Cricket

Pakistan's cricket team has faced intense scrutiny after their humiliating Test series defeat against Bangladesh, marking a historic low for the side. Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has expressed concern over Pakistan's decline, attributing it to a lack of star players.Ganguly highlighted the absence of legendary players like Javed Miandad, Wasim Akram, and others, who once defined Pakistan's cricketing prowess. He emphasized the need for Pakistan to produce exceptional talent to compete in modern cricket."I see a genuine dearth of talent in the country," Ganguly said. "Every time we think of Pakistan, we remember Miandad, Wasim, Waqar, Saeed Anwar, Mohammad Yousuf, and Younis Khan. That's the memory of Pakistan for us, but that doesn't win matches in the modern generation of cricket."Ganguly urged Pakistani cricket authorities to address the issue, stating that the current squad lacks the caliber of past greats. He believes that Pakistan's decline is a matter of concern for the sport.Meanwhile, Ganguly praised Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, who is set to return to the Test side against Bangladesh. Ganguly believes Pant has the potential to become an all-time great in Test cricket but needs to improve his performance in shorter formats."I consider Rishabh Pant one of India's best Test batsmen," Ganguly said. "I'm not surprised that he's back in the side, and he will continue to play for India in Tests."

Rishabh Pant's Test prowess has earned him high praise from former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, who believes the wicketkeeper-batter is destined for greatness in the format. However, Ganguly also urged Pant to improve his performances in shorter formats.Pant's return to the Test side after his horrific car accident in December 2022 has been met with anticipation. He is expected to feature in the opening Test against Bangladesh, starting on September 19 in Chennai."I consider Rishabh Pant one of India's best Test batsmen," Ganguly said at a promotional event in Kolkata. "He will be an all-time great in Tests if he keeps performing like this."Ganguly acknowledged Pant's impressive performances in T20 and ODI cricket since his return from injury earlier this year. However, he emphasized the need for Pant to enhance his skills in the shorter formats."For me, he needs to get better in the shorter formats," Ganguly said. "With the talent he has, I'm sure with time, he will become one of the best."The Indian selectors have included uncapped left-arm pacers Yash Dayal and Akash Deep in the squad, while Mohammed Shami has been given more time to recover from ankle surgery."It's still a very good attack," Ganguly said. "In India, you will see a lot more spin. Ashwin, Jadeja, Axar, and Kuldeep are the four best spinners in the world at the moment."Ganguly also praised Akash Deep, calling him a player to watch out for. "He runs in, bowls quick, and will bowl for long periods," Ganguly said. "He will be as quick as Siraj and Shami, hitting high 140s."Bangladesh, fresh from their historic Test series win over Pakistan, will face a tough challenge in India. Ganguly believes India will be too strong for Bangladesh, but he expects a competitive series."India will be a different kettle of fish; India, whether at home or away, are a fantastic side with a very strong batting unit," Ganguly said. "I don't see Bangladesh winning; India will win the series."Ganguly expressed concern about the lack of talent in Pakistan cricket, which he believes has contributed to their recent struggles."I see a genuine dearth of talent in the country," Ganguly said. "Every generation has to produce outstanding players to win, and when I look at Pakistan in world cricket, there is a dearth of talent in that country."

India's Transformation from "Tigers at Home, Lambs Abroad" to Global ConquerorsIn the late 1990s, the Indian cricket team was known for its formidable home record but struggled to perform overseas. However, the appointment of Sourav Ganguly as captain in 2000 marked a turning point.Under Ganguly's leadership, India's batting unit, known as the "Fab Five," emerged as a dominant force. Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, VVS Laxman, Ganguly, and Virender Sehwag formed a formidable lineup that could challenge any bowling attack.By 2002, when India toured England for a four-match Test series, the team had undergone a significant transformation. Dravid had become a rock-solid anchor, Tendulkar's batting had matured, Laxman had established himself as a match-winner, Ganguly was a fearless leader, and Sehwag had proven his explosive potential.In the second Test at Nottingham, India faced a daunting task after losing the first Test at Lord's. However, the Dravid-Tendulkar-Ganguly trio came to the rescue. Dravid scored a gritty 115, while Tendulkar and Ganguly fell just short of centuries with scores of 92 and 99, respectively.The third Test at Headingley, Leeds, witnessed a historic moment. Batting first, India piled up a mammoth 628/8, their highest team total at the venue. Dravid laid the foundation with a patient 148, adding 170 runs with Sanjay Bangar and 150 with Tendulkar.Tendulkar and Ganguly then unleashed a batting masterclass, smashing three sixes each and hitting 19 and 14 fours, respectively. Their partnership of 335 runs for the fourth wicket was a testament to their dominance. Tendulkar fell for 193, while Ganguly was dismissed for 128, but their contributions had set the stage for an emphatic victory.India's spinners, led by Harbhajan Singh and Anil Kumble, then took over, bowling England out for 234 and 204 to secure a memorable innings and 46-run victory.This triumph at Headingley was a watershed moment for Indian cricket. It marked the team's emergence as a global force, capable of winning anywhere in the world. The "Tigers at home, lambs abroad" tag was a thing of the past, as India had transformed into a formidable opponent on any stage.

