Cricket

India's Positive Attitude Revives Test CricketIn a thrilling display of aggressive cricket, India shook the foundations of the dying Test format with a resounding victory over New Zealand in Kanpur. Led by the dynamic duo of Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir, the Indian team showcased an unwavering determination to force a win, setting a new benchmark for modern Test cricket.Rohit, known for his attacking approach, set the tone from the outset, smashing his first two deliveries for six. This bold move signaled India's intent to dominate the match and set up a quick victory. The entire batting lineup followed suit, playing unselfishly and with a relentless focus on scoring runs.Yashasvi Jaiswal, the 22-year-old opener, emerged as a star in the making with a brilliant 72 in the first innings. His innings ensured that India's early loss of Rohit didn't derail their momentum. The Indian bowlers, led by the exceptional Jasprit Bumrah, maintained a relentless pressure on the New Zealand batsmen, making a close finish seem unlikely.The match was played on a subpar pitch at Green Park Kanpur, a venue that has been criticized for its inadequate facilities. However, the players' determination and skill overcame the challenges posed by the poor infrastructure.Despite the victory, the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) came under fire for its inefficiency. The lack of proper drying facilities resulted in the loss of two days of play, highlighting the need for minimum standards at Test venues.India's victory not only secured them valuable World Test Championship points but also served as a reminder of the enduring appeal of Test cricket. The team's positive attitude and aggressive approach have breathed new life into the format, proving that it can still captivate audiences with its unique blend of skill, strategy, and drama.

India's Test captain Rohit Sharma has shed light on the team's transition under new head coach Gautam Gambhir and the aggressive tactics employed in the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur.After Rahul Dravid's successful tenure, which culminated in India's T20 World Cup triumph, Gambhir took over the reins. Rohit believes it has been a positive start despite mixed results across formats. "We had a fantastic time with Rahul Bhai, but life moves on. Gautam Gambhir brings a different mindset. It's been a good start," he said.In the rain-affected Test, India's unexpected attacking approach on Day 4 left Bangladesh bewildered. A total of 437 runs were scored and 18 wickets fell in 85 overs, setting up an exciting final day.Rohit explained the rationale behind their aggressive declaration on 285/9. "We wanted to get them out quickly and see what we could do with the bat. The pitch didn't have much. To make a game out of it was a superb effort," he said.Despite the risk of being bowled out cheaply, India was prepared to take it. "We were ready for it even if we got bowled out for 100-150," Rohit added.One of the standout performers for India was Akash Deep, who impressed with his swing bowling. He finished the series with five wickets, providing a valuable option for the upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy in Australia."He's been good. He has the quality and the skill. Good body as well. He can bowl long spells," Rohit said.India ultimately emerged victorious by 7 wickets, securing a 2-0 series win. The match showcased the team's resilience and adaptability under Gambhir's leadership.

The Indian cricket team has embarked on a new era under the leadership of captain Rohit Sharma and coach Gautam Gambhir. The duo, who were part of India's triumphant 2007 T20 World Cup campaign, are tasked with guiding the team to future glory.Rohit Sharma recently spoke about Gambhir's appointment as coach, describing him as a "khadoos" (stubborn) player who played some memorable innings in challenging matches. In Mumbai cricket, the term "khadoos" denotes a player who never gives up, a trait that Gambhir is expected to instill in the Indian team.Sharma also revealed that he uses terms like "garden mein ghoomne wala" (strolling in the garden) to motivate his players. He emphasized that his role is to bring out the best in his teammates and create a positive atmosphere in the dressing room.Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal has weighed in on Gambhir's tenure as coach, cautioning that it's too early to judge his performance. Tamim believes that Gambhir's true character will emerge when the Indian team faces adversity.Gambhir took over the coaching reins from Rahul Dravid, who led India to victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup. Gambhir's first assignment was a resounding 280-run victory over Bangladesh in Chennai. However, Tamim believes that the real test for Gambhir will come when India experiences setbacks.As the Indian cricket team embarks on this new chapter, all eyes will be on Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir to lead the team to success. Their experience and determination will be crucial in shaping the future of Indian cricket.

Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal has expressed his cautious optimism regarding Gautam Gambhir's tenure as head coach of the Indian cricket team. Gambhir, who took over the reins from Rahul Dravid in July, has overseen India's emphatic 280-run victory over Bangladesh in the first Test in Chennai. However, Tamim believes it is premature to fully assess Gambhir's impact."When you're winning, you don't know the real character of the man," Tamim said. "It's only when you lose a series, then you lose another, that the real character comes out."Tamim acknowledged Gambhir's capabilities but emphasized the need for time to evaluate his performance. "No doubt, he is a capable man, but it's too early," he said. "Let India have a bad game, then we will see what comes out."Meanwhile, India captain Rohit Sharma opted to bowl first in the second Test in Kanpur. India, who lead the two-match series 1-0, have fielded an unchanged side. Bangladesh, on the other hand, have made two changes, with Khaled Ahmed and Taijul Islam replacing Taskin Ahmed and Nahid Rana.The start of the match was delayed due to a wet outfield. India had won the opening Test by a commanding margin of 280 runs.

Gautam Gambhir's maiden assignment as India's Test head coach has commenced with a resounding victory, as the Rohit Sharma-led team crushed Bangladesh by 280 runs in the opening Test in Chennai. The Indian squad has now arrived in Kanpur for the series-deciding second Test at the Green Park Stadium.During their journey from Chennai to Kanpur, the Indian players engaged in lighthearted banter and camaraderie. Mohammed Siraj and Axar Patel bonded over their shared love for "filter coffee" and "chocolate," while R Ashwin playfully complained of being "bullied" by his teammates, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja.The amusing interactions were captured in a video shared by the BCCI on social media. The video begins with Akash Deep and Axar teasing Siraj, who sported a bucket hat and sunglasses. Sarfaraz Khan then enthusiastically chanted "Jassu, Jassu" for Yashasvi Jaiswal, who responded by comparing his fan following to that of Sachin Tendulkar.As the flight approached Kanpur, Bumrah and Jadeja playfully addressed Ashwin as "Ash anna" and "Ash anna for a reason." "They are just bullying me," Ashwin remarked in the video.Meanwhile, the selection committee has retained an unchanged squad for the second Test in Kanpur.

India's Test Trio Arrives in Kanpur for Second Bangladesh TestIndia's head coach Gautam Gambhir, wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, and star batter Virat Kohli have arrived in Kanpur ahead of the second Test against Bangladesh, scheduled to commence on Friday at the Green Park Stadium.Gambhir's tenure as Test head coach began with a resounding 280-run victory in Chennai. Pant, returning to Test cricket, impressed with a 109-run knock in the second innings, showcasing his aggressive and defensive prowess. He also contributed 39 runs in the first innings.Kohli, however, had a disappointing outing in Chennai, scoring only 6 and 17 in the two innings. He was dismissed by Hasan Mahmud in the first innings and Mehidy Hasan Miraz in the second.Ravichandran Ashwin emerged as the 'Player of the Match' in the first Test, scoring a crucial 113 in the first innings and taking six wickets in the second, helping India secure a comprehensive victory on the fourth day.The Indian team will be looking to continue their winning momentum in Kanpur and seal the series against Bangladesh. The Green Park Stadium has been a happy hunting ground for India, with the team winning their last three Tests there.

Ravichandran Ashwin, the renowned Indian spinner, has been a consistent performer in both bowling and batting. During the first Test against Bangladesh in Chennai, Ashwin scored his sixth century in the format, equaling MS Dhoni's tally. At 38, Ashwin is nearing the end of his illustrious career, and his wife Prithi's recent remarks have given him pause."My wife told me that when she watched the Duleep Trophy highlights, she noticed all the off-spinners bowling," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. "She asked me when I would leave the team to give others a chance."Ashwin's words reflect the reality that younger players are emerging and eager to make their mark. The competition for places in the Indian team is intense, and even established stars like Ashwin must constantly prove their worth.Meanwhile, Ashwin has also commented on the contrasting coaching styles of Rahul Dravid and Gautam Gambhir. Dravid, who led India to the T20 World Cup triumph, was known for his "regimented" approach, while Gambhir is more relaxed."With Rahul bhai, everything had to be in order," Ashwin said. "Even a bottle had to be kept in a specific place at a specific time."In contrast, Gambhir is more laid-back and creates a lively atmosphere in the dressing room. "He's like a 'relaxed Rancho,'" Ashwin said, referring to the character from the Bollywood film "3 Idiots."Gambhir's approach has been well-received by the players, who appreciate his relaxed demeanor. He has also guided India to victory in his first Test assignment against Bangladesh.As Ashwin approaches the twilight of his career, he faces the challenge of adapting to the changing landscape of Indian cricket. The emergence of young talent and the contrasting coaching styles of Dravid and Gambhir will undoubtedly shape his final years in the game.

Gautam Gambhir's maiden Test coaching stint with the Indian cricket team has commenced, following Rahul Dravid's successful guidance to the 2024 T20 World Cup triumph. As the team embarks on a lengthy Test season, Gambhir faces the challenge of continuing the team's success.Ravichandran Ashwin, a pivotal figure in India's Test aspirations, has shed light on the contrasting coaching styles of Gambhir and Dravid. "Gambhir is very relaxed," Ashwin said. "He's like, 'Are you coming?' Rahul Bhai, on the other hand, is more regimented. He wants everything in order."Ashwin also expressed his appreciation for the enthusiastic crowd support during the first Test against Bangladesh. He hailed the pitch as one of the best he has played on in India, urging curators to create similar surfaces for Tamil Nadu's Ranji Trophy matches."The crowd was passionate," Ashwin said. "The pitch was awesome. I hope Tamil Nadu plays Ranji Trophy on such pitches. It was an outstanding Test match wicket."Ashwin recalled a conversation with former curator Pacha, who predicted the pitch would favor fast bowlers initially before becoming conducive to spin. "But like he said, the first day, there was bounce," Ashwin concluded.As India prepares for upcoming Test series against New Zealand and Australia, Ashwin's insights into the team's coaching dynamics and the importance of pitch quality provide valuable context for the challenges ahead.

Rahul Dravid Backs Gautam Gambhir as India's New Head CoachFormer India head coach Rahul Dravid has expressed his confidence in Gautam Gambhir, who has taken over the reins of the national team. Dravid, who guided India to the T20 World Cup title in June, believes Gambhir's experience as a player and coach will serve him well in his new role."He (Gambhir) has got a lot of experience, as a player also he has played a lot, he obviously coached quite a bit. I am sure he will be great," said Dravid at the launch event of 'Roombr,' a 'Digital Classroom' provider.Gambhir, a former opening batsman for India, commenced his coaching stint by leading the team on their tour of Sri Lanka in July and August. Under his guidance, the Indian team will embark on a busy Test season, starting with two matches against Bangladesh, followed by a series of three matches against New Zealand. The team will then travel to Australia for a five-match Test series.Dravid, who coached India to the final of both the ODI World Cup and the World Test Championship, believes that Gambhir will bring his own unique experiences and knowledge to the team."In any situation everyone brings his own experience and knowledge to the table. I am sure the team will benefit from everything that Gautam brings to them with his team," he added.The Indian team, now led by Gambhir, will be looking to build on the success achieved under Dravid's tenure. With a challenging Test season ahead, Gambhir will have the opportunity to prove his mettle as a coach and guide India to further glory.