(Football news) Arturo Vidal has rejected Boca Juniors for Flamengo after leaving Inter Milan on a free transfer. The 133-cap Chile midfielder who turned 35 recently chose the Brazilian giants over the famous Argentine club on an 18-month deal. The former Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Juventus star was linked with a reunion with Antonio Conte at Tottenham earlier this summer but he will face disciplinary action from Inter after revealing in an interview earlier this month that he wanted to join Flamengo. Alexis Sanchez is also expected to follow him out of the 2020/21 Serie A champions as he is also expected to join Flamengo. The 33-year-old might struggle for a high-profile move after two disappointing years in Italy since departing Manchester United but he needs to take a massive wage cut to join the Brazilian club

The central midfielder hasn’t had the best of times at Inter as he has scored three goals and registered six assists across all competitions when Inter finished two points behind league champions AC Milan. The 35-year-old leaves Europe after a successful career that saw him play for some of the world's biggest clubs including the likes of Juventus, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona after he left Bayern Leverkusen in 2011. He was touted as a potential transfer target by Manchester United and Tottenham but never made the switch to the Premier League which was subsequently the only major league he didn’t play. Vidal becomes only the second Inter Milan player to join Flamengo in two years after Gabriel Barbosa sealed a move to the club for an undisclosed fee in 2020.

Meanwhile, Sanchez also looks for a departure from the Nerazzurri and he could immediately rejoin his Chilean compatriot at Flamengo, who have already inquired about the 33-year-old’s availability with his representatives. At the moment, Flamengo are in talks with Sanchez and it will be seen if they can convince the Chilean to make the switch to join Vidal. Ever since Alexis Sanchez left Arsenal he has really been the same, he struggled at Manchester United who paid his massive wages and then he joined Inter on an initial loan deal but last season he secured a permanent move. He helped Inter win the Supercoppa by scoring an extra-time goal against Juventus in January. Sanchez is looking for a move since Inter have signed Henrikh Mkhitaryan and are potentially signing Paulo Dybala, which would subsequently mean that his playing time would reduce at Inter.

Also read: Luuk de Jong is set to rejoin PSV Eindhoven from Barcelona
 

Melbourne, Jul 4 (Cricket News) India captain Harmapreet Kaur will return in Melbourne Renegades colours for a second season in the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) during the eighth edition of the T20 tournament later this year.

Harmanpreet, who has represented India in over 200 matches across all formats, is an all-rounder, renowned for her destructive batting and handy off-spin.

The 33-year-old was Renegades' leading run-scorer and wicket-taker in the WBBL last year.

She scored 406 runs at an average of 58 -- including 18 sixes, the most in the competition -- and also claimed 15 wickets.

"I'm excited to be coming back to the Renegades," Harmanpreet was quoted as saying by the Renegades' website.

"I really enjoyed being part of the team environment last season and feel like that helped me produce some of my best cricket. Personally, I just wanted to play my role for the team and it was pleasing to be able to do that.

"We supported each other as a team last year and were able to get some good results, but we still have plenty of room to improve. Hopefully we can do that, make the finals again and put ourselves in a position to compete for the title," she added.

Batting primarily at number four, Harmanpreet was a match-winner for the Renegades on multiple occasions throughout last season.

"We couldn't be more excited to have Harmanpreet returning to our club this summer," Melbourne Renegades General Manager, James Rosengarten, said.

"Harmanpreet is one of the best players in the world, her record speaks for itself. She was outstanding for us last season and was a match-winner on multiple occasions, having a prolific impact across the tournament with both bat and ball.

“As an experienced player, Harmanpreet’s leadership and calm approach under pressure was a huge asset for our team. She was a great fit both on and off the field and really bought into our team environment," he said.

"After not being able to play games in Melbourne last season, we know our fans will be thrilled about the prospect of watching Harmanpreet in action in WBBL." 

Also Read : Bowlers need to have patience when things are not going their way, says Siraj

News Source : PTI

Birmingham, Jul 4 (Cricket News) India pacer Mohammed Siraj says it is imperative for a bowler to have patience when a batter goes hammer and tongs, like Jonny Bairstow did during England's first innings on the third day of the ongoing rescheduled fifth Test here.

Bairstow (106 off 140 balls) blazed his way to a century on Sunday, his third in successive Tests this summer, to help England post 284 in their first innings in reply to India's 416.

Attack was the best defence for Bairstow in the later part of his innings as he hit 14 boundaries and two sixes during his entertaining knock.

But, Siraj (4/66), leading wicket-taker in the match so far for the visitors, said the Indian bowlers were unruffled by Bairstow's onslaught.

"As bowlers, we had to just keep patience. Bairstow is in form and he has been continuously playing attacking batting since the New Zealand series. So we were aware his confidence was high," Siraj said after the third day's play on Sunday.

"Our plan was simple, stick to our basics. We just kept believing in our ability, no matter what he did, it was a matter of one ball - be it an inswinger or seaming in off the pitch.

"In England, it is common to beat a batter multiple times, you just need to be patient and concentrate on your process," he added.

Siraj said the Indian bowlers did their homework and had a fair bit of idea about English batters' weak points.

"When we saw the New Zealand series, we realised that our every bowler is 140-plus and they (New Zealand bowlers) didn't have that," Siraj said.

"We had that ability and we also had played against England last year. So that was our plus point, as were aware of their weak points and that is why we got the success.

India were 125 for three in their second innings, taking an overall lead of 257 so far.

And Siraj feels it would be difficult for English batters to chase down anything above 350 in the second innings at Edgbaston.

"In the first innings, the pitch was helpful to begin with, but after that it became flatter subsequently. So our only plan was to hit consistently in one area. If we took it easy, then we would end up leaking runs," he said.

"The ball also kept low. So it will be beneficial for us in the second innings." At stumps on day three, Cheteshwar Pujara was batting on 50 in the company of Rishabh Pant (30 batting).

"He (Pujara) is a warrior. In Australia, he did it and here also, he is doing the job. Whenever the team requires, he always stands up. When the tough situation arises, he is always there to do the job.

"Exactly, bowling to him is difficult, he does not attack much and just keeps on leaving balls so that can get irritating in the nets," Siraj said. Talking about stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah, the pacer from Hyderabad said: "As a player and as a captain, he has been the same. He is always supportive and is always there to help me out.

"Whenever I do wrong, he tries to make me understand what to bowl in certain situations." 

Also Read : All-round Harshal stars in India's 10-run victory over Northamptonshire

News Source : PTI

Birmingham, Jul 3 (Cricket News) Senior India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja feels scoring a hundred in tough English conditions will not only enhance his reputation as a batter but will also serve as a big confidence booster going forward in his career.

Jadeja hit 104 off 194 deliveries and together with Rishabh Pant (146 off 111 balls) shared 222 runs for the sixth wicket to rescue India from 98 for five in their first innings in the rescheduled fifth and final Test against England here.

"I am very happy that I scored a hundred outside India and that too in England. It is a big thing as a player.

"For me, I take this hundred as a confidence booster to score a hundred in England in swinging conditions," Jadeja said after the third's day play at Edgbaston after scoring his first overseas century.

Jadeja, who has come of age in terms of his batting in the last few years, said the key to success for a batter in England is the sheer ability to judge the ball.

"In England you need to play close to your body because if you try to play cover drives and square drives there are chances that you may get out caught behind or in the slips.

"So my focus was to leave balls which are outside off stump. I thought of hitting the ball if it was pitched close to me. Luckily the balls I picked were in my areas. You need to know your off stump and leave the ball which is pitched outside off stump,' he said about his knock, only the second Test century of his career." Jadeja said a disciplined approach is also a vital factor in succeeding on swing-friendly English conditions as a batter.

"In these conditions the ball swings so you need to bring in discipline in your batting. You have to play picking the balls which are on fourth and fifth stumps. In 40, 50 or 70 you can get out to a good ball.

"I was just thinking that if I get a good ball I can do nothing but at least I should try not to play a bad shot and not go in search of boundaries. If the ball is in my range and my areas I will hit that," he said.

The fiery all-rounder from Saurashtra doesn't believe in tags, saying he is a team man first before everything.

"I won't like to give myself any tag. Whatever the team needs I try to perform accordingly. As an all-rounder sometimes situations comes when you need to score runs and either save or win the match for the team.

"In bowling you are expected to give breakthroughs. I consider myself a team player. Whatever teams needs I try to do." Jadeja said he enjoys batting with the dashing Pant as it makes life easy for him.

"There is to some extent less pressure while batting with Rishabh because he doesn't mercy any bowler. Standing at the non-striker end I was feeling happy because the England weren't focussing too much on me.

"They were looking to get Rishabh's wicket. But as a batter you need focus and concentrate on England because you can get a good delivery anytime," he said.

"So me and Rishabh were talking on building a long partnership because we had to put a lot of hardwork to take the team to a good position from 98 for 5." Jadeja is coming off a nightmarish IPL campaign. He struggled under the pressure of leading a side and relinquished the Chennai Super Kings captaincy midway to focus on his game.

"I had nothing in mind about IPL. Whatever has happened there is past but when you are paying for India, the entire focus is on performing for the Indian team. If I perform well for India there is no bigger satisfaction for me." He also took a dig at England pacer James Anderson while reacting to the latter's comment that the Indian all-rounder thinks like a proper batter now.

"I always try to give myself time and build partnerships. Whoever is the set batsman at the other end I try to give him company. Good that Jimmy Anderson has realised my potential after 2014. I am happy," he said. 

Also Read : England 84-5 at stumps on day 2 in rescheduled fifth Test against India

News Source : PTI

(Football news) The future of Neymar Jr at PSG is doubtful according to multiple reports. There have been significant changes this season at PSG as director Leonardo has been replaced by Luis Campos. Mauricio Pochettino is set to be replaced by Christophe Galtier with only the official announcement pending. Owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi in a recent interview said “Dreams are one thing, reality is another. Perhaps we should change our slogan. Dreaming bigger is good, but today we must be realistic, we don't want flashy, bling-bling anymore, it's the end of the glitter. We want players who love the club, who love to fight, who love to win, And we want this mentality to spread throughout the club." 

The comments could've perhaps been aimed towards Neymar whose flashy and party lifestyle is very well reported in France. PSG had spent a world record €222 million back in 2017 and now 5 years later it is safe to say that the Brazilian hasn't been worth it. He has 100 goals and 60 assists which have led to 11 trophies but PSG have not won the UCL yet and Neymar has never had an extraordinary season which would make the world take notice. Injuries have been a big problem as he has never had a full season without problems. The winger has had 21 different injuries while at PSG which is way too much for a player of his calibre.

Chelsea are reportedly interested in his services as the new ownership want to make a statement. Despite the injury and other problems, Neymar is still a quality player and if managed well he can make the difference in any team. Thomas Tuchel has worked with Neymar at PSG before which is a good sign. Neymar has 3 more years left on his contract but if PSG are desperate to get rid of him then Chelsea should get a bargain deal. His wage demands will be a big obstacle that can make the negotiations very tricky. Juventus are another club who are linked with Neymar as manager Massimiliano Allegri is keen on the move. 

Also read: Ernesto Valverde returns to management with Athletic Club Bilbao

Bold and brutal calls in India's T20I squad for the England series

(Cricket news) BCCI has announced two separate 17 member squads to take on England in 3 T20Is after the Test match is concluded. The squad for the 1st T20I is the same squad that defeated Ireland 2-0 with the addition of Captain Rohit Sharma. The Indian skipper has been ruled out of the Test match due to Covid which allows him to play the 1st T20I. The reason that there are two squads is because there is only one day's rest between the last day of the Test and the 1st T20I.

India's squad for 1st T20I: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaekwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik.

India’s squad for 2nd and 3rd T20I: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik.

From the 2nd T20I Shreyas Iyer, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah will join the squad after having completed the Test match. Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Rahul Tripathi, Venkatesh Iyer and Arshdeep Singh are the five players who will make way for the Test players. Ruturaj Gaikwad has not been consistent in the chances that he has got so far in his international career. This is a tough time for him as he has also been dropped from the ODI squad. The opener is still pretty young and has a lot of time left to cement his place in the squad. 

Arshdeep Singh's exclusion was pretty understandable as he is yet to get a game and all the other seamers have performed well and someone has to make way for Jasprit Bumrah. However Arshdeep has something to cherish as he has been called up for the ODI squad for the first time. Sanju Samson played a brilliant innings in the last T20I against Ireland but that is still not enough to secure his place in the side. Rahul Tripathi is another player who was always going to be dropped once the big boys return. He will have to wait longer to get his opportunity in Indian colours. 

Venkatesh Iyer is the one player whose exclusion seems very harsh. In the opportunities that he has got with India Venkatesh has rarely disappointed. He did have a poor IPL campaign but his performances in blue have been really good. Hardik Pandya's return has pushed Iyer down the pecking order but he could still be in the squad as a backup for Pandya. His ability to bat anywhere is also an added bonus. Mohammed Siraj who has been a part of the T20I set-up is not a part of the squad. Mohammed Shami is back in the ODI squad but not in the T20I squad for unknown reasons. Shami is one of the best bowlers in India but he hasn't played since the T20 World Cup. Shami definitely doesn't deserve to be dropped from T20Is as his performances in the IPL have been really good.

Also read: Important calls in India's ODI squad for England series

New Delhi, Jun 30 (Sports News) Olympic champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra will headline a 22-member Indian athletics team at the World Championships to be held in Eugene, USA from July 15 to 24.

The selected team includes 17 men and five women athletes.

Race walker Bhawana Jat and veteran discuss thrower Seema Punia has withdrawn from the elite championships. Just like Bhawana, Seema gave the event a miss as she too wanted to focus on the Commonwealth Games, an event where she bagged medals in the last four editions.

"She wants to concentrate on the Commonwealth Games, where she won four medals. She feels she has better chance there and we also feel the same," Athletics Federation of India (AFI) president Adilee Sumariwala said while announcing the team.

Besides Chopra and Rohit Yadav is the other javelin thrower in the team.

3000m steeplechaser Avinash Sable, shot putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor, long jumpers Murali Sreeshankar and Muhammed Anees Yahiya, triple jump trio of Abdulla Aboobacker, Praveen Chithravel and Eldhose Paul, all of whom have qualified, Sandeep Kumar (20km Race Walking), MP Jabir (400m Hurdles), Noah Nirmal Tom, Muhammed Ajmal, Naganathan Pandi, Rajesh Ramesh and Muhammed Anas Yahiya (4x400m) have found a place in the team.

The squad also includes Amoj Jacob (4x400m) but his participation is subject to fitness. In case he is not fit, Arokia Rajiv will replace him in the relay squad.

Among women, S Dhanalakhsmi (200m), Aishwarya Kailash Mishra (400m), Parul Chaudhary (3000m Steeplechase), Annu Rani (Javelin Throw) and Priyanka Goswami (20km Walk) have made the cut.

The only surprises in the squad are the inclusion of Parul and Jabir.

Jeswin Aldrin, who had already qualified for the championships, however missed the cut.

Aishwarya Mishra, who evaded from dope testing agencies last month but was allowed by AFI to compete in National Inter-State Championships, has been selected with a rider.

"She will be subject to trails in 400m and if she qualifies she will go. She will undergo electronis timing as well NADA testing," Sumariwala said.

Asked if she was tested in the National Inter-State Championships, the AFI president said: "As far as I know she was tested." On what explanation Mishra gave after evading dope tests, Sumariwala said: "She went to visit her ailing grandmother and lost her phone. That was her explanation." Sumariwala said the team will head to Chula Vista, California for a short stint before heading to Eugene for the event.

"The team has been selected on the basis of world ranking and qualification standards laid down by the World Athletics," he said.

"The team will leave for Chula Vista soon where it will have a short stint before World Championships." The contingent will for the USA in three batches with the first group scheduled to leave on Saturday, followed by the next on Monday and the the third and final by July 5. The decision to send the team in batches was taken due to time taken for getting US visa.

Indian athletics chief coach Radhakrishnan Nair informed that 11 visas have already been granted and the next set of interviews are lined up for Friday.

Men: Avinash Sable (3000m Steeplechase), MP Jabir (400m Hurdles), M Sreeshankar and Muhammed Anees Yahiya (Long Jump), Abdulla Aboobacker, Praveen Chithravel and Eldhose Paul (Triple Jump), Tajinderpal Singh Toor (Shot Put), Neeraj Chopra and Rohit Yadav (Javelin Throw), Sandeep Kumar (20km Race Walking), Amoj Jacob*, Noah Nirmal Tom, Muhammed Ajmal, Naganathan Pandi, Rajesh Ramesh and Muhammed Anas Yahiya (4x400m).

Women: S Dhanalakhsmi (200m), Aishwarya Kailash Mishra (400m), Parul Chaudhary (3000m Steeplechase), Annu Rani (Javelin Throw) and Priyanka Goswami (20km Walk). 

Also Read : Formula E enters India: Hyderabad to host race on February 11

News Source : PTI

Birmingham, Jun 30 (Cricket News) Never before has he navigated the choppy waters of leadership but Jasprit Bumrah will certainly like to showcase his captaincy acumen while leading a slightly under-prepared India against a vastly improved England in the rescheduled fifth Test, starting here on Friday.

India were leading the five-match series 2-1 when multiple COVID-19 cases in their camp led to the postponement of the final game which was a part of the World Test Championship.

Nine months have passed since and a lot of water has flown through the Thames with the then captain Virat Kohli relinquishing Test captaincy. His successor, Rohit Sharma, is missing out on this game after testing positive for COVID-19.

Worse, Rohit's designated deputy KL Rahul is also out after having undergone a surgery for sports hernia.

In this backdrop of musical chair of Indian captaincy, the gauntlet has been thrown at Bumrah, arguably one of the finest fast bowlers in the history of Indian cricket and now set to be the 36th man to lead the national Test team.

He has been acknowledged widely as the undisputed leader of the fast bowling group but come Friday, the challenge against Ben Stokes' side will be very different when he walks out for the toss at the Edgbaston.

Fast bowlers in Indian context have never been considered worthy of leadership contention and Kapil Dev, the world class all-rounder, was more of a fast medium bowler in his prime and later a medium-fast as time progressed.

Javagal Srinath and Zaheer Khan, two fine exponents of fast bowling, were never even considered for vice-captaincy during their heydays. And hence,it took 35 years for India to have another pacer captain.

But leadership is an instinctive thing -- some are blessed with that sixth sense and intuition, some are born gamblers and some become better as they grow on the job.

While this arrangement is a stop-gap one, Indian cricket establishment might have an idea of what can be expected of Bumrah when the time comes for the next change in baton.

New England, new template ------------------------------- The 3-0 demolition of New Zealand with three tricky chases completed in style has shown that England, under new coach Brendon McCullum, have de-constructed their style-sheet as far as Test matches are concerned.

Their batters are plundering opposition attack while there are lesser number of five-wicket hauls from the pacers if one goes by the statistics of the New Zealand series. It was Jack Leach, who had two five-wicket hauls and neither James Anderson nor Stuart Broad got their names on the various 'Honours' Board'.

The pitches have become a tad flatter, which is helping the batters and thus Bumrah, along with Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj will have an onerous task of tackling a batting line-up bubbling with confidence.

Joe Root, after relinquishing captaincy, has found the touch that had deserted him and Jonny Bairstow, with the confidence of IPL, has scored nearly 400 runs at a strike-rate of 120 plus, unheard of in Test matches.

"England have done well as they won a couple of Test matches from positions where they could have potentially lost the games," Indian coach Rahul Dravid told the mediapersons on Wednesday.

"We will like to focus on what our strengths are rather than thinking about opposition's strength," the head coach said, reminding one and all that India are still third in World Test Championship table (58.33 percentage points) behind Australia (75 percentage points) and South Africa (71.43% pts).

Team combination a worry for India --------------------------------------- India will have to bat well and in absence of regular opening pair of Rohit and Rahul, who were fantastic during the four Tests played last year.

Coach Rahul Dravid expects a match-winning performance if not a hundred from Virat Kohli, who looked good in the practice game but the Test match will be a different beast altogether.

The practice game against Leicestershire was more of an extended net session and Indian teams, since Mahendra Singh Dhoni took over as captain, has hardly played official first-class games as a pre-cursor to the Test matches.

James Anderson might be a month short of his 40th birthday but those magical wrists can still make the ball dart around and it will be a different experience for Shubman Gill or Shreyas Iyer.

Cheteshwar Pujara has scored a bagful of county runs but that psychological disadvantage of facing the very first ball of an innings, if he is asked to open, could clutter his mind.

Hanuma Vihari is a solid player but would need support from the other end, considering he has a defensive game.

It remains to be seen who will be India's bowling all-rounder. Will it be Ravichandran Ashwin, who isn't an automatic choice in overseas conditions or Shardul Thakur, who hasn't done his chances any harm with some big-hearted efforts in SENA countries.

Edgbaston hasn't exactly been a happy hunting ground for India where they have lost most of their Test matches but as it often happens with new beginnings, a new captain can always try to buck the trend.

Teams India squad: Jasprit Bumrah (captain), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wk, vice-captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Ravichandran Ashwin, Prasidh Krishna, Kona Srikar Bharat (wk), Mayank Agarwal, Umesh Yadav England XI: Alex Lees, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes (captain), Sam Billings (wicketkeeper), Matthew Potts, Stuart Broad, Jack Leach, James Anderson.

Match Starts: 3 pm IST. 

Also Read : Want to set example where players can see me and get motivated to get fit: Harmanpreet

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 29 (Sports News) Postponed several times due to different reasons, the National Games will be held in multiple cities in Gujarat in September-October this year, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) Secretary General Rajiv Mehta told PTI on Wednesday.

The IOA took the decision after Gujarat Olympic Association and the state government jointly expressed their interest to host the Games.

"The Gujarat government wrote to us that it backs the expression of interest of the state Olympic Association to host the Games and we are happy to accept their proposal," Mehta told PTI.

"The Games will be held in five or six cities in Gujarat, including Ahmedabad in September-October. The exact dates will be announced after a few days. We are happy that the Games will be held after a lot of delay," he added.

Mehta said the IOA top brass took the decision in "quick time" because it wanted to stage the Games this year after multiple delays.

"The top brass has the power to take the decision and take approval of general house of the IOA later. In any case, we have taken approval of many NSFs and state bodies via email.

"We are also going to call a General Body Meeting to ratify some important decisions as well as the hosting of National Games. We are going to approach Delhi High Court and Supreme Court (where cases involving IOA are pending) to allow us to call a GBM," Mehta said. The last National Games were held in Kerala in 2015 and Goa was to host the 36th edition in November 2016. After two delays in 2018 and 2019 due to the state’s inability to create adequate infrastructure, the Games were further postponed to 2020.

COVID-19 then forced the postponement of the National Games and the Goa government was still not certain whether it will be able to host them this year.

"Goa has told IOA that they are not going to be able to host the National Games this year. So, let Gujarat hosts the Games, that is good for everybody. We feel Gujarat has the capability as the state government has backed the proposal.

"We can then host the National Games one after the other, like in Uttarakhand, Andhra Pradesh, Meghalaya." He said Gujarat can provide the required infrastructure to host the National Games in such a short time as the state already has top facilities in various sports.

"Gujarat already has top facilities and we are certain that the state can host the Games. The strong backing by the state government clinched the issue. Of course, teams from IOA will inspect the facilities." 

Also Read : Neeraj Chopra primed to win medal in Stockholm Diamond League

News Source : PTI

Malahide (Ireland), Jun 29 (Cricket News) The big-hitting Deepak Hooda believes himself to be "a warrior" when faced with the task of tackling the new ball in conditions favourable to bowlers.

Because, according to him, there is no other option but to just face the challenges head on when batting at the top of the order.

Riding his powerful striking abilities, Hooda hogged the limelight with a 57-ball 104 in India's second T20 International against Ireland here on Tuesday.

Batting at number three, Hooda became only the fourth Indian batter to score a century in the shortest format.

"I've never opened in an international game, but being a top-order batsman, you have to cope up to the challenges and you don't have any option.

"And if you don't have any option, then why don't you go there like a warrior. That's how I think, and things turned in my way. I'm happy about that," said Hooda after the match.

With young talents bursting at the seams, the 27-year-old all-rounder admitted that it is not easy to get into, and retain, one's place in the Indian team.

"To be honest, yes it is difficult to find a spot in the Indian team and then staying there. But at the same time when you're playing in India colours, that time you never think about yourself, you think about the team.

"That's what I think about on the ground 'How can I contribute to the team in that situation'. I don't think more than that, try to keep things simple. Yes, it's a matter of pride for me that I'm playing for India, no matter if I'm scoring or not," said Hooda.

Walking in following the dismissal of opener Ishan Kishan in the third over, Hooda smashed nine boundaries and six sixes to score his maiden T20I century.

"To be honest, the Irish team played really well against us and we enjoyed playing against them.

"Between the first and second game, I think there was a difference in the pitch. In the first game, the conditions were overcast and the wicket was damp. But today the wicket was very good for batting, as is clear by the way both teams batted. So I felt the wicket was a big factor." Hooda also revealed that a mindset change recently has helped him perform better.

"Being a cricketer, what I've learnt lately is that you should not think too far ahead. How many ever series, look at it one game at a time. If my work ethic is good, I'm going to be in a good space of mind and I'm going to score, that's my thinking.

"Try to keep it simple, live in the present, play the situation well, and then automatically the outcome will come. Now or later, it will come," Hooda said.

Hooda also praised Hardik Pandya, who led the team in the two-match series.

"Obviously, Haridk is leading very well. He led a new franchise in the IPL and they won the title. I'm really happy for him and the way he's taking responsibility. I'm really proud of him, he's doing very well." During the course of the India innings, Hooda was associated in a record-breaking second-wicket partnership of 176 runs with Sanju Samson, who scored a career-best 77 on his return to the team.

It is the highest partnership by an India pair for any wicket in the format, surpassing the previous best of 165 by Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul in 2017 against Sri Lanka in Indore.

"To be honest, I was coming from a good IPL and wanted to follow the same performance. Happy with my intent. I like playing in that manner (aggressive) and these days I am batting up the order so getting some time.

"Sanju is my childhood friend, always good to bat with him. Thank you to fans, the way they came and supported us," Hooda said. 

Also Read : Hooda's maiden century helps India beat Ireland by 4 runs to pocket series 2-0

News Source : PTI

Mumbai, Jun 28 (Cricket News) Former Indian pacer Ajit Agarkar said he would prefer Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur as the team’s third and the fourth pacers respectively when India take on England in the rescheduled fifth and final Test beginning in Edgbaston on Friday.

With Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami a certainty in the playing XI, India has other pace options in Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Shardul Thakur and Umesh Yadav to choose form.

“Siraj had a really good series last year when India played those four Tests (against England) and he is one of most improved bowlers around at the moment. So I don’t see any reason why Siraj would miss out,” Agarkar said during an interaction, organised by Sony Sports, the official broadcaster of the rescheduled test match.

Agarkar felt that Shardul’s ability with the bat could give him an edge in earning a place in the final eleven.

“Shardul offers a bit more with the bat at number eight and if there is likely help for the seamers, then he becomes even more effective. There is some swing and seam on offer," Agarkar said.

“So, I would think that's the way they go. Otherwise, the tail becomes too long, if at eight, you look at someone like Umesh (Yadav) or even Prasidh Krisna is part of the squad. But I think, Shardul will probably make (the cut) if they go with four seamers,” added the 44-year-old, who represented India in 26 Tests.

Agarkar also backed Siraj in saying that while the latter did have a forgettable performance in the IPL, that, however, would not affect his chances of being a part of the Indian side.

“I don't think Siraj necessarily bowled badly and I don't think you need to equate IPL to test cricket in England. So, you just see his form in test cricket in the last 12 months. Even when India played New Zealand at home, he (Siraj) was really good.

“And he can do the tough work for you. When the ball is little bit older can bowl long spells and bowl quick. I would be very surprised if he (Siraj) is not the third seamer,” reasoned Agarkar. The fifth and final Test is from last year's incomplete series against England which got rescheduled due to outbreak of COVID-19 in the Indian camp.

Agarkar also praised the veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara hit four centuries, including two double centuries for Sussex in Division Two County Championships to make a comeback in the Indian team. He reckoned that Pujara's current form would be an advantage for India in the final test.

Pujara, who was left out of India's home Test series against Sri Lanka earlier this year, amassed 720 runs in just 5 matches with an outstanding average of 120 for Sussex.

“It is a good thing for the Indian team that he (Pujara) was there and playing in those conditions. Also, he has the experience, 90-odd tests. No doubt it has come at the right time, also because it is one-off test and not many other Indian batters are playing in these conditions, so certainly it (Pujara played county) will be an advantage,” said Agarkar. 

Also Read : Kapp and Cross star to keep game in balance on day one at Taunton

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Chennai, Jun 27 (Football News) Two-time Indian Super League champions Chennaiyin FC on Monday announced the signing of Senegalese defender Fallou Diagne ahead of the upcoming season.

Diagne's most recent stint was with Albanian outfit KF Vllaznia where he played under Chennaiyin's new boss Thomas Brdaric.

“I am excited because this is my first time in India. I am very happy to join Chennaiyin FC and I hope to bring something to the team so that together we win more titles,” Diagne said in a media release.

Diagne, who made his debut for Metz as a 19-year-old in 2009, made 78 appearances in the French Ligue 1, including 37 appearances for Stade Rennais FC between 2014 and 2016.

"Diagne is a very experienced player who should stabilize and lead the defense. He radiates a calmness on the ball and is also an absolute role model in terms of discipline and diligence. He will acclimate quickly and be an important part of the team," New CFC coach Brdaric said.

The defender has earned three caps for reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions Senegal, including one appearance in an AFCON qualifier against Namibia where he played alongside Kalidou Koulibaly and Sadio Mane.

Ahead of his maiden stint in India, Diagne said, 

Also Read : How Gabriel Jesus' signing will improve Arsenal next season

News Source : PTI

Malahide (Ireland), Jun 27 (Cricket News) India skipper Hardik Pandya revealed that he didn't want to risk sending out Ruturaj Gaikwad to open the innings in the first T20 against Ireland as he picked up a calf niggle in the first half of the game.

India chased down a 109-run target with relative ease in the rain-curtailed T20 against hosts Ireland on Sunday night.

But at the halfway stage instead of regular opener Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda walked out to open the innings alongside Ishan Kishan.

"Rutu had a niggle in his calf," Pandya said at the post-match press conference.

"We had the choice of taking a risk and sending him in (to open), but I was not okay with it. A player's well-being is more important, and (I thought)we'll be able to manage what happens in the match." Hooda, who was playing his fourth T20I for India, ended up top-scoring for the visitors as he remained unbeaten on 47 off 29.

"It was quite simple after that, there wasn't much of a decision to make; whatever our (batting-order) numbers were, we all went up one spot, and it wasn't a big headache. We wanted to make sure we weren't taking any chances with Rutu." 'Important to give such a talent some time' =========================== Pace sensation Umran Malik was handed a much-anticipated debut after spending time on the bench in the home series against South Africa earlier this month.

However, the 22-year-old just bowled one over in which he gave away 14 runs, including a four and six.

"Umran was kept back after I had a chat with him, he's more comfortable with the older ball and they batted fantastically. So, hope he gets an opportunity.

"When you play for India for the first time, and the journey he has taken, it's important to give such a bowler and such a talent time.

Malik was named in the Indian squad after a breakthrough IPL season with the Sunrisers Hyderabad.

"Whether it was a good day or a bad day is irrelevant. For him, just to play for India is itself a very big thing, and that is something which I'm very happy for, (irrespective) of how the result went, good or bad, it's okay.

"It's part and parcel of the game, but at the same point of time, from here he'll only get better, the more matches he plays, and it's a big thing for him to play for India, for anyone to play for India.

"I want to let him enjoy this moment because it doesn't come every time. A debut happens only once," Pandya added.

Ultimate goal is to get better for World Cup ============================ With the T20 World Cup slated to be played in Australia later this year, Pandya said the idea is to give all players in contention of making the squad some game time.

"Our ultimate goal is to get better for the World Cup. This is good step we have taken that intentionally the players are showing the kind of attitude and the character that will help us during crunch games at the World Cup.

"You get experience by playing and that is a conscious effort by the management to get the players they are considering in the squad or scheme of things and give them the best opportunity to get some games under their belt rather than coming into the World Cup and play their first game.

"We want people to settle in and by the time the World Cup comes we will have a tighter squad," Pandya added.

Hardik gifts bat to Harry Tector ==================== Young Harry Tector showcased his batting prowess, playing a brilliant counter-attacking 64 not out, lifting the hosts to a respectable total.

The Indian skipper, who was left in "awe" of the youngster, gifted him his bat and hoped the 22-year-old can get an IPL contract soon.

"He played some fantastic shots and obviously he's just 22 and I have given him a bat and maybe he can score some more sixes and get an IPL contract.

"I wish him luck and, you know, just look after him. Well, give him the right guidance. It's not always about cricket. It's about understanding your own lifestyle and understanding what is at stake." Tector displayed a lot of composure as he smashed six fours and three maximums in his 33-ball innings.

"If you can manage that, I'm sure he's going to be around not just in the IPL, but in all the leagues in the world." "Some of the shots Harry played had me in awe. Look forward to him developing and taking Irish cricket forward." 

Also Read : How catastrophic will Rohit Sharma's potential absence be for India?

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New Delhi, Jun 27 (Cricket News) Former India opener Virender Sehwag feels current skipper Rohit Sharma could be relieved from captaincy duties from T20s so that the 35-year-old can manage his workload better.

Rohit has not been able to feature in all of India's matches since taking over as captain due to injuries and workload management. “If the Indian team management has someone else in mind as captain in the T20 format, then I think, Rohit (Sharma) could be relieved and the following can be taken into consideration going forward,” Sehwag told PTI in an interview.

“One, that would allow Rohit to manage his workload and mental fatigue, given his age.

"Two, once someone new is appointed as captain in T20s, it would also allow Rohit to take breaks and rejuvenate himself to lead India in both Tests and ODIs,” he said in an interaction arranged by Sony Sports, the official broadcaster of the India-England series.

However, Sehwag maintained that if the team management sticks with its current policy of having one captain to lead India across the three formats, then Sharma is still an ideal choice.

“If the Indian think-tank still wants to pursue with the same policy, which is, to let one man leading India in all the three formats, then I still believe, Rohit Sharma is the best man for it.” While a lot of permutation and combination have been at play currently ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia later this year, the former Indian swashbuckling opener asserted his top three choices among the batters for the tournament would be Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and KL Rahul.

Star batter Virat Kohli is India's designated number three batter at the moment.

“India has options aplenty when it comes to hard hitters in T20s. However, I would personally vouch for Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and KL Rahul as the top three batters for the World Cup in Australia,” Sehwag said.

“The right-hand and left-hand combination of Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan, or for that matter, Ishan and KL Rahul could be quite interesting for the World T20,” he added.

Sehwag, who was known to take many fearsome pacers to the cleaners in his heyday, was all praise for young pacer Umran Malik, and believes, that the 22-year-old should feature in the World Cup alongside the likes of Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah as one of India’s bowling mainstays.

“If there is one pacer who has thoroughly impressed me, of late, it is none other than Umran Malik. He should definitely be part of India’s plans as one of the key bowlers alongside the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami,” Sehwag stated.

“This IPL has given us many promising young bowlers, but Umran’s skills and talent will definitely earn him a place in the Indian across all three formats in the long run,” he remarked. 

Also Read : Mayank Agarwal to join Indian Test squad in England as cover for Rohit Sharma

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Bengaluru, Jun 26 (Cricket News) Madhya Pradesh, not considered among cricketing elites during the past decade, on Sunday humbled domestic powerhouse Mumbai by six wickets in a one-sided Ranji Trophy final under coach Chandrakant Pandit, who exorcised the ghosts of losing one at this very ground 23 summers ago.

On the final day, Mumbai could only manage 269 in their second innings, leaving MP with a paltry target of 108, and they did it in style as Pandit won a record sixth national title as a coach.

Sarfaraz Khan (45), who finished the season with 18 short of 1000 runs and young Suved Parkar (51) tried their bit, but with the need to attack at every opportunity, MP's Kumar Kartikeya (4/98) and the other bowlers knew that wickets would come their way.

While chasing, there were some hiccups, but with just over 100 to get, it was a stroll in the park for the MP team.

As they completed the victory, Pandit was flooded with memories (not happy ones), which he hasn't been able to erase for over two decades and despite winning five trophies as a coach.

It was here at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in the summer of 1999 when MP, despite a first-innings lead of 75, failed to win the game as Pandit, a proud captain, finished his playing career in tears.

Before the final, he spoke to PTI about divine intervention and circle of life and during the five days, sat in one corner with a white towel on his lap.

He has again proved to be an 'Alchemist', after guiding Vidarbha to four trophies (successive Ranji and Irani Cup), with a team that didn't have superstars.

The Yash Dubeys, Himanshu Mantris, Subham Sharmas, Gourav Yadavs or Saransh Jains aren't players who would give you the feeling that they are India prospects, the classy Rajat Patidar being an exception. But they gave enough indication that they aren't ready to concede even a micro millimetre without a good scrap.

They gave the Mumbai men a lesson in perfect execution of tactic with dollops of 'Khadoos' cricket, which many thought was a patent of the 41-time champions.

MP's win once again proved that the Ranji Trophy is often won by sides which don't have too many superstars or India prospects with ambition or wherewithal to play top-flight cricket.

It happened with Rajasthan when they had Hrishikesh Kanitkar, Akash Chopra during their triumph while Vidarbha had Wasim Jaffer and Ganesh Sathish guiding a bunch of youngsters.

In MP, there was no Avesh Khan or Venkatesh Iyer and had only an emerging potential star in Patidar, yet they followed Pandit's 'Gurukul' style of 'My Way or HighWay' coaching philosophy to emerge triumphant.

Since 2010, the Ranji Trophy, barring Karnataka's dominance for a few seasons and Mumbai winning it once, it has been won by teams like Rajasthan (twice), Vidarbha (twice), Saurashtra (once) and Madhya Pradesh, who would never be in contention in the past.

This shows that cricket has moved from the Shivaji Park, Azad Maidan or Cross Maidan in Mumbai, from the National Stadium in Delhi or the state-of-the-art camps in Bengaluru or Kolkata, to the hinterlands.

Bhopal's Yash Dubey, who had problems with his eye-sight during teenage years or Sultanpur's Kumar Kartikeya, who hadn't gone back home for nine years or Hoshangabad's Gourav Yadav, who would beat Prithvi Shaw's bat many times just for fun are men, who haven't had it easy.

When the Ranji Trophy started, the Madhya Pradesh cricket team wasn't even formed and it was back then known as Holkar, a princely state from the British era, which produced the country's finest cricketers – the charismatic Mushtaq Ali -- or the first ever captain of the Indian cricket team -- the great CK Nayudu.

Holkar was a formidable team till the 1950s before it was rechristened as Madhya Bharat and subsequently Madhya Pradesh.

MP, over the years, have produced some fine cricketers – spinners Narendra Hirwani and Rajesh Chauhan -- who had brief but eventful international careers.

Amay Khurasiya, who had finished his cricket some years before the IPL, where he would have been a rocking success.

And then there was the peerless Devendra Bundela, who was one of those unlucky middle-order batters, who played in the 1990s and 2000s when Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman were in their pomp.

But as a Ranji team, it never looked menacing save the occasional final they played 23 summers back under Pandit's captaincy.

However, this was a team that had enough self-belief and was ready to punch above its weight. They did it with aplomb through five days.

The Ranji Trophy deserves to be in the MPCA cabinet for the next one year. 

Also Read : India women eye series sweep against Sri Lanka (Final women's T20 International)

News Source : PTI

Mumbai, Jun 25 (Cricket News) Impressed by his raw pace, former India skipper Dilip Vengsarkar feels rookie pacer Umran Malik should board the flight to Australia for this year's T20 World Cup.

"I hope so because he (Umran) is a very exciting talent. He did well in the IPL and he deserves a chance as he looked the best bowler in the format. I hope he is in the plane and I am sure he will do well if given an opportunity," Vengsarkar told reporters here on Saturday. The T20 World Cup is set to be played in Australia in October-November later this year.

"He (Umran) is young and raring to go. You must give an opportunity to someone who is in form. He is young, keen to play and hungry for success," added the former national chairman of selectors.

Umran had picked up 22 wickets in 14 games for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL this year but it is his ability to bowl consistently at 95 miles per hour that has caught the imagination of all.

He was subsequently rewarded for his consistency by earning his maiden national call-up for the T20 series against South Africa but did not get a game.

He has also been selected for the T20 series against Ireland, commencing on Sunday and it remains to be seen whether he gets to make his India debut.

Vengsarkar's 1983 World Cup-winning teammate and former India all-rounder Roger Binny also felt that Umran should be given a chance straightaway in all three formats.

"There is definitely going to be a bigger bunch of fast bowlers coming through now. And he (Umran) should be given a chance straightaway because he has proved that he is quick and if you saw him bowl some of the yorkers in the IPL that was brute force. So you cannot keep a youngster out for that long," Binny said.

"Well, I am not surprised that somebody, who is coming to the scene (and bowling over 150 kmph), because we have a lot of people (bowling) around the 140-142 area for the last six-seven years and especially in the IPL. I am not surprised (by the sheer pace of Umran)." The duo was speaking on the sidelines of the book-launch of 'The 1983 World Cup Opus', in association with Paymentz.

Vengsarkar backs Virat Kohli to come good in England Test ************************************************ Vengsarkar, who selected Virat Kohli for the first time in the national team, backed the former skipper, who has been enduring a prolonged lean patch, to come good against England.

