Cricket

AB de Villiers, the legendary South African cricketer, has expressed his disappointment over the ongoing racial quota controversy surrounding the national team's selection for the upcoming T20 World Cup. De Villiers, who retired from international cricket in 2018, believes that the focus should be on the team's performance rather than racial representation."It's a shame going into a tournament to have the focus on that. I mean it's nothing new, it's just a shame," lamented de Villiers. "Luckily this time around, I've had nothing to do with anything over there. I'm just a spectator."The controversy stems from the presence of only one black player, Kagiso Rabada, in the 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup. This has sparked outrage among some South Africans, who believe that the team does not adequately represent the country's racial diversity.De Villiers, however, believes that the selection panel has made the best decision based on the available players. "I think it's a good team. It's a shame about Lungi... (he) lost a bit of form, had a couple of injuries. Otherwise, he most probably would have been in the squad and there wouldn't have been any controversial stuff back home," he said.The former South African captain also criticized the Impact Player rule in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL), which allows teams to substitute a player who has already taken part in the game. "What I really didn't enjoy about the rule is actually subbing players who have already taken part in the game. That part of the rule doesn't make sense. I feel it needs to be a fair swap," he said.De Villiers also suggested that the number of fielders outside the ring in the powerplay should be increased to four or five. "I still feel T20 cricket needs to be a batters game, that's why the fans come to the parks. They want to see the ball flying all over the park and into the night sky," he said.Despite the controversies, de Villiers believes that South Africa has a strong team that can challenge for the T20 World Cup title. "They've got a lot of experience, they've got a lot of match-winners, and they've got a lot of depth," he said. "So I think they've got a really good chance."

Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has revealed that he had a conversation with Suresh Raina regarding Raina's social media post that took a dig at Afridi. The post was made after Afridi was announced as an ambassador for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024.In the post, a Twitter user wrote, "ICC has named Shahid Afridi as ambassador for ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Hello Suresh Raina." Raina responded by saying, "I'm not an ICC ambassador, but I have the 2011 World Cup at my house. Remember the game at Mohali? Hope it brings back some unforgettable memories for you."Afridi addressed the post on his YouTube channel, stating that he had spoken to Raina about it and that everything was fine between them. "Suresh Raina and I have shared many cricketing moments, and he's a good person," Afridi said. "Sometimes, lighthearted banter happens. After seeing his post on social media, I spoke with him, and he understood the situation like a younger brother. He agreed to delete the tweet. It's all good; these things happen. Great individuals acknowledge and rectify their mistakes."Earlier, Raina had taken a humorous dig at Afridi during the IPL 2024 while answering a question from commentator Aakash Chopra. When asked if he had any plans to reverse his retirement decision, Raina joked, "I am Suresh Raina, not Shahid Afridi."Afridi's appointment as an ambassador for the T20 World Cup 2024 places him alongside other notable ambassadors such as Yuvraj Singh, Chris Gayle, and Usain Bolt. Afridi has been a key figure in Pakistan's T20 World Cup history, playing a pivotal role in their journey to the final in the inaugural tournament in 2007 and their triumph in the 2009 edition.

Former Australian captain Tim Paine has advocated for the inclusion of Nathan Ellis in Australia's first-choice attack for the 2024 T20 World Cup, alongside Mitchell Starc and Adam Zampa. Paine believes Ellis' versatility and impressive performances in the powerplay and death overs make him a valuable asset to the team.Ellis, 29, has played 14 T20Is for Australia, but only one on home soil. Despite his limited opportunities, he has consistently delivered strong performances, including an outstanding international record. Paine believes Ellis' ability to bowl throughout the powerplay and his effective slower balls make him a perfect complement to the other quicks in the squad.While acknowledging the exceptional abilities of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, Paine argues that Ellis' unique skillset and ability to provide variety in the attack will be crucial for Australia's success in the upcoming World Cup. He emphasizes that Ellis' economy rate in the powerplay and his dominance at the death make him a standout performer in these critical phases of the game.Ellis' impressive numbers in T20s since 2020 support Paine's assessment. He boasts the second-best powerplay economy among the selected World Cup squad, behind only Hazlewood. At the death, he is the most effective Australian quick, having bowled significantly more overs in that phase than any of his counterparts.Despite his limited playing time in the recent IPL, Ellis made a positive impact in Australia's warm-up match against Namibia, taking 1 for 17 from his four overs. With Starc and Cummins expected to join the squad later, there is a possibility that Australia will experiment with different bowling combinations during the group stage. However, Paine's strong endorsement of Ellis suggests that he is a serious contender for a starting role in the team's first-choice attack.

Pakistan's all-rounder Shadab Khan's recent form has raised concerns ahead of the T20 World Cup. In his last two T20I outings, Shadab has conceded 109 runs at an economy rate of over 12 without taking a wicket. With only one official game remaining before their tournament opener against the USA on June 6, Pakistan's preparations have been hampered by weather disruptions.On Tuesday, Shadab faced an awkward encounter with a female fan in Cardiff. In a viral video, the fan questioned Shadab's recent performances, urging him to improve his wicket-taking ability and reduce his run concessions.Meanwhile, Pakistan's World Cup preparations suffered another setback due to inclement weather. The third T20I in Cardiff was abandoned without a ball being bowled, following a similar washout in the first match of the series at Headingley. England currently lead the series 1-0, with one match remaining at The Oval on Thursday.The latest abandonment comes just a week before England's T20 World Cup title defense begins against Scotland in Barbados on June 4. Rain in Cardiff started falling an hour before the scheduled start, forcing the umpires to abandon the match due to a saturated outfield and persistent rain.Pakistan, the 2009 T20 World Cup winners, will now travel to London for Thursday's finale at The Oval, hoping for a chance to gain some competitive action before the tournament. The team will face co-hosts the United States in their opening match in Dallas on June 6.

Nepal Protests Erupt Over Sandeep Lamichhane's Denied US Visa for T20 World CupIn Kathmandu, Nepal, protests have erupted following the denial of a visa to prominent leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane, who was set to represent Nepal in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup. The visa denial has sparked outrage among Nepalese youth, who have taken to the streets demanding a visa for Lamichhane and urging authorities to allow his participation in the tournament.Lamichhane's visa denial comes after he was acquitted of a rape case earlier this month by the Patan High Court, overturning the decision of the Kathmandu District Court. Following the court's ruling, the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) lifted Lamichhane's suspension, clearing the cricketer to secure a spot in Nepal's World Cup squad. However, hopes were dashed when he was denied a US visa on May 22.The visa denial has been met with widespread disappointment and anger in Nepal. Demonstrators have gathered outside the Prime Minister's building in Baluwatar and planned further protests outside the US embassy to exert pressure on authorities for the issuance of Lamichhane's visa.Lamichhane, who played a pivotal role in Nepal's qualification for the tournament, expressed his regret over the visa denial on social media. The leg-spinner was Nepal's leading wicket-taker in the T20 World Cup Asia Qualifiers and his absence poses a significant challenge to the team's chances in the tournament.Despite the setback, Nepal's cricket officials remain determined to secure Lamichhane's participation in the T20 World Cup. Chatur Bahadur Chand, president of the Cricket Association of Nepal, revealed efforts to lobby the embassy through the Nepal government in hopes of securing Lamichhane's participation.Nepal's cricket team has already arrived in the US and begun preparations for the tournament, but the absence of Lamichhane is a major concern. The team played a warm-up fixture against Canada on May 27, suffering a defeat, and is scheduled to face hosts USA in a second practice game on May 30 before their campaign opener against the Netherlands on June 4.With the T20 World Cup set to commence next Saturday, co-hosted by the United States and West Indies, Nepal face a race against time to resolve the visa issue and finalize their squad ahead of the tournament. Any alterations to the squad would require approval from the ICC's event technical committee, posing further complications for Nepal's preparations.

