Cricket

Mumbai Indians' struggles continued in the ongoing IPL 2024 as they suffered a sixth defeat, this time at the hands of Delhi Capitals in a thrilling encounter on Saturday. The loss has further intensified the scrutiny on skipper Hardik Pandya, who has faced criticism since taking over the reins from Rohit Sharma.Despite the team's poor form, there have been no public statements of a rift between Rohit and Hardik. However, during Saturday's match, an unusual role reversal occurred on the field. Rohit was seen setting the field while Hardik looked on, sparking speculation about the dynamics within the team.Coming to the match, Delhi Capitals posted a formidable 257/4, thanks to a blistering half-century from Jake Fraser-McGurk. Rasikh Salam Dar and Mukesh Kumar then starred with the ball for Delhi, claiming three wickets each to secure the victory.After the match, Hardik Pandya acknowledged the team's shortcomings. "We could have taken a couple of more chances in the middle overs," he said. "The left-handers could have probably gone after Axar a little bit."Delhi Capitals skipper Rishabh Pant praised Fraser-McGurk's performance. "He's been amazing since the first day," Pant said. "This is what you want from a younger player."Pant also expressed confidence in his team's chances of making the playoffs. "The chances are increasing day by day, but we are taking it one game at a time," he said.The defeat leaves Mumbai Indians languishing at the bottom of the table, while Delhi Capitals move up to third place. The two teams will face off again on May 10 in a crucial match that could have significant implications for their playoff hopes.

The Indian cricket team is gearing up for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Americas, and the national selection committee is set to finalize a potential 15-member squad. Chairman Ajit Agarkar and skipper Rohit Sharma recently held an informal meeting in Delhi to discuss the team's composition.The official announcement of the squad is expected on May 1, the cut-off date set by the ICC. Agarkar specifically traveled to Delhi for an IPL match between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals to meet with Rohit and gain further clarity on the team's needs.Most of the team is expected to be selected based on current form and performance. However, there are a few slots that remain up for discussion. One key decision is whether Hardik Pandya will be included in the squad based on his bowling fitness. If Pandya is selected, only one of Shivam Dube or Rinku Singh will be accommodated.KL Rahul, a favorite of the current coaching staff led by Rahul Dravid, is likely to be included in the squad, leaving Sanju Samson as his nearest competitor. There is little possibility of a left-field selection, but Mumbai Indians batter Tilak Varma could be an option as a flamboyant southpaw who can also bowl off-spin.The third spinner's slot is also up for grabs, with Axar Patel and Ravi Bishnoi competing for the position. Yuzvendra Chahal, India's most skilled white-ball wrist spinner, is reportedly not a priority choice for an influential member of the coaching staff.The selection committee will meet soon to finalize the squad, which will be tasked with representing India at the T20 World Cup. The tournament is scheduled to take place in the Americas later this year.

Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of the senior men's selection committee, made a significant appearance at the Delhi Capitals-Mumbai Indians clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday. His presence during the match sparked speculation that a meeting to finalize India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup could be imminent.Sources close to the matter revealed that Agarkar was spotted in the commentary box of the media center at the stadium. This suggests that he may have been in discussions with key stakeholders regarding the team selection.Earlier reports had indicated that Agarkar was scheduled to meet captain Rohit Sharma in New Delhi after returning from a holiday in Spain. The purpose of this meeting was to finalize India's squad for the T20 World Cup, which is set to commence on June 1 in the West Indies and USA.The International Cricket Council (ICC) has set a cut-off date of May 1 for all teams to announce their 15-member squads for the Men's T20 World Cup. India will kick off their campaign against Ireland on June 5 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.As the 2007 Men's T20 World Cup winners, India is placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Canada, and tournament co-hosts USA. The team will be eager to make a strong showing in the tournament and reclaim the title.Agarkar's presence at the Delhi-Mumbai match suggests that the selection committee is actively working to finalize the squad. With the cut-off date approaching, it is likely that an announcement will be made soon.

