Cricket

Abahani Limited's dominance in the Dhaka Premier League (DPL) continues unabated as they extended their winning streak to 11 matches, crushing Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club to secure their place in the Super League phase. With just three wins separating them from their 22nd DPL title, Abahani's supremacy remains unchallenged.In the highly anticipated clash between the league's two wealthiest teams, Abahani's bowlers wreaked havoc, dismissing Sheikh Jamal for a paltry 88 runs, their lowest-ever score in the DPL. The meager target was chased down effortlessly by Abahani in just 10.2 overs without losing a wicket.Shinepukur Cricket Club emerged as the second-placed team with eight wins, edging out Mohammedan Sporting Club and Sheikh Jamal on net run-rate. They secured their Super League berth with victories over Gazi Group Cricketers, Mohammedan, and Legends of Rupganj. Notably, this is Shinepukur's first appearance in the Super League phase.Irfan Sukkur and Habibur Rahman Sohan emerged as the standout batters, guiding their respective teams, Shinepukur and Gazi Group, into the Super League. Irfan's unbeaten 106 against Rupganj and 84 against Gazi Group proved crucial, while Sohan's 55-ball 81 against Brothers Union and unbeaten 102 against City Club sealed Gazi Group's Super League spot.Parvez Hossain Emon topped the batting charts with 585 runs at an average of 53.18, including three centuries. Mohammad Naim, Mahidul Islam Ankon, Saif Hassan, and Tamim Iqbal also featured among the top-five scorers.On the bowling front, quick bowler Nahid Rana impressed with 12 wickets this week, including a five-wicket haul against Mohammedan and a four-for against Gazi Group. Left-arm spinner Nasum Ahmed also claimed a five-for.Left-arm quicks dominated the DPL's first phase, with Gazi Group's Ruyel Miah emerging as the leading wicket-taker with 25 wickets at an average of 14.76. Abu Hider and Maruf Mridha, both left-arm fast bowlers, ranked among the top four, while Ifran Hossain, a right-arm quick, finished sixth. Rishad Hossain, the legspinner, and left-arm spinner Nazmul Islam completed the top five.Abahani's dominance was evident in their high-scoring encounter against Prime Bank Cricket Club, where they amassed 341 for 4. Anamul Haque and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto struck centuries, while Towhid Hridoy contributed an unbeaten 65. Prime Bank's response of 283 fell short, with Taskin Ahmed and Tanjim Hasan Sakib claiming three wickets each.In the relegation battle, Gazi Tyres Cricket Academy, City Club, and Rupganj Tigers will face off in the playoffs. Partex Sporting Club avoided relegation due to a superior net run-rate compared to Rupganj.Among the young players who made their DPL debuts this season, Maruf Mridha stood out with 19 wickets for Gazi Tyres Cricket Academy. 16-year-old Nuhayel Sandeed became the first left-arm wristspinner to play List-A cricket in Bangladesh, taking two wickets on debut against Prime Bank, coached by his father Mohammad Salahuddin.

MS Dhoni, the legendary Indian cricketer, continues to captivate fans with his remarkable performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL). In a recent match against the Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Stadium, Dhoni once again showcased his exceptional batting skills, leading his team, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), to a solid victory.As Dhoni stepped onto the field amidst thunderous applause, the stadium erupted in a sea of yellow, a testament to the immense love and admiration he commands. The crowd's enthusiasm reached fever pitch as Dhoni unleashed a boundary-hitting spree in the death overs, propelling CSK to a formidable total of 176 for 6.In his unbeaten 9-ball 28 blitz, Dhoni displayed his trademark power and precision, smashing three boundaries and launching the ball into the stands twice. His strike rate of 311.11 left the LSG bowlers reeling, as Dhoni took them to the cleaners in the final two overs.Dhoni's blistering knock not only lifted CSK's spirits but also earned him another significant milestone in his illustrious IPL career. He became the first player to score 5,000 runs as a keeper-batter in the tournament, a testament to his all-round brilliance.In this season, Dhoni has been in impeccable form, remaining unbeaten in all his innings and amassing 87 runs at a staggering strike rate of over 255. His contributions have been instrumental in CSK's resurgence, as they aim to reclaim the IPL title they last won in 2021.Dhoni's performance against LSG was a reminder of his enduring legacy in the sport. Despite being in the twilight of his career, he continues to inspire and entertain fans with his exceptional skills and unwavering determination. As the IPL season progresses, Dhoni's presence on the field promises to generate even more excitement and unforgettable moments.

