Cricket

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.

Joginder Sharma, the Haryana Police DSP who played a pivotal role in India's historic 2007 ICC T20 World Cup triumph, is a name etched in Indian cricket folklore. His moment of glory came in the high-pressure final at Johannesburg when captain MS Dhoni threw him the ball to bowl the final over with Pakistan needing 13 runs to win with one-wicket in hand.Despite his relative inexperience at the international level, Joginder showed immense composure and bravery in that moment. After conceding a six to Pakistan's Misbah-ul-Haq, Joginder delivered the ball that led to Misbah's famous attempted scoop shot, which was caught by Sreesanth at short fine leg. India clinched the inaugural T20 World Cup, and Joginder became an overnight hero.Before the iconic moment, Joginder had a brief ODI stint but a steady domestic career, representing Haryana in first-class cricket. His all-round abilities with both bat and ball made him a useful addition in the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup. However, it was his mental strength that helped him rise to the occasion during the high-pressure moments of the tournament.Post his cricketing career, Joginder joined the Haryana Police and was appointed to the rank of DSP. His contribution to Indian cricket, particularly the unforgettable final over, remains a proud chapter in India's sporting history. Incidentally, India won the inaugural T20 World Cup title 17 years ago on this day in 2007.Joginder Sharma's journey from a promising cricketer to a respected police officer is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and unwavering spirit. His story continues to inspire young athletes and sports enthusiasts across the country.

India's women's cricket team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, has set their sights firmly on winning the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024. The team's unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of excellence have fueled their aspirations to lift the coveted trophy.Kaur, the charismatic captain, has instilled a fearless mindset within the squad, emphasizing the importance of playing with aggression and leaving no stone unturned in their quest for glory. The team's unwavering belief in their abilities has been forged through countless hours of training and a shared desire to bring honor to their nation.Every match leading up to the World Cup is viewed as an opportunity to showcase their exceptional skills and inspire young cricketers worldwide. The team's journey to the final of the 2020 Women's T20 World Cup and their near-miss in the 2023 edition serve as testaments to their potential and resilience.Kaur expressed her excitement about playing in the United Arab Emirates for the first time, anticipating the enthusiastic support of the crowds in Dubai and Sharjah. The squad boasts a formidable blend of experience and youthful exuberance, with seasoned veterans guiding the path for promising young talents.The team's camaraderie and mutual respect create a supportive environment where every player feels valued and empowered. Kaur acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the support staff in fostering a positive and nurturing atmosphere.Preparations for the World Cup have been meticulous, with the team embarking on a rigorous training regimen immediately after the conclusion of the previous edition. Each player has embraced the importance of fitness, recognizing its profound impact on their performance.While strategies may adapt to the strengths and weaknesses of their opponents, the team's primary focus remains on maximizing their own potential and playing to their strengths. Kaur emphasized the importance of adaptability and the ability to execute their plans effectively.The Indian women's cricket team is poised to make a significant impact on the global stage. Their unwavering determination, fearless approach, and unwavering support for one another make them a formidable force to be reckoned with. As they embark on their journey towards the 2024 World Cup, the team carries the hopes and aspirations of a nation eager to witness their triumph.

Jasprit Bumrah, the Indian pace sensation, has emerged as a formidable force in world cricket, earning accolades as arguably the best fast bowler across formats. His exceptional skills and consistent performances have made him a crucial asset for Team India, playing a pivotal role in their recent triumphs.Bumrah's rise to prominence has been nothing short of remarkable. Since making his Test debut in 2018, he has amassed 164 wickets in just 37 matches, boasting an impressive average of 20.51. His ability to swing the ball both ways, generate pace, and maintain accuracy has made him a nightmare for batsmen worldwide.In the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2024, Bumrah was instrumental in India's success, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. His ability to bowl effective yorkers, slower balls, and variations at crucial junctures proved invaluable.Bumrah's dominance extends to red-ball cricket as well. His performances in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia have been particularly noteworthy. In the 2020-21 series, he claimed 21 wickets in four matches, including a match-winning spell of 6/33 in the final innings of the Gabba Test.Former Australian captain Steve Smith, known for his astute batting skills, has heaped praise on Bumrah, calling him "arguably the best fast bowler across the three formats." Smith's admiration highlights the respect Bumrah has earned among his peers.Bumrah's success has not only elevated his status but has also brought recognition to the role of bowlers in Indian cricket. In a country where batting has traditionally been the focus, Bumrah's achievements have inspired a new generation of aspiring fast bowlers.As India embarks on another Test series against Australia, Bumrah's skills will be crucial to their hopes of retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. His ability to adapt to different conditions and outsmart the opposition's best batsmen will be key to India's success Down Under.

