Cricket

Virat Kohli, the Indian cricket legend, has etched his name deeper into the annals of cricket history by becoming the fastest player to score 27,000 runs in international cricket. Kohli achieved this remarkable feat in just 594 innings, breaking the previous record held by Sachin Tendulkar, who reached the milestone in 623 innings.Kohli's journey to 27,000 runs has been a testament to his consistency and dominance across all formats of the game. He has amassed an impressive 13,906 runs in 295 ODIs, along with 8918 runs in Test cricket. In T20Is, he amassed 4,188 runs before announcing his retirement from the shortest format after India's triumphant campaign in the T20 World Cup.Kohli's achievement is even more remarkable when compared to other cricketing greats. Sachin Tendulkar, who held the record prior to Kohli, is regarded as one of the most complete batsmen to have ever played the game. His 27,000 runs came in a glittering career that spanned over 24 years, including 100 international centuries.Following Tendulkar on the list is Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara, who took 648 innings to reach the milestone. Sangakkara's elegance and precision with the bat made him one of the finest players of his generation.Ricky Ponting, the legendary Australian captain and one of the fiercest competitors, completed his 27,000 runs in 650 innings, further proving that this feat is a hallmark of cricket's elite players.For Kohli, surpassing these greats is yet another reminder of his unparalleled ability to rise to the occasion when the spotlight is brightest. From his early days as a prodigy in Indian cricket to becoming one of the most celebrated figures globally, Kohli's journey has been one of discipline, fitness, and an uncompromising desire for excellence.This milestone comes at a time when Kohli is in the latter stages of his career, yet continues to be a key pillar for Team India. Fans and analysts alike believe that there are still several more records for Kohli to break, with the legendary cricketer showing no signs of slowing down.

Ravindra Jadeja, India's star all-rounder, has etched his name in the annals of Test cricket history by claiming his 300th wicket in the longest format of the game. The milestone moment came on day four of the second Test against Bangladesh in Dhaka, as Jadeja dismissed tailender Khaled Ahmed to seal India's victory.Jadeja's journey to 300 Test wickets has been a testament to his exceptional skills and unwavering determination. The left-arm spinner has consistently troubled batsmen with his accurate line and length, coupled with his ability to extract turn and bounce from the surface. His 300th wicket places him among the elite group of Indian bowlers to achieve this feat, joining the likes of Anil Kumble, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kapil Dev, Harbhajan Singh, Zaheer Khan, and Ishant Sharma.Notably, Jadeja is the second-fastest Indian bowler to reach the 300-wicket mark in Tests, based on the number of balls delivered. According to Cricbuzz, he has achieved this milestone in just 17,428 deliveries, trailing only Ashwin (15,636 deliveries). This remarkable feat underscores Jadeja's exceptional consistency and ability to strike regularly.Beyond his bowling prowess, Jadeja has also established himself as a formidable batsman in Test cricket. He has amassed 3122 runs at an impressive average of 36.73, including four centuries and 21 half-centuries. His all-round contributions have made him an indispensable asset to the Indian team, and he continues to play a pivotal role in their success.As India celebrates Jadeja's historic achievement, it is worth noting that he has achieved this milestone in just 73 Tests. His ability to perform at the highest level consistently is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the game. Jadeja's 300th Test wicket is a fitting tribute to his exceptional talent and a reminder of his status as one of the finest all-rounders in the world.

Mayank Yadav, the 22-year-old pace sensation from Delhi, has been making waves in the cricketing world. His impressive performances for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) this year earned him a call-up to the Indian T20I squad for the upcoming series against Bangladesh.Yadav's journey to the national team has been marked by both triumph and adversity. Despite his exceptional pace, which consistently exceeds 150 kmph, he had only played a handful of matches at the domestic level before his IPL debut.However, his raw talent caught the attention of LSG's support staff, who were astounded by his speed. Yadav's inclusion in the IPL team gave him a platform to showcase his abilities, and he made the most of it, impressing with his pace and accuracy.Yadav's success has not come without its challenges. He has faced persistent niggles, including a side strain, which required extensive rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). During his time at the NCA, Yadav received invaluable support from the staff, including Troy Cooley and Rajnikanth, who helped him understand his body and overcome his injuries.Yadav's unwavering determination and the unwavering support of his coaches at Sonnet Club in Delhi have played a pivotal role in his rise. The club, known for nurturing young talent, provided Yadav with financial assistance and mentorship, enabling him to focus on his cricket without financial worries.Yadav's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of a supportive environment. His call-up to the Indian team is a recognition of his hard work and talent, and it serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers across the country.

Rohit Sharma, the enigmatic Indian skipper, has become synonymous with high expectations in the cricketing world. As the leader of the ODI and Test teams, Rohit's every move is scrutinized, with fans and experts alike eagerly anticipating his next triumph.In a recent interview, Rohit candidly acknowledged the constant pressure that comes with his stature. "Expectations will never end," he said. "If you have won this World Cup, you'll be asked to win the next World Cup that is coming up."Rohit's ability to score colossal hundreds, particularly in ODIs, has set him apart as a batting maestro. His record of three double centuries in the format is a testament to his prolificacy. Fans expect him to continue anchoring the Indian innings and delivering crucial runs at the top, especially in high-stakes matches.In ICC tournaments, Rohit has etched his name in history with memorable performances. In the 2019 Cricket World Cup, he amassed five centuries, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion. Experts and fans alike anticipate him replicating such form in future global events, making match-winning contributions when it matters most.Beyond his batting prowess, Rohit's calm demeanor is seen as a key strength. Whether it's leading the team in tense chases or responding to setbacks, his composure is crucial to India's success. As a batsman and captain, he exudes control and inspires confidence in his teammates.As a senior member of the squad, Rohit's fitness and fielding standards are closely monitored. Fans expect him to lead by example, maintaining a high level of fitness and contributing to the team's fielding efforts. With the added responsibility of captaincy, his commitment to physical excellence is even more important.In conclusion, Rohit Sharma is expected to be both a run machine and a strong leader, guiding India with his experience and tactical nous. As he continues to perform at the highest level on the global stage, the expectations from him will only intensify.

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.

Jemimah Rodrigues, the 22-year-old Indian batter, has emerged as a key player in the national team and various T20 franchise leagues. Her journey has been marked by challenges and triumphs, shaping her into a resilient and versatile cricketer.Rodrigues' international debut in 2018 was met with high expectations, and she has since navigated numerous obstacles to establish herself as a top-order batter. Her participation in the Kia Super League (KSL) in England proved transformative, not only enhancing her on-field performance but also fostering her independence and maturity.Despite the ongoing debate surrounding club versus country loyalties, Rodrigues embraces the opportunity to play alongside and learn from the best in the world in T20 leagues. She credits her Delhi Capitals captain, Meg Lanning, for instilling in her a sense of calmness under pressure.In the recent Women's Caribbean Premier League (WCPL), Rodrigues played a crucial role in Trinbago Knight Riders' success, showcasing her ability to finish matches. This experience has boosted her confidence ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup in the UAE.Rodrigues acknowledges that the Indian team is focusing on their own strengths rather than dwelling on their opponents. She recalls the pressure she faced in last year's T20 World Cup semi-final against Pakistan, but credits her faith and the support of her parents for helping her overcome her nerves.In the lead-up to the T20 World Cup, Rodrigues has been working on adapting to the number five batting position, where she aims to make a significant impact for India. She emphasizes the importance of aggression and adaptability in this role.While power-hitting is not her natural game, Rodrigues is developing this aspect of her batting. She draws inspiration from Virat Kohli, who relies on timing and gap-hitting to excel in T20 cricket.The Indian team has prioritized fielding and fitness in their preparations for the T20 World Cup. Rodrigues highlights the role of the support staff in enhancing these skills.Rodrigues dreams of a grand reception in Mumbai if India wins the T20 World Cup. Her name, meaning "dove" in Hebrew, symbolizes her hope for a successful campaign for the Indian team.

Virender Sehwag's iconic "Sultan of Multan" innings, a triple century scored in the 2004 Test match against Pakistan, remains etched in the annals of Indian cricket history. This monumental knock not only showcased Sehwag's aggressive batting style but also highlighted his camaraderie with batting legend Sachin Tendulkar.Sehwag's 309-run masterpiece, achieved in just 364 balls, made him the first Indian to score a triple century in Test cricket. His blistering innings featured a 336-run partnership with Tendulkar, who played a crucial role in Sehwag's success.In a recent viral video, Sehwag shared an amusing anecdote from his partnership with Tendulkar. After hitting a six off Saqlain Mushtaq, Tendulkar jokingly warned Sehwag against hitting another six, saying, "If you hit another six, I'll pull your bat away."Undeterred, Sehwag reached 295 and declared his intention to hit a six off Mushtaq's first ball. Tendulkar, initially hesitant, eventually gave his blessing. Sehwag stepped out and dispatched Mushtaq for a six, reaching the historic milestone of 300 runs.Sehwag's knock helped India post a massive 675/5 declared in the first innings, leading to an innings and 52-run victory. His fearless batting against a formidable Pakistani bowling attack, including Shoaib Akhtar, Mohammad Sami, and Saqlain Mushtaq, cemented his status as one of India's greatest batsmen.Beyond their on-field exploits, Tendulkar and Sehwag shared a close friendship. Despite their contrasting personalities, their mutual respect and camaraderie created a unique partnership that benefited the Indian team for many years.Their bond extended off the field as well, with Sehwag often sharing humorous anecdotes about his time with Tendulkar. Their friendship stands as a testament to the spirit of Indian cricket during their playing days and continues to be celebrated even after their retirement.

Yuzvendra Chahal, India's limited-overs leg-spinner, has returned home after a successful stint in county cricket with Northamptonshire CCC. Chahal's impressive performances in both four-day and One-Day formats, where he claimed 24 wickets at an average of 17, have earned him accolades as one of the best overseas signings in recent times.Chahal's county experience has not only honed his skills but also provided him with an opportunity to showcase his abilities against a high standard of cricket. With India set to tour England next year, Chahal's performances have served as a testament to his capabilities.Beyond his on-field achievements, Chahal is passionate about mentoring young cricketers. He has been instrumental in guiding Krish Patel, an 18-year-old cricketer with a promising future. Chahal's commitment to nurturing the next generation of cricketers reflects his dedication to the sport.The growing trend of Indian cricketers participating in county cricket highlights its importance as a platform for growth and development. Players like Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, Washington Sundar, Prithvi Shaw, and Chahal have all benefited from the competitive environment and high-quality opposition in county cricket.Brindon Bagirathan, the bridge between English Cricket and India, has played a pivotal role in facilitating Indian cricketers' participation in county cricket. Bagirathan's efforts have not only enhanced the skills of Indian players but also strengthened the global identity of Indian cricket.With India's tour of England in 2025 approaching, it is likely that more Indian cricketers will seek opportunities to play county cricket to impress the national selectors. The experience gained in county cricket will be invaluable in preparing for the challenges of international cricket.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced an all-female panel of 13 match officials for the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates from October 3 to 20. Among the appointed officials are two Indian representatives: match referee G.S. Lakshmi and umpire Vrinda Rathi.Lakshmi and Rathi were also part of the match official panel for the previous edition of the tournament held in South Africa in 2023. The current panel comprises three match referees and 10 umpires.For the marquee India vs Pakistan match at the Dubai International Stadium on October 6, Australia's Eloise Sheridan and South Africa's Lauren Agenbag have been appointed as on-field umpires, while Jacquline Williams of the West Indies will serve as the television umpire.The tournament kicks off on October 3 with the opening clash between Bangladesh and Scotland, which will be officiated by Claire Polosak of Australia and Agenbag. India will begin their campaign on October 4 against New Zealand, with Williams and Anna Harris of England as the on-field umpires and Polosak as the TV umpire.New Zealand's Kim Cotton and Agenbag will be the on-field umpires for India's game against Sri Lanka on October 9, while England's Suzanne Redfern will be the TV umpire. Redfern and Cotton will also officiate India's match against defending champions Australia on October 13, with Williams in charge of TV duty.The umpires and match referees for the semifinals and final, to be played on October 17, October 18, and October 20 respectively, will be announced later.The ninth edition of the tournament was initially scheduled to be hosted by Bangladesh but was moved due to political unrest in the country. The tournament will be held across two venues in the UAE - Dubai and Sharjah.