Cricket

India's all-rounder Hardik Pandya may not be in top form, but his unique skillset and the lack of a suitable replacement make him a likely candidate for the T20 World Cup 2024 squad.Despite his recent struggles, Pandya remains a valuable asset to the team. His ability to bat aggressively, field exceptionally well, and contribute with his medium-pace bowling makes him a versatile player.While Chennai Super Kings' Shivam Dube has impressed with his batting in the IPL, his limited bowling options may hinder his chances of selection. According to reports, the team's reluctance to use Dube as a bowler could work in Pandya's favor.Pandya's batting prowess, with a strike rate of 132, and his fielding skills are expected to outweigh his current form slump. He has also bowled 17 overs in eight games for Mumbai Indians in the IPL, demonstrating his all-round capabilities.However, Pandya's batting has been below par, with only seven sixes in eight games. His free-flowing style has been missing, and his strike rate of 142 is below his usual standards.Despite Pandya's struggles, Dube's emergence as a finisher has made him a strong contender for a spot in the 15-member squad. While Dube may not be a direct replacement for Pandya as an all-rounder, his batting form cannot be ignored.In terms of bowling options, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav are considered certainties for the squad. The remaining spot is likely to be contested between Avesh Khan, Axar Patel, and Ravi Bishnoi.Avesh has improved his death bowling and has eight wickets in eight matches, while Bishnoi has been economical on flat tracks. Axar, with seven wickets in nine games, is also a strong candidate.Ultimately, the selection committee will have to weigh the pros and cons of each player and make a decision based on their current form and the team's needs.

Shivam Dube's transformation in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been remarkable. After struggling in his first three seasons, he has become an indispensable part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since joining the franchise in 2022.Dube's turnaround is largely due to the clear role he has been given by CSK. The team has entrusted him with the responsibility of taking on spinners during the middle overs, a task he has excelled at with his long reach and power.However, teams quickly realized Dube's weakness against fast bowlers and preferred to tie him down with short-pitched deliveries. This posed a challenge for Dube, especially with the introduction of the two-bouncer rule this season.But the Mumbai all-rounder has shown that he is up to the task. In the first eight games of IPL 2023, Dube has amassed 311 runs, including three half-centuries, at a strike rate of 169. Against Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants, he scored 66 runs, with all his boundaries coming off medium-pacers.Dube's improved ability to handle short-pitched deliveries has been praised by CSK batting coach Micheal Hussey. "He has given it back to the bowlers, forcing them to try something new," Hussey said.Dube's heroics last year earned him a recall to the Indian squad after a three-year gap. By addressing his weakness this year, he has strengthened his chances of making the T20 World Cup squad.

With the deadline for announcing India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad approaching on May 1, the BCCI selectors face a daunting task of selecting the best possible team. While some players like Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Virat Kohli are likely to be automatic selections, there are several other contenders vying for the limited spots.One player who has emerged as a strong candidate is Shivam Dube. The left-handed batter has been in exceptional form for Chennai Super Kings in the ongoing IPL 2024. In eight matches, he has amassed 311 runs at a strike rate of 169.95, including three half-centuries.Dube's impressive performances have caught the attention of former India stars Suresh Raina and Mohammad Kaif, who have publicly advocated for his inclusion in the World Cup squad. Raina tweeted, "World Cup loading for Shivam Dube! @imAagarkar bhai select karo please," while Kaif wrote, "Shivam Dube is perfect to bat after the top order and before the big hitters. Should be India's No. 4 or No. 5 at World T20."However, some experts have raised concerns about the impact of the new "Impact Player" rule on the role of all-rounders. Under this rule, teams can substitute a player during the match, which could potentially negate the need for a traditional all-rounder like Dube."I completely agree it's debatable, little concern for sure. But we need to find a way on how to deal with it. In Impact Player rule you will find half all-rounders but not not a complete one," said former India pacer Zaheer Khan.Despite these concerns, Dube remains a strong contender for a place in the Indian team. His ability to bat in the middle order and provide power-hitting options makes him a valuable asset. Additionally, he can also contribute with his medium-pace bowling, although he has not had many opportunities to showcase his skills in this department.As the deadline for squad announcement draws near, the BCCI selectors will have to carefully consider all their options and make tough decisions. Shivam Dube's impressive form and versatility make him a strong candidate for a place in the Indian team, but the selectors will need to weigh his strengths and weaknesses against those of other contenders.

