Cricket

Chennai's 'Thala-Land' Silenced as CSK's Absence Dampens IPL Qualifier 2On an ordinary IPL match day, Wallajah Road, the bustling thoroughfare leading to the MA Chidambaram Stadium, would be a vibrant tapestry of activity. But on Friday, as Qualifier 2 between Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad unfolded, an eerie quietness hung in the air.The road, usually teeming with sports merchandise vendors, was deserted. Unsold yellow jerseys, a poignant reminder of the impact of Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) absence, lay in piles outside shuttered shops. Street vendors struggled to sell counterfeit jerseys, their usual brisk trade replaced by a disheartening silence.The absence of CSK, the city's beloved team, cast a pall over the atmosphere. The buzz that typically permeated the area from 4 pm onwards on match days was conspicuously absent. A few scattered Orange and pink jerseys made their way towards the Chepauk gates, but the electric atmosphere that characterized CSK games was nowhere to be found."I'm a regular at CSK matches," lamented Arun Pradeep, a devoted fan. "I had three tickets, but couldn't find anyone to take them. We decided to support good cricket instead."The biggest losers were the counterfeit jersey sellers, who typically made a killing on CSK match days. On this day, they struggled to sell a handful of Pat Cummins and Sanju Samson shirts.Despite the absence of CSK, the stadium filled to a capacity of 29,255. But the soul of the event was missing. The day served as a stark reminder of the immense value that MS Dhoni and CSK bring to the IPL landscape.

Shikhar Dhawan, the veteran Indian opener, has acknowledged that he is approaching a transitional phase in his career, signaling a potential end to his illustrious journey on the international stage.Dhawan, who made a memorable Test debut with a century and celebrated his 100th ODI with a ton, has enjoyed a remarkable career. However, the 38-year-old has been absent from international cricket since December 2022 and has faced speculation about his future after Punjab Kings' exit from the ongoing IPL season.In a recent interview, Dhawan candidly admitted that his cricketing career is undergoing a "transition." He remains composed and accepts the inevitable reality that his playing days are numbered."I am also going through a transition 'Jahan Meri Cricket Vishram Pe Aayegi' and a new chapter in my life will start. You only have a certain age till you can play. It could be one year more, two years more, or xyz for me...," Dhawan said.Despite his absence from international cricket, Dhawan has maintained a strong presence in the IPL. As the second-highest run-getter in the league's history, he has showcased his enduring talent. However, a shoulder injury sustained during the IPL season has limited his participation to just five games.Reflecting on his injury, Dhawan said, "Unfortunately I got injured this IPL season and could not play for Punjab except for 4-5 matches. It takes time to recover. I am still healing. I have not recovered 100 per cent yet."While sidelined from on-field action, Dhawan has ventured into a new realm with his chat show 'Dhawan Karenge.' The show, which premiered on JioCinema, has provided him with a unique learning experience."I will be honest...I was quite nervous initially as it was something new for me. 'Dil Dhak-Dhak Kar Raha Tha'..(heart was beating fast), especially when I was shooting with Akshay Paaji (Akshay Kumar). I was smiling in front of him but I was nervous for sure. I feel it's natural to get nervous when you start something new...but 'Ek Baari Flow Mein Aa Gaye Toh Phir Chakke-Chauke Pad Hi Jaate Hain' (once you get the hang of it, then it is just like smashing boundaries on the cricket field)," Dhawan said.As Dhawan navigates this transitional phase, he remains open to new opportunities and embraces the challenges that lie ahead. His legacy as one of India's most successful openers will undoubtedly endure, and his contributions to the sport will continue to inspire future generations.

The ninth edition of the ICC Twenty20 World Cup is set to take place in 2024, co-hosted by West Indies and the United States. This will be the first ICC World Cup tournament to be held in the United States. The tournament will feature a record 20 teams, an expansion from 16 teams in the 2022 tournament. Canada and Uganda have qualified for the first time, while the United States will be playing by virtue of being co-hosts.The teams participating in the tournament are:* India* Pakistan* Australia* England* Netherlands* New Zealand* South Africa* Sri Lanka* United States (hosts)* West Indies (hosts)* Afghanistan* Bangladesh* Ireland* Scotland* Papua New Guinea* Canada* Nepal* Oman* Namibia* UgandaThe ICC has shortlisted four venues in the United States and six in West Indies. The following are the groups:* Group A: India (A1), Pakistan (A2), Canada, Ireland, United States* Group B: England (B1), Australia (B2), Namibia, Scotland, Oman* Group C: New Zealand (C1), West Indies (C2), Afghanistan, Papua New Guinea, Uganda* Group D: South Africa (D1), Sri Lanka (D2), Bangladesh, Netherlands, NepalThe top two teams from each group will be placed into two groups of four teams each in the Super 8 stage.* Super 8 Stage * Group 1: A1, B2, C1, D2 * Group 2: A2, B1, C2, D1The semifinals will feature the winner of Group 1 vs. the runner-up of Group 2 and the winner of Group 2 vs. the runner-up of Group 1.The tournament will begin on June 1, 2024, with the final scheduled for June 29, 2024.

