"Well Done": Ex-India Star's 'Tough' Message After Contract Announcement

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar praised the BCCI on rewarding players for their hardwork after the board announced the Annual Central Contracts on Wednesday. India captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli expectedly retained their place in the top bracket, with Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah also included in the Grade A+ category. However, the biggest takeaway from the new central contracts was the decision to axe the out-of-favour duo of Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer.

Both Kishan and Iyer didn't turn up for their respective state teams for Ranji Trophy games, despite clear directives from the board. Both the players are currently not part of the squad for the ongoing Test series against England.

Taking to social media, Manjrekar praised the BCCI for rewarding players who have the hunger to represent India and are not afraid of facing the "acid test" at international level.

"Well done to @BCCI for rewarding players who want to play the tough cricket and only for one reason...to face the 'acid test' as cricketers," Manjrekar posted on X.

Well done to @BCCI for rewarding players who want to play the tough cricket and only for one reason...to face the 'acid test' as cricketers.

— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) February 28, 2024

Kishan did not turn up for Jharkhand throughout the team's campaign in Ranji Trophy despite not being on national duty since leaving from the tour of South Africa in December citing personal reasons. He has instead focussed on preparing for the IPL next month.

Iyer, on the other hand, did not make himself available for Mumbai's Ranji quarterfinal against Baroda after being excluded from the Indian team after the second Test against England. He, however, has been picked for the Ranji semifinals starting March 2.

Cricketers are normally paid Rs 7 crore per annum in A plus bracket, Rs 5 crore in A, Rs 3 crore in B and Rs one crore in C category, over and above their match fees.

Central contracts for 2023-24: Grade A : Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja.

Grade A+: R Ashwin, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya.

Grade B: Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Grade C: Rinku Singh, Tilak Verma, Ruturaj Gaekwad, Shardul Thakur, Shivam Dube, Ravi Bishnoi, Jitesh Sharma, Washington Sundar, Mukesh Kumar, Sanju Samson, Arshdeep Singh, KS Bharat, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan and Rajat Patidar.

Fast bowling contracts: Akash Deep, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Umran Malik, Yash Dayal and Vidwath Kaverappa.

(With PTI Inputs)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/I2xmaqt

'Forcefully You Can't Do Anything': India Star On Kishan-Iyer Contract Row

Veteran India wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha on Thursday said nothing can be done 'forcefully' if a cricketer does not want to play domestic cricket, while adding that it is the base and every player should value it enough to prosper. Saha's reaction came after Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer were on Wednesday excluded from the annual player retainership list for the 2023-24 season, with the BCCI saying in a statement that the two cricketers 'were not considered for the annual contracts in this round of recommendations'. "That is BCCI's decision and personal decision of concerned players. Forcefully, you can't do anything," the stumper said about Kishan and Iyer's axe.

These two players were part of the Indian side until very recently, having also featured in the 50-overs World Cup last year. While Kishan was last part of the Test squad during India's Tour of South Africa in December, Iyer played the first two Tests of the ongoing series against England.

Saha said a cricketer should treat every match with equal importance citing his own example.

"Whenever I am fit I play, even I played club matches, office matches as well. I always treat a match as a match. All matches are equal for me. If every player thinks on those lines, they will only prosper in their career and it will be better for Indian cricket as well," he said.

"I feel the importance of domestic cricket is always there because if I talk about Sarfaraz Khan, he had scored plenty of runs in the last 4-5 years. Definitely, he has delivered." Saha, meanwhile, termed the young wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel's batting as 'outstanding'. Jurel scored a gritty 46 on Test debut in the third Test and followed it up with scores of 90 and 39 in the fourth Test at Ranchi, earning himself the player of the match award.

"I have never seen him (Jurel) in domestic cricket, even in Test matches I have seen in him highlights. But his batting is outstanding, he won the last Test for the team," he said.

Saha also feels the future of Indian cricket is bright because of its bench strength while once again underlining the importance of domestic circuit. "It is always good to see that your reserve bench is ready, whenever somebody is getting chance," he said.

"Over that, some players are getting opportunity but don't want to play, which they shouldn't. Whenever you get a chance to play, you should play whether it is red ball or white ball," said Saha, who played 40 Tests and scoreed 1,353 runs while affecting 104 dismissals (92 catches and 12 stumpings). PTI SSC SSC DDV

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/yeuQ6Fa

'Struggled At 5th Spot': Ex-ENG Star Points Out Flaw In Jadeja's Batting

Former England captain Alastair Cook criticised the batting of India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja after the player failed to play a noticeable knock in the Ranchi Test. Jadeja, who batted at number 5 ahead of Sarfaraz Khan and Dhruv Jurel in both innings against England, failed to help the team's cause by returning scores of run-a-ball 12 and 4 off 33. Cook opined that the India star finds it hard to maintain a balance between attack and defence whenever he bats at the number 5 spot.

"Jadeja in particular showed probably why he should be batting a little bit lower." Cook told TNT Sports.

"Yes he can score runs but the ability, under pressure, to find that balance between attack and defence under pressure - pressure does funny thing to you.

"Jadeja is a world-class all-rounder, but batting at five there he struggled in terms of taking no risks because he didn't want to get out or trying to put a bit of pressure back on as a batter."

On the other hand, Cook was all praise for Jurel, who was playing only his second Test match. 

In the first innings of the Ranchi Test, Jurel scored 90 runs off 149 balls to keep India alive in the game while in the second innings he remained unbeaten at the score of 39 off 77 balls.

"But Jurel found that balance perfectly with his feet movement and sharpness of mind," said Cook.

Shubman Gill and Jurel kept calm to lead India to a series-clinching five-wicket win over England. The hosts won the fourth Test by 5 wickets, taking an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series after they lost the first game.

Chasing 192 for victory, India slipped to 120 for 5 but Gill, who scored 52, and Jurel stitched unbeaten 72-run partnership to guide India to victory.

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/k31d0l2

"Stick A Camera, Microphone": Vaughan's 'Simple Solution' Over DRS Row

Amid the controversy surrounding the Decision Review System (DRS) in the ongoing Test series between India and England, former cricketer Michael Vaughan has come up with a "simple solution" to tackle the challenges of the technology. England, who won the opening game in Hyderabad, have expressed their disappointment regarding some of the decions that have gone against them, pertaining to DRS and the umpire's call. After being hammered by India in the third Test in Rajkot (434 runs), England captain Ben Stokes had urged the officials to get rid of the umpire's call.

Stokes' comments came after opener Zak Crawley found himself on the wrong end of the umpire's call. The umpire had declared Crawley out, a decision that was upheld by the DRS.

However, upon zooming the DRS footage, it was shown that the ball was missing the top of the leg stump, leaving Stokes and the visitors fuming.

England found themselves in a similar situation in the fourth Test, this time the decision had gone against Joe Root in the second innings on Day 3.

In Root's case, the ball tracking showed that more than half of the ball was pitching outside the line before going on to hit the leg stump.

Amid the growing concerns regarding the credibility of the technology, Vaughan has urged the ICC to put up a camera and a mic in the DRS room.

"It only takes one look at social media to see that a lot of people don't trust it. There is so much anger and suspicion about decisions that go for or against certain teams. There's suspicion about host broadcasters and who is in the truck. That is despite the technology companies not actually being from the same country as the host broadcaster. For instance, Hawk-Eye is a company from the UK but is being used in this series. They are just brought in by the host broadcaster," Vaughan wrote in his column for the Telegraph.

