Cricket

Pakistan's white-ball captain, Mohammad Rizwan, exudes confidence in his team's ability to triumph in the upcoming T20 international series against Australia. His aspirations extend beyond victory, aiming for a clean sweep of the home team.Pakistan's recent ODI series triumph in Australia, their first since 2002, came as a surprise to many. The Australian team's decision to rest five senior players for the decider in Perth drew criticism from former players and disappointment from Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley.Pakistan's white-ball coach, Jason Gillispie, expressed disappointment over Cricket Australia's perceived lack of promotion for the Pakistan-Australia series.Rizwan believes that a united Pakistan team can achieve a whitewash in the T20 series. He emphasized the importance of appropriate conduct on tour, reminding players of their role as ambassadors for Pakistan."We must strive to win major titles like the World Cups and Champions Trophy to showcase the true potential of Pakistan cricket," Rizwan stated.He urged the team to break long-standing records of underperformance in various countries. Rizwan's leadership style involves consulting with players and officials to ensure clarity in decision-making.

South African wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen has expressed his admiration for Indian T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav, describing him as the "GOAT" of the format. Klaasen, known for his explosive batting style, revealed his thoughts on T20 cricket, his memorable innings, and his personal favorites in an interview with JioCinema's Q20s show.Klaasen described his batting style as "explosive" and named Suryakumar Yadav as the greatest T20 player of all time. He praised Yadav's ability to hit fine leg off straight balls, a technique he would like to incorporate into his own game.Reflecting on his T20 career, Klaasen recalled two standout performances against India: his 81 in 2022 and 69 in 2018. He chose the former as his favorite, citing the tougher conditions in which it was scored.Klaasen also shared his admiration for other players, naming Jasprit Bumrah as the "toughest bowler to hit out in T20s" and Yuzvendra Chahal as "the funniest non-South African player" he has played with. He expressed his love for butter chicken as his favorite Indian dish.For inspiration from other sports, Klaasen named Formula 1 World Drivers Championship winner Lewis Hamilton, saying, "I wish I had the ability to drive cars like him." He also suggested that Nicholas Pooran is the one batter who could potentially score a double hundred in T20 cricket.When asked who he would trust to bat for his life, Klaasen replied, "Probably Hashim Amla." He admitted that he hesitates to try Suryakumar Yadav's "Supla Shot" over fine leg, as he prefers not to get into line too much.Klaasen's insights provide a glimpse into the mindset of a modern-day T20 cricketer, who values explosive batting, innovation, and a competitive spirit.

Star Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has arrived in Perth, Australia, to commence his training sessions ahead of the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy against the hosts. Pant is expected to make his return to action on Australian soil when India takes on Australia in the opening Test at Optus Stadium in Perth, commencing on November 22.Pant boasts an impressive record against Australia, particularly on their home turf. In seven Tests against the Aussies, he has amassed 624 runs in 12 innings at an exceptional average of 62.40 and a strike rate of 72.13. His highest score against Australia is 159, and he has registered one century and two half-centuries.Pant's previous series in Australia in 2020-21 proved to be a turning point in his career. Known for his fearless counter-attacking style, Pant emerged as India's leading Test batter, accumulating 274 runs in five innings at an average of 68.50, including two crucial fifties.Two of Pant's most memorable knocks in that series include a game-changing 97 during a 407-run chase at Sydney in the third Test, which ended in a draw, and an unbeaten 89* that led India to a historic 328-run chase at the Gabba, ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the venue. These innings cemented Pant's reputation as one of India's premier Test players.Pant's arrival in Perth marks the beginning of India's preparations for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The team will be looking to retain the trophy they won in 2020-21, and Pant's presence will be crucial to their chances of success.

