allowed to give it a miss.

"Pakistan are not overly concerned at the moment about their participation in Thursday's game, and will be reviewing their status in the morning again," the report said.

Both players have played key roles in the ongoing tournament and missing the services of either will be a huge blow for Pakistan.

While Rizwan has combined with skipper Babar Azam to be one of the most destructive opening pairs of this edition, Malik has strengthened the middle order.

Pakistan have options as replacements if the need arises. Former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed can come in for Rizwan behind the stumps and Haider Ali can take the place of Malik.

Pakistan remained undefeated in the Super 12 stage of the tournament, where they beat India, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Namibia and Scotland.

Also Read : I couldn't remember what was going on, says Mitchell after his heroics

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Dubai, Nov 10 (Cricket news) India's KL Rahul climbed three places to fifth but Virat Kohli slipped four spots to eighth in the latest ICC men's T20I rankings issued on Wednesday.

Rahul, who scored three fifties in India's last three matches after struggling against Pakistan and New Zealand in the first two games of the T20 World Cup, moved to No. 5.

The 29-year-old batter scored 69, 50 and 54 not out against Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia but the knocks came too late for India as they exited the tournament in the Super 12 stage.

Among others, Aiden Markram's unbeaten knock of 52 in just 25 balls in South Africa's victory over Group 1 table-toppers England saw him climb to the No. 3 spot.

Markram's heroics with the bat has also helped him break into the top 10 all-rounders' list, rising seven places to No. 7.

South African teammate Rassie van der Dussen too broke into the top 10 rankings for batters, climbing six spots to occupy the 10th place in the latest chart.

Van der Dussen scored a player of the match-winning knock of 94 not out against England, helping the Proteas post a daunting total of 189.

Unfortunately, for South Africa, their win against England was not enough as they crashed out of the World Cup on net run rate, despite winning four games out of five. In the rankings for bowlers, the Australian duo of Adam Zampa and Josh Hazlewood climbed the charts. Both bowlers have been in great form of late and were instrumental in Australia qualifying for the semi-finals of the World Cup.

Zampa's five-for against Bangladesh propelled him to the No. 5 spot, while Hazlewood went up 11 places to No. 8, thanks to his four-wicket haul against the West Indies.

The other major movement in the top 10 saw Tim Southee, who has picked up five wickets since the last update, move three places up to No. 9 in the bowling rankings.

The Australian domination in the latest update continued with Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Marsh moving up in the all-rounders' rankings. Maxwell went up three places to become the new No.4 ranked all-rounder while Marsh ascended five spots to No.9.

Sri Lankan sensation Wanindu Hasaranga achieved a career-high rating (173) for all-rounders, thus going up one spot to No. 3.

Also Read : This could be 'underdogs' Australia's year, says Lee on prospect of maiden T20 WC title

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Dubai, Nov 10 (Cricket news) Former pacer Brett Lee believes with David Warner in prime form, "underdogs" Australia are well poised to clinch their maiden ICC T20 World Cup title this time.

But for that to realise, Australia first will have to beat firm favourites Pakistan in the second semifinal here on Thursday.

"After almost a month of action, it all comes down to five days, four teams and three matches at the ICC Men's T20 Cricket World Cup 2021. And I reckon this could be Australia's year," he wrote in a column for the ICC.

"England are the favourites from here but I sense the belief in the Australia camp and I think there is some real momentum there. Everything is clicking nicely ahead of Thursday's semi-final against Pakistan." Lee said he had faith on Warner's ability to regain form and had a chat with him ahead of the tournament.

"I was speaking to David Warner before it started and told him 'I have you down to be Australia's leading run-scorer, so don't let me down!' I did that on the belief that he is a big-match player, a big tournament player and that has not changed.

"Aaron Finch has found some form, Mitchell Marsh is hitting the ball well and Glenn Maxwell will come good." In the run-up to the World Cup, Australia had lost five straight series, suffering defeats against Bangladesh, West Indies, New Zealand, India and England.

Lee feels coming into the tournament on a low has helped Australia immensely.

"They have been underdogs in this tournament and going under the radar has really helped them.

"When you go in as one of the favourites like England, with their history and success, it breeds confidence but also expectations.

"If England don't beat New Zealand and make the final, people will be asking questions, just like India, who started slowly and didn’t peak at the right time." The 45-year-old former tear-away pacer feels the four semifinalists rightfully deserved their places in the business end of the tournament. "I think we have the right four teams in the semi-finals and it's interesting to note that only one of them is from the sub-continent. We thought the conditions would favour the likes of India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan but it just didn't happen for them," Lee said.

He observed that the unlikely success story for Australia in the tournament so far was the way how the batters handled spinners.

"A key reason for Australia's success is how they have utilised spin. With the bat, we have some great players of spin and they have shown that in this tournament, but the big weapon is Adam Zampa," Lee wrote.

"His form spinning the ball has been key and Australia have embraced a different T20 style with him. Before, the method was always to try to score 170-odd and then try and blow teams away with the quicks. But they know they can't do that in the UAE and introducing a bigger spin element has helped massively." Lee advised Australian players just to enjoy the moment.

"The advice I would give is to enjoy it. Enjoy how far you have come. Focus on the strengths, and the strengths for all four teams are they have done the basics far better than most other teams. T20 cricket is about match-winners, big runs and big totals. But it is also about the one per-cent moments," he said.

"Australia are experienced in these situations. Some of these boys won the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2015 and then reached the semi-finals four years later and that counts for so much in those pressure situations at the death.

"If you have been there and done it, whether you have won or lost, you will have learnt from that experience and playing under that pressure."

Also Read : England post 166/4 against New Zealand in T20 WC semifinal

News Source : PTI

Colombo, Nov 10 (Cricket News) Dashing West Indies batter Chris Gayle and former South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis were among the star cricketers picked during the 'Player Draft' of the Lanka Premier League.

A total of 600 players, consisting of 300 overseas and 300 Sri Lankan, featured in the 'Player Draft' on Tuesday which was organized virtually with the participation of five franchise owners and the Sri Lanka Cricket officials.

Each of the five franchises which include Colombo Stars, Dambulla Giants, Galle Gladiators, Jaffna Kings and Kandy Warriors have packed their teams with a host of explosive and international cricket stars.

