Cricket

New Zealand's historic 3-0 Test series victory over India on Indian soil has been hailed as a testament to the Black Caps' resilience and determination. Skipper Tom Latham, while acknowledging India's formidable stature in world cricket, expressed his admiration for the team's unwavering spirit despite the defeat.The Black Caps' dominant whitewash, secured with wins in Bengaluru, Pune, and Mumbai, marked a significant milestone for visiting teams in India. Latham attributed the victory to his team's unwavering belief and ability to adapt to challenging conditions."We knew it was going to be a tough challenge, but we believed in ourselves and our abilities," Latham said. "We played to our strengths and adapted to the conditions, which was key to our success."Despite the historic feat, Latham emphasized that India remained a formidable force in world cricket. "Indian cricket is special, and the team is still a quality side," he said. "They have a lot of experience and talent, and I'm sure they'll bounce back."The victory was particularly sweet for New Zealand, coming on the heels of a disappointing 0-2 Test series defeat against Sri Lanka. Latham acknowledged the contrasting fortunes, highlighting the importance of seizing opportunities."When we were in Sri Lanka, things didn't go our way," Latham said. "But we learned from that experience and came back stronger. It makes this victory even more special, knowing that we've overcome adversity."Latham's comments reflect the mutual respect between the two cricketing nations. Despite the rivalry on the field, there is a deep appreciation for each other's skills and achievements.

Suryakumar Yadav, the flamboyant Indian batter, will lead the Men in Blue in a four-match T20I series against South Africa, commencing on November 8. Yadav, known for his exceptional batting prowess, has amassed four centuries in the shortest format, including a memorable ton against the Proteas during India's previous T20I tour to South Africa in December 2023.In his two previous T20I appearances in South Africa, Yadav has amassed 156 runs at an impressive average of 78 and a blistering strike rate of 169.56. While the first T20I in Durban was abandoned due to rain, India suffered a narrow defeat in the second match at Gqeberha, despite Yadav's valiant 36-ball 56.However, it was in the third and final T20I at Johannesburg that Yadav truly showcased his brilliance. Batting at number four, he reached his half-century off just 32 deliveries and went on to smash his fourth T20I century off a mere 55 balls. His blistering knock, adorned with eight sixes and seven fours, propelled India to a formidable total of 201/7.Kuldeep Yadav's exceptional bowling performance, claiming five wickets for just 17 runs, then helped India restrict South Africa to a paltry 95 runs, securing a 1-1 draw in the series.The South Africa tour was not initially included in India's schedule but was arranged following discussions between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and Cricket South Africa (CSA). The T20I series will be played across four venues: Durban, Gqeberha, Centurion, and Johannesburg, with matches scheduled for November 8, 10, 13, and 15.

Rishabh Pant Poised to Shatter IPL Auction Records, Predicts Aakash ChopraFormer Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has predicted that wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant could become the most expensive player in Indian Premier League (IPL) history at the upcoming 2025 mega auction. Chopra believes that Pant's exceptional form and high demand from multiple franchises could lead to a bidding war that surpasses the current record of Rs 20 crore.The BCCI has confirmed that the mega auction will be held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 24 and 25. Pant's recent performances, particularly in the Test series against New Zealand, have only enhanced his reputation as a match-winner.Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "The big thing is who all have kept themselves in the Rs 2 crore bracket. A lot of Indian players, including KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. Pant could be the most expensive player in IPL history. He can go above 25-26 crores."Chopra highlighted that teams like Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are likely to be the most aggressive bidders for Pant. Punjab Kings have a massive Rs 110 crore purse, while RCB have Rs 83 crore at their disposal."I can see at least three teams going absolutely hammer and tongs. One (PBKS) has 110 crores and another (RCB) has 83 crores. I feel a lot of money will be spent when they fight amongst themselves," Chopra remarked.He also identified KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan as other key players likely to attract high bids at the auction.Pant's exceptional batting skills, wicketkeeping abilities, and leadership potential make him a highly sought-after player. His ability to play match-winning knocks and lead from the front has made him a valuable asset for any IPL franchise.If Pant does indeed become the most expensive player in IPL history, it will be a testament to his immense talent and the high regard in which he is held by IPL teams.

Afghanistan's young spin sensation, Allah Ghazanfar, etched his name in cricket history with a remarkable six-wicket haul that propelled his team to a resounding 92-run victory over Bangladesh in the first ODI encounter in Sharjah.The 18-year-old mystery spinner, who began his cricketing journey as a fast bowler, showcased his exceptional talent by dismantling Bangladesh's batting lineup. His figures of 6 for 26 in 6.3 overs proved decisive as Bangladesh collapsed from a promising 132/3 to a disappointing 143 all out while chasing a target of 236 runs.Ghazanfar's performance marked the best bowling figures in an Afghanistan-Bangladesh ODI match, surpassing Shakib Al Hasan's 5-29 at Southampton in 2019. His brilliance earned him the Player of the Match award, further cementing his status as a rising star in international cricket.Ghazanfar's journey to the top has been marked by hard work and determination. After being converted into a spinner by former Afghanistan skipper Dawlat Ahmadzai, he made a name for himself with his impressive showing during the 2024 U-19 World Cup, where he claimed eight wickets in four matches.His performances at the youth level earned him a senior team call-up, and he made his ODI debut against Ireland. He continued to impress, winning the Player of the Match award in the Emerging Asia Cup final against Sri Lanka A as Afghanistan clinched the title.Ghazanfar's talent has also caught the attention of the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who added him to their squad as a replacement for Mujeeb Ur Rahman. Although he did not play any matches for KKR in the 2024 campaign, his inclusion in the squad is a testament to his potential.Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi praised Ghazanfar's performance, saying, "He is a special talent and has a good future for Afghanistan. He bowled well in the first spell, but he bowled that no-ball and I asked him why did he bowl a no-ball (laughs). I am very happy with the options we have on the bench."Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain rued his team's batting slump, acknowledging that his own dismissal played a crucial role in the defeat. "I think my wicket turned the match," said Najmul. "I was the set batsman so when I got out we needed to bat longer but credit to Afghanistan spinners for the way they bowled."

