Cricket

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has lauded Rohit Sharma's aggressive captaincy and batting approach in the second Test against Bangladesh. India's dominant display, led by Sharma's fiery knock, has set new records and showcased the team's champion mentality.Manjrekar believes that Sharma's legacy as captain will be defined by his aggressive mindset. "This is how he thinks," Manjrekar said. "A strong team, one of the top two sides in the world, they also showed the champion's approach, realizing so much time has been lost."Sharma's blistering knock of 23 runs off 11 balls, including three sixes and a four, exemplified his willingness to take risks for the team's success. "He does not mind in the process, like in the 50-overs World Cup... He didn't get a big hundred on anything like that," Manjrekar added. "Even here, was quite happy to put his wicket on the line and suddenly we have a Test match which India could win."India's batters went on a run-scoring spree, setting the fastest records for 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 runs in Test history. The declaration on 285/9 gave India a 52-run lead, setting up a potential result in the rain-curtailed Test.Ravichandran Ashwin's brilliance with the ball further boosted India's chances, removing Zakir Hasan and Hasan Mahmud. India's aggressive approach has raised hopes of a positive outcome, despite the initial signs pointing towards a draw.

Despite his spectacular one-handed catch that dismissed Bangladesh's Litton Das in the second Test, Rohit Sharma surprisingly missed out on the 'Impact Fielder of the Series' award. The award, presented by India's fielding coach T Dilip, went to Yashasvi Jaiswal and Mohammed Siraj instead.Rohit's catch in the Kanpur Test drew widespread praise, becoming a topic of discussion among experts and commentators. However, it was not enough to secure him the award, despite Dilip naming two winners.In his address to the team after the series, Dilip lauded Rohit as "reliable as a Swiss watch" but did not include him among his top two picks. Jaiswal and Siraj were named joint-winners, leaving Rohit visibly stunned.Siraj also grabbed a one-handed catch on Day 5 of the Kanpur Test, dismissing Shakib al Hasan. However, he initially misjudged the ball's trajectory before making amends with a diving catch. Jaiswal and KL Rahul also made impressive catches in the slip region throughout the series.Despite the snub, India secured a 7-wicket win in the second Test, completing a 2-0 series sweep. Despite rain washing out over two and a half days of play, Rohit's team showcased their all-round abilities.The victory strengthens India's position at the top of the World Test Championship points table, bringing them closer to the final.

India's Positive Attitude Revives Test CricketIn a thrilling display of aggressive cricket, India shook the foundations of the dying Test format with a resounding victory over New Zealand in Kanpur. Led by the dynamic duo of Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir, the Indian team showcased an unwavering determination to force a win, setting a new benchmark for modern Test cricket.Rohit, known for his attacking approach, set the tone from the outset, smashing his first two deliveries for six. This bold move signaled India's intent to dominate the match and set up a quick victory. The entire batting lineup followed suit, playing unselfishly and with a relentless focus on scoring runs.Yashasvi Jaiswal, the 22-year-old opener, emerged as a star in the making with a brilliant 72 in the first innings. His innings ensured that India's early loss of Rohit didn't derail their momentum. The Indian bowlers, led by the exceptional Jasprit Bumrah, maintained a relentless pressure on the New Zealand batsmen, making a close finish seem unlikely.The match was played on a subpar pitch at Green Park Kanpur, a venue that has been criticized for its inadequate facilities. However, the players' determination and skill overcame the challenges posed by the poor infrastructure.Despite the victory, the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) came under fire for its inefficiency. The lack of proper drying facilities resulted in the loss of two days of play, highlighting the need for minimum standards at Test venues.India's victory not only secured them valuable World Test Championship points but also served as a reminder of the enduring appeal of Test cricket. The team's positive attitude and aggressive approach have breathed new life into the format, proving that it can still captivate audiences with its unique blend of skill, strategy, and drama.