Rohit Sharma's Witty Banter with Kuldeep Yadav Highlights Team India's CamaraderieAhead of the upcoming T20 World Cup, Team India captain Rohit Sharma showcased his comedic flair during a promotional shoot. In a lighthearted moment, Rohit presented the ICC ODI Team of the Year cap to teammate Kuldeep Yadav, turning the ceremony into a hilarious exchange.Rohit began by acknowledging Kuldeep's contributions to the team, saying, "It's my great pleasure to present this wonderful cap to a wonderful athlete who has been a real asset for Team India."Kuldeep responded with a simple, "Thank you, Rohit bhai."Not letting him off the hook, Rohit encouraged Kuldeep to say more. "You want to say something?" he asked."No, no, all good," the spinner replied."You should say something," Rohit insisted.Feeling the pressure from his captain, Kuldeep hesitantly added, "I mean, nothing much to say. I had a great season last year, both with the bat and ball."Feigning shock, Rohit responded, "Bat? When?"A confused Kuldeep stuttered, "I mean. I mean.""I mean uh, when?" Rohit pressed further, much to the amusement of everyone present."Test series," Kuldeep sheepishly admitted."This is ODI," Rohit clarified, with a smile.Attempting to explain, Kuldeep said, "But I performed with the bat as well, so last year I was really good with the ball during the World Cup as well."Rohit then said mockingly, "I am captain of this team. I have never seen him bat. So, I don't know what he is talking about," leaving Kuldeep grinning and the audience in stitches."Thank you, Rohit bhai," Kuldeep concluded.The promotional shoot perfectly captured the camaraderie and humor within the Indian cricket team. The T20 World Cup is set to begin on June 2 in the USA and West Indies. India will kick off their campaign against Ireland on June 5.

Group C Preview: West Indies, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Uganda, Papua New GuineaThe 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup is set to commence in the West Indies and USA on June 2, and Group C promises to be a thrilling contest. Let's take a closer look at the teams involved:West Indies:The co-host enters the tournament in excellent form, having won four of its last five T20I series. With a star-studded lineup featuring Andre Russell, Johnson Charles, Nicholas Pooran, Rovman Powell, and Shimron Hetmyer, the West Indies are a formidable force. However, they will miss the services of experienced all-rounder Jason Holder due to injury.New Zealand:The Kiwis rely on their experienced core in their quest for a maiden T20 World Cup title. Kane Williamson leads the side for the fourth time, while pacers Tim Southee and Trent Boult make their seventh and fifth tournament appearances respectively. The likes of Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, and Boult are in top form after the IPL 2024 campaign.Afghanistan:Afghanistan's rise from minnow to contender was evident in the 2023 50-over Cricket World Cup. Their T20 style suits them well, with Najibullah Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Gulbadin Naib, and Mohammad Nabi providing explosive batting and a well-rounded spin attack. Several Afghan players gained valuable experience in the IPL 2024.Uganda:Uganda makes its World Cup debut, having overcome Zimbabwe and Kenya in the Africa leg of the qualifiers. An upset win over one of the favorites would be a major boost for cricket in Uganda. Veteran all-rounder Frank Nsubuga, at 43, is the oldest player in the tournament.Papua New Guinea:PNG had a relatively easy path to the main draw, cruising past Vanuatu, Japan, and Philippines. Former Zimbabwe captain Tatenda Taibu is the head coach of PNG. Tony Ura is their most successful batter with 1618 runs in 56 T20Is.Key Players:* Andre Russell (West Indies): The all-rounder has enjoyed a career resurgence and is a crucial part of Kolkata Knight Riders' IPL title-winning team.* Trent Boult (New Zealand): The left-arm pacer's dangerous shape and curl with the new ball can swing the early momentum towards New Zealand.* Naveen-ul-Haq (Afghanistan): The pacer finished as LSG's highest wicket-taker in IPL 2024 with 14 wickets.* Frank Nsubuga (Uganda): The veteran all-rounder brings experience and leadership to the Ugandan team.* Tony Ura (Papua New Guinea): The nation's most successful batter will be crucial for PNG's hopes of making an impact.

Security Heightened for India-Pakistan T20 World Cup Match in New YorkIn response to reported threats, security measures will be significantly enhanced at the Eisenhower Park stadium in New York for the highly anticipated India vs Pakistan match in the 2024 T20 World Cup. The governor's office has issued a statement assuring that the situation is being closely monitored and that there is currently no credible public safety threat.The Eisenhower Park stadium, located approximately 25 miles east of Manhattan, will host eight matches from June 3 to June 12, including the high-profile India-Pakistan contest. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has emphasized that her administration has been collaborating with law enforcement agencies for months to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of these games."I have directed the New York State Police to implement elevated security measures, including an increased law enforcement presence, advanced surveillance, and thorough screening processes," Governor Hochul stated. "Public safety is my top priority, and we are committed to ensuring that the Cricket World Cup is a safe and enjoyable experience for all."While the authorities have not yet found any corroborative evidence to support the reported threat, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has assured that security will be "robust" throughout the tournament, including at the New York venue. An ICC spokesperson emphasized, "The safety and security of everyone at the event is our number one priority. We have a comprehensive and robust security plan in place. We work closely with authorities in our host countries and continually monitor and evaluate the global landscape to ensure appropriate plans are in place to mitigate any risks identified to our event."India will play four matches in New York, including their first against Canada (June 5), the highly anticipated clash with Pakistan, and a meeting with the USA on June 12. They are also scheduled to play a warm-up game against Bangladesh there. The Indian team arrived in the US on Tuesday and has begun training, although Virat Kohli is yet to join the squad after being granted some time off.Earlier this month, the ICC and Cricket West Indies, who will co-host the World Cup along with the US, expressed confidence that they are taking every possible measure to ensure the safety of fans and players.

Riyan Parag, the 22-year-old rising star of Indian cricket, has expressed unwavering confidence in his ability to represent the national team in the future. Coming off a stellar season with Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2024, where he amassed 573 runs at an impressive average of 52.09 and a strike rate of 149.21, Parag believes his time to don the Indian jersey is approaching."At some point, you'll have to take me, right? So that is my belief, I'm going to play for India," Parag asserted. "I don't really care when. [Even] when I was not scoring runs - I said this in an [earlier] interview as well that I am going to play for India."Parag's unwavering belief in his abilities stems from his childhood aspirations and the unwavering support of his father, Parag Das, a former Railways and Assam player. "That is me believing in myself. That is not me being arrogant. That is what my plan was with my dad, when I started playing cricket when I was like 10-years old. We were going to play for India regardless of anything."With India set to tour Zimbabwe for five T20Is after their T20 World Cup campaign, Parag could be among the players to earn a call-up. However, his focus remains on performing consistently and earning his place on merit. "Whether it's the next tour, whether it's a tour in six months, whether it's a tour in one year... I don't really put my thought behind when I should play," Parag said. "That is the selector's job, that is other people's job."Parag's breakthrough season in the IPL came after a string of disappointing campaigns. However, a promotion to the No.4 batting position, where he excels for his state team Assam, provided the familiarity and confidence he needed to flourish. "What you saw this year in the IPL is how I play domestic cricket," Parag explained. "I take the onus up to myself, I take the expectations, I take the burden upon myself to deliver and that is why I play the best."Despite Rajasthan Royals' disappointing finish in the IPL, Parag remains optimistic about the future. "I'm still dealing with it. I got back home and I was super sad," he admitted. "But then the day after the match and before the final, it was tough. It's tough, but then that's how cricket goes. There are world-class sides that are playing the tournament, world-class players that are playing the tournament [and you can't always win]."