Australia has banned the pre-game activity that nearly sidelined Ashleigh Gardner for the T20 World Cup. The all-rounder has urged her team's batters to step up in the third T20I against New Zealand in Brisbane on Tuesday.Gardner missed the series opener in Mackay after colliding with teammate Georgia Wareham while attempting to catch a "Vortex" ball in a warm-up drill. The incident initially raised concerns about a potential eighth career concussion, but Gardner was cleared and returned with a player-of-the-match performance in the second T20I."It's been nice to get back out there after a weird occasion," Gardner said. "I've had a lot of head knocks in the past; I know when I am concussed and when I'm not."The Vortex ball has been removed from Australia's pre-match routine. Captain Alyssa Healy opted to bat first in the second T20I, but the team's innings faltered, losing their last seven wickets for 28 runs.Despite the batting collapse, Australia's bowlers secured a 29-run victory. Gardner believes there is room for improvement in their final hit-out before the World Cup in Dubai."There's still a lot left in the tank," she said. "Hopefully in this last game if we do bat first we can put a massive total on the board."Gardner highlighted the team's batting depth, with Annabel Sutherland entering at the fall of the sixth wicket. "Sutherland at eight is pretty ridiculous," she said. "We know our bowling unit is good enough to restrict them."

The World Cup was slipping away from India, a second heartbreak in seven months seemed imminent. Axar Patel had started the 15th over of South Africa's run-chase in the T20 World Cup final in Bridgetown with the Proteas needing 54 for victory off 36 deliveries. A savage onslaught from Heinrich Klaasen fetched 24 runs off the left-arm spinner's final over of the competition. South Africa's equation was down to 30 off 30, with six wickets in hand.Axar had had a superb World Cup in all three departments. Why, even in the final, it was his 31-ball 47, when promoted to No. 5, which ensured that India scored at a healthy clip despite Virat Kohli going 35 deliveries without a boundary at one stage. Even with the ball, his first three overs had yielded a more than acceptable 25, well below the required run rate at the start of the South African innings. Yet, if the Gujarat all-rounder felt as if he'd rather the earth opened and swallowed him whole, there was good reason to do so.A downcast Axar received his cap from the umpire, looking dazed, when his captain strode up to him and whispered words of encouragement. Rohit Sharma told Axar he had no reason to feel disappointed because even good deliveries had been sent beyond the fence by Klaasen. He wasn't saying it for effect or to soften the blow; Rohit is that kind of captain – empathetic, understanding, a solid figure of support in times of crises, but also unafraid to crack the whip if he perceives even the slightest slackening of effort.To take time off at a critical stage of the contest, with the game almost slipping away, when he had other things on his mind spoke to Rohit's unique leadership style. Five IPL titles as captain haven't transpired by chance or accident; Rohit is a fabulous man-manager, one of the most significant traits a captain must possess, apart from being an astute tactician and a great reader of the game.Rohit's mind was ticking after the Axar over that could have been the difference between ecstasy and agony. To find the wherewithal at that point to seek out the bowler and lift his spirits was a master-stroke, a typical Rohit gesture which is one of the reasons he is so adored by his teammates. Aware that no purpose would be served by dwelling on the six Axar deliveries that had seemingly altered the course of the final, Rohit chose to look forwards. He must have feared a reprisal of the 50-over World Cup final in Ahmedabad when India's perfect campaign came to a juddering halt against the Australian juggernaut, but he could ill afford to make his apprehensions apparent. Especially when in a spot, the team looks to the leader for inspiration and comfort.By maintaining a confident exterior, no matter the cesspool of emotions that threatened to overwhelm him, Rohit was sending out a clear, voluble message – ‘We are still in it, lads’. He then marshalled his troops with the felicity and situational awareness of a celebrated general, tweaking the field here, making a change there. He brought Jasprit Bumrah on for the 16th over, maybe an over earlier than he would have liked, maybe not, for control. His undisputed spearhead responded by conceding only four.Then, after Hardik Pandya lucked it out by forcing Klaasen to feather a slower, wide ball outside off to Rishabh Pant, Rohit persisted with Bumrah for over No. 18 when normally he keeps him back for No. 19. Bumrah plucked out Marco Jansen's leg pole, conceding only two runs in that over. The balance of power had shifted inexorably during those two Bumrah overs, and India tightened the screws to complete a remarkable seven-win victory when defeat had appeared on the cards 30 minutes previously.After the last ball of the final had been delivered by Hardik, Rohit flung himself to the ground, prone, at cover and slapped the turf vehemently and repeatedly with his right palm. It was an outburst of naked emotion from someone who wears his emotion openly, but seldom loses control. In that one iconic gesture lay relief and delight, redemption and vindication. The T20 World Cup triumph wouldn't quite make up for defeat in the final of the longer white-ball World Cup, but considering the circumstances under which it came, Rohit would take it. Gladly. With feeling.Perhaps, in some quarters, India winning a World Cup under Rohit was taken for granted merely because he had piloted Mumbai Indians to five IPL titles. If only life were that simple. Perhaps Rohit felt the weight of expectations, perhaps he was so gutted by defeat to Australia that he chose to extend his T20I career merely in pursuit of the pot of gold. By steering the team to the T20 crown against all odds, Rohit has stormed into rarefied territory, joining Kapil Dev and Mahendra Singh Dhoni as the only Indian World Cup-winning captains.