Cricket

India's Woes Mount in Second Test as Latham's Dropped Catch Haunts ThemTeam India's struggles continued in the second Test against New Zealand as they found themselves trailing by 103 runs after the first innings. Despite restricting New Zealand to 259, India's batters failed to deliver, collapsing to 156 all out.In the second innings, India's bowlers toiled hard, but a crucial dropped catch proved costly. In the 37th over, Ravindra Jadeja induced an edge from New Zealand captain Tom Latham, who was well-set on 68. However, the chance was low and difficult, and Indian captain Rohit Sharma was unable to reach it in the slip cordon.The dropped catch left India frustrated, and Virat Kohli was seen expressing his displeasure to Latham and Henry Nicholls. In a viral video, Kohli appeared to be asking them to avoid running down the middle of the pitch. Kohli also had a conversation with the on-field umpire.New Zealand went on to post 255 in their second innings, setting India a victory target of 359 runs. The hosts now face an uphill battle to avoid a series defeat, having lost the opening Test in Bengaluru by eight wickets.

MS Dhoni Responds to Viral 'Thala for a Reason' Meme, Expresses Gratitude for FansMS Dhoni, the legendary Indian cricketer and former captain of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), has finally addressed the viral 'Thala for a reason' meme that has taken social media by storm. In a recent video, Dhoni acknowledged the meme's existence but expressed uncertainty about its origins."I do know about the meme, but I don't know the reason behind it," Dhoni said. "I'm not sure whether it's funny, meant to pull my leg, just banter, or a meme. But whatever it is, I think my fans have turned it into something positive for me."Dhoni's response highlights his humility and appreciation for his fans. He emphasized that he doesn't need to defend himself or explain the meme's meaning because his fans are always there to support him."I've got brilliant fans," Dhoni added. "I don't need to speak up or say anything; they're the ones who step up if someone questions me. I'm just keeping quiet and enjoying my life. I try to play good cricket, and that's what matters to me."Under Dhoni's captaincy, CSK has won the Indian Premier League (IPL) title five times, tying with the Mumbai Indians as the league's most successful team. Their first title came in 2010, followed by a back-to-back victory in 2011. CSK added to their legacy with titles in 2018, 2021, and 2023.Dhoni's leadership and strategic brilliance have played a crucial role in CSK's success. His ability to inspire and motivate his team, along with his calm and composed demeanor under pressure, has made him one of the most respected and admired cricketers in the world.

Indian billionaires Sanjiv Goenka and Mukesh Ambani have made significant bids for multiple franchises in the Hundred, a 100-ball cricket tournament in England and Wales. The ECB is selling 49% stakes in each team to investors, with the first round of bidding concluding last Friday.Goenka, the founder of RPSG Group, already owns the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL and the Durban Super Giants in the SA20. He is believed to have bid for several Hundred teams, expanding his cricket portfolio.Ambani, through his Reliance Industries, owns the Mumbai Indians in the IPL and three other T20 teams. If successful, he could potentially rename the London Spirit franchise to MI London.Other notable bidders include the Glazer siblings, owners of Manchester United, and Jonathan Goldstein, director of Chelsea Football Club.The first-round valuation of the eight Hundred teams is estimated at £500 million. The proceeds from the sale will be invested in the recreational and professional cricket ecosystem in the UK.Team owners will receive a share of central revenues, including broadcast rights and sponsorship. The ECB has declined to confirm the names of interested parties or the value of bids, but has expressed enthusiasm for the level of interest.The Ambani group has not responded to requests for comment, while the RPSG group declined to comment. Decisions on successful bidders will be announced in 2025.

Legendary Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni has hinted at continuing his illustrious career in the Indian Premier League (IPL) beyond 2025. The 43-year-old, who has led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to four IPL titles, expressed his desire to play for "the next few years" and maintain his fitness for the grueling tournament.Dhoni's comments come amidst speculation about his future in the IPL. He had previously handed over the CSK captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the 2024 season. However, his continued presence in the team would be a major boost for the franchise and the tournament as a whole."I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play," Dhoni said at a promotional event. "When you play cricket like a professional sport, it becomes difficult to enjoy it just like a game. That's what I want to do. It's not easy. The emotions keep coming, the commitments are there. I want to enjoy the game for the next few years."Dhoni's words suggest that he is not only targeting the 2025 IPL season but also the subsequent three-year cycle after the mega auction. He emphasized the need to stay fit for nine months to prepare for the two-and-a-half-month IPL season."I have to keep myself fit for nine months, so that I can play two and a half months of IPL. You need to plan it out, but at the same time chill a bit," Dhoni said.With his last appearance for Team India being over five years ago, Dhoni can be retained by CSK as an uncapped player at a price of only Rs 4 crore. This is due to the revival of a rule that was previously removed in 2021.Dhoni's continued presence in the IPL would not only benefit CSK but also the tournament itself. As one of the most iconic and successful players in IPL history, his presence would add star power and excitement to the competition.

Vijaykumar Vyshak, a 27-year-old pacer from Bengaluru, has received his maiden call-up to the Indian cricket team for the upcoming T20 series in South Africa. The selection marks a significant milestone in Vyshak's career, which has been characterized by hard work, determination, and a remarkable transformation.Vyshak's journey to the national team began as a top-order batter. However, a decade ago, he switched to pace bowling, a decision that proved to be pivotal. Despite facing challenges due to his gluten allergy and weight, Vyshak remained steadfast in his pursuit of excellence.In 2019, Vyshak sought guidance from former international athlete BP Aiyappa and trainers Sai Prasanna and Puneeth. Under their tutelage, he underwent rigorous training sessions, focusing on stamina, endurance, and technique. Additionally, he worked with former India bowling coach Bharat Arun to refine his bowling action.Vyshak's impressive performances for Karnataka in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament caught the attention of the selectors. His ability to swing the ball both ways, vary his pace, and soak pressure makes him a valuable asset to the Indian team.Speaking about his selection, Vyshak expressed his disbelief and gratitude. "An India call-up is what every cricketer aspires for. It's a dream come true," he said.Vyshak's journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers. It demonstrates that with hard work, dedication, and a never-say-die attitude, anything is possible. As he prepares to don the Indian jersey, Vyshak is eager to prove his worth and contribute to the team's success.

India's Women Cricketers Triumph Over New Zealand in ODI OpenerIn a thrilling encounter, the Indian women's cricket team emerged victorious over recently crowned Women's T20 World Cup champions New Zealand by a commanding 59-run margin in the first ODI of the three-match series.One of the defining moments of the match came during India's bowling effort, when spinner Deepti Sharma displayed exceptional presence of mind to execute a clever run-out. As New Zealand captain Sophie Devine stepped out to block a delivery, Sharma noticed an opportunity. With Devine still out of her crease and unaware of the situation, Sharma swiftly threw the ball back to wicket-keeper Yastika Bhatia, who swiftly dislodged the bails before Devine could return.Devine's attempt to evade Sharma's throw proved futile, as Yastika's quick reflexes sealed her fate. The third umpire confirmed Devine's dismissal, bringing an abrupt end to her innings for just two runs off five balls.Batting first, India posted a competitive total of 227 in 44.3 overs. While no batter managed to reach a half-century, several contributions throughout the order laid the foundation for their success. Tejal Hasabnis, making her international debut, top-scored with a solid 42, while Deepti Sharma chipped in with a valuable 41.In the run chase, New Zealand struggled to gain momentum, failing to establish any significant partnerships. They were eventually bowled out for 168 in just 40.4 overs, falling short of India's target by a significant margin.Radha Yadav emerged as the leading wicket-taker for India, claiming three wickets. Saima Thakor, another debutant, contributed with two wickets, while Deepti Sharma added one wicket to her impressive run-out.This victory marks a significant achievement for India, who had previously lost to New Zealand in the group stage of the Women's T20 World Cup. The team will now aim to secure a series win in the remaining two ODIs.

Australia's legendary fast bowler Brett Lee has emphasized the crucial role of India's pace trio—Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Mohammed Shami—in their quest to conquer the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.Bumrah and Siraj have been instrumental in India's recent success, while Shami has been sidelined since the 2023 ODI World Cup due to an Achilles tendon injury. However, Lee believes Shami's return to fitness is paramount for India's chances."Mohammed Shami has to be fit if India want to win over here," Lee asserted. "We all know how good a bowler Bumrah is. He can shape the ball both ways and will bowl extremely well. He's great with the old ball and a master of reverse swing."Lee also praised Siraj's ability to extract movement from the new ball. "Mohammed Siraj gets that new ball to talk and when he presents that seam upright, he gets it shape away, which can trouble Australia on wickets like Perth and Adelaide."Lee emphasized the importance of all three fast bowlers firing alongside Ravichandran Ashwin's spin. "For me, it is that combination. It is those three fast bowlers plus Ashwin, the spinner. Then they have guys who are part-time spinners to play a role. But you have to have those three quicks firing if India want to win."In case Shami is not ready for the Tests, Lee suggests India consider young speedster Mayank Yadav, who impressed in the IPL and made his T20I debut against Bangladesh. "The great thing about India is that they are not worried about how much cricket someone has played," Lee said. "If Mayank Yadav is ready to go, get him in there."Lee believes Yadav's raw pace and potential could be an asset on Australian wickets. "One thing I can promise you is that batsmen are OK around that 135km to 140km an hour mark. It is when they are bowling high 150s that no-one wants to face fast bowling over 150km/h. He looks as though he has the complete package. He is fresh and raw. But I would be inclined to go with him if Mohammed Shami is not ready."

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced an 18-member Indian cricket team squad for the upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. The series, which begins on November 22 in Perth, will feature matches in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.While the squad boasts a strong bowling lineup, there are notable absences, including Mohammed Shami, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav.Kuldeep Yadav, the left-arm wrist-spinner, was unavailable for selection due to a chronic left groin issue. He had featured in the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru but was replaced by Washington Sundar in the second contest.BCCI clarified that Yadav has been referred to the BCCI Centre of Excellence for long-term resolution of his injury.Mohammed Shami, who last played in the ODI World Cup in November 2023, has not recovered from a knee injury in time. Despite assurances of being fit, he has not been included in the squad.Axar Patel, on the other hand, has been named in the T20 squad that will travel to South Africa for a four-match series starting next month.Despite these absences, India's bowling lineup remains formidable. The squad includes Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Ishant Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin.The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is a prestigious series between India and Australia, and both teams will be eager to claim victory. India will be looking to retain the trophy, which they won in 2018-19.

India Announce T20I Squad for South Africa Series, Ramandeep Singh and Vijaykumar Vyshak Earn Maiden Call-upsThe Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a 16-member squad for the upcoming four-match T20I series against South Africa, which commences on November 8 in Durban. The squad features two notable inclusions: middle-order batter Ramandeep Singh and fast bowler Vijaykumar Vyshak, who have earned their maiden India call-ups.Ramandeep Singh, a 24-year-old right-handed batter, has been in impressive form for Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He has consistently scored runs at a high strike rate, showcasing his ability to accelerate the innings in the middle overs.Vijaykumar Vyshak, a 23-year-old right-arm fast bowler, has also caught the attention of selectors with his performances for Tamil Nadu in domestic cricket. He has impressed with his pace and accuracy, consistently troubling batters with his ability to swing the ball both ways.However, the squad also includes three notable absentees due to injuries. Batting allrounder Riyan Parag is undergoing rehabilitation for a chronic right shoulder injury, while fast bowler Mayank Yadav and seam-bowling allrounder Shivam Dube are also unavailable due to unspecified injuries.Mayank Yadav, who made his international debut during the recent home T20Is against Bangladesh, has been plagued by injuries throughout his career. He missed the entire IPL 2024 season due to an abdominal muscle issue, which has raised concerns about his long-term fitness.The Indian squad for the T20I series against South Africa is as follows:* Suryakumar Yadav (capt)* Abhishek Sharma* Sanju Samson (wk)* Rinku Singh* Tilak Varma* Jitesh Sharma (wk)* Hardik Pandya* Axar Patel* Ramandeep Singh* Varun Chakaravarthy* Ravi Bishnoi* Arshdeep Singh* Vijaykumar Vyshak* Avesh Khan* Yash DayalThe series against South Africa will be a crucial test for India as they prepare for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup in Australia. The team will be looking to build momentum and fine-tune their combinations ahead of the global tournament.