The Lanka Premier League is set to be held from December 5 to 2.

"It gives me immense pleasure to see so many international cricketing stars being part of various Lanka Premier League teams," Anil Mohan, Founder and CEO of Dubai-based production giant IPG, the official promoter of LPL, said in a release.

"No tournament can be successful without big stars and we are absolutely blessed to have some of the best cricket players from around the world in LPL. Each of the franchises have picked well-balanced sides which will make the second edition of the tournament very interesting." Players picked by franchises: Colombo Stars: Chris Gayle, Dushmantha Cheemara, Ahmed Shehzad, Dilshan Munaweera, Mohammad Irfan, Al Amin Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Pathum Nissanka Silva, Lakshan Sandakan, Seekkuge Prasanna, Manpreet Singh, Gihan Rupasinghe, Lahiru Gamage, TM Sampath, Nuwanidu Fernando, Jehan Kieth Zeon Daniel, Malindu Maduranga, Nalin Priyadarshana, Hashan Dumindu Ranasinghe and Kanagarathinam Kabilraj.

Dambulla Giants: Imran Tahir, Dasun Shanaka, Rilee Rossouw, Chamika Karunaratne, Sohaib Maqsood, Odean Smith, Josh Little, Niroshan Dickwella, Nuwan Pradeep, Ramesh Mendis, Najibullah Zadran, Tharindu Ratnayake, Lahiru Udara Igalagamage, Sacha DeAlwis Seneveratne, Muditha Lakshan, Kalana Perera, Sachitha Jayathilake, Madushan Ravichandrakumar, Janith Liyanage and Chamikara Edirisinghe.

Galle Gladiators: Mohammad Hafeez, Isuru Udana, Tabraiz Shamsi, Kusal Mendis, Mohammad Amir, Samit Patel, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Danushka Gunathilaka, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Dhananjaya Lakshan, Anwar Ali, DH Ashan Pulina Tharanga, Nuwan Thushara, Lahiru Madushanka, Dilshan Madushanka, Ashian Daniel, Kevin Koththigoda, Mohammed Shamaaz, Suminda Lakshan and Angelo Jayasinghe.

Jaffna Kings: Faf du Plessis, Thisara Perera, Wahab Riaz, Wanindu Hasaranga, Shoaib Malik, Usman Shinwari, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Avishka Fernando, Upul Tharanga, Chaturanga de Silva, Jayden Seales, Suranga Lakmal, Ashen Bandara, Maheesh Theekshana, Chamika Gunasekara, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Theivendiram Dinoshan, Ashan Randika, Rathnaraj Thenuradan and Wijesuriya Arachchige Krishan Sanjula.

Kandy Warriors: Rovman Powell, Charith Asalanka, Cameron Delport, Lahiru Kumara, Mohammad Mithun, Nazmul Islam Apu, Mehedi Hasan Rana, Angelo Perera, Asela Gunaratne, Milinda Siriwardana, Amjad Khan, Ishan Jayaratne, Binura Udara Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Ayana Siriwardene, Nimesh Vimukthi, Udara Jayasundara, Shashika Dulshan and Kalhara Senarathna. 

Also Read : Pakistan's Asif Ali and Ireland's Laura Delany voted ICC Players of Month

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Dubai, Nov 9 (Cricket News) Pakistan batter Asif Ali and Ireland all-rounder Laura Delany were on Tuesday named the ICC male and female players of the month for October.

Ali beat Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan and Namibia's David Wiese to the men's award, and Delany prevailed over teammate Gaby Lewis and Zimbabwe's Mary-Anne Musonda for the women's prize.

Ali scored 52 runs without defeat across three matches for Pakistan in October at the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scoring at a strike rate of 273.68.

He first grabbed headlines at the tournament by blasting 27 not out from 12 balls to help Pakistan beat New Zealand, but it was what he did in the next game that made him the talk of the town. With Pakistan needing 24 runs off the final two overs against Afghanistan, Ali hit four sixes in the 19th over to lead his side to victory.

Commenting on Ali’s performance, ICC Voting Academy member Irfan Pathan said: “Helping your team to win, especially from the jaws of defeat is what makes Asif Ali special. And he did that not just once but twice.

"Although he scored considerably less than other two nominated players, the contribution he made and the pressure situations from where he snatched the victories made all the difference.” Ireland captain Delany shone in their 3-1 ODI series win over Zimbabwe. The all-rounder flourished with bat and ball, scoring 189 runs at 63, and taking four wickets at 27.

Commenting on Delany’s performance, ICC Voting Academy member Lisa Sthalekar said: “Laura has been playing international cricket for over a decade and has the difficult task of captaining her country, which carries a great weight of expectation.

"I have been following her career ... watched her development. This recent series was a breakout series for her as she was able to register her highest ODI score and is a worthy recipient of the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for October.” Fans can vote every month for their favourite male and female cricketers across all formats of international cricket. 

Also Read : New Zealand elect to bowl against England in first semifinal

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Dubai, Nov 10 (Cricket News) Pakistan's batting consultant Matthew Hayden believes the 10-wicket thrashing of arch-rivals India set the tone for his side in the ongoing T20 World Cup and cited the players' commitment to training and spirituality as the reasons for a stupendous unbeaten run so far.

With five wins out of as many games in the group stages, Pakistan are one of the favourites to lift the T20 World Cup and will take on Australia in the semifinal here on Thursday.

Hayden, who was roped in as batting consultant for the mega-event, heaped praise on skipper Babar Azam for showing wonderful temperament and control during a high-pressure campaign.

"The highlight...the first game that we played here at Dubai, where we're playing tomorrow night, against India, and just how under immense pressure...only comparable to the Ashes series, just how these boys wonderfully handled very calmly and very confidently their approach to playing such a huge match," Hayden told reporters in the pre-match press conference.

"I think that game really set us up for what has been a really lovely four weeks of solid work, great commitment to training, great purpose in general...," he added.

"...also a wonderful heart connect to Islam and how spirituality has played its role within the Pakistan team as a great guide and tool for everyone to come together," Hayden added.

Tactically on Thursday, Hayden will be up against his former opening colleague Justin Langer, who is the chief coach of Australia. And he believes his knowledge about Australian players and cricketing culture will hold Pakistan in good stead.

