Cricket

India's women's cricket team commenced their three-match ODI series against New Zealand with a resounding 59-run victory at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.Chasing a modest target of 228, New Zealand's batting lineup crumbled under the pressure of India's bowling attack. Radha Yadav emerged as the star performer, claiming three crucial wickets for just 35 runs. Debutant pacer Saima Thakor also made an immediate impact, dismissing New Zealand opener Suzie Bates with her third delivery.New Zealand's innings was plagued by a series of unfortunate dismissals. Skipper Sophie Devine was caught short of her crease, while Brooke Halliday and Maddy Green's promising partnership was broken by Thakor. Despite a brief fightback, New Zealand's batting order failed to recover, eventually folding for 168 runs.Earlier, India had posted a total of 227 after opting to bat first. The Kerr sisters, Amelia and Jess, led the New Zealand bowling attack with four and three wickets respectively. India's batters struggled to convert their starts into substantial scores, with Deepti Sharma (41), Tejal Hasabnis (42), Shafali Verma (33), Yastika (37), and Jemimah Rodrigues (35) all failing to capitalize on their promising starts.Despite their batting struggles, India's bowlers stepped up to the challenge. Yadav's three wickets and Thakor's early strike proved decisive, while Deepti Sharma and Rajeshwari Gayakwad also contributed with two wickets each.The victory marks a positive start for India in the ODI series. They will look to continue their winning ways in the remaining two matches, scheduled for February 12 and 15.

Rohit Sharma's Test Woes Continue as Tim Southee Strikes AgainIndian captain Rohit Sharma's struggles in Test cricket extended on Thursday as he was dismissed for a duck on the opening day of the second Test against New Zealand in Pune. Kiwi pacer Tim Southee delivered a venomous delivery that left Rohit bamboozled, marking the 14th time Southee has dismissed the Indian skipper across all formats.Southee's delivery was a masterclass in seam bowling. Pitched on a good length around middle and off, the ball moved away off the seam, leaving Rohit completely squared up in defense. As he attempted to defend from the crease, the ball nipped away slightly, clipping the top of off stump after a slight deflection off his back pad.Rohit's dismissal was a major setback for India, who were looking to bounce back from their defeat in the first Test. However, Washington Sundar provided a much-needed boost, making a spectacular return to the Test side with a seven-wicket haul.Sundar's off-spin proved too much for the New Zealand batsmen, as he ripped through their middle order. Fellow off-break bowler Ravichandran Ashwin also chipped in with three wickets, as New Zealand were bundled out for 259 in 79.1 overs.At the close of play, India were 16 for 1, with Yashasvi Jaiswal on six and Shubman Gill on ten. The hosts trail by 243 runs, but will be hoping to make a strong comeback on day two.

Washington Sundar's remarkable return to the Indian Test team was marked by a career-best performance in the second Test against New Zealand in Pune. Replacing Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI, Sundar made an immediate impact, claiming a seven-wicket haul to bowl out the Kiwis for 259 in their first innings.Sundar's introduction into the attack came with New Zealand at 32/1 after 8 overs. Despite bowling six overs in his first spell, he failed to make a breakthrough. However, his persistence paid off in his third spell, when he dismissed Rachin Ravindra with a beautiful delivery that drifted in on off, landed around a length, and turned sharply to clip off stump.As the match progressed, Sundar's bowling improved with each over. He showcased his exceptional drift and dip on a pitch that offered decent turn. Five of his seven dismissals were clean bowled, demonstrating his mastery of the conditions.Sundar's career-best spell of 7/59 was not only his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket but also his first in all First Class cricket since August 2022 and his first on Indian soil since October 2017. His performance was instrumental in turning the game in India's favor.Sundar's return to form is a testament to his resilience and determination. Having last played a Test match in 2021, he has worked tirelessly to regain his place in the Indian team. His performance in Pune has not only solidified his position but also given India a valuable all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.

