Cricket

Rishabh Pant's return to cricket has been marked by a meticulous approach to fitness and recovery, including a tailored nutrition plan managed by a private chef, Akshay Arora. Arora, the founder of Neat Meals, travels with Pant to ensure he adheres to a strict dietary regimen.In collaboration with nutritionist Shweta Shah, Arora carefully monitors Pant's dietary needs, emphasizing anti-inflammatory foods and hydration to enhance recovery between games. Arora's culinary skills ensure that Pant's meals are both nutritious and enjoyable, preventing monotony and maintaining his interest in eating healthy.Arora explains that energy, in terms of nutrition, refers to nutrients that Pant may not have received sufficient supply of. By understanding Pant's specific requirements, Arora adjusts the macronutrient composition of his meals to optimize his performance.Arora recalls two particularly fulfilling moments: Pant's return to cricket in the IPL 2024 and his Test century against Bangladesh in Chennai. These milestones were not only significant for Pant but also for Arora, who witnessed the culmination of their collaborative efforts.Arora believes that the trend of private chefs will gain popularity among Indian cricketers, as it contributes to longevity in their playing careers. Players are increasingly recognizing the importance of clean eating and proper nutrition for on-field performance.

Prithvi Shaw, the prodigious Indian opener, has faced a setback in his career after being dropped from the Mumbai Ranji Trophy squad due to fitness and disciplinary concerns. The exclusion has sparked a debate about the role of physical appearance in determining a player's fitness in cricket.Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has come to Shaw's defense, arguing that weight or body shape should not be the primary measure of fitness. He points to the example of Sarfaraz Khan, who despite facing scrutiny over his physique, recently scored a brilliant 150 against New Zealand.Gavaskar emphasizes that cricket fitness should be judged by a player's ability to perform on the field, such as scoring runs or bowling overs. He questions the relevance of body fat percentage, stating that it is not a reliable indicator of a player's fitness or ability.Sources indicate that Shaw has been irregular in attending training sessions and has been observed as being overweight. However, Gavaskar believes that these issues can be addressed through proper guidance and support. He urges Shaw to focus on his fitness and discipline, while also reminding him of his immense talent.The exclusion from the Ranji Trophy squad is a wake-up call for Shaw, who has been struggling to regain his form in recent times. He has been dropped from the Indian team and has faced criticism for his inconsistent performances.Shaw's exclusion has also raised questions about the culture within the Mumbai team. Some reports suggest that there may be a lack of discipline and accountability, which could be contributing to the team's poor performance in the Ranji Trophy.It remains to be seen how Shaw will respond to this setback. He has the talent and potential to be one of the best batsmen in the world, but he needs to address his fitness and discipline issues if he wants to fulfill his potential.

Ajinkya Rahane, a seasoned Indian cricketer, has attributed his transformation in fitness, training, and nutrition to the profound influence of former skipper Virat Kohli. Rahane's admiration for Kohli's unwavering commitment to a disciplined lifestyle has inspired him to adopt similar practices."Virat Kohli has been a tremendous source of inspiration for me," Rahane revealed in an interview with Curly Tales. "His approach to the game, his training regimen, his fitness, and his diet have all left an indelible mark on me."Rahane's transformation extended beyond his physical attributes. He also embraced Kohli's mindset and unwavering determination. "I've learned so much from Virat," Rahane said. "His ability to stay focused, his resilience, and his unwavering belief in himself have been invaluable lessons for me."The duo's on-field chemistry has also been a testament to their mutual respect and understanding. "I've thoroughly enjoyed batting alongside Virat," Rahane added. "We complement each other well and have forged some memorable partnerships for India. My favorite partnership with him was the 260-run stand we shared in Australia during the 2014 Test series."Despite not being a regular fixture in the national team, Rahane remains a dependable middle-order batsman, particularly in overseas conditions. His leadership skills were evident during India's remarkable Test series victory in Australia in 2020-21, where he captained the team in Kohli's absence.Rahane's success as a captain stems from his belief in empowering his players. "There's no secret to success," he said. "I believe that this game is not about individuals; it's about the collective effort of 11 players. Every player is equally important.""As a captain, it's crucial to give players freedom and confidence," Rahane continued. "Every player has the potential to be a match-winner, and it's my responsibility to create an environment where they can thrive."Rahane's insights into the impact of Virat Kohli and his own leadership philosophy provide valuable lessons for aspiring cricketers and leaders alike. His emphasis on discipline, teamwork, and empowering individuals serves as a reminder of the essential ingredients for success in both sports and life.

