Cricket

The Hong Kong Sixes 2024, a thrilling cricket tournament, is set to ignite the Tin Kwong Road Cricket Ground from November 1 to 3. Featuring 12 teams, the tournament promises an electrifying spectacle with six-a-side matches, captivating performances, and a vibrant atmosphere.The teams have been divided into four pools of three each, competing in a round-robin format. India, led by Robin Uthappa, will face arch-rivals Pakistan and UAE in Pool C. Hosts Hong Kong will battle South Africa and New Zealand in Pool A, while Pool B comprises Australia, England, and Nepal. Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Oman will clash in Pool D.The tournament kicks off with South Africa facing Hong Kong, followed by the highly anticipated India-Pakistan encounter on the first day. The top two teams from each pool will advance to the quarter-finals, with the winners progressing to the semi-finals. The quarter-final losers will compete in the Plate semifinals, while the bottom-placed teams in each pool will play in the Bowl Competition.A total of 29 matches will be played over three days, showcasing the skills and strategies of some of the world's best cricketers. To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, a Women's Exhibition Match will be held on the final day.The tournament schedule is as follows:November 1:* South Africa vs Hong Kong: 6 AM (IST), 8:30 AM (Local time)* England vs Nepal: 6:55 AM (IST), 9:25 AM (Local Time)* Pakistan vs UAE: 7:50 AM (IST) 10:20 AM (Local Time)* Sri Lanka vs Oman: 8:45 AM (IST), 11:15 AM (Local Time)* New Zealand vs Hong Kong: 9:40 AM (IST), 12:10 PM (Local Time)* Bangladesh vs Oman: 10:35 AM (IST), 13:05 PM (Local TIme)* India vs Pakistan: 11:30 AM (IST), 14:00 PM (Local Time)* England vs Australia: 12:25 PM (IST), 14:55 (Local Time)* South Africa vs New Zealand: 1:15 PM (IST), 15:45 (Local Time)* Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh: 2:10 PM (IST), 16:40 (Local Time)November 2:* Australia vs Nepal: 6 AM (IST), 8:30 AM (Local Time)* India vs UAE: 6:55 AM (IST), 9:25 AM (Local Time)* Bowl Match 1: A3 vs D3 7:50 AM (IST), 10:20 AM (Local Time)* Bowl Match 2: B3 vs C3 8:45 AM (IST), 11:15 AM (Local Time)* Quarterfinal 1: B1 vs A2 9:40 AM (IST), 12:10 PM (Local Time)* Quarterfinal 2: A1 vs C2 10:35 AM (IST), 1:05 PM (Local Time)* Bowl Match 3: A3 vs C3 11:30 AM (IST), 2:00 PM (Local Time)* Bowl Match 4: B3 vs D4 12:25 PM (IST), 2:55 PM (Local Time)* Quarterfinal 3: D1 vs B2 1:15 PM (IST), 3:45 PM (Local Time)* Quarterfinal 4: C1 vs D2 2:10 PM (IST), 4:40 PM (Local Time)November 3:* Bowl Match 5: A3 vs B3 6 AM (IST), 8:30 AM (Local Time)* Plate Semifinal 1: LQ1 vs LQ2 6:55 AM (IST), 9:25 AM (Local Time)* Plate Semifinal 2: LQ3 vs LQ4 7:50 AM (IST), 10:20 AM (Local Time)* Bowl Match 6: C3 vs D3 8:45 AM (IST), 11:15 AM (Local Time)* Women's Exhibition Match: 9:40 AM (IST), 12:10 PM (Local Time)* Semifinal 1: WQ1 vs WQ2 10:20 AM (IST), 12:50 PM (Local Time)* Semifinal 2: WQ3 vs WQ4 11:10 AM (IST), 1:40 PM (Local Time)* Bowl final: 12:05 PM (IST), 2:35 PM (Local Time)* Plate Final: 12:55 PM (IST), 3:25 PM (Local Time)* Cup Final: 1:55 PM (IST), 4:25 PM (Local Time)

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.

