Cricket

Markhors continued their dominant run in the ongoing tournament, securing their third consecutive victory with a resounding 92-run triumph over Dolphins in Faisalabad. The victory solidified their position at the summit of the points table.Kamran Ghulam, the Markhors' talismanic batsman, once again proved his mettle with a scintillating century. His 113-run knock off just 110 deliveries, including a 122-run partnership with Mohammad Rizwan, laid the foundation for Markhors' imposing total of 284 for 9 in their allotted 50 overs.Dolphins' bowlers struggled to contain Ghulam's onslaught, with Faheem Ashraf emerging as the pick of the bowlers with four wickets. However, Markhors' batting depth proved too much for Dolphins, as they managed to post a formidable score.In response, Dolphins' chase faltered from the outset. Opener Mohammad Hurraira departed for a golden duck, while Muhammad Akhlaq fell cheaply to Naseem Shah. Captain Saud Shakeel attempted to anchor the innings with a gritty 41, but lacked support from his teammates.Asif Ali provided a brief glimmer of hope with a quickfire 43-ball 50, but Dolphins' batters failed to forge any substantial partnerships. Markhors' bowlers shared the spoils, with each of the six bowlers employed claiming at least one wicket.Dolphins were eventually dismissed for 192 in 43.5 overs, handing Markhors a comprehensive victory. This was Dolphins' second defeat of the tournament, leaving them as the only side yet to register a point.Markhors' all-round performance showcased their strength and depth, while Dolphins' struggles highlighted the need for improvement. As the tournament progresses, Markhors will aim to maintain their winning momentum, while Dolphins will be desperate to break their losing streak and climb up the standings.

Adil Rashid, England's most successful spinner in limited-overs cricket, has a unique connection with Indian batting legend Virat Kohli. In their first-ever meeting in 2006, Rashid dismissed Kohli in a Youth (Under-19) Test match. However, Kohli had already made a significant impact with a century."I don't remember the dismissal, but I remember bowling a lot to him," Rashid recalled. "We became good friends. Back then, we thought he would become a world-class player, but probably not to the extent he has become."Rashid has achieved greater success in shorter formats, with 122 wickets in ODIs and 19 Tests. He believes that his limited Test appearances have allowed him to excel in ODIs and T20Is."I don't regret that I have played only 19 Tests," Rashid said. "When I started playing cricket, I didn't actually think I would play 19 Tests. So that's a good achievement for myself."Rashid is one wicket away from becoming the first England spinner to take 200 ODI wickets. He is also eager to contribute to England's success in the upcoming ODI series against Australia."I am looking forward to this series," Rashid said. "When you are playing against Australia in any format, it is a big thing for England. We always have that rivalry there and that competition is high."Rashid is proud of his two World Cup victories with England in 2019 (ODI) and 2022 (T20I). "Those two have been the standout events of my career," he said. "Winning a World Cup is ultimately what you want to do in terms of international cricket."Beyond statistics, Rashid is a captivating bowler to watch. His leg-break that dismissed Kohli in the third ODI at Leeds in 2018 remains a memorable moment.

Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir: Faith as a Source of Strength in CricketIn a candid conversation hosted by the BCCI, former Indian cricketers Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli delved into the profound role that faith plays in their lives and careers. Despite their contrasting personalities, both players share a deep connection to the divine, which they credit as a source of inner strength and resilience.Gambhir vividly recalled the epic knock he played in Napier, New Zealand, nearly 15 years ago. Facing a daunting follow-on, he found solace in chanting the 'Hanuman Chalisa.' This devotional hymn helped him summon the determination to bat for over 10 hours, saving the Test match for India.Similarly, Kohli revealed that during his triumphant 2014 tour of Australia, he would chant 'Om Namah Shivay' before every delivery. This mantra, dedicated to Lord Shiva, kept him focused and in the zone, enabling him to score four Test centuries."Instead of talking about me, I remember when you had that bumper series in Australia, where you scored heaps and heaps of runs, you were telling me that you kept saying 'Om Namah Shivay' before every delivery. And that got you in that zone," Gambhir remarked.Gambhir's innings in Napier was a testament to his unwavering resolve. He faced 436 balls over two days and half a session, forming crucial partnerships with Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, and VVS Laxman."I remember Laxman telling me when I was batting on Day 5 in Napier. After that first session, when I was walking back, he told me 'Do you realize you have not uttered a word for the last two hours, even between overs'? I realized that I did not say a word," Gambhir recounted."All I did between overs was nod and play, and when I got back, I put on Hanuman Chalisa and listened to it. For those two-and-half-days, it was like completely zoned out."Both Gambhir and Kohli emphasized that the state of being in the zone is a divine experience, accessible only to those who have experienced it firsthand. Their shared faith in the divine has undoubtedly been a cornerstone of their success as cricketers, empowering them to overcome challenges both on and off the field.

As the cricketing world shifts its focus from the T20 format to the upcoming ODI series between England and Australia, the significance of this five-match encounter cannot be understated. With an eye on next year's Champions Trophy, both teams will field key multi-format players, making this series a crucial stepping stone in their preparations.Despite the absence of Jos Buttler due to injury, England will be led by Harry Brook, a promising young captaincy prospect. The return of Jofra Archer, after an 18-month absence from 50-over cricket, will be a major boost for the hosts. Australia, on the other hand, welcomes back senior players Steven Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, and Mitchell Starc.The series will also mark the international debut of Mahli Beardman, a 19-year-old fast bowler who has impressed with his talent and pace. The influx of experienced players and the emergence of young talent add an intriguing dynamic to this highly anticipated series.Both England and Australia have contrasting recent ODI records. England lost 2-1 in the West Indies last year, while Australia emerged victorious 3-0 against the same opposition in February. The upcoming series will provide an opportunity for both teams to assess their strengths and weaknesses ahead of the Champions Trophy.Jofra Archer and Glenn Maxwell will be the players to watch in this series. Archer's return to 50-over cricket is a significant milestone in his rehabilitation, while Maxwell's presence adds experience and dynamism to the Australian batting lineup.England's opening partnership will be a key area of interest, with Ben Duckett set to make his ODI debut as an opener. Australia, meanwhile, will be searching for a long-term replacement for David Warner at the top of the order.Trent Bridge, the venue for the first match, has historically been a batting paradise, but the ball can also swing, giving bowlers a chance to make an impact. The sunny weather forecast is expected to favor the batsmen.With Australia on a 12-match winning streak in ODIs, a victory in Nottingham would put them joint second with Sri Lanka in the all-time list. Adam Zampa will also play his 100th ODI, a testament to his consistent performances for Australia.

India's dominance at home is well-established, but Bangladesh is a team that thrives on breaking new ground. As the two sides prepare for a two-match Test series, Bangladesh aims to add another first to their growing list of achievements.Bangladesh has never defeated India in a Test match, but they have shown remarkable progress in recent years. In 2022, they secured their first Test win against New Zealand and Pakistan, and they are eager to continue their upward trajectory.India, on the other hand, is a formidable opponent. They are ranked number one in the World Test Championship standings and have not lost a Test series at home in nearly 12 years. However, they are coming off a break from the format and have several players returning from injury.The key matchup in this series will be between India's batters and Bangladesh's spinners. India's top order has shown vulnerability against quality spin bowling, and Bangladesh boasts three talented spinners in Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Shakib Al Hasan, and Taijul Islam.Mehidy, in particular, has been in excellent form, contributing with both bat and ball in Bangladesh's recent series win in Pakistan. He will be looking to make a statement on a Chennai track that is expected to favor spin.India is likely to field three spinners in response, with R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav leading the attack. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj are expected to lead the fast bowling unit.Bangladesh is unlikely to make significant changes to their winning team from the second Test in Pakistan. They may consider bringing Taijul into the mix alongside Shakib and Mehidy to strengthen their spin attack.The Chennai pitch is expected to provide bounce and carry for both quicks and spinners, but the surface is likely to break under the intense heat. This will mean the spinners should come into play as the Test goes on.India will be looking to extend their unbeaten home Test series streak to 18, while Bangladesh will be determined to create history by securing their first Test win against their formidable opponents.

Afghanistan and South Africa Clash in Sharjah ODI OpenerThe first ODI between Afghanistan and South Africa commenced at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, with South Africa winning the toss and electing to bat first. The pitch, measuring 70 yards in all directions, appeared flat but slightly slow, favoring spinners.South Africa's innings began with a boundary from Reeza Hendricks off Fazalhaq Farooqi's first delivery. However, Farooqi struck back in the next over, dismissing Hendricks for 10 runs. Tony de Zorzi joined Hendricks at the crease and played a steady innings, scoring 25 runs before being caught by Rashid Khan off AM Ghazanfar's bowling.Aiden Markram, South Africa's captain, came in at number three and played a patient knock, scoring 30 runs off 45 deliveries. Tristan Stubbs and Kyle Verreynne also contributed with scores of 20 and 15, respectively.Afghanistan's spinners played a significant role in restricting South Africa's scoring rate. Ghazanfar finished with figures of 2/35, while Rashid Khan conceded just 20 runs in his 10 overs.In reply, Afghanistan lost Reeza Hendricks early on, but Tony de Zorzi and Aiden Markram steadied the innings with a 50-run partnership. De Zorzi scored 35 runs before being dismissed by Ghazanfar, while Markram went on to make 60 runs.Afghanistan's middle order struggled to build on the platform set by the openers. Tristan Stubbs and Kyle Verreynne both fell cheaply, leaving South Africa in a strong position.However, Afghanistan's spinners fought back, with Rashid Khan and Ghazanfar taking two wickets each. South Africa eventually reached a total of 189/9 in their 50 overs.

Ricky Ponting, the legendary Australian cricketer, has been appointed as the head coach of Punjab Kings (PBKS) for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. This move comes after Ponting's departure from Delhi Capitals (DC) in July 2024, where he served as head coach for seven years.Ponting has signed a multi-year contract with PBKS, a franchise that has struggled to find success in recent seasons. He will be the sixth head coach in seven seasons for Punjab, who finished ninth in the 2024 IPL season.Ponting's immediate task will be to identify players to retain for the upcoming season, as the IPL is yet to finalize retention rules. Key performers for Punjab last season included Harshal Patel, Shashank Singh, and Ashutosh Sharma. The franchise also boasts a strong squad with Arshdeep Singh, Jitesh Sharma, Rahul Chahar, and overseas stars Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Johnny Bairstow, and Kagiso Rabada.With Shikhar Dhawan recently retiring, Punjab will also be looking for a new captain. Ponting's experience as a successful captain with the Australian national team and Mumbai Indians will be invaluable in this regard.Ponting has been involved in the IPL since its inception in 2008, first as a player for Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians. He stepped down as Mumbai's captain in 2013, paving the way for Rohit Sharma to take over. Mumbai won the title that year, with Ponting continuing in an advisory role in 2014 and serving as head coach for two seasons in 2015 and 2016.In 2018, Ponting took charge as head coach of DC, leading them to the playoffs for three consecutive seasons between 2019 and 2021. DC also reached their first IPL final in 2020 under Ponting's guidance.Ponting's appointment as PBKS head coach is a significant move for the franchise, as they look to turn their fortunes around and challenge for the IPL title. His experience, leadership, and tactical acumen will be crucial in helping Punjab achieve their goals.

Australia's women's cricket team is gearing up for the upcoming T20 World Cup by fielding their strongest XI in a three-match series against New Zealand. Captain Alyssa Healy emphasized the importance of consistency in their lineup, stating that they have been settled in the T20 format for a long time.While Australia experimented with their lineup during their Bangladesh tour, Healy believes it's crucial to establish a stable XI leading into the World Cup. She acknowledged the temptation to unleash the pace duo of Darcie Brown and Tayla Vlaeminck, but noted that it would require careful consideration of the team's balance.New Zealand, on the other hand, is looking to bounce back from a disappointing tour of England, where they lost eight consecutive matches. Captain Sophie Devine expressed confidence in her team's ability to learn from their mistakes and move forward. She highlighted the return of pace bowler Rosemary Mair, who missed the England tour due to injury.Both Healy and Devine welcomed the ICC's announcement of increased prize money for the T20 World Cup, recognizing it as a significant step forward for women's cricket. Healy stated that it's an amazing opportunity for the game to be recognized and appreciated.As the teams prepare for the World Cup, the series against New Zealand will provide valuable experience and allow them to fine-tune their strategies. Australia will aim to maintain their dominance, while New Zealand will seek to regain their form and prove their mettle against one of the world's top teams.

Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli: A Candid ConversationAhead of the Test series against Bangladesh, Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir and batting icon Virat Kohli engaged in a lighthearted interview, revealing their camaraderie and mutual respect.Despite their past competitive rivalry on the field, Gambhir and Kohli have set aside their differences for the betterment of the Indian team. In the interview, they discussed the impact of on-field banter on their performance.Kohli, known for his fiery nature, admitted to having more altercations than Gambhir. He wondered if such confrontations could distract him or motivate him.Gambhir, with a chuckle, suggested that Kohli was better equipped to answer the question. Kohli, in turn, expressed his desire for someone to agree with his perspective."I am only looking for someone who agrees with what I have to say. Not saying that it is wrong. At least someone should say, yes this is what happens," Kohli said.The interview highlighted the evolution of their relationship, from fierce competitors to supportive colleagues. Both players were part of Team India's ODI World Cup victory in 2011, and their shared experiences have forged a bond between them.Gambhir praised Kohli's leadership qualities, saying, "Virat has been a fantastic leader. He has taken Indian cricket to new heights."Kohli, in turn, acknowledged Gambhir's contributions as a coach, saying, "Gautam has brought a lot of discipline and structure to the team. He has created a positive environment."The interview concluded with a humorous exchange, with Gambhir joking about the "spice" of their conversation.