Prithvi Shaw's recent struggles have taken a significant turn as he has been dropped from the Mumbai squad for the upcoming Ranji Trophy matches. The decision stems from concerns over his discipline and fitness, which have reportedly upset the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) and its selection committee.Shaw's inconsistent attendance at net sessions, even after early dismissals, has raised eyebrows. His lax attitude towards fitness has also become a concern for the team management. These factors have prompted the selectors to take a tough stance, resulting in Shaw's omission from the squad.The selection committee, led by Sanjay Patil, announced the Mumbai squad without Shaw's name. It is believed that Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane played a role in the decision, as he was reportedly against Shaw's selection.In response to the news, Shaw took to Instagram and posted a sarcastic message: "Needed a break thanks." The MCA released a statement confirming the squad selection but did not provide any explanation for Shaw's absence.While Shaw's appearances in net sessions have been sporadic, veteran players like Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, and Shardul Thakur have been working diligently to regain top form. Mumbai will face Tripura in their next Ranji Trophy match on October 26 at the MBB Stadium in Agartala.The Mumbai squad for the match includes:* Ajinkya Rahane (Captain)* Ayush Mhatre* Angkrish Raghuvanshi* Akhil Herwadkar* Shreyas Iyer* Siddhessh Lad* Suryansh Shedge* Hardik Tamore (WK)* Sidhaant Addhatrao (WK)* Shams Mulani* Karsh Kothari* Himanshu Singh* Shardul Thakur* Mohit Avasthi* Mohd. Juned Khan* Royston DiasShaw's omission from the squad serves as a reminder of the importance of discipline and fitness in professional sports. It remains to be seen whether he can address these concerns and regain his place in the team.

Indian cricket sensation Sarfaraz Khan has been on a remarkable run of form, captivating fans and experts alike. However, concerns have been raised about his fitness, with some suggesting it could jeopardize his place in the playing XI.To address these concerns, Sarfaraz has embarked on a rigorous fitness regimen, guided by the Indian team's strength and conditioning coach. Additionally, Rishabh Pant has recommended a chef to assist Sarfaraz in improving his nutrition."Sarfaraz is working on his fitness with the Indian team strength and conditioning coach, and Rishabh has provided him with a chef who is taking care of his food," revealed Suryakumar Yadav in an interview with Indian Express. "The intent is that by the time he reaches the Border Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, his body is in a better shape."Despite his perceived fitness issues, Sarfaraz's batting prowess remains undeniable. "His body type might make him look fat, but if you ask him to bat 450 balls, score double hundred, triple hundred, daddy hundred, he has that skill," Yadav emphasized.Sarfaraz's dedication to his craft is evident in his unwavering practice routine. "I have never seen him skipping practice even on match day," Yadav added. "If there is a game, he will get up at 5 am, bat for one hour near his home, and then join the team bus. After the game, he will go to the nearby ground and bat again."After scoring his maiden century for India against New Zealand in the Bengaluru Test, Sarfaraz expressed his elation. "It felt amazing to get my first century for India," he said. "But tomorrow will be tough for them. The pitch is breaking down, the ball is moving, and if we strike early, they could find themselves in a similar situation as we did."Sarfaraz's fitness journey is a testament to his determination to overcome any obstacles that may hinder his cricketing aspirations. With the support of his teammates and a renewed focus on his physical well-being, he aims to silence his critics and cement his place as a vital cog in the Indian cricket team.

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.

