Cricket

Pakistan's remarkable turnaround against England in the recently concluded Test series has been attributed to their ability to neutralize England's aggressive 'Bazball' approach. Former England cricketer Nasser Hussain praised Pakistan's tactical adjustments, particularly their reliance on high-quality spinners.After losing six consecutive Tests, Pakistan made significant changes to their team, dropping underperforming players and introducing spinners Noman Ali and Sajid Khan. These changes proved pivotal as the spinners dominated England's batters, exposing their vulnerability against spin bowling.Hussain highlighted the contrast between Pakistan's spin prowess and England's struggles in this area. "They have spinners of the highest quality and they have players that play spin really well," he said. "It is exposed to England when the ball does spin. When it spins and it is gripping, England does not play spin or bowl spin as good as Pakistan."Hussain also questioned England's ability to adapt to different pitch conditions. "There should be a discrepancy because the pitches have been so different from the first Test to the second and third," he said. "But, the discrepancy in the England side is a concern."In the third Test at Rawalpindi, Pakistan's spinners once again played a crucial role. Sajid and Noman combined for 10 wickets, while Saud Shakeel's century helped Pakistan secure a 77-run lead. England's second innings collapse, where they were bowled out for 112, sealed Pakistan's 2-1 series victory.Shakeel was named 'Player of the Match' for his match-winning century. Hussain's comments underscore the importance of spin bowling in subcontinent conditions and the need for England to improve their ability to play and bowl spin effectively.

White Ferns Face Uphill Battle in India After Crushing ODI DefeatThe New Zealand White Ferns, fresh off their historic T20 World Cup triumph, have suffered a setback in their opening One-Day International (ODI) against India. Despite their remarkable achievement in South Africa, the White Ferns were unable to carry their momentum into the Indian leg of their tour.In the first ODI, played in Mumbai, the White Ferns were outplayed by a dominant Indian side. The hosts batted first and posted a formidable total of 274/7, with Tejal Hasabnis top-scoring with 74. The Indian bowlers then restricted New Zealand to 229/9, with no batter able to reach 40.The defeat was a blow to the White Ferns' hopes of keeping the three-match series alive. They now face an uphill battle to win the remaining two ODIs and secure points on the ICC Women's Championship table, which determines qualification for next year's World Cup.India, on the other hand, will be looking to wrap up the series with a game to spare. Despite failing to bat through their 50 overs in the first ODI, they showed their class with a solid batting performance. The likes of Shafali Verma, D. Hemalatha, and Smriti Mandhana will be eager to continue their good form in the upcoming matches.The White Ferns have been dealt a further blow with the news that Amelia Kerr, the player of the final and tournament at the T20 World Cup, is flying home with a grade one quadriceps tear. Kerr was New Zealand's best bowler in the opening ODI, taking 2/42.Despite the setbacks, the White Ferns have plenty of talent and experience in their ranks. Skipper Sophie Devine, Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, and Brooke Halliday will be key to their hopes of bouncing back in the second ODI.The second ODI will be played in Vadodara on Sunday, October 29. The White Ferns will need to put in a much-improved performance if they want to keep their series hopes alive.

India's Test Woes Continue as Pujara's Absence Looms LargeIndia's recent Test series defeat to New Zealand has raised concerns about the team's batting lineup, particularly the absence of Cheteshwar Pujara. Former cricketer Aakash Chopra believes Pujara's steady influence is sorely missed, as the current lineup lacks the ability to grind out sessions and withstand pressure.Pujara, known for his patient and defensive style of play, has often been a backbone for India in difficult conditions. His ability to hold the crease and absorb pressure has allowed other batsmen to play more freely. However, in his absence, the Indian lineup has struggled to cope with the New Zealand bowlers.Chopra highlights the team's shift towards an aggressive approach, questioning whether it is the right strategy for Test cricket. He argues that Pujara's defensive style, while often criticized as slow or unglamorous, played a crucial role in holding the team together during difficult sessions."It will happen repeatedly in Test cricket that you will be asked to play a session where a wicket shouldn't fall. You need to keep your head down and defend. There is a battle of attrition at times," Chopra said. "Cheteshwar Pujara's defensive cricket, that brand of cricket which is non-glamorous, hard-working, staying at the wicket from morning to evening, we are missing that brand of cricket, and we are repeatedly seeing the result of that in collapses."Chopra also emphasizes the benefits of Pujara's presence even when he is not scoring heavily. His ability to occupy the crease and delay the game allows the bowlers to tire and the ball to soften, creating opportunities for other batsmen to score runs."You need a guy to stand there to stop collapses even if the scoreboard moves or not. He keeps delaying the game. The bowlers get tired and the ball gets old and soft, and the others score runs. India are of course missing that game style of Pujara," Chopra added.The absence of Pujara has left a significant void in the Indian batting lineup, and it remains to be seen how the team will address this issue in future Test matches.

