Cricket

India's dominance over Bangladesh in the ongoing T20I series continued as they secured a comfortable seven-wicket victory in the second match in Guwahati. The hosts, fielding a young and talented side, proved too strong for the full-strength visitors, who have struggled to match the "skills and mentality" of Suryakumar Yadav's men.Despite resting key players like Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, and Jasprit Bumrah, India's depth in white-ball cricket shone through. Sanju Samson, confirmed as an opener for the series, made a strong statement of intent with a brisk 19-ball 29, showcasing his ability to play freely in the powerplay. However, he failed to convert his promising start, much like his opening partner Abhishek Sharma, who displayed sheer power before running himself out.With first-choice openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill rested, both Samson and Sharma were keen to prove their worth. They seized the opportunity and looked to build a solid foundation for India's chase.The hosts' bowling attack, led by debutant Mayank Yadav's fiery pace, was equally impressive. Yadav, along with fellow first-timer Nitish Kumar Reddy, made a mark as a seam-bowling all-rounder, a rarity in Indian cricket. Arshdeep Singh capably led the pace attack, while mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy made a striking comeback after a three-year absence from the national team.Chakaravarthy, who is eyeing the spin all-rounder's spot left vacant by Ravindra Jadeja, will be a key player for India in the upcoming T20 World Cup. He, along with Washington Sundar, will be looking to fill the void left by Jadeja's absence.On the other hand, Bangladesh, who fielded a similar side to the one they played at the World Cup earlier this year, have the advantage of experience but have been unable to crack the T20 format. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto admitted that his team has not been performing well in this format for a long time.Batting continues to be Bangladesh's weak link, and they struggled against India's disciplined bowling attack. Senior players like Liton Das and Mahmuddullah need to get their act together if Bangladesh wants to stay alive in the three-match series.The Bangladesh bowlers have the ability to spice up things, but against India's formidable lineup, they would need plenty of runs on the board.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli: Football Enthusiasts Beyond the Cricket PitchRohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, two of India's most celebrated cricketers, share a common passion for football. While cricket remains their primary focus, both players have showcased impressive football skills and incorporate the sport into their fitness routines.During warm-ups and charity matches, Rohit Sharma exhibits exceptional ball control and composure. His natural sportsmanship translates into his football style, where he maintains a calm and collected approach, similar to his batting technique.Virat Kohli, known for his rigorous fitness regimen, frequently includes football in his warm-up routines. His quick reflexes, agility, and stamina are evident on the football field. Both Rohit and Virat, along with other Indian cricketers, engage in friendly football games as part of their pre-match preparations. These games provide a fun and engaging way for the team to stay loose and enjoy a different sport.Rohit Sharma has participated in charity football matches, including the "Celebrity Clasico" events organized by Virat Kohli's foundation. In these appearances, he has demonstrated a solid understanding of the game.Virat Kohli's football skills reflect his intense personality, characterized by aggression and energy. His quick footwork and determination make him an active participant in the football games played by the Indian cricket team.Rohit and Virat's passion for football adds a competitive and enjoyable element to their friendship. They utilize the sport to maintain fitness, enhance coordination, and foster teamwork off the cricket field.

Prolific Mumbai batter Sarfaraz Khan will miss the team's Ranji Trophy opener against Baroda due to his inclusion in the National Cricket Academy (NCA) camp. The 25-year-old played a pivotal role in Mumbai's Irani Cup triumph last week, scoring an unbeaten 222.Khan's absence is a significant blow to Mumbai, who are the defending Ranji Trophy champions. The team will face Baroda in an away fixture from October 11 and Maharashtra at home from October 18. The latter match coincides with the India-New Zealand first Test in Bengaluru from October 16.Despite his absence, Khan is expected to retain his place in the India squad. The Mumbai selectors have picked a strong squad for the first two matches, led by Ajinkya Rahane. Other notable players include Prithvi Shaw, Shreyas Iyer, and Shams Mulani.