"I am sure because he (Kohli) is a world class player. He's done well and is so fit. He is just not scoring in T20s but I think he'll come back strong, especially in the Test in England. He and Rohit Sharma, I expect big runs in England," said Vengsarkar.

Vengsarkar also hailed Hardik Pandya for his strong comeback.

"The way he (Hardik) came back from injury is great. He must have worked very hard on his fitness. He did very well in the IPL and as a captain he did well. (He is a) very fine all-rounder." "He led from the front. He guided the team in his first major tournament as captain (of Gujarat Titans). An all-rounder plays an important role in any team," he said.

Hardik led the Gujarat Titans to their maiden IPL title and played a key role by amassing 487 runs and picking up eight wickets. He then carried on his form into the T20 series against South Africa. 

Also Read : Kohli hits 67; Iyer, Jadeja also score fifties in warm-up game

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Malahide (Ireland), Jun 25 (Cricket News) He struck gold in his debut season as captain in the IPL, and Hardik Pandya admits that responsibility brings out the best in him on a cricket field.

Hardik, who led the Gujarat Titans to the IPL title in the side's and his debut season earlier this year, has been named as captain of the Indian team for the two-match T20 International series against Ireland, starting here on Sunday.

And the dashing all-rounder said he believes in taking ownership on the field. "Earlier also, I liked taking up responsibility and now also it is the same but it is a bit more responsibility now. I always believed that I did better when I took responsibility," Hardik said during a virtual press conference on the eve of the first T20I.

"If I can take ownership of my own things and take my own decisions, they tend to be strong. Cricket is such a game, staying strong during situations is very important.

"Always responsibility was given to me and I took it and that's why I became better. While captaining I will see how I can give the same responsibility to every player and give them the ability to fight with situations," he added.

Playing under two talismanic skippers in Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Virat Kohli has taught Hardik a lot about leadership qualities, but he said every captain has their own style.

"Obviously I have taken a lot of things from them (Dhoni and Kohli) but at the same time I also want to be myself, obviously my understanding of the game is different but I have taken a lot of good vibes from them.

"I am not instinctive but I see more situation than go on my gut. At what point of time, what decision the team requires, I focus on that rather than going on my gut. Gut always goes 50-50," he said.

"I have got an opportunity to lead India. It's in itself a big thing. I don't play the sport to show anyone anything, if I am good enough. I was always the same." India has bench strength now ************************ India is fielding its reserve players in the series against Ireland and Hardik said the bench strength India possesses now is a good sign for the game in the country. "If such a situation arises that we have to send two teams, we are very lucky that we have the bench strength where we can allow the players to go and express and a lot of people will get opportunities.

"There are so much talent in India that people don't get opportunities. Playing for India is always a dream and for them to achieve that dream will be really fantastic," he said.

"The way talent has come up and the character the players have shown and the way we played, it indicates India's bench strength. There are plenty of options right now in Indian team. Four people are still fighting for places in the team. They are knocking the doors, so it can be better than that." Won't take Ireland lightly ********************* Despite fielding a second string side against Ireland, Hardik said they would approach the short series the same way they play in a big tournament.

"It's a challenge mentally, it is easier to say that we are playing against Ireland but playing for India is the biggest pride. If we want to win the World Cup, every match from here is important for us to reach the World Cup final. The first thing I said to all is that it doesn't matter whom we are playing, we need to focus on our own things," he stressed.

"We keep the same intensity we generally keep even if we are playing the World Cup or a big series. Again it comes down to mental strength, how better you can get because it's not easy in two matches getting yourself on but at the same time we are playing for India and we have to be on our A game which we will.

"The discussion between me and the coach is simple -- approach the game as you do in any other game for India." Hardik also said that the team management might give opportunities to some young players, but not at the cost of a strong playing XI.

"We want to give opportunities but at the same time we want to play with our best XI. So there will be a couple of caps given but at the same time it is about making sure that when we go on the field we have the best XI." 

Also Read : Harmanpreet leads India to series sealing win over Sri Lanka

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Bengaluru, Jun 25 (Cricket News) Rajat Patidar stamped his class with an authoritative century to put Madhya Pradesh on the cusp of their historic Ranji Trophy triumph against 41-time champions Mumbai on a rain-hit fourth day of the summit clash here on Saturday.

Havens opened up minutes before the tea break, and Madhya Pradesh finished their first innings at 536 soon after resumption with a game-changing lead of 162 runs, courtesy Patidar’s superb 122, that had as many as 20 boundaries.

Four hundreds have been scored by batters from either side but none oozed more class and competence than Patidar’s, who was in a league of his own when it came to regal drives on both sides of the wicket.

At stumps, Mumbai erased some of the deficit, reaching 113 for 2 with Prithvi Shaw (44 off 51 balls) and Hardik Tamore (25 off 32 balls), promoted up the order, showing some positive intent but throwing away their wickets in desperation for quick runs.

Shaw was dismissed with a classic plan of bowling wide outside the off-stump and he finally chased one from Gourav Yadav straight into cover’s hands.

With 95 overs left on the final day, there is very little chance of Mumbai winning this match unless they score around 320-plus runs in 50 overs (including Saturday's overs) and set a target of 150-odd for MP with at least 45 to 50 overs to get the 10 wickets.

The wicket isn’t showing any signs of crumbling and hence a chance of an MP collapse in the fourth innings doesn’t look imminent at the moment. Especially, knowing that they have a first innings lead, MP will like to down the shutters from hereon as ends will prove the means.

Day belonged to Patidar =============== When the fourth day started, MP needed seven more runs to get the first innings lead but what was more important was for Patidar to play at least one session and he did that with minimum fuss which could now prove to be decisive in the context of the game.

Patidar smashed seven more boundaries following his 13 on the third day and by the time he was out for 122 off 219 balls, Madhya Pradesh’s lead had gone over 100 runs and the sullen faces of the Mumbai players said it all.

A poker-faced Chandrakant Pandit, who had throughout the four days, sat in one corner of the dressing room, can now afford a wide grin as even a miracle can’t turn things around for his “home state”.

Madhya Pradesh’s innings lasted for exactly 14 hours and two minutes and by the end of it all, they had out-batted Mumbai, a similar kind of torture that the domestic powerhouse is used to inflicting on their opponents over the years.

Patidar first hit an on-drive off Mohit Avasthi for a boundary and then punched him through the cover-point for a couple to give MP the all-important lead.

When a player finds his bearing at a higher level, he tends to dominate at a level which is notch below. The IPL might have been a white ball competition but the kind of confidence that Patidar gained from his century against Lucknow Super Giants on May 25 IPL Eliminator came in handy. He put that to best use exactly one month later on June 25 when he got his eighth and most important hundred of his first-class career.

The cornerstone of MP’s success this season has been their batting and No. 2, 3 and 4 scoring runs consistently.

While Patidar has so far scored 628 runs and is second behind Sarfaraz Khan (937) in the run-getter’s list, Yash Dubey (613) and Shubham Sharma (578) have also earned their stripes with match-winning performances.

If Dubey and Sharma provided solidity, Patidar added flamboyance with his adventurous stroke-play but at the same time was judicious enough to know when he needed to defend.

Mulani, the tireless operator ================== Shams Mulani was disappointing for the better part of the third day when he had bowled 40 overs with a just a wicket to show for his efforts. His final figures on the day 63.2-11-173-5 might not make a pretty reading but the rotund left-arm spinner gave it his all as Shaw used him unchanged from one end till lunch.

He was better on the fourth morning as he bowled a touch slower through the air and gave the ball more flight as it dipped on some of the lower-middle order batters.

He got an able ally in Avasthi (32-7-93-2) while Tushar Deshpande (36-10-116-3) was sharp in couple of of his spells.

The delivery to clean up Patidar was an off-cutter delivered from wide of crease.

The man whose performance stood like a sore thumb was Dhawal Kulkarni (24-4-53-0), who mostly bowled innocuous deliveries on the ‘fifth’ and ‘sixth’ off-stump channel. 

Also Read : Harmanpreet leads India to series sealing win over Sri Lanka

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Paris, Jun 25 (Archery News) India won its maiden World Cup gold in compound mixed team archery event after the duo of Abhishek Verma and Jyothi Surekha Vennam outclassed their experienced French opponents at the Stage 3 edition here on Saturday.

Riding on a spectacular start, the Indians withered late resistance from the French pair of Jean Boulch and 48-year-old Olympic medallist Sophie Dodemont to seal the contest 152-149, a first-ever World Cup gold for India in the compound mixed team event .

The gold also opened the account of Indian archers, who have assured a second medal in the women's recurve team event where the trio of Deepika Kumari, Ankita Bhakat and Simranjeet Kaur will fight for the yellow metal on Sunday.

Making a comeback after more than seven months, world no. 3 Jyothi, who was sidelined in the Asian Games trial, is also in the hunt for another medal as she takes on French veteran Sophie in the individual semifinal later in the day.

A Beijing Olympics bronze medalist, Sophie switched to compound discipline after failing to make the 2012 London Olympics squad.

The third-seeded Indians got off to a flier, drilling in four 10s that included two Xs to race to a three-point lead and put early pressure on the French pair.

The Indians managed just one 10 in the second end as the French duo reduced the deficit to one-point.

The third was a tie, while in the deciding fourth end, Abhishek and Jyothi held their nerves to edge out their opponents by two points to annexe the title.

The most successful Indian compound pair of Abhishek and Jyothi have a handful of World Cup bronze medals and their best has been a World Cup Final silver at Yankton last year. 

Also Read : Archery World Cup Stage 3: Compound mixed pair make final, confirm second medal for India

News Source : PTI

(Cricket news) Cricket Ireland has today revealed Exchange22 as the Principal Sponsor for the Ireland Men’s cricket team for 2022. EXCHANGE22 is an Indian-based, first of its kind sports fantasy App – a virtual sports stock exchange. Founded in 2019, the app’s unique concept is one in which players' shares are traded virtually. The shares can be bought/sold/held as per the wish of the user. On their platform, the user can trade in single or multiple shares and receive returns easily.

The partnership, brokered by Cricket Ireland’s main sponsor ITW Consulting, was unveiled along with the new Ireland Men’s T20I playing kit. The Exchange22 logo will feature on the front of the Ireland Men’s T20I playing shirt, while another new sponsor – ABD Sterling Reserve – will feature on the leading arm and the back of the T20 shirt. Sterling Reserve is an Indian-based packaged drinking water brand, produced by ABD. ABD, a multi-product company, is in the business of packaged drinking water with Sterling Reserve. A premium brand, Sterling Reserve consistently delivers the finest quality to consumers.

In further sponsor news, Mr Akhil Sarin, Head of Acquisition from Stake.com , the “Presenting Ground Sponsor”, will be presenting the winner’s trophy. Bodhishatta Karfa, Director & Co-Founder of EXCHANGE22, said “The whole team at EXCHANGE22 feels highly honoured to be the jersey sponsor for Ireland Men during a busy 2022. This is our second association with the squad, having supported the team at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2021.

“Irish cricket is certainly a sport on the rise, and similarly EXCHANGE22 is also breaking through barriers and delivering on our ‘field of play’. Also, our sincere gratitude to team ITW for putting their efforts into making this collaboration successful. We believe in uplifting the spirit of the game and look forward to many more collaborations of this kind in the near future. We wish the Irish team the best of luck for the rest of 2022 and hope to see some awesome cricket moments from them.”

Shekhar Ramamurthy, Executive Deputy Chairman, ABD said "We at ABD and Sterling Reserve are very happy to be associated with Cricket Ireland for the India matches and all their games with New Zealand, South Africa and Afghanistan leading to the ICCT20 World Cup. Sterling Reserve, from ABD, is about making moments ‘Come Alive’. We believe that Team Ireland has the capability to do that against the best”.

Akhil Sarin, Head of Acquisition for Stake.com, said “As the presenting ground sponsor for the Ireland v India T20I series, 2022, we are looking forward to the cricketing action featuring an exciting Irish team and one of the top sides in the world - India. We look forward to a highly competitive series between two exciting teams – it is set to be a great spectacle for global cricket fans.”

Warren Deutrom, Chief Executive of Cricket Ireland, said “A sincere thanks to the teams at EXCHANGE22 and ITW Consulting for bringing this partnership together. We’ve already shown through a previous collaboration that the value of partnerships like this one goes far beyond just the immediate support for the team – it supports the grassroots and performance structures that are the foundations of the sport in Ireland. We also welcome Sterling Reserve – together we provide a solid foundation for our players to perform on what has become a truly global stage.”

Also read: 39 years since India's trend setting Cricket World Cup win at Lords

Malahide (Ireland), Jun 25 (Cricket News) India's fringe players including a struggling Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson will get another chance to prove themselves before the return of the seniors when Hardik Pandya marks his much-anticipated International captaincy debut against a star-struck Ireland in a two-match T20 series, beginning here on Sunday.

With Rishabh Pant joining the the Test side in England, Pandya was appointed the stand-in skipper after his heroics in leading Gujarat Titans to IPL 2022 triumph in their debut season.

Pant stood in as skipper in their last T20I series at home against South Africa after KL Rahul pulled out due to a groin injury.

India have been forced to hand the captaincy duties to too many players due to injuries, scheduling issues and workload management over the past 24 months.

Hardik joins that list for the one-off Ireland series and expectations will be high from him after his exploits with the Gujarat Titans.

NCA chief VVS Laxman, who will be filling in for India head coach Rahul Dravid in the short-series with the latter overseeing the Test team's preparations in England, is expected to follow the template set by his former teammate.

The two games will give the think tank more clarity on identifying the core group of players for the T20 World Cup in Australia later this year and the team for the three games against a strong England next month.

In the home series against South Africa, Dravid displayed his stable approach and retained the side in all five games despite losing first two games. The Pant-led side bounced back to level 2-2 before the fifth match was washed out.

With Pant and Shreyas Iyer joining the Test squad in the UK, the series opens a window for the likes of Sanju Samson and Deepak Hooda.

It could well be a make or break situation for Samson who has not been able establish himself in the T20 set up despite getting many opportunities.

Returning from a wrist injury, Suryakumar Yadav will walk back into the playing eleven and he is likely to bat at number three or four.

Ishan Kishan made a strong case for the reserve opener's slot with his consistent run against South Africa and he will be looking to build on that success.

The pressure will be on his opening partner Gaikwad, who looked in discomfort against high-quality fast bowling in the previous series.

India's pace sensation Umran Malik and yorker-specialist Arshdeep Singh, who patiently warmed the bench against South Africa, could get their big break with the conditions expected to favour the fast bowlers.

With the due respect, Ireland are not expected to push India to the limit like South Africa did, giving the visitors more freedom to experiment.

For Irish players, the series against the mighty India presents them an opportunity to attract global attention.

Uncapped Stephen Doheny and Conor Olphert have earned maiden call-ups in the squad led by Andrew Balbirnie, who feels India remain a very strong outfit despite the absence of senior players including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah.

"Nowadays, any Indian team you play is going to be a good team. It kind of shows the depth of Indian cricket that they can put out two teams. We couldn't do that - there's no way we could put out a Test team and a T20 team at the same time, we just don't have the numbers for that, " Balbirnie said ahead of the series opener.

Squads India: Hardik Pandya (captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik.

Ireland: Andrew Balbirnie (captain), Mark Adair, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Stephen Doheny, Josh Little, Andrew McBrine, Barry McCarthy, Conor Olphert, Paul Stirling, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Craig Young.

Match starts 9 PM IST. 

Also Read : India's ideal playing XI for the two T20Is against Ireland

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 25 (Wrestling News) Elite Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia on Saturday said he would compete in both, the postponed Asian Games and the World Championships next year, if there is a gap of at least one month between the two competitions.

The 2022 Asian Games were postponed due to rising COVID-19 cases in China and the organisers are yet to announce new dates for the prestigious Continental event.

The World Championship, set to be held in Russia in September 2023, will be an Olympic qualifying event.

"The 2023 is an important year. The focus is on qualifying for the Paris Games through the World Championships. We don't know as yet what is going to be the gap between Asian Games and the Worlds.

"But if we have one or one-and-a-half-month cushion between the two, I would compete in both," Bajrang said during a virtual interaction, facilitated by SAI.

The 28-year-old Bajrang, who won a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics Games, finds no merit in harping and fretting over past mistakes. Instead he would learn from them and move forward with better goals -- an Olympic gold at the 2024 Paris Games.

"I was injured and was in rehab for about 8 months after Olympics. Olympics is the most important event for any athlete. That was a setback but still I won a bronze. 65 is toughest category in world.

"I have not changed a bit after winning an Olympic medal. The endeavour would be to do better in 2024. I have been training again. In the last four Olympics, India have got medals through wrestling. Bronze and silver are there but not gold. That's the target for Paris Games.

"We have to forget mistakes, learn from them and move forward. Victory and defeats are part of an athlete's life, we have to accept both," he said.

Bajrang is set to leave for USA on Sunday for a training-stint ahead of the Birmingham Commonwealth Games.

The multiple-time world medallist said he gets better sparring partner when he trains outside.

"I will be training at the Michigan University. Many top wrestlers train there. Like, I will be training with the world number one in 70kg (Ernazar Akmataliev, Kyrgyzstan). The 86kg Olympic medallist will also be there. That's why I prefer to train there." "Also, we are saved from usual distractions when we train in India. No one disturbs us abroad." He asserted that no wrestler, from any nation, tries to injure others deliberately during these training stints.

"We may be fierce competitors on the mat but off-mat we are all friends. There is no such fear in my mind that I will get injured, never thought like that. I have trained in Russia, Europe, USA and Asian nations but nothing like that has ever happened," he assured.

The Commonwealth Games, considering the low competition level, will be a test event for Bajrang, who though does not want to take things lightly.

"Remember I had finished second there in 2014," he said. 

Also Read : Indian freestyle wrestlers claim Asian team title in U-17 category

News Source : PTI

(Cricket news) The Indian team is gearing up to play 2 T20Is against Ireland. Both the games will be played at the Village in Dublin. The men in blue will be without a few of its big players and also without its coaching staff led by Rahul Dravid as the red team is in England preparing for the Headingley Test. Hardik Pandya will captain the side for the first time ever while NCA head VVS Laxman will act as head coach. 

India's ideal playing XI-

Openers: Ishan Kishan & Ruturaj Gaikwad

Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad are pretty much India's 2nd choice opening pair when KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma aren't available. Their opening combination was very good against South Africa and the management is more than likely to back the pair once again as they compliment each other really well. Venkatesh Iyer and Rahul Tripathi are the other two options. 

Middle order: Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda & Dinesh Karthik

Suryakumar Yadav returns after his injury absence and should get into the team straight away. This will be a very important tournament for the batter as he will have to start firing right away to earn his place back in the team. Dinesh Karthik is in red hot form and he needs to continue doing the same. Karthik's position in the batting order will most likely depend on the situation. Deepak Hooda spent the whole South Africa series on the bench. It wouldn't be wrong to say that Hooda is next in line for a place in the middle order. There have been rumours of Sanju Samson being guaranteed to be in the playing XI but Hooda definitely deserves a chance. Venkatesh Iyer and Rahul Tripathi are the other options.

All-rounders: Hardik Pandya & Axar Patel 

Skipper Hardik Pandya will look to lead from the front with both bat and ball. It will be interesting to see if Pandya pushes himself up the order or continues batting at no. 5. Axar Patel being the only spin bowling all-rounder has to play. He was good in patches in the IPL and against South Africa. Patel will be hoping to have a better series against Ireland which will guarantee his long term place in the side even after Ravindra Jadeja returns.

Seamers: Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar & Avesh Khan

India continued backing these trio of seamers against South Africa and there is no reason to change that now. Umran Malik and Arshdeep Singh will be eager to get their debut caps but these 3 are likely to feature in both matches. The trio had a good 3rd and 4th game against South Africa and the team will need a similar performance. Conditions will be much better for seam bowling and they need to take full advantage of it.

Spinner: Yuzvendra Chahal

Yuzvendra Chahal will once again be an important part of the side. His wrist spin will be very effective in Irish conditions. Ravi Bishnoi is another option but Chahal is first choice. He is a proper wicket taking option and it will be interesting to see how Pandya uses him.

Bench: Sanju Samson, Venkatesh Iyer, Rahul Tripathi, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh & Umran Malik 

Also read: Answers India will be searching for in the warm up Test

Bengaluru, Jun 24 (Cricket News) Unheralded Yash Dubey and Shubham Sharma made the biggest stage of Indian domestic cricket their own with well-crafted centuries, that pulled the rug from under heavyweights Mumbai's feet as Madhya Pradesh took a giant leap towards their maiden Ranji Trophy title, here on Friday.

Mumbai's first innings score of 374 looked reasonably good on the second day but Dubey (133, 336 balls) and Sharma (116, 215 balls) added 222 runs for the second wicket to take MP to a solid 368 for 3 at the end of day three.

Madhya Pradesh now need only seven more runs to take a decisive first innings lead and unless they suffer a collapse in the fourth innings, the title is theirs for taking.

MP had lost to Karnataka when the last time they competed in a Ranji Trophy final in the 1998-99 season.

The duo took the sting out of Mumbai attack with some 'khadoos' (stubborn) batting straight out of Chandrakant Pandit's coaching play book as 245 runs were scored through the whole day but more effectively, they ran Mumbai attack ragged with their solid game plan.

Rajat Patidar, one of the heroes of RCB's campaign in the IPL, then used his new-found confidence to score an unbeaten 67 with 13 boundaries.

MP would certainly want to stretch their innings as much as possible so that Mumbai have no chance to make a comeback in the game.

The Chinnaswamy Stadium track didn’t show signs of wear and tear and the bright sunshine only helped the MP batters to settle down easily against a Mumbai attack which was at one level ordinary.

The biggest disappointment was their left-arm spinner Shams Mulani (1/117 in 40 overs), who bowled too many loose deliveries.

Veteran Dhawal Kulkarni (21-3-51-0) and the seasoned Tushar Deshpande (24-8-73-1) were also below-par as they consistently gave drivable length the batters in the morning session.

Instead of conjuring up maiden overs and building the pressure slowly, within first half an hour, they allowed Dubey and Sharma to easily hit multiple cover drives to get their eye in.

Kulkarni, the only man in this set-up with experience of winning a Ranji Trophy, bowled too many deliveries outside the off-stump which were left alone.

The only time he looked menacing was when Dubey had taken his eyes off a short ball and was knocked down.

When Mulani came in, Sharma lofted him over long-off for a six, leaving his skipper Prithvi Shaw frustrated.

Mulani bowled too many length balls and at times full-tosses to make life of the batters much easier.

While Dubey hit 14 boundaries and Sharma had 15 hits and a maximum to his credit, what stood out during their partnership was their running between the wickets.

That Dubey (613 runs) and Sharma (578 runs) have been standout performers for MP this season was evident in their on-field communication, where they would tap the ball towards mid-on or mid-off to steal those quick singles.

People remember boundaries but Dubey and Sharma ran 76 singles between them in their double-hundred plus partnership.

Save Arman Jaffer missing a regulation catch of Sharma at short point, Mumbai hardly created any chances although Mohit Avasthi (20-5-53-1) could be credited for bowling one channel.

Some of their appeals were outrageous and once Shaw was seen gesturing to umpire Virender Sharma as to why he couldn't hear a nick when replays showed that clearly there wasn't one.

Dubey in fact after scoring his hundred did repeat the ‘Sidhu Moosewala’ celebration (thigh thump and index finger pointed towards sky) but it was more about driving home a point for Sarfaraz Khan, who was sledging the duo. By the time, Sharma was caught behind off Avasthi and Dubey gave Mulani something to cheer after another 72-run third wicket stand, some of the Mumbai players were on their hunches.

Patidar was smashing them for fun and the writing is clearly on the Wall.

Mumbaikar Pandit's Madhya Pradesh is walking away with this one unless there is a miracle in last two days. 

Also Read : Gareth Delany excited to take on 'Best team in the world' India

News Source : PTI

(Football news) Germany’s Florian Wirtz has committed his future to Bayer Leverkusen by signing a long-term deal till 2027. The highly rated attacker is currently out of action with a cruciate ligament injury but he can now focus on his recovery and get back even stronger next season. Despite only turning 19 in May, Wirtz was one of the main reasons his side secured a third-place finish in the 2021/22 Bundesliga standings. He even went on to score seven league goals and added 10 more assists in 24 Bundesliga appearances before picking up a season ending injury in March.

The connection between Bayer Leverkusen and Florian is already an extraordinary success story for the club as Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes and head Gerardo Seoane revealed earlier in June that the youngster's career recovery is going well. He also added that he will not have the gifted playmaker until after the winter break, but there is a possibility that Wirtz could even be available by October or November. Wirtz this season took the league by storm as he made a blistering start to the season and went on to win his first cap for Germany this season.

Leverkusen and Germany will be keen to see Wirtz back on the pitch as soon as possible following a remarkable start to his career, with the World Cup this year, Hansi Flick will be hoping to add the talented attacker to his WC squad. He is currently one of the best young players in the Bundesliga. He created history as he became the youngest-ever debutant at 17 years and 16 days old and has since become the youngest player in the league to make 50 appearances. Wirtz is a former Cologne academy player who also became an European U21 champion with Germany in 2021 and in September of that year he also made his senior debut for Germany at the age of 18. For the Leverkusen fans Wirtz's deal is another bit of good news for them ahead of the 2022/23 campaign where they will play Champions League football after a longtime. Czech striker Patrik Schick, who scored 24 Bundesliga goals last season, also signed a contract extension with the club in May.

"The boys here are an important reason why I feel at home here and why everything's gone so well overall. There's a lot more to come from us and this club. That's what we want to show all Bayer fans - and also those that aren't. The development over the last couple of years has been breathtaking for me, and certainly not something I could have anticipated. I'm well aware that the team has played its role in that" Wirtz said.

“Things are going well so far. It could be that things go quickly [while] it also depends on how disciplined and hard-working [Florian] is. [He could return] in October or probably November. If he's fit and can train, he might get a call-up to the squad [this year], but I don't expect Florian back until 2023,"  Leverkusen coach Gerardo Seoane recently told the media when asked about Wirtz's recovery.

Also read: Christopher Nkunku signs a contract extension with RB Leipzig
 

(Football news) FC Barcelona have made a €40m (£34.4m) offer to Bayern Munich for the services of Robert Lewandowski, but the bid is expected to be rejected by the German club. The Polish striker has already said that he won’t be renewing his contract which is due to expire at the end of next season and Bayern Munich’s decision to not let Lewandowski leave this summer would mean that the 33 year old will depart as a free agent. Lewandowski has claimed that he wants a new challenge in his career and his decision to leave Bayern Munich is not financially motivated.

Bayern Munich’s CEO Oliver Kahn has said in an interview that Lewandowski is contractually tied and will not be allowed to leave this summer. The former goalkeeper said “We would be stupid to sell a player who scores 30 to 40 goals per season. He has a contract until June 2023 and we'll definitely have him with us for another season." The Polish striker has been instrumental in the club’s success since his arrival in 2014 from Borussia Dortmund, scoring 344 goals in all competitions, winning eight Bundesliga titles, three German Cups and is the league’s top scorer for five consecutive years. 

With the arrival of Sadio Mane, it will be interesting to see if Bayern soften their stance and let Lewandowski go. Barcelona and Xavi are desperate to sign a reliable goalscorer who can get them 30 goals a season but the German club are understandably reluctant to let their prized asset leave and haven’t communicated what would be an acceptable transfer fee. It’s no secret that Barcelona has financial problems, the club will struggle to pay a high transfer fee for Lewandowski and considering his age, paying over the odds for a 33 year old would not be the best decision anyway. If Barcelona and Manchester United reach an agreement for the sale of Frenkie De Jong, the Catalan club could have enough financial resources to make a serious offer for Lewandowski this summer.

Also read: Juventus reach agreement in principle to sign Paul Pogba

(Football news) Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba is on the verge of rejoining Juventus after the two parties reached an agreement in principle for the services of the Frenchman. The 29 year old is expected to sign for the Turin based club in July and will hope to recreate the same form he showed during his four years at the club which propelled him to become the global superstar he is today. This could very well be Pogba’s last big contract of his career and a move to the MLS in the twilight of his career is quite likely, based on his comments in the recently released ‘Pogmentary’. 

Amongst the clubs interested in Pogba was Manchester City as well, but the Frenchman decided not to tarnish his legacy at Manchester United by moving to the blue half of the town. In his ‘Pogmentary’, Pogba has claimed that the Red Devils offered him ‘nothing’ despite being offered two contracts worth more than £290,000 a week, a 3.5% increase in his previous salary. Speaking to his agent Mino Raiola, Pogba is heard asking “Did Manchester (United) make a second offer?" Yes," Raiola replies. "They absolutely want you to stay. For me, the offer doesn't reflect that. I told them, 'If you want him to stay, don't make that offer'. I will make them understand that if they really want you to stay and they want to build a project around you, this time they have to act differently and put the money on the table."

Pogba broke the internet when he returned to Manchester United in 2016 for a then-world-record fee of £89.3 million. The expectations from the Frenchman were at an all time high and #POGBACK was seen trending all over social media. The midfielder was supposed to mark the beginning of a new era at Old Trafford while the club still struggled to find its feet after Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement. However, Pogba’s time at Manchester United has been underwhelming to say the least and while the blame for the clubs lack of success doesn’t lie solely on him, Pogba’s inconsistency, a talkative agent behind the scenes and the disruption he caused under Jose Mourinho’s reign didn’t help matters. In hindsight, many questions can be raised about why exactly did things not work out between Pogba and Manchester United, but the chapter is closed now and the Frenchman is on his way to the Allianz Stadium yet again.

Also read: Leeds reject a latest bid from Arsenal for Raphinha

New Delhi, Jun 23 (Cricket News) Senior off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who did not travel to the United Kingdom along with his India team-mates for the one-off 'fifth Test' after testing positive for COVID-19, has joined the side in Leicester, according to sources.

Ashwin, who is in quarantine, joined his team-mates at Leicester where India is playing a warm-up match.

The Indian team had left for the UK on June 16.

"Yes, Ashwin has joined the team but he is still recovering. He is not fit to play the warm-up game," a source told PTI on condition of anonymity.

The team management is hopeful that he will recover in time for the Test against England, which starts on July 1.

After the IPL, Ashwin had played a Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) league red-ball match where he had bowled 20 overs to get some long-form game time. 

Also Read : Blessed to have spoken to Rohit and Pant after being dropped: Jemimah

News Source : PTi

Bengaluru, Jun 23 (Cricket News) Sarfaraz Khan completed his transformation from Mumbai cricket's resident 'enfant terrible' to 'Man Friday' with a superb hundred that kept his side ahead against Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy final, here on Thursday.

Courtesy Sarfaraz's fourth hundred of the season – 134 off 243 balls -- the 41-time champions managed a fighting 374 in their first innings after beginning the day at 248 for five.

But Madhya Pradesh won't be too unhappy as they finished the second day at 123 for one with Yash Dubey (44 batting) and Shubham Sharma (41 batting) adding 76 runs for the unbroken second wicket.

The day belonged to none other than Sarfaraz, who has now scored an astounding 937 runs in Ranji Trophy in just six games and could make it 1000 for the season if Mumbai bat again in this match.

His innings had 13 boundaries and two huge sixes --- one over square leg off left-arm spinner Kumar Kartikeya and one down the ground off off-spinner Saransh Jain.

But what stood out was how he managed the innings after Shams Mulani was trapped leg before by Gourav Yadav (4/106) in the opening over of the second day.

His batting with the tail showed his new-found maturity, which is proving to be a boon for Mumbai cricket. He chose loose deliveries for boundary, forcing MP captain Aditya Shrivastava to open the field.

The manner in which Sarfaraz has turned a corner since the 2019-20 season (928 runs back then) is phenomenal as he had disciplinary issues early in his career, which also forced him to leave Mumbai for a season.

With father Naushad Khan, who also doubles up as his coach, making him play 400 balls (nearly 67 overs including nets and knocking) a day at practice, Sarfaraz 2.0 is a battle-hardened man, the ‘khadoos street fighter’ that any captain would want to go to a war with.

Once he reached his fifty, he touched the lion's crest on his jersey, gesturing 'Don't worry, I am going nowhere'.

His batting isn't as pleasing to the eye as Prithvi Shaw's but highly effective. His batting is assuring. He knows how to score those runs on a track that is largely two-paced and in overcast conditions with the ball doing a fair bit.

When MP skipper spread the field to stop boundaries, he still found his way to play the controlled square cut off seamer Anubhav Agarwal, which bisected the two fielders stationed at deep extra cover and deep point to the fence.

Having entered '90s, he played a typical T20 scoop over keeper's head while being partially blindsided and completely off-balance.

It was a sight worth capturing.

At 97, MP skipper Shrivastava put all his fielders at the boundary line with two standing at long-on and long-off.

The ploy wasn't good enough to stop Sarfaraz as he thumped one over bowler’s head which went to the boundary.

The celebration was a war cry and a thigh thump. There were tears of relief that he shed having accomplished what he had set out to do.

The Indian Test team’s middle-order is still jam-packed but the manner in which Sarfaraz is batting, to put it in head coach Rahul Dravid’s words, he is not just knocking but banging the selection door down.

Sarfaraz was involved in four small, but very effective, partnerships which could prove to be decisive if the match turns out to be an affair of one innings.

He added 40 for seventh wicket with Tanush Kotian (15), 26 for the eighth wicket with Dhawal Kulkarni (1), 39 for the ninth with Tushar Deshpande (6) and another 21 priceless runs for the final wicket with Mohit Avasthi (7).

By the time, he became Mumbai's last batter to be dismissed, he had ensured that the total is good enough for his bowlers to defend.

But there are ominous signs as MP batters have looked solid so far and Mumbai's bowling line-up hasn't made much of an impact, save Tushar Deshpande's delivery that straightened to find Himanshu Mantri's (31) pads. 

Also Read : 1st T20: Clinical India choke Sri Lanka, take 1-0 lead

News Source : PTI

Dambulla, Jun 23 (Cricket News) Jemimah Rodriguez marked her return to the side with a 27-ball 36 and lifted the Indian women's team to 138 for six against a disciplined Sri Lankan bowling attack in the first T20 international here on Thursday.

India's new all-format skipper Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss and elected to bat, but it was the Sri Lankans who had a dream start.

India lost opener Smriti Mandhana (1) in the third over of the game, the 25-year-old becoming the victim of veteran spinner Oshadi Ranasinghe while looking to free her arms. She hit a tossed-up delivery straight to Chamari Aththapatu at mid-on.

Sabbhineni Meghana was out for a golden duck, sent back to the dressing room by old warhorse Ranasinghe.

Losing two wickets early and visibly under pressure in the hot and humid Dambulla, it was the duo of Harmanpreet and Shefali Verma, who took control of the precarious situation.

A well-settled Verma was the next to go, dismissed by Aththapatu on 31 while trying to go for a maximum.

Smart bowling by the Lankans ensured that they soon got their biggest breakthrough when skipper Harmanpreet (22) was trapped in front of the wicket by spinner Inoka Ranaweera in the 11th over.

Ranaweera picked two more wickets to send back wicketkeeper batter Richa Ghosh (11) and Pooja Vastrakar (14) to reduce the visitors to just 106 for six in 17 overs and leave Jemimah with the task of giving the Indian total a semblance of respectability.

Coming in at five, Rodriguez, who made her comeback to the side after a while, did not succumb to the pressure and scored some vital runs, hitting three fours and a six, with Deepti Sharma playing the second fiddle as she she scored 17 off 8 balls. 

Also Read : India win toss, opt to bat against Sri Lanka in 1st women's T20I

News Source : PTI

(Cricket news) In preparation for the Test match against England, India will be playing a 4 day warm-up match against Leicestershire. India will not have time to get into the series because there is only one match. India have a 2-1 lead in the series but they will not want to settle for a tied series. This changed England's side under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes is already looking much better than the side India faced last year. This warm-up match is very important for India as they will want to answer a couple of questions.

India squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, KS Bharat (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav.

Leicestershire CCC squad: Sam Evans (Captain), Rehan Ahmed, Sam Bates (wk), Nat Bowley, Will Davis, Joey Evison, Louis Kimber, Abi Sakande, Roman Walker, Cheteshwar Pujara, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna.

Four Indian players namely Cheteshwar Pujara, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna will be playing for the Leicestershire team. Ravichandran Ashwin who will not participate in the match after his arrival in England was delayed due to a positive Covid Test. India have a couple of things to figure out which is where the practice match will be a massive help. Only two of Pujara, Vihari and Iyer will play in the match. If any of the batter plays well in this match then he almost guarantees his place in the playing XI.

In the first 4 Test matches India went with a combination of 4 seamers and Ravindra Jadeja. Ashwin's absence means that India can't try any other combination. When he took over as Test captain Rohit Sharma was asked about Ashwin's exclusion from the XI in England to which he said “Really, can’t tell you anything about his overseas place - why doesn’t he find it or why is he in the eleven. I honestly, have no idea because I wasn’t a part of the selection at that point so I can’t tell you what happened and why was he left out and why didn’t he play and those kinds of stuff”. Sharma as a captain may want a world class spinner like Ashwin in the team regardless of the conditions.

In the South Africa series Ashwin was in the XI for all 3 games due to Jadeja's absence but he didn't have a good series with bat or ball. Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah are likely to be the 3 fast bowlers. If India do go for 4 seamers, Shardul Thakur is the obvious candidate. Thakur was exceptional in the 3 matches he played in England last year and also the 3 he played in South Africa. Umesh Yadav and Prasidh Krishna have a chance to try and give the team management a headache if they pull off something extraordinary.

The main goal for India will be to get acclimatized to the English conditions. All the players apart from Pant and Iyer have had a good period of rest after the IPL and each one of them should be ready to go. This will be Rohit Sharma's first overseas Test as a captain. The way India played in the 4 matches of this series, they definitely deserve to win this but this England side looks much more settled and driven than the last one. Ben Stokes who missed the last series will also be back and this time will captain the side.

Also read: Indian women gear up for opening T20I against Sri Lanka

Dambulla, Jun 22 (Cricket News) The Indian team is packed with a number of top-order batters and the new all-format captain Harmanpreet Kaur says all will get a chance to show their worth in the T20 series against Sri Lanka, starting Thursday.

Elegant left-hander Smriti Mandhana, explosive Shafali Verma, Sabbhineni Meghana and Yastika Bhatia are all top-order batters in India's 15-player squad.

In the absence of Smriti, it was Shafali and Yastika, who opened the batting against New Zealand in February.

"We do have many top order batters, including three to four of them, who can play as openers. But, when it comes to this team, everyone will have opportunity to showcase their skills," Harmanpreet said on the eve of the series-opener.

"We all are representing our country and whatever opportunity might come at some point, we must make the best use of it. We have many batters who can play at any position. We will try to give everyone the space to bat where they feel comfortable," she added.

Harmanpreet also backed talented all-rounder Jemimah Rodrigues, who was not included in the last ODI World Cup squad, but has now made a return to the side for the series against Sri Lanka.

"Jemimah is truly an experienced player. She will definitely play a crucial role in the T20 series," Harmanpreet said.

The skipper admitted that while it is not possible to give everyone an equal opportunity all the time, but, it is her responsibility to talk to every one to find out the perfect team combination for big tournaments.

"I will ensure that everyone has enough chances to prepare. If you look at Jemimah's case, she always grabs whatever opportunities come her way. Similarly, it's very important to keep talking to other players and find out the right combination for big-ticket events like the Commonwealth Games," she remarked.

There is no clarity if the series would be broadcast live. However, as things stand , the first match will be shown live on Sri Lanka Cricket's official YouTube channel. 

Also Read : Disciplined Madhya Pradesh keep Mumbai at 248/5 on Day 1

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 22 (Cricket News) An unheralded bunch of Madhya Pradesh bowlers stuck to its plans as a star-studded Mumbai side toiled its way to 248 for five on the first day of the Ranji Trophy final here.

Despite an opening stand of 87 between Prithvi Shaw (47, 79 balls) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (78, 163 balls), Mumbai failed to drive home the advantage on a pitch that wasn't conducive for strokeplay.

A 400-plus first-innings total will now depend on the season's highest run-getter Sarfaraz Khan (40 batting, 125 balls), who is looking good for another big knock with the dependable Shams Mulani (12 batting, 43 balls) giving him company.

While left-arm spinner Kumar Kartikeya was the tireless operator from one end, having sent down 31 overs for figures of 1 for 91, seamer Gaurav Yadav (23-5-68-0) was distinctly unlucky and the wickets column don't reflect the relentless pressure that he put on Mumbai batters, especially skipper Shaw.

In fact, it was the pressure applied by Yadav which helped nippy seamer Anubhav Agarwal (19-3-56-2) and tall off-spinner Saransh Jain (17-2-31-2) to share the bulk of the spoils, with some intelligent execution of plans.

Mumbai did enjoy the advantage during the first hour after Shaw opted to bat and, along with Jaiswal, took on the MP attack.

The strategy to start with Kartikeya's slow left-arm orthodox seemed to have backfired when Jaiswal took him on and lofted him over long-on for a six.

Shaw followed suit and hit Kartikeya over long-off for a six as they added 87 for the first wicket.

But while Jaiswal, with his drives and upper cuts, looked to continue from where he left in the semi-final, Shaw, despite his seven fours (at least three of them behind square) looked edgy.

Both the seamers, Anubhav and Gaurav, got some movement in the air with a nice cloud cover helping their cause. They also hit the perfect length with movement off the pitch in both directions, into and away from the batter.

Both look run of the mill medium pacers but are deceptively quicker than they actually look.

In fact, the best over of the first day was the 12th of the Mumbai innings when Gaurav first cut Shaw into half with a massive in-cutter and then bowled the outgoing deliveries, beating the bat as many as five times in six balls.

By the end of the over, he was in his hunches.

