Cricket

Team India's decision to cancel their practice match in Australia has drawn criticism from legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar. The team had initially planned to play a warm-up game against India A at the WACA ground before their opening Test match against Australia, which begins on November 22 at Perth Stadium.Gavaskar expressed his disbelief at the decision, stating that the batters needed the practice game, especially given their struggles against New Zealand at home. He pointed out that despite scoring over 400 in the second innings of the first Test in Bangalore, the Indian batters looked clueless in the subsequent innings against a spin attack that was not particularly dangerous.Gavaskar emphasized the importance of playing in real practice matches over just facing bowlers in net sessions. He acknowledged that some may argue that 'A' team bowlers might hold back against top players in practice games to avoid injuries, but he countered that in the nets, batters often face less prepared pitches and bowlers who sometimes bowl no-balls without penalty.He also highlighted the benefits for bowlers in playing proper matches, such as getting into a proper rhythm with their run-up and gaining confidence in not overstepping. He stressed that line and length are also aspects that can be learned in a proper game rather than in the nets.Gavaskar concluded by expressing his hope that the decision to cancel the warm-up game and reduce the match between the first and second Test against the Australian Prime Minister's XI to two days would prove to be the right one for Indian cricket. However, he emphasized that the batters and bowlers would have benefited greatly from the additional practice and match experience.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is preparing to formally challenge the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) refusal to send the Indian cricket team to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. The PCB has reportedly sought legal advice and will now seek clarification from the ICC regarding India's stance.According to sources, the PCB has consulted with legal experts following guidance from the Pakistan government. The PCB will use this legal consultation in its letter to the ICC, arguing that India's refusal to travel to Pakistan is unjustified.The Pakistan government has also advised the PCB to involve other cricket boards in this issue. The government believes that a match of such importance cannot be played outside Pakistan, given the significance of both countries in the sport.The government has also suggested that the PCB emphasize its positive conduct and attitude while presenting its case. The government believes that India has no moral or legal grounds to refuse to travel to Pakistan.India has not played a bilateral series in Pakistan since 2008. However, India has participated in tournaments hosted by Pakistan in neutral venues. For example, the 2023 Asia Cup was hosted by Pakistan, but India played all its games in Sri Lanka, including the India-Pakistan clash.PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has initiated talks with senior government officials to discuss the future course of action after the ICC conveyed India's unwillingness to tour Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.The PCB's challenge to the ICC is a significant development in the ongoing dispute between the two cricket boards. The outcome of this challenge could have implications for the future of cricket in Pakistan and the relationship between the two countries.

MS Dhoni, the legendary Indian cricketer and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) icon, is set to return for his 18th season in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2024. This confirmation comes amidst widespread speculation that the upcoming season would mark his final appearance.CSK has retained five players for the 2024 season, including Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, and Matheesha Pathirana. Notably, Dhoni has agreed to a significant salary cut, signing for Rs. 4 crore for the season. His retention falls under the 'uncapped player' category, following the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s reinstatement of a rule allowing teams to classify players as uncapped if they haven't represented India in over five years.CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan hinted at Dhoni's future, suggesting that the former Indian captain aims to end his career at Chennai's MA Chidambaram Stadium. This aligns with Dhoni's 2021 statement during a CSK victory celebration, where he expressed his desire to play his last game in Chennai."As far as Mahi bhai (brother) is concerned, you know he keeps everything to himself. It comes out at the last moment only. Knowing the passion he has for CSK, and also knowing the following he has, and he also mentioned in one of the interviews that he'll play his last game in Chennai, we're hoping that he will continue as far as CSK is concerned. As long as MS wants to play, the doors are open. Knowing him, his commitment, and his dedication, I'm sure he'll always take the right decision," said Viswanathan.Dhoni, who led CSK since 2008, briefly joined Rising Pune SuperGiants in 2016 and 2017 before passing CSK's captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the 2024 season.

