Cricket

Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has expressed confidence in Hardik Pandya's ability to excel for the national team in the upcoming T20 World Cup, despite his underwhelming performance for Mumbai Indians in the ongoing IPL.Gavaskar believes that Pandya's performance for India will be significantly different from his IPL form, as playing for the country brings out a different level of motivation and determination in players. He noted that Pandya has faced challenges in the IPL but has handled them well, and expects him to be in a more positive frame of mind when representing India.Gavaskar also praised the overall strength of the Indian team, stating that they are title contenders for the World Cup. He emphasized the importance of luck in international tournaments, but expressed confidence that India has the potential to bring the trophy back home for the first time since 2007.The former India skipper highlighted the benefits of the IPL in preparing players for the World Cup, as it provides them with ample match practice and allows them to maintain their rhythm. He believes that the team will be well-conditioned and refreshed after a brief break between the IPL and the World Cup.Gavaskar's comments come as India prepares to kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland in New York on June 5. Pandya has been retained as vice-captain of the 15-member squad, despite his modest IPL performance.

Ahead of the highly anticipated selection of the Indian squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, the Board of Control for Cricket India (BCCI) is reportedly engaged in discussions regarding the inclusion of star all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Sources within the BCCI have indicated that Pandya's current form in the Indian Premier League (IPL) is a subject of debate.As captain of the Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2024, Pandya has overseen a disappointing campaign for his team. MI currently languishes in the bottom half of the table, with only three wins in nine matches. Pandya's individual performances have also been underwhelming, with the all-rounder scoring just 197 runs in nine games at an average of 24.62 and a strike rate of over 151. His highest score is 46.In addition to his batting struggles, Pandya has also been limited in his bowling output. He has bowled only 19 overs in the tournament, taking four wickets at an average of 56.75 and an economy rate of 11.94.The BCCI sources have also hinted that the upcoming T20 World Cup could potentially mark the final international T20I appearances for veteran players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both players returned to the T20I set-up in January this year against Afghanistan, but their previous outing was the 10-wicket loss to England in the semifinals of the 2022 T20 WC in Australia.Following that disappointing result, Team India has experimented with younger players such as Ruturaj Gaikwad, Tilak Varma, Rahul Tripathi, Shubman Gill, and Yashasvi Jaiswal at the top of the order in the shorter format.Rohit and Kohli are two of India's most accomplished T20I batters. Kohli is the highest run-getter in T20I cricket, with 4,037 runs in 117 matches at an average of 51.75 and a strike rate of over 138. Rohit is the second-highest run-scorer in the format, with 3,974 runs at an average of over 31 and a strike rate of almost 140.The presence of both Rohit and Kohli in the team could potentially limit opportunities for promising young stars, who may find themselves in reserve roles rather than the playing eleven.

Sanju Samson's stellar performance in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 has propelled him to the forefront of India's wicket-keeping options for the T20 World Cup 2024. According to ESPNCricinfo, Samson has emerged as the selectors' preferred choice behind the stumps, surpassing Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul.Samson's consistent batting in the middle order has been a key factor in his selection. With the top four of Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, and Suryakumar Yadav likely to be set, Samson is the leading contender for the No. 5 role.While Pant has also impressed with his batting, his wicket-keeping has been inconsistent. Rahul, on the other hand, has struggled with the bat, raising doubts about his place in the team.In the middle order, Rinku Singh and Shivam Dube are also in contention. However, Samson's form has given him a significant edge.Hardik Pandya remains a near-certain pick despite his underwhelming performance as Mumbai Indians captain. The lack of viable alternatives makes him an almost automatic selection.In terms of spin-bowling all-rounders, Axar Patel has impressed, but Ravindra Jadeja is still expected to be preferred.The T20 World Cup 2024 squad is expected to be announced in the coming months, and Samson's inclusion as the primary wicket-keeper is a strong possibility. His IPL form has demonstrated his ability to perform at the highest level, making him a valuable asset for the Indian team.

Rohit Sharma's Journey from Adversity to Greatness: A Tribute from Gautam GambhirFormer Indian cricketer and Kolkata Knight Riders mentor Gautam Gambhir has hailed Rohit Sharma's remarkable journey to becoming one of the world's premier batsmen. Recalling a pivotal moment in Sharma's early career, Gambhir shared an anecdote from a series in Sri Lanka where Sharma faced criticism after a string of low scores."As much knowledge as I have of cricket, and from the cricket that I've seen, you are going to dominate world cricket," Gambhir told Sharma at the time. This prophetic statement has since come to fruition, with Sharma establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with.Despite early challenges, Sharma's resilience and determination propelled him to success. Gambhir praised Sharma's ability to turn talent into consistent performance at the highest level, noting, "He didn't have a very easy start in international cricket, he had a difficult start."Reflecting on Sharma's leadership qualities, Gambhir highlighted how Rohit's early struggles shaped his approach to captaincy. "If his start was very easy, he would have always felt that international cricket is very easy," Gambhir remarked. "Today, if any young player is struggling, Rohit Sharma will feel that if it was tough for him, it will be difficult for him as well. That's why he probably leads that well and keeps it very balanced."Acknowledging Sharma's prowess on the field, Gambhir admitted the challenge of devising strategies to contain him as an opponent. Despite their competitive rivalry, Gambhir expressed admiration for Sharma's contributions to the game, including pivotal moments such as run-outs and match-winning performances.Gambhir concluded by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to play alongside Sharma at the 2007 T20 World Cup, stating, "People talk about my knock and Irfan's spell, but Rohit Sharma's contribution towards the back end, his run out against South Africa, are all the memories I have of him. I've enjoyed playing with him and interacting with him."Gambhir's reflections serve as a poignant reminder of Sharma's enduring impact on Indian cricket and his journey from adversity to greatness.

India's T20 World Cup Squad Announcement Imminent: All the Latest UpdatesThe highly anticipated BCCI selection committee meeting to finalize India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup is expected to take place today. Timesofindia.com will provide comprehensive coverage of the event, bringing you the latest updates and insights as the 15 players who will represent the nation are announced.The T20 World Cup is scheduled to commence shortly after the conclusion of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), which culminates on May 26. The tournament will feature some of the world's top cricket teams competing for the coveted title.Key Considerations for the Selection CommitteeThe selection committee will have several factors to consider when finalizing the squad. The team's recent performances in the IPL will be a major factor, as will the players' overall form and fitness. The committee will also need to balance experience with youth, ensuring a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talent.Contenders for SelectionSeveral players have emerged as strong contenders for selection based on their impressive performances in the IPL. These include:* Batsmen: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant* All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel* Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra ChahalExpectations and PredictionsIndia is one of the favorites to win the T20 World Cup, given their strong batting lineup and experienced bowling attack. However, the competition will be fierce, with other top teams such as England, Australia, and Pakistan also vying for the title.

Rohit Sharma, the enigmatic Indian cricketer, celebrates his 37th birthday today, marking an illustrious career that has left an indelible mark on the sport. From his humble beginnings to his current status as one of the most revered batsmen in the world, Rohit's journey has been a testament to his unwavering determination and exceptional talent.Rohit's international debut in 2007 hinted at the brilliance that was to come. His ability to anchor innings with grace and power quickly earned him a reputation as a dependable batsman. A pivotal moment in his career came during the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy, where his promotion to the opening slot proved to be a masterstroke. Since then, he has redefined the art of opening batting, amassing over 10,000 runs in ODIs with a staggering average of 49.12, including a monumental 264 – the highest individual score in ODI history.Rohit's dominance extends beyond white-ball cricket. In Test cricket, he has established himself as a dependable opener, capable of withstanding the toughest bowling attacks. With over 4,000 runs at an average of 45.46, he has cemented his place among the game's elite batsmen.Rohit's leadership prowess has been on full display in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he has led the Mumbai Indians to a record-breaking five titles. His astute captaincy and ability to inspire his teammates have made him a revered figure in the world of T20 cricket.The 2023 ODI World Cup served as another chapter in Rohit's storied career, where he finished as the tournament's second-highest run-scorer, showcasing his mettle on the grandest stage of them all.As Rohit continues to mesmerize cricketing aficionados with his elegant strokeplay and calm demeanor, his legacy as one of the game's true icons only continues to grow. On his 37th birthday, the cricketing fraternity joins together in celebrating the extraordinary journey of the man affectionately known as the 'Hitman' of Indian cricket.

Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) principal owner, Shah Rukh Khan, has expressed his ardent desire to see left-handed power-hitter Rinku Singh don the Indian jersey at the upcoming T20 World Cup. Khan's unwavering belief in Rinku's abilities stems from the young batsman's exceptional performances in the ongoing IPL 2023.Rinku, 26, has emerged as a formidable force in the KKR lineup, showcasing his explosive batting prowess. In a nail-biting encounter against Gujarat Titans, he played a pivotal role in KKR's remarkable victory, smashing five consecutive sixes in the final over. His exceptional strike rate of 176 plus in 15 T20I matches for India, including two half-centuries, has further solidified his credentials.Khan's optimism for Rinku's World Cup prospects is evident in his recent interview on Star Sports. "Such amazing players are playing for the country. I am really looking forward to Rinku, Inshallah being in the World Cup Squad and some other youngsters from other teams also," he said. "Some of them deserve it so much, but my personal wish is that Rinku makes it to the team. I will be so happy. That will be the high point for me."Despite the KKR top-order's dominance this season, Rinku has not had ample opportunities to showcase his batting skills. However, in his debut season, he amassed an impressive 356 runs in 15 matches, remaining unbeaten in seven of those games. His runs came at a strike rate of over 175, demonstrating his ability to not only hit big but also remain composed under pressure.Khan's admiration for Rinku extends beyond his cricketing abilities. He is deeply moved by the young batsman's journey to success, which was marked by numerous obstacles. Growing up in modest surroundings, Rinku's family faced financial struggles, with his father working as an LPG cylinder delivery man and his mother as a housewife. Despite the offer of a job as a sweeper, Rinku remained steadfast in his pursuit of cricket, believing it would lead him to greater heights."I just want them to feel happy and when I see these boys playing, I feel like I am living as a sportsperson myself. Especially players like Rinku and Nitish (Rana), I see myself in them. I feel really happy when they perform well," Khan said.

Shivam Dube's exceptional performances in the ongoing IPL 2024 have propelled him into contention for a spot in India's T20 World Cup squad. The Chennai Super Kings all-rounder has amassed 350 runs in nine innings at a remarkable strike rate of 172.41, showcasing his explosive batting prowess.Dube's impressive tally has garnered widespread support from cricket pundits and fans alike. Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has been particularly vocal in his advocacy for Dube's inclusion, stating that he should not only be selected for the 15-member squad but also feature in the playing XI."The way the kid is playing, he is absolutely scintillating and sensational," Chopra said on his YouTube channel. "I am saying that you shouldn't only send him but play him in the XI."Chopra emphasized Dube's undeniable impact with the bat, stating that "no captain, team management, or selector can ignore him because if you ignore him, there is no player in India at the moment who hits better than him."Former India batter Mohammad Kaif has also praised Dube's evolution as a cricketer in this year's IPL. He highlighted the all-rounder's remarkable improvement in overcoming his weaknesses."Every batter has a weakness. His weakness was against the bouncer or you could have trapped him by bowling wider lines. However, he has consistently become better," Kaif said on Star Sports. "Now he is hitting pulls and sixes over extra cover. His game down the ground is fantastic."Kaif further praised Dube's versatility and power-hitting prowess, noting his ability to dispatch deliveries to all parts of the ground with ease. "He hit low full tosses for sixes. It is very difficult to do that. Batters even get out to low full tosses at times but he has the power, uses the long handle, doesn't move his feet much, and attacks the ball with full power and targets the sight screen," Kaif elaborated."When India will go to play the World Cup, you will need such a player," Kaif added.Dube's inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad would provide India with a much-needed power-hitter in the middle order. His ability to clear the boundary with ease and his versatility against both pace and spin would make him a valuable asset to the team.

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has vehemently defended the inclusion of Virat Kohli in India's T20 World Cup squad, dismissing concerns about his recent form.Pathan emphasized Kohli's exceptional international record, highlighting his average of around 50 and strike rate of 137 in T20 cricket. He argued that these numbers translate to a high-quality performance, with a strike rate approaching 190.Pathan also pointed to Kohli's match-winning abilities, recalling his pivotal role in India's victory in the 2022 T20 World Cup. He stressed the importance of experience, especially in challenging conditions like those expected in the West Indies and the USA."At such a time when there will be World Cup in West Indies and America, you will need the experience," Pathan said. "In my mind, such a question will never come that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should not be part of the World Cup team."Pathan's comments come amid ongoing debates about Kohli's place in the T20 team following his struggles in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, Pathan believes that Kohli's international record and experience make him an indispensable asset for India.Despite RCB's recent victory over Gujarat Titans in the IPL, the team remains at the bottom of the standings. However, Pathan's defense of Kohli suggests that the former Indian captain remains a key figure in the team's plans for the upcoming T20 World Cup.