Dinesh Karthik: RCB Fans Surpass Virat Kohli in SignificanceDinesh Karthik, the recently retired cricketer, has expressed his profound gratitude for the unwavering support of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) fans, declaring them to be even greater than the iconic Virat Kohli.Karthik's IPL journey concluded on Wednesday with RCB's elimination from the title race after a loss to Rajasthan Royals. During his four-year stint with RCB (2015 and 2022-24), Karthik witnessed firsthand the immense passion and loyalty of the franchise's fanbase."RCB is extraordinary, and it's all about the fans," Karthik emphasized. "Virat Kohli is a huge part of RCB, but the fans are even bigger. The love I've received from them is overwhelming. I believe that the support of RCB fans played a significant role in my selection for the 2022 T20 World Cup."Karthik also acknowledged the invaluable lessons he learned from his teammate, Virat Kohli. "I've always admired Virat and learned a lot from him. He's one of the greatest ever," Karthik said.In IPL 2024, Karthik made a significant contribution to RCB's campaign, scoring 326 runs in 15 matches at an impressive strike rate of 187.35.Karthik's retirement from all forms of cricket has not diminished his passion for the game. He has been named to the commentary panel for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Americas, which begins on June 2.

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif believes that Mahendra Singh Dhoni should continue playing in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Kaif's opinion is based on Dhoni's current form, physical fitness, and his remarkable ability to effortlessly hit big shots.Despite the widespread speculation about Dhoni's potential retirement from the IPL, Kaif sees no reason for him to hang up his boots just yet. Dhoni, who underwent knee surgery last year, showcased an impressive performance in the recent IPL season, amassing 161 runs in just 73 balls at an outstanding strike rate of 220.55. Additionally, his wicket-keeping skills remained sharp throughout the tournament.As the captain, Dhoni has led the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to an impressive five IPL titles. His leadership, combined with his on-field prowess, has been instrumental in the team's success over the years. Kaif thinks Dhoni has enough left in the tank to keep playing."Personally, I don't think he's done, he could not win the game (last league match against RCB). In the last over after hitting a six, he got out. You could make out seeing his body language that he seemed very disappointed not winning the game for CSK," Kaif, a cricket expert with Star Sports, told PTI Videos."Why should he not come back? He is fit, he is scoring runs and hitting sixes, and there's no reason to stop playing... it's up to him, we can't say with Dhoni what's his plan," added Kaif, regarded as one of India's greatest fielders.Kaif also remarked that Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Shreyas Iyer had been a revelation with his calm demeanour, attributing the team's success this year to his leadership qualities. Two-time IPL champions KKR entered their fourth final with a thumping eight-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 1. They had also topped the league stage with 20 points."He (Iyer) missed the whole IPL last year and KKR probably missed his captaincy in 2023. The way he is changing the bowlers, and picking his playing XI, he looks very calm under pressure.""In a tournament like the IPL, you have to be very composed, you have to know what's happening in the game and Iyer has come a long way. He has become a much better captain now," opined Kaif.Gambhir's return to KKR as the team mentor has been cited by experts as a key factor in the team's success this season. However, Kaif believes that the team's impressive performance is largely due to Iyer's leadership skills on the field."We always talk about (Gautam) Gambhir, but he can't enter the field... in the rope with the players. Iyer has been there with the players and it will help him grow as a person and player.""He missed out on the (T20) World Cup this year (beginning in the US and West Indies next month), but certainly it's great learning for him, captaining the team, leading it to the finals. He has a great future ahead," said Kaif.Kaif expressed his belief that KKR had the highest chances of securing the IPL championship this year. He attributed this to the team's possession of two crucial elements: a group of exceptional bowlers and a well-rounded lineup. According to him, these factors are essential for achieving success in the tournament."I think KKR is a very well-balanced side. Tournament-winning team has to have good bowlers, KKR has got the bowlers. You saw how (Mitchell) Starc bowled against (SRH in Qualifier 1), it's a balanced side. KKR has got all bases covered in terms of batting and bowling. They are the team to beat in the IPL, they are way ahead."

