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Catch Of The Day: NZ PM Stuns Kapil Dev In Epic Street Cricket Match: Must-See VIDEO

March 20, 2025, 8:27 am

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon showcased his cricketing skills as he joined former India captain Kapil Dev for a game of street cricket in New Delhi. The duo formed a team to challenge New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel and former cricketer Ross Taylor, who retired from international cricket in 2022.

A video of the fun match, shared by PM Luxon on Instagram, has now gone viral. The clip captures Luxon and Kapil Dev enjoying the game alongside young kids at a special event in the Indian capital. Luxon stole the spotlight by taking two remarkable catches in the slip cordon, leaving Taylor and Ajaz Patel visibly surprised.

“Working hard in India to hit it out of the park for Kiwis,” Luxon captioned the video in a joint post with Ajaz Patel. He also shared pictures on his X account (formerly Twitter), showing him fielding in the slips while Taylor took on the young bowlers.

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View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Christopher Luxon (@christopherluxon)

Banter Between PM Luxon and PM Modi Over Cricket

Earlier this week, Luxon met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and their conversation took a lighthearted turn with some cricket-related banter.

During their joint press conference, Luxon humorously addressed New Zealand’s loss to India in the Champions Trophy 2025 final in Dubai. In an attempt to avoid a “diplomatic incident,” he joked about not mentioning New Zealand’s Test series victory over India last year, which had eliminated India from the World Test Championship (WTC) Final race.

“I really appreciate that PM Modi didn’t bring up New Zealand’s Champions Trophy loss to India, and I didn’t mention our Test victories in India. Let’s keep it that way and avoid a diplomatic incident,” Luxon quipped, making Modi laugh.

Ross Taylor, who was present at the event, was equally amused by the exchange between the two leaders.

Luxon Praises India’s Dominance in Cricket

Despite the friendly jabs, Luxon acknowledged India’s recent success in international cricket, praising the team’s performances.

“During PM Modi’s tenure, the men in blue have been the most dominant side in cricket, most recently winning the Champions Trophy in Dubai against my men in black. They broke many New Zealanders’ hearts, including mine. I will be the bigger person and just say congratulations,” he said, as quoted by PTI.

The visit highlighted the growing camaraderie between India and New Zealand, with cricket serving as a bridge between the two nations.

Virat Kohli And Anushka Sharma Welcome 2025 In Style: Sydney Streets Witness Their Romance | WATCH

January 1, 2025, 3:17 pm

The Indian cricket team celebrated the arrival of New Year 2025 in style, with several players sharing their festivities on social media. The team is currently in Australia, preparing for upcoming challenges, and Sydney served as the backdrop for a relaxed New Year’s Eve celebration. Among those spotted in the city were power couple Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma, who enjoyed a stroll with IPL teammate Devdutt Padikkal, sparking rumors that the trio were headed to a party.

Post-Boxing Day Test: The Debate Over Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s Test Careers Intensifies

However, the celebrations come amid growing concerns over India’s performance in the ongoing Boxing Day Test against Australia. The loss reignited conversations about the future of senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the Test format. Despite having achieved remarkable feats, both have come under intense scrutiny for their recent performances.

Sanjay Manjrekar Weighs In: Kohli Deserves More Leeway Than Rohit

Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar weighed in on the ongoing debate, particularly on the contrasting approaches towards assessing Kohli and Sharma’s Test careers. Manjrekar asserted that Kohli’s legacy as one of the modern-day greats gives him an edge over Sharma, particularly after his record-breaking Test career. He told Star Sports, “There is no comparison between Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as Test batters. Kohli has earned the right to receive more opportunities given his stature in the game.”

WATCH:

virat and anushka spotted in sydney likely celebrating new year ? pic.twitter.com/Grn54flBE1

— ???. ? (@ssnoozefest) December 31, 2024

Kohli’s Unmatched Record vs. Rohit’s Struggles

Virat Kohli’s Test journey speaks for itself, with 122 matches to his name, 9,207 runs, and 30 centuries. His leadership has led India to historic overseas victories, including series triumphs in Australia. On the other hand, Rohit Sharma’s Test career, while notable for certain innings, has not been as consistent. Despite playing 67 Tests and amassing 4,302 runs, his recent performances have raised doubts.

