Cricket

The highly anticipated India vs New Zealand Test match in Bengaluru has reached a pivotal point, with all possible outcomes still on the table. However, the weather could play a decisive role in determining the fate of the match.After a rain-marred first day, the match commenced under overcast conditions. New Zealand's fast bowlers wreaked havoc on India's batting lineup, dismissing them for a paltry 46 runs. The visitors then amassed a formidable 402 runs, putting India under immense pressure.In response, India fought back with a resilient 462 runs, setting New Zealand a target of 107 runs to win. With all ten second-innings wickets in hand, New Zealand will resume their chase on the fifth and final day.However, the weather forecast for Bengaluru is casting a shadow over the match. The Indian Meteorological Department predicts "generally cloudy sky with one or two spells of rain or thundershowers" on Sunday. Accuweather also forecasts "thunderstorms in the area late Saturday night through Sunday evening."These weather conditions could prove advantageous for India, as they could limit the time available for New Zealand to score the required runs. Conversely, New Zealand will be hoping for a clear spell of cricket to allow them to chase down the target.The M Chinnaswamy Stadium boasts a world-class drainage facility and a subsurface aeration system, which enables play to resume quickly after rainfall. However, if the rain persists or becomes too heavy, it could force the match to be abandoned or result in a draw.As the match enters its final day, the tension is palpable. Both teams will be eager to secure a victory, but the weather could ultimately have the final say.

Brendon McCullum, England's coach, has dismissed suggestions that his team has been exposed on spinning pitches, despite Pakistan's captain Shan Masood expressing a desire for another turner in the series decider in Rawalpindi.Pakistan's radical overhaul of their strategy in the second Test in Multan, which included the addition of three spinners and the use of the same pitch for a second week, paid off handsomely. Sajid Khan and Noman Ali shared 20 wickets to set up a series-levelling 152-run win.However, McCullum believes that England's defeat was not due to a lack of ability against spin. "We were outplayed in this game," he said. "We'll see what Rawalpindi's got to offer and we'll try and adapt accordingly."Masood, on the other hand, is hoping for a drier pitch in Rawalpindi that will assist the spinners. "I would like to see the ball turn in the third Test," he said. "We want to get 20 wickets wherever we play, and we want to back that up with the bat."McCullum, however, predicted that the surface will be "the antithesis of the green seamer" for the decider. "I actually don't mind," he said. "We said right at the outset that we'll try to adapt to whatever conditions we come up against."Despite England's recent struggles on the subcontinent, McCullum is confident that his team has the ability to handle spinning conditions. "We've got a pretty good record here [in Pakistan]," he said. "Even that Test match we won in India, that was probably the most extreme of the spinning conditions. I don't know: we'll find out. I certainly don't mind if it spins in the next one. I think we've got the artillery to be able to handle it."McCullum also defended England's aggressive approach with the bat during the second Test. "We saw in this Test match that so many wickets fell to people trying to hang in there," he said. "It was those that were prepared to be brave enough to sweep, reverse-sweep, put the opposition under pressure, who were actually able to score runs."

Rohit Sharma's IPL Future Sparks Fan Frenzy at India-New Zealand TestDuring the first Test between India and New Zealand in Bengaluru, India captain Rohit Sharma found himself at the center of a light-hearted moment that has captured the attention of cricket fans on social media. As Rohit walked off the field, a fan shouted out a question that has sparked speculation about his future in the Indian Premier League (IPL)."Bhai, IPL mein kaun sa team?" (Brother, which IPL team?), the fan asked, eager to know Rohit's preferred destination for the upcoming season. Rohit responded with a playful question of his own: "Where do you want?"Without hesitation, the fan replied, "Bhai, RCB mein ajao yaar (Come to RCB, brother)." Rohit, however, did not respond to the plea and continued walking towards the pavilion, leaving the fan's request unanswered.Rohit's current IPL team, Mumbai Indians (MI), has been his home for the past 13 seasons, during which he has led them to five championship titles. However, the fan's plea from the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) camp highlights the intense rivalries and transfer hopes that run deep within the IPL.In the match itself, Rohit bounced back from a disappointing first innings with a solid 52 in India's second innings, providing a strong foundation alongside opener Yashasvi Jaiswal (32). The hosts have staged a remarkable recovery by erasing New Zealand's mammoth 356-run lead, bringing the team back into contention for a victory.Rohit's future with MI remains uncertain, and the fan's plea for him to join RCB has sparked speculation about a potential transfer. While Rohit has been a key figure for MI, the team's recent struggles and the emergence of young talent could lead to a change in strategy.The IPL is known for its unpredictable nature and game-changing transfers, and Rohit's future destination will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. Whether he remains with MI or makes a move to another franchise, his presence is sure to have a significant impact on the upcoming season.

