Cricket

Virat Kohli, the prolific Indian batter, has etched his name in the annals of cricket history by becoming the second-most-capped international cricketer for India across all formats. During the first Test against New Zealand at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Kohli marked his 536th international appearance, surpassing former captain MS Dhoni's tally of 535 matches.Kohli's illustrious international career began in 2008 with an ODI debut in Sri Lanka. Since then, he has amassed an astonishing 27,041 runs across 115 Tests, 295 ODIs, and 125 T20Is. His exceptional leadership skills have also been evident, as he has captained India in 213 matches, including 68 Tests, 95 ODIs, and 50 T20Is.Kohli's remarkable achievement places him behind only the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who holds the record for the most international caps (664) for India. Among active cricketers, Kohli is followed by India captain Rohit Sharma (486 caps) and Ravindra Jadeja (346 caps).In terms of Test appearances for India, Kohli is tied for eighth with 116 caps. He has accumulated 8947 runs in the longer format, just 53 runs shy of becoming the fourth Indian to complete 9000 Test runs after Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar.Kohli's consistency and longevity have been remarkable. He became the fastest player to reach 27,000 international runs during the second Test against Bangladesh last month, surpassing Tendulkar's record of 623 innings. Kohli achieved this feat in just 594 innings, making him the only cricketer to reach 27,000 international runs in under 600 outings.Kohli's achievements are a testament to his unwavering dedication, exceptional talent, and unwavering determination. He continues to inspire generations of cricketers and fans alike, and his legacy as one of the greatest batsmen of all time is secure.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a stern warning to several centrally contracted players, demanding significant improvements in their fitness levels. The ultimatum comes after a series of fitness tests conducted earlier this month, where some players failed to meet the required benchmarks.The PCB's fitness trainer and physiotherapist will conduct another round of fitness assessments on Monday in Lahore. Players who fail to meet the standards risk losing their central contracts. "The players with central and domestic contracts have been told in clear terms that there will be no compromise on fitness," a board official stated.The warning stems from concerns raised by foreign head coaches Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten, who have emphasized the importance of fitness in international cricket. The tests assess stamina, endurance, muscle strength, and other crucial factors.The PCB has delayed the announcement of the list of players eligible for central contracts for the 2024/2025 period, which typically runs from July to July. Last year, the announcement was postponed until September due to changes in board leadership.This year, the board is expected to reduce the number of players receiving central contracts from the current 27. The new coaches are also placing a strong emphasis on performance and behavioral evaluations.The official revealed that players who struggled in the previous fitness tests have been given two months to improve. The upcoming tests on Monday will determine their progress.The Pakistan team has faced criticism in the past for its fitness standards compared to other international teams. After the World Cup in India last year, team director Muhammad Hafeez and former captain Misbah ul Haq alleged that former head coach Mickey Arthur and captain Babar Azam had instructed the trainer to ease up on fitness demands, allowing players to focus on performance.The PCB's latest move signals a shift in approach, prioritizing fitness as a non-negotiable requirement for players representing Pakistan.

KL Rahul, India's prodigious batsman, has reached the coveted milestone of 8000 international runs. However, despite this achievement, former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes that Rahul needs to undergo a mindset shift to fully unlock his potential and deliver consistent performances.Rahul's milestone came during the ongoing first Test against Bangladesh in Chennai. After a modest first innings, he played a brief but unbeaten knock in the second, helping India extend their lead. This achievement places him among the elite Indian cricketers who have surpassed 8000 international runs.While acknowledging Rahul's talent, Shastri emphasized the need for a change in mindset. "KL Rahul needs to realize the immense talent he possesses. When he does that and approaches the game with a different mindset, he will become a formidable player," Shastri said.Rahul's inconsistency, particularly in Test cricket, has been a concern. Despite match-winning performances and crucial knocks in limited-overs cricket, his Test average remains a modest 34.12 after 50 matches. Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar attributes this inconsistency to a temperamental issue rather than technical deficiencies."Rahul's performances have been erratic. He plays a brilliant innings in one Test and then seems disinterested in the next two or three," Manjrekar commented. "He has some brilliant hundreds, but an average of 34 tells you about his temperament."Reaching 8000 international runs is a testament to Rahul's capabilities across formats. With 8017 runs in 200 matches, including 17 hundreds and 54 half-centuries, he has already achieved what many cricketers aspire to. His versatility as a batter is evident in his performances in both Tests and limited-overs cricket.However, Shastri and other experts believe that Rahul's true potential lies in his ability to perform consistently and reach new heights. This requires a mental shift that will allow him to approach the game with a different mindset and unlock the full extent of his talent.