Mukesh Kumar, a rising star in Indian cricket, has emerged as a strong contender for a spot in the upcoming Test series against Australia. Despite being one of only two Indian male pacers to debut in all three international formats in the same series, Kumar has remained grounded and focused on his performances.After a remarkable tour of Australia in 2020-21, where he was part of the historic Test series win, Kumar has continued to impress with his consistent performances. In the recent Duleep Trophy, he claimed 15 wickets, second only to Anshul Kamboj's 16. His five-wicket haul for Rest of India against Ranji Trophy champion Mumbai further solidified his credentials.While Australia is considered a daunting prospect for many Indian Test cricketers, Kumar is unfazed. He believes that playing for India was his ultimate goal, and touring other countries is a matter of pride. He is eager to bowl in the challenging conditions Down Under and prove his worth.Kumar's humble upbringing in Kakarkund, Bihar, has instilled in him a deep appreciation for the game. He spent countless hours practicing, regardless of the quality of the pitch or the opposition. This unwavering dedication has paid off, as he has become a reliable performer for Bengal, Delhi Capitals, and the Indian national team.Despite his success, Kumar remains grounded and focused on his goals. He understands that selection is a competitive process, but he is confident in his abilities. He believes that if he continues to perform well, he will eventually earn a place in the Test squad.Kumar's journey is a testament to the power of hard work and determination. He has overcome challenges and remained true to his passion for cricket. As he prepares for the potential opportunity to represent India in Australia, Mukesh Kumar is poised to make a significant impact on the world stage.

Fielding has evolved from being a mere addendum to batting and bowling to a crucial discipline in modern cricket. The era of selecting extraordinary batters or exceptional bowlers alone, even if they were poor fielders, is long gone. The T20 format has further elevated fielding to a glorious spectacle, with boundary-line catches and acrobatic saves becoming commonplace.The Indian cricket team has had a series of exceptional fielding coaches over the last decade and a half. R. Sridhar and T. Dilip have played pivotal roles in changing attitudes, mindsets, and approaches to fielding and catching. Dilip is credited with introducing the "fielding medal," which has become a symbol of the importance of this discipline.The fielding medal is not just an acknowledgment of the crucial role fielding plays in the game, but also a recognition of the often-overlooked performances that can alter the balance of a match. India's recent Test victory against Bangladesh is a testament to the importance of fielding. The team's exceptional catching and ground fielding played a significant role in their seven-wicket triumph.As India prepares for the upcoming five-Test series in Australia, their fielding will be put to the test. The larger grounds and the propensity of Australian batters to take risks will challenge their fitness, agility, and throwing arms. The emergence of Shubman Gill as an excellent poucher at slip and the increasing assurance of Virat Kohli and KL Rahul in the slip cordon are encouraging developments.However, India's ground fielding must also step up. The bigger grounds Down Under and the Australian batters' tendency to look for extra runs will test their staying power and ability to cover ground quickly. While fielding may not be the sole determinant of India's success in Australia, it could prove to be a significant factor.

Nitya Pandya's impressive knock of 94 runs on day one against Australia U-19 played a pivotal role in steering India U-19 to a commanding position. Despite falling six runs short of a well-deserved century, Pandya's innings was crucial in building a solid foundation for the team."We lost an early wicket, so the focus was on building a partnership," said Pandya after the day's play. "We (K.P. Karthikeya and I) were not always eager to go for boundaries; we wanted to keep rotating the strike. If the strike rotation is good, the opposition will automatically feel low."Pandya's journey to the India U-19 team has been a testament to his determination and hard work. Hailing from a village in Rajasthan, he began his cricketing journey there. However, the lack of adequate facilities and coaching opportunities prompted him to move to Vadodara."So, then my father and I decided to move to Vadodara," Pandya recalled. "Then, the Pandya brothers became famous, so we took inspiration from that and shifted. My mother, sister, and I shifted, while my father would travel back and forth.""When I shifted to Vadodara, it was my dream to play for the U-19 World Cup," Pandya continued. "Unfortunately, I wasn't selected. But I kept working hard and I landed this tour. I'm grateful."Pandya's innings was characterized by patience and maturity. He played with a calm head, rotating the strike and punishing loose deliveries. His partnership with Karthikeya, who scored 52, provided India U-19 with a solid platform to build upon.As India U-19 looks to consolidate their position on day two, Pandya's contribution will be crucial. His experience and leadership will be invaluable as the team aims to secure a victory against Australia U-19.