Jaiswal, at the other end, scored his first 30 runs in 52 balls, but then, gauging the two-paced nature of the pitch, started playing more cautiously. His next 48 runs came in another 111 deliveries.

The first breakthrough came minutes before lunch break when Anubhav, who was bowling closer to the stumps, decided to move slightly wide and fired in a couple of deliveries with the angle.

While Shaw managed to defend one, the second delivery saw him play across the line and the stumps rattled.

Arman Jaffer (26 off 56 balls) looked solid till he tried a forward-defensive jab off Kartikeya, without factoring in the extra bounce, and the ball took an inside edge off his bat and Yash Dubey, at short mid-wicket, completed a diving catch.

The pitch in the second session slowed down considerably and Suved Parkar (18) paid the price when a delivery from Saransh stopped on him and the leading edge off closed bat face just lobbed up for the easiest of catches for rival captain Aditya Shrivastava.

The dismissal that was most well-planned was that of Jaiswal, who was closing in on a fourth hundred of the season.

Anubhav, who had started operating wide of the crease, started cramping the left-hander for room. As he was finding it difficult to get the boundaries, Jaiswal, without much room, tried the square cut but failed to keep it down and Dubey at gully took a sharp low catch.

Hardik Tamore (24) was living dangerously till Saransh got some drift and the delivery straightened after pitching, taking the outside edge into Rajat Patidar's hands in the first slip. 

Also Read : India women eye fresh start against Sri Lanka in 1st T20I

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Jun 22 (Cricket News) On the back of his recent exploits, veteran Dinesh Karthik jumped a massive 108 spots to 87th on the latest ICC T20 rankings for batters, even as young opener Ishan Kishan broke into the top 10.

Kishan finished the series with two half centuries against South Africa and was the leading run scorer with 206 runs at an average of 41. That form catapulted the left-hander up one spot to sixth on the latest T20 rankings for batters.

Karthik has been in excellent form since the IPL-15 and had a few blazing knocks in the T20 series against South Africa.

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam still holds the top spot on the T20 batting rankings and Kishan is the only Indian player rated inside the top 10.

Yuzvendra Chahal was the biggest mover on the T20 rankings for bowlers with the India spinner jumping three places to 23rd following his six wickets during the South Africa series.

Josh Hazlewood maintains his position as the top ranked T20 bowler, with Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan (joint third) and Sri Lanka tweaker Wanindu Hasaranga (sixth) both moving up a place inside the top 10.

Ravindra Jadeja maintains his top position in the Test all-rounders' list with 385 rating points. He is currently in the UK for India's upcoming Test against England, a spill over of last year's five-match series, which could not be completed owing to a COVID-19 outbreak.

Bangladesh captain Shakib al Hasan moved up to second position with 346 rating points, though he has a long way to go if he wants to overtake Jadeja at the top of list.

Former India captain Virat Kohli (742) maintained his 10th position in the Test batting chart, while seasoned off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin (850) and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah (830) occupied the second and third positions in bowling respectively.

West Indies quick Kemar Roach also made his move on the updated list for bowlers, with the veteran right-armer jumping four spots to eighth following an impressive display against Bangladesh.

Australian quick Pat Cummins leads the Test bowlers' list with 901 rating points. 

Also Read : Cricket Australia introduces draft system to pick overseas players in BBL-12

News Source : PTI

Melbourne, Jun 22 (Cricket News) Cricket Australia on Wednesday announced the introduction of an IPL-style draft system to pick overseas players in the upcoming edition of the Big Bash League.

With the BBL 12 scheduled to start in December, the draft is expected to take place in the next few months.

According to the draft system, each team will have to pick a minimum of two and a maximum of three players.

The Australian cricket board said that though the draft is designed to attract the best available foreign players, the overall objective is to give BBL a more competitive edge in the international market, and also provide new opportunities to the teams taking part in the competition.

The draft order will also be determined by a weighted lottery system with the three teams that missed the finals of the BBL 11 being entered first to determine the first three selections, CA further said.

There will be four categories and players will be nominated in four rounds -- Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze -- with those in the Platinum Group set to be in the highest payment category. 

Also Read : Washington Sundar likely to make county debut, to play for Lancashire

News Source : PTi

Bengaluru, Jun 21 (Cricket News) India's T20 specialist Deepak Chahar will take four to five more weeks to completely recover from the hamstring injury, which had kept him out of Indian Premier League (IPL).

Pacer Chahar and another centrally-contracted cricketer Washington Sundar, recovering from a hand injury, are currently doing their rehabilitation at NCA along with the likes of T Natarajan.

In another significant development, spin all-rounder Washington is set to fly to England to play for leading county side Lancashire.

"Washington is nearing full fitness and he needs a lot of game time, which he will get only in red ball cricket. He is going to play for Lancashire and this exposure will do him a world of good," a BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

WI tour or Asia Cup could be Chahar's comeback vehicle =================================== Chahar, who sustained injury during home series against West Indies in Kolkata, looked in good shape during his morning session at the NCA.

"I am bowling four to five overs at one go as per my rehab programme right now. My recovery is going pretty well and I think it will take another four to five weeks for me to get match fit," Chahar told PTI after his rehab session.

The Rajasthan seamer admitted that it will not be possible for him to get fit by the time India play T20 series against England in the second week of July.

"It's a step by step process as far as recovery is concerned. I don't think I will be fit for England T20s. Once I am match fit, I will need to play some club level games to check my fitness," Chahar said He looked very comfortable when he batted for a considerable amount of time.

So, can one expect that he will be fit for tour of West Indies? "I can't say that but I will definitely try and get fit by then. Let's see," the swing bowler said.

India are scheduled to play three ODIs and five T20Is between July 22 and August 7 in West Indies. 

Also Read : England Women announce squad for LV= Insurance Test

News Source : PTI

(Cricket news) Rishabh Pant captained India for the first time in the T20I series against Sri Lanka. It was definitely the first of many for the 24-year-old Pant. India were 2-0 down in the series but managed to comeback and make it 2-2. The last match was called off due to rain and the trophy was shared. Pant received his fair share of criticism after the first two losses but then handled it well for the next two wins. He is somewhat short of runs but his batting ability will never be a concern. Two years ago no one would've believed that Rishabh Pant would go on to captain India. 

After an underwhelming IPL 2020 campaign, Pant was dropped from the ODI and T20I squad for the Australian tour. Things became worse when despite Pant having a good Test record in Australia, Wriddhiman Saha was selected as the wicket-keeper in the first Test. India ended up losing the Test match after getting bowled out for 36 in the 2nd innings. Rishabh Pant was called back for the 2nd Test and got good starts but nothing too impressive. In the 3rd Test match at Sydney, Pant played an incredible knock of 97 despite having an injured right arm. The knock helped India secure a gritty draw to keep the series level. In the series decider at the Gabba the keeper-batter scored an unbeaten 91 to lead India to a legendary series win.

Things changed from there as he was called back into the ODI and T20I squad. He was then named the captain of Delhi Capitals after Shreyas Iyer's injury.  Pant has been playing consistently over the past two years and has been groomed as a leader. His 1st series as Indian captain was far from perfect but he will have plenty of opportunities in the future. These next 6 months or so are going to be very crucial for Pant. His performances with the bat still need improvement especially in certain difficult situations. Pant is now preparing for the Test match in England where he is the undisputed first choice wicket keeper.

Also read: India women's ideal playing XI for the T20Is against Sri Lanka

(Football news) Nottingham Forest have agreed a fee worth £17.5m with Union Berlin for forward Taiwo Awoniyi ahead of their long-awaited return to the Premier League in 2022/23. Forest are keen to invest in the squad after sealing promotion via the Championship play-offs last month and Awoniyi has proven himself in German top flight level by netting 15 goals in the Bundesliga during the recently concluded 2021/22 season.

Only five players, including Robert Lewandowski and Erling Haaland had outscored Awoniyi over the season as he helped Union Berlin secure a strong fifth place finish this season, which was enough for entry directly into the Europa League group stage, for the their first time in the competition for 21 years. Once a deal goes ahead, Liverpool will be entitled to a ‘significant’ sell-on fee which was included in his contract when he was sold to Union Berlin. Awoniyi was under contract at Anfield until last summer when the Reds agreed a permanent transfer with Union Berlin after the end of a successful loan.

Awoniyi was at Liverpool academy from 2015 to 2021 but he did not make a single appearance for the Reds. Multiple loan moves followed in his career before finally settling with Union Berlin. The man has played for FSV Frankfurt, NEC, Mouscron, Gent and Mainz 05. He also enjoyed a temporary loan spell with Union Berlin before making a permanent move to Berlin. The challenge now will be to prove that he can play in the Premier League. He may well come up against his former employers as Liverpool will net a reported 10 percent of the transfer fee that Forest are paying to the Bundesliga outfit. Awoniyi this season scored a league goal every two games last term. However, he has been nowhere near as prolific in previous campaigns where he single handley helped Union finish in 7th last season

Also read: Vinicius set to renew Real Madrid contract despite interest from PSG

(Sports news) The rugby league’s governing body has banned transgender players from women’s internationals while it does further research on it’s inclusion policy. The move comes after Fina banned transgender women from competing in women’s elite races if they have gone through male puberty. Moreover, World Athletics president Lord Coe has also hinted that they could also follow suit and adopt a new eligibility policy to ensure that every athlete is competing in a level playing field. 

The International Rugby League said that “recent developments in world sport” has led to their conclusion to ban "male-to-female (transwomen) players" until a final inclusion policy is framed after due research. A statement released by the organisation said “It is the IRL's responsibility to balance the individual's right to participate - a long-standing principle of rugby league and at its heart from the day it was established - against perceived risk to other participants, and to ensure all are given a fair hearing. The IRL will continue to work towards developing a set of criteria, based on best possible evidence, which fairly balances the individual's right to play with the safety of all participants.”

Anna Brown, CEO of Equality Australia criticised the move by saying “Blanket bans on women who are trans playing against other women risks violating international human rights principles of non-discrimination, which require such policies to start from a place of inclusion. Fina (swimming's world governing body) failed to meet that standard, and the rugby league's ban also fails to do so, despite it being temporary." Many sports have begun reconsidering their inclusion policies after the International Olympic Committee said that participation policies governing transgender athletes should be determined by each sport - depending on its particular characteristics.

Also read: Fina bans transgender athletes from competing in women’s events

Bengaluru, Jun 21 (Cricket News) There's a common adage in sport. "You never win a silver. You always lose a gold." Mumbai cricket has followed this old concrete jungle saying to the 'T' as its team now chases an unprecedented 42nd Ranji Trophy title. It now finds a bunch of bravehearts from Madhya Pradesh standing in its way with tricks of trade learnt from a Mumbaikar.

MP head coach Chandrakant Pandit won't let his team settle for anything less than a championship but Amol Muzumdar's men have dominated the proceedings since the start of the business end of the season.

On paper, the Mumbai team is overwhelming favourite in the final match starting on Wednesday with the best Gen-Next talent in its repertoire.

Sarfaraz Khan, after a few indifferent seasons, has raised his game to an altogether different level with 800-plus runs in just five games.

Yashasvi Jaiswal is one youngster who is as passionate about his red ball performance as he is about donning the garish pink jersey of Rajasthan Royals. Three hundreds in four innings of quarterfinal and semi-final showed his voracious appetite for runs.

Prithvi Shaw isn't the typical Mumbai khadoos (stubborn) batter but more of Virender Sehwag mould with penchant for butchering any attack.

Arman Jaffer is a chip of old block and it will be good for him if he could achieve even 50 per cent of what his illustrious uncle Wasim did.

Add to it the likes of Suved Parkar or Hardik Tamore, who knew the opportunity of wearing the Lion's crest on the white flannels come at a premium.

Mumbai have always had formidable batting line-ups that can scare the opposition team but this time the two under-rated performers have been left-arm spinner Shams Mulani (37 wickets and 292 runs) and off-spinner Tanush Kotian (18 wickets and 236 runs).

Mulani or Kotian are by farthest stretch of imagination not India prospects or even India 'A' contenders but they are a rare breed of domestic performers who know how to win crunch games as they did against Goa in a do-or-die situation.

However, MP is one of the most improved teams in recent times and under Pandit inculcated the discipline that's needed to reach the summit clash in a tournament like Ranji Trophy.

Missing Venkatesh Iyer in batting and pace spearhead Avesh Khan in bowling didn't do them any good but unheralded Kumar Kartikeya, with his stamina to bowl for hours, has done the job for his team.

The Himanshu Mantris and Akshat Raghuvanshis have all executed their assigned roles to perfection.

In this team, there is only one player who is true blue talent and that's Rajat Patidar.

For Mumbai, it will be imperative to ensure that Patidar doesn't walk away with the game in one session with his wide array of strokes.

MP, with its two spinners in Kartikeya and Saransh Jain, will like to play the waiting game, something that Pandit as a coach has injected in his wards across the states.

It would be a game of chess played on 22 yards but enticing enough for all those who get to watch it. 

Also Read : Ashwin has not travelled to England after testing positive for COVID-19: BCCI source

News Source : PTI

Bengaluru, Jun 20 (Cricket News) Senior off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has not travelled to the United Kingdom along with his India team-mates for the one-off 'fifth Test' after testing positive for COVID-19, a BCCI source told PTI.

Ashwin is currently in quarantine and will only join the squad after meeting all protocols requirements.

The Indian team had left for UK on June 16.

"Ashwin hasn't travelled with the squad to UK as he has tested positive for COVID-19 before departure. But we are hopeful that he will recover well in time before the Test match starts on July 1," the BCCI source said on conditions of anonymity.

"However, he might miss the practice game against Leicestershire," the source added.

After the IPL, Ashwin had played a Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) League red-ball match where he had bowled 20 overs to get some long form game time.

The rest of the Indian squad is already in Leicester and started training under the supervision of bowling coach Paras Mhambrey and batting coach Vikram Rathour.

Rahul Dravid, Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer have reached London after finishing the T20I assignment against South Africa and will travel to Leicester on Tuesday.

The Ireland-bound squad under VVS Laxman will leave for Dublin on either June 23 or 24 as the team members have been given a three-day rest. 

Also Read : India women's ideal playing XI for the T20Is against Sri Lanka

News Source : PTI

(Tennis news) RoundGlass Tennis Academy is delighted to announce that noted tennis star Karman Kaur Thandi will officially be training at the Academy in Chandigarh under its Technical Director, Aditya Sachdeva. Karman, 23, was most recently featured at the ITF Women’s tournament in Thailand.

Sharing her thoughts on this collaboration, Karman said, “I am delighted to train at the RoundGlass Tennis Academy. Aditya sir has over the years played a key role in shaping me as a player and I hope to continue developing my game under his guidance with the help of the world-class facilities at the Academy.”

Sachdeva added, “Everyone at the RoundGlass Tennis Academy is excited to have Karman on board with us. She is one of the brightest talents in Indian tennis and we are looking forward to helping her reach the next level. Her presence will be a huge source of inspiration for the young athletes training with us.”

About RoundGlass Sports

RoundGlass Sports is creating opportunities for children and youth to take up and excel in sports such as football, hockey, and tennis in India, underpinned by the principles of Holistic Wellbeing. Our aim is to channelize their energy and help develop and unlock their full potential. To this end, we’re transforming sports in Punjab and the rest of India by building infrastructure, providing high-quality coaching and training, and cultivating a culture of sports participation through its Academy and Grassroots programs.

Also read: Naomi Osaka withdraws from Wimbledon due to achilles injury
 

(Sports news) Swimming world governing body Fina has voted to stop transgender athletes who have undergone male puberty to compete in women’s elite races. They have also decided to introduce an ‘open’ category for swimmers whose gender identity is different from that with which they were born in. The new policy received 71% votes from 152 Fina members and was described as "only a first step towards full inclusion" for transgender athletes. 

According to a 34 page policy document, it says that  male-to-female transgender athletes could compete in the women's category - but only "provided they have not experienced any part of male puberty beyond Tanner Stage 2 [which marks the start of physical development], or before age 12, whichever is later". The decision was made in an extraordinary general congress at the ongoing World Championships in Budapest. This means that transgender athlete Lia Thomas will not be allowed to compete in the female category at the Paris Olympics.

In an interview, Brent Nowicki, the governing body's executive director said “Fina's approach in drafting this policy was comprehensive, science-based and inclusive, and, importantly, Fina's approach emphasised competitive fairness.” Fina president Husain Al-Musallam said the organisation was trying to "protect the rights of our athletes to compete" but also "protect competitive fairness".

He said: "Fina will always welcome every athlete. The creation of an open category will mean that everybody has the opportunity to compete at an elite level. This has not been done before, so Fina will need to lead the way. I want all athletes to feel included in being able to develop ideas during this process."

Speaking to BBC Sport, former Great Britain swimmer Sharron Davies said “Four years ago, along with 60 other Olympic medallists, I wrote to the IOC and said 'Please just do the science first' and no governing body has done the science until now. That is what Fina has done. They've done the science, they've got the right people on board, they've spoken to the athletes, and coaches. Swimming is a very inclusive sport, we love everyone to come and swim and be involved. But the cornerstone of sport is that it has to be fair and it has to be fair for both sexes. 

“Sport by definition is exclusionary - we don't have 15-year-old boys racing in the under-12s, we don't have heavyweight boxers in with the bantamweights, the whole reason we have lots of different classes in the Paralympics is so that we can create fair opportunities for everybody," she said. “So that is the whole point of having classifications in sports and the only people who were going to be losing out were females - they were losing their right to fair sport."

In contrast, an LGBTQ advocacy group called 'Athlete Ally' called the policy “discriminatory, harmful, unscientific and not in line with the 2021 IOC principles". Anne Lieberman, the group's director of policy and programmes said “The eligibility criteria for the women's category as it is laid out in the policy polices the bodies of all women, and will not be enforceable without seriously violating the privacy and human rights of any athlete looking to compete in the women's category.” 

Also read: Neeraj Chopra marks his return with a national record throw

Bengaluru, Jun 20 (Cricket News) Dinesh Karthik as an "enforcer" opens up a lot of options going into the T20 World Cup, says India head coach Rahul Dravid, who wants to identify a core group of 18-20 players by the end of England series.

For Dravid, to be a part of the World T20 set-up, it won't be enough to just the "knock the door". Anyone who wants to stake a claim in that squad of 15 will need to "bang it down".

"It was really nice to see Karthik come off and do what he has been picked to do. That was good and it opens up a lot more options for us, going forward," Dravid said after the five-match series against South Africa ended in a 2-2 draw.

The last game was abandoned due to rain.

"He was picked for what he has been doing exceptionally well for the last two or three years (in IPL) and kind of indicated in the sense that it almost came together in the game at Rajkot," Dravid spoke about the Tamil Nadu dasher's 27-ball-55 that was crucial in India restoring parity in the series.

For Dravid, Karthik and Hardik Pandya are the two “enforcers” in the death overs.

"We needed that big performance in last five overs to make a par score and he and Hardik batted beautifully. Both of them are enforcers for us at the end," Dravid spelt out what role the team management has in mind for Karthik.

The coach had no hesitation in admitting that Karthik has made a good case for himself going into the T20 World Cup.

"I was telling guys that you have to start banging the door down and not just knocking the door down and innings like that (Rajkot fifty) means he is knocking very hard." Want to get hang of core as quickly as possible ============================= Dravid doesn't want to put a time line but by the end of the England T20Is, he wants to have a fair idea about the 18 to 20-odd players he would be looking at ahead of World Cup in Australia.

India and England will clash in six white-ball games (July 7-17) after one-off Test.

"As you come closer and closer to the event, you want to firm up your final squad or if not, obviously you want to have some contingencies in the kind of world we live in today. Obviously you want to take only 15 to the WC but (need to identify) top 18 to 20 players," he replied to a query on where he stands on his core team.

"Obviously, there could be odd changes due to injury and things that are beyond your control but we are going to start looking to firm up that squad as quickly as possible.

"Whether that will happen in next series (Ireland) or series after that (England) is hard to tell but we are certainly looking to do that as quickly as possible," he revealed.

Coach defends under-fire Gaikwad and Iyer =========================== If there were two people who have ideally blown away their chances to be a part of World T20 core squad, they are Ruturaj Gaikwad (96 runs in 5 games) and Shreyas Iyer (94 runs in 5 games). Gaikwad is looking completely out of place in international cricket and Iyer's struggle against quality pace bowling is now well-documented.

The head coach however chose to be a bit more empathetic towards the duo even though one will not play against Ireland (Iyer is in Test team) and other unlikely to get any more starts.

"We are not going to make knee-jerk reactions on people just like that. I don’t like judging people after one series or one game," Dravid said.

"Shreyas on a couple of tricky wickets showed a lot of intent, played really positively for us. Ruturaj in one innings showed what he has got. We are not disappointed with anyone," Dravid once again showed the dogged defence of his playing days.

Attacking brand of cricket. ================= "As a group, we wanted to play a certain brand of cricket and we were trying to play a slightly more positive and attacking brand of cricket right from beginning and we knew when you try and do that, it is not always going to come off. But we are certainly clear about the kind of cricket we want to play," he said.

Even Big Bash stats needs to be looked at before World T20 ===================================== Dravid is known to rely a lot on data analysis and he would love to gather information on playing conditions and oppositions before the tournament-proper.

"Lot of our boys have played in Australia and we certainly will be having conversations with them on what kind of tactics and strategies work," he said.

"In terms of data and analysis, we will look at all games being played in Australia and obviously they are international games, there is Big Bash and I mean we will do all our research and background things that happens in terms of analysis.

"And of course, we don't have a series against them (Australia in Australia), so we can't change that. I guess we have to make do with two weeks we have in the lead up to the World Cup and make best use of it." This will be a different England Test side ========================= Rahul Dravid loved playing Test cricket in England and loves coaching a Test team. He reckons that the one-off 'fifth Test' against the hosts will be a different proposition from last year when the team under Virat Kohli led 2-1 before Covid-19 cases in India camp forced the cancellation of the final game.

"England are playing well at the moment and it is going to be a bit different from last year when England were probably a little bit on backfoot. They have played some good games and we have a pretty good side as well," Dravid said, referring to Ben Stokes' side's series win against New Zealand.

"Loved playing Test cricket, love watching it and love coaching in Test cricket and so you know, looking forward to it," he concluded. 

Also Read : Bhuvneshwar was special through the series: Mark Boucher

News Source : PTI

Bengaluru, Jun 20 (Cricket News) South Africa head coach Mark Boucher termed India seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s performance in the series as “special” while ruing the absence of Aiden Markram, who he feels could have made a lot of difference for the Proteas over the course of the five T20Is.

Bhuvneshwar, who now only plays white-ball cricket, got six wickets in four completed games and gave away only 85 runs in 14 overs at an economy rate which was just a shade above six runs per over.

"Bhuvi was special in this whole series as we came up against some quality bowling. He put us under pressure in Powerplays and barring one game (Delhi), where we got off to a good start, they have dominated us with both ball and bat in Powerplays," Boucher said after the series ended in 2-2 despite Proteas going 2-0 up at the onset.

However, losing Markram due to COVID-19 at the start of the series had a huge impact, felt the former glovesman.

"It was tough losing Aiden Markram even before we started the first game. We wanted to play six batters with Aiden being our sixth option and we couldn’t do that,” Boucher added.

The long IPL did make the players tired and that also had an effect on the final outcome, he said.

"We didn’t play our best cricket and it was quite tough on our IPL players to stay throughout the whole IPL and then come to India back-to-back as well," he explained.

"Guys are little bit tired as well. So they will all enjoy the break and (having learnt a) lot of lessons in World Cup year. And see, if we can plug a few gaps going into Australia albeit in different conditions." While stars like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah were rested for the series, Boucher lauded the depth of the Indian cricket system created by the IPL.

“I know there weren’t a lot of top (India) players over here but the depth that Indian cricket has at the moment largely due to the IPL, they can take lot of confidence as well." "You just cant walk up in India and expect to win a series as well. So, we played a couple of good games and two bad games and there are a couple of reasons for that, but you can’t get too much into it," he added.

However in Australian conditions, South Africa will have a different gameplan.

"Plans will change in Australia and we are aware of that. We tried a few options in these conditions and saw if they worked or not.

"And I think, we asked a few questions and we got some good answers." Boucher made no bones about the fact that South Africa need to improve upon their Powerplay batting.

"We struggled to get going in few of the games and we speak about it after every game and may be see how we can change our mindset and intent, specially after third game, when we went after with the intent we needed," he said.

"And our bowling at certain stages was very good and at certain stages, we looked rusty and sort of understand that couple of guys coming into the series after IPL and may be a bit tired," he signed off. 

Also Read : Takeaways from the epic tied between India and South Africa

News Source : PTI

Bengaluru, Jun 19 (Cricket News) India head coach Rahul Dravid on Sunday made it clear that the under-fire Rishabh Pant is a "big" and "integral" part of the set-up heading into the T20 World Cup in Australia.

Pant, who led the side in the five-match series against South Africa that ended in a 2-2 draw after the last game was called off due to rain, managed only 58 runs in the five innings that led to some questions being raised about his place in the shortest format.

However, Dravid was very clear that Pant is going nowhere.

"Personally, he would have liked to score a few more runs but it is not concerning him. Certainly, he is a very big part of our plans going ahead in next few months," Dravid said during the post-match press conference.

He was categorical that he won't judge someone based on one series -- whether it is batting form or captaincy.

"I just don't want to be critical. In the middle overs, you need people to play slightly attacking brand of cricket, to take the game on a little more. Sometimes it's very hard to judge it based on two or three games," the head coach said.

In fact, Dravid was impressed wit Pant's strike-rate of 158 plus during the IPL where he managed an underwhelming 340 runs for the Delhi Capitals.

"I think he had a pretty good IPL in terms of strike-rate even though it might not have looked good on averages. In IPL, he looked to move up a little bit (in terms of averages) and probably three years ago he was on those numbers. We are hoping that we can get those numbers from him at the international level." Pant's is a high risk game that comes with a price and the coach is ready to pay the price looking at the bigger picture.

"In the process (of playing an attacking game), he might go wrong in a few games but he remains an integral part of our batting line-up with the power he has and the fact that he is a left-hander is important to us in the middle overs, he played some good knocks," he said.

About his captaincy, Dravid felt that Pant did well considering that he led the side back in the series from 0-2 down.

"To bring a team back from 0-2 down and to level it at 2-2 and give us a chance to win was good. Captaincy is not about wins and losses only. He (Pant) is a young captain, growing as leader. It is too early to judge him and you don't want to do that after one series," Dravid was clear in his thought-process.

"It was nice to see he has got opportunities to lead, keep and bat. He had a lot of load on him but gaining from that experience and credit to him for ensuring that we went from 0-2 down to 2-2," the coach was all praise for the stand-in skipper. 

Also Read : Fifth T20I called off due to rain, series shared

News Source : PTI

Bengaluru, Jun 19 (Cricket News) Six captains leading Indian teams across formats in a span of eight months isn't something that head coach Rahul Dravid had planned but he isn't complaining as it provides an opportunity to create more leaders within the group.

Since Dravid took over in November after the T20 World Cup, India have had Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya (set to lead in Ireland) as national captains due to the COVID-19 related bubble breaks, simultaneous series held in countries, and injury-induced breaks.

"It's been challenging as well, we have got six captains in the last eight months, which actually wasn't the plan when I started, but it's the nature of the number of games we are playing," Dravid told Star Sports before the start of the fifth match.

The 'Wall' accepted that that the times are such that one has to accept the situation.

"It's the nature of COVID, so I have had to work with quite a few people. It has been great fun. A lot of other guys have got an opportunity to lead, we have got opportunities to create more leaders in the group," he looked at the positive side of the things.

The endeavour has been to get better in every aspect although losing the Test and ODI series in South Africa was disappointing.

"We have constantly strived to get better, we have tried a lot of different people. In the last eight months, touring South Africa was a bit of a disappointment in terms of Test cricket," he said.

Dravid is happy with the bowling talent that has emerged thanks to the IPL.

"Our white ball cricket has been good though, shows the character of the team. It was incredible to see the fast bowling talent we have (during the IPL), especially with few of the bowlers clocking such speed.

"A lot of youngsters got an opportunity to showcase their skills, and a lot of them came good, those are really good signs for Indian cricket, exciting times ahead," he sounded confident. 

Also Read : South Africa opt to field against India in series decider


 

Kolkata, Jun 19 (Cricket News) Discarded Team India wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha, who also had a fallout with Cricket Association of Bengal, is in talks with Tripura for a potential player-cum-mentor role, an official said.

"He wants a role of being the player-cum-mentor for Tripura. He has been in talks with some Apex Council members in Tripura but nothing has been finalised yet," an official told PTI here.

"He has to first get a clearance (no-objection-certificate) from the CAB and then the BCCI and then it will be taken forward," he added.

Saha was not available for a comment.

The 37-year-old, who played a stellar role in Gujarat Titans' IPL triumph in their debut season this year, had pulled out of the Bengal set-up after being rejected in the Indian Test team for Sri Lanka.

After that, CAB joint-secretary Debabrata Das made some unsavoury remarks about Saha's decision in the media, questioning his commitment, something that annoyed the seasoned wicketkeeper-batter.

Having made a mark in the IPL, Saha was named in Bengal's Ranji Trophy quarterfinal match squad against Jharkhand, but without his consent.

The veteran wicketkeeper took strong exception to it and reportedly sought an apology from Das. Later, he made it clear he's not going to play for Bengal again.

Having made his debut for Bengal in 2007, Saha has played 122 first-class matches. 

Also Read : Indian women's cricket team arrives in Sri Lanka for limited-overs tour

News Source : PTI

London, Jun 19 (Golf News) Tvesa Malik rounded off a week to forget with a second straight 5-over 78, and finished tied 56th in the individual section of the Aramco Team Series London on Sunday.

After the relief of having sneaked into the final round on the cutline, Tvesa was hoping to turn things around a little in the final round to get a respectable finish.

Despite conditions looking very difficult, Tvesa got off to a birdie start but dropped a shot soon after on third. She made up with a birdie on the fourth.

On a day when pars seemed good, Tvesa rolled in four and with others dropping shots, she moved close enough to sniff a place in the 30s. It was not to be.

Tvesa had a disastrous and crippling triple bogey on the ninth. She turned in 2-over 39 and the back nine offered little relief with bogeys on 10, 11, 14 and 16. A consolation on 18th, which yielded her a birdie for the third day running, was little compensation. She carded 78 for a 11-under total.

Diksha Dagar had earlier missed the cut.

Tvesa, who has decided to take the next week off, said, 'I just want to take a week off and get my game together. A lot of the season is still left.

"I am happy I showed a fight (especially on the back nine of the second day) but am disappointed that I left too much out there otherwise. I need to work to get my act together for the remainder of the season." Bronte Law, who earlier in the week called for more women's events alongside the men, holed a monster putt from around 55 feet. Her back nine was rocky and included a double bogey on par-5 13th. She fell back but then a crucial par on 14th was followed by two great birdies on 15th and 16th, bringing her to 7-under with two holes to go.

By then Linn Grant (69) finished sensationally. She had six birdies in the last seven holes and finished at 7-under only to be overtaken by Georgia Hall.

Playing one group ahead of Bronte Law, Georgia, started the day at 6-under, and was 1-under through the front nine. Then from the 10th to 17th she without a either a birdie or bogey.

A closing birdie took Georgia to 8-under and past last week's winner Grant. Georgia then waited for Bronte, who need a birdie to force a play-off or an eagle to win outright.

On the 18th Bronte, then 7-under, just landed on the green with her second shot on the short Par-5 18th. She faced a massive 55-foot putt an eagle. Bronte stared down the putt and rolled it right into the middle of the cup for a stunning win and held her hands aloft as the crowd went ecstatic.

Georgia (71) ended second one shot behind, while Grant, who turns 23 on Monday, was denied a second win in two weeks and ended third. Charley Hull (69) was fourth.

In the play-off for the Team competition, Team Nicole Garcia beat Team Ursula Wikstrom. Diksha's team, which was led by Ana Pelaez, was sixth and Tvesa Malik’s team was tied 26th. 

Also Read : Tvesa rallies with final hole birdie to make cut at Aramco Series London

News Source : PTI

Bengaluru, Jun 18 (Cricket News) A lot of grey areas are yet to be addressed but a young Indian team, with an admirable collective temperament, will start as favourites in the series-deciding fifth T20 International against South Africa here on Sunday.

In a space of eight days, this Indian team has played four games. It fielded an identical XI, which is in sync with Rahul Dravid's "school of continuity", seen the nadir in the first two games, only to break its own record of highest margin of victories over the Proteas -- by 47 runs in the third game and by 82 runs in the fourth.

With Dinesh Karthik doing exactly what is expected of him and Harshal Patel and Avesh Khan also hitting the straps, the Indian fans would want to see Yuzvendra Chahal perform a trick or two at his IPL home ground in a match that matters the most.

Therefore, when the teams step out on the M Chinnaswamy Stadium turf, the side that looked jaded and overcooked in the first two games will start as overwhelming favourites as the South Africans have already lost the plot.

If Temba Bavuma is unable to recover, they will miss a leader more than the batter. And suddenly in the last two games, the batting has looked iffy on tracks that have variable bounce, which has made this Indian attack look way more lethal.

Call it strangely pleasant, but it remains a fact that in this series a lot of things haven't exactly gone as per plan but yet India have managed to level the series after being 0-2 down.

A young captain who, perhaps, would have liked a few days in his hometown in Rourkee had there not been a pressure from one of the stakeholders to have at least a few stars in the absence of safe 'box-office' bets like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma or Jasprit Bumrah.

Neither has Pant's captaincy been exceptional nor has his similar pattern of dismissals inspired confidence but India have somehow managed to pull through.

If they finally win the series the young man would be in that leadership mix alongside Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul when the next transition in Indian cricket happens after the 2023 ODI World Cup.

If coach Dravid wanted to check out whether there is a possibility to tinker with the existing top three, the troika of Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shreyas Iyer haven't exactly fitted into the jigsaw puzzle.

Gaikwad, with his current technique, would be nine out of 10 times found wanting against quality attack on better pitches, with sporadic performances here and there. In top flight cricket, he won't get those couple of uncapped domestic bowlers whom he can bully. On the contrary, he could get bullied by express pace.

Ishan Kishan has a limited range of strokes and one shouldn't go by the volume of runs scored in this series as the extra bounce and pace on Australian wickets will be a difficult proposition.

Shreyas Iyer got a full series but he should be the first one to admit that he has blown it with both hands and when India next play against Ireland at Malahide, his place will go to Suryakumar Yadav, considered a way better T20 proponent.

There is something about big ICC event years and Karthik revving up his performances.

He is already going to don the big gloves in Ireland and the manner in which he is proving to be an asset at the back-end, no one should be raising eye-brows if he becomes the designated keeper-batter by the time India play Pakistan at MCG the in the last week of October.

Among the bowlers, Bhuvneshwar Kumar is once again swinging the new ball and Avesh Khan, having developed a well-disguised bouncer along with an ability to bowl more fuller and hit the hard lengths, is also a contender among the five pacers that India might carry Down Under.

The spinners in this series, despite an improved effort, have been below-par. Axar Patel has blown hot and cold, but more important, looked uni-dimensional while Chahal, in his bid to be quicker through the air, has proved to be profligate.

The series hasn't been one of India's best but somehow, just like top teams do, the 'Men In Blue' have found their way out to win matches under pressure. That augurs well as Pant and his men aim to wrap up the series at the 'Garden City'.

Teams (from): India: Rishabh Pant (c & wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik.

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Marco Jansen.

Match starts at 7pm IST. 

Also Read : Pant falling into outside off-stump trap, not a good sign: Gavaskar

News Source : PTI

Melbourne, Jun 17 (Sports News) It was double delight for former world billiards champion Sourav Kothari, who clinched the Pacific International Billiards Championship title on Friday, just days after bagging the Snooker crown in the same event.

The 37-year-old Kothari edged past multiple-time English champion Rob Hall of England 1500-1321 in the finals of the Level 5 highest World Billiards ranking event to win the title.

The 2018 World Billiards champion thus became only the second cueist after Mathew Bolton of Australia to achieve a double title in the Pacific International.

In the thrilling final, Kothari displayed great mastery of cue ball control from the beginning. He notched up breaks of 161, 141, 135 and 117 to take a massive 600-point lead.

The Englishman could manage only a solitary century break of 177 during that session.

A couple of missed regulation drop cannons by Kothari in the next session saw Hall fight back with a magnificent break of 391 as he reduced the margin to 200 points before overtaking Kothari.

Kothari showed great calmness and composure under trying circumstances and sealed the issue with a century break of 111.

Earlier, Hall ousted World Billiards Champion Peter Gilchrist of Singapore by 1204-122 registering big breaks of 244 and 192.

Kothari scraped past compatriot Dhruv Sitwala in a nail-biting 1200-1131. 

Also Read : Ultimate Kho Kho: Capri Global and KLO Sports become franchise owners

News Source : PTI

Rajkot, Jun 17 (Cricket News) South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss for the fourth time on the trot and elected to bowl against India in the fourth T20I here on Friday.

India fielded the same playing XI, while South Africa made three changes, replacing Kagiso Rabada, Wayne Parnell and Reeza Hendricks with Marco Jansen, a fit-again Quinton de Kock, and Lungi Ngidi.

South Africa is leading the five-match series 2-1.

Teams: India: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (w/c), Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Avesh Khan.

South Africa: Quinton de Kock, Temba Bavuma (c), Dwaine Pretorius, Rassie van der Dussen, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi. 

Also Read : After mega media rights deal, Ness Wadia wants longer IPL of two halves

News Source : PTI

Rajkot, Jun 17 (Cricket News) Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia feels that IPL should now be held in two separate halves with a significant increase in number of matches after the BCCI made a 'killing' at the media rights auction with a USD 6.2 billion deal.

BCCI spreading the media rights into four bundles helped the richest cricketing board amass Rs 48390 crore from the e-auction, nearly three times more than the previous cycle.

Over the next five years, there is a possibility that the IPL could have as many as 94 games and BCCI secretary Jay Shah has already said that the tournament will have a dedicated two and a half months in the next ICC's FTP calendar.

Speaking to PTI, Wadia congratulated Shah and Co for delivering on an innovative media rights strategy but hoped the IPL gets what is long overdue: "more home games and a bigger season".

"IPL has taken cricket to the global level. The IPL has provided the spark cricket needed and made it a global sport. It will get even bigger.

"Having said that, seven matches at home, it is way too less. It should be a minimum of 14. I really see a much longer season which is long overdue.

"If you can't have a long season of four months why not look at two seasons, one in India and one in a different country every year. Indians are everywhere around the world. There is huge potential for having many more games," said Wadia.

Until last season, when there were eights franchisees, teams played 14 games on an home and away basis. With 10 teams this year, the format was tweaked but a team continued to play 14 games.

Asked why the home games need to be doubled, he said: "It is a logical reason. How much are seven matches at home? Too few in my opinion. There has to be a bigger window. In per match value, the IPL is bigger than EPL now and look at the number of games each team plays there (38)." IPL getting a longer window and other T20 leagues mushrooming around the world also puts more stress on bilateral cricket.

A few experts have already predicted that cricket is going the football way with leagues set to dominate the cricket calendar.

"I would say it is already happening. There is no doubt that will eventually happen.The IPL has revived, grown and globalised cricket. And believe me it is the tip of the iceberg.

"The tournament is around for 15 years and the window should have become bigger many years ago. It is long overdue. And it will happen. For how long can you keep genie in the bottle." Asked about the viewer fatigue factor with the IPL getting longer: "At some point, we will have to factor in that also. That is where the creativity comes and we can see how leagues are run around the world. We are long away from fatigue at the moment. We will cross the bridge when we get there." 

Also Read : India look to level series and complete comeback against South Africa

News Source : PTI

(Basketball news) Golden State Warriors clinched their 4th title in 8 years as they beat the Boston Celtics in game 6 103-90. For the Warriors, Stephen Curry scored 34 points and was named the NBA Finals MVP as they claimed their franchise's seventh championship overall. Andrew Wiggins supported Steph Curry by scoring 18 points as Draymond Green had 12 points and 16 rebounds in an outstanding defensive display carried the Warriors to this year's NBA crown. For the Celtics, Jaylen Brown led the scoring with 34 points but Jayson Tatum finished with just 13, shooting just 6 of 18 from the field as Al Horford scored 19 points. They also committed 22 turnovers, dropping to 1-8 this postseason when committing 16 or more. 

For the Boston Celtics it was only their fifth defeat in 22 title-series appearances, which turned their season around to have reached the NBA final. Boston was 25-25 after 50 games, then went on a rampage to get into the finals and nearly claim what would have been just the franchise's second championship since 1986. The Celtics came out firing as they were motivated by the energy from a deafening TD Garden crowd as they took an early 14-2 lead. The Warriors weren't rattled and responded with a 35-8 run that stretched into the second quarter on the way to taking a 22-point lead. The Warriors outscored the Celtics 27-17 for the second quarter and carried a 54-39 lead into the second half as some Celtics fans booed the home team as they left the court for the half-time break. Boston did not give up and fought back in the third quarter, but the Warriors found their range from beyond the arc, connecting on six 3 pointers to bury the game in the 4th quarter.

For Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green and Andre Iguodala, it was their fourth NBA championship. Their first three championship rings came in 2015, 2017 and 2018 when Golden State made it to five consecutive trips to the finals. For Steve Kerr it was his ninth NBA championship overall after winning five as a player also. He also becomes the sixth coach to capture four titles, joining the likes of Phil Jackson, Red Auerbach, John Kundla, Gregg Popovich and Pat Riley. Steph Curry came into life this final and helped Warriors win a record 7th NBA Championship, at this rate Steph Curry is on to achieve GOAT status but funnily enough this was his first finals MVP in his career. 

