Cricket

The legendary bond between Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly has left an indelible mark on Indian cricket. Despite their contrasting personalities, these two icons shared a deep respect for each other's skills and contributions to the team.Ganguly, the former Indian captain, often credited Tendulkar as a calming influence and a constant support during his tenure. When faced with challenges, Sachin stood by him, providing both moral and tactical support. Similarly, Ganguly acknowledged Sachin's strategic insights, referring to him as the "team's think tank."Their camaraderie extended beyond the field, as they often faced off against the fiery Pakistani pacer Shoaib Akhtar in high-octane matches. Tendulkar and Ganguly, with their contrasting styles, neutralized Akhtar's threat by rotating the strike and counter-attacking. Their left-right combination forced Akhtar to adjust his line and length constantly, reducing his effectiveness.In a viral video, Ganguly expressed his admiration for Tendulkar, recalling an incident where Sachin suffered a double fracture in his rib cage after being hit by Akhtar. Despite the pain, Tendulkar continued to bat, showcasing his unwavering determination.Akhtar, too, has repeatedly expressed admiration for both Sachin and Sourav, calling them two of the best players of his era. He described Sachin as "calm and calculating," while Ganguly was "gritty and gutsy," praising both as challenging opponents for different reasons.The battles between Sachin, Sourav, and Shoaib represent the golden era of India-Pakistan cricket, marked by intensity, skill, and mutual respect. These encounters were more than just cricket-they were a spectacle of sportsmanship and passion, making them unforgettable for fans.Tendulkar and Ganguly's partnership defined an era of Indian cricket where the team started believing in its ability to dominate globally. Their friendship and on-field success continue to inspire young cricketers worldwide, serving as a testament to the power of teamwork and mutual respect.

Former Indian all-rounders Yuvraj Singh and Ravi Shastri have heaped praise on wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson for his scintillating century in the first T20I against South Africa. Samson's blistering knock of 107 off just 50 balls powered India to a commanding 61-run victory in Durban.Samson, who has been given a new lease of life as an opener, has now become the first Indian and fourth overall to score consecutive centuries in T20Is. His remarkable feat has earned him accolades from cricket legends."Sanju you beauty! Such a treat to watch that stroke play Very well played @IamSanjuSamson #IndVSSa," tweeted Yuvraj Singh.Ravi Shastri also took to Twitter to express his admiration for Samson's performance. "Sanjooo..... Samsonnn. Special. #SanjuSamson #SAvsIND," he wrote.Samson's century in Durban was his second in as many games, having scored 111 against Bangladesh in Hyderabad last month. Prior to Samson, only Gustav Mckeon (France), Rilee Rossouw (South Africa), and Phil Salt (England) had achieved the rare feat of scoring consecutive T20I centuries.Samson's knock was particularly impressive considering the self-doubt he had faced in the past about his ability to replicate his IPL success at the international level."Honestly in my career, I have had more failures than success. When you go through those failures, you start doubting yourself. People obviously say things, social media definitely plays its role, and then you also start thinking about it," Samson said after the match."It's like 'Sanju, are you not made for international level? You are doing well in the IPL, why is it not happening in international (cricket)?' I did have lots of thoughts, but after so many years of experience, I know my abilities."Samson's confidence and determination have paid off, and he is now proving to be a valuable asset for the Indian team. His ability to score runs quickly and consistently makes him a dangerous player in the shortest format of the game.

Virat Kohli, the Indian cricket superstar, has hailed AB de Villiers as the "absolute number one" after the South African legend was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame. De Villiers, along with Sir Alastair Cook and Neetu David, was inducted into the Class of 2024.Kohli and De Villiers have been close friends on and off the field for years, and the former penned an open letter to congratulate "Mr. 360" on his induction. "You are thoroughly deserving of your place – after all, the Hall of Fame is a representation of your impact on the game, and yours has been truly unique," Kohli wrote.Kohli praised De Villiers' exceptional talent and unwavering belief in his abilities. "You are the most talented cricketer I have played with, the absolute number one," he stated. "But what truly stood out to me was your belief in that ability. You had a crazy amount of belief that you could execute whatever you wanted to on a cricket field, and you normally did."Kohli recalled an unforgettable incident during an RCB match in Kolkata in 2016, where De Villiers' extraordinary six off Sunil Narine left him in awe. "You played and missed a couple and told me during a timeout that you weren’t picking him too well. I felt I was, so I remember telling you to give me the strike and I would try and hit boundaries off him," Kohli wrote. "In the first over Narine bowled after the timeout, I was ready at the non-striker’s end thinking you were definitely giving me a single. So, imagine my surprise when you back away to the leg side, Sunil follows you and you slog sweep him over square leg for a 94-metre six!"Kohli also highlighted De Villiers' unwavering commitment to his team. "Your drive to want to be the guy to win the game for your team was tremendous and something I learned a lot from," he said. "I remember taking from you that it doesn’t matter what you have done in the last four games, it is about how you approach the game today. It is about always being positive, always taking the game on and finding a way to get the job done."Kohli concluded his letter by expressing his admiration for De Villiers' impact on the game. "A lot of players can have impressive numbers but very few have an impact on the psyche of those watching. For me, that is the highest value you can have as a cricketer and that is what makes you so special," he wrote. "You are in the Hall of Fame for the impact you have left on the game and I don’t think there is anything more special for a cricketer than to have that honour."

