Cricket

Ishan Kishan, the talented wicketkeeper-batter from Jharkhand, has found himself in a precarious position after being excluded from the BCCI's central contract list. However, a recent conversation with BCCI secretary Jay Shah has sparked hope for a potential comeback.Kishan's exclusion from the contract list was a result of his reluctance to play first-class cricket. Despite repeated attempts by the Indian team management to involve him, he did not participate in any Ranji Trophy games this season. Instead, he opted to practice with his Mumbai Indians skipper, Hardik Pandya, in preparation for the IPL.This decision ultimately cost him his contract, but Shah's gesture of engaging in conversation with Kishan and national captain Rohit Sharma could be a sign of a potential thaw. While the contents of the discussion remain unknown, the fact that Shah, an influential figure in Indian cricket, is showing interest in Kishan is a positive development.Kishan's chances of a comeback in the T20 World Cup have dwindled in recent months, with Rishabh Pant back in contention and KL Rahul also expressing his desire to keep wickets. However, the IPL provides him with a massive opportunity to make a case for himself with consistent performances.The presence of national captain Rohit during Shah's conversation with Kishan is significant. It suggests that Kishan's performance will be the primary factor in determining his future with the Indian team, despite his past attitude issues.Mumbai Indians batting coach Kieron Pollard has also expressed confidence in Kishan, stating that he is an "experienced" player within the setup and expects big things from him. With the selectors traveling to select IPL games to check on World Cup hopefuls, Kishan has a golden opportunity to prove his worth.

Mumbai Indians' dismal start to the new season continued as they succumbed to a 6-run defeat against Gujarat Titans in their opening match. The match marked a new era for MI, with Hardik Pandya taking over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma.Despite not being the skipper anymore, Rohit Sharma remained a prominent figure throughout the match. He was seen engaging in strategic discussions with Hardik and other players. However, a video that surfaced on social media captured an intense conversation between Rohit and Hardik after the match.In the video, Hardik approached Rohit from behind to embrace him. However, Rohit turned away and appeared frustrated as he engaged in a heated exchange with his successor. The incident sparked speculation about the dynamics between the two players.Despite the defeat, Hardik Pandya remained optimistic, emphasizing that MI has 13 more games to turn things around. He acknowledged the team's shortcomings in the final overs but expressed confidence in their ability to bounce back."Obviously we back ourselves to chase those 42 runs (in the last five overs) but it was one of those days where we see the score quite less in those last five overs, we lost a bit of momentum there," Pandya said at the post-match presentation.When asked about Tilak Varma's refusal to run a single, Pandya defended his player, stating, "I think Tilak felt that was a better idea at that point of time. I completely back him. Not an issue, (we have) 13 games to go."The defeat exposed some of Mumbai Indians' weaknesses, including their lack of firepower in the middle order and their inability to close out matches. However, with a long season ahead, there is still time for the team to address these issues and mount a challenge for the title.

Shubman Gill, the newly appointed captain of the Gujarat Titans, has embarked on a remarkable journey from sneaking into stadiums to watch IPL matches to leading a team. Reflecting on his path, Gill shared his admiration for iconic stars who will guide him as a leader.Gill's journey began in 2008 when he stealthily entered stadiums to witness the inaugural IPL season. He recalled jumping over gates and evading security guards to catch a glimpse of legendary players like Brett Lee, Kumar Sangakkara, and Mahela Jayawardene.As a captain, Gill draws inspiration from MS Dhoni, India's World Cup-winning skipper. Dhoni's leadership qualities and ability to handle pressure have left an indelible mark on Gill. However, he also acknowledges the influence of Rohit Sharma, under whom he has played extensively at the international level."I have played most of my cricket under Rohit Sharma; there are a lot of qualities I will be picking up from him," said Gill.Gill's upcoming encounter with Hardik Pandya, his former captain and teammate, promises to be intriguing. "It is going to be exciting. Hopefully, the stadium will be fully packed, cheering for us," he said.Gill's focus remains on creating lasting memories with his team. "If we make some good memories, I would be able to sit back and tell myself that we had a great season," he concluded.Gill's journey from a young fan to a team leader is a testament to his passion and determination. As he embarks on this new chapter, he carries the wisdom of his mentors and the unwavering support of his team.