''We found a way to just get it done,'' Curry said after the Warriors accepted the championship trophy and celebrated on the court.

''It's part of a championship pedigree, our experience,'' he said. ''We built this for 10-11 years. That means a lot when you get to this stage.''

''They're all unique, they're all special,'' coach Steve Kerr said of the multiple titles. ''This one might have been the most unlikely. ... It takes a group effort to get it done and we had a great group.''

''It all paid off,'' Thompson said. ''It was dog days, a lot of tears shed. ... You knew it was a possibility, but to see it in real time. . It's crazy.''

''This one hits differently for sure knowing what the last three years meant, what it's been like,'' Curry said. ''Injuries, the changing of the guard, rosters, the young guys. ... Now, we got four championships. Me, Dray, Klay and Andre.

''Finally got that bad boy,'' Curry added, referring to the MVP trophy. ''It's special. ... Everybody mattered in that process.''

''Just couldn't withstand their runs,'' Celtics center Robert Williams said. ''Messing up. They played harder and won tonight.''

Also read: Warriors take the series lead against the Celtics in the NBA Finals

New Delhi, Jun 16 (Sports News) The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) on Thursday named a 37-member Indian athletics team, to be led by Olympic champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, for the upcoming Commonwealth Games, with the selection committee picking the athletes on expected lines with no major surprises.

Out the of the 37 picked by the selection committee of the AFI, 18 are women, with the likes of star sprinters Hima Das and Dutee Chand getting their berths through the women's 4x100m relay team.

The selectors also named a men's 4x400m relay team.

AFI president Adille Sumariwalla said that the selected athletes, except for those who have been asked to prove form and fitness and who are competing abroad, will train in Chula Vista in USA ahead of the July 28 to August 8 CWG and their visas are awaited.

"Hopefully, we can win more medals than last edition," Sumariwalla said.

Indian track and field athletes had won one gold (Neeraj Chopra), one silver (Seema Punia) and one bronze (Navjeet Kaur Dhillon) in the 2018 Gold Coast CWG.

The Indian team will also have the likes of Avinash Sable, who broke his own 3000m steeplechase national record for the eighth time recently, as well as Jyothi Yarraji, who broke her own 100m hurdles NR twice last month.

It also has Aishwarya Babu, who smashed her own triple jump national record with a stunning 14.14m effort during the recent National Inter-State Championships in Chennai.

However, 200m national record holder Amlan Borgohain, who won a sprint double (100m and 200m), missed the bus as he could not reach the CWG qualifying standard set by the AFI.

Although selected, some of the athletes will have to prove their form and fitness before the Birmingham Games.

Veteran discus thrower Seema Punia has been given a chance to feature in her fifth CWG considering her past performances in the Games. Her participation, however, is subject to reaching the qualifying standard set by the AFI in a competition in USA.

Punia has won a medal in each of the four CWG she has taken part earlier.

"We have allowed her to train and compete in the USA considering her past results in CWG and Asian Games. Her participation in CWG will absolutely depend on her performance in USA," Sumariwalla said of Punia, who skipped the June 10-14 National Inter-State Championships.

"We are requesting Indian Olympic Association to increase our quota by one and to assist in securing accreditation for a couple of athletes." The AFI has been given a quota of 36 in India's contingent for the CWG.

The participation of women's hammer throw gold medallist at National Inter-State Manju Bala and javelin throw silver winner Shilpa Rani of Haryana were subject to the receipt of accreditation. Shot putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor will have to perform well in Kazakhstan while Amoj Jacob has been selected in the men's 4x400m relay team subject to his recovery and fitness level.

Jacob had pulled his hamstring while running the last leg of the India 'A' team during the Inter-State Championships.

"Discus throwers Navjeet Kaur Dhillon and Seema Punia, hammer thrower Sarita Singh will have to perform in Kazakhstan or California. Race walker Bhawna Jat will have to prove her fitness," the AFI president said.

National record holder high jumper Tejaswin Shankar, who won gold at the NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships in the US last week with a season-best 2.27m, was not picked as he did not take part in the National Inter-State and did not seek exemption.

"Only three -- Neeraj, Avinash and Seema -- had sought exemption from taking part in National Inter-State. Shankar did not come to take part in National Inter-State and did not seek exemption," Sumariwalla said.

He also said that Tamil Nadu long jumper Jeswin Aldrin, who won gold in the Federation Cup in April with a wind-assisted 8.37m, was not picked due to lack of consistency.

Sumariwalla also said that Sable may take part in both 3000m steeplechase and 5000m event -- in which he also holds the national record -- if the CWG programme permits.

Kerala's M V Jilna was included in the women's 4x100m relay team, as also N S Simi, who had finished sixth in 100m final with a timing of 11.88s.

Jilna was a member of India's 'B' team that finished third in the National Inter-State. She had finished second in 100m in the Federation Cup with a time of 11.63s while clocking 11.90s in the semifinal heats in the National Inter-State.

AFI Planning Commission chairman Lalit Bhanot said there was no deviation from the policy of not picking non-campers for the relay teams.

"Srabani Nanda was training in Jamaica with the permission of AFI, it's just like Dutee training with her coach N Ramesh in Odisha. They can now train together in the remaining one month before the CWG. They will join national camp, actually have already joined camp," Bhanot said.

"In order to ensure that nobody hides from various tests, they took permission from AFI and gave details where they were training." The Team: Men: Avinash Sable (3000m Steeplechase); Nitender Rawat (Marathon); M Sreeshankar and Muhammed Anees Yahiya (Long Jump); Abdulla Aboobacker, Praveen Chithravel and Eldhose Paul (Triple Jump); Tajinderpal Singh Toor (Shot Put); Neeraj Chopra, DP Manu and Rohit Yadav (Javelin Throw); Sandeep Kumar and Amit Khatri (Race Walking); Amoj Jacob, Noah Nirmal Tom, Arokia Rajiv, Muhammed Ajmal, Naganathan Pandi and Rajesh Ramesh (4x400m Relay).

Women: S Dhanalakshmi (100m and 4x100m relay); Jyothi Yarraji (100m Hurdles); Aishwarya B (Long Jump and Triple Jump) and Ancy Sojan (Long Jump); Manpreet Kaur (Shot Put); Navjeet Kaur Dhilllon and Seema Antil Punia (Discus Throw); Annu Rani and Shilpa Rani (Javelin Throw); Manju Bala Singh and Sarita Romit Singh (Hammer Throw); Bhawna Jat and Priyanka Goswami (Race Walking); Hima Das, Dutee Chand, Srabani Nanda, MV Jilna and NS Simi (4x100m relay). 

Also Read : New national record eludes Chanu despite gold at Khelo India Women Weightlifting League event

News Source : PTI

Rajkot, Jun 16 (Cricket News) As he doesn't possess the pace of Umran Mailk, India medium pacer Harshal Patel feels he has to keep upping his ‘variations’ game to extend his nascent international career.

Harshal had made his India debut after the T20 World Cup last November and more than six months into international cricket, the 31-year-old has 17 wickets in 11 games at an average of 19.52.

Slower pitches suit his style of bowling more and that was evident in the last two games after the hammering he got on a true Kotla surface in the series opener.

Being a shrewd operator, Harshal very well knows how to remain effective under extreme pressure despite his limitations.

"To be honest, people have been trying to anticipate what I am bowling for the last two years (in IPL). With every bowler they longer they play, the opposition will realise what the bowlers strengths and patterns are.

"As a bowler my job is to stay one step ahead of them. At the end of the day you can have 15 plans but on a particular day in a pressure situation if you don't go out and execute with confidence, everything doesn’t fall in place.

"My focus is on trying to execute the best possible delivery at that point of time,” he said ahead of the fourth T20 against South Africa.

The RCB bowling mainstay relies a lot on his variations to outsmart the batters and he says that is something he needs to constantly develop.

"I can't worry about pace because I can't bowl fast as Umran Malik. I have to develop skills to render myself effective at the international level. I have never been an express fast bowler though on a good day I can go near 140 kmph.

"My focus has always been to develop skills around my bowling and whatever limitations and advantages I have in my bowling.

"I would certainly prefer to pay on slow wickets. It gives you a fighting chance. If you can keep playing on pitches like Delhi it can hamper your confidence a little bit.

"We have bowlers who can bowl on all pitches but it brings them more into the game when there are slightly slower pitches and slightly bigger ground dimensions," he said. 

Also Read : Anrich Nortje in relentless pursuit of the 'missing ingredient'

News Source : PTI

Rajkot, Jun 16 (Cricket News) South African speedster Anrich Nortje says he remains a work in progress and is constantly trying to find the 'missing ingredient' in his bowling after coming back from a long injury lay-off.

Nortje was out of action for six months after the T20 World Cup last year. He had bowled exceptionally well in the 2020-2021 IPL season before being sidelined due to a stress fracture.

Alongside Kagiso Rabada, Nortje formed arguably the most potent fast bowling pairing in the IPL.

Delhi Capitals chose to retain him ahead of Rabada but when he made a comeback to this year’s IPL, Nortje was not the same bowler.

“I am still not there. I am still working on it, still trying to find one or two things. Body wise I am still not 100 percent, slowly building it up. I would probably rate myself from where I was at the end of IPL last year and start of T20 World Cup. Still trying to get there,” said Nortje here on Thursday.

Nortje was putting in the hard yards ahead of the fourth T20 International against India. He bowled at the centre wicket for a while alongside Dwaine Pretorius and spinner Tabraiz Shamsi.

So, what exactly is missing from his bowling? “If I knew exactly what it was, I would have done it (laughs). It is going to be a minor adjustment. I generally keep it simple. I am working on something at this stage and we will see how it goes.

“It is not like it is completely out of shape. It is about small margins for me and I would like to get back to where I was,” said the 28-year-old.

Nortje said injury has taught him a valuable lesson.

“It was hard (the comeback phase) because some of the stuff is limited. Some of the bowling is limited. You can’t go out and bowl 8 to 9 overs every day. It has been a good challenge and will help in the future if there are any niggles or injuries going forward,” he said.

Like India’s Umran Malik, who is yet to get a game in the series, Nortje built his reputation by bowling in excess of 150kmph regularly. He also held the fastest delivery record in the IPL for a while but this season Lockie Ferguson raised the bar with a 157.3 kmph scorcher.

When asked about the ‘pace’ war, Nortje said he is not in the race with Malik or any other fast bowler.

“Malik is a good bowler and a very fast bowler. He has shown that on the field. If he goes faster, good for him, if I go, faster good for me. It is not about bowling fast, it is about winning games,” said Nortje.

Will Quinton de Kock be back? --------------------------------- Star opener Quinton de Kock has not played since the series opener in Delhi due to a wrist injury and South Africa rely heavily on him. He was present at the nets on Thursday, raising hopes of his return but Nortje did not reveal much.

“I am not sure but he is practising. Good to see he is practising. Probably we will find out tonight or tomorrow morning,” Nortje added.

He is also relieved that international teams are finally doing away with bio-bubbles after two years.

“It is a relief to be honest not that we have gone out of the hotel much. It doesn’t feel that we are in grade one where we are told every single minute of the day,” he said.

South Africa lost the third game after two big wins. Nortje said his team will be treating the fourth T20I as a ‘final’. 

Also Read : Squad announced for Ireland Men's T20Is against India at Malahide

News Source : PTI

Bengaluru, Jun 16 (Golf News) Pranavi Urs roared back into contention in the eighth leg of the Hero Women's Pro Golf Tour with a 3-under 69 to get into a share of the lead with Ridhima Dilawari here on Thursday.

The leading duo is now 1-under 143 for 36 holes and three shots ahead of third placed Afshan Fatima (73-73).

Seher Atwal (76-71), Jahanvi Bakshi (73-74) and Trimann Saluja (72-75) were tied for fourth place, while Siddhi Kapoor (76-72) and Gaurika Bishnoi (75-73) were tied for seventh.

Neha Tripathi (79-70) improved on her first round score by nine shots and had the day’s second best card of 2-under 70. She was ninth, while amateur Smriti Bhargava (77) rounded off the top 10.

The cut fell at 159 and 26 players made the final round.

Pranavi, who has sometimes begun slow, moved back into action after the disappointing first round of 74.

With birdies on fifth and ninth, she turned in 2-under and birdied the 10th too. At that stage she was 3-under for the day and the run suggested she could further better her scores.

Bogeys on Par-5 11th and Par-3 15th, however, saw her drop down before she closed with a birdie on 18th to ensure she shared the top spot.

Overnight leader Ridhima (69-74) seemed set for sole lead before a late disaster pulled her back. She had three birdies, two of them on the Par-3s, but she also dropped a double bogey on the Par-4 seventh.

Even at that stage she was set for a handy lead as she was 1-under for the day, after a 3-under 69 on the first day. The big blow, however, was the triple bogey she suffered on the Par-5 14th and thereafter she made it to the finish with four pars, for a disappointing 74.

A battle royale is set as Pranavi goes for her fourth win of the season and Ridhima aims to end a long title drought since her win in January 2021, while Afshan will be looking for any openings if either of the leaders falter at the start. 

Also Read : Diksha hopes to re-kindle winning memories, Tvesa eyes reversal of form in London

News Source : PTI

(Football news) In an exclusive interview with "El Chiringuito” sports outlet, Florentino Perez opens up about the failed transfer of Kylian Mbappe. The young French forward recently snubbed the Champions League winners for PSG as he signed a bumper three deal with the capital side. A lot of talks were surrounding Mbappe’s future and for the most part of it, it looked like he was heading to the 14 time UCL winners but a change of heart in a span of 15 days made him settle in Paris. Perez also talks about the recent contract extension they have signed with Vinicus Junior and he highlighted the continuing intention to form the Super League.

On Kylian Mbappé's failed signing the Real Madrid president in an interview with "El Chiringuito" said, "His dream was to play at Real Madrid, we wanted to do it last August and they didn't let him leave, he kept saying he wanted to play at Madrid and like 15 days before he changed the situation,"

"This is not the Mbappé I wanted to bring, he is another one, who must have changed his dream. He changes, he is offered other things, he is pressured and he is already another footballer. There is no one at Real Madrid above the club. He is a great player, he can win more than others, but it is a collective sport and we have values and principles that we cannot change", he added.

"The Mbappé who was going to come here is not this one. If it is, I prefer him to stay at PSG. I want the one with the dream. Impossible in three years? In three years' time we'll all be bald? This Mbappé is not my Mbappé, who refuses to do a publicity stunt with his national team... I don't want that. It could have been a slip of the tongue, but I think he was mistaken. "Macron called Mbappé, it makes no sense. PSG offered him to be the leader of the project; it changed everything. I didn't see the same Kylian Mbappé that we wanted. Here, no one is bigger than Real Madrid. It won't change".

In addition, Florentino Pérez touched on several controversial issues, one of them being the formation of the Super League and he said "Of course it is still alive, right now there is a question in the Court of Luxembourg, there will be a hearing shortly and it will rule on the issues we have raised. We believe that we have the right, within the European Community, to organize competitions among ourselves, with UEFA. We understand that UEFA is a monopoly and in this Europe of 27, one pillar is that of competition".

Florentino Pérez said: "We've no problem with Vinicius' contract extension. We're on it, no issues. He received some proposals but he always said: He only wants to stay at Real Madrid. I'm 100% sure that Vinicius will be Ballon d'Or one day".

Florentino Perez also went on to touch upon the fact why they didn’t go after Erling Haaland as he believes that Karim Benzema will be the man leading the club in the future. He went on to add that they will be active this transfer market and we can expect a few more incomings at the Santiago Bernabeu. With Aurelien Tchouameni and Antonio Rudiger already signed and delivered, we can expect at least two or more signings for Real Mardid. They are in the market for a right winger and a right back as Serge Gnabry and Recce James are names linked to them.

Perez went on to refer to Karim Benzema as the reason the team did not sign Erling Haaland. "We have the best 9 in the world and we weren't going to bring in Haaland to have him on the bench, right? Clause in two years? I don't know. We have no interest now other than to build the new team with the youngsters we have and some reinforcement."

Perez also spoke about the violence at the UCL finals, "That spectacle can never happen in life, we ask UEFA what criteria are taken into account for the change of venue and the French government why they have unprotected us all. The fans suffered robberies and violence. Why was this site chosen if everybody knew that either you have big measures or there are problems? Some people had to spend the night in the hospital. Let them tell us why they chose Paris. They say that since we played a game against PSG and lost 1-0 and between that game and the return leg is when the change of venue happens, there are people who think that those who win there said they were going to win at the Bernabeu and see if they made it to the final."

Perez on more incomings said that "There will be no more signings, as of now. But then let's see what is gonna happen, summer is very long. "Lewandowski to Barça? I'd be happy for them, it would be a great signing for sure".

Also read: How will Aurélien Tchouaméni fit in Real Madrid's midfield?
 

(Cricket news) The BCCI have announced a 17-member squad for the two-match T20I series against Ireland. The matches will be played on 26th and 28th of June at The village in Malahide. The Indian red ball team will already be practicing in England when this series commences. The squad doesn't have any surprises as such despite the decision to leave out one or two players has been questioned.

Squad: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

Hardik Pandya has been named the captain of the side while Bhuvneshwar Kumar will be his deputy. Pandya has made an incredible comeback and a lot of it has to do with his impeccable success with Gujarat Titans in the IPL. The only players not retained from the last T20I squad which is currently playing the series against South Africa are the ones in the Test squad. Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer will be joining the England tour and hence won't be in the T20I squad. 

The two new additions are Suryakumar Yadav, Sanju Samson and Rahul Tripathi. Samson is India's go to replacement for Rishabh Pant and his inclusion was inevitable. Samson will be looking to put in a better performance if given a chance. He might not get a game since Ishan Kishan and Dinesh Karthik are wicket-keeping option in the team. Venkatesh Iyer and Deepak Hooda are ahead in the pecking order and are waiting for their opportunity on the bench. Suryakumar Yadav is back after recovering from his injury and he should slot straight into the Playing XI at number 3. This series is very important for the batter to show his quality and earn his place in the Playing XI once again. 

Even though there isn't an official statement, VVS Laxman is likely to coach the side. National Cricket Academy coaches Sitanshu Kotak, Sairaj Bahutule and Munish Bali will be part of his support staff. This series is very important for all the players who get the opportunity to play to try and either break into the squad or cement their place in it. 

Also read: England seal series after incredible day 5 run chase vs New Zealand

Mumbai, Jun 15 (Cricket News) His voice beaming with happiness, talented Maharashtra batter Rahul Tripathi termed his maiden India call-up, a result of his enormous hardwork put in over the years.

The 31-year-old right-hand batter Tripathi has been one of the most consistent uncapped IPL player over six seasons with 2022 edition being his best as he totalled 413 runs at a strike-rate of 158.24 for Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Tripathi, a son of an Army man, has been consistently performing in the IPL and also for his domestic side Maharashtra.

"It is a very big opportunity, a dream come true (moment) and (I) appreciate (it)," Tripathi told PTI.

"I am very happy that the selectors and everybody believed in me and whatever hard-work I have put in, I have got the rewards. And hopefully, if I get an opportunity to play, I will try and give my best," added Tripathi, who has the distinction of twice hitting six sixes in an over in local tournaments.

Tripathi, who has played for the prestigious Deccan Gymkhana club, one of the oldest in Pune, has 2,540 first class runs from 47 matches. He has also captained Maharashtra in domestic cricket. 

Also Read : Hardik Pandya to lead India in Ireland as Rahul Tripathi gets maiden call-up; Samson makes comeback

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 15 (Cricket News) Indian Premier League winning captain Hardik Pandya was deservingly named skipper of the Indian team for the two-match T20 International series against Ireland in Dublin on June 26 and 28.

The only new face in the side is Maharashtra right-hand batter Rahul Tripathi, who was rewarded for his stellar batting during this edition of IPL where he scored more than 400 runs for Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Pandya, who is Rishabh Pant's deputy in the current T20I series against South Africa, was elevated to the leadership role and will join the Test squad in England after the completion of the home series.

Sanju Samson, whose profligacy has been well documented over the years, gets another shot at redemption, as he made a comeback for the series, having guided Rajasthan Royals to the IPL final.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been named vice-captain for the series.

The designated wicketkeeper will be 36-year-old Dinesh Karthik if one goes by the squad list, while both Ishan Kishan and Samson can keep wickets if need be.

Samson's keeping isn't considered up to the mark, so he could well be the third keeper in the mix.

India's T20I squad: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik. 

Also Read : Ranji SF: Hardik Tamore hits hundred as Mumbai post 393 against UP

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New Delhi, Jun 15 (Cricket News) The feeling of being called a "former India captain" is yet to sink in as Mithali Raj hasn't exactly gone through an entire gamut of emotions after calling time on her 23-year illustrious career last week.

Mithali knew her time had come after the 2022 World Cup in New Zealand but since she doesn't like to take big decisions in a jiffy, the 39-year-old waited for couple of months before announcing her retirement.

In an exclusive interview to PTI, inarguably Indian women's cricket's biggest icon spoke on a range of issues covering her legacy, experiences of playing in pre and post BCCI era, team's "inconsistent run" in the last five years, "differences in the dressing room" during the 2022 World Cup, and the 'Gen-Next' of India players.

Excerpts: Q: It has been a week since you announced your retirement. Has it sunk in yet? A: Honestly, the first time the thought of my retirement came into mind when Rahul Dravid retired (in 2012). I saw his press conference, he was quite emotional and I thought then how it will be when I retire. Will I feel that emotion? And there were few other retirements that happened after that and I hoped that I wouldn't be that emotional. I was very clear in my mind that the World Cup was going to be my last. But I am not someone who takes decisions while I am going through a lot of emotions (which she did in the World Cup).

Then I went to the domestic T20 event and realised that I did not have the same passion and thought it was my time (to retire). I am a goal oriented person. World Cup was my goal. After that I did not not see myself for next four years so I thought this is the right time to retire. Sometime you feel the impact of things after a while. So it still hasn’t sunk in.

Q: Millions of girls look up to you for what you did on the field. What according to you has been your biggest legacy? A: I have been asked about my legacy a lot but never came up with a good answer. I think I probably would have normalised girls playing cricket on the street and enrolling into academies. It was not very common when I started playing. They used to say 'we don't take girls in our academies, you take them elsewhere'.

Now there is no academy which can call itself an all exclusive boys academy which doesn't allow girls to play. That gives me a lot of satisfaction. The academy I went to, which I was told was a boys academy, the same place enrols so many girls.

Q: From travelling in unreserved trains to travelling around the world in business class, you saw it all in the pre and post BCCI era in women's cricket. How do you look back at both the worlds? A: Both had its own charm. I also had a lot fun in the pre BCCI era. It had a very different feel to it though resources were hardly there but there were other aspects of the sport we really enjoyed.

"We were in obscurity, nobody knew about us but I still had so much fun in that period. When the BCCI took women's cricket under its wings, professionalism came into the game. BCCI brought stability , security and growth into our game.

Q: It seems even in adversity, you found ways to have fun back then? A: "Well, we were all living in dormitories. If we were playing a tournament in a school and they used to be in the summers, sometimes we would occupy the class room and stay there.

"You always found ways to enjoy sport even though the circumstances were not great. There was nothing like rich and poor kids, all of us were in the same bus. There was so much of sharing among each other because there were no cell-phones, no social media, we only had our teammates to bank on.

Now we are in five-star hotels and as soon the match is over, everyone goes back to their rooms or they are on the phone. If I have to strike a conversation, most of the girls, I find them using their phones. The minute the game gets over, they are all on the phone (laughs).

I am not saying it is a bad thing, it is just times have changed. It was more carefree back then.

Q: Is there scope for bringing more professionalism to the sport? A: With every series being televised, with women's IPL coming up, it will get only better. The franchisees will have its own set up and that the players will benefit from playing in a professional league , rubbing shoulders with international stars.

Q: Would it be fair to say that the Indian team's graph has gone downwards after reaching the high in 2017? A: . Every good team, once it finishes the World Cup, they start to rebuild for the next edition, find players for specific roles and give them exposure and all that. A year's loss due to the pandemic did not help. But still I would not give that as an excuse for our performance in the World Cup.

But you must realise when we induct certain new players in the team sometimes the transition is smooth and sometimes it takes a while. It is not easy for teams to step out of long quarantines and give their best.

From South Africa series last year our spin department has been at times indifferent. That has really dented us. Because we rely heavily on them.

Q: There were reports coming out of New Zealand during the World Cup that all was not well in the dressing room? A: When you play a team sport, there will be differences and disagreements. It is very natural. They all want to do good but everyone has a different opinion.

But as captain, even if things are difficult I cannot lose my cool, my vision for the team has to be clear. In allowing my emotions to guide, I would not end up focussing on things I want the team to work on.

Even though people I think I am quiet, passive, I am not aggressive but composure has helped me to focus on things that our important and maintain a sense of calm in the team to help players focus on what is important.

Q: Looking ahead, who in your opinion are the players who will end up serving India for long? A: Kiran Navgire is one to watch out for. She did well in the domestic T20s and Women's Challenge. In the Indian team, you have Yastika Bhatia, Richa Ghosh and Shafali Verma. S Meghana has done well in the few chances she has got.

If you want your bench to be stronger, you need to give the young players a chance to grow.

Q: Would you be open to playing in Women's IPL next year? A: It is still too early to decide. We will see.

Q: Any plans to get into cricket administration or start a business of your own? A: I have certain things in my mind. There are certain offers but like always I will choose something that I find fulfilling and connected to the sport. 

Also Read : KL Rahul to miss England series, Pandya in line for captaincy during Ireland T20Is

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 15 (Sports News) The Sports Authority of India has sanctioned a total of Rs 6.52 crore as out of pocket allowance (OPA) for 2,189 Khelo India athletes across 21 disciplines, including para, for the April-June period.

"A financial assistance of Rs 6.28 lakhs is allocated for each residential athlete training at the accredited academies as per the annual Khelo India scholarship scheme. That includes an out of pocket allowance of Rs 1.20 lakh," a SAI release stated.

The OPA (Rs 1.20 lakh annually) is transferred directly to the athlete's bank account, while the rest of the amount is spent on the athlete's training, fooding, lodging and education at the Khelo India Academy where the athlete trains. "It also includes expenses towards travel to hometown, diet charges while at home and other miscellaneous expenses incurred by the athletes. The funding has been done as per the Khelo India Talent Development (KITD) Scheme," the release added. 

Also Read : Neeraj Chopra shatters own national record in first competition after Tokyo Olympics gold

News Source : PTI

Visakhapatnam, Jun 15 (Cricket News) He hasn't been able to translate his IPL form into national colours but India opener Ruturaj Gaikwad is not too worried as for him it is all about "staying consistent mentally" and "trusting the process".

The 25-year-old from Maharashtra has amassed 1207 runs in 36 IPL matches so far but managed just 120 in six T20Is, including the maiden fifty that he scored in the third T20 against South Africa here on Tuesday.

Asked if life is on the edge for him, Gaikwad said: "Not really on the edge, it is just part and parcel of the sport.

"Last year I had a really good year so people come with a lot of expectations when you have a great year even in IPL and domestic." His form was patchy in the IPL this year as well before he turned things around, scoring 368 runs, including three fifties in 14 matches for Chennai Super Kings.

"In the IPL, the wicket was slightly bowler-friendly. There was no flat wicket, it was two-paced, the ball was turning, and there was some swing.

"So 3-4 games in IPL, I got out to good balls where in some dismissals, some good shots went to the fielder's hand, it is part of T20 cricket.

"You will have off days and really bad days. It is a matter of staying consistent mentally, trusting your process." In the first two games, Gaikwad scored 23 and 1 to once again raise questions on his ability as an opener. However, he delivered when it mattered most, slamming a 35-ball 57 studded with seven fours and two maximums.

"Coming into the series as well, the first two wickets I felt were on the tacky side. It was stopping a bit batting first in the last two games but here the wicket was good, ball was coming into the bat, so I played my game.

"I changed nothing, my thought process, everything was the same." In the second T20I, India had scored 148 for six with batters going for their shots despite losing wickets.

Shreyas Iyer had said that the team will look to keep attacking even if it loses wickets.

Gaikwad said: "Going after the bowlers was not about being reckless or playing rash shots. I think we as a batting unit have some strength, certain shots we play as individuals. It is about backing ourselves and putting pressure on the bowlers.

"Just making sure that you are showing the intent, no matter if you are playing first ball or second ball, or you are set, even if you are batting at 30-40, if it is there in your area, in your strength, just have to go for it, that is what the thinking is about." There was hardly any time between the second and the third game and Gaikwad said the team just looked to stick to what worked for it and be slightly more conscious about its bowling.

"The conversation was about staying positive. We played really well in both the games. There were just some crunch moments where they played really well and overtook us. So it was just that they batted really well, but today they had a batting collapse.

"Coming here, we just wanted to stick to what we did in the last two games and look to improve as a group. Bowling-wise, we were slightly more aware of the game, there was more awareness and that worked well for us." India will face South Africa in the 4th T20 on Friday. 

Also  Read : Spinners play important role in Indian conditions, there was pressure on them to perform: Pant

News Source : PTi

Visakhapatnam, Jun 15 (Cricket News) South Africa's batting crumbled under pressure in the third T20I against India but skipper Temba Bavuma said it would be "foolish" to change their approach after just one loss in the five-match series.

Chasing 180 to win, South Africa had a slow start as they could manage only 15 runs in the first three overs but Bavuma said it "has always been our tactic as a team." "First two overs we always have a look and then we try to get some momentum going into the innings and set it up for our big power players," he said during the post-match press conference after his team suffered a crushing 48-run loss to India.

"That is a strategy that has worked for us and I would be a bit foolish to change our approach after just one loss," he added.

The Proteas had dominated the spinners in the first two matches but the duo of Yuzvendra Chahal (3/20) and Axar Patel (1/28) produced a scintillating show to stifle the visitors after being introduced early in the innings by skipper Rishabh Pant on Tuesday.

"I think their spinners put us under pressure and we were not able to absorb and put back the pressure as we did in the first two games. The conditions suited their spinners. Kudos to their spinners for exploiting the conditions to their favour," he said.

"They bowled quite well, their captain got their spinners early into the game which I think made a big difference versus us. Our spinners came later on and that is a trick we missed out there on the field.

"With the batting, we were not able to get any partnership going, or any momentum going. In the first two games, we batted really well but today it was an off day for the batters." The Indian side is missing big players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul but Bavuma said it doesn't make the hosts a weak team.

"I don't think it is a weak team, these are guys who performed exceedingly well in their domestic competition and IPL. These are quality players. For us, we knew we had to play well and that is what we have done in the first two games.

"Today they were much better, that is something we have to expect. I don't think you were expecting that we will just come here and win the series 5-0 because all the big names are not there. This is a good Indian team in my opinion." South Africa's openers have struggled and the skipper, who bats at the top, said losing Quinton de Kock to injury has affected the team.

"Look, Quinton is a big player at the top of the order but unfortunately we don't have him at our disposal, he is injured. We have Reeza (Hendricks) as a backup option and we have full faith in backing him. This is the squad we have built over the last two years.

"Obviously when a team loses, there are many areas that we can point out. Like I said at the start of the innings, we are looking to get stability but with Quinton not available, we are not able to get that stability.

Talking about his own performance he said; "I am a guy who partners up with Quinton at the top. I think the guys understand my role within the team." "Players play around me. They need someone to keep tight at the other end. That is not going to change, I feel it has been successful for us and we will get going with it." 

Also Read : IPL to have a two-and-a-half month window in ICC's next FTP cycle: Jay Shah

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 13 (Cricket News) Attracting astronomical bids that eventually translated into mind-boggling revenue of Rs 48,390 crore for a five year period through IPL's media rights has not surprised BCCI secretary Jay Shah, who asserted that cricket's most talked about T20 league has potential to deliver way more.

In an exclusive interview with PTI, the 33-year-old Shah spoke on a range of subjects related to Indian cricket, IPL's place in the global cricket calendar, running the cricket establishment in times of COVID-19 and the road ahead for both Indian cricket and IPL.

Excerpts: Q: Were you surprised by the intense bidding for IPL media rights or it was on expected lines?

A: I am really happy with the kind of numbers that we have achieved. This shows the phenomenal growth potential of Indian cricket. The auction was always going to be exciting for every stakeholder. We have been able to realise the true value and the numbers in-front of you, is a testimony to that.

These numbers show the potential of the Indian economy and the faith of investors in new India. The digital India push has changed the way cricket is watched in India. So the bid outcome of digital rights bears testimony to that.

Q: Were there any apprehensions in the BCCI when it was decided to scale up the cumulative base price of media rights in excess of Rs 32,500 crore when the winning bid during the last media rights auction was almost half (16,347.50 crore) of it ?

A: No, the BCCI never felt that the base price was too high. You need to understand that in 2018, it was for 60 games. For the next cycle, we will have 410 games, with 74 games each in the first two seasons and then 84 games in the next and finally 94 in the 2027 edition.

You also need to check the digital numbers -- there were approximately 560 million digital viewers in 2017 and 665 million in 2021. You expect it to grow even more in the coming years.

We have agencies conducting research for us. By 2024, there will be 900 million internet users in India as we would be providers of second-cheapest data in the world. Obviously linear viewership (TV) will remain but there is a transition towards digital viewership and that's how you realise the value.

Q: You are talking about having 94 matches in the future. How do you plan to manage the window and various international teams having their own FTP commitments?

A: That is an aspect we have worked upon. Let me inform you that from the next ICC FTP calendar, IPL will have an official two-and-a-half month window so that all the top international cricketers can participate. We have had discussions with various boards as well as the ICC.

Q: When Amazon pulled out, there were talks that they were not happy with Package C which offered only 18 games per season for non-exclusive digital rights?

A: BCCI's aim was simple. Our motto was maximum participation, maximum value and better price discovery. So if someone is winning A and B, they need to shell out more for buying Package C. It is as simple as that.

This is called better price discovery. I think the manner in which we pulled off the e-auction was the most transparent one.

Q: There is speculation that IPL may be held in two phases. Where does the BCCI stand on that aspect and how do you plan to implement that?

A: We are having discussions with various stake-holders. There are also multiple proposals for all the IPL franchises of playing friendlies overseas. That idea is being seriously contemplated but for that we also need to speak to other boards as we would need to know the schedule of international players.  

Q: There are reports that IPL's viewership has dropped by 30 percent this time. The viewers fatigue due to too many matches is also being discussed. Also, the the recall value of games has been talked about this year. Your views?

A: I don't agree that there has been a viewership dip. You have to factor in pre-COVID and post-COVID numbers. The 2020 and 2021 IPL viewership numbers skyrocketed because cricket was the only source of live sporting entertainment for the Indian public. People were unable to venture out due to COVID-19. So the figures saw a sharp rise.

Now in 2022, the same public after the return of a certain amount of normalcy is venturing out. People are socialising, going out for dinners, taking vacations which they didn't do in the last two years. Also, when you calculate viewership, this year, during evening games, you would have hundreds watching it on TV while sitting in a pub or a restaurant.

So there are hundreds of fans watching an IPL match on one DTH (Direct To Home) connection. Therefore, if you calculate viewership numbers, I would want you to calculate on the basis of 2019 viewership numbers vis-a-vis 2022.

Q: Let's discuss a bit about international cricket. Will India's bilateral calendar take a hit if IPL enjoys a bigger window?

A: Indian cricket will remain strong as long as world cricket remains strong. Let me assure you of this. The BCCI is committed to international cricket. And it's not just about India versus Australia or India versus England marquee series, we are committed to playing even the smaller nations. All bilateral international commitments across all formats will be honoured. We are playing Ireland in two T20 Internationals this month only. We want a strong robust international circuit and want to help the smaller cricketing nations by playing against them.

Q: BCCI also needs to factor in players workload management in a crunched calendar. How do you tackle the physical fatigue issues?

A: I have had discussions with NCA head VVS Laxman and we will always have 50 players in our roster. In future, you will have a scenario, where the Indian Test team will be playing a series in one country and the white-ball team will be engaged in a series in a different country. We are going in that direction where we will have two national teams ready at the same time.

Q: Let's turn our focus on women's cricket. You have already said that the Women's IPL will start from 2023. Can you give us an idea about what the scale will be and how you plan to hold it?

A: This is a project which is very close to my heart. We will start with either five or six teams in the first edition. I am thrilled at the kind of response we have got from stakeholders. Multiple existing IPL teams have enquired and expressed serious interest in owning WIPL franchises.

Not to forget interest from outside. We are in discussions with other Boards about the possible window when all top cricketers will be available. I can promise that the valuation of the league, franchises and media rights will stun one and all.

Q: You took over as BCCI secretary in 2019 and if one asks you to look back at your time so far, what is it that you value most?

A: Being able to conduct games despite operational difficulties during COVID-19 times was very satisfying. There were challenges and we had to stop the IPL during the second wave last year because we didn't want to compromise on health, safety and security. I would like to thank Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) for helping us with logistical arrangements in 2020 and also the second phase of 2021.

We had Indian women team playing two Test matches after eight years, which is huge achievement. We conducted more than 30,000 RT-PCR tests and had one of the safest bio-bubbles across three editions with minimum number of cases. When Omicron cases were rising in South Africa, the BCCI sent its full-fledged team for Test and ODI series. We sent our team to Australia during the pandemic and also hosted England successfully with not a single case detected. 

Also Read : BCCI hits Jackpot: IPL Media Rights deal fetches Rs 48,390 crore revenue; Viacom18 ends Disney Star's monopoly

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Visakhapatnam, Jun 14 (Cricket News) Openers Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan produced scintillating fifties to set the platform before India lost the momentum to stop at 179 for five against South Africa in the must-win third T20I here on Tuesday.

Under the scanner for his patchy form of late, Gaiwad finally came good with a sizzling 57 off 35 balls, while Kishan smashed his second fifty of the five-match series. He made a 35-ball 54.

However, South Africa tightened the screws in the second half to keep India inside the 200-mark. The hosts managed just 20 runs while losing two wickets from over 13 to 17 before Hardik Pandya took them close to 180 with some lusty blows in the final stages.

It was Gaikwad, who turned aggressor after a watchful start and exploded in the fifth over, slamming five successive boundaries off Anrich Nortje.

If the first one was cut with aplomb, he danced down the track for the second four. The third boundary was a lucky one as the ball hit his grill while Gaikwad tried to move away from a nasty bouncer.

Gaikwad then punished Nortje for bowling a half volley and the fifth ball was sent across the third man.

The Maharashtra batter also deposited Dwaine Pretorius over deep backward square for his second six as India posted 57 for no loss in six overs, their best powerplay in the series.

Kishan, who was playing second fiddle, got into the act in the ninth over, smacking Shamsi's overpitched ball for a maximum before sweeping him for another four as 13 runs came from the over.

Gaikwad completed his fifty in 30 balls and then welcomed Keshav Maharaj with an inside out lift for a four, but the spinner had him caught off his own bowling with India on 97 for one at the halfway stage.

Kishan then gave a special treatment to Maharaj, picking up two fours and a six en route a 31-ball fifty, his second of the series.

New-man Shreyas Iyer looked in good touch as he blasted a six each off Nortje and Shamsi, but the spinner dismissed him with Nortje timing his jump to perfection for a nice catch.

Pretorius pegged India further back by getting rid off Kishan, who was caught by Hendricks.

It could have been five down but David Miller and Rassie van der Dussen dropped two sitters to give a life to Hardik Pandya (29) and Rishabh Pant (6).

Temba Bavuma finally caught one off Pretorius to remove Pant as South Africa slowed things down.

Dinesh Karthik (6) couldn't force the pace with Rabada removing him, but Pandya managed to find some quick runs. 

Also Read : IPL to have two-and-a-half month window in ICC's next FTP cycle: Jay Shah

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New Delhi, Jun 14 (Cricket News) The BCCI on Tuesday reaffirmed its status as a cricketing behemoth by securing one of the biggest broadcast deals in the history of the sport, fetching an eye-popping 48,390 crore (USD 6.20 billion) through IPL media rights for a five-year period, starting 2023.

While Disney Star retained their Indian sub-continent TV rights by paying Rs 23,575 crore (Rs 57.5 crore/game), the most sought-after India digital rights deal was acquired for Rs 20,500 crore by the Reliance backed Viacom18, which also won the non-exclusive Package C by paying Rs 2991 crore more.

The deal for package A and B is for 410 matches across five years with 74 matches each in 2023 and 2024 and 84 each in 2025 and 2026. The 2027 edition will have 94 games. The Package 'D' for overseas rights for various regions was bagged by Viacom and Times Internet.

Viacom18 entered the fray through a consortium which has former Star India head Uday Shankar (Bodhi Tree) and James Murdoch (Lupa Systems) in it.

"I am thrilled to announce that STAR INDIA wins India TV rights with their bid of Rs 23,575 crores. The bid is a direct testimony to the BCCI's organisational capabilities despite two pandemic years," BCCI secretary Jay Shah tweeted.

"Viacom18 bags digital rights with its winning bid of Rs 23,758 cr. India has seen a digital revolution & the sector has endless potential. The digital landscape has changed the way cricket is watched. It has been a big factor in the growth of the game & the Digital India vision" the BCCI secretary added.

"Since its inception, the IPL has been synonymous with growth & today is a red-letter day for India Cricket, with Brand IPL touching a new high with e-auction resulting in INR 48,390 cr value. IPL is now the 2nd most valued sporting league in the world in terms of per match value." The IPL, in terms of sheer valuation, will now be bracketed in the top-most sporting properties alongside National Football League (USA), National Basketball Association (USA) and English Premier League (England), the most watched sporting event in the world.

The value of per IPL match made more than a 100 per cent jump from previous Rs 54.5 crore to above Rs 114 crore (approx). Globally, the per match value (USD 14.61 million) in IPL is second only to NFL where every match is worth USD 17 million.

