Cricket

Namibia and England, both with three matches played, find themselves in a close battle for points in the ongoing tournament. Namibia currently sits fourth on the table, while England occupies the third spot.In their previous encounter, Namibia faced a formidable Australian side and succumbed to a nine-wicket defeat. Gerhard Erasmus emerged as the top fantasy performer for Namibia, amassing 50 fantasy points.England, on the other hand, secured an eight-wicket victory over Oman in their last match. Adil Rashid shone as the top fantasy player, accumulating 134 fantasy points.Pitch Report and Weather Conditions:The Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua presents a balanced pitch. The average first-innings score at this venue stands at 67 runs. Teams chasing have historically enjoyed an advantage, with the majority of matches won by the side batting second.Both pacers and spinners can find success on this surface.The weather forecast predicts a temperature of 29 degrees Celsius with 69% humidity. Winds are expected to reach 7.99 m/s, and there is a possibility of light rain that could impact playing conditions.Fantasy XI Top Captain and Vice-Captain Picks:Gerhard Erasmus (NAM): Erasmus, an all-rounder, boasts an average of 77 fantasy points in his last 10 games. His versatility as a batter and bowler makes him a valuable asset.Mark Wood (ENG): Wood, a right-arm fast bowler, has an average of 65 fantasy points in his last 10 games. His ability to take wickets consistently makes him a reliable choice.Joseph Buttler (ENG): Buttler, a consistent performer, averages 64 fantasy points in his last 10 games. His explosive batting style can yield significant fantasy points.Philip Salt (ENG): Salt, a wicketkeeper-batter, averages 62 fantasy points in his last 10 games. His contributions with both bat and gloves make him a valuable addition to any Fantasy XI team.David Wiese (NAM): Wiese, an all-rounder, averages 47 fantasy points in his last 10 games. His ability to score runs and take wickets makes him a versatile option.Bernard Scholtz (NAM): Scholtz, a slow left-arm orthodox bowler, averages 43 fantasy points in his last 10 games. His wicket-taking prowess makes him a reliable bowling choice.Ruben Trumpelmann (NAM): Trumpelmann, a left-arm fast bowler, averages 43 fantasy points in his last 10 games. His ability to generate pace and take wickets makes him a valuable bowling option.Nikolaas Davin (NAM): Davin, a top-order batter, averages 29 fantasy points in his last 10 games. His ability to score runs consistently makes him a solid batting choice.

Lancashire Lightning extended their dominance in the North Group of the Vitality Blast, securing a 25-run victory over Leicestershire Foxes at the Uptonsteel County Ground. The Lightning's fifth win in six matches solidified their position at the top of the standings.Despite losing wickets early in their innings, Lancashire posted a competitive total of 162 thanks to contributions from Luke Wells (35), Matty Hurst (32), and Steven Croft (29). However, the Foxes' bowling attack, led by Scott Currie's 4 for 25 and Lewis Goldsworthy's 2 for 25, kept the Lightning in check.Leicestershire's chase was hampered by disciplined bowling from Lancashire. Rishi Patel's 43 and Peter Handscomb's 33 provided some resistance, but the Foxes fell short of the target, finishing on 137 for 9. Wells, George Balderson, and Luke Wood were the standout bowlers for Lancashire, claiming two wickets each.The Lightning's victory was built on a strong start in the powerplay, where they amassed 65 runs. However, they lost momentum in the middle overs, losing three wickets in quick succession. Croft and Balderson provided some impetus, but the Lightning failed to capitalize on their promising partnerships.Leicestershire's batting powerplay was equally underwhelming, with Saqib Mahmood and Wood restricting them to 31 runs. Patel's sixes provided a brief spark, but his dismissal left the Foxes struggling. Handscomb and Louis Kimber fell in quick succession, and the Foxes' hopes dwindled as Ben Cox, Rehan Ahmed, and Goldsworthy were dismissed in rapid succession.Lancashire's victory was a testament to their depth and resilience. Despite losing wickets at crucial moments, they managed to post a competitive total and defend it with discipline and skill. The Foxes, on the other hand, will need to improve their batting performance if they want to challenge for a playoff spot.

Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto exudes confidence in his team's ability to reach the Super Eights stage of the ICC T20 World Cup. Ahead of their crucial Group D clash against the Netherlands, Shanto expressed optimism based on their strong performances so far in the tournament.Despite a narrow four-run loss to South Africa in their previous match, Shanto remains unfazed. He emphasized the team's collective strength and their determination to play to their potential. "We are very much confident that if we play to our strength, we should go to the Super Eights," he stated.Shanto addressed concerns about all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan's recent form, acknowledging that every player experiences fluctuations. He praised Shakib's work ethic and expressed confidence in his ability to bounce back. "He is trying his best and working hard. He is in a good condition already. I hope he will deliver well tomorrow," Shanto said.The skipper also clarified that Shakib's eyesight is not an issue and that he is practicing well. "Just one or two innings can go wrong in this format," Shanto added.Regarding the team's batting performance, Shanto highlighted the contributions of Litton Das and Towhid Hridoy. He emphasized the importance of batsmen finishing the game, regardless of their position in the order.Shanto acknowledged the favorable conditions in Kingstown compared to previous venues, but noted the challenge posed by the wind. "There is a little help for the bowlers, from what I understood after batting here," he said.In conclusion, Shanto expressed gratitude for the crowd support and urged fans to attend the upcoming match. He emphasized the team's determination to adjust to any wicket conditions and play to their best abilities.

