Cricket

Former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer has expressed confidence in Virat Kohli's ability to deliver in the crucial stages of the Men's T20 World Cup. Despite a slow start to the tournament, Jaffer believes Kohli will showcase his greatness as the competition progresses.Kohli, who entered the World Cup as the leading run-getter in IPL 2024, has struggled on the challenging pitches in New York, scoring just 5 runs in three innings. However, Jaffer believes this is a temporary setback and that Kohli will bounce back."Rohit and Virat have been playing on the tough New York pitch, so they aren't among the top run-scorers," Jaffer said. "But do not write off Virat Kohli. As the tournament gets to its business end, he will show his true colors and he will show his greatness."Jaffer also dismissed suggestions that Kohli should revert to batting at number three, citing Rishabh Pant's success in that position. "I don't think Virat Kohli should bat at No. 3. He should continue to open because now you have got Rishabh Pant at No. 3 and now it has been working out really well."Jaffer emphasized the importance of proactive batting in the powerplay, especially on challenging pitches. "You will need to be proactive in the powerplay. You will reach nowhere if you play cautiously on such pitches because the bowler knows he has to bowl on a spot and let the pitch do the rest."With India's final Group A game against Canada approaching, Jaffer believes there could be a case for Sanju Samson to bat at number four. "There might be a case for Sanju Samson at No. 4. But then Shivam Dube has got just a couple of games and the team management will want to give him a longer run."

Shakib Al Hasan's Sarcastic Response to Virender Sehwag's CriticismBangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan has made headlines with his sarcastic response to former India opener Virender Sehwag's criticism of his batting performance in the ongoing T20 World Cup.After Bangladesh's victory over the Netherlands, a video clip of Shakib's post-match press conference went viral. When asked about Sehwag's comments, Shakib interrupted the journalist and asked, "Who?" The clip, which ends abruptly, has sparked amusement and speculation.However, Shakib later completed his response, stating that players should focus on contributing to their team rather than responding to criticism. "A player doesn't play to answer (the critics). His job is to contribute to the team. If he is not able to do that, there will be a lot of talk. I think it's not such a bad thing," he said.Sehwag had criticized Shakib for his poor performance in Bangladesh's first two matches against Sri Lanka and South Africa. He had questioned Shakib's inclusion in the squad for his experience, saying that he had not shown it on the field.Shakib's response has been interpreted as a sarcastic dig at Sehwag, who is known for his outspoken and often controversial comments. It has also highlighted the growing rivalry between India and Bangladesh in cricket, with both teams vying for supremacy in the subcontinent.Despite Sehwag's criticism, Shakib has rediscovered his batting form in Bangladesh's recent matches. He scored an unbeaten 64 off 46 deliveries against the Netherlands, helping his team secure a 25-run victory.Bangladesh are now on the verge of qualifying for the Super 8s stage of the T20 World Cup, having won two of their three matches in Group D. Their remaining match is against South Africa on Sunday, which will determine their final standing in the group.

The Indian cricket team's performance in the New York leg of the World Cup has been a mixed bag, with the batting superstar Virat Kohli's poor form as an opener being the only jarring note.In the three games played at the Nassau County Ground, India faced Ireland, Pakistan, and USA. While the Ireland match was a comfortable victory, the Pakistan game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with India eventually emerging victorious. The match against USA was a battle of attrition, with India triumphing after enduring some difficult phases.Amidst all this, Virat Kohli's form has been a concern. The thousands of fans who filled the stands on all three days had one common wish: a meaningful contribution from their favorite superstar. However, Kohli has scored just 1, 4, and 0 in three consecutive games, a far cry from the magnificent knocks he produced in the IPL.Kohli's struggles as an opener have prompted questions about his suitability for the role. Captain Rohit Sharma had earlier stated that Kohli's and his own slots were "fixed," while the rest of the team would be flexible. However, Kohli's recent performances have cast doubt on this strategy.The conditions in New York have been challenging for batters, with the ball dominating the bat. The movement and up-and-down nature of the track have kept batters on their toes. Kohli's late arrival to the team and subsequent lack of practice at the venue may have contributed to his struggles.Despite his poor form, the team management remains confident in Kohli's abilities. Shivam Dube, who has also faced some challenges, said, "Who am I to talk about Kohli? If he hasn't got runs in three games, he may well get three hundreds in the next three and there will be no more discussions."Captain Rohit Sharma has the option of bringing in Yashasvi Jaiswal as his opening partner and dropping Kohli down to his regular No. 3 spot. However, Sharma believes that Kohli is best suited at the top and that the team will not be able to include four all-rounders if Kohli comes down the order.The team's faith in Kohli has prevented them from making any harsh decisions. It is now up to the batting great to flick on that switch and prove that "class is permanent."

