Cricket

Indian cricket team opener Shubman Gill, who missed the first Test against New Zealand due to a stiff neck, is making significant progress in his recovery and could be available for the second Test in Pune starting on Thursday.Gill was spotted at the ground on Day 5 of the first Test in Bengaluru, facing throwdowns and having a prolonged net batting session. He faced fast bowlers Prasidh Krishna and Mayank Yadav, both traveling reserves for the Indian team, as well as Akash Deep.Gill's return would be a major boost for India, who lost the first Test by eight wickets. The 23-year-old has been in impressive form in recent months, scoring a century in the third Test against Australia in March and a half-century in the first ODI against New Zealand in August.If Gill is fit to play, he is likely to replace Abhimanyu Easwaran, who made his Test debut in the first Test but failed to impress. Gill's inclusion would provide India with a more experienced and reliable opening partner for Rohit Sharma.New Zealand's victory in the first Test was their first in India in 36 years. Will Young and Rachin Ravindra put on an unbroken 75-run partnership to guide the visitors to a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.India will be looking to level the series in the second Test, which begins on Thursday at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.

New Zealand's historic triumph in India after 36 years was a testament to their resilience and the emergence of young talent. Despite the absence of their injured batting stalwart Kane Williamson, the Black Caps rose to the occasion, led by the impressive performance of Rachin Ravindra.Ravindra, whose parents hail from Bengaluru, played a pivotal role in New Zealand's victory. His composed innings of 134 in the first innings set the tone for the match. After dismissing India for a mere 46 runs, the Black Caps posted a formidable total of 402.India fought back with a strong batting performance, scoring 462 in their second innings. However, Ravindra's composure guided New Zealand to a remarkable eight-wicket win on Sunday."Our first two innings were outstanding," said New Zealand captain Tom Latham. "Rachin was a huge part in that. The way he played... a 137-run stand with a number nine batsman (Tim Southee) is awesome."Ravindra's performance was particularly impressive considering his relative inexperience at Test level. With Williamson's return uncertain due to a groin injury, Ravindra's emergence provides New Zealand with a much-needed boost."Anyone of Kane's calibre, if he's right and able to come back into the side, would be great," said Latham. "Selection headaches are always great things to have and fingers crossed he'll be alright and can get over here as soon as possible."As the series moves to Pune and then Mumbai for the final match, New Zealand will be hoping to maintain their momentum. Ravindra's performance has shown that they have the depth and talent to overcome the absence of their star batsman.

India's dominance in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shaken after their loss to New Zealand in the first Test in Bengaluru. The defeat has cost India crucial percentage points, bringing Australia closer to them in the race for the WTC Final.Before the Bengaluru Test, India held a comfortable lead with a point percentage of 74.24. However, the loss has dropped their percentage to 68.06, while Australia (62.50 PCT) has closed the gap. Both teams have identical records of 8 wins and 3 losses in 12 games, but Australia's lower percentage points keep them behind India.The loss has major implications for India's hopes of reaching the WTC Final. Sri Lanka, currently third in the standings, is also a contender with 5 wins and 4 losses in 9 games. New Zealand's historic victory has propelled them to fourth place, with 4 wins and 5 losses in 9 matches.New Zealand's victory has given them a chance to qualify for the WTC Final. They have two more matches against India, followed by a three-match series against England. England, currently fifth in the standings, is also in contention with 9 wins and 8 defeats in 18 matches.India has two more Tests against New Zealand in Pune and Mumbai before embarking on a challenging five-match series in Australia later this year. The results of these matches will be crucial in determining India's fate in the WTC.