The Pro Cricket League (PCL) is poised to make its grand debut, promising an electrifying season that will ignite the cricketing world. The tournament will unfold at the state-of-the-art Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida, setting the stage for an unforgettable spectacle.The league has secured the services of two exceptional players, Thisara Perera and Pawan Negi, who will undoubtedly elevate the competition's intensity. Perera, a former Sri Lankan all-rounder, brings a wealth of experience and explosive batting prowess. Negi, an Indian spinner, is renowned for his deceptive variations and match-winning abilities."The league presents a new platform for me to showcase my skills," said Perera. "I am eager to contribute to the tournament's success and leave a lasting impact."Negi expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, stating, "It is an honor to be recognized and participate in the inaugural season. I am determined to perform at my best and make a significant contribution."Adding to the league's credibility is the appointment of Chetan Sharma, a former Indian cricketer, as the League Commissioner. His expertise and leadership will ensure the smooth operation and integrity of the tournament.The Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex will serve as the battleground for the PCL's debut season. This world-class facility will provide an exceptional playing surface and an immersive experience for both players and spectators."Our mission is to offer cricket enthusiasts unforgettable matches and create a platform for players to excel," said Sachin Gupta, Managing Director and Founder of the PCL.Ganesh Sharma, Executive Director of the PCL, echoed this sentiment, stating, "The presence of renowned athletes like Perera and Negi, coupled with the guidance of League Commissioner Sharma, sets the stage for an unforgettable season."The PCL's ability to attract elite players and provide a captivating sporting experience positions it as a must-see destination for cricket fans. The inaugural season promises an exhilarating journey filled with non-stop action and unparalleled entertainment.

The fate of the ICC Champions Trophy remains uncertain as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) remain at loggerheads over the tournament's hosting. Pakistan is adamant about hosting the entire event at home, while India is unwilling to send its team across the border.The BCCI has proposed that India's matches be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) or Sri Lanka. Pakistan has countered with a proposal to host all of India's matches in Lahore. However, no resolution has been reached, and the ICC has reportedly prepared a contingency plan in case India refuses to travel to Pakistan.According to a report in Cricbuzz, the ICC's Chief Executives Committee (CEC) has approved a budget for the tournament, including an estimate of the increased costs if matches need to be played outside Pakistan. The ICC has also shared a draft schedule with stakeholders, including broadcasters and participating teams.In the draft schedule, all of India's matches are set to be held in Lahore, including the high-profile India-Pakistan match scheduled for March 1. However, this schedule is subject to change if India does not agree to travel to Pakistan.The ICC has allocated $35 million for the tournament itself, $20 million for participation and prize money, and $10 million for production costs. The tournament is scheduled to feature 15 matches over 20 days.The deadlock between the PCB and BCCI has cast a shadow over the tournament, and it remains to be seen whether a compromise can be reached. If India does not agree to travel to Pakistan, the ICC will have to implement its contingency plan and find alternative venues for India's matches.

Women's Asia Cup 2022: Nepal and UAE Kick Off Tournament in Rangiri DambullaThe Women's Asia Cup 2022, a prestigious continental cricket tournament, commenced today at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Sri Lanka. The opening match featured Nepal and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), two teams from Group A.Group A also includes defending champions India and arch-rivals Pakistan, setting the stage for intense competition. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals, ensuring high-stakes matches throughout the tournament.Nepal, led by captain Rubina Chhetry, entered the match with a strong batting lineup featuring Indu Barma and Sita Rana Magar. The UAE, captained by Chaya Mughal, relied on their experienced bowlers, including Mahika Gaur and Esha Oza.The match began with Nepal winning the toss and electing to bat first. They posted a competitive total of 126 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Indu Barma top-scored for Nepal with a gritty 35 runs, while Sita Rana Magar contributed 27 runs.In response, the UAE struggled to chase down the target, eventually falling short by 20 runs. They were bowled out for 106 runs in 19.3 overs. Mahika Gaur was the standout performer for the UAE with both bat and ball, scoring 25 runs and taking 2 wickets.Nepal's victory in the opening match sets the tone for an exciting tournament ahead. The Women's Asia Cup 2022 promises to showcase the best of women's cricket in Asia, with talented players from across the continent vying for the coveted trophy.

