Cricket

Indian batter Shubman Gill has reached a significant milestone in his international cricket career, surpassing the 4000-run mark during the fifth Test match against England at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala.Gill's impressive knock of 110 runs in the first innings of the match marked his 4000th international run. The 24-year-old has established himself as a consistent performer across all formats, having made his India debut in 2019.In the ongoing Test match, Gill and captain Rohit Sharma forged a solid partnership of 160 runs, giving India a strong start. Gill's innings was characterized by 12 boundaries and 5 sixes, showcasing his aggressive batting style.Gill's international career has seen him accumulate 2271 runs in 44 ODIs, 1492 runs in 25 Tests, and 335 runs in 14 T20Is. His overall strike rate stands at 103.46, indicating his ability to score runs at a brisk pace.The right-handed batter has played a crucial role in India's recent successes, including their historic Test series win in Australia in 2020-21. His consistent performances have earned him a reputation as one of the most promising young batsmen in the world.As India continues its pursuit of victory in the fifth Test against England, Gill will be looking to add to his impressive tally of runs and help his team secure a series win.

Ravichandran Ashwin, the enigmatic Indian off-spinner, has etched his name in the annals of Test cricket with his remarkable achievements. With 500 Test wickets to his name, Ashwin stands tall as one of the most successful bowlers in the history of the game.Ashwin's journey to the 500-wicket milestone has been a testament to his skill, perseverance, and adaptability. He made his Test debut in 2011 and quickly established himself as a key member of the Indian bowling attack. Known for his guile, accuracy, and ability to extract turn from any surface, Ashwin has troubled batsmen from all corners of the globe.One of Ashwin's most notable achievements is his ability to perform consistently across different conditions. He has picked up wickets in all the major Test-playing nations, with his best performances coming against Sri Lanka and West Indies. Ashwin's 10-wicket hauls in Galle and Roseau are a testament to his ability to dominate even the most challenging of pitches.Beyond his wicket-taking prowess, Ashwin has also made significant contributions with the bat. He has scored five Test centuries, including a memorable 124 against England in 2018. Ashwin's all-round abilities have made him an invaluable asset to the Indian team, and he has played a crucial role in their recent successes.As Ashwin continues to add to his tally of wickets, he is poised to become one of the greatest bowlers of all time. His unique style, coupled with his unwavering determination, makes him a formidable opponent for any batsman. With his 500th Test wicket, Ashwin has cemented his legacy as a true legend of the game.

Devdutt Padikkal's journey to the Indian Test team has been a testament to his resilience and determination. After a promising start to his international career in 2021, Padikkal faced setbacks due to COVID-19 and a stomach-related illness.During this challenging period, Padikkal's weight dropped, and he struggled to stay fit and healthy. However, he remained steadfast in his pursuit of his dream. He consulted with doctors and worked tirelessly on his fitness and diet.Padikkal's hard work paid off in the 2023-24 season. He excelled for Karnataka across formats, scoring heavily in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and Ranji Trophy. His performances, particularly his 151 against Tamil Nadu, caught the attention of chief selector Ajit Agarkar.With KL Rahul ruled out of the third Test against England due to a fitness issue, Padikkal emerged as a replacement. His selection was a testament to his impressive form and the belief of the selectors in his abilities.Padikkal's journey to the Test team is a story of perseverance and unwavering determination. He has overcome adversity and proven that with hard work and belief, anything is possible.

Sunil Gavaskar's Historic 10,000 Test Runs Milestone Celebrated by BCCIOn March 7, 2023, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) commemorated the 36th anniversary of Sunil Gavaskar's historic achievement of becoming the first batter to score 10,000 runs in Test cricket.Gavaskar, who was commentating on the fifth and final Test between India and Australia in Dharamshala, fondly recalled the momentous day in 1987 when he etched his name in cricketing history. The legendary opener marked the occasion by cutting a cake and expressing gratitude to the BCCI for acknowledging the special moment."It's a really special day for Indian cricket, not just for me or Ashwin," said Gavaskar, highlighting the shared significance of the milestone with veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who was playing his 100th Test match.Gavaskar's remarkable career spanned 125 Test matches, during which he amassed 10,122 runs, including 34 centuries and 45 fifties. His contributions to the sport have left an indelible mark on the annals of cricketing history, inspiring generations of cricketers to follow in his footsteps.The BCCI's celebration of Gavaskar's achievement serves as a testament to his enduring legacy as one of cricket's most iconic figures. His unwavering determination, exceptional technique, and ability to perform under pressure have made him a role model for aspiring cricketers around the world.As the sport continues to evolve, Gavaskar's 10,000-run milestone remains a benchmark of excellence that few have been able to match. His achievement stands as a reminder of the enduring power of hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of greatness.

