Cricket

The highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia is set to commence, igniting a fierce rivalry that has captivated cricket enthusiasts worldwide. India, who have recently dominated Australia, face a formidable challenge this time around.After a disappointing 3-0 loss to New Zealand at home, India's vulnerability is evident. The spotlight will be on star players like Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah to deliver against a formidable Australian side.In a lighthearted moment before the battle, the Indian team engaged in a fun Q&A session. Kohli, asked about his best knock in Australia, recalled his century at Perth in the 2018-19 series. "It was the toughest pitch I played on in Test cricket," Kohli said. "It was great to get a hundred on that tour."Former cricketer and analyst Sanjay Manjrekar analyzed how Australian bowlers might approach Kohli's batting. He believes Kohli is aware of the tactics that will be employed against him."They'll start with that line outside the off-stump and gauge what his mindset is," Manjrekar said. "Australia might also try to cramp him for room and attack his body since he likes to get forward."Manjrekar further elaborated that if Kohli focuses on balls outside the off stump, Australian bowlers, particularly Josh Hazlewood, might target a line on the middle stump, similar to the one Vernon Philander used effectively."Australia will test various strategies, and Virat Kohli is fully aware of that," Manjrekar added.With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy set to unfold, the stage is set for an intense battle between two cricketing giants. India will aim to maintain their dominance, while Australia will seek redemption and reclaim their supremacy.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, named after Australian cricket legend Allan Border and Indian batting icon Sunil Gavaskar, is set to ignite a fierce rivalry between the two cricketing giants. With less than a week to go before the series opener in Perth, anticipation is reaching fever pitch.India, having triumphed in their last two Test tours of Australia, will be aiming for an unprecedented third consecutive series victory Down Under. This five-Test series marks the first time since 1991-92 that the two nations will face off in a five-match Test series.Ahead of the series, Gavaskar shared a humorous anecdote about his long-standing rivalry with Border. When asked if their intensity had diminished despite their post-retirement friendship, Gavaskar quipped, "Well, because he's got me out, that's the problem. He's got me out. I never got a chance to bowl to him. If I got a chance to bowl to him and get him out, it might have been different."Gavaskar's playful response stems from Border's three career Test wickets against India, one of which was Gavaskar himself. The former Indian captain revealed that Border still teases him about the dismissal, which occurred in 1979."So you know, I am reminded of it every time I bump into him. He comes and says, 'Hello Bunny, how are you?' What do I say to that?" Gavaskar said.As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy gets underway, all eyes will be on Indian batting superstar Virat Kohli, who is currently facing a significant form slump. However, Kohli's impressive record in Australia, with 3,426 runs at an average of 56.16, including 11 centuries and 19 fifties, suggests that he could be a key player for India.The series promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the world's top cricketing nations. The rivalry between India and Australia has always been intense, and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is sure to add another chapter to this storied history.

In 1996, the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium in New Delhi, now known as the Arun Jaitley Stadium, hosted a historic Test match that marked the beginning of a legendary rivalry between India and Australia. The match, played as a one-off Test, was the first to be named the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, after Australian legend Allan Border and Indian icon Sunil Gavaskar.The series featured a plethora of debuts, including Brad Hogg and David Johnson for Australia and Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid for India. However, it was Nayan Mongia who stole the show, scoring a magnificent 152 in his 14th Test for India.Mongia, who had previously been a middle-order batter, was elevated to the opening slot for this match. He played a gritty innings, batting for over eight hours and facing 366 balls. His century was instrumental in India's victory, as they chased down Australia's first-innings total of 182.The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has since become one of the most prestigious rivalries in Test cricket. The series has been played 15 times, with Australia winning nine and India winning five. The upcoming five-match series, starting on November 22, will be the first time India has played a five-match Test series in Australia since 1991-92.Former Indian wicketkeeper Nayan Mongia, who played a key role in India's victory in the inaugural Border-Gavaskar Trophy, believes that the rivalry has grown significantly over the years. "The main rivalry was India-Pakistan that time still. Australia (rivalry) was just growing up," he said. "Border-Gavaskar Trophy gave a platform to have such a huge rivalry."Mongia also expressed his concerns about India's batting form ahead of the upcoming series. "Playing against Australia in Australia is not going to be easy," he said. "But we have top-class bowlers as well. We will miss Mohammed Shami, there is no doubt about it. But we have other good bowlers who can step up leading from the front."