The new deal also ends the monopoly of a single broadcaster. Sony had acquired the rights by paying Rs 8200 crore for the first 10 years (2008-17) while Star with a bid price of 16347.50 won it for the next five years.

There was a also a Package C, where digital rights of 18 non-exclusive marquee games per season were up for grabs and Viacom18 won it with a winning bid of Rs 2991.6 crore at the rate of Rs 33.24 crore per match. There are 90 matches in this package.

Package D with a base price of Rs 3 crore per game with overseas TV and Digital Rights on offer was sold for more than 1300 crore to Viacom18 and Times Internet.

If one looks at the transformation, in 2008, it was 90 percent of linear coverage (TV) compared to a miniscule 10 percent in digital space.

In 2018, when Star won the rights, the TV-Digital ratio was 75:25 but this new deal has given digital space a more than 51 percent share in broadcast footprint.

Having lost the digital rights to Viacom18, Walt Disney's Head of International Content and Operations, Rebecca Campbell in a statement hinted that Star will be vying for other multi-platform cricket rights.

"We will be exploring other multi-platform cricket rights, including future rights for International Cricket Council (ICC) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which we currently hold through the 2023 and 2024 seasons, respectively," Campbell said. 

Also Read :South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss, ask India to bat 

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Chennai, Jun 14 (Sports News) "Since you are born, you will have to achieve something," says Aishwarya Babu matter-of-factly.

Living by that maxim, she smashed the triple jump national record with a stunning effort of 14.14m at the National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships here on Monday, reflecting her determination to reach the top.

This, after trying her luck in 100m and 200m sprints and overcoming an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, a dreaded word in sporting circles.

The 24-year-old Aishwarya bettered Mayookha Johny's national record of 14.11m set in 2011.

A day earlier, Aishwarya became the second best Indian woman long jumper after the legendary Anju Bobby George, with an effort of 6.73m. Anju Bobby George holds the national long jump record of 6.83m.

She started with 100m and 200m sprints before switching to long jump and triple jump, which is her main event.

"I started at the age of eight and I was initially doing 100m and 200m. But later, switched to jumps. I was interested in sports and my uncle was a decathlete," she said.

Asked why she took up sports, she said, "I need to achieve. Since you are born, you will have to achieve something." Aishwarya's 14.14m effort in the 'hope, step and jump' event has put her in joint 14th in the season's top list in the world and third among long jumpers from Commonwealth countries.

"I was expecting to break the national record (in triple jump). I had prepared very well for that, with a lot of hard work," said Aishwarya whose husband works at the Governor's office in Bengaluru.

"In September last year, I did 13.55m (while winning gold) in the National Open Championships. I have improved nearly 60cm since then. My target is 14.35m." Daughter of a government employee father and homemaker mother, Aishwarya's USP is her speed.

She was spotted by 2010 Asian Games heptathlon bronze medallist Pramila Aiyappa, who is currently a state sports officer.

"Pramila spotted her, she (Pramila) is a sports officer and in charge of South West Railways. So she took Aishwarya to a Railways trial. Then she started training her, it was before the COVID-19 pandemic," said BP Aiyappa, the current coach of Aishwarya and husband of Pramila.

"When Aishwarya came to me, she was having ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tear and you can imagine an athlete who had ACL tear and now breaking triple jump national record." Aiyappa said Aishwarya also has an "unbelievable explosiveness", which makes her stand out.

"For her short stature, her speed and explosiveness is unbelievable, world class. I will not be surprised if she touches 7m in long jump." "All this strength comes from curd rice (laughs). Wherever she goes and sits in a restaurant, she will always order curd rice," added Aiyappa, who is with Aishwarya for two and half years.

Aiyappa said his focus is to build Aishwarya's strength.

"I am focussed on her strength building. I am more of a believer in building strength. The Europeans, Jamaicans and Americans are really strong and it's difficult to compare with them in strength, so I want to build strength. That is my mantra." Aiyappa said Ashwarya is a bit weak in 'step' part of the triple jump and her performance can be further be improved if she gets better in that.

"You need to be perfect in all the three parts -- hope, step and jump. She is a bit weak in 'step'. We can improve on that." Even the COVID-19 pandemic did not stop the coach-ward duo from continuing with training. The Kanteerava Stadium, where they were based, was shut down and they had to travel outside Bangalore for training.

"We had struggled a lot, going to Vidyanagar everyday except for Saturday, it is nearly 35km from Bangalore. It was tough. We had to take special passes but the state government, JSW, AFI and SAI had supported us a lot." 

Also Read : Long jump sensation Jeswin Aldrin aims to become the best in the world

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(Football news) Developed through the São Paulo youth system, 19 year old Marquinhos has been signed by Arsenal, subject to the completion of regulatory processes. The player made his first team debut for the Brazilian club as an 18 year old, going on to make 33 first team appearances and being part of the team that won the Compeonato Paulista in 2021. 

The forward has represented Brazil in the Under-16 and U-17 levels and will travel to London from Brazil to join his teammates in pre-season training. In an interview to Arsenal’s website, technical director Edu said “We’re delighted to have completed the transfer with Sao Paulo, as Marquinhos was a player we had been watching for a while. At 19, he is still very young, so he is a player for the future. We look forward to Marquinhos now joining us for pre-season, making his new home, and continuing to grow and develop with us.” 

The deal is reportedly worth €3.5 million and Marquinhos has apparently rejected multiple contract extensions by São Paulo in order to move to Arsenal. The left footed forward can also play as a winger and is expected to play a fringe role in his first season at the Emirates while he acclimatises to the rigours of the Premier League.

Also read: Sadio Mane agrees personal terms with Bayern Munich

(Football news) Fulham are close to making their first major signing this transfer window as  Manor Solomon from Shakhtar Donetsk is close to joining them. The club have been in talks with the 22-year-old winger for quite some time and the move hit an impasse in recent weeks. However, according to reports the talks have now progressed again, with Solomon very close to joining newly-promoted side Fulham for a fee around €7 million (£5.98 million).

The Israel international had attracted interest from multiple clubs around the world, including Torino and Club Bruges, but his first choice was always Fulham. Solomon has ampel Champions League experience, he has also has 30 appearances for Israel, scoring six goals. This season he scored four times for Shakhtar in 16 league appearances before the Ukrainian Premier League was stopped by the Russian invasion. In 2020-21, Solomon came into the limelight when he scored twice in the Champions League in two group stage games against Real Madrid, while in 2019 he scored against Manchester City to earn his side a well deserved  1-1 draw at the same stage.

Solomon is poised to become Fulham's first signing of the summer after their deal with Thomas Strakosha failed because of his high wage demands. Losing Fabio Carvalho to Liverpool was the main reason behind recruiting Solomon to replace him, who will have been of the utmost importance at Craven Cottage next season. The bid to sign Solomon is certainly a step in the right direction and an ideal replacement for Carvalho as he can play in behind the striker as a number 10 or out on the left-wing. Fulham fans will be hoping that he can adjust to English football quickly and hit the ground running for Silva’s side.

Solomon may not be quite as much of a goal threat as Carvalho with a record of 22 goals in 106 games. However, he has plenty of experience playing against big oppositions at the top level, having sustained his place in the Israel squad since earning his first call-up in 2018 and has played a number of games in the Champions League for Shakhtar. Not only that, but the fact that he is only 22 makes the deal even better for Fulham. The Championship winners are reportedly in talks to sign Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno who has fallen down the pecking order at the Emirates. Fulham are in the market for a striker and are battling West Ham United for the signing of Watford’s Emmanuel Dennis.

Also read: Sadio Mane agrees personal terms with Bayern Munich
 

Representing Uttar Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy and Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League, 23 year old Jasmer Dhankhar is aiming high and working even harder to achieve his dreams. In this exclusive interview, the cricketer speaks about his journey so far, the toughest batter in the LSG team, experiences so far, preparations for the Ranji Trophy, cricketing idols and his future goals.

Q1) When did your journey with cricket start and how has it been so far?

I used to play cricket ever since I was a little kid on the road with my friends and my brothers. I was interested in cricket from my childhood and when I realised that I play better than most kids I decided to try and pursue it professionally. I wouldn't say that the journey was easy but I feel blessed at the position I am playing the Ranji trophy and being a part of the IPL.

Q2) Who is the toughest batter to bowl to in the Lucknow Super Giants nets and why?

I think the toughest to bowl to was Evin Lewis because he is a left hander and has a lot of power. He has the gift of timing as well but these are the kind of challenges I enjoy. I love to bowl against difficult batters and I always want to get them out. My mindset is always positive in such things.

Q3) How was your experience with LSG? Which player have you learned the most from?

Usually when you go into a new dressing room there is a feeling of awkwardness but with LSG I never felt that. I got to learn a lot of things from KL Rahul, Krunal Pandya, Evin Lewis, Marcus Stoinis and our bowling coach Narendra Hirwani.

Also read: Long jump sensation Jeswin Aldrin aims to become the best in the world

Q4) How are preparations going for the Ranji trophy semi finals and what are your expectations from the game?

Our preparations have been going well as the team is young but we are hungry to train even harder, putting in the effort and we are all showing character. We proved to the world that we belong on this stage and showed them that we can dominate in all formats. Since the start of the season we had all the focus on our team and most importantly we backed our own strengths which has been the main focus mostly.

Q5) Who was your cricketing idol growing up and what did you like about him?

Since I am a leg spinner, I used to idolise Shane Warne growing up. I was a big fan of his leg spin and I used to watch all his videos and try to implement the variations he used to use. Mostly I used to notice his leadership skills and his attitude on the pitch.

Q6) What are your future goals and ambitions? How do you plan to achieve them?

My future plan is to represent India and establish myself as a regular player in the Indian squad and then help my country lift the World Cup. I feel as a player you have to keep growing and adapting, that has always been my focus. For me, I should be able to give my 100% in every practice session and with my commitment I will hopefully progress forward.

Chennai, Jun 13 (Sports News) Wonder woman Aishwarya Babu of Karnataka smashed the triple jump national record with a stunning effort of 14.14m to emerge the undisputed star of the National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships here on Monday.

The 24-year-old from Bengaluru bettered Mayookha Johny's earlier national record of 14.11m set in 2011. She touched the national mark in her third attempt on the penultimate day of the championships. She had a foul in her fourth attempt and then did not take the final two jumps.

Renu of Haryana was a distant second with an effort of 13.43m, while Karthika Gothandapani was third with 13.25m.

On Sunday only, Aishwarya had become the Indian woman to have the second longest personal best jump with an effort of 6.73m. The legendary Anju Bobby George holds the national long jump record of 6.83m. Anju had jumped better than 6.73m on three other occasions also.

Aishwarya will compete in the long jump final on Tuesday.

"I was confident that I would break the national triple jump record. I had prepared for it. I hope to break the long jump record tomorrow also," she said after the stunning win.

"Triple jump is my main event and I don't train much for long jump. But I can compete in both long jump and triple jump in the Commonwealth Games. Hopefully, I do well and win medals in the CWG," she added.

The triple jump gold winner in the 2018 CWG had produced 14.64m, while the silver and bronze medallists had efforts of 14.52m and 13.92m respectively.

In long jump, the gold winner in the 2018 CWG had produced 6.84m, while the silver and bronze medallists had efforts of 6.77m and 6.75m respectively.

Daughter of a government employee father and homemaker mother, Aishwarya said her USP is the speed and explosive ability and she also revealed that she is fond of curd rice.

Her coach Aiyappa BP, who is the husband of 2010 Asian Games heptathlon bronze medallist Pramila Aiyappa, said she would always look for curd rice wherever she went.

"Considering her height and built, she has so much of explosive power and speed and that makes her stand out. All these, due to curd rice (laughs). She would look for curd rice wherever she goes," said Aiyappa who has been with Aishwarya for two and half years.

"She was not spotted by me, she was spotted by my wife during a Railways event. When she came to me, she was having ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tear and you can imagine an athlete who had ACL tear and now breaking triple jump national record." Aishwarya said she and her coach had to travel to Vidyanagar, some 40km from Bangalore, during the COVID-19 pandemic as Kanteerava Stadium, where she used to train, was closed.

"We had struggled a lot, going to Vidyanagar everyday. We had to take special passes but the state government and SAI had supported us a lot." In other events, India A team's Amoj Jacob pulled his hamstring while running the last leg of the mixed 4x400m relay. He pulled up near the top of the final 100m stretch. The mixed 4x400m relay will be held in the Birmingham CWG (July 28 to August 8) for the first time.

In men's discus throw, Kirpal Singh of Punjab clinched the gold with a meet record performance of 60.31m, while the corresponding women's event was won by Navjeet Kaur Dhillon with a distance of 55.67m.

Gracena Merly of Tamil Nadu won the women's high jump with an effort of 1.82m.

In men's 800m, Krishan Kumar of Haryana took the gold with a time of 1:48.79, while the women's corresponding event was won by Chanda of Delhi (2:01.67).

The India B team, comprising Mohammed Ajmal, Rupal Chaudhary, Rajesh Ramesh and Dandi Jyothika Sri, won the 4x400m mixed relay in 3:18.84 after India A's anchor Jacob hobbled off the track after gaining the lead for his team with about 110m left in the race.

The other members of the India A team were Noah Nirmal Tom, Kiran Pahal and Aishwarya Mishra. 

Also Read : World billiards champion Sourav Kothari becomes 2022 Pacific International snooker champ

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Jakarta, Jun 13 (Badminton News) Two-time Olympic medallist P V Sindhu and rising star Lakshya Sen will seek consistency as they lead the Indian charge at the Indonesia Open Super 1000 badminton tournament beginning here on Tuesday.

Sindhu has managed to secure two Super 300 titles -- the Syed Modi International and the Swiss Open -- this year but she has looked vulnerable against top players, facing defeats at the hands of Thailand's Ratchanok Inthanon, China's Chen Yu Fei and Korea's An Se Young.

However, the former world champion is known to up her game in big events and she will look to gear up for next month's Commonwealth Games with another good show at the Istora Gelora Bung Karno when she opens against China's He Bing Jiao, whom she had beaten at Badminton Asia Championship.

If Sindhu, seeded seventh, can cross the opening two rounds, she is likely to face the third seeded An Se Young, who has an overwhelming 5-0 record against the Indian.

Only the top 32 in the world compete in the USD 1,200,000 BWF world tour event, which will also see the return of three-time former world champion and Rio Olympic gold medallist Carolina Marin after recovering from a knee injury.

Indian veteran Saina Nehwal, who is trying to make a comeback to her best after battling multiple fitness issues in the last few months, will skip this event as she plans to compete at the Malaysia Open next week.

In men's singles, eighth seed Sen and HS Prannoy -- the two architects of India's epic Thomas Cup win -- will cross sword in an all Indian contest.

Sen has been in good touch for the last few months. His World Championships bronze was followed by a maiden Super 500 title win at India Open and a final appearance at the All England Championship and German Open Super 300.

World Championship silver medallist Kidambi Srikanth, who was in sensational form at the Thomas Cup, will meet Chinese Taipei's Wang Tzu Wei in his opener.

Former Singapore Open champion B Sai Praneeth, who hasn't been in the best of form, is pitted against Denmark's Hans-Kristian Solberg Vittinghus in his opening match.

Among others, Parupalli Kashyap will be missing in action as he eyes a comeback at the Malaysia Open after recovering from a hamstring and ankle injury.

Top men's doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, who had skipped the Indonesia Masters last week, will open their campaign against Korea's Choi Sol Gyu and Kim Won Ho.

Also in action will be Manu Attri and B Sumeeth Reddy, MR Arjun and Dhruv Kapila, and Krishna Prasad Garaga and Vishnuvardhan Goud Panjala.

In women's doubles, Ashwini Ponnappa and N Sikki Reddy, Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand, and Ashwini Bhat and Shikha Gautam, will also be in the fray.

Ashwini and Sumeeth will also pair up in the mixed event, while Ishaan Bhatnagar and Tanisha Crasto will also look to go deep in the draw. 

Also Read : Around 200 players to go under hammer at GPBL auctions

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Visakhapatnam, Jun 13 (Cricket News) Under-performing spinners, an out-of-form opener and his own poor show -- skipper Rishabh Pant will have a lot on his mind when India take on a buoyant South Africa in the third T20 on Tuesday in their bid to keep the five-match series alive.

India came into the series on a 12-match winning streak but South Africa took the wind out of India's sails with two crushing defeats.

Pant's side is now struggling on multiple fronts and it would take a herculean effort to plug all the holes with just one day between the second and third game.

If bowling let India down in the first game, a poor batting show cost them the second match and now they have their backs to the wall.

Strike-rate woes for Ruturaj, Iyer ==================== India's batting left a lot to be desired with the openers failing to give the team a good start in the powerplay.

While Ishan Kishan has done well so far, Ruturaj Gaikwad (23, 1) has pulled the team down with questions being raised over his technique against quality pacers and his ability to force the pace early on.

Shreyas Iyer too has looked vulnerable against the fast bowlers and even though he has got starts, he hasn't been able to capitalise or push the run-rate, putting pressure on the next line of batters in the middle-order.

Hardik Pandya, who was in sensational form for Gujarat Titans in the IPL, produced some big hits when the team was in a comfortable position in the first T20 but he couldn't get going on the two-paced Cuttack track.

He also failed to impress with the ball and has leaked 49 runs in the four overs that he bowled across the two matches.

Pant's captaincy under scanner =================== Shoehorned into captaincy, Pant (29, 5) has not fired himself so far. He has only three fifties in 45 T20Is with an average of 23.9 and strike-rate of 126.6.

As someone, who is touted as a future leader, Pant has not inspired enough confidence with his leadership abilities.

His decision to promote Axar Patel over designated finisher and the experienced Dinesh Karthik in the second game was baffling, to say the least.

Going into the World Cup in Australia later this year, a lot will be expected from the wicketkeeper batter, who can win matches single-handedly and he will look to produce an inspired show on Tuesday.

Uninspiring show by Chahal & Axar ===================== In bowling, the spin duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Axar Patel have been a big letdown as they went for 75 and 59 in six and five overs in the two matches and the axe is likely to fall on one of them going into the third game.

Chahal, who was the purple cap holder in the IPL, and Axar were put under the pump with the likes of David Miller, Rassie van der Dussen and Heinrich Klassen feasting on their pedestrian bowling.

With the duo flopping, it needs to be seen whether the team management gives young leggie Ravi Bishnoi or allrounder Venkatesh Iyer, who also opens for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL, a chance in the middle.

The hosts, save Bhuvneshwar Kumar, have looked bereft of ideas of getting breakthroughs as India picked just four wickets in the opening game and six in the second match with the leading seamer from Meerut doing most of the damage.

Indian bowlers have the propensity to concede runs in a heap in one or two overs which completely undo the work done in the previous overs and they will need to tighten their game to salvage hopes of saving the series.

India's think-tank might also look to unleash the express pace of Umran Malik on South Africa or get Arshdeep Singh in place of Avesh Khan, who is yet to take a wicket in the series.

South Africa, on the other hand, have looked like a well-oiled machine with both their bowlers and batters working in partnerships.

If Miller and van der Dussen took it away with a stellar show in the first T20, comeback man Klassen proved to be the difference on Sunday with his fluent 81-run innings on a tricky wicket.

Skipper Temba Bavuma also played the perfect foil to Klassen to script SA's recovery.

In bowling, the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje and Wayne Parnell have hunted in a pack.

Teams (from): India: Rishabh Pant (c & wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik.

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Marco Jansen.

Match starts at 7pm IST. 

Also Read : South Africa comfortably defeat India to go 2-0 up in the series

News Source : PTI

Cuttack, Jun 12 (Cricket News) South Africa captain Temba Bavuma won the toss and opted to bowl against India in the second T20I of the five-match series at the Barabati Stadium here on Sunday.

The Proteas made two changes to their XI after their wicketkeeper-batter and opener Quinton de Kock pulled out with a hand injury, bringing in Heinrich Klaasen who will do the duty behind the stumps.

South Africa also included Reeza Hendricks in place of Tristan Stubbs.

Trailing 0-1, the Rishabh Pant-led India remained unchanged.

Teams: India: Rishabh Pant (capt & wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Yuzvendra Chahal.

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (capt), Reeza Hendricks, Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Dwaine Pretorius, Wayne Parnell, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje and Tabraiz Shamsi. 

Also Read : Important to keep our IPL players fresh and mentally ready for this series: Parnell

News Source : PTI

Cuttack, Jun 11 (Cricket News) Majority of South Africa's star players were part of the two-month long IPL that preceded the ongoing T20 series against India and Proteas seamer Wayne Parnell said it will be a challenge to keep them "mentally ready" over the course of the five games.

David Miller, Quinton de Kock, Kagiso Rabada, Rassie van der Dussen and Anrich Nortje were among the players who were part of the IPL. However, there was no sign of any fatigue as the visitors thrashed India in the first ODI in Delhi.

"It's important to get them fresh and ready for the matches, it's been 10-12 weeks in the IPL with a lot of time in the bubble. Getting guys mentally ready is going to be key for us," said Parnell ahead of the second T20.

The 32-year-old made a T20 comeback at Kotla after more than five years. He comes into the series rather fresh having played his last competitive game in March.

"Being part of the national team is always a privilege. Certainly, coming back into this group, it was a different feel to it. It's just nice being here." He is expecting a strong India comeback on Sunday.

"I think this match is going to be crucial. India will definitely bounce back, they are a quality side. We don’t expect anything less.

"I think every single game till Bangalore will be very, very tough. Obviously it was a great win the other night, we can take a lot of confidence from that, but it’s a brand new venue, new conditions, so we need to adapt and start work." The last match held here was an ODI back in December 2019 and witnessed a run feast India chasing down West Indies tall total of 316 with eight balls to spare.

On the conditions on offer, Parnell said: "I think tomorrow it will be the same -- it will be difficult for us as bowlers.

"The conditions here probably favour run-scoring more. It is just about what we are going to get on that particular day. It did swing around a little bit so maybe we can use that to our advantage but it's difficult to assess.

"The side strip was pretty green and with overhead conditions, and swung around a bit. Maybe for the seamers, there will be a little bit with the new ball. But the actual wicket, we have to see how it is on the match day," Parnell said. 

Also Read : It's okay, we had an off day as bowling unit: Bhuvneshwar

News Source : PTI

Cuttack, Jun 11 (Cricket News) India seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar on Saturday said the bowlers let stand-in skipper Rishabh Pant down in the high-scoring first T20 International against South Africa.

Elevated to captaincy after designated skipper KL Rahul pulled out on the eve of the series opener after a groin injury, Pant had a forgettable outing leading the side for the first time ever, even as his bowlers struggled with their line and length.

Bhuvenshwar backed the wicketkeeper-batter and said he's a long way to go.

"He's a young captain and it was his first match. I'm sure he will try to do better and improve as the series progresses. Generally the captain is as good as the team and it's a team effort.

"Our bowling did not go off well and let him down. If we did well then you would have hailed his decision-making skills. I'm sure he will do well," Bhuvenshwar said.

The experienced seamer, however, refused to read too much into their forgettable bowling display at the Ferozshah Kotla and expressed optimism about a strong comeback in the second match.

In the absence of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar is leading the Indian pace attack in the ongoing five-match series.

India could not defend 212 as the rampaging South African duo of David Miller and Rassie van der Dussen struck half-centuries to hunt down the target with five balls to spare and go 1-0 up in the series.

"There wasn't any big discussion as anyone can have an off day. As a bowling unit, we had an off day but that's okay we just want to come back in the next match," Bhuvneshwar said at the pre-match press conference here.

"It was the first match of the series and everybody was coming out of the IPL, almost everyone in the team had a good IPL. Everyone knows what needs to be done and things to improve on.

"We are aware that we didn't bowl well in the first match. So we hope to improve, bowl well and level the series. We still have four matches to go, we have matches in hands to bounce back," he said.

In the first game, Team India fielded a new-look pace attack in Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel and Avesh Khan, but none of them could make an impact against the marauding South Africans.

Bhuvneshwar said it's about taking responsibility and improving in every match ahead of the T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be held in Australia in October-November.

"My target is not any different. I just have to bowl in the same way as in the power play or in the death overs. Yes, in absence of them, I try to take up responsibility, focus on improving in every match before going to the T20 World Cup." 

Also Read : It was more about battles I won against my own self and lots of other things: Hardik

News Source : PTI

Cuttack, Jun 11 (Cricket News) As he got down to plot his return to the Indian team, Hardik Pandya would hit the bed at 9.30pm and wake up at 5am, dedicating the day's intervening period of time to win battles against his "own self" and the doubting Thomases.

The star all-rounder followed this time table strictly for four months, after which he guided an unfancied Gujarat Titans to a memorable title triumph in only their maiden IPL outing, leading the debutants from the front to earn an India call-up.

In a video posted by the BCCI, Pandya recalled the win in IPL 2022 and the rewards that followed.

"I was happy. It was more about the battles I won against my own self and a lot of other things as well. Winning the IPL, or even qualifying (for playoffs) was a big deal for me because a lot of people doubted us.

"A lot of people frowned at us before we started. A lot of people raised a lot of questions. A lot of things were said about me even before I made a comeback," Pandya said.

The 29-year-old all-rounder said that he would get up at 5 AM and sleep at 9:30 in the night for four successive months during his time away from the Indian team after the T20 World Cup.

"It was never about giving them answers. I'm just proud of the process I followed. No one knows what I went through the six months that I was off. I've gotten up at 5 in morning to make sure I train. I slept at 9:30 in the night for fourth months, so (there was) a lot of sacrifice.

"It was the battle I fought before the IPL. I have always worked hard in my life, and it has always given me the result I wanted," added Pandya.

He also said the ongoing series against South Africa is the ideal platform to get into the groove for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

"Every series or every game you play is as important as your last. So, for me, World Cup is the goal, this is the right platform to get into the rhythm and a lot of cricket is going to come back to back. Always being in the rhythm is very important.

"My role will be changed here, I won't be captain, I won't be batting higher up the order and guiding through the innings. This will be back to being the Hardik for which I am known for," Hardik said.

Coming back into international cricket after a long layoff, Hardik fitted seamlessly in the finisher's role, smashing 31 not out from just 12 balls in the first T20 against the Proteas.

In the IPL though, he had batted at No. 4 for Gujarat Titans. 

Also Read : Celeste Raack leaves Ireland camp for family reasons before South Africa series

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 11 (Sports News) Delhi girl Anahat Singh has sealed her spot in the World Junior Squash Championship in August after topping the selection trials in Chennai.

The world event will be played in Nancy, France.

Anahat beat Aishwariya Khubchandani of Maharashtra 3-0 in the finals of the selection trials held at the Indian Squash Academy in Chennai earlier this week.

The top ranked player in the U15 category in India and Asia, Anahat had won the US Junior Squash Open in December last year.

She has also won multiple international medals for India including the gold at British Junior Squash Open 2019, followed by a silver in 2020.

The two-time national champion is now preparing to play the Asian Junior Squash Championship at Pattaya from June 15-19. 

Also Read : Rahul Srivatshav P of Telangana becomes India's 74th Grandmaster

News Source : PTI

(Football news) Romelu Lukaku has had a dreadful time at Chelsea. After just one season with the London club the striker is reportedly keen on a move away from Stamford Bridge. His former club Inter Milan is said to be the likely destination but the transfer would be very difficult to pull off as Chelsea bought Lukaku for £97.5m. The transfer has been a disaster for Chelsea on and off the field. If Lukaku leaves in this transfer window, Chelsea are definitely going to lose money.

Lukaku in his own words was rescued by Inter Milan from a disastrous time at Manchester United. The Belgian enjoyed a lot of success with the Nerazzurri under manager Antonio Conte. Inter were having financial troubles because of which Conte left the club. Lukaku agreed a deal to join Chelsea and in his first interview he said that Chelsea is the only club he would've left Inter Milan for. Lukaku started the season very well but soon slowed down due to injuries among other things.

He had a few decent performances last season but was frustrated with injuries and inconsistencies among other things. Lukaku in an Italian interview said that he was not content with the situation at Chelsea and didn't like Thomas Tuchel's tactics. In the interview Lukaku said by saying that he always thought he would go to one of the best clubs in the world like Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich after Inter Milan which isn't what he said in his first interview with Chelsea.

He also talked about going back to Inter Milan one day and said multiple times how much he loves the club. The striker also said that he left the club due to theor financial crisis and had he got his desired contract a move away wouldn't even be an option. Lukaku also stated that he had a chance to join Manchester City and Juventus but rejected both times. Ever since then it has been a tough ride for Lukaku who has struggled for game time. 

Even when he has played his performances have been extremely underwhelming. Any transfer in the summer is likely to be a loan where Chelsea might have to pay a part of his wages. If Lukaku does end up staying then he will have to do a lot of work to gain Tuchel's trust again. His fitness will also have to be up to the mark. 

Also read: Contrasting reports on Zinedine Zidane becoming the new PSG manager

Cuttack, Jun 11 (Cricket News) Accidental captain Rishabh Pant will expect an improved showing from the India bowlers as he plots a comeback against a marauding South Africa in the second T20 of the five-match series here on Sunday.

Leading India for the first time ever, Pant had to swallow a bitter pill when David Miller and Rassie van der Dussen shot down an imposing 212 with utmost nonchalance to go up 1-0 in the series.

The southpaw also had a forgettable Indian Premier League where he failed to lead Delhi Capitals to the playoffs.

Seen as a future white-ball captain, Pant's stakes have suddenly come down post-IPL and that has coincided with the resurgence of Hardik Pandya.

Returning to full fitness, the pace bowling all-rounder took the IPL by storm not only by his form but by pulling off a coup as he led Gujarat Titans to the title in their debut season.

Amid the growing chorus of 'Hardik Pandya -- the next white-ball captain of India', Pant will be under scrutiny again as he masterminds a comeback.

It may still be early days for Pant the leader, but his body language never stood out and he looked under pressure on his captaincy debut. He also made a debatable decision to underbowl the IPL Purple Cap winner Yuzvendra Chahal, fresh from claiming 27 wickets for runners-up Rajasthan Royals. At Kotla, the leggie bowled only two full overs.

As for Pandya, fresh after his historic success with GT, continued from where he left in the IPL.

Pandya, who last played for India in November last year in the 2021 T20 World Cup, dazzled with the bat with a 31 not out from 12 balls to prop the total past 200.

But he failed to impress with the bowl and leaked 18 runs in his only over. The big headache for Pant would be the bowling department where he would have to make a call between Arshdeep Singh and pace gun Umran Malik.

While the batting looks in perfect shape, the new-look pace department looked flat in the series opener.

Seniormost Bhuvneshwar Kumar did not look the same and leaked runs in the death overs, while Harshal Patel too was taken to cleaners.

Youngster Avesh Khan too failed to impress though he was the most economical among the trio.

With the duo of Arshdeep and Malik trying hard to impress at the nets with their pace and accuracy it is likely that one among the duo may be well set for a debut on Saturday.

It would not be an easy task as another slip-up would mean the Pant-led side would have the difficult task of winning three in a row.

Fresh from their individual players' success in the IPL, the Proteas are finding themselves at 'home'.

In the form of his life, Miller who scored 481 runs at 68.71 in the IPL to play a key role in GT's triumph, has started in ominous fashion and looked unstoppable both against spin and pace at Kotla.

Quinton de Kock failed to convert his start but the Lucknow Super Giants batter also scored a bagful of runs (508) in the IPL and he would look to make it count here.

With Van der Dussen also striking it rich, the trio will form the batting backbone, while the likes of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje would look to stop the Indians.

Teams (from) India: Rishabh Pant (c & wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer,Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik.

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Marco Jansen.

Match starts at 7pm IST. 

Also Read : India look to level series against South Africa in Cuttack

News Source : PTI

Chennai, Jun 10 (Cricket News) R Ashwin turned up for his club team days after a gruelling IPL season and the star India spinner says he did that to get into the red ball cricket mode ahead of the rescheduled fifth Test in England beginning July 1.

The Indian Test team is likely to depart for England on June 15. It will play a warm up game Leicestershire before the Test at Edgbaston.

Ashwin chose to turn out for his club side MRC 'A' in the TNCA First Division semifinal and final just days after being part of the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL final.

"The purpose of playing these games (First Division) is to shift from 20 overs to this (red-ball) format...All these things are workload management. As you grow older, you play more and play smarter.

"I am trying to do that. I am enjoying my game. I just want to go there (England) and take it as it comes. I feel I can contribute with the bat and bowl well. I want to keep ticking on my fitness and keep working," the 35-year old spinner told reporters after leading MRC 'A' to their maiden First Division title.

Asked if he had set any targets for himself, Ashwin, who recently overtook the legendary Kapil Dev (434) to become the second highest wicket-taker for India (with 442 scalps) behind ace leg-spinner Anil Kumble (619), he said: "I have worked incredibly hard on my game. I think a lot.

"I have done all these things over the years that I feel I am in a position where I can take it as it comes. I am happy playing the kind of cricket I am playing. I do not want to think too far ahead." Ashwin, who has been keen to ensure Tamil Nadu get back to their dominant ways in the Ranji Trophy, said steps need to be taken to revive the red-ball culture in the state and wished to see the TNCA revert to the three-day or four-day format for the First Division league next year. It is now played on a two-day format.

"I would like to see the First Division go back to the days when I started playing. There was seriously good quality. I wish the TNCA pushes the game to three or four days next year.

"Only if these quality players play back to back against each other, there will be more competition for places. Tamil Nadu cricket, yes, we have done superbly well in the white-ball game.

"If we have to revive the red-ball culture, the First Division is the place where we start. I believe I am giving my 1 per cent by coming back and playing here. With our team, there has been a lot of hard work. There have been a lot of disappointments," he added.

Tamil Nadu, though successful in the white-ball formats (T20 and 50-overs) have not been able to get past the league stage in the last couple of Ranji seasons.

"If you are serious about playing good red-ball cricket, both our fast bowling and our batting against fast bowling definitely need to go up. There are no two ways about it.

"At the moment, there is intent. Our fast bowlers are struggling to find the right length and balance. We have got spin by a dozen; we can manage and all that. In the Ranji Trophy also, when spin comes into play, we come to our own. We know how to do it. Fast bowling is something that we definitely need to work on," he added. 

Also Read : IPL Media Rights: Amazon pulls out; Star, Viacom18, Sony, Zee in 4-way race

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 10 (Boxing News) Veteran Indian boxer MC Mary Kom's bid to compete at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games ended in a heartbreak here on Friday as she was forced to withdraw midway from the selection trials due to a knee injury.

The six-time world champion twisted her left knee in the first few minutes in the opening round of the 48kg semifinals against Haryana's Nitu.

Mary Kom will thus miss the quadrennial event, where she had become the first Indian woman boxer to claim a gold medal in the last edition in 2018.

"I was training so hard for this. This is just bad luck, I have never had a knee injury before," a distraught Mary Kom said as she limped towards her car to head to the hospital.

Mary Kom fell on the canvas while trying to dodge a punch in the very first round of the bout. The 39-year-old tried to keep going after receiving medical assistance but after a couple of punches, she struggled to keep balance as she clutched her left knee and looked in a lot of pain.

"Six-time world champion Mary Kom has withdrawn from the ongoing Women's Boxing Trials for the 2022 Commonwealth Games due to an injury she suffered on Friday," the the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) said in a statement.

The Manipuri had to be carried out of the ring with Nitu being announced the winner via RSCI (Referee Stops Contest due to injury).

The London Olympics bronze medallist, whose left knee was heavily bandaged after the fall, was then taken to the hospital for scans.

The multiple-time Asian gold medallist had last competed in the Tokyo Olympics, where she had reached the pre-quarters before bowing out with a hard-fought loss.

"It is really unfortunate what happened. But one can never predict such things. Mary had been training hard for this," national coach Bhaskar Bhatt told PTI.

Mary Kom, the most decorated Indian boxer, had decided to give the World Championships, that concluded last month, and the now-postponed Asian Games a miss to concentrate on the CWG.

Nitu, the two-time former youth world champion, advanced to the final of the CWG trials in the minimum weight division at the Indira Gandhi International Stadium.

The Haryana boxer, who won the gold at the prestigious Stradja Memorial tournament earlier this year on debut, will now compete against Manju Rani for a CWG spot.

Nitu, who had represented India in 48kg in the world championships, is now primed to get a CWG spot in the category.

Nikhat, Lovlina on course for CWG berth ========================= World champion Nikhat Zareen and Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain stayed on course for securing CWG spots by registering convincing win in their respective weight categories.

Nikhat (50kg) continued in her sublime form as she out-punched Anamika 7-0.

On the other hand, Lovlina (70kg), who is coming off an underwhelming world championship campaign, also notched a unanimous decision win over fellow Assamese boxer Ankushita Boro by an identical 7-0 margin.

The finals of the all four weight categories -- 48kg, 50kg, 60kg and 70kg -- will take place on Saturday.

The men's team for the quadrennial event has already been named. 


Also Read : Mary Kom withdraws from CWG trials after sustaining leg injury

News Sourxe : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 10 (Cricket News) The much-anticipated duel between Jeff Bezos and Mukesh Ambani for acquisition of one of world's costliest sporting properties won't materialise now as OTT giants Amazon on Friday pulled out of IPL media rights bidding, scheduled to start on Sunday.

Reliance Industries Limited owned Viacom18 is considered to be one of the strongest contenders both in TV and digital space.

Bezos-funded Amazon was expected to be one of the biggest bidders in digital space but pulled out of the race without revealing the reason.

"Yes, Amazon is out of the race. They didn't join the technical bidding process today. As far as Google (YouTube) is concerned, they had picked up the bid document but didn't submit it. As of now, 10 companies (TV and streaming) are in fray," a senior BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

A four-way battle -------------------- There are four specific packages in which e-auction will be conducted for 74 games per season for a five-year period from 2023-2027 with a provision of increasing the number of matches to 94 in the final two years.

The Package A has Indian sub-continent exclusive TV (broadcast) rights while Package B covers digital rights for Indian sub-continent.

The Package C is for 18 selected games in each season for digital space while Package D (all games) will be for combined TV and digital rights for overseas markets.

"Let's make it clear, the Viacom 18 JV (Joint Venture), current rights holder Walt Disney (Star), Zee and Sony are the four contenders for the packages with solid footprints in both TV and digital market," the official said.

Some of the other contenders, primarily for digital space are: Times Internet, FunAsia, Dream11, FanCode while Sky Sports (UK) and Supersport (South Africa) will be vying for overseas TV and digital rights.

The last time, Star India bought rights for both TV and digital with a composite bid of Rs 16,347.50 crore but this time the composite base price is more than Rs 32,000 crore.

All bidders will have to make separate bids for each package, this time.

As of Friday, some of the big players who are involved with the bidding process, feel that Rs 45,000 crore (USD 5.8 billion approx) is the amount that BCCI could expect which will be a two-and-a-half times increase in valuation.

PTI has prepared 'Ready Reckoner' for IPL Media Rights ------------------------------------------------------------- Q: What are the dates of media rights auction? A: It is expected to be for two days -- June 12 and 13.

Q: What is the period of IPL Media Rights? A: The period is for five years from 2023-2027.

Q: Number of matches per season? A: It is 74 with provision of going up to 94 in last 2 seasons.

Q: What is current valuation of IPL Media Rights? A: Rs 16,347.50 crore for both TV and Digital with Star India.

Q: What are the packages on offer? A: A: TV Rights for Indian sub-continent at Rs 49 crore per game.

B: Digital Rights for Indian sub-continent at Rs 33 cr per game.

C: 18-match, non-exclusive digital package at Rs 11 crore per game.

D: Overseas TV and Digital Rights at Rs 3 cr per game.

Q: What is composite base price for all packages? A: Total composite base price for all four packages is Rs 32,440 cr.

Break-up: Package A is Rs 18,130 cr (74x49x5) Package B is Rs 12,210 cr (74x33x5) Package C is Rs 990cr (18x11x5) Package D is Rs 1110cr (74x3x5) Q: Which are major companies bidding? A: There are 10 companies in fray: Viacom18 JV (Joint Venture) with Lupa Systems (Uday Shankar and James Murdoch), Walt Disney (Star), Zee, Sony (both India media and digital rights).

Times Internet, Fan Code, FunAsia, Dream11 (only digital rights).

Supersport (South Africa) and Sky Sports (UK) vying for Overseas TV and Digital rights. Q: Can one entity make a composite bid like Star did last time? A: No. Every package will be awarded to highest bidder.

For example, Facebook had presented highest digital bid for Rs 3900 crore in 2017 but Star grabbed the rights with a huge composite bid despite lower digital bid.

Q: Can one entity get two packages? A: Yes, that is possible.

Suppose, if Star has the highest bid for India TV rights (Package A) for an 'x' amount and Sony places the highest bid for India digital rights for 'y' amount, both the companies can challenge each other in a tie-breaker.

Q: Which package could see a close fight? A: Package C, which has non-exclusive rights for 18 games that include opening game, final, three play-offs and a few weekend double headers.

All major players (Viacom, Zee, Sony, Star) would like to own this digital package. If a company wins India digital rights and loses out on non-exclusive rights, then it loses out on massive revenue (advertisement plus subscriptions) for those 18 games which can be accessed at any other platforms. Companies would like to buy it to kill competition.

Q: What is the type of auction that is being held? A: Just like last time, it will be e-auction where companies can raise their bid by 50 crore at one go. E-auction is transparent but time- consuming.

Q: What is kind of money expected by the BCCI? A: The BCCI is expecting that over and above their Rs 32,440 crore composite base price, it could earn another 12,000 to 12,500 crore which may take the valuation up to Rs 45,000 crore. 

