Cricket

Mayank Yadav, the young speedster who set the IPL ablaze in 2024, has made a remarkable debut for India in the recent T20I series against Bangladesh. After a lengthy rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy, Yadav showcased his sharp bowling skills, claiming four wickets in three matches.His standout performance came in the third T20I in Hyderabad, where he became the fourth bowler in T20I history to take a wicket with the first ball of an innings. This elite group includes Indian bowlers Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.Yadav's impressive outings have earned him a spot as a traveling reserve for India's upcoming three-match Test series against New Zealand. This opportunity will allow him to test his abilities in the longer format of the game.While some experts advocate for cautious handling of Yadav, former India cricketer and ex-selector Jatin Paranjape believes otherwise. "We should take it step by step with Mayank Yadav. The talk about wrapping him in cotton wool is exaggerated," said Paranjape.He emphasized the importance of bowling for bowlers' development, stating, "Bowlers need to bowl to improve, they don’t get better by just working out in the gym. The focus should be on making him stronger physiologically."Yadav's limited experience in First Class cricket, with only one match for Delhi, raises questions about his readiness for Test cricket. However, the upcoming series against New Zealand will provide him with a valuable opportunity to test his endurance and adaptability.

Sanju Samson's maiden T20I century, the second-fastest by an Indian, propelled India to a series-clinching victory over Bangladesh in the third and final T20I on Saturday. Samson's blistering knock, which came off just 49 deliveries, showcased his exceptional talent and unwavering determination.Despite the pressure of chasing a challenging target, Samson remained unfazed. He played with a fearless approach, unleashing a barrage of boundaries and sixes. Even when approaching the century mark, he refused to slow down, opting instead to maintain his aggressive intent.In a post-match interview with India's T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav, Samson expressed his joy and gratitude for the milestone. He acknowledged the challenges of reaching the triple-digit figure but emphasized his belief in his abilities."I just kept on doing my work, kept on believing in myself, and happy that you were there with me to celebrate that hundred," Samson said to Suryakumar, who was at the non-striker's end during his historic innings.Yadav praised Samson's performance, calling it "one of the best hundreds I have ever seen." He also inquired about Samson's decision-making process while batting in the 90s.Samson explained that the team's positive atmosphere and the encouragement from Yadav and head coach Rahul Dravid gave him the confidence to continue attacking. He revealed that Yadav had advised him to take it easy when he was on 96, but he chose to remain aggressive."The message is, go be aggressive and humble. These are the two words that our captain and coach keep reminding us. So, I think that suits my nature, my character, so I just kept on going for it," Samson said.Samson's century not only secured India's series victory but also underlined his status as one of the most exciting young talents in world cricket. His ability to combine power with finesse makes him a formidable force in the shortest format of the game.

Former Indian head coach Rahul Dravid made a special appearance at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday, reuniting with captain Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, and Virat Kohli ahead of the first Test against New Zealand. Dravid's presence brought a sense of nostalgia and inspiration to the practice session, as he shared lighter moments with the players and offered his guidance.Dravid, known for his astute cricketing mind and calm demeanor, remains a revered figure in Indian cricket. His presence at the practice session added motivation to Team India as they prepare for the challenging three-match Test series against New Zealand. The series will serve as a crucial test for India before their all-important five-match Test series against Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.The second Test against New Zealand will take place in Pune starting October 24, while the third and final Test will be held in Mumbai from November 1. The series will also mark the first tour for newly-appointed Kiwi Test skipper Tom Latham as a full-time leader against India. Latham, 32, has led the team in nine matches till date, but this will be his first series as a permanent captain.India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has been named Rohit's deputy for the New Zealand series, indicating his potential promotion to a leadership role when the team heads to Australia next month. Young pace sensation Mayank Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna were also named as traveling reserves for the NZ series.The Indian team is determined to put up a strong performance against New Zealand and gain momentum ahead of their highly anticipated series against Australia. Dravid's presence at the practice session served as a reminder of the team's rich cricketing heritage and the importance of unity and preparation.

