Cricket

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has sparked a debate by advocating for Virat Kohli to open the innings for India in the upcoming T20 World Cup, alongside young star Yashasvi Jaiswal. Hayden believes this left-right combination would provide a significant advantage for Team India.Hayden's reasoning stems from Kohli's exceptional form in the ongoing IPL 2024, where he has amassed 430 runs in just 9 matches at an impressive average of 61.43. He argues that Kohli's presence in the powerplay would maximize his impact on the game."I've got Virat there. I've got to have him in the powerplay. If I'm going to pick him, he has to play in the powerplay. He has to play the majority of those six overs as an opener, because Yashasvi does deserve to be there in my opinion, and it will be a left and right hand combination which will be a huge bonus," Hayden stated.Hayden's suggestion has raised eyebrows, as Rohit Sharma has been India's regular opener in recent times. However, Hayden believes that Kohli's current form and the potential benefits of a left-right combination outweigh Sharma's experience."Who would have even thought that we would be having this conversation about the greatest player in India, maybe ever. So it all comes down to are we interested in selecting a side that we believe is the right balance and is going to win this World Cup," Hayden said.India's T20 World Cup record has been mixed since their triumph in the inaugural tournament in 2007. They have reached the final only once since then, losing to Sri Lanka in 2014. Hayden's suggestion aims to address this inconsistency and give India a better chance of lifting the trophy once again.

With the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 fast approaching, the inclusion of veteran cricketers Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in India's squad has sparked a debate. Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has weighed in on the matter, emphasizing the importance of their experience while also acknowledging the need for a generational shift.Yuvraj believes that Rohit and Kohli have earned the right to retire on their own terms, given their immense contributions to Indian cricket. However, he personally feels that the T20 World Cup could be an opportune moment for them to step away from the shortest format."As you get older, people start talking about your age and forget about your form," Yuvraj said. "These guys have been great players for India and they deserve to go (retire) when they want."Yuvraj suggests that Rohit and Kohli could focus on other formats of the game, such as ODIs and Test matches, while allowing younger players to take the reins in T20 cricket. This would not only reduce the workload on the experienced players but also provide opportunities for the next generation to showcase their talent."I would like to see more younger players in the T20 format because it gets the load off them (experienced players) playing 50-over (ODIs) and Test matches," Yuvraj explained. "After this (T20) World Cup, I would like to see a lot of younger guys come into the team and make the T20 side for the next World Cup."The presence of Kohli and Sharma in the T20 team has drawn mixed reactions. Some believe that their experience and leadership are invaluable, while others argue that it's time for a fresh start. Yuvraj acknowledges the need to balance the experience of veterans with the enthusiasm of youth."India should focus on building a team for the future," Yuvraj said. "That doesn't mean that Rohit and Kohli should be dropped immediately, but it does mean that we need to start thinking about the next generation."As India prepares for the T20 World Cup, the debate over the inclusion of Rohit and Kohli will likely continue. Ultimately, the decision rests with the selectors and the team management, who must weigh the pros and cons of each option.

David Warner, the Australian cricket legend, has hinted at a potential retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) after the upcoming T20 World Cup in June. However, he remains committed to the IPL and Big Bash League (BBL) for the foreseeable future.Warner, who retired from Test cricket in 2023, has been a mainstay in the IPL since its inception in 2008. He has played for several franchises, including the Delhi Capitals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Kolkata Knight Riders.In a recent interview, Warner expressed his belief that he has inspired other players to pursue all three formats of the game. He credits his success in Test cricket to his ability to adapt to different conditions and his aggressive batting style.When asked about the transition between T20s and longer formats, Warner emphasized the importance of mindset. He believes that attacking players should maintain their attacking approach, while defensive players should focus on protecting their wicket.Warner is open to extending his T20 career as a freelancer after June 2024. He plans to prioritize the IPL and BBL, while also considering commentary and playing in domestic competitions to support young players.The IPL holds a special place in Warner's heart. He believes it provides a platform for players to showcase their talent and brings joy to fans. He attributes his success in the IPL to his ability to trust his methods and adapt to different conditions.Warner suggests that the IPL could benefit from allowing five overseas players per team. He also believes that the IPL's talent exposure program has played a significant role in developing young Indian cricketers.Despite his success, Warner remains focused on his team's performance. He emphasizes the importance of creating a positive and supportive environment within the Delhi Capitals franchise.As the cricket ecosystem continues to evolve, Warner believes that the governing body, the ICC, should consider carving out specific windows for different formats of international cricket.

