Dravid's Son Walks Illustrious Dad's Path, Picked For Vinoo Mankad Trophy

Rahul Dravid, Indian cricket team head coach, is under focus ahead of the 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup. India have not won the marquee event since the 2011 Cricket World Cup, when MS Dhoni's men won the trophy after a great title clash against Sri Lanka. Rahul Dravid, who himsekd has been part of several Cricket World Cups as a player, is in charge of guiding the Rohit Sharma-led team to the ultimate glory. If Rahul Dravid can help the Indian cricket team win the 2023 Cricket World Cup as a coach, it will add another glorious chapter to his already illustrious career. 

Ahead of the Cricket World Cup, Dravid family household had a good news. Dravid's son Samit has been selected for Karnataka's 15-member squad for the upcoming Vinoo Mankad Trophy, according to Sportstar. The U-19 tournament will be held in Hyderabad from October 12 to 20.

Recently, Indian cricket team head coach Rahul Dravid said that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been rested as the team wanted them to be fresh mentally and physically for the Cricket World Cup 2023. India will take on Australia in a three-match ODI series, starting from the first ODI at Mohali on Thursday. It will be India's final assignment before the ICC Cricket World Cup at home from October 5 onwards. "It is one of those series, where you have seen that some of our boys are not playing the first two games. We will rotate our pacers a bit. It will be nice for some other guys that they are given this opportunity to play three tough games before the World Cup," said Dravid in a pre-match press conference.

"I think with people like Rohit and Virat, from our perspective, it is important that they reach the first game of the World Cup with the physical and mental headspace they want to be in. With the amount of cricket they have played, they know how to prepare themselves for these big games. A lot of these decisions are discussed with them. We discuss with them how they would like to prepare leading up to big events. Based on these discussions, we come up with these mutual decisions," he added.

On the return of spin-bowling all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin to the ODI set-up after a year, Dravid clarified that the spinner was always in the plans.

"Having someone of Ashwin's experience is always good for us. He gives you experience, the ability to contribute with the bat at number eight. He is someone we taught about in case of an injury or an opportunity opened up. He was always in our plans. He has not played much ODI cricket for a while, but someone of his experience can deal with that," said the coach.

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/ThptBjG
via IFTTT

2nd ODI: Ish Sodhi Shines In New Zealand's 86-Run Win Over Bangladesh

Bangladesh vs New Zealand 2nd ODI Highlights: Ish Sodhi claimed a career-best 6 for 39 as New Zealand registered a first victory in Bangladesh in nearly 15 years on Saturday in a dramatic ODI where he was also reprieved from a run-out dismissal at the non-striker's end. Sodhi's maiden five-wicket haul helped New Zealand clinch an 86-run win, bowling out Bangladesh for 168 in 41.1 overs after Tom Blundell's 68 had guided the visitors to 254 in the second ODI of the three-match series. The Kiwis last beat Bangladesh in their own backyard in October 2008. They then lost the next two series in 2010 and 2013, respectively, by 4-0 and 3-0. (Scorecard)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/i7yVvX2
via IFTTT

"Dhoni Didn't Sacrifice His Position": Ex-India Star Counters Gambhir

Former Indian cricket team fast bowler S Sreesanth believes that MS Dhoni did not sacrifice his batting position for the sake of the team and it was a decision taken consciously by the former skipper in order to completely utilise his talents as a finisher. Sreesanth's comments came in connection to claims made by former teammate Gautam Gambhir who said that Dhoni would have scored more runs if he batted at No. 3. The former pacer added that Dhoni was well aware about the positions that suited all the batters and it was his finishing ability that helped India in winning two World Cup titles.

“Gautam Bhai said recently that Dhoni would have scored more runs had he batted at No.3. But for Dhoni it was always about more victories than more runs. He always had the ability to finish games when the team needed him and he won two World Cups as well,” Sreesanth said in an interview with Sportskeeda.

“Credit should go to Dhoni, but he didn't sacrifice his batting position. He worked a way to find out which players would do well for the team in which position and then slot them in those positions accordingly. His captaincy had the ability to bring the best out of his players. He has always thought about the team first,” the former India fast bowler added. 

Earlier, Gambhir said that Dhoni somewhere 'sacrificed' his batting position for the team.

"MS (Dhoni) was the first wicketkeeper of India who could change the game with his batting. Earlier, they were keepers first and batters later, but MS was batter first and then was a wicketkeeper. It was a blessing for Indian cricket that in MS Dhoni, we got a wicketkeeper-batter who can win you matches from No 7, because he had that power game. If MS would have batted at No 3, I am sure he could have broken several ODI records," said Gambhir on Star Sports.

"People always talk about MS Dhoni and his achievements as a captain, which is absolutely true. But I feel due to captaincy, he sacrificed the batter in him, and he could have achieved much more with his bat which he didn't. And this happens when you are a captain because then you put the team ahead, and you forget about yourself. He started batting at No 6 or 7. If he had not been captain, he would have been India's No 3, and I think he could have scored more than what he has scored and could have scored more hundreds also," he added.

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/karTdsV
via IFTTT

ICC Announces Schedule Of U19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2024

The match schedule for the ICC U19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2024 has been revealed as hosts Sri Lanka prepare to welcome the future stars of world cricket to the island nation for the first time since 2006. Five venues in Colombo are set to stage the action from January 13, with the final on February 4 at R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, as per ICC press release. Hosts Sri Lanka play Zimbabwe on opening day while defending champions India open up a day later against 2020 champions Bangladesh. 

Sixteen teams are set to compete for the trophy across 41 matches from January 13 to  February 4, comprising the 11 best-placed Full Member teams at the last edition and five teams who earned their World Cup spot through regional qualification pathways - Namibia, Nepal, New Zealand, Scotland and USA.

Five venues located in Colombo will stage the 15th edition of the celebrated event; the P. Sara Oval, Colombo Cricket Club, Nondescripts Cricket Club, Singhalese Sports Club and the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, the arena chosen to host both semifinals on January 30 and February 1 and the Ffnal on February 4.

The action starts on January 13 with three fixtures taking place on opening day. Hosts Sri Lanka take on Zimbabwe at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, while 2022 finalists England play Scotland at Colombo Cricket Club and New Zealand face off against Nepal at the P. Sara Oval.