Alastair Cook, Neetu David, and AB de Villiers have been inducted into the prestigious ICC Hall of Fame, joining an elite group of cricket legends.Neetu David, a former Indian left-arm spinner, becomes the second Indian woman after Diana Edulji to receive this honor. With 100 ODI wickets, she holds the record for the most wickets by an Indian woman in the format. Her exceptional bowling average of 16.34 remains unmatched by any bowler, male or female, with at least 100 ODI wickets.Alastair Cook, England's former opening batsman, was a prolific run-scorer and century-maker. He played a pivotal role in England's Ashes victory in Australia in 2010-11 and led the team to two consecutive home Ashes wins in 2013 and 2015.AB de Villiers, the South African batting maestro, revolutionized the game with his innovative strokeplay. He holds the records for the fastest 50, 100, and 150 in ODI cricket. With over 20,000 international runs, he was a key member of South Africa's semi-final appearances at the 2007 and 2015 ODI World Cups.The ICC Hall of Fame recognizes the exceptional achievements of cricketers who have made significant contributions to the sport. The induction of David, Cook, and de Villiers is a testament to their outstanding skills, dedication, and impact on the game.

Shikhar Dhawan and Chris Gayle's Dance Moves Delight Cricket FansFormer Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan and Jamaican legend Chris Gayle have showcased their playful side with a lighthearted dance video that has gone viral on social media. The duo, who are currently participating in the Legends League Cricket tournament, delighted fans with their energetic moves.Dhawan, known for his aggressive batting style, and Gayle, the "Universe Boss" of T20 cricket, have a long-standing friendship that was evident in their dance performance. The video, shared by Dhawan on Instagram, features the pair grooving to a catchy tune, with Dhawan adding a touch of Bollywood flair.Their playful dance not only entertained fans but also highlighted the strong camaraderie between the two legends. It was a memorable moment for cricket fans around the world, who have always admired the duo's on-field exploits.Dhawan and Gayle are currently playing for the Gujarat Giants franchise in the Legends League Cricket tournament. This event provides a platform for retired cricket icons to showcase their skills once again. Fans have been thrilled to witness their favorite former players in action, including the likes of Virender Sehwag, Brett Lee, and Kevin Pietersen.Dhawan, 38, announced his retirement from international and domestic cricket in August 2023. He represented India in 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is between 2013 and 2022. He was known for his explosive batting and was a key member of India's 2013 Champions Trophy-winning team.Gayle, 43, is one of the most destructive batsmen in T20 cricket history. He has played for several franchises around the world and has been a part of two World Cup-winning teams with the West Indies.The Legends League Cricket tournament provides an opportunity for fans to relive the golden era of cricket and witness the legends of the game in action. The tournament has been a huge success, with fans flocking to stadiums to see their favorite players.

The International Masters League (IML), a highly anticipated T20 franchise tournament, is set to ignite the cricketing world from November 17 to December 8. Six cricketing powerhouses—India, Sri Lanka, Australia, England, South Africa, and West Indies—will field legendary players in this thrilling competition.The inaugural edition will commence at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai with a blockbuster clash between India and Sri Lanka on November 17. Cricket icons Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara will lead their respective teams, rekindling memories of their epic encounters.The tournament will then move to Lucknow, where India will face South Africa on November 21. Lucknow will host six matches before the league shifts to Raipur, which will stage eight games, including the semi-finals and the grand finale on December 8.Each team will be captained by an iconic player who has left an indelible mark on the sport. Sachin Tendulkar (India), Brian Lara (West Indies), Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka), Shane Watson (Australia), Eoin Morgan (England), and Jacques Kallis (South Africa) will bring their unmatched experience and competitive spirit to the T20 format.The IML promises 18 action-packed matches that will blend nostalgia with high-energy cricket. Fans will witness legendary players showcase their skills and relive unforgettable moments.Sachin Tendulkar, the League Ambassador, expressed his excitement: "I am eager to lead India Masters in this league. The competition will be intense, and we aim to inspire the next generation while celebrating the sport we love."Brian Lara, captain of the West Indies team, added: "It's thrilling to return to the field with such a talented group. The IML format is fast-paced and exciting, just what the fans crave."Eoin Morgan, England's captain, said: "The IML combines cricketing legends with franchise competition. It will be an extraordinary experience for both players and fans."Jacques Kallis, South Africa's captain, remarked: "The chance to play in such a competitive environment again is exhilarating. The IML will showcase our talent and passion for the game."Shane Watson, Australia's captain, said: "It's incredible to see so many legends come together in one league. I'm excited to lead Australia and deliver top-notch cricket for the fans."Kumar Sangakkara, Sri Lanka's captain, added: "Playing against the best in this format is special. Fans will witness competitive cricket and relive unforgettable moments."League Commissioner Sunil Gavaskar said: "Stalwarts from every country will participate in the IML. It's an opportunity for them to showcase their skills and prove that they are still formidable. The league will be exciting, with close contests. It will be a treat for fans both at the grounds and on television."