New Zealand's Abrupt Withdrawal from Pakistan Series: A Blow to International CricketNew Zealand's sudden withdrawal from their limited-overs series in Pakistan in September 2021 sent shockwaves through the cricketing community. The decision, made just minutes before the start of the first ODI in Rawalpindi, was prompted by a security threat.The New Zealand Cricket Board (NZC) stated that concerns for their players' safety prompted the withdrawal. The highly anticipated tour, which would have been New Zealand's first visit to Pakistan in 18 years, included three ODIs and five T20Is.Just before the first match, NZC received information about a credible security threat. After consulting with security officials and the New Zealand government, the board decided to cancel the entire series and quickly arranged for the team to leave Pakistan."Player safety is paramount, and following an escalation in the threat level, we felt it was the only responsible course of action," said David White, the NZC Chief Executive.The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) expressed disappointment over the abrupt pullout, especially considering the extensive security measures they had implemented for the tour. Pakistan had made significant efforts to ensure a safe environment for the series, providing high-level security comparable to that offered to visiting heads of state.However, New Zealand's concerns about the threat took precedence over these precautions. The withdrawal dealt a significant blow to Pakistan's efforts to regain the trust of international cricket boards after years of being sidelined from hosting top teams due to security concerns.The PCB had worked diligently in recent years to bring international cricket back to Pakistan, making this sudden cancellation a setback for those efforts. The incident also sparked broader discussions about the future of international cricket tours in the country.The withdrawal highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by Pakistan in hosting international cricket matches. Despite the PCB's efforts to improve security, the perception of risk remains a significant obstacle. The incident also raised questions about the role of intelligence agencies in providing timely and accurate information to cricket boards.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a proactive step towards preparing for the 2025 Champions Trophy by appointing five legendary cricketers as mentors for domestic and international players. This move aims to bridge the gap between domestic and international cricket and identify and nurture future stars.The Champions One-Day Cup, scheduled to commence on September 12, will serve as a platform for domestic players to showcase their skills alongside senior team members. To ensure the tournament's success, the PCB has enlisted the expertise of Waqar Younis, Shoaib Malik, Misbah-ul-Haq, Sarfaraz Ahmed, and Saqlain Mushtaq as mentors.These former stalwarts will provide guidance and support to the teams, focusing on strategic planning, team-building, leadership development, and personal growth. Their vast experience and knowledge will be invaluable in shaping the next generation of Pakistani cricketers.PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the importance of these mentors, stating, "They will play a pivotal role in the development and progression of our emerging cricketers. Their expertise will help us identify, develop, and nurture the next generation of cricketers across all formats."The Champions One-Day Cup will be held at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad, marking the return of One-Day cricket to the venue after a two-year hiatus. The tournament will provide a competitive environment for domestic players to impress the selectors and earn a spot in the national team.The PCB's decision to appoint these mentors reflects its commitment to improving the quality of domestic cricket and preparing for the upcoming Champions Trophy. With their combined experience of over 32,000 runs and 1,500 wickets in international cricket, these mentors will undoubtedly make a significant contribution to the development of Pakistani cricket.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced that Shakib Al Hasan, the veteran all-rounder, will continue to play and represent Bangladesh until proven guilty. This decision comes despite Shakib's involvement in a First Information Report (FIR) related to a murder case amid recent unrest.Initially, BCB officials had suggested that a decision regarding Shakib's future participation would be made after the opening Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi. However, the situation escalated legally when Shajib Mahmood Alam, a lawyer from the Supreme Court, on behalf of Advocate Md Rafinur Rahman, sent a legal notice to the BCB.The notice demanded Shakib's immediate removal from cricket, stating that according to the rules of the International Cricket Council (ICC), a player named in a legal case should not remain part of the national team. It also called for Shakib to aid in the investigation and urged the BCB to inform the ICC about the situation.BCB president Faruque Ahmed confirmed Shakib's continuation in an interview with Bengali daily Prothom Alo. He stated, "He [Shakib] will continue playing. We received a legal notice regarding bringing him back, and we replied to them saying this."Ahmed explained that since the FIR is in its initial stages and no guilt has been proven, Shakib will remain with the team. He added, "The Bangladesh team will go to India after the Pakistan series, and we want him in that series as well. He is our contracted player, and if necessary, we will provide him with legal assistance."Despite his legal situation, Shakib is set to meet his international and domestic commitments. He won't return to Bangladesh with the team after the Test series against Pakistan as he is scheduled to play a four-day match for Surrey in England. The BCB has granted him a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from September 5 to 14 to participate in the County game against Somerset.A BCB official confirmed Shakib's participation to Cricbuzz, saying, "He [Shakib] has not played red-ball cricket for a while, and that is why we have given him an NOC to play for Surrey, as it will help him adjust to red-ball cricket more than anything else." The match between Surrey and Somerset is scheduled from September 9 to 12.Following his stint in county cricket, Shakib is set to rejoin the national squad in India, where Bangladesh is scheduled to play two Tests and three T20Is starting September 19.As legal proceedings continue, the BCB's stance underscores a commitment to due process while remaining focused on upcoming international fixtures.