Washington Sundar Wins India's 'Impact Fielder' Award for T20I Series Against BangladeshRising Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar has been recognized for his exceptional fielding skills, earning the India cricket team's 'Impact Fielder' Award for the recently concluded T20I series against Bangladesh. Sundar's outstanding performance on the field, including three catches and an impressive economy rate of just five runs per over, set him apart from his competitors.India's fielding coach, T Dilip, praised Sundar's remarkable improvement, noting that he appeared as a "different" player in terms of his fielding abilities. Dilip highlighted Sundar's "precision at the boundary line" and his ability to anticipate and cut angles effectively.Sundar's award came after a closely contested competition with Hardik Pandya and Riyan Parag. Pandya was hailed for his high energy levels on the field, while Parag was recognized for his ability to make difficult catches look effortless. However, Sundar's consistent performance and exceptional fielding skills ultimately earned him the top honor.Dilip also commended the collective spirit of the Indian team, emphasizing the importance of intent and energy in their fielding efforts. He praised the team's adaptability and anticipation, which allowed them to overcome challenges posed by different grounds and lighting conditions."When intent meets energy, the eagerness to convert every ball into an opportunity increases," said Dilip. "We were phenomenal in that aspect during this series."Sundar expressed his gratitude for the award, stating that he always strives to give his best on the field. He acknowledged the support of the coaching staff and his teammates, who created a positive and supportive environment.India's victory in the T20I series against Bangladesh marked a dominant 5-0 sweep of the Test and T20I series. The team will now turn their attention to a three-Test home series against New Zealand beginning on October 16, followed by a four-match T20I series in South Africa next month.

Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has begun preparations for the upcoming three-match Test series against New Zealand, starting October 18. Rohit, who recently led India to a 2-0 Test series sweep over Bangladesh, was seen hitting the nets on Friday.In a hilarious interaction, Rohit responded to a question about whether he would start his practice session with a six. "Pagal hogaya hai kya? (Are you mad or what?)" Rohit quipped, leaving fans in splits.The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to announce the Indian squad for the New Zealand series. However, reports suggest that Rohit may miss one of the first two Tests in Australia due to personal reasons.The Border-Gavaskar series between India and Australia will commence on November 22 with the first Test at Perth. The second Test will be a day-night affair at Adelaide Oval from December 6 to 10. The third Test will be held at The Gabba in Brisbane from December 14 to 18.The traditional Boxing Day Test will take place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26 to 30. The series will conclude with the fifth and final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3 to 7.Rohit's participation in the Australia series remains uncertain, with the BCCI yet to issue an official statement on his status.

Hardik Pandya's Resurgence: Aakash Chopra Lauds All-Rounder's Performance in India's T20I Series TriumphFormer Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has hailed Hardik Pandya's remarkable comeback in India's T20I series victory against Bangladesh. Pandya's stellar performances, both with bat and ball, played a pivotal role in India's 3-0 series sweep.In the third and final T20I in Hyderabad, Pandya was instrumental in India's record-breaking 133-run victory. He smashed a blistering 47 off just 18 deliveries, helping India post a mammoth 297/6. His aggressive batting display set the tone for India's dominant performance.Chopra, in his YouTube analysis, praised Pandya's resilience and determination. "Hardik Pandya was the Player of the Series," Chopra said. "He has seen the lows of lows in his personal and professional life, getting booed - everything has happened."Throughout the series, Pandya consistently delivered quick runs, maintaining a strike rate above 200 in most matches. His aggressive batting style, characterized by audacious shots and fearless strokeplay, left a lasting impression on Chopra."His batting in all three matches, he has played few balls but always with a strike rate above 200," Chopra remarked. "I thought he was absolutely sensational."In the series opener in Gwalior, Pandya scored an unbeaten 39 off 16 balls, while in Delhi, he followed up with 32 runs off 19 deliveries. Chopra highlighted Pandya's confidence and flair in his performances."His swag is different. It was like hooliganism," Chopra said. "He hit a six over cover and a no-look one-handed six on the leg side... He is batting differently."Chopra concluded by noting the rare nature of such confident batting, saying, "It was almost like insulting the bowlers, as though they don’t have any status at all."Pandya's resurgence has been a major boost for India's T20I team. His all-round abilities, coupled with his aggressive batting and leadership qualities, make him a valuable asset for the side.