India, who triumphed in the 2022 edition in the West Indies, commence the defence of their crown against 2020 winners Bangladesh a day later on January 14 at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium.

In a revised format that has been introduced for the upcoming edition, teams progressing from the group stages will enter a new Super Six stage, starting January 24, where two groups of six teams will clash to determine the semi-finalists and the subsequent finalists.

In the group listings, holders India are joined by Bangladesh, Ireland and the US in Group A. Group B consists of England, South Africa, West Indies and Scotland. Group C features Australia, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe and Namibia while Group D is made up of Afghanistan, Pakistan, New Zealand and Nepal.

Speaking on the announcement of the schedule, ICC Head of Events, Chris Tetley remarked, “The ICC U19 Men's Cricket World Cup has a long-standing history of introducing global audiences to future stars of the sport.

“Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Kane Williamson and Angelo Mathews are some of the names that made their entrance onto the world stage at this event, and we are certain to see this tradition continue as the drama unfolds across the 41 tournament fixtures.

“We are thrilled to see the competition return to Sri Lanka for the first time since 2006, in what promises to be a festival of cricket with no shortage of entertainment, and we are proud to offer fans the chance to witness the action for free once more.”

Tournament Director, Samantha Dodanwela added, “Sri Lanka Cricket is delighted to be welcoming this prestigious event back to Sri Lanka after 18 years. 

“Sri Lanka is renowned for its passionate, cricket-loving fans, and we are looking forward to giving them the opportunity to watch some of the most promising young cricketers in the world over 23 days of competition. The five venues selected to host the event in January and February next year have been graced by many exceptionally talented cricketers over the years, and it will be fitting for these historic grounds to host the future stars of the game.

“With so much to look forward to, we have no doubt that the event will help showcase Sri Lanka as an ideal destination for cricket.”

Ahead of the event, each competing team will play two warm-up matches. These will take place across four of the five tournament venues.

The hosts will be hoping to go one better than their previous best finish, when they were runners-up to India at the final of the competition back in 2000.

The landmark event has been the springboard for some of the most recognisable stars of the global game. Through the history of the event, India are the most decorated with five U19 Men's Cricket World Cup titles, Australia have won the event three times, Pakistan twice, while England, Bangladesh, South Africa and West Indies have each been crowned once.

(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/gY24uNz
via IFTTT

PCB Reviews Asia Cup Performance Ahead Of World Cup Squad Announcement

The Pakistan Cricket Board on Thursday held a review meeting of their woeful Asia Cup show in the wake of their World Cup squad announcement. All teams must finalise their 15-player squads for the cricket showpiece before the September 28 deadline, with any replacements after this date requiring approval from the ICC. "The philosophy behind this review was to create an atmosphere of open discussion and develop consensus," PCB chairman of the management committee Zaka Ashraf said in a statement. "The idea is to have everyone on board and debate about performances, identifying the problems and their solutions.” The review meeting was also attended by head coach Mickey Arthur, captain Babar Azam, vice-captain Shadab Khan and former skippers Misbah-ul-Haq and Mohammad Hafeez.

Chief selector and former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq could not attend the meeting due to a 'medical emergency' but shared his inputs with the PCB chief on Thursday.

The other members of the men's national coaching staff including head coach Grant Bradburn, batting coach Andrew Puttick and bowling coach Morne Morkel “were also invited to report on the team's recent performance".

“We have to debate strengths and weaknesses so that we are clear about what and where we need to invest for the betterment of our team,” he added.

Pakistan failed to make the final of the Asia Cup after losing to India and Sri Lanka in the 'Super Four'. They managed wins only against Nepal and Bangladesh.

In fact, Pakistan, who have won the Asia Cup only twice in 2000 and 2012, suffered their heaviest defeat to arch-rivals India by 228 runs in the ODI format, ahead of their mega clash in the World Cup in Ahmedabad on October 14.

Dr Sohail Saleem briefed about the players' injuries and "the way forward for players' rehabilitation programs," the PCB said.

Pakistan pacers Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf both suffered injuries during their rain-marred clash against India in Colombo, with the former under doubt to play the World Cup.

“In a robust analysis, every aspect of recent team performance, player fitness, and future plans came into discussion with a view to bringing improvement to the side,” the release said.

“There was an agreement on making a better approach and strategy on players' workload. The importance of strengthening the bench was also emphasized,” it added. PTI DDV TAP

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/FT453rJ
via IFTTT

"Because Of Fielding...": On Ashwin Missing ODIs, India Star's Unique Take

The India vs Australia ODI series narrative has been dominated by the inclusion of one player - Ravichandran Ashwin. The off-spinner is set to play his first ODI since 2022 when the India vs Australia series starts on Friday. The India vs Australia ODI cricket series is being seen as the final dress rehearsal ahead of the Cricket World Cup. The 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup starts from October 5 while the Indian cricket plays it first match on October 8. The much-awaited India vs Pakistan match at the Cricket World Cup will be played on October 14. But much before that, Ravichandran Ashwin will be in focus. 

India star spinner Amit Mishra had an interesting observation on why Ravichandran Ashwin was missing from ODIs for a long time.

"Ravichandran Ashwin is undoubtedly a quality bowler and a wicket-taker, but remember this is not a 20-over game. It is of 50 overs. You have to bowl for 10 overs and field for 40 overs and might have to bat as well. No doubt he has been around for so long, has been a wicket-taker as well, but there is that matter of fielding as well and that is why a young player might be picked," Amit Mishra was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

"The only reason he has been picked is because if a spinner gets injured, then the team needs to have a wicket-taking option, which Ashwin brings. Ashwin has got an edge as an off-spin option, as India already has two left-arm spinners and a wrist-spinner in Kuldeep Yadav,"

"Indian team will be looking at how Ashwin will be bowling against Australia, and to assess if he still has the wicket-taking abilities in this format. The only reason why he is not in the team is because of his fielding and right-handed batting ability.

"Jadeja and Axar are both lefties. Washington is a young player and has shown wicket-taking abilities apart from being a batting option. Plus, he provides an advantage with his fielding, something which holds importance in ODIs," he added.