South Africa's Heinrich Klaasen has expressed mixed feelings about the low-scoring matches at the ICC T20 World Cup in New York. While acknowledging that the format may not be appealing to casual fans, he believes it enhances the competitiveness and entertainment value for cricket enthusiasts."For cricket lovers, it's still good cricket," Klaasen said. "But if you have to showcase it to the world and sell it, I don't think it's a great selling product."Klaasen's comments come after South Africa's thrilling four-run victory over Bangladesh in a match that went down to the final ball. The low-scoring affair highlighted the challenges of batting on the slow and bouncy pitches in New York.Despite the difficulties, Klaasen believes the format levels the playing field and makes every game a potential upset. "It brings the other teams and the higher teams very close to each other," he said. "So, the game is open to any team that does the basics of cricket very well."Klaasen also acknowledged the pressure that comes with playing in such tight matches. "For us, it's very nerve-wracking, because every game becomes a really big game," he said. "There are no easy games for us, especially in our group."Looking ahead to the Super 8 stage in the Caribbean, Klaasen believes that scores around 160-170 will be competitive on the more batting-friendly wickets there. He also expressed openness to expanding cricket to other countries, such as Argentina, Brazil, and Russia."I think there are a lot of places where cricket can go," Klaasen said. "We are open as cricketers anywhere as long as it's good conditions and we can play good cricket."

Middlesex emerged victorious in a thrilling Vitality Blast encounter against Kent Spitfires at Canterbury, securing a four-wicket triumph after a remarkable fightback in the field.Kent's innings got off to a shaky start as Tom Helm dismissed Zak Crawley early on. However, Daniel Bell-Drummond and Marcus O'Riordan steadied the ship with a rapid 66-run partnership. Ryan Higgins broke the stand by trapping O'Riordan lbw, and Sam Billings' attempt at a reverse sweep against Luke Hollman resulted in his dismissal.Bell-Drummond continued to anchor the Kent innings, but his departure to Hollman's bowling triggered a collapse. Joey Evison and Joe Denly fell cheaply, and Kent managed only 10 runs in overs 15 to 17. Hollman and Tom Helm restricted Kent to 173 for 8, with Hollman claiming 2 for 18 and Helm taking 2 for 24.Middlesex's chase began with a setback as Joe Denly trapped Martin Andersson lbw. However, Stephen Eskinazi and Higgins counterattacked with a series of boundaries, including Eskinazi's first sixes of the match. Higgins' dismissal to Xavier Bartlett sparked a brief Kent resurgence, with Bartlett also removing Leus du Plooy.Max Holden and Hollman kept Middlesex in the hunt, but Holden's dismissal left them needing 11 runs off the last two overs. Jack Davies chipped in with a six, and Josh de Caires' boundary brought Middlesex within one blow of victory. With three runs required off the final six, Hollman sealed the triumph with a six over cow corner.

Yorkshire's Adam Lyth became the first batter in the county's history to reach 4,000 T20 runs, leading his team to a dominant nine-wicket victory over Derbyshire in the Vitality Blast.Lyth's blistering 51-ball 84 set the tone for Yorkshire's chase of 180, which they achieved with 11 balls to spare. The veteran opener was ably supported by Dawid Malan, who remained unbeaten on 79 off 48 deliveries.Derbyshire had earlier posted a competitive 179 for 6, thanks largely to Aneurin Donald's brilliant 84 off 41 balls. However, the Falcons' innings stuttered after a promising start, with England's Joe Root claiming 2 for 20 from three overs of off-spin.Yorkshire's bowling attack, depleted by injuries, struggled to contain Donald in the early stages. The opener took 22 runs off Matthew Revis in the fifth over, including two fours and two leg-side sixes.However, the hosts fought back after the powerplay, with Jordan Thompson removing David Lloyd for 41. Dom Bess and Matthew Revis then dismissed Wayne Madsen and Samit Patel respectively, leaving Derbyshire on 131 for 3.Donald was eventually caught at deep cover off Ben Cliff for 84, and Ross Whiteley and Brooke Guest also fell cheaply to Root and Cliff.In contrast to Derbyshire's struggles in the second half of their innings, Yorkshire's chase was a clinical affair. Lyth and Malan put on a 137-run opening partnership, with Lyth reaching his fifty off just 33 balls.Lyth was eventually dismissed for 84, but Malan continued to anchor the innings, guiding Yorkshire to victory with a fine half-century.