Suryakumar Yadav's appointment as India's T20I captain raised eyebrows, with many expecting Hardik Pandya to take over the mantle. However, the duo has forged a strong bond, with Pandya expressing gratitude for the freedom granted to him by Yadav and coach Gautam Gambhir.After India's 3-0 clean sweep against Bangladesh, Pandya was named player of the series. He credited the team's success to the empowering environment created by the captain and coach. "The kind of freedom the skipper and the coach has given has been fantastic," Pandya said. "That is coming to all the players who are playing."Pandya emphasized the importance of enjoying the game and celebrating each other's successes. "When the dressing room is enjoying, when everyone's enjoying everyone's success, you feel like doing more," he explained.Reflecting on his own performance, Pandya attributed his success to improved fitness and workload management. "Body has been fantastic, God has been kind to help me out," he said.When asked about his favorite shot of the match, Pandya recalled a helicopter chip shot over the cover region. "Over the covers when I just chipped it," he said.The harmonious relationship between Yadav and Pandya has fostered a positive team atmosphere, contributing to India's recent success in the T20I format. Pandya's gratitude for the support and freedom he has received highlights the importance of a collaborative and empowering leadership style.

Sanju Samson's blistering century in the third T20I against Bangladesh on Saturday marked a significant milestone in his career. The Indian wicketkeeper-batsman smashed eight sixes and 11 fours in his whirlwind 111 runs off just 47 balls, becoming the second-fastest Indian to reach a T20I century.Samson's explosive innings propelled India to a mammoth total of 297/6, their highest-ever in T20I cricket and the second-highest overall. The 28-year-old's performance was a testament to his exceptional talent and the confidence he has gained in recent times.Reflecting on his achievement, Samson expressed his desire to continue improving. "I can do much better," he admitted, indicating his unwavering determination to reach even greater heights.Samson's teammates were overjoyed with his performance, and the team leadership has expressed their unwavering support for him. "The leadership tells me they back me no matter what... not just in words but in actions also," he said.Samson's century was a culmination of his hard work and dedication. He has faced setbacks in the past, but he has learned to deal with pressure and adversity. "Playing for your country, that pressure was there, but I wanted to perform and wanted to show," he said.Samson's success is a reminder of the immense talent that exists in Indian cricket. With his exceptional skills and the support of his team, he is poised to become a key player for India in the years to come.

India's T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, has emphasized the importance of fostering a selfless team environment after his side's record-breaking 3-0 sweep of Bangladesh in Hyderabad. This marks the second consecutive series sweep for Suryakumar and coach Gautam Gambhir since taking charge of the team.Sanju Samson epitomized India's fearless and selfless approach with a blistering 92 off 35 balls, including a remarkable sequence of six consecutive sixes in the tenth over. He then reached his century off just 40 balls, the second fastest by an Indian in T20Is. Samson's blitz propelled India to a formidable total of 297 for 6, the second-highest in men's T20Is."We have achieved a lot as a team," Suryakumar said. "We want to be a selfless team, where everyone is willing to sacrifice for the greater good. Sanju's performance is a testament to that."With several Test players rested ahead of the upcoming series against New Zealand, India experimented with their lineup, fielding a team packed with allrounders. Suryakumar utilized seven bowling options in the second and third T20Is, showcasing the team's flexibility."We have to be very flexible when it comes to batting and bowling," Suryakumar said. "Everyone has to contribute, and our batters have shown great adaptability."India's next T20I assignment is a four-match series in South Africa from November 8 to 15, which will overlap with the Test team's preparations for their tour of Australia.