Cricket

India's women's cricket team is gearing up for the upcoming Women's T20I series against South Africa, which will serve as their final preparation before the Asia Cup (T20) and the T20 World Cup. The team is placing a strong emphasis on improving its fielding, recognizing it as a crucial aspect of their success."Fielding is a game-changer," said batter Jemimah Rodrigues. "We have clarity in our plans across the three departments, and we're working hard to keep getting better in fielding."Rodrigues praised head coach Amol Muzumdar's focus on fitness and fielding. "Since Amol sir has come, we've been hearing the same thing in every team meeting: fitness and fielding are non-negotiable," she said. "We've been working specifically on these areas."The Indian women's cricket team has set high standards in fielding, and they are determined to maintain them. "We will continue to do everything to maintain it," said Rodrigues. "We will work hard, and the results will come."The experience gained during the Women's Premier League (WPL) will also be beneficial for the team in the World Cup. "The best part about our team is that it has been a consistent team for a very long time," said Rodrigues. "Also, having the WPL experience is a plus."The wicket at Chepauk, where the T20I series will be played, is expected to be a high-scoring one. "We got to score 500 runs in the opening day of the Test, which speaks a lot about the wicket here," said Rodrigues. "We will assess the conditions and then go about it."South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt indicated that her team would field their strongest possible XI during the T20 series. "We will be looking to play the strongest XI we can," she said. "We have plans leading up to the World Cup, and we want to nail down different combinations."South Africa experimented with spin options during the one-off Test against India, and Wolvaardt said this would continue in the T20 series. "It's a good time to see if we could perhaps use more spin in the powerplay and the death," she said. "India will probably bowl spin throughout the innings, but it all depends on the conditions."

Team India, fresh from their triumph at the T20 World Cup 2024, is set to embark on a five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, commencing on July 6. The Indian contingent, led by opening batter Shubman Gill, features a blend of experienced and uncapped players as the team looks to nurture future talent in the shortest format.The series marks the international debut for Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag, and Tushar Deshpande, who have impressed with their performances in domestic cricket. Parag, who emerged as the third-highest run-getter in the recent IPL season, expressed his excitement and admitted to misplacing his passport and phones due to his overwhelming enthusiasm."So excited that I've forgotten my passport. I've forgotten my phone. I've not forgotten, I've misplaced them. But I have it now," Parag said in a video posted by the BCCI.Abhishek Sharma, another debutant, revealed that he received a congratulatory call from his Punjab teammate Shubman Gill after his selection. "I felt very good. Before my interview, when I reached home, my parents were giving interviews. I felt proud," Sharma said.The Indian squad for the first two T20Is against Zimbabwe has undergone some changes due to the delayed departure of the T20 World Cup-winning players from Barbados. Sai Sudarshan, Jitesh Sharma, and Harshit Rana have been added as replacements for Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.The series against Zimbabwe provides an opportunity for India to experiment with new combinations and assess the potential of emerging players. As the team transitions into a new era following the retirement of senior stalwarts like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja, the focus will be on identifying and grooming future stars.

India's Second-String Team Embarks on Zimbabwe Tour for T20I SeriesA second-string Indian cricket team, led by Shubman Gill, has departed for Zimbabwe to participate in a five-match T20I series beginning on July 6. The tour marks a significant opportunity for India to assess its T20 future following the retirements of senior players Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja.The Indian squad boasts a strong contingent of openers, including Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Abhishek Sharma. Gill and Jaiswal are expected to form the opening partnership in the first T20I in Harare on Saturday.The series will also provide a platform for several T20 World Cup standbys to showcase their skills. Pacers Avesh Khan, Khaleel Ahmed, and finisher Rinku Singh, along with Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal, are all part of the touring party.The Indian team will be eager to make a strong impression in Zimbabwe, particularly with the T20 World Cup scheduled for later this year. The series will offer valuable experience for the younger players and help the team identify potential replacements for the departed veterans.The Zimbabwean team, led by Sikandar Raza, will be looking to put up a strong fight against the Indian visitors. The series will be played entirely in Harare, with the first T20I scheduled for July 6.

Zimbabwe has announced its squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against India in Harare, with batter Antum Naqvi receiving his maiden call-up. However, Naqvi's inclusion is contingent upon confirmation of his citizenship status.The squad also sees the return of allrounders Wessly Madhevere and Brandon Mavuta, who have completed their suspensions for drug use. Experienced fast bowler Tendai Chatara, who last played in the T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier, has also been recalled.Mainstays Craig Ervine, Sean Williams, Ryan Burl, Joylord Gumbie, and Ainsley Ndlovu have been dropped from the squad. These players were part of Zimbabwe's recent away series in Bangladesh, which they lost 4-1.Naqvi, 25, has risen to prominence this year, becoming the first player to score a triple century for any Zimbabwe team in representative cricket. He scored an unbeaten 300 for Mid West Rhinos in the Logan Cup and captained the team in just his second year of domestic cricket in Zimbabwe.A top-order batter, Naqvi boasts a strike rate of 146.80 in seven T20 matches. Born in Brussels, Belgium to Pakistani parents, he moved to Australia at the age of four and earned a commercial airline pilot's license. However, he put his aviation career on hold to pursue cricket.Zimbabwe failed to qualify for the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2024 and is aiming to rebuild under new head coach Justin Sammons. The average age of the squad to face India is 27, reflecting this intention.Captain Sikandar Raza, 38, is the most experienced player in the squad with 86 T20Is, while allrounder Luke Jongwe is second with 63 T20I appearances.

Virat Kohli, the legendary Indian cricketer, has bid farewell to the shortest format of the game, Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). His decision marks the end of an era for Indian cricket, as Kohli has been a pivotal figure in the team's success over the past decade.Kohli's T20I journey began in 2010, and he quickly established himself as one of the most prolific batters in the format. His aggressive style of play and ability to chase down targets earned him the moniker "ultimate chase master." Kohli's most memorable T20I performance came in the 2016 World Cup final, where he scored an unbeaten 82 off 52 balls to guide India to victory.However, in recent years, Kohli's T20I form has declined. The rapid evolution of the format, with its emphasis on higher strike rates and a less risk-averse approach, has posed challenges for the veteran batter. Despite occasional flashes of brilliance, Kohli has struggled to maintain his previous level of consistency.Kohli's decision to retire from T20Is is a testament to his understanding of the changing landscape of the game. He recognizes that the demands of modern T20 cricket may not be best suited to his current skillset. By stepping away from the format, Kohli can focus on his other commitments, including Test and One-Day International (ODI) cricket.Kohli's legacy in T20Is is undeniable. He is the leading run-scorer in the format, with over 3,300 runs at an average of 50.80. He has also scored 30 half-centuries and one century. Kohli's aggressive batting style and unwavering determination have inspired a generation of cricketers.As Kohli embarks on the next chapter of his career, he leaves behind a void in the Indian T20I team. His experience, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure will be sorely missed. However, his contributions to the format will continue to be celebrated for years to come.

Hardik Pandya's inclusion in the elite club of Indian cricketers with 100 T20 International appearances is a testament to his exceptional all-round abilities and unwavering determination. This milestone, achieved during the T20 World Cup final against South Africa, places him alongside legendary figures Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who have played 159 and 125 T20Is respectively.Pandya's journey to this landmark has been marked by his versatility and impact on the Indian team. Since his debut in 2016, he has consistently delivered with both bat and ball, contributing to India's success in numerous matches. His aggressive batting style and ability to hit big shots have made him a formidable force in the middle order, while his medium-pace bowling has provided crucial breakthroughs.Prior to the T20 World Cup final, Pandya had amassed 1487 runs at an average of 26.55 and claimed 81 wickets in T20I cricket. His all-round performances have earned him a reputation as one of the most valuable players in the Indian team.Rohit Sharma, the Indian skipper, leads the pack with 159 T20I appearances. Known for his explosive batting and ability to anchor the innings, Rohit has been a cornerstone of India's T20 setup. His leadership and experience have been crucial in shaping the team's strategy and performance over the years.Virat Kohli, with 125 T20Is to his name, is renowned for his aggressive batting style and extraordinary consistency. Kohli's ability to chase down challenging targets and his remarkable fitness have set new benchmarks in international cricket. His passion and dedication to the game have inspired a generation of cricketers.Hardik Pandya's entry into this prestigious club highlights his importance to the team and his resilience as a player. Despite facing injuries and challenges throughout his career, Hardik has always bounced back stronger, showcasing his determination and skill. His journey from a promising youngster to a seasoned campaigner reflects his hard work and dedication.As Hardik continues to represent India in T20Is, his contributions will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the team's pursuit of future victories. His all-round abilities and unwavering spirit make him an invaluable asset for the Indian team.

