Cricket

Rohit Sharma Fan Interrupts T20 World Cup Warm-Up MatchIn an unfortunate incident during India's T20 World Cup warm-up match against Bangladesh at Nassau Stadium in New York, a Rohit Sharma fan breached security and entered the field to meet the Indian skipper. The incident occurred during Bangladesh's chase of 183, when the fan bypassed security and ran onto the field to approach Rohit.Security personnel swiftly intervened, apprehending the fan and escorting him out of the stadium. Play resumed after a brief interruption. This incident highlights the ongoing issue of fan intrusions during cricket matches, with players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli frequently encountering such behavior.Earlier in the match, Rishabh Pant strengthened his case for a starting berth in India's T20 World Cup squad as the first-choice wicketkeeper-batter. Pant, returning to the Indian team after a horrific car accident in December 2022, scored a fluent 53 (32b, 4x4, 4x6) on a slow pitch.Suryakumar Yadav (31, 18b, 4x4) and Hardik Pandya (40 not out, 23b, 2x4, 4x6) also made significant contributions, helping India reach a competitive total of 182 for five despite the absence of any substantial partnerships.

Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian captain and current director of cricket for the Delhi Capitals, has expressed his support for retaining the impact-player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, he believes that teams should make their decisions regarding the impact player before the toss.The impact-player rule allows teams to substitute a player from their bench into the playing XI during the match. This rule has been a topic of discussion after the recent IPL season, which saw a significant increase in high-scoring matches. Ganguly believes that the rule adds an element of strategy and skill to the game."I like the impact player rule. My only thing with IPL is that I just want the grounds to be a bit bigger. The fences should go a little behind," Ganguly said. "It is a great tournament. The only thing you can do with the impact player is decide before the toss, so it's a bit of skill there."Ganguly also commented on the performance of Prithvi Shaw, who had a disappointing IPL season. He emphasized that Shaw is still a young player and needs time to adjust to the demands of T20 cricket."He (Prithvi Shaw) is a young kid. He is just 23. He is still learning how to play T20 cricket. He is a very fine talent and he will get better. Sometimes, we expect too much too early from everyone and I am sure Prithvi, with the skills he has, he will do well," he added.Ganguly praised Rishabh Pant for his return to form after his car accident in 2022. He believes that Pant has worked hard to regain his fitness and skills."He was superb for us (DC) in the IPL. I was so happy to see the way he came back, because I have always said that he is a special player," Ganguly said. "Even earlier, I have said that he is exceptional. You don't want such talent to be lost for such disastrous reasons (accident). He has really worked hard to get back to where he is and he is the Rishabh Pant of old."Ganguly also expressed his hope that Wriddhiman Saha, the wicketkeeper-batter, will be selected by the Bengal selectors. Saha has expressed his desire to return to Bengal after playing for Tripura for two years."He wants to play for Bengal and rightfully so. He is a Bengal boy," Ganguly said. "He went away to Tripura for two years because he was playing there as a professional. He has finished that and he wants to be in Bengal. I am sure the selectors will pick him for Bengal."

India's quest for an elusive ICC title continues as they embark on the T20 World Cup in the US and West Indies, starting June 2. Led by Rohit Sharma, the team aims to break a decade-long drought since their last ICC triumph.After a disappointing loss in the ODI World Cup final last year, India's hopes for an ICC trophy remain unfulfilled. Their last victory came in the 2013 Champions Trophy under MS Dhoni, who also guided them to the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup titles.In a recent video shared by Star Sports, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Rishabh Pant expressed their thoughts on India's chances, fan expectations, and the responsibility they carry as players.Rohit Sharma acknowledged the team's previous failures in the T20 World Cup but expressed optimism for this edition. "We have a great chance here to come across and be the champion," he said.Virat Kohli emphasized the unwavering expectations from Indian fans. "Expectations will always be there wherever India plays," he said. "Cricket is looked at differently in our country; it's our strength as well. It will become a weakness if we pay excessive attention to it."Rishabh Pant embraced the responsibility that comes with playing for India. "I am always enjoying the responsibility because when you come into the team, when you feel important in the team, that's when responsibility comes to you," he said.India's T20 World Cup campaign begins on June 5 against Ireland in New York. They will face South Africa, Bangladesh, and Pakistan in Group 2. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super 12 stage.