Glamorgan emerged victorious in their first-ever T20 encounter at Lord's, defeating Middlesex by three wickets. Sam Northeast, who had previously scored a record 335 in the County Championship at the hallowed ground, once again proved his mettle with a 67-run knock.Northeast's innings, which included eight fours and a six, was complemented by Kiran Carlson's blistering 54 off just 21 balls, featuring five maximums. The visitors chased down the target of 174 with 10 balls to spare, despite Henry Brookes' three-wicket haul for Middlesex.Earlier, Middlesex had gotten off to a strong start thanks to Martin Andersson's 57 and Stephen Eskinazi's 48. The opening pair shared a 108-run stand, but Mason Crane's three wickets and Timm Van der Gugten's triple-wicket maiden derailed their innings.Van der Gugten's triple-wicket maiden, which included the dismissals of Luke Hollman, Tom Helm, and Brookes, left Middlesex reeling at 173 all out.In Glamorgan's reply, Noah Cornwell dismissed Eddie Byrom early, but Carlson's aggressive batting kept the visitors in the hunt. Carlson struck three sixes in quick succession, reaching his half-century in just 21 balls.After Carlson's dismissal, Northeast and Cooke steadied the innings, with Northeast reaching his fifty off 38 balls. Despite losing both Northeast and Cooke towards the end, Glamorgan held on to secure the victory.

Yorkshire Vikings emerged victorious in a thrilling Vitality Blast encounter against Northamptonshire Steelbacks at Wantage Road, securing a 29-run victory.Jordan Thompson played a pivotal role for Yorkshire, claiming three wickets for just 18 runs and contributing a crucial 20 runs with the bat. Dom Bess and Matt Revis also chipped in with two wickets each, restricting Northamptonshire to 157 for 8 in their chase of 187.Ravi Bopara kept the Steelbacks in contention with a valiant 35 off 21 balls, while Ricardo Vasconcelos contributed 37. However, regular wickets and a lack of momentum proved costly for the hosts.Yorkshire's innings got off to a flying start thanks to Joe Root (35) and Dawid Malan (41), who put on a 67-run partnership in just 8.1 overs. But a middle-order collapse saw Yorkshire stumble to 100 for 4 in the 13th over.Shan Masood and Dom Bess then combined for a record fifth-wicket partnership of 64 for Yorkshire against Northamptonshire. Masood's power-hitting and Bess's busy approach helped the Vikings recover and post a competitive total of 186 for 6.In the Steelbacks' chase, Vasconcelos targeted Dan Moriarty, hitting him for six and four off consecutive deliveries. However, wickets fell at regular intervals, with Bess and Thompson proving particularly effective.Bopara's late surge, including a six over the food stalls at cow corner, kept Northamptonshire in the hunt. But Thompson's spectacular diving catch off Bopara's bat extinguished their hopes.Yorkshire's victory consolidates their position in the Vitality Blast standings, while Northamptonshire's defeat leaves them searching for their first win of the campaign.

Suryakumar Yadav, the world's top-ranked T20 batter, has made a remarkable comeback to competitive cricket, showcasing a leaner and fitter physique. This transformation is attributed to a rigorous diet plan and intense strength training, resulting in a significant weight loss of 12-14 kg.After undergoing ankle and sports hernia surgeries, Suryakumar was sidelined for nearly four months. Regaining peak fitness posed a challenge, and a strict diet became paramount. Dietitian Shwetha Bhatia, who has collaborated with Suryakumar on his nutrition, revealed that the plan aimed to achieve a leaner, stronger, and more muscular physique."We adjusted the diet and supplementation to achieve this goal in record time," Bhatia explained. "Overall, he has lost 14-15 kg, with a slight increase in weight after surgery due to natural medical reactions."At the National Cricket Academy (NCA), a Dexa machine confirmed that 13 kg of the weight loss was fat. This advanced device provides detailed information on muscle mass gain, fat loss, and abdominal fat.Bhatia emphasized the importance of a strict diet plan, especially during the recovery phase. "We increased his calorie intake, focusing on matching protein levels to his heightened activity," she said.Suryakumar's meal structure consisted of three to four meals per day, with a focus on high-quality protein sources such as eggs, meat, and fish. Carbohydrates were reduced during periods of lower activity, and he substituted rice with low-carb flours for his rotis. Vegetable and fluid intake were high, with soups and chaanch included in his plan.The trend of elite athletes hiring personal chefs on tours is gaining popularity. Players like Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, and Rishabh Pant are investing in their own chefs to ensure they have access to tailored meals. This practice is particularly common on long tours.