Cricket

Shubman Gill, the rising star of Indian cricket, will lead a young and promising Team India against Zimbabwe in the first T20I of the five-match series, commencing on June 6. This series marks a significant transition for the Indian team, as several senior players have been rested, including former T20I captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja.Gill, who has impressed with his consistent performances in recent times, will have the added responsibility of captaining the side. He will be supported by a talented group of youngsters eager to prove their worth on the international stage.The Indian team is expected to field a strong batting lineup, with Gill opening the innings alongside Abhishek Sharma, who is set to make his India debut. Ruturaj Gaikwad, known for his reliability, will bat at number three. Riyan Parag, a hard-hitting middle-order batter, could also make his India debut in this series. Rinku Singh, who narrowly missed out on a spot in India's 2024 T20 World Cup squad, will aim to continue his impressive form as a finisher.Jitesh Sharma, the wicketkeeper-batter, will be looking to make the most of his opportunities after failing to impress in his limited appearances for India. Washington Sundar, an experienced all-rounder, will provide balance to the team with his quality spin bowling and handy batting skills.The bowling attack will be led by Ravi Bishnoi, a leg-spinner who has the ability to trouble even the best batters. Khaleel Ahmed, a left-arm pacer, will be eager to make an impact after a successful IPL 2024 season. Avesh Khan, a right-arm pacer, will also be looking to prove his worth in the face of stiff competition in the Indian team. Mukesh Kumar, known for his pinpoint accuracy and discipline, could get a chance ahead of Harshit Rana and Tushar Deshpande.This series against Zimbabwe provides an excellent opportunity for the young Indian players to showcase their talent and stake their claim for a place in the main team. With a new era dawning for Indian cricket, the performances of these youngsters will be closely watched as they aim to build a strong foundation for the future.

Rahul Dravid, the former Indian cricket team head coach, recently reflected on his tenure with the team, sharing his experiences and insights in a heartfelt video released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).Dravid, who had a stellar playing career but never won a World Cup, guided India to the top of the Test and ODI rankings during his coaching stint. The icing on the cake was the T20 World Cup title victory in 2022."Coaching is not just about coaching cricket," Dravid said. "It's about building connections with people and creating an environment that allows success." He emphasized the importance of fostering a safe and supportive atmosphere where players can thrive without fear of failure.Dravid expressed his admiration for Rohit Sharma, who retired from T20Is after the World Cup triumph. "I've really enjoyed working with Rohit," he said. "To see him grow as a person and a leader has been a real tribute to him."He also praised Virat Kohli, who also retired from T20Is, for his professionalism and commitment. "His desire to improve is simply fascinating for me to watch," Dravid said.Reflecting on his coaching journey, Dravid highlighted the connections he built with the players and staff. "The friendships that I've built will last long after I forget some of the good results and bad results," he said.Dravid's tenure was marked by both successes and setbacks. He acknowledged that not all results were favorable, but emphasized that they are part and parcel of being a coach."I've really enjoyed myself," Dravid said. "I loved connecting with the team and the players. I've got to know them a little more, personally, and it's been quite fantastic."Former India batsman Gautam Gambhir is reportedly set to succeed Dravid as the Indian team coach.

Team India's fielding coach, TK Dilip, has attributed the team's success at the T20 World Cup to their exceptional fielding efforts. He believes that the iconic catch by Suryakumar Yadav to dismiss David Miller in the final was a testament to the team's belief in their abilities.Dilip, who hails from Hyderabad, played a pivotal role in India's fielding prowess. He introduced the fielding medal ceremony after every match, which has become a highly anticipated post-match event. The coach believes that fielding is as important as batting and bowling, and the medal ceremony helps recognize the contributions of fielders.Speaking about the team's mindset, Dilip said, "Everybody believed that we could do magic even in that situation." He emphasized that the team's unwavering belief in their abilities was a key factor in their victory.Dilip also highlighted the importance of adapting to different conditions. He explained that the team had to adjust to various grounds in the US, which presented unique challenges. However, the players' ability to adapt quickly played a crucial role in their success.The fielding coach praised the team's overall fielding performance, citing specific catches that changed the momentum of matches. He mentioned Axar Patel's catch against Australia, Matthew Wade's catch at short third, and Mohammed Siraj's catch at the boundary as examples of the team's exceptional fielding skills.Dilip's contract as India's fielding coach has ended along with that of coach Rahul Dravid and the support staff. He expressed his gratitude for the experience and the opportunity to work with the team. He said, "In my last 2-1/2 years with the team, Virat Kohli, Jadeja and others were still doing what they were doing all these years. Yes, they got better every day. That attitude also rubs on to youngsters."

