Cricket

Eisenhower Park, located in Nassau County, New York, has undergone a remarkable transformation to become the first modular stadium in international cricket. This state-of-the-art venue, with a capacity of 34,000, is set to host eight matches of the upcoming T20 World Cup, including the highly anticipated clash between India and Pakistan on June 9.The construction of Eisenhower Park was a monumental undertaking, completed in just five months. The project involved erecting a stadium on what was previously park land, as well as preparing and transporting drop-in pitches from Florida. Ten drop-in pitches were installed in the main square, along with six additional pitches for practice. The pitches were meticulously prepared by Adelaide Oval Turf Solutions, while the outfield was constructed by LandTek Group, a renowned turf-making company.The ICC will conduct test events at Eisenhower Park in the lead-up to the World Cup, which begins on June 1. The first match at the venue will be played on June 3 between South Africa and Sri Lanka. Prior to the main tournament, a warm-up match between Bangladesh and India will be held on June 1.ICC's head of events, Chris Tetley, expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the project, stating that Eisenhower Park now resembles a world-class cricket stadium. He also emphasized that community cricket events will be held in May to test the infrastructure and operational demands.Tickets for the T20 World Cup matches in New York are still available, including for the India vs Pakistan match. Fans are encouraged to visit tickets.t20worldcup.com to secure their seats.

Rohit Sharma Reveals the Most Formidable Bowler He Has FacedIndian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has named South African pace legend Dale Steyn as the most formidable bowler he has encountered throughout his illustrious career. As India gears up for the upcoming T20 World Cup, Rohit's revelation has sparked intrigue among cricket enthusiasts worldwide.Rohit, who has amassed over 15,000 international runs across all formats, has faced some of the greatest bowlers in the game. However, it is Steyn who stands out as the most challenging opponent he has faced."I have gone and watched his videos like 100 times before I went in to bat. That was Dale Steyn. He is an absolute legend of the game. And what he has achieved in his career is just superb to watch. And I have faced him many times," Rohit said.Steyn, who retired from international cricket in 2020, was renowned for his express pace, lethal swing, and unwavering competitiveness. He claimed 699 wickets in 265 international matches for South Africa, establishing himself as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time."He is quick. He used to swing the ball at that pace, which is not easy. It is quite tough. And he was a fierce competitor. He just went out there wanting to do everything, to win every game and every session, so it was nice to come up against him," Rohit added.Rohit's admiration for Steyn is a testament to the South African's exceptional skills and the impact he had on the game. Steyn's ability to consistently bowl at high speeds with pinpoint accuracy made him a formidable opponent for even the most accomplished batsmen.As India prepares for the T20 World Cup, Rohit's experience in facing Steyn will undoubtedly be invaluable. The Indian skipper will be hoping to lead his team to glory in the tournament, and his insights into Steyn's bowling will be crucial in helping India overcome any challenges they may face.

Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has expressed his admiration for two batters who have impressed him with their performances: Zak Crawley of England and Steve Smith of Australia.Crawley, a 26-year-old opener, has caught Sharma's attention with his impressive performances in Test cricket. In 44 Test matches, Crawley has scored 2,611 runs at an average of 32.63, including four centuries and 14 fifties. His highest score is an impressive 267.Sharma praised Crawley's ability to play with freedom and aggression. "I watched Zak Crawley very closely this season and enjoyed watching him bat," Sharma said. "He has a good technique and a positive mindset."Smith, on the other hand, is a seasoned veteran who has established himself as one of the greatest batters of his generation. In 334 international matches for Australia, Smith has amassed 16,225 runs, including 44 centuries and 79 half-centuries.Sharma highlighted Smith's unique approach to batting and his ability to adapt to different situations. "Steve Smith is different from the rest," Sharma said. "He has his own way of doing things, but he is successful."Smith's dominance is particularly evident in Test cricket, where he has scored 9,685 runs at an average of 56.97, with 32 centuries and 41 half-centuries. He has played a key role in Australia's triumphs in two ICC Cricket World Cups, one ICC T20 World Cup, and one ICC World Test Championship.Sharma's admiration for Crawley and Smith reflects his appreciation for batters who possess both technical skill and mental toughness. These qualities are essential for success at the highest level of cricket, and Sharma believes that both Crawley and Smith have the potential to achieve great things in the game.

