Cricket

The Indian cricket team embarks on a grueling Test season, with a packed schedule that includes a three-Test series against New Zealand, a tour of Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and a five-match series against England in 2025.India's last Test series victory in England came in 2007, and the Rohit Sharma-led side is determined to break the drought. Former England paceman Stuart Broad believes this could be Virat Kohli's final tour of England."This could be Virat's last tour of England," Broad said. "They've got so much talent and depth, and England are slightly more youthful and less experienced but have a huge amount of talent and play this front-foot style of cricket."Broad predicts a close series, with both teams possessing formidable strengths. "I don't think it will be a five-nil or a four-nil, it will probably be going down to the last Test. If the weather plays ball, I think it will be 2-2."He emphasizes the significance of India's victory at Lord's in 2021, which left a lasting impact on the England team. "It was an aggressive test match, Mohammed Siraj bowled fantastically well on the final day, a drier pitch and just getting that bit of movement.""It was an amazing, emotional Test match to watch, and I know how much that hurt the England dressing room. Equally, it was very joyous for India to come here - we saw the joy on Kohli's face and how much that meant to him. I think it's going to be an absolute crackerjack of a series."

Yuvraj Singh, the former Indian all-rounder, etched his name in cricket history with his iconic feat of hitting six consecutive sixes in an over against England's Stuart Broad during the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007. This extraordinary display of power and skill has become a legendary moment in the annals of the sport.In a recent interview on the 'Club Prairie Fire' podcast, Yuvraj recounted the incident, revealing that it was fueled by a verbal altercation with England's Andrew Flintoff. "He kind of spat at me," said Yuvraj. "So I told him, 'You see this bat in my hand, you know where it's gonna go'."The exchange escalated, and Yuvraj's anger found its outlet in the six balls delivered by Broad. "That's when the umpire came in," he recalled.The video of Yuvraj's six sixes has garnered an astonishing 96 million views on the International Cricket Council's (ICC) YouTube channel. When asked if he had ever considered sending the ICC an invoice for the massive viewership, Yuvraj joked, "I would have made a lot of money."Yuvraj's six sixes not only showcased his exceptional batting prowess but also highlighted the intense rivalry between India and England. The match was a high-stakes encounter, and Yuvraj's performance played a pivotal role in India's victory.The left-handed batter, who retired from cricket in 2019, remains one of the most beloved and respected figures in the sport. His six sixes will forever be remembered as a testament to his talent, determination, and the unforgettable moments that cricket can produce.

Pankaj Singh, a towering pacer from Rajasthan, made his India debut in 2014 but only played two Tests. Despite his limited international appearances, Singh has been a prolific wicket-taker in domestic cricket, amassing 472 wickets in First-Class matches and 118 in List A.In 2016, Singh revealed that Yuvraj Singh had hailed him as the "best bowler in domestic cricket" after dismissing him in the Duleep Trophy. Singh recently revisited the comment, acknowledging Yuvraj's expertise and the significance of his praise.Meanwhile, England's Stuart Broad has reflected on the infamous over in the 2007 T20 World Cup where Yuvraj Singh smashed him for six consecutive sixes. Broad admitted that Yuvraj could have hit seven sixes if not for a missed no-ball call.Broad, who was bowling from over the wicket, delivered a full toss that Yuvraj dispatched over point for six. Upon reviewing the footage, Broad realized that the ball could have been called a waist-high no-ball, potentially giving Yuvraj the opportunity to hit a seventh six."I've never watched that back, but I must admit, I got lucky to get away with a no ball," Broad confessed to Michael Atherton on Sky Sports.Singh's domestic success and Broad's candid admission highlight the impact of Yuvraj Singh's batting prowess. Yuvraj's ability to dominate bowlers of all calibers has left an enduring legacy in cricket history.