A month and half back, Ravichandran Ashwin was eloquently explaining on his Tamil YouTube channel, why a talent like Tilak Varma should be seriously considered for the ODI Cricket World Cup. One of India's greatest match-winners in Test cricket wouldn't possibly have envisaged that in six weeks time he would be summoned for a two-match trial against Washington Sundar -- nearly a decade and half junior to him. Close selection calls are par for course when it comes to Cricket World Cup squads. But just two weeks before the mega event, the Indian team management has called the two off-spinners for the three-match series against Australia to keep a ready back-up option in case Axar Patel's quadriceps tear doesn't heal on time.

It will be a virtual shoot-out and their performances on flat decks of Mohali and Rajkot will be monitored by Ajit Agarkar's selection committee.

"I think Ashwin will be slightly ahead now that a bowler of his stature has been called into the mix. I have always felt that Ashwin should have been in the mix from the time the team got into the ODI Cricket World Cup mode," said former chairman of selectors MSK Prasad, who was at helm when the 2019 squad was selected.

With PTI inputs

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/SJ2Devm
via IFTTT

"Cricket's For Everyone": Barmy Army's Post Proves It Again. Watch

Cricket is a game loved by all, especially in the Indian sub continent. The game is more than just a sport from many. Cricket's popularity is on the rise. Though it is still not as widely followed as football at a global level, cricket is making its presence felt in countries like USA among other countries. The fans of cricket are many and so are those who practise. Cricket is literally for everyone and that was the message the the X handle of 'Barmy Army' proved once again. A video posted from it's handle, with the caption: "How amazing is this guy batting on one  AN INSPIRATION", shows a differently-abled man playing cricket. 

The video was widely shared and one handle, gave a nice caption: "Cricket is for EVERYONE Inspirational!" 

How amazing is this guy batting on one

AN INSPIRATION pic.twitter.com/PboTaixI4g

— England's Barmy Army (@TheBarmyArmy) September 20, 2023

Meanwhile, recently, the Indian women's blind cricket team scripted history as they won a gold medal after defeating Australia in the rain-curtailed finals of the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) World Games 2023 on the back of their scintillating show in Birmingham. The Indian women's blind cricket team has won everyone's hearts with their spectacular show in the World Games. The Women In Blue remain undefeated, having won all their league games in the tournament. India restricted Australia at 114/8 in the allotted 20 overs and then chased down the revised target of 42 in the fourth over.

Blind cricket in IBSA World Games made a debut last week with England and Australia playing the first match. This was the first final in the World Games and India won the ultimate showdown beating Australia by 9 wickets.

Opting to bat first, Australia got off to a bad start as the side lost the first wicket in the 4th over. Feeling the pressure of finals, Australia carried their innings slowly, scoring 29 runs in the powerplay.

India picked two wickets in the eighth and ninth over as Australia were left reeling at 39/3. C Lewis and C Webeck then carried Australia's innings stitching a 54-run partnership.

However, India came back in the game picking wickets at regular intervals and reduced Australia to 109/8 in just 3 overs. In the end, the team from down under was just able to score 114/8 in the allotted 20 overs.

Chasing a paltry target of 42 runs, India came all guns blazing on Australia bowlers. The Women In Blue never looked out of form as the side chased down the target in just 3.3 overs.

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/9RACoTv
via IFTTT

"After WC Win..." Rohit Sharma To Fans Bursting Crackers On Asia cup Win

Team India bagged their eighth Asia Cup title with a remarkable victory over Sri Lanka in the final match on Sunday. Asked to bowl first, the Rohit Sharma-led side bundled out Sri Lanka for just 50 runs, with pacer Mohammed Siraj stealing the show with his impressive six-wicket haul. Later, Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan chased down the target in just 6.1 overs and took Team India across the line with ten wickets in hand. After the final match, skipper Rohit attended a press conference, where his one comment left all the media persons in splits. 

During the interaction, Rohit was answering a question but he got interrupted by the sound of firecrackers, which were being burst by the fans to celebrate India's victory. The right-handed batter waited for a minute and said that the fans should wait for India to win the ODI World Cup 2023. 

"It gives us a lot of confidence to come here and win a tournament like this. Through the tournament we saw a lot of.." said Rohit when the noise of the bursting crackers interrupted him.

Video pic.twitter.com/t7pcQGKEt8

— Shivani (@shivani_45D) September 17, 2023

"Arey World Cup jeetne ke baad phodo ye sab..(burst crackers once we win the world cup)", said Rohit with a smile as the media persons burst out in laughter. 

Talking about the match, Sri Lanka opted to bat first but Siraj soon made them regret this decision as they were reduced to 13/6 after he took four wickets in the 6th over. 

Kusal Mendis (17) and Dushan Hemantha (13*) swung their bats for a while, offering tiny moments of respite. Siraj ended with 6/21 in his seven overs while Pandya took 3/3 in 2.2 overs. Bumrah also got 1/23 in five overs as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 50 in 15.2 overs.

Ishan Kishan (23*) and Shubman Gill (27*) chased down the target in 6.1 overs without any loss of wicket.

India captured its eighth Asia Cup title and Siraj took home the 'Player of the Match' award. Kuldeep Yadav (nine wickets) was given the 'Player of the Series' award for his bamboozling spin bowling in the tournament. Shubman Gill with 302 runs in six games and one century and two fifties, scored the most runs in the tournament.

(With ANI Inputs)

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/8t5rkwd
via IFTTT

Pakistan No. 1 ODI Team Now, But India Can Displace Them Soon. Here's How

Indian cricket team is riding a high now. After a stupendous performance at the Asia Cup 2023, where the Rohit sharma-led side triumphed after a commanding 10-wicket win against hosts Sri Lanka in Colombo, the group will be feeling confident going into the cricket World Cup. Mohammed Siraj's fiery spell shot out the Lankans for a mere 50 in 15.2 overs, aided by fellow pacers Hardik Pandya (3 for 3) and Jasprit Bumrah (1 for 23), while the Indians got the job done with 10 wickets in hand in 6.1 overs.

On the same day, Pakistan were crowned world No. 1 in ICC ODI ranking with South Africa defeating Australia in the fifth ODI. However, Pakistan stay at the top may be short-lived with India replacing them at the top. For that to happen, certain factors need to fall in place. 