‘It couldn’t have happened to a nicer guy’ has been the overriding theme over the last three or so months. Nice guys, it seems, can and do finish first. Such has been the luminescence of his batting that Rohit’s leadership skills have often flown under the radar. Maybe in a way, he is an accidental Test captain because two and a half years before he embraced that role, he wasn’t even certain of his place in the Test XI, despite by then having spent six wildly fluctuating years as a Test cricketer.His elevation to the top of the batting order in the five-day game has come with unexpectedly spectacular consequences because, like in the white-ball formats, it’s as an opener that he has found his calling, entirely because of which the captaincy became his once Kohli decided to abdicate the throne. Rohit has overseen the first little period of transition in Indian Test cricket in a little while. It’s under him and head coach Rahul Dravid that Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill positively flourished. He oversaw the debuts of a slew of untested but talented youngsters during the Test series against England, when his tactical skills and inner steel were severely tested with injuries crippling India’s batting, and he ensured those youngsters were presented with the right atmosphere in which to blossom and perform.His overwhelming desire to walk the talk and take it upon himself to be the first executor of the policy of unfettered batting aggression might have led to a decline in the tall edifices he used to erect with unerring regularity in both T20Is and ODIs, but the impact of his boisterous ball-bashing in the PowerPlay overs has had a cascading effect on his colleagues.It’s impossible not to be inspired by the selflessness of the leader when the said leader has a monumental three ODI double-tons and a record-equalling five T20I hundreds, but is now more fixated on a 25-ball 50 than a 60-ball century. Rohit belongs to the school that believes that you shouldn’t demand of others what you don’t do yourself. By leading from the front in espousing the theory of boldness and attack, he is now commanding the loyalty and admiration of his troops. Without saying it in as many words, Rohit’s resounding message is ‘Do as I say, and as I do’, because what he is saying and what he is doing are perfectly in sync with each other.Having realised a long-cherished ambition of helping India break their ICC trophy drought, Rohit has now walked away from the T20I game with little left to achieve. There is unfinished business yet in the other two versions; 2025 will witness the Champions Trophy, which India last won in 2013, as well as the third final of the World Test Championship. India have lost both preceding finals, to New Zealand (2021) and Australia (2023) respectively, a tribute to their consistency that they made both title rounds but a blow to their ego and dream that they couldn’t navigate the final step successfully. Within a few months next year, Rohit will have a grand chance to take India to the unprecedented heights they touched only under Dhoni, an exciting possibility that one is sure Rohit will approach with tempered optimism rather than with the fear of not making it happen.One of the boys Even though he is the undisputed leader – even a cursory glance will confirm that the eyes of all his nine outfielders are firmly trained on him between deliveries because he doesn’t suffer slackers gladly – Rohit has managed to remain one of the boys, sending his teammates into raptures with his pithy, often unprintable one-liners that carry not an iota of vindictiveness or malice. In a tense situation, he is the first with a joke, trying to lighten the mood not because he has to but because it comes naturally to him. He looks after the younger guys under him with the zest of a tigress protecting her cubs, though when it comes to reading the riot act, he has few equals. Rohit is a believer in tough love but is grudge-free and honest in his conversations and decision-making, qualities that separate the great leaders from the good ones. Indian cricket is fortunate that Rohit is the latest in a long line of terrific captains and leaders, but one of a kind when it comes to a lot of things – including tactical astuteness and terrific wit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the performance of the United States men's cricket team during the ICC T20 World Cup held in the United States and West Indies earlier this year. Addressing an Indian diaspora event at the Nassau Coliseum in New York, PM Modi said, "Some days back here, the T20 World Cup took place. The USA team played so well in that competition. That team had so many Indian people who are living here and their contributions were witnessed by the whole world."The USA hosted 16 matches during the T20 WC 2024, which was held from June 1 to June 29. Matches took place in New York's Nassau County Stadium, Texas's Grand Prairie Stadium, and Florida's Central Broward Park. The USA team performed admirably, finishing second in the Group Stages with two wins and a loss. They defeated Pakistan in a thrilling Super Over and gave India a tough fight while defending a low total of 111 runs.In the Super Eights, the USA lost all three of their matches but gave a strong performance against finalists South Africa, losing by 18 runs while chasing 195. This was the USA's first World Cup appearance in either the 20 or 50-over formats.Several players who represented India at the U19 level had strong performances for the USA in the tournament. Saurabh Netravalkar took six wickets, including those of Indian stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammed Rizwan, and South African captain Aiden Markram. Harmeet Singh, an Indian U19 bowler who played for India in the 2012 U19 WC and domestic cricket for Mumbai, also played for the USA, taking four wickets and scoring 69 runs in four innings.USA captain Monank Patel scored a crucial half-century against Pakistan, helping his team reach 159/3. India won the tournament, ending their 11-year ICC trophy drought.PM Modi's praise for the USA cricket team highlights the growing popularity of cricket in the United States and the contributions of Indian-American players to the sport.