"So here's a simple solution to help improve transparency and accountability: stick a camera and microphone in the truck so as a decision is being made, we all know exactly what is going on, and how much humans are involved. And if you stick an ICC official in there as well we'd know that the integrity - something we talk so much about in the game - is intact. You could argue that those running the technology in the truck are as important as the two standing umpires," he added.

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/cM0SlTv

New Zealand vs Australia Live Score Updates 1st Test Day 1

NZ vs AUS, 1st Test Day 1 Live Updates: New Zealand will take on Australia in the first Test of a two-match series at the Basin Reserve in Wellington. Australia have confirmed their playing XI for the series opener, while the hosts will make a late call on their final spot due to Devon Conway's injury. Conway was ruled out of the series with Henry Nicholls replacing him in the squad. There has been rain in the lead up to the match, but clear and cool conditions in Wellington are expected. (Live Scorecard)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/PRXtlxj

Not Only Iyer And Kishan, These 4 Veterans Axed Too From BCCI Contracts

The out-of-favour duo of Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer were excluded after ignoring the directive to play Ranji Trophy, while skipper Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli expectedly retained their place in the top bracket as the BCCI unveiled its centrally-contracted players for this year on Wednesday. The 25-year-old Kishan did not turn up for Jharkhand throughout the team's campaign in Ranji Trophy despite not being on national duty since leaving from the tour of South Africa in December citing personal reasons. He has instead focussed on preparing for the IPL next month.

Iyer, on the other hand, did not make himself available for Mumbai's Ranji quarterfinal against Baroda after being excluded from the Indian team after the second Test against England. He, however, has been picked for the Ranji semifinals starting March 2.

While announcing the central contracts for 2023-24, the BCCI once again advised all India cricketers to play domestic games when not on national duty.

"Please note that Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan were not considered for the annual contracts in this round of recommendations," said the BCCI in a statement.

"The BCCI has recommended that all athletes give precedence to participating in domestic cricket during periods when they are not representing the national team," the board added.

Their exclusion can be seen as a stern message to young players unwilling to put in the hard yards in first-class cricket, while chasing white-ball glory and lucrative IPL contracts.

Rohit, Kohli, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja were retained in the A plus category, the highest bracket of the BCCI's central contracts list.

Six cricketers feature in the A category including senior off-spinner R Ashwin, who will be playing his 100th Test next week, when India takes on England in the fifth and final game. Ashwin recently became only second Indian bowler after formr captain Anil Kumble to take cross 500 wickets in Tests.

Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya are the others to feature in the A category.

Siraj, who was in the B category previously, has been promoted while Axar Patel has moved down from A to B.

Others in the B category are Suryakumar Yadav, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has had a stellar start to his international career.

Pant was in the A category last year but finds himself in B in the latest contracts having not played any cricket since his horrific accident in December 2022.

As many as 15 were handed C category contracts including Rinku Singh, Tilak Verma, Ruturaj Gaekwad, Shardul Thakur, Shivam Dube, Ravi Bishnoi, Jitesh Sharma, Washington Sundar, Mukesh Kumar, Sanju Samson, Arshdeep Singh, KS Bharat, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan and Rajat Patidar.

Cricketers who end up playing a minimum of three Tests or eight ODIs or 10 T20Is within the specified period are automatically included in Grade C on a pro-rata basis.

For instance, Dhruv Jurel and Sarfaraz Khan, having played two Test matches so far, will be inducted in Grade C after they take part in the fifth and final game against England in Dharamsala beginning March 7.

Pujara, Chahal, Dhawan dropped

The big names who have lost their contracts include Cheteshwar Pujara, Shikhar Dhawan, Umesh Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, who all have fallen out of favour with the selectors.

It signals the end of the road for the likes of Pujara but the 33-year-old Chahal can still make a case for himself if he plays more games.

The selection committee has also recommended fast bowling contracts for Akash Deep, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Umran Malik, Yash Dayal and Vidwath Kaverappa. This system has been place since 2021-22 but it is for the first time that the BCCI has officially released names of the selected players.

Akash Deep had impressed on debut in the recent fourth Test against England, which India won to seal the series.

In a departure from the norms, the BCCI this time has not mentioned the remuneration of the players across the four categories.

Cricketers are normally paid Rs 7 crore per annum in A plus bracket, Rs 5 crore in A, Rs 3 crore in B and Rs one crore in C category, over and above their match fees.

Central contracts for 2023-24: Grade A+: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja.

Grade A: R Ashwin, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya.

Grade B: Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Grade C: Rinku Singh, Tilak Verma, Ruturaj Gaekwad, Shardul Thakur, Shivam Dube, Ravi Bishnoi, Jitesh Sharma, Washington Sundar, Mukesh Kumar, Sanju Samson, Arshdeep Singh, KS Bharat, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan and Rajat Patidar.

Fast bowling contracts: Akash Deep, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Umran Malik, Yash Dayal and Vidwath Kaverappa. 

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/oHkdEF9

"Hardik Will Enjoy Having Rohit As 'Captain'": Gavaskar's Big IPL Verdict

Legendary Indian cricket team batter Sunil Gavaskar believes that Mumbai Indians will benefit from the change in captaincy and said that it will allow Rohit Sharma to play more freely in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Hardik Pandya completed a sensational trade from Gujarat Titans to MI ahead of the new season and he ended Rohit's ten-year tenure as skipper. There has been a lot of chatter around the decision but Gavaskar said that it has been a busy season for Rohit with the Cricket World Cup campaign and with Hardik looking after the captaincy, the star batter will be able concentrate on his own game.

"To allow Rohit to play purely as a batter... it has been a busy season for him, first the World Cup, and now this series. This will give him the freedom to play without worrying about other players. My feeling is that it will work very well for Mumbai Indians. For Hardik to have someone like Rohit to turn to would be invaluable. Hardik will enjoy having Rohit as 'captain'," he said during a during a Star Sports event.

Gavaskar further stated that Hardik will benefit from having an experienced captain like Rohit by his side during the season and that can turn out to be 'invaluable' for the Mumbai Indians.

Gavaskar also said wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel, who plays for Rajasthan Royals, could be the superstar of this IPL.

Playing in only his second Test, Jurel won the Man of the Match award for his splendid batting efforts of 90 and 39 not out in India's series-clinching five-wicket win over England.

"He could be promoted up the order. Jurel could be the superstar after this performance in the Test matches. Even Akash Deep could get more exposure in RCB and play the role of the death over specialist which they were missing last season."

(With PTI inputs)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/k0OQShx

'Bazball Or Whatever Ball You Call It': India Great's Dig At Misfiring ENG

The Indian cricket team sealed a memorable series win against England with a five-wicket victory in Ranchi in the fourth Test. Despite top stars like Jasprit Bumrah missing from action, the young guns under Rohit Sharma galvanised into a pack of powerful performers. Though England looked in control in phases of the game, India were able wrest control with youngsters like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel stepping up in the series. India's performance has put a question mark on England's Bazball strategy, as they have now lost the first series since the ultra-aggressive approach by coach Brendon McCullum.  

Anil Kumble, JioCinema and Sports18 expert, opened up on whether Bazball did not serve England well: “The challenge when England came here was obvious. Bazball or whatever ball you want to call it, playing in India and beating India here was never going to be easy. India have never lost a series at home in the last decade. They (England) knew that they had to be different but their bowling attack wasn't something that they believed would be able to penetrate India's batting line-up.”

“England's senior batters including Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow and Joe Root, other than the Ranchi Test, didn't contribute consistently. There were some key moments that they grabbed on a couple of occasions but other key moments they let go. It's all nice to say that ‘this is the way I bat', but you can't bat like that all the time. You have to hold back. In Test match cricket, that's what it is. It's about situations and that's what Root did in this (Ranchi) match. No wonder he was successful, something that England will have to discuss and look at.”

Aakash Chopra, JioCinema and Sports18 expert, also gave his ingihht on the impact of Bazball in the series: “The first match took everyone by surprise. We had heard of Bazball, but had not seen it. That you are behind by 190 runs on a turning pitch and then you employ sweep, reverse sweep, reverse hit and suddenly you react, ‘wow, cricket can be played in such a way.' That was our introduction to Bazball. After that, England found themselves in many situations from where they could have closed matches. I remember Joe Root's shot from the Rajkot match. England had completely dominated the last session of the previous day's play. They needed to just consolidate after that, but they didn't do that.”

“So I feel, if England do an honest assessment, they would feel, Root should play the way he has all his career. There are some basic principles of cricket that have not changed. Bazball should not be used as a cop-up, saying that this is the way we play. If that's the way you are going to play, then score a century and not 25. If you can't score that ton, then please play some other way. This logic applies to Jonny Bairstow and Ben Stokes. Please score runs on good batting surfaces, and give it whatever name you want.”

“The series certainly proved that England played an entertaining brand of cricket. But the success that their most successful batsman got in the end was through playing orthodox, conventional Test cricket that's being played for over 150 years.”

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/itTBYhW

NZ Pacer Neil Wagner Announces Retirement From International Cricket

New Zealand fast bowler Neil Wagner on Tuesday called time on his illustrious 64-Test career for the Blackcaps, announcing his retirement from international cricket. The left-armer finishes his Test career fifth overall on the list of New Zealand Test wicket-takers. The 37-year-old pacer took the emotional choice after a difficult chat with coach Gary Stead last week when it was clear that he was not in New Zealand's top XI for the forthcoming series against Australia. The pacer was named to New Zealand's team to face Australia, but he was not picked for the first Test in Wellington and will be dropped from the squad for the second Test in Christchurch.

Wagner admitted that the choice to retire was difficult, but it was evident that the time had come to move on.

"It's been an emotional week. It's not easy to step away from something you've given so much to and got so much out of, but it's now time for others to step up and take this team forward. I've enjoyed every single moment of playing Test cricket for the Black Caps and am proud of everything we've been able to achieve as a team. The friendships and bonds built over my career are what I'll cherish the most and I want to thank everyone who's played a part in where I am today," Wagner said in an official statement.

"My teammates have always meant the world to me and all I've ever wanted to do was what was best for the team - I hope that's the legacy I will leave. I'd like to thank my wife Lana for her support in helping me be the man I am today and for helping bring our two little girls Olivia and Zahli, and our boy Josh into the world. I'm looking forward to one final week in camp and will be doing everything I can to help prepare and support the boys," he added.

Wagner retires as New Zealand's fifth-highest wicket-taker, after only Sir Richard Hadlee (431), Tim Southee (376), Daniel Vettori (361) and Trent Boult (317).

The 37-year-old pace-bowler will not be in the starting XI for the first Test at the Cello Basin Reserve and will be released from the squad ahead of the second Test in Christchurch.

Wagner will finish his career fifth on the list of New Zealand's top Test wicket-takers with 260 wickets, at an average of 27.

His strike rate of 52 is only bettered by the great Sir Richard Hadlee (50) of New Zealanders to have taken more than 100 Test wickets.

New Zealand coach Gary Stead said Wagner's impact went beyond statistics and commended the pacer's selfless style throughout his career.

"Neil's numbers are phenomenal, but I don't think we can underestimate his contributions to the team when the chips were down and he found a way to create a wicket. His accuracy, execution and tenacity have been instrumental in many of our great Test victories and he will always be remembered for his lion-hearted nature," Stead said

"Neil gave absolutely everything to the BLACKCAPS and we are certainly going to miss his energy and 'never give in' attitude," he added.

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/5Nc8Y7u

Injured India Fast Bowler Mohammed Shami Undergoes Successful Heel Surgery

Indian cricket team star pacer Mohammed Shami provided a huge update on Monday and disclosed that he has undergone an operation on his Achilles tendon. The right-arm pacer took to X (formerly Twitter) to share the news with his fans. "Just had a successful heel operation on my achilles tendon! Recovery is going to take some time, but looking forward to getting back on my feet. #AchillesRecovery #HeelSurgery #RoadToRecovery," Shami posted on X. Shami missed the home T20I series against Australia following the ICC event, and he was ruled out of the entire South Africa tour. He also missed the Afghanistan series and is not participating in the ongoing Test series against England.

The 33-year-old, who is not playing in the current five-match Test series against England, last represented India in the ODI World Cup final against Australia in November. The senior pacer finished as the tournament's highest wicket-taker and dismissed 24 batters in only 7 matches.

Just had a successful heel operation on my achilles tendon! ? Recovery is going to take some time, but looking forward to getting back on my feet. #AchillesRecovery #HeelSurgery #RoadToRecovery pic.twitter.com/LYpzCNyKjS

— ???????? ????? (@MdShami11) February 26, 2024

Shami, who took 24 wickets in India's spectacular World Cup campaign, played with agony due to landing issues but did not allow it to hinder his performance.

The latest update has reportedly ruled him out of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. This comes as a significant blow to the franchise, as Shami was the leader of the Gujarat Titans' pace attack.

Shami contributed significantly to GT's success in both seasons. The 33-year-old bowler picked up 20 wickets in 2022 and followed it up with an even stronger performance in IPL 2023, taking 28 wickets at an average of 18.64. Shami was especially devastating with the new ball.

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/JwpSNAo

"Maybe Kohli Will Miss IPL Too," Gavaskar Gives Rise To Speculation

With Virat Kohli skipping the ongoing Test series against England citing personal reasons, the legendary Sunil Gavaskar on Monday wondered if the star batter would play in the upcoming Indian Premier League. The IPL 24 will begin with defending champions Chennai Super Kings taking on Royal Challengers Bangalore on March 22 at Chepauk. Initially named in the Indian Test squad, the RCB talisman pulled out before the opening game in Hyderabad. Earlier this month, the cricketer along with his wife Anushka Sharma announced the birth of their second child.

"Kya woh khelenge... kuchh reason ke liye khel nahin rahe hain, shaayad ho sakta hai ke IPL ke liye bhi na khele (Will he play... He is not playing because of some reason, perhaps he may not play in IPL as well)," Gavaskar said rather cheekily when asked if Kohli would be hungry for runs in the IPL as he would be returning to action after a long break.

Gavaskar was interacting with the students of Indian Institute of Management, Ranchi during a Star Sports Star event.

'Jurel could be superstar'

Gavaskar said wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel, who plays for Rajasthan Royals, could be the superstar of this IPL.

Playing in only his second Test, Jurel won the Man of the Match award for his splendid batting efforts of 90 and 39 not out in India's series-clinching five-wicket win over England.

"He could be promoted up the order. Jurel could be the superstar after this performance in the Test matches. Even Akash Deep could get more exposure in RCB and play the role of the death over specialist which they were missing last season." Gavaskar also hailed Mumbai Indians' move to make Hardik Pandya their captain, paving the way for Rohit Sharma to bat freely, without the additional responsibility of leading the side.

"To allow Rohit to play purely as a batter... it has been a busy season for him, first the World Cup, and now this series.

"This will give him the freedom to play without worrying about other players. My feeling is that it will work very well for Mumbai Indians.

"For Hardik to have someone like Rohit to turn to would be invaluable. Hardik will enjoy having Rohit as 'captain'."

'Let's not rush Rishabh'

Gavaskar is also excited that his favourite player, Rishabh Pant, will be making a much-awaited comeback after surviving a near-fatal car accident.

"I'm also a big fan of him. For me the most important thing, is he should be healthy like before, so that he can come and entertain us.

"It will be very difficult for him and it will take some time for him to get that batting fluency. But good that he has started training.

"Knee plays a pivotal role in batting as well as keeping -- which of course he may not do initially. Maybe he won't be the usual Rishabh Pant that we are used to seeing," Gavaskar said.

"He certainly has the ability to think on his feet. If he gets back to full fitness, the reins of (Delhi Capitals) captaincy should be handed over to him.

"Let's stay hopeful. This season is first of him coming back to full fitness. Let's not rush him into doing something that there will be a setback," he added.

'KKR dark horse, Pandit-Gambhir interaction key'

Terming Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings his favourite teams in IPL, Gavaskar said Kolkata Knight Riders would be the dark horse.

He said for KKR to succeed the "interaction" between coach Chandrakant Pandit and their former IPL-winning captain Gautam Gambhir would be key.

"Both Gambhir and Pandit are strong personalities and the interaction they would have would be key. The combination they both will make is going to be very crucial. If they click then KKR can become a very, very strong contender for the title." 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/JjOQ96f

Amid Controversy Over Root's LBW, Ex-ENG Star's "Excellent Review" Remark

Amid controversy over England batter Joe Root's LBW dismissal in the second innings of the 4th Test, former Three Lions pacer Steven Finn praised India captain Rohit Sharma and spinner Ravichandran Ashwin for the taking crucial review. This comes after former England captain Michael Vaughan had taken a swipe at the Hawkeye technology over Root's dismissal. The incident happened on the 17th over when Ashwin's delivery hit Root on the pads. While the umpire shook his head, Ashwin convinced Rohit to go for DRS.

The TV replay showed that the ball pitched on the leg-stump line and was going to hit the stumps. Vaughan vented his frustrations on social media over the dismissal.

However, Finn, who played 36 Tests for England between 2010 and 2016, thought that the Hawkeye got the decision spot on, pointing out the "drift" on Ashwin's delivery.

"An excellent review. From the naked eye, to me, it looked like it pitched outside leg stump, but clearly the drift Ashwin gets means that Root had to depart," Finn said on TNT Sports, the broadcasters for the ongoing series in the UK.

Finn added that Root's wicket was a big one for India and Ashwin's reaction justified it.

"You can see the passion from Ashwin's celebration, which shows just what that wicket means to India. Crawley is playing well, but Root was the glue that the England middle order could have played around," he added.

Ashwin took five wickets as India bowled England out for 145 on the third day of the fourth Test in Ranchi on Sunday, the hosts needing 192 to clinch the series.

Opener Zak Crawley top-scored with 60 but the rest of the England batting faltered against India's spin, with Ashwin returning figures of 5-51 and Kuldeep Yadav 4-22.

Ashwin found an able ally in Kuldeep, who also took four wickets to bring India back into the contest.

England won the opening Test but India lead the five-match series 2-1.

(With AFP Inputs)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/LbrjqPp

Bashir Becomes 2nd Youngest For England To Grab Maiden Five-For In Tests

England off-spinner Shoaib Bashir became the second youngest bowler to grab a five-for in Tests for the Three Lions after a fantastic performance on the third day of the fourth Test against India at JSCA International Stadium Complex on Sunday. Aged just 20 years and 135 days, Bashir picked up five wickets in his spell, dismissing the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Ravindra Jadeja, apart from tail-ender Akash Deep. The youngster bowled a total of 44 overs in his spell, conceding 119 runs while sending down eight maiden overs.

Earlier, leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed recorded similar bowling heroics, taking his maiden five-for at the age of just 18 years and 128 days against Pakistan in the 2022 series at Karachi. The Pakistan-born spinner picked up his wickets at the expense of just 48 runs.

Meanwhile, at Stumps on Day 3, India were sitting pretty at 40/0, chasing 152 runs more to win the five-match series. Skipper Rohit Sharma (24*) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (16*) were unbeaten at the crease when the stumps were drawn.

In their second innings, England was bundled out for just 145 runs, with Zak Crawley (60 in 91 balls, with seven fours) and Jonny Bairstow (30 in 42 balls, with three fours) offering some resistance.

The spinners, hunting in a pack on a surface that offered plenty to them, took all the 10 wickets to fall for England, with the talismanic Ravichandran Ashwin recording yet another five-for and Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja coming up with the perfect supporting act.

Riding on Ashwin's 5/51 and Kuldeep's 4/22, the hosts flattened the visitors for under 150. The hosts, thereby, were set a target of 191 runs to take an unassailable 3-1 series lead.

Earlier, India was bundled out for 307 in their first innings in reply to England's total of 353. Despite Yashasvi Jaiswal coming up with the goods yet again with 73 off 117 balls, laced with eight fours and a six, the hosts were reduced to 219/7.

Reviving Indian hopes from a point where the hosts were at risk of conceding a healthy lead to the visitors, wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel (90 in 149 balls, with six fours and four sixes) produced a sensational rearguard knock in the company of Kuldeep (28 off 131 balls). The two came together for a 76-run stand for the eighth wicket, dragging India past 300.

Bashir found purchase in the surface and recorded his maiden five-wicket haul. Supporting his figures of 5/119, Tom Hartley (3/68) and James Anderson (2/48) also produced the goods with the ball.

England chose to bat first after winning the toss, putting 353 runs on the board in their first innings, largely riding on a century by former skipper and batting mainstay Joe Root (122* off 274 balls, 10 fours), a half-century from Ollie Robinson (58 off 96 balls, with nine fours and a six) and a fine rearguard effort from keeper-bat Ben Foakes (47 in 126 balls, with four boundaries and a six).

Ravindra Jadeja (4/67) and Akash Deep (3/83) were the pick of the bowlers for India.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/tqdNuhD

Darshan at Shree Dwarkadhish Jagan Mandir, Dwaraka 25 - Feb - 2024

Darshan at Shree Dwarkadhish Jagan Mandir, Dwaraka 25 - Feb - 2024

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/BIcRZpF

New Zealand vs Australia 3rd T20I Live Score Updates

New Zealand vs Australia 3rd T20I Live Updates: New Zealand will aim for a consolation win as they face Australia in the third and final T20I match of the series on Sunday. Australia won the first game by 6 wickets. They then sealed the series with a 72-run victory in the second match. Australia's bowlers sliced through some reckless New Zealand batting to bag the series in Auckland on Friday. (Live Scorecard)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/Zb7ohdm

Series of paper leaks since 2017: Akhilesh Yadav hits out at BJP for UP Police constable recruitment exam paper leak

Series of paper leaks since 2017: Akhilesh Yadav hits out at BJP for UP Police constable recruitment exam paper leak

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/FkvcCAQ

'Exercise caution' India Govt warns as Indians are reported to have been drafted into private armies for Russia

'Exercise caution' India Govt warns as Indians are reported to have been drafted into private armies for Russia

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/H4W7PlZ

Watch: Akash Deep Rattles England's Top-Order With Three Wickets On Debut

Debutant fast bowler Akash Deep got off to a flying start in the Indian Test team, scalping three wickets to help Rohit Sharma's men reduce England to 112 for 5 at lunch on the opening day of the fourth Test on Friday. Akash seemed to have gotten his first wicket in the form of Zak Crawley when he sent the England opener's stumps cartwheeling but the delivery turned out to be a no-ball. Unperturbed by the incident, Akash then re-focused himself and bagged three wickets to mark a memorable debut in the whites for the Indian team.