The Indian cricket team is set to make a grand return to the Hong Kong Cricket Sixes tournament, scheduled to take place from November 1 to 3, 2024. The tournament, which was first held in 1992, was last played in 2017 before being revived this year.The 20th edition of the tournament will feature 12 teams, including India, Pakistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, Hong Kong, Nepal, New Zealand, Oman, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The tournament will be held at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground.India has a rich history in the Hong Kong Cricket Sixes, having won the tournament in 2005. Other previous winners include England and South Africa, who have won the title five times each. The tournament has also witnessed some of the biggest names in cricket, including Brian Lara, Wasim Akram, Shane Warne, Sachin Tendulkar, M.S. Dhoni, and Anil Kumble.The Hong Kong Cricket Sixes is a unique tournament, with matches played between two teams of six players. Each game consists of a maximum of five overs for each side. However, the title clash will see each team bowl five overs of eight balls, up from the six deliveries in normal matches.Barring the wicket-keeper, every member of the fielding side must bowl one over. Wides and no-balls count as two runs. Batsmen are forced to retire at 31 runs but can come back in once all other batsmen have been dismissed or have retired.The return of the Hong Kong Cricket Sixes is a major boost for the sport in the region. The tournament is expected to attract a large crowd and provide fans with an opportunity to see some of the best cricketers in the world in action.

Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli, two of India's most celebrated cricketers, have etched their names in the annals of the sport. Their exceptional performances have sparked a perpetual debate about who reigns supreme.Tendulkar, the "Master Blaster," dominated both Test and ODI cricket for over two decades. His unwavering determination and impeccable technique made him a formidable force against the likes of Wasim Akram, Glenn McGrath, and Shane Warne. His ability to adapt to different conditions and handle pressure situations cemented his status as a true legend.Kohli, the "Run Machine," has emerged as a modern-day icon. His aggressive batting style and exceptional chasing abilities have made him a nightmare for bowlers. He has excelled in all three formats of the game, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. His ability to handle pressure and lead the Indian team to numerous victories has further enhanced his reputation.While Tendulkar's longevity and record-breaking feats are unmatched, Kohli's dominance in the contemporary era and his versatility across formats make him a formidable contender. The debate between these two cricketing giants is a testament to the rich history and enduring legacy of Indian cricket.In a recent video, the late spin legend Shane Warne weighed in on the debate. Warne, who had many memorable duels with Tendulkar, expressed his admiration for the "Little Master." He stated that Tendulkar's performances in the mid-90s were unparalleled, and that he could not imagine anyone playing better than him during that period.Warne acknowledged Kohli's exceptional abilities but emphasized that Tendulkar's impact on the game was unmatched. He believes that the comparisons between the two players are flattering for Kohli, but that Tendulkar remains the greatest player he has ever witnessed.Ultimately, the greatness of Tendulkar and Kohli depends on the specific criteria used for evaluation. If longevity and records are the primary factors, Tendulkar stands tall. However, if modern-day dominance and versatility across formats are considered, Kohli may have the edge. Both players have left an indelible mark on the sport, and their legacies will continue to inspire generations of cricketers to come.

Sachin Tendulkar to Grace Cricket Field Again in International Masters LeagueLegendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar is set to return to the cricket field as he will participate in the inaugural International Masters League (IML), a six-team T20 competition scheduled to take place later this year across three venues in India. The IML will feature players from India, Australia, South Africa, West Indies, England, and Sri Lanka, and will be played in Mumbai, Lucknow, and Raipur.The T20 tournament, which will be held annually, is the brainchild of Tendulkar and former India captain Sunil Gavaskar, who will also serve as the league commissioner. Tendulkar and Gavaskar have collaborated with PMG Sports and SPORTFIVE, a sports marketing company, to establish a new company in India to organize the league.The IML aims to provide a platform for retired cricketers to showcase their skills once again and rekindle the memories of their illustrious careers. The league will also offer fans an opportunity to witness their cricketing heroes in action once more."In the last decade, T20 cricket has accelerated its adoption and has drawn new fans into the game," said Tendulkar. "There is now a strong desire among fans across ages to re-witness age-old battles in newer formats."Gavaskar added, "The International Masters League will bring fans closer to the legends they've admired for years, offering another golden chance to watch their heroes live in action."Parties interested in participating in the league through ownership of one of the franchise teams have been invited to submit expressions of interest. The IML is expected to generate significant interest among cricket enthusiasts and provide a unique opportunity for fans to relive the golden era of cricket.