Neil McKenzie, a former South African batter, has been appointed as the consultant coach for the Sri Lankan cricket team ahead of their crucial two-match Test series against South Africa, commencing on November 27. McKenzie's appointment is a strategic move by Sri Lanka Cricket to gain valuable insights into the South African conditions and enhance their chances of success in the upcoming series.McKenzie, who played 58 Test matches for South Africa between 2000 and 2009, amassed over 3,253 runs, including five centuries and 16 fifties. His experience as an opening batsman, particularly his record-breaking 415-run partnership with Graeme Smith against Bangladesh in 2008, will be invaluable to the Sri Lankan team.Since retiring from international cricket, McKenzie has gained extensive coaching experience in various roles. He served as South Africa's batting consultant during the ICC World Test Championship series against the West Indies last year and was part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore setup in the Indian Premier League as a batting coach earlier this year.Sri Lanka's decision to appoint McKenzie as a consultant coach is part of their strategy to improve their performance in the ongoing World Test Championship cycle. Currently placed third in the points table, Sri Lanka is in contention for a spot in next year's WTC Final. The two-match Test series against South Africa will be their final away series in the current cycle, and a positive result could significantly boost their chances of qualifying for the final.McKenzie's appointment has been welcomed by Sri Lanka Cricket CEO Ashley De Silva, who believes his insights into the South African conditions will be crucial for the team's success. "McKenzie will bring in vital, in-depth insights about the South African conditions to help Sri Lankan players adapt to the challenge," De Silva said.The first Test match between Sri Lanka and South Africa will be played at Kingsmead in Durban from November 27, followed by the second Test at St. George's Oval in Port Elizabeth.

Liam Norwell, the former Warwickshire seamer who played a pivotal role in saving the club from relegation in 2022, has been forced to retire on medical grounds. The 32-year-old has been battling a series of long-standing injuries that have prevented him from regaining full fitness.Norwell's heroics on the final day of the 2022 County Championship season will be etched in Warwickshire's history. His career-best figures of 9 for 62 against Hampshire at Edgbaston secured a thrilling five-run victory and kept the Bears in the top flight at the expense of Yorkshire.In recognition of his efforts, Norwell was rewarded with a two-year contract extension in March 2023. However, a back injury in pre-season ruled him out of the entire campaign. He made a brief return to action in four second XI games in June 2024, but a torn pectoral muscle in the last of those against Worcestershire ended his hopes of a full comeback.After undergoing another operation, Norwell's contract with Warwickshire was terminated by mutual consent. Warwickshire Performance Director Gavin Larsen expressed his disappointment at the time, saying, "I'm gutted for Liam because I know how hard he's tried and trained to get back to full fitness."Norwell's career has been marked by both success and setbacks. He has taken a total of 347 first-class wickets, including 94 for Warwickshire. In 2021, he claimed 49 wickets at an average of 18.21, earning him a place on the England Lions tour of Australia. He was also named as a stand-by for England's Test tour of the Caribbean the following spring, but a family illness prevented him from answering the call.Despite the challenges he has faced, Norwell remains grateful for his time at Warwickshire. "I've really enjoyed my time as a Bear since joining and have shared in some great team successes and memories," he said. "My focus now is on getting fit and healthy again, and working out what is next for my family and I."

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a highly anticipated cricket series between India and Australia, has sparked discussions among experts and former players. Michael Vaughan, the former England captain, has identified two key battles that will shape the outcome of the five-match series.Vaughan believes that the clash between Australia's captain Pat Cummins and India's star batsman Virat Kohli will be a pivotal matchup. Cummins, known for his exceptional pace and swing, will face off against Kohli, one of the most prolific run-scorers in Test cricket.Another intriguing battle, according to Vaughan, will be between India's fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah and Australia's left-handed batsman Travis Head. Head has been a thorn in India's side in recent encounters, including the World Test Championship final and the ODI World Cup final.With Rohit Sharma's availability for the first Test uncertain, Vaughan suggests that Bumrah could lead the Indian team in Perth. "Pound for pound, I think Bumrah is the best bowler in the world," Vaughan said. "I'm looking forward to that kind of confrontation."Former Australian wicketkeeper-batter Adam Gilchrist also weighed in on the upcoming series, highlighting the rivalry between Rishabh Pant and Nathan Lyon. Pant has a history of attacking Lyon's off-spin bowling, and Gilchrist believes this matchup will be crucial."Rishabh can go through the gears as quickly as anyone, from complete defense to all out assault and attack on a bowler," Gilchrist said. "That would be fascinating."Other potential matchups to watch include Steve Smith against Bumrah and David Warner against Mohammed Shami. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams boasting world-class players and a history of intense rivalry.

