Cricket

India's formidable fast-bowling duo, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, have established themselves as one of the most potent partnerships in world cricket. Their contrasting yet complementary skills have proven highly effective, particularly in Test matches.Bumrah, known for his unorthodox action and ability to generate high speeds, excels in bowling yorkers and seam movement. His accuracy and control make him a lethal force, especially at the death. Shami, on the other hand, focuses on seam position and swing, both conventional and reverse. His ability to maintain accuracy with both new and old balls makes him dangerous across all formats.In India's historic Test series triumph in Australia in 2018-19, Bumrah and Shami played pivotal roles. Bumrah emerged as the bowling mainstay, taking 21 wickets at an average of 17.00. His career-best figures of 9/86 in the Boxing Day Test cemented his status as a world-class bowler.Shami, too, made significant contributions, taking 16 wickets at an average of 26.18. His career-best haul of 6/56 in the second Test in Perth helped India bowl out Australia for 243 runs in their second innings.The ability of Bumrah and Shami to bowl in tandem makes them a formidable duo. Their contrasting styles complement each other, creating a challenging proposition for opposing batsmen. They have consistently delivered for India both at home and abroad, making them one of the most feared fast-bowling partnerships in modern cricket.

Cricket Australia (CA) is implementing a new role for a national pace-bowling coach to oversee the management of fast bowlers across international and domestic programs. This move aims to prevent the spate of injuries that have plagued Australia's quicks and ensure a more coordinated approach to their handling.The new role, based in Brisbane, was conceived before the recent limited-overs tour of the UK, where six fast bowlers were injured and six others were unavailable. It comes amid a debate within Australian cricket about the suitability of the current contracting model for top male cricketers in the era of franchise cricket, with the management of fast bowlers being a key concern.Daniel Vettori, Australia's current bowling coach, will continue in that position while traveling with the team. The new role will primarily focus on managing contracted fast bowlers, as well as Under-19 and Australia A quicks. However, the successful candidate will also tour with the men's international side at various stages.Australia's fast-bowling stocks have traditionally been a strength, but the reliance on Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood in all formats, coupled with recent injuries to the next generation, has highlighted the need for effective management of the next generation.The injuries on the UK tour included side strains, soft tissue injuries, and back stress fractures, which have become common themes among Australia's fast bowlers. Cameron Green has become the fourth Australian fast bowler to undergo significant spine surgery to stabilize vertebrae in his back and prevent future stress fractures.The injuries led to the selection of West Australian youngster Mahli Beardman for the UK tour despite his limited experience, raising concerns among state associations. CA and the state associations have had friction over the management of fringe fast bowlers in recent years, as the demanding international schedule requires more players than ever before.The new pace-bowling role is designed to be a central point under head coach Andrew McDonald to coordinate an approach to managing Australia's current and next generation of quicks. It will involve performing a lead role in case management, load planning and monitoring, off-tour preparation, and individual skill development of CA-contracted pace bowlers and pace bowlers of national interest.CA currently has nine contracted fast bowlers among a list of 23, excluding pace-bowling all-rounders. However, there is a belief within Australian cricket that the current model of offering up to 24 central contracts is outdated. Some argue that the men's team would be better served by contracting 30-plus players initially each year and carefully tailoring their playing and preparation schedules to avoid injuries and situations like the one that arose in the UK.

