Cricket

India's iconic World Cup-winning captain, Kapil Dev, has appealed to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to extend financial support to his former teammate, Anshuman Gaekwad, who is battling blood cancer. Gaekwad, 71, has been receiving treatment at King's College Hospital in London for the past year.Kapil expressed his anguish over Gaekwad's condition, stating, "It is a sad and very depressing situation. I am in pain because I have played alongside Anshu and can't bear to see him in this state. No one should suffer." He emphasized the need for the BCCI to step in and provide financial assistance to the former India head coach.Kapil revealed that several of his former teammates, including Mohinder Amarnath, Sunil Gavaskar, Sandeep Patil, Dilip Vengsarkar, Madan Lal, Ravi Shastri, and Kirti Azad, are actively involved in fundraising efforts for Gaekwad's treatment. He expressed confidence that the BCCI would take cognizance of the matter and extend support.However, Kapil lamented the lack of a structured system to assist former players in such situations. He suggested the formation of a Trust where former players could contribute their pension amounts to support those in need. "We are ready to contribute by donating our pension amount if the family allows us to," he said.Gaekwad's cricketing legacy is significant. He represented India in 40 Tests and 15 ODIs between 1975 and 1987. He later served as India's head coach in two separate stints. His contributions to Indian cricket have been immense, and his current health condition has evoked widespread concern and sympathy.

Sourav Ganguly's Iconic Celebration: A Moment Etched in Indian Cricket HistoryOn July 13, 2002, at the hallowed Lord's Cricket Ground, Sourav Ganguly etched his name into the annals of Indian cricket with an iconic celebration that remains a cherished memory for fans. After India's thrilling come-from-behind victory in the NatWest Series final against England, Ganguly, the Indian captain, shed his jersey and waved it triumphantly, a gesture that symbolized the team's resilience and determination.The victory was particularly significant as it broke India's nine-match losing streak in ODI finals. England had posted a formidable total of 325 for 5, with Marcus Trescothick and Nasser Hussain amassing a 185-run partnership. India's chase got off to a promising start with Ganguly and Virender Sehwag providing a 106-run opening stand. However, the middle order faltered, leaving India reeling at 146 for 5.Enter Mohammad Kaif and Yuvraj Singh, two young guns who turned the tide with a fearless batting display. They forged a 121-run partnership, injecting life into India's chase. Kaif remained unbeaten on 87, while Yuvraj contributed a flamboyant 69.With the match hanging in the balance, Zaheer Khan and Kaif sealed the victory in the final over, sparking wild celebrations on the Lord's balcony. Ganguly, shirtless and waving his jersey, led the jubilation, a moment that became an enduring image in Indian cricket history.The NatWest Series triumph was a watershed moment for Indian cricket, marking the beginning of an era of dominance under Ganguly's leadership. It also showcased the team's fighting spirit and ability to overcome adversity, qualities that would become synonymous with the "Ganguly era."

As Gautam Gambhir takes the reins as India's new head coach, the future of veteran players in the team's T20 setup is under scrutiny. Among those facing uncertainty is Mohammed Shami, who has been a mainstay in all three formats but has seen his T20I appearances dwindle.India's outgoing bowling coach, Paras Mhambrey, has urged Gambhir and his yet-to-be-finalized coaching staff to address Shami's future promptly. "The staff should talk to Shami and find out what he wants to do," Mhambrey said. "He's no longer young, so where does he fit in and how many more years does he look to play? How do we use him smartly?"Shami's recent injury struggles have raised concerns about his longevity. Despite being India's top bowler in the 2023 ODI World Cup, he has not played for the team since the final against Australia. Mhambrey believes that Shami's fitness and aspirations should be prioritized."If Tests are the focus now, then make sure he is in the best shape for the series in Australia," Mhambrey said. "However, what Shami wants and what his body says is paramount."Mhambrey emphasized the need for individualized fitness plans for players of different ages and abilities. "You can't compare a Shami with some youngster who has just come in," he said. "You have to understand what the value of Shami is. Do you need Shami to do the Yo-Yo or bowl those many balls in a Test and win India the game?"Shami remains a formidable pacer, and his experience could prove invaluable in India's pursuit of the Champions Trophy and Test Championship. Gambhir and his coaching staff will need to carefully assess Shami's fitness, aspirations, and role in the team's future plans.

