Cricket

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has urged India to make a bold move and open the batting with young sensation Yashasvi Jaiswal in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup. Vaughan believes that Jaiswal's exceptional batting skills and left-handedness would provide India with a much-needed advantage.During India's group stage matches, star batter Virat Kohli was promoted to open with captain Rohit Sharma. However, Kohli has struggled to find form, scoring only 1, 4, and 0 in the three games. Vaughan suggests that Kohli should return to his preferred position at number 3, allowing Jaiswal to take on the opening role.Vaughan also advocates for Rishabh Pant to bat at number 5 in the Super 8 matches, which will be played in the Caribbean. Pant has been batting ahead of Suryakumar Yadav in the group stage, but Vaughan believes that his aggressive style would be more effective in the middle order."I love Yashasvi Jaiswal, I'd want him to be opening the batting. Virat or Rohit at No.3, I'm not too bothered by which right-hander goes to No.3. Shivam Dube is at No.5 but in the Caribbean I'd have Rishabh Pant in there. Yashasvi is an incredible player. He is such a good batter, I would want him in," Vaughan said on Cricbuzz.Vaughan emphasizes the importance of having left-handed batters in the team, a mistake he believes India has made in the past. Jaiswal's left-handedness would provide a different dimension to India's batting lineup and make it more difficult for opposing bowlers to contain.India's final group match against Canada was washed out, but they still finished top of Group A with 7 points and a Net Run Rate (NRR) of +1.137. They will now face the second-placed team from Group B in the Super 8 stage.

Former Indian pacer Sreesanth believes that Rishabh Pant would be delighted to see Virat Kohli return to his preferred number three batting position, especially given Kohli's struggles as an opener in the ongoing T20 World Cup. Despite his exceptional IPL season, Kohli has managed a mere five runs in three games while opening alongside captain Rohit Sharma.With Kohli opening, Pant has assumed the responsibility of batting at number three at the World Cup. The wicket-keeper batter has flourished in this role, amassing 96 runs in three games with his diverse shot selection. Sreesanth believes that if Kohli returns to his number three spot, Pant will continue to excel."Pant is a player who can adapt to any situation. We have seen him bat at different positions. He is a brilliant player, and I think Pant will be happy if Virat goes at number three. Pant doesn't look at the situation, wicket, or the bowler. He just looks at the ball. I think that is a quality that youngsters should focus on. I think he loves Virat, and he would love to see Virat score more runs. If Virat comes just before him, imagine the freedom that Pant gets, he might just hit the reverse sweep on the first ball. So that is Pant," Sreesanth said while speaking exclusively to ANI.Pant made his return to cricket in the IPL 2024 season as the skipper of the Delhi Capitals after sustaining injuries in a car accident in December 2022. He scored 446 runs in 13 matches, with an average of 40.55 and a strike rate of 155.40.India remains unbeaten in the T20 World Cup, having defeated Ireland, Pakistan, and co-hosts USA. Sreesanth sees no reason why the Indian team shouldn't aim for the title, citing their strength and talent."We have such great bench strength. I don't see any reason why we shouldn't be winning it. Whenever we talk about the World Cup, they show wins of 2009, 2011, and 1983. It is high time this team genuinely deserves to win the World Cup. Next time, pictures of the current edition will be shown."In last year's ODI World Cup, India reached the final undefeated but fell short against Australia. Sreesanth is hopeful that this time, India can seek revenge if both teams reach the final, drawing comparisons to past tournament triumphs."It feels good, and the way the team is performing it makes you remember the 2007 T20 World Cup. This time, Pakistan is going out, and India is moving forward. The way Bumrah and others are performing, especially in terms of character, India is way ahead. If anybody is going to challenge India, I think it is going towards, India vs Australia final. The result that didn't take place in the 50-over World Cup, I hope India takes revenge this time and we bring the cup back to India," he stated.After securing a spot in the Super 8, India will play their final group stage game against Canada in Florida on Saturday.

Team India stars Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and their teammates enjoyed a memorable day off in New York City, engaging with enthusiastic children and creating lasting memories. The players, including Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Sanju Samson, Avesh Khan, Yuzvendra Chahal, Rinku Singh, and Kheleel Ahmed, reveled in the opportunity to relax and connect with the young fans. Head coach Rahul Dravid and fielding coach T Dilip accompanied the team, adding to the jovial atmosphere.Earlier, India's Consul General in New York, Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, hosted the team ahead of their match against co-hosts USA. Pradhan and the Indian diaspora in New York warmly welcomed the contingent led by skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Dravid. BCCI president Roger Binny, vice president Rajeev Shukla, and secretary Jay Shah were also present, showcasing the support and camaraderie within the Indian cricket fraternity.Rohit Sharma and his team have maintained an impressive unbeaten streak in the tournament thus far, securing convincing victories over Ireland and Pakistan. Their eight-wicket triumph over Ireland and six-run win against Pakistan have solidified their position as a formidable force in the competition.The players' interaction with the children in New York highlighted their commitment to inspiring future generations of cricket enthusiasts. The young fans were thrilled to meet their idols and engage in playful activities, creating a heartwarming and memorable experience for all involved.