Making his Test debut in place of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who has been rested, the 27-year-old Akash Deep (3/24) recovered from a no-ball setback to dismiss Ben Duckett (11), Ollie Pope (0) and Zak Crawley (42) and leave England reeling at 57 for 3.

WWW Akash Deep!

Follow the match https://t.co/FUbQ3Mhpq9#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/YANSwuNsG0

— BCCI (@BCCI) February 23, 2024

Crawley was lucky to not head to the pavillion when Akash first dismissed him on a no-ball. But, the second time, the second time, luck had run out for the England star.

After England were reduced to 57/3, spinners jumped into action, with Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja bagging one wicket each. Jonny Bairstow looked good for the first time in this series, smashing a 35-ball 38 with four boundaries and a six before Ashwin (1/17) trapped him in front.

England skipper Ben Stokes, who hasn't put a big score against his name in thi series, could only score three runs before he was dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja (1/28) plumb LBW as India dominated the morning session.

Joe Root (16 not out) was at the crease at the break as Lunch was called by the officials. India are leading the five-Test series 2-1.

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/rn378Jo

Farmer death: ‘Delhi Chalo’ march paused till 29 February, farmers to hold candle march tomorrow

Farmer death: ‘Delhi Chalo’ march paused till 29 February, farmers to hold candle march tomorrow

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/2hNB9eI

“Like a ‘Sadhu’…”: Singer Kailash Kher hails PM Modi

“Like a ‘Sadhu’…”: Singer Kailash Kher hails PM Modi

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/vTNH9zV

Trying Not To Expect Too Much From Ourselves: MI Captain Harmanpreet Kaur

Mumbai Indians skipper Harmanpreet Kaur said on Thursday that the defending champions have been trying to keep their own expectation level to a minimum and focus on the WPL opener against Delhi Capitals. Mumbai will face-off with Delhi in Bengaluru on Friday in a repeat of the last year's final, which was held in Mumbai. "We just kept our preparations very simple. We are trying not to expect too much from ourselves and doing too many things. That was our approach last year too and we want to continue that. We are feeling very confident going into this match and tournament," said Harmanpreet in her pre-match press meet.

One reason for that, Harmanpreet felt, was the Mumbai Indians' extensive pre-tournament camp held in their home turf.

"We used the facilities in Mumbai ahead of the WPL. We played a few practice games as well, so that we could try some new combinations and the players too get a chance to work upon their game.

"We feel that we are ready for the game. Last year, we had to do extra team-bonding sessions and this time we got some more time on the field training," she said. "In that sense, we also got a chance to look at the new girls who have joined this year and we have got a good team balance and we are very confident." Amanjot Kaur is one of the new recruits of the Mumbai side this year, and Harmanpreet hoped that the left-arm wrist spinner can boost her side's bowling unit.

"I have not seen any other woman cricketer who bowls left-arm wrist spin. She is a good pick for us. You need variety in T20 cricket and sometimes the batters get used to your regular bowlers.

"She is someone who has played more than 30 domestic games this year and played well in them too. She looked confident in our practice games too," she said.

Mumbai have also signed veteran pacer Shabnim Ismail from the player auction last year, and Harmanpreet said the South African will complement young pace-bowling all-rounder Issy Wong this season.

"She is a great player and she has done well for her country and whichever leagues that she plays for. She brings in a lot of experience and she is someone who can bowl with good pace and that's what we have been looking for.

"Last year, Issy Wong gave us a lot of balance, and now this year we have another option in Shabnim. Her presence gives us that extra cushioning in bowling," she noted.

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/S3p5UkT

Ukraine Foreign Affairs Minister Iryna Borovets: Our next generation shouldn't bear the brunt of this war

Ukraine Foreign Affairs Minister Iryna Borovets: Our next generation shouldn't bear the brunt of this war

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/jD4fVPi

Eric Garcetti's big on statement Russia-Ukraine War: Hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian children stolen, isolated from their families

Eric Garcetti's big on statement Russia-Ukraine War: Hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian children stolen, isolated from their families

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/34cwP0Z

"An example which should be...": Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis lauds PM Modi at Raisina Dialogue

"An example which should be...": Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis lauds PM Modi at Raisina Dialogue

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/3Bb1JGV

Fake Akaay Accounts Create Mayhem After Virat, Anushka's Announcement

As Star India batter Virat Kohli announced that he and his actress wife Anushka Sharma were blessed with a baby boy on February 15, fake social media accounts of their newborn son Akaay started to surface on social media. The moment Virat and Anushka announced that they had named their son Akaay, fans on social media booked all accounts on Instagram and other social media platforms with the combination of 'Akaay Kohli'. In fact, a few Instagram some even started to post stories on behalf of Akaay.

Akaay ne insta id b bana li
Kafi advance baccha h pic.twitter.com/z6JILh43YJ

— Pinkmann (@kohlixpinkman) February 20, 2024

Insta is on with Akaay pic.twitter.com/ezAW2Qhddl

— SwatKat (@swatic12) February 20, 2024

When akaay want to create his insta I'd......
I don't know how many time he suffers the situation that username is already exists#ViratKohli #akaaykohli pic.twitter.com/ICDL0R5xys

— Sneha goyal (@sneha_goyal2004) February 20, 2024

Kohli and Anushka are already proud parents of a three-year-old daughter Vamika. With their first newborn, the likes of Virat and Anushka decided against sharing her pictures on social media, and haven't even made her make a public appearance yet.

With Akaay, the strategy for Virat and Anushka is likely to be the same, with the parents determined to protect their children's identity on social media platforms.

"With abundant happiness and our hearts full of love, we are pleased to inform everyone that on 15th February, we welcomed our baby boy Akaay & Vamika's little brother into this world!," Kohli wrote in an Instagram post on Tuesday.

"We seek your blessings and good wishes in this beautiful time in our lives. We request you to kindly respect our privacy at this time." Kohli had opted out of the ongoing Test series against England, citing personal reasons.

Virat is away from cricketing responsibilities, having taken leave from all 5 matches against England. India are leading the five-match series 2-1 after the first three matches.

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/CMhs76p

Shreyas, Dube Set To Miss Mumbai's Ranji Trophy Quarter-Final Clash

Mumbai will be without their star batters Shreyas Iyer and Shivam Dube during their Ranji Trophy quarter-final clash against Baroda, according to ESPNcricinfo. According to ESPNcricinfo, Iyer has been ruled out of the quarterfinal clash which will be held on February 23 due to back spasms. While Dube has been ruled out of the game due to a side strain. Iyer featured in one round of the Ranji Trophy this year to gear up for India's five-match Test series against England as he was a part of the squad for the first two games. He was sidelined from the next three games after he registered scores of 27, 29, 35 and 13 in the first two Tests in Visakhapatnam and Hyderabad.

Notably, it was a back injury that ruled out Iyer of the entire IPL 2023. He made his return in the Asia Cup and went on to amass 530 runs in last year's World Cup, averaging 66.25 with a strike rate of 113.24.

His stunning display included two centuries and three half-centuries. He returned to India's red ball set up during the tour of South Africa earlier this year and went on to retain his place for the first two matches for the England series.

Mumbai will majorly miss the presence of in-form batter Dube who has left a major mark in the ongoing season. The left-handed batter has struck two centuries and two half-centuries in his six Ranji innings. He picked up an injury during Mumbai's victory over Assam.

Dube has scored at an average of 67.83 with a strike rate of 82.38. His 117 in the second innings against Uttar Pradesh saved Mumbai when they were reduced to 86/6. However, his herculean effort wasn't enough to save his team from the jaws of a two-wicket defeat.