India's T20 World Cup triumph was a moment to cherish, and the team's unique walk to the podium to receive the trophy added to the occasion's significance. Skipper Rohit Sharma revealed that the distinctive walk was suggested by spin duo Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav.During an interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rohit explained that the boys wanted to make the moment memorable. "It was such a huge moment for all of us. We all have been waiting for this for years. So, the boys told me 'Don't go just like that, do something different...'," Rohit said.Prime Minister Modi jokingly asked if it was Chahal's idea, to which Rohit replied with a laugh, "Chahal and Kuldeep." Interestingly, Rohit's walk up to the podium resembled the way Argentina legend Lionel Messi received the FIFA World Cup 2022 trophy.Meanwhile, BCCI secretary Jay Shah's vision and support played a crucial role in Team India's victory. Shah thanked Prime Minister Modi for his unwavering support, saying, "Prime Minister Sir has stood by #TeamIndia through ups and downs and has always encouraged the team to give its best irrespective of the result."Shah's efforts were instrumental in bringing the team back to India after they were stranded in Barbados due to Hurricane Beryl. The squad, along with support staff and journalists, returned to the country on Thursday morning.Following their meeting with Prime Minister Modi, the team headed to Mumbai for an open-top bus parade and a presentation ceremony at the Wankhede Stadium.

Shubman Gill, India's newly appointed T20I captain, has outlined his plans for the upcoming series against Zimbabwe. Gill confirmed that he will open the batting with Punjab teammate Abhishek Sharma, while Ruturaj Gaikwad will bat at number three.This series marks the beginning of a new era for India in the shortest format, as they prepare for the 2026 T20 World Cup. Gill acknowledged the pressure of filling the void left by Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, but emphasized that each player has their own goals and aspirations.Gill stressed the importance of performing well as a team, regardless of the pressure associated with a new cycle. He expressed excitement about the opportunity for young players to make their debuts and gain international experience.The Indian team will face challenging conditions in Harare, but Gill is confident that they are prepared. He praised Zimbabwe's T20 team, noting their competitive performance in the recent ODI series.Gill believes that his experience as captain of the Gujarat Titans in the IPL will help him navigate the challenges of leading India in an international series. He emphasized the mental aspects of captaincy, such as instilling confidence in players to execute their skills on the field.

Rohit Sharma, the Indian cricket team captain, has jokingly threatened to drop Suryakumar Yadav from the playing XI if he had dropped the crucial catch that dismissed David Miller in the 2024 T20 World Cup final.Yadav's spectacular catch at long-off in the first ball of the final over proved to be a game-changer. With South Africa needing 16 runs in six balls, Miller's dismissal effectively ended their hopes of victory."After Surya caught the ball, he told me that the ball sat in his hand. Thank goodness it did. Otherwise, I would have sat him out," Rohit quipped during a meeting with Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday.Yadav's catch required exceptional athleticism and quick thinking. Miller had swung hard at Hardik Pandya's delivery, and Yadav had to first take the catch, then throw it up, and finally run back from outside the boundary ropes to collect it.India eventually won the final by a narrow margin of seven runs, despite South Africa needing just 30 runs in 30 balls at one point.Chief Minister Shinde announced a prize of Rs 11 crore for Team India, in addition to the Rs 125 crore reward announced by the BCCI.