Jasprit Bumrah's devastating spell of 6 for 19 in the first ODI against England at The Oval on July 12, 2022, stands as a testament to his exceptional bowling prowess. It was the best performance by an Indian bowler outside Asia, decimating the hosts and laying the foundation for a comprehensive Indian victory.Bumrah's opening burst was a masterclass in swing and seam bowling. He dismissed Jason Roy and Joe Root for ducks in his first over, sending shockwaves through the English batting lineup. Jonny Bairstow and Liam Livingston followed suit, leaving England reeling at 26 for 4.Mohammed Shami complemented Bumrah's brilliance from the other end, claiming 3 for 31. Bumrah returned for his second spell and continued his demolition, clean-bowling Brydon Carse and David Willey to complete his six-wicket haul. England were bundled out for a paltry 110 in just 25.2 overs.Bumrah's spell of 7.2 overs, 3 maidens, 19 runs, and 6 wickets was a statistical masterpiece. It showcased his ability to generate movement and accuracy, making him a formidable force in any conditions.The Indian openers, led by captain Rohit Sharma's unbeaten 76, made light work of the chase. Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan (31*) forged an unbroken 114-run partnership to secure a dominant 10-wicket victory.Bumrah's heroics in the first ODI continued his impressive run of form. He was instrumental in India's recent T20 World Cup triumph, where he emerged as the tournament's leading wicket-taker.With 149 wickets in 89 ODIs at an average of 23.55 and an economy rate of 4.59, Bumrah has established himself as one of the most potent bowlers in the world. His ability to swing the ball both ways and generate pace makes him a nightmare for batsmen.

Suresh Raina Hails MS Dhoni as the 'GOAT' in Fun ActivityFormer Indian cricketer Suresh Raina, currently playing for the Indian Champions in the World Championship of Legends, has named MS Dhoni as the greatest of all time (GOAT) in a fun activity with presenter Shefali Bagga.During a match against the South Africa Champions on Wednesday, Raina participated in the activity where he had to associate cricketers with certain terms. Raina's answers showcased his admiration and respect for his former teammates and their contributions to the sport.When asked about the 'King' and 'run-machine', Raina immediately mentioned Virat Kohli. He labeled Shubman Gill as the 'future' and Jasprit Bumrah as a 'death-over specialist'.However, it was his response to the 'GOAT' that garnered the most attention. Raina instantly replied with 'MS Dhoni', highlighting the close friendship and mutual respect between the two cricketers. They have played together for many years, winning the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy.Dhoni served as the captain of Chennai Super Kings for over a decade in the Indian Premier League, with Raina as his deputy. Both players retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020, with Raina announcing his retirement just a few hours after Dhoni.Raina's answers also shed light on his camaraderie with other former teammates. He labeled Shikhar Dhawan as the 'Desi Boy', Yuvraj Singh as the 'Most Stylish', and Harbhajan Singh as the 'Funniest'.Raina's participation in this fun activity not only entertained fans but also showcased his deep understanding and appreciation of the game of cricket and the players who have shaped its history.

Rohit Sharma's Devastating Assault on Mitchell Starc in T20 World CupIn a Super 8 encounter during the T20 World Cup in St Lucia, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma unleashed a blistering assault on Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc, leaving spectators in awe of his extraordinary batting prowess.Facing Starc's left-arm pace, Rohit made a mockery of the Australian pace spearhead, amassing an astonishing 29 runs in a single over. The over witnessed Rohit's effortless boundary-clearing ability, as he smashed four towering sixes and a boundary. The over also included a wide and a dot ball.Recalling the match on the LiSTNR Sport podcast, Starc admitted, "I have played against him (Rohit) a lot. He had a really good tournament, especially the back end. I think he targeted the wind in St. Lucia as well. There was that one end where we conceded a lot more than others. And I was bowling from that very end (laughs). I had 5 bad balls and he hit all for sixes (four 6s and one 4s)."Despite Starc eventually dismissing Rohit with a yorker-length ball that shattered his stumps, the damage had already been done. Rohit had amassed an impressive 92 runs from just 41 deliveries, setting the stage for India's eventual victory in the T20 World Cup.Starc's over against Rohit became a defining moment in the tournament, showcasing the Indian skipper's exceptional batting skills and the Australian team's struggles in the competition. The match sparked discussions about team selection and the challenges faced by Australia in the tournament.

Brett Lee, the legendary Australian fast bowler, has hailed Indian pace sensation Jasprit Bumrah as the "best" bowler across all three formats of the game. Lee's praise comes after Bumrah's stellar performance at the 2024 T20 World Cup, where he was named Player of the Tournament."Their batting order, which includes players who can dominate at every position from top to bottom, speaks volumes. Their middle-order is loaded with power and they have hitters who can put runs on the board quickly. In my opinion, Jasprit Bumrah is simply exceptional," said Lee.Bumrah's exceptional pace, swing, and control make him a formidable force in all formats. At the T20 World Cup, he showcased his leadership abilities, leading the Indian attack with 15 wickets at an average of 8.26 and an economy of just 4.17."He is the best bowler in all formats right now and leads the attack. Bumrah can keep up an amazing pace while shaping the new ball away. His tournament performance demonstrated his leadership abilities, taking about 15 wickets with remarkable economy. He is absolutely exceptional, and India is deserving of praise for their accomplishments," added Lee.Lee, who is currently captaining the Australia Legends team at the World Championship of Legends, also praised his country's performance after their first loss against Pakistan."It's obviously been a wonderful week for us. After our loss against Pakistan and then to have three wins in the tournament is fantastic. So, we are starting to find some form," he said.With legends like Dan Christian and Brett Lee driving the team, the Australia Legends are one of the most formidable teams in the tournament. They have advanced to the semifinals after a thrilling victory over India in the first season of the World Championship.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his confidence in the Indian contingent for the upcoming Paris Olympics, stating that the team will showcase its strength on the global stage. India's participation in the Summer Games has witnessed a steady increase over the years, with the Tokyo Olympics marking a significant milestone with the largest contingent of 124 athletes. This contingent brought home seven medals, the highest tally for India in a single edition of the Summer Games.As of Sunday, 82 Indian athletes have qualified for the Paris edition, according to Olympics.com. With over two weeks remaining, India hopes to see more athletes secure their spots for the Games, which commence on July 26.PM Modi's unwavering support for the Indian contingent reflects his belief in their abilities. He emphasized that the team will demonstrate its strength and determination. "India is sending a great team to the Paris Olympics. You will see how the entire team and athletes will show their strength. This self-confidence of the youth is the real capital of India, and this youth power shows the biggest potential to take India to new heights in the 21st century," PM Modi said while addressing the Indian community in Moscow.PM Modi also lauded the Indian players for their exceptional performance in the T20 World Cup. India's dominance throughout the tournament, culminating in a thrilling victory over South Africa, showcased the team's resilience and commitment."You too must have celebrated the victory in the recent T20 World Cup. The real story of winning the World Cup is also the journey of victory. Today's youth of India does not accept defeat till the last ball and the last moment. Victory belongs to those who are not ready to accept defeat," PM Modi said, commending the players' unwavering spirit.Earlier on Monday, PM Modi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow for an informal meeting. The Russian Foreign Ministry shared a video on Twitter capturing the warm greeting between the two leaders.PM Modi's visit to Moscow underscores the strong diplomatic ties between India and Russia. He was received by Denis Manturov, the first Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, at the Vnukovo-II airport and accorded a ceremonial welcome. The Indian community in Moscow also extended a warm reception to PM Modi.

Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary Indian cricketer, turns 75 today. Known for his unwavering determination and impeccable technique, Gavaskar has left an indelible mark on the sport.As a batsman, Gavaskar was a master of the straight bat. He possessed an uncanny ability to counter both pace and spin, making him a formidable opponent for bowlers worldwide. His signature floppy hat and broad bat became synonymous with his unwavering presence at the crease.Gavaskar's Test career spanned 16 years, during which he amassed a staggering 10,122 runs, including 34 centuries. His record-breaking 29th Test century in 1983 against the West Indies cemented his status as one of the greatest batsmen of all time.Beyond his batting prowess, Gavaskar was also a respected captain and a shrewd tactician. He led India to several memorable victories, including the historic 1983 World Cup triumph.After retiring from playing, Gavaskar transitioned seamlessly into a successful career as a commentator. His insightful analysis and witty observations have made him a beloved figure in the cricketing world.Off the field, Gavaskar is known for his philanthropy and his passion for badminton. He is a patron of the Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy and has been instrumental in promoting the sport in India.As Gavaskar celebrates his 75th birthday, the cricketing fraternity and fans alike pay tribute to his extraordinary contributions to the game. His legacy as a batsman, captain, and commentator will continue to inspire generations to come.