Cricket

Australian cricket legend Matthew Hayden has reignited the debate over Virat Kohli's batting position, particularly in the context of the upcoming T20 World Cup. Hayden's comments came in the wake of former India captain Sunil Gavaskar's criticism of Kohli's explosive response to critics questioning his scoring rate in IPL 2024.Kohli played a scintillating performance against Gujarat Titans, where he scored an unbeaten 70 off 44 balls, including a blistering display against spinners. Kohli's response to criticism regarding his scoring intent in the middle overs has sparked intense debate within the cricketing fraternity.In evaluating Kohli's potential role as an opener for India in the T20 World Cup, Hayden emphasized the significant improvement in Kohli's strike rate over the past four IPL seasons. "That strike rate is trending in the right direction, it's trending up," Hayden commented on Star Sports. "So 150 for me is kind of that sweet spot that starts in and everyone having conversation well where you bat? Is it three, is it open? You know those first six overs, it doesn't matter if Kohli is in those first six overs. You know that there's going to be fireworks."Hayden highlighted Kohli's adaptability and aggressive approach regardless of his batting position, particularly in the context of the explosive nature of the first six overs in T20 cricket. He expressed confidence in Kohli's ability to deliver fireworks irrespective of where he bats in the lineup.Reflecting on the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies, Hayden emphasized the favorable batting conditions and Kohli's proficiency in capitalizing on such surfaces. He cited Kohli's outstanding record as an opener in T20Is, including his sensational century in the Asia Cup last year, as evidence of his capability to excel in the role.However, Hayden also acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the conditions in New York, one of the venues for the T20 World Cup, while expressing confidence in Kohli's adaptability and the firepower of India's batting lineup. "They're not so sure about those conditions in New York. I've seen that overlaid venue and it looks magnificent. But certainly through the West Indies, they're going to be benign conditions and Kohli is going to come in and look to strike away knowing that he has a superb batting side that also has a great strike rate," Hayden added.

Mumbai Indians' skipper Rohit Sharma has been struggling for form in the ongoing IPL season, raising concerns ahead of the T20 World Cup next month. Despite being relieved of captaincy duties, Rohit has failed to find his rhythm, averaging a mere 32.60 in 11 matches.His poor run started after a century against Chennai Super Kings on April 14, with scores of 36, 6, 8, 4, and 11 following. In his last match against Kolkata Knight Riders, Rohit did not field due to a back issue and only batted as an 'Impact Player.'Rohit's struggles have coincided with Mumbai Indians' dismal performance. The five-time IPL champions have lost eight of their 11 matches and are languishing at the bottom of the table. Their big guns, including Rohit, have failed to fire consistently.In contrast, Sunrisers Hyderabad, who face Mumbai Indians on Monday, are in a much better position. Led by Pat Cummins, they possess a dangerous batting lineup featuring Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Heinrich Klaasen, and Nitish Kumar Reddy.Head and Sharma have combined for 59 sixes in IPL-2024, the most by any pair in the competition. Their contest with Mumbai Indians' pace ace Jasprit Bumrah is expected to be a highlight of the match.With the T20 World Cup approaching, Rohit Sharma's form is a concern for India. The veteran opener is expected to play a key role in the tournament, but his recent performances have raised doubts about his ability to deliver.

West Indies T20 World Cup Faces Terror Threat, CWI Assures Safety MeasuresThe upcoming T20 World Cup, co-hosted by West Indies and the USA, has been placed under a terror threat from North Pakistan, according to a report by Cricbuzz. The threat, attributed to pro-Islamic State (IS) media sources, incites violence against sporting events and urges supporters to join the battlefield in their countries.Despite the alarming threat, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has reassured stakeholders about the implementation of comprehensive safety measures. CEO Jonny Graves emphasized the organization's close collaboration with authorities in host countries and cities to monitor and mitigate any potential risks."We want to assure all stakeholders that safety and security of everyone at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup is our number one priority," Graves stated. "We have a comprehensive and robust security plan in place."Similar reports have surfaced in Caribbean media outlets. Trinidad Prime Minister Keith Rowley confirmed that security agencies have plans in place to address any threats to matches. Additionally, Barbados regional security officials are monitoring potential threats, and intelligence of a potential threat has been received through pro-Islamic State media group "Nashir Pakistan."The T20 World Cup is scheduled to take place from June 2 to 29, with matches being held in Barbados, Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda, St Vincent, Saint Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago. CWI has emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety of all participants and attendees.

Pakistan's cricket board has announced a hefty incentive for its T20 World Cup squad, promising each player a staggering USD 100,000 if they emerge victorious in the tournament scheduled for June in the Americas. The announcement was made by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi during a meeting with the team before their departure for the away T20 series against Ireland and England.Naqvi emphasized that the prize money was secondary to the ultimate goal of lifting the trophy, expressing his confidence in the team's ability to bring glory to Pakistan. "Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi announced to give 100,000 dollars prize to every player for winning the T20 World Cup," the PCB posted on social media.The PCB chief urged the players to focus solely on their performance and teamwork, assuring them that victory would follow. He also expressed his belief in the unity of the team and the exceptional abilities of fast-bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi. "The country has a lot of expectations from you. You have to fulfill them," Naqvi told the players.During his visit, Naqvi also recognized the achievements of wicketkeeper-batter Mohamad Rizwan and pacer Naseem Shah, presenting them with special shirts for reaching milestones of 3,000 T20 runs and 100 T20 wickets, respectively.The announcement of the prize money has generated excitement among the players and fans alike, raising expectations for Pakistan's performance in the upcoming T20 World Cup. The team will be looking to build on their recent successes, including their victory in the Asia Cup 2022, as they aim to bring home the coveted trophy.

Scotland's Women's Cricket Team has made history by qualifying for their first-ever T20 World Cup after defeating Ireland in the semi-finals of the qualifiers. Captain Kathryn Bryce led the charge for Scotland, showcasing her all-around abilities with a brilliant performance both with the ball and the bat.Bryce's exceptional bowling display set the tone for Scotland's victory. She struck twice in the opening over, dismissing both Irish openers for ducks. Her relentless pace and accuracy continued to trouble the Irish batters, as she completed her four-wicket haul by the seventh over, reducing Ireland to a precarious 25 for 5.Ireland's recovery efforts were led by Leah Paul and Rebecca Stokell, who added 22 runs for the sixth wicket. However, Abtaha Maqsood's dismissal of Stokell halted their momentum. Paul and Arlene Kelly then combined for a 60-run partnership, with Kelly contributing 35 runs and Paul scoring 45 before being dismissed in the final over.In response, Scotland's openers, Megan McColl and Saskia Horley, provided a solid start with a 49-run partnership. McColl was the more aggressive of the two, reaching her half-century in the 15th over. However, she was dismissed shortly after by Kelly.Bryce joined McColl at the crease and formed a crucial partnership worth 49 runs. Bryce's aggressive batting, including three boundaries and a six, kept Scotland's momentum going. The duo steadily chipped away at the target, ensuring Scotland's victory with 22 balls to spare.Bryce's all-round performance was instrumental in Scotland's historic triumph. Her four-wicket haul and unbeaten 35 runs showcased her versatility and leadership qualities. Scotland's qualification for the T20 World Cup is a testament to their hard work, determination, and the exceptional talent of their players.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) pacer Mohammed Siraj played through severe stomach pain in their IPL match against Gujarat Titans (GT) on Saturday, driven by the desire to prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Despite his discomfort, Siraj delivered a crucial performance, taking 2/29 and helping RCB secure a four-wicket victory.Siraj revealed that he experienced intense stomach pain and loose motions before the game, but the thought of the World Cup and the "power of the almighty" motivated him to take the field. He acknowledged that he lacked the energy to bowl at his usual intensity, but he credited divine intervention for his performance.In 10 IPL 2024 matches, Siraj has claimed eight wickets at an average of 44.00, with a best of 2/26. He also discussed his close bond with Virat Kohli, emphasizing how Kohli's guidance and communication help him as a bowler."Virat has known me for eight years now and he always gives handy advice on what to do in a particular situation," Siraj said. "When you have good communication with such a legend of the game then half the difficulty gets reduced straightaway as a bowler."Siraj praised teammate Yash Dayal for his impressive bowling with the new ball, noting that his performance will boost his confidence. Dayal has taken 10 wickets in 10 IPL 2024 matches, with a best of 2/21.In the match, RCB elected to field first and restricted GT to 148 runs, with Siraj, Dayal, and Vijaykumar Vyshak taking two wickets each. RCB then chased down the target with 38 balls to spare, thanks to a 92-run opening partnership between Faf Du Plessis and Virat Kohli.Despite a late fightback from GT's Joshua Little and Noor Ahmed, RCB held on for the victory, with Dinesh Karthik and Swapnil Singh guiding the team home.

