Cricket

India's bowling attack has been a formidable force in the T20 World Cup, but former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming believes the addition of left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav could provide an extra edge. With the Caribbean pitches expected to offer turn in the Super 8 stage, Yadav's wicket-taking prowess could prove invaluable.India has currently opted for a combination of three fast bowlers (Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Arshdeep Singh) and two spinners (Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel). However, Fleming suggests that Kuldeep's inclusion could provide a different dimension to the attack."I would think maybe Kuldeep would come in to provide that extra bit of wicket-taking flair if the wickets do provide the turn as they get a little bit more used and you get closer to the end of the tournament," Fleming said.Fleming also emphasized the importance of adaptability, noting that India has the flexibility to adjust its bowling strategy based on the conditions. "But they've still got that opportunity now to do both which is good and horses for courses, you can't be so set in one way of playing that you miss the opportunities to take advantage of conditions."India's selection of two left-arm spin all-rounders, Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, has also been a topic of discussion. While Axar has been among the wickets, Jadeja has yet to make a significant impact, bowling only three overs in three matches. Fleming, however, sees no issue with playing two players with similar skill sets."So, there are subtleties around them both but again, and I hate that notion of left-handers can't bowl to left-hand batters so we can dispel that myth and both of those players can hopefully play along."India has made some tough decisions in its team selection, with talented players like Yashasvi Jaiswal missing out due to the presence of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Rishabh Pant in the top order. Fleming believes that India has made smart choices in its team composition, considering the potential for spin-friendly conditions in the West Indies."This is a team that in some ways is picked for the finals in my view, it's a team that has spinners that can dominate, it has players that can dominate spin and we've seen spin in the West Indies play quite a big part, not so much in New York.""So, I think they've got job done and they've got quite smartly a view of mind, this is how we want to play the key games now going into hopefully the semi-finals and final."

Former New Zealand skipper and Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming has lauded Indian all-rounder Shivam Dube for his unwavering dedication to honing his bowling skills ahead of the 2024 Indian Premier League season. Dube, who is an integral part of India's T20 World Cup squad, could play a pivotal role with the ball if the situation demands.Despite bowling consistently in the home series against Afghanistan, Dube only managed to bowl a solitary over during the IPL season. However, his bowling prowess came into sharp focus when he delivered three overs in the recent warm-up match against Bangladesh. His unique bowling style could prove advantageous on the low and slow tracks expected in the Caribbean.Fleming, in an interview with ESPNcricinfo, discussed Dube's progress and the impact of the IPL's impact player rule on his development as a bowler. "If his bowling is the way he talks about it, he's like Kapil Dev. He has been working really hard. He worked hard through the IPL. We had a number of players that could do the all-round role, and again, with the impact player rule, it actually diminishes the role of an all-rounder or a part-time bowler who bats well, which is a bit of a shame," Fleming said.Dube has taken eight wickets in 21 T20Is, with an average of 45 and an economy rate of 9.86. Despite these modest figures, his tall frame and gentle pace could be beneficial for Team India in the T20 World Cup. The team may require overs from players outside the main bowling attack, especially if they opt to play three spinners."He's been doing his bowling, he has had his loads up. He can be awkward [to face] in the right conditions, which you'd say would be a little bit slow, where his cutters and change of pace could play a part. He can play a part, he can do a job and he has worked very hard on it," Fleming added.As Team India prepares to kickstart their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland in New York on Wednesday, the inclusion of Dube in the playing XI remains a point of interest. His contributions, both with the bat and ball, could prove pivotal in India's quest for T20 World Cup success.

The question of MS Dhoni's future as a player in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a topic of speculation for some time. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has addressed the issue, stating that the decision ultimately lies with Dhoni himself.Viswanathan emphasized that CSK respects Dhoni's decisions and has always given him the space to make them on his own terms. He expressed hope that Dhoni will continue to play for CSK next year, acknowledging the expectations of both fans and the franchise.Despite repeated inquiries from broadcasters, Dhoni has remained silent on his plans. However, his decision to hand over the CSK captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the 2024 IPL season has raised questions about his future as a player.At 42 years old, Dhoni's age and the upcoming mega auction in 2025 have prompted CSK to consider their plans for the future. Viswanathan indicated that Dhoni's performance this season, where he scored 161 runs at a strike rate of 220.55 and kept competently, suggests that he is still capable of contributing to the team.Regarding Stephen Fleming, CSK's long-time coach, Viswanathan dismissed rumors linking him to the India head coach role. He stated that Fleming is not interested in a coaching role that requires a long-term commitment.Viswanathan also highlighted that CSK's retention plans for the 2025 IPL season will depend on the guidelines provided by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). He emphasized the need for clarity from the BCCI before the franchise can make any decisions.Despite finishing fifth in the 2024 IPL season, CSK remains a formidable team. They have won the IPL title five times and have a history of bouncing back from setbacks. Viswanathan expressed confidence that CSK will be competitive in the upcoming seasons.

The Indian cricket board (BCCI) faces a daunting task in selecting a new head coach for the senior men's team, with the deadline for applications approaching. The board has reportedly shortlisted several potential candidates, including Gautam Gambhir, Stephen Fleming, Justin Langer, and Mahela Jayawardene.However, enticing strong candidates has become challenging due to competition from the Indian Premier League (IPL). The commitment to travel with the team for 10 months a year until the 2027 ODI World Cup is a significant deterrent. All the shortlisted coaches currently hold lucrative positions with IPL franchises.The only candidate not committed to an IPL job is VVS Laxman, the current head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA). While Laxman has reportedly expressed reluctance to take up the role, the BCCI has not ruled him out.Sources indicate that Gambhir is currently the frontrunner on the BCCI's wish list. The former India opener has reportedly developed a good rapport with senior players in the Indian team.The BCCI has not yet formally contacted any of the potential candidates, but discussions are expected to take place this week. The board is keen to make a decision before the end of the IPL playoffs, which are currently underway in Ahmedabad.The appointment of a new head coach is crucial for the Indian team, which is set to embark on a busy schedule in the coming months. The team will play a series of white-ball matches against South Africa and Australia before the T20 World Cup in October.

The Indian cricket team's head coach position is set to become vacant after the 2024 T20 World Cup, and speculation is rife about who will succeed Rahul Dravid. The BCCI has already released an advertisement for the post, with the deadline for applications set for May 27.Among the names being touted as potential candidates are Stephen Fleming, Ricky Ponting, and Gautam Gambhir. Gambhir, in particular, has been approached by the BCCI, according to ESPN Cricinfo. However, former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has raised concerns about Gambhir's suitability for the role, given his strict coaching style.Chopra believes that Gambhir's approach may not be well-received by senior players in the team. "Gautam Gambhir - the coach, very strong personality. When there is a transition, a new captain is coming, then yes. However, if the team has a lot of seniors already, I will be a little wary because Gauti's style of working is almost like a strict father," Chopra said."When you have very senior players in the team, you are looking for a big brother who keeps his hand on their shoulders and doesn't try to impose himself. With Gautam that's not going to happen. It's very simple with him. My way or the high way. When it's 'my way' then every time, especially when seniors are there, things may not always fall your way. You can do that with young players. That is what I feel."Gambhir has never coached at the domestic level, but he has been the mentor for IPL sides Lucknow Super Giants and Kolkata Knight Riders. He has guided both teams to the playoffs, demonstrating his ability to build and manage a team.As a player, Gambhir was a key member of the Indian team that won the T20 World Cup in 2007 and the ODI World Cup in 2011. He played pivotal roles in both tournament finals, showcasing his leadership qualities and ability to perform under pressure.Whether Gambhir's coaching style is suitable for the Indian team remains to be seen. However, his experience as a player and his success as a mentor suggest that he has the potential to be a successful head coach.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has initiated the search for a new head coach for the Indian cricket team, with the tenure of current coach Rahul Dravid set to expire after the 2024 T20 World Cup. The deadline for applications is May 27, and the successful candidate will hold the position until December 31, 2027, effectively covering the 2027 ODI World Cup.Several prominent names have emerged as potential candidates, including Stephen Fleming, Ricky Ponting, and Gautam Gambhir. According to reports, the BCCI has informally approached Fleming, who has extensive experience as the coach of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, it remains uncertain whether Fleming will apply for the role, given the requirement for the coach to spend 10 months of the year with the Indian team.CSK has denied any rumors of Fleming's departure, with CEO Kasi Viswanathan stating that there has been no communication between Fleming and the franchise regarding the Indian coaching position. Despite CSK's denial, the team recently posted a tribute to Fleming on social media, acknowledging his guidance and support.The BCCI has outlined specific qualifications and experience requirements for the head coach position. Candidates must have played a minimum of 30 Test matches or 50 ODIs, or have served as the head coach of a full member Test-playing nation for at least two years. Alternatively, they must have been the head coach of an associate member/IPL team or equivalent international league/first-class teams/national A teams for a minimum of three years. Additionally, candidates must possess a BCCI Level 3 Certification or equivalent and be below 60 years of age.The BCCI has stated that the remuneration for the head coach is negotiable and will be commensurate with experience. The operating environment for the coach is described as demanding, requiring the ability to handle the expectations and pressures associated with managing elite athletes.

