Cricket

New Zealand Cricket Security Delegation Inspects Pakistan Ahead of T20 SeriesA security delegation from New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has arrived in Pakistan to assess the security arrangements for the upcoming T20 series between the two nations in April. The delegation, comprising two NZC officials and an independent security expert, will visit Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad to inspect match venues, team hotels, and receive briefings from government and security officials.The five-match T20 series is scheduled to take place in Lahore and Rawalpindi from April 18 to 25. The New Zealand team is expected to arrive on April 14, but may be depleted by the absence of key players due to the Indian Premier League (IPL) taking place concurrently.The security delegation's visit is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of the New Zealand team during their tour of Pakistan. In September 2021, the New Zealand team abruptly returned home without playing a match after their government received credible threat information.The delegation's assessment will focus on evaluating the security measures in place, including venue security, transportation arrangements, and the overall security environment in Pakistan. They will also meet with local authorities and security personnel to discuss the security plan for the visiting team.The New Zealand Players Association CEO is also part of the delegation, highlighting the importance of player safety and well-being. The delegation's findings will be used to determine the level of security required for the New Zealand team during their tour.The successful completion of the security delegation's visit will pave the way for the resumption of international cricket in Pakistan, which has been affected by security concerns in recent years. The T20 series between New Zealand and Pakistan is a significant step towards restoring Pakistan's status as a safe destination for international sports events.

Gujarat Giants' Hemalatha Ruled Out with Concussion, Satghare Makes History as First WPL Concussion SubstituteIn a significant development in the Women's Premier League (WPL), Gujarat Giants' middle-order batter D Hemalatha has been ruled out of the team's clash against Delhi Capitals due to a concussion. This marks the first instance of a concussion substitute being used in the WPL.Hemalatha sustained the injury while attempting to catch a high ball at deep midwicket during the 15th over of Delhi Capitals' innings. Jess Jonassen's powerful shot burst through Hemalatha's hands and struck her forehead, prompting immediate medical attention.Following the incident, Hemalatha was removed from the field and replaced by Sayali Satghare, a 23-year-old seam-bowling allrounder from Mumbai. Satghare's inclusion as a concussion substitute is a testament to the WPL's commitment to player safety and well-being.Satghare, who has represented Mumbai in domestic cricket, has impressive credentials. She recently scored a century against Arunachal Pradesh in the Senior Women's One Day Trophy and averaged 52 with the bat. She also claimed ten wickets in the competition.Gujarat Giants, who had lost three consecutive matches prior to the clash with Delhi Capitals, were hoping for a change in fortunes with Hemalatha's return to the lineup. However, her absence due to concussion has dealt a blow to their plans.The use of concussion substitutes in cricket has become increasingly common in recent years, with the aim of protecting players from the potential long-term effects of head injuries. The WPL's adoption of this practice is a positive step towards ensuring the safety of its athletes.