Sophia Dunkley's return to form for South East Stars in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy has not yet earned her a recall to the England Women's team, according to assistant coach Gareth Breese. Dunkley, who has scored 293 runs in five innings, including a century, was dropped from the England set-up after a poor run of form on the recent tours of India and New Zealand.Breese explained that England's current top-order, including Dunkley's replacement Maia Bouchier, will be given time to develop, while Dunkley will be allowed to regain her form away from the international spotlight. He emphasized that England backs its players even after setbacks and that Dunkley remains an integral part of the wider set-up.Dunkley's involvement in a red-ball training session at Loughborough on Tuesday demonstrates the management's commitment to supporting players on the fringes. Breese stated that the team is working closely with Dunkley and that she is "still in and around the fold."Despite the upcoming ODI series against Pakistan and the New Zealand tour in June and July, Breese insisted that England is not operating a closed shop for selection. He believes that competition for places is essential for driving improvement and that players can still break into the team from outside the contracted group.The first T20I against Pakistan highlighted the strength of England's spin attack, with Sarah Glenn, Sophie Ecclestone, and Charlie Dean all contributing wickets. Breese praised the bowlers' hard work and recognition in the ICC's T20I rankings but emphasized that he is constantly pushing them to improve.He described himself as a "grumpy dad" when it comes to demanding higher standards and believes that all three spinners have the potential to get even better. He highlighted Ecclestone's growth as a death bowler, Dean's wicket-taking ability, and Glenn's consistent performances.

Yuzvendra Chahal, the renowned leg-spinner for the Rajasthan Royals, is known for his infectious humor and ability to lighten the mood both on and off the field. As the Royals prepare for their upcoming match against the Punjab Kings, Chahal's antics have once again brought laughter to the dressing room.In a video shared by the Royals on social media, Chahal is seen attempting to take photographs of his teammates, including local lad Riyan Parag. However, Parag initially ignores Chahal's attempts to get his attention, prompting the spinner to call out various nicknames, including "Chintu," "hello," and "tattoo wale bhaiya."Undeterred, Chahal persists, and when he finally calls out Parag's name, the batsman turns and gives a thumbs-up sign. Chahal then proceeds to click pictures of his other teammates, capturing the lighthearted atmosphere within the Royals camp.The Royals are currently in a strong position in the Indian Premier League (IPL) standings, having secured a spot in the playoffs with eight victories and four defeats. Parag has been a key contributor with the bat, scoring 483 runs in 12 matches, while Chahal has taken 15 wickets in 12 games.Chahal's humor and camaraderie have played a significant role in maintaining a positive and relaxed environment within the Royals team. His ability to keep the atmosphere light has helped the players stay focused and motivated throughout the tournament.As the Royals prepare for their match against the Punjab Kings, Chahal's antics are sure to continue, providing a much-needed dose of laughter and camaraderie to the team.

RCB Urged to Prioritize Indian Players for IPL SuccessFormer Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has advised Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to invest heavily in Indian players if they aspire to win the Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy. Kaif's comments come after RCB's recent resurgence in the tournament, despite a dismal start that saw them lose six consecutive matches.Kaif praised RCB's comeback but cautioned that their chances of making the playoffs are slim. He emphasized the need for the franchise to learn from their experiences and prioritize investing in Indian talent."This is a lesson for RCB for next year. You have to back Indian players," Kaif said. "KKR have invested in Indian players and they are on top, so are Rajasthan Royals."Kaif urged RCB to shift their focus towards nurturing Indian talent, stating, "RCB should bring in Indian players. Do scouting, bring them in and back them."He cautioned against RCB's reliance on foreign players, stating, "They have an obsession about foreign players...RCB now have learnt how to win without stars like Maxwell. It should serve as a lesson for them."Kaif stressed the need for RCB to adopt a proactive approach in grooming Indian talent, emphasizing, "They should invest in them, they will win them the trophy. KKR did it, RR did it. Take examples of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel. And Sanju Samson - RR invested a lot on him and now they are reaping the rewards. So, RCB should identify Indian players and back them."