"It is a very unusual feeling. As you all know, I was a warrior for Australian cricket over two decades, so that does give me the benefit of having wonderful insights not only into these players but also into the culture of cricket in Australia," he said.

"I guess from my point of view there is the challenge of the heart, the challenge of the mind in terms of what's going to happen over the next 24 hours, but I'll also say very proudly that it's been wonderful to be a part of Pakistan cricket," he added.

Hayden feels that the T20 World Cup title is of great significance to Pakistan, which has been deprived of hosting international cricket for a long time due to security concerns.

"Yes, this is an extremely important tournament for Pakistan...I feel that as a nation that loves cricket as much as it does, and as focused so heavily on cricket, and also to have tournaments including the ones that I was a part of (being) cancelled for numerous reasons, it's never more important," he said.

"...and the awareness is heightened that out of this great nation we've got a squad of players here that are ready to perform and are ready to take on not only the semifinals but should we, inshallah, get beyond that, the finals." Hayden spoke highly of Babar and said his personality is completely opposite to that of India's Virat Kohli, a contemporary great of the game. "Babar and his personality is what you see is what you get. He's very consistent. He's very stable. He's not overly flamboyant.

"In fact I'd go as far as to say he's almost the opposite personality to someone like Virat Kohli, who's very animated, very passionate, and very boisterous on the field. Got great control, and he's got a wonderful temperament," he said.

"...just to give you an insight into that talent, his ability to be able to consistently react to the ball is really second to none that I've seen. He picks up the line and the length of the ball quicker than the average cricketer that's going around, and that's the mark of someone that's a very fine player." He also praised pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi and termed his dismissal of KL Rahul as one of the best he has ever seen.

"Those number of balls, though, can be destructive, as we saw from his delivery to KL Rahul, one of the best balls that I've seen ever, apart from the last two or three months of observing cricket in this country and in the UAE.

"He's got that ability like every good strike bowler to be able to commit to wonderful pace, which means that his preparation, his recovery and his just ability in general to be able to focus on delivering fast bowling day in, day out." 

Also Read : Battle with Shaheen in Powerplay will be crucial: Finch

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Dubai, Nov 10 (Cricket News) Australia will need to handle Shaheen Shah Afridi's inswinging deliveries in the Powerplay overs well when they face Pakistan in the second semi-final of the T20 World Cup, captain Aaron Finch said on Wednesday.

Pakistan have won all five group league games but it's Afridi's fiery first spell against India in the opening Super 12 game that is now a part of T20 folklore.

"Shaheen has been in really good form for Pakistan. Yeah, so that's going to be a crucial battle no doubt,' Finch said at the pre-match press conference.

Underlining the importance of the first six overs, Finch said: "I think what we've seen over the course of the tournament is how important the powerplay is for batting and bowling.

"I think the stats around the middle overs and the death overs are pretty similar throughout, but the Powerplay definitely holds the key." Finch didn't give too much credence to the theory that losing the toss could be of disadvantage.

"I think when it comes to finals, it doesn't make too much of a difference to be honest.

"I believe getting runs on the board, especially in a final, can be really beneficial. We've talked about it. We're confident that we can win if we happen to bat first or second." He said Pakistan's current form provides them with an edge and also they have a quality spin attack in left-arm spinner Imad Wasim, leg-spinner Shadab Khan and off-spinner Mohammed Hafeez.

"In terms of the Pakistan spin, they've had some really good success obviously with Imad bowling in the powerplay predominantly and then Shadab throughout the middle overs they've been excellent." But the Australian skipper has faith in Adam Zampa's abilities and also backed Glenn Maxwell's off-breaks.

"We've been really happy with how Adam Zampa has been going. He's bowled brilliantly throughout this tournament. He's taken big wickets at crucial times. He gets good players out. Maxwell has chipped in and done really well for the overs that he's bowled." For Australian though, it will be their pace attack that is expected to rule the roost.

"With the new ball, Cummins, Starc and Hazlewood have been fantastic. I think you can look at stats and you can deep dive into whether you should be bowling spin or quicks in the powerplay.

"Sometimes it just comes down to executing your best ball on the day over and over. For us that's been Starc and Hazlewood first couple of overs generally and Cummo coming in on the back of that. We've been really happy with how they've executed and kept pressure on oppositions." Such has been Australia's fast bowling depth that one of the best shortest format pacers Kane Richardson doesn't get a look-in.

"They're a world-class trio of quick bowlers and we've got Kane Richardson there, as well, who's arguably one of the best T20 bowlers in the world who hasn't featured just yet, but yeah, we're really happy with how that's gone," Finch said.

David Warner's IPL team SunRisers Hyderabad may have hung him dry during the second phase of IPL but his opening partner and skipper never had doubts that the dashing southpaw will be back in form.

Warner has so far had a good tournament and could be a game-changer against Pakistan.

"Yeah, I was never worried one bit about Dave's form. He's one of the all-time great batsmen of our era. I think you can look at it as though he had a really lean IPL and then the start of this tournament, but the two halves of the IPL were a long way apart," Finch explained.

"...so if you miss out a couple of times at the end of the first part, which was in India, and then the first couple of games in Dubai, it looks as though a run of form is a pattern there, but I certainly wasn't worried. He's all class; he's trained hard; he's mentally fresh; he's ready to go.

"It's great to see the best of him fit and firing. As we all know, it's a great sight when he's up and about and scoring runs for Australia," he signed off. 

Also Read : Women's PSL also on my mind, says PCB chairman Ramiz Raja

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Karachi, Nov 10 (Cricket News) Babar Azam has led Pakistan team well in the ongoing T20 World Cup and doesn't need to do anything differently in the semi-final against Australia on Thursday, PCB chairman and former skipper Ramiz Raja said on the eve of the game.

Pakistan have comfortably won all their five games and are dubbed as favourites to beat Australia, who haven't been bad either.

"So far the Pakistan team has really done well and impressed us well with their consistent performances. I don't think Babar Azam needs to do anything differently in the semi final against Australia. The team should just remain motivated and play fearlessly," Ramiz said in a statement.

Ramiz said that he was happy to see the Pakistan team shed the tag of being inconsistent performers by doing consistently well in the T20 World Cup and winning five matches in a row.

"The win over India was the result of a strong temperament while we beat New Zealand with some good planning while the win over the Afghanistan team came after playing their spinners well," he added.