Stuart Broad's Narrow Escape: The Untold Story of Yuvraj Singh's Six SixesOn the 17th anniversary of Yuvraj Singh's iconic six sixes in the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup, former England fast bowler Stuart Broad revealed a startling admission: he narrowly avoided conceding a no-ball that could have resulted in an unprecedented seven sixes in one over.During a Sky Sports commentary, Broad shared his recollection of the historic moment. "I've never watched it back," he confessed. "But, I must admit, I got lucky to get away with a no-ball there as well. It could have been seven."The match, played between India and England in Durban during the Super Eight stage, witnessed Yuvraj's blistering assault on Broad in the 19th over. The left-hander smashed six consecutive sixes, propelling India to a formidable total of 218/4. Broad finished with figures of 0 for 60 in his four overs, but the final over remains etched in T20 cricket history.Broad's admission highlights the significance of the moment and his understanding of how close he came to conceding an unprecedented feat. "I've never seen that, no. Never watched it," he said. "So, thank you for that opportunity 17 years on."Yuvraj's blistering knock of 58 runs off just 16 balls played a pivotal role in India's victory. Despite England's valiant efforts, they fell short by 18 runs. India went on to win the inaugural T20 World Cup under MS Dhoni's captaincy, with Yuvraj's performance being one of the tournament's defining moments.Broad's revelation adds a new layer to the already legendary tale of Yuvraj's six sixes. It serves as a reminder of the fine margins that can shape sporting history and the importance of precision and execution in the fast-paced world of T20 cricket.

On September 19, 2007, Yuvraj Singh etched his name into cricket history with a blistering six-hitting spree against England in the inaugural T20 World Cup. Facing Stuart Broad, the Indian all-rounder unleashed a barrage of sixes that became an iconic moment in the sport.The story behind Yuvraj's six-fest is a tale of revenge, adrenaline, and a heated altercation with England's Andrew Flintoff. After being hit for five sixes by Dimitri Mascarenhas in an ODI earlier that year, Yuvraj was determined to make amends.As Broad began his over, Flintoff's words ignited a fire within Yuvraj. The first ball sailed over the boundary, followed by four more in quick succession. With the fifth six, Yuvraj had equaled Mascarenhas' feat.But the Indian southpaw wasn't done yet. The sixth and final delivery was a full yorker, but Yuvraj anticipated it perfectly and sent it soaring over the long-on boundary. The crowd erupted in a frenzy, and Yuvraj's smile was a testament to his triumph.Yuvraj's innings of 58 runs from just 16 balls, including the fastest fifty at the time, proved decisive in India's 20-run victory. The team went on to win the T20 World Cup, with Yuvraj playing a pivotal role throughout the tournament.The six-hitting spree against Broad remains one of the most memorable moments in cricket history. It showcased Yuvraj's exceptional talent, his ability to rise to the occasion, and the enduring legacy of the T20 World Cup.

England cricket legend Stuart Broad unveiled the "Pavilion End" named after him at Trent Bridge cricket stadium ahead of the second Test match between England and West Indies on July 18. The 38-year-old represented England from 2006-2023, playing his last international game, an Ashes Test match against Australia, in July last year.Broad's parents were also present at the stadium during the unveiling ceremony. In 344 international matches, he took 847 wickets at an average of 27.83, with the best figures of 8/15. Broad is the seventh-highest wicket taker in international cricket history and England's second-highest wicket-taker behind James Anderson (991 wickets), who also announced his retirement after a win in the first Test at Lord's.He also scored 4,309 runs at an average of 16.44, with a century and 13 fifties. He was particularly dominant in Tests, taking 604 wickets at an average of 27.68, with the best figures of 8/15. He is currently the fifth-highest wicket-taker in Tests and England's second-highest wicket-taker behind Anderson (704 wickets), with whom he formed a dominant pace duo over the years.Notably, Broad was also a handy batter, scoring 3,662 runs at an average of 18.03, with all of his international centuries and fifties coming in the Test format. His best score was 169.Currently, England are leading the three-match Test series after beating the West Indies by an innings and 114 runs in the first match. England made only one change in its playing eleven for the second Test, with Mark Wood coming in for pace legend James Anderson, who retired from international cricket after a win in the first Test at Lord's.

Chris Woakes, now 35 years old, has emerged as the senior figure in England's bowling attack following the retirements of Stuart Broad and James Anderson. As he prepares for his 50th Test at Trent Bridge, Woakes reflects on his journey and the lessons he has learned from the legendary duo.Woakes acknowledges the impact Anderson has had on his career, particularly in terms of assessing conditions and pitch behavior. He credits Anderson with teaching him the art of bowling the "wobble-ball." As the most experienced bowler in the team, Woakes recognizes the need to pass on his knowledge to the younger generation of seamers.While his on-field demeanor will remain largely unchanged, Woakes acknowledges that he may need to adjust his role slightly, especially if he is given the new ball. He emphasizes the importance of giving 100% and fulfilling his role to the best of his ability.Off the field, Anderson's presence as a bowling mentor will provide continuity and support. Woakes believes that Anderson's experience and insights will be invaluable to the team.Despite his impressive home record, Woakes is realistic about his chances of being part of England's long-term plans, particularly for overseas tours. He remains focused on the present and is determined to make the most of every opportunity he gets.Woakes' return to the England set-up has been bittersweet, following the loss of his father and his omission from the T20 World Cup squad. However, he is grateful for the opportunity to represent his country and is determined to enjoy every moment.

