Cricket

Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting has expressed his unwavering support for Rishabh Pant's inclusion in India's T20 World Cup squad, despite the emergence of other talented wicketkeeper-batters in the ongoing IPL.Ponting, who has witnessed Pant's remarkable recovery from a horrific car accident in December 2022, believes the young star has earned his place on the plane to Australia."Do I believe whether Rishabh should be there in the World Cup squad? Absolutely I do. He deserves to be in that WT20 squad by the end of the IPL," Ponting told PTI.Ponting acknowledged the depth of talent available to Indian selectors, but emphasized that Pant remains his top choice."There are a lot of options, but if I was picking a team, I would have Rishabh Pant in it every day of the week," he said.Ponting's bond with Pant has grown since he became DC coach, and he is thrilled to see the wicketkeeper-batter rediscovering his form."Rishabh's comeback to international cricket is nothing short of remarkable. I spent a lot of time with him during last IPL and a lot of us were actually skeptical that whether he will actually play the game again," Ponting said."But like with all champions, Pant refused to throw in the towel. There was never any doubt in his mind that he will be back playing again."Ponting believes Pant's impact on the team has grown with each game, and he is confident that the wicketkeeper-batter will continue to play a crucial role for India in the T20 World Cup.

Sunil Narine, the enigmatic West Indian spinner, has hinted at a potential return to international cricket for the T20 World Cup in 2024. Narine, who announced his retirement from international cricket in November 2023, has been coaxed by West Indies T20I captain Rovman Powell to reconsider his decision.After hitting a magnificent century for Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Narine hinted at a possible change of heart. "It is what it is, but let's see what the future holds," Narine said when asked about his retirement decision.Powell has been persistent in his efforts to convince Narine to return, revealing that he has been "whispering in his ears" for the past 12 months. "I've asked [Kieron] Pollard, [Dwayne] Bravo, [Nicholas] Pooran. Hopefully, before they select the team, they can crack his code," Powell said.Powell himself played a crucial role in Rajasthan Royals' victory over Kolkata Knight Riders, hitting 26 off 13 balls at a crucial stage of the chase. He praised the team management for their communication and support, even when he was not playing.Powell also revealed that he has been lobbying for a batting promotion, likening his batting position to that of his role in the West Indies team. "I told them, 'hey, I bat at No. 4 or 5 for West Indies and if you think West Indies is a good T20 side, then you can push me up the order," he said.The emotions at the end of the match were described by Powell as a "roller-coaster ride" as Royals pulled off the highest successful chase in IPL history. He admitted that he had not planned to take on Narine but reacted to the situation and backed his strengths.

India's T20 World Cup Squad Selection: Hardik Pandya's Bowling Form Under ScrutinyIn a crucial meeting held in Mumbai, India captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Rahul Dravid, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar discussed the composition of the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The primary focus was on the selection of fast bowling all-rounders, a position that has posed a challenge for the selectors.Hardik Pandya's inclusion in the team was a key topic of discussion. The trio decided that Pandya's regular bowling performance in the ongoing IPL 2024 season will be a determining factor in his selection. Pandya, who is leading the Mumbai Indians this season, has struggled with his bowling form, taking only three wickets in 11 overs and conceding runs at an alarming economy rate of 12 per over.The Indian team management hopes that Pandya can regain his bowling rhythm, as his seam bowling provides balance to the playing XI and his powerful hitting adds depth to the batting lineup.Another player under consideration is Shivam Dube, who has impressed with the bat but has been limited to the role of an Impact Player by his franchise, Chennai Super Kings. The selectors are closely monitoring his performances, as he could be a potential option as a fast bowling all-rounder.The Indian selection committee is expected to meet later this month to finalize the squad for the T20 World Cup. The performance of the hopefuls in the ongoing IPL will play a significant role in their decision-making process.