Also Read : Sri Lanka fined 40 percent of match fee for slow-over rate in second T20 against Australia

News Source : PTI

Mumbai, Jun 10 (Cricket News) Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting believes that Rishabh Pant will be "exceptionally dangerous" with on "fast and bouncy" Australian wickets during the upcoming T20 World Cup, where he could be best utilised as a floater as per match situation.

Ponting has worked closely with Pant at Delhi Capitals and rates the Indian keeper-batter very highly.

"He (Pant) is a wonderful player. An outstanding young man, who has got the world at his feet. And he'll be exceptionally dangerous for India, especially on the wickets we'll provide in Australia…. good flat, fast, bouncy wickets. He'll be one of the players to watch out (for) in the tournament (World T20) for sure,” Ponting said on 'ICC Review'.

For Ponting, Pant's batting position should be flexible as per Indian team's requirements.

"I reckon having him as a floater. I'll probably have him listed at (number) five in the (Indian) batting line-up.

"But in certain situations, where it gets to a stage, where there are seven-eight overs to go and they are one-two down, then I will look at sending him in and giving as much time as possibly can. He is that dynamic and that explosive (player) and that is certainly the way I would look at trying to use him," added Ponting, a veteran of 168 Tests.

Pant managed to score just 340 runs from 14 IPL games with an average of 30.91. And according to Ponting, Pant was frustrated with his performance in the IPL.

"He probably didn't have his best tournament (IPL). He was really frustrated with his IPL this year because he went into the tournament batting better than I've ever seen him bat before.

"And even by his own admission, he said the same thing to me, half-way through the tournament that he didn't feel he was getting results that he probably should have and that he probably deserved," Ponting signed off. 

Also Read : South Africa stun India with a stellar run chase in series opener

News Source : PTI

Coimbatore, Jun 9 (MotorSports News) Top riders from across the country will be seen in action in the MRF-MMSC-FMSCI Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship which will return to the refurbished Kari Motor Speedway here after a three-year gap for the Rolon round beginning on Friday.

Among those in the fray are Rajini Krishnan and Jagan Kumar, both multiple national title winners.

The five-round 2022 championship will see teams including TVS, Honda, KTM and Yamaha vie for honours, with the number of entries crossing the 200-mark, a press release said.

The weekend card includes the National Championship comprising four categories – Pro-Stock 301-400cc and 165cc, Novice (Stock 165cc) and Girls (Stock 165cc) – while Petronas TVS One-Make Championship (301-400cc Open, Rookie, Girls and media) and Idemitsu Honda India Talent Cup (NSF 250R, CBR 150 and Hornet 2.0) are also part of the programme. A new addition is the Stock 301-400cc category which will be run as a support race.

"It is great to be back at the Kari Motor Speedway after a three-year break due to the pandemic. We are overwhelmed by the tremendous response for the Rolon Round this weekend that should dish out high quality and exciting races," Madras Motor Sports Club president Ajit Thomas said in the release.

The two Pro-Stock categories will headline the weekend card as they boast of riders with proven credentials and international experience. Topping the line-ups are Rajini Krishnan (301-400cc, RACR Castrol Power) and Jagan Kumar (165cc, Petronas TVS Racing). Both notched their 10th National titles last season.

Similarly, Ryhana Bee, who has moved to the Pacer Yamaha team, would be the rider to beat in the girls section. She clinched the title last year, winning all five rounds.

The Novice category (under-23) boasts of a grid of 32 riders selected from 35 entrants and is expected to throw up keen competition.

While Friday is set aside for free practice and a few qualifying sessions, 20 races will be gone through over the next two days 

Also Read : The story behind Ferrari's re emergence as Formula 1 title contenders

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 9 (Cricket News) A penchant for leading by example mingles with intent and positivity to make IPL title-winning skipper Hardik Pandya a strong contender for Indian captaincy in near future, reckons spin great Harbhajan Singh.

The 28-year-old all-rounder is being tipped as a future India captain after leading unfancied Gujarat Titans to victory in their maiden season in the world's most lucrative T20 league.

"One of the biggest revelations in this year's IPL was the advent of Hardik Pandya as the skipper of the Gujarat Titans and the way he led the team from the front to win the coveted title is definitely praiseworthy.

"His intent and positive captaincy are signs that he can lead Team India in the future," Harbhajan told PTI in an interview.

It was the culmination of an extraordinary season that began with experts refusing to put their money on the franchise after questioning its purchases in the player auction.

Their flamboyant skipper, however, had other ideas as, after having surprised everyone with his precise decision-making and field placements, took three wickets and scored 34 runs against Rajasthan Royals in the final, which was attended by a crowd of over one lakh in the world's biggest cricket stadium in Motera.

As the discussion turned to Virat Kohli, the former spinner with 417 Test and 269 ODI wickets said that his slump is temporary and the batting maestro would make a resounding comeback very soon.

"Kohli is a kind of cricketer who always gives his best when he is out there in the middle. Given the quality of cricket he has delivered to us over the years, I am extremely confident that he would make a comeback soon. He has always been an achiever," stated the legendary spinner.

For the five-match T20I series against South Africa, the Indian team management is relying on a number of youngsters who have performed brilliantly in this year's IPL.

Harbhajan said this is a great opportunity for the likes of Rututaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Umran Malik and Arshdeep Singh to impress in the international arena ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in Australia in October-November.

"It's a golden opportunity for these youngsters to do something special ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup later this year. The team management has injected the young blood into the squad against South Africa this time, and they have every potential to make it big before the flagship event," he said.

Harbhajan, who became the first Indian to take a hat-trick in Tests against Australia in 2001, said he is keenly looking forward to Yuzvendra Chahal's performance against the South Africans in the T20 series.

Chahal's excellent outing in IPL-15 earned him the Purple Cap -- reserved for the tournament's highest wicket-taker.

"Yuzvendra Chahal is currently in the form of his life, thanks to his amazing show in the IPL, that earned him 27 wickets, the most by any bowler this season.

"What sets Chahal apart from the rest is how he has evolved as a top-notch spinner over the years and never compromised on the line and length, which is very important for a spinner.

"Therefore, he will definitely play a pivotal role in this T20 series against South Africa," Harbhajan said during the interview which was facilitated by Fanatic Sports, one of leading sports travel and hospitality firms.

Asked about Dinesh Karthik's incredible resurgence, Harbhajan hailed the 37-year-old veteran as a fighter, whose never-say-die-attitude has led to his comeback to the Indian side.

"Dinesh Karthik, the kind of cricketer he is, and at this stage of his career, he is just trying to prove to himself that he is still good enough to represent the Indian colours.

"His determination, attitude, and most importantly, the fact that he believes, he has still got a lot to give to the Indian cricket team, are definitely laudable and he has definitely set a precedent by doing that," Harbhajan remarked. 

Also Read : India eye world record in 1st T20I against South Africa

News Source : PTI

(Cricket news) India are back in international cricket action as they take on South Africa in a 5 match T20I series. The first match will be held at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. It will pretty much be a second string Indian side with a lot of 3 format players missing. KL Rahul was initially named as captain but an injury has ruled him out of the series. Kuldeep Yadav who was also a part of the squad was ruled out of the series after suffering an injury in the nets. India have a chance to win their 13th consecutive T20 international which will be a world record.

India's possible playing XI:

Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Yuzvendra Chahal.

Bench: Deepak Hooda, Venkatesh Iyer, Umran Malik, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi 

As of now no replacements have been named for the injured KL Rahul and Kuldeep Yadav. Gaikwad and Kishan will be the front runners for the opening spot while Venkatesh Iyer is also another option. Despite getting called up it is difficult to see Arshdeep and Malik get an opportunity straight away. The return of Pandya and Karthik will be very interesting to see. 

South Africa possible playing XI:

Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma (C), David Miller, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Tabraiz Shamsi, Anrich Nortje

Bench: Heinrich Klaasen, Lungi Ngidi, Wayne Parnell, Dwaine Pretorius, Tristan Stubbs

The conditions will mean that Lungi Ngidi will have to miss out. The choice between Dwaine Pretorius and Marco Jansen will be very difficult but the latter's superior bowling ability edges it ever so slightly. Miller and de Kock have been in incredible form throughout the IPL and the pair will be key for the Proteas. The spin duo Shamsi and Maharaj will have to play exceptionally well if their team is to win.

India are by no means full strength but it is still a very strong side filled with match winners. The men in blue will be looking for revenge after their disastrous performance in South Africa last year. Both Rahul Dravid and Rishabh Pant have emphasised that it will be difficult to give every single player an opportunity to all the players but fans will be hoping to see a few new faces. For South Africa it will be an opportunity to get the better of India in all 3 formats as they defeated India in Tests and ODIs earlier this year. 

Also read: Mithali Raj retires and leaves behind an unparalleled legacy

New Delhi, Jun 8 (Cricket News) Handed the leadership of the Indian team just a day before the five-match T20I series against South Africa, newly appointed captain Rishabh Pant said he will be taking up the responsibility with his chin up.

Pant, who was the designated vice-captain for the home series against South Africa, was handed the captaincy after skipper KL Rahul was ruled out a day before the first game due to a right groin injury. Regular skipper Rohit Sharma is being rested for the series.

"It’s a very good feeling although it didn’t come in good circumstances. The news just came in for me as well an hour back so I’m also processing it,” Pant said on the eve of the first match.

"I haven’t even digested the information yet. It is a great feeling getting this opportunity, especially in my hometown,” the Delhi cricketer said.

Pant has led the IPL side Delhi Capitals for two seasons. In the just-concluded edition of the league, Pant experimented with his batting position.

Asked if he will continue shuffling his batting order, he said, “My batting order will depend on the conditions. In these conditions, we can't have a floating batting line because we play spinners day in and day out.

“But if we need a floating batting line up we will have it,“ he added.

“As a captain, it will help me a lot. When you keep doing the same things over a period of time you tend to improve and keep learning from it and I think that will help me." The 24-year-old feels the DC captaincy stint in the IPL will help him in the series against South Africa.

“Captaining DC will help me a lot. I'm someone who learns from mistakes." Left-arm pinner Kuldeep Yadav has also been ruled out after he was hit on his right hand while batting in the nets on Tuesday.

“Not much will change in the batting order as KL was to open. There will be one change. We don’t have a lot of openers so you can guess what that will be.” With the T20 World Cup in mind, Pant said a lot of changes can be expected in the Indian side.

“As a team, we have thought about certain goals that we want to achieve as a team. We are continuously working on them. We are thinking about the World Cup. In the coming days, you’ll see a lot of changes." The youngster is delighted to be working with head coach Rahul Dravid closely once again.

"It’s is the best thing to have him around. I have worked with him during the U-19 days, with India and the IPL also. So there is a lot of experience there. Lots of learning from him like how to conduct yourself on and off the field, game tactics.” 

Also Read : Nortje is a big player for us, we expect him to perform accordingly: Bavuma

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 8 (Cricket News) South Africa white-ball skipper Temba Bavuma on Wednesday backed pacer Anrich Nortje to play a major role in the T20 International series against India despite an underwhelming Indian Premier League stint.

Nortje was out of international action since the T20 World Cup last year due to a hip injury. The express pacer turned out in the IPL for Delhi Capitals after missing the initial few games. However, he was far from his best.

“Anrich is a big player for us, an integral part of the bowling unit. When he joined the IPL he had come off a huge layoff due to injury,” Bavuma said on the eve of the first T20I against India here.

“But the more he plays, the closer he will get to the levels he is capable of. He is an important member of the team and we expect him to perform accordingly,” he added.

The last time the two sides met, hosts South Africa won five out of the six matches during the tour comprising three Tests and as many ODIs earlier this year.

However, Bavuma and Co. will face a different-looking, younger Indian side.

“It's an exciting series. We faced an Indian team recently but this is a different-looking side. There are a lot of younger fresher faces. Guys who would like to prove themselves and stake a claim to positions within the Indian team.

“They won't be short of any motivation. We are not thinking things will happen the same way as they did in SA." With temperature rising above 43 degrees in Delhi, the South African skipper conceded dealing with the heat has been challenging for his team.

“We expected it to be hot, not this hot. Fortunately, the games are being played in the evening. At night, it is more bearable. The guys are trying to keep themselves hydrated. Keeping themselves as mentally fresh as they can.

"(The hardest thing) has been coping with the heat. It is not something we are used to back home. Hydration, cramping, and fatigue are big things. We can only get used to it by playing in this heat," the visiting captain said.

“And unfortunately for us, we are doing it in competitive cricket.” The Indian team has strengthened its pace bowling unit over the years and is now no longer reliant on its spinners to do the job.

Asked if this changes how South Africa prepares for a series against India, Bavuma said: “The Indian bowling attack covers all bases. They cover the quicks and the spin. In terms of preparation, the focus has not just been only on spin but pacers as well.” South Africa have been in the city since last week, giving them a chance to familiarise themselves with the pitch. And Bavuma feels the track will assist the batters.

“We played a practice game. We played on a side wicket. It was a bit lower than what we are used to back home. It didn't really spin as much, looked better to bat on as the night went on.” The skipper reiterated the Proteas' aim to further make their batting solid, heading to the World Cup.

"Within our batting line up, that (batting) is an area we'd like to get solidity in. Quinton and myself at the top, in the middle order, the guys are quite settled. “Tristan Stubbs will get an opportunity somewhere along the line. In the games we play till the World Cup, we'll give the guys opportunity so that we get the consistency within that batting lineup.” 

Also Read : Sharma, Saurabh script historic win for UP vs Karnataka

News Source : PTI

(Cricket news) England’s two-pronged Ashes attack got off to a dream start in the International Commonwealth Bank Series, with a clean sweep in three T20s for the Learning Disability and Deaf XIs in Brisbane. The LD lads were particularly pleased with their day’s work on a sluggish, tacky surface which offered plenty to keep the bowlers interested.

Chris Edwards’ LD charges won back-to-back encounters by impressive margins of 27 runs and seven wickets, while the Deaf XI – captained for the first time by George Greenway – held their nerve to chase 92 with five wickets and two overs to spare. It was a day full of positives. England excelled in all three disciplines across both teams and looked fresh and particularly sharp in the field. It was certainly an occasion to remember for Jack Perry.

The LD opener posted his first international half-century in his side’s second game to help anchor a chase of 121, with support from the excellent Dan Bowser, who finished unbeaten on 39 (following 40 first up). Perry’s 60 from 34 balls – top score of the day – was doubly sweet, given his recent return to fitness following a blood clot at the start of the year – and the fact that he began his day’s work with a duck, chopping on to his stumps. “It was nice to make up for that,” he said. “We probably had the better of the conditions chasing second time around – it was coming on pretty nicely by the end, though the occasional one stayed a bit low.”

England LD’s 116-6 first up in the opening match was significantly boosted by some lusty blows in Tayler Young’s 14-ball 29, which included 18 off the final over. Miserly opening bowling from Kieron McKinney (1-4) and Alex Jervis set the tone as the hosts found the going tough.
Aussie opener Joel Corbett – dismissed for 43 in both games – was the key wicket, and once he fell to Young at 66-5, Australia subsided to 89 all out. Four runouts were indicative of England’s squeeze with the ball. With the confidence of victory first up, Perry and company eased to a second win at the beginning of the 18th over, having restricted Australia to 121-7 (Martin Henderson impressing with 3-18).

On the other pitch, some miserly bowling from the Deaf attack on a taxing surface made it impossible for Australia to accelerate. Stephen George (2-16) was arguably the pick of a fine all-round display as the hosts struggled to 91-6. Though Josh Price went early, an aggressive cameo from Greenway (12) got England moving, and steady hands from the veteran Mike O’Mahony (21 off 32) and Stephen George (15 from 24) kept the scoreboard ticking over. It was left to Joel Harris and Henry Wainman to see England home, a result which thrilled Greenway.

“It wasn’t easy to play on that wicket, so I’m delighted,” he said. “We did a lot of work in the training camps on line and length, bowling stump to stump and we executed that perfectly today. I’m very proud of all the boys – and it was great to see experienced lads like Stephen and Mike helping the younger ones out by keeping that run rate down.”

Also read: Former Indian Captain Mithali Raj retires from international cricket

(Cricket news) The men in blue will be back in international action as they take on South Africa in a 5 match T20I series. It is pretty much a 2nd fiddle Indian team as majority of the 3 format players have been rested. The series could see a few new and some returning faces introduced for India as it is right after the IPL. The 5 T20Is will be played at Delhi, Cuttack, Vizag, Rajkot and Benguluru. India have won 12 consecutive T20I matches and they will break the World record if they win the next one in Delhi.

India's ideal playing XI:

Openers: KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan 

A lot of questions have been asked about KL Rahul's intent and strike rate while batting. He has to answer those questions and being the captain he will definitely play. The Indian management has put their trust in Ishan Kishan and they're unlikely to change things in this series. Ruturaj Gaikwad who has been very unlucky with the lack of opportunities is the other option. There is a chance that all 3 of them will be in the side with Ishan sliding down at number 3.

Middle order: Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik

Shreyas Iyer is the ideal option at number 3 in absence of Virat Kohli. Iyer didn't have a particularly good IPL season but he had an incredible T20I series against Sri Lanka before that. Vice captain Rishabh Pant will be keen to perform well after a lackluster IPL. Dinesh Karthik is back in the squad and is likely to be inserted straight back into the XI. Rahul Dravid has already confirmed that Karthik will play a finisher's role which means that his batting position will depend on the situation. Pant and Karthik are equally capable of donning the gloves but the deputy skipper is more likely to do it. This Indian team has as many as 4 wicket keeping options which isn't normal in any sense. Deepak Hooda and Venkatesh Iyer are the two other options both of whom are bowling options as well but these 3 are likely to play.

All-rounders: Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya is back in the squad which is incredible news as he has been in incredible form throughout the IPL. It solves the whole 6th bowling option problem perfectly. Pandya's batting position will be under the scanner as he has batted at number 3 and number 4 for Gujarat Titans. Axar Patel had a good season with the ball but he was even better with the willow. In absence of Ravindra Jadeja he is the obvious choice as the spin bowling all-rounder. Deepak Hooda and Venkatesh are other all-round options. There is a chance that Axar Patel is dropped in favour of Venkatesh Iyer to go with the bowling combination of 2 seamers, 2 wrist spinners along with Pandya and Iyer. 

Seam bowlers: Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan

Even though debutants Arshdeep Singh and Umran Malik have got a call-up, these three have been in the mix for much longer. With Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, it gives more opportunities for the other quicks to try and showcase their skills. The likelihood is that Rahul Dravid will try out all 5 of his fast bowling options throughout the series with different combinations but he should start with Harshal, Bhuvneshwar and Avesh in the 1st match.

Spinner: Yuzvendra Chahal

The IPL purple cap winner does have a stiff combination from Ravi Bishnoi and Kuldeep Yadav. Having said that, Chahal is almost undroppable at this moment in time. His performance in the IPL has just further cemented his place in the Indian side. The return of Hardik Pandya does give a chance for two wrist spinners to be in the team although Axar Patel's presence does make it very unlikely.

Bench: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda, Venkatesh Iyer, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik 

Also read: AS Roma line up a move for out of contract Isco

New Delhi, Jun 8 (Cricket News) Zeroing in on a core group for the upcoming T20 World Cup will be India’s main endeavour as they audition a bunch of players, both old and new, in the five-match T20 International series against a strong South African side, starting here on Thursday.

The Men in Blue are on a 12-match winning streak and come Thursday, they can create an all-time record of winning 13 T20I games in a row.

However for head coach Rahul Dravid, the primary aim over the next 10 days will be to narrow down on a core group of players going into the World Cup in October.

And he couldn't have hoped for a better opposition than a gritty South African side which has seen its stock rise recently.

With likes of skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli rested for the series, stand in captain KL Rahul is a certainty at the top but it would be a tough choice between Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan as his opening partner.

Both are coming off underwhelming IPL seasons and it could well be a case where both are given a go at the top to see who fares better.

India currently face a problem of plenty.

Shreyas Iyer, was terrific at No. 3 against Sri Lanka in February, could hold on to the spot, in the absence of the injured Suryakumar Yadav. But Deepak Hooda, who has been in fine form, could also be given a chance since his impressed batting in the same position for Lucknow Super Giants.

The mercurial Rishabh Pant and comeback man Dinesh Karthik form an explosive middle order.

While Pant will be keen to rediscover his touch, it is to be seen if Karthik, who dazzled in the role of a finisher for RCB, can replicate his IPL form with the national side and stay in contention for a World Cup spot if given a chance.

If Hooda, Karthik and Venkatesh Iyer perform well, it would give the management an opportunity to play around with the line up during the World Cup.

Hardik Pandya is likely to resume his duties as the finisher despite a splendid run batting at No. 3 and 4 in the IPL.

"Without giving too much away sometimes, the role that you play for your franchise matches with the role that you play for India, but sometimes you have to play slightly different roles for different teams," Dravid said in the lead up to the series opener.

The seasoned Bhuvneshwar Kumar will spearhead the pace attack alongside death overs specialist Harshal Patel and would hope to prove their prowess given that only Jasprit Bumrah is a sure pick for the World Cup among the fast bowlers.

Avesh Khan is likely to fill in the third pacer’s spot but if he falters, Arshdeep Singh, who impressed in the IPL with his ability to bowl yorkers, could be handed a debut over fellow rookie Umran Malik.

However, Dravid has made it clear that it will be difficult to provide game time to all the available payers.

The wrist spin duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav return to the side after for the first time since 2019. Both players have reinvented themselves and have been rewarded for a superb IPL season.

With the injured Ravindra Jadeja expected to be a sure-shot selection for the World Cup and Chahal unlikely to miss out, Ravi Bishnoi, Axar Patel and Kuldeep will have to make a strong case for themselves.

South Africa have not lost a white-ball series in India since 2010. The Proteas have come with their best possible side.

For the visitors, a rejuvenated David Miller with his pyrotechnics will hold the key along with the flamboyant Quinton de Kock and Aiden Makram.

In the bowling department, the onus will be on spin twins Tabrez Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj and the pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje.

The South African T20 side will be playing together for the first time since the World Cup last year and skipper Temba Bavuma said the Proteas will also be looking to identify players for specific roles for the Australia edition.

Teams (From): KL Rahul (C), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wk),Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik.

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (C), Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Marco Jansen.

Match starts 7pm IST. 

Also Read : Umran might have to wait for his debut, hints Dravid

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 7 (Cricket News) India head coach Rahul Dravid has always maintained that he likes continuity and gave clear hints on Tuesday that pace sensation Umran Malik might have to wait for his turn.

Dravid was speaking ahead of the first of five-match T20 International series between India and South Africa here on Thursday.

"We just have to see how much playing time we will be able to give him. We have a big squad, not possible to have everyone in the playing XI," Dravid was categorical when asked about the 'Jammu Express'.

"I am someone who likes consistency and give people time to settle in. Arshadeep has also done well, who is also an exciting player, who bowls well.

"We have a little bit of experienced guys in Harshal, Buvi and Avesh, who played in the last series. It is exciting to have the young guys as well, it helps us broaden our pool and see what they can do," he said.

The coach, though, had words of praise for Umran and wants to see him more in Test cricket.

"He is exciting, certainly bowls quick and has pace. Another exciting thing in the IPL for me was to see the Indian players bowl really fast. The more he plays the better he gets. Very happy to have him in the mix," he said.

"As a coach I would love to see it translate to the longer format of the game," the purist in him said. 

Also Read : Success of Indian captains in IPL augurs well for national team: Dravid

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 7 (Shooting News) Tokyo Paralympics champion Avani Lekhara won gold at the Para Shooting World Cup with a world record score of 250.6 in women's 10m air rifle standing SH1 in Chateauroux, France on Tuesday.

The 20-year-old shooter broke her own world record of 249.6 to secure her a spot at the 2024 Paris Paralympics.

Poland's Emilia Babska bagged the silver medal with a total of 247.6, while the bronze went to Anna Normann of Sweden after she shot 225.6.

SH1 category is for athletes with lower limb impairment for competition in rifle events.

Lekhara bagged the top prize three days after being on the verge of missing the tournament as her coach and escort were initially denied visas.

However, the issue was resolved after intervention of the Sports Authority of India and Sports Ministry.

"Proud to bring home the gold in the R2 10M Air Rifle SH1 event with a WR score & India's 1st Paris2024 Quota, at the Chateauroux2022. My 1st Int. event since the @paralympics. A big thank you to everyone who has supported me!" she tweeted.

"Avani Lekhara, the new WorldRecord holder in the R2 - women's 10m air rifle standing SH1. The Indian shooter just crushed the former record (249.6) by scoring 250.6 in the Chateauroux2022 World Cup, in France!" Shooting Para Sport wrote on its Twitter handle.

In August last year, Lekhara bagged a gold in the 10m air rifle standing event in the SH1 category at the Tokyo Paralympics. She followed it up with a bronze in the women's 50m rifle 3 positions SH1 event, making her the first Indian woman to win multiple medals at the Paralympics. 

Also Read : Swapnil-Ashi win 50m rifle 3P mixed gold, India end Baku WC on 2nd spot

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 7 (Cricket News) Success of Indian players as captains in a tournament like IPL will eventually benefit the national team since leadership role helps in accelerating the growth of cricketers, Head coach Rahul Dravid said on Tuesday.

Hardik Pandya led Gujarat Titans to title in its maiden season while KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, and Sanju Samson too did a commendable job while leading their respective franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Rahul led new entrants Lucknow Super Giants to the playoffs in their maiden season and Samson impressed with his captaincy as he took Rajasthan Royals to a runners-up finish this season.

"It is great that we have a lot of Indian captains doing well. Hardik was one of them. Brilliant. KL did a good job at LSG and Sanju in RR. Shreyas in KKR," Dravid said at a press conference.

"It is really great to see the young batters leading the team. It helps people grow and develop as players, having to lead teams to make the decisions. It helps you grow as a person and as a player.

"It is great from our perspective that the younger Indian players are leading well in the IPL," he added.

India are set to lock horns with South Africa in a five-match T20 series starting here on Thursday.

Several new faces have been named in the Indian squad while the series is also set to feature Pandya and Dinesh Karthik, who make a comeback after stellar IPL campaigns.

Pandya, who struggled with a back and was dropped from the team after team's disappointing group-round exit from the T20 World Cup last year, returned to competitive cricket in the IPL.

He played a key role in Titans' success, contributing with the bat and the ball, something that the Indian team had missed desperately during the World Cup last year.

"It is really pleasing to have him back. Hardik at his best is a fantastic cricketer with both bat and ball. He's been very successful in white-ball cricket and has shown some really good form in this IPL as well," Dravid said.

The former Indian cricketer was impressed by the Baroda player's captaincy skills, adding that they are working at utilising Pandya's full potential for India.

"His leadership was very impressive in the IPL and he performed well. You don't have to be designated as a leader to be part of the leadership group.

"At this point of time from our perspective it is a positive that he has started bowling again. It is really about ensuring that we can get the best out of him as a cricketer in terms of contributions. 

Also Read : Parkar hits double ton on debut as Mumbai declare at 647/8 against Uttarakhand

News Sourcee : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 7 (Cricket News) The intensity is still the same as it was more than a decade ago, when he made his debut, but what has changed for David Miller is his ability to "understand the game a lot better" and handle pressure with consummate ease.

Miller is enjoying every bit of his new-found star status after playing a pivotal role in Gujarat Titans' IPL triumph with 481 runs. More importantly, he won at least four games in a finisher's role.

"Scoring the amount of runs I did, closing out couple of games is something I looked forward to before the start of IPL. Batting in the middle order, you do want to finish off games. So it was nice to tick that box," Miller said on the eve of South Africa's five-match T20I series against India.

In the past, the lack of consistency has been Miller's bane despite his voluminous talent, but he feels that he hasn't tweaked his game much. But it's the understanding that has made the difference.

"I wouldn't say I have done anything different. Being around long time now, one grows and matures in role I play for so many years, I understand my game a lot better," he said.

"I still get nervous and go through negative thoughts but I can deal with that pressure a lot better. Understanding my game better in what I need to do has helped," he explained.

With five matches left to complete 100 games for South Africa in the shortest format, Miller feels that he brings in calmness in the change-room.

"For me, I see myself trying to create that calmness in the change room, trying to just clarify a few things with younger guys to what they need to do better.

"Really enjoyable to be giving advice but along with that you are always developing as player and also learning from youngsters about their mindset, how they approach the game," Miller added.

His IPL performance won't put any extra pressure on him.

"Not any extra pressure or weight on my shoulders. Every international game that I have played whether as senior or junior, there has always been a sense of pressure. So I don't think it changes. Just that with experience I deal with it a lot of better." The short vacation to Maldives also helped a lot.

"It's been pretty hard with so many games of IPL but I have been working quite hard on physical side of things. I feel fresh and good to go after a two-day break in Maldives. Pretty good for mind," he concluded. 

Also Read : Women's ODI Rankings: Mithali maintains 7th spot; Mandhana remains at 9th

News Source : PTI

Kolkata, Jun 7 (Football News) Skipper Sunil Chhetri will get a chance to bolster his tally of 80 international goals as the Indian team gears up to steamroll 171st ranked Cambodia on Wednesday in its bid to make a fifth appearance in AFC Cup tournament proper.

Cristiano Ronaldo (117 goals from 188 games), Lionel Messi (86 from 162 games) have been on a scoring spree and no wonder at his level, the Indian talisman would like to ride the roughshod over Cambodia, Afghanistan (150th) and Hong Kong (147th).

While no one is comparing the international levels at which they operate, briefly surpassing Lionel Messi won't be a bad feeling for the 37-year-old.

With the next Asian Cup slated in late 2023 or early 2024 after the pull-out of China, Chhetri, who will complete 17 years' in International football, might see this tournament as the 'final frontier' in his illustrious career.

"I want to qualify. If I'm not there, my country will be there. So either I'll be having a beer and watching Udanta sprint, or you having a beer and I'll be sprinting there. But we want to be there," Chhetri made his intention clear ahead of his 126th International appearance.

This is a tournament which gives India the best chance to qualify for the Continental trophy without much fuss but if there is a slip-up against lowly-ranked nation, Chhetri or coach Igor Stimac will have little room for justification.

The Blue Tigers under Stimac did not have a perfect build-up to the continental showpiece, having lost all their three International friendlies arranged in the lead-up to the qualifiers.

In between they endured a shameful 1-2 defeat against Indian Super League side ATK Mohun Bagan, won 2-1 against I-League All Stars and were held to a 1-1 draw against Bengal, the Santosh Trophy runners-up of the season.

It's more than seven months since they won a match at International level -- a 3-0 win against Nepal in the SAFF Championship final on October 16, 2021.

The recent results have proved to be a setback for the Stimac-coached side, which put up some gritty shows in the World Cup Qualifiers against Asian heavyweights Qatar (goalless draw) and Oman (1-2 loss after leading till 81st minute).

Up against an 'unknown entity' in Cambodia, Chhetri conceded that half the battle will be lost if they don't do well against the minnows.

"We are playing them first. If we don't do well against Cambodia, you have lost half your battle," he pointed out.

"As of now, we are just thinking about Cambodia, watching as many videos as possible of them. Once we are done (with them), then we think about Afghanistan. No doubt, Afghanistan are also strong." Compared to Indian build-up, the 'Angkor Warriors', who have qualified for the Asian Cup only once 50 years back in 1972, come here with a 2-1 win over Timor-Leste in a home friendly.

With their Japanese tactician duo of Ryu Hirose and Keisuke Honda at their helm of coaching affairs, the Cambodians will look to surprise the home-backed Indians.

From an Indian point of view, the biggest setback for Stimac in the recent past has been the injury to striker Rahim Ali, who started forming a strong attacking force with the livewire Chhetri.

Just when he started to fill in the vacuum created by Jeje Lalpekhula, Ali is forced out with a muscle injury as Stimac is forced to look for an alternate combination with little success.

Fresh from his hat-trick in the AFC Cup, in-form Liston Colaco, Manvir Singh and Udanta Singh can give some options but it's difficult to match Ali's ball control and precise passing.

It remains to be seen how Chhetri approaches this problem as they look to make it to the continental championship for the fifth time.

As for the defence, Sandesh Jhingan's match fitness would be under scanner as he along with Subhasish Bose will form the backbone of the team that has in the recent past drawn some criticism for conceding late goals.

Back to playing at home turf after almost three years, the biggest plus for India would be the strong home support.

Overnight the response has multiplied after Chhetri expressed shock and dismay that Kolkata generated a cold response for India's matches as estimated by the AIFF.

Estimating a low "response of no more than 5,000", the AIFF decided to distribute all tickets "complimentary" which would mean that they would not have to shell out hefty hosting fees (to the tune of Rs 16 lakh per match).

"Let the three teams that are going to play against us, play against us plus you, because that will be a massive difference," Chhetri once again urged the fans in a post in the social media, as the match is all set for an overwhelming response.

Eleven slots -- six group toppers and five best runners-up -- are up for grabs for the 24-team Asian Cup Finals.

Afghanistan will kick off the group D Asian Cup against Hong Kong in a 4.30 pm match followed by India's at 8.30pm. 

Also Read : World champions France draw against Croatia at the UEFA Nations League

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 6 (Cricket News) Preparing for the upcoming T20 series against India, South African all-rounder Dwaine Pretorius on Monday said he would like to inculcate the legendary MS Dhoni's calmness and self-belief.

The South African made his IPL debut for Chennai Super Kings this year after joining the franchise for a base price of Rs 50 lakh.

Pretorius played just six matches, scoring 44 runs and claiming six wickets with best bowling figures of 2 for 30.

The limited opportunities notwithstanding, Pretorius said playing alongside Dhoni has been his biggest gain.

"Playing my first IPL was a great experience. It was one of my bucket list items and that too to get the opportunity to play for CSK, one of the most successful franchises. I enjoyed every moment of it. You get a lot of responsibility as a player.

"I really enjoyed playing under Dhoni as well and batting with him, seeing the brand value he has in India just shows how big he is and what he has done for the sport in this country. It was awesome being a part of that," the 33-year-old said.

"The biggest thing that I have learnt from him is how calm he is at the crease, the way he takes the pressure off himself and tries to put it on to the bowler.

"He made me realise that at the death it's actually the bowlers who are under pressure. It was a fresh mindset and also he doesn't get too excited and is always optimistic.

"He believes he can do anything and I am going to try to bring his calmness and self-belief into my game," Pretorius added.

Asked about the series against India, Pretorius said it is a great opportunity for some South African players to cement their places in the national team ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in Australia. It would also be great to know (the strengths and weakness) of the Indian team going into the World Cup.

"A strong performance in this series is key for players keeping the T20 World Cup in mind. India is a strong T20 side and if we do well in this series, we can consider ourselves as strong contender," he said.

"Performances in this series is going to go far to secure a spot in the World Cup.

Pretorius is targeting the series to establish himself as one of the best all-rounders in world cricket.

"You test yourself as a player against some of the best T20 players of the world. Personally, I want to push myself and make a good impact for the team. From a personal note, I want to win the series going into the World Cup.

"I want to establish myself as a leading T20 all-rounder in this series going into the T20 World Cup," he said.

The ICC T20 World Cup will be hosted by Australia from October 16 to November 13.

The five-match T20 series between India and South Africa starts here on Thursday, followed by matches in Cuttack (June 12), Visakhapatnam (June 14), Rajkot (June 17) and Bengaluru (June 19). 

Also Read : Debutant Parkar's ton floors Uttarakhand, takes Mumbai to 304/3

News Source : PTI

Dubai, Jun 6 (Cricket News) The Emirates Cricket Board will conduct the inaugural International League T20 from January 6 to February 12, 2023, with three IPL franchises owning outfits in the six-team league.

Out of the six franchises, five are Indian companies including Reliance Industries which owns Mumbai Indians, Shah Rukh Khan's Knight Riders Group, Delhi Capitals co-owners GMR, Adani Sportsline and Capri Global apart from Lancer Capitals, a company belonging to Manchester United owners Glazer family.

Emirates Cricket Board chairman Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan said: "Emirates Cricket Board is delighted to welcome Reliance Industries, Kolkata Knight Riders, Capri Global, GMR, Lancer Capital, Adani Sportsline, broadcaster ZEE and all other stake-holders to the newly established T20 League of UAE.

"Such illustrious, experienced names and entities as partners bodes well for the UAE T20 League. Through the commitment of these partners they have demonstrated confidence in the Emirates Cricket Board as we take the game into the future," the ECB chairman added.

The tournament will also provide a valuable platform for Emirates Cricket to take their local talent to a higher level. 

Also Read : England start new era with a 5 wicket win over New Zealand at Lords

News Source : PTI

Newcastle (England), Jun 6 (Golf News) Viraj Madappa continued his rich vein of form with a tied sixth finish at the USD 2million International Series England.

The Indian youngster, who has one win on the Asian Tour, had for a good part of the week contended for the title, before a triple bogey on third day pushed him and he carded an even par 71 on Sunday.

His rounds of 68-70-70-71 saw him at 5-under for the week as Zimbabwean Scott Vincent won a title for the second week in a row.

A week after winning the Gate Way to the Open Mizuno Open in Japan to secure a place in the 150th Open, Vincent won the International Series after a battle with Travis Smyth (68), Sadom Kaewkanjana (69) and Justin Harding (69), who finished behind him in that order.

Last year's Asian Tour No. 1 Kim Joohyung (72) was fifth and Madappa alongside Sihwan Kim (67) and Turk Petit (70) was tied sixth.

Madappa was the highest placed Indian while Gaganjeet Bhullar (72) was T-23 and SSP Chawrasia (70) was T-30th.

Shiv Kapur (73), who had a great start in first two rounds, (73) was T-36 and Ajeetesh Sandhu (70) was T-44 and S Chikkarangappa (73) was T-49th. Karandeep Kochhar (77) finished 64th and Jeev Milkha Singh (75) was T-68th.

Madappa, who at one stage in the week even had the lead, had three birdies and three bogeys in his 71.

For the 30-year-old Vincent it was his maiden Asian Tour triumph. “This is the tour I started on, so obviously it’s nice to get the first win out here. It has felt like a long time but my game is trending in a good direction.” The International Series England also saw five golfers earning their spots at next week's USD 25 million LIV Invitational Series at Centurion Club.

Smyth and Viraj Madappa from India both claimed a berth as the two highest-finishers from the Slaley Hall event who were not otherwise exempt.

South African Ian Snyman, Kevin Yuan from Australia and Thailand's Itthipat Buranatanyarat will be joining them, having qualified from the cumulative International Series Order of Merit. 

Also Read : Madappa in Top-10 despite triple bogey, Bhullar moves up

News Source : PTI

(Tennis news) World number 1 Iga Swiatek secured her second Roland Garros title in three years with a 6-1 6-3 win over Coco Gauff in an hour and eight minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier. Having taken over the top spot in WTA rankings following Ashleigh Barty’s shock retirement, Swiatek has been in unstoppable form, matching Venus Williams’ 35 game winning streak, becoming the ninth woman to win multiple Roland Garros titles in the Open era and becoming the fifth No 1 seed to win the French Open in 25 years.

Upon receiving the Suzanne-Lenglen cup, Swiatek said: "First I want to congratulate you [Gauff] because you are doing an amazing job. You are progressing all the time. You will find it and you will be there, I am pretty sure of that. I want to thank my team, you guys, I mean, oh my god, without you I wouldn't be here, I'm sure of that. I'm glad every piece has come together and we can do this. We deserve to be here. Thanks for your full support all the time no matter what. Also to my Dad, I wouldn't be here without him, so I have to thank him for everything. Everyone who is in my box, thank you all." 

The Polish tennis player also extended her support for Ukraine by saying “I would like to say something about Ukraine. Stay strong, the war is still there. Since my first speech in Doha [in February] basically I was hoping when I am doing the next one the situation will be better. But I still have hopes and try to support so thank you guys.” The 21 year old has been seen with a ribbon in Ukrainian colours pinned on her cap throughout the tournament and was watched over by Polish football player Robert Lewandowski as she lifted her title.

Swiatek raced through the opening set against Gauff as the 18 year old made a nervous start with a double fault in the opening game. However, the American saved four breakpoints in her next service game and finally began to give Swiatek a run for her money. Despite her best efforts, Gauff simply couldn’t keep up against her Polish opponent and eventually succumbed to a straight set defeat at the hands of Swiatek. In the post match interview, a tearful Gauff said “Congratulations Iga, what you have done these past few months has been amazing. Hopefully we can play many finals and I can get a win on you one of these days. I'd like to thank my team. I'm sorry I wasn't able to get this one today." 

Also read: Rafael Nadal wins 14th Roland Garros and 22nd Grand Slam title

(Football news) Former Manchester United star Nemanja Matic has come to an agreement over a contract worth €6 million a year with Jose Mourinho’s AS Roma. The Serbian is likely to sign a contract for one season with the option of another year. The midfielder will be playing under Jose Mourinho for the third time in his career as he has accompanied him to Chelsea, Manchester United and now AS Roma.

In football it is quite rare to see a manager have so much trust in a player and take them along wherever they go. Harry Redknapp is particularly known for this when he expressed his love for Niko Kranjcar who he had signed multiple times. Jose Mourinho has been successful with this tactic since he signed for Chelsea in 2004, as he brought in a few of his trusted players from FC Porto and particularly maintained his trust in Ricardo Carvalho when  he signed the defender for Real Madrid and Chelsea. There could be a similar move on the cards, as Mourinho could be on course to bringing Nemanja Matic to the capital city.

