Cricket

The Indian cricket team's T20 World Cup 2024 campaign kicks off on June 05 against Ireland, but the highly anticipated clash against Pakistan on June 09 is already dominating the headlines. The two arch-rivals do not engage in bilateral series, making ICC and ACC events the only platforms where fans can witness their electrifying encounters.Former India pacer S Sreesanth has expressed his views on India's pace-bowling attack, emphasizing the importance of Jasprit Bumrah's role in the upcoming match against Pakistan. Sreesanth believes that Bumrah should open the bowling for India, particularly against Pakistan."It will be crucial to see who bowls the first over. If Arshdeep bowls the first over, who made him struggle, we have seen their weakness before. When they start attacking, if they don't stop the runs, they will knock out a lot of bowlers. I think if we don't get the wickets in the powerplay, the match between Pakistan and India will be very tough. I think on 9th June, India needs to pick a wicket in the first over," said Sreesanth.Sreesanth further added, "I want Bumrah to come first and bowl the first over. We have heard who will take the new ball, but I think if you are watching Bumrah, please finish Rizwan and Babar first."India's pace bowling attack has not been as impressive as expected. Apart from Bumrah, neither Mohammed Siraj nor Arshdeep Singh have been in top form heading into the T20 World Cup. Siraj and Arshdeep had a disappointing IPL 2024 campaign, raising concerns about their ability to support Bumrah effectively.The first few matches of the T20 World Cup will provide valuable insights into India's bowling capabilities. The team's performance in the powerplay will be crucial, as Sreesanth highlighted. If India can pick up early wickets, it will significantly increase their chances of success against Pakistan.

Sanju Samson's IPL Journey: A Tale of Fate and DeterminationIndian wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson's entry into the Indian Premier League (IPL) was a serendipitous event, shaped by a fabricated tale and the unwavering support of former Indian cricketer S Sreesanth.Samson, now the captain of the Rajasthan Royals, revealed in a viral video that Sreesanth's chance encounter with Rahul Dravid, then captain of the Royals, played a pivotal role in his IPL debut. While playing for the Kolkata Knight Riders, Samson struggled to break into the playing XI despite being part of the squad since 2009.During a match against the Royals, Sreesanth spotted Dravid in the hotel lobby and vouched for Samson, claiming that he had smashed six sixes in an over in a local tournament. Dravid, initially skeptical, was impressed by Samson's potential after watching him bat in practice games.Samson's IPL debut with the Royals in 2013 marked the beginning of a successful journey. He has since become a mainstay in the team and has led them to several victories. His resilience and determination have been instrumental in his rise from a promising talent to a respected leader in the IPL.Sreesanth's endorsement and Dravid's astute judgment played a crucial role in Samson's IPL journey. It highlights the unpredictable nature of professional cricket and the importance of recognizing talent when it presents itself. Samson's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers, demonstrating that with hard work and a bit of luck, anything is possible.