Cricket

Shreyas Iyer, the in-form batter, has been appointed as the captain of the 17-member Mumbai squad for the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, scheduled from November 23 to December 15. The squad also includes Prithvi Shaw, who has been recalled after being dropped from the Ranji Trophy side due to fitness and discipline issues.Iyer has been in exceptional form this Ranji Trophy season, amassing 452 runs at an impressive average of 90.40, including two centuries. His blistering 233 against Odisha and 142 against Maharashtra were instrumental in Mumbai's consecutive victories.The inclusion of Shaw is a significant development, as the 25-year-old opener has been in prolific form in domestic cricket. He has scored 332 runs in four innings in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, including a century and two half-centuries.Other notable inclusions in the Mumbai squad include Ajinkya Rahane, who has been captaining the team in the Ranji Trophy, and Siddhesh Lad, who has also been among the runs this season. Spin bowling all-rounder Tanush Kotian, who recently represented India A in unofficial Tests in Australia, has also been selected.Veteran all-rounder Shardul Thakur, who has been a regular member of the Indian team in recent years, will add experience and depth to the Mumbai side. The squad also features promising young players such as Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Jay Bista, and Suryansh Shedge.Mumbai will be aiming to make a strong impact in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which is a domestic Twenty20 tournament. The team has a balanced squad with a mix of experience and youth, and will be hoping to challenge for the title.

South African spin wizard Tabraiz Shamsi has unearthed a remarkable coincidence between his T20 International (T20I) statistics and those of Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.Shamsi took to social media to highlight the uncanny similarities, revealing that both bowlers have played an identical number of T20I matches (70), bowled the same number of deliveries (1,509), and claimed an equal tally of wickets (89).While they have shared the same number of matches, Bumrah has featured in one less innings (69) compared to Shamsi's 70.In terms of economy rates, Bumrah boasts a superior 6.27 runs per over, while Shamsi's stands at 7.39. Notably, Shamsi has achieved the rare feat of a five-wicket haul in T20Is, a milestone that Bumrah is yet to accomplish.Neither bowler featured in the recent T20I series between India and South Africa, which India emerged victorious in with a 3-1 scoreline.Meanwhile, Bumrah is currently in Perth, Australia, preparing with the Indian Test team for their upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against the hosts. The five-match Test series will commence on November 22nd in Perth, with subsequent matches scheduled in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.India will be aiming to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and secure their berth in the World Test Championship final.

Jason Gillespie's tenure as Pakistan's head coach is set to end abruptly, with Aaqib Javed poised to take over across all formats. This latest coaching shakeup underscores the ongoing instability within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).Gillespie, who currently serves as Test coach and interim white-ball coach, is expected to be relieved of all duties. Aaqib, recently appointed convenor of the men's cricket selection committee, is the frontrunner to replace him.The decision, which could be announced as early as Monday, stems from Gillespie's refusal to take on additional white-ball responsibilities without a contract amendment. The PCB, however, maintains that Gillespie's lack of time spent in Pakistan is the primary reason for his departure.Gillespie contends that he has fulfilled his contractual obligations and has even worked without pay on the Shaheens tour of Darwin. The PCB's insistence on his physical presence in Pakistan raises questions about the board's priorities, given the team's upcoming schedule.After Gillespie's departure, the PCB initially considered elevating Azhar Mahmood or reappointing Saqlain Mushtaq. However, Aaqib emerged as the preferred candidate, with the PCB offering him the role until the end of the Champions Trophy.Gillespie's tenure has been marked by both highs and lows. Pakistan suffered a humiliating 2-0 home defeat to Bangladesh but rebounded with a 2-1 triumph over England. Gillespie also oversaw Pakistan's first series victory in Australia in 22 years.Aaqib's appointment marks a rapid rise for the former coach and director of cricket operations at Lahore Qalandars. He is credited with implementing spin-friendly wickets against England, which proved decisive in Pakistan's series win.Pakistan faces a packed cricket schedule in the lead-up to the Champions Trophy, including white-ball matches against Zimbabwe and South Africa, as well as Test matches against West Indies. Aaqib will be tasked with guiding the team through this challenging period.