Dinesh Karthik, the 38-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, has ignited the Indian Premier League (IPL) with his exceptional performances in the ongoing season. His blistering 35-ball 83 against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday night has reignited the debate about his inclusion in Team India for the upcoming T20 World Cup.Karthik's recent form has been nothing short of remarkable. In just seven matches, he has amassed 226 runs at a staggering strike rate of over 205. His two impressive fifties have showcased his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate at will.The clamor for Karthik's inclusion in the World Cup squad has gained momentum on social media. Former India teammate Ambati Rayudu has also voiced his support, praising Karthik's late heroics against Sunrisers. However, former T20 World Cup winner Irfan Pathan has expressed a different view.Pathan believes that Karthik's inclusion is unlikely despite his current form. He argues that it would be unfair to sideline current players like Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, and Jitesh Sharma, who have been part of the regular scheme of things.Karthik faces stiff competition for the T20 World Cup slot. Pant, Samson, KL Rahul, and Sharma are all vying for the wicketkeeper-batter role. The squad announcement is expected later this month, and the selectors will have a tough decision to make.Karthik's experience and recent form make him a strong contender for the World Cup squad. However, the selectors must also consider the long-term prospects of younger players like Pant and Samson. The decision will ultimately depend on the team's strategy and the specific roles they want each player to fulfill.

Mumbai Indians' recent 20-run defeat against Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 has raised concerns about Hardik Pandya's place in India's T20 World Cup squad. Pandya, who has been struggling with both bat and ball, has come under fire from former cricketers and fans alike.Former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad took to social media to express his doubts about Pandya's inclusion in the World Cup team. "I hope and pray that the best 15 T20 players in India are on the plane for the T20 World Cup. We can win the tournament with the talent we have, but it's important to pick the best," Prasad tweeted.Pandya's all-round abilities have made him a mainstay in India's white-ball teams, but his recent form has been a cause for concern. Former New Zealand bowler Simon Doull suggested that Pandya should not be picked for the World Cup squad if he cannot consistently bowl.After the defeat against Chennai Super Kings, Pandya admitted that the target was gettable but Mumbai Indians failed to find a solid partnership in the middle order. "The target was definitely gettable, but they bowled pretty well. Pathirana was the difference. They were smart with their plans and approach," Pandya said.Pandya's struggles have coincided with Mumbai Indians' poor start to the IPL season. The team has lost three of its first four matches and is currently languishing at the bottom of the points table.With the T20 World Cup just months away, the pressure is mounting on Pandya to rediscover his form. If he fails to do so, he could find himself out of the Indian team for the tournament.

Riyan Parag, the young all-rounder from Assam, has emerged as one of the brightest stars of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season. His consistent performances at the crucial No. 4 position have been instrumental in Rajasthan Royals' rise to the top of the table.Parag has amassed 284 runs in 10 innings, averaging an impressive 71 and striking at a blistering 155.19. His ability to accelerate the innings and finish games has made him a valuable asset for the Royals.The 20-year-old's transformation has been remarkable. In previous seasons, he struggled to find his footing in the IPL, but this year, he has shown maturity and composure beyond his years."I have been contributing a lot to the team, and that is what I have been trying to do for the last few years, but it didn't click, this time it has," Parag said at a press conference.Parag's success has sparked speculation about his potential inclusion in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. However, the youngster remains focused on the present and helping the Royals win the IPL."If you had told me this last year that I would be in this position, I would not have believed you," he said. "My main goal is to help Royals win the IPL. We haven't won the IPL for a long time – that is the main goal."Parag's rise has been a testament to his hard work and dedication. He has spent countless hours honing his skills and studying the game. His success is also a reflection of the Royals' faith in him and their willingness to give him the opportunity to shine.As the IPL season progresses, Parag will be one of the players to watch. His performances could not only help the Royals win their second IPL title but also earn him a place in the Indian team for the T20 World Cup.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has extended Mustafizur Rahman's No Objection Certificate (NOC) for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by one day, allowing him to participate in the team's match against Punjab Kings on May 1.Mustafizur's extended NOC means he will be available for CSK's back-to-back matches against Lucknow Super Giants on April 19 and 23, Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 28, and Punjab Kings on May 1. After these matches, he will return to Bangladesh for the home T20I series against Zimbabwe from May 3 to 12, followed by the T20I series against USA in Texas from May 21."We had given Mustafizur a leave to play in the IPL till April 30, but since Chennai has a match on May 1, we have extended his leave by a day upon receiving a request from Chennai and the BCCI," said Shahriar Nafees, BCB's deputy manager of cricket operations.Mustafizur has been in impressive form for CSK, taking ten wickets at an average of 18.30 in five matches, including his maiden four-wicket haul in the competition. This is his best performance in the IPL since the 2021 season when he played for the Rajasthan Royals.The wickets have come at a crucial time for the left-arm quick, who had lost his place in the Bangladesh ODI side after taking just two wickets in the T20I series against Sri Lanka. However, Mustafizur remains Bangladesh's most successful bowler in T20Is and has a confirmed place in the T20 World Cup squad.

Riyan Parag's cricketing journey has been a rollercoaster ride, marked by relentless trolling and criticism. However, the young batsman has emerged from the shadows in IPL 2024, showcasing a renewed vigor that has propelled him to the top of the run-scorers' list.After enduring a barrage of criticism for his meager returns in previous seasons, Parag has silenced his detractors with a remarkable resurgence. He has amassed 284 runs in IPL 2024, second only to Virat Kohli, and has played a pivotal role in Rajasthan Royals' success.Parag's transformation is not merely a matter of improved batting skills. He has also developed a newfound maturity and resilience, learning to cope with the pressures of life beyond the cricket field. "Life on the outside of cricket really affects you," he said. "I had to figure out what mattered to me, whose opinions mattered to me."Under the guidance of Zubin Bharucha at the Royals Academy, Parag has worked tirelessly on his game and fitness. The results have been evident in his performances in domestic tournaments this year. His name is now being mentioned as a potential contender for the Indian team for the T20 World Cup.While Parag remains focused on the present, he acknowledges the possibility of representing India in the near future. "If you told me last year I'd be in this position, I would not believe you," he said. "I'm just really glad to be doing what I am doing, and I just want to continue that."Parag's promotion to the No. 4 batting position by Kumar Sangakkara has been a catalyst for his success. "Playing at No. 4 is something I'm used to doing in domestic cricket," he said. "It's been a mix of both, emotionally and skill-wise."Parag's resurgence is a testament to his determination and resilience. He has overcome adversity and silenced his critics, proving that he is a force to be reckoned with in Indian cricket.

Mumbai Indians' Pollard Defends Hardik Pandya Amidst CriticismMumbai Indians' batting coach and former all-rounder Kieron Pollard has staunchly defended Hardik Pandya following the team's IPL match against Chennai Super Kings. Pandya faced significant scrutiny for his performance, but Pollard rallied behind his teammate, emphasizing the importance of team unity and support."I am sick and fed up looking to pinpoint individuals; cricket is a team game at the end of the day," Pollard stated after the match. He expressed confidence in Pandya's abilities and highlighted his crucial role in the upcoming T20 World Cup for India.Pollard acknowledged Pandya's recent struggles and the public's expectations, but stressed the importance of evolution in a player's career. "As an individual you have to evolve," he remarked. "The older you get, accountability and responsibility kick in."Despite Pandya's recent challenges, Pollard remains optimistic about his future contributions, citing his hard work and commitment to improvement. "What I am seeing is the guy is evolving. We, as individuals, want to see certain things but sometimes the game does not demand certain things," Pollard noted.Looking ahead to the T20 World Cup, Pollard anticipates a shift in public sentiment towards Pandya. "I hope very well deep down within my heart that when he comes out on top, I'll sit back and watch everyone sing his praises," he said.Pollard's defense of Pandya underscores the importance of team unity and support, especially in the face of adversity. It also highlights the need for patience and understanding as players navigate the challenges of their careers.