Pakistan's hopes of advancing to the 'Super 8s' stage of the T20 World Cup received a boost after India's victory over USA on Wednesday. Pakistan's chances of progressing are now dependent on favorable results in the remaining matches of Group A.Currently, India leads the group with six points, followed by USA with four points and a net run rate (NRR) of +0.127. Pakistan sits in third place with two points and an NRR of +0.191, while Canada and Ireland have two and zero points, respectively.Pakistan's qualification hinges on the outcome of the following matches:* USA vs Ireland (June 14): If USA wins, they will qualify for the 'Super 8s' along with India.* Ireland vs USA (June 14): If Ireland wins, Pakistan's chances will improve as USA's NRR will worsen, making the Pakistan vs Ireland match a direct shootout for a spot in the 'Super 8s'.* India vs Canada (June 15): This match will become irrelevant if USA beats Ireland on June 14. However, if Ireland wins, Canada must upset India to tie with USA at four points.* Pakistan vs Ireland (June 16): This result will be crucial only if USA loses to Ireland on June 14. A Pakistan win will take them to second place on the points table, edging out USA on NRR.A washout in the USA vs Ireland match will give USA five points, securing their qualification. A washout in the Pakistan vs Ireland match will result in Pakistan finishing with three points, allowing USA to advance even if they lose their last match against Ireland.Pakistan's fate now rests on the performances of other teams in Group A. A win over Ireland on June 16 will be crucial, but they will need favorable results in the other matches to secure a spot in the 'Super 8s'.

Virat Kohli's recent string of underwhelming performances in the T20 World Cup 2024 has sparked a debate among cricket pundits and fans alike. Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has proposed a bold solution: shifting Kohli down to the number three batting position.Kaif believes that Kohli's struggles in the opening slot stem from the challenging seaming conditions in the tournament. He argues that Kohli's aggressive style of play is better suited to the middle order, where he can take his time to settle in and analyze the game."At number three, Virat Kohli will play his natural game," Kaif explained. "He will have time to settle and analyze the game. Scoring 50-60 runs would be great for him. His stats at this position in previous World Cups are impressive."Kaif also suggests that Rishabh Pant, who has been batting at number five, could move up to open alongside Rohit Sharma. This would create a left-right combination at the top of the order, with Kohli following at number three and Suryakumar Yadav at number four.Kohli's difficulties were evident in India's Group A match against the United States, where he was dismissed for a golden duck. This was his first golden duck in T20 World Cups and his second in the shortest format.Despite Kohli's struggles, India advanced to the Super Eight stage of the tournament with a seven-wicket victory over the United States. Suryakumar Yadav's half-century and Arshdeep Singh's four-wicket haul were crucial in India securing their third straight win.Whether Kaif's suggestion to change Kohli's batting order will be implemented remains to be seen. However, it is clear that Kohli's form is a concern for India as they look to defend their T20 World Cup title.

USA Cricket Sets Dismal Record in T20 World Cup Powerplay Against IndiaThe United States cricket team etched an unfortunate record in the annals of T20 World Cup history during their match against India in New York on Wednesday. The American side managed a paltry 18 runs for the loss of two wickets in the first six overs, marking the lowest powerplay score against India in the tournament's history.This dismal performance also stands as the USA's lowest powerplay total in T20 Internationals. The Indian bowling attack, led by left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh, proved too formidable for the American batters. Singh struck twice in his opening over, dismissing Shayan Jahangir and Andries Gous for ducks.India has a history of stifling opponents during the powerplay in T20 World Cups. In 2014, the West Indies team managed only 24 runs in their powerplay without losing any wickets. Similarly, South Africa was restricted to 24 runs for three wickets in their powerplay against India in the 2022 T20 World Cup. Ireland also struggled against India in the 2024 T20 World Cup, scoring just 26 runs for two wickets in their powerplay overs.These instances of low powerplay scores against India highlight the effectiveness of the Indian bowling unit in T20 World Cups. The bowlers have consistently applied early pressure, restricted scoring opportunities, and captured key wickets, leading to India's success on the global stage.The USA's dismal powerplay performance against India underscores the challenges faced by the American team in the tournament. Despite their spirited efforts, the USA batters were unable to penetrate the Indian bowling attack and establish a solid foundation for their innings.

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 is heating up, and Match 25 promises to be a thrilling encounter between the USA and India at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on Wednesday.Both teams have played two matches so far, with the USA sitting second on the points table and India leading the standings. A win for either side would solidify their position in the tournament.In their last match, the USA played a thrilling match against Pakistan, which ended in a tie. They triumphed in the Super Over, winning by five runs. Nosthush Kenjige was the standout player for the USA, amassing 91 fantasy points.India's last match was also against Pakistan, where they secured a narrow victory by six runs. Jasprit Bumrah was the top fantasy performer for India, earning 97 fantasy points with his exceptional bowling.Key Players to Watch:USA:* Aaron Jones: A reliable top-order batter who has scored 167 runs in his last five matches.* Harmeet Singh: A versatile left-handed batter and slow left-arm orthodox bowler who adds depth to the USA lineup.* Jasdeep Singh: A right-arm medium pacer who has taken two wickets in his last five matches.India:* Virat Kohli: A prolific right-handed top-order batter who has been a consistent performer.* Hardik Pandya: An all-rounder who has scored 65 runs and taken six wickets in his last five matches.* Jasprit Bumrah: Known for his deadly accuracy and pace, Bumrah has taken nine wickets in his last five matches.The match between the USA and India promises to be a close and exciting encounter, with both teams eager to secure a win and improve their standings in the tournament. Fans can expect an exciting game filled with competitive cricket and standout performances.

Pakistan's former captain, Salman Butt, has expressed his disappointment over the team's recent 6-run loss to India in the Asia Cup 2022. Butt criticized the team's performance, calling it a "tragic loss."Butt praised India's performance, particularly their ability to hold their nerves under pressure. He also pointed out that India could have reached a higher score of 150 runs, given the pitch conditions.Butt highlighted the standout performance of Naseem Shah, who took three wickets and scored an unbeaten 10 runs in the final over. However, he criticized the team's overall approach, saying they "found a way to create excitement and then lose it."Butt also praised Rohit Sharma's leadership, noting that the Indian team remained relaxed and composed throughout the match. He emphasized the importance of maintaining composure in high-pressure situations.Butt's comments reflect the frustration and disappointment felt by many Pakistani fans after the team's loss. Pakistan had a strong chance of winning the match, but they ultimately fell short due to poor execution and decision-making.The loss has raised questions about Pakistan's team selection and tactics. Butt's criticism is likely to spark further debate and analysis as the team prepares for their upcoming matches in the Asia Cup.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed Lahore as India's home base during the ICC Champions Trophy next year, prioritizing security measures for the neighboring team. This recommendation was included in the draft itinerary submitted to the ICC in April.The PCB's decision stems from India's reluctance to play in Pakistan due to security concerns, as evidenced by their withdrawal from the Asia Cup last year. The Champions Trophy, scheduled for February 19-March 9, 2023, will mark Pakistan's first major ICC event since 1996.Karachi and Rawalpindi have also been retained as additional venues for the tournament, subject to approval by the ICC executive board. The PCB has emphasized the importance of providing the Indian team with the best possible security arrangements, minimizing their travel time.PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has hinted at significant changes for the Pakistan team following their defeat by India in the T20 World Cup. He has also announced plans to renovate the stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi before the Champions Trophy.To further prepare for the tournament, the PCB intends to host the Pakistan Super League in April 2023 and a tri-series involving South Africa and New Zealand. These events will provide valuable experience and match practice for the Pakistan team.The BCCI has yet to officially confirm whether it will send the Indian team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. However, the PCB's proactive approach in addressing security concerns and providing a suitable home base for India demonstrates its commitment to hosting a successful and memorable event.