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) stalwart Suresh Raina has made a passionate plea to BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar to include star CSK all-rounder Shivam Dube in the upcoming T20 World Cup squad. Raina's appeal highlights Dube's significant contributions and the value he brings to the team.Dube has consistently showcased his exceptional skills and temperament, making him a formidable force on the field. His ability to excel under pressure, particularly in high-stakes matches, makes him an ideal candidate for the global tournament.In a recent match against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Dube played a blistering knock of 66 runs off just 27 balls, including three fours and seven massive sixes. His explosive batting propelled CSK to a competitive total of 210/4.Dube's impressive performance in the IPL has earned him widespread recognition. He has surpassed the 1000-run mark for CSK, demonstrating his consistency and ability to deliver under pressure.Raina's advocacy for Dube stems from his belief that the all-rounder possesses the necessary skills and experience to succeed on the international stage. Dube's versatility, both as a batsman and a bowler, makes him a valuable asset to any team.With the T20 World Cup approaching, Raina's plea to Agarkar underscores the importance of selecting players who can perform under pressure and contribute to the team's success. Dube's inclusion in the squad would provide India with a dynamic and explosive all-rounder who can make a significant impact on the tournament.

Harsha Bhogle Questions Hardik Pandya's Inclusion in T20 World Cup Squad Amid Fitness ConcernsRenowned cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle has ignited a debate over the inclusion of India all-rounder Hardik Pandya in the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in June. Bhogle's comments stem from Pandya's recent fitness struggles and limited bowling contribution in the ongoing IPL 2024 season.Pandya, who captains the Mumbai Indians in this year's IPL, made a comeback to cricket after a five-month hiatus due to an ankle injury sustained during the ODI World Cup last year. While Pandya initially bowled a few overs in his return matches, his bowling workload has been sporadic, raising doubts over his ability to contribute as an all-rounder.Bhogle pointed out Pandya's waning power-hitting skills and questioned whether he still merits a place in the T20 World Cup squad solely as a batsman if he is unable to bowl consistently. "If Hardik is not bowling, does Hardik make the T20 World Cup squad?" Bhogle questioned, while speaking on Cricbuzz. "Is he among the top six batters in India if he is not bowling? I’m not totally convinced of that because if he is not bowling and he is not finishing as powerfully, he needs to bat up, where all the competition is."Bhogle emphasized the importance of Pandya's all-round abilities in balancing India's playing XI, particularly in the absence of regular bowling options among the top-order batsmen. Pandya's ability to bowl four overs provides a crucial additional bowling option for the team and ensures the presence of at least two all-rounders, with Ravindra Jadeja also in contention.However, with Pandya's fitness and bowling form under scrutiny, his selection for the T20 World Cup could hinge on his ability to regain full fitness and contribute effectively with both bat and ball.

Ravi Bopara, the seasoned English all-rounder, has inked a deal with Northamptonshire, ensuring his participation in the T20 Blast for the 22nd consecutive season. At 39 years of age, Bopara remains an integral figure in the tournament, having played more than 200 matches and featuring in every edition since its inception.Bopara's decision to join Northamptonshire comes after his release by Sussex last summer. He has been in talks with several counties and ultimately chose the Steelbacks for the upcoming season. He has signed a one-year, T20-only contract and will celebrate his 39th birthday just weeks before Northants' Blast campaign begins on May 30.Despite his age, Bopara insists he still feels "like a young man in the game." He had a productive season with Sussex last year, scoring 408 runs with a strike rate of 146.23 and taking eight wickets. However, Sussex missed out on the quarter-finals, and Bopara was not offered a new contract."I'm really happy to have joined Northamptonshire for the T20s this year," Bopara said. "I felt great in the Blast last year and my game is in a really good place at the moment. I'm looking forward to joining the Steelbacks and putting on a show for the fans at Wantage Road."Northamptonshire, who won the Blast in 2013 and 2016, have struggled in recent seasons, reaching the quarter-finals only once in the last seven years. They have made several signings over the winter, including George Bartlett, George Scrimshaw, and Sikandar Raza."We have a really exciting squad: there's a lot of quality in that list and I'm hoping to play a big part in bringing a third Blast trophy to the club," Bopara said. "I'm still learning a great deal about this game at my age. I have a burning desire and hunger to up-skill my game to new heights and I still feel like a young man in the game. There's so much more for me to achieve in the T20 space."Northants' head coach, John Sadler, hailed Bopara's signing as "phenomenal." "He's been an incredible performer across all formats for many years and brings a huge presence on and off the field," Sadler said.