WATCH:

Virat Kohli And @AnushkaSharma Spotted On The Streets Of Sydney For A New Year Party! ???#Virushka #HappyNewYear #AUSvIND @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/oAHD8Fxk1A

— virat_kohli_18_club (@KohliSensation) December 31, 2024

Rohit Sharma Faces Intense Pressure After Recent Failures

Rohit Sharma has faced criticism after a string of poor performances, especially during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. His latest stint has been particularly disappointing, with the Indian skipper failing to score more than 31 runs in five innings, averaging just 6.20 in the Test series in Australia. His performance on the final day of the Boxing Day Test, where he was dismissed for just 9 runs, further deepened concerns about his form.

Kohli’s Decline and the Question of India’s Batting Coach

Despite Kohli’s great achievements, questions have arisen about his recent performances as well, especially with the increasing difficulty in scoring runs on tough overseas pitches. Manjrekar questioned the role of India’s batting coach in addressing such issues, citing that even great players like Kohli should not be immune from scrutiny.

With both seniors under the spotlight, India’s cricketing future is facing an intense phase of reckoning as the team prepares to rebound from th

‘If You Don’t Let Me Talk…’: Explosive Sanjay Manjrekar-Irfan Pathan Face-Off On Live TV | WATCH

December 27, 2024, 3:06 pm

Day 4 of the 4th Test between India and Australia saw a crucial 102-run partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli that revived India’s chances. However, the partnership ended in an unfortunate mix-up, leading to Jaiswal’s dismissal. The confusion over a risky single left fans and experts divided over who was at fault—Jaiswal for calling the run or Kohli for declining it.

Manjrekar vs Pathan: A Heated Post-Match Debate

During the post-day show on Star Sports, former cricketers Sanjay Manjrekar and Irfan Pathan clashed over the incident. Manjrekar argued that Virat Kohli should have trusted Jaiswal’s call, as the latter was running to the danger end. “It was a schoolboy error from Kohli to look back and decide against the run,” Manjrekar asserted.

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Lafda between Irfan and Sanjay Manjrekar ?pic.twitter.com/F2huaodmBn

— Pushkar (@Musafirr_hu_yar) December 27, 2024

Pathan countered, suggesting that Kohli’s decision to decline the run was justified given the ball’s speed towards Pat Cummins. “A non-striker has the right to refuse a risky run if they feel it’s unsafe,” he said. The exchange became intense, with Manjrekar sarcastically suggesting that Pathan’s view should be added to coaching manuals.

Sanjay Manjrekar also linked Kohli’s subsequent dismissal to the guilt he might have felt after Jaiswal’s run-out, saying, “Kohli lost focus after the incident, which contributed to his wicket.”

The debate has since become a talking point among cricket fans, highlighting the emotional stakes and nuances of on-field decisions in high-pressure matches.

‘Clown’ Virat Kohli: Australian Media Insults Star After Clash With Youngster Sam Konstas

December 27, 2024, 8:50 am

The controversy between Virat Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Konstas continues to headline even after the International Cricket Council (ICC) delivered its verdict over the incident that occurred in the 4th Test at Melbourne. The incident involved a heated exchange following reports that Kohli made intentional shoulder contact with Konstas while crossing paths on the pitch. In that case, while ICC match referee Andy Pycroft gave Kohli a fine of 20 percent of his match fee with one demerit point, the Australian media claimed the punishment was too mild.

Criticism intensified as The West Australian published a headline labeling Virat Kohli a “Clown“ and also referring to him as a “sook“-a term used to describe a crybaby or coward. Social media also burst with demands for a heavier penalty at least in terms of at least one match suspension.

BCCI and Player Responses

Speaking to the media, BCCI President Roger Binny dismissed the episode saying, “These things happen on the cricket ground. It’s important that the game goes on.” Konstas, while maintaining his diplomacy, stated, “I think he accidentally bumped me. It‘s just cricket and the tension.”

HAVE A LOOK AT THE VIRAL POST:

Australian media choose to use “Clown Kohli” instead of celebrating Sam Konstas debut. This is why Virat Kohli is brand in Australia. Reason to increase the number of sales of newspapers. ?#INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/B1ksAPfgI3

— Akshat (@AkshatOM10) December 26, 2024

Konstas’ Impressive Debut Overshadowed

The argument drew attention away from Konstas‘ memorable debut performance where the 19-year-old impressed by scoring 60 runs, including 34 off Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah. However, Konstas didn’t pay much attention to the argument and continued his game and kept himself away from the controversy further.

