Cricket

The debate over the greatest batsman of this generation has reignited following Joe Root's record-breaking 34th Test century at Lord's. Among the "Fab Four" of Root, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith, and Virat Kohli, Root now holds the most Test centuries with 34.In a recent podcast, former cricketers Adam Gilchrist and Michael Vaughan weighed in on the debate. For T20 cricket, both Gilchrist and Vaughan unanimously chose Kohli over Root. In ODIs, Vaughan again favored Kohli, with Gilchrist concurring.However, when it came to Test cricket, Vaughan opted for Root, acknowledging his recent dominance. Gilchrist agreed, stating that Root's statistics over the long term are exceptional, making him the greatest England batsman ever.However, when asked to choose between Kohli and Root against Australia, Gilchrist hesitated, emphasizing the importance of the playing conditions. In Australia, he noted that Root has yet to score a century, while Kohli has produced some of his finest performances, including a memorable century at the Perth Stadium.Vaughan conceded that Kohli would be his choice in Australia, but elsewhere, he would favor Root. He highlighted Root's impressive record in India, where he has scored over 1200 runs in 15 Tests with three centuries.Kohli's aggressive and technically sound batting makes him a formidable force in all formats. His cover drives, flicks, and ability to chase down targets with precision are among his strengths. His adaptability and consistency make him one of the most reliable batsmen in the world.Root, on the other hand, is known for his classical batting technique and consistency, particularly in Test cricket. He is adept at handling both pace and spin, with an elegant playing style that includes effective use of the back foot and a wide range of shots. Root's ability to grind out runs in challenging conditions is also noteworthy.While both players are exceptional, Kohli is often regarded as more dominant in limited-overs cricket, while Root's strengths lie in the longer format. The debate over who is the greatest batsman of this generation is likely to continue, but both Kohli and Root have cemented their status as two of the finest players of their era.

Virat Kohli, the former Indian cricket team captain, is renowned for his jovial nature and penchant for pranks. It was Kohli who bestowed the nickname "lala" upon fast bowler Mohammed Shami. Shami, who recently turned 34, is currently undergoing rehabilitation following ankle surgery and is nearing a return to international cricket.On Shami's birthday, Star Sports released a video clip featuring the Uttar Pradesh-born pacer answering questions in a rapid-fire round. When asked about the origin of his nickname, Shami revealed, "Virat started it because almost everybody in the team had a nickname, only I was left."Shami's jersey number, 11, holds special significance for him. "There are a lot of things that when calculated are 11 in my life," he explained.Regarding his favorite fast bowlers, Shami named Waqar Younis and Dale Steyn. "There are a lot of them," he said, "but if you are asking for names, then I like Waqar Younis and Dale Steyn more."When asked about batsmen he enjoys bowling to, Shami singled out Joe Root. "If you talk about now, then for me it is Joe Root because he plays all around the wicket," he said.Shami's most memorable career moment came when he joined the ODI team. "There was a tradition then to stand on a chair or a stool and give a speech," he recalled. "When I stood up and started seeing the faces, then I was left speechless. When I stepped into a meeting that had the top batsmen and the top bowlers, I just couldn't comprehend (what to say). But even today I haven't forgotten that meeting."

Virat Kohli's Infectious Energy Lights Up Team Huddle in Viral VideoIndian cricket superstar Virat Kohli has once again captured the hearts of fans with a playful moment caught on camera. In a recently surfaced video, Kohli is seen rushing down the stairs and breaking into an impromptu dance to the beat of drumrolls, much to the delight of his teammates and fans.The video, which quickly went viral on social media, showcases Kohli's infectious energy and charisma. It serves as a reminder of why he remains one of the most beloved figures in Indian cricket, not just for his batting prowess but also for his vibrant personality.Kohli's recent performance in the ODI series against Sri Lanka may not have been as stellar as his fans are accustomed to, but his leadership and presence on the field remain invaluable. Despite the team's setback, Kohli is expected to return for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, where he will undoubtedly be a key figure in India's quest for victory.Kohli's recent dance video is a testament to his positive attitude and unwavering spirit. It is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, he remains a source of inspiration and joy for his teammates and fans alike.