The Champions Trophy, a prestigious one-day cricket tournament, has been thrown into disarray by reports that India's men's team will not travel to Pakistan for the event next year. The tournament, which features the top eight ODI teams in the world, is scheduled to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9.The International Cricket Council (ICC), the governing body of cricket, has confirmed that it has received an email from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) stating that India will not be visiting Pakistan for the tournament. The PCB had previously rejected the idea of a hybrid tournament, in which India would play its matches at neutral venues.The PCB had anticipated a reciprocal gesture from India after Pakistan traveled to India for the ODI World Cup last year. However, India played its matches, including the final, in Sri Lanka during the Asia Cup in Pakistan last year, which was held under a hybrid format.The BCCI, India's influential cricket board, has refrained from commenting publicly on the matter. The BCCI has significant influence at the ICC, and its secretary, Jay Shah, is set to become ICC chairman next month.The absence of India from the Champions Trophy would be a major blow to the tournament. The matches between India and Pakistan are among the most watched events on the world sports calendar."If you play the Champions Trophy without India or Pakistan, the broadcast rights aren't there, and we need to protect them," said England and Wales Cricket Board chief executive Richard Gould last month.The ICC is now faced with the challenge of finding a solution that satisfies all parties involved. One option could be to move the tournament to a neutral venue, but this would likely be met with resistance from the PCB.Another option could be to allow India to play its matches at a neutral venue, but this would also be a compromise for the PCB.The ICC is expected to make a decision on the matter in the coming weeks.

The Indian men's blind cricket team is eagerly awaiting clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to participate in the 4th T20 World Cup for the Blind, scheduled to take place in Pakistan from November 22 to December 3. The team has already received a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, but official permission from the MEA is crucial for their participation.The decision by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to not send the Indian cricket team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025 has heightened tensions between the two countries. However, the Indian blind cricket team remains hopeful of receiving clearance to compete in the World Cup.India has a remarkable track record in the T20 World Cup for the Blind, having won the first three editions organized by the Cricket Association for the Blind in India and Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled. They defeated Pakistan twice and Bangladesh once in 2022.This year, the Pakistan Blind Cricket Council (PBCC) will host the tournament. Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, Chairman of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), expressed excitement about the prospect of facing Pakistan again. He emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for visually impaired cricketers and the team's determination to extend their winning streak.The Indian men's blind cricket team selected for the 4th T20 World Cup comprises 17 players from various states, categorized based on their level of visual impairment. The team includes experienced and talented players from across the country, united in their goal to compete at the highest level.The team's participation in the World Cup would not only be a testament to their skill and determination but also a symbol of the resilience and spirit of sportsmanship that transcends political boundaries. The Indian blind cricket team is eager to represent their country and make their mark on the international stage.

Melie Kerr, the New Zealand all-rounder, has been crowned the ICC Women's Player of the Month for October, marking her second time receiving the prestigious honor. Her exceptional performances during the T20 World Cup and New Zealand's subsequent tour of India earned her the accolade.Kerr's brilliance shone brightest in the T20 World Cup final, where she was named Player of the Match. Her crucial 43 runs and three wickets played a pivotal role in New Zealand's historic victory. Throughout the tournament, she showcased her all-round prowess, amassing 135 runs and claiming a tournament-record 15 wickets, earning her the Player of the Tournament award.Continuing her impressive form, Kerr made an immediate impact in India. In the solitary ODI she played, she grabbed a four-wicket haul and contributed an unbeaten 25 runs with the bat. Her overall tally for October stands at 160 runs and 19 wickets from just seven appearances."It's an honor to receive this award," said Kerr. "There are so many world-class cricketers who deserve it. It's a special month with the World Cup win, and I'm grateful to my team, coaches, and family for their support."Kerr's consistent performances have solidified her status as one of the most formidable all-rounders in women's cricket. Her ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes her an invaluable asset to any team.