He said that Babar’s leadership, the players' self belief and their humble behaviour on the field had been appreciated by everyone and had led to consistency in the team's performance as well.

"You have qualified for the knock-out stage…victory or defeat is not in any human's hand. But you should just continue to play good cricket and have self belief. The entire nation's prayers are with you." Ramiz said he was just happy to see that no player is afraid of defeat and they are playing fearless cricket which is the brand of cricket Pakistan should always play.

Ramiz, who took over as Chairman of the board on 13th September accepted Babar's request for changes in the squad before the World Cup, something which the Pakistan captain admitted on Tuesday had allowed him to lead the side more confidently and without fear of defeat.

Ramiz himself is flying to Dubai to attend the World Cup final and also the ICC board meeting, which is being held for the first time in person since the Covid-19 outbreak last year. 

Also Read : T10 format has a bright future ahead, can be played at the Olympics: Du Plessis

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Dubai, Nov 10 (Cricket News) Pakistan seem primed to win their second title but it will take a special effort to upstage a tenacious Australia, which is peaking at the right time, in the second semifinal of the T20 World Cup here on Thursday.

Pakistan have turned it around following their first-round exit in 2016. The Babar Azam-led side has defied the odds to become the team to beat this edition. The 2009 champion is the only team that remains undefeated in the ongoing tournament.

The last time these two met in the semifinals of a T20 World Cup, Australia, inspired by Mike Hussey, had beaten Pakistan in a thriller.

But in the ongoing edition, the Men in Green have resisted crumbling under pressure and are comfortable in the UAE, having hosted several seasons of the Pakistan Super League and their home matches here since the 2009 terror attack on the Sri Lankan team shut down international cricket in their country.

Following a historic win over India where they looked completely invincible, Pakistan have showed very few chinks in their armour against New Zealand and Afghanistan.

The formidable top-order, led by the tournament's leading run-scorer Azam (264), who has four half-centuries against his name, is expected to deliver once again but Australia's bowling attack will also be ready and waiting to capitalise on any slip up.

In case the opening duo of Azam and Mohammad Rizwan fail, Pakistan have an array of match-winners in the middle order in the form of six-hitting machine Asif Ali and veterans Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Hafeez, who all are among the runs.

However, the team would be expecting more from Fakhar Zaman, the only one to have not made a significant contribution with the bat yet.

Their bowling attack has been as impressive as their batting unit if not more. Pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf have troubled batters but Hasan Ali has had an ordinary tournament and, although skipper Azam has backed the speedster to come good, Australia is likely to target him.

Spinners Imad Wasim, Mohammad Hafeez and Shadab Khan will be skipper Azam's main weapons against Australia, a side that struggles against spin in general.

On the other hand, Australia, the 2010 runners-up, are beginning to peak at the right time in their bid to win their only missing title.

Apart from the eight-wicket mauling by England, Aaron Finch and Co. have registered dominant wins which helped them book a semifinal slot ahead of South Africa.

Their formidable pace attack has been incisive, and leg spinner Adam Zampa, who has the second most wickets in the tournament, has struck regularly in the middle overs.

In pacers Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins and Zampa, Australia has all bases covered in the bowling department.

All-rounders Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Marsh have provided breakthroughs with the ball as well and they also have the option to play left-arm spinner Ashton Agar.

The biggest confidence booster for Australia would be David Warner's return to form. The opener entered the tournament on the back of a woeful run in T20s but has brushed that aside with two half-centuries, including an 89 not out in the previous game.

Warner and Finch make for a formidable opening pair which can take any opposition attack to the cleaners.

Marsh at No 3. has also been among the runs. The ever-reliable Steve Smith is there to stabilise the innings in case of a batting collapse although his strike rate has been under scrutiny.

Maxwell has not exactly set the tournament on fire yet, and the team will be relying on him, Marcus Stoinis and Matthew Wade to provide a bagful of runs in the last five overs.

As is the trend, teams chasing win the matches here, so the toss will be once again be crucial.

Teams (From) Australia: Aaron Finch (c), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Swepson, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.

Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Shadab Khan, Asif Ali, Fakhar Zaman, Haider Ali, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shoaib Malik.

Match starts at 7.30 PM IST. 

Also Read : England to play two additional T20 Internationals in 2022 tour of Pakistan

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 9 (Cricket News) England are missing a number of their top players due to injuries and skipper Eoin Morgan feels it will be "hell of an achievement" if he can lead this team to the finals of the ICC T20 World Cup here.

England are without the services of star cricketers like Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and Sam Curran. Opener Jason Roy too was ruled out of the remainder of tournament after suffering a calf injury during their last game against South Africa.

"I think it would be a really strong representation of what the 50-over side have achieved since 2015," Morgan said when asked where would he rank a final appearance at the T20 World Cup among his white ball achievements as England captain.

"I think we had a glimpse of that during our summer when we had to replace 15 players against Pakistan and they ended up beating Pakistan's strongest ODI team 3-0," Morgan said.

"...I think if we could achieve something like that it would be, yeah, quite close to, oh, you might only get to the final and lose, but getting to the final would be a hell of an achievement." England face New Zealand in the first semifinal on Wednesday and even though the ODI world champions topped their group in the Super 12, Morgan doesn't feel they are the "strong favourites".

"I wouldn't say strong favourites. New Zealand have a full strength squad. We've obviously been hampered with a lot of injuries throughout this tournament," said Morgan, who had led England to a runners-up finish in the 2016 edition.

"We're playing really good cricket. The guys are extremely excited about the challenge against New Zealand and potentially the opportunity that might follow that. But we need to play really good cricket in order to beat them." Morgan said New Zealand have consistently reached the knockout stage of big tournaments over the years and it would be a big challenge to face them.

"We know how good New Zealand are. We know how consistent they've been over the last number of World Cups, not only the recent ones but you look further and beyond Kane's role as captain," he said.

"New Zealand have always been extremely competitive in and around semifinals and finals, consistently, for some time now. So we're looking forward to the challenge." English cricket was rocked by a racism scandal when it emerged that former Yorshire player Azeem Rafiq was a victim of racial harrassment and bullying.

Morgan said the racism issue was as relevant as the team's playing successes and they "continued to chat" about it.

"We definitely don't shelter anything that's going on, particularly things as serious and as relevant to our squad as anything that we've ever done, really," he said.

