Cricket

Rishabh Pant's remarkable return to Test cricket has left the cricketing world in awe. After a horrific car crash in December 2022, the wicket-keeper batter has shown immense resilience and determination to bounce back stronger than ever.In the second innings of the series opener against Bangladesh, Pant scored a century, reminding everyone of his exceptional talent. His heroic performance brought tears to the eyes of many, including fans, pundits, and his peers.Pakistan cricket legend Wasim Akram was among those who were deeply moved by Pant's journey. "Look at Pant's performance, the miracle that he has performed by showing he is superhuman by returning from his tragedy," Akram said on Sportskeeda.Akram praised Pant's exemplary shots, particularly his reverse sweep against England pace great James Anderson. However, it was Pant's mental strength that impressed Akram the most."The way he used to play in Test cricket, the way he performed in Australia with the century then," said Akram. "The way he batted against England, playing a reverse sweep against [James] Anderson in Test cricket, even [Pat] Cummins. He's special.""Especially what he has been through in that horrific accident, coming back from that, how mentally strong must that boy be."Akram believes that Pant's story should be told to children for generations to come, as an inspiration to bounce back from difficult situations. "That's a story to be told for generations and generations, in my opinion, to motivate young people of the world. You can come back the way Pant did," said Akram."He came back and averaged 40 in the IPL, 446 runs at a strike rate of 155, he's a miracle kid," Akram concluded.Pant's return to form is a testament to his unwavering spirit and the power of human resilience. His story is an inspiration to all who face adversity, reminding us that anything is possible with determination and support.

India's resounding victory in the first Test against Bangladesh has propelled them to the summit of the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. As they prepare for the second Test in Kanpur, the team's fielding coach, T Dilip, has lauded the exceptional catches taken in the first match.Dilip praised Virat Kohli's unwavering practice ethic, highlighting the intensity and focus he brings to both practice and match situations. He also commended KL Rahul's anticipation and skill in taking a catch in the slips, describing it as a textbook example of following the ball.Yashashvi Jaiswal's remarkable catch was hailed as one of the best ever. Dilip described it as a testament to Jaiswal's agility and hand-eye coordination, as he ran forward and took a low, dipping ball with one hand.Shubman Gill's fielding abilities were also praised. Dilip noted his versatility and composure, particularly in taking a catch from short midwicket. Gill's skills make him a valuable asset in the field, capable of handling various positions with ease.Dilip further highlighted KL Rahul's timing and positioning, particularly in a catch he took at mid-on. Rahul's ability to judge the ball's trajectory and time his jump perfectly adds to his reputation as a reliable fielder.As Team India prepares for the second Test, their fielding skills will undoubtedly play a crucial role. With the guidance of their dedicated fielding coach and the high standards set by seniors like Kohli, India looks to continue their winning streak and further cement their top spot in the WTC standings.

Ravichandran Ashwin's stellar performance in the first Test against Bangladesh at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai has earned him the title of hero. Ashwin's crafty 113 in his only batting opportunity and his impressive bowling figures of 6 for 88 in the final innings played a pivotal role in India's resounding 280-run victory.Ashwin's all-round brilliance has been a cornerstone of India's recent Test successes. In an interview with JioCinema, he revealed his evolved approach to both bowling and batting. "I don't think like, 'I want to go out there and make a hundred.' I genuinely aim to get a five-wicket haul in every Test match," Ashwin said.While his primary focus remains on his bowling, Ashwin has also made significant strides in his batting. "But in recent years, my batting has become simpler than it was in the past. I used to confuse myself, overthinking as a bowler while batting, but now I keep it simple--watch the ball and react," he explained.This shift in mindset has transformed Ashwin into a more reliable lower-order batter. However, he acknowledges the challenges of balancing both aspects of his game. "Compartmentalizing both aspects was a challenge, but I feel like I've cracked it," Ashwin stated confidently.Ashwin's performance in Chennai was a testament to his hard work and dedication. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him an invaluable asset to the Indian team. As India looks to secure the series victory in the second Test, Ashwin will undoubtedly be a key figure in their plans.