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has initiated the search for a new head coach for the senior men's cricket team. Current coach Rahul Dravid's contract expires in June 2024, and while he is eligible to re-apply, reports suggest he may not be interested in continuing.The BCCI has invited applications for the position, with a deadline of May 27, 2024. The selection process will involve a review of applications, personal interviews, and assessments of shortlisted candidates.BCCI secretary Jay Shah has confirmed that the board is also considering overseas candidates, but the decision will depend on the recommendations of the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC). Shah has stated that he cannot interfere if the CAC selects a foreign coach.According to reports, the BCCI has informally discussed the position with Stephen Fleming, the former New Zealand captain and current coach of Chennai Super Kings. Fleming has extensive experience in Indian cricket and is familiar with the players and conditions. However, it is unclear if he will apply for the job.The BCCI's decision to seek a new coach comes amid a period of transition for the Indian team. Dravid has been credited with improving the team's performance in Test cricket, but the team has struggled in limited-overs formats. The upcoming ODI World Cup in India later this year will be a key test for the team and could influence the BCCI's decision on the next coach.The search for a new coach has sparked interest among fans, with many taking to social media to submit their applications. The BCCI's announcement has also raised questions about the future of Dravid, who is widely respected in Indian cricket.

Delhi Capitals' assistant coach Pravin Amre has justified the exclusion of Prithvi Shaw from the team's recent matches, citing the impressive performances of Abishek Porel. Shaw, who played eight games for DC, scored 198 runs at an average of 24.75 and a strike rate of 163.63, including one half-century."He [Shaw] was our retained player, but he was on the bench for the last four of five games," Amre said after DC's 19-run win over Lucknow Super Giants in their final league game of the season. "If you are not in form, you can't keep your place. The pressure for the team is so much that every game is important and we have to win."Amre praised Porel for grabbing his opportunities with both hands. The left-hander smashed 327 runs in 12 innings at a strike rate of 159.51, including a blistering 58 off 33 balls against Lucknow Super Giants."What an innings [Porel] played today," Amre said. "We saw Jake [Fraser-McGurk] getting out in the first over and even then we managed to get 73 runs in the powerplay. I think that's what was so critical and the credit goes to Shai Hope and Porel for getting that 92-run partnership today."Porel's impressive performances as an opener have given DC a new dimension. In the three matches he played at the top of the order, he scored 159 runs at a strike rate of 165.62, including two half-centuries."Porel has shown that he can be a valuable asset to the team," Amre said. "He is a very talented player and he has a bright future ahead of him."

India's T20 World Cup Wicketkeeper Dilemma: Gambhir Backs Pant Over SamsonFormer Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding India's first-choice wicketkeeper for the upcoming T20 World Cup, expressing his preference for Rishabh Pant over Sanju Samson. Gambhir's decision is based on two key factors: Pant's batting position and left-handedness.Batting PositionGambhir highlights the contrasting batting positions of Pant and Samson in the Indian Premier League (IPL). While Pant has primarily batted in the middle order, Samson has been a top-order batsman. Given India's established top three of Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Virat Kohli, Gambhir believes Pant's presence in the middle order is crucial.Left-HandednessAnother factor influencing Gambhir's choice is Pant's left-handed batting style. He emphasizes that Pant's left-handedness brings variety to India's middle order, creating a strategic advantage with a left-hand-right-hand combination.Samson's RoleWhile acknowledging the quality of both Pant and Samson, Gambhir suggests that Samson could be considered for the finisher's role if the team management deems him more suitable. However, he reiterates his preference for Pant as the natural middle-order batsman who aligns better with the team's requirements.Support and PatienceGambhir stresses the importance of supporting whichever player is chosen for the wicketkeeper role. He urges the team management and fans to provide patience and encouragement, rather than undue criticism, in the event of a player's temporary dip in form.ConclusionGambhir's analysis provides valuable insights into the factors that should influence India's wicketkeeper selection for the T20 World Cup. While both Pant and Samson possess exceptional abilities, Gambhir's preference for Pant is based on his suitability for the middle order and the strategic advantage of his left-handedness.