Australian Media’s Outrage

The Australian press has been unrelenting, accusing the ICC of going soft on Virat Kohli . The narrative has further fueled public opinion, with many Australians calling for stricter measures to prevent such incidents.

As the fallout continues, the incident highlights the intense emotions and scrutiny that accompany high-stakes cricket matches, particularly between rival teams like India and Australia.

Virat Kohli Fined For Heated Exchange With Australia’s Sam Konstas In Boxing Day Test | WATCH

December 26, 2024, 2:13 pm

Former India captain Virat Kohli has been penalised 20% of his match fee for shoulder barge incident with Australian debutant Sam Konstas while the ongoing 4th Test between India and Australia was underway in Melbourne. It happened after the 10th over of the Aussie innings when Kohli and Konstas collided in the field. Sources indicate that the verbal exchange heated up to the point that it was only calmed down by an intervention from a teammate of Konstas, Usman Khawaja.

A Level 1 Offence and Fine Handed

Sources indicate that the incident was considered a Level 1 offence and, as such, Kohli was fined 20% of his match fees. The on-field umpires noted the situation and dealt with both players involved in the altercation.

Post the incident, Konstas spoke to the reporters where he downplayed the confrontation saying it was just an accidental bump. “Virat Kohli accidentally bumped into me, that’s cricket and can happen with tension,” said the 19-year-old. He added that both the players‘ emotions overruled in that particular moment. Konstas, who was batting at 27, continued his innings post the incident, scoring a brilliant half-century on debut before being dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja.

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Kohli and Konstas come together and make contact ?#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/adb09clEqd

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 26, 2024

Ricky Ponting Critiques Kohli’s Role in the Incident

However, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting put the blame back on Kohli, which is that the Indian star created a situation that led to confrontation. Ponting criticized how Kohli moved across the pitch, saying that it is actually Kohli who attempted to walk towards Konstas, which led to the incident. “Look where Virat walks. He walked one whole pitch over to his right and instigated that confrontation. No doubt in my mind whatsoever,” said Ponting on Channel 7.

Ponting also added that the umpires and match officials would likely review the situation closely, as he believed fielders should avoid getting too close to the batsman during these moments. Despite the tension, Konstas seemed unaffected, continuing his impressive debut performance.

Kohli’s Reputation and Possible Consequences

While Konstas may have brushed it off as part of the game, the brawl has garnered attention since Kohli has a history of fiery outbursts and this controversy only added to it. The brawl has thus sparked a wider debate regarding disciplinary actions in cricket and senior players ‘responsibility to control their emotions on the field.

The outcome will be much awaited since all eyes are on the review by the umpires, considering that sanctions may continue further, asPonting strongly commented against Kohli.

From Hero To Zero? Virat Kohli Early Exit For 5 Runs In 1st Test Leaves Fans Roasting | WATCH

November 22, 2024, 12:41 pm

Virat Kohli’s ongoing battle with form continued on Day 1 of the first Test match between India and Australia in Perth, as the Indian star was dismissed for just 5 runs in the opening innings. Disappointing performance of Virat Kohli has once again sparked concern among fans and pundits alike, as the right-handed batter failed to make an impact on a challenging green top wicket.

Kohli Edged Out by Hazlewood

Kohli’s departure came at the hands of Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, who delivered a rising ball outside the off-stump. Virat Kohli, standing outside the crease, couldn’t control the shot and edged the ball to Usman Khawaja at slip. This marked another low point for the former captain, who had entered the series with a lean run of form, managing just 93 runs in his last six innings against New Zealand.

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Extra bounce from Josh Hazlewood to dismiss Virat Kohli. pic.twitter.com/dQEG1rJSKA

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) November 22, 2024

A Troubling Trend for Kohli

This recent dismissal only adds to the pressure on Virat Kohli, who has struggled to regain his peak form in recent years. His performance in the previous series against New Zealand raised questions, and with this latest failure, the 35-year-old batter finds himself under scrutiny once again.