Rishabh Pant Joins Kolkata Knight Riders' IPL 2024 Title CelebrationsIndian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant made a virtual appearance at the Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) victory celebrations after the team clinched the IPL 2024 title. In a heartwarming video that has gone viral on social media, Pant was seen congratulating Rinku Singh and Nitish Rana on their triumph over Sunrisers Hyderabad.Pant, who is currently in the USA with the Indian cricket team preparing for the T20 World Cup 2024, expressed his joy and admiration for the KKR players. Rinku, in turn, shared his excitement about joining the team in the USA soon."Bhaiya, I am coming [to US] on 28th," Rinku said to Pant on video call.In the match itself, KKR dominated SRH, bowling them out for a mere 113. Andre Russell led the bowling attack with three wickets, while Mitchell Starc and Harshit Rana chipped in with two each.In response, Venkatesh Iyer smashed a brilliant half-century, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz played a fiery knock to guide KKR to a comfortable victory.KKR bowling coach Bharat Arun praised the team's performance, particularly highlighting the contributions of Rana and Starc."He [Rana] has been outstanding and it's about the bowler understanding what his strengths are and when he does, it comes out beautifully on the ground," Arun said."Mitch coming into the team boosted the confidence of the other youngsters. He has been one of the best bowlers in world cricket and he has been in such situations before, it's about understanding Indian conditions and once he did that, it is magic all over."Arun also credited Gautam Gambhir for his decision to open the batting with Sunil Narine, which proved to be a game-changer for KKR."He [Narine] has brought a totally different dimension to our batting this year and it was Gautam who insisted that Sunny open and what Sunny did was outstanding," Arun said.

Rishabh Pant's Harrowing Journey: From Life-Threatening Accident to Triumphant ReturnIndian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has opened up about the profound impact of his near-fatal car crash in December 2022, revealing his initial reluctance to venture out in public due to the physical and emotional toll it took on him.The 26-year-old sustained multiple injuries in the accident, including severe knee damage, which required major surgery and an arduous rehabilitation process. "The accident was a life-changing experience for me," Pant said on 'Dhawan Karenge,' a talk show hosted by India cricketer Shikhar Dhawan. "When I got up after it, I wasn't even sure if I would be alive, but God was very kind to save me."The accident left Pant unable to perform basic tasks, such as brushing his teeth, for months. He also experienced unbearable pain for an extended period. "I couldn't go to the airport because I was nervous about facing people in a wheelchair," Pant shared. "It was a difficult time for me."Despite the challenges, Pant's determination and resilience shone through. After 14 months of rehabilitation, he made a remarkable comeback to action in the recently concluded IPL, showcasing glimpses of his devastating best. His return to the cricket field is a testament to his unwavering spirit and the support of his family, friends, and fans.Pant's journey from a harrowing accident to a triumphant return to the cricket field is an inspiration to all. It highlights the power of perseverance, the importance of support, and the indomitable spirit that resides within us all.

KKR's Triumph Sparks Heartwarming Moment Between Pant and Rinku SinghIn the aftermath of Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) triumph in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, a touching moment unfolded on the field as Delhi Capitals skipper Rishabh Pant extended his heartfelt congratulations to KKR star Rinku Singh.The camaraderie between the two Team India teammates was evident in a video shared by KKR on social media. Pant, who is currently in the USA for the T20 World Cup, conveyed his best wishes to Singh for KKR's IPL victory."Time for a 'Rishu Bhaiya-Rinku' reunion in the USA!" KKR captioned the video.Singh expressed his excitement about joining Pant in the USA, saying, "Bhaiya, I am coming [to US] on 28th." The bond between the two players shone through, showcasing the spirit of camaraderie and friendship among cricketers.Singh, who is part of the India reserve squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies, played a crucial role in KKR's successful campaign in the IPL 2024. His heartwarming interaction with Pant serves as a reminder of the strong bond shared by players across different teams, even amidst fierce competition on the field.The moment between Pant and Singh highlights the importance of sportsmanship and the camaraderie that exists within the cricket fraternity. It also underscores the spirit of unity and support that transcends team loyalties.