"So when matters of such a serious nature ever arise, particularly when it comes to discrimination and bear in mind that we talk about discrimination quite a lot because in our group there are a lot of diverse, a lot of diversity.

"After winning 2019 World Cup and becoming a more formidable side with a bigger platform, that has allowed us to feel comfortable enough to tell our different stories...ultimately feel comfortable within our own skin to play great cricket on the field but also to be a really strong role model on the field." 

Also Read : Rohit to lead against NZ in T20Is, Kohli rested, Hardik axed; rookies Venkatesh, Harshal get in

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Dubai, Nov 9 (Cricket News) New Zealand captain Kane Williamson admitted that playing the second phase of Indian Premier League in the United Arab Emirates did help in understanding the conditions better in the lead up to the T20 World Cup.

New Zealand will be meeting England in the semi-final and on the eve of the match, Williamson said he had initially felt that Asian teams would have a distinct advantage but having played in the IPL made him realise that margins are fine.

"The IPL and I suppose the other franchise comps, but certainly add a lot to the knowledge of the players from all countries," Williamson said at the pre-match press conference.

"And also add to the experience of being able to share and I think we've seen in this tournament and we certainly saw in the second half of the IPL the variability and the surfaces which, perhaps lent itself more naturally to certain sides. But you sort of in the moment you compete in different games and the margins are fine." Williamson feels that while margins are indeed fine, New Zealand have also been 'fortunate".

"We know coming into this tournament that truly any team could beat anybody and we sort of saw that throughout the competition and there are some sides that perhaps were favourites coming into it. And we're fortunate on the day but I suppose that's tournament sport as well.

"So it's great we feel fortunate to have got through the stages and been playing some reasonable cricket and we want to continue to," the affable Black Caps skipper said.

Five years ago, Williamson captained for the first time in an ICC event at the 2016 T20 World Cup and the skipper feels a lot has changed since then.

"There have been some really good steps forward and this tournament compared to the last one, I suppose a few new faces and a real mixture of that sort of youth and experience.

"But, yeah, it's been a nice journey, I suppose from five years ago. And it's nice to be here and be involved in the semi-finals. But the guys are really looking forward to the challenge and want to continue to focus on the cricket that we've been playing and try and improve on it." Williamson was all praise for the pace duo of Trent Boult and Tim Southee, who have been integral to New Zealand's success.

"They've been brilliant. They've been involved in the team in all formats for a long time and really experienced operators for us. And experienced in terms of playing in all different conditions," he said.

"And have been executing their skills beautifully and performing their realize to the highest standards. They've been doing a fantastic job for us, really leading our attack who have been performing well and adjusting well to the different surfaces that we've been on. And a real strength on our side." Williamson also waxed eloquent about Daryl Mitchell and Devon Conway's batting throughout the tourney.

"I mean, someone like Devon has played this sort of role for us, anyway, on the New Zealand team for a while. He's a very experienced player.

"Although relatively new to the international game, but clearly world-class in his skill set and a fantastic head on his shoulders. He's made those adjustments really quickly and come over to the UAE, which is his first time, and played some really key roles for us." Asked to open the innings, Mitchell provided New Zealand with good starts. His best score so far in the tournament has been a 35-ball 49 against India.

"And Daryl, who has been involved in a number of formats and has brought a brilliant attitude and I suppose coming into the tournament everybody's preparation perhaps a little bit disjointed and Daryl's given himself an opportunity to be at the top of the order with his ability to hit the ball hard and straight and also play spin." Williamson also is wary of England, which has multiple white-ball match-winners in their team.

"Look, they've got match winners throughout their team. And that's been a big, I suppose, movement of their white ball side. Power packed and bat deep as well.

"I spent quite a bit of time with Liam (Livingstone) at Birmingham Phoenix, played superbly well through the 100 ball competition. There are a number of threats and number of match winners. We also have a number of match winners as well," Williamson said.

Also Read : Hasan Ali, Fakhar Zaman big match players, will fire in semis: Babar

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Dubai, Nov 9 (Cricket News) Pakistan captain Babar Azam on Tuesday backed struggling batter Fakhar Zaman and pacer Hasan Ali to come good in the knock out stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup, saying they are big match players.

In a virtual media interaction, Babar said he expects both Fakhar and Hasan to return to form in the semifinal against Australia on Thursday.

"You want 11 players to perform? It doesn't work like that in cricket, three to four players perform in a match," said the skipper when asked about Fakhar's low returns in the competition.

"Two batters perform in a game. Every player can't perform in one match. The way Fakhar is playing, he has been given all the confidence. On his day he can change the game on his own and I have full confidence he will do it in the coming games." Fakhar had scored a match winning hundred against India in the 2017 Champions Trophy final.

On fast bowler Hasan, who has been weakest link in the bowling department, Babar said the thought of dropping him never crossed his mind.

"I can't think of leaving him out. He is my main bowler. He has won us matches, won us tournaments. Ups and downs are part of anyone's career and when you are little down you must back your key player and the whole team is behind him.

"He is mentally very strong and I believe he is a big match player and will deliver in semifinals," said Babar.

Pakistan, the only unbeaten team in the tournament, has played nothing like the unpredictable tag associated with them for years. They have played as a well oiled machine, winning game after game.

However, they have not got a lot of runs in the Powerplay and it is something they can improve against the Australians.

"We do plan to get 45-50 runs in the first six overs but sometimes we are not able to execute.

"It is important to not lose wickets initially and our middle order can take it up later. In these conditions, we want to get 45-50 runs in the powerplay," said Babar. 

Also Read : Boult hopeful of creating 'big upset' against England 

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 9 (Cricket News) New Zealand pace spearhead Trent Boult is hopeful his team can cause a "big upset" against a well balanced England in the first semifinal of the T20 World Cup here on Wednesday.

England have been a sensational form in the ongoing tournament, registering dominant victories in the Super 12 stage before losing to South Africa in their final game.

On the other hand, New Zealand's campaign started with a five-wicket loss to Pakistan before they gained momentum. The Black Caps are likely be considered underdogs for the semifinal against a strong English side.

“(England are) Full of match winners. They are a very well balanced team and playing are some good white-ball cricket at the moment," Boult said in video posted by New Zealand Cricket.