Ravichandran Ashwin, the legendary Indian off-spinner, etched his name in the annals of cricket history as he stepped onto the Dharamsala ground for his 100th Test match. The momentous occasion was marked by a heartwarming guard of honor from his teammates, a testament to his exceptional contributions to the sport.As Ashwin emerged from the pavilion, the Indian players formed two rows, applauding and cheering their esteemed colleague. The spinner, visibly moved by the gesture, embraced skipper Rohit Sharma, sharing a moment of camaraderie and respect.Ashwin's wife, Prithi, and two daughters witnessed the historic event from the stands, adding to the emotional significance of the occasion. Before the match commenced, head coach Rahul Dravid presented Ashwin with a commemorative 100th Test cap, further recognizing his remarkable achievement.Ashwin's journey to this milestone has been nothing short of extraordinary. He has established himself as one of the finest bowlers of his generation, with 507 wickets in 99 Tests at an impressive average of 23.91. His tally includes 35 five-wicket hauls, with a best bowling performance of 7/59.Beyond his bowling prowess, Ashwin has also proven his mettle as a capable batsman. In 140 innings, he has amassed 3,309 runs at an average of 26.14, including five centuries and 14 half-centuries. This versatility makes him one of the most successful all-rounders in modern cricket.Ashwin's 100th Test places him among an elite group of Indian cricketers who have achieved this remarkable feat. He joins the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Anil Kumble, and Kapil Dev, all of whom have left an indelible mark on the game.As Ashwin continues his illustrious career, he remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring cricketers and a source of pride for Indian cricket fans. His 100th Test is a testament to his unwavering dedication, exceptional talent, and the enduring legacy he has built in the sport.

Ricky Ponting Lauds Ravichandran Ashwin's Mastery and Dedication on 100th TestAs Indian spin maestro Ravichandran Ashwin prepares to play his 100th Test match, Australian legend Ricky Ponting has heaped praise on the spinner's exceptional skill and unwavering dedication.Ponting, who coached Ashwin at the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has witnessed firsthand the spinner's relentless pursuit of perfection. "He's a master of spin in any conditions. He's been an incredible cricketer, no doubt about it," Ponting said in the latest episode of the ICC Review.Ashwin's illustrious career has been marked by remarkable achievements. With 507 wickets in 99 Tests at an impressive average of 23.91, including 35 five-wicket hauls, he has established himself as one of the greatest spinners of all time.Ponting highlighted Ashwin's ability to adapt to different conditions and his innovative approach to bowling. "He's got a lot of theories and philosophies on the game, which I like. He's always done things a little bit differently and done things his way. But he just continued to evolve as a bowler," Ponting remarked.In the ongoing series against England, Ashwin has not only breached the 500-wicket milestone but has also surpassed Anil Kumble's records for the most Test wickets taken in India and the most five-wicket hauls. With this feat, Ashwin solidifies his place among the pantheon of cricketing greats.Ponting also acknowledged India's commanding position in the series, securing an unassailable 3-1 lead over England. Despite England's early advantage, Ponting noted their inability to capitalize on opportunities in key moments, as India displayed resilience and dominance throughout the series.