Nemanja Matic is all set to be reunited with Mourinho for the third time, as the midfielder bid adieu to the Manchester United fans this season. Many Premier League clubs were interested in the Serbian, but he is likely to move out of England, with Italy looking like his probable destination. Roma along with Juventus have been eying a move for the central. However, playing under Mourinho again has seemingly enticed Matic towards joining the Italian capital club rather than move to Turin. Mourinho has been silent about the Matic links although recent personal terms between the club and the player have been agreed. Roma have made an offer of €6 million per year to the midfielder which he reportedly has accepted 

The Serbian will most likely accept the offer, which is only for one season, but it has an option of  extending it by another year. For the 33 year old, it may be his last major contract before he retires. While it is a big investment in terms of salary for Roma, they can accommodate the wages since Henrikh Mkhitaryan joined Inter. He was signed by Manchester United for £40 million from Chelsea to play under Mourinho after impressing the manager during his second stint with them. The veteran Serb is now set to link up with the ‘Special One’ and hopefully get regular first time football.

Also read: Rasmus Kristensen is set to join Leeds United for a fee of 10million

Bengaluru, Jun 5 (Cricket News) Their most decorated player, Wriddhiman Saha, may have left the team in the lurch owing to his personal grudge against the establishment, but the Abhimanyu Easwaran-led Bengal will still start as favourites against Jharkhand with their pace troika ready to let it rip in their Ranji Trophy quarter-final, starting from Monday.

The trio of Mukesh Kumar (15 wickets), Ishan Porel (14 wickets) and Akash Deep (10 wickets) has been the most prolific pace attack in the country and with a cumulative count of 39 wickets among the 58 that Bengal got this season, they will come all guns blazing at the Jharkhand line-up, which has shown firepower during the league stages.

However, the likes of Kumar Deobrat, Kumar Kushagra, Virat Singh will like to forget their overwhelming near 900-run innings score against Nagaland, which was their pre-quarter-final at the Eden Gardens.

It will be a very different fight against one of the best domestic bowling attacks in the country along with the gutsy spin-bowling all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed (8 wickets) for company.

When a senior player puts self above team ---------------------------------------------- Out of the Indian Test team as the new management doesn't want a 37-year-old second keeper, an upset Wriddhiman had cited "personal reasons" for not playing in the league stages, where the team found a new star in 19-year-old Abhishek Porel.

However, after doing a star turn for Gujarat Titans in the IPL, the India discard demanded a public apology from state body office-bearer Debabrata Das for allegedly insulting him.

Subsequently, he decided to not play one of the most important matches of the season for the state team, which made him the cricketer that he is today.

In this backdrop, the Bengal side, without arguably its No. 1 player with 40-Test experience, is sure to feel let down but will be determined to prove a point that it has long back adapted to life without an India "star".

"We would have liked him as he is a big player but if someone is so unwilling to play, his wish should be respected. If someone isn't interested, then forcing that person to play is often detrimental to a side's interest," a member of the team management told PTI ahead of the match.

Bengal fretting about No. 3 and No. 8 positions --------------------------------------------------- With the Just Cricket Academy ground producing a proper "five-day" wicket, Bengal coach Saurasish Lahiri pointed out that a couple of slots are up for grabs.

For the No. 3 spot, it will be a toss-up between two stodgy left-handers with good defensive game -- the diminutive Abhishek Raman and the lanky Sudip Chatterjee.

"It's a tough call as both are quality players," Lahiri said.

The other position up for grab is the all-rounder's slot where Sayan Sekhar Mondal, with his hard-hitting batting and good seam-up stuff at close to 130 clicks, is considered a better bet than Writtick Chatterjee, who bowls off-spin and also have a double hundred in first-class cricket.

What will be a slight worry for Bengal is the fact that none of their batters have accumulated 250 runs in the three league games, with only one hundred (114 by Easwaran) in six completed innings.

The top-run getter in the league stages is veteran Anushtup Majumdar (242 runs), who is at the fag end of his career.

However, it is Porel, who has turned out to be an exciting prospect and in his debut, he scored a fine half-century in a 350-run fourth innings chase against Baroda after the team was bowled out for less than 100 in the first innings.

For Bengal, the key will be to counter the two left-arm spinners Shahbaz Nadeem and Anukul Roy, who are seasoned performers. The pace duo of Rahul Shukla and Varun Aaron might not be a big threat, especially with the latter not having played any red-ball games in recent times.

Karnataka find their match in UP ----------------------------------- A star-studded Karnataka batting line-up comprising Devdutt Padikkal, Karun Nair, Manish Pandey and till recently India's opener Mayank Agarwal gives the team a menacing look but they will be up against a quality seam attack from Uttar Pradesh that has stars Mohsin Khan and Yash Dayal in its ranks.

If Karnataka's batting has a scary look, the bowling is a bit thin on quality compared to the days when R Vinay Kumar, Srinath Aravind and Abhimanyu Mithun would run through opposition sides.

Often the reserve pacer in that line-up, Ronit More is now the leader of the attack and it will be interesting as to how he counters the likes of Rinku Singh, Akshdeep Nath and Priyam Garg.

The match will be played at Alur (1) ground.

Matches to start at 9:30 am.

Karnataka vs UP (Alur 1) Star Sports 1 Live Bengal vs Jharkhand (Just Cricket Ground) Live Streaming on Hotstar. 

Also Read : Mumbai favourites against Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh take on Punjab

News Source : PTI

Bengaluru, Jun 5 (Cricket News) Mumbai will strive to be the Mumbai of yore in their Ranji Trophy quarterfinal against Uttarakhand, beginning here from Monday.

By the time hilly state -- looking to scale new heights with a new generation of players -- came into existence nearly 22 years ago, the heavyweights had won the country's premier domestic tournament an unprecedented 34 times.

From 2000 to 2022, Mumbai had placed another seven humongous title-winning cups in their envious trophy cabinet.

In the context of Ranji Trophy, using the word strive and Mumbai in the same breadth is ironical, for winning this title came naturally to the Mumbai outfits of the halcyon days, when they were superior, stubborn, and maybe a bit snobbish at times.

Of course, their game was also punctuated by their well-documented never-say-die attitude and hate-to-lose approach, something the once-upon-a-time cradle of Indian cricket is trying to rediscover.

Mumbai's entry into the quarterfinals of this edition was far from smooth as they just about made it after Saurashtra failed to win with a bonus point in their last group match against Goa.

Nevertheless, the 41-time winners are the firm favourites heading into their latest challenge.

Mumbai will bank on their skipper Prithvi Shaw to lead from the front as the diminutive right-handed batter has the ability to take the inexperienced Uttarakhand attack to the task at the Alur Cricket Stadium II.

A marauding Shaw is always a threat to the opposition in any format, and Uttarakhand will aim to get him early.

Mumbai have a set of relatively new batters, including Arman Jaffer, Bhupen Lalwani and Hardik Tamore, who will need to play their roles well.

However, the two players who can make a big impact are young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sarfaraz Khan.

With his younger brother Musheer picked in the squad, Sarfaraz will be more than keen to put up a good show and show.

Sarfaraz, who did well for Delhi Capitals in the IPL-15, has pulled Mumbai out of trouble on many occasions and will again look to anchor the innings.

Ditto for Jaiswal, in whom the team management and coach Amol Mazumdar have reposed faith time and again. The two have all the necessary shots in the book and can pummel the opposition attack to submission.

Experienced batter-keeper Aditya Tare will need to shoulder more responsibility along with left-arm spinning all-rounder Shams Mulani.

Mulani had grabbed 11 wickets in the team's last league game against Goa and will look to spin his web around the opposition batter, again.

He also forged a match-winning partnership with Tanush Kotian in the match against Goa.

With Mulani a certainty in the playing XI, off-spinner Kotian could be preferred over senior pro Shashank Attarde, given his ability with the bat.

Mumbai have a decent pace attack, led by the seasoned Dhawal Kulkarni, who will have company in Tushar Deshpande.

The tussle for the third pacer could be between Mohit Awasthi and Royston Dias.

While the Muzumdar-coached side will be aiming to move a step closer to its 42nd title, Uttarakhand would look to spring a surprise.

Focus on Gill in Punjab versus Madhya Pradesh game ================================ Meanwhile, after his successful outing with Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League, the focus will be on opener Shubman Gill, when his side Punjab take on Madhya Pradesh in another quarterfinal match.

The elegant right-handed batter will be up against a varied MP attack comprising left-arm spinner Kumar Kartikeya Singh, who also recently made his IPL debut.

The game is also a battle between veteran coaches Chandrakant Pandit and Surendra Bhave, two of the shrewdest minds in the domestic arena and it will be interesting to see how they come up against each other. 

Also Read : Not Exactly 'Eighth Wonder': In ICC U-19 T20 WC Qualifiers, Nepal girls skittled out for total of 8 runs

News Source : PTI

Newcastle (England), Jun 5 (Golf News) Indian golfer Viraj Madappa's struggles on the front nine of the Slaley Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort continued, but he also continued scoring very well on the back nine of the course.

Madappa, a one-time winner on the Asian Tour, opened with eight straight pars before running into a triple bogey on Par-4 ninth. He steadied himself on the back as he has done all week with four birdies and no bogeys. He finished with 1-under 70 and was placed tied eighth as the top Indian.

This week Madappa is 7-over for the front nine and 12-under for the back nine, indicating his liking and comfort for the back nine.

Travis Smyth (66) took the third-round lead after signing for a superb five-under-par 66.

Shiv Kapur, who is troubled by a bone spur, had a big struggle with six bogeys and a double bogey against three birdies in his 76 as he dropped from tied third to tied 29th.

Gaganjeet Bhullar (69) parred the entire front nine and then birdied 10th, 12th and 16th but dropped a shot on the 18th in his round of 69 and he moved up to tied 16th to give himself a shot at a Top-10 finish.

SSP Chawrasia (74) was tied 44th, S Chikkarangappa (73) was tied 48th, while Ajeetesh Sandhu (72), Karandeep Kochhar (72) and Jeev Milkha Singh (78) were tied 69th.

The Australian, 27, topped the leaderboard on eight under par at Slaley Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort, near Newcastle – in an event that marks the Asian Tour’s debut in the UK.

Smyth leads by a shot from Thailand's Sadom Kaewkanjana, who matched the course record with a 65, Zimbabwe's Scott Vincent, in with a 69, and Korean Joohyung Kim, who carded a 70. South African Justin Harding, joint overnight leader with Kim, carded a 71 and is two off the lead.

Smyth is set to feature in the final group for the first time on the Asian Tour but shrugged off the pressure.

Sadom produced one of the finest rounds of his fledgling career to put himself in position to win his third Asian Tour title; in January he claimed the SMBC Singapore Open. Vincent, fresh from his third victory in Japan last weekend, will also go in search of a first Asian Tour title.

The final round promises to be a thrilling day especially as final places in next week's LIV Golf Invitational Series tournament are up for grabs: the leading two players not otherwise exempt will earn a place in the elite field, as will the leading three players not otherwise exempt from the International Series Order of Merit, from the International Series Thailand in March through to this week.

The inaugural USD 25 million LIV Golf Invitational Series tournament will be played at Centurion Club from June 9-11. 

Also Read : Vani drops from top-20 to finish at T-31, Amandeep T-39 at Italian Open

News Source : PTI

Bangi (Malaysia), Jun 4 (Cricket News) Rookie teenagers from Nepal got a taste of slightly elite level of cricket as they were bowled out for an astonishing total of eight runs against United Arab Emirates in an ICC U-19 Women's T20 World Cup qualifier match here on Saturday.

The U-19 Women's T20 World Cup qualifier, a first of its kind, is featuring Nepal, UAE, Thailand, Bhutan and Qatar. The winner of this five-country competition will qualify for the inaugural main event in South Africa in early 2023.

While the Nepalese girls had dismissed Qatar for a paltry 38 in an earlier game to clinch it by 79 runs, they were in for a rude jolt on Saturday.

The match didn't even last for an hour with a total of 9.2 overs needed for its completion.

No cricketer from either side had the scope of even reaching double-digit scores with UAE's Theertha Sathish's four not out being highest.

When Nepal batted, six of their batters failed to even trouble the scorers with Sneha Mahara's three runs off 10 balls being the highest contribution. Maneesha Rana scored two and three other batters contributed a solitary run each.

Off-spinner Mahika Gaur, who opened the bowling for UAE, had incredible figures of 4-2-2-5 and her new ball partner Indhuja Nandkumar was equally effective as she took three wickets for six runs in her quota of four overs.

While the Nepal innings lasted for only 8.1 overs, UAE knocked off the required runs in seven balls.

With the ICC focussing on promotion of women's game at the junior level, most of the associate member countries are trying to start their junior programme for women.

To be fair, Nepal doesn't have too many quality turf pitches even for quality men's cricket and hence these girls deserve a lot of credit as they had already won a match in the competition and are at least expected to steamroll both Bhutan and Thailand.

However, there is no denying that UAE, a team filled mostly with girls from the strong South Asian expatriate community, are favourites by a distance to book the flight to South Africa. 

Also Read : Shame that Delhi Capitals couldn't make it to IPL final: Mitchell Marsh

News Source : PTI

Colombo, Jun 4 (Cricket News) Delhi Capitals all-rounder Mitchell Marsh feels that it's a "shame" that his team couldn't make it to the IPL final after losing final league encounter to wooden spooners Mumbai Indians.

DC's five-wicket defeat enabled Royal Challengers Bangalore to make it despite an inferior net run-rate throughout the tournament.

"It was a shame we couldn’t get into the (IPL) finals," the 30-year-old said here ahead of the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, beginning on June 7.

Australia will meet Sri Lanka in a five-match ODI series.

Marsh overcame a bout of COVID-19 in the first-half of the tournament and formed the backbone of Delhi top-order with his Australian teammate David Warner.

Coach Ricky Ponting entrusted him with batting at No 3 as he scored 251 runs at a strike-rate of 132.80.

"Everyone speaks about him (Ponting) so much and what he's achieved in the game. But I got a real sense of how much he cares for his players – I guess that's probably what he was like as a captain and a leader of a team," he said.

"I got the real sense for how he (head coach Ricky Ponting) cares for his players and that was probably how he was as a captain and a leader of a team -- it's the way he makes you feel. He made me feel like a really important player for Delhi," he added.

On overcoming COVID-19, he said: "After my first couple of weeks, there I thought that I was cursed in India," he said.

"I got through my initial injury – which was very minor – but then to play one game and get COVID, it was a bit of a shaky start but once I got going it was nice to put a few consistent performances on the board. I absolutely loved my time there." He further said he would like to continue batting at No 3.

"I have loved batting at number three, and I’ve been there a bit over 12 months now. I certainly feel like that's my best positioning in T20 cricket, and I've loved batting in the power play, I've batted a lot with David Warner and had some great partnerships with him — it’s been really enjoyable." "Hopefully, I can keep being as consistent as I possibly can at number three and stay up there. International cricket is really hard, but you've got to believe that you belong here and I think over the last 12 months.

"I have really gained the belief that my best can match up with anyone in the world," Marsh added. 

Also Read : Cricket Ireland appoint new Head of Facilities and Operations

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 4 (Cricket News) South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma says the upcoming T20 series against India will be an opportunity for him to identify players for specific roles for the World Cup, which will be held in Australia later this year. The South African T20 side last competed in November at the World Cup in Sharjah and with the next World event slated to begin in October, Bavuma is keen to marshal his troops.

"The conditions in India don't accurately simulate conditions in Australia. In saying that, there's still a lot of benefit from playing. Any type of competitive cricket will be good for us," Bavuma said during a virtual media interaction.

"We'll be using these games really to familiarise ourselves again with how we go about playing cricket. Getting that right language that we speak amongst ourselves, really getting guys understanding what their roles are within the team." The visitors will also be fielding a few new faces in a bid to find an able opening partner for Quinton de Kock.

"We've got a couple of new faces within the T20 space. Opportunities will be given to those guys to see what role they can play and what value they can add to the team." The Indian team will be without many senior cricketers but Bavuma expects the rubber to be very competitive. With India's major stars like skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah rested for the series, the hosts are being led by KL Rahul and will feature some new faces including pacers Umran Malik and Arshdeep Singh.

"It's obviously a new-look Indian side. A lot of guys who have done well in the recent IPL have been given opportunities. From us as a team we wouldn't be looking at it any differently," Bavuma replied to PTI's query.

"We don't really see it as taking on a ‘B’ side. We have played against the Indian T20 side. So, going into the game, we'll still be as motivated as ever. The competitiveness will be there," he added.

The South African white-ball skipper feels the Indian team in recent times has had players who go hard and play aggressive cricket.

"The attitude, the mindset of the Indian team, in the last couple of years, has changed. It's guys who play cricket hard, who play very competitively. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are not there but the Indian fighting spirit will still be there.

"We don't expect them to take it easy on us. We don't expect it to be easy on us. We still expect it to be tough, and we'll be approaching it in that manner." Asked about areas they would like to improve Bavuma said. "That's (batting) a thing we'd like to solidify. More specifically at the top." "If I look at our bowling there is a bit more of solidity and clarity. With these games we'll be trying to find those combinations, or particularly for who partners up with Quinton upfront." "One, two or number three position are probably where we'd like to get a lot more clarity. But I think everything else will kind of will continue as is. Our middle order is our middle order, we've got a nice set of all rounders is more particularly at the top.

"In terms of the series, we are looking to win but also achieve all the other objectives as well." Indian spinners Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav head to the series after a stellar display in the IPL and Bavuma is hopeful the SA experienced batters are able to navigate them.

"It will be a challenge. We’ve played against them a couple of times, and one hopes that we have a better understanding of conditions here in India. The guys are individually speaking about them. They have the individual ways of approaching spin and how they can be successful.

"For the younger guys, it'll be important how the others share that knowledge.

"The way that we played slow bowling over the last 18 months or so as a group gives us a lot of confidence and belief that we can dominate spin bowling and different types of bowling." South Africa are set to take on India in five T20Is, starting from June 9 to 19.

Also Read : ICC chair warns of reduction in volume of Test cricket in future

News Source : PTI

(Motorsport) Formula 1 teams Red Bull, Mercedes and Ferrari could be at risk of incurring penalties after exceeding the budget cap for this season. Every F1 team on the grid has a budget cap of $140m (£119m) for the 2022 season to ensure a more competitive season and a level playing field, however, with the rise in inflation and freight costs, the budget has come under considerable strain with the three biggest teams of the sport insisting that the cap be increased due to the circumstances.

In an interview, Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner said “At the time we all agreed to those reductions, nobody could have predicted what was going on in the world and how that is driving inflation in every household globally. We're seeing it in Formula 1, we're seeing it with logistics, we're seeing it with energy costs. That to me is something the FIA needs to take into account. They have the ability through force majeure to apply an inflationary effect because we don't have enough levers to get down to the cap. I think that's the same for probably seven of the teams in Formula 1. "We've still got six months left this year, inflation still looks like it's rising rather than diminishing, and hopefully the FIA will act shortly." 

Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto agreed with Horner and said “I think that there will be no way for us to stay below. So, I'm pretty sure that at some stage we will go over. In the regulations, there is a threshold, which is 5 percent. If you do not exceed the 5 per cent, on the top of what's the budget cap threshold, it will be considered a minor breach. And what's a minor breach in case of force majeure? What will the stewards and the FIA decide on that, in terms of penalties? No idea - but I don't think there is any way for us - and for many teams - simply to stay within, and even laying-off people, I don't think that's a good and right choice." 

Mercedes’ Toto Wolff also echoed Ferrari and Red Bull’s sentiments by saying “The cost cap was introduced for specific purposes, to allow the small teams to spend the same amount as the big ones. There shouldn't be bargaining every year to lift the cost cap up. But I think we're facing an exceptional situation in that we have real inflation that is north of 7 per cent at the moment. Our energy prices in Brackley have tripled, our freight costs have tripled. 

“I think that is something that needs to be considered because we want to avoid any circumstance, reorganization and restructuring the big teams again in a way that would be really damaging for us as a team and as an industry. This is a force majeure situation, having a raging war in the Ukraine and the consequences that it had on energy prices is not something anybody could have foreseen. There needs to be some sort of compromise for the teams that are against an inflationary adjustment and the teams that are for it."

However, not all teams on the grid are unanimous in agreement with Alpine and Alfa Romeo against the adjustment of the budget cap. Alfa Romeo's Fred Vasseur said “We are in this situation and sooner or later we will have to stop the development of the car because we will be at the limit of our budget. And I think everybody can do the same. It's absolutely not a case of force majeure, because inflation is not a case of force majeure.” Alpine’s Otmar Szafnauer said “Most teams do their budgets in November, December timeframe, for the following year and we are no different and at that time, inflation was already at 7+ per cent. RPI in England was 7.1, 7.2 per cent. We took that into consideration when we did our budgets and laid out all the development work that we were going to do. And we're still within it. Where there's a will there's a way and we set a budget cap and we should stick to it." 

Also read: Formula 1: Red Bull extend Sergio Perez’s contract until 2024

(Football news) Juventus are in the final stages of closing in on a three year deal with French midfielder Paul Pogba, who has left Manchester United and is available on a free transfer this summer. The Serie A club has already received verbal assurances that the 29 year old will rejoin them imminently, with his contract being negotiated by Rafaela Pimenta after Mino Raiola’s passing. 

Pimenta has been working as a lawyer for Raiola’s firm for the last two decades and is currently coordinating with Juventus’ representatives for the final details of the contract. Despite interest from both Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, Juventus are confident that the deal will be concluded soon and an announcement could coincide with Pogba’s Amazon Prime film titled 'The Pogumentary', which is set to air on 17 June. 

According to multiple sources, Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri was integral to making the deal happen as the Italian manager has worked alongside Pogba in the past and gave the French midfielder assurances about maximising his abilities in Turin once again after an underwhelming six years at Manchester United. Manchester City were also interested in the Frenchman’s signature with Pep Guardiola meeting Pogba and drafting a lucrative contract. However, the 29 year old decided against it, especially because of his history with Manchester United.

In his first stint at Juventus, Pogba won four Scudetti and will look to replicate his best form once again, especially ahead of the 2022 World Cup. The Frenchman struggled with consistency at Manchester United and was a victim of immense criticism from the British media, especially because of his haircuts and social media posts. The 29 year old will hope for a better time at Juventus ahead of a busy 2022 season.

Also read: Juan Mata leaves Manchester United after eight years at the club

Panchkula, Jun 2 (Sports News) Nearly 4,700 athletes, including 2,262 girls, will participate in the Khelo India Youth Games which begins here on Saturday.

The Tau Devi Lal Complex here has been decked up for the grand opening ceremony.

It will also be the hub of action, with several of the 25 disciplines being held at the newly constructed multipurpose halls.

Among the popular games being held here are athletics, football, badminton, table tennis, kabaddi, handball, wrestling, volleyball, boxing and the five indigenous sports.

Four other cities -- Ambala (gymnastics, swimming), Shahabad (hockey), Chandigarh (archery and football) and New Delhi (cycling and shooting) -- will also play hosts to some disciplines.

For the first time, all the 36 states and Union Territories are taking part in this edition of the Khelo India Youth Games, with hosts Haryana fielding the largest contingent of 398 athletes.

Defending champions Maharashtra are fielding the second-largest contingent with 357 athletes while Delhi will have 339. Andaman & Nicobar is sending the smallest squad of six, all cyclists, while Ladakh will boast of seven.

The glamour discipline of athletics will see the maximum participation with 392 entries in various events. 

Also Read : Maharashtra Open chess: Paichadze beats Venkatesh to jump to top spot

News Source : PTI

Mumbai, Jun 2 (Cricket News) Out-of-favour India batter Ajinkya Rahane said it would take at least six to eight weeks to recover fully from the hamstring injury he had sustained while playing for Kolkata Knight Riders in this year's Indian Premier League.

Rahane had sustained the injury in KKR's second last game and was subsequently ruled out of the remainder of the tournament.

"That (injury) was really unfortunate. But my rehab is going really well. I am recovering really well. I was in Bangalore (at the NCA) for nearly 10 days and I am going there again for my rehab and recovery. It's been on track," Rahane told PTI. "So right now my only focus is on getting better. Get fit as soon as possible and be on the field. I am not sure (when) I will be able to get (fully) fit, it is expected to be around 6-8 weeks but at this moment it is about taking one day at a time, one week at a time," added the elegant right-handed batter.

Rahane was speaking after the trailer launch of web-series 'Bandon Mein Tha Dum' to be streamed on 'Voot Select', based on India's 2020-21 Test series triumph in Australia. India won the series 2-1 after losing the first Test in Adelaide.

Turning out for KKR, Rahane scored 133 runs from seven matches in the just-concluded IPL, but the Mumbaikar termed his experience as a "good one".

"My experience with KKR was really good. I really enjoyed playing for KKR and the atmosphere there was really good. It is kind of a family atmosphere. We enjoyed each other's success on and off the field but unfortunately we couldn't qualify for the play-offs," he added.

"They (KKR team management) gave me a lot of freedom to play my game and I thought it was something special. Playing under (then KKR head coach) Brendon McCullum, I learnt a lot." Rahane, who scored a match-winning 112 in the 2020 Melbourne Test that scripted the turnaround for India, said it was a "special" knock.

"Definitely that hundred (in Melbourne) was really special and I think that is one of my best hundreds so far overseas and also in Test cricket.

"Considering what happened in Adelaide, 36 all out, losing the Test match and then going to Melbourne with a different mindset and getting a hundred there and winning the Test was more special.

"My hundred was special because we won the Test match there and from there we got the momentum and eventually went on to win the series," he signed off. 

Also Read : Indian domestic players can walk into South Africa's side any day: Luus

News Source : PTI

Dublin, Jun 2 (Cricket News) Indian domestic players have benefitted immensely from the Women's T20 Challenge and they can "walk into the South African side any day", believes Proteas captain Sune Luus.

The 26-year-old played, who won the the FairBreak Invitational tournament in Dubai and the Women's T20 Challenge last month with the Tornadoes and Supernovas respectively, said it was "a massive opportunity and an awesome learning curve." "The IPL was a bit of a better standard. With FairBreak there are a lot of girls from the Associates, some girls who used spikes for the first time, who played on a turf wicket for the first time so it was a whole different experience," Luus was quoted as saying by 'ESPNcricinfo'.

"The most surprising thing for FairBreak was the standard of cricket. You don't really know about Austrians playing cricket or countries like that. But to see the standard they are at and the love of the game, it was exceptional to see.

"You can't compare it to India. They are fanatics of cricket. They absolutely love it. And even the domestic players can walk into the South African side any day. The standards were a bit different but overall it was good cricket," added Luus, who is in Ireland for a white-ball series.

The BCCI is planning to start the women's IPL by 2023 and the inaugural edition is expected to have five or six teams.

Batting for the expansion of T20 franchise cricket, Luus said: "It's an opportunity for some of the domestic players within countries to play with international players from around the world and obviously gain experience and learn from them.

"It's important to have T20 leagues across the world to get to know different players and play in different conditions." Luus also acknowledges that more franchise leagues will mean international cricket may suffer.

"It's just a case of finding the balance with international cricket and finding the time to get enough international cricket in the calendar.

"It's a very difficult thing because we have ICC points up for grabs, we have a Test match coming up which is quite new for a lot of the players and in-between that we have to focus on T20 cricket for the Commonwealth Games," she said. 

Also Read : India to play 3 ODIs and 5 T20Is vs West Indies between July 22-August 7; two games in Florida

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, Jun 1 (Cricket News) The Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the BCCI on Wednesday announced India's tour of the West Indies where the 'Men in Blue' will play three ODIs and five T20Is between July 22 and August 7.

India will finish its white-ball leg of UK tour on July 17 and those selected would directly leave for the West Indies from England.

The ODI series and three T20Is will be hosted across Trinidad and Tobago and St Kitts & Nevis, with the final two T20Is scheduled to be held in Fort Lauderhill, Florida in the USA.

The three ODIs will be played on July 22, 24 and 27 respectively at Port of Spain's (Trinidad & Tobago) iconic Queen's Park Oval and will be followed by five T20Is, two of which will be played at Florida's Fort Lauderhill.

The first T20I will be held at Brian Lara Stadium (Port of Spain) on July 29 and followed by two games at St Kitt's Warner Park on August 1 and 2 respectively.

The final two games, in order to cater to the Indian diaspora in the United States, will be held at the Broward County Stadium in Florida on August 6 and 7.

The entire series will be live-streamed exclusively on FanCode.

West Indies captain Nicholas Pooran said on the upcoming series, "We have a young team that is eager to restore the brand of cricket the West Indies team is known for playing.

"As I take charge of this team, our ambition is to always be competitive, as we look to use this series to fine tune our preparations for the upcoming T20 and 50 Over World Cups." Talking about this, Johnny Grave, CEO of Cricket West Indies said: "Our four-year deal with FanCode has brought Indian cricket fans closer to CWI's live properties across multiple formats that has featured the top cricketing nations like South Africa, Pakistan, Australia and England.

"FanCode has become the go-to platform for Indian fans to consume cricket in a digital-first manner which has redefined the sports viewing experience." Itinerary ODIs 1st ODI: July 22 (Queens Park Oval, Port of Spain) 2nd ODI: July 24 (Queens Park Oval, Port of Spain) 3rd ODI: July 27 (Queens Park Oval, Port of Spain) All ODI matches live from 7 pm IST T20Is 1st T20I: July 29: (Brian Lara Stadium, Port of Spain) 2nd T20I: Aug 1 (Warner Park, St Kitts & Nevis) 3rd T20I: Aug 2 (Warner Park, St Kitts & Nevis) 4th T20I: Aug 6 (Broward County Ground, Florida, USA) 5th T20I: Aug 7 (Broward County Ground, Florida, USA) All T20I matches live from 8 pm IST. 

Also Read : Cricketers should be proud of representing their district: Dhoni

News Source : PTI

Chennai, June 1 (Cricket News) Former India captain and Chennai Super Kings skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Wednesday said cricketers should be proud of representing their district as it is the stepping stone to the higher level.

"It is the first time I am part of a celebration where we are celebrating the success of a district association. I would also like to thank my district cricket association back home (Ranchi). Cricketers should be proud of representing their district. I am proud of the fact that I got the chance to represent my country, but it wouldn't have happened if I hadn't played for my district or school," Dhoni said.

He was speaking at a ceremony to mark the silver jubilee of the Thiruvallur District Cricket Association (TDCA) in which he participated as the chief guest alongside former ICC Chairman and former BCCI president N Srinivasan.

Dhoni also lauded Thiruvallar District Cricket Association for completing 25 years. "Congratulations to the Thiruvallur District Cricket Association for completing 25 years. It's more than 25 years, but we are celebrating it today. I have known (RN) Baba (TDCA secretary) for a very long time. A big congrats to not only him but also others in the association,” he added.

Speaking on the occasion, Srinivasan said, "For any association to last long is not easy. The love for the game makes him (Baba) work for cricket. He has developed grounds, cricketers, and outstanding sportspersons." "And, the association has taught everyone the value of sportsmanship. I wish them (the TDCA) more laurels and further greatness," he added.

The TDCA, in association with the Tamil Nadu Sports Journalists’ Association (TNSJA), gave away scholarships to the tune of Rs 3 lakh to ten sportspersons from different disciplines in the State of Tamil Nadu with Dhoni handing over the cheques.

India Cements Wholetime Director Rupa Gurunath, CSK CEO KS Viswanathan, and Tamil Nadu Cricket Association office-bearers also attended the function.

A host of male and female cricketers, including India internationals Ravichandran Ashwin, Dinesh Karthik, and MD Thirushkamini, congratulated the TDCA via video messages.

TDCA secretary Dr R N Baba, who was the media manager of the Indian cricket team between 2012 and 2015 including the 2013 Champions Trophy and 2015 World Cup, proposed a vote of thanks. 

Also Read : This IPL was bit of downer for me but I am going to make strong comeback in England: Siraj

News Source : PTI

Mumbai, Jun 1 (Cricket News) With white Kookaburra, Mohammed Siraj had a nightmare of an IPL for Royal Challengers Bangalore but one of India's rising fast bowling stars is hopeful of making amends with the red Dukes during the series-deciding fifth Test against England. In the recently concluded IPL, Siraj had an economy rate of 10.07 with only nine wickets from 15 games but even bigger ignominy was being hit for a whopping 31 sixes, highest by any bowler in history of the tournament.

"This season the IPL was a bit down. The last two seasons my graph was up and this time it has come down. But then I see what I have done in the past two years and take that along," Siraj told PTI during trailer launch of web-series 'Bandon Mein Tha Dum' to be streamed on 'Voot Select', based on India's 2020-21 Test series triumph in Australia.

"This year was a bad phase for me but will make a strong comeback by working hard. I will work on my ability, believe in my strengths," he added.

Siraj, who has been brilliant in Test matches for India, wants to do well in the fifth Test against England to be played in Edgbaston from July 1-5.

"My preparations are going well for the Test. There in England, the Dukes ball is used, it is always good to bowl there in the English conditions and it is helpful for the bowlers," the Hyderabad-based speedster added.

According to Siraj, the fifth test, which had to be rescheduled due to COVID outbreak in the Indian camp last year, will be "very important" in context of World Test Championship.

"This Test is very important for us and we are leading 2-1. It is good that the Test has been rescheduled and we are confident (of doing well) as we have the lead, it is a good feeling," added the right-arm speedster.

Hitting one spot relentlessly is very important in Test cricket, reckons Siraj.

"The important thing in a Test match is your line and length and how consistently you can bowl at one spot. That is what I have learned, the same thing I have learned in Australia and my aim is to perform consistently for the team and bowl in one area and create pressure.

"Even if I don't get wickets, my aim is how I can put the opposition in pressure,” Siraj said.

On the Web series and first five-for in Brisbane ---------------------------------------------------- It was one heck of an emotional tour for him as he lost his father while he was Down Under and his maiden five-wicket haul at the fourth test in Brisbane as a standout memory.

"My biggest memory is to clinch a five-wicket haul at the Gabba (in Brisbane). I was emotional and had to face a lot after my father passed away.

"The quarantine, it was a tough situation for me but it was my father's dream that I performed for my country and that was my biggest motivation," he signed off. 

Also Read : I am past the phase of assessing my performance after every game: Ashwin

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, June 1 (Cricket News) Ravichandran Ashwin, one of the sharpest thinkers in world cricket, feels that he has reached a stage in his career where he is not bothered about assessment of his own performance after every game.

While the COVID-19 pandemic has been hard on a lot of people, the wily off-spinner feels, that the last two years has been kind to him with continued success in Tests at home and a productive tour of Australia, where India made history by winning back to back series. The 35-year-old, who has taken 442 wickets in 86 Tests, also made a white-ball comeback after four years and featured in last year's T20 World Cup in the UAE.

However, he has been rested from the T20 home series against South Africa later this month and will link up with the squad in the UK for the 'fifth' Test of the last series against England.

"If you want a realistic answer, I am not assessing my performance at all. I am not in that phase of my life where I am thinking about what happened there and what happened here. Like I told you, I am living it by the day.

"The last two years have been hard on a lot of people but it has been very very kind and good to me. So just enjoying my game. I don't know if it is evident enough on the ground or not. I am in totally in a very good space of mind," Ashwin told PTI at the launch of Voot Select's 'Bandon Mein Tha Dum'.

Ashwin, who has just got done with the two-month long IPL, will next be seen during India's tour of England in June-July when the rescheduled fifth Test will be completed with the visitors leading 2-1.

The champion spinner though is looking forward towards spending his much-needed break at home after having lived out of suitcases for five months .

"Honestly, I am pretty blank right now. We have had a long international season so not even thinking about all that in my head. I have been in bubbles forever, have got back home only after five months. It is about time I put the pause button on and live everyday and take it as it comes." With COVID-19 on the wane, cricket boards around the world are heading towards staging series without mentally taxing bio bubbles. Ashwin can only be happy about that.

"Absolutely. More than anything else, we need to look at the larger picture. If we are able to get over the pandemic and things are getting back to normal, we all should be happy." En route to the historic triumph in Australia in January 2021, Ashwin contributed both with bat and ball. Having suffered severe back spasms on day four of the Sydney Test, Ashwin turned up on day five and batted alongside Hanuma Vihari as they both consumed 128 balls each to pull off a draw that felt like a win.

Ashwin recalled that partnership with a lot of fondness. He was ruled out of the final Test as injury-ravaged India struggled to field an eleven for the game.

"The other game I played the game injured was in Southampton (2018) and it did not go on the right side of the coin for us. Again in Sydney, day four day of the game I had a severe back spasm I was not sure if I could really get through the game but somehow wanted to.

"I prayed for a bit of of luck, that I had lesser pain the next morning, that the painkillers worked and all of that, I was praying quietly.

"Somehow I got through day four, took a couple of wickets, bowled non-stop spells even though it was hard. Harder than what Southampton (2018 England Test) was but I think a lot of it was destiny as well.

"One of the those series where there was a lot of effort and that one percent luck for every single individual," the eloquent spinner said.

Having made his Test debut way back in 2011, Ashwin said it would be hard to what the team was able to achieve Down Under.

"Easily one of the best series, I have been part of. Even now, when you talk about it that feeling comes back, all those good memories, all those difficult phases we faced, the euphoria after the victory, everything stands tall even till now," he added. 

Also Read : England Men’s ODI squad named for Netherlands series

News Source : PTI 

(Cricket news) The England Test team has gone through some significant changes. Joe Root left captaincy while head coach and board president also resigned. A new era has hence begun with Ben Stokes as Test captain and Brendon McCullum as Test coach. Their first Test will be a 3 match home series against World Test Championship holders New Zealand. The 3 Tests will be played at Lord's, Trent Bridge and Headingley.

New Zealand squad:

Kane Williamson (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Cam Fletcher (wk), Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Will Young, Michael Bracewell.

After taking 10 wickets in an innings against India, Ajaz Patel was left out of the home series against Bangladesh and South Africa. He now returns along as does captain Kane Williamson. Matt Henry is a doubt for the first Test as Michael Bracewell is called in for cover. Rachin Ravindra and Will Young miss out while Trent Boult is rested after playing every possible IPL match. 

England squad (first 2 Tests):

Ben Stokes (c), James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow (wk), Joe Root, Stuart Broad, Ollie Pope, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes (wk), Jack Leach, Alex Lees, Craig Overton, Matthew Potts.

The big news is that Broad and Anderson have returned to the squad. It will be interesting to see if both come back straight into the playing XI. Jos Buttler still has no place in the squad while Ollie Robinson is not fully fit. Chris Woakes is out with an ankle injury while Jofra Archer has suffered another relapse. Harry Brook and Matthew Pots are the two fresh faces in the side. It has already been confirmed that Joe Root will go back to his preferred no. 4 spot. The no. 3 position has been an area of concern and Ollie Pope will take up that position. It is going to be a big series for new openers Zak Crawley and Alex Lees who have a lot to prove. 

The last time England hosted New Zealand for a two match series, the hosts got completely outplayed. Changes have been made by the ECB since then. The results might not come quick and fast but the Barmy Army will be hoping that their team shows intent to win the match more than anything. England are just about starting their transition period therefore New Zealand start the series as favorites.

Also read: No one remembers bilateral T20 series, play shortest format in just World Cup: Shastri 

New Delhi, Jun 1 (Cricket News) Former India coach Ravi Shastri reckons that T20 format is not meant for bilateral series between international teams and the slam-bang style of cricket should be restricted to just World Cup.

Shastri, one of the most successful India coaches, also feels that franchise cricket together with a biennial T20 World Cup is best way forward when it comes to shortest format, considering fans' appetite for it.

Shastri's comments have come, days before India's five-mach T20 series against South Africa.

"...there's too much of bilateral stuff going on in T20 cricket. I've said that (before), even when I was the coach of India, I could see it happening in front of my eyes," Shastri told ESPNcricinfo.

"It should go the football way, where, in T20 cricket, you just play the World Cup. Bilateral tournaments - no one remembers." Shastri, whose tenure as India coach ended last year, said he doesn't "remember a single (T20) game in the last six-seven years as coach of India, barring the World Cup." "A team wins the World Cup, they will remember it. Unfortunately, we didn't, so I don't remember that either.

"Where I am coming from is: you play franchise cricket around the globe; each country is allowed to have their franchise cricket, which is their domestic cricket, and then, every two years, you come and play a World Cup." The IPL media and broadcasting rights for the next five-year cycle are going to go up for sale in June.

Discussing the future of IPL, former India opener Akash Chopra said: "I actually foresee there might be two editions of the IPL in every calendar year. And that's not too far away." Shastri agreed with Chopra.

"That's the future," he said.

"It could be tomorrow - 140 games, split 70-70. In two seasons. You never know. That's the way it's going to go. That's the way it's developed as a beast of a property. And you cannot hide away from that.

"You might think that's overdose, but nothing is overdose in India. I have been sitting outside the bubble, I have been watching people, how they have seen, how they have reviewed these last few months, especially [after coming] out of Covid. And they are loving every bit of it, and they are almost having withdrawal symptoms." The 2022 season of IPL ended on Sunday with newcomers Gujarat Titans lifting the trophy. 

Also Read : Bavuma open to discussing move up the order for Miller after IPL success

News Source : PTI

Johannesburg, Jun 1 (Cricket News) Backing David Miller to carry his confidence from the IPL to the away series against India, South Africa white-ball skipper Temba Bavuma said he is open to having a conversation with the southpaw regarding his batting position in the national T20 team.

Miller enjoyed a fabulous IPL season with the bat where he was a vital cog in the Gujarat Titans team that went on to win the title in its maiden season.

"It's always nice to see guys in form. A guy like David lifting the trophy with the Gujarat Titans - the confidence that he will bring into the team, we look forward to that," Bavuma told reporters at the pre-departure press conference on Tuesday ahead of the series against India.

"David has performed exceedingly well at the IPL and I'm sure that will do a world of good for his confidence and whatever feelings of insecurity that might be there.

"The conversations that I have had with David, he has never expressed those types of feelings to me. David is still an integral member within our team and we trust his performances will continue well into the future," he added.

The big-hitting Miller has struggled to score runs in the limited overs format with the national team in the past few years.

