Cricket

Afghanistan's historic triumph in the T20 World Cup has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. After securing their first-ever semifinal berth, skipper Rashid Khan expressed immense pride in fulfilling the prophecy of West Indian legend Brian Lara.Lara had boldly predicted Afghanistan's semifinal appearance nearly a month before the tournament, and Khan acknowledged the team's determination to prove him right. "When we met him at a welcome party, I told him we won't let you down," Khan said.The team's confidence soared after their stunning victory over New Zealand in the group stage. "It's a dream for us to be in the semifinals," Khan exclaimed. "The way we started the tournament, the belief came when we beat New Zealand. It's unbelievable."Afghanistan's historic run continued with a memorable victory over Australia, setting the stage for their final Super 8 clash against Bangladesh. Despite a rain-interrupted match, Afghanistan emerged victorious by eight runs, securing their semifinal spot.Khan praised the exceptional performances of pacers Naveen and Fazalhaq Farooqi, who have consistently provided strong starts with the new ball. "In T20s if you get a good start, it helps us in the middle overs," Khan said. "They have given great starts to us in the whole competition."Despite the challenges posed by rain interruptions, Khan emphasized the team's mental fortitude. "Rain is something not in our hands but mentally we knew we have to play 20 overs and take 10 wickets," he said.As Afghanistan prepares for their semifinal clash with South Africa on June 27, Khan anticipates widespread celebrations back home. "It's a big achievement for us as well," he said. "We have done that at U-19 level but at this World Cup, I don't have any words to describe the feeling back home."

Virat Kohli's struggles in the ongoing T20 World Cup have been a major talking point, with the star batter managing just five runs in his first three matches. However, his performance against Afghanistan, where he scored 24 off 24 balls, has given hope that he is finding his form.Kohli, who was the leading run-scorer in the 2022 IPL with 741 runs, has been criticized for his lack of impact in the tournament. His scores in the group stage matches were underwhelming, with knocks of 1, 4, and 0.Despite the criticism, batting legend Brian Lara has come to Kohli's defense. Lara believes that the time Kohli spent at the crease against Afghanistan, despite not scoring big, will serve as a confidence booster for the Indian batsman."24 off 24, you can say that's not great but the most important thing is that he spent some time out there. India has got one step closer to winning this trophy. I believe that Virat Kohli is just gonna go from strength to strength as he comes down to the Caribbean. He's going to Antigua next, you're gonna see him go out there and plough and plough, he's gonna get runs," Lara said on Star Sports.The Indian team management's decision to persist with Kohli as Rohit Sharma's opening partner has backfired badly and drawn significant criticism, with many questioning the wisdom of Kohli's current batting position.However, Lara holds a contrasting viewpoint on the matter. He believes that patience is crucial when dealing with a player of Kohli's caliber, given his reputation as a big match performer."When he gets into full swing, it's a different story. We just have to be very patient with him, we're gonna see a lot of him there's still a lot of games left in this World Cup," he added.Kohli's performance in the remaining matches of the tournament will be crucial for India's chances of winning the T20 World Cup. If he can find his form and start scoring runs, India will be a formidable force.

India's quest for an elusive ICC trophy continues at the upcoming T20 World Cup, with the Rohit Sharma-led team aiming to break a decade-long drought. Since their 2013 Champions Trophy triumph under MS Dhoni, India has failed to lift an ICC title.Rahul Dravid, whose tenure as head coach concludes after the tournament, faces a crucial test in guiding India to glory. Last year's ODI World Cup final defeat to Australia remains a bitter memory for Dravid and his team.Former West Indies captain Brian Lara has offered advice to Dravid, emphasizing the need for a concrete plan to navigate the knockout stages. "India lacks that final plan in terms of how they are going to go about winning this World Cup," Lara said. "It doesn't matter how many superstars you have; it matters how you are going to structure your innings or attack."India will face Bangladesh in a warm-up match on Saturday before their Group A campaign begins. They are grouped alongside Pakistan, Ireland, Canada, and co-hosts USA.India's squad boasts a blend of experience and youth, with Rohit Sharma leading the charge. Hardik Pandya, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, and Rishabh Pant form the core of the batting lineup, while Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav provide spin options. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Siraj, and Arshdeep Singh spearhead the pace attack.India's path to the semifinals is not without challenges. Pakistan, their arch-rivals, pose a formidable threat, while Ireland and Canada have proven to be competitive in recent years. The co-hosts USA will be eager to make an impact on home soil.Dravid and his team will need to find the right balance between aggression and caution, and execute their plans with precision. If they can overcome the mental hurdles that have plagued them in past ICC tournaments, India has the potential to end their trophy drought and cement their status as one of the world's leading cricket nations.

The T20 World Cup marks the triumphant return of cricket to North American soil, carrying with it the hopes of igniting a passion for the sport in the United States. With an estimated 30 million fans in the country, the International Cricket Council (ICC) sees immense potential in the US market.The tournament, a prelude to the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, will feature 16 matches across three locations: New York, Dallas, and Lauderhill. The majority of the 55 scheduled matches, including the knockout rounds, will take place in the Caribbean.Cricket's history in the United States dates back to the mid-1800s, but its popularity waned during the Civil War when baseball emerged as a faster-paced alternative. However, the ICC believes that the T20 format, with its shorter duration and entertainment value, could appeal to American audiences."It's entertainment, and that's what people look for," says legendary West Indian cricketer Brian Lara. "Americans want entertainment."To engage with the American audience, the ICC has enlisted eight-time Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt as the World Cup ambassador and promoted the event at the recent Formula 1 race in Miami.The tournament will also provide a platform for the US team, composed primarily of players with South Asian and Caribbean heritage, to make its World Cup debut. President of USA Cricket, Venu Pisike, believes that the event will raise awareness for the sport and pave the way for its inclusion in the 2028 Olympics."The World Cup is bringing a lot of awareness, and the opportunity for cricket to be in the Olympics will definitely attract the community," said Pisike.However, for cricket to gain a foothold in the US, it must overcome challenges such as its perceived complexity and the lack of professional opportunities for American players. The Major League Cricket, launched last year, is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to create a sustainable future for the sport in the country.

Brian Lara, the legendary West Indian cricketer, has expressed his deep affection for India, citing the warmth and adulation he receives in the country. Despite not being a Bollywood enthusiast, Lara finds solace in the unconditional love and positive energy he experiences in India.Lara's love for India stems from the welcoming nature of its people. He believes that the smiles and affection he encounters at every turn create a refreshing and positive atmosphere. This is in stark contrast to his experiences in other countries, where he often feels pushed aside.Lara's fondness for India extends beyond the cricket field. He has a particular affinity for the popular street food dish, chhole bhature, which he finds similar to a dish he enjoys in his home country of Trinidad.While Lara is currently enjoying his commentary stint for Star Sports in the ongoing IPL, he admits that it comes with its challenges. He finds it difficult to generate excitement for average plays, but he cherishes the moments when he can witness and call exceptional performances.Despite his success as a commentator, Lara's true passion lies in coaching young players. He believes that working with young talent and witnessing their growth is an incredibly rewarding experience.Lara's coaching experience includes a stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad, which ended on a sour note. However, he still holds the team in high regard and hopes to see them succeed in this year's IPL. His other picks for the playoffs include Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Chennai Super Kings.

The proliferation of T20 leagues has raised concerns about the future of Test cricket, prompting West Indian legend Brian Lara to urge the ICC to intervene and establish a structured framework for franchise-based tournaments.Lara believes that the ICC should take a proactive role in regulating the relentless expansion of T20 leagues, which have encroached upon the traditional space occupied by Test cricket. He emphasized the need for a more organized approach to ensure that Test cricket remains relevant and viable.Lara acknowledged that T20 leagues have become increasingly popular due to their entertainment value and shorter format, which caters to the demands of modern-day spectators. However, he stressed that Test cricket offers a unique experience that should not be overlooked."I like the Test Championship and I think it is important to make sure that the game remains relevant," Lara said. "We haven't educated the present-day public about the importance of batting a session and not losing a wicket."Lara also highlighted the financial challenges faced by smaller cricket nations, which rely heavily on gate receipts and TV rights revenue. He expressed concern that the wealth accumulated by the "big three" nations – India, Australia, and England – could further exacerbate the financial disparities within the sport."It's hard to see outside of the big three – Australia, England, and India – how countries are going to survive when economically it's tough for them," Lara said.To address these concerns, Lara suggested that the ICC consider incentivizing Test cricket and exploring ways to attract spectators back to the grounds. He emphasized the importance of creating a compelling experience for fans, both on and off the field."Try to get them (crowd) back into the ground," Lara said. "I'm almost sure you've experienced it in India, where a sponsor preferred to spend his money on three hours of cricket instead of five days of cricket."Lara's appeal to the ICC underscores the growing need for a balanced approach to cricket, one that recognizes the popularity of T20 leagues while preserving the legacy and significance of Test cricket.

Yashasvi Jaiswal, the 22-year-old Indian left-hander, has caught the attention of legendary batsman Brian Lara, who believes Jaiswal has the potential to achieve remarkable feats, including challenging Lara's own record-breaking 400 not out.Lara's admiration for Jaiswal stems from their close relationship, which developed during their interactions over the past year. Their bond strengthened during the IPL, where Lara coached the Sunrisers Hyderabad while Jaiswal played for the Rajasthan Royals. They engaged in "4 am conversations," fostering a strong connection between the two left-handers.Since IPL 2023, Jaiswal has become a key player in India's Test and T20 teams. His exceptional performances in Test cricket are particularly noteworthy, with an impressive average of nearly 70 and three centuries to his name, including two double centuries in the recent home series against England.What has truly impressed Lara is Jaiswal's remarkable skill in adapting to the demands of the game. He has shown a unique ability to shift gears according to the game's situation, a quality that Lara finds highly impressive."If I feel my records are threatened, Jaiswal has got a very good chance to do so. He has got capabilities, couple of double hundreds already. He is that good," Lara told PTI editors.Lara, who celebrated his 55th birthday recently, is widely regarded as one of the game's all-time greats, having scored nearly 12,000 runs in Tests and over 10,000 runs in ODIs. His monumental record of the highest individual score, 400 not out against England in 2004, remains a remarkable achievement.Reflecting on his initial encounter with Jaiswal, Lara fondly recalled a light-hearted moment they shared while on the sidelines during the clash between Rajasthan Royals and SRH in the current season."The only thing I can reveal about that (conversation) is I think he is an outstanding young cricketer. What I like about him is that he is very humble and willing to work. The first time I met him (last year), I immediately found myself attached to him.""After the game (SRH vs Royals), I went to the hotel with a friend of mine from the Caribbean who knew Jos Buttler. It was midnight and Jaiswal found me. I promise you I left the hotel at 4 in the morning.""He just wanted to hear more and more and more. That is one of his amazing traits. His ability to want to learn as much as possible. Our conversations are about trying to make him a better cricketer. I am available for anyone that has my number. I am happy to talk cricket."Lara also expressed admiration for another left-hander, Abhishek Sharma, with whom he spent time at SRH."Again he is someone who I met while I was batting coach of SRH. I spent two years there. I am allowed to a bit biased when I see a left-hander, I just love a left-hander. Myself and Abhishek have developed a very good relationship, these youngsters are very humble. They want to learn.""What I like about these two, they want to get to great heights. I have great admiration for both."Lara believes that Jaiswal's ability to score quickly and his hunger to bat long make him a potential threat to his record."I think now, the pace that these guys are batting at. And you look at the guys over the years who have challenged that 300-mark and plus. It's Chris Gayle. It's Virender Sehwag. It's Sanath Jayasuriya, It's Inzamam-ul-Haq. It's Matthew Hayden. These are guys who destroy bowling attacks.""So I believe yes, I think it will be broken at some point in time. I think it has to be that person's destiny. Everything has to fall into place. And... I look forward to that time. I hope it happens, while I'm still around," he said.

Legendary West Indian batsman Brian Lara has urged India to promote Suryakumar Yadav to the crucial number three position in their batting lineup for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Lara believes that Suryakumar's exceptional skills and abilities make him the ideal candidate to occupy this pivotal spot in the team's batting order.Lara, who is currently providing commentary for the Indian Premier League (IPL), emphasized the importance of getting Suryakumar to the crease as early as possible. He believes that the swashbuckling batsman can put India in an unassailable position if he bats first or win the game if he bats second."My one advice, and I don't know if you're going to like it or not, but Sky has to bat at three. He just has to bat at three. He is one of the greatest T20 players in the game," Lara said. "And you speak to players like Sir Viv, and he will tell you he used to want to get out there in the middle."Lara's suggestion would require a reshuffling of India's top order, with Suryakumar moving up to number three and Virat Kohli potentially opening the innings alongside Rohit Sharma. This would leave Yashasvi Jaiswal on the bench.Lara also expressed his hope for an India-West Indies final at the T20 World Cup, which would make up for the disappointment of India's early exit from the 2007 ODI World Cup in the Caribbean."India and West Indies final is going to make up for so much wrong that has happened in the past. India missing out in 2007 in the second round, that killed us in the Caribbean. We don't want that to happen again," Lara said.Regarding India's spin bowling options, Lara believes that only a couple of the four spinners selected in the squad, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, are likely to play in the starting eleven. He praised Chahal's intelligence and ability to out-think batters, as well as Kuldeep's wicket-taking prowess.Despite the ongoing debate surrounding Kohli's strike rate, Lara believes that players like him are essential to the team's success. "You have to have a player like Virat in the playing eleven," Lara added.

Brian Lara Unveils Dream India Squad for T20 World Cup 2024Ahead of the highly anticipated T20 World Cup 2024, legendary West Indian cricketer Brian Lara has shared his preferred 15-member squad for Team India. Lara's proposed roster, unveiled on Star Sports' social media platform, features a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talents.Leading the charge is skipper Rohit Sharma, who has been instrumental in India's recent success in the shortest format. The batting lineup boasts the likes of Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, all of whom have proven their mettle on the international stage.Behind the stumps, Lara has opted for the dynamic duo of Sanju Samson and Rishabh Pant, providing depth and flexibility to the batting order. The all-round abilities of Shivam Dube add another dimension to the team, while the spin trio of Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Yuzvendra Chahal offers a formidable bowling attack.Pacers Arshdeep Singh, Sandeep Sharma, and Mayank Yadav complete the lineup, ensuring a potent mix of batting, bowling, and fielding expertise.Lara's squad selection has sparked discussions among cricket enthusiasts, with many agreeing with his choices while others expressing their own preferences. The inclusion of young players like Jaiswal and Mayank Yadav is seen as a positive step towards building a strong future for Indian cricket.With the T20 World Cup fast approaching, fans are eagerly anticipating the high-voltage clash between India and Pakistan, scheduled for June 9 in Long Island. India's group stage campaign also includes matches against Ireland, USA, and Canada, setting the stage for an exciting journey in pursuit of T20 World Cup glory.