Cricket

South Africa's cricketers are yearning for more bilateral series matches to enhance their competitiveness and momentum as a national team, according to middle-order batter Heinrich Klaasen. Klaasen expressed his frustration with the limited number of matches South Africa plays, stating that it hinders their development and ability to challenge top teams."We don't play five-match series anymore," Klaasen said. "It's disappointing, and it doesn't sit well with the players. We want to play more cricket against these guys and other countries, but we always find a way to just play two or three games."Klaasen's concerns extend beyond the T20 format. He believes that South Africa's Test team is also suffering from a lack of match practice, with the recent two-Test series against Australia being a prime example. "It's ridiculous in my eyes," he said. "We want to play more cricket against these guys."Klaasen's comments highlight the challenges facing South African cricket. The team has not won a bilateral series in two years and has struggled to maintain consistency in all formats. The lack of match practice has contributed to this decline, as players have limited opportunities to develop their skills and build momentum.In contrast, teams like India have been able to maintain a high level of performance due to their extensive match schedule. India has played three five-match T20I series since August last year and has a busy Test schedule in the coming months. This allows their players to gain valuable experience and maintain their form.Klaasen believes that South Africa could benefit from a similar approach. He suggests that the team could split its squads to compete in multiple formats simultaneously, as England and India have done. However, this would require a significant increase in the number of matches played, which may not be feasible given the current financial constraints.Despite the challenges, Klaasen remains optimistic about South Africa's future. He believes that the team has the potential to be competitive if they are given the opportunity to play more matches. "We want to play more cricket against these guys, and against the other countries as well," he said. "We just need to find a way to make it happen."

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, named after Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar and Australian icon Allan Border, has become a defining rivalry in Test cricket. Since its inception in 1996, the series has witnessed epic battles and shaped the careers of countless cricketers.One of the most memorable moments in the series was the 2001 Kolkata Test, where VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid rescued India from the brink of defeat with a record-breaking partnership. Virat Kohli has also etched his name in the annals of the rivalry with his heroic performances on Australian soil.India has emerged victorious in the last two Test series in Australia, and they are now eyeing a historic third consecutive win Down Under. The rivalry between Gavaskar and Border has added an extra layer of intrigue to the series. Despite their close friendship, Gavaskar humorously recalls how Border's dismissal of him still haunts him.Border, who became the second batsman after Gavaskar to reach 10,000 Test runs, has always been a thorn in India's side. In 20 Test matches against India, he claimed four wickets, including Gavaskar's.The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has not only produced thrilling cricket but has also fostered a deep respect between the two cricketing nations. It remains one of the most anticipated and fiercely contested series in the world, promising more unforgettable moments in the years to come.

Imrul Kayes, the veteran Bangladeshi opener, has announced his retirement from Test and first-class cricket. The 34-year-old made the emotional announcement in a video message on his Facebook page, stating that his last red-ball match will be Khulna Division's National Cricket League (NCL) match against Dhaka Division at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka next week.Kayes' Test career spanned 39 matches, with his last appearance coming in the historic day-night Test against India at Eden Gardens in 2019. Batting primarily at the top of the order, he amassed 1797 runs at an average of 24.28, including three centuries and four fifties.However, Kayes' Test career was most notable for his prolific opening partnership with Tamim Iqbal. Together, they formed Bangladesh's most successful opening pair, accumulating 2336 runs in 53 innings. Their average first-wicket partnership of 45.80 is also the best among any Bangladesh opening pair.Kayes and Iqbal shared four century stands, including a memorable 185-run partnership at Lord's in 2010 and a world-record 312 against Pakistan in Khulna in 2015. The latter partnership helped Bangladesh save the Test match after conceding a 296-run first-innings lead, and remains the only 300-plus opening stand in the third or fourth innings of a Test match.Kayes' first-class career has also been impressive, with the left-hander just 70 runs short of the 8000-run mark. He will have the opportunity to reach this milestone in his farewell game in Mirpur, which begins on November 16.Kayes' retirement marks the end of an era for Bangladesh cricket. He was a key member of the team that achieved Test status in 2000 and played a significant role in their subsequent rise in the international arena. His contributions to Bangladesh cricket will be fondly remembered by fans and players alike.

Rohit Sharma's Test Participation Uncertain, Trains Rigorously in MumbaiIndian cricket captain Rohit Sharma's participation in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia remains uncertain. However, the 37-year-old is leaving no stone unturned in his preparations, training diligently in Mumbai while awaiting the birth of his second child.Sharma has been utilizing both Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) facilities and Reliance Corporate Park (RCP) for his training sessions. Sources indicate that he is keen on maximizing his time in India to ensure he is fully prepared for the challenges Down Under.As for his travel to Australia, Sharma will make a decision after the birth of his child. "There is no clarity yet on his departure. It all depends on how things unfold on the personal front," said a source. "He is doing what any father would at this stage, which is to stay with his wife and family. But at the same time, he is ensuring to be well-tuned for the Test series and will be batting at every possible opportunity in Mumbai."The Indian team has already departed for Perth in two batches, with the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul among those who have arrived in Australia. Coach Gautam Gambhir has confirmed that Bumrah will lead the team in Rohit's absence, while Abhimanyu Easwaran and Rahul are the contenders for the opening slot.The high-profile series gets underway in Perth on November 22 and culminates with the Sydney Test on January 3. The second Test in Adelaide will be a Day-Night fixture, and the visitors will play a two-day game in Canberra before that match.

Usman Khawaja has dismissed the notion that Australia's Test batting lineup needs to score quickly at the top of the order, arguing that it's a "myth" that has no basis in reality. Khawaja's comments come as Australia prepares to debut Nathan McSweeney as an opening partner for the first Test against India in Perth.McSweeney, who typically bats at No. 3 for South Australia, will be stepping into unfamiliar territory at the top of the order. However, Khawaja believes that McSweeney's measured approach to batting is well-suited to the role."I don't know where this myth started that you need someone to score really fast to do well," Khawaja said. "You've got five days to do it...I don't know why you need to score fast."Khawaja pointed out that David Warner, who retired from Test cricket last summer, had a strike rate of 70.76 in first-class cricket, while McSweeney's strike rate is 41.92. Despite the difference in strike rates, Khawaja believes that McSweeney can be just as effective as Warner."Opening's as much about scoring runs as it is about being able to absorb," Khawaja said. "Davey was special; he could score runs while absorbing but he didn't do it [score fast] every time. He was consistent; out there and setting a platform, and Nathan does that very well."Khawaja also emphasized that McSweeney shouldn't overthink the transition to opening the batting."There's no guarantees in cricket...but he doesn't have to do anything different," Khawaja said. "Just repeat the process. He's been able to handle the pressure at Shield level. When you look at his demeanor, the way he plays, you do kind of feel over a longer period of time he'll be able to handle the scrutiny, the pressure of Test cricket."In addition to discussing McSweeney's debut, Khawaja also announced plans to link his Usman Khawaja Foundation annually with the Gabba Test. The foundation aims to assist youth from disadvantaged backgrounds through cricket and educational programs.

Star Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has arrived in Perth, Australia, to commence his training sessions ahead of the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy against the hosts. Pant is expected to make his return to action on Australian soil when India takes on Australia in the opening Test at Optus Stadium in Perth, commencing on November 22.Pant boasts an impressive record against Australia, particularly on their home turf. In seven Tests against the Aussies, he has amassed 624 runs in 12 innings at an exceptional average of 62.40 and a strike rate of 72.13. His highest score against Australia is 159, and he has registered one century and two half-centuries.Pant's previous series in Australia in 2020-21 proved to be a turning point in his career. Known for his fearless counter-attacking style, Pant emerged as India's leading Test batter, accumulating 274 runs in five innings at an average of 68.50, including two crucial fifties.Two of Pant's most memorable knocks in that series include a game-changing 97 during a 407-run chase at Sydney in the third Test, which ended in a draw, and an unbeaten 89* that led India to a historic 328-run chase at the Gabba, ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the venue. These innings cemented Pant's reputation as one of India's premier Test players.Pant's arrival in Perth marks the beginning of India's preparations for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The team will be looking to retain the trophy they won in 2020-21, and Pant's presence will be crucial to their chances of success.

Pakistan's Noman Ali has been crowned the ICC Men's Player of the Month for October, a testament to his exceptional performance in the recently concluded Test series against England. Ali's stellar bowling displays played a pivotal role in Pakistan's historic series victory, making him the first Pakistani male player to receive the honor since Babar Azam in August 2022.Ali's impact was undeniable in the two Test matches he featured in during October. In the first Test, he claimed impressive figures of 11/147, helping Pakistan bounce back from an early defeat. His exceptional bowling performance laid the foundation for Pakistan's eventual series triumph.The second Test witnessed Ali's career-best Test figures of 8/46, a game-changing performance that propelled Pakistan to their first Test victory on home ground since 2021. His exceptional bowling display restricted England to a mere 112 runs, setting the stage for Pakistan's dominant nine-wicket victory.Ali's contributions extended beyond his bowling prowess. In the final Test match, he played a crucial innings of 45 runs, helping Pakistan establish a crucial 77-run lead in the first innings. His resilient knock proved invaluable in Pakistan's eventual victory.Ali's outstanding performance has earned him widespread recognition and praise. He expressed his gratitude to his teammates for their contributions to Pakistan's series victory, acknowledging their collective effort in achieving this historic win on home soil."I am delighted to be named the ICC Men's Player of the Month and deeply grateful to all my teammates who helped me put my best performances forward to help Pakistan win a historic home Test series against England," Ali said. "It is always exciting to be a part of such memorable wins for your country."Ali's performance has not only earned him individual accolades but has also contributed significantly to Pakistan's resurgence in Test cricket. His exceptional bowling skills and unwavering determination have made him a vital cog in the team's success, and his contributions will undoubtedly continue to play a crucial role in Pakistan's future endeavors.

Virat Kohli, the former Indian captain and batting mainstay, has been enduring a prolonged slump in form, casting a shadow over Team India's aspirations. In 2024, Kohli has managed only two international half-centuries, with his struggles against spinners becoming increasingly evident.During the recent Test series against Bangladesh and New Zealand, Kohli's troubles against spin intensified. In the two Tests against Bangladesh, he scored 99 runs at an average of 33.00, with a highest of 47. Against New Zealand, his bat failed to make an impact in six innings, except for one where he scored 70. His overall tally against the Kiwis was a meager 93 runs at an average of 15.50.As India prepares for the first Test in Perth on November 22, Kohli will be desperate to rediscover his form. He has played two Tests in Perth previously, scoring 44 and 75 in 2012 and a magnificent 123 in 2018. That century at the Optus Stadium was his 25th in Tests, making him the second-fastest to reach the milestone after Sir Don Bradman.Kohli's 123 in Perth was a display of batting mastery. He arrived at the crease with India in trouble at 8/2, but played a superb innings to guide his team to a respectable total. His celebration, pointing to his bat and motioning that it would do the talking, became an iconic moment.However, India lost that Test by 146 runs, and Kohli's form has continued to be a concern. With India needing to win four Tests in Australia to qualify directly for the World Test Championships final, Kohli's return to form is crucial.Despite speculation that the Australia tour could be Kohli's last in Tests, the 36-year-old remains focused on rediscovering his red-ball prowess. His experience and leadership will be invaluable to India's chances of success Down Under.

India's upcoming Test series against Australia promises to be a fiery affair, with the Optus Stadium pitch in Perth prepared to offer "good bounce and pace." The pitch curator, Isaac McDonald, is aiming to replicate the conditions that proved challenging for Pakistan in December 2022, when the Aussies secured a massive 360-run victory.McDonald is leaving some grass on the pitch to enhance its spiciness, aiming for a similar starting point to last year's match. The Australian pacers, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, are expected to exploit the conditions, having grabbed 12 of the 20 Pakistan wickets in that match.India, however, will enter the Perth Test without any practice match experience, having canceled an intra-squad game. Instead, they will focus on center-wicket training at the nearby WACA stadium, where Australia will also hone their skills.The Perth pitch has a history of producing thrilling contests. In the 2017-18 Ashes series, England's James Anderson and Stuart Broad wreaked havoc on the Australian batsmen, dismissing them for just 103 in the second innings.India will need to be wary of the pace and bounce on offer, especially given their recent struggles against fast bowling. However, they will also be buoyed by the return of Jasprit Bumrah, who is expected to lead the bowling attack.The opening Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins on November 22, and promises to be a captivating battle between two of the world's top cricketing nations.