Dinesh Karthik, the veteran Indian wicketkeeper-batter, is set to bid farewell to the Indian Premier League (IPL) this season, marking the end of an illustrious career in the tournament. Karthik, who turns 39 in June, will also make a decision on his international future soon.Karthik, who began his IPL journey with Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), is one of only seven players to have featured in every season of the IPL since its inception in 2008. He has missed just two matches in 16 seasons, a testament to his durability and commitment.Despite a disappointing 2023 IPL season with the bat, Karthik enjoyed a stellar campaign in 2022 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Playing the role of a finisher, he scored 330 runs at an average of 55 and a strike rate of 183.33, helping RCB reach the playoffs.Karthik's IPL form earned him a berth in the 2022 T20 World Cup, but he struggled to make an impact. He has represented six IPL teams throughout his career, including Daredevils, Kings XI Punjab, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Lions, Kolkata Knight Riders, and RCB.In 240 IPL matches, Karthik has amassed 4516 runs at an average of 26 and a strike rate of 132, with 20 half-centuries. As a keeper, he is second only to MS Dhoni in overall dismissals (133) and stumpings (36).Karthik has also captained in the IPL, leading Daredevils on six occasions and Knight Riders for 37 matches. He has a captaincy record of 21 wins, 21 losses, and one tie.As he prepares to retire from playing, Karthik has already embarked on a second career in broadcasting. He has worked as a pundit for the World Test Championship final and the Hundred, and is currently commentating on the India-England Test series.RCB will open their IPL campaign against defending champions Chennai Super Kings on March 23 at Karthik's home ground in Chepauk.

Kane Williamson, the star New Zealand batter, is set to play his 100th Test match, a milestone that has him reflecting on his journey and the surreal experience of his debut against India in 2010.Williamson, now 33, vividly recalls the awe he felt when he walked out to bat in Ahmedabad, surrounded by legendary Indian cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, and VVS Laxman."I remember walking out and looking around the field and seeing all my heroes," Williamson said. "I used to love playing backyard cricket as a youngster, and all those guys were in that team that I would try and select.""It was Tendulkar and Laxman and Dravid, and it was kind of like, 'How am I here? I'd better start watching the ball and try and compete.'"Despite the intimidating presence of the Indian greats, Williamson made a memorable debut, scoring 131 in New Zealand's first innings. He credits that experience with shaping his approach to the game."It was quite surreal," he said. "I remember being quite eager to try and get into the opposition's dressing room and chat to some of those guys if I could."Over the past decade, Williamson has established himself as one of the world's leading batters, amassing 8675 runs at an average of 55.25, including 32 centuries and 33 fifties. He has also led New Zealand to the World Test Championship title in 2021.Reflecting on his journey, Williamson emphasized the importance of continuous learning and improvement."Then a few grey hairs later and (after) a number of different experiences over that time, there's not been many days - probably any - where I haven't tried to improve and get better as a player," he said."It's never a perfect journey. You go through so much. The format of Test cricket in particular really takes you through that. The learning - physically, (and) mentally - the reflection, (and) the memories of almost every Test that when you sit down and dissect it, there's so much that you do recall."Williamson's 100th Test match will be a special occasion for him and for New Zealand cricket. It is a testament to his longevity, skill, and dedication to the game.

India's Rohit Sharma Stresses Importance of Domestic Cricket for All PlayersIndian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has emphasized the paramount importance of players making themselves available for domestic cricket when not engaged in national duties. This directive aims to discourage players from prioritizing one format over another and ensure the strength of domestic cricket, which is the foundation of Indian cricket.The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken a firm stance on this issue, excluding ODI World Cup participants Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer from the pool of centrally contracted cricketers for failing to comply with the board's instructions regarding the Ranji Trophy.Rohit Sharma reiterated that this directive applies to all players, not just a select few. "It is important that we go and play that," he said. "It is not for just a few cricketers, it is for everyone to make sure that whenever you're available, and fine, you should be able to play domestic cricket."The Indian skipper highlighted the quality and excitement of domestic cricket, as witnessed in the recently concluded Ranji Trophy semi-finals. "When games like that happen, you see the quality and everything coming into display for everyone to watch," he said. "It is important that we give importance to domestic cricket, which is the core of Indian cricket."Rohit's comments come as India prepares for the final Test against England in Dharamsala. Despite his busy schedule, he made time to follow the Ranji Trophy semi-finals, including the match between his own domestic side Mumbai and Tamil Nadu.The BCCI's directive and Rohit Sharma's emphasis on domestic cricket underscore the importance of a strong domestic structure for the development and success of Indian cricket. By ensuring that players are available for domestic matches, the board aims to maintain the quality and competitiveness of the domestic circuit, which is essential for nurturing future talent and strengthening the national team.