The Indian cricket team's T20 World Cup squad is expected to be announced soon, with captain Rohit Sharma set to meet BCCI selectors in Delhi this weekend. The deadline for announcing the provisional squad is May 1, indicating an imminent announcement.Several experts have weighed in with their picks for the 15-member squad, with some common names emerging. NDTV has conducted a mini poll to determine the most likely candidates for selection.Openers/Top 3:Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are virtual certainties for the squad, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill as potential openers. Jaiswal's left-handedness gives him an edge over Gill, who may have to settle for a backup role.Middle-Order:Suryakumar Yadav is a lock for the middle order, while Shivam Dube's big-hitting abilities make him a strong contender. Rinku Singh is another option, but his limited game time may hinder his chances.Allrounders:Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja are the undisputed allrounders in the squad. Pandya's all-around abilities make him indispensable, while Jadeja's left-arm spin and batting prowess are invaluable.Wicketkeeper:Rishabh Pant is the first-choice wicketkeeper, with Sanju Samson as the backup option.Spinners:Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal are the overwhelming favorites for the spin bowling roles. Ravi Bishnoi has also received some support, but Kuldeep's recent form gives him the edge.Pacers:Jasprit Bumrah is the only Indian pacer who has consistently impressed in the IPL. Arshdeep Singh and T Natarajan have emerged as strong contenders for the remaining two spots, with Mohammed Siraj also in the mix.Conclusion:With a 15-member squad limit, one big star may have to miss out. NDTV's poll suggests that Shubman Gill may be the unfortunate omission, given India's abundance of right-handed top-order options.

Rishabh Pant Praises Rohit Sharma's Leadership and InnovationDelhi Capitals captain Rishabh Pant has heaped praise on Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma, crediting him for his innovative ideas, proactive approach, and trust in his players.In a video shared by the host broadcaster, Pant said, "I believe Rohit bhai has some very innovative ideas. He has a strong instinct and is always looking for ways to improve. He's very proactive and open to different ideas."Pant emphasized the importance of understanding players' thought processes and coping with their strengths and weaknesses. "He tries to understand a player's mindset and then decides whether or not to implement their ideas. The trust factor he brings is crucial; he trusts people, and they trust him back," Pant added.Pant's admiration for Sharma's leadership style is evident in his own captaincy. Under his guidance, Delhi Capitals have turned their fortunes around in the IPL, winning three of their last four matches. Their recent victory against Gujarat Titans was a testament to Pant's explosive batting and strategic decision-making.The Capitals now sit sixth in the standings, with a chance to push for a top-four finish. Mumbai Indians, on the other hand, have had a mixed campaign, winning three out of eight matches. Their last outing was a disappointing nine-wicket loss to Rajasthan Royals.As the two teams prepare to face off in a crucial return match, Pant's insights into Sharma's leadership provide valuable lessons for aspiring captains. His emphasis on innovation, trust, and understanding players' perspectives highlights the importance of creating a positive and supportive environment for success.

With the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 fast approaching, the inclusion of veteran cricketers Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in India's squad has sparked a debate. Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has weighed in on the matter, emphasizing the importance of their experience while also acknowledging the need for a generational shift.Yuvraj believes that Rohit and Kohli have earned the right to retire on their own terms, given their immense contributions to Indian cricket. However, he personally feels that the T20 World Cup could be an opportune moment for them to step away from the shortest format."As you get older, people start talking about your age and forget about your form," Yuvraj said. "These guys have been great players for India and they deserve to go (retire) when they want."Yuvraj suggests that Rohit and Kohli could focus on other formats of the game, such as ODIs and Test matches, while allowing younger players to take the reins in T20 cricket. This would not only reduce the workload on the experienced players but also provide opportunities for the next generation to showcase their talent."I would like to see more younger players in the T20 format because it gets the load off them (experienced players) playing 50-over (ODIs) and Test matches," Yuvraj explained. "After this (T20) World Cup, I would like to see a lot of younger guys come into the team and make the T20 side for the next World Cup."The presence of Kohli and Sharma in the T20 team has drawn mixed reactions. Some believe that their experience and leadership are invaluable, while others argue that it's time for a fresh start. Yuvraj acknowledges the need to balance the experience of veterans with the enthusiasm of youth."India should focus on building a team for the future," Yuvraj said. "That doesn't mean that Rohit and Kohli should be dropped immediately, but it does mean that we need to start thinking about the next generation."As India prepares for the T20 World Cup, the debate over the inclusion of Rohit and Kohli will likely continue. Ultimately, the decision rests with the selectors and the team management, who must weigh the pros and cons of each option.

India's T20I captaincy has been a subject of debate, with former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) team director Joy Bhattacharjya expressing concerns about Rohit Sharma's suitability for the role.Bhattacharjya believes that Rohit's current form and the team's performance under his leadership have raised questions about his effectiveness as captain. He argues that Rohit's appointment has hindered the team's progress, forcing them to accommodate him as an opener despite the presence of in-form players like Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill.Bhattacharjya suggests that Jasprit Bumrah would be a more suitable captain, citing his exceptional bowling skills and importance to the team. He also speculates that Rohit's appointment may have been influenced by his desire to end his career on a high note by winning the T20 World Cup, a tournament he won in 2007.Bhattacharjya's comments have sparked a discussion about the future of India's T20I captaincy. With the World Cup approaching, the BCCI will need to carefully consider the team's performance and the suitability of Rohit Sharma as captain.

