Cricket

Virat Kohli, the Indian cricket superstar, has hailed AB de Villiers as the "absolute number one" after the South African legend was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame. De Villiers, along with Sir Alastair Cook and Neetu David, was inducted into the Class of 2024.Kohli and De Villiers have been close friends on and off the field for years, and the former penned an open letter to congratulate "Mr. 360" on his induction. "You are thoroughly deserving of your place – after all, the Hall of Fame is a representation of your impact on the game, and yours has been truly unique," Kohli wrote.Kohli praised De Villiers' exceptional talent and unwavering belief in his abilities. "You are the most talented cricketer I have played with, the absolute number one," he stated. "But what truly stood out to me was your belief in that ability. You had a crazy amount of belief that you could execute whatever you wanted to on a cricket field, and you normally did."Kohli recalled an unforgettable incident during an RCB match in Kolkata in 2016, where De Villiers' extraordinary six off Sunil Narine left him in awe. "You played and missed a couple and told me during a timeout that you weren’t picking him too well. I felt I was, so I remember telling you to give me the strike and I would try and hit boundaries off him," Kohli wrote. "In the first over Narine bowled after the timeout, I was ready at the non-striker’s end thinking you were definitely giving me a single. So, imagine my surprise when you back away to the leg side, Sunil follows you and you slog sweep him over square leg for a 94-metre six!"Kohli also highlighted De Villiers' unwavering commitment to his team. "Your drive to want to be the guy to win the game for your team was tremendous and something I learned a lot from," he said. "I remember taking from you that it doesn’t matter what you have done in the last four games, it is about how you approach the game today. It is about always being positive, always taking the game on and finding a way to get the job done."Kohli concluded his letter by expressing his admiration for De Villiers' impact on the game. "A lot of players can have impressive numbers but very few have an impact on the psyche of those watching. For me, that is the highest value you can have as a cricketer and that is what makes you so special," he wrote. "You are in the Hall of Fame for the impact you have left on the game and I don’t think there is anything more special for a cricketer than to have that honour."

Bangladesh's Khaled Ahmed Omitted from Test Squad for South Africa SeriesFast bowler Khaled Ahmed has been excluded from Bangladesh's squad for the upcoming first Test against South Africa, scheduled to commence on October 21 in Mirpur. This marks the sole alteration to the 16-man contingent that toured India in September and October.Ahmed featured in only the second Test against India in Kanpur, where he bowled four overs in the first innings, conceding 43 runs without claiming a wicket. Bangladesh will host South Africa for two Tests, with the second match taking place in Chattogram from October 29.This series marks the first assignment under interim coach Phil Simmons, who joined the squad on Wednesday following the Bangladesh Cricket Board's (BCB) decision to remove Chandika Hathurusinghe from the position due to disciplinary reasons.Bangladesh currently occupies the seventh position in the World Test Championship (WTC) points table, having secured a 2-0 victory in Pakistan and suffered a 2-0 defeat in India. South Africa, on the other hand, stands fifth in the WTC standings, having recently emerged victorious in a two-Test series against the West Indies in August.Bangladesh Squad for First Test against South Africa:* Najmul Hossain Shanto (Captain)* Shadman Islam* Mahmudul Hasan Joy* Zakir Hasan* Mominul Haque* Mushfiqur Rahim* Shakib Al Hasan* Litton Das* Jaker Ali* Mehidy Hasan* Taijul Islam* Nayeem Hasan* Taskin Ahmed* Hasan Mahmud* Nahid Rana

Indian cricket witnessed the electrifying debut of young pacer Mayank Yadav in the T20I series opener against Bangladesh in Gwalior. The 22-year-old, who missed out on a potential breakout season in the Indian Premier League due to injury, made his mark on the international stage with an impressive performance.Mayank's debut was made even more memorable when former India spinner Murali Kartik, who was commentating on the series, handed him his T20I cap. Kartik later revealed that India head coach Gautam Gambhir had asked him to present the cap to Mayank, a gesture that touched him deeply."What a memorable day for this Speed Merchant #MayankYadav...it took me back 25 yrs when I received my cap from Sachin & Kapil paaji... A touching moment for me personally to be asked to present the cap by @GautamGambhir...a wonderful gesture," Kartik tweeted.Mayank's debut was a testament to his raw pace and precision. He was handed the ball in the final over of the powerplay and delivered a maiden over, becoming only the third Indian cricketer to achieve this feat in their first T20I over.Mayank's pace was too much for Bangladesh's batsmen to handle. He added a wicket to his name, dismissing experienced all-rounder Mahmudullah with a scorching 146.1kph delivery. The pace and accuracy of his bowling helped India restrict Bangladesh to a modest total of 127.India chased down the target with ease, winning by 7 wickets with plenty of overs to spare. Mayank's impressive debut was a major contributing factor to India's victory. He finished with figures of 1/21 in his four-over spell, showcasing his potential as a future star of Indian cricket.

Mukesh Kumar, the rising star of Indian cricket, has made a compelling case for his inclusion in the national team with his exceptional performances in domestic competitions. Despite the departure of several senior players, the competition for places in the Indian team remains fierce.In the recently concluded Duleep Trophy, Kumar emerged as the second-highest wicket-taker for India B, claiming 15 wickets at an impressive average of 28.60. His tally included two four-wicket hauls, showcasing his ability to strike consistently.Kumar's impressive form continued in the Irani Cup, where he picked up a five-wicket haul for the Rest of India team against Mumbai. His performance in this prestigious match further solidified his credentials as a potential candidate for the Indian team.Speaking to Sportstar after his standout performance in the Irani Cup, Kumar expressed his focus on executing his plans and justifying the trust placed in him by the captain. He acknowledged that selection is an ongoing process and that he will continue to strive for excellence.Kumar's aspirations extend beyond representing India in one format. He aims to play for the country in all three formats, recognizing the pride and honor associated with representing India on the international stage.With Mohammed Shami's fitness still a concern, Kumar could be a viable backup option for the upcoming tour of Australia. The wickets in Australia are known to favor pacers, and Kumar's ability to generate pace and bounce could prove valuable.Kumar's determination and consistent performances have put him on the radar of the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee. If he continues to impress in domestic competitions, he is likely to earn a call-up to the Indian team in the near future.

In a remarkable turn of events, former South African batter and current batting coach Jean-Paul Duminy took to the field as a substitute fielder during the final ODI against Ireland in the United Arab Emirates. The unusual occurrence stemmed from the intense heat, which forced several regular South African players to leave the field due to fatigue.Duminy, now 40 years old, last played for South Africa in 2019. However, his fielding skills remained sharp as he made an impressive one-handed save in the 50th and final over of Ireland's innings. Irish batter Harry Tector mistimed a reverse sweep, and Duminy, positioned at short third-man, reacted swiftly to prevent a boundary.Duminy's fielding prowess was a testament to his exceptional abilities during his playing days. He was known for his agility and quick reflexes, making him a valuable asset to the South African team.The match itself saw Ireland post a respectable 284 in 50 overs, led by captain Paul Stirling's 88 off 92 balls. In response, South Africa struggled to keep up, losing three early wickets. Jason Smith provided some resistance with a valiant 91 off 93 balls, but Ireland ultimately secured a convincing 69-run victory.Duminy's appearance as a substitute fielder highlighted the challenges faced by players in the extreme heat of the UAE. It also showcased the versatility and dedication of the South African coaching staff, who are willing to go the extra mile to support their team.

Alastair Cook, Neetu David, and AB de Villiers have been inducted into the prestigious ICC Hall of Fame, joining an elite group of cricket legends.Neetu David, a former Indian left-arm spinner, becomes the second Indian woman after Diana Edulji to receive this honor. With 100 ODI wickets, she holds the record for the most wickets by an Indian woman in the format. Her exceptional bowling average of 16.34 remains unmatched by any bowler, male or female, with at least 100 ODI wickets.Alastair Cook, England's former opening batsman, was a prolific run-scorer and century-maker. He played a pivotal role in England's Ashes victory in Australia in 2010-11 and led the team to two consecutive home Ashes wins in 2013 and 2015.AB de Villiers, the South African batting maestro, revolutionized the game with his innovative strokeplay. He holds the records for the fastest 50, 100, and 150 in ODI cricket. With over 20,000 international runs, he was a key member of South Africa's semi-final appearances at the 2007 and 2015 ODI World Cups.The ICC Hall of Fame recognizes the exceptional achievements of cricketers who have made significant contributions to the sport. The induction of David, Cook, and de Villiers is a testament to their outstanding skills, dedication, and impact on the game.