Ravichandran Ashwin, India's premier off-spinner, has etched his name in the record books by becoming the leading wicket-taker in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC). During the second Test against New Zealand at Pune's Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium, Ashwin took two crucial wickets in the morning session, surpassing Australia's Nathan Lyon to claim the top spot.Ashwin dismissed New Zealand captain Tom Latham for 15 and Will Young for 18, helping India restrict New Zealand to 92/2 at lunch on Day 1. These dismissals brought Ashwin's tally to 188 wickets in 39 WTC matches, placing him ahead of Lyon, who has 187 wickets from 43 matches.Ashwin's remarkable achievement underscores his importance in India's bowling attack, as the team looks to bounce back in the ongoing Test series against New Zealand and secure a spot in the WTC final. The off-spinner has been a key figure in India's bowling lineup throughout the WTC, consistently delivering match-winning performances.With his latest milestone, Ashwin has further cemented his status as one of the world's leading bowlers in the longest format of the game. His ability to extract turn and bounce from any surface, combined with his exceptional control and variations, makes him a formidable opponent for any batting lineup.Ashwin's success in the WTC is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the sport. He has consistently performed at the highest level, showcasing his class and skill on the international stage.As India continues its quest for WTC glory, Ashwin will undoubtedly play a pivotal role. His experience, skill, and leadership will be invaluable as the team aims to secure a place in the final and challenge for the coveted trophy.

In a dramatic turn of events during the second Test between India and New Zealand in Pune, Sarfaraz Khan's unwavering conviction led to the dismissal of Will Young, stealing a crucial wicket for the hosts.The incident occurred in the 24th over of New Zealand's innings. Young, batting on 18, attempted to glance a delivery from Ravichandran Ashwin to the fine-leg boundary. However, he missed the ball, and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant collected it cleanly behind the stumps.Despite Pant's uncertainty, Sarfaraz, positioned at short-leg, was adamant that he had heard a faint sound. As the countdown to review commenced, Sarfaraz pleaded with skipper Rohit Sharma to send the decision upstairs. With Virat Kohli also backing his claim, Rohit reluctantly agreed.The Ultra-Edge technology subsequently confirmed a slight spike as the ball passed Young's glove. The Indian team erupted in jubilation as Sarfaraz's instincts proved correct. Ashwin claimed his second wicket of the morning session, having earlier dismissed Tom Latham for 15.Sarfaraz's unwavering belief and the subsequent review not only highlighted the importance of close-in fielders but also showcased the growing influence of technology in cricket. The incident served as a reminder that even the most subtle of sounds can make a significant difference in the outcome of a match.New Zealand ended the morning session at 92 for 2 in 31 overs, with Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra unbeaten on 47 and 5 respectively. The match remains evenly poised, with both teams looking to gain an advantage in the crucial second Test.

Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has expressed his disappointment over the exclusion of Kuldeep Yadav from the playing XI for the second Test against New Zealand in Pune. Gavaskar criticized the move, suggesting it indicated "panic" from the team management.India entered the second Test trailing 0-1 in the three-match series, making three changes to their lineup. New Zealand captain Tom Latham won the toss and chose to bat first at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium. India dropped Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, and KL Rahul. Shubman Gill returned to the side, Akash Deep replaced Siraj, and Washington Sundar was included for his first Test match since March 2021.Gavaskar commented on the team changes during the match. "I do not see a lot of teams making three changes unless there are injury concerns. Washington Sundar's inclusion tells you they are worried about their batting. More than his bowling, they need his batting down the order as the cushion," he said.Gavaskar questioned the decision to leave out Kuldeep Yadav, noting his potential effectiveness against New Zealand's left-handed batters. "Yes, there is a lot of talk about the left-handers in the New Zealand batting unit, but I would have picked Kuldeep Yadav, who can also turn it away from a left-hander," he added.With pressure on India to secure a win in Pune, Gavaskar's comments highlight the critical nature of team selection decisions as they aim to preserve their home dominance and secure a spot in the WTC final.

Ravichandran Ashwin, India's premier spinner, delivered a crucial early breakthrough for the hosts in the second Test against New Zealand at the MCA Stadium in Pune. Ashwin dismissed New Zealand captain Tom Latham in his fifth delivery, setting the tone for India's bowling attack.Bowling with his customary precision, Ashwin pitched the ball on leg stump, inducing a sharp turn after landing. Latham attempted to defend the ball into the leg side but was caught plumb in front of the stumps. The umpire had no hesitation in raising his finger for the lbw decision.Latham, who had scored 15 runs off 22 balls with two boundaries, opted not to review the decision, marking the first wicket of the day. This dismissal highlighted Ashwin's ongoing dominance against Latham. In their previous encounters, Ashwin has dismissed Latham nine times in 11 innings, maintaining a remarkable average of 14.22.Ashwin continued his brilliant spell by dismissing Will Young, caught behind by Rishabh Pant, further tightening India's grip on the match. With this wicket, Ashwin not only gave India their second breakthrough but also became the leading wicket-taker in the World Test Championship (WTC) history.New Zealand won the toss and opted to bat first, setting the stage for a challenging morning session for their batsmen. With Ashwin leading the charge, India looked to build on this early success and apply pressure on the New Zealand batting lineup.Ashwin's early wickets were a testament to his exceptional skills and experience on Indian pitches. His ability to generate sharp turn and deceive batsmen with his variations makes him a formidable force in home conditions.India will be hoping that Ashwin can continue his impressive form throughout the match and help them secure a crucial victory in the second Test. With the series level at 0-0, both teams will be eager to gain an advantage in the race for the World Test Championship final.

India vs New Zealand: Selection Dilemmas and Key Additions for Second TestIndia has bolstered its squad for the second Test against New Zealand, bringing in spin-bowling allrounder Washington Sundar to exploit the tactical advantage against the visitors' left-handed batters, including Rachin Ravindra. Sundar's inclusion not only provides an additional spin option but also strengthens the lower-order batting.Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant, who were recovering from minor injuries, have been declared fit to play. Gill's return could threaten KL Rahul's place in the side, who has struggled in recent performances. Sarfaraz Khan's impressive form, including a century in Bengaluru, further complicates selection decisions.In the bowling department, India may consider replacing Mohammed Siraj with Akash Deep, who could provide fresh energy alongside Jasprit Bumrah. This change could help India capitalize on early conditions and put pressure on New Zealand from the start.New Zealand, on the other hand, will continue to miss Kane Williamson, who remains in rehab. In his absence, the Kiwis will rely on young talents like Ravindra and Tom Blundell to carry the batting load. Ravindra's century in the first Test was crucial in New Zealand's victory, and his form will be vital as they aim to secure a rare series win in India.The pitch in Pune is expected to favor spinners more than the seam-friendly conditions in Bengaluru. India may opt to field both Ravichandran Ashwin and Sundar to capitalize on this advantage. New Zealand's challenge will be to maintain their momentum and adapt to the unfamiliar conditions.With both teams looking to make crucial adjustments, the second Test promises to be an intense battle. India will be desperate to bounce back and level the series, while New Zealand will aim to seal a historic triumph and carry that confidence forward.

New Zealand's skipper Tom Latham has emphasized the team's adaptability and focus on utilizing their bowling options effectively in the upcoming second Test against India. Despite their historic eight-wicket victory in the opening Test in Bengaluru, Latham stressed the importance of not having preconceived notions about the pitch conditions."We're trying to adapt as quickly as we can," Latham stated. "If it's a wicket that turns a little bit more, we've got four spinners in our line-up, but it's also about trying not to go into the game with too many preconceived ideas."Latham acknowledged that he has considered how to best utilize the team's spinners, including Ish Sodhi, Mitchell Santner, Ajaz Patel, Rachin Ravindra, and Glenn Phillips. He emphasized the need to gather information from previous matches and practice wickets to prepare for the conditions.Despite their impressive victory in Bengaluru, Latham emphasized that the team is not resting on its laurels. "We celebrated what was a special performance, but our attention has turned quickly to this game," he said. "We're trying to take the confidence from last week and take that into this game."Latham also addressed his lack of big scores, stating that his focus is on contributing to the team's success. "I've certainly been working hard behind the scenes to get my game where I want it to be," he said. "As a batsman, it's a really fine line."Latham praised Rachin Ravindra's approach in the first Test, highlighting his ability to balance attack and defense. "The way he played throughout that whole innings was outstanding," Latham said. "He put the foot down a little bit, played a little bit more attacking at certain stages, and then obviously sucked up a little bit of pressure at times as well."Regarding Kane Williamson's absence, Latham stated that he is working closely with the medical team. "It's a day-by-day thing with Kane," he said. "Hopefully, we'll find out a little bit more after the Test."