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) sparked outrage among Indian fans after posting an inaccurate map of India on social media. The map, which was part of an announcement about the Kiwis' travel plans to Pune for the second Test against India, depicted incorrect borders of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh regions.The now-deleted post drew widespread criticism across platforms, with many fans expressing anger over the misrepresentation of India's northern borders. Users took to social media to demand corrections, tagging India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, and calling for action."Please look at this map, posted by New Zealand Cricket handle. They are showing the wrong map of India," wrote one fan.Another user commented, "We can't imagine how you could post an incorrect map. Please correct this."A different fan added, "Do not post an incorrect map of India's northern border."Following the uproar, NZC promptly deleted the post, but the controversy continued to brew online. The incident comes after New Zealand's memorable eight-wicket win over India in the first Test at Bengaluru. The victory was New Zealand's first Test win on Indian soil since 1988.Rachin Ravindra, who was a standout performer in the match, anchored the chase with 39 not out, alongside Will Young's unbeaten 48. India's bowlers had briefly raised hopes on the final day after dismissing Tom Latham for a duck and trapping Devon Conway for 17, but the 75-run stand between Ravindra and Young sealed the game for the Kiwis.With the second Test starting in Pune on October 24, India will look to bounce back and level the series.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has proposed significant changes to promote Test and ODI formats. The Cricket Committee has recommended that every World Test Championship (WTC) series should have a minimum of three Tests, ensuring a more balanced and competitive format.To enhance the appeal of Test cricket, the committee has also suggested that host nations prioritize scheduling more day-night Tests. The success of pink-ball Tests in Australia and India has demonstrated their ability to attract larger crowds and create a more engaging atmosphere.In an effort to restore balance to ODIs, the committee has proposed using two new balls for the first 25 overs. This measure aims to reduce the dominance of batters and bring reverse swing and finger spinners back into the game. The recommendation will be presented to captains for their feedback and consensus.Another significant change approved by the ICC board is the extension of the tenure for the ICC chair and independent directors to two terms of three years. This means that Jay Shah, who is set to take over as ICC chair, could potentially hold the position for six years.The ICC's recommendations are aimed at addressing concerns about the declining popularity of Test cricket and the imbalance in ODIs. By increasing the number of Tests in WTC series, promoting day-night Tests, and potentially introducing two new balls in ODIs, the ICC hopes to revitalize these formats and ensure their long-term sustainability.

New Zealand's star batter Kane Williamson has been officially ruled out of the second Test against India, scheduled to commence on October 24 in Pune. Williamson continues to recuperate from a groin strain he sustained during the recent series against Sri Lanka.Head coach Gary Stead confirmed the decision, stating that while Williamson's recovery is progressing, he is not yet physically fit enough for the rigors of Test cricket. "Kane is moving in the right direction, but he's not at 100% fitness yet," Stead explained. "We're hopeful that he'll show further improvement and be available for the third Test."The New Zealand team is adopting a cautious approach with Williamson's recovery, ensuring he receives ample time to regain full fitness. "We'll give him as much time as possible to get himself ready, but certainly continue to take a cautious approach," Stead added.Williamson's absence is a setback for the Kiwis, who currently hold a 1-0 lead in the three-match series after a thrilling first Test victory in Bengaluru. The New Zealand camp remains optimistic about Williamson's availability for the third Test, with the team management closely monitoring his recovery.Meanwhile, New Zealand made history in the first Test by securing their first victory on Indian soil in 36 years. They chased down 107 runs on the final day, defeating India by eight wickets. Rachin Ravindra (39 not out) and Will Young (48 not out) led the successful chase with a 75-run partnership, giving the visitors a 1-0 series lead.

New Zealand's cricket teams have etched their names in history with remarkable victories over the weekend. The men's team triumphed in their Test match against India, securing their first Test win on Indian soil in 36 years. Meanwhile, the White Ferns claimed the ICC Women's T20 World Cup title, their maiden triumph in the tournament.Men's Test Victory:In the Test match against India in Bengaluru, New Zealand's bowlers dominated, with Matt Henry and William O'Rourke dismantling the Indian batting lineup. India was bowled out for a mere 46 runs in their first innings, giving New Zealand a significant advantage.Rachin Ravindra, Devon Conway, and Tim Southee contributed crucial runs to New Zealand's total of 402/10. Despite a valiant effort from India's batters, including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Sarfaraz Khan, they could only manage 462/10 in their second innings.New Zealand chased down the modest target of 106 runs comfortably, winning by eight wickets. Ravindra was named 'Player of the Match' for his outstanding performance with both bat and ball.Women's T20 World Cup Triumph:The White Ferns made history by defeating South Africa in the final of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup. After being put in to bat, New Zealand posted a competitive total of 158/5, thanks to contributions from Suzie Bates, Amelia Kerr, and Brooke Halliday.South Africa's chase started promisingly, but they lost wickets at regular intervals and were eventually restricted to 126/9. Kerr and Rosemary Mair were the standout bowlers for New Zealand, with Kerr earning the 'Player of the Match' award for her all-round performance.