Mohammed Shami's absence from India's squad for the upcoming Australia tour has raised concerns among experts, with former batter Sanjay Manjrekar expressing doubts about the team's bowling strength.Shami, who has been struggling with a foot injury and Achilles tendon surgery, was not included in the squad, leaving a void in India's pace attack. In his place, youngsters Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana have been called up to join Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Akash Deep.Manjrekar believes that Shami's absence will be a significant blow to India's chances of success in Australia. "This seam attack, which we are so proud of and have won so many matches on its performances, seems to have a problem," he said. "Bumrah's form has been terrific, but Siraj's form has dipped and there is no Shami. I am sure Australia won't be too nervous seeing this Indian seam attack."Manjrekar also pointed out that the inexperience of Krishna and Rana could be a factor. "Prasidh Krishna can make a surprise cut in the XI for India Down Under," he said. "But Siraj has underperformed. On the last tour, Siraj was at his peak. Yash Dayal came under the radar of Indian selectors but he has now disappeared completely, so that is surprising to me."India will be aiming for a hat-trick of series wins in Australia, having triumphed on the 2020-21 and 2022-23 tours. However, the absence of Shami and the concerns over Siraj's form could make their task more difficult.

Andrew McDonald, Australia's head coach, has hinted that 19-year-old Sam Konstas could make his Test debut against India despite his limited first-class experience. Konstas, who will play for Australia A against India A in Mackay from Thursday, has impressed with his performances in the Sheffield Shield, including back-to-back centuries in the first game of the season.McDonald emphasized that the selectors will prioritize selecting the best team for the present, regardless of age or experience. He believes that Konstas has shown enough potential to be considered for the vacant opening role alongside Usman Khawaja. The coach also dismissed concerns about protecting young players from strong opponents, stating that if Konstas is ready, he should be given the opportunity.Konstas' mentor, Shane Watson, has described the current selection debate as a "perfect storm" for the young opener. McDonald echoed this sentiment, stating that the selectors will not hold back players based on the opposition. He also highlighted the advantage of playing in familiar conditions for a player's first Test summer.Despite the decision to move Steven Smith back to No. 4, McDonald remains open to converting a middle-order batter into an opener if it is deemed the best solution. He cited examples of successful transitions by players like Shane Watson and Simon Katich. Nathan McSweeney, the South Australia captain, has also put his name in the frame for a call-up with his impressive start to the season.McDonald acknowledged the significance of Mohammed Shami's absence from the India squad but cautioned against underestimating the visitors. He pointed to India's previous tour of Australia, where an injury-depleted side famously won at the Gabba to take the series.

Irfan Pathan, the former Indian all-rounder, celebrates his 40th birthday today. Known for his prodigious swing bowling and vital knocks, Pathan was one of India's most versatile cricketers during his illustrious career.Hat-trick against Pakistan in 2006:Arguably Pathan's most iconic moment came in the Karachi Test against Pakistan in 2006. He became the first Indian bowler to take a hat-trick in the opening over of a Test match, dismissing Salman Butt, Younis Khan, and Mohammad Yousuf in consecutive deliveries. This historic feat etched his name into the annals of cricket history.Man of the Match in the 2007 T20 World Cup Final:Pathan played a pivotal role in India's victory in the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup in 2007. In the high-pressure final against Pakistan, he delivered a match-winning spell of 3 for 16, helping India clinch the trophy. His remarkable bowling under pressure earned him the Man of the Match award, contributing significantly to India's historic triumph.Match-winning All-round Show in the Perth Test, 2008:In one of the toughest assignments for any cricketer, an overseas Test in Australia, Pathan produced a stellar all-round performance in Perth in 2008. He took 5 wickets in the match and also scored 46 vital runs in the second innings, helping India secure a rare victory on Australian soil. His ability to make an impact with both bat and ball was on full display, earning him the Man of the Match award in India's famous win at the WACA.Maiden Test Century in 2007:Pathan was not just a bowler but also a more than capable batsman. In the Bangalore Test against Pakistan in 2007, he scored his maiden and only Test century, batting at No. 8. His knock of 102 was a testament to his batting skills and versatility, proving he could contribute with the bat at crucial moments. It remains one of the highlights of his Test career.As Irfan Pathan turns 40, his contributions to Indian cricket are fondly remembered. Whether it was his lethal swing bowling, his crucial knocks with the bat, or his never-say-die spirit, Pathan remains a beloved figure in Indian cricket.