Yuzvendra Chahal, the leg-spinner who has been in exceptional form in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has once again been overlooked for selection in the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup. Despite being the joint-highest wicket-taker this season with 13 scalps and becoming the first bowler to reach 200 wickets in IPL history, Chahal's omission from the team has raised eyebrows.Former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif recently excluded Chahal from his predicted India XI for the World Cup, opting instead for Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel as the three spinners. Kaif's reasoning was that the inclusion of Jadeja, Axar, and Hardik Pandya, who are all spin-bowling all-rounders, would provide additional batting depth to the team.However, many experts believe that Chahal's exceptional form and his ability to take wickets in the middle overs make him a valuable asset for the Indian team. Chahal has been a consistent performer in the IPL for several seasons, and his ability to deceive batters with his variations and control has been a key factor in his success.In the absence of Chahal, India's spin attack will rely heavily on Kuldeep Yadav, who has not been in the best of form lately. Jadeja and Axar are both capable bowlers, but they are primarily all-rounders who may not be able to provide the same level of wicket-taking threat as Chahal.Chahal's non-inclusion in the Indian squad has been a source of disappointment for many fans and cricket pundits. They argue that his experience and proven track record make him a valuable asset for the team, especially in the middle overs, where he can stifle the opposition's scoring rate and create opportunities for wickets.It remains to be seen whether Chahal will be included in the final squad for the T20 World Cup. However, his omission from the predicted XIs of former players suggests that the selectors may have other plans for the spin department.

Yuvraj Singh, the former Indian cricketer and ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 Ambassador, has expressed his admiration for Dinesh Karthik's performance with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season. However, he believes that the experienced wicketkeeper should only be included in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup if he is assured a place in the starting lineup."DK (Karthik) has been batting well, but the thing with DK is the last time (2022) they picked him and the T20 WC was on he didn't get to play," Yuvraj said.Yuvraj emphasized that if Karthik is not going to be a part of the playing XI, there is little point in selecting him for the squad. He pointed out that there are other talented wicketkeepers like Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson, who are both in excellent form and are also younger than Karthik."If DK is not in your XI I don't think there is any point in picking him. There is Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson and both guys are in great form and obviously they are younger. I would like to see DK in the mix, but if he is not going to play then you would rather have someone who is younger and can make the difference," added the former T20 World Cup winner.Dinesh Karthik has been in impressive form in the ongoing IPL 2024 season. Despite batting lower down the order for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, he has scored 262 runs in nine matches. As a result, his significant contributions have sparked discussions about his potential inclusion in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.Yuvraj's comments come as India prepares for the upcoming T20 World Cup, which will be held in the United States from June 9th to July 1st. India is one of the favorites to win the tournament, and Yuvraj believes that Karthik could be a valuable addition to the squad if he is given a clear role."If he is going to be in the XI and he is going to play, then I think he is a great option. But if he is not going to play, then I think you have to look at other options," Yuvraj said.The final decision on whether or not to include Karthik in India's squad for the T20 World Cup will be made by the selectors. However, Yuvraj's comments are likely to be taken into consideration, as he is one of the most experienced and successful cricketers in India's history.

India's T20I captaincy has been a subject of debate, with former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) team director Joy Bhattacharjya expressing concerns about Rohit Sharma's suitability for the role.Bhattacharjya believes that Rohit's current form and the team's performance under his leadership have raised questions about his effectiveness as captain. He argues that Rohit's appointment has hindered the team's progress, forcing them to accommodate him as an opener despite the presence of in-form players like Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill.Bhattacharjya suggests that Jasprit Bumrah would be a more suitable captain, citing his exceptional bowling skills and importance to the team. He also speculates that Rohit's appointment may have been influenced by his desire to end his career on a high note by winning the T20 World Cup, a tournament he won in 2007.Bhattacharjya's comments have sparked a discussion about the future of India's T20I captaincy. With the World Cup approaching, the BCCI will need to carefully consider the team's performance and the suitability of Rohit Sharma as captain.

India's all-rounder Hardik Pandya may not be in top form, but his unique skillset and the lack of a suitable replacement make him a likely candidate for the T20 World Cup 2024 squad.Despite his recent struggles, Pandya remains a valuable asset to the team. His ability to bat aggressively, field exceptionally well, and contribute with his medium-pace bowling makes him a versatile player.While Chennai Super Kings' Shivam Dube has impressed with his batting in the IPL, his limited bowling options may hinder his chances of selection. According to reports, the team's reluctance to use Dube as a bowler could work in Pandya's favor.Pandya's batting prowess, with a strike rate of 132, and his fielding skills are expected to outweigh his current form slump. He has also bowled 17 overs in eight games for Mumbai Indians in the IPL, demonstrating his all-round capabilities.However, Pandya's batting has been below par, with only seven sixes in eight games. His free-flowing style has been missing, and his strike rate of 142 is below his usual standards.Despite Pandya's struggles, Dube's emergence as a finisher has made him a strong contender for a spot in the 15-member squad. While Dube may not be a direct replacement for Pandya as an all-rounder, his batting form cannot be ignored.In terms of bowling options, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav are considered certainties for the squad. The remaining spot is likely to be contested between Avesh Khan, Axar Patel, and Ravi Bishnoi.Avesh has improved his death bowling and has eight wickets in eight matches, while Bishnoi has been economical on flat tracks. Axar, with seven wickets in nine games, is also a strong candidate.Ultimately, the selection committee will have to weigh the pros and cons of each player and make a decision based on their current form and the team's needs.