HERE ARE THE REACTIONS OF THE FANS:

Maine to pahele hi kaha tha…
Yeh tumhara King Virat Kohli hagne wala hai..#INDvAUS https://t.co/DujW575SrQ pic.twitter.com/H6cKnO2v2C

— Ipul ? (@gujjuallrounder) November 22, 2024

Kohli fans : BGT me wo aa gya to
BGT me wo aa gya to
BGT me wo aa gya to…

Meanwhile kohli : pic.twitter.com/Fq5FBbJdSE

— Ipul ? (@gujjuallrounder) November 18, 2024

Selectors to Virat Kohli after BGT. #INDvsAus pic.twitter.com/hYSjfXY8sV

— Pakchikpak Raja Babu (@HaramiParindey) November 22, 2024

India’s Shaky Start in the 1st Innings

Kohli’s dismissal came as part of a challenging day for the Indian batting lineup. India opted to bat first after Jasprit Bumrah, standing in as captain, made the bold decision on a wicket with significant bounce. However, the decision didn’t pay off immediately as India lost wickets early in their innings. Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed for a duck by Mitchell Starc, and debutant Devdutt Padikkal soon followed suit, falling for a duck after facing 23 balls.

At the time of writing, India had already lost its fourth wicket, with KL Rahul departing for 26 runs. Rahul was dismissed after an easy catch behind the stumps off Australian keeper Alex Carey.

Fans React to Kohli’s Continued Struggles

The ongoing form slump of Virat Kohli has left fans divided, with some expressing disappointment over his inability to regain his best form, while others remain hopeful that he will bounce back in the later innings of the match. Social media has been flooded with reactions, as Kohli’s inconsistency continues to be a topic of discussion.

As India looks to regroup and recover from the early setbacks, the team’s ability to recover and post a competitive total will depend heavily on the remaining batsmen. Whether Kohli can turn things around remains to be seen, but his recent form will undoubtedly be a key point of focus throughout the series.

Here’s Why India Won’t Be Traveling To Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy: Suryakumar Yadav Answers | WATCH

November 12, 2024, 10:52 am

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently confirmed that India will not be sending its national team to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, citing security concerns. This announcement has sparked an intense debate among fans and former cricketers, with mixed opinions emerging from both sides of the border.

Security Concerns and India’s Stance

The BCCI’s decision to not travel to Pakistan has primarily been attributed to security reasons, which the board claims makes it unfeasible for the Indian team to participate in the event. However, former Pakistan cricketers have come forward, asserting that the security situation in Pakistan has improved significantly, and the country is now as safe as it can be for international teams.

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Pakistan Fans asking India’s T20I Captain @surya_14kumar – Why won’t he come to Pakistan ?

Answer–He won’t be selected.
How will he go to Pakistan ?#ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/BgPlCcbROy

— alekhaNikun (@nikun28) November 11, 2024

Despite these claims, the BCCI’s position remains firm, leaving many to question whether security issues are the sole reason for the decision or if there are underlying political factors at play.

Suryakumar Yadav Addresses Fan’s Question

During a recent interaction with fans, India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav was confronted by a fan who asked him directly about the reasons behind India’s decision.

The fan, curious about why the Indian team wasn’t traveling to Pakistan, asked: “Mujhe ek baat bata saktein hai ke Pakistan kyu nahi aa rahe aap (Tell me why are you not coming to Pakistan)?”

Suryakumar, offering a candid response, clarified that the matter was not within the players’ control. He responded, “Arrey bhaiya, hamare hath mein thodi hai (Brother, it is not in our hands).”

Pakistan’s Response and PCB’s Stance

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed its frustration over India’s stance and is reportedly considering its own options in response. There have been discussions within the PCB about boycotting the Champions Trophy if India continues to refuse to travel to Pakistan. In addition, it is understood that the Pakistani government is closely monitoring the situation, with some reports indicating that the government might intervene to ensure Pakistan’s participation.

According to sources quoted by Dawn, the government is mulling over the possibility of asking the PCB to consider not taking part in the tournament if India refuses to travel.

Future of the 2025 Champions Trophy

With the growing tensions surrounding the venue, the future of the 2025 Champions Trophy remains uncertain. One possible solution that has been suggested by the BCCI is the adoption of a hybrid format for the tournament, which would allow matches to be played in both Pakistan and other neutral locations.

However, no official decision on the format or the participation of both India and Pakistan has been made yet. It is expected that the PCB will continue to deliberate on the matter, but a resolution might not be reached anytime soon.

A Heated Debate in the Cricketing World

The controversy surrounding the Champions Trophy has sparked intense debates not only in India and Pakistan but also among cricket fans worldwide. With opinions divided on the safety of the venue and the political implications of the situation, it remains to be seen how the ICC and both cricket boards will handle the issue as the tournament draws nearer.

As it stands, the ongoing saga around the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy continues to develop, with no clear end in sight. The fate of the tournament and the participation of both countries will likely hinge on diplomatic negotiations, as well as the security situation in Pakistan.

Rishabh Pant’s Epic 107m Six Smashes Stadium Roof: WATCH the Jaw Dropping Shot!

October 20, 2024, 8:20 am

In a heartbreaking turn of events during the 1st Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru, India’s wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant missed out on his century by just one run. Batting on 99, Pant was clean bowled by Kiwi pacer William O’Rourke, who sent down a delivery from around the wicket that clipped the inside edge and crashed into the stumps. Pant’s innings, which came after concerns over his fitness due to a knee injury, was nothing short of electrifying before its unfortunate end.

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??? ?? ??? ????! ?

Rishabh Pant smacks a 1⃣0⃣7⃣m MAXIMUM! ?

Live – https://t.co/FS97Llv5uq #TeamIndia | #INDvNZ | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/4UHngQLh47

— BCCI (@BCCI) October 19, 2024

Pant’s Spectacular Knock and Heartbreak

Rishabh Pant , who had been stretched off on Day 2 and did not take the field on Day 3, returned on Day 4 to showcase his aggressive batting style. He enthralled the crowd with a 107-meter six off Tim Southee, a shot that soared onto the roof of M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. However, just a few deliveries later, Rishabh Pant chopped a ball onto his stumps, bringing his innings to a sudden halt and leaving fans in stunned silence.

Pant’s knee injury, the same one he suffered in a serious car accident in December 2022 that kept him out for over a year, seemed to trouble him during the match, but his determination shone through. Despite his valiant effort, India’s batting line-up crumbled, losing seven wickets for just 54 runs after New Zealand took the second new ball.

New Zealand in Command

O’Rourke was the star for New Zealand, finishing with an impressive 7-114 from India’s two innings. Earlier, Sarfaraz Khan reached his century with a stunning boundary off Southee, earning a standing ovation from the crowd. However, his innings ended at 150 when he was caught at cover.

Heading into the final day, New Zealand need 107 runs to claim victory and take a 1-0 lead in the series.

Gambhir And Rohit Lead India Past Kanpur Scare: New Zealand Awaits In WTC Final Quest

October 1, 2024, 3:34 pm

A recent weekend brought a mix of rain-soaked tension and cricketing drama as India fought to maintain its chances for a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Following a disappointing couple of washed-out days during the second Test against Bangladesh, India’s path to the final seemed precarious, especially with Sri Lanka achieving a historic 2-0 series sweep against New Zealand at home.

The Rain-Induced Dilemma

India, who were favored to reach the WTC final for the third consecutive time, found their prospects dimming. After two days of rain at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur, the likelihood of a draw grew, putting additional pressure on the Indian team. However, relief came on Tuesday as head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma celebrated a crucial Test victory, keeping India’s hopes alive.

A Thrilling Comeback

The weather finally cleared on Monday, allowing play to resume. India’s bowlers made quick work of Bangladesh, taking the remaining seven wickets for just 126 runs. The Indian batters then scored at a breathtaking pace, amassing 285 runs for nine wickets before declaring with 45 minutes left in the day. R. Ashwin led the charge, quickly reducing Bangladesh to 26 for two.

On Tuesday, India took approximately three hours to dismiss Bangladesh for a mere 146 runs in their second innings, setting a target of 95 runs. India successfully chased down the total in just 17.2 overs, with Yashasvi Jaiswal contributing a solid fifty, marking his second consecutive half-century in the match.

The Road Ahead for India

Despite the challenging weekend, India remains at the top of the WTC table with a percentage of 74.24 after winning eight out of 11 matches in this cycle. To secure their place in the WTC final, India needs to clinch just three more victories from their remaining eight Test matches. A clean sweep against New Zealand, who currently sit at the bottom of the table with three wins in eight matches, would guarantee a spot in the final, regardless of the outcomes in their tour of Australia.

India’s upcoming series against New Zealand is set to take place between October 16 and November 5, with matches scheduled in Bengaluru, Pune, and Mumbai. The team will be eager to capitalize on their recent success and push towards securing a spot in the coveted final.