Pakistan's star batter Babar Azam faced the wrath of disgruntled fans during the second T20I against Australia in Sydney, where he was confronted and insulted over his poor batting performance. The incident occurred as Babar fielded near the boundary, where a group of fans hurled verbal abuse at him.Despite his anger, Babar maintained his composure and greeted fans who were chanting his name in support. However, one fan went too far, telling Babar to return to Lahore and questioning his place in the T20I side.The incident highlights the growing frustration among Pakistani fans over Babar's recent form. The former captain has struggled to find his rhythm in the shortest format, scoring just 3 runs in each of the first two T20Is against Australia.Babar's struggles have raised doubts about his suitability for the T20I format. Some critics argue that his slow strike rate and inability to adapt to the demands of modern T20 cricket make him a liability in the team.However, Babar's supporters point to his impressive record in other formats, including Test and ODI cricket. They argue that he is a world-class player who deserves the support of the fans during a difficult period.The incident in Sydney is a reminder of the intense pressure that Pakistani cricketers face. Fans expect high standards from their team, and when those standards are not met, they can be quick to express their disappointment.It remains to be seen how Babar will respond to the criticism. He has shown resilience in the past, but the pressure is mounting on him to deliver in the final T20I against Australia and prove that he is still worthy of his place in the team.

Justin Langer Warns Against Underestimating India in Border-Gavaskar TrophyFormer Australian cricketer and head coach Justin Langer has cautioned against underestimating the Indian team ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, despite their recent series loss to New Zealand. Langer emphasized the strength and resilience of the Indian team, highlighting their past successes in Australia."One thing you never do is write off champions, and that's in every sport, because they are a champion for a reason," Langer told The West Australian. "In India, there are one and a half billion cricket-loving people, and then count all the rest around the world, they expect nothing but excellence, and the team will be under intense pressure, so how they fight back will be important."Langer acknowledged the pressure on the Indian team but expressed his belief in their ability to bounce back. He also highlighted the star power within the Indian lineup, urging fans to savor their presence."And they'll be getting written off for being too old, but people say that all the time, and I just can't wait to see them play. I just hope, if this is the last time (Kohli) is out here, people enjoy it because he is a superstar, so is Rohit Sharma, so is (Ravi) Ashwin, so is (Ravi) Jadeja, so is (Jasprit) Bumrah."Langer drew parallels between the Australian and Indian teams, both boasting experienced bowling attacks, and encouraged fans to appreciate these players while they are still active."It's the same with the Australians; the bowling attack is a very senior attack now... so really enjoy it while you can; they are not going to be around forever,"To secure a spot in the World Test Championship final at Lord's next year, India needs to win at least four matches in the series. Langer believes India's recent loss to New Zealand might fuel their determination, making them a formidable opponent for Australia."India losing to New Zealand is a bit like North Melbourne beating Brisbane in the grand final at the moment. And not for one millisecond is that disrespect for New Zealand, because they are the great overachievers; they are brilliant."He acknowledged New Zealand's achievement in winning the series 3-0, emphasizing the pressure India will face to make amends for their performance."I think they'd won two Test matches (in India), and to win the series 3-0, that's an amazing achievement. They've just been beaten three-nil by New Zealand, so India will be humbled by that and equally determined to remedy it because the pressure on them will be intense."

Shreyas Iyer's IPL Future: Gavaskar Predicts KKR or Delhi Capitals ReunionShreyas Iyer's release by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has sparked speculation about his future in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Despite leading KKR to the title in 2022, Iyer was released ahead of the 2023 season due to a back injury.Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has proposed an intriguing idea for Iyer's future in the IPL. Gavaskar believes that KKR will attempt to reacquire Iyer, similar to his earlier prediction regarding Rishabh Pant. However, he cautions that negotiations over the fee could lead to a disagreement.KKR's limited purse of Rs 51 crore and lack of a Right to Match (RTM) card put them in a challenging position ahead of the auction. "When KKR won last year (IPL 2024), Shreyas Iyer was the captain. As I said earlier for Rishabh Pant as well, at times, there could be a disagreement on the fees," Gavaskar said on Star Sports' show 'Game Plan'.Iyer has set his base price at Rs 2 crore. His performance last season was impressive, amassing 351 runs in 14 innings at an average of 39, with a strike rate of 146.86.Gavaskar suggests that Delhi Capitals will also be interested in Iyer, as they will need a new captain if Rishabh Pant is not part of the team. "Delhi will want him because they will also need to find a captain if Rishabh Pant isn't in their team. So I feel Delhi will definitely try to use the RTM card or bring Rishabh Pant back into their team at the auction," he said.Ultimately, Iyer's future in the IPL will depend on the strategies of KKR and Delhi Capitals at the auction. If KKR is willing to pay a premium for his services, he could return to the franchise that he led to glory. However, if Delhi Capitals sees him as a suitable replacement for Pant, they could make a strong bid for his services.