Mumbai announced their squad on Tuesday and included Musheer Khan, India's latest debutant Sarfaraz Khan's brother in the squad.

Musheer missed the majority of the Ranji season as he was a part of India's U-19 World Cup squad. During the campaign, he struck two centuries and amassed 360 runs in seven innings.

Mumbai squad: Ajinkya Rahane (capt), Prithvi Shaw, Bhupen Lalwani, Amogh Bhatkal, Musheer Khan, Suryansh Shedge, Prasad Pawar (wk), Hardik Tamore (wk), Shardul Thakur, Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Aditya Dhumal, Tushar Deshpande, Mohit Awasthi, Dhawal Kulkarni, Roystan Dias.

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/xObBX9V

Preparations in full swing for inauguration of Valinath Mahadev Temple in Gujarat’s Mahesana

Preparations in full swing for inauguration of Valinath Mahadev Temple in Gujarat’s Mahesana

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/meJgHT5

“Sandeshkhali will be downfall of Mamata Banerjee and TMC...” Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma

“Sandeshkhali will be downfall of Mamata Banerjee and TMC...” Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/j2QKdNJ

"Not in favour, we reject it...": Farmer leaders on Centre's proposal over MSP

"Not in favour, we reject it...": Farmer leaders on Centre's proposal over MSP

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/UOQFgxD

Darshan at Shree Dwarkadhish Jagan Mandir, Dwaraka 20 - Feb - 2024

Darshan at Shree Dwarkadhish Jagan Mandir, Dwaraka 20 - Feb - 2024

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/T2zY4Ev

Education ministers, delegation of 21 countries visit VSK in Gandhinagar to learn teaching methods

Education ministers, delegation of 21 countries visit VSK in Gandhinagar to learn teaching methods

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/5e3XuhB

“INDI Alliance has no ideology, intention or leadership…”: Haryana CM Khattar

“INDI Alliance has no ideology, intention or leadership…”: Haryana CM Khattar

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/IP2inM6

Pujara Helps Saurashtra Secure Quarters Berth With Big Win vs Manipur

Saurashtra's veteran left-arm spinner Dharmendrasinh Jadeja bagged his 22nd five-wicket haul as the defending champions scored an innings and 243-run victory against Manipur to move into the Ranji Trophy quarterfinals from Group A in Rajkot on Sunday. Saurashtra's victory was a foregone conclusion on day two itself when they had reduced Manipur to 55/3 in their second innings on Saturday, and the task was completed by the 33-year-old Jadeja, who bagged a five-for on day three as the visitors slumped to a big defeat at the Sanosara Cricket Ground.

Manipur had made 142 in the first innings batting first, and following that Saurashtra had declared their lone innings at a mammoth 529/6.

Manipur then folded up at 144 in 51.5 overs in their second essay to hand over the hosts the victory with a bonus point.

Besides Jadeja (5/55), Yuvrajsinh Dodiya (3/51) and India white-ball pacer Chetan Sakariya (2/28) too contributed the the big win.

The difference in class between Saurashtra and Manipur was all too visible from the opening day of the seventh and concluding round of the Ranji league matches.

After dismissing Manipur for a paltry 142, with Jadeja taking four wickets, Saurashtra piled up tons of runs with stand-in skipper Arpit Vasavada (148), Prerak Mankad (173) and Cheteshwar Pujara (103) scoring centuries as the home team batters declared at 529/6.

Then, Saurashtra bowlers Sakariya, Jadeja and Dodiya picked up a wicket each in the final session on Saturday to put the hosts in a commanding position.

The home team bowlers continued the good work on Sunday bagging the remaining seven wickets.

Saurashtra, with 29 points from seven games, are the only team from the Group A so far to have secured a place in the quarterfinals, while Vidarbha (27 points, six games) and Haryana (24, six games) too are in with a chance to make the grade.

A clear picture will emerge at the conclusion of the seventh round of matches on Monday.

Brief Scores: In Rajkot: Manipur 142 and 144 in 51.5 overs (Ronald Longjam 32, Bikash Singh 64 not out; Dharmendrasinh Jadeja 5/55, Chetan Sakariya 2/28, Yuvrajsinh Dodiya 3/51) lost to Saurashtra 529/6 decl, by an innings and 243 runs.

In Jamshedpur: Jharkhand 188 and 269 in 76 overs (Aryaman Sen 38, Aditya Singh 72; Aniket Choudhary 3/38, Kukna Ajay Singh 3/61) lead Rajasthan 210 all out and 120 for 6 in 51 overs (Mahipal Lomror batting 30; Shahbaz Nadeem 3/46, Anukul Roy 3/26) by 127 runs.

In Delhi: Maharashtra 225 trail Services 430 for 9 in 189 overs (Shubham Rohilla 72, Vineet Dhankhar 43, Rajat Paliwal 51, Nakul Sharma 87, Arjun Sharma batting 43; Taranjitsingh Dhillon 4/129, Arshin Kulkarni 2/41) by 205 runs.

In Nagpur: Vidarbha 423 and 113 for 4 in 38.2 overs (Dhruv Shorey 43, Atharva Taide 49) lead Haryana 333 by 203 runs.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/IlTchAo

Shastri Reacts To Jadeja's Stats With "Don Bradman" Reference

Ravindra Jadeja played one of the finest innings of his career during the third Test match vs England. He scored a superb century at his home ground Rajkot while batting in first innings. After opting to bat first at the venue, India were struggling at 33 for 3 when Jadeja stitched a solid 204-run partnership with captain Rohit Sharma to take the hosts out of trouble. Jadeja eventually got out at the score of 112 on Day 2. It was a second consecutive Test century for Jadeja at the venue and fourth overall in Test cricket.

When Jadeja was nearing his century against England on Day 1 of the third Test, his stats were shown in the screen and former India crickter Ravi Shastri came up with a praise for him that had "Don Bradman" reference.

"Look at that average. He (Ravindra Jadeja) could make even Don Bradman look from the above," said Shastri during commentary.

India were all out for 445 in their first innings on the second day of the third Test against England on Friday.

Rohit (131) and Jadeja (112) struck fine hundreds while debutant Sarfaraz Khan made a promising start to his Test career with an impressive 62 off 66 balls.

In his first international outing, wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel too batted very well for a neat 46 off 104 balls and the seasoned Ravichandran Ashwin chipped in with 37 while sharing a 77-run partnership for the eighth wicket.

India resumed the second day on their overnight score of 326/5 with Jadeja and night-watchman Kuldeep Yadav (1) at the crease.

Both Jadeja and Kuldeep, however, got out at the start of second day as India slipped to 331/7.

Ashwin and Jurel then steadied the innings.

For England, returning pacer Mark Wood finished with figures of 4/114 in 27.5 overs.

(With PTI Inputs)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/SlNhb6m

Sri Lanka Eke Out Narrow Four-Run Victory Over Afghanistan In 1st T20I

Rookie Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana claimed four wickets to help rescue the hosts after their batting collapse and hand Afghanistan a narrow four-run defeat in Saturday's T20 opener. Sri Lanka were all out for 160 with six balls remaining and Afghan opener Ibrahim Zadran led the reply, batting through the innings with 67 not out. But his chase was bereft of support with the next top-scorer Karim Janat making 20 at number seven before Pathirana sent him back.

Pathirana, 21, was given man of the match honours for only his second career T20 match after two quick dismissals that left Afghanistan still short by 11 at the end of the penultimate over.

Afghan seamer Fazalhaq Farooqi took three wickets to help bowl out Sri Lanka after their late-innings collapse.