The Tamil Nadu under-19 women's cricket team has etched its name in history by claiming the BCCI Women's under-19 T20 tournament for the first time. Their triumph over Uttar Pradesh by four wickets in a low-scoring match at Lahli, Haryana on Friday marked a significant milestone for women's cricket in the state.The TN U-19 women's team manager, Pushpa Sathyanarayanan, expressed her pride and joy over the team's stunning victory. She attributed their success to the players' unwavering passion for the game, determination, and exceptional teamwork. Sathyanarayanan emphasized that the team's journey to victory had been nothing short of inspiring, with the players' commitment and the unwavering support of coaches, parents, and the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) playing a crucial role."This triumph is not just a victory for the team, but a celebration of women's cricket in Tamil Nadu," Sathyanarayanan said. "This is a dream come true for all of us. The Under-19 girls cricket team members would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the TNCA for their unwavering support and their motive to develop women's cricket in the region."The match itself was a tense and closely contested affair. Uttar Pradesh posted a modest total of 67 runs in 19.2 overs, with Janlin Chandra emerging as the standout bowler for Tamil Nadu, claiming four wickets for just 11 runs. In response, Tamil Nadu chased down the target in 19.1 overs, losing six wickets in the process.The victory has sparked widespread jubilation and recognition for the Tamil Nadu under-19 women's cricket team. Their achievement is a testament to the growing strength and talent of women's cricket in India, and it is hoped that their success will inspire future generations of young girls to pursue their dreams in the sport.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed a novel plan to address security concerns and facilitate India's participation in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Under the proposal, the Indian team would return to India after each match played in Pakistan, either to Chandigarh or Delhi. This arrangement would allow Team India to travel to Pakistan for their games while mitigating concerns about staying in the host country for the tournament's duration.The Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, with matches to be held in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Karachi. The PCB has planned all of India's matches in Lahore due to logistical considerations and security concerns. The city's proximity to the border makes it easier for Indian fans to attend the games.The PCB's proposal aims to address the Indian government's reservations about touring Pakistan. The decision on whether the Indian team will travel to Pakistan ultimately rests with the Indian government. However, recent developments, including discussions during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to Pakistan, indicate ongoing efforts to address security and logistical concerns.The ICC has distributed the tournament schedule to all parties involved, including the participating teams. Local media outlets have reported that the broadcaster has requested a change in the venue for the India-New Zealand match, with the PCB suggesting Rawalpindi as a potential replacement. However, both the broadcaster and the ICC have denied any knowledge of such a request.India's participation in the Champions Trophy is crucial for the global cricketing community. The event's significance would be greatly diminished if India chooses not to participate. The ICC and PCB have devised a backup plan to organize India's matches outside of Pakistan in case the Men in Blue are unable to make the trip.

India has etched its name in the annals of Test cricket history by becoming the first team to smash 100 sixes in a calendar year. This remarkable feat was achieved on Day 3 of the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru, marking a watershed moment in the sport.The Rohit Sharma-led side has been on a six-hitting spree throughout 2023, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill leading the charge with 29 and 16 sixes respectively. This achievement surpasses the previous record of 89 sixes set by England in 2022.India's dominance in this aspect is a testament to their aggressive approach and the presence of power hitters in their batting lineup. The team's ability to clear the boundary with ease has put pressure on opposition bowlers and created scoring opportunities.In the ongoing Test against New Zealand, India's batting prowess was on full display. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Sarfaraz Khan all struck fluent fifties, keeping their team in the hunt despite a significant first-innings deficit. Kohli's knock was particularly significant as he reached the milestone of 9,000 Test runs.New Zealand had earlier posted a formidable total of 402, thanks to Rachin Ravindra's century and Tim Southee's quickfire 63. However, India's counter-attacking approach has given them a glimmer of hope in the match.With two days remaining in the Test, India faces an uphill task to chase down the target and secure victory. However, their ability to hit sixes at will could prove to be a game-changer.