Kenya's veteran allrounder Collins Obuya has bid farewell to cricket after a remarkable 23-year career. The decision came following Kenya's defeat to Uganda in the third-place play-off match at the African Games on Saturday."It's been a big honor playing for Kenya," Obuya said after the match. "I have decided to retire from the game after 23 years."Obuya, a legspinning allrounder, made his mark in international cricket with 104 ODIs for Kenya. He amassed 2044 runs and claimed 35 wickets, making him the third-highest run-scorer for Kenya in the format.In T20Is, Obuya holds the distinction of being Kenya's highest run-scorer with 1794 runs from 76 appearances. His contributions were pivotal in Kenya's historic run to the 2003 World Cup semi-finals.Obuya's career-best bowling performance came against Sri Lanka in the 2003 World Cup, where he took 5 for 24 to help Kenya secure a famous victory. He finished the tournament with 13 wickets at an impressive average of 28.76.In the 2011 World Cup, Obuya showcased his batting prowess with an unbeaten 98 against Australia, earning him the player-of-the-match award.Obuya's leadership qualities were recognized when he was appointed Kenya's captain after the 2011 World Cup. However, he stepped down in 2013 after Kenya failed to qualify for the 2014 T20 World Cup.Obuya's retirement marks the end of an era for Kenyan cricket. His contributions to the sport have been immense, and he will be remembered as one of the country's greatest players.

Riyan Parag, the Rajasthan Royals all-rounder, has silenced his critics with an impressive knock in the opening match of the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Parag, who has often been criticized for failing to capitalize on his opportunities, showcased his talent with a blistering 43 off just 29 deliveries against the Lucknow Super Giants.Parag's innings was a testament to his hard work and dedication in the off-season. He had a stellar run of form in domestic cricket, and he has carried that momentum into the IPL. His knock was characterized by aggressive strokeplay, with three towering sixes and one boundary.Parag's performance earned him widespread praise on social media, with fans and experts alike applauding his efforts. Many hailed it as a sign of his redemption and a potential breakout season for the young all-rounder.The Rajasthan Royals captain, Sanju Samson, had expressed confidence in Parag before the match, stating that he would be their number four batter. Parag justified Samson's faith with his impressive display, providing a much-needed boost to the Royals' batting lineup.The Royals, who won the toss and elected to bat first, posted a competitive total of 180/6. Jos Buttler and Shimron Hetmyer also made significant contributions with scores of 45 and 37, respectively.The Lucknow Super Giants, in reply, fell short of the target, managing only 165/8. Marcus Stoinis top-scored for the Giants with 46, while Quinton de Kock and Nicholas Pooran chipped in with 35 and 32, respectively.The Royals' victory was a perfect start to their IPL campaign, and Parag's knock was a major highlight. The all-rounder has proven that he has the talent and determination to succeed at the highest level, and he will be looking to continue his impressive form throughout the season.

Hardik Pandya, the newly appointed captain of Mumbai Indians (MI), has expressed his profound gratitude for the Indian Premier League (IPL) in shaping his illustrious career. In a heartfelt video shared on social media, Pandya acknowledged the transformative impact the T20 league has had on his journey."In my 10th IPL season, I'm grateful for the journey, the growth, and everything that's come my way," Pandya captioned the post. "And to be back with a team that's always been in my heart."Pandya's journey with MI began in 2015 when he joined the franchise for a modest fee of INR 10 lakh. Since then, he has evolved into one of the world's most formidable all-rounders. His exceptional performances with both bat and ball have earned him a reputation as a match-winner.In the video, Pandya emphasized the pivotal role the IPL has played in his career. "IPL has given me everything," he said. "IPL gave me my identity. Otherwise, I would still be in Baroda where I am but not this Hardik. Some other Hardik would've been there."Pandya's return to MI marks a significant chapter in his career. He replaces Rohit Sharma, the five-time IPL-winning skipper who led the franchise to unprecedented success. Pandya's appointment has been met with both excitement and skepticism, but he is determined to prove his worth as a leader."I'm really excited about this new challenge," Pandya said. "I've always wanted to captain MI, and I'm grateful for the opportunity. I know it's a big responsibility, but I'm ready for it."Pandya's appointment has sparked controversy among fans, with some questioning the decision to remove Sharma from the captaincy. However, Pandya has remained focused on his goal of leading MI to another IPL title."I'm not here to replace Rohit," Pandya said. "I'm here to lead MI in my own way. I have my own style, and I'm confident that I can bring success to this team."As the IPL 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on Pandya and MI. The all-rounder will be eager to prove his mettle as a captain and guide his team to glory.