As the Mumbai Indians (MI) embark on their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 campaign, a significant leadership change has occurred with Hardik Pandya taking over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma. While the impact of this transition remains to be seen, middle-order batter Tilak Varma believes the team's core values remain intact.Varma, who has played under both Sharma and Pandya, emphasized the continuity in the team's approach. "Rohit has always been there for us, and Hardik bhai has also been there for us," he said. "It's been the same, just following the basics. Strategy-wise, everything is going well."Varma's experience playing under Pandya for India has given him confidence in the new captain's leadership abilities. "I debuted under him when I played for India, so it's going well," he said. "Hardik is the captain, but Rohit is always there for Hardik and the team. We gel well together."Despite the captaincy change, Varma believes Sharma's presence remains influential. "Rohit is always there for Hardik and the team," he said. "We gel well together as a team."Varma also acknowledged his own increased responsibility within the team following his India debut. "Last year was a good season, but now, as a senior player and having played for India, I have a slightly bigger responsibility to play mature innings," he said. "I always want to finish games, and I have good knowledge and experience of it when playing for India, so I am looking forward to using it now."As MI prepares for their opening match against the Gujarat Titans, Varma expressed optimism about the team's prospects. "We have a good team, and we are looking forward to the season," he said. "We have a good mix of experience and youth, and we are confident that we can do well."

Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma is preparing for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season with a customized training program, which has kept him out of Mumbai Indians' practice games.Rohit, who led India to a historic Test victory over England recently, joined the Mumbai Indians squad on Monday but has not participated in any practice matches. According to a release from the franchise, Rohit is undergoing a "customized training program that involves simulated net sessions, mobility and strength and conditioning sessions" ahead of the new season."Rohit Sharma, who joined the squad on Monday, is on a customized training program that involves simulated net sessions, mobility and strength and conditioning sessions, for the past 3 days, hence stayed back in Mumbai to focus on his pre-season program. Rohit did not take part in the practice game," said MI in an official release.Rohit is expected to be available for Mumbai Indians' IPL opener against Gujarat Titans on Sunday. The star batter will join the team in Ahmedabad later this week.Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya, who has replaced Rohit as Mumbai Indians captain for the 2024 season, has been actively participating in practice sessions. Pandya, who led Gujarat Titans to the IPL title in 2022, is set to make his captaincy debut for Mumbai Indians this season.The Mumbai Indians played their first intra-squad practice game behind closed doors in Mumbai on Wednesday before departing for Ahmedabad. The team is looking to bounce back from a disappointing performance in the previous IPL season, where they finished last in the points table.

Mumbai Indians Express Solidarity with Chennai Super Kings After Captaincy ChangeThe Indian Premier League (IPL) witnessed a significant shift in leadership as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) announced the appointment of Ruturaj Gaikwad as their new captain, replacing the legendary MS Dhoni. In a heartfelt gesture, Mumbai Indians (MI), another IPL powerhouse, extended their support to CSK on social media.MI shared an image of Rohit Sharma and Dhoni, the captains of their respective teams, adorned in their IPL jerseys. The caption featured yellow and blue heart emojis, symbolizing the bond between the two franchises, with an infinity sign representing their enduring legacy.The announcement of Gaikwad's captaincy comes after Rohit Sharma, who led MI to five IPL titles, was replaced by Hardik Pandya ahead of the 2024 season. The decision has sparked speculation about Dhoni's playing future with CSK, as he is widely expected to retire at the end of the season.CSK's statement on the captaincy change highlighted Gaikwad's contributions to the team since his debut in 2019. The 26-year-old has played 52 IPL matches for CSK, showcasing his exceptional batting skills and leadership qualities.The transition to Gaikwad as captain is seen as a strategic move by CSK to ensure a smooth handover of leadership while Dhoni remains an integral part of the team. Gaikwad's experience in international cricket, having represented India in ODIs and T20Is, will be invaluable in his new role.The IPL community has reacted positively to the captaincy change, recognizing the potential of Gaikwad to lead CSK to future success. The upcoming season promises to be an exciting one, with the battle for the IPL trophy intensifying as teams navigate the challenges of a new era of leadership.

The Mumbai Indians (MI) are set to embark on a new era in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season, with Hardik Pandya taking over the captaincy reins from Rohit Sharma. This change has sparked much discussion among fans and experts alike.Pandya, who previously led the Gujarat Titans to the IPL title in 2022, returns to MI after a brief stint with the Titans. His appointment as captain is seen as a bold move by the franchise, which has been struggling for consistency in recent seasons.Former MI wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel has shed light on the leadership qualities of Rohit Sharma, who guided the team to five IPL titles. Patel revealed that Sharma's unwavering belief in his players played a crucial role in the development of Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya."Rohit is always with the players," Patel said. "Bumrah joined MI in 2014, but his first season in 2015 was not great. He was almost released mid-season, but Rohit felt he had potential and kept him. From 2016 onwards, Bumrah's performance reached the next level."Patel also highlighted Sharma's support for Pandya during a difficult season in 2016. "When Hardik joined in 2015, he became quite the rage, but in 2016 he had a bad season," Patel said. "But Rohit did not let him go. That's why these guys went on to become the players that they did."Pandya, who has expressed his excitement about rejoining MI, has already begun preparations for the upcoming season. He has been seen training with the team and interacting with his former teammates, including bowling coach Lasith Malinga."So many emotions, so many memories," Pandya said on Instagram. "Excited for what's ahead with this wonderful team. Let's get down to business."The MI camp is buzzing with anticipation as the team looks to regain its former glory under Pandya's leadership. With a talented squad featuring the likes of Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jofra Archer, MI will be hoping to make a strong impact in IPL 2024.

Yashasvi Jaiswal, the rising star of Indian cricket, has taken the world by storm with his exceptional performances in the recent Test series against England. The southpaw, who made his India debut in the same series, has emerged as a dominant force, breaking several records and earning accolades for his remarkable batting prowess.Jaiswal's journey to the top has been marked by consistent brilliance. Following a successful stint in the Indian Premier League 2023, he made his Test debut with a bang, scoring a century in his first innings. Throughout the five-match series, he continued to impress, amassing a staggering 712 runs at an average of 89. His tally included two double centuries and three fifties, with his highest score being an unbeaten 214.Behind Jaiswal's success lies the unwavering support of his captain, Rohit Sharma. The experienced skipper has played a crucial role in guiding and mentoring the youngster, both on and off the field. Rohit's vast experience and leadership qualities have provided Jaiswal with the confidence and guidance he needs to thrive at the highest level.In the dressing room, Rohit has shared his knowledge and insights with Jaiswal, helping him develop his game and adapt to the challenges of international cricket. Off the field, he has shielded the youngster from the limelight, allowing him to focus on his performance without distractions.Jaiswal's bond with Rohit has been instrumental in his rapid rise. The youngster has praised his captain for his unwavering support and belief in his abilities. "It's so good to have him there inside the dressing room," Jaiswal said. "The way he backed players throughout this journey, the way he talks, the way he bats. Whatever happens, he will be there to stand by you."Jaiswal's exceptional performances have not gone unnoticed. He was recently named the ICC 'Player of the Month' for February, a testament to his prolific run in the Test series against England. The 22-year-old southpaw has created several records in his short international career, including equaling the long-standing Test record for most sixes in a Test innings (12) during his Rajkot double ton.With his impressive start to his international career, Jaiswal has established himself as one of the most promising Test openers in the world. His ability to score runs consistently, his aggressive approach, and his strong temperament make him a formidable force in the batting lineup. As he continues to develop and gain experience, Jaiswal has the potential to become one of the greatest batsmen of his generation.

Yuvraj Singh Weighs In on Mumbai Indians' Captaincy Change: Rohit Sharma Deserved Another YearLegendary cricketer Yuvraj Singh has expressed his opinion on the Mumbai Indians' (MI) decision to replace Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya as captain for the IPL 2024 season. Singh believes that Rohit should have been given another year at the helm, citing his impressive track record as captain.Speaking on Star Sports, Yuvraj emphasized the significance of Rohit's leadership credentials. Under his captaincy, MI has won five IPL titles, making him one of the most successful captains in the tournament's history. While acknowledging the strategic move of bringing in Hardik Pandya as a leader, Yuvraj suggested that Rohit could have continued as captain for another season, with Pandya serving as his deputy."Rohit Sharma is a 5-time IPL winner as a captain. Removing him is a big decision. I would have gotten someone in, like they brought Hardik (Pandya), but I still would have given Rohit one more season and let Hardik be the vice captain and see how the whole franchise works," said Yuvraj.Yuvraj acknowledged the need for franchises to consider the future, but stressed the value Rohit brings to the team, both as a leader and a player for India. He highlighted the challenge of managing a powerhouse franchise like MI, where expectations are always sky-high."I understand from the franchise's point of view, they have to see the future of the franchise. But then again, Rohit is captaining India and still playing well, so it's a big decision," added Yuvraj.While acknowledging Hardik Pandya's talent, Yuvraj cautioned that leading a team like MI would pose different challenges compared to his previous stint with Gujarat Titans. He emphasized the weight of expectations that come with leading a team of MI's stature, given their illustrious history in the IPL."In terms of talent, yes, he has great talent. Being captain of Gujarat will be different from being captain of Mumbai. Expectations are a lot. Mumbai Indians have been a big side," Yuvraj remarked.Yuvraj's comments highlight the importance of experienced leadership in a successful IPL franchise. While Hardik Pandya is a talented player, it remains to be seen whether he can replicate the success Rohit Sharma has achieved as captain of the Mumbai Indians.