The Northern Territory (NT) is eagerly anticipating the possibility of hosting Australia's white-ball series against South Africa next winter, marking a potential end to a 16-year hiatus for international cricket in Darwin. The city last hosted an ODI in 2008, with Bangladesh and Sri Lanka also playing Tests there in 2003 and 2004.In preparation for a potential return to the international stage, the ICC-accredited TIO Stadium has undergone significant upgrades, including the installation of two drop-in wickets. The Top End T20 series, launched as part of the Cricket 365 branding initiative, has also gained traction, attracting four Big Bash clubs, Tasmania, the ACT, and teams from Pakistan and Bangladesh.NT Cricket CEO Gavin Dovey is optimistic about the Territory's chances of securing international content, stating, "We are putting the foundation in place to be ready. We have the infrastructure and it has had exceptional cricket on it [with the Top End series]."Dovey's vision extends beyond hosting occasional matches, aiming to establish Darwin as a consistent destination for international fixtures. He believes that the Territory's unique weather conditions and ability to host winter matches make it an ideal location for T20s and ODIs.To further enhance the Top End series, Dovey plans to expand the tournament to include up to 12 teams, potentially attracting more Big Bash franchises and overseas sides. The tournament has already garnered significant viewership, with nearly 700,000 people watching this year's edition on YouTube.Dovey is also exploring the possibility of adding teams from New Zealand and Nepal next year, as well as appealing to IPL franchises. He believes that the August window, when the Top End series is held, provides a unique opportunity for international teams to play in a competitive environment.

George Worker, the former New Zealand batter, has bid farewell to professional cricket at the age of 34. The decision marks the end of a 17-year journey in the sport, during which he represented Central Districts and Auckland.Worker's international career spanned from 2015 to 2018, with 10 ODIs and 2 T20Is to his name. He made his T20I debut in Zimbabwe, earning the Player-of-the-Match award for his 38-ball 62. His ODI debut came on the same tour of Africa, and he went on to score three half-centuries in the format.In domestic cricket, Worker was a prolific run-scorer. He amassed 6721 runs in 169 List A games, averaging 43.64 with 18 centuries and 37 half-centuries. His first-class record included 6400 runs at an average of 29.49, while he scored 3480 runs in T20s at a strike rate of 123.57.Worker's leadership and experience were highly valued by Auckland Aces, where he played a pivotal role in their Ford Trophy 2021-22 title win. He topped the overall run-scoring chart with 672 runs in ten innings, averaging 84.00 and hitting four centuries.As a part-time left-arm spinner, Worker claimed 58 first-class wickets, 60 in List A cricket, and 42 in T20s.Upon announcing his retirement, Worker expressed gratitude for the memories and friendships he forged during his career. He also revealed that he has accepted a "fantastic opportunity" with Forsyth Barr, an investment services firm.Auckland Cricket's head of performance and talent, Evan Jones, acknowledged Worker's contributions and wished him well in his future endeavors.

Afghanistan, the rising stars of international cricket, are set to face the formidable New Zealand in a historic one-off Test match in September. This highly anticipated encounter will mark the first time these two nations have clashed in the longest format of the game.The match will be played at the Greater Noida Sports Complex Ground in India, a venue that has previously served as Afghanistan's adopted home ground. This will be Afghanistan's 10th Test match, and their third in 2024, the most they have played in a single calendar year.The Test is scheduled to take place from September 9 to 13, approximately one month before New Zealand's three-Test tour of India. Prior to the Afghanistan Test, New Zealand will embark on a Test series in Sri Lanka, with dates yet to be announced.This encounter holds significant importance for Afghanistan, as it will provide them with an opportunity to test their mettle against one of the world's top cricketing nations. Afghanistan has a commendable 3-6 win-loss record in their first nine Tests, with their last victory coming against Zimbabwe in March 2021.In their two Tests so far in 2024, Afghanistan has faced defeats against Sri Lanka and Ireland. They also lost their one-off Test in Bangladesh last year. Despite these setbacks, Afghanistan remains a formidable opponent, eager to prove their worth on the international stage.Following the New Zealand Test, England, Australia, Pakistan, and South Africa will be the only countries to have not yet played against Afghanistan in a Test match. Australia had previously withdrawn from hosting Afghanistan in a Test in 2021 due to humanitarian concerns.The Afghanistan-New Zealand Test match promises to be a captivating spectacle, showcasing the skills and determination of both teams. Afghanistan will be looking to make a statement against a world-class opponent, while New Zealand will be aiming to maintain their dominance in the Test arena.