India's thrilling six-run victory over Pakistan in the T20 World Cup was a testament to the team's resilience and the brilliance of its individual players. After a shaky start with the bat, India's bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah's three-wicket haul, kept Pakistan in check. Rishabh Pant's counter-attacking knock of 42 and Axar Patel's crucial 20 runs at number four proved decisive.In a post-match interview, Axar revealed that his promotion to the batting order was made easier by Pant's jovial demeanor. "He was joking around and having fun between deliveries," said Axar. "He knew that I would become a little easy."Axar's bowling plan against Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim was to avoid giving him any balls in his range. "I talked to Rohit bhai and told him I would bowl in the cut," said Axar. "If he hits the four on the cut or the cover, then it is okay. Because that is a very difficult shot."Pant, who took three crucial catches in the game, said his gameplan was to play with a positive mindset. "India-Pakistan is always a match of pressure," said Pant. "We were talking to each other and we were getting comfortable with each other. We did not think much about the situation."Mohammed Siraj, who scored valuable runs in the end, said he has been practicing his batting a lot in the nets. "All the runs made by the tailenders are very crucial at the end of the day," said Siraj. "I am very happy with those seven runs and I won the match."Regarding his bowling plan, Siraj said he wanted to keep things simple. "My only plan was to get a low score," said Siraj. "I do not try too much. I keep a simple plan and execute it wherever I can."India's victory was a collective effort, with each player contributing in their own way. Bumrah's match-winning spell, Pant's counter-attacking knock, Axar's crucial runs, and Siraj's valuable runs and wickets were all key factors in India's success.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri was overcome with emotion as he presented Rishabh Pant with the best fielder award following India's thrilling six-run victory over Pakistan in the Twenty20 World Cup. Shastri had been deeply affected by the news of Pant's potentially fatal car accident in December 2022.Despite being dropped four times and struggling for timing early on, Pant played a crucial role in India's victory with a vital 42 off 31 balls. He also took three excellent catches behind the stumps, showcasing his exceptional wicketkeeping skills."I had tears in my eyes when I heard about his accident," Shastri said in a video posted on bcci.tv. "When I saw him in hospital, it was even worse. Then for him to come back from there and be back in the A-zone playing one of the biggest games of all time, India vs Pakistan, is heartwarming."Shastri praised Pant's determination and hard work, noting that his recovery from the accident was an inspiration to millions. "Not just for yourself, it's an inspiration to millions around the globe that from adversity, from the jaws of death, you can snatch a win as well," he said.Fielding coach T Dilip also lauded the Indian players for their exceptional fielding performance on a sluggish outfield. "One thing which stood out was sheer commitment towards excellence in fielding, which led to greatness today," Dilip said. "In high pressure situations, being proactive is extremely important and this game was a great example."India's victory over Pakistan was their second in the tournament, following their opening win against the Netherlands. They will next face co-hosts USA on Wednesday in New York.

India's Triumph Over Pakistan: A Tale of Joy and HeartbreakIn a gripping encounter at Nassau County Stadium in New York, India emerged victorious over Pakistan in their seventh T20 World Cup clash, igniting jubilation among Indian fans and leaving Pakistani supporters devastated. The narrow six-run win, powered by Jasprit Bumrah's exceptional three-wicket haul and Rishabh Pant's counter-attacking innings, kept India's World Cup hopes alive with two group stage matches remaining.The match witnessed a record attendance, with fans witnessing a tense battle that ended in a dramatic fashion. Following the match, scenes outside the stadium were a testament to the intense emotions the game evoked. A 'sea of Blue' celebrated with energetic dances to the beats of dhols and loud chants of "India India."Amidst the jubilant Indian fans, a heartbroken Pakistani supporter, who had sold his tractor to buy a $3,000 ticket, stood in disbelief. Speaking to ANI, he shared his disappointment: "I have sold my tractor to get a ticket worth 3000 USD. When we saw the score of India, we did not think that we were going to lose this game. We thought it was an achievable score. The game was in our hands but after Babar Azam got out, people were disheartened. I congratulate you all (Indian fans)."Bumrah's precise bowling applied pressure on the Pakistani batters, complemented by Pant's crucial innings that ensured India set a competitive total. Bumrah's post-match reflections highlighted his lifelong admiration for bowling and his strategic approach to maintain control during critical moments.Meanwhile, back in India, the streets of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, were alive with celebrations. Massive crowds gathered to celebrate the Men in Blue's triumph over their arch-rivals. The air was filled with cheers and the sounds of fireworks as fans thronged the streets to revel in the victory.India's win not only kept their World Cup journey on track but also reinforced the intense rivalry and passion that characterizes India-Pakistan cricket matches. The contrasting emotions among fans—from the ecstatic scenes in New York and Indore to the heartbroken Pakistani supporter—highlight the deep connection and impact of this storied cricket rivalry.

Ahead of the highly anticipated clash between India and Pakistan in the T20 World Cup, Suryakumar Yadav's childhood coach, Ashok Aswalkar, has highlighted Rishabh Pant as a significant advantage for the Men in Blue.Pant's return to the international arena after a severe accident in December 2022 has been remarkable. In India's recent match, he played a crucial role in chasing down a modest target of 97 with ease."The biggest plus point for us is Rishabh Pant. He has made an incredible comeback after the accident. He has a strong mindset and is mentally very strong," Aswalkar told ANI.Despite initial struggles with the pitch's bounce, Pant showcased his exceptional batting skills, scoring an unbeaten 36 off 26 deliveries, including three fours and two towering sixes. His second six, a reverse scoop over the wicketkeeper's head, was a testament to his brilliance.Aswalkar emphasized the importance of openers Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli converting their starts. "If they fail, the match could go either way," he added.India's T20 World Cup squad boasts a formidable lineup, including Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj.Pakistan's T20 World Cup squad also features a talented roster, led by Babar Azam (C) and including Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Usman Khan.As the two cricketing giants prepare to face off, the stage is set for an electrifying encounter that promises to captivate fans worldwide.

India and Pakistan's rivalry in cricket transcends the boundaries of sport, becoming a symbol of the political tensions between the two nations. The absence of bilateral series between them only intensifies the anticipation for their encounters during ICC tournaments. The upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 match between the two teams in New York promises to be another electrifying clash.The passion surrounding India-Pakistan matches is unparalleled, with fans from both countries celebrating it like a festival. Amidst the excitement, humorous punch lines and jokes emerge, adding a touch of lightheartedness to the intense rivalry. One such line that has gained popularity is "Tel lagao Dabur ka, wicket lo Babar ka," mocking Pakistan captain Babar Azam.Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has shared his thoughts on this playful banter. "From a player's perspective, we all work hard for our countries. These banters are part of the game and bring out the emotions from both sides. Lines like 'Tel lagao Dabur ka, wicket lo Babar ka' make the competition more interesting," Pant said.Beyond the lighthearted banter, Pant also revealed an incident of sledging between him and Virat Kohli during an IPL match between Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. "I was banned without doing anything. I tried to prevent it, but it was uncontrollable. Sitting outside, I thought I'd disturb their mindset. I didn't give Kohli a chance to say anything because I escaped," Pant recalled.The India-Pakistan rivalry is not just about cricket; it's a reflection of the complex relationship between two neighboring nations. The matches between them are not merely sporting events but also a platform for expressing national pride and unity. The upcoming T20 World Cup clash in New York is sure to be another unforgettable chapter in this storied rivalry.

India's batting coach Vikram Rathour has confirmed that wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will continue to bat at No. 3 in the T20 World Cup following his impressive performance against Ireland. Rathour also expressed his satisfaction with having a fully-fit Hardik Pandya back in the squad, both of whom played crucial roles in India's victory over Ireland on Wednesday.Pant and Pandya, who made their return to international cricket after a long hiatus due to injuries, showcased their skills in India's eight-wicket triumph in their opening game of the tournament. On a challenging pitch with uneven bounce, Pant's unbeaten 36 included a stunning reverse-scoop six, highlighting his return to form after a horrific car accident in December 2022."Yes, he has been batting really well. The two games (warm-up and Ireland) he has played, he has looked really, really good," Rathour told the media after the match at the Nassau County Cricket Stadium. "At the moment, he is our No. 3 and it helps that he is a left-hander," Rathour added, confirming Pant's spot in the lineup alongside skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli at the top.Both Pant and Pandya demonstrated their fitness and form during the IPL, paving their way back into the India squad for the T20 World Cup. Despite a challenging season as captain for Mumbai Indians, Pandya's skills as an all-rounder were highly valued by India's chief selector Ajit Agarkar.In the match against Ireland, Pandya's performance with the ball was remarkable. He delivered a precise spell, taking three wickets for 27 runs in his four overs, marking his first match since October 2023 when he had to leave the field due to an ankle injury during a game against Bangladesh."Hardik looked really good. Hardik has been — I mean, even in the practice game and even in the practice — bowling really well," Rathour noted. "He looks fit enough to go through four overs and he's been bowling with some pace and some accuracy, so yeah, it's great," he added.India's positive start to the T20 World Cup, bolstered by the return of Pant and Pandya, sets a promising tone for their campaign as they continue to navigate the challenges of the tournament.