The hosts were well placed at 146-5 heading into the last four overs but lost the last five wickets for just 14 runs from 25 deliveries.

All-rounder captain Wanindu Hasaranga top-scored for Sri Lanka with 67 after promoting himself to number six, temporarily steadying a lacklustre innings in a 72-run partnership with Sadeera Samarawickrama.

He made his second T20 half-century in just 24 deliveries with an elegant boundary through extra cover off Qais Ahmed.

The partnership was broken in the next over when Samarawickrama chanced a single to covers but a direct hit from Ibrahim Zadran found him run out.

Hasaranga followed soon afterwards after a miscalculated drive to long-off, easily caught by Ibrahim Zadran off Naveen-ul-Haq.

Sri Lanka won the solitary Test of the tour and swept their ODI series against Afghanistan 3-0.

Dambulla hosts the remaining two T20 matches of the series on Monday and Wednesday.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/984Bm0T

Indira Gandhi used to call him her 3rd son: Jitendra Patwari on talks of Kamal Nath joining BJP

Indira Gandhi used to call him her 3rd son: Jitendra Patwari on talks of Kamal Nath joining BJP

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/eFPAvZa

Farmers’ protest: “It’s better not to see it from a political point of view…” Arjun Munda

Farmers’ protest: “It’s better not to see it from a political point of view…” Arjun Munda

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/Tf7G69o

Adani's Gujarat Giants Unveil Jersey, Kick Start Preparation for WPL 2

Ahead of the monumental second season of the WPL, which tees off in Bengaluru, the Adani Sportsline owned Gujarat Giants began their preparations, by unveiling their jersey for the tournament. The Gujarat Giants' Head Coach Michael Klinger and Mentor Mithali Raj were present at the ceremony as they presented the new jersey to the squad ahead of their training in the evening. The Giants, will be captained by Australian run-machine Beth Mooney, with Indian all-rounder Sneh Rana as the vice-captain. In preparation for this season's WPL, the team in orange kick started their training with great gusto in the Garden City of Bengaluru, and are putting in the hard yards as they approach their first game. The Gujarat Giants will open its campaign at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru against Mumbai Indians on 25 February. 

While Michael Klinger is the Head Coach and Mithali Raj is the Mentor and Advisor, one of India's most renowned spinners Nooshin Al Khadeer is the Bowling Coach for the team this season. 

Speaking on the sidelines of the ceremony, Head Coach Michael Klinger said, “This is a new season in the WPL and we are really excited about it. But we must work very hard to be able to put in a good show for our fans. We have a few plans for our players, and the roles for everyone are also well defined, and we hope the players are the best version of themselves every day. There is a lot to look forward to here, and the team is gung-ho about the upcoming season, and we are quietly confident about doing well once things kick off.” 

“The WPL is a great platform for women's cricket, and the Adani Sportsline team have been tremendous in terms of supporting the team with whatever is needed as we build up to our opening game. We have a well-balanced squad with a lot of youth and plenty of experience in the senior players, and together, we are always looking to put our best foot forward. This is an important season for the Gujarat Giants, and I want all our players to give it their very best, in every training session and in every game of course, and ask all the questions they need to, because that's the best way to make sure the preparation is on-point,” said Mithali Raj, Mentor and Advisor, Gujarat Giants.

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/v9j7WOR

"Father Wanted To Play For India": Sarfaraz's Big Revelation After Debut

All that Sarfaraz Khan wanted since the beginning of his cricket journey as a six-year-old was to become an international player in front of his father. Two decades later, that dream came true on Thursday for the Mumbaikar when he was handed his Test cap ahead of the third match against England by no less than former captain Anil Kumble with his father Naushad watching tearfully. As was expected, he proved his worth with a half-century which could have been a bigger knock if not for the run-out at non-striker's end following a mix-up with unbeaten centurion Ravindra Jadeja.

The 26-year-old was, however, too happy to have any complaints.

"Coming to the ground for the first time and getting the cap in front of my father. I was six years old when he started my cricket (training). It was my dream to play for the Indian team in front of him," Sarfaraz told the media here after the end of the day's play in which India were 326/5.

India's Test cap No 311, Sarfaraz gave a fine account of himself with a rapid 62.

Naushad was overwhelmed on Thursday. He had not even planned to visit Rajkot to watch his son but landed in the city on the eve of the game.

Tears, hugs and joy swept through the Khan family with Sarfaraz's wife present beside his father.

"I was padded up for almost four hours (in the dressing room). I kept thinking that I have kept so much patience in life and there is no harm in keeping some more.

"After I went in, I was nervous for the first few balls but I have practiced and worked so hard that everything went well," Sarfaraz said detailing his Test experience.

Sarfaraz said runs and performances did not matter to him as much as playing for India with his father there to watch him.

"It was my father's dream to play for India but unfortunately it couldn't happen due to some reasons, there wasn't much support from home then. He worked very hard on me and is now doing the same with my brother. It was the proudest moment of my life," he said.

"Runs and performances were not on my mind as much as I was happy playing for India in front of my father," he added.

"He was not ready to come (to Rajkot) but some people insisted that he goes. Obviously he had to come over since he worked so hard only for this day.” "He was very emotional as I took the cap in front of him and so was my wife. I felt as if some pressure was off my shoulders given the hard work he had put in on me and I did not waste it," he stated emotions still raw after a whirlwind day.

Sarfaraz banished initial nervousness with powerful sweeps and lofted hits down the ground but termed his dismissal -- the run out at the non-striker's end -- a case of "miscommunication".

"It is a part of the game. Miscommunication happens in cricket. Sometimes run-out happens, sometimes you get the runs," he said.

"I spoke to Jadeja at lunch time and requested him to talk to me while playing. I like talking while playing. It was my first time.

"I told him that when I go out to bat, keep talking to me while playing. He kept talking and supported me a lot while I was batting," Sarfaraz added.

It is not easy for any player to keep trudging through years of domestic cricket, piling up runs year after year and not get a chance in the national side.

When he finally got it, Sarfaraz said the taste of international cricket was almost similar to domestic, but with a few obvious differences.

"Initially I was feeling awkward since it has been a long time in anticipation. But later on I felt that I have done all of this, once I was in my zone I did not find it difficult," he said.

"Difference is there, you do not have crowds in first-class cricket and you do not come across national players much," he added.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/jR0yNlL

BJP wants dictatorship, says Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge

BJP wants dictatorship, says Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/m3vxcLE

Watch: Sarfaraz Handed Test Cap By Kumble. Father Can't Control His Tears

It was a huge moment for Sarfaraz Khan as the 26-year-old batter was handed his debut ahead of the third Test match between India and England in Rajkot on Thursday. Sarfaraz enjoyed an exceptional run of form in the domestic circuit over the last couple of years and he was handed his Test cap by legendary spinner Anil Kumble just before the toss. With Shreyas Iyer, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul all missing out, Sarfaraz will partner with Rajat Patidar and fellow debutant Dhruv Jurel in the middle order. Sarfaraz's father was present at the ground and he could not control his tears during the ceremony.

India won the toss and elected to bat against England in the third Test of the five-match series.

Sarfaraz getting the opportunity and his father's emotions....what a cinema!!#INDvsENGTest pic.twitter.com/6IFRxncfJ3

— Sanchal Shanu (@imsanchalshanu) February 15, 2024

"We're going to bat first. We've made some changes, made four changes. Some injuries and some guys coming back from the last game. Two debutants. Siraj and Jadeja are back. Axar Patel and Mukesh Kumar miss out. Looks a good pitch, better than the last two we've played on. Rajkot is known to be a good pitch but it'll deteriorate as it goes. The guys have stood up and done the job for the team when it was needed. The next three Test matches will be as exciting as the first two. Need to keep our focus here and see how we can do well," India skipper Rohit Sharma said at the toss.