Bangladesh's historic Test debut against India in 2000 marked a significant milestone in the development of cricket in the South Asian nation. The journey to Test status began with Bangladesh's triumph in the 1997 ICC Trophy, which earned them a berth in the 1999 ODI World Cup. Their stunning victory over Pakistan in the tournament showcased their growing talent and potential.Bangladesh's domestic cricket infrastructure, including first-class cricket, played a crucial role in nurturing their players. Support from Test-playing nations like India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka further aided their progress. The International Cricket Council (ICC), recognizing the potential for cricket's growth in Bangladesh, granted them full Test status in 2000.India hosted Bangladesh's maiden Test match in Dhaka, with Sourav Ganguly leading the Indian team as captain. Bangladesh opener Aminul Islam became the country's first Test centurion, helping them post a respectable 400 in the first innings. India responded with 429, led by Ganguly's 84 and Sunil Joshi's 92.Bangladesh captain Naimur Rahman impressed with six wickets in India's first innings. However, India's bowlers dominated the second innings, dismissing Bangladesh for a mere 91. India chased down the target of 63 with ease, securing a victory by nine wickets.Since their debut, India and Bangladesh have played 13 Test matches, with India emerging victorious in 11 and two ending in draws. Bangladesh has yet to register a Test win against India. In 2019, the two teams played their first Day/Night Test match in Kolkata.Bangladesh's Test debut against India was a testament to the country's growing cricketing prowess and the ICC's commitment to expanding the reach of the sport. It marked a new chapter in the history of cricket in South Asia and continues to inspire aspiring cricketers in Bangladesh and beyond.

Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has faced criticism for his initial comments on the horrific rape and murder of Dr. Moumita Debnath in Kolkata. Ganguly had initially referred to the incident as a "stray incident," drawing widespread condemnation.In response to the backlash, Ganguly has now blacked out his profile picture on social media platform "X" in apparent solidarity with the victim and her family. However, this gesture has elicited mixed reactions.Some users have praised Ganguly for taking a stand, while others have criticized him for not directly addressing the issue. They argue that a blacked-out profile picture is a token gesture that does not address the underlying problem of violence against women.Ganguly has since clarified that his initial comments were taken out of context. He has condemned the incident as "terrible" and "shameful" and called for severe punishment for the perpetrators.The investigation into the case has been handed over to two senior women officers from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Sampat Meena, who handled the Hathras rape-murder case, and Seema Pahuja, who was part of the Hathras investigation team, will lead the probe.The incident has sparked outrage and protests across India, highlighting the urgent need to address violence against women. Ganguly's initial comments and subsequent actions have brought the issue into the spotlight, but it remains to be seen whether they will lead to meaningful change.

Left-Handed Legends: Unforgettable Innings that Captivated CricketInternational Left Handers Day provides an opportune moment to celebrate the remarkable contributions of left-handed batsmen to the sport of cricket. These southpaws have etched their names into cricket's annals with their exceptional performances, leaving an indelible mark on the game.Sourav Ganguly's Majestic 183In the 1999 Cricket World Cup, Sourav Ganguly's scintillating 183 against Sri Lanka remains a cherished memory. Batting with characteristic flair and timing, Ganguly's innings propelled India to a memorable victory. His knock showcased his pivotal role in Indian cricket, inspiring a generation of players.Gautam Gambhir's Resilient 97Gautam Gambhir's composed 97 in the 2011 ICC World Cup final epitomized his resilience and determination. Opening the batting against Sri Lanka, Gambhir anchored India's chase with a gritty innings. His knock played a crucial role in India's historic World Cup triumph after 28 years.Brian Lara's Immortal 400 Not OutBrian Lara's record-breaking 400 not out against England in 2004 stands as a testament to his exceptional skill and endurance. Over the course of his marathon innings, Lara displayed an array of exquisite strokes, setting the benchmark for individual brilliance in Test cricket.Saeed Anwar's Elegant 194Saeed Anwar's breathtaking 194 against India in 1997 showcased his elegance and grace. Batting with effortless timing, Anwar's innings was a symphony of fluent strokes. His cover drives and effortless pulls were a sight to behold, setting a record for the highest individual score in ODIs at the time.Matthew Hayden's Brutal 380Matthew Hayden's colossal 380 against Zimbabwe in 2003 displayed his raw power and dominance. This innings stood as the highest individual score in Test cricket before Brian Lara's 375 against England. Hayden's brutal hitting and relentless aggression left an unforgettable mark on the game.These unforgettable innings by left-handed batsmen serve as a testament to their immense talent and the indelible impact they have made on cricket. Their performances have captivated fans worldwide, inspiring generations of players and leaving a lasting legacy in the annals of the sport.