Juned Khan's journey to the Mumbai cricket team is a testament to his determination and the power of opportunity. Hailing from Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh, Khan moved to Mumbai in search of a job to support his family. He worked in a garment factory and drove an autorickshaw as a minor.Fate intervened when Khan found himself at the Sanjeevani Cricket Academy, run by former Mumbai wicketkeeper Manish Bangera. Despite his limited experience in cricket, Bangera encouraged him to pursue bowling. Khan faced challenges, including a lack of funds for proper gear, but received support from well-wishers.A breakthrough came when Abhishek Nayar, then assistant coach of Kolkata Knight Riders, spotted Khan's talent while he played for PJ Hindu Gymkhana. Khan impressed in the Buchi Babu and KSCA tournaments, earning him a debut for Mumbai in the Irani Cup.In his debut match, Khan made an immediate impact, taking the prized wicket of Ruturaj Gaikwad. "I couldn't sleep at all ever since I was told on the match eve that I will be playing my first match for Mumbai, that too in the Irani Cup," Khan said. "The wicket was a bonus. Just to find myself here is like a dream in itself."Khan's journey mirrors that of Mohammed Shami, another Uttar Pradesh native who played domestic cricket for a different state. Khan aspires to emulate Shami's success and is determined to make the most of his opportunity.

South Africa has secured an unassailable lead in the three-match ODI series against Ireland after winning the first two matches. The third and final ODI is currently underway, with Ireland winning the toss and electing to bat first.South Africa's playing XI features Ryan Rickelton as the wicket-keeper, along with Reeza Hendricks, Rassie van der Dussen (captain), Kyle Verreynne, Tristan Stubbs, Jason Smith, Andile Phehlukwayo, Bjorn Fortuin, Lizaad Williams, Lungi Ngidi, and Ottneil Baartman.Ireland's playing XI includes Paul Stirling as the captain, Andy Balbirnie, Curtis Campher, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wicket-keeper), George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Matthew Humphreys, Craig Young, Graham Hume, and Fionn Hand.The match is being played at the Malahide Cricket Club Ground in Dublin, Ireland. South Africa is looking to complete a clean sweep of the series, while Ireland will be aiming to salvage some pride and avoid a whitewash.South Africa has been in impressive form throughout the series, with their batters and bowlers performing consistently. Reeza Hendricks has been the standout performer with the bat, scoring two half-centuries in the first two matches. The bowling attack has been led by Lungi Ngidi, who has taken five wickets in the series so far.Ireland, on the other hand, has struggled to match South Africa's intensity. Their batting has been inconsistent, and their bowlers have been unable to contain the South African batters. Paul Stirling has been the only bright spot for Ireland, scoring a century in the first match.The third ODI is expected to be a closely contested affair, with both teams looking to end the series on a high note. South Africa will be confident of completing a clean sweep, while Ireland will be determined to avoid a whitewash.

Team India Arrives in Delhi for Second T20I Against BangladeshNew Delhi, India - The Indian cricket team, led by Suryakumar Yadav, arrived at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi on Monday, November 21, 2023, ahead of their second Twenty20 International (T20I) match against Bangladesh. The Men in Blue received a warm welcome from their enthusiastic supporters at the airport.After disembarking from their flight, the Indian team boarded a bus and proceeded to their hotel in the national capital. They are scheduled to face Bangladesh in the second T20I on Wednesday, November 23, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.India currently holds a 1-0 lead in the three-match series after defeating Bangladesh by seven wickets in the opening T20I in Gwalior. Suryakumar's team will be aiming to secure a series victory with a win in the second match.The upcoming T20I is expected to be a high-scoring affair, given the batting prowess of both teams. India will be looking to continue their winning momentum, while Bangladesh will be determined to level the series.The Indian team has a strong batting lineup, led by Suryakumar Yadav, who has been in excellent form in recent matches. Other key players include KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma. The bowling attack will be spearheaded by Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, and Yuzvendra Chahal.Bangladesh, on the other hand, will be relying on their experienced batsmen, such as Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Liton Das. Their bowling attack will be led by Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, and Shoriful Islam.The second T20I between India and Bangladesh promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams eager to secure a series victory.