Cricket

Pakistan's versatile all-rounder Imad Wasim has reversed his retirement from T20I cricket, making himself available for selection ahead of the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup.In a statement on social media, Wasim expressed his delight at declaring his availability for Pakistan in the T20I format leading up to the World Cup. However, he clarified that his availability does not extend beyond the tournament, which begins on June 1.Wasim's return to the international fold comes after a successful 2024 Pakistan Super League (PSL) season, where he played a pivotal role in Islamabad United's title triumph. His impressive performances, including a five-wicket haul in the final, sparked speculation about his potential return to the national team.The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reportedly approached Wasim earlier this week to reconsider his retirement, and the all-rounder agreed without any conditions.Wasim's all-round abilities and his impressive record in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) make him a valuable asset for Pakistan. In the CPL, he has amassed 61 wickets at an average of 18.88 and an economy rate of 6.20.With the majority of the 2024 T20 World Cup scheduled to be played in the West Indies, Wasim's experience in the CPL could prove invaluable for Pakistan.While Wasim is not currently interested in a central contract, his availability until the T20 World Cup represents a mutually beneficial arrangement for all parties involved.Wasim has represented Pakistan in 66 T20Is, scoring 486 runs at a strike rate of 131.70 and claiming 65 wickets with an economy of 6.26. His return to the national team is expected to bolster Pakistan's chances of success in the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Shardul Thakur, the enigmatic all-rounder, has carved a niche for himself in Indian cricket with his unique blend of skills and unwavering determination. Known affectionately as "Lord" or "Beefy," he has earned a reputation as a match-winner and a cult hero.Growing up in a humble background in Palghar, Thakur's journey to the pinnacle of cricket was not without its challenges. Despite his passion for the sport, he initially aspired to become a cricketer like Sachin Tendulkar. However, it was only after being selected for the Ranji Trophy that he realized his true potential.Thakur's rise to prominence was marked by his ability to deliver under pressure. He credits his upbringing and the hardships he faced for instilling in him a resilience that has become his trademark. "I like to excel in tough situations," he says. "That's what brings the best out of me."One of Thakur's most memorable performances came in the 2019 ODI World Cup, where he emerged as India's highest wicket-taker among seamers. Despite his impressive contribution, he faced criticism and was often dropped from the team. However, Thakur remained unfazed, believing that he deserved a fair chance to prove his worth."I understand that competition is always good," he says. "But all I am saying is that you should be fair to everyone. Shouldn't be like one fellow has one bad game and he is dropped, whereas another fellow is persisted with despite having two or five bad games."Thakur's determination and self-belief have paid off. He has become a vital cog in the Chennai Super Kings franchise in the Indian Premier League and has earned a regular spot in the Indian Test team. His ability to swing the ball both ways and his aggressive batting style have made him a formidable all-rounder.Despite his success, Thakur remains grounded and grateful for the opportunities he has been given. He credits his coaches and mentors for shaping his career and helping him overcome challenges. "I have never thought about what I would have been had I not been a cricketer," he says. "I am just fortunate to be able to do what I love."

Ellyse Perry, the Australian all-rounder, has been a beacon of consistency across sports, excelling in both football and cricket. Despite her impressive achievements, Perry remains grounded and focused on the present.After her remarkable performance in the Women's Premier League (WPL), where she claimed 6 for 15 against Mumbai Indians, Perry celebrated modestly with a chocolate brownie and ice cream. However, she emphasized the importance of maintaining perspective and not getting carried away by success."It's easy to get really carried away when things go well," Perry said. "But I feel like a lot of time you don't have that much control over things panning well or not."Perry's reduced bowling workload in recent times has not diminished her preparation. She believes in staying ready for any opportunity to contribute to her team."I have played for a long period of time now, so I have got a bit of a handle on how I need to prepare," Perry explained. "I do that keeping in mind that you are available if the opportunity presents itself to bowl in a game."With the Women's T20 World Cup approaching, Perry's performance in the WPL has raised questions about her potential role in the Australian team. However, she remains focused on her team's success rather than personal accolades."I don't think there is a case for anything," Perry said. "I have played a lot of cricket over a number of years. We have been pretty fortunate in the Australian team that we have a lot of options."Perry credits the positive atmosphere and leadership of Smriti Mandhana for Royal Challengers Bangalore's turnaround in the WPL."There's a really strong sense of calmness and people are enjoying themselves," Perry said. "Smriti has led the group exceptionally well."As RCB prepares for the Eliminator against Mumbai Indians, Perry remains confident in her team's abilities."The team, as a whole, has had more time together," Perry said. "The fact that we can take the field knowing each other and supporting each other has been great."