As the sun sets on this Saturday afternoon in Barbados, Indian fans eagerly anticipate a memorable performance from Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in what could be their final T20I appearance for India. The nation yearns to see these two cricketing greats unite in a triumphant dance, leaving behind the heartbreaking memories of the ODI World Cup loss last year.The BCCI and national selectors recognize that the time has come for a new era in Indian cricket, with the 2026 T20 World Cup on the horizon. The Zimbabwe series next month will likely mark the beginning of this transition, as the core team for the upcoming global event must be established well in advance. Rohit, Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja, despite their immense contributions, may not fit into the long-term plans due to their age.While the sensitive topic of retirement looms, the focus remains firmly on the final. A victory against South Africa would serve as a fitting culmination to the illustrious careers of Rohit and Kohli in the shortest format. They will continue to be an integral part of the IPL, where they remain iconic figures alongside Mahendra Singh Dhoni.For Kohli, securing the T20 World Cup trophy would complete a remarkable cycle, having already won the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. The decision to bid farewell to the format may come swiftly, as it did for Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara following their 2014 T20 World Cup victory against India.Kohli and Rohit, with their combined 8334 T20I runs, six centuries, 69 fifties, and 119 catches, represent the last bridge between the old and new generations of Indian cricket. This trophy would be a fitting testament to their legacy, rightfully belonging to them as they stand tall among the greats who came before them.The anguish in Kohli's eyes after his dismissal against England was palpable, and those who dare to dismiss the 'King' from the final do so at their own risk. For Rohit, despite his assertions of moving on and healed wounds, he yearns for closure.Had India emerged victorious in the 2023 ODI World Cup, Rohit's desperation to participate in this T20 World Cup edition would have been significantly diminished. He seeks closure in terms of white-ball global triumph, and a T20 World Cup victory would provide him with that.Rohit's popularity is genuine and organic. While Dhoni was revered as 'Mahi bhai' by his juniors and Kohli earned respect through his immense on-field achievements, Rohit receives pure, unadulterated love from both peers and juniors alike.Together, Rohit and Virat have witnessed the highs and lows of Indian cricket for over a decade. And fortunately for Rohit and Kohli, they have nothing left to prove. If Saturday truly marks their last appearance in a T20 international, the void they leave behind will be challenging to fill, not only in terms of quality but also, and perhaps more significantly, on an emotional level.

The West Indies women's cricket team concluded their challenging tour of Sri Lanka on a triumphant note, securing a six-wicket victory in the third and final T20I in Hambantota. This victory sealed a come-from-behind 2-1 series win for the visitors.The West Indies' top three batters, Stafanie Taylor, Hayley Matthews, and Shemaine Campbelle, played pivotal roles in the chase. Taylor and Matthews formed a solid opening partnership of 60 runs, while Matthews and Campbelle added another 51 runs. Campbelle remained unbeaten on 41 off 30 deliveries, guiding her team to victory with just one ball to spare.Earlier, Sri Lanka had posted a competitive total of 141 for 7 after being put into bat. Chamari Athapaththu top-scored for the hosts with 38 runs, while Kavisha Dilhari contributed 26. However, the West Indies bowlers kept the Sri Lankan batters in check, with Aaliyah Alleyne and Chinelle Henry claiming two wickets each.The West Indies' victory was a testament to their resilience and determination. After losing the first T20I, they bounced back with a convincing win in the second match. In the final game, they showed their class by chasing down a challenging target with ease.Player of the Series Hayley Matthews played a key role in the West Indies' success. She scored 49 runs in the final match and took three wickets in the series. Her all-round performance was crucial in helping her team secure the series win.The West Indies' victory will give them confidence ahead of the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup. They will be looking to build on this momentum and make a strong impact in the tournament.

Nitish Kumar Reddy's international debut has been put on hold due to an undisclosed injury, forcing him to withdraw from India's T20I tour of Zimbabwe. Shivam Dube has been called up as his replacement in the 15-member squad.Reddy, a promising 21-year-old seam bowling allrounder, earned his maiden India call-up after an impressive IPL 2024 season with Sunrisers Hyderabad. He amassed 303 runs at a strike rate of 142.92 and claimed three wickets in 13.1 overs.In his second IPL innings, Reddy played a pivotal role in SRH's two-run victory over Punjab Kings, scoring a quickfire 64 off 37 balls. He also contributed an unbeaten 76 off 42 balls against Rajasthan Royals later in the tournament. With the ball, he dismissed notable batters like Rishabh Pant, Tristan Stubbs, and Jitesh Sharma.Reddy has been part of the BCCI's target group of young players under the NCA's supervision for the past year. His replacement, Shivam Dube, is a member of India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. While his performance in the tournament has been modest, he had a stellar IPL 2024 season.Dube, primarily batting in the middle overs, emerged as Chennai Super Kings' spin-hitter, scoring 396 runs in 14 games at a strike rate of 162.29. He was CSK's second-highest run-scorer behind Ruturaj Gaikwad.India will face Zimbabwe in a five-match T20I series in Harare starting on July 6. With senior players rested, Shubman Gill will lead the squad, which includes maiden India call-ups for Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag, and Tushar Deshpande.