Virat Kohli's journey to cricketing greatness has been marked by an unwavering determination and an insatiable hunger for success. Harbhajan Singh, a former teammate and close friend, recently shared insights into Kohli's early career, highlighting the qualities that have shaped him into one of India's most celebrated cricketers.During Kohli's debut ODI series in 2008, Harbhajan witnessed firsthand the young batsman's relentless drive. Despite scoring a half-century, Kohli expressed dissatisfaction, revealing his desire to push himself further. This attitude hinted at the exceptional heights he would eventually reach.Kohli's early Test struggles in 2011 against the West Indies tested his self-belief. Harbhajan recalled a conversation where he encouraged Kohli to believe in his abilities, predicting that he would score 10,000 Test runs. These words proved prophetic, as Kohli transformed into a batting phenomenon over the next 13 years.Harbhajan attributed Kohli's success to his unwavering mindset and meticulous preparation. He observed a shift in Kohli's diet and training regimen, reflecting his determination to become an extraordinary player. Kohli's stubbornness and unwavering belief in his abilities have been instrumental in his rise to the top.Kohli's impact on Indian cricket has been profound. He has elevated his batting to unprecedented levels, breaking numerous records and becoming the face of the sport in India. His aggressive approach and relentless pursuit of victory have inspired a generation of cricketers.Currently, Kohli stands on the cusp of surpassing 10,000 Test runs, a milestone that would further cement his legacy as one of India's all-time greats. His journey from a young batsman to a cricketing legend serves as a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and an unwavering belief in oneself.

Priyansh Arya, the rising star of Indian cricket, has set the Delhi Premier League (DPL) ablaze with his extraordinary batting prowess. The 22-year-old has emerged as the tournament's leading run-scorer, amassing a staggering 602 runs in just nine innings. His remarkable performances have not only earned him accolades but also fueled his dream of playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).Arya, who idolizes Virat Kohli, has been a consistent force throughout the DPL. His impressive statistics include an average of 75.25 and an astonishing strike rate of 198.0, along with two centuries to his name. His ability to clear the boundary with ease has made him a formidable opponent for bowlers.In a recent interview, Arya expressed his admiration for Kohli and his desire to play for RCB. "Virat Kohli is my favorite player," he said. "I want to play for RCB because I admire his aggression and his ability to lead the team. I also like to play aggressive cricket, so I think I would fit in well with RCB."Arya's most memorable performance in the DPL came when he smashed six consecutive sixes in an over against a left-arm spinner. The feat, which is rarely seen in cricket, showcased his exceptional power and timing. "I had this thing in mind that if a left-arm spinner comes on to bowl, I will attack him," he said. "After the fourth six, I started to believe that I can hit six sixes and will go for that."Despite his impressive performances, Arya remains focused on winning the DPL trophy and becoming the highest run-scorer in a single edition of state T20 leagues in India. He praised the leadership of captain Ayush Badoni and the supportive team environment. "Badoni's quite relaxed and doesn't talk much, just tells us to express ourselves," he said. "The team's environment is calm, coaches talk about the positives rather than negatives. The mindset is to win the trophy."As the DPL reaches its business end, Arya is determined to continue his impressive form and help his team achieve their goals. His performances have undoubtedly caught the attention of IPL scouts, and it is only a matter of time before he makes his mark on the biggest stage of cricket.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Virat Kohli, two legendary figures in Indian cricket, have forged an unbreakable bond that has left an indelible mark on the sport. Their contrasting personalities and leadership styles have complemented each other perfectly, contributing significantly to India's cricketing success.Dhoni, the enigmatic wicketkeeper-batsman, is known for his calm demeanor and astute decision-making. Kohli, on the other hand, is a fiery and passionate leader, renowned for his aggressive batting and unwavering determination. Despite their differences, they share a deep respect and admiration for each other.Their friendship extends beyond the cricket field, evident in their numerous interviews and social media interactions. Dhoni has often praised Kohli's batting prowess, while Kohli has expressed his gratitude for Dhoni's guidance and support.One memorable video that encapsulates their bond shows Dhoni answering questions from an audience. When asked about his relationship with Kohli, Dhoni responded, "We have been playing since 2008-09. There's still an age gap, so I don't know whether I would say like I am an older brother or colleagues or whatever name you give it. But at the end of the day we have been colleagues, you know, who played for India for a very long time. He (Virat Kohli) has been amongst the best when it comes to world cricket."Kohli has reciprocated Dhoni's admiration, acknowledging his calmness under pressure and his ability to handle the responsibilities of captaincy. He has credited Dhoni's support as crucial during his transition to the captaincy role.The transition from Dhoni to Kohli as captain was seamless, thanks to their mutual understanding and respect. Dhoni's decision to step down as captain in 2017 paved the way for Kohli to take over the reins, having already assumed the Test captaincy in 2014.Kohli has often mentioned that Dhoni continued to guide him even after stepping down as captain, especially during challenging times. He has referred to Dhoni as a mentor and someone he could always rely on for advice.On the field, Kohli and Dhoni have shared many memorable partnerships, both as captain and player and as teammates. Their understanding in the middle was often crucial in tight situations, especially in chasing targets. Dhoni's experience combined with Kohli's aggressive approach often made them a formidable pair in the limited-overs format.Kohli has mentioned in interviews that Dhoni will always have a special place in his heart because of the way he supported him throughout his career and that Dhoni will always remain his captain. Dhoni's influence on Kohli's career is undeniable. Kohli has often credited Dhoni for shaping his career and helping him develop as a leader.Their bond has been an example of how different generations of cricketers can work together for the greater good of the team. Even after Dhoni's retirement from international cricket, their friendship continues to be strong, with Kohli often speaking highly of Dhoni and the lessons he learned from him.Their friendship is a testament to the strong bond that can exist between teammates, transcending the boundaries of cricket and becoming a relationship of mutual respect, mentorship, and enduring camaraderie.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma: A Pakistani Invitation for a Farewell TourVirat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, two of the most celebrated batters in modern cricket, have a massive fan following worldwide. However, Pakistan remains the only country where they have never played an international match. The political tensions between India and Pakistan have prevented bilateral cricket series since 2012-13.Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has extended an invitation to Kohli and Sharma to visit Pakistan before they retire. Akmal believes that the love and appreciation they would receive in Pakistan would be unparalleled."Virat and Rohit should visit Pakistan before they retire," Akmal told Times of India. "These two are stars of world cricket, traveling across the globe to play the game. Every single fan loves them. They have a massive fan base due to their batting and match-winning performances. The fan following they will experience in Pakistan will surpass anything they've seen elsewhere."Kohli toured Pakistan in his U-19 days, but he was not as well-known then. Akmal believes that Kohli's popularity in Pakistan would be immense."Virat is a role model for many around the world, Rohit is the World Cup-winning captain, and Bumrah is currently the best pacer in the world," Akmal added. "When players like Virat, Rohit, and Bumrah visit Pakistan, it will evoke unique feelings in every fan."Akmal also claimed that Pakistani fans love Indian players more than their own players."If Virat visits Pakistan now, he will truly see his popularity here," Akmal said. "He will receive a different kind of support in Pakistan. No cricketer is more popular than Virat in Pakistan; he has a bigger fan-following than any other cricketer in the world. Pakistani fans love Virat, Rohit, and Bumrah more than any of their own cricket team players."

The debate over who is the better batter between Virat Kohli and Babar Azam has been a hot topic among cricket fans for some time now. While both players have had their ups and downs, the conversation over who is superior continues to rage. However, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria believes that there is no comparison between the two players and that Virat Kohli is clearly the better player.In an interview with Sports Tak, Kaneria said that people should look at both of their records and it clearly shows that Virat is the better batter. "Who is comparing them? I am tired of hearing that people compare them. When you're talking about comparing, look at the runs Virat has scored. He has scored runs all around the world. He is a massive player," Kaneria said.Kaneria also said that the presence of Kohli is enough to have an impact on the field - something that Babar is currently missing. He added that the comparisons were mainly created by the media. "Look at his stature, when he walks onto the field, his aura itself is different and he (Babar) does not come close, forget comparing them. All that is created by the channels to sell their product. I have had a lot of questions comparing them, but I have never done it. Look at the stats. When both of them retire, do take a look at the stats," he mentioned.Kaneria's comments come at a time when both Kohli and Babar are in good form. Kohli has recently scored a century in the ongoing Asia Cup, while Babar has also been in good touch. However, Kaneria believes that Kohli is still the better player and that there is no comparison between the two.

Ravichandran Ashwin, the veteran Indian spinner, has unveiled his all-time IPL XI, featuring a formidable lineup with a strong Indian presence. The team boasts seven Indian players, including some of the most iconic names in the tournament's history.At the top of the order, Ashwin has opted for the explosive duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, two of the most prolific run-scorers in IPL history. They are followed by Suresh Raina, the "Mr. IPL," who has consistently delivered for Chennai Super Kings.The middle order is anchored by Suryakumar Yadav, Mumbai Indians' "Mr. 360," known for his versatility and ability to score runs all around the wicket. The legendary Ab de Villiers, a former Royal Challengers Bangalore star, adds further firepower to the lineup.Behind the stumps, Ashwin has chosen MS Dhoni, the former Indian captain and Chennai Super Kings icon, as his wicket-keeper and captain. Dhoni's leadership skills and experience make him an invaluable asset to any team.In the spin department, Ashwin has picked the world-class duo of Sunil Narine and Rashid Khan. Narine, a mystery spinner from the West Indies, has been a key player for Kolkata Knight Riders, while Khan, an Afghan leg-spinner, has impressed with his variations and wicket-taking ability.The pace attack features three Indian stalwarts: Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, and Lasith Malinga. Kumar, a swing bowler, has been a consistent performer for Sunrisers Hyderabad, while Bumrah, a fast bowler, has established himself as one of the best in the world. Malinga, a Sri Lankan legend, brings a wealth of experience and his signature yorkers to the team.Ashwin's all-time IPL XI is a formidable lineup that combines experience, skill, and versatility. It is a testament to the depth of talent that has graced the IPL over the years.