The Champions Trophy, scheduled for 2024 in Pakistan, faces uncertainty over India's participation due to political tensions between the two nations. However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has emphasized the importance of protecting broadcast rights, indicating that the tournament will proceed with or without India's involvement.ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould and Chair Richard Thompson acknowledged that alternative arrangements are being considered in case India declines to travel to Pakistan. They stressed that the Champions Trophy is a significant event for Pakistan, which has not hosted a major ICC tournament since 1996.The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not sent a team to Pakistan since 2008 due to strained relations. Last year, the Asia Cup was shifted to a hybrid model with India's matches played in Sri Lanka. Pakistan, however, participated fully in the 2023 World Cup in India.The PCB remains committed to hosting a "world-class" event in Pakistan. The final decision on India's participation rests with the Indian government. ECB officials believe that the ICC, led by former BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, will play a crucial role in finding a solution.Gould emphasized the financial implications of India's absence, stating that broadcast rights would be compromised. He also acknowledged the security concerns that arise when India and Pakistan face each other. However, he expressed optimism that the two countries' relations are currently amicable.Thompson predicted that India's participation would "go to the wire." He believes that India and Pakistan will find a way to ensure India's involvement. The PCB has submitted a draft schedule to the ICC, with India's matches scheduled to be played in Lahore.The Champions Trophy will feature eight teams divided into two groups of four. The competing teams include Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa. The tournament is set to run from February 19 to March 9, 2024.

In 2016, Virat Kohli led the Indian cricket team to a resounding 3-0 Test series victory over New Zealand. During the second Test in Kolkata, Kohli etched his name in history by scoring his highest Test score against the Kiwis – a magnificent double century.The Indian innings got off to a shaky start as openers Gautam Gambhir and Murali Vijay departed early, leaving the team at 60/2. However, Kohli, batting at number four, steadied the ship with a crucial partnership with Cheteshwar Pujara (43).Kohli then joined forces with Ajinkya Rahane, and the duo forged a mammoth 365-run stand, the highest partnership for India in Tests against New Zealand. Kohli played aggressively against the likes of Trent Boult, Mitchell Santner, and Matt Henry, amassing 211 runs with 20 fours. Rahane, too, contributed handsomely with 188 runs, including 18 fours and 4 sixes.Rohit Sharma's quickfire half-century after Kohli's dismissal helped India post a formidable 557/5 before declaring. New Zealand's response was promising initially, but they collapsed after losing their first wicket at 118. Ashwin wreaked havoc with the ball, claiming six wickets as the Kiwis were bowled out for 299.In India's second innings, Pujara's century ensured a solid score of 216/3 before another declaration. New Zealand faced an even more daunting task in the fourth innings and were bundled out for 153, handing India a comprehensive victory.Ashwin was adjudged Player of the Match for his match-winning performance, while Kohli received the ICC Test Championship mace, a testament to his exceptional batting throughout the series.

India's legendary spinner Anil Kumble has expressed his confidence in young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal's ability to excel in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Kumble believes that Jaiswal's versatility and adaptability will serve him well on the challenging Australian pitches.Jaiswal has been a consistent performer in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle, showcasing his ability to adjust his tactics based on the conditions and opposition. In the recent home series against Bangladesh, he displayed his versatility by playing cautiously in the first Test, where the conditions favored the fast bowlers, and then switching to his naturally aggressive style in the second game.Kumble believes that Jaiswal's aggressive approach will be an asset in Australia, where India has won two consecutive series. He also highlighted the psychological advantage that the Indian team has going into the series, having won the previous two encounters against Australia."This Indian team is heading to Australia with two back-to-back series wins over them, which is a great confidence booster for a youngster," Kumble said. "When other teams tour Australia, they often do so with some hesitation because of past failures. But for this Indian side, coming off two series wins against Australia, the situation is much more comfortable."Kumble emphasized the importance of Jaiswal's technique and hunger for runs, which he believes will be key to his success in Australia. He also noted that Jaiswal's ability to learn and adapt quickly will be crucial in navigating the challenges of playing in different conditions.Overall, Kumble is optimistic about Jaiswal's prospects in Australia and believes that he has the potential to make a significant contribution to India's success in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.