The Indian cricket team's head coach position is up for grabs as Rahul Dravid's tenure concludes in June. With no clear indication of VVS Laxman's interest, the BCCI is exploring alternatives, including seasoned foreign coaches.Sources reveal that Stephen Fleming and Ricky Ponting have been informally approached, but their response has been lukewarm due to the year-round commitment required. Despite their extensive knowledge of Indian cricket through IPL stints, the prospect of a full-time role may deter them.Historically, India has had success with foreign coaches like John Wright and Gary Kirsten, who oversaw Test series victories abroad and a World Cup triumph. However, the preference shifted towards Indian coaches after an unsuccessful stint with Duncan Fletcher.Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli's partnership witnessed remarkable Test successes, but they failed to clinch an ICC trophy. Dravid and Rohit Sharma's partnership has also been commendable, but the quest for an ICC title remains unfulfilled.The upcoming coach's tenure, from July 1, 2024, to December 31, 2027, will face challenges like the Test series in Australia and the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. With the application deadline set for May 27, the BCCI is expected to make a decision soon, with foreign candidates emerging as the frontrunners.

The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the first team to defeat the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at their home ground in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. This victory marks a rare double for LSG, who had previously triumphed over CSK in their own backyard.The absence of key players has forced CSK to make significant changes to their strategy this season. Coach Stephen Fleming acknowledged that the team is "trying to find the right combination" due to unavoidable circumstances, including injuries to Matheesha Pathirana and Rahane, as well as Mustafizur Rahman's absence for the upcoming T20 World Cup.Despite the home crowd's support, CSK's equilibrium has been disrupted by these setbacks. The decision to drop Rachin Ravindra and the inconsistency of Daryl Mitchell's inclusion, along with changes in the batting order, have failed to yield the desired results."We're a little bit uncomfortable with some areas. We're trying to find not a quick fix, but players who will contribute for the back end of this tournament," Fleming said. "We've got another change coming up with Mustafizur (leaving) in a couple of games."In Tuesday's match, Mitchell and Rahane fell cheaply, while Sameer Rizvi also failed to make an impact. Mitchell, who was acquired by CSK for a hefty sum, has struggled to find his form, accumulating only 146 runs in seven innings.Fleming believes that moving Mitchell up the batting order will provide him with more comfort, as he has performed well for New Zealand at the no. 3 position. "Getting up the order is more comfortable for him," Fleming said. "We've looked to rectify that and get him up the order where he has had his best performances internationally."Despite their struggles, CSK remains competitive, as evidenced by their narrow defeat to LSG. Fleming expressed confidence that the team can improve and make a strong run in the tournament. "We're not firing on all cylinders by any means, but we're in each game and we're asking teams to play well to beat us," he said. "We just got to get a little bit better."

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are facing challenges in finding their ideal team combination and dealing with player unavailability, according to head coach Stephen Fleming. After their first home defeat against Lucknow Super Giants, Fleming expressed concerns about the team's form and balance.CSK made changes to their batting lineup, bringing back Daryl Mitchell and pairing him with Ruturaj Gaikwad at the top. However, the move failed to produce the desired results, with Mitchell and Ajinkya Rahane struggling. Fleming acknowledged the need to find the right combination and improve form.Injuries to Matheesha Pathirana, Rahane, and Mustafizur Rahman have disrupted CSK's balance. Mustafizur's departure after May 1 will necessitate further adjustments. Devon Conway's replacement, Richard Gleeson, is yet to join the squad.Mitchell, who was acquired for a hefty sum at the auction, has struggled to find his footing. Fleming hopes that moving him up to No. 3, where he has had success for New Zealand, will improve his performance.The surfaces in Chennai this season have not been as spin-friendly as in the past, affecting CSK's strength in that department. Ravindra Jadeja and Moeen Ali bowled only two overs each against Lucknow Super Giants. Fleming expressed a desire for more assistance from the pitch, but emphasized the need to adapt to the conditions.CSK's next game against Sunrisers Hyderabad will be a test of their spin attack. SRH are missing Wanindu Hasaranga, and their Indian legspinner Mayank Markande has been expensive. CSK have a depth of spin options, but they will need to perform well to overcome SRH's challenge.