Gautam Gambhir's maiden Test coaching stint with the Indian cricket team has commenced, following Rahul Dravid's successful guidance to the 2024 T20 World Cup triumph. As the team embarks on a lengthy Test season, Gambhir faces the challenge of continuing the team's success.Ravichandran Ashwin, a pivotal figure in India's Test aspirations, has shed light on the contrasting coaching styles of Gambhir and Dravid. "Gambhir is very relaxed," Ashwin said. "He's like, 'Are you coming?' Rahul Bhai, on the other hand, is more regimented. He wants everything in order."Ashwin also expressed his appreciation for the enthusiastic crowd support during the first Test against Bangladesh. He hailed the pitch as one of the best he has played on in India, urging curators to create similar surfaces for Tamil Nadu's Ranji Trophy matches."The crowd was passionate," Ashwin said. "The pitch was awesome. I hope Tamil Nadu plays Ranji Trophy on such pitches. It was an outstanding Test match wicket."Ashwin recalled a conversation with former curator Pacha, who predicted the pitch would favor fast bowlers initially before becoming conducive to spin. "But like he said, the first day, there was bounce," Ashwin concluded.As India prepares for upcoming Test series against New Zealand and Australia, Ashwin's insights into the team's coaching dynamics and the importance of pitch quality provide valuable context for the challenges ahead.

Rishabh Pant's scintillating century in India's emphatic victory over Bangladesh in the Chepauk Test has reignited comparisons with legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni. However, former Indian wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik has cautioned against hasty conclusions, emphasizing the need to give Pant time to prove his greatness.Pant's 109 in the second innings propelled India to a mammoth 515-run target, which proved insurmountable for Bangladesh. The visitors were dismissed for 234, handing India a 280-run victory and a 1-0 lead in the two-Test series.Pant's century was his sixth in just 58 Test innings, equaling Dhoni's record for most Test tons by an Indian wicketkeeper-batter. However, Karthik believes it's premature to declare Pant as India's greatest ever in the longest format."It's very unacceptable to say that he's (Pant) played 34 Tests and he's already India's greatest wicket-keeper batter," Karthik said on Cricbuzz. "Let's take time, let's not jump to conclusions."Karthik acknowledged Pant's potential but stressed the need to consider Dhoni's all-round contributions. "Don't discount Dhoni's credentials as a wicketkeeper as well," he said. "He not only kept brilliantly, batted and scored runs when it mattered very very well for India but also he led India to a World Test Championship mace which is becoming number 1."Pant's free-flowing innings against Bangladesh showcased his attacking prowess and ability to dominate the opposition. His century came at a crucial juncture, helping India set an imposing target and secure a comfortable victory.The second and final Test of the series will commence on September 27 in Kanpur, where Pant will have another opportunity to cement his status as one of India's most promising wicketkeeper-batters.

Ravindra Jadeja's impending entry into the elite club of cricketers with 300 wickets and 3000 runs in Test cricket is a testament to his exceptional all-round abilities. Only ten players in history have achieved this milestone, including Kapil Dev and Ravichandran Ashwin.Jadeja's low-key approach sets him apart from other all-rounders. Unlike Ashwin, who is known for his vocal presence, Jadeja operates quietly, relying on his fighting instincts and competitive spirit. His contributions often go unnoticed, overshadowed by the brilliance of his teammates.In the first Test against Bangladesh, Jadeja's partnership with Ashwin was crucial in India's victory. Their 199-run stand for the seventh wicket rescued India from a precarious position. While Ashwin's century grabbed the headlines, Jadeja's 86 and five wickets were equally significant.Ashwin himself acknowledges Jadeja's importance, stating that he has been "a very inspirational story" and that he is "totally inspired by what he's done." Since 2012, Jadeja and Ashwin have formed a formidable partnership in home Tests, winning 34 out of 45 matches.Jadeja's selfless nature and lack of self-promotion further distinguish him. He rarely gives interviews or seeks recognition, preferring to focus on contributing to the team. After the Chepauk Test, while others celebrated, Jadeja stood quietly, contemplating strategies for the next match.Jadeja's achievements are a testament to his unwavering determination and ability to perform under pressure. His partnership with Ashwin has been a key factor in India's success in home Tests. Despite his low-profile approach, Jadeja's contributions are undeniable, making him one of the most valuable all-rounders in the game today.

Bangladesh's dream run in Test cricket came to an abrupt end as they suffered a crushing 280-run defeat against India in the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The Najmul Hossain Shanto-led side, which had recently swept Pakistan 2-0, was outplayed in all departments by a dominant Indian team.India's bowlers wreaked havoc on the Bangladesh batting lineup, with Jasprit Bumrah claiming five wickets, Ravichandran Ashwin taking six, Ravindra Jadeja picking up five, Mohammed Siraj grabbing two, and Akash Deep chipping in with two. The hosts' spinners, Ashwin and Jadeja, exploited the turning pitch to their advantage, while the pacers provided excellent support.Former Pakistan player Basit Ali praised the pitch curators for preparing a surface that offered a fair contest between bat and ball. He criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for its poor track record in preparing Test match pitches."The bowlers ticked all the boxes. India played two spinners, keeping in mind that the ball will spin and it happened. So the credit goes to the pitch curators, who know how to make a Test match surface," Ali said on his YouTube channel."In our nation, they say there is no value of pitch. They are illiterate people. The one who have played cricket with pride are there on the Board (PCB). This is what I get angry. What are you teaching to kids?" he added.Ali emphasized the importance of understanding the pitch conditions, highlighting the examples of legendary batsmen Sunil Gavaskar and Javed Miandad."50 per cent of the issue is solved if you read the pitch well, ask Sunil Gavaskar and Javed Miandad. But they don't understand," he said.The second and final Test between India and Bangladesh will commence on September 27.

Akash Deep, the rising star of Indian cricket, recently received a heartwarming gesture from none other than Virat Kohli. During the opening Test against Bangladesh, Kohli surprised Deep with a brand-new bat, leaving the young pacer overwhelmed with gratitude.Deep, who made his Test debut against England earlier this year, has impressed with his performances so far. In his second Test, he picked up two wickets against Bangladesh, showcasing his potential as a reliable fast bowler.In an exclusive interview with TimesofIndia.com, Deep shared his experience of receiving the bat from Kohli. "I was in my hotel room when I heard a knock on the door. To my surprise, it was Virat Kohli standing outside," Deep recalled. "He walked in, carrying a brand-new bat and asked, 'Do you need a bat?'"Overwhelmed by the unexpected gesture, Deep eagerly nodded. "I immediately took out a pen, requested an autograph on the bat, and gave Virat a hug," he said. "I will never play with that bat. It's a huge gift from Virat bhaiya, and I will keep it as a souvenir."Deep also spoke about his rapport with captain Rohit Sharma, who he described as a "different kind of captain." "He is the best captain I have played under," Deep said. "He is just a cool and calm person. He keeps things so simple and easy for every player."Deep's impressive performances have earned him a place in the squad as a replacement for the experienced Mohammed Shami. "Responsibility—that's what I feel in the absence of a veteran bowler," Deep said. "Fulfilling that role and performing is a big challenge, and I feel that responsibility."The young pacer has also had the opportunity to share nets with Jasprit Bumrah, one of the world's leading fast bowlers. "I regularly talk to him and observe his bowling," Deep said. "I take a lot of tips from him and have learned a lot."Deep's focus on reading batsmen and adapting to different conditions has been key to his success. "Every batsman plays in a different zone," he said. "As bowlers, we need to keep track of that, analyze it, and bowl accordingly."With his impressive performances and the support of senior players like Kohli and Sharma, Akash Deep is poised to become a vital part of India's bowling attack in the years to come.

Sachin Tendulkar, the legendary Indian cricketer, was renowned for his exceptional batting prowess. However, his bowling skills often went unnoticed, despite his significant contributions as a part-time bowler. Tendulkar's versatility extended to his bowling, as he could bowl medium pace, off-spin, and leg-spin, making him a valuable asset to the Indian team.In Test cricket, Tendulkar claimed 46 wickets in 200 matches. While his primary role was as a batsman, he often played a crucial role in breaking partnerships or providing relief to the main bowlers. His best bowling figures in Tests were 3/10, showcasing his ability to strike at crucial moments.One memorable instance of Tendulkar's bowling prowess occurred during India's tour of Pakistan in 2004. In the first Test in Multan, Tendulkar played a pivotal role in dismissing Pakistan's Moin Khan. Before the game, Tendulkar had playfully challenged Khan, saying, "I will take your wicket for sure."With Pakistan struggling at 5 wickets down in their first innings, Tendulkar was bowling the last over of Day 3. He deliberately moved fielders back to allow Abdul Razzaq to take a single, bringing Khan to the crease. Khan, visibly nervous, was clean bowled by a brilliant googly from Tendulkar, sending the ball between his legs and into the stumps.Tendulkar's dismissal of Khan was a testament to his bowling skills and his ability to execute under pressure. It also highlighted his knack for breaking partnerships, earning him the title of "golden arm." Captains often turned to Tendulkar when they needed a breakthrough, and he rarely disappointed.While Tendulkar may not have been a frontline bowler, his contributions to India's bowling strategy were significant. His ability to provide crucial wickets and handy overs made him a valuable asset to the team. Tendulkar's versatility and all-round abilities made him one of the greatest cricketers of all time, not only as a batsman but also as a bowler.