But batting mostly at number five, as opposed to his usual six with South Africa, in the IPL this season, Miller scored 481 runs with the best average in the competition of 68.71 at a strike rate of 143.

"In terms of him batting a bit longer, that has always been the conversation over the years when David has done well. He understands where he fits in within the team.

"If he feels he can add more value in a different position, a conversation can be had in that regard.

"There is no way we are going to stifle him or restrict David in any manner. That's how we try to treat all the players. We try to set them up in positions where they can succeed and make strong plays for the team." Talking about another South African Dewald Brevis who had a decent outing in the IPL for the Mumbai Indians, Bavuma said the youngster should be given "time and the space to hone his game" before being pushed into international cricket.

"In all fairness to him, he hasn't played a first-class game. In terms of expectation but also allowing the boy to grow within his game, it would be fair to allow him to play a couple of first-class games where he can really get an understanding of his game," he said.

"It will be a lot of pressure to throw him into the international set up and expect him to make plays. He will be treated like any other exciting young prospect that comes onto the scene.

"He should be given time and the space to hone his game within the system and ease into the international side of things." South Africa are set to take on India in five T20Is, starting from June 9 to 19.

The hosts will be without several key players. While regular skipper Rohit Sharma and senior players Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested for the five-match series, Deepak Chahar, Ravindra Jadeja and Suryakumar Yadav have been ruled out because of injuries.

But Bavuma still expects it to be a competitive series.

"Even though India are resting their main players, it will still be a competitive series. The guys in that squad can walk into the Indian team." 

Also Read : Hardik Pandya's incredible debut season as captain in the IPL

News Source : PTI

(Football news) According to multiple reports, Bayern Munich is closing in on the transfer of 25-year-old RB Leipzig midfielder and Austrian international Konrad Laimer. With all the focus on Robert Lewandowski wanting to leave the club this should be some welcome news for Bayern Munich fans as they attempt to restructure the team after an inconsistent first year under Julian Nagelsmann. The transfer fee that Bayern are ready to pay is in the region of €20 million. As of now there are no reports of the salary or contract length.
 
Laimer will be fitting into the scheme of things in what would appear to be a crowded Bayern Munich midfield with the likes of Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka, Marcel Sabitzer, and the expected arrival of Ryan Gravenberch among others. After the arrivals of Mazraoui and Gravenberch, Bayern will undoubtedly have more signings in the coming days and weeks as the squad will begin to take shape for next season. The Austrian international has entered his final year of his contract, but Leipzig is looking for a larger fee, and they would consider moving him somewhere away from Germany.

Laimer can provide good cover for Joshua Kimmich or as a matter of fact play alongside him in a double pivot in the midfield. The German midfielder’s workload also needs to be taken under consideration as he needs to be kept fresh for an entire season, and also there needs to be healthy competition in the squad. Laimer is often called the Austrian Kante for being a pressing machine that can help Julian Nagelsman’s counter-pressing style next season, an area that he has identified to make the team more solid next campaign.The arrival of the Austrian midfielder is even more important considering Corentin Tolisso bid goodbye to Bayern after spending five in the club as he his free to leave the club as a free agent.

Along with Tolisso, Marc Roca is also expected to leave Bayern in the summer. The Spanish midfielder has been linked with a surprise move to Barcelona while Eintracht Frankfurt seems like a more viable option for the Spanish midfielder. The transfer fee received for Roca will mostly be used to get Laimer from Leipzig who are not budging away from the set price tag on him. Marcel Sabitzer is expected to stay in Bavaria next season after an underwhelming first season with the German champion as he has been linked with other top European clubs. The Austrian midfielder had a tough debut season, but he is determined to have a good second campaign. With the imminent arrival of Laimer and Gravenberch, Nagelsmann will have a plethora of good midfield players in the squad but along with that the German coach needs to find a way to give adequate playing time to everyone and get the best out of everyone.

Also read: Manchester United appoint Andy O’Boyle as Deputy Football Director
 

(Cricket news) Gujarat Titans in their very first season in the IPL took the tournament by a storm. Not only did they finish at the top of the table, they then went on to win the qualifier 1 and the finals to win the coveted trophy. Before the start of the season, there were a lot of doubts regarding the GT squad with experts and fans labelling them as the weakest team on paper. Their players have proved everyone wrong as a lot of different players have stepped up in games to win matches for the team. It is what you call a complete team performance and a lot of credit has to go to Ashish Nehra and Gary Kirsten for their work behind the scenes.

At the centre of it all has been captain Hardik Pandya. Mumbai Indians surprisingly chose not to retain Hardik Pandya as they went for Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav and Kieron Pollard. A lot of eyebrows were raised when Gujarat Titans picked Hardik Pandya as their first draft pick for 15 cr and made him the captain. He had no previous experience of captaining a team at any major level let alone in a tournament like the IPL. Throughout this season, his leadership skills have been excellent. All the Gujarat players have praised his role in the side on numerous occasions.

Pandya's individual performances have also been excellent. In 15 games this season he has scored 487 runs at a strike rate of 131.27 with the willow. Batting at number 3 or 4 during the season, Pandya was seen in a different role as an anchor and he did it perfectly finishing as the 4th highest run scorer. He returned with the ball this tournament and reminded everyone what he is capable of. Although he didn't bowl in every match, Pandya picked up 8 wickets at an average of 27.75 and an economy of just 7.28. His 3/17 in the final against Rajasthan Royals was absolutely incredible and very instrumental for the win. The good thing was that he was able to clock 140+ KMPH which shows how much his bowling fitness has improved. 

Hardik Pandya is already back in the Indian T20 side for the series against South Africa. A comeback in the ODI squad should also happen eventually depending on a few factors. The immediate concern for Rahul Dravid will be Pandya's role in the team. He has batted higher up the order in the IPL this season but India need him to bat lower down the order. His fitness is something that will have to be handled with caution and not taken for granted. Another injury is the last thing Indian team and Hardik Pandya want. The 1st of the 5 T20Is against South Africa will be on 9th June.

Also read: Centurion Rajat Patidar's IPL 2022 Journey from agony to ecstasy

New Delhi, May 31 (Cricket News) The Indian cricket team will assemble here on June 5 ahead of the five-match T20 series against South Africa.

The first match of the series begins here on June 9 and South Africa will arrive here on June 2.

There will be no crowd restrictions and there will be no bio-bubble for the series though players will be tested regularly for COVID-19.

The other venues are Cuttack (June 12), Visakhapatnam (June 14), Rajkot (June 17) and Bengaluru (June 19).

"The Indian team will assemble here on June 5 while the South Africans land in Delhi on June 2," DDCA joint secretary Rajan Manchanda told PTI.

The Indian cricketers are in the middle of a much needed break post a two-month long IPL.

K L Rahul will lead the Indian team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma who has been rested for the series alongside other all format players, including Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah. 

Also Read : India's got Talent: IPL unearths next gen of fast bowlers, potential captain

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, May 30 (Cricket News) Where talent meets opportunity: the IPL lived up to its motto yet again with the 2022 season unearthing a battery of pacers -- some raw and some already polished -- and a potential India captain in Hardik Pandya.

In his first full season for Hyderabad, Umran Malik attracted the world's attention with his ability to clock 150kmph plus with ease, also forcing the Indian selectors to take notice while young left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan impressed with a lethal combination of pace and accuracy for the new Lucknow franchise.

The competition reinforced India's rise as a fast-bowling powerhouse with the likes of Mukesh Choudhary, Simarjeet Singh (both Chennai Super Kings), Yash Dayal (Gujarat Titans) and Kuldeep Sen (Rajasthan Royals) also making their presence felt in the world's biggest T20 league.

There were young batters too who instantly showed they belonged to the higher level. They included Mumbai Indians' Tilak Varma who was praised by none other than his captain Rohit Sharma, who called the southpaw an India material.

Then there was Jitesh Sharma who drew praise from India great Virender Sehwag with his exploits as a wicketkeeper batter for Punjab Kings. His team failed to make the play-offs again but he made the most of the opportunity.

The other uncapped batters who may not be new to the IPL but had a memorable season included Hyderabad's Rahul Tripathi, who was unfortunate to miss out on an India call-up and Abhishek Sharma, who excelled as an opener.

Hardik makes his case for future India captaincy ---------------------------------------------------- Before the start of the IPL, there were serious questions marks over the star all-rounder's fitness but by the end of it, he not only ticked most of the boxes with bat and ball, but also emerged as an astute leader who could captain India in the future.

Having not played since India's early exit at the T20 World Cup last year, Hardik silenced all his critics after facing a lot of flak for his fitness and for not being able to bowl regularly.

He relished batting at number four, and when there was need for him to roll his arm over, he came up with vital contributions, including a match winning spell in the IPL final.

The oldies still got it ---------------------- It was also a season to remember for the experienced Umesh Yadav, Wriddhiman Saha and Dinesh Karthik, who made yet another India comeback after excelling in the finisher's role for Royal Challengers Bangalore.

His team Kolkata Knight Riders may have made a premature exit, but Umesh made the ball talk in the early part of the tournament, providing regular breakthroughs for his team in the powerplay.

He was never rated highly for the T20 game but this season he showed he can very much thrive in the shortest format.

Playing for the victorious Gujarat team, Saha rediscovered himself with bat as he opened alongside Shubman Gill.

Left out of the Indian Test team, Saha had a point to prove and with his ability to play strokes all around the ground, he helped Gujarat get off to a flier on a number of occasions. COVID struck IPL again but BCCI ensured smooth conduct --------------------------------------------------------------- After the pandemic, it was the first IPL that was held in India in its entirety with the BCCI pulling off a challenging task to stage 74 games in over two months, 14 more than the last edition following the addition of two new teams.

It did face a few hiccups with Delhi Capitals reporting multiple cases in their camp, forcing the board to reschedule a few games.

However, with the COVID situation in control in the country, there was never any threat to the tournament even after an outbreak in the Delhi franchise. 

Also Read : Hope to have more Bengal players in KKR: CAB president

News Source : PTI

Kolkata, May 30 (Cricket News) Cricket Association of Bengal on Monday urged city's IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders to have more players from the state.

In the past many from Bengal, including the former India captain Sourav Ganguly, Manoj Tiwary, Wriddhiman Saha, Shreevats Goswami and Mohammed Shami played in the purple colours.

But it's been a long time since a player from Bengal represented the two-time former champions in the IPL.

"We would love to see more Bengal players in KKR. I had raised the issue of reviving the catchment area concept in IPL in BCCI," Avishek said on the sidelines of the inter-school KMC Mayor's Cup final at Eden Gardens.

St James School defeated Nava Nalanda High School by eight wickets to win the tournament involving 32 school teams.

"We are giving utmost importance to this meet because we want more players to come through the ranks and sons of soil to make up for the Bengal team. The Cricket Talent Search Committee will also look into these young talents." The tournament returned after a two-year gap following the COVID-19 pandemic.

KKR are one of the sponsors of the meet and Avishek said: "We can hope to see junior knights from these players. The money given by them will be utilised for the development of budding cricketers." Jagmohan Dalmiya remembered ========================= The final of the tournament coincided with former ICC and BCCI president late Jagmohan Dalmiya's 82nd birth anniversary.

Remembering the talent search programme initiated by Dalmiya during his tenure as the BCCI president, Kolkata mayor Firhad Hakim said: "This was his initiative and he's responsible for bringing out so many great cricketers today.

"We fondly remember him on his birthday today and show our deepest respect towards him.

"He had given his entire life to the game of cricket and transformed the game on its head. He brought meaningful changes to cricket structurally, administratively and in its outlook both at the national level as BCCI chief and at international level as ICC Chairman." CAB president Avishek Dalmiya, vice-president Naresh Ojha, mayor Hakim, CAB secretary Snehashis Ganguly, assistant secretary Debabrata Das among others paid floral tributes to Dalmiya on his birthday. 

Also Read : Gavaskar feels Hardik has emerged as contender for India captaincy

News Source : PTI

Ahmedabad, May 30 (Cricket News) Impressed by Hardik Pandya's "leadership qualities" in IPL-15, batting legend Sunil Gavaskar feels the star all-rounder has emerged as a strong contender to lead the Indian team in near future.

Making a comeback after a subdued outing in the T20 World Cup last year, Hardik captained Gujarat Titans to a memorable title triumph in a dream maiden IPL season, forcing those who gave the first-timers no chance before the tournament to eat humble pie.

"Yes definitely. Not just my estimation, but everybody's estimation (Hardik's reputation as a leader has gone up). This was an aspect of his game which nobody had too much information about," Gavaskar told Star Sports.

"When you have leadership qualities, it automatically opens the door for honours at the national level to be able to captain the Indian national team in the near future.

"So that's exciting, there are 3-4 other names in the ring. I am not saying he is the next in line. But for the selection committee to have that option is fantastic," the added.

In a low-scoring final, Hardik starred with both the bat and ball (3/17 and 30-ball 34) to lead GT to a seven-wicket win over former champions Rajasthan Royals.

Overall, he finished the campaign in IPL-15 with 487 runs and eight wickets.

"We all knew what he could do with the bat, what he could do with the ball, but there was just a little bit of a concern before the start of the season about whether he would be able to bowl his full quota of four overs. He has done that, he has shown that. That all-rounder aspect is done, and everybody is happy.

"The way he has led the team, the way he has got them together, the way he has got them to gel together means he has got leadership qualities," he added.

A winner of four IPL titles with Mumbai Indians, this was Hardik's first trophy as captain.

Hardik has also made an India comeback riding on his IPL show this season, and will be seen in the upcoming five-match T20I home series against South Africa under skipper KL Rahul. 

Also Read : If India need a captain in a couple of years I wouldn't look past Hardik: Vaughan

News Source : PTI

New Delhi, May 30 (Cricket News) Former England skipper Michael Vaughan has hailed Hardik Pandya as a future India captain after he led first-timers Gujarat Titans to an IPL title win.

Hardik led from the front with a three-wicket haul and a crucial 34 as Gujarat defeated former champions Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets to lift the 2022 IPL trophy on Sunday.

"Fantastic achievement for a new franchise... If India need a captain in a couple of years I wouldn't look past @hardikpandya7... Well done Gujurat .. #IPL2022," Vaughan tweeted.

Rohit Sharma is currently the Indian captain across formats, having taken over from Virat Kohli.

The 28-year-old's leadership skills was lauded by former and current players, including former India captain Sunil Gavaskar and GT team mentor Gary Kirsten.

Hardik, who has amassed 487 runs and taken 8 wickets, was simply sensational in the final as Gujarat limited a formidable Rajasthan Royals batting unit to 130 for nine.

He also scored a crucial 34 before Shubman Gill and David Miller remained unbeaten on 45 and 32 to take the team home in 18.1 overs. 

Also Read : Wanted to be flag-bearer of how my team would function, says 'Captain' Hardik

News Source : PTI

Ahmedabad, May 30 (Cricket News) Minutes after the final was over, Hardik Pandya was quietly caressing the IPL trophy flap as one of the BCCI employees was inscribing the name of new champions 'Gujarat Titans'.

It seemed as if an indulgent father was tousling his son's hair with love. That trophy was indeed Pandya's labour of love. For all the hardwork put in after some years of circumspection and uncertainties. We all saw it but he dealt with it.

His wife Natasha hugged him. It was an act of assurance -- that his support system is firmly behind him, earlier in 'thin' and now in 'thick'.

"I live and feed on love, which I keep getting from my family," said the man, who won it for the Titans in first half itself with the wickets of Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson and Shimron Hetmyer.

The 34 runs in a low-scoring chase was just the cherry on top.

On May 29, 2022, India just got another genuine white-ball captaincy option in Pandya.

His MS Dhoni style of calm leadership, has blind-sided even the best of cricket analysts in the country, who wouldn't have remotely considered him of being a left-field choice in their wildest of dreams even three months back.

But dream has turned into a reality and Pandya has walked the talk as a leader with 487 runs and 8 wickets. "I have always enjoyed responsibility and been someone, who wants to lead from the front, so that I can set an example," Pandya told reporters during virtual conference.

"If I want my team to function in a certain way, I need to be the first flag-bearer to show them the way. So that, it makes more sense if I do it first," Pandya spoke with conviction and all who listened believed him.

"....But World Cup Trophy remains an ultimate goal" =============================== Hardik in his six-year start-stop international career has played one ICC final (Champions Trophy in 2017) and two semi-finals (T20 World Cup in 2016 and ODI World Cup in 2019).

On June 9, it will be one of the sweetest of comebacks for Pandya in India Blue and the eyes are trained on a World Cup triumph. There are two in next 16 months -- one in shortest version (T20) and other in shorter version (ODI).

"It's about winning the World Cup for India, no matter what happens. I have always been that guy to put the team first, so the goal will be to see my team gets it (global trophy) most," he said.

"Playing for India has always been a dream come true. No matter how many games I have played, I have always got support and love. In the short and long term, one goal is there. I want to win the World Cup no matter what happens," he makes his priorities crystal clear.

This IPL Trophy is more special than other four ============================= Lifting the IPL trophy isn't a new experience for Pandya but guiding a new team in its first year is certainly super special and he makes no bones while admitting it.

"This is a bit more special as I got it as a captain. But those earlier four (2015, 17, 19, 20 with MI) were equally special. I am insanely lucky to win five out of five IPLs, but this IPL trophy will create a legacy," Pandya declared in his booming baritone.

"Today was a day, we got such support with 110,000, we got all rewards for the hard work," he added.

Batters can win matches but bowlers win Championships =================================== When Hardik was picked by Gujarat from the draft, his first endeavour along with head coach Ashish Nehra was to pick a potent bowling side and accordingly, they assembled a cracking unit -- Mohammed Shami (20 wickets), Rashid Khan (19 wickets), Lockie Ferguson (12 wickets) and rookie Yash Dayal (11 wickets).

"People say T20 cricket is a batter's game but it is the bowlers, who win you matches," he said.

But the skipper explained his rationale behind concentrating on bowling line-up.

"Because if the batters are not putting up a par-score, then you need a gun bowling line-up, so we have always ended up giving 10 runs less. On tracks, where other teams have gone for 190, we have perhaps restricted sides to 180," Pandya elaborated.

"Obviously 10 runs make a big difference in larger context as it can decide on winning and losing." "For me and Ashu paa (Nehra), at the start, our endeavour was to create a strong and experienced bowling unit, so that if batting doesn't click occasionally, we can pull things back, so that was very important." Strong family, emotional bonds =================== From the garish jackets and the blingy diamonds and flashy in-your-face lifestyle during initial years, Pandya's transformation from a brash youth to a responsible man has been an incredible one.

Wife Natasha, son Agastya, brothers Krunal and Vaibhav, sister-in-law Pankhuri form his core circle, people who are like his protective human shields from the vulnerabilities.

"Natasha is someone very emotional and gets very happy when she sees me doing well. She has seen me going through a lot of things and putting in hard yards, no matter what has happened, I have worked hard, that is something I don't speak about but she knows how much hard work goes behind the scenes," the husband in Hardik was full of gratitude.

"My family has been my strong pillar. My brother Krunal, my sister-in-law Pankhuri, my other brother Vaibhav. Lot of people, who have been fantastic in ensuring that I stay in best mind space whenever crunch situations come.

"My brother (Krunal) as well cried, when I called him, my sister-in-law cried. Those were tears of happiness. I know that I can perform out there on the field as these people are all behind me," he concluded. 

Also Read : Gujarat Titans exceed all expectations and win their first IPL title

News Source : PTI

(Cricket news) Yesterday when Chahal dropped Shubman Gill at short square it was curtains for the Royals and the famous ‘you have just dropped the cup, mate’ moment said one commentator as that was the fourth delivery of Gujarat Titans’ run-chase, pursuing a modest target of 131 which Shubman Gill and co went onto to chase easily in the end. For Titans they deserved a little bit of luck considering that they have been the most consistent side across the 16 matches that they played in their first IPL season, they have shown a collective team effort that took them to the top of the IPL standings and weren’t reliant on individual players in the squad as Hardik Pandya brilliantly led his troops from the front.

It was the future Indian sensation Shubman Gill who hit the winning shot for an excellent six over deep backward square-leg off Obed McCoy, sending the ball into the record crowd of the 1,04,859 crowd that assembled to witness a spectacular night for the home team in Ahmedabad. Gill remained unbeaten on 45, and played an anchor role with stands of 63 with his skipper Hardik Pandya and a 47 run partnership for the fourth wicket with David Miller who was not out on 32. The Final was as one-sided as it could be, a lot was expected from the top two teams that finished No. 1 and 2 at the end of the league stage.Titans produced an amazing bowling performance courtesy Hardik Pandya who picked up 3 wickets for just 18 runs and made it totally a lop-sided affair after restricting Royals to a mere 130 for nine. This was subsequently the second-lowest total in the IPL finals which was not going to win the Royals the match,

The pitch for the final was the same one that was used for the second qualifier that RR won quite comfortably against RCB Friday night. There was good bounce on the pitch and swing initially, but being a final Royals captain Sanju Samson reckoned that the setting a total would be better as he did not want to bat when there was more wear and tear in the second innings. The likes of Lockie Ferguson and Mohammed Shami initially got some extra bounce for the second successive match while the spinners did not enjoy much bowling on this pitch. 

Rashid Khan still produced a very economical spell which kept the batters in check. Titans throughout the match had the Royals on a leash in the final. They did not let them run away, containing them to only 44 runs in the powerplay, and were magnificent  from over  7 to 15 where they only conceded 50 runs for four wickets of Sanju Samson, Jos Buttler and Shimron Hetmyer. It was Hardik Pandya who was ultimately the chief destroyer for RR as he produced his best IPL bowling figures and took the crucial wickets of Buttler, Samson and Hetmyer

Brief scores: Rajasthan Royals: 130/9 in 20 overs (Jos Buttler 39; Rashid Khan 1/18, Hardik Pandya 3/17).

Gujarat Titans: 133/3 in 18.1 overs (Hardik Pandya 34, Shubman Gill 45 not out).

Also read: Hardik showed eagerness to learn as captain, engaged with all of his teammates: Kirsten

Ahmedabad, May 30 (Cricket News) Ravichandran Ashwin is a legend in his own right but he still needs to think about improvement and bowl the conventional out-break deliveries more frequently, feels Rajasthan Royals Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara.

The 36-year-old veteran off-spinner, India's second highest Test wicket taker (442), is known to experiment a lot with his bowling. He often bowls the conventional off-breaks lesser compared to the carrom balls that goes away from the right handers.

“Ash (Ashwin) has done a great job for us," Sangakkara said at the post-match press conference after RR lost to Gujarat Titans by seven wickets in the IPL final on Sunday.

"Even for Ash, being a legend in terms of what he has achieved on the cricketing pitch, there will be a lot of improvements and thinking to do, especially with his off-spinners and bowl more of it," Sangakkara commented about the team's oldest member, who could manage only 12 wickets in 17 games this season.

In the summit clash also, the ace off-spinner opted to bowl quite a few carrom balls instead of regulation off-spin. He gave away 32 runs in three overs without claiming any wickets while defending a modest 130.

Opting to bat first, RR were restricted to 130/9, which was chased by GT in 18.1 overs and Sangakkara felt the score was never going to be enough.

“It was a tough one. 130 was never enough. We were debating whether to put them in (to bat) first as well. By the time we arrived at the ground, we looked at the pitch, it was pretty dry and we thought it will get slower and maybe offer a little bit of turn for our spinners. So, we were expecting to get about 160-165." He said his team allowed the opposition bowlers to come into the game after a good start to the innings.

“We were really well-set in our batting innings at 70/1 at the half-way mark until Sanju (Samson) got out. And then they came and bowled some beautiful overs and we let Gujarat back into the game." “(With) 130, we need a bit of luck and some quick wickets in the powerplay. We did get two but unfortunately we didn’t get (Shubman) Gill in that first over and the run-rate never went above seven.

"It was always going to be tough. It was hardly about calculations and maths and just about trying and getting a couple of wickets and break through that (David) Miller and Hardik (Pandya) and Gill partnerships, but we were unable to do it,” he conceded. 'Lot of improvements needed ' =================== Despite enjoying a good season and ending as the runners-up, Sangakkara felt the team needs to improve in a lot of areas.

“Well we have got a lot of improving to do in all areas. If you take our batting, we had huge contributions from Jos (Buttler), Sanju, and Shimron Hetymer at the early stages.

“Riyan (Parag) and Devdutt (Padikkal) really played well in patches, but I think in terms of overall performance, we need a little bit more from the support role players as well,” he said.

Talking about Riyan Parag, the veteran keeper-batter backed the youngster to strengthen the Rajasthan middle-order.

“I think Riyan Parag, he has got huge amount of potential, and we got to work him into higher batting number by the time we come in next season. I look forward to kind of grooming him to become a more of a kind of a early middle-order player rather than just a death-hitter.

"Because, I think he is so accomplished against spin as well as pace,” the Sri Lankan batting great noted.

Sangakkara signed off by saying that this was the best and strongest eleven, which RR played with.

“…but when you take the quality of players that we had, this was the best side and the strongest side (that) we put out on the park,” he said. 

Also Read : Indian women's team to host Australia for T20 series in December

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Ahmedabad, May 29 (Cricket News) Five-time IPL winner Hardik Pandya on Sunday said his latest triumph, while leading first-timers Gujarat Titans, is something the coming generations will talk about.

Hardik's team capped off a dream campaign in its maiden season by lifting the Indian Premier League title with a seven-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals in the final here.

"This title is going to be a special one because we talked about creating a legacy. The coming generations will talk about it," Hardik said.

"Everyone will remember this was the team who started this journey and to win the championship first year is very special." The Gujarat Titans' triumphant skipper said he knew he was going to bat at number four for the first-timers after they got done with the mega auction ahead of IPL-15.

"When the auction finished, I knew I would have to bat at No. 4," Hardik said at the presentation ceremony.

Hardik has won four IPL titles with Mumbai Indians.

Gujarat's highly-rated bowling attack, led by skipper Hardik (3/17) himself, limited a formidable Rajasthan Royals batting unit to 130 for nine after losing the toss.

Asked about his bowling, he said, "Wanted to show at the right time what I've worked hard for. Today was the day from the bowling point of view I saved the best for the best.

"Second ball of my spell when I got Sanju (Samson) out, saw that if you hit the wicket hard and hit the seam something is gonna (going to) happen.

"It's all about sticking to the right lengths, asking the batters to play the right shots." Hardik, known for his big-hitting abilities, curbed his attacking instinct to some extend during the tournament, focussing more on guiding his team with his calm and composed leadership.

"For me my team is the most important. I've always been that kind of individual. If I were to have a worse season and my team wins, I'll take that. I will take the trophy any day over striking at 160. My team comes first for me." Speaking about his batting, he said, "Batting comes first to me, always going to be close to my heart." Hardik has enjoyed a splendid run in his fresh IPL season with his home franchise. In 14 innings, he has scored nearly 500 runs at an average of 45.30 while also picking up plenty of wickets, which has earned him praise from many quarters.

Player of the Tournament, Jos Buttler, for amassing 863 runs, said he has "exceeded all my expectations apart from today".

"... The trophy we really wanted. Disappointed with that. Big congratulations to Hardik and team. Deserving champions. My goals are to play my role for the team and try and react on the day regarding what the game is asking me to do," Buttler said.

"In good teams you have a lot of trust in everyone. We have huge trust in everyone in our team. Very grateful for the opportunity to play today. Disappointed - that's completely natural." Notwithstanding the loss in the final, RR captain Sanju Samson was proud of the way his team played through the season.

"This season is a really special for us. We have been able to play good cricket and give fans some happy moments. All the youngsters, seniors played well as a team, I am proud of my team," Samson said.

"We believe quality bowlers win you the tournament. So we invested in them. With Jos playing throughout 20 overs, my role was a bit different. It was a decent season for me, nice 30s and 40s and 20s. But there is a lot to learnt. And huge congratulations to Gujarat Titans," he added. 

Also Read : Hardik showed eagerness to learn as captain, engaged with all of his teammates: Kirsten

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Ahmedabad, May 29 (Cricket News) Hardik Pandya's eagerness to learn as captain and his ability to effectively engage with his teammates contributed massively to Gujrata Titans' title-winning run on IPL debut, said team mentor Gary Kirsten on Sunday.

Kirsten, who coached India to the 2011 World Cup title, was all praise for Hardik who excelled both as skipper and player in the team's very first season.

"He has been fantastic, I've looked working with him. He's a high-profile player in India but he's incredibly humble, wanting to learn as a leader and engage with his players which I thing is really, really important. He's tried to help the youngsters, he's come in and played a different responsibility," he told the IPL host broadcaster.

On his experience, the South Africa said: "You never stop learning as a coach, every IPL is a learning experience, that’s what I enjoy. I’ve loved working with Ashish (Nehra), he’s really strong tactically - trying to put a gameplan together on the fly is not easy.

"There are so many variable in each game, but what I’ve enjoyed has been the responsibility players have taken to win games for us," he said.

The team won games from tough situations and that became its hallmark.

"You're looking for good balance, good depth in the auction but most importantly you’re looking for players who can do different roles, the one thing we’ve learnt with Ashish is finding guys who were versatile, and at 4, 5 and 6 - we've got that.

"We all got energy out of it, we’ve had a great bowling attack - through the end we went a bowler strong and a batter light, but we were always confident, just to get good balance in the team," Kirsten said when asked about contributions from a variety of players over the course of the season.

Wriddhiman Saha, who did well as an opener, said the team proved its critics wrong.

"This is my fifth final and the second final I have won, someone said our team was not good after the auctions, but we proved them wrong," he said.

David Miller, who enjoyed his best ever IPL, was overjoyed.

"It's been a phenomenal journey, finishing it at the back end was a special feeling, but it has been a collective effort, everyone has stuck up their hand and performed well," said Miller. 

Also Read : Gujarat Titans win IPL title in maiden season, beat RR by seven wickets in final

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Ahmedabad, May 29 (Cricket News) Gujarat Titans won the Indian Premier League title in their maiden season as they beat Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets in the final here on Sunday.

Opting to bat after winning the toss, Rajasthan Royals were restricted to 130 for nine by the Gujarat bowlers at a packed Narendra Modi Stadium.

The tournament's top scorer, Jos Buttler, got out to GT skipper Hardik Pandya after making 39 off 35 balls.

Hardik bowled brilliantly to finish with figures of 3/17 in his four overs, while Rashid Khan too had an excellent outing, taking 1/18 in his full quota of overs.

In reply, GT lost two early wickets but eventually chased down the target of 131 with 11 balls to spare.

Brief scores: Rajasthan Royals: 130/9 in 20 overs (Jos Buttler 39; Rashid Khan 1/18, Hardik Pandya 3/17).

Gujarat Titans: 133/3 in 18.1 overs (Hardik Pandya 34, Shubman Gill 45 not out). 

Also Read : Umran Malik 'breath of fresh' air for pace bowling: Whatmore

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Srinagar, May 29 (Cricket News) Former Australian cricketer and World Cup-winning coach Dav Whatmore on Sunday said Umran Malik was a breath of fresh air in the world of pace bowling and expressed hope that the 22-year-old goes from strength to strength.

Whatmore, who arrived in Srinagar as part of a camp at a private school here, said many youngsters from J-K would like to emulate the pace sensation.

“Umran Malik is a breath of fresh air for the speed and pace bowling. He has been wonderful to the point that he was retained by his (IPL) franchise which is a big thing. I am sure there are a lot of youngsters in this state that would like to emulate Malik,” the cricketer, who has in past coached Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh among other teams, told reporters.

He congratulated Malik for being selected in the India cricket team “Let’s hope he does well. Congratulations to him for being selected in the Indian squad. We all hope that he goes from strength to strength,” Whatmore said.

Asked about his favourites for the IPL final match to be played between Rajasthan Royals and Gujarat Titans, Whatmore said it is really good for the IPL for those two teams to be playing in the finals.

“I am not sure which way to go. There are good reasons for both to win the IPL. Maybe later in the day, I will have some leaning, but both are very very good teams,” he said.

Whatmore, who was part of the Australian squad which played a match here in 1979, expressed hope that his second visit to the valley would not be his last.

“I played a match here in 1979 when Australia toured India and there was a match in Srinagar. I remember that was the first game on the tour, so that was my first experience of Srinagar,” he said. “That was wonderful. This is my second visit here and I hope it is not last.” 

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Mumbai, May 28 (Cricket News) Virat Kohli can consider taking a break, freshen up his mind and work on a few things, feels former Australian speedster Brett Lee, a year after struggling to look beyond the Indian when it came to the best batter in recent years.

Kohli's mediocre campaign in the IPL-15 ended after Royal Challengers Bangalore's seven-wicket defeat by Rajasthan Royals in the second qualifier in Ahmedabad on Friday.

"Do I say it is a concern, I do. I would like him (Kohli) to be scoring more runs of course," Lee told PTI on Saturday when asked about Kohli's prolonged lean patch.

Kohli, who hasn't scored an international hundred for nearly three years, is battling his career's worst slump, having managed 341 runs in 16 IPL games at a below-par average of 22.73. In the ongoing IPL, he opened the RCB innings in most games.

In the second qualifier, Kohli chased a fast, rising delivery from pacer Prasidh Krishna, which was wide outside the off-stump, to give a simple catch to Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson behind the stumps.

"The hardest thing is when Virat Kohli doesn't score runs, generally the team doesn't do well. When we see Kohli had that purple patch, when he got 800-900 runs in that season (IPL 2016) his team (Royal Challengers Bangalore) fared pretty well. We want more from Kohli.

"A strong Kohli is a strong team. Unfortunately he missed out in the semis; he could not get his team to cross the line of his own bat, getting less than 10 runs.

"Maybe (it is) a chance for Kohli to go back and try work on a few things and maybe just have a rest from cricket. Just get away and just freshen up the mind," added Lee, who is the brand ambassador of 'Sportsbet.io'.

Around this time last year, Lee had picked Kohli and Australia seamer Pat Cummins as the best batsman and bowler of the world.

"When you look at the recent greats, it is hard to look past Virat Kohli," Lee had said when asked who his favourite Test batter is in an interview with ICC.

Impressed with fast-bowling talent in India ============================= This Indian Premier League has seen the emergence of young pacers like Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, Kamran Malik, Mukesh Choudhary, Arshdeep Singh and the 45-year-old Lee, who has 310 Test wickets, believed this could come in handy when the country plays in the T20 World Cup in Australia.

"The two Khan boys (Mohsin and Avesh) have got real talent. The one thing that Indian cricket is producing is a nice catalogue of fast bowlers. I like that.

"They have got good spin options as well but certainly if you are looking forward to the T20 World Cup in Australia, you want guys that can bowl fast on the fast bouncy wickets," said Lee.

Pace sensation Umran Malik must play longer format ================================ One of the biggest finds of the IPL has been Malik, who consistently bowled over 150 kmph and ended with 22 wickets for the Sunrisers Hyderabad.

"Look he has been fantastic, what Umran Malik delivers is pure pace. I wish him well and I am hoping that he gets the opportunity to play the longer format of the game as well," Lee said. 

Also Read : Watch Gavaskar's videos to learn how to counter fearsome pacers despite short height: Miandad

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Karachi, May 28 (Cricket News) Their on-field banter, sometimes playful and at other times bitter, was a part of Indo-Pak cricketing folklore but when it came to respect, Javed Miandad always had the highest regards for Sunil Gavaskar's unflappable temperament and near-perfect technique against fastest bowlers of his time.

Miandad feels that current players should watch video clips of Gavaskar's batting to know how he tackled some of the world's most fearsome fast bowlers like Michael Holding, Andy Roberts, Malcolm Marshall, Imran Khan, Richard Hadlee, Dennis Lillee among others.

"It was amazing that given his short height, how well he played all over the world. His consistency and performances are remarkable," Miandad said in a video released by the Pakistan Cricket Board.

Miandad believes that Gavaskar's immaculate defence and balance while standing at barely 5 feet 5 inches against hefty fast bowlers are lessons that can be learnt.

"Players nowadays can learn so much from watching his videos. See how he coped with the fast bowlers despite his short height. He played in an era where he faced the most fearsome pace bowlers in the West Indies, England, Australia, New Zealand and even against Pakistan and yet he was successful." Miandad, who played 124 Tests and remained Pakistan's top run-getter before Younis Khan overtook him, also talked about the camaraderie he shared with the former India skipper.

"I enjoyed watching him bat. I remember I used to field close to him and keep chattering away to distract him as his level of concentration and focus was so high," he said.

"There were times when I managed to disturb his focus and when he got out he always used to leave cursing me and I enjoyed it." Miandad said India was fortunate to have Gavaskar and his brother in law, Gundappa Vishwanath play in the same era.

"Vishwanath was another top player but Gavaskar was exceptional." Miandad, who was coach of the national team thrice, said he always enjoyed watching Gavaskar bat and had some famous duels with him on the field. 

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Ahmedabad, May 28 (Cricket News) Two leaders, who are minefields of talent in their own right, one team that has made a mockery of all betting odds and the other trying to complete a cycle that started 15 summers back, IPL final between Gujarat Titans and Rajasthan Royals is about this and much more.

When IPL started over two months back, nobody would have believed that two captains walking out for toss in the title clash will be Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson.

'Remember the Titans', a 2000 Hollywood film headlined by Denzel Washington is considered one of the best sports films on the proverbial underdog story, which always has a capital.

It is not known if Titans skipper Hardik has watched it but for him and head coach Ashish Nehra, this journey of two months has been nothing short of spectacular. They have made a lot of people eat a humble pie because many, including experts, termed them a team of no-hopers post auction. A team that looked like a rag-tag outfit with only a few good players like David Miller, considered past their sell by date, or one-match wonders like Rahul Tewatia, it didn't really look good on paper.

But then you wouldn't call cricket a "game of glorious uncertainties" if everything would be decided on paper.

A fit-again Hardik took to leadership like fish takes to water and showed the way with his performances and the reason why he will always be an asset for Indian cricket.

Miller, who played his best cricket at least five years back, showed his 2.0 version that stunned one and all. Tewatia showed that those five sixes in Sharjah wasn't a mere flash in the pan.

Rashid Khan knew that he would be read well, so he became all the more parsimonious. Wriddhiman Saha after Rahul Dravid's hard-talk had reached a dead-end in his career but got a new lease of life and at least one more season to look forward to.

Gujarat as a state has not been known for its sporting exploits.

It produced players like Parthiv Patel or one of India's greatest ever pacers in Jasprit Bumrah but just like Tamil Nadu never had an emotional connect with a team before CSK appeared in the horizon, same is the case with Gujarat.

Come Sunday, expect a partisan and vociferous crowd to chant "Aava De" and that's the impact that Titans have had on their fans.

History will always throw examples that sporting teams bind a community and perhaps Titans can strike that chord with the Gujaratis.

For Titans, if this is about carving a niche in-front of home crowd, Rajasthan would like to do it for someone, who would be watching up from the stars.

Shane Warne -- Rajasthan's forever first Royal had used the IPL stage in its inception year to show Australian cricket establishment what Ian Chappell had always maintained : "Shane Warne was the best captain Australia never had".

With the Ravindra Jadejas, Dinesh Salunkhes, Swapnil Asnodkars and Niraj Patels, Warne had guided tournament's then cheapest team to victory.

Thirteen summers have gone but there is no Warne in flesh and blood to watch his beloved team complete a cycle of life and sport.

Sanju is perhaps one of those rare Indian cricketers, who has a massive fan following despite not having played even 20 international matches for the country.

In terms of talent quotient, there is little to choose between Sanju and Hardik.

Sanju's batting like a pendulum swinging between heroism and insanity.

One ball, he can audaciously flick Kagiso Rabada or a Josh hazlewood for a six and the next delivery could be an atrocious shot that would make his biggest supporter tear his hair in frustration.

But captaincy has made him explore a different aspect -- the skills of a manager.

It is not easy to lead a pack that has bonafide stars like Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jos Buttler, Trent Boult along with young guns Yashasvi Jaiswal or Prasidh Krishna but Sanju has handled it well.

It will be one hell of a battle where Buttler with 800-plus runs will not only fight a Lockie Ferguson or a Yash Dayal but also withstand crowd pressure: about 1,11,000 fans would be cheering for the hosts.

Similarly, Shubman Gill would like to own the big stage and show what he can do when the canvas is as large as the IPL final.

Prasidh Krishna is a handful when his team bowls first but how will he react against a rampaging Miller if he has to defend in a tense situation? What will be Hardik's tactic against a wily Chahal and an experimental Ashwin during the middle overs? Or will Buttler take risks against a Rashid Khan? We will get all those answers in the next 24 hours.

There will be heroes, there will be heartbreaks but above everything, perhaps a contest that everyone will remember for ages.

Squads: Gujarat Titans: Hardik Pandya (c), Abhinav Manohar, David Miller, Gurkeerat Singh, B Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill, Rahul Tewatia, Vijay Shankar, Matthew Wade, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Wriddhiman Saha, Alzarri Joseph, Darshan Nalkande, Lockie Ferguson, Mohammed Shami, Noor Ahmad, Pradeep Sangwan, Rashid Khan, Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore, Varun Aaron, Yash Dayal.

Rajasthan Royals: Sanju Samson (c), Jos Buttler, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravichandran Ashwin, Trent NSE 1.86 % Boult, Shimron Hetmyer, Devdutt Padikkal, Prasidh Krishna, Yuzvendra Chahal, Riyan Parag, KC Cariappa, Navdeep Saini, Obed McCoy, Anunay Singh, Kuldeep Sen, Karun Nair, Dhruv Jurel, Tejas Baroka, Kuldip Yadav, Shubham Garhwal, James Neesham, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Rassie van der Dussen, Daryl Mitchell, Corbin Bosch.

Match starts at 8:00 pm. 

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