New Zealand cricket has reached unprecedented heights in an extraordinary week, etching its name in the annals of history with two landmark victories. Within a span of seven days, the Black Caps secured their first-ever Test series win in India, while the White Ferns claimed their maiden ICC Women's T20 World Cup title.Black Caps End 69-Year Wait with Historic Test Series Win in IndiaThe week of glory began on October 20, when New Zealand's men's team ended a 36-year winless streak in India with a commanding 8-wicket victory in the first Test in Bengaluru. It was New Zealand's first Test win on Indian soil since 1988 and only their third in history. The victory marked the start of their first-ever series triumph in India in 13 attempts since 1955.Under overcast conditions, India's batting crumbled under the pressure, posting just 46 runs in their first innings - their lowest Test total in Asia. New Zealand pacer Matt Henry spearheaded the demolition, taking 5 for 15. In response, New Zealand amassed 402 runs, taking control of the match. India showed fight in their second innings, with Sarfaraz Khan's 150 helping set a target of 107, but the Black Caps chased it down with ease.The second Test in Pune was even more dramatic. New Zealand fought back after being bowled out for 259, with Mitchell Santner delivering a match-winning performance, taking 7 for 53 to dismiss India for just 156. New Zealand set India a challenging fourth-innings target of 359, and despite Yashasvi Jaiswal's blistering 77, India folded for 245, giving New Zealand a 113-run victory and their first-ever Test series win in India. This also ended India's 12-year unbeaten run in home series.White Ferns Make History with Maiden T20 World Cup WinWhile the men's team was making history in India, the New Zealand women's team, the White Ferns, achieved their own momentous victory by lifting their first-ever ICC Women's T20 World Cup in Dubai on the same day as the Bengaluru Test win (October 20).Entering the tournament as underdogs, the White Ferns stunned the cricket world by defeating India by 58 runs in their opening game. Despite a setback against defending champions Australia, New Zealand reached the semifinals with wins over Sri Lanka and Pakistan. A narrow 8-run victory over West Indies in the semifinals set up a final clash with South Africa.In the final, the White Ferns posted a competitive total and restricted South Africa to win by 32 runs, claiming their first T20 World Cup and second ICC trophy, following their 2000 Women's ODI World Cup win.Seven Days of Glory for New Zealand CricketIn just seven days, New Zealand cricket achieved historic feats that have redefined their legacy on the world stage. The Black Caps' first-ever Test series win in India and the White Ferns' maiden T20 World Cup triumph represent the pinnacle of New Zealand cricket's red-letter week, marking a period of unprecedented success that will be remembered for years to come.

Pakistan's seasoned spinner Sajid Khan has become a sensation with his witty response to a question about the "scare" he was giving to England batters in the third Test at Rawalpindi.Khan, along with fellow spinner Noman Ali, wreaked havoc on England's batting lineup, reminiscent of the legendary Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis duo. When asked about this comparison in a post-match press conference, Khan delivered an epic reply."I didn't scare anyone," Khan said with a chuckle. "You guys are saying that I did. God has given me such a look that even if I laugh, people get scared."Khan's humor aside, his partnership with Ali proved decisive in Pakistan's first series win in four attempts. The duo combined for 39 wickets in the second and third Tests, including crucial contributions with the bat.Khan praised Ali as Pakistan's most experienced spinner and declared that he deserved the Man of the Series award alongside him. "Noman bhai is a great mate and has served well," Khan said. "He deserved this award with me."Pakistan's captain, Shan Masood, also expressed his delight at the series victory, which ended his wait for his first as Test captain. "Thankful to God for the series win," Masood said. "There was no pressure as such. I was making a comeback, but there were people who backed me."Khan's return to the side was a major factor in Pakistan's success. He thanked God for the 2-1 series win and expressed gratitude to those who supported him. "I was making a comeback, but there were people who backed me," Khan said.

India's Overconfidence Led to Historic Home Series Loss to New ZealandFormer Pakistan batter Basit Ali has attributed India's first home series loss in 12 years to overconfidence and a lack of preparation. After a convincing victory in the opening Test in Bengaluru, New Zealand stunned India with a three-day triumph in the second Test in Pune, securing their maiden series win in India.Ali believes that India's recent success against Bangladesh and New Zealand's struggles in Sri Lanka contributed to their complacency. However, the Kiwis meticulously studied India's weaknesses and exploited them ruthlessly in the first two Tests."India's batting was exposed," Ali said. "In the first match, Kiwi pacers took 17 wickets. In the second Test, spinners took 19 wickets. India players were neither able to play pacers well nor spinners."Ali also criticized India's management for not adequately preparing for the series. "The match India won against Bangladesh in two days and New Zealand's 2-0 defeat in Sri Lanka, the team might have thought they would beat the Kiwis easily," he said. "This means, Indian management and Indian players were overconfident."Ali expressed concern over India's bowling attack for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. With Mohammed Shami absent from the squad, Ali believes India will face significant challenges Down Under."I am surprised why there is no Mohammed Shami in the squad for the Australia tour," Ali said. "You have put all the load on Bumrah. Without Shami, India might face problems in Australia."The first BGT Test commences from November 22 in Perth, and India will need to address their weaknesses and regain their focus if they hope to avoid another disappointing series loss.