Pakistani Journalist's Comparison of Sourav Ganguly and Imam-ul-Haq Sparks OutrageA Pakistani journalist's attempt to compare former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly with Pakistan's batsman Imam-ul-Haq has ignited a firestorm of criticism on social media. The journalist posted photos of the two players, asking fans to choose the better player.The comparison was met with widespread disapproval, as fans pointed out the vast disparity in their respective careers. Ganguly, known affectionately as "Dada," is widely regarded as one of India's greatest cricket captains. During his tenure from 2000 to 2005, he led the team to numerous victories, including the 2003 World Cup final and the NatWest Trophy in 2002.Ganguly's leadership style was characterized by aggression and fearlessness, and he played a pivotal role in nurturing young talents like Virender Sehwag and Yuvraj Singh. His legacy as a captain who instilled confidence and a winning mentality in the Indian cricket team remains unmatched.In contrast, Imam-ul-Haq, while a promising batsman, has yet to establish himself as a consistent performer at the international level. The 28-year-old has played 24 Tests, 72 ODIs, and 2 T20Is, amassing fewer than 5,000 international runs.The journalist's comparison was seen as disrespectful to Ganguly's illustrious career and the immense contribution he has made to Indian cricket. Fans took to social media to express their outrage, with many calling the comparison "absurd" and "outrageous."The incident highlights the deep-rooted rivalry between India and Pakistan in cricket. While friendly competition is always welcome, attempts to diminish the achievements of legendary players are likely to be met with strong resistance from fans.

On July 13, 2002, Sourav Ganguly's young Indian team etched their names in cricket history by chasing down a daunting target of 326 against England in the NatWest Trophy final at Lord's. The victory was a testament to the team's resilience and the leadership of Ganguly, who learned a valuable lesson about man management from his opening partner, Virender Sehwag.As India chased the mammoth total, Sehwag and Ganguly put on a blistering opening stand of 106 in just 14.3 overs. Sehwag smashed a 49-ball 45, while Ganguly contributed a 43-ball 60. However, Ganguly was furious at lunch when England reached 325, a daunting target in those days.As they walked down the long room at Lord's, Ganguly confronted Sehwag, who was whistling behind him. Ganguly berated Sehwag for taking the chase lightly, but Sehwag calmly replied, "Skip, we're going to win this."Ganguly was skeptical, but Sehwag's confidence proved infectious. After a solid start, Ganguly advised Sehwag to play conservatively against the weaker bowler, Ronnie Irani. However, Sehwag had other plans. He smashed five boundaries in the next six balls, turning the game on its head.Ganguly was furious, but he realized that Sehwag's aggressive approach was the key to victory. He held back his criticism and allowed Sehwag to play his natural game. Sehwag went on to play a blinder, and India eventually won the match by two wickets with three balls to spare.After the game, Ganguly reflected on the lesson he had learned from Sehwag. He realized that as a leader, it was important to understand that different individuals have different ways of winning. Sehwag's unconventional approach had turned the game around, and Ganguly had to adjust his leadership style to accommodate his players' strengths.This experience taught Ganguly the importance of man management and the need to empower his players to make their own decisions. It also helped him become a more successful captain, leading India to numerous victories in the years to come.

India's long-awaited triumph at the T20 World Cup 2024 has sparked a wave of celebration across the nation. The victory, led by captain Rohit Sharma, marks India's first ICC title since the 2013 Champions Trophy under MS Dhoni.However, the path to this success was not without its challenges. When Rohit took over the captaincy from Virat Kohli, former BCCI president Sourav Ganguly faced intense criticism for the decision.Now, as India basks in the glory of its victory, Ganguly has reminded everyone that it was his foresight that led to Rohit's appointment as captain. "I was criticized when I handed over the captaincy to Rohit. And now that we've won a trophy under his captaincy, no one is abusing me. Everyone has forgotten that I made him the captain," Ganguly told Bangla newspaper AajKaal.Kohli's departure from the T20I captaincy was followed by his removal as ODI captain. He subsequently resigned as Test captain, paving the way for Rohit's promotion to the role in all three formats.The captaincy transition, particularly the manner in which it occurred, drew widespread criticism. Ganguly, who faced a barrage of abuse and trolling on social media, has now taken the opportunity to remind those who are celebrating India's triumph of their previous skepticism.Following the T20 World Cup victory, both Rohit and Virat have announced their retirement from T20 international cricket. India will now appoint a new coach for the shortest format, while Rohit will continue to lead in ODIs and Tests.