"So let’s hope we can create a big upset. There has been a good history between both sides in white ball cricket. So am sure there is a lot of people back home watching this with interest,” he added.

After the defeat to Pakistan, the Black Caps have put on a consistent show defeating India, Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia to book a place in the last four.

Talking about carrying the momentum or starting again in the knockout stage, Boult said, “For me, it is starting again. We are against some classy opposition coming to the business end of the tournament." The left-arm pacer feels the Black Caps have done well to read and adapt to the wickets quickly.

"And what has worked really with us currently is that guys worked together, try to be as accurate as they possibly can and they tried to I suppose read the wicket as quickly as can. Pushing forward that’s gonna be a big couple of things check for us.” Talking about bowling in T20 cricket, Boult said clarity is vital.

Boult also praised Adam Milne, who was drafted into the squad after Lockie Ferguson was ruled out of the showpiece owing to a calf tear.

"Disappointed to lose Lockie so early in the tournament but Adam has fit in seamlessly and been able to apply that pressure and adapt to the similar role."

Also Read : T20WC: X-factor loaded England face ever consistent New Zealand in first semifinal

News Source : PTI

KAEC (Saudi Arabia), Nov 9 (Golf News) Indian golfer Tvesa Malik carded a final round 68 to finish a creditable tied ninth, her second top-10 outing in less than four months, at the Aramco Saudi Ladies International here.

The Indian added 68 to her earlier rounds of 74-60-67 to finish 10-under 278.

Tvesa, who had four Top-10s in the first nine events of the season, slowed down a bit after that, though she was T-11 at Swiss Ladies and T-12 at Open de France and T-19 in Dubai. She had finished runner-up at Gant Ladies Open in July.

The latest Top-10 will help her aim for a strong finish in the final two events of the LET season.

Aditi Ashok closed the week with 68 and was 9-under 279 and T-13, while Diksha Dagar had missed the cut.

New Zealand’s Lydia Ko fired a final round of 65 to triumph by five shots.

Ko, who is seventh in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings, began the day on 16-under-par and started well with a birdie on the first. She totalled 23-under.

Tvesa had an action-packed final round with eight birdies, but her aggressive play also led to four bogeys.

Aditi was 5-under through 10 and then dropped just one bogey but had no more birdies.

The two-time Major winner, Ko, continued her fine form with birdies at five and seven before she sank an eagle putt on the par-five ninth to make the turn in 5-under 31.

Another birdie on the 10th gave Ko a six-shot lead and she rolled in her final birdie on the 13th to post a winning total of 23-under-par.

Thailand’s Atthaya Thitikul had another successful week on the Tour with a second-place finish after a final round of 66 (-6).

Thitikul now has an unassailable lead in the 2021 Race to Costa del Sol with 3,264.46 points to her name. The Thai star became the youngest ever winner of the Race to Costa Del Sol.

Tied for third place on 13-under-par was Spaniard Carlota Ciganda and England’s Alice Hewson, who shot rounds of 68 and 69, respectively. Germany’s Olivia Cowan and Australia’s Whitney Hillier finished in a share of fifth place on 12-under-par after shooting rounds of 66 and 67, respectively. 

Also Read : Lahiri recovers from early errors to stay inside Top-20 in Mexico

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 9 (Cricket News) Outgoing head coach Ravi Shastri feels his successor Rahul Draivd has inherited a "great team" and backed him to raise the bar with his wealth of experience as a player and coach.

The T20 World Cup game against Namibia was Shastri’s last day in the office as the head coach.

"There is one thing missing, that is (winning the) ICC tournament. They will get a chance and Rahul Dravid has come as a coach, I wish him all the luck.

"He is a great player, got the stature, he has done the yards as a coach, to further take this team over the next few years and raise the bar,” Shastri said at the virtual post-match media interaction on Monday.

Shastri achieved back to back Test series wins in Australia in his tenure but an ICC trophy eluded him and skipper Virat Kohli.

Shastri also heaped praise on outgoing bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar, whose tenures too ended with the team's World Cup campaign.

"See, I call him (Arun) the guru of that (bowling) department... him and Sridhar have done an outstanding job, but I’ll come first to Bharat Arun. He has been in the coaching space for almost 20 years now, if not more.

"And not only that he has coached a lot of coaches, he has conducted a lot of courses, he has certified a lot of coaches and then come to do this job and that’s the prime reason I picked them...

"...because I wanted to pick people from my stable, which is the NCA and I happen to be the chairman there for sometime when the system was put in place. That is the time guys like Sridhar and Arun came into the fold, with Dav Whatmore there,” Shastri said.

Shastri said Arun’s biggest plus point was his communication.

“He will not change anyone’s technique for the sake of it, unless he has the solution or unless he explains to the guy (player) why he has to do it, for the sake of doing it, he won’t.

“He instilled professionalism in the unit by his communication skills, to let them know that this is what we expect from a bowling team not a bowling individual, that is not easy, that is something specific that he did, he ensured that happened." Under Sridhar's guidance, Shastri felt the team became one of the best fielding units in the world.

“And then I’ll go to Sridhar, who I think is one of the best coaches in the world (and) he is outstanding. All I had to tell him was I want this to be one of the best Indian fielding sides ever, that was my diktat to him and said in every match, I want to see the bar raised....

"....there was no messing around, it had to be done and similarly with Arun as far as professionalism came to bowling as a unit, it took time, but it happened and hence the results,” added Shastri.

Also Read : This is right time for me to manage workload: Kohli

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 8 (Cricket News) Virat Kohli on Monday said that it was the right time for him to relinquish T20 International captaincy so as to manage his workload after India failed to qualify for the T20 World Cup semifinals in a disappointing campaign.

India beat minnows Namibia by nine wickets, courtesy half centuries from Rohit Sharma (56) and KL Rahul (54 not out) in their final Super 12 match to end their campaign on a winning note.

"Relief firstly. As I said it's been an honour, but things have to be kept in the right perspective," Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony when asked about any emotions on stepping down from T20I captaincy.

"This was the right time for me to manage my workload. It's been six-seven years of intense cricket every time we take the field and it takes a lot out of you." Kohli said it has been "great fun" with a "great bunch" of players in the team.

"We've really performed well as a team. I know we have not gone far in this World Cup, but we have had some good results in T20 and enjoyed playing together.