Bengal opener Abhimanyu Easwaran, on the cusp of a significant milestone in his cricketing career, expressed gratitude and determination as he prepared to play his 100th First Class match.Easwaran, who has been a consistent performer for Bengal, reflected on his 11-year journey in the sport. He acknowledged the support of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) for providing him with the platform to showcase his talent."It's a long journey," Easwaran said. "I thanked the association in my acceptance speech. The CAB gave me a chance to play First Class cricket. It feels good that I am playing my 100th match."The 29-year-old batsman, who has come close to earning the India cap on multiple occasions, has scored four centuries in the 2024-25 season. Despite his impressive performances, Easwaran remains focused on his primary goal of piling on runs."It will happen when it has to happen," he said. "You keep on doing your job. I am only thinking about the Bihar match. We got a good start to the season. My focus is only on the Ranji Trophy."Easwaran has accumulated 7638 runs in 99 matches at an average of 49.92 before the match against Bihar. His consistent performances have earned him recognition as one of the most promising batsmen in the country.However, the Bengal opener remains grounded and continues to work hard to improve his game. He believes that his journey has been filled with valuable lessons and experiences."It makes me feel special," Easwaran said. "It was not my dream to play 100 matches. My aim was to play for India. It's still the same dream. It was good to enjoy the journey. I have learnt a lot. I have made a lot of friends. I have a lot of memories."As Easwaran prepares to step onto the field for his 100th First Class match, he carries with him the hopes and aspirations of his team and the Bengal cricket fraternity. His determination and unwavering focus on his goals make him a role model for aspiring cricketers across the country.

West Indies and New Zealand Battle for a Spot in the Women's T20 World Cup FinalIn a highly anticipated semi-final clash at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, New Zealand captain Sophie Devine called the shots and elected to bat first against the West Indies. Both teams are eager to secure a place in the final of the Women's T20 World Cup 2024.West Indies, the 2016 champions, are determined to make their second appearance in the final. New Zealand, on the other hand, is aiming to break their 14-year drought and reach the final for the first time since 2010.With the tournament favorites, Australia, eliminated in the previous semi-final, the remaining teams have a renewed sense of optimism. West Indies and New Zealand have a history of competitive matches, with the West Indies emerging victorious in their 2016 semi-final encounter.The match promises to be a thrilling contest between two evenly matched teams. West Indies boasts a formidable batting lineup led by Hayley Matthews and Stafanie Taylor, while New Zealand relies on the explosive batting of Devine and Suzie Bates.On the bowling front, West Indies will look to Shakera Selman and Aaliyah Alleyne to restrict New Zealand's scoring. New Zealand, in turn, will count on the experience of Lea Tahuhu and the spin of Amelia Kerr.The winner of this semi-final will face either India or England in the final, scheduled for February 26th at the same venue.

India's spirited fightback on the third day of the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru was overshadowed by Virat Kohli's unfortunate dismissal off the last ball of the day. Kohli, who reached the milestone of 9,000 Test runs during his innings, shared a 136-run partnership with Sarfaraz Khan, who remained unbeaten on 70 at the close of play.India's second innings began with a solid opening stand of 72 between Yashasvi Jaiswal (35) and Rohit Sharma (52). However, spinner Ajaz Patel made inroads into the Indian top order, dismissing both openers. Rohit's dismissal came shortly after he had smashed Matt Henry for a sequence of four, six, and four to bring up his half-century.The day belonged to New Zealand's Rachin Ravindra, who scored his second Test century and was the last man out in the tourists' first innings total of 402. Ravindra, resuming on his overnight score of 22, reached his hundred with a boundary off Ravichandran Ashwin before lunch. He shared a crucial 137-run partnership for the eighth wicket with Tim Southee, who contributed a quickfire 65.India's pace duo of Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah struck early in the morning session, while spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav claimed three wickets each. The hosts were without the services of wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, who remained off the field after injuring his knee. Dhruv Jurel took over as the substitute wicketkeeper.India's second innings got off to a solid start, with Kohli and Sarfaraz Khan putting on a century partnership. Kohli reached his fifty at his adopted home ground, where he represents the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL. However, his dismissal off the last ball of the day to Glenn Phillips, caught behind by Tom Blundell, left India at 231 for three at stumps, still trailing the Black Caps by 125 runs.