Cricket

Ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has shed light on the leadership qualities of MS Dhoni that led India to victory in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007.Dhoni's ability to involve his team members in decision-making was crucial to India's success. "Before matches against teams like Australia, New Zealand, and England, our core group would get together during the game to strategize for the next few overs," Harbhajan revealed.In the nail-biting final against Pakistan, Dhoni's decision to give the crucial 19th over to Harbhajan proved decisive. Harbhajan conceded only seven runs and took the wicket of Umar Gul, setting the stage for Joginder Sharma to seal the victory in the final over.Harbhajan emphasized the importance of collective leadership and team unity. "When you play together as a united team, you win more competitions. Dhoni was a great listener, taking collective decisions that benefited the team. It was never about individual performances but about playing as 'we'," he said.Harbhajan believes that Rohit Sharma, India's current captain, can emulate Dhoni's success by fostering a similar team environment. "If we play as a united team, thinking about collective success rather than individual achievements, then we can win," he said.The upcoming T20 World Cup in New York on June 9 will provide another opportunity for India and Pakistan to showcase their rivalry. Harbhajan's insights into Dhoni's leadership provide valuable lessons for Rohit Sharma and the Indian team as they prepare for the tournament.

Amidst reports of a rift between Pakistan captain Babar Azam and allrounder Imad Wasim, a video has emerged from the team's training session in Ireland that has fueled speculation. The footage shows Wasim confronting Azam on the sidelines of the net session at the Clontarf Cricket Club in Dublin.The incident has raised concerns about the team's unity ahead of a crucial T20I series against Ireland and England. Wasim has previously denied any disagreement with Azam, who was reappointed as captain after stepping down following Pakistan's disappointing performance at the ODI World Cup last year."We have no issues with Babar. He is the captain of the team and we are all supporting him. Maybe Babar has become captain again because he will lead us to the (T20) World Cup trophy," Wasim was quoted as saying in a report on 'geosuper.tv'.However, the video suggests otherwise. Wasim appears animated and confrontational as he engages in a heated discussion with Azam. The incident has raised questions about the team's leadership and the potential impact on their performance in the upcoming matches.Pakistan will play three T20Is in Ireland, followed by a four-match T20I series in England. After that, the team will travel to the US for the T20 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the West Indies from June 2 to 29.India and Pakistan are clubbed in Group A and will face each other on June 9 in New York. The outcome of the match could have significant implications for both teams' chances of advancing to the knockout stages.The video of the confrontation between Azam and Wasim has cast a shadow over Pakistan's preparations for the T20 World Cup. The team's unity and leadership will be crucial factors in their quest for success in the tournament.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), despite boasting a star-studded lineup, has endured a dismal start to the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. After losing five of their first six matches, RCB languishes at the bottom of the points table, leaving fans deeply disappointed.Former England captain Michael Vaughan has weighed in on RCB's trophyless run and poor performance this season. Appearing on "The Ranveer Show" on YouTube, Vaughan emphasized the importance of team unity and defined roles for success."RCB's failure to win proves that team sport is not just about individuals," Vaughan said. "You can assemble the biggest names, but it doesn't guarantee victory."Vaughan pointed to RCB's acquisition of renowned players like AB de Villiers, Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, and Faf du Plessis. However, he believes that unless each player understands their specific role and the team operates as a cohesive unit, RCB will continue to struggle."They need to rejig their team slightly to allow different players to flourish in different positions," Vaughan suggested. "I don't see RCB doing that."Vaughan further asserted that RCB cannot win the IPL without clearly defining each player's role. "They seem to think that because they have great players, they will win," he said. "But it's not enough. You need a strong team ethic, culture, and a clear understanding of everyone's roles."After their defeat to Mumbai Indians, RCB will face Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday. The team desperately needs a turnaround to salvage their season and avoid another disappointing campaign.