The highly anticipated IPL 2025 mega auctions are set to take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on November 24-25. A total of 1574 players, including 320 capped players, 1,224 uncapped players, and 30 players from Associate Nations, will be up for grabs.Among the marquee players available in the auction are Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, and Mohammed Siraj. Rahul, who captained Lucknow Super Giants since 2022, was released by the franchise ahead of the auctions.Former India opener Aakash Chopra believes that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) should target Rahul as a potential successor to MS Dhoni. CSK has retained Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, and Matheesha Pathirana, but Dhoni has been retained as an uncapped player."What all do they need? I feel they need a successor to Dhoni, a wicketkeeper-batter and it's great if they get an Indian. Everyone is saying, let me also say - he is more than 30 years old, is going to be a father very soon and everyone has written him off as well, so he is right for Chennai, that's KL Rahul. So they will definitely go for KL Rahul," Chopra said on his YouTube channel."We can't say for how long they will go but they will try to acquire him because the franchise still has Rs 55 crore to be spent. So if they can get an Indian like him, Ishan Kishan or Rishabh Pant for Rs 10-15 crore, they are going to try. They might think about Shreyas Iyer for some time because they will need Indian batters to bat in those conditions," he added.Other notable players in the auction include David Warner, Ben Stokes, Sam Curran, and Jofra Archer. The auction is expected to be a fiercely competitive affair, with teams looking to bolster their squads for the upcoming season.

India's decision to not travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025 has sparked controversy and raised questions about the role of politics in sports. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed disappointment, while a Pakistani journalist raised the issue during a US Department of State press briefing.The journalist questioned the US's stance on India's refusal to participate in the tournament, which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan. Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel responded that the matter was between India and Pakistan, and the US would not take a position.Patel acknowledged the unifying power of sports but emphasized that bilateral relations between India and Pakistan were for them to address. He added that the US would not interfere in their relationship.The PCB has rejected any "hybrid" solution that would allow India to play their matches in Dubai. India last toured Pakistan in 2008, but political tensions have prevented them from returning since.The journalist's question highlighted the complex relationship between sports and politics. While sports can bring people together, it can also be used as a tool for political leverage. The Champions Trophy controversy underscores the challenges of separating the two.

Steve Smith, the Australian batting maestro, is gearing up for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy with a renewed determination to conquer the spin wizardry of Ravichandran Ashwin. Smith, who has been dismissed by Ashwin on multiple occasions in recent encounters, is eager to turn the tables in the upcoming series.Ashwin's prowess as an off-spinner is undeniable, particularly on home soil, where he boasts an impressive average of 21.57. However, his record in Australia is significantly different, with an average of 42.15. Smith believes this disparity could work in his favor.To counter Ashwin's spin, Smith plans to adopt a proactive approach, disrupting the bowler's rhythm and preventing him from settling into a comfortable pattern. He aims to take the attack to Ashwin, forcing him to react rather than dictate the terms of engagement."I don't like getting out to off-spin in Australia. But he's also a very good bowler and he came in with some decent plans. There were a couple of occasions where he got on top of me," Smith told the Sydney Morning Herald."But then I got on top of him at the SCG when I was a bit more proactive (Smith made 131 and 81 at Sydney). So, that's key for me. Just be proactive against him and not let him settle and bowl the way he wants to."Ashwin, for his part, is confident in his ability to outsmart Smith. He claims to have "figured out" Smith's batting technique, implying an upper hand in their battles."I think I've kind of figured out what he does or how he bats, I've had an edge over him. I've had the wood over him," Ashwin had told Channel Seven.Smith, however, downplays Ashwin's assertions, emphasizing the extended nature of a five-match series. He believes that even if one player gains an early advantage, the longer format allows for adjustments and shifts in momentum."Ashwin and I have had some good battles over the years. When you have five matches, if someone gets on top of another player, they could have 10 innings against them.""So, you're facing those mental challenges each game, and if it goes one way early, they will feel under pressure against that player. There's nowhere to hide in five games like there are in a two-game series," said the New South Wales man.Smith, who needs just 315 runs to reach the 10,000-run milestone in Test cricket, will return to his preferred batting position at number four. He had experimented with opening the batting in four Tests earlier this year, but the move didn't yield the desired results."It always makes your summer better when you start well. It gives you a lot of confidence. It's about not overthinking things. It's playing each ball as it comes and keeping it simple.""When I'm playing my best, I'm not overthinking and I'm just playing what's in front of me. It's going to be a good battle," he explained.Smith is eager to make a strong start and carry that momentum throughout the series. He believes in keeping his approach simple, trusting his instincts, and playing each ball on its merit. The battle between Smith and Ashwin promises to be an enthralling contest within the larger context of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.