Rishabh Pant's remarkable return to cricket after a horrific car crash has left Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting in awe. The dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman has silenced doubters with his impressive performance in the recent IPL season, amassing 446 runs at an average of 40.54 and a strike rate of 155.40. He also claimed 16 dismissals behind the stumps, tied for the most in the tournament.Ponting, who initially had doubts about Pant's ability to play again, has been blown away by his determination and recovery. "It's been nothing short of spectacular," Ponting told The ICC Review. "I had grave fears that he would never play the game again."Pant's dedication to his recovery, supported by the Delhi Capitals franchise and physio Patrick Farhart, has been instrumental in his comeback. Despite concerns about his ability to handle the physical demands of wicketkeeping, Pant has proven his mettle, earning him a spot in India's T20 World Cup squad."No one had real concerns about his batting, but with his wicket-keeping, there were certainly some concerns," Ponting said. "But he's looked after himself incredibly well."Pant's exceptional performance has not only impressed Ponting but also earned him widespread praise. His return to form is a testament to his resilience and the support he has received from his team and loved ones.

Rishabh Pant Recalls Mother's Anger Over Expensive Bat, Reflects on Cricket JourneyIndian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has shared a heartwarming anecdote about his early days as a cricketer, revealing how his mother's initial disapproval of an expensive bat gifted by his father ultimately fueled his passion for the sport.Speaking on Jio Cinema's recently premiered series "Dhawan Karenge," Pant recounted how his father, a cricket enthusiast, had always dreamed of becoming a cricketer himself. When Pant expressed his desire to follow in his father's footsteps, his father gifted him a bat worth Rs 14,000."My mom got super angry," Pant recalled with a chuckle. "She said, 'Why are you spending so much money on a bat? He's just a kid.'"Undeterred, Pant's father encouraged him to pursue his passion. "He told me, 'If you want to be a cricketer, you need to have the right equipment,'" Pant said.Pant's determination paid off. He made his international debut in 2017 and has since become one of India's most promising young players. He was the Delhi Capitals' top run scorer in the recently concluded Indian Premier League 2024, amassing 446 runs in 13 games at a strike rate of 155.40.Reflecting on his journey, Pant expressed gratitude for his father's support. "It was my father's dream to become a cricketer, and I am glad I could fulfill it," he said. "I decided I wanted to be a cricketer when I was in the 5th grade. My dad gifted me a bat worth Rs 14,000, and my mom got super angry."Despite his success, Pant remains humble and acknowledges the importance of staying grounded. "I know I have a long way to go," he said. "I want to keep improving and make my country proud."

The Indian cricket team's wicket-keeping position for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 has been a subject of intense speculation. After considering several contenders, the selectors opted for Sanju Samson and Rishabh Pant, leaving out KL Rahul, a prominent opener for Lucknow Super Giants.India's captain, Rohit Sharma, and chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, emphasized their preference for middle-order batters while selecting wicket-keepers, which led to Rahul's exclusion. Former Indian wicket-keeper Parthiv Patel weighed in on the debate between Samson and Pant for the playing XI in the T20 World Cup."Sanju Samson's leadership and run-scoring prowess in the IPL this season are undeniable. However, Rishabh Pant offers a different dimension. Our batting lineup needs a left-hander, and at this point, Pant seems to be the favorite. Both players are highly capable," Patel stated at an event in New Delhi.Earlier, former Indian batter Yuvraj Singh also expressed his preference for Pant over Samson. "I would lean towards Rishabh. Sanju is in excellent form, but Pant is a left-hander, and I believe he has the potential to win games for India, as he has done in the past, especially in Test cricket. He can be a match-winner on the big stage," Yuvraj told ICC.Yuvraj also highlighted the importance of Suryakumar Yadav's performance for India's success in the T20 World Cup. "Suryakumar Yadav is India's key player. He can change the game's complexion in just 15 balls. He is a crucial factor in India's chances of winning the T20 World Cup," Yuvraj said.