Cricket

In a thrilling encounter at the T20 World Cup in St Lucia, South Africa emerged victorious over England by a narrow margin of seven runs. Quinton de Kock's scintillating half-century and a valiant bowling performance from the Proteas proved decisive in securing the win.South Africa's innings got off to a blistering start, with de Kock leading the charge with a superb 65 off 42 deliveries. However, England's bowlers fought back admirably, restricting the Proteas to 163/6. David Miller's late resistance (43 off 28 balls) helped South Africa post a competitive total.England's chase began cautiously, with Phil Salt dismissed early on by a stunning catch from Reeza Hendricks. Jonny Bairstow and Jos Buttler also fell cheaply, leaving England at 61 for four around the halfway mark.Harry Brook and Liam Livingstone then combined for a 78-run partnership that brought England back into the game. However, South Africa's bowlers held their nerve, with Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen bowling tight lines in the final overs. Anrich Nortje removed Brook in the last over, sealing the victory for the Proteas.South Africa's strategy of taking the pace off the ball proved effective, as England struggled to find boundaries between the fifth and the 12th over. The Proteas' fielding was also exceptional, with Hendricks' catch and a direct hit from Aiden Markram proving crucial.England's defeat leaves them with a mountain to climb in their quest to reach the semi-finals. South Africa, on the other hand, remain unbeaten in the tournament and are well-positioned to advance to the knockout stages.

Gautam Gambhir Calls for ICC to Reassess Two New Balls Rule in Limited Overs CricketFormer Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to reconsider the rule allowing two new balls in limited overs cricket. Gambhir believes the regulation is "unfair" to finger spinners and has diminished the art of reverse swing.In 2011, the ICC introduced the use of two new balls in ODIs, a move that was met with criticism from some quarters. Gambhir echoed these concerns, stating that the rule has disadvantaged finger spinners and reduced their opportunities in white-ball cricket."It is very unfair for finger spinners, who are not playing enough white-ball cricket because there is nothing for them," Gambhir said. "It is not right."The use of two new balls has also impacted reverse swing, as the ball maintains its shine for a longer duration. This has made it more difficult for bowlers to generate reverse swing, a skill that was once a key weapon in limited overs cricket."There is no reverse swing anymore because of the two new balls, and there is nothing for finger spinners or left-arm spinners," Gambhir added.Gambhir, who recently mentored the Kolkata Knight Riders to their third IPL title, believes the ICC should reassess the rule to ensure a fair balance between bat and ball."Taking that opportunity away from certain players is very unfair," he said. "Today, you hardly see any finger spinners playing white-ball cricket. Why? The blame lies not with them, but with the ICC."Gambhir also praised the leadership of MS Dhoni, under whom he enjoyed his most successful years in international cricket."I had my best performance under Anil Kumble and I had my phase under MS Dhoni, and the longest I played was under MS," he said. "I enjoyed playing a lot with MS and the way he led the team."

R. Ashwin, the renowned Indian cricketer, has recently launched his autobiography titled "I Have the Streets: A Kutti Cricket Story." In this book, Ashwin shares his journey from the streets of Chennai to the pinnacle of international cricket.Ashwin believes that sharing his experiences can inspire others and help them learn from his mistakes and successes. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance and resilience, especially for those who come from humble beginnings. "We need to understand that if you are coming from this part of the country, you must fight for acceptance. You can't quit," he says.The book's title, "I Have the Streets," reflects Ashwin's deep connection to street cricket. He credits the city and street cricket for providing him with a safe haven and a sense of belonging. "In my 17-18 years on the road as a professional cricketer, I would be lying if I said I felt comfortable for a large part of it. I always wanted to return home to my friends and family until 2015," he explains.Ashwin also acknowledges the influence of his parents and grandfather on his work ethic and inquisitiveness. He speaks highly of former cricketers M.S. Dhoni, Gautam Gambhir, and W.V. Raman, who played pivotal roles in his development.The book is not just a memoir but also a reflection on the challenges and rewards of being a professional cricketer. Ashwin discusses the mental and physical toll of the game, as well as the importance of maintaining a positive mindset."Smart people learn from others' experiences. As long as this book positively impacts even five per cent of the people who read this, I have done my job," Ashwin says.

The Indian cricket team's bowling attack in the Super 8 fixture against Afghanistan on Thursday was a unique one. It is not often that you see three left-arm spinners in the eleven. Kuldeep Yadav offers variety as a wrist spinner, while Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja come on with a stifling line and length. Axar, in particular, is adept at changing it up according to the match situation. Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is waiting in the wings.The trio formed an effective combination on a slow, dry Kensington Oval pitch. Kuldeep, playing his first match of the tournament, took two wickets. Axar (1/15 in 3 overs) and Jadeja gave nothing away and applied the choke on the Afghan chase.Axar believes that active communication makes for a good partnership. "Having three left-arm spinners is an advantage on the wickets here. Our combination is very good. We communicate well. For example, whoever comes on to bowl first will communicate to the others on what is working and what is not. This is important when you bowl as a unit," Axar said at the press conference after India eased past Afghanistan by 47 runs.Being versatile to satisfy the needs of the team is crucial, Axar added. "I can bowl in the PowerPlay, middle or towards the end. I can be called by the captain in any situation. If I feel that I need to attack, then I plan accordingly. In the Pakistan match, when I came to bowl the 16th over, I felt that if I give less runs it will be very good for the team," said Axar.Axar described pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah as a "world class bowler", and that the quality of the Indian attack can "get us out of a tough situation".

Ravichandran Ashwin, India's veteran spinner, has heaped praise on Gautam Gambhir, describing him as a tenacious and exceptional motivator. Gambhir is the leading candidate to replace Rahul Dravid as India's head coach.Ashwin credits Gambhir with instilling confidence in him during the early stages of his Test career. The spinner reminisced about his conversations with Gambhir during his debut full series for India, which took place against New Zealand in 2012."Gambhir was a fighter," Ashwin stated, emphasizing the former opener's role in his development as a cricketer. "I was playing my first full series. I only carried drinks during the first two years before the World Cup (in 2011). He gave me a lot of confidence at the beginning (of his career). I was not used to someone beyond my state (Tamil Nadu) giving me that sort of confidence," Ashwin said while launching his book -- I Have the Streets - A Kutti Cricket Story -- in Chennai.Ashwin expressed his views on the former Indian opener, stating that the cricketer's frank and straightforward manner often led to misinterpretation of his character. "Gautam Gambhir is a very misunderstood person. It's all about perception. He is a fighter. The biggest issue with many of us is that we give hero status to someone in our mind and forget about everyone else. This is a sport, not a movie narrative. There are no heroes and villains. Gambhir is a competitor. His desire and hunger to win is unbelievable. I have massive respect (for him)," he added.Ashwin's rise to prominence in the Indian Premier League (IPL) occurred in 2010 when he was selected to play for the Chennai Super Kings, led by the iconic MS Dhoni. This opportunity proved to be a turning point in Ashwin's career, showcasing his skills on a grand stage.However, Ashwin's journey to the IPL spotlight can be traced back to a pivotal moment in the 2008 Challenger Trophy. It was during this tournament that Ashwin managed to catch the eye of Dhoni, who recognized the young spinner's potential."It's an evolving relationship. MS didn't even know someone like me existed in 2008," he remembered. "And because of that, I made it my life's goal -- from 2009, it was to get the wicket of MS Dhoni. When a person has a goal like this, he will go crazy when an opportunity to achieve it pops up."Ashwin went back to that final match held in Nagpur. "We were playing the Challenger Trophy, and I bowled an unbelievable spell. MS would struggle through that spell in Nagpur. Once, when he tried to play, the ball went through his gates. I got him out in the final. From then on, I think he saw somebody with skill, and the relationship matured."Ashwin revealed that once a player gained Dhoni's confidence, they would receive numerous opportunities to showcase their abilities. "One of MS' usual qualities is that, if he decides this horse (a player) is not ready to race, he will not use you. He needs to know you're a horse. But, once he knows you're a horse, only when you feel like giving up, he will look past you. That is MS Dhoni; he believes in you," he added.Ashwin's contribution to India's historic 2011 World Cup triumph was minimal. However, the Tamil Nadu spinner fondly remembered the inclusive atmosphere created by head coach Gary Kirsten and the entire team, ensuring he never felt left out or unappreciated."After winning (the WC), Gary called me over and said we have not done justice to your talent. You have waited two years, but make no mistake, take it from me -- you will achieve far greater things, and I am upset that I will not be a part of it," he reflected. "So, Gary actually resigned (as head coach) with me first before announcing it outside (laughs). It was surprising for me because in all these two years, Gary actually spoke, maybe, 100 lines to me. Gary was a man of few words and an outstanding human being," he added.In fact, Ashwin was used sparingly even in the run-up to that World Cup. He offered a reason for that. "One of the reasons why MS did not play me leading up to the World Cup (2011) was the novelty factor. But eventually, I figured out that they would play me. I was about to play the match against Pakistan (2nd semifinal in Mohali). But, they decided to opt for an extra fast bowler because there was heavy dew the previous day there," he concluded.

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.

The International League T20 (ILT20) has announced the retention list for its third season, with 69 players being retained by their respective franchises. Defending champions MI Emirates have retained a strong core, including captain Nicholas Pooran, Dwayne Bravo, Akeal Hosein, Kieron Pollard, and Fazalhaq Farooqi.Abu Dhabi Knight Riders have retained 11 players, including captain Sunil Narine and Andre Russell. David Willey, Charith Asalanka, Ali Khan, and Andries Gous are among the other notable retentions.Desert Vipers have retained a formidable squad, with Wanindu Hasaranga, Alex Hales, Azam Khan, and Mohammad Amir all being retained. However, fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Matheesha Pathirana are notable absentees.Dubai Capitals have retained captain David Warner, along with Rovman Powell, Sam Billings, and Jake Fraser-McGurk. England's Joe Root and Mark Wood have been left out.Gulf Giants have retained Shimron Hetmyer, captain James Vince, and USA's Saurabh Netravalkar. Afghanistan spinner Mujeeb Ur Rehman has not been retained.Sharjah Warriors have retained eight players, including captain Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Kusal Mendis, and Johnson Charles.Each franchise has also retained two UAE players each, with no limit on international player retention. Teams can now sign new players in the ongoing player acquisition window, which will remain open until September 15.The third season of the ILT20 is scheduled to be played from January 11 to February 9, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah.

India's tour of South Africa in November 2023 will feature four T20 Internationals, marking the resumption of a series postponed in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The matches will be played in Durban, Gqeberha, Centurion, and Johannesburg between November 8 and 13.The original series was scheduled for 2021 but was postponed after a surge in COVID-19 cases in South Africa. India played only three Tests and three ODIs during that tour, with South Africa emerging victorious in both series.The teams agreed to reschedule the T20Is but were unable to find a suitable window until now. India's subsequent tour of South Africa in December 2023 included three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests, with the T20I and Test series ending in 1-1 draws and India winning the ODIs 2-1.Hosting India is a significant financial boost for the Cricket South Africa (CSA), with broadcast revenues from a single T20 match estimated at over R150 million (US $8.4 million). CSA reported a loss of R119 million for the previous financial year."We are grateful to the BCCI for their unwavering support of South African cricket and world cricket in general," said CSA chairperson Lawson Naidoo. "Indian cricket team tours are always filled with camaraderie and thrilling cricket, and our fans eagerly anticipate this series, which will showcase the exceptional talent of both teams."

The highly anticipated Super Eights clash between an undefeated India and a struggling Bangladesh in the T20 World Cup promises to be a captivating encounter. The two South Asian rivals have a long history of on-field rivalry and off-field drama, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this crucial match.India, a formidable cricketing power, enters the game with a professional performance against Afghanistan in their opening Super Eights match. However, the team's batting stars, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, have yet to deliver defining knocks. Shivam Dube, who was expected to provide power-hitting in the middle and death overs, has also failed to impress.Bangladesh, on the other hand, finds themselves in a must-win situation after their loss to Australia. Their batting has been a major concern throughout the tournament, with openers Litton Das and Tanzid Khan underperforming. The lack of power-hitters is also hurting their chances.Despite their struggles, Bangladesh has shown resilience in the past. They will need to find a way to tackle India's formidable bowling attack, led by the sensational Jasprit Bumrah. The pacers, led by Mustafizur Rahman, have done alright, but leg-spinner Rishad Hossain needs more support in the spin department.The match is expected to be a close contest, with both teams desperate for a victory. India will be looking to solidify their position as a title contender, while Bangladesh will be fighting to keep their hopes alive. The outcome of this clash could have a significant impact on the tournament standings and the eventual winner.