Cricket

India Champions Triumph in Inaugural World Championship of LegendsIn a thrilling finale at Edgbaston, Birmingham, India Champions emerged victorious in the inaugural World Championship of Legends, defeating arch-rivals Pakistan Champions by five wickets.Pakistan Champions, led by Younis Khan, posted a competitive total of 156 for 6 in their 20 overs. However, India's explosive batsman Ambati Rayudu stole the show with a blistering 50 off just 30 balls, guiding his team to victory with five wickets and five balls to spare.Post-match celebrations erupted, with captain Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, and Harbhajan Singh engaging in a playful dance to the tune of "Tauba Tauba." However, their antics sparked controversy when para-badminton star Manasi Joshi criticized them for mocking people with physical disabilities.Joshi, a former world no. 1 in her SL3 badminton category, expressed her disappointment in the comments section of the viral video. She condemned the trio's behavior, stating that it could encourage bullying and harm young children with disabilities."This isn't funny," Joshi wrote. "You don't know how much harm your behavior can do. The appreciation you're getting from people around is appalling to see."Joshi's comments highlighted the importance of responsible behavior from public figures and the need to respect individuals with disabilities. Her words resonated with many, who expressed their support for her stance.Despite the controversy, India's victory in the World Championship of Legends was a significant achievement. The team's performance showcased the depth of talent in Indian cricket and cemented their status as one of the world's leading cricketing nations.

Indian cricket has witnessed an unprecedented fortnight of triumph, with the Rohit Sharma-led team breaking an 11-year ICC trophy drought by winning the T20 World Cup. This historic victory was followed by another momentous achievement, as India Champions emerged victorious in the inaugural edition of the World Championship of Legends in Birmingham.The World Championship of Legends, a tournament featuring retired cricket legends, culminated in a thrilling finale between India Champions and arch-rivals Pakistan Champions. Led by Yuvraj Singh, India Champions defeated Pakistan Champions by five wickets at Edgbaston on Saturday.Pakistan Champions posted a competitive total of 156 for 6 in their 20 overs, with Shoaib Malik anchoring the innings with a crucial 41 off 23 balls. India Champions, in response, started their run chase with intent, losing Robin Uthappa early but relying on Ambati Rayudu's explosive 50 off 30 balls to set the foundation for the chase.With captain Yuvraj Singh and Irfan Pathan at the crease, India Champions sealed the win, finishing at 159 for 5 in 19.1 overs. The victory sparked jubilation among the Indian fans, who witnessed their team triumph in a tournament that celebrated the legacy of cricket legends.The World Championship of Legends provided a platform for retired cricketers to showcase their skills once again, and the tournament's success has raised hopes for future editions. The victory of India Champions has further cemented India's dominance in the world of cricket, adding another chapter to the rich history of the sport in the country.

Former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razaaq's absence from the Pakistan Champions' playing eleven in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) final against India on Saturday was overshadowed by his recent removal from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) selection panel.Razaaq and his former teammate Wahab Riaz were dismissed from the PCB selection committee after Pakistan's disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup, where they failed to advance past the group stage. Allegations of favoritism have been leveled against the duo, which they have denied.During a talk show on a Pakistani TV channel, Razaaq was asked if the PCB had promised any support or prize money to the team if they defeated India in the WCL final. Razaaq's response drew laughter from the panel and social media users."We received a termination letter," Razaaq quipped, referring to his dismissal as a selector.Razaaq has previously defended the selection decisions made for the T20 World Cup, stating that they were made collectively by the committee.Meanwhile, in the WCL final, India Champions defeated Pakistan Champions by five wickets. Led by Yuvraj Singh, India chased down a target of 157 runs in 19.1 overs. Ambati Rayudu (50) played a key role with a quickfire half-century, while Yusuf Pathan (30*) and Gurkeerat Singh Mann (34) made valuable contributions.