"It's a game of margins, T20 cricket. You talk about two overs of cricket with intent in the first two games and things could have been different. We were not brave enough as I said. We are not a team that will give excuse of tosses." He thanked outgoing head coach Ravi Shashtri and other support staff for their contributions to Indian cricket.

"Big thank you to all those guys, they've done a tremendous job all these years keeping the group together. Great environment with them around, they were an extended part of our bigger family.

"They've contributed immensely to Indian cricket as well. A big thank you to all of them from all of us." Asked if he would continue to show the same on-field intensity even as just a player, he said, "That's never going to change. If I can't do that I will not play anymore. Even when I wasn't captain before I was always keen to see where the game is going.

"I'm not going to stand around and do nothing." On the rationale behind sending Suryakumar Yadav as number 3 batter instead of him, Kohli said, "Surya didn't get much time, it's a T20 World Cup and I thought it might be a nice memory of him to take back.

"As a youngster you want to take back some good memories from a World Cup." 

Also Read : Indian cricket's major achievements in Shastri-Kohli era 

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 8 (Cricket News) India have had more good days than bad with the Ravi Shastri-Virat Kohli combination at the helm of affairs and, as the cracking partnership of nearly seven years comes to an end, PTI takes a look at their major achievements.

* Border Gavaskar Trophy win (2018-19): Under the duo's guidance, India scripted history by becoming the first Asian team to beat Australia in a Test series in their own backyard.

* Second successive Test series triumph in Australia (2020-21): Though Kohli was not around for the full duration of the tour, Shastri and his stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane guided the team admirably in the absence of the regular skipper, as India defeated Australia to clinch the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the second successive time.

* World Test Championship final (2021): India made it to the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship under the captaincy of Kohli and Shastri's guidance. However, Virat Kohli & Co. lost the final by eight wickets as New Zealand were crowned champions.

* ODI World Cup semi-final (2019): India were the best team in the group stages of the 2019 ICC World Cup and had topped the points table. However, the Men in Blue faced a heartbreaking defeat against New Zealand in the semi-final to bow out of the tournament.

* With the duo of Kohli and Shastri calling the shots, India took a 2-1 lead in the five-match series against England earlier this year before the rubber was suspended due to COVID-19 outbreak in the Indian camp.

* Under Shastri's watch, India won a T20I series in South Africa, New Zealand, England and Australia.

* Shastri also oversaw a 3-0 whitewash of Sri Lanka in 2017, the first time they achieved such a feat.

* India also inflicted a whitewash on West Indies in a Test series in the Caribbean for the first time.

* During their time, India formed a potent pace bowling unit that shone in all conditions and against the best in the world.

* 42 months at the top of Test ranking: Under coach Shastri and skipper Kohli, the Indian team became a force to reckon with in Test cricket, holding on to the number one ranking in the world for 42 months from 2016 to 2020.

The two first got together in 2014 for a Test match at Adelaide after then skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni was banned from the game, paving the way for Kohli to lead the team.

Dhoni led in the next two matches in Brisbane and Melbourne but after his sudden decision to retire from the traditional format, Kohli was made full-time captain of the Test team.

Shastri became the director of Indian cricket team in 2014 for a period of eight months from India's tour of England till the 2015 World Cup.

Shastri was removed in 2016 but on July 13, 2017, he was appointed the head coach of the Indian team, reuniting with Kohli to forge a cracking partnership.

Also Read : Rohit is looking over things for a while now: captain Kohli hints at his T20 'successor'

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 8 (Cricket News) India captain Virat Kohli on Monday all but confirmed Rohit Sharma as his successor for the national T20 captaincy, saying that the senior opener has been "overlooking things for a while now".

Rohit, who is Kohli's deputy in the white-ball format, is tipped to take over India's T20 leadership from the three-match series against New Zealand at home, beginning November 19.

"I've been immensely proud of how the team has played. Now I think it's time for the next lot to stake this team forward. Obviously Rohit is here and he's overlooking things for a while now," Kohli said during the toss ahead of India's final T20 World Cup match against Namibia here.

"It's been an honour for me, I was given the opportunity and I tried to do my best. But it's also time to create some space and move forward." Tonight's game also marks the end of Ravi Shastri's tenure as head coach along with some other support staff members, including bowling coach Bharat Arun.

Kohli had announced his decision to give up T20 captaincy before the World Cup. He has also stepped down as captain of his IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Speculation is rife that the superstar batter might also lose the ODI leadership role in near future. 

Also Read : All-round Venkatesh, pacey Avesh steal show again as MP demolish Bihar by 9 wickets

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Nov 8 (Cricket News) India doesn't play "fearless" brand of cricket in ICC events, feels former England captain Nasser Hussain, and said absence of an alternate plan and selection issues were the reasons for the team's early exit from the T20 World Cup. India paid the price for losing back-to-back games against Pakistan and New Zealand early on as Virat Kohli and his men failed to reach the semifinals of the showpiece event.

"You have got to go out and express yourself. They (India) have got so much talent. That may be the only thing that's holding India back in ICC events," Hussain said while speaking to t20worldcup.com.

"They don't quite play the fearless brand of cricket that they deserve to because they are so talented." Former champions India had suffered a 10-wicket loss to Pakistan in their opening match before going down by 8 wickets to New Zealand in the next match.

"I had them (India) as favourites. They had been playing IPL here, are a star-studded side. They got a setback in that first game. The way Shaheen Afridi bowled in the powerplay, those two deliveries that Rohit and Rahul got would have got a lot of great cricketers out.

"That's sometimes the problem with the Indian side. They are so good at the top, some of the middle-order don't get much of a hit and suddenly you need a Plan B and that was found wanting." Hussain also pointed out that playing all-rounder Hardik Pandya only as a batter affected the balance of the side.

"I see India as a very talented side but sometimes selection wise Hardik Pandya just playing as a batter alters the balance of the side. Against New Zealand, the idea to split Rohit and Rahul was not a good one," he said.

"...I am never splitting Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul, sorry they are just world-class players." Young Ishan Kishan opened the innings with KL Rahul against New Zealand, while Rohit Sharma batted at number 3.

Former New Zealand pacer Simon Doull said India couldn't produce their best from the start of the tournament.

