Cricket

Ricky Ponting's seven-year tenure as head coach of the Delhi Capitals (DC) has come to an end, as the franchise looks to revamp its coaching staff ahead of the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction.Ponting joined DC in 2018, when the team was known as the Delhi Daredevils. Under his guidance, the team experienced a rollercoaster of results. In his first season, DC finished at the bottom of the league standings. However, they bounced back in 2019, qualifying for the playoffs for the first time under Ponting's leadership.DC continued their playoff streak in 2020 and 2021, reaching the finals in 2020. However, they fell short of the ultimate prize, losing to the Mumbai Indians. In the last three seasons, DC failed to qualify for the playoffs, finishing sixth in 2024 with a 7-7 record.Sources close to the franchise indicate that the owners were not satisfied with the team's recent performances and decided to part ways with Ponting. The decision was made after careful consideration and a desire to bring in a fresh perspective.Ponting's departure marks the end of an era for DC. He was a respected figure within the team and played a significant role in their development. However, the franchise believes that a change in leadership is necessary to achieve their long-term goals.DC is expected to announce Ponting's replacement in the coming weeks. The new head coach will have the task of rebuilding the team and guiding them to success in the upcoming IPL seasons.

Ravi Bishnoi's Direct Hit Run-Out Highlights India's Disciplined Bowling and Fielding in Zimbabwe T20IIn the fourth T20I between India and Zimbabwe at Harare Sports Club on Saturday, Ravi Bishnoi showcased his exceptional fielding skills with a stunning direct hit that dismissed Zimbabwean batsman Johnathan Campbell. The moment occurred in the 15th over when Bishnoi, bowling to Sikandar Raza, noticed Campbell attempting a quick single. Raza played a hurried shot to the off-side, prompting Campbell to set off but then change his mind halfway down the pitch.Bishnoi, with his agility and alertness, swiftly moved across to the ball, gathered it quickly, and despite being off-balance, unleashed a throw that found its mark at the non-striker's end. Campbell was caught short by a considerable distance, and the third umpire's intervention was unnecessary as Bishnoi's accuracy was spot-on.India's decision to bowl first proved fruitful as they restricted Zimbabwe to 152/7. Khaleel Ahmed led the bowling attack with figures of 2-32, well-supported by Tushar Deshpande, Washington Sundar, Abhishek Sharma, and Shivam Dube, each contributing with a wicket apiece.Zimbabwe started well with a solid 63-run opening partnership between Tadiwanashe Marumani and Wesley Madhevere, but they struggled after losing their openers in quick succession. Captain Sikandar Raza provided impetus to the innings with a brisk 46 off 28 deliveries, including two fours and three sixes, before his dismissal dented Zimbabwe's hopes of a bigger total.Despite Raza's efforts, Zimbabwe couldn't capitalize as India's bowlers maintained pressure throughout. Bishnoi's fielding gem encapsulated India's sharpness on the field, exemplifying their commitment to tight bowling and excellent fielding standards that restricted Zimbabwe effectively.India's disciplined performance in both bowling and fielding ensured they maintained control, limiting Zimbabwe to a manageable total. Bishnoi's run-out of Campbell stood out as a pivotal moment, showcasing his athleticism and contributing to India's comprehensive display in the field.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced an updated schedule for the Indian cricket team's upcoming tour of Sri Lanka. The revised itinerary has shifted the matches by a single day, with the tour now commencing on July 27, a day later than the originally planned start date of July 26.India will be playing three T20 Internationals and three ODIs across July to August. The T20Is will be held at Pallekele on July 27, 28, and 30, while the ODIs will be played at Colombo on August 2, 4, and 7.The Indian team, under new head coach Gautam Gambhir, will begin the series with the T20Is at Pallekele. The one-dayers will be played in Colombo.The BCCI has not yet announced the Indian team for the upcoming tour, but it is anticipated that experienced players such as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will be given a break for the ODI leg. It is likely that Hardik Pandya will captain the T20I team, while KL Rahul may be appointed as the ODI captain.Gambhir, who recently took over from Rahul Dravid as head coach, will be in charge during the tour. Dravid, who guided India to their second T20 World Cup victory in the Americas, has passed the baton to Gambhir.Sri Lanka will also have a new coach in Sanath Jayasuriya, who replaces Chris Silverwood. Furthermore, following Wanindu Hasaranga's resignation on Thursday, Sri Lanka will be led by a new captain. Sri Lanka have not yet announced the name of their new captain, who will be tasked with leading the team in the upcoming bilateral series against India.The upcoming tour of Sri Lanka will be a crucial test for the Indian team under new head coach Gautam Gambhir. The team will be looking to build on their recent success in the T20 World Cup and continue their dominance in the ODI format. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will be looking to make a statement under their new coach and captain. The series promises to be an exciting and competitive one, with both teams eager to prove their mettle.

Indian bowlers, led by Khaleel Ahmed and Ravi Bishnoi, put up a commendable performance, restricting Zimbabwe to a modest 152/7 in the fourth T20I at the Harare Sports Club on Saturday.Zimbabwe's openers, Wessly Madhevere and Tadiwanashe Marumani, provided a solid start, amassing a 63-run partnership. However, Indian spinners Bishnoi, Washington Sundar, and Abhishek Sharma chipped in with crucial wickets, bringing India back into the game.Bishnoi bowled an economical spell, conceding only 22 runs in his four overs. Sundar and Sharma also contributed with figures of 1/32 and 1/20, respectively.Zimbabwe skipper Sikandar Raza looked set for a half-century, but India debutant Tushar Deshpande dismissed him for 46 off 28 balls. Raza's innings included two fours and three sixes.In the end, Zimbabwe managed to post a competitive total of 152/7, thanks to contributions from Madhevere (25), Marumani (32), and Raza (46).

P.R. Man Singh, the manager of the 1983 World Cup-winning Indian team, has urged the Telangana Government to recognize the contributions of T. Dilip, the fielding coach of the Indian team that recently triumphed in the T20 World Cup in the West Indies.Man Singh, who was the chief guest at a felicitation function for Dilip organized by Coaching Beyond, emphasized that Dilip's efforts, along with those of other support staff, played a crucial role in the team's victory. He highlighted that while players like Mohamed Siraj have been felicitated, it is equally important to acknowledge the behind-the-scenes contributions of support staff like Dilip.Reflecting on his own experience as the manager of the 1983 World Cup-winning team, Man Singh clarified that the iconic catch taken by Kapil Dev to dismiss Sir Viv Richards in the final was primarily due to the captain's efforts and not his own. He emphasized that in modern cricket, brilliant catches taken by players like Axar Patel and Suryakumar Yadav are the result of the collective hard work of the entire squad, especially the support staff.Dilip expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating that it was a great feeling to be on the winning side after years of hard work and passion. He acknowledged the support of John Manoj, R. Sridhar, and his fellow coaches and players throughout his journey.R. Sridhar, the former India fielding coach, revealed that Dilip had initially declined an offer to join the Andhra Ranji team as a fielding coach despite a lucrative salary package. Sridhar stated that Dilip's focus was solely on joining the National Cricket Academy (NCA) one day. Later, when Sridhar informed Dilip about the Indian fielding coach position, he initially thought it was a joke. However, Dilip eventually applied and outperformed Jhonty Rhodes, joining the India-A team under Rahul Dravid's mentorship.

Rain Washes Out Texas Super Kings vs. MI New York Match in MorrisvillePersistent rainfall in Morrisville on Friday forced the cancellation of the highly anticipated match between Texas Super Kings and MI New York at the Church Street Park stadium. The inclement weather prevented the toss from taking place, resulting in both teams sharing a point each.The washout did not alter the standings in the league. Texas Super Kings remain in second place, while MI New York holds onto third. The weekend's schedule in Morrisville includes two more matches, with fans hoping for clear skies on both days.On Saturday, the LA Knight Riders will face off against the San Francisco Unicorns. The Knight Riders will return to action on Sunday for a clash with the Washington Freedom.After four matches, the Super Kings have accumulated four points from one win and two no-results. They have suffered one defeat. MI New York has played three matches, earning three points from a win and a no-result. Washington Freedom currently leads the table with five points from three matches.The weather conditions have played a significant role in the tournament so far, with several matches being affected by rain. The teams will be eager to make the most of the remaining fixtures and secure a place in the playoffs.

Hardik Pandya and Ananya Panday Electrify Anant Ambani's Wedding with Dazzling Dance PerformanceIndia's star all-rounder Hardik Pandya and Bollywood actress Ananya Panday set the dance floor ablaze at the lavish wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in Mumbai on Friday. Their electrifying performance added to the joyous atmosphere of the star-studded event.The wedding was graced by a galaxy of renowned cricketers, including Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, Ajinkya Rahane, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Shreyas Iyer. Legendary cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni and the newly-appointed head coach of the Indian cricket team, Rahul Dravid, also attended the grand celebration.Pandya's performance at the wedding was a testament to his remarkable resurgence in recent months. After a disappointing IPL season as captain of the Mumbai Indians, Pandya played a pivotal role in India's triumph at the 2024 T20 World Cup, held in the Americas.In the pulsating final against South Africa in Barbados, Pandya dismissed Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller with his 3/20 effort, turning the match in India's favor. Not just with the ball, Pandya made impactful cameos down the order with the bat when the team needed him. He finished with 144 runs at a batting strike-rate of over 150 and also took 11 wickets in the tournament.Pandya's performance in the T20 World Cup earned him the number one spot in the ICC's T20I all-rounders' rankings, making him the first Indian to occupy the top position. This recognition is a testament to his all-round abilities and his growing stature in the game.The wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant was a grand affair that brought together the worlds of cricket and Bollywood. Pandya and Ananya Panday's dance performance was a highlight of the evening, adding to the joyous atmosphere of the celebration.

India's legendary cricketer Yuvraj Singh showcased his vintage power-hitting prowess in the second semifinal of the World Championship of Legends, leading India to an emphatic 86-run victory over Australia.Batting at number four, Yuvraj unleashed a barrage of sixes and fours, amassing a blistering 59 runs off just 28 deliveries. His innings, which included five maximums and four boundaries, was a nostalgic reminder of his match-winning performances in the 2007 and 2011 World Cups.Yuvraj's partnership with Yusuf Pathan proved to be a game-changer, as the duo plundered 54 runs in a mere four overs. Pathan, who remained unbeaten on 51 off 23 balls, also played a crucial role in India's dominant batting display.Earlier, opener Robin Uthappa laid the foundation for India's mammoth total with a fiery 65 off 35 balls. His innings, which featured four sixes and six fours, set the tone for India's aggressive approach.The Pathan brothers, Irfan and Yusuf, then took center stage, smashing 95 runs in just 5.4 overs. Irfan, in particular, was unstoppable, scoring a rapid 50 off 19 deliveries.Australia's chase never gained momentum, as their top three batsmen were dismissed within the Powerplay. Tim Paine and Nathan Coulter-Nile attempted a late rally, but their efforts proved futile as Australia fell short by 86 runs.Pawan Negi led India's bowling attack with figures of 2 for 35, while Dhawal Kulakarni also claimed two wickets. Harbhajan Singh, Rahul Shukla, and Irfan Pathan each picked up one wicket, ensuring a comprehensive bowling performance.India's victory sets up a tantalizing final against arch-rivals Pakistan, who defeated West Indies in the first semifinal. The two cricketing giants will clash on Saturday in a highly anticipated showdown.

Irfan Pathan's Hilarious Meme Captures the Essence of Sibling RivalryFormer Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has shared a hilarious meme on Instagram that perfectly captures the dynamics of sibling relationships. The meme features a video clip of Pathan and his brother Yusuf Pathan having a verbal spat during a World Championship of Legends (WCL) match against South Africa.In the video, the brothers can be seen arguing while attempting a run. The caption reads, "Brothers when they are alone." The video then cuts to a scene of Irfan and Yusuf sharing a hug, with the caption "Brothers in front of parents."Pathan's meme has resonated with many siblings, who can relate to the nature of fights between brothers and sisters. In the caption, Pathan wrote, "Brothers can you relate?"The meme has garnered over 100,000 likes and thousands of comments, with many users sharing their own experiences of sibling rivalry.