Indian cricket legend Rohit Sharma has opened up about his remarkable career longevity, revealing the secrets behind his success and the challenges he has faced along the way. As he approaches the milestone of 500 international matches for India, Rohit has become a role model for aspiring cricketers, demonstrating the dedication and discipline required to sustain a top-level career for nearly two decades.In a recent podcast interview, Rohit shared his insights on the journey that has brought him to the cusp of joining an elite club of cricketers. Only 10 players have surpassed the 500-match mark across formats, and Rohit is set to become the eleventh. He will be the fifth Indian to join this exclusive list, which includes legends like Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, and Virat Kohli.Rohit attributes his longevity to a strict routine focused on fitness, mental well-being, and preparation. "To have that longevity, there has to be something about your routine. How you manage your fitness, how you manage your mind and how you train yourself. And how do you get ready for the game, most importantly," he said.Rohit's journey began in 2007, and he has since evolved into one of India's finest openers and a consistent performer across formats. He has played a pivotal role in India's success in recent years, leading the team to victory in the 2019 Cricket World Cup and the 2023 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.As Team India's ODI and Tests skipper, Rohit acknowledges the high expectations that come with his leadership and on-field performance. "At the end of the day, our job is to be 100 percent ready for the game and perform to win games. And then, if you go backwards then, in that preparation comes fitness," he added.Rohit's dedication to his craft is evident in his meticulous preparation and unwavering focus. He understands the importance of staying fit and mentally sharp, and he has made significant sacrifices to maintain his peak performance. His longevity is a testament to his hard work, determination, and unwavering passion for the game.

Rain and wet outfield conditions can be a major hindrance for outdoor sports like cricket. When matches are disrupted due to weather, players must find ways to manage their time effectively. Former India pacer RP Singh provides insights into how cricketers utilize these weather-induced breaks.During the second day of the second Test between India and Bangladesh, persistent rain and a wet outfield prevented any play at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur. The teams remained in their respective hotels, with no chance of play resuming.Despite the setback, India remains confident of pushing for a result in the remaining three days, provided the rain abates. In the meantime, players engage in various activities to stay focused and maintain their fitness.According to RP Singh, many players use the downtime to focus on personal tasks and physical conditioning. "Most players continue doing their fitness work, even while sitting in the dressing room," Singh said. "They keep ticking off all the boxes."Players often try to achieve their gym targets during this free time. Some do cardio, while others focus on weights. They utilize this period to complete any pending tasks related to their fitness regimen.While players do enjoy their leisure time, they never lose sight of the job at hand. "Cricket is their primary objective, and everyone stays focused on the game plan," Singh added. "In such situations, strategies keep evolving with every passing minute."On the opening day of the Test, India's decision to field first under overcast conditions paid off. Akash Deep claimed two quick wickets, removing Zakir Hasan for a duck and trapping Shadnam Islam LBW. Bangladesh began to rebuild through a steady partnership between Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mominul Haque, but Ravichandran Ashwin intervened, dismissing Shanto for 31.At the close of play on Day 1, Bangladesh stood at 107/3, with Mominul unbeaten on 40 and Mushfiqur Rahim on six runs.

Ravichandran Ashwin, India's veteran spinner, is redefining his preparation for an arduous Test cricket season at the age of 38. His stellar performance in India's emphatic 280-run victory against Bangladesh in the first Test at Chepauk has prompted him to adopt a match-by-match approach."It's challenging. Sometimes, looking too far ahead can be overwhelming. You have to take it one match at a time," Ashwin emphasized. He acknowledged the importance of conserving energy for the upcoming matches.To cope with the physical demands, Ashwin has modified his fitness regime. "At 38, every bit of work has to be doubled. I've reduced my strength training sessions and focus more on mobility. I also incorporate yoga into my routine," he revealed.Ashwin lauded his teammate Ravindra Jadeja, who claimed five wickets in the match. "Jadeja is a force on the field. I have immense admiration for him," Ashwin said, highlighting their evolving relationship and mutual respect. "I've grown to admire him even more over the years. It's a friendly rivalry, but I know I can never surpass Jadeja. I'm content with my abilities but inspired by him."He also commended Rishabh Pant, who scored a century on his return to Test cricket. "Rishabh's form was never in doubt. His comeback has been remarkable. He's an entertainer and will only improve with time," Ashwin observed.As India gears up for a packed Test cricket season, Ashwin's experience and adaptability will be invaluable to the team's quest for the World Test Championship Final.