Cricket

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced significant changes to the domestic cricket calendar for the 2024-25 season, including the splitting of the Ranji Trophy into two phases. The decision was made after consultations with a working group and senior players and coaches, who expressed concerns about the lack of game time due to weather disruptions in northern India during winters.The Ranji Trophy will now begin in October, with each team playing five league games during a five-week window before the white-ball competitions commence. The last two group-stage fixtures will be held after the completion of the Vijay Hazare Trophy on January 18, followed by the knockout phase of the competition from February 8. The Ranji final is set to be held from February 26 to March 2.The BCCI has also introduced an extra day's gap between matches, making it a total of four days as against three, to prioritize player well-being and facilitate better recovery and preparation.In another significant move, the Duleep Trophy will not be played between zonal teams. Instead, the tournament has been whittled down to a four-team event with squads picked by the national selectors. This change aims to provide a wider pool of players, including those in the targeted group, with opportunities ahead of India's Test season.The CK Nayudu Trophy, an Under-23 tournament, will no longer feature tosses. The visiting team will instead be allowed to choose whether to bat or bowl first. The BCCI has also introduced a "revamped points system" to foster balanced performances, including points for batting and bowling prowess in the first innings, as well as for securing the first innings lead or achieving an outright victory.These changes are part of the BCCI's efforts to strengthen the core of domestic cricket and address concerns raised by players and coaches. The new schedule aims to provide more game time, reduce player fatigue, and enhance the competitiveness of domestic tournaments.

The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) is embarking on an ambitious infrastructure project to construct a state-of-the-art cricket complex that will house four grounds. Currently, the TNCA does not own any major cricketing facilities in the state, including the iconic M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, which is leased from the government.The proposed complex will be similar to those built by other state cricket associations, such as the KSCA's Alur grounds near Bengaluru. It will feature one ground with floodlights, enabling it to host BCCI tournaments and live broadcasts. The venue will also boast modern amenities such as a gym, swimming pool, cafeteria, and a dormitory with 24 to 36 rooms."With the increasing number of matches across age categories for both men and women, we felt the need for a dedicated facility with the latest amenities to support our players," said TNCA secretary R.I. Palani.The TNCA is also upgrading existing venues in Salem, Coimbatore, and Natham with 24-bedroom dormitories and gyms. This will allow players to stay at the venue during matches.Meanwhile, Madurai is set to join the TNPL map with the construction of a new stadium by the Velammal group. The venue will have a capacity of 8,000 spectators, with the potential to expand to 14,000. Apart from TNPL matches, it could also host women's internationals.The TNCA has also signed a lease agreement with Gojan College for four grounds, two turf pitches, and two matting pitches. These facilities will be used for lower division league matches and selection trials.

Gautam Gambhir, the former Indian cricketer and current Member of Parliament, has emerged as a potential candidate for the coveted role of head coach of the Indian cricket team. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly shortlisted Gambhir as a top contender, sparking a flurry of speculation and debate.Gambhir's credentials as a player are impeccable. He averaged nearly 50 in his first-class career, scored over 4000 Test runs, and played key roles in two World Cup triumphs. As an opening batter, he formed one of the world's best partnerships with Virender Sehwag.Beyond his playing career, Gambhir has also gained experience as a coach. He led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to the Indian Premier League (IPL) title in 2021. His tactical acumen and ability to motivate players have been widely praised.However, the Indian coaching job is notoriously demanding. Great players like Greg Chappell and Anil Kumble have struggled to navigate the internal politics and high expectations of the team. Maintaining a balance between cricket and the egos of the players requires both a firm hand and a velvet glove.Gambhir's appointment would also be seen as a political move, given his affiliation with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Some critics have questioned whether he has the necessary qualifications and experience to lead the national team.Despite these concerns, Gambhir's supporters argue that his passion for cricket, his understanding of the game, and his ability to connect with players make him an ideal candidate. They point to his success with KKR as evidence of his coaching abilities.The BCCI has remained tight-lipped about the selection process, leading to speculation that the decision may be influenced by political considerations. However, the board has stated that the coach will handle all three formats of the game, raising questions about whether the job should be split into separate roles for Test, ODI, and T20 cricket.Ultimately, the decision of whether to appoint Gambhir as head coach will rest with the BCCI. If he is selected, he will face a daunting task in leading a team that is under immense pressure to perform. However, his experience, passion, and political connections could prove to be valuable assets in navigating the challenges of the role.

Rahul Dravid, the esteemed coach of the Indian cricket team, has officially announced that the 2024 T20 World Cup will mark his final assignment with the national side. The former Indian captain, who has helmed the team since 2021, has decided not to re-apply for the post.Dravid's decision comes as the BCCI has already advertised for the top coaching position, with the new coach set to take over from July 1. The 2024 T20 World Cup concludes on June 29, aligning with Dravid's departure.Speaking ahead of India's opening match against Ireland at the T20 World Cup 2024, Dravid expressed his gratitude for his time as coach. "Every tournament is important. Every game that I've coached for India has been very important for me. So for me this is no different just because it is going to be the last one that I'm in charge of," he said.Dravid also addressed India's opening combination, stating that Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal were the current choices, with Virat Kohli also a potential option.Reflecting on his coaching tenure, Dravid expressed his enjoyment and fulfillment. "I love doing the job. I've really enjoyed coaching India and I think it's a truly special job to do. I enjoyed working with this team and it's a great bunch of boys to work with," he said.However, Dravid acknowledged the demanding schedule and his personal circumstances as factors in his decision not to re-apply. "I don't think I'll be able to reapply," he said.Despite his departure, Dravid emphasized that his commitment to the team remains unwavering. "From the first day I took the job, I always felt that every game was important and every game mattered and that will not change," he asserted.India will be aiming to secure an elusive ICC trophy at the 2024 T20 World Cup, providing a fitting farewell for their departing coach.

India's esteemed head coach, Rahul Dravid, has announced his departure from the role after the upcoming T20 World Cup in the US and West Indies. This decision marks the end of Dravid's tenure, which began in November 2021.The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has initiated the search for Dravid's successor, with former India teammate Gautam Gambhir emerging as the frontrunner. Gambhir's credentials include his successful stint as captain of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), leading the franchise to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014.Gambhir's interest in the coaching role is evident, as he has expressed his desire to guide the Indian team. "I would love to coach the Indian team. There is no bigger honour than coaching your national team," Gambhir stated.The BCCI's decision to consider Gambhir is based on his impressive record as a player and his understanding of the game. As a member of India's T20 World Cup and ODI World Cup-winning teams, Gambhir brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table.While Dravid's departure will leave a void in the Indian coaching setup, the BCCI is confident that Gambhir possesses the necessary qualities to lead the team to future success. His appointment would mark a new chapter in Indian cricket, with the former opener tasked with continuing the team's dominance on the international stage.

Gautam Gambhir, the former Indian opening batsman, has emerged as the frontrunner to succeed Rahul Dravid as the head coach of the Indian cricket team. Dravid's tenure is set to expire after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup in Australia later this year, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is actively seeking a suitable replacement.Gambhir has expressed his desire to take on the coaching role, stating that it would be an honor to guide the national team. He believes that the support of the entire nation can help India win the World Cup."I would love to coach the Indian team. There is no bigger honour than coaching your national team. You are representing 140 crore Indians and more across the globe as well and when you represent India, how can it get bigger than that? It is not me that will help India win the World Cup, it is 140 crore Indians who will help India win the World Cup. If everyone starts praying for us and we start playing and representing them, India will win the World Cup. The most important thing is to be fearless," Gambhir said during an interaction with young sports enthusiasts in Abu Dhabi.Gambhir's credentials as a coach are impressive. He has led the Kolkata Knight Riders to two Indian Premier League (IPL) titles and has also been successful with the Delhi Capitals. He is known for his aggressive and fearless approach to the game, which could be a valuable asset to the Indian team.However, Gambhir's appointment is not without its challenges. He has been criticized for his outspoken nature and his lack of experience at the international level. Additionally, the BCCI may prefer a more experienced coach with a proven track record at the highest level.Despite these challenges, Gambhir remains a strong candidate for the coaching role. His passion for the game, his leadership skills, and his desire to succeed could make him the ideal person to lead India to future glory.

The search for India's next men's cricket head coach is underway, but one prominent name, MS Dhoni, is ineligible for the role. The BCCI requires applicants to be retired from all forms of cricket, and Dhoni continues to play in the IPL for the Chennai Super Kings.Despite his retirement from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni's popularity and experience have made him a popular choice among fans. However, his IPL involvement disqualifies him from the head coach position.Dhoni's potential involvement with the team remains open. He previously mentored India during the 2021 T20 World Cup, and there are no indications that he will retire after the 2024 IPL season.The BCCI received over 3,000 applications for the head coach position, including some hoax applications. The final list of candidates has not been disclosed.Among the potential candidates mentioned in the media are Gautam Gambhir, Stephen Fleming, and Ricky Ponting. However, the BCCI has not confirmed any names.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expressed its gratitude to the ground staff for their tireless efforts in providing exceptional pitches throughout the 17th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). In recognition of their dedication, the groundsmen and curators at the 10 regular IPL venues will receive INR 25 lakhs each, while those at the 3 additional venues will get INR 10 lakhs each.BCCI secretary Jay Shah took to social media to convey his appreciation, stating, "The unsung heroes of our successful T20 season are the incredible ground staff who worked tirelessly to provide brilliant pitches, even in difficult weather conditions."The ground staff's efforts were particularly crucial in the recently concluded final between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Chennai's Chepauk Stadium. Despite challenging weather conditions, the pitch remained in excellent condition, allowing for an exciting and competitive match.KKR emerged victorious in the final, securing their third IPL title and their first in 10 years. Mitchell Starc and Andre Russell played pivotal roles with their fiery spells, while Venkatesh Iyer's half-century helped KKR chase down the target of 114 runs in just 10.3 overs.The BCCI's gesture of appreciation highlights the importance of the ground staff in ensuring the success of cricket matches. Their hard work and dedication create a safe and conducive environment for players to perform at their best.

The Indian cricket team's coaching position has attracted significant attention, with the application deadline recently passing. Several prominent names, including Gautam Gambhir, Stephen Fleming, Ricky Ponting, and Justin Langer, were initially linked to the role. However, most foreign candidates have publicly declined to apply.BCCI secretary Jay Shah has emphasized the importance of appointing a coach familiar with the domestic structure. This has led to speculation that an Indian coach will be selected. VVS Laxman and Gautam Gambhir have emerged as the frontrunners.According to Cricbuzz, Jay Shah and Gautam Gambhir have had discussions centered around the idea of "doing it for the country." Gambhir is known for his patriotic sentiments and is reportedly considering the BCCI's approach.KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan is aware of the development. Earlier, it was reported that Khan desired Gambhir's long-term association with the IPL franchise. According to Dainik Jagran, Khan offered Gambhir a blank cheque last year to remain with KKR for 10 years.While there is no official confirmation of Gambhir's application, the buzz within the coach selection circle suggests that he is a strong candidate. The BCCI is expected to make an announcement soon.