India and South Africa are set to reignite their rivalry in a highly anticipated four-match T20 series, commencing on Friday in Durban. The series holds immense significance as a rematch of the thrilling T20 World Cup final, where India emerged victorious to claim their second title.Heading into the series, India boasts a slight edge in the head-to-head record, having won 15 out of 27 T20I encounters against South Africa. Since the World Cup final, both teams have experienced contrasting fortunes in the shortest format.India has been on a winning streak, triumphing in three consecutive T20I series. They defeated Zimbabwe 4-1, Sri Lanka 3-0, and Bangladesh 3-0, showcasing their dominance in the format. In contrast, South Africa has struggled since their narrow loss to India in the World Cup final. They were whitewashed 3-0 by the West Indies and drew 1-1 against Ireland, losing four of their five T20I matches since the tournament.As the two sides prepare to clash, South Africa will be eager to turn their fortunes around at home, while India, high on confidence, will aim to continue their winning momentum. The first T20I in Durban promises to be an exciting contest, as the World Champions look to extend their dominance, and South Africa seeks redemption.

Former New Zealand fast bowler Simon Doull believes Australia has devised a cunning plan to neutralize Jasprit Bumrah's threat during the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Test series. Doull, in a recent discussion on JioCinema, highlighted Bumrah as Australia's "biggest threat" and suggested that the hosts are attempting to "cook" him with their scheduling strategy.According to Doull, Australia's decision to start the series in the scorching heat of Perth, followed by a pink-ball Test in Adelaide, is a deliberate attempt to exhaust Bumrah. This strategy could force India to rest their star pacer in the middle of the series."Australia has been clever with their scheduling," Doull said. "They know that while batters will be crucial, their biggest threat is Jasprit Bumrah. So they've chosen the three hardest and fastest surfaces, plus the Pink-Ball Test. They're trying to cook Bumrah. They'll cook him in the heat of Perth, where he'll have to bowl a lot of overs. Then he's going to have to bowl a lot of overs in that second pink-ball Test match in Adelaide. And then you've got to go to Brisbane where generally, first up, the seamers are quite good as well."Doull believes Australia's plan is to tire out Bumrah in the first two or three Tests, forcing India to rely on other bowlers. "They're going to cook Bumrah in the first two, three Test matches, make sure he bowls a lot of overs. And then they're going to have to make a change. They're going to have to go to someone else. So I think the scheduling from Australia's point of view has been quite smart because very rarely do they start a series in Perth."Meanwhile, legendary Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar has suggested that if Rohit Sharma is unavailable for the first Test, Jasprit Bumrah should lead the team for the entire tour. Gavaskar believes that Bumrah's leadership would provide stability and reduce pressure on the deputy captain."It is important for the captain to play the first Test match," Gavaskar said. "I have been reading that Rohit Sharma might not play the first two Tests of the Australia series. I feel that, in that case, the selection committee should appoint Jasprit Bumrah the captain of the side for the entire Australia tour, and tell Rohit Sharma that you will participate as a player in this series. For the first Test match, Rohit Sharma has to be there."

Prithvi Shaw, once hailed as a prodigious batting talent, has faced a significant setback in his career, being dropped from Mumbai's Ranji Trophy squad due to fitness concerns. However, amidst the adversity, he has received an unexpected source of support from former India coach and Australian legend Greg Chappell.In a heartfelt letter, Chappell expressed his belief in Shaw's potential and urged him to view this setback as a turning point. He reminded Shaw of the challenges faced by legendary cricketers like Don Bradman and himself, emphasizing that setbacks are an integral part of an athlete's journey.Chappell advised Shaw to focus on self-reflection and to prioritize process over results. He encouraged him to develop a strong mindset, stay present in the moment, and cultivate a disciplined lifestyle. He stressed the importance of surrounding himself with positive influences and seeking support when needed.Chappell acknowledged that Shaw's return to the Indian team would require a commitment to growth and change. He urged him to visualize his goals, take care of his physical and mental well-being, and embrace the challenges ahead.Chappell concluded his letter by expressing his unwavering belief in Shaw's abilities and offered his support. He emphasized that Shaw has the potential to reach his full potential and that he is not alone in his journey.

Alzarri Joseph's Bizarre Exit Overshadows West Indies' Series-Clinching VictoryIn a bizarre turn of events, West Indies pacer Alzarri Joseph abruptly left the field during the third ODI against England at Kensington Oval, Barbados. The incident occurred early in the innings after Joseph bowled his second over, despite taking a wicket in it.The disagreement between Joseph and captain Shai Hope began after the first delivery of Joseph's over, when they had an extended discussion about field placement. England were at 10/1, and Joseph appeared frustrated with the field setup, specifically pointing toward the slips in visible frustration.Despite the apparent tension, Joseph continued to bowl and delivered a 148.2 kph short ball, which resulted in the dismissal of England's Jordan Cox, who gloved the ball to the wicketkeeper. However, rather than celebrating the wicