Cricket

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma continued his exceptional form in the T20 World Cup, leading his team with another scintillating knock against England in the semi-final in Guyana. Having played a match-winning innings of 92 off just 41 balls against Australia, Rohit once again rose to the occasion after losing Virat Kohli early. He scored a crucial 57 off 39 balls, keeping India on track for a solid total.Rohit's innings was a display of power-hitting, including 6 fours and 2 sixes. With his impressive performance, he entered the record books of the T20 World Cup. He became the second batsman, after the iconic West Indian player Chris Gayle, to reach the landmark of 50 sixes in the tournament.The moment that propelled Rohit to this feat was a well-executed sweep shot over the fine leg boundary, which also brought up his half-century. Rohit also created history by becoming the first Indian captain to score a fifty in the knockout match of the T20 World Cup.Earlier, England captain Jos Buttler won the toss and elected to field in the rain-delayed semi-final. The match witnessed another rain interruption when India were 65/2 in 8 overs. Both teams were unchanged from their concluding Super Eights games.Rohit's innings was crucial in setting up a solid platform for India. He shared a 62-run partnership with KL Rahul, who scored 27 off 25 balls. After Rohit's dismissal, Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya played valuable cameos to help India reach a competitive total of 168/6.In response, England's chase was hampered by the rain interruptions. They were set a revised target of 130 runs in 12 overs. Despite a valiant effort from Jos Buttler, who scored 28 off 14 balls, England fell short by 10 runs.Rohit Sharma's brilliant knock and leadership played a pivotal role in India's victory. He has been in exceptional form throughout the tournament and has led his team from the front. India will now face Pakistan in the final on Sunday, where they will aim to defend their title.

Virat Kohli's disappointing run in the T20 World Cup continued in the semi-final against England, as the star batter was dismissed for a mere 9 runs. This marked yet another single-digit dismissal for Kohli in the tournament, leaving fans and experts alike questioning his form.Kohli's struggles in the knockout stages of the T20 World Cup stand in stark contrast to his impressive record in the group stages. In previous editions of the tournament, Kohli has consistently delivered match-winning performances in the semi-finals. However, in this year's edition, he has failed to replicate his past heroics.In 2014, Kohli played a pivotal role in India's victory over South Africa, scoring an unbeaten 72 off 44 balls. Two years later, he once again showcased his brilliance with an explosive 89 not out off 47 balls against the West Indies, although India ultimately fell short in that match.In the 2022 semi-final against England, Kohli managed only 50 runs off 40 balls, a valiant effort but not enough to secure the win. Despite these setbacks, Kohli's contributions in these critical matches have left an indelible mark on T20 World Cup history.Kohli's dismissal against England came in the third over of India's innings. He pulled Reece Topley for six but two balls later, the left-arm paceman bowled him as he knocked over the leg stump. Kohli has now scored just 75 runs in seven innings this tournament at an average of 10.71.The Indian team will be hoping that Kohli can rediscover his form in the upcoming matches. With the T20 World Cup final just around the corner, India will need their star batter to step up and deliver a match-winning performance.

South Africa's captain, Laura Wolvaardt, has expressed concerns about the spin-friendly conditions they anticipate for the upcoming one-off Test against India, beginning on Friday."We've been facing a lot of spin in the nets, preparing for a spin-friendly wicket," Wolvaardt said. "India has a significant home ground advantage, and winning a Test in India is extremely challenging."The South African team has been practicing extensively against spin bowlers in the nets, with opener Tazmin Brits facing only spin during her recent net session. Brits was observed going down the pitch and even playing a reverse-sweep.Wolvaardt emphasized the threat posed by India's spinners, particularly as the match progresses. "Their spinners will be our biggest challenge, especially as the match goes on," she said. "During yesterday's net session, the ball was staying low and turning quite a bit."South Africa recognizes the importance of adapting to the conditions and countering India's spin attack. "We've been facing a lot of spin in the nets the last few days," Wolvaardt said. "I think that'll probably be the biggest threat — their spinners."The South African team is aware of the challenges they face in India, but they remain determined to perform well. "I think this Test will be a huge challenge for us," Wolvaardt said. "Hopefully, we're able to adapt to the conditions well."

South Africa's T20 World Cup triumph marks a watershed moment in their cricketing history, shedding the long-held tag of "chokers" that has haunted them in major tournaments.For decades, the Proteas have endured a string of heartbreaking defeats in knockout matches, leaving a trail of disappointment and shattered dreams. From the rain-affected 1992 ODI World Cup semifinal to the agonizing tie in the 1999 edition, South Africa's inability to perform under pressure became a recurring theme.The 2007 ODI World Cup semifinal against Australia was particularly devastating, as a star-studded South African lineup was dismissed for a paltry 149. The 2011 ODI World Cup quarterfinal against New Zealand and the 2013 Champions Trophy semifinal against England further cemented their reputation as underachievers.However, the current Proteas team, led by Temba Bavuma, has broken the cycle of disappointment. Their unbeaten run to the T20 World Cup final in Trinidad is a testament to their resilience and determination.The victory over Afghanistan in the semifinals was a cathartic moment for South African cricket. It erased years of heartache and proved that the Proteas could overcome their past demons.The key to South Africa's success in this tournament has been their collective spirit and unwavering belief. They have played as a unit, with each player contributing to the team's success.Quinton de Kock's explosive batting, Aiden Markram's consistency, and David Miller's finishing prowess have been crucial. The bowling attack, led by Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje, has been equally impressive, providing the necessary control and wickets.South Africa's triumph is a reminder that even the most persistent failures can be overcome with hard work, determination, and a belief in oneself. It is a victory not only for the current team but for all South African cricket fans who have endured years of disappointment.

India's captain Rohit Sharma delivered a masterful performance, leading his team to a decisive 24-run victory over Australia in their final Super Eights match of the T20 World Cup. The triumph secured India's place in the semifinals, where they will face defending champions England.Rohit's innings was a symphony of power and finesse, as he amassed 92 runs off just 41 deliveries. He combined brute force with elegant strokeplay, dispatching the Australian bowlers to all corners of the ground. His knock propelled India to a formidable total of 205 for five.In response, Australia showed their fighting spirit, with Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head leading the charge. Marsh struck 37 off 28 balls, while Head played a blinder, scoring 76 off 43 deliveries. However, the Indian bowlers, led by Kuldeep Yadav (2/24), Jasprit Bumrah (1/29), and Arshdeep Singh (3/37), kept the Australians at bay.Rohit's intent was clear from the outset. He emphasized the importance of putting pressure on the bowlers and scoring big totals. He stated, "I told you that 50s and 100s don't matter to me. Need to put the bowlers under pressure, and you need big scores for that."The Indian captain's approach paid dividends, as he targeted all areas of the field and kept the Australian bowlers guessing. His innings included several memorable shots, such as a down-on-one-knee six over deep mid-wicket off Pat Cummins.Despite Australia's valiant effort in the chase, they ultimately fell short, finishing on 181 for seven. India's victory was a testament to their dominance in the Super Eights, where they finished as group toppers with three wins in as many games.

Hardik Pandya's resurgence as an all-rounder for India in the T20 World Cup 2024 has silenced critics who questioned his place in the team. After a disappointing IPL 2024 campaign and fitness struggles, Pandya has rediscovered his form, delivering crucial performances for India.Ahead of India's match against Australia, Pandya hit back at critics who doubted his all-round abilities. "I've bowled for every team. It's become a topic of discussion," he said. "I need to work hard to fire on all cylinders. It gives me extra opportunity to contribute and lifts my confidence."In India's victory over Bangladesh, Pandya was named Player of the Match for his half-century and wicket. He acknowledged the team's unity and execution of plans. "We have played really good cricket," he said. "We can get better in some areas, but we are looking good."Pandya's return to form is a testament to his hard work and determination. Despite a serious injury, he remained focused on his recovery. "I wanted to come back, but God had other plans," he said. "Luck comes to people who work hard."India's final Super 8 match against Australia will be a crucial test for Pandya and the team. If they can maintain their momentum, they have a strong chance of reaching the semifinals. Pandya's all-round contributions will be vital to India's success.

The highly anticipated first semi-final of the 2024 T20 World Cup between South Africa and Afghanistan commenced with a thrilling start. Afghanistan, after winning the toss, opted to bat first on a fresh pitch that promised both spin and seam.South Africa's Marco Jansen struck early, dismissing the dangerous Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the first over. However, Gulbadin Naib responded with a crisp boundary off Jansen, followed by a four off Keshav Maharaj. Ibrahim Zadran also contributed with a boundary, giving Afghanistan a solid start.Maharaj, introduced into the attack, bowled with accuracy, keeping the Afghan batters in check. Naib, however, continued to impress, pulling a boundary through mid-on. Zadran also showed his class, lofting Maharaj over mid-on for another four.As the innings progressed, Afghanistan's middle order struggled to find momentum. Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi were dismissed cheaply, leaving the onus on the lower order. Karim Janat and Rashid Khan provided some resistance, but South Africa's bowlers maintained their discipline.In the end, Afghanistan managed to post a respectable total of 144/8, with Naib top-scoring with 35 runs. Jansen was the pick of the South African bowlers, claiming 3/25, while Maharaj and Kagiso Rabada chipped in with two wickets each.South Africa, in response, will be confident of chasing down the target, given their impressive batting lineup. However, Afghanistan's spinners, led by Rashid Khan, will pose a significant threat. The match promises to be a close and exciting contest, with both teams eager to secure a place in the final.

Afghanistan's charismatic captain, Rashid Khan, has faced disciplinary action from the International Cricket Council (ICC) for a breach of the code of conduct during their Super Eight match against Bangladesh in Kingstown on July 24.The incident occurred in the 20th over of Afghanistan's innings. Rashid, after hitting the ball into the offside, attempted to secure the second run to retain strike. However, his teammate, Karim Janat, sent him back. An enraged Rashid was forced to turn around mid-pitch and hurled his bat in Janat's direction.As a consequence, Rashid has received a demerit point on his disciplinary record. This is his first offense within a 24-month period. Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of a reprimand and a maximum penalty of a 50% fine of a player's match fee, along with one or two demerit points.Despite the incident, Rashid played a pivotal role in Afghanistan's eight-run victory over Bangladesh via the DLS method. He scored a quickfire 19 off 10 balls and claimed impressive figures of 4 for 23, leading his team to their first-ever semi-final appearance at a T20 World Cup.Afghanistan will now face South Africa in Trinidad on June 26 for a place in the final. Rashid's leadership and all-round abilities will be crucial as they aim to create history and reach the pinnacle of the tournament.

Team India's quest for an elusive ICC trophy continues as they enter the semifinals of the T20 World Cup 2024. Led by Rohit Sharma, the team has maintained an unbeaten streak, including a resounding victory over Australia.India's last ICC triumph came in 2013 under the leadership of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who guided the team to victory in the ICC Champions Trophy. Since then, India has come close but failed to secure a major title, including a heartbreaking loss in the 2019 ODI World Cup final.Rohit Sharma, now 36, is determined to break this drought and lead India to glory. He has the experience and leadership qualities necessary to guide the team to success.Former India pacer S Sreesanth, who was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup victories, believes Rohit has the capabilities to achieve this goal. He praised Rohit's ability to unite the team and his understanding of each player's strengths.Sreesanth also highlighted the importance of all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has been in exceptional form in the tournament. Despite a disappointing season with the Mumbai Indians in the IPL, Pandya has emerged as a key player for India, contributing with both bat and ball.India's semifinal clash against England will be a crucial test. In their previous encounter at this stage in the 2022 edition, England dominated an outdated Indian team. However, with Rohit Sharma at the helm and a talented squad at his disposal, India has a real chance of reaching the final and potentially lifting the trophy on June 29th.