Irfan Pathan's Iconic In-Swinger Strikes Again, Reminiscent of Historic Hat-TrickIn a thrilling display of nostalgia, Irfan Pathan's legendary in-swinging delivery made a triumphant return in Birmingham on Saturday. During the final of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) between India and Pakistan, Pathan's signature ball pierced through the defenses of Pakistan Champions skipper Younis Khan, echoing his famous hat-trick in the 2006 Karachi Test.Attempting to drive the ball on the on-side, Khan was caught off guard by Pathan's late in-swinging delivery, which found the gap between bat and pad. The sound of timber reverberated through the stadium as the stumps behind Khan were shattered.Eighteen years prior, Pathan had etched his name in cricket history with a remarkable hat-trick in the third Test of India's tour of Pakistan. Coincidentally, Younis was the second victim of that hat-trick, which remains the only instance of a hat-trick in the opening over of a Test match.While the mode of dismissal differed on Saturday, with Khan being clean bowled instead of adjudged lbw, the impact of Pathan's delivery was undeniable. The in-swinging ball, reminiscent of his prime, reminded fans of his exceptional bowling prowess.In the 2006 Karachi Test, Pathan's hat-trick also included the dismissals of Salman Butt and Mohammad Yousuf. On Saturday, India Champions emerged victorious in the WCL final, defeating Pakistan Champions by five wickets. Led by Yuvraj Singh, India successfully chased down a target of 157 runs in 19.1 overs.Ambati Rayudu's quickfire half-century (50) laid the foundation for India's victory, while Yusuf Pathan (30*) and Gurkeerat Singh Mann (34) made crucial contributions. Irfan Pathan's iconic in-swinging delivery not only secured a wicket but also evoked memories of his legendary hat-trick, showcasing the enduring legacy of one of India's finest bowlers.

India Champions vs Pakistan Champions: A Clash of Legends in the WCL 2024 FinalThe stage is set for an epic showdown as India Champions and Pakistan Champions prepare to face off in the grand finale of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2024. The match, scheduled for Saturday, July 13, at Edgbaston Cricket Stadium, promises to be a thrilling encounter between two cricketing powerhouses.India Champions, led by the experienced Yuvraj Singh, will be eager to avenge their loss to Pakistan in the group stage. The Indian team boasts a formidable lineup, including Suresh Raina, the Pathan brothers, and other seasoned veterans. Their aggressive style of play and wealth of experience make them a formidable opponent.Pakistan Champions, on the other hand, will be looking to prove their dominance once again. Led by the legendary Younus Khan, the team also features match-winners like Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Malik. Their ability to adapt to different conditions and their unwavering determination make them a force to be reckoned with.The road to the final has been challenging for both teams. India finished fourth in the group stage after defeats to Pakistan and South Africa, while Pakistan secured second place behind Australia. However, both teams showed their resilience and skill in the semi-finals, with India defeating Australia and Pakistan overcoming West Indies.The final promises to be a battle of wits and skill. India will be looking to exploit Pakistan's weakness in the middle order, while Pakistan will aim to neutralize India's explosive batting lineup. The match is expected to be a close contest, with both teams having a chance to lift the coveted WCL trophy.

Pathan Brothers' Frustration Boils Over in Tense World Championship MatchIndia's beloved Pathan brothers, Yusuf and Irfan, have always displayed unwavering love and respect for each other, both on and off the field. However, even the strongest bonds can be tested in the heat of competition.During a recent World Championship of Legends 2024 match between India Champions and South Africa Champions, a moment of frustration between the brothers captured the attention of fans. In the 18th over of India's run chase, Irfan hit a Dale Steyn delivery to deep covers. The brothers took a single, but Irfan, eager for a second, continued running.Yusuf, however, remained rooted to his crease, watching the ball. Irfan, halfway down the pitch, realized his mistake and turned back, but it was too late. Steyn's throw from the deep found its way into the hands of the wicketkeeper, who promptly removed the bails.A visibly frustrated Irfan confronted Yusuf, accusing him of not paying attention to the ball. Yusuf, equally frustrated, shouted back. The exchange was a rare glimpse into the intense emotions that can arise in the midst of a high-stakes cricket match.Despite the incident, India Champions managed to qualify for the semi-finals on the basis of a superior net run rate, while South Africa Champions emerged victorious by 54 runs. The Pathan brothers' frustration was a reminder that even the closest relationships can be tested in the crucible of competition.

