Cricket

Mushfiqur Rahim's absence from the Bangladesh Test squad for the upcoming series against West Indies marks a significant shift in the team's composition. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter, who has been a mainstay of the side for over a decade, has been ruled out due to a finger injury.Mushfiqur's injury means that Bangladesh will field a Test team without any of its "big three" for the first time in 16 years. Shakib Al Hasan retired from the format in September, while Tamim Iqbal has not played a Test since last year.The absence of these experienced players places a heavy burden on the shoulders of captain Najmul Hossain Shanto. However, Shanto will have a strong pace attack at his disposal, including Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam, and Nahid Rana.Uncapped left-arm spinner Hasan Murad has been added to the spin department, which also includes vice-captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam.In the batting department, Bangladesh have kept faith in their regular top-order batters Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, and Zakir Hasan. Shanto and Mominul Haque will bat at No. 3 and 4 respectively.Mushfiqur's role could fall on Jaker Ali or Mahidul Islam Ankon, with Litton Das back with the gloves and likely to bat at No. 7.Bangladesh will start the tour with a four-day warm-up game at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua, followed by the first Test in Antigua from November 22. The second Test is in Jamaica, starting November 30. The visitors will then play three ODIs and as many T20Is, but their white-ball squad hasn't been announced yet.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has appointed Mohammad Salahuddin as the senior assistant coach of the Bangladesh men's cricket team. Salahuddin's contract will run until March 15, 2024, aligning with the tenure of head coach Phil Simmons.Salahuddin's first assignment is expected to be Bangladesh's tour of the West Indies, commencing with a four-day warm-up match in Antigua. He previously served as Bangladesh's assistant and fielding coach under Dav Whatmore and Jamie Siddons. From 2010 to 2011, he worked as a specialist coach in the BCB's national cricket academy before becoming Singapore's head coach in 2014. Salahuddin holds an ACC-Cricket Australia Level 3 accreditation.Despite being widely regarded as one of the foremost cricketing voices in Bangladesh, Salahuddin has had a contentious relationship with the BCB in recent years. In 2017, he was appointed as a batting consultant, but the decision was reversed at the last minute. He has often criticized the board's stance on pitches and selection.However, Salahuddin is highly respected by most players in Bangladesh. He played a pivotal role in the development of Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal during their formative years. He has also been influential in the growth of current cricketers like Jaker Ali and Mahidul Islam Ankon.BCB president Faruque Ahmed expressed his confidence in Salahuddin's abilities. "Salahuddin brings with him a wealth of experience, pedigree, and knowledge, making him the ideal candidate for this role," Ahmed said. "I firmly believe it is time to integrate more capable Bangladeshi coaches into the system."Salahuddin's appointment is a significant step towards the BCB's goal of promoting local coaches. It is expected that he will play a crucial role in the development and success of the Bangladesh men's cricket team.

Anil Kumble's Broken Jaw: A Testament to Cricket's ResilienceCricket, a sport that demands both physical and mental fortitude, has witnessed countless instances of players exhibiting extraordinary resilience in the face of adversity. One such iconic moment occurred during the 2002 India tour of the West Indies, when legendary spinner Anil Kumble played through a broken jaw.On October 17, 2002, during the second Test match at Antigua, Kumble was struck by a bouncer from Mervyn Dillon while batting. The impact fractured his jaw, causing immense pain and discomfort. Despite the excruciating injury, Kumble's determination to contribute to his team remained unwavering.With his face heavily bandaged, Kumble returned to bowl in the second innings. His grit and determination were evident as he bowled 14 consecutive overs, showcasing his unwavering spirit. The highlight of his heroic effort came when he dismissed West Indies legend Brian Lara, a testament to his skill and resilience.Kumble's courageous act was widely praised by the cricketing fraternity and beyond. It exemplified the toughness and fighting spirit that cricketers bring to the game, often putting their bodies on the line for their teams. Despite the match ending in a draw, Kumble's actions left a lasting impression as a symbol of resilience and dedication.After this heroic effort, Kumble was flown back to India for surgery. The incident solidified his legacy as one of cricket's fiercest competitors, a player who never shied away from adversity. His broken jaw became a symbol of the indomitable spirit that drives cricketers to push their limits and perform at their best.

Tony de Zorzi, the newly appointed Test opener for South Africa, has made a significant impact both on and off the field during the team's tour of the West Indies.Off the field, de Zorzi has showcased his comedic talents by hosting the team's video tour diary. In a recent episode, he engaged in a pop-quiz on Olympic sports, designed a makeshift hurdles course, and conducted a spoof pitch report.On the field, de Zorzi has acquitted himself well in his new role. In the first Test against West Indies, he scored a half-century in the first innings and a 45 in the second, helping South Africa set a challenging target.De Zorzi's approach at the crease has been influenced by the conditions in the Caribbean. He has focused on playing straighter shots, adjusting to the slower pace and harder ball. Despite the differences from his home pitches, de Zorzi has maintained his batting style while making subtle adjustments.While he acknowledges the pressure to score his first Test century, de Zorzi remains philosophical. He believes it will come when it's meant to and is confident in his abilities.Beyond cricket, de Zorzi has embraced the culinary delights of the West Indies. He has particularly enjoyed the plantain, a popular snack in Guyana, where the second Test will be played.De Zorzi's performances and off-field antics have endeared him to fans and teammates alike. He has demonstrated his versatility and adaptability, both as a cricketer and an entertainer.

South Africa's Test team embarks on a crucial period in their World Test Championship (WTC) campaign, traveling to the Caribbean for a series of four two-match series. Despite a disappointing start to their WTC journey, with only four Tests played and a single victory, the Proteas aim to turn their fortunes around.Captain Temba Bavuma, returning from injury, acknowledges the challenges facing the team, including a lack of consistent game time and player management issues. However, he remains optimistic, emphasizing the need to establish a clear philosophy and blueprint for success.The team's bowling attack has been depleted by the absence of Anrich Nortje, Marco Jansen, and Gerald Coetzee, leaving Lungi Ngidi, Nandre Burger, and Dane Paterson with the responsibility of leading the charge. The batting lineup also features several inexperienced players, including Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, and David Bedingham.Bavuma, who will bat at No. 4, recognizes the importance of anchoring the lineup and providing impetus. He believes the upcoming series provides an opportunity for younger players to establish themselves on the international stage.The Proteas will face a West Indies Invitational XI in a four-day warm-up match before the first Test begins on August 7. The series is crucial for South Africa's WTC aspirations, as they aim to secure victories and improve their position on the points table.

South Africa's Test squad for their upcoming tour of the West Indies has been announced, with David Bedingham, Dane Paterson, and Dane Piedt being the only players retained from the makeshift squad that toured New Zealand in February.Bedingham is considered a key figure in South Africa's long-term batting plans, while Paterson, 35, brings experience to the bowling attack in the absence of Anrich Nortje and Marco Jansen. Piedt, 34, provides a second spin option alongside Keshav Maharaj.The rest of the squad was part of South Africa's home series against India earlier this year, with the exception of batter Matthew Breetzke, who earns his first Test call-up. Breetzke is expected to provide batting depth behind a top five likely to include Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma, Bedingham, and Tristan Stubbs.Ryan Rickelton returns to the squad after last playing Tests against West Indies in March 2023. He will compete with Kyle Verreynne for the wicketkeeper-batter role at No. 6. Wiaan Mulder is the only seam-bowling allrounder in the squad, with Jansen rested from the tour."The decision to rest Marco Jansen was taken to allow for a conditioning period aimed at ensuring optimal physical and mental well-being given the season-long workloads," said Test coach Shukri Conrad.Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi will lead the pace attack, with Paterson and left-armer Nandre Burger providing support. South Africa's first-choice Test players have not played since the New Year's Test against India, having missed the New Zealand series and honored SA20 commitments."This tour is extremely important for us as we aim to improve our standing in the ICC World Test Championship," said Conrad. "We have, therefore, selected our strongest possible squad and look forward to strong performances in the Caribbean."Players not involved in the MLC or on the county circuit will attend a four-day training camp in Durban before departing for the West Indies. The first Test takes place in Trinidad from August 7, followed by the second in Guyana a week later.