Yuvraj Singh's iconic six sixes against England pacer Stuart Broad in the 2007 T20 World Cup remain etched in the annals of cricket history. The former India all-rounder's blistering assault on Broad, who was at the peak of his powers, is widely regarded as one of the most remarkable feats in the sport.Recalling the epic moment in a recent interview with ICC, Yuvraj revealed that he was determined to make an impact after a couple of disappointing innings. "I was very keen to get out there and get some big hits and some kind of form," he said.The 19th over of India's innings proved to be the turning point. After Andrew Flintoff bowled two good deliveries, Yuvraj took a single off the last ball of the 18th over. An exchange of words between the two players further fueled Yuvraj's determination."I was furious. I just wanted to hit every ball out of the ground," Yuvraj recalled. The first ball of the 19th over sailed over the boundary, and Yuvraj's confidence soared.When asked if he had six sixes in mind after hitting four, Yuvraj revealed that he was motivated by a desire to avenge the five sixes he had conceded to Dimitri Mascarenhas in the final over of the 2007 Oval ODI."I had been in this place and getting hit for 5 sixes is not a good feeling," he said. "I knew where Broad was going to bowl. I was ready that it was going to be a full yorker towards my legs, and I just wanted to get my bat on it."Despite the pressure of the situation, Yuvraj remained calm and collected. "I was not nervous at all," he said. "He (Broad) was the one who was nervous."Yuvraj's final six, which sealed the iconic moment, was met with a smile on his face. "That smile was for Dimitri," he said.The innings ended with Yuvraj being caught at long-on off the penultimate delivery, but his 58 runs from 16 balls had already secured India a 20-run victory."This was one of the iconic moments and I cherish it," Yuvraj concluded. "But if we wouldn't have won the World Cup, it wouldn’t have been that special I guess."

England's bowling attack faces a significant challenge following the retirement of veteran pacer James Anderson, according to former teammate Stuart Broad. Anderson, the highest wicket-taker among pace bowlers in Test cricket, announced his decision to step down after the first match against West Indies at Lord's in July.Broad expressed concerns about the inexperience of England's current bowling options, including Matthew Potts, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, and Gus Atkinson. He emphasized the need for these bowlers to gain exposure and experience to fill the void left by Anderson's departure."I think exposure for some bowlers now is really important, because there's talent out there," Broad said. "You've got the likes of Matthew Potts who has done well in Test cricket and on a Lions tour, Gus Atkinson has loads of great attributes, Josh Tongue who struggled a bit with injuries over the winter but bowled great against Ireland and Australia."Broad also highlighted the potential of Brydon Carse and Jamie Overton, but acknowledged that England could potentially field a very inexperienced bowling group in the near future. "England could easily go into a Test match this summer with a very, very inexperienced bowling group," he said. "That's quite scary as a Test captain I would have thought."Anderson's retirement will leave a significant hole in England's bowling attack, not only in terms of his wicket-taking ability but also his leadership and experience. Broad emphasized the importance of finding someone to step into Anderson's role and provide guidance to the younger bowlers."There's going to certainly be a huge hole left by Jimmy Anderson that someone is going to have to step into," Broad said. "And not just by swinging the new ball. But by communicating, by keeping calm if the boundaries are leaking, by tactically being aware of what field works at certain grounds, pitches and times of Test matches."Broad believes that continuous improvement is key to success in Test cricket, and he praised Anderson for his unwavering commitment to developing his game. "My thing was always continuous improvement," Broad said. "Jimmy's has always been that as well, and we drove each other forward a lot with that mindset."England will host West Indies in a three-match ICC World Test Championship series in July, starting with the first Test at Lord's. The series will provide an opportunity for the younger bowlers to gain experience and prove their worth in the absence of Anderson.