India's Test series opener against New Zealand at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium ended in a disappointing eight-wicket defeat for the hosts. Skipper Rohit Sharma acknowledged that the team's dismal first-innings total of 46 set them back significantly."We knew it would be a challenge with overcast conditions and a tricky pitch," Sharma said. "We didn't expect to be all out for 46, but credit to New Zealand. It set us back, and games like this happen."Despite the setback, Sharma expressed confidence in his team's ability to bounce back in the remaining two matches. "We've been here before, conceding home losses; these things happen," he said. "Two Tests to go, we know what it takes and will give it all in the next two Tests."In the second innings, India showed resilience with a counter-attacking 177-run stand between Sarfaraz Khan (150) and Rishabh Pant (99). Sharma praised the young batters for their performance."It was a good effort in the second innings with the bat," he said. "We knew what lies ahead, get as many as possible. A couple of guys stood out, was great to watch. When you're 350 behind, you can't think too much. Just have to try and bat the ball and see where the game goes."Sharma highlighted the importance of the partnership between Khan and Pant. "We could've easily been bowled under 350, it's something we're proud of," he said. "Everyone's on the edge of their seats when Pant and Sarfaraz bat. Pant's was a mature innings; he's done it for a while, and he played his shots too. Sarfaraz was very clear and mature in just his third or fourth Test."India now trails 1-0 in the three-match series and will travel to Pune for the second Test from October 24-28. The third and final game will be played at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai from November 1-5.

New Zealand's historic victory in the first Test against India in Bengaluru marked a significant milestone for the visitors, who secured their first Test win on Indian soil in 36 years. Skipper Tom Latham hailed the team's performance, attributing their success to a combination of strategic planning and exceptional bowling.Initially intending to bat first, New Zealand's decision to bowl after losing the toss proved advantageous. Their bowlers, led by Matt Henry (5/15) and Will O'Rourke (4/22), wreaked havoc on the Indian batting lineup, bundling them out for a mere 46 runs in the first innings. This set the tone for the match, as India struggled to recover despite a valiant fightback from Sarfaraz Khan (150) and Rishabh Pant (99).Chasing a modest target of 107 runs on the rain-delayed final day, New Zealand lost early wickets but remained composed. Will Young (48 not out) and Rachin Ravindra (39 not out) forged an unbeaten 75-run partnership to guide the visitors to victory, securing a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.Latham praised Ravindra's contributions, highlighting his impressive performance in both innings. He also acknowledged the pivotal roles played by O'Rourke, Tim Southee, and Matt Henry, whose bowling prowess laid the foundation for the win.This victory elevates New Zealand to fourth place in the World Test Championship standings, surpassing England and South Africa. It is a testament to the team's resilience and determination, and sets the stage for an exciting remainder of the series.

New Zealand has achieved a historic victory on Indian soil, breaking a 36-year drought with an eight-wicket triumph in the opening Test match. The Black Caps now lead the three-match series 1-0.After India's dismal performance in the first innings, where they were bowled out for a mere 46, New Zealand responded with a solid 402. The hosts, however, fought back in the second innings, posting a challenging 462.Needing 107 runs to win on the final day, New Zealand faced a hostile opening spell from Jasprit Bumrah. However, Will Young (48 not out) and Rachin Ravindra (39 not out) steadied the ship, adding 75 runs for the third wicket to guide the team to victory in just 27.4 overs.New Zealand's last Test triumph in India came way back in 1988 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, where they defeated the hosts by 136 runs. India had won that three-Test series 2-1.The second Test of the series is scheduled to begin in Pune on October 24.

Virat Kohli's return to form in the second innings of the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru has ignited hope among Indian cricket fans. After a prolonged slump, Kohli's well-crafted 70-run knock marked a significant milestone in his Test career.Kohli's struggles in Test cricket had become a major concern, with his last fifty coming in 2022. His inability to counter outside-off deliveries from pacers and off-spinners had been a recurring issue. However, against New Zealand, Kohli showcased his vintage form, executing flawless cover drives and displaying impeccable timing.The knock was crucial not only for Kohli's personal confidence but also for India's match situation. After being dismissed cheaply in the first innings, Kohli's contribution in the second innings helped India build a substantial lead.Kohli's resurgence is a timely boost for India, who have a busy Test schedule ahead. The team will face New Zealand in the remaining two Tests before embarking on a five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia. Kohli's impressive record against Australia on their home turf bodes well for India's chances.Despite his recent form, Kohli's overall numbers in Test cricket since the launch of the World Test Championship in 2019 have been underwhelming. He ranks 13th on the list of most runs scored, with an average of 38.77. However, his performance in the current ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 has been more encouraging, with an average of 48.90.As India aims to secure their maiden WTC title, Kohli's continued form will be crucial. His experience and ability to score runs in challenging conditions will be invaluable for the team.