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled an illustrious commentary panel for the upcoming Men's T20 World Cup 2024, set to take place across nine venues in the USA and West Indies. This year's panel boasts a star-studded lineup of cricket legends and renowned broadcasters, promising an unparalleled viewing experience.Leading the commentary team are stalwarts Ravi Shastri, Nasser Hussain, Ian Smith, Mel Jones, Harsha Bhogle, and Ian Bishop. They will be joined by former Men's and Women's T20 World Cup champions, including Dinesh Karthik, Ebony Rainford-Brent, Samuel Badree, Carlos Brathwaite, Steve Smith, Aaron Finch, and Lisa Sthalekar.Former 50-over World Cup winners Ricky Ponting, Sunil Gavaskar, Matthew Hayden, Ramiz Raja, Eoin Morgan, Tom Moody, and Wasim Akram will lend their expert analysis to the tournament. American commentator James O'Brien, known as Jomboy, will make his World Cup debut, providing insights tailored to American audiences.Other prominent figures in the commentary team include Dale Steyn, Graeme Smith, Michael Atherton, Waqar Younis, Simon Doull, Shaun Pollock, and Katey Martin, alongside renowned broadcasters such as Mpumelelo Mbangwa, Natalie Germanos, Danny Morrison, Alison Mitchell, Alan Wilkins, Brian Murgatroyd, Mike Haysman, Ian Ward, Athar Ali Khan, Russel Arnold, Niall O'Brien, Kass Naidoo, and former West Indies skipper Daren Ganga.Aaron Finch, who led Australia to victory in 2021, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "This is a special event and one that promises a lot of excitement with 20 teams competing and many thrilling contests lined up. I look forward to bringing all my experience as a player to my commentary during the tournament.”Carlos Brathwaite shared his excitement about the tournament's location, stating, "The T20 World Cup is a tournament very close to my heart, and I'm thrilled this edition is being played in the West Indies and for the first time in the USA. I can't wait for my stint as a commentator at this event, and I hope this is a truly memorable one."Katey Martin highlighted the tournament's potential for surprises, "This tournament always promises a few surprises. With 20 teams participating, it will be exciting to see some of the Associate teams have a crack at the bigger sides. I am fortunate to be part of such a fantastic team of broadcasters, and I'm looking forward to an incredible event."Dinesh Karthik emphasized the unique aspects of this year's tournament, "This tournament will be different in many ways, which makes it even more exciting. With 20 teams, 55 matches, and some new venues, it's a thrilling combination, and I can't wait to dive in. Being part of such a high-class commentary team is a fantastic feeling, and commentating on players I have recently played with makes it even more interesting."Ebony Rainford-Brent praised the growing quality of ICC events, saying, "This is the year of ICC T20 World Cups, with an exciting 20-team men's tournament coming up and the women's tournament following in Bangladesh later. Sharing my views alongside the best from around the world is an incredible opportunity. I can't wait to get started!"Dale Steyn looked forward to the diverse tactics teams would employ, "The Men's T20 World Cup, with its new format and more teams competing, is a fantastic opportunity to spread the game. I'm sure both old and new cricket fans will be eager for the action to begin. I will be watching every team closely, and it will be fascinating to see the different tactics that come into play."The ICC's coverage will span 28 days, featuring pre-match shows, innings interval programs, and post-match wrap-ups. In collaboration with Disney Star, Quidich Innovation Labs, and NEP, ICC TV will introduce an AI-supported vertical feed for the T20 World Cup, marking a world first for cricket.The Men's T20 World Cup kicks off on June 1, with co-hosts USA facing Canada at Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas, setting the stage for an exciting and historic event in cricket.