Watch: Rohit Sharma’s Spectacular Catch That Shocked Team India!

September 30, 2024, 12:03 pm

India captain Rohit Sharma showcased his exceptional fielding skills on Day 4 of the second Test against Bangladesh at Green Park Stadium, producing a breathtaking one-handed catch that has quickly become the talk of the match. After a two-day hiatus due to rain, play resumed with Indian bowlers making an immediate impact.

Bumrah Strikes First

The day began with Jasprit Bumrah making an early breakthrough for India, dismissing Mushfiqur Rahim and setting the tone for the day. Following Bumrah’s success, pacer Mohamed Siraj got his first wicket of the innings, removing star batter Litton Das. However, it was Rohit’s remarkable catch that proved pivotal in securing this crucial wicket.

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Rohit sharma?#RohitSharma #INDvsBAN pic.twitter.com/rI5RPBiUNF

— ??_ (@EnPeyarDinesh) September 30, 2024

Rohit’s Jaw-Dropping Stunner

As Litton advanced down the pitch, aiming to clear the 30-yard circle, Rohit timed his jump impeccably. With remarkable agility, he leapt to his right and pulled off a sensational one-handed catch, sending the Bangladesh star back to the pavilion. The Indian players, including Siraj and Shubman Gill, were left in disbelief, with Gill even expressing shock by placing his hands on his head in astonishment.

This catch was a highlight moment in what has been a rain-affected match, where only 38 overs were bowled on the opening day. Siraj’s previous appeal had been overturned after a DRS referral, but there was no doubt about the legitimacy of Rohit’s catch.

Series Context and Match Outlook

India, who already lead the series 1-0 following a commanding 280-run victory in the first Test in Chennai, face the possibility of this match ending in a draw, especially given the interruptions caused by rain. With just one full day left to play, the likelihood of achieving a result depends heavily on an extraordinary performance from the Indian side.

As the match progresses, all eyes will be on the players to see if they can secure a victory or if the weather will dictate the outcome of this gripping encounter.

Sourav Ganguly at 52: From Cricket Legend to BCCI President

July 8, 2024, 9:58 am

Sourav Ganguly is widely recognized for revolutionizing Indian cricket with his aggressive leadership style. Taking charge during a turbulent period after a match-fixing scandal, he transformed Team India’s fortunes, particularly in overseas matches.

Celebrating his 52nd birthday on July 8, Ganguly’s career as a legendary captain is marked by significant victories. One of the most memorable was India’s triumph in the 2002 NatWest series against England, capped by his iconic jersey-waving gesture at Lord’s.

He made his international debut in 1992, featuring in an ODI against the West Indies. Four years later, Ganguly announced his arrival in Test cricket with consecutive centuries in England. Under his captaincy, India reached the final of the 2003 ODI World Cup, though they were defeated by Ricky Ponting’s Australia.

However, his tenure faced challenges in 2005 when Greg Chappell’s appointment as head coach led to controversies. Criticism leaked to the media resulted in Ganguly being dropped from the team, replaced by Rahul Dravid as captain. Undeterred, Ganguly staged a strong comeback in 2006 during a tour of South Africa, culminating in a career-best Test score of 239 against Pakistan in Bangalore the following year.

After retiring from international cricket in 2008 and all forms of the game in 2012, Ganguly remained active in cricket as a commentator and served as President of the Cricket Association of Bengal from 2015. He later became a mentor for Delhi Capitals in the IPL before serving as BCCI President. Currently, he holds the role of Head of Cricket (Director) at Delhi Capitals.

Sourav Ganguly’s innings, including his memorable performances like scoring 239 against Pakistan and pivotal knocks in international cricket, cement his legacy as one of India’s cricketing greats.

India Champions vs Pakistan Champions WCL 2024 Broadcast Today : Where and When to Watch?

July 6, 2024, 2:41 pm

India Champions will face Pakistan Champions in a highly anticipated World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2024 match today, July 6, at Edgbaston, Birmingham, starting at 9:00 PM IST.

Both teams enter this game undefeated. India Champions secured a three-wicket victory over England Champions in their first match and then defeated West Indies Champions by 27 runs in the second match. Similarly, Pakistan Champions overcame Australia Champions by five wickets in their opener and then won against West Indies Champions by 29 runs in their subsequent game.