Sanju Samson, the enigmatic Indian batter, has shed light on his relationship with captain Rohit Sharma and the events surrounding his omission from the playing XI in the 2022 T20 World Cup final.In an interview with journalist Vimal Kumar, Samson revealed that he was initially slated to play in the final against South Africa but was dropped at the last moment. "I had a chance to play the final. I was told to stay ready, and I was ready. But just before the toss, they decided to stick with the same XI," Samson said.Despite his disappointment, Samson praised Rohit's leadership and the manner in which he handled the situation. "During warm-ups, Rohit took me aside to explain the decision. He asked, 'You understood, na?'" Samson shared. "I told him, 'Let’s focus on winning the match first; we can talk later.'"Samson recalled Rohit returning shortly after, sensing his disappointment. "He said, 'I know you’re cursing me in your mind.' I told him that as a player, I wanted to play. It had been my dream to perform in moments like these. Rohit explained his pattern and the reasons behind the decision. I told him I respected his explanation, but I will always carry a regret—that I missed playing a World Cup final under a leader like him," Samson added.Samson admitted that the 10-minute conversation before the toss left a lasting impact. "I thought, in such a high-pressure moment like a World Cup final, the captain would usually focus on the game or the players who are playing. But Rohit took 10 minutes to explain his decision to me before the toss, and then he went for the toss. That gesture won him a place in my heart forever."While Samson has often found himself on the fringes of the national team, he was part of India's squad that won the 2024 T20 World Cup. However, he didn't get a chance to play in any of the eight matches, with Rishabh Pant being preferred as the first-choice wicket-keeper batter.Despite missing out during the World Cup, Samson made a resounding statement in the recent T20I series against Bangladesh. In the second T20I, he hammered a stunning 111 off just 47 balls, leading India to a record-breaking total of 297/6— the highest-ever T20I score by a full-member ICC nation. His blistering knock, featuring 11 fours and eight sixes, was the second-fastest T20I century by an Indian, achieved in just 40 balls.Samson's recent performances have reignited the debate about his place in the Indian team. With his exceptional talent and unwavering determination, he is poised to make a significant contribution to Indian cricket in the years to come.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled the Women's T20 World Cup 2024 Team of the Tournament, recognizing the outstanding performances of players throughout the competition. India's skipper Harmanpreet Kaur stands as the sole Indian representative in the prestigious lineup.Kaur emerged as a beacon of hope for India amidst a challenging campaign. She topped the team's scoring charts and ranked fourth overall in the tournament, amassing 150 runs in four innings. Her two half-centuries propelled her to an impressive average of 150 and a strike rate of 133.92, the fifth-best in the competition. Kaur's blistering 52 off 27 balls against Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in keeping India's semifinal hopes alive.South Africa's Laura Wolvaardt, the tournament's captain, provided a solid foundation for her team at the top of the order. She surpassed 30 runs in all but one of her games, including four scores over 40. Her highest score came in South Africa's opening match, but it was her resilient 42 in the semi-final that laid the groundwork for a successful chase against Australia.Tazmin Brits, South Africa's opener, formed a formidable partnership with Wolvaardt, driving the team to the final. Brits accumulated 187 runs in six innings, averaging an impressive 37.40. She surpassed 40 runs in three innings, including a match-winning unbeaten 57 in South Africa's opening fixture against the West Indies.England's Danni Wyatt-Hodge emerged as a firecracker at the top of the order, notching up the most runs for her side. She registered scores of 40+ in each of England's first three games. Wyatt-Hodge's tournament highlight was an unbeaten 26-ball 51 against Scotland, guiding England to a 10-wicket win in a record partnership alongside Maia Bouchier.New Zealand's Melie Kerr, the Player of the Final and the Player of the Tournament, starred in her team's title-winning campaign. She contributed both with the bat and ball, scoring 135 runs in six innings and taking 15 wickets, becoming the tournament's leading wicket-taker. Her impressive 3 for 24 in the final, including the crucial wickets of Wolvaardt and Bosch, was pivotal in New Zealand's victory.Deandra Dottin shone for the West Indies on her return to international cricket. She scored 120 runs in five innings, averaging 40, and played a crucial role in the middle order. Her tournament-high nine sixes were unmatched, and she also contributed with the ball, taking five wickets, including a standout performance of 4 for 22 in the semifinal against New Zealand.Bangladesh's wicketkeeper Nigar Sultana Joty had a standout performance, excelling both behind the stumps and with the bat. She scored 104 runs in four innings, with a top score of 39 against the West Indies. Her best contributions came with the gloves, where she made six stumpings and took one catch, the highest total among wicketkeepers in the tournament.Afy Fletcher came up clutch with the ball for the West Indies, finishing off with the third-most wickets. Despite not picking up a wicket in their opening game, the 37-year-old returned with strong performances, taking 10 wickets in total, including two 3-wicket hauls against Scotland and England.New Zealand's Rosemary Mair bookended her tournament with two outstanding displays. She returned the best figures for the White Ferns in their crucial opening win over India, taking 4/19, and was excellent again in the final, taking 3/25. With probing accuracy and big movement, Mair proved an important weapon for the champions.South Africa's Nonkululeko Mlaba made her team's tournament come to life with a brilliant 4/29 in their first game against the West Indies. She remained crucial throughout, varying her speeds and lengths to great effect. Her scalp of Tahlia McGrath ended a promising stand for Australia in the semi-final, and she also removed Suzie Bates and Melie Kerr in the final.Australia's reliable pacer Megan Schutt had a typically impactful outing, troubling batters throughout the innings. Her ability to maintain control was matched by her wicket-taking prowess. She was at her best in the group game against New Zealand, striking first and then taking wickets of Melie Kerr and Eden Carson to seal a dominant win for Australia.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has received bids from several Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, including Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Lucknow Super Giants, for potential ownership stakes in the Hundred competition. Other notable bidders include the GMR Group, the new owner of Hampshire cricket, and Avram Glazer, co-owner of Manchester United Football Club.The ECB set an October 18 deadline for potential investors to express interest in buying stakes in the eight Hundred teams. The bids submitted last week represent a one-time sum to acquire a 49% stake in each team, currently held by the ECB.In the next stage, which begins in November, investors will meet with the host counties of each Hundred franchise. They will then need to narrow down their choices to four teams, followed by a final selection of two teams.While the ECB aims to announce the final set of investors by early 2025, it has emphasized that it will not rush the process and risk "underselling" the Hundred. ECB chairman Richard Thompson has suggested that a hybrid model could be adopted, with the ECB owning some teams and private investors owning others.However, not all IPL teams have submitted bids. Punjab Kings have opted out, while there is no confirmation on the participation of Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans. Pakistan Super League (PSL) winners Multan Sultans and global sports investors INEOS have also declined to bid.One of the concerns raised by IPL franchises is their potential role as passive investors. Additionally, former IPL architect Lalit Modi has criticized the ECB's financial projections for the Hundred's growth beyond 2026, calling them "overly optimistic."Despite these reservations, the ECB remains confident in the Hundred's potential. CEO Richard Gould has stated that over 100 potential investors from India and the USA have sought information on the privatization.