Star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has expressed his excitement upon rejoining the Mumbai Indians (MI) camp ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Pandya, who captained the Gujarat Titans to victory in their debut season in 2022, has returned to his former franchise as part of a trade deal.In a heartfelt Instagram post, Pandya shared his emotions upon meeting his old MI teammates, including bowling coach Lasith Malinga. He expressed his eagerness to "get down to business" and contribute to the team's success.Pandya's return to MI marks a significant moment for the franchise, as he is set to take over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma in the 2024 season. The all-rounder has a proven track record with MI, having won four IPL titles with the team from 2015 to 2020.During his previous stint with MI, Pandya played 92 matches, scoring 1,476 runs at an average of 27.33 and a strike rate of over 153. He also took 42 wickets, with the best bowling figures of 3/20.Pandya's move to MI has generated a lot of hype, as he is expected to play a key role in the team's resurgence. The 17th season of the IPL will commence on March 22, with MI facing off against the Gujarat Titans in a highly anticipated clash on March 24.

Mumbai's lower-order batters have been instrumental in the team's success this season, despite the top-order's struggles. Tanush Kotian, a 25-year-old all-rounder, has been a key contributor, bailing out the 41-time champions on several occasions.In the semifinals against Tamil Nadu, Kotian's unbeaten 89 rescued Mumbai from a precarious position of 211 for eight. His chanceless knock propelled the team to a comfortable victory.Kotian's performance is a testament to his hard work and dedication. He has set specific targets for himself, aiming to score 500 runs and take 30 wickets this season. With one game remaining, he has already amassed 481 runs and 22 wickets.Kotian credits the team's deep batting order for their success. Even when the top order fails, the lower order has consistently stepped up to contribute valuable runs."We have a deep batting order," Kotian said. "Even when our team was 100 for 5, we reached 400 or 450 because the lower order had made runs. We have the confidence that we can bat session by session and put up as many runs as possible."The presence of Shardul Thakur at number eight further bolsters Mumbai's batting depth. Thakur's experience and ability to score quick runs provide the team with a sense of security.Kotian's contributions have been crucial for Mumbai's success this season. His ability to bat down the order and deliver under pressure has been a major asset for the team. As Mumbai prepares for the final game of the season, Kotian will be looking to continue his impressive form and help the team secure another title.

Hardik Pandya, the dynamic all-rounder, is set to make his much-anticipated return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the upcoming edition. After two successful seasons with Gujarat Titans, Pandya will don the captain's hat for his former franchise, Mumbai Indians, where he began his IPL journey in 2015.During a recent appearance on Star Sports' 'Star Nahi Far' show, Pandya reminisced about his time with MI. When asked about his total number of half-centuries in the tournament, he was surprised to learn that he had scored 10. However, Pandya downplayed the significance of individual statistics, stating that they are merely numbers and that he values team success over personal milestones."I don't like the innings where we lost," Pandya said when asked about his favorite half-century. "Stats are just numbers; it's a waste of time."Pandya's comments sparked a debate on social media, with former India batter Irfan Pathan questioning the BCCI's decision to exclude Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer from the central contract due to their non-participation in domestic cricket. Pathan argued that if players like Pandya are allowed to skip red-ball cricket, then the same rule should apply to all players."If players like Hardik don't want to play red-ball cricket, should he and others like him participate in white-ball domestic cricket when they aren't on national duty?" Pathan wrote on social media. "If this doesn't apply to all, then Indian cricket won't achieve the desired results!"Pandya's return to MI is expected to bolster the team's chances of regaining the IPL title. The all-rounder's all-around abilities, including his explosive batting, accurate bowling, and exceptional fielding, make him a valuable asset to any team.With the IPL set to commence in March, Pandya will be eager to prove his worth and lead Mumbai Indians to glory. His experience, leadership skills, and unwavering determination will be crucial for the team's success in the upcoming season.