Axar Patel's remarkable batting performance for Delhi Capitals against Gujarat Titans has reignited the debate over his inclusion in India's T20 World Cup squad ahead of Ravindra Jadeja. Both players are left-arm spinners, exceptional fielders, and capable batsmen. However, Axar's T20 batting prowess appears to surpass Jadeja's, as evidenced by his ability to execute powerful shots and adapt to various batting situations.While Jadeja's heroics in the IPL final last year, where he secured the title for Chennai Super Kings with a six and a four, cannot be overlooked, Axar's recent performances suggest he may be a more suitable choice for the T20 World Cup. In this IPL season, both players have comparable statistics. Axar has amassed 123 runs in nine matches with a strike rate of 132.36, while Jadeja has scored 157 runs with a strike rate of 131.93. However, Axar's superior six-hitting ability, a crucial aspect of T20 cricket, sets him apart. He has struck five maximums compared to Jadeja's two.Axar's taller trajectory and quicker round-arm action may also enhance his effectiveness as a bowler in the West Indies, where wickets tend to offer more grip. While Jadeja excels as a bowler in ODIs and Tests, his T20 bowling can become predictable due to his consistent line and length, making it easier for batters to counter him.In this IPL, Axar has claimed seven wickets in nine matches with an impressive economy rate of 7.06, a remarkable feat considering the flat wickets. He has also bowled 53 dot balls in 186 deliveries, demonstrating his ability to restrict runs. Rishabh Pant has effectively utilized Axar in the powerplay as well.In contrast, Jadeja has managed only four wickets despite bowling in spin-friendly conditions. His economy rate has also been higher at 7.85, and he has bowled fewer dots (43).Their T20I records are also comparable. In 52 games, Axar has scored 361 runs with a strike rate of 144.40 and taken 49 wickets with an economy rate of 7.26. Jadeja has played 66 games, scoring 480 runs with a strike rate of 125.32 and taking 53 wickets with an economy rate of 7.10.However, this IPL has highlighted Jadeja's inability to accelerate the game's pace when batting at No. 4. In contrast, Axar Patel has demonstrated his versatility by starting slowly at No. 3 and then accelerating his innings, showcasing his wide range of strokes against Gujarat Titans.

Maia Bouchier, England's rising star, has set her sights on solidifying her position as the team's top-order batter ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup in Bangladesh. The 25-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough winter tour of New Zealand, where she seized the opportunity to showcase her skills in the absence of senior players.Bouchier's promotion to the opening slot during the Sri Lanka series last summer proved fruitful, as she complemented Nat Sciver-Brunt's century with a career-best 95. However, it was her performance in the T20I series against New Zealand that truly cemented her status. Batting at No.3 in the first three matches, she made significant contributions, including a series-sealing 91 from 56 balls after being promoted to open in the fourth match."I've been waiting for that moment," Bouchier said. "I've really enjoyed my cricket and putting in some performances for England. Going into this summer, I'll do as much as I can to grab every opportunity and keep that spot now."Bouchier's success is the culmination of a settled run in the side, promised to her by head coach Jon Lewis last summer. Despite her impressive form in the Hundred, she had previously been limited to middle-order roles. However, her recent performances have outshone both Tammy Beaumont and Sophia Dunkley, making her a strong contender for a first-choice opening spot at the World Cup."It was all about being patient for that moment," Bouchier said. "I guess I had to do those tough years to get to that point, but playing in those [lower-order] positions meant I had to be able to adapt quickly, so that has only helped me going up to the top of the order."England's summer schedule includes home series against Pakistan and New Zealand, followed by the Hundred. Bouchier is confident that the team has addressed its shortcomings against spin, a notable weakness in recent years."Bangladesh is going to be difficult, and spin is always a talking point, but really it comes down to the game situation and the ball in hand at that moment," Bouchier said. "Everyone has been working on playing to their strengths against spin, whether it's reverse-sweeping or long sweeps to the other side of the pitch."Bouchier also highlighted the importance of the MCC Foundation Hubs tournament, which provides opportunities for young girls to participate in cricket. She believes that the program's growth reflects the increasing interest in women's cricket."It's amazing," she said. "This foundation is there for kids and teenagers in that range, who don't know whether they want to play, but they're really interested in getting involved. It gives them access and brings the community together as well, which is exactly what you want."