India's Historic Low: A Tale of Collapse and ResilienceTwo weeks ago, the Indian cricket team basked in glory after crushing Bangladesh in the second Test at Kanpur. However, their fortunes took a dramatic turn in Bengaluru, where they suffered their lowest Test total on home soil.Batting first, India crumbled to a mere 46 against New Zealand, a score that shattered their previous record of 75 all out against the West Indies in 1987. The collapse sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, with Cricket Australia sarcastically asking, "Is 'All Out 46' the new 'All Out 36'?"Historically, teams dismissed for less than 50 runs in an innings have never won a Test match. Only once has a team managed to draw, with Australia achieving this feat in 1902.The Birmingham Miracle: Australia's 36 and a DrawIn the annals of Test cricket, the Birmingham Test of 1902 stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Australia, touring England, were bowled out for a shocking 36 in just 90 minutes, with Yorkshire's Wilfred Rhodes claiming an astonishing 7 for 17.Despite the humiliating collapse, Australia refused to surrender. Forced to follow on, they held their ground for 28 overs, losing only two wickets. Rain played a crucial role in their survival, as a downpour rendered the wicket unplayable and prevented England from securing a victory.A Series of ExtremesThe Birmingham Test was a microcosm of the entire 1902 series between Australia and England. The Australians, despite their low score in Birmingham, went on to win the series 2-1. They lost only two of the 39 matches played during the tour, showcasing their remarkable resilience and determination.Lessons from HistoryIndia's recent collapse serves as a reminder that even the most formidable teams can experience setbacks. However, the story of Australia's 36 in Birmingham offers hope that even in the face of adversity, resilience and determination can prevail.As India seeks to bounce back from their historic low, they can draw inspiration from the Australians of 1902. By embracing the lessons of history, they can overcome this setback and emerge stronger than ever before.

The Women's T20 World Cup final on Sunday promises to be a historic occasion, with both South Africa and New Zealand vying for their first-ever title. The match will be a testament to the growth and resilience of women's cricket, as both teams have overcome adversity to reach the pinnacle of the sport.South Africa, who lost to Australia in the final last year, have shown remarkable determination and unity throughout this tournament. Their victory over Australia in the semi-final was a testament to their belief and fighting spirit. New Zealand, on the other hand, have been consistent performers, losing only one wicket in the powerplay throughout the tournament. Their experience and leadership will be crucial in the final.The match will feature several key players who have played pivotal roles in their teams' success. Sophie Devine, New Zealand's captain, has been a force to be reckoned with, while Anneke Bosch's unbeaten 74 in the semi-final was a game-changer for South Africa.The pitch in Dubai is expected to favor spin, which could give an advantage to both teams. South Africa's Marizanne Kapp and New Zealand's Amelia Kerr are among the top wicket-takers in the tournament and will be key players in the final.The match will also be a significant moment for Suzie Bates, who is set to become the most capped player in women's internationals. Her experience and leadership will be invaluable for New Zealand.Both teams have expressed their determination to win the title. South Africa's Chloe Tryon believes that the team has grown and matured since last year's final, while Bates emphasized the importance of the "grandmas" of the New Zealand team.The Women's T20 World Cup final promises to be a thrilling and historic event. Both South Africa and New Zealand have earned their place in the final and will be determined to make history.