South Africa's women's cricket team concluded their preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup with a convincing eight-wicket victory over Pakistan in the series decider. The Proteas chased down Pakistan's total of 153 with nine balls to spare, marking their joint fifth-highest successful chase in T20Is.Anneke Bosch, who retired four runs short of a half-century, played a crucial role in setting up the victory. Laura Wolvaardt and Annerie Dercksen contributed with 45 and 44 not out, respectively.Pakistan's bowlers struggled to contain South Africa's batters, with only Tuba Hassan proving economical. The Proteas batters effectively used their feet against spin, an area that has been a concern for them in the past.In contrast, Pakistan squandered the opportunity to post a larger total. Muneeba Ali and Gull Feroza provided a solid start, but their partnership was broken in the sixth over. Nida Dar, Pakistan's second-highest run-scorer in T20Is, was dismissed for 12, while Fatima Sana's 27 helped set up a strong finish.However, Chloe Tryon's left-arm spin proved difficult to get away, and Pakistan struggled to add quick runs in the latter stages of their innings. South Africa's attack, without Marizanne Kapp and Ayabonga Khaka, kept Pakistan in check.Fielding remains a concern for both sides, with nine catches dropped across the three matches. South Africa and Pakistan will need to improve their judgement under the high ball ahead of the T20 World Cup in Dubai.

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.