Mohammad Amir, the enigmatic Pakistani pacer, is eager to prove his worth at the upcoming T20 World Cup after making a remarkable comeback to the national side. Despite a controversial past, Amir is determined to silence his critics and showcase his talent on the global stage.Amir's career has been marked by both brilliance and adversity. His involvement in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal led to a five-year ban from the International Cricket Council (ICC). However, upon his return in 2016, he played a pivotal role in Pakistan's ICC Champions Trophy triumph in 2017.Despite his past transgressions, Amir insists that he has paid his dues and moved on. "I have done penance for that big mistake," he said. "I have lost nine years of my career, but I accept it as God's will."Amir's return to the national side has been met with mixed reactions. Some former cricketers have questioned his selection, citing his lack of recent domestic cricket experience. However, Amir maintains that his performances in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) justify his inclusion in the T20I squad."Imad and I have played and performed in the PSL besides appearing regularly in other leagues," he said. "So what is wrong with selecting us for the T20 format?"Amir's determination to prove his worth is evident in his recent performances. In the second T20I against New Zealand last month, he took three wickets for 13 runs, demonstrating his ability to swing the ball and deceive batsmen.As Pakistan prepares for the T20 World Cup, Amir is confident that he can make a significant contribution to the team's success. With his experience, skill, and unwavering determination, he is poised to silence his critics and cement his legacy as one of Pakistan's greatest bowlers.

Mohammed Siraj's resurgence has been a pivotal factor in Royal Challengers Bangalore's recent resurgence in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The pacer's impressive form has not only boosted RCB's chances but has also instilled confidence in the Indian team ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.Siraj's transformation was evident in his devastating spell against Gujarat Titans, where he claimed two wickets in the Power Play, dismissing Wriddhiman Saha and Shubman Gill. His figures of 2-0-9-2 were a testament to his newfound control and aggression.RCB assistant coach Adam Griffith attributed Siraj's resurgence to his ability to "swing the ball again." He praised Siraj's leadership qualities and his unwavering determination to take wickets. Griffith also highlighted the importance of Siraj's fitness and rhythm, which have been crucial to his success.Siraj's absence from the Sunrisers Hyderabad game due to a nine-day break may have contributed to his renewed focus and sharpness. Griffith emphasized the importance of rest for players, especially those who rely on rhythm and pace.Since his return from the break, Siraj has been in exceptional form, claiming wickets in each of his four matches. His performances against Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Gujarat Titans have been particularly impressive.Griffith believes Siraj has struck a balance between rest and preparation. He noted that Siraj understands his body well and knows when he needs to push himself or take a break.Siraj's resurgence has had a positive impact on the entire RCB bowling unit. Youngster Yash Dayal has also impressed with his frugal and productive spells upfront. As a result, RCB has recorded three consecutive victories and has the lowest Power Play score in the IPL this season.Griffith attributed the team's success to their collective ability to hit a better line and attack the stumps. He emphasized the importance of challenging batters and forcing them to play aggressive shots.Siraj's impressive form is a welcome boost for the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup. His ability to swing the ball and take wickets in the Power Play will be crucial for India's success in the tournament.

World Cup-winning coach Gary Kirsten has been appointed as the white-ball head coach of the Pakistan men's cricket team for a two-year term. Pakistan will participate in two T20 World Cups (2024 and 2026) and one Champions Trophy during Kirsten's tenure.Upon assuming his role, Kirsten outlined his vision for the team's future, emphasizing the importance of winning major ICC tournaments. "If you can win one of those three ICC Events, that will be an amazing achievement on its own," he said. "My job is to make sure that the team operates at its best, and if the team is operating at its best, we will always have a good chance of winning a trophy."However, former Pakistan player Ahmed Shehzad criticized Kirsten's statements, questioning his understanding of the team's dynamics. "Gary Kirsten is a renowned coach, but he will be fed information by those who will select the team," Shehzad said. "He does not have a base in Lahore nor has he grown up in Pakistan to understand the nature of different players."Shehzad also expressed concern over Kirsten's cautious approach, stating that "he is keeping himself in a safe position" by suggesting that Pakistan may not win the upcoming T20 World Cup but could perform better in the future. "This is not how a winner talks," Shehzad added.Despite Shehzad's criticism, Kirsten remains confident in his ability to guide Pakistan to success. He has a proven track record of success, having coached India to the 2011 World Cup title and South Africa to the top of the ICC Test rankings.Kirsten's appointment is part of a broader restructuring of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which has also seen the appointment of former captain Shahid Afridi as the chief selector. The PCB is hoping that these changes will help Pakistan regain its status as a cricketing powerhouse.