India next play an ODI on Friday against Australia. Before that, England play Ireland Bangladesh play New Zealand. The results of those matches won't affect India's ranking. If India defeat Australia in the first ODI, they will become the no. 1 side. Even if India win the series 2-1, they will still remain the no. 1 ODI side. 

Meanwhile, India's man of the moment Mohammed Siraj, has opened up on his magical spell of 6/21 in the Asia Cup final. Siraj dismissed Pathum Nissanka, Sadeera Samaraiwickrama, Charith Asalanka and Dhananjaya De Silva in his second over before returning to clean up Lankan skipper Dasun Shanka with a peach of a delivery.

"I had practised a lot on generating out-swing deliveries from wide of the crease in West Indies. My outswingers were going well. So I tried from the wide of the crease to push for inswing (which will move away after pitching)," Siraj told bcci.tv.

"So what I planned, what I had in mind, it turned out to be absolutely perfect and it was my best wicket of the game," Siraj said in an interaction with Indian teammate Kuldeep Yadav.

With less than a month to go for the World Cup, Siraj said his spell in the Asia Cup Final would give him a lot of confidence heading into the mega event.

"It's a great achievement for me, especially since it's the final. It will help me gain a lot of confidence before the (ODI) World Cup," he said.

"To be honest, it was a magical spell, as I had never dreamt about it. I had to struggle hard to gain the fifth wicket in the last ODI against Lanka in Trivandrum, which never came. But, it all worked out today (Sunday).

"In my first spell, the moment I saw I was able to swing the ball, I realised that I didn't need to hit the wicket. I just intended on bowling at a particular spot and make the ball talk."

With PTI inputs

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/rYInN1b
via IFTTT

"Pant Has Inspired Lot Of Wicket-keeper Batters Around World": Gilchrist

Rishabh Pant isn't fit to play the upcoming World Cup but former Australian ace Adam Gilchrist is still fascinated by the kind of impact that the burly keeper-batter has had in his six years with the Indian team. Pant, who met with a horrific car accident last December, is currently doing his rehabilitation programme at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru and is expected to make a comeback sometime next year. In his absence, KL Rahul will keep wickets for India and Ishan Kishan has a good chance of playing as a specialist middle-order batter.

"I think Rishabh has inspired a lot of wicket-keeper batters around the world to play that way (he does). It is fascinating for such a young man to have such an impact that Rishabh has had and others are responding and playing in that positive manner," Gilchrist, who is in India on a promotional visit, told PTI.

Gilchrist was impressed how Kishan has shaped up despite knowing that Rahul will be the first keeper.

"They (India) are well stocked. They have got a couple of options there, obviously when KL was out with his injury, Ishan Kishan took his opportunity and played really well and now they find themselves in the team together so that's a wonderful case of taking an opportunity," said the man who won three World Cups for Australia.

What Gilchrist found laudable was Kishan's ability to force the selectors to keep him in the mix with consistent performances.

"Being positive and then and forcing the selectors into keeping you in the team so it seems like KL is gonna be the one who is going to continue with the gloves but it does not seem to hinder Ishan Kishan's batting, he seems to be playing really well, carefree, attacking and dangerous," he explained.

The man, who played nearly 400 international games across three formats, with 15,000 plus runs and over 900 dismissals (catches and stumpings), however had straight forward choices as far as four potential semi-finalists were concerned.

"I think India and Pakistan could feature in the semi-finals, Australia and England are another two teams," opined Gilchrist.

Gilchrist is hopeful that five-time champions will do well in India, where they won a bilateral series 3-0 last time around.

"Australia will learn a lot from their efforts in South Africa when they come to India, they have got three games before the World Cup against India so they will have a bit more of a full strength squad there so that might tell us a bit about where they are at so its a bit hard who's gonna win it (World Cup) but I think there is probably four semi-finalists there." Adam Zampa recently was taken to cleaners by Heinrich Klaasen during an ODI in South Africa, having gone for 113 and 70 in his quota of overs. But Gilchrist has full faith in Zampa's quality and ability to bounce back.

"Adam Zampa, obviously in South Africa was at the receiving end a little bit but it's different conditions out here in India with different pitches and he is a world-class spin bowler and he has shown that particularly across T20 cricket and now he gets his chance in the 50 over World Cup," Gilchrist said.

Australia will bank on their experienced players.

"So its a very knowledgeable group and they are going to use and they are going to have to use all that experience against batting line ups now across the globe and play without fear, so that is a challenge for all the bowlers on how to take on aggressive batting line ups." There has been some suggestions about pushing veteran David Warner down the order but someone, who was a mega successful opener in the shorter formats, feels a move like that could well back-fire.

"He (Warner) looked really good in South Africa for the most part of what he did, I think he has got to bat at the top, there has been some sort of discussions that he bats down the middle order but I think he has got to open," he then gave his rationale.

"...and he (Warner) showed in South Africa a couple of times that he is aggressive and dominant at the top of the order as he has ever been so I think they bring with him a lot of experience and a lot of confidence and I think he should play at the top of the order for Australia and if he plays really well then our opposition will fear that."

(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/8ZGTgPU
via IFTTT

Kohli, Rohit Rested Before 'Bharat Darshan' At WC. BCCI Explains Reason

A day after Indian cricket team's Asia Cup triumph, the squad for the Australia ODI series was announced on Monday. There were several surprises in the squad for the three-ODI series. The biggest one being the return of Ravichandran Ashwin, who last played an ODI in January, 2022. Another surprise was that the team management rested the star trio - Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya - for a series that is being seen as the final dress rehearsal before the World Cup. 

The trio, along with Kuldeep Yadav, has been for the first two ODIs, while they will make a comeback in the third ODI. BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar, who announced the squad, was asked by a journalist about the reason behind resting the stars ahead of 'Bharat Darshan' at the World Cup. The reference of 'Bharat Darshan' was given because India will be the most-travelled team in the ODI Cricket World Cup as it will be playing all it group stage matches in different cities.       

Agarkar gave a deft reply to the query. "Rohit (Sharma) and Virat (Kohli) have been around forever and obviously Hardik is an important player for us, we want to manage him," he said. 

"Kuldeep is in great form. It also gives us a chance to look at some of the other guys. That's the thing. Luckily, we got a fair amount of cricket in the Asia Cup.

"If not we might have looked at it some other way. At some stage or the other, more than physical, guys sometimes need a mental break which is not such a bad thing, leading up the tournament (Cricket World Cup).

"But comes the third game, everyone will be available to play. We will play our World Cup squad. It does give us a chance to play some other guys who have been sitting outside and it has been a strong squad," said BCCI Chief selector Ajit Agarkar.

Squad for the first two ODIs: KL Rahul (captain), Ravindra Jadeja (vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.

Squad for third ODI: Rohit Sharma (captain), Hardik Pandya, (vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel (subject to fitness), Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohammed Siraj.
 

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/8wtV4Yy
via IFTTT

Cricket WC: Archer Set To Travel With England Squad As Reserve Player

England speedster Jofra Archer will travel to India for the ODI World Cup with the Three Lions squad as a reserve player. Archer was a notable absentee from England's 15-man squad for the World Cup due to an elbow injury. However, on Monday England's national selector, Luke Wright confirmed that the 28-year-old pacer will travel with the squad as a reserve. "Jofra Archer will be travelling with the squad to India. He is one of the reserves but we also need to look after him, focus on his rehab," Wright said as quoted from Sky Sports.
Another eye-catching change in England's squad was the inclusion of youngster Harry Brook who continues to rise in each format with time.

Due to back spasms, Jason Roy missed the four-match series against New Zealand, and Brook made a return to the ODI squad in his place.

Ben Stokes who reversed his retirement has enhanced his reputation in the 50-over format with a stellar 182 off 124 balls against New Zealand, the highest score by an England men's player in ODIs.

Dawid Malan also cemented his place in the XI in the New Zealand series by topping the run charts, knocking off his fifth ODI hundred as well.

Spinner Adil Rashid, who played only one game in the New Zealand series, is also cleared to make the squad.

Rashid experienced cramps in his only match and did not play the remainder of the series. Meanwhile, seamer Mark Wood is recovering from a sore heel at the end of the Ashes and is yet to play any competitive cricket since the final Ashes Test.

England's squad for the World Cup: Jos Buttler (captain), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes.

(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/QiC7arU
via IFTTT

Siraj, Man Who Decimated Sri Lanka In Asia Cup With Fiery 6-For: 10 Facts

Mohammed Siraj - that name will be spoken about a lot in the coming days ahead of Cricket World Cup. There are enough reasons. In the India vs Sri Lanka Asia Cup 2023 final in Colombo on Sunday, the 29-year-old right-arm pacer single-handedly broke the hosts' resistance with a fiery spell. At the end of the game, Siraj's figures read - 7-1-21-6. It was only the fourth time that an Indian bowler had taken a six-wicket haul in ODIs. Courtesy Siraj's bowling, India skittled out Sri Lanka for just 50 - the team's second-lowest score in ODIs. 

India chased down the 51-run target win just 6.1 overs. As India won with 263 balls remaining, this is India's biggest ODI win for India. This is also the biggest win in an ODI tournament final in terms of balls remaining. And Mohammed Siraj was the chief architect of it. 

Here are 10 facts about Mohammed Siraj: 

1. Born in 1994 in Hyderabad, Telangana, Mohammed Siraj had humble beginnings. His father was an auto rickshaw driver while his mother was a home-maker. Mohammed Siraj has often acknowledged the role of his father in his cricket journey. 

2. Mohammed Siraj first started getting notice from t he tennis ball cricket circle. His friends convinced him to train to become a professional cricketer. He joined the Charminar Cricket Club and played in the HCA League. 

3. Mohammed Siraj made some rapid progress. He made his first-class debut for Hyderabad on November 15, 2015, under the coaching of Karthik Udupa in the 2015–16 Ranji Trophy tournament. He made his T20 debut on January 2, 2016 in the 2015–16 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy tournament. During the 2016–17 Ranji Trophy season, Siraj picked 41 wickets at an average of 18.92 - the highest that season for Hyderabad.

4. His big break came in February, 2017, when he was picked by Sunrisers Hyderabad for that year's Indian Premier League for a whopping Rs 2.6 crore. Next Year, he was bought by the Royal Challengers Bangalore, where he currently plays. 

5. In 2017, Siraj was named in India's T20I squad for their series against New Zealand. He made his debut for India against New Zealand on November 4, 2017, taking the wicket of Kane Williamson.

Siraj has so far played 21 Tests (59 wickets), 29 ODIs (53 wickets) and 8 T20Is (11 wickets). 

6. Siraj has ben a no. 1 ranked bowled in the past. On January 21, 2023 Siraj became No. 1 ODI Bowler in ICC Rankings. Currently, he is ranked 9th in ODIs. 

7. Mohammed Siraj Siraj is a great Cristiano Ronaldo fan. His celebration after taking a wicket is similar to what Ronaldo does after scoring a goal. 

8. With his 6/21 against Sri Lanka, the pacer became only the fourth bowler in ODI history to take four wickets in an over, and he matched former Lankan pacer Chaminda Vaas as the fastest to a five-wicket haul in one-dayers – in just 16 deliveries.

9. Siraj is the second bowler in the Asia Cup 50-over format to take a 6-wicket haul after Sri Lanka's Ajantha Mendis bagged the figure of 6/13 against India in 2008. 

10. Mohammed Siraj, who is also known as 'Miyan Magic' to his fans, won hearts at the R Premadasa stadium after the Asia Cup final match as he dedicated the 'Player of the Final' cash prize to the ground staff.

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/gDSRqTi
via IFTTT

Asia Cup: Gill's Ton Silver Lining In India's Six-Run Defeat vs Bangladesh

Shubman Gill gave an awesome display of his talent while registering his fifth ODI hundred, but Bangladesh managed to eke out an unexpected six-run win over India in an Asia Cup Super Four match In Colombo on Friday. Gill's 121 off 133 balls was exceptional. But it was not enough to drag India past Bangladesh's 265 for 8, built around fifties by Shakib al Hasan (80) and Towhid Hridoy (54) after they were put into bat. India were bowled out for 259. Axar Patel (42 off 34 balls) tried gamely to bring India back into the game with some heavy blows, but the target stayed just beyond India's grasp.

But in the tournament's context, the result did not matter as India had already entered the final. They will face Sri Lanka on Sunday. But the night belonged to Gill, despite the end result.

Gill's batting is all about timing and minimalism. He pulls but not with the flourish of Rohit Sharma, and he drives but not with the flair of Virat Kohli. But Gill lends his own aesthetics and grace to his game. Sample this.

Shakib dropped one a bit short and Gill stepped out just enough to meet the ball in its pitch. It was not the shimmy of a ballet dancer, but the precise footwork of a boxer.

There was no explosive loft over covers that one would normally expect, but Gill ended the moment with a simple check drive that sailed for a six over wide long-off.

Gill did that twice in one over against off-spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz - once over long-on and the second time straight over the bowler's head.

The knock was remarkable also because Gill hardly received any support from the other end.

Apart from Gill none of the Indian batsmen looked part on this night, and they started the chase on a disastrous note.

Since Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya were among the five rested players, India needed heftier contributions from captain Rohit Sharma and the rest of the batters.

India also gave a break to pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav.

But the contributions from other batsmen never really arrived, as the highest partnership in India's innings was a 57 between Gill and KL Rahul for the third wicket.

India started the chase in a rocky manner as Rohit departed in the first over itself, perishing to Tanzim Hasan after a half-hearted, uppish drive.

Tilak Varma, who made his ODI debut in this match, shouldered arms to Tanzim only to see his stumps getting disturbed.

Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav, who played one sweep shot too many, failed to get going against a plethora of Bangladesh spinners. Among the ruins around him, Gill batted with a lot of composure. But his innings was destined to end as a study material to his unique batsmanship, rather than a catalyst to an Indian win. He holed out in the deep off Mahedi Hasan.

Earlier, Shakib and Hridoy exploited the reduced firepower in India's bowling attack to score half-centuries. Shakib, who added 101 runs for the fifth wicket with Hridoy, made a confidence-boosting fifty for himself after struggling to make an impact recently with the bat.

The left-hander was severe on Axar, hammering the left-arm spinner for two consecutive sixes, but he found the desired only from the young Hridoy. The Shakib-Hridoy partnership also rescued Bangladesh from total disaster which they appeared to have headed at 59 for 4 in the 14th over.

But they could not expand their knocks as Shakib was cleaned up by Shardul Thakur, while Mohammed Shami accounted for Hridoy. However, Nasum Ahmed (44 off 45 balls) pushed Bangladesh past the 250-run mark as Indian bowlers lost some direction towards the business end.

India could have brought curtains on Bangladesh innings much quicker had they held on to three catches - Suryakumar, Tilak and KL Rahul being the offenders.

That laxity on the field and by the bowlers helped Bangladesh to post a competitive total that proved just enough.

(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/IZkiYAH
via IFTTT

"They Can't Play In All Formats...": SL Legend's Massive Take On Bumrah

A once-in-a-generation fast bowler like Jasprit Bumrah shouldn't be playing all three formats, in order to avoid injuries and prolong his career, feels World Cup winning Sri Lankan legend Chaminda Vaas. Vaas stressed that Indian selectors and team management must carefully choose the right formats and adapt strategies to keep a tab on Bumrah's workload management. "Players like Bumrah have a unique action, and we must protect individuals of such caliber. They can't play in all formats. We need to identify the suitable format and manage their participation accordingly," Vaas told reporters in Colombo on Friday.

Vaas shared insights into the pivotal role of safeguarding unique talents like Bumrah and nurturing their cricketing journey. Vaas emphasized the importance of managing players like Bumrah, known for their unconventional bowling actions.

The left-arm pace great feels that both skipper Rohit Sharma and the peerless Virat Kohli will come out all guns blazing to win the World Cup for India.

"We all know that Virat is special player and the way he performed for the last decade is extraordinary. Even Rohit, I'm pretty sure that they will give their 100% playing for India. All the fans are waiting to see these two performing. And I'm sure that they will go all out and trying to do well for India," said Vaas.

Further, Vaas emphasized the critical role of nurturing emerging Lankan talents like Matheesha Pathirana to elevate them to the stature of global stars such as Bumrah and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Vaas highlighted that it is imperative for Sri Lanka Cricket to safeguard these budding talents, effectively manage their workloads, and ensure their gradual development.

"Pathirana is still young. He is still 20 and he has long way to go. But it's up to Sri Lanka cricket establishment to protect him. If you are going to play 50 overs, we need to take care of him not to play all the games and especially Matheesha and taking care of him is very important," said Vaas.

(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/7bLwdVh
via IFTTT

India vs Bangladesh: Asia Cup 2023 Live Cricket Score, Live Score Of Today's Match on NDTV Sports

A dedicated team of experts bring you live score, live cricket score, live match update on Sports.NDTV.com. After 45.2 overs, India, chasing a target of 266, are 224/7. The live updates of India vs Bangladesh scorecard is also available. It is the perfect platform to follow your favourite teams in Asia Cup 2023. Keep a track on your favourite batsmen and bowlers through Asia Cup 2023 today match, ball by ball commentary, India vs Bangladesh, India vs Bangladesh live score, India vs Bangladesh scorecard. Follow the excitement of the Asia Cup 2023 on Sports.NDTV.com as you can follow live match updates and live cricket score through our platform.

44.6 overs (0 Run) Down leg, on a full length, Axar Patel swats it straight to short fine leg.

44.5 overs (4 Runs) FOUR! A gift and Axar Patel accepts it gleefully! Low full toss, on middle by Nasum Ahmed, Axar Patel does not miss out as he thumps it to the left of long on for a boundary.

44.4 overs (0 Run) Fired in, full and at the stumps, drilled back to the bowler.

44.3 overs (0 Run) Bowls it slower, full and on middle, Axar Patel has a swipe across the line but misses. Gets trapped in front of the stumps but the umpire turns down the LBW appeal.

Halt! Axar Patel seems to have hurt his wrist while diving to make his ground and needs medical attention. He is fine to resume.

44.3 overs (1 Run) WIDE! Litton Das misses a stumping opportunity! Sees the batter advance and fires it full and down leg, Axar Patel fails to get bat to ball. But, Litton Das fails to gather the ball cleanly, allowing Axar to get back in.

44.2 overs (6 Runs) SIX! Short and dispatched! Nasum errs in length and drops it way too short, on off, Axar Patel allows the ball to turn in and latches onto the pull shot. Clears deep mid-wicket for a maximum.

44.1 overs (1 Run) A half-tracker, outside off, turning away, the ball keeps a bit low, Shardul Thakur goes back and pushes it down to long off for a single.

43.6 overs (1 Run) Tossed up again, on middle, Shardul Thakur sweeps it off his pads to fine leg and opens his account with a single. End of a successful over from Mahedi Hasan.

43.5 overs (0 Run) Flatter this time, short and on middle and leg, Shardul Thakur drops it on the leg side with soft hands.

Shardul Thakur walks out to bat next. A lighting issue with one of the bails and the umpires have called for a replacement. All good to go now.

43.4 overs (0 Run) OUT! IN THE AIR AND GONE! Is that the game? Mahedi Hasan gets the big fish! Comes from over the wicket and floats it up, cleverly bowls it wide outside off, Shubman Gill has to reach out to go down the ground. Gets it off the toe-end of the bat and holes out to long off. Towhid Hridoy stationed there, runs to his right and completes a pressure catch on the second attempt. End of a superb Innings from Shubman Gill.

43.3 overs (6 Runs) SIX! BANG! Shubman Gill goes huge! Mahedi Hasan bowls it in the slot, quicker as well, at the stumps, Shubman Gill gets down on one knee and executes the slog sweep to perfection. Clears the deep mid-wicket with ease for a maximum.

43.2 overs (1 Run) Turning away, short and on middle, Axar Patel looks to get to the pitch of the ball. Gets it off the outer half of the bat to backward point for a single.

43.1 overs (0 Run) Angled into the pads, slightly short, Axar Patel looks to turn it on the leg side but cannot get it away.

42.6 overs (0 Run) Goes back to bowling full, on off, Shubman Gill drives crisply but finds extra cover.

42.5 overs (1 Run) Drops it short and at the hips, slower as well, Axar Patel nudges it aerially but wide of mid-wicket for a run.

42.4 overs (1 Run) Coming in with the arm, short and on middle, Shubman Gill exposes his stumps and punches it wide of point for a single.

42.3 overs (1 Run) Looped up, on middle and leg, Axar Patel swats it to deep square leg and rotates the strike. 200 comes up for India.

42.2 overs (0 Run) This is bowled short, outside off, punched straight to extra cover.

42.1 overs (1 Run) Floated up, on off, Shubman Gill plants his foot forward and drives it to long off for a single.

41.6 overs (0 Run) Bowls it slow, short and on middle, Axar Patel waits and whips it off the back foot. Fails to get it past mid-wicket. A good over for Bangladesh.

41.5 overs (0 Run) Targets the stumps again, fraction short, Axar Patel makes room and chops it straight to point.

41.4 overs (1 Run) Short this time, on middle, Shubman Gill goes on the back foot and nudges it in front of square for a single.

41.3 overs (0 Run) Sees the batter advance and darts on a yorker length, at the toes, Shubman Gill digs it out to mid-wicket.

41.2 overs (0 Run) Fired full, angling across, outside off, Shubman Gill tries the reverse sweep but it does not come off.

41.2 overs (2 Runs) Two Wides! Loses his radar and slips it short and down leg, Axar Patel shapes to pull but does not connect. The ball keeps low and sneaks through the legs of Litton Das for a run.

41.1 overs (0 Run) At the stumps, full as well, driven straight back to the bowler.

40.6 overs (2 Runs) Two leg byes! This is bowled short and sliding down leg, Shubman Gill hangs back to help it fine. The ball rolls off the thigh pad towards fine leg for a couple of leg byes.

40.5 overs (1 Run) In the air...but safe! Fired in, full and outside off, Axar Patel clears his front leg and tries to go downtown. Ends up slicing it in the air but over the backtracking extra cover fielder. Two runs taken.

40.4 overs (1 Run) A bit slower, a bit of turn away, short and on middle, Shubman Gill knocks it down to long on for a single.

40.3 overs (1 Run) Pushed through quicker, short and wide outside off, slapped to deep point for one.

40.2 overs (1 Run) Drops it short again, outside off, Shubman Gill rocks back and cuts it to deep point for a single.

40.1 overs (1 Run) Short and turning into the pads, Axar Patel waits for the slower delivery and pushes it down to long on for a single.

Match Reports

• India vs Bangladesh: Asia Cup 2023 Live Cricket Score, Live Score Of Today's Match on NDTV Sports
• India vs Bangladesh: Asia Cup 2023 Live Cricket Score, Live Score Of Today's Match on NDTV Sports
• India vs Bangladesh Live Score Ball by Ball, Asia Cup 2023 Live Cricket Score Of Today's Match on NDTV Sports
• India vs Bangladesh Live Score Ball by Ball, Asia Cup 2023 Live Cricket Score Of Today's Match on NDTV Sports
• India vs Bangladesh Live Score Ball by Ball, Asia Cup 2023 Live Cricket Score Of Today's Match on NDTV Sports
• India vs Bangladesh Live Score Ball by Ball, Asia Cup 2023 Live Cricket Score Of Today's Match on NDTV Sports
• India vs Bangladesh: Asia Cup 2023 Live Cricket Score, Live Score Of Today's Match on NDTV Sports
• India vs Bangladesh Live Score Ball by Ball, Asia Cup 2023 Live Cricket Score Of Today's Match on NDTV Sports

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/PKN0Uvz
via IFTTT

Watch: 13 Sixes! Klaasen Shatters Records With 83-Ball-174 vs Australia

Heinrich Klaasen slammed 174 off 83 balls to lead a South African batting assault against Australia in the fourth one-day international at SuperSport Park on Friday. Klaasen shared an extraordinary fifth wicket partnership of 222 off only 94 balls with David Miller (82 not out) as South Africa piled up 416 for five, their fifth-highest total in one-day internationals. Klaasen struck 13 fours and 13 sixes before being caught on the boundary off the last ball of the innings. A run spree of such magnitude did not seem likely as accurate Australian bowling and a slower than usual Centurion pitch saw South Africa make relatively sedate progress on a ground known for high scoring.