"India had to be at their best from the start and they weren't. Having been in these conditions for the last month and a half, you might have thought they'd adapted better. "But you can't take away anything from Pakistan. They were brilliant. India slipped and then New Zealand were outstanding," Doull said.

"If you are below your best against top-quality sides you'll get found out and they were." 

Also Read : Players should prioritise nation over IPL, responsibility on BCCI to plan better: Kapil

News Source : PTI





 

(Cricket news) In a dead rubber match India will take on a spirited Namibian side who showed the world that they actually belong in the biggest stage of all. With Afghanistan losing yesterday, this became their weakest performance in an ICC event since 2012 and it also marks Virat Kohil’s final game as T20 captain.

For India, the players will treat this match as a dress rehearsal for the upcoming New Zealand series, Rahul Chahar could be included in the playing XI as he is the only squad member not to get playing time. Going hard at the top has been a revelation for the team in the last two matches, both KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma are utilizing the powerplay to their advantage. In the bowling department, India will most likely go into the match with three spinners, with the match held in Dubai the spinners will get more assistance off the pitch. One thing Indian batters need to be wary of is Namibia’s reliance on their pacers, with three of their four best performers in the Super 12s being left-arm quicks.

Namibia should take pride as they have pushed the big teams to their limits and punched way above their calibre. The tall and scrappy fast bowler Ruben Trumpelmann could ruffle a few feathers against the India openers if swing is on the offer, we have seen KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma being susceptible against left arm bowlers. David Wiese will again be the man to lead them from the front with the wealth of experience he has playing this format, his allround performance is something that the Namibian side have not only relied on in the qualifier but also in the super 12s. 

Head to head: This is the first time India will face Namibia in T20’s, the only other time they faced each other was in the 50-over World Cup of 2003.

Pitch and weather report: The Dubai pitch has thrown some curveballs but the trend of winning the toss and batting second will likely continue. India's bowling coach Bharat Arun is not on board with "Toss should not be of any consequence in a short format like this," he declared, 
There could be some swing on offer with the new ball and as the ball gets older spinners will come into the game. The temperature is going to hover around 32 degrees as dew may come into factor in the second innings.

Interesting facts:

• India will be playing their 150th T20I match
• India have averaged less than 15 and have scored at only 5.7 per over against left-arm pace in the powerplay since 2020
• Namibia pacers have bowled almost 74% of the total overs in the super 12s
• Rohit Sharma needs 18 runs to become the third batter to complete 3000 T20I runs
• KL Rahul is set to bat in his 50th T20I innings

Also read: India ousted as New Zealand clinch semifinal spot with comprehensive win over Afghans

Probable XI for India:

1 KL Rahul, 2 Rohit Sharma/Ishan Kishan, 3 Virat Kohli (capt), 4 Suryakumar Yadav, 5 Rishabh Pant (wk), 6 Hardik Pandya, 7 Ravindra Jadeja, 8 R Ashwin, 9 Mohammed Shami/Shardul Thakur, 10 Jasprit Bumrah/Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 11 Rahul Chahar/Varun Chakravathy

Probable XI for Namibia:

1 Stephan Baard, 2 Michael van Lingen, 3 Craig Williams, 4 Gerhard Erasmus (capt), 5 David Wiese, 6 JJ Smit, 7 Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, 8 Zane Green (wk), 9 Jan Frylinck/Karl Birkenstock, 10 Ruben Trumpelmann, 11 Ben Shikongo/Bernard Scholtz
 

Sharjah, Nov 8 (Cricket News) Nearing 40 but still an integral part of Pakistan's cricket team, veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik says his obsessive pursuit of a fit body helps him stay afloat as an international player, not to mention the unbridled joy he gets out of being on the field.

Malik, who would turn 40 in another three months, has been playing international cricket since the last century when some of his current teammates like star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi were not even born.

On Sunday, he showed his class once again with an astonishing 18-ball 54 to set up Pakistan's 72-run mauling of Scotland, their fifth consecutive win in the ongoing T20 World Cup.

"...Well, to be honest, I would say I have self-obsession of seeing myself fit when I look at in the mirror, and most importantly I'm still enjoying playing cricket, and it's helping, as well, end of the day towards the team," said Malik in a press conference after Pakistan outplayed Scotland by 72 runs on Sunday night.

Malik's knock on Sunday was the tournament's joint fastest half-century alongside India opener K L Rahul's 18-ball effort, which also came against Scotland.

"I guess if you want to stay fit, then you've got to train every day, and that's what I have been doing," he said.

"I'm not sure about playing a year more or two more years. Right now I'm in middle of a very important thing and not thinking about all that." Pakistan topped Group 2 in the Super 12 stage and will take on Australia in the semifinals in Dubai on Thursday. Asked if his unbeaten team is wary of the Aussies, Malik acknowledged it wouldn't an easy match.

"Of course we have seen Australia, the way they have been playing. They have been playing really good cricket. So are we. But of course it's going to be a tough challenge for both the teams," said Malik after scoring his first half-century in an ICC event since the 2009 Champions Trophy.

"It's another game, then I guess the other batters have made plans, execute and just take it as another game.

"...we have a few days in between before the semis, so I'm sure management will sit, our team is going to sit and they'll definitely talk about and they'll make plans, as well, for the semis," he added.

Malik was not a part of the initial 15-member Pakistan squad for the T20 World Cup but came in as a replacement for Sohaib Maqsood, who was ruled out due to a back problem.

The seasoned player said he is used to the disappointment of not being in Pakistan teams of the past and has learnt to bide his time.

"I was playing on the Caribbean Premier League when they announced the first team, and my name was not there. Of course I felt bad. I was very disappointed.

"But I've seen a lot of the teams where my name was not there, so of course when you're not part of World Cup team, then it hurts," he said.

Malik had averaged 7.44 in 10 innings for Guyana Amazon Warriors in the Caribbean Premier League to initially miss out on Pakistan selection.

"But as a professional cricketer or as a professional athlete your goal is to talk to yourself and somehow come out from that frustration.

"I had the opportunity because I was playing in the Caribbean Premier League, and then I've come back, I played a domestic tournament because I still enjoy going to the ground, and that's what keeps me going," Malik added.

Also Read : India ousted as New Zealand clinch semifinal spot with comprehensive win over Afghans

News Source : PTI