The Impact Player rule, introduced in the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, has sparked mixed reactions among coaches and players. While some welcome the tactical flexibility it offers, others, including Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting, have expressed concerns.Ponting acknowledges that the rule has led to higher scores and more explosive batting, as teams can bring in a 12th player as a substitute. However, he admits that it can be a "nightmare" for coaches who must now select two teams and consider various combinations.Ponting agrees with India captain Rohit Sharma's assessment that the Impact Player rule may hinder the development of all-rounders. He believes that it would be easier for coaches to simply select their best XI and avoid the complexities of the rule.Despite his reservations, Ponting recognizes that the Impact Player has made the IPL a more entertaining spectacle for viewers. He points to the record-breaking match between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bangalore, where 549 runs were scored."If the Impact Player is making it a better spectacle, then it should stay," Ponting said. "More runs are being scored, and people are mesmerized by the cricket."However, Ponting emphasizes that the rule should be evaluated based on public feedback. If viewers find it confusing or detrimental to the overall quality of the game, it may need to be reconsidered.

Rohit Sharma's future with the Mumbai Indians has been a subject of intense speculation since he was replaced as captain by Hardik Pandya. Rumors have circulated that he may leave the franchise ahead of the 2025 IPL auction. However, no official confirmation has been made.Amidst this uncertainty, an alleged quote from Punjab Kings co-owner Preity Zinta went viral on social media. The quote claimed that Zinta would "bet her life" to acquire Rohit Sharma for her team.Zinta has since taken to Twitter to denounce the quote as fake. She stated that she holds Rohit Sharma in high regard and is a big fan, but has never discussed him in any interview or made such a statement.Zinta also expressed respect for Shikhar Dhawan, who is currently injured. She suggested that the timing of the fake articles was in poor taste.Zinta urged the media to refrain from circulating the false information and embarrassing all parties involved. She emphasized that the Punjab Kings' focus is on winning games and making the most of the 2024 IPL season.The alleged quote and Zinta's subsequent denial have added fuel to the speculation surrounding Rohit Sharma's future. However, until an official announcement is made, it remains unclear whether he will remain with the Mumbai Indians or seek a new home in the IPL.

Rohit Sharma Mania Grips Mullanpur as Mumbai Indians TriumphThe MYSI Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur witnessed an outpouring of adoration for Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma during their thrilling encounter with Punjab Kings on Thursday. Chants of "Mumbai Cha Raja, Rohit Sharma" reverberated throughout the stadium, led by a Sam Curran doppelganger who ignited the crowd's enthusiasm.The Curran doppelganger, a regular fixture at recent India international and IPL matches, bears an uncanny resemblance to Punjab Kings all-rounder Sam Curran, who captained the hosts in the absence of Shikhar Dhawan. His infectious energy and unwavering support for Rohit Sharma captivated the spectators.On the field, Mumbai Indians faced a stern challenge from Punjab Kings, who were inspired by a sensational 61 from Ashutosh Sharma. Sharma's whirlwind knock brought Punjab to the brink of victory, but his dismissal in the 18th over swung the momentum back in Mumbai's favor.Despite losing early wickets, Punjab fought back valiantly through Sharma and Shashank Singh (41 off 25). However, Mumbai's bowlers held their nerve, restricting Punjab to 183 all-out in 19.1 overs.Suryakumar Yadav was the star performer for Mumbai with the bat, scoring a crucial 78 to guide his team to a competitive total of 192 for seven. Mumbai's third win in seven games lifted them up the standings, while Punjab's slide continued with their fifth loss in seven matches.The victory was a testament to the enduring popularity of Rohit Sharma and the resilience of the Mumbai Indians. The team's fans, including the enthusiastic Curran doppelganger, played a significant role in creating an electric atmosphere that propelled Mumbai to victory.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru's Lake Restoration Project: A Lifeline for Water-Stressed BengaluruIn the face of Bengaluru's severe water crisis, professional cricket franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has emerged as an unlikely savior. Through its "RCB Go Green Initiative," the team has undertaken a transformative project to restore three lakes in the city, providing a lifeline to water-stressed communities.Launched in October 2023, the Lake Improvement Works Project focused on desilting and developing the Ittgalpura and Sadenahalli lakes, located in areas with limited access to water. Over 1,20,000 tons of silt and sand were removed, recovering nine acres of lake land. The creation of stabilization ponds and wetlands has enhanced biodiversity, attracting local bird and animal populations.The project has significantly increased the water holding capacity of the lakes, covering up to 17 acres. This not only facilitates groundwater recharge but also supports agricultural activities in the surrounding areas. Fishermen and farmers can now harvest up to three times more than before, providing additional livelihood opportunities.At Kannur Lake, the focus has been on fostering community ownership through the creation of civic amenities. Ethno-medicinal plant parks, bamboo parks, and butterfly parks are being established to improve and sustain biodiversity."These lakes are not just critical groundwater sources but also the backbone of local livelihoods," said Rajesh Menon, VP and Head of Royal Challengers Bengaluru.Bengaluru's rapid growth has strained its water infrastructure, with over a third of its population relying on rapidly depleting groundwater. RCB's lake restoration project is a testament to the power of sports organizations to make a tangible impact on their communities.

Professional Cricketers' Association (PCA) chief executive Rob Lynch is set to depart his role in June to join MCC as director of cricket operations. Lynch, who represented New Zealand at the Under-19 World Cup in 2000, has been at the helm of the players' union since October 2020.During his tenure, Lynch has guided the PCA through the challenges of the pandemic and has been a vocal advocate for player welfare, criticizing the "unsustainable" domestic schedule. He also played a key role in addressing allegations of racism at Yorkshire, acknowledging the PCA's shortcomings in supporting Azeem Rafiq.Lynch's departure will see Daryl Mitchell, currently COO at the PCA, take over as interim CEO. Lynch will join MCC in July, succeeding Jamie Cox, who is moving to Somerset as their new chief executive.As director of cricket operations, Lynch will oversee MCC's cricket departments and global role, including the guardianship of the Laws of Cricket and the MCC World Cricket Committee. He will also be responsible for matchday operations at Lord's, starting with the first men's Test match of the summer between England and West Indies on July 10.MCC chief executive and secretary Guy Lavender praised Lynch's experience and qualifications for the role, highlighting his deep understanding of the game both on and off the field. He also thanked Cox for his contributions to MCC, particularly in developing the club's cricket strategy.Lynch expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as PCA chief executive, emphasizing the strong financial position and growth of the women's game during his tenure. He also acknowledged the importance of EDI initiatives and the dedication of the PCA staff.

Delhi Capitals Host Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL ClashDelhi Capitals return to their home ground, the Arun Jaitley Stadium, for the first time this season as they face a formidable Sunrisers Hyderabad side on Saturday. The Capitals, currently sixth in the standings, will be eager to improve their record at home, having lost five of their seven matches there last year.Sunrisers, on the other hand, have been in scintillating form, setting two IPL records for the highest total. Their explosive left-handed opening duo of Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma has been a major factor in their success, with both players striking at over 200 in the powerplay.Delhi Capitals will need to rely on their experienced bowlers, including Ishant Sharma and Khaleel Ahmed, to contain the Sunrisers' batting onslaught. Kuldeep Yadav, with his left-arm wristspin, could be particularly effective against the likes of Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen, who are both strong spin-hitters.The Capitals' batting lineup, led by Rishabh Pant, has also been in good form. Pant has scored 210 runs in seven games, while David Warner, if fit, will provide a significant boost to the top order.The pitch at the Arun Jaitley Stadium is expected to play better than it did last year, with more grass cover on the square. This could favor the Capitals' bowlers, who have struggled on slower surfaces.

The T20 World Cup 2024 is fast approaching, and the excitement is building for another thrilling tournament. The upcoming edition will be hosted by the West Indies and the United States, with the pitches in the Caribbean expected to favor slower bowlers and spinners.India, one of the favorites for the title, will be looking to select a strong spin attack to complement their formidable batting lineup. Here's a closer look at five spinners who are vying for spots in the Indian team:Kuldeep Yadav:Kuldeep Yadav has been in excellent form for India across formats and is a likely inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad. The left-arm wrist spinner has an impressive T20I record, with 59 wickets in 35 games at an average of 14.10 and an economy of 6.74. He has also performed well in IPL 2024, taking six wickets in four games.Yuzvendra Chahal:Yuzvendra Chahal was not initially considered a strong contender for the T20 World Cup squad, but his exceptional performances in IPL 2024 have put him in the reckoning. The right-arm leg break bowler is currently the second-highest wicket-taker in the tournament with 12 scalps in seven games. He is one shy of claiming 200 IPL wickets and has a strong T20I record with 96 wickets in 80 games.Ravi Bishnoi:Ravi Bishnoi has represented India in 24 T20Is, claiming 36 wickets. However, he faces stiff competition for a spot in the T20 World Cup squad. He has not had the best of IPL seasons, taking only four wickets in six games. A strong finish to the IPL season could improve his chances, but his inclusion in the squad seems unlikely at the moment.Ravindra Jadeja:All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is almost certain to be included in the T20 World Cup squad. A highly skilled left-arm orthodox spinner, Jadeja has taken 53 T20I wickets at an economy of 7.10. His batting prowess and exceptional fielding ability make him a valuable asset to the team.Axar Patel:All-rounder Axar Patel is another spin option for India. He has claimed 49 wickets in T20Is at an economy of 7.26. However, his similarities with Ravindra Jadeja, who is a better batter and fielder, make his inclusion in the squad less likely. Axar could force his way into contention with a strong IPL 2024 season, but his current form (five wickets in seven games) is not encouraging.