All 13 sixes From Heinrich Klaasen's 2 Extraordinary 178 pic.twitter.com/D12RkplnEv

— Shivani (@shivani__D) September 15, 2023

At the second drinks break, the total was 157 for three off 32 overs.

The acceleration started with a stand of 74 off 57 balls between Rassie van der Dussen (62) and Klaasen. 

It went into over-drive when the left-handed Miller joined Klaasen and hit the second ball he faced, from leg-spinner Adam Zampa, for six.

What an innings, Heinrich Klaasen , first 25 balls 24 runs, next 58 balls 150.

The best hitting i have seen in a long long time. #AUSvsSA pic.twitter.com/wQQ5Ky79Sm

— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) September 15, 2023

Miller's 82 not out came from 45 balls and included five sixes and six fours.

Zampa was hammered for 113 runs off his 10 overs, Marcus Stoinis conceded 81 runs and Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Ellis went for 79 apiece.

It is a must-win game for South Africa, with Australia leading the five-match series 2-1.

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

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/yUs8ETx
via IFTTT

Sri Lanka Beat Pakistan By 2 Wickets To Reach Asia Cup Final

Sri Lanka defeated Pakistan by two wickets via DLS method in a super four match to secure their place in the final of the Asia Cup in Colombo on Thursday. Mohammad Rizwan (86 not out) and Iftikhar Ahmed (47) put up a 108-run stand to steer Pakistan to a commanding 252 for 7 after rain reduced the match to 42-overs a side contest. However, Kusal Mendis (91) led a valiant batting display alongside Charith Asalanka (49 not out) and Sadeera Samarawickrama (48) as Sri Lanka overhauled the target in 42 overs.

Sri Lanka will take on India in final on Sunday.

Earlier, opener Abdullah Shafique (52 off 69 balls) shared a 64-run stand with skipper Babar Azam (29) after opting to bat in the crucial fixture.

But it was Rizwan and Iftikhar who provided the final flourish, taking Pakistan across the 250-run mark.

For Sri Lanka, young pacer Matheesha Pathirana (3/64) was the most successful bowler.

Brief Scores: Pakistan 252 for 7 in 42 overs (Mohammad Rizwan (86 not out), Abdullah Shafique 52; Matheesha Pathirana 3/64) Sri Lanka 252 for 8 in 42 overs (Kusal Mendis 91 Charith Asalanka 49 not out; Iftikhar Ahmed 3/50). 

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

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/7OW0JsU
via IFTTT

Viv Richards Backs India To "Do Well" In Upcoming ODI World Cup

One of the iconic batters in the history of cricket Viv Richards has backed India ahead of the upcoming ODI World Cup. The former West Indies batter holds a place in his heart as he made his Test debut on Indian soil. He went on to describe the special affection he has for India and how the massive home support will help them in the mega tournament. 

"I fancy India, I have got a deep affiliation with India, that particular country in itself. I made my debut in India and I have a lot of sentimental reasons about that part of the world. So I will back India to do well, they have massive support you can never forget that when you have massive support it can be seriously encouraging," Richards told ICC. 

India will look to lift the World Cup trophy once again just like they did in the 2011 World Cup on their home soil as the mega tournament commences on Thursday, October 5 when 2019 finalists England and New Zealand clash at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, with the event culminating in the final at the same venue on Sunday, 19 November. India will start its campaign with a match against Australia in Chennai on October 8.

Ten teams will feature in this biggest Cricket World Cup ever, to be played across 10 venues from October 5 to November 19, with the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad hosting the tournament opener and the final. The event will feature 48 matches to be played across 46 days.

The venues other than Ahmedabad and Chennai are Bengaluru, Delhi, Dharamsala, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai and Pune. While Guwahati and Thiruvananthapuram will join Hyderabad in hosting the practice games.

Eight teams have qualified for the 46-day event through the Cricket World Cup Super League while the final two spots were decided by the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier taking place in Zimbabwe. Sri Lanka and the Netherlands grabbed the two final spots in the tournament.

The top four teams will qualify for the semifinals, to be played in Mumbai on November 15 and in Kolkata on November 16. The final will be on November 19 in Ahmedabad. The semi-finals and the final will have reserve days.

Indian squad for World Cup: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya (vice-captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj.

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/aEKfiHz
via IFTTT

"On A Different Level": Ex-Pakistan Captain's Huge Praise For India Star

Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt feels that the Indian cricket team has ticked all the boxes after the Rohit Sharma-led side qualified for the Asia Cup 2023 final. With two wins in two days, against Pakistan and Sri Lanka, Butt feels India have made their intentions clear ahead of this year's World Cup. So far, the Indian batters have delivered the goods, while the bowlers have made a strong statement. Jasprit Bumrah and KL Rahul's return to action after injury has been huge positive for Rohit and his men.

Rahul scored an unbeaten century against Pakistan on his return to the side, while Bumrah, despite picking just three wickets, has troubled the opposition batters, especially with the new ball.

Butt feels Bumrah's comeback has been exceptional, and said that the pacer has "looked on a different level". He also praised spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who has picked nine wickets in two-matches, including a five-wicket haul against Pakistan.

"Jasprit Bumrah right now looks on a different level. Siraj has bowl well. Kuldeep is a special bowler. It is not easy check him, whether he'll bowl a googly or his leg-spin. Most batters struggle to pick him up. Sometimes they are late on his bowling, that's why it is not easy to hit him in the gap," Butt said on his YouTube channel.

"So, a lot of positives for India so far in the Asia Cup. Batters have done their job. Injured players are back to full fitness. The top four has scored runs. Pandya has been bowling well, looks fitter. The world has witnessed Bumrah's exceptional comeback. India have ticked all the boxes heading into the Asia Cup final and World Cup," he added.

India will now take on either Pakistan or Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup final on Sunday.

from NDTV Sports-Cricket https://ift.tt/HenW29f
via IFTTT