India vs South Africa T20I Series: A Clash of TitansIndia and South Africa are set to face off in a highly anticipated T20I series, with the first match scheduled for Friday, November 8, at the Kingsmead Stadium in Durban. The two cricketing giants have a rich history of intense rivalry, and this series promises to be no different.Head-to-Head RecordIn the 20-over format, India and South Africa have met 27 times, with India holding a slight edge with 15 wins to South Africa's 11. This series will provide an opportunity for both teams to add to their respective tallies.India's Recent FormIndia is entering the series on the back of a dominant 3-0 series victory over Bangladesh in October. The team has been in impressive form, with key players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Suryakumar Yadav in top shape.South Africa's StrugglesSouth Africa, on the other hand, has struggled to find consistency since their defeat in the T20 World Cup 2024 final. They suffered a 3-0 loss to the West Indies and drew 1-1 against Ireland in subsequent series.Young Guns in FocusThe series will also be a platform for young players to showcase their talent. India will be led by the dynamic Suryakumar Yadav, while South Africa will be captained by the promising Aiden Markram. Both teams have a number of exciting young players who could make a significant impact.Match ScheduleThe India vs South Africa T20I series will consist of four matches, with the remaining fixtures scheduled as follows:* 2nd T20I: November 10, St George's Park, Gqeberha* 3rd T20I: November 13, SuperSport Park, Centurion* 4th T20I: November 15, Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg

India and South Africa are set to reignite their rivalry in a highly anticipated four-match T20 series, commencing on Friday in Durban. The series holds immense significance as a rematch of the thrilling T20 World Cup final, where India emerged victorious to claim their second title.Heading into the series, India boasts a slight edge in the head-to-head record, having won 15 out of 27 T20I encounters against South Africa. Since the World Cup final, both teams have experienced contrasting fortunes in the shortest format.India has been on a winning streak, triumphing in three consecutive T20I series. They defeated Zimbabwe 4-1, Sri Lanka 3-0, and Bangladesh 3-0, showcasing their dominance in the format. In contrast, South Africa has struggled since their narrow loss to India in the World Cup final. They were whitewashed 3-0 by the West Indies and drew 1-1 against Ireland, losing four of their five T20I matches since the tournament.As the two sides prepare to clash, South Africa will be eager to turn their fortunes around at home, while India, high on confidence, will aim to continue their winning momentum. The first T20I in Durban promises to be an exciting contest, as the World Champions look to extend their dominance, and South Africa seeks redemption.

Brett Lee, the legendary Australian fast bowler, has opened up about his intense on-field rivalry with former India spinner Harbhajan Singh. Lee revealed that he "hated" bowling to Harbhajan due to his constant sledging and bizarre antics.Harbhajan's tactics included incessant chatter, hopping around the crease, and even mocking Lee's pace. "He would sledge and he would hop in and going after me 'You're quick'. I could never get him; I was always exhausted," Lee recalled on the LiSTNR Sport podcast.Lee acknowledged that sledging was common in cricket, but Harbhajan's antics were particularly effective in disrupting his rhythm. "He used to annoy the hell out of me," Lee admitted. "He is an absolute legend of a bloke, but he used to frustrate the sh out of me when I bowled to him."Lee believes that the 2001 Test series, where India famously defeated Australia, was a turning point for Indian cricket. "It was them saying 'We can match Australia. Not just match; we can beat them'," Lee said.Since then, Indian players have become increasingly aggressive on the field, matching the intensity of their Australian counterparts. Lee praised Virat Kohli's leadership and MS Dhoni's quiet but determined approach."I love the way Kohli plays. He is such a good player... with that aggression," Lee said. "And you've got different guys like back in the day, MS Dhoni... didn't say anything. Just did what he had to do and wouldn't back down."Lee's comments highlight the fierce rivalry between Australia and India, which has produced some of the most memorable moments in cricket history. Despite the on-field battles, Lee holds Harbhajan in high regard, recognizing his skill and the impact he had on the game.

India vs Pakistan: A Clash of Titans in the Women's T20 World CupThe highly anticipated India vs Pakistan match in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup promises to be a thrilling encounter. While India has historically dominated the rivalry, Pakistan's recent resurgence has added an intriguing twist to the contest.Pakistan, buoyed by their impressive victory over Sri Lanka, will be brimming with confidence. Their spinners, led by Fatima Sana, proved their mettle in defending a modest total. Sana, who also contributed with the bat, is a key player for Pakistan, capable of influencing the game in multiple ways.India, on the other hand, faces a stern test after their disappointing loss to New Zealand. Their bowlers need to step up and analyze the pitch conditions better. Leg-spinner Asha Shobhana, who made a promising debut, will be eager to make a greater impact. Pooja Vastrakar and Arundhati Reddy will also be crucial in providing early breakthroughs.Jemimah Rodrigues, another star player for India, has emphasized the need to bounce back quickly from the defeat. The team's batting, which struggled against New Zealand, will need to find its rhythm against Pakistan's formidable bowling attack.The India-Pakistan rivalry always carries immense significance, and this match is no exception. While India holds a significant advantage in head-to-head encounters, Pakistan's recent form suggests that they are not to be taken lightly.With Australia lurking in the group, a loss in this game could jeopardize India's campaign. Harmanpreet Kaur's team must therefore perform at their best in all departments to keep their hopes alive in the tournament.

The India-Bangladesh rivalry in T20 internationals has been marked by thrilling encounters and unforgettable moments. Here are some of the most memorable clashes between these two teams:1. 2016 World Cup Final-Over Thriller (Bengaluru)In the 2016 ICC T20 World Cup, India and Bangladesh faced off in a Super 10 match that ended in a dramatic finish. Chasing 147, Bangladesh needed 11 runs off the last over with four wickets in hand. Hardik Pandya bowled the final over, and Bangladesh seemed poised for victory with just 2 runs needed off 3 balls. However, Pandya took two wickets in two balls, leaving Bangladesh requiring two off the final delivery. Shuvagata Hom tried to sneak a single, but MS Dhoni's lightning-fast sprint to run out Mustafizur Rahman sealed a miraculous 1-run victory for India.2. Karthik's Last-Ball Heroics - Nidahas Trophy Final (2018)In the Nidahas Trophy final in 2018, India needed 167 to win against Bangladesh. India struggled in the chase, and with 34 runs needed off the last two overs, Bangladesh seemed to have the upper hand. Enter Dinesh Karthik. His unbeaten 29 off just 8 balls, including three sixes and two fours, turned the game on its head. The match went down to the last ball, with India needing 5 runs to win. Karthik struck a sensational flat six over extra cover off Soumya Sarkar's bowling, sealing a nail-biting 4-wicket victory for India.3. Asia Cup T20 Final (2016)In the 2016 Asia Cup final in Dhaka, India and Bangladesh met in a rain-shortened 15-over match. Bangladesh posted a challenging total of 120, and India's chase was led by Shikhar Dhawan, who played a fluent knock of 60 off 44 balls. While Bangladesh kept the pressure on, MS Dhoni once again finished the game in style, hitting a towering six to seal an 8-wicket win for India.4. Deepak Chahar's Record-Breaking Spell (Nagpur 2019)In the 2019 T20I series decider in Nagpur, India and Bangladesh were tied at 1-1. Bangladesh was in control of their chase of 175, but Deepak Chahar produced a sensational spell of bowling, taking 6 wickets for just 7 runs, including a hat-trick. Chahar's spell not only turned the game in India's favor but also set a new record for the best bowling figures in T20 internationals. Bangladesh was bowled out for 144, handing India a series-clinching 30-run victory.5. Bangladesh's Only Win vs India, 2019Bangladesh secured their first and only T20I victory against India at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi in November 2019. Batting first, India posted 148/6. Bangladesh, in reply, chased down the target with three balls to spare, thanks to Mushfiqur Rahim's unbeaten 60 off 43 balls.

India vs Pakistan: A Rivalry Defined by Close Encounters in T20 World CupsIndia and Pakistan, two cricketing powerhouses, have engaged in a captivating rivalry in the T20 World Cup, with each encounter marked by intense competition and thrilling finishes. Their first meeting in the inaugural Women's T20 World Cup in 2009 set the tone for a series of memorable clashes.India has dominated the head-to-head record, winning 12 of the 15 matches played so far. However, Pakistan has shown resilience, triumphing in three games, including a narrow two-run victory in the 2016 edition.In the T20 World Cup, India has maintained its dominance, winning five of the seven matches against Pakistan. The upcoming encounter on Sunday in the 2024 Women's T20 World Cup promises to be another nail-biting affair.Key Moments in India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup Encounters:* 2009: India's Priyanka Roy claimed a five-wicket haul to restrict Pakistan to 75, leading India to a five-wicket victory.* 2010: Poonam Raut's unbeaten 54 guided India to a nine-wicket win, chasing down Pakistan's 104/6.* 2012: Pakistan's Nida Dar's three wickets helped restrict India to 97/8, securing a one-run victory for Pakistan.* 2014: India's Soniya Dabir took three wickets to restrict Pakistan to 100/9, securing a six-run victory.* 2016: Rain played a crucial role, with Pakistan declared the winner by two runs (DLS) after being ahead of the par score.* 2018: Mithali Raj's 56 off 47 led India to a seven-wicket victory, chasing down Pakistan's 133/7.* 2023: Jemimah Rodrigues' whirlwind 53 not out helped India chase down Pakistan's 149/4, securing a seven-wicket victory.Upcoming Clash:India and Pakistan will face off on Sunday in the 2024 Women's T20 World Cup. India, coming off a heavy defeat to New Zealand, will be eager to bounce back, while Pakistan will be confident after their victory over Sri Lanka. The match promises to be a high-stakes encounter, with both teams determined to secure a crucial victory.