Rohit Sharma's transformation from an ordinary ODI batter to one of the greatest ODI openers of all time is a testament to his resilience and adaptability. After a slow start to his ODI career, Sharma's fortunes changed dramatically in 2013 when he was promoted to the opening slot. Since then, he has amassed over 8800 runs in ODIs, including 29 centuries and 44 fifties, at an astonishing average of 56.45 and strike rate of 96.29.However, Sharma's Test career was a different story. Despite a promising start with two centuries in his first two Tests, he struggled to live up to expectations and his future in red-ball cricket seemed uncertain. His numbers in 27 Tests were below par, with an average of 39.6 and only three centuries.In 2019, Sharma's Test career took a dramatic turn when he was promoted to open the innings against South Africa in Vizag. He grabbed the opportunity with both hands, smashing two centuries in the match and becoming only the sixth Indian to achieve this feat. Since then, Sharma has emerged as a genuine match-winner for India at the top of the order.In 34 Tests as an opener, Sharma has scored 2563 runs at an average of 48.35, including nine centuries and seven fifties. His strike rate of 65.16 at home showcases his aggressive mindset and ability to take the shine off the new ball.Sharma's overseas performances have also improved significantly since he became an opener. In 12 Tests outside India, he has an aggregate of 919 runs at an average of 43.76, with two centuries and five fifties. His century at The Oval in 2021 helped India draw the series against England, while his 127 against the West Indies in Roseau was a major contributing factor in India's victory.Sharma's rise to the top of the Test batting rankings is a testament to his hard work and determination. He has overcome adversity and proved his critics wrong. Today, he is one of the most feared batsmen in the world and a key player for India in all formats of the game.

India's Test captain Rohit Sharma has shed light on the team's transition under new head coach Gautam Gambhir and the aggressive tactics employed in the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur.After Rahul Dravid's successful tenure, which culminated in India's T20 World Cup triumph, Gambhir took over the reins. Rohit believes it has been a positive start despite mixed results across formats. "We had a fantastic time with Rahul Bhai, but life moves on. Gautam Gambhir brings a different mindset. It's been a good start," he said.In the rain-affected Test, India's unexpected attacking approach on Day 4 left Bangladesh bewildered. A total of 437 runs were scored and 18 wickets fell in 85 overs, setting up an exciting final day.Rohit explained the rationale behind their aggressive declaration on 285/9. "We wanted to get them out quickly and see what we could do with the bat. The pitch didn't have much. To make a game out of it was a superb effort," he said.Despite the risk of being bowled out cheaply, India was prepared to take it. "We were ready for it even if we got bowled out for 100-150," Rohit added.One of the standout performers for India was Akash Deep, who impressed with his swing bowling. He finished the series with five wickets, providing a valuable option for the upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy in Australia."He's been good. He has the quality and the skill. Good body as well. He can bowl long spells," Rohit said.India ultimately emerged victorious by 7 wickets, securing a 2-0 series win. The match showcased the team's resilience and adaptability under Gambhir's leadership.

The Indian cricket team displayed unwavering determination in the second Test against Bangladesh, overcoming significant weather disruptions to emerge victorious. Despite losing over two and a half days to rain and a wet outfield, Rohit Sharma's men refused to settle for a draw and instead opted for an aggressive approach.After bowling out Bangladesh on Day 4, India's batting lineup, led by Rohit Sharma, launched an all-out assault on the Green Park Stadium. KL Rahul later revealed that Rohit's clear message to the team was to "find a way to play for the win."Inspired by their captain's words, India set a blistering pace, breaking records for the fastest team 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250. Rohit and Yashasvi Jaiswal also etched their names in history by registering the fastest 50-run partnership in Test history."The message was very clear from the start," said Rahul. "We lost a couple of days due to rain, but we wanted to see what we could do in the time that was left. The plan was simple: find a way to play for the win."India's attacking intent continued in the second innings, with Jasprit Bumrah, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja claiming three wickets each to dismiss Bangladesh for 146. Despite the weather setbacks, India had put themselves in a commanding position, needing just 95 runs to seal the series 2-0.The hosts eventually secured a seven-wicket victory, further bolstering their hopes of reaching the World Test Championship final. India's resilience and determination in the face of adversity showcased their unwavering commitment to success.

The Indian cricket team showcased an exceptional batting performance on Day 4 of the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur, breaking five records and establishing a commanding lead. Led by captain Rohit Sharma, the Indian batters dominated the proceedings, with several notable contributions.Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Yashasvi Jaiswal all played quickfire knocks, setting the tone for India's aggressive approach. However, it was pacer Akash Deep who stole the spotlight with his audacious sixes off Shakib Al Hasan's bowling. Using the bat gifted to him by Virat Kohli, Deep smashed two consecutive sixes, sending the Indian dressing room into a frenzy.Star off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin then took control of the Bangladesh innings, claiming two quick wickets to reduce the visitors to 26 for two. Ashwin's two-wicket haul (2/14) gave India complete command of the rain-hit Test match.Earlier, aggressive fifties by Yashasvi Jaiswal (71 off 52 balls) and KL Rahul (68 off 43 balls) had placed India in a strong position. The duo helped India declare their first innings at 285 for nine, securing a lead of 52 runs. Virat Kohli also contributed with a fluent 47 off 35 balls.For Bangladesh, veteran left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan picked up four wickets (4/78), while off-spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz claimed four wickets (4/41) to restrict India's free-flowing batters.

The Indian cricket team, led by Rohit Sharma, displayed a remarkable shift in mindset on the fourth day of the second Test match against Bangladesh in Kanpur. Despite rain interruptions limiting play to just 35 overs in the first three days, the hosts seized the initiative on Monday.After dismissing Bangladesh for 233, India's batsmen took an aggressive approach. Yashasvi Jaiswal opened the innings with a hat-trick of fours, while Rohit Sharma sent a six over the boundary on the first ball he faced.Former India cricketer Saba Karim praised Rohit's captaincy and his clear vision for the team. "Rohit's intentions have always been very clear," Karim said. "The decision-making has been very precise, and he leads by example."Karim noted that Rohit's aggressive approach has inspired his teammates. "When he wants to impose as a team that you need to win this encounter, this is the way you have to take the game forward," Karim said. "And I think that's what Rohit and company have done so far."In contrast to previous captains who often adopted a cautious approach, Rohit has emphasized the importance of making an immediate impact. "There are no half measures whatsoever," Karim said. "From the first ball, you need to make your intent very clear."Rohit's leadership has been instrumental in India's dominant performance in the match. The hosts have taken control of the game and are well-positioned to secure a victory.

Rohit Sharma's Rare Outburst: Frustration Boils Over After Wrongful LBW CallIndia's captain, Rohit Sharma, experienced a rare moment of frustration during the first innings of the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur. Despite providing a blistering start with three early sixes, Sharma's innings was cut short by a controversial LBW decision.Umpire Richard Kettleborough initially ruled Sharma out, but a swift DRS review revealed the ball was well outside leg-stump. The overturned decision sparked visible anger in Sharma, who punched the air in frustration.The incident seemed to disrupt Sharma's rhythm, as he was clean bowled by Mehidy Hasan Miraz on the very next delivery. Sharma's 11-ball 23, along with Yashasvi Jaiswal's rapid start, had helped India achieve the fastest-ever team 50 in Test cricket history.India's aggressive approach continued throughout the innings, with the team piling up 285 runs in less than two sessions. They established a 52-run lead over Bangladesh's total of 233. India's dominance was evident in their record-breaking pace, setting the fastest team 50, 100, 150, and 200-run totals in Test history.Jaiswal continued his impressive form, scoring the joint third-fastest half-century by an Indian in Test cricket, reaching the milestone in just 31 balls. His 72 runs, along with contributions from KL Rahul (68), Virat Kohli (47), Shubman Gill (39), and Rohit Sharma (23), propelled India to a commanding position.Even Akash Deep made a significant contribution, hitting two towering sixes down the order. India's relentless scoring rate, exceeding 8 runs per over, showcased their aggressive intent and determination to secure a victory in the second Test.