India Champions vs Pakistan Champions: A Clash of Legends in the World Championship of Legends 2024The World Championship of Legends 2024 is set to witness a thrilling encounter between two legendary cricket teams: India Champions and Pakistan Champions. Led by the iconic Yuvraj Singh, India Champions has emerged as a formidable force in the tournament, winning both their opening matches and topping the WCL table. Pakistan Champions, captained by the enigmatic Shahid Afridi, has also maintained an unbeaten record, making this clash a highly anticipated event.The India Champions squad boasts a galaxy of stars, including Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, and the Pathan brothers. Their experience and skill have been instrumental in their early success. Pakistan Champions, on the other hand, relies on the leadership of Shoaib Malik and Misbah-ul-Haq, who bring a wealth of knowledge and tactical acumen to the team.The match will take place on Saturday, July 6, at Edgbaston, Birmingham. The first ball will be bowled at 9:00 PM IST. Fans can catch the live telecast on the Star Sports Network, while the live streaming will be available on the Fancode app.The Legends tournament has generated immense excitement among cricket enthusiasts worldwide. The opportunity to witness some of the greatest players of all time compete once again has created a buzz that is sure to reach its peak during the India Champions vs Pakistan Champions match.With both teams boasting a wealth of talent and experience, the outcome of this clash is far from certain. However, one thing is for sure: the fans are in for a treat as two legendary teams battle it out for supremacy in the World Championship of Legends 2024.

The inaugural World Championship of Legends (WCL) is set to ignite the cricketing world in July, bringing together legendary players from around the globe. Among them, the India Champions team, led by the iconic Yuvraj Singh, will showcase their exceptional skills on the hallowed grounds of England.The WCL, backed by the prestigious England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), aims to provide a credible platform for cricket legends to extend their careers and reignite their passion for the sport. The India Champions squad, unveiled in New Delhi, boasts an impressive roster of former World Cup winners and T20 champions, including Harbhajan Singh, Suresh Raina, RP Singh, and Rahul Sharma.The team's owners, Salman Ahmed, Sumant Bahl, and Jaspal Bahra, expressed their pride in owning the India Champions and their commitment to delivering a cricketing spectacle that celebrates India's rich cricketing heritage. They believe the WCL will provide a unique opportunity for senior cricketers to showcase their skills and inspire future generations.Captain Yuvraj Singh, known for his explosive batting and match-winning performances, expressed his excitement to represent India Champions and play in England once more. He recalled the unforgettable emotions of the NatWest Finals and looked forward to the enthusiastic atmosphere and passionate fans that make playing in the UK a memorable experience.Suresh Raina, unveiling the team jersey, emphasized the inspiring legacy of Indian cricket and the profound sense of nostalgia and passion that England evokes within the squad. He stated that the team's objective is to exhibit cricketing excellence and reaffirm their position as champions and ambassadors of Indian cricket.The India Champions squad is a formidable force, featuring a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. Irfan Pathan, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu, Yusuf Pathan, Gurkeerat Mann, Rahul Sharma, Naman Ojha, Rahul Shukla, RP Singh, Vinay Kumar, and Dhawal Kulkarni complete the 15-member team.The WCL aims to rekindle the nostalgia of past clashes between top international teams and promises to bring the summers early to England with its star-studded lineup. The league will feature legendary players like Bret Lee, Chris Gayle, Kevin Pietersen, Shahid Afridi, and Jacques Kallis, ensuring an unforgettable cricketing spectacle.