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has revised the schedule for the Women's Asia Cup 2024, set to take place in Dambulla, Sri Lanka, from July 19 to 28. The tournament will feature eight teams, divided into two groups of four.Defending champions India will kick off their campaign on the opening day, July 19, against arch-rivals Pakistan in a highly anticipated clash. The match, originally scheduled for July 21, has been moved to the evening slot. Nepal and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will open the tournament in the afternoon.The other group matches have also been adjusted. Nepal and Pakistan will now face off on July 21, while India will take on UAE on the same day. The rest of the schedule remains unchanged.Group A consists of India, Nepal, Pakistan, and UAE, while Group B comprises hosts Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Malaysia, and Thailand. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, scheduled for July 26. The final will be played on July 28.Unlike the previous edition, where teams played each other once before the semi-finals, this year's format features a group stage. India will face Nepal on July 23, their only day game in the group stage.The Women's Asia Cup 2024 will mark the return of an all-female team of umpires and match officials. The tournament will serve as a crucial preparation for the Women's T20 World Cup 2024, which will be held in Bangladesh from October 3 to 20.India, with seven titles, is the most successful team in the Women's Asia Cup. They will be aiming to defend their crown and extend their dominance in the region.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan delivered a witty retort to a Pakistani fan who attempted to troll him on social media. The exchange unfolded ahead of the crucial Namibia vs England match in Antigua, where heavy rain threatened to delay the toss and potentially eliminate England from the Super Eight race.As the rain persisted, a Pakistani fan named Nawaz tweeted, "Hey, @MichaelVaughan karma is real. #ENGvsNAM." However, fate intervened, and the rain subsided, allowing England to take on Namibia. The English team emerged victorious, defeating Namibia by 41 runs (DLS method) and keeping their hopes of reaching the Super Eight alive.Meanwhile, Australia's victory over Scotland in St Lucia paved the way for England's advancement. Scotland's loss meant that both Scotland and England finished with 5 points, but England secured the second spot in the table due to a superior net run rate.With England's entry into the Super Eight, Vaughan seized the opportunity to respond to the Pakistani troll. "Morning Nawaz .. looking forward to the Super 8s .. Are you ?" he tweeted.Pakistan, placed in Group A, had already been eliminated from the tournament, while India had secured their spot in the next round. Vaughan's response highlighted the irony of Pakistan's elimination and England's progression.It is noteworthy that Pakistan's exit from the tournament was sealed by the United States, who finished second in Group A with five points. The United States' performance further emphasized the competitive nature of the tournament and the unpredictable nature of the sport.

West Indies and New Zealand are set to face off in a highly anticipated match in the ongoing tournament. West Indies, currently ranked second on the points table, will be looking to continue their winning streak after a convincing victory against Uganda. New Zealand, on the other hand, will be eager to bounce back from their defeat against Afghanistan.The pitch at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Tarouba, is expected to be balanced, with an average first innings score of 116 runs. Chasing a target has been the preferred option at this venue, with teams batting first winning only 35% of matches.Both pacers and spinners are expected to find success on this pitch. The weather forecast predicts a cloudy day with temperatures around 23.91 degrees Celsius and 91% humidity. Winds are expected to be around 1.84 m/s, which could provide some assistance to pacers.Fantasy XI Top Captain and Vice-Captain Picks:* Captain: Akeal Hosein (WI) - A consistent performer with an average of 55 match fantasy points and a fantasy rating of 9.6.* Vice-Captain: Michael Bracewell (NZ) - An all-rounder with an average of 53 match fantasy points and a fantasy rating of 8.Fantasy XI Team:* Wicket-Keepers: Johnson Charles (WI), Finn Allen (NZ), Devon Conway (NZ)* Batters: Rovman Powell (WI)* All-Rounders: Roston Chase (WI), Michael Bracewell (NZ)* Bowlers: Akeal Hosein (WI), Gudakesh Motie (WI), Lockie Ferguson (NZ), Matt Henry (NZ), Obed McCoy (WI)

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed February 19, 2023, as the start date for the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. The tournament is scheduled to run until March 9, with matches taking place in Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore.Karachi will host three games, including the tournament opener and a semi-final, while Lahore will host seven, including the final. The other semi-final will be one of five contests to take place at Pindi Cricket Ground.Several ICC officials have visited Pakistan to inspect arrangements for the first ICC tournament in the country since the 1996 World Cup. They have provided positive feedback on logistics and arrangements, allowing the PCB to proceed with its plans.However, the proposed dates mean that the last third of the tournament will be held during Ramadan, which could impact attendance. The PCB has previously tried to accommodate for this by moving start times to 9pm, but this will not be possible for the Champions Trophy, which is an ODI tournament.As previously reported, every game involving India at the tournament is slated to take place in Lahore. This means one semi-final will be moved from Karachi or Rawalpindi to Lahore should India qualify for the last four. Basing India in one city is thought to have been proposed to avoid logistical and security complications around their travel. Additionally, Lahore's proximity to the Wagah border crossing between India and Pakistan makes it easier for Indian fans to attend.The main question surrounding the event remains India's participation. The Indian team has not played in Pakistan since the Asia Cup in 2008, and there has been no bilateral series between the two since 2012-13. The BCCI has stated that the decision to travel to Pakistan rests with the Indian government.Every other side involved in the upcoming Champions Trophy has travelled to Pakistan since cricket returned to the country in 2015. Pakistan will also host an ODI tri-series featuring South Africa and New Zealand before the tournament.Pakistan are the defending champions, having won the last Champions Trophy in 2017.