Jafer Chohan, the 22-year-old Yorkshire legspinner, has been recalled from England's white-ball tour of the Caribbean to manage his workload ahead of the upcoming Lions tour of South Africa. Chohan made history last month as the first graduate of the South Asian Cricket Academy (SACA) to be named in an England squad.Chohan's opportunity with Yorkshire arose after he was released by Middlesex as a 17-year-old in 2019. He has since flourished under the guidance of Adil Rashid, his mentor at Yorkshire. Chohan's fast-tracking into the England set-up is a testament to his talent and the progress he has made in recent years.However, the England management has decided to prioritize Chohan's long-term development by sending him home before he has a chance to make his international debut. The team has a wealth of spin options available, including Rashid, Rehan Ahmed, Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, Dan Mousley, and Will Jacks.Chohan's release from the England squad is also a reflection of the team's current success in T20Is. England has taken a 2-0 lead in the five-match series against the West Indies, with Chohan playing a supporting role in the nets.Despite not making his international debut on this tour, Chohan's inclusion in the England squad is a significant milestone for British South Asian cricketers. The SACA, launched in 2021, aims to address the under-representation of South Asian players in the professional game. Chohan's journey is an inspiration to aspiring cricketers from all backgrounds.In addition to the Lions tour, Chohan is also set to play for Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League, which commences on December 15. His release from the England squad will allow him to focus on these upcoming commitments and continue his development as a legspinner.

Delhi's Ranji Trophy campaign has hit a roadblock, prompting a leadership change. Himmat Singh, who captained the team in the first four rounds, has been replaced by Ayush Badoni. The decision comes after a crushing defeat to Chandigarh, which exposed Delhi's batting frailties.Badoni, who scored 49 and 1 in the two innings against Chandigarh, will lead the team in their next match against Jharkhand. The 23-year-old has been in impressive form this season, scoring two centuries and a fifty in four matches.Yash Dhull, who was the Delhi skipper during the 2022-23 Ranji season, has been named as the vice-captain. Dhull, who is also a talented batsman, has scored two centuries and a fifty this season.The changes in the Delhi squad reflect the team's struggles in the Ranji Trophy. Delhi is currently fourth in Group D, with just one win from four matches. The team's batting has been particularly disappointing, with only Dhull and Badoni showing any consistency.The selectors have made several changes to the squad in an attempt to address the team's weaknesses. Hrithik Shokeen, Shivank Vashisth, and Kshitiz Sharma have been dropped, while Simarjeet Singh, Mayank Gusain, and Shivam Sharma have been included.Simarjeet, a pacer, returns to the squad after missing the last three matches with injury. Gusain is a batting all-rounder who has been doing well in the U-23 set-up. Shivam is a left-arm spinner who has been in good form for Delhi's second XI.Delhi will be hoping that the changes in the squad will help them turn their season around. The team has a tough task ahead of them, but they will be confident of making a strong comeback under the leadership of Badoni.

Pakistan's stunning victory over Australia in the ODI series has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. The Mohammad Rizwan-led side, despite recent struggles, outplayed the hosts in a historic triumph.Australia's surrender of the series marks the first time in 22 years that they have lost an ODI series to Pakistan at home. The defeat was compounded by an unprecedented record: not a single Australian batter managed to score a half-century throughout the bilateral series.The absence of Australia's top players, who were rested ahead of the Border Gavaskar Trophy, played a significant role in Pakistan's success. While the Australian team was being hammered in Perth, captain Pat Cummins was enjoying a Coldplay concert in Sydney.Cummins' decision to attend the concert while his team was struggling drew criticism from the Australian media. The Sydney Morning Herald questioned why Cummins was "at Coldplay while Australia were smashed," while The Australian labeled his absence a "cold start to summer."Former Australian captain Michael Clarke expressed concerns over the team management's decision to rest key players in the third ODI. He questioned why the team prioritized rest over a chance to secure the series win."I'm just a bit confused. With 11 days between now and the first Test, why can't the Aussie boys who are part of this Test series play in the one-dayer?" Clarke said.Pakistan's victory is a testament to their resilience and determination. They seized the opportunity presented by Australia's weakened team and played with unwavering focus and intensity. The series win is a major boost for Pakistan's confidence ahead of the upcoming Test series against Australia.