Shahid Afridi, the legendary Pakistani cricketer, has been appointed as a tournament ambassador for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024, which will be jointly hosted by the West Indies and the USA. Afridi joins an illustrious group of ambassadors that includes Yuvraj Singh of India, Chris Gayle of the West Indies, and Usain Bolt, the world's fastest man.Afridi is a towering figure in T20 World Cup history, having played a pivotal role in Pakistan's journey to the final of the inaugural tournament in 2007 and their triumph in the 2009 edition. He was named Player of the Tournament in 2007 despite Pakistan's loss to India in the final and was instrumental in Pakistan's victory in 2009, earning Player of the Match honors in both the semi-final against South Africa and the final against Sri Lanka.Reflecting on his appointment, Afridi expressed his excitement about being part of the upcoming edition. "The ICC Men's T20 World Cup is an event that is very close to my heart. From being Player of the Tournament in the inaugural edition to lifting the trophy in 2009, some of my favorite career highlights have come from competing on this stage," said Afridi. "T20 World Cups have gone from strength to strength in recent years, and I'm thrilled to be part of this edition, where we will see more teams, more matches, and even more drama than ever before."Afridi also highlighted the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan fixture on June 9, calling it "one of the great rivalries in sport" and expressing his excitement for the match taking place in New York.Claire Furlong, ICC General Manager of Marketing and Communications, welcomed Afridi to the ambassador team. "Shahid competed in six ICC Men's T20 World Cups, two of which as captain, and delivered a Player of the Match performance when winning the trophy in 2009. So, who better to join our all-star Ambassador team?" said Furlong. "He's a fan favorite around the world and, alongside Yuvraj Singh, Chris Gayle, and eight-time Olympic gold-medallist Usain Bolt, will bring fans closer to the event ahead of what is set to be the biggest T20 World Cup ever."The ICC Men's T20 World Cup is set to begin on June 1, with co-hosts USA taking on Canada at Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas.

Glenn Maxwell's dismal IPL 2024 campaign ended with a disappointing duck, leaving him with a meager 52 runs from nine innings. This slump has raised concerns about his form ahead of the T20 World Cup, where he is expected to play a pivotal role for Australia.Maxwell's struggles have been attributed to a combination of factors, including a lack of match practice due to off-field commitments and the ongoing management of a leg injury. Despite his poor batting performance, his bowling has remained a highlight, making him a valuable asset to Australia's white-ball plans.While some experts believe Maxwell's form will improve in the World Cup, others have expressed concern about his recent slump. Former Australia captain Aaron Finch suggested that Maxwell may have been nearing the end of his IPL career, while former batter Callum Ferguson expressed confidence in his ability to bounce back.Maxwell's future in the IPL is also uncertain, with a mega auction on the horizon. He has previously stated that the IPL will likely be his last tournament, but it remains to be seen whether he will continue with Royal Challengers Bengaluru or explore other options.Despite his recent struggles, Maxwell remains a highly skilled player capable of extraordinary performances. His ability to marshal the middle order and dominate the phase after the powerplay will be crucial for Australia's success in the T20 World Cup.

Justin Langer Withdraws from India Head Coach Race After KL Rahul's AdviceFormer Australian head coach Justin Langer has withdrawn his name from contention for the India head coach position, citing the immense pressure and commitment involved. Langer's decision came after a conversation with Lucknow Super Giants captain KL Rahul, who advised him that coaching Team India is a far more demanding task than managing an IPL franchise."It would be an amazing job, [but] I have [put myself out of contention]," Langer said on BBC's Stumped podcast. "I also know that it's an all-encompassing role, and having done it for four years with the Australian team, honestly, it's exhausting. And that's the Australian job!"Rahul's words resonated with Langer, who acknowledged the intense scrutiny and political dynamics that come with coaching the Indian team. "I was talking to KL Rahul and he said, 'You know, if you think there's pressure and politics in an IPL team, multiply that by a thousand, [that's] coaching India. That was a good bit of advice, I guess," Langer said.Langer's withdrawal follows similar decisions by other high-profile candidates, including Australian legend Ricky Ponting and New Zealand great Stephen Fleming. The deadline for applications for the India head coach job closes on May 27, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to announce the successful candidate soon after.Langer's decision highlights the demanding nature of coaching international cricket teams, particularly in high-pressure environments like India. The Indian team is one of the most followed and scrutinized in the world, and the head coach is expected to navigate a complex landscape of expectations, media attention, and political interference.While Langer may have withdrawn from the race, his experience and insights offer valuable lessons for aspiring coaches. The importance of understanding the unique challenges and pressures of coaching at the international level cannot be overstated.