For India, Gurkeerat Singh Mann is the top scorer with 119 runs in two matches, followed by Robin Uthappa with 93 runs. Harbhajan Singh and Dhawal Kulkarni are the leading bowlers for the team, each taking two wickets. On the Pakistan side, Shoaib Malik has scored the most runs with a total of 77, while Sohail Tanvir is the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with five wickets in two matches.

Live Streaming Details

The India Champions vs Pakistan Champions match will be broadcast live on Star Sports Network, and live streaming will be available on the Fancode App and Website. Fans in Pakistan can watch the match on Geo Super.

Semifinal Qualification Scenarios

The top four teams in the points table will advance to the semifinals. The winner of the India vs Pakistan match will almost guarantee a spot in the semifinals, while the loser will need to win at least one of their remaining two games to qualify. Following this match, India Champions will face Australia Champions on July 8 and South Africa Champions on July 10. Pakistan Champions have matches left against England Champions and South Africa Champions on July 7 and 9, respectively.

Squads

India Champions Squad: Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, Suresh Raina, Irfan Pathan, Yusuf Pathan, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu, Gurkeerat Mann, Rahul Sharma, Naman Ojha, Rahul Shukla, RP Singh, Vinay Kumar, Dhawal Kulkarni, Saurabh Tiwary, Anureet Singh, Pawan Negi

Pakistan Champions Squad: Sharjeel Khan, Umer Akmal, Younis Khan, Shoaib Malik, Misbah Ul Haq, Shahid Afridi, Abdul Razzaq, Wahab Riaz, Sohail Tanvir, Sohail Khan, Abdul Rehman, Aamir Yamin, Taufeeq Umar, Shoaib Maqsood, Yasir Arafat, Tanveer Ahmed.

Air India’s special aircraft for Indian cricket team landed at Barbados Airport

July 3, 2024, 12:35 pm

Air India’s special plane has arrived at Barbados Airport to bring back the Indian cricket team. ANI reported this development. According to reports, the BCCI arranged a chartered flight for Team India, which will take off from Barbados. Originally planned for Tuesday, the departure was postponed to Wednesday due to Hurricane Beryl. The team, headed by Rohit Sharma, along with support staff, BCCI officials, and players’ families, have been stuck here for the last two days because of the hurricane.

#WATCH | A special flight of Air India lands at Barbados Airport. Team India will fly back to the country on this flight. pic.twitter.com/5q8NaiIJGP

— ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2024

Indian Cricket Team Set to Return Home After Winning T20 World Cup

July 2, 2024, 12:02 pm

The Indian cricket team, led by Rohit Sharma, is finally set to return home after winning the T20 World Cup. The team was stranded in Barbados due to Hurricane Beryl, a powerful Category 4 hurricane, which forced the island to close its airport.

On Saturday, June 29, India won the T20 World Cup by defeating South Africa by seven runs in a thrilling final at the Kensington Oval. This victory ended a 13-year-long wait for a World Cup title for India.

After their victory, the Indian players, support staff, their families, and BCCI officials, including secretary Jay Shah, were stuck in Barbados because the hurricane caused the airport to shut down completely. They have been anxiously waiting for the airport to reopen so they can return home.

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley announced around 4 am on Tuesday that the airport is expected to reopen in the next six to twelve hours. She mentioned that the airport personnel are conducting their final checks and hope to resume normal operations soon. Prime Minister Mottley said, “We are working towards reopening the airport later today. We want to ensure that people who were supposed to leave last night, today, or tomorrow morning can do so.”

If the airport becomes functional by 4-5 pm on Tuesday, the Indian cricket team and their entourage, nearly 70 people in total, will leave on a charter flight. They are expected to depart from Bridgetown at 6 pm and arrive in Delhi on Wednesday at 7:45 pm. The team is eagerly waiting to celebrate their victory back home. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to felicitate the players, although the details of the event are yet to be finalized. Initially, the plan was to travel via the United States, but due to the delay, the BCCI is considering a direct charter flight to India. However, this has its own challenges as the Caribbean islands do not have a charter aircraft that can accommodate the entire group. The BCCI may need to arrange a flight from the US. The Indian cricket team and their fans are looking forward to their return and the celebrations that will follow.