I hope Sarfaraz Khan scores a century.pic.twitter.com/FXARZUINc2

— . (@Pushpa__07) February 15, 2024

The series is locked at 1-1 as England captain Ben Stokes is appearing in his 100th Test.

India handed debuts to middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan, a heavy scorer in domestic cricket for Mumbai, and young wicketkeeper batter Dhruv Jurel, who will replace KS Bharat in the playing eleven.

England have brought back pacer Mark Wood in place of young spinner Shoaib Bashir.

Teams:

India: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel(w), Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

England: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes(c), Ben Foakes (wk), Rehan Ahmed, Tom Hartley, Mark Wood, James Anderson.

(With PTI inputs)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/HwVs70h

Bayern Munch Say Dayot Upamecano Racially Abused After Lazio loss

Bayern Munich blasted racist insults directed at France defender Dayot Upamecano on social media after the German outfit's 1-0 Champions League defeat at Lazio.

Upamecano gave away the 69th-minute penalty from which Ciro Immobile netted the only goal of the last 16, first-leg clash in Rome with a clumsy foul on Gustav Isaksen which cost him a red card.

"FC Bayern strongly condemn the racist comments being directed towards Dayot Upamecano on social media," said the German champions on X, formerly Twitter.

"Anyone who comments hateful words such as these is no fan of our club."

Bayern will have a chance to overturn their slender deficit when they host Lazio for the second leg on March 5 in Munich. 

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/caZ9dKP

Darshan at Shree Somnath Temple, First Jyotirlinga, 15 - Feb - 2024

Darshan at Shree Somnath Temple, First Jyotirlinga, 15 - Feb - 2024

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/zqBv3AI

New Zealand vs South Africa 2nd Test Day 3 Live Score Updates

New Zealand vs South Africa 2nd Test Day 3 Live Score Updates: New Zealand were all out for 211 late on day two of the of the second and final Test on Wednesday to give South Africa a 31-run first innings lead. Off-spinner Dane Piedt took career-best figures of 5-89 for the Proteas, who had been dismissed for 242 in their first innings earlier in the day in Hamilton. (LIVE SCORECARD)

Here are the LIVE updates of New Zealand vs South Africa 2nd Test Day 3:

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/zW2SK3p

New Zealand vs South Africa 2nd Test, Day 2 Live Score Updates

New Zealand vs South Africa 2nd Test, Day 2 Live: All-rounders Ruan de Swardt and Shaun von Berg were leading a South African rearguard on Tuesday as they recovered to 220-6 after New Zealand had dominated the start of the second Test. De Swardt had reached his maiden half-century to be 55 not out at stumps on day one, while von Berg was on 34 on his Test debut, with the pair having combined for 70 off 27 overs in Hamilton. It represented a recovery for the tourists, who won the toss but were 64-3 at lunch and 150-6 early in the final session when key batsman David Bedingham was dismissed in freakish fashion. (LIVE SCORECARD)

Here are the Live Updates of New Zealand vs South Africa 2nd Test Day 1:

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/5FV42i3

“Bharat-UAE dosti zindabad…” PM Modi hails India-UAE ties at ‘Ahlan Modi’ event in Abu Dhabi

“Bharat-UAE dosti zindabad…” PM Modi hails India-UAE ties at ‘Ahlan Modi’ event in Abu Dhabi

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/WvaBLw5

PM Modi recalls his first meeting with UAE Prez Zayed Al Nahyan in 2015

PM Modi recalls his first meeting with UAE Prez Zayed Al Nahyan in 2015

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/KBSrXcL

Imran Tahir Becomes Fourth Player Ever To Claim 500 wickets In T20 Cricket

South Africa's experienced spinner Imran Tahir completed 500 wickets in the T20 format and became just the fourth player to achieve the remarkable feat. The 44-year-old completed the feat during the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) clash between Rangpur Riders and Khulna Tigers. He played a crucial role in Rangpur's victory with his figure of 5/26 in his four-over spell. With this five-wicket haul, he joined the elite company of Dwayne Bravo, Rashid Khan and Sunil Narine. Former West Indies skipper DJ Bravo leads the chart with 624 wickets in 571 appearances in the T20 format. Afghanistan's ace spinner Rashid Khan has scalped 556 wickets in 410 matches and West Indies mystery spinner Sunil Narine sits on the third spot with 532 wickets to his name.

Coming to the match, Rangpur skipper Nurul Hasan won the toss and elected to bat at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium.

After Luke Wood dismissed both openers in a span of four overs, Shakib Al Hasan fought valiantly and played a blistering knock of 69. He stitched up a crucial 109-run partnership with Mahedi Hasan (60) to a score of 219/5.

Skipper Hasan's (32 off 13 deliveries) fireworks at the end played a crucial role in setting the mammoth total of 220.

While chasing the target, Khulana were reduced to 141, as Tahir spun the opening order. He dismissed set batter Alex Hales (60) along with skipper Anamul Haque (5), Afif Hossain (11), Habibur Rahman (13) and Akbar Ali (0).

Her heroic effort with the ball helped Rangpur clinch a 78-run victory. They currently sit at the top of the table with 14 points in nine games. On the other hand, Khulana Tigers are in fifth spot with eight points.

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/VS1ho47

Darshan at Shree Siddhivinayak Temple 13 - Feb -2024

Darshan at Shree Siddhivinayak Temple 13 - Feb -2024

from News - Videos - The Times of India https://ift.tt/qR5i3yF

India's Loss To Australia In U19 World Cup Final Triggers Epic Meme Fest

The memories of the fateful night of November 19, 2023 are still fresh in the hearts of the millions of Indian fans. It was the day when the Rohit Sharma-led side got edged past by Australia and lost the coveted ODI World Cup trophy. However, the fans had to relive that night again as India failed to clinch the Under-19 World Cup title after losing to Australia in the summit clash on Sunday. Just like the senior team, Uday Saharan and co had a phenomenal campaign as they remained unbeaten in the tournament, before losing to Australia in the final.

This was India's third consecutive loss against Australia in an ICC final. Earlier, they lost in the ODI World Cup 2023 and and World Test Championship final.

After India's heartbreaking loss in the Under-19 World Cup final, social media got flooded with several memes.

Beating Australia in a WC Final. These two should be honored for this achievement. pic.twitter.com/j8XfWLzNUu

— Manya (@CSKian716) February 11, 2024

#INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/YZ89in1Y1m

— Pulkit?? (@pulkit5Dx) February 11, 2024

T20 WC next #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/WmWJTBgIFx

— Komedi Wali (@vegetarianmee) February 11, 2024

Final mein pahuchte hi Australia team india se pic.twitter.com/0zqD7rSJID

— Desi Bhayo (@desi_bhayo88) February 11, 2024

Talking about the match, batting by choice, the Aussies posted a healthy 253 for seven as India were forced to mount the highest chase in a youth World Cup summit clash.

But Uday Saharan's side floundered in the final step to glory, stumbling to 174 all out as the relentless Aussie bowlers led by the furious Mahli Beardman (3/15) and the crafty off-spinner Raf MacMillan (3/43) did not give them any breathing space.

This was Australia's fourth U19 title and first since 2010 and, in a way, they also washed away the pain of losing to India in two title matches in 2012 and 2018.

(With PTI Inputs)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/tzjJBDP