KL Rahul, the former captain of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), has shed light on his departure from the franchise, citing a desire for a fresh start and greater freedom on the field. Rahul's exit has sparked speculation about the reasons behind his departure, but he has clarified that it was his own decision to explore new opportunities."I wanted to start fresh, explore my options, and find a team where I could play with freedom," Rahul said in an interview with Star Sports. "Sometimes you just need to move away and find something good for yourself."Rahul's departure from LSG comes after a disappointing season for the team, which finished ninth in the IPL 2024 standings. The team's owner, Sanjiv Goenka, expressed frustration following their loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad, hinting at underlying tensions within the dressing room.Rahul, who captained LSG for three seasons, was notably absent from their retained players list for the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction. He is expected to be one of the most sought-after players in the auction, which will be held in Jeddah on November 24 and 25.Despite his recent struggles, Rahul remains confident in his abilities and is determined to make a comeback to the Indian T20 team. He has been out of the national setup for over two years but believes that the upcoming IPL season will provide him with the platform to showcase his skills and earn a recall."I know where I stand as a player and I know what I need to do to get back," Rahul said. "I look forward to this IPL season to give me that platform to go back and enjoy my cricket. My aim is to obviously get back into the T20 team."Rahul's departure from LSG marks a significant change for the franchise, which will now need to find a new captain and rebuild its squad for the upcoming season. It remains to be seen whether Rahul will be able to find the success and freedom he seeks with a new team, but his determination to make a comeback to the Indian team is a testament to his resilience and ambition.

Varun Chakaravarthy's journey back to the Indian cricket team is a testament to his dedication and perseverance. After being dropped from the squad, Chakaravarthy went back to the drawing board and made significant changes to his bowling technique."I had to go to the drawing board and check out all my videos," Chakaravarthy said. "I figured out that I was bowling side spin, and it was not working out in the higher levels. So, I had to change everything about my bowling, and it took me two years and I started bowling in the local leagues and IPL also. So, it worked there, and I have started bowling it on the international stage and it's working out for me," he said exclusively on JioCinema after India's three-wicket loss to South Africa in the second T20I.Chakaravarthy's overhaul of his bowling technique involved a complete change in his action. He now bowls with a more upright stance and a higher release point, which has given him more control and accuracy."I had to change my whole action," Chakaravarthy said. "I had to change my run-up, my release point, and my grip. It took me a lot of time and effort, but I'm glad I did it."Chakaravarthy's hard work has paid off. He has been one of India's most consistent bowlers in recent months, and he played a key role in India's victory in the recent T20I series against South Africa."It's a great feeling to be back in the Indian team," Chakaravarthy said. "I'm just trying to do my best and help the team win."

Pakistan's head coach Jason Gillespie has criticized Cricket Australia and broadcasters for prioritizing the upcoming Test series against India over the recently concluded ODI series against Pakistan. Pakistan's historic 2-1 victory in the ODI series, their first in Australia since 2002, received minimal publicity, according to Gillespie."To be honest, I pretty much saw no promotion of our one-day series by Cricket Australia, which was a bit of a surprise," Gillespie told the Sydney Morning Herald. "It's pretty obvious that they're prioritizing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test series against India because I saw no promotion of this series."The Indian team will aim to secure an unprecedented third consecutive Test series victory in Australia. They previously achieved consecutive series wins in 2018-19 under Virat Kohli's captaincy and in 2020-21 under Ajinkya Rahane.The Test series begins with the first match in Perth on November 22, followed by a day-night encounter at Adelaide Oval from December 6 to 10. The competition then moves to The Gabba in Brisbane for the third Test from December 14 to 18, before the traditional Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26 to 30. The concluding Test match will be played in Sydney, starting on January 3.Gillespie's criticism highlights the disparity in attention given to different cricket series based on the perceived importance of the participating teams. While the India-Australia Test series is highly anticipated, the Pakistan-Australia ODI series received less fanfare. This disparity can impact the morale of players and the overall perception of the sport.