T20 World Cup 2024 Final: Cricket Fans Pray for Team India’s Victory Against South Africa

June 29, 2024, 11:03 am

Indian cricket fans in Kanpur are offering prayers for the victory of the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue in the final match of the T20 World Cup 2024 against South Africa.

India will face South Africa in the final match of the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on Saturday.

In Varanasi, fans also performed havans for Team India’s success in the upcoming final match of this marquee event. The same incident would be seen in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh also where Cricket fans offered prayers for the victory of team India ahead of India vs South Africa ICC T20 World Cup final match today in Barbados.

#WATCH | Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: Cricket fans offer prayers for the victory of team India ahead of India vs South Africa ICC T20 World Cup final match today in Barbados. pic.twitter.com/uToUBo8muk

— ANI (@ANI) June 29, 2024

The Men in Blue are aiming to end their ICC trophy drought since the 2013 Champions Trophy and secure their first T20 World Cup title since the inaugural edition in 2007.

Both South Africa and India have remained unbeaten in the 2024 T20 World Cup, showcasing impressive performances throughout the event. However, no team in the history of the T20 World Cup has ever won the tournament without losing a single match.

The two teams have had contrasting journeys to the final. The Rohit Sharma-led side has dominated all their opponents, including heavyweights like Australia, Pakistan, and England. In contrast, the Proteas have had several close calls, narrowly escaping defeats against Bangladesh and Nepal in the group stage. Their final Super 8 match against co-hosts West Indies saw them nearly exit the tournament while chasing a revised target of 123.

India’s Squad: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal, Sanju Samson, Mohammed Siraj, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

T20 World Cup 2024: India Defeats USA to Secure Super 8 Spot, Impacting Pakistan’s Qualification Hopes

June 13, 2024, 9:52 am

India secured a seven-wicket victory over the United States at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York, on Wednesday.

This win guarantees India a spot in the Super Eight, as they now have 6 points with one game remaining in Group A. With India’s win, Pakistan’s chances of advancing to the next stage now hinge on the outcome of the United States vs. Ireland game on June 14.

If the USA loses, Pakistan can qualify for the Super Eight by defeating Ireland and accumulating four points. However, if the USA wins, they will advance with 6 points, and Pakistan will be eliminated from the tournament, as they can only reach a maximum of four points.

In Wednesday’s game, Arshdeep Singh’s impressive bowling figures of 4 for 9, the best by an Indian bowler in the T20 World Cup, helped Rohit Sharma’s team restrict the USA to 110 for 8. In response, Suryakumar Yadav’s unbeaten fifty guided India to victory in 18.2 overs.

Yuvraj Singh: Virat Deserves a World Cup Medal; Calls Him the ‘Best Batter of This Generation’

May 9, 2024, 4:49 pm

Former Indian cricket star Yuvraj Singh lauded Virat Kohli as the “best batter of this generation” across all formats and highlighted what sets the 35-year-old apart. Kohli’s career soared to new heights at the ICC Men’s ODI Cricket World Cup 2023, where he set a record for the most runs and topped the run charts. Now, as he prepares for his sixth appearance in the T20 World Cup, Kohli has his sights set on the coveted trophy.

Yuvraj expressed his belief that Kohli deserves a World Cup medal more than anyone else. Having been part of the winning campaign in the 2011 World Cup himself, Yuvraj emphasized that Kohli merits another World Cup triumph. In a conversation with ICC, Yuvraj praised Kohli’s exceptional skills and his hunger for success on the global stage.

Kohli’s remarkable performances in the T20 World Cup, particularly his memorable innings against Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground two years ago, have etched him in cricketing history. His unbeaten 82 off 53 balls during a tense chase of 160 runs showcased his ability to thrive under pressure.

Reflecting on Kohli’s brilliance, Yuvraj highlighted the batsman’s astute understanding of his game and his knack for delivering in crucial situations. Kohli’s stellar form in 2024, evidenced by his leading run tally in the ongoing IPL season, further underscores his importance to the Indian team as they aim for T20 World Cup glory.

Despite the evolution of the T20 format, Kohli has seamlessly adapted, demonstrating his dominance with the bat. Yuvraj attributed Kohli’s success to his meticulous approach to practice, where he simulates match-like conditions and focuses on repetition.

India will kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on June 5, followed by a highly anticipated clash against Pakistan on June 9. As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on Kohli as he strives to add another milestone to his illustrious career.