Cricket

Ahmed Shehzad's Street Cricket Humiliation: Former Pakistan Captain Clean Bowled ThriceFormer Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad, who has been critical of current captain Babar Azam, has faced a humiliating experience on the streets of Chitral. A viral video shows Shehzad batting in a street game, using a chair as a wicket.Despite boasting of hitting sixes, Shehzad was clean bowled three times out of four deliveries by a local bowler who was not even in proper cricket attire. The former Pakistan batsman only managed to play one ball, which was a mistimed shot.Shehzad's performance in the street game is a stark contrast to his international career, where he played 13 Tests, 81 ODIs, and 59 T20Is for Pakistan. He scored 982, 2605, and 1471 runs in these formats, respectively. However, his career has been marred by controversies and inconsistent form.Shehzad's recent criticism of Babar Azam has drawn attention to his own struggles. During the T20 World Cup, he had questioned Azam's captaincy and accused him of favoritism.The video of Shehzad's street cricket humiliation has sparked a flurry of reactions on social media. Some have criticized him for his poor performance, while others have defended him, saying that he is still a talented player.Despite his recent setbacks, Shehzad remains a popular figure in Pakistan. He is known for his aggressive batting style and his ability to hit big shots. However, he will need to improve his consistency and discipline if he wants to regain his place in the national team.

Ravichandran Ashwin, India's premier off-spinner, has penned a heartfelt memoir titled "I Have the Streets: A Kutty Cricket Story." In this book, Ashwin delves into his formative years in Chennai, where street cricket ignited his passion for the game.Growing up in the bustling streets of Ramakrishnapuram, Ashwin found solace in the camaraderie and competitive spirit of street cricket. Every evening, he would join his friends for hours of intense matches, honing his skills and developing a deep love for the sport.Ashwin's childhood was filled with memorable moments on the streets. He recalls the thrill of hitting towering sixes that shattered windows, the joy of scoring runs that earned him the coveted "gaaji," and the occasional scolding from the stern uncle next door.Despite his success on the international stage, Ashwin remains deeply connected to his street cricket roots. He believes that the lessons he learned on those dusty lanes have shaped him into the player he is today."The game was an avenue for me to compete," Ashwin says. "Even now, I'm every bit the same gully cricketer who played on the streets of Ramakrishnapuram. It's the same fight I have in me."Ashwin's memoir is not just a nostalgic account of his childhood. It also offers a glimpse into the vibrant culture of street cricket in Chennai. He describes the unique rules, the colorful characters, and the sense of community that surrounds the game.Through his writing, Ashwin hopes to inspire others to embrace the joys of street cricket. He believes that the game can teach valuable life lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and the importance of having fun."I just feel that after reading this, if someone wishes to be out there in the evenings playing cricket, I would have achieved what I set out to," Ashwin says.

R. Ashwin, the renowned Indian cricketer, has recently launched his autobiography titled "I Have the Streets: A Kutti Cricket Story." In this book, Ashwin shares his journey from the streets of Chennai to the pinnacle of international cricket.Ashwin believes that sharing his experiences can inspire others and help them learn from his mistakes and successes. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance and resilience, especially for those who come from humble beginnings. "We need to understand that if you are coming from this part of the country, you must fight for acceptance. You can't quit," he says.The book's title, "I Have the Streets," reflects Ashwin's deep connection to street cricket. He credits the city and street cricket for providing him with a safe haven and a sense of belonging. "In my 17-18 years on the road as a professional cricketer, I would be lying if I said I felt comfortable for a large part of it. I always wanted to return home to my friends and family until 2015," he explains.Ashwin also acknowledges the influence of his parents and grandfather on his work ethic and inquisitiveness. He speaks highly of former cricketers M.S. Dhoni, Gautam Gambhir, and W.V. Raman, who played pivotal roles in his development.The book is not just a memoir but also a reflection on the challenges and rewards of being a professional cricketer. Ashwin discusses the mental and physical toll of the game, as well as the importance of maintaining a positive mindset."Smart people learn from others' experiences. As long as this book positively impacts even five per cent of the people who read this, I have done my job," Ashwin says.