Cricket

Tilak Varma, a rising star in Indian cricket, has made a resounding statement with a magnificent century in the ongoing Duleep Trophy match between India A and India D. His unbeaten 111 off 193 balls has not only strengthened his case for a place in the Indian team but has also sparked a viral celebration from his teammate, Avesh Khan.Varma's innings was a testament to his composure and skill. He paced his innings perfectly, reaching his hundred with a calm and collected late cut to the third man region. His knock was laced with nine boundaries, showcasing his ability to find the gaps and rotate the strike.The celebration of his century was equally memorable. As Varma acknowledged the cheers from the crowd, Khan, who was watching from the stands, erupted in a series of hilarious dance moves. The moment was captured on camera and has since gone viral on social media.Varma's century was part of a dominant performance by India A. Pratham Singh also scored an impressive 122, helping India A declare their second innings at 380 for three. This gave them an overall lead of 487, putting India D in a precarious position.India D's chase got off to a shaky start as they lost Atharva Taide early on. However, Ricky Bhui and Yash Dubey steadied the ship, ensuring that their side would enter the final day without further damage.Varma's performance has reignited hopes that he can become India's next all-format player. His ability to score runs consistently and his calm demeanor under pressure make him a valuable asset to any team.As the Duleep Trophy enters its final stages, all eyes will be on Varma and India A as they look to secure victory and cement their place as one of the top teams in the competition.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans have not forgotten Avesh Khan's helmet-throwing celebration during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 clash between RCB and Lucknow Super Giants. Avesh's celebration, which involved smashing his helmet on the ground, became a viral sensation on social media.As Avesh took to the field in the ongoing Duleep Trophy match between India A and India B in Bengaluru, RCB fans greeted him with chants of "RCB-RCB." However, instead of being offended, Avesh took the chants in good humor and interacted with the fans, even encouraging them to be louder.Avesh's reaction was met with praise on social media, with fans appreciating his sportsmanship. The incident highlights the passion and camaraderie that exists within the cricket community, even among rival teams.Beyond the banter, Avesh is also looking to earn his place back in the Indian Test team. He has not been a regular in red-ball cricket but has often been in the scheme of things. With Jasprit Bumrah expected to be rested from the Bangladesh Test series, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to pick a few fresh faces in the squad.Avesh is likely to be in consideration, especially with the lack of clarity on Mohammed Shami's return. However, the first round matches of the Duleep Trophy have also given the selectors a few other pacers to contemplate on. Akash Deep and Khaleel Ahmed have also performed well and could fancy their chances for the Bangladesh assignment.

Avesh Khan, the promising Indian pacer, has lauded the coaching style of Gautam Gambhir, who is set to take over as Team India's head coach. Khan, who has worked under Gambhir's guidance at Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, shared his insights into Gambhir's approach, emphasizing his focus on winning and extracting the best from his players."Whatever I have learned from him is about the mindset that you should always look to get the better of your opponent and give your 100 per cent," Khan said in a press conference ahead of India's fourth T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare.Gambhir's coaching style is characterized by clear communication and a strong emphasis on teamwork. "In team meetings, as well as one-on-ones, he would speak less but would convey his point as to what is to be done," Khan explained. "He would assign tasks and roles to players and he has always been a 'team coach', he always wants to win and everyone to give their 100 per cent."Khan has been impressed with Gambhir's ability to motivate and inspire his players. "He has a way of making you believe in yourself and your abilities," Khan said. "He always pushes you to go the extra mile and never gives up on you."Khan's performance in the ongoing T20I series against Zimbabwe has been commendable, with the pacer taking six wickets in three matches. He attributed his success to the varying conditions at the Harare Sports Club, which have allowed him to showcase his versatility."We have played on different wickets here," Khan said. "We played the first two matches on the same deck, there was good bounce in the first match but in the second it had flattened out. The conditions are good, since it is an open ground the ball also swings a bit."Khan also highlighted the importance of adaptability as a bowler. "As a bowler, I always think of providing that as an option, bring in new elements such as developing a slow bouncer or a leg-cutter from outside off-stump or near the wide line," he said.Khan expressed his admiration for Jasprit Bumrah's clarity of thought and execution as a bowler. "Like Virat bhai said, he is once in a generation bowler, it is true and we all believe so," Khan said. "His style of bowling and his mindset are different, but main (thing) is his execution, for which we all practice."Khan is eager to emulate Bumrah's approach and believes that Gambhir's guidance will help him achieve his goals. "Whenever I speak with him, he tells me to focus on the execution," Khan said. "If you are thinking of sending down a yorker, then it has to be a yorker; it cannot be a full toss or a half volley, a bouncer has to be on the shoulders; a length ball has to be (aimed at) the top of off (stump)."

Avesh Khan Lauds Shubman Gill's Leadership as "Bowler's Captain"India's fast bowler Avesh Khan has heaped praise on captain Shubman Gill, describing him as a "bowler's captain" who provides immense support and freedom to his bowlers. Khan's comments come after India's 23-run victory over Zimbabwe in the third T20I match in Harare, where he played a crucial role with figures of 2 for 39.Gill's leadership style has been instrumental in Khan's success in the series, with the captain granting him the autonomy to set his own fields and execute his plans. "Shubman Gill is a bowler's captain. He gives a lot of freedom to the bowlers. He gives them a chance to set their own fields. He always backs you if you are executing your plans," Khan said in a post-match interview with Sony Sports.Khan also highlighted Gill's ability to intervene with his own plans when necessary, providing valuable guidance and support. "If things go slightly awry and you get hit, he brings his own plan and tells you what needs to be done. That always helps a lot. He has contributed to me getting one or two wickets," Khan added.Khan's praise for Gill's leadership is a testament to the positive and supportive environment he has created within the team. This has allowed Khan to thrive and showcase his skills, contributing significantly to India's success in the series.In addition to his leadership qualities, Gill has also impressed with his batting performances. In the third T20I, he top-scored with a 49-ball 66, setting a challenging target of 183 for Zimbabwe. His innings laid the foundation for India's victory and helped them take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.Khan's own performances have been equally impressive, with the fast bowler securing six wickets at an economy rate of 7.54 in the first three games. His best performance came in the second game, where he achieved figures of 3/15, contributing significantly to India's 100-run victory.With two more matches remaining in the series, India will be looking to maintain their momentum and secure a series victory. Khan's bowling and Gill's leadership will be crucial to their success, as they aim to continue their dominance over Zimbabwe.

The Indian cricket team has made an impressive start to the T20 World Cup 2024, winning all three of their matches in the USA leg. However, two members of the traveling reserves, Shubman Gill and Avesh Khan, are set to return home after the USA leg ends on June 15.Gill and Khan were part of the traveling reserves in the side, which are sent for big events as it is not possible for the boards to send in reinforcements in case of injury. The other two traveling reserves, Rinku Singh and Khaleel Ahmed, will continue to stay with the Indian cricket team.Meanwhile, former India pacer Sreesanth expects to see a shift in the composition of the Indian bowling attack with the change of location. He believes that star spinner Yuzvendra Chahal should come into India's playing eleven once the 'Super 8s' stage of the ICC T20 World Cup begins in the Caribbean islands.India selected four spinners for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024, but pace has been the major component of their assault in the first three games of the tournament. India captain Rohit Sharma used only three overs of spin against the United States on Wednesday in the Group A match at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, as pace bowling proved most effective on the low-scoring New York pitch."Chahal could come in. Rahul [Rahul Dravid] Bhai knows what changes should be made in the West Indies that is why we have gone with four spinners. Even in the press conference, Rohit said that he doesn't want to reveal why they are taking four spinners. But there will be changes, especially in the spinning department. The way Axar is batting and bowling it wil be a big call for the team whom should they drop out. It will be a really difficult call," Sreesanth said.

Avesh Khan's mantra of "eat, sleep, bowl, and repeat" has propelled him to success in this year's IPL. With 16 wickets in 15 matches, an economy rate of 9.81, and exceptional control at the death, Khan has emerged as a formidable bowler.Khan attributes his success to simplifying his approach to cricket. "I have to sleep well, eat well, and bowl well. There's nothing else to it," he said. By focusing on the basics and minimizing distractions, Khan has found a winning formula.After a demanding domestic season and IPL last year, Khan realized the importance of analyzing his strengths and weaknesses. He worked with his coach, Anand Rajan, to refine his bowling action and establish effective training and recovery routines.Khan's move from Lucknow Super Giants to Rajasthan Royals has also benefited him. The larger ground and supportive team environment have provided him with the margins he needs as a bowler.While acknowledging the value of mental toughness, Khan believes that nothing beats the experience of facing challenges repeatedly. "You can do whatever you can to build mental toughness, but until you're in a position to have faced the challenges repeatedly, you cannot overcome them," he said.In the Eliminator against Royal Challengers Bangalore, Khan witnessed the tense atmosphere in the Rajasthan Royals dugout. However, he recalled head coach Kumar Sangakkara's message before the game: "Either we win or go back home. We had to give it our all."Khan's performance in key games for Rajasthan Royals has earned him a spot among India's reserve players for the upcoming T20 World Cup. His simplified approach, technical improvements, and unwavering determination have made him a valuable asset to both his team and the national squad.

As the T20I World Cup 2024 approaches, India's pace bowling contingent faces intense competition for spots in the squad. With Mohammed Shami sidelined due to injury, Jasprit Bumrah remains a certainty, leaving several contenders vying for the remaining positions.Arshdeep Singh:Arshdeep Singh has emerged as a star in IPL 2024, showcasing his ability to swing the ball and maintain impeccable lines and length. With 9 wickets in the tournament, he has proven his wicket-taking prowess. However, his tendency to concede runs in the death overs remains a concern.Mohammed Siraj:Mohammed Siraj's poor form for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2024 has diminished his chances of making the T20 World Cup squad. His 4 wickets and high economy rate of 10.41 are not encouraging signs. Despite his decent T20I record, his current form and propensity to leak runs at the death hinder his selection prospects.Avesh Khan:Avesh Khan has impressed for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2024, demonstrating his pace and ability to generate steep bounce. His aggressive bowling style and early wicket-taking prowess make him a formidable force in the powerplay overs. With 7 wickets in 7 matches, he has a strong T20I record and could earn a spot in the squad if he continues to perform well.Mukesh Kumar:Mukesh Kumar has emerged as an outside contender for the T20 World Cup squad. His 8 wickets in 4 IPL matches this season have put him on the radar. The right-arm medium pacer has also taken 12 wickets in 14 T20I appearances for India. If he continues to perform strongly for Delhi Capitals, he could force his way into the squad.Deepak Chahar:Deepak Chahar is another pace option for India. With 31 T20I wickets at an average of 24.09 and an economy of 8.30, he has a proven track record. However, his inconsistency and the presence of Arshdeep, a more experienced death-over specialist, make his selection unlikely.Conclusion:India's pace bowling contingent for the T20I World Cup 2024 is still in flux. Arshdeep Singh remains a strong contender, while Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar have emerged as potential options. Mohammed Siraj's poor form and Deepak Chahar's inconsistency make their selection less likely. As the IPL 2024 season progresses, the competition for spots in the squad will intensify, with the best performers earning their place in the Indian team.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) engaged in a playful banter on social media, poking fun at pacer Avesh Khan for his batting performance in the IPL 2024 match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).Avesh, who is known for his bowling prowess, remained unbeaten on zero as Jos Buttler single-handedly guided RR to a thrilling victory. Chasing 224 for victory, RR found themselves in a precarious position at 121-6 in the 13th over. However, Buttler's unbeaten 107 off just 60 balls propelled RR to achieve the target on the final ball.While the cricket fraternity lauded Buttler for his match-winning knock, RR took the opportunity to have some fun with Avesh, labeling him a "finisher.""Finisher saahab," RR tweeted, along with a picture of Avesh.LSG, Avesh's former franchise, joined in the banter, reminding fans about his scoreless cameo for them during an IPL 2024 game against RCB last year."2023: 0*(1)\n2024: 0*(0)\nAvesh the Finisher," LSG tweeted.Meanwhile, RR's victory over KKR marked the joint-biggest successful chase in IPL history. The Sanju Samson-led side emulated their own record from IPL 2020 when they chased down 224 against Punjab Kings (then Kings XI Punjab) in Sharjah.Buttler, who missed the last game due to injury, made a remarkable return, scoring his second century of the season in 55 balls."Keep believing, that was the real key today. I was struggling a bit for rhythm. At times you feel frustrated or you are questioning yourself. I tell myself 'It's okay, keep going, you'll get your rhythm back and try to stay calm'. There's been plenty of times throughout the IPL, you've seen crazy things happen. Guys like (M.S.) Dhoni and (Virat) Kohli, the way they stay till the end and keep believing and I tried to do the same," Buttler said after the match.Buttler now sits second in the all-time list of centurions in IPL, with RCB icon Virat Kohli (8) only one ton ahead of him.

Rajasthan Royals' Fielding Follies Continue in IPL 2024Rajasthan Royals' fielding woes resurfaced in their Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Punjab Kings, with a comical collision between captain Sanju Samson and fast bowler Avesh Khan reminiscent of a similar incident in IPL 2023.During the penultimate over of Punjab Kings' first innings, Ashutosh Sharma's miscued shot off Khan's delivery led to a chaotic scramble for the catch. Samson and Khan collided in their pursuit, allowing Sharma to escape and score valuable runs.Samson acknowledged the amusing nature of the recurring mishaps but stressed the importance of fielding. "We had a few funny instances from last year and this year. But I am really happy that everyone is eager to go and catch it," he said.However, Samson also highlighted the challenges of communication and noise in such situations. "It gets a bit tough actually - the stadium is full of noise and when people call, we are looking at the ball, we can't see who is coming," he explained.Samson emphasized the importance of fielders maintaining focus and directed a message to his fast bowlers, suggesting that wicketkeepers like himself have an easier time catching such balls. "It's a bit easier to catch with the gloves instead of hands," he said.Despite the occasional mishaps, Samson's light-hearted yet firm approach underscores the Royals' commitment to improving their fielding standards. The team's positive spirit remains intact, even amidst the occasional on-field blunders.