Team India's triumph at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 is a testament to the unwavering support and vision of BCCI Secretary Jay Shah. Following the team's triumphant return to India, Shah expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his unwavering encouragement.Shah's instrumental role in facilitating the team's return from Barbados, where they were stranded due to Hurricane Beryl, underscores his commitment to the team's well-being. The squad, along with support staff and journalists, arrived in India on Thursday morning, greeted by a wave of euphoria and national pride.Upon their arrival, the team met with Prime Minister Modi, who has consistently supported #TeamIndia through both victories and setbacks. Shah acknowledged the Prime Minister's unwavering belief in the team's abilities, regardless of the outcome."We are glad that the World Cup victory has brought a wave of euphoria across the country and filled every Indian with a sense of pride," Shah wrote on Instagram.Shah's leadership has been instrumental in fostering a positive and supportive environment for the team. His vision for Indian cricket has played a crucial role in the team's success, both on and off the field.The team's return to India was marked by an open-top bus parade in Mumbai and a presentation ceremony at the Wankhede Stadium. The outpouring of support from the Indian public is a testament to the team's hard work and dedication, as well as the transformative power of sport in uniting a nation.

India's historic triumph in the T20 World Cup has ignited a wave of inspiration and motivation among the country's rising stars. Abhishek Sharma, who witnessed the thrilling victory alongside mentor Yuvraj Singh, expressed his awe at the emotions displayed by the former all-rounder."Watching Yuvi paji get emotional after India's win was a profound moment," said Sharma. "It's a dream for all of us to win an ICC trophy, and he has done it multiple times. I will never forget that moment."The young cricketers set to represent India in the upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe have expressed their admiration and determination to emulate their senior counterparts. Shubman Gill, leading the contingent for the first time, hailed the World Cup victory as a "feather in the cap" for the team."It's a special moment for all of them and for me," said Gill. "They have worked very hard for this."Ruturaj Gaikwad expressed his delight at witnessing the legendary trio of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja bid farewell to T20I cricket on a high note. "To have a win of this kind, where we were almost in the jaws of defeat, and then to come back and win is a special moment," said Gaikwad.Riyan Parag, set to make his T20I debut against Zimbabwe, termed India's victory as an inspiration for all budding cricketers in the nation. "It's motivating for all of us, and the young cricketers in India," said Parag.Fresh off an impressive IPL season with Sunrisers Hyderabad, Abhishek Sharma had the privilege of watching the final alongside the legendary Yuvraj Singh. Wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel employed an unconventional approach, reverse-jinxing the outcome to ensure India's victory.The pacers, Mukesh Kumar and Tushar Deshpande, described the win as a "miracle", while Avesh Khan celebrated the momentous occasion with local fans, vowing to maintain the high standards set by the World Cup-winning team. Ravi Bishnoi and Washington Sundar echoed similar sentiments, with Bishnoi expressing his joy through solitary celebrations in his hotel room.

Team India captain Rohit Sharma's triumphant return home after India's T20 World Cup victory was marked by a heartwarming welcome from his childhood friends and family members.Upon arriving at his residence on Thursday, Rohit was greeted with a surprise celebration organized by his loved ones. In a viral video, his friends and family can be seen saluting him, mobbing him, and lifting him on their shoulders. India batter Tilak Varma was also present at the scene, adding to the joyous atmosphere.Rohit's return home was a culmination of a remarkable journey that saw him lead India to their second T20 World Cup title. The team's victory parade in Mumbai was met with an enthusiastic reception from fans, who lined the streets to celebrate the team's triumph.The BCCI also hosted a special felicitation ceremony at the Wankhede Stadium, where the board distributed prize money of Rs 125 crore to the team. The players and support staff members then departed for their respective homes, carrying with them the memories of their historic victory.Rohit's homecoming was particularly poignant as he recalled being a part of the 2007 T20 World Cup win parade in Mumbai as an up-and-coming star. He expressed his happiness at being able to lead the team to victory and bring joy to the people of India."2007 was a different feeling. We started off in the afternoon and this is in the evening. I cannot forget 2007, as it was my first World Cup. This is a little more special because I was leading the team. So it is a very proud moment for me. This is going to be mad. You can make out the excitement and it shows how much it means not just to us but also to the entire nation. It means a lot. So I am very happy that we could achieve something like this for them as well," said Rohit.Rohit's T20I retirement announcement hours after India's victory added a bittersweet note to the celebrations. However, his legacy as a successful captain and a prolific batter will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers.