Cricket

Former BCCI chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar believes India possesses one of the strongest teams heading into the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Despite the absence of key players like KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, and Rinku Singh, Vengsarkar expressed confidence in the team's capabilities."The current Indian team is one of the best in the world," Vengsarkar stated. "If you could include Gill, Rahul, or Rinku Singh, it would be an even stronger team. I wish them all the success because they are among the best in the world right now."Vengsarkar acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the T20 format, emphasizing that any player can emerge as a match-winner on any given day. "It's difficult to say who the key players are in this format," he said. "Everybody is important. The first six overs are crucial, but anything can happen in this format."India is placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Ireland, Canada, and co-hosts USA. Virat Kohli was absent from team training this week but is expected to join the squad before their warm-up match against Bangladesh on Saturday.Vengsarkar's comments highlight India's potential as they prepare for the T20 World Cup. The team boasts a balanced squad with experienced players and rising stars. While the absence of Rahul, Gill, and Singh may be a concern, Vengsarkar's confidence in the team's strength is a positive sign for Indian cricket fans.

Former England cricket captain Eoin Morgan has expressed his preference for Shubman Gill over Yashasvi Jaiswal in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. Jaiswal was included in the 15-member squad along with Rohit Sharma as designated openers, while Gill was named in the reserves.Morgan, who played alongside Gill in the Indian Premier League (IPL), believes that Gill's leadership qualities and ability to perform in big moments would have made him a valuable asset to the team. "The only decision I probably would have had differently if I was selecting a squad was - I have would have had Shubman Gill over Yashasvi Jaiswal," Morgan said during an interaction on Sky Sports."Because I played alongside Shubman Gill. I know how he thinks. I know how he works. For me, he is a future leader within that side and I think in big moments, you need the more leaders the better. Even if he is just sitting on the sideline, you need inspiration from here and there and everywhere," he added.Gill had a successful IPL 2024 season, scoring 426 runs for the Gujarat Titans. Jaiswal, on the other hand, scored 435 runs for the Rajasthan Royals. However, the selectors opted for Jaiswal, citing his recent form and ability to play spin bowling.Meanwhile, Rinku Singh, who was also overlooked for the World Cup squad, expressed his disappointment but vowed to continue working hard. "Yes, anyone feels a little bad if he is not selected despite good performance. However, this time I could not get selected due to the team combination. It is okay, one should not think too much about things that are not in one's hands," he told Dainik Jagran."Yes, I was a little upset in the beginning. Whatever happened is fine. Whatever happens happens for good. Rohit Bhaiya did not say anything special. He only said that just keep working hard. There is a World Cup again after two years. There is no need to worry too much. This is what he said to me," he added.

As the T20 World Cup draws near, the Indian squad has assembled in the US, sparking discussions about the optimal 15-member team. Former England captain Eoin Morgan has expressed his preference for Shubman Gill over Yashasvi Jaiswal in the squad.Morgan, speaking on a Sky Sports podcast, stated that he would have included Gill in the 15 instead of Jaiswal. He praised Gill's leadership qualities and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations.Jaiswal, a talented batsman, has made a strong start to his international career, scoring over 1000 runs in Tests and 500 runs in T20Is. However, Morgan believes that Gill's experience and leadership potential make him a more valuable asset for the World Cup.Gill has also impressed in international cricket since his debut in 2019. He has scored centuries in all three formats and has a proven track record of performing under pressure.Morgan emphasized the importance of having multiple leaders in a World Cup squad, even if they are not playing. He believes that Gill's presence, even on the sidelines, can provide inspiration and positivity to the team.The BCCI selectors' decision to include Jaiswal as a traveling reserve has been met with mixed reactions. Some experts believe that Gill's experience and leadership qualities should have earned him a spot in the main squad.As the World Cup approaches, the debate over India's squad selection is likely to continue. Morgan's comments have added fuel to the discussion, highlighting the importance of leadership and experience in a tournament where every match is crucial.

Shubman Gill, the rising star of Indian cricket, recently displayed his humility and respect for his roots during the abandoned Sunrisers Hyderabad-Gujarat Titans match in Hyderabad. Despite the match being called off due to rain, Gill took the time to meet and greet the family of Abhishek Sharma, his former teammate from Punjab and the U19 World Cup.In a heartwarming video that has gone viral, Gill is seen bending down to touch the feet of Abhishek's mother, who reciprocates with affection and blessings. He also shakes hands with Abhishek's sister, showcasing the strong bond between the two players.Gill and Abhishek have a long history together, having played for Punjab in domestic cricket and for India in the successful 2018 U19 World Cup campaign. Abhishek has expressed admiration for Gill's dominance and motivation, stating that he learns a lot from him.Despite being opponents in the IPL, Gill and Abhishek maintain a close friendship. They have played together since the under-12 level, and their bond remains strong. Abhishek has credited Gill for motivating him to perform well and dominate matches.In the 2023 IPL season, Gill scored 426 runs in 12 matches for Gujarat Titans, while Abhishek has amassed 401 runs in 12 matches for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Abhishek will be looking to increase his tally in the playoffs and help Sunrisers Hyderabad secure their second IPL title.Gill's gesture of respect and humility towards Abhishek's family highlights his strong character and values. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining connections and appreciating the support of those who have helped shape one's journey.

Former SunRisers Hyderabad head coach Tom Moody heaped praise on Gujarat Titans skipper Shubman Gill after his match-winning century against Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2024 clash. Gill's blistering knock of 104 off just 55 balls, along with Sai Sudharsan's 103 off 51 balls, powered GT to a record-breaking opening stand and a crucial victory.Moody emphasized the significance of Gill's century, particularly after his omission from India's T20 World Cup squad. "It reaffirms his status as a world-class batter," Moody said. "He's obviously gutted about not being part of India's World Cup team, but this knock shows that he's still a force to be reckoned with."Moody also highlighted the impact of GT's fielding effort, which he believes was crucial in separating the two sides. "Gujarat was very good in the field, they took all their catches, some really good catches," he said. "CSK were unlike CSK, just a little sloppy in their performance out there."The win keeps GT's playoff hopes alive, while CSK remains in fourth place despite the defeat. Moody believes that GT's fielding effort was a key factor in their victory. "It's important for the bowlers when the conditions are difficult for them to survive," he said. "The fielding effort today was a big difference."

Shubman Gill's blistering century against Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday has reignited the debate over his omission from India's T20 World Cup squad.Gill, who has been in scintillating form this IPL season, slammed his fourth ton in the league, powering Gujarat Titans to a comfortable 35-run win over the defending champions. His 55-ball 104 was a testament to his class and ability to dominate even the best bowling attacks.Former India coach Ravi Shastri, who was on commentary duty during the match, expressed his admiration for Gill and lamented his exclusion from the World Cup squad. "He (Gill) would be hurting. He should be hurting. He should look at it positively and try to get better," Shastri said.Shastri pointed out that Gill's talent is undeniable, but the depth of India's batting lineup is such that he has not been able to secure a place in the 15-man squad. "A player of his calibre would walk into any side, but such is the talent in India that he doesn't get a place," Shastri added.Despite missing out on a place in the World Cup squad, Gill will still be traveling with Team India as a reserve alongside Rinku Singh, Avesh Khan, and Khaleel Ahmed. This indicates that the selectors still value his abilities and believe he has a future with the national team.Gill's omission from the World Cup squad has raised questions about the selection criteria and whether the selectors have made the right decision. Some experts believe that Gill's consistent performances in the IPL should have earned him a place in the squad, while others argue that the selectors have opted for a more experienced lineup.Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to include Gill in the World Cup squad is a matter of opinion. However, there is no doubt that he is a talented batsman with the potential to become one of the best in the world. His performances in the IPL this season have only reinforced that belief.

Shubman Gill's Century Marks Historic Milestone in IPL HistoryShubman Gill's scintillating century for Gujarat Titans against Chennai Super Kings not only propelled his team to a crucial victory but also etched his name in the annals of Indian Premier League (IPL) history. Gill's 104 off 55 deliveries, adorned with nine fours and six maximums, marked the 100th century ever scored in the IPL.This milestone is a testament to the high caliber of batting performances that have graced the IPL over the years. Brendon McCullum, the former New Zealand captain, holds the distinction of scoring the inaugural IPL century in 2008. His unbeaten 158 for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) set a high benchmark for the matches to follow.Among the numerous batting stalwarts who have graced the IPL, Virat Kohli stands out with the most centuries to his name. The Indian batting maestro has amassed an impressive tally of eight hundreds, showcasing his consistent brilliance and dominance in the league. Kohli's achievements have not only contributed to his team's success but also cemented his reputation as one of the finest batsmen in the world.The IPL has become a breeding ground for both established and emerging cricketers, providing them with a platform to showcase their skills and contribute to the evolving narrative of cricket in India. With each passing season, the anticipation for more such remarkable innings continues to grow among cricket enthusiasts.The journey from McCullum's first century to Gill's 100th encapsulates the essence of the IPL - a blend of experience, youth, and the unrelenting spirit of cricket. The league has not only entertained millions of fans but also played a pivotal role in the development of Indian cricket, nurturing young talent and inspiring future generations.

Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill has been fined 25% of his match fees for maintaining a slow over rate during their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 encounter against the Chennai Super Kings. This was the team's second offense of the season under the IPL's Code of Conduct concerning minimum over rate violations.The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and IPL issued a statement confirming the penalty, highlighting that Gill was fined INR 24 lakh. The remaining members of the Playing XI, including the Impact Player, faced individual fines of either INR 6 lakh or 25% of their respective match fees, depending on which amount was lesser.The disciplinary action against Gill underscores the importance of adhering to over rate regulations. However, the Titans' performance on the field showcased their formidable prowess. Gill, alongside B Sai Sudharsan, spearheaded an extraordinary assault on the Chennai Super Kings' bowling attack, with both players notching centuries.Their stellar batting display powered the Gujarat Titans to a commanding 35-run victory over the Chennai Super Kings. Despite the setback of the over rate penalty, the Titans' emphatic win kept their slim playoff chances alive.The Titans' victory was a testament to their resilience and determination. Despite facing a slow over rate penalty, they remained focused on their goal and executed their game plan with precision. Gill's leadership and the team's overall performance were commendable.The IPL is known for its competitive nature and strict adherence to rules and regulations. The over rate penalty serves as a reminder to all teams of the importance of maintaining a brisk pace of play. It also highlights the BCCI's commitment to ensuring fair play and maintaining the integrity of the tournament.

In a thrilling encounter at the Wankhede Stadium, the Gujarat Titans (GT) emerged victorious over the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 35 runs, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Captain Shubman Gill and B Sai Sudharsan played pivotal roles in GT's triumph, smashing scintillating centuries.Gill, the GT skipper, displayed his exceptional batting prowess, scoring 104 runs off just 55 deliveries. His innings was adorned with nine boundaries and six maximums, showcasing his power and precision. Sudharsan, on the other hand, notched his maiden IPL century, amassing 103 runs off 51 balls. His knock was equally impressive, featuring five boundaries and seven sixes.The duo's 210-run partnership, the highest for any wicket in the IPL this season, laid the foundation for GT's massive total of 231/3. Their partnership also equaled the highest-ever IPL opening partnership set by Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul.In contrast, CSK's openers failed to make an impact, with both being dismissed with just two runs on the board. Skipper Rituraj Gaikwad, their leading run-scorer this season, was also sent packing for a duck, leaving CSK reeling at 10/3.Daryl Mitchell and Moeen Ali attempted to revive CSK's innings with a 109-run partnership. Mitchell scored 63 runs, while Ali contributed 56. However, veteran Mohit Sharma's three-wicket haul, including the dismissals of Mitchell and Ali, proved to be a turning point.Rashid Khan also played a crucial role, claiming the wickets of Ravindra Jadeja and Mitchell Santner. Mahendra Singh Dhoni's late cameo of 26 runs, including three sixes, was not enough to prevent CSK from falling short.The victory propelled GT from the bottom of the table to the eighth spot, while CSK remained in fourth place. The win also boosted GT's net run rate, giving them a better chance of qualifying for the playoffs.