Bolstered by Rishabh Pant's exceptional batting form and inspiring leadership, the resurgent Delhi Capitals aim to maintain their upward trajectory in the IPL standings when they face an inconsistent Mumbai Indians in New Delhi on April 27.The Capitals have endured a rollercoaster season, showcasing moments of brilliance while also suffering embarrassing defeats. However, three victories in their last four matches have propelled them to sixth place, and a win against MI would strengthen their claim for a playoff spot.On the other hand, after a familiar poor start, MI bounced back with three wins in their next four matches. However, a comprehensive nine-wicket thrashing by Rajasthan Royals halted their resurgence. They currently languish in eighth place and cannot afford to lose.DC's biggest positive has undoubtedly been skipper Rishabh Pant's form, which appears to be improving with each game. He has been sharp behind the stumps and seems to be batting with freedom. His match-winning unbeaten knock against Gujarat Titans on Wednesday was a testament to his belligerent style. Pant is well-positioned to make India's squad for the T20 World Cup despite stiff competition from the likes of Sanju Samson, Dinesh Karthik, and Ishan Kishan.In Jack Fraser-McGurk, DC have found an able top-order batter who can exploit the powerplay. However, more is expected of opener Prithvi Shaw, given that his sole responsibility is to bat. David Warner missed the previous game, making way for Shai Hope, who failed to capitalize on the opportunity. The veteran Australian might be recalled to the playing XI. Tristan Stubbs has repeatedly demonstrated his brutal batting prowess, while Axar Patel also showcased his batting skills when he was elevated up the order in the four-run win against GT.While the spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar have bowled economically, DC's fast bowling unit needs to step up. Pace spearhead Anrich Nortje is having a forgettable season, leaking runs at 13.36, which has been a major problem for Delhi. The likes of Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Kumar, and Ishant Sharma have been plagued by injuries, leading to inconsistent performances. They were taken to the cleaners by MI batters, who piled on 234/5 earlier in the season. DC would be wary of a similar performance.MI's resurgence this season began with a win against DC, and the five-time champions would hope for an encore in the crucial clash. For Mumbai, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Tilak Varma have got runs, but all of them have found form in patches. It's time for the likes of Tim David, Ishan Kishan, and skipper Hardik Pandya to contribute significantly and take some pressure off the top trio.While the batting department has occasionally looked good, the bowling remains a massive cause of concern. Jasprit Bumrah has expectedly been MI's standout bowler, leading the attack with 13 wickets at an economy rate of 6.37. However, new addition Gerald Coetzee has been inconsistent in his maiden IPL. Though he has an economy of 10.10, the South African pacer has accounted for 12 wickets in eight games. But barring the two seamers, Mumbai's bowling has disappointed.

As the May 1 deadline for squad submission for the T20 World Cup 2024 approaches, former Indian batter Virender Sehwag has unveiled his strongest XI for the marquee event. Sehwag's team features a blend of experience and youth, with a focus on current form and versatility.Sehwag's XI is led by captain Rohit Sharma, who will open the batting alongside rising star Yashasvi Jaiswal. The middle order boasts the formidable trio of Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, and Rishabh Pant, who returns to the team after recovering from injuries.For the all-rounder role, Sehwag has opted for either Shivam Dube or Rinku Singh, both of whom have impressed in the ongoing IPL season. The spin department is anchored by Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav, while the pace attack features Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Sandeep Sharma.Sehwag's decision to exclude Hardik Pandya from his XI has raised eyebrows, given the all-rounder's status as a key player for India. However, Sehwag believes that Pandya's recent poor form warrants his omission from the starting lineup."Hardik is a great player, but he's not in the best of form right now," Sehwag said. "I think he should be in the 15-man squad, but he may not be in the starting XI."Sehwag's XI reflects his belief in the importance of adaptability and versatility in T20 cricket. The team features several players who can bat and bowl, providing the captain with multiple options to adjust to different match situations.With the World Cup just months away, Sehwag's XI serves as a valuable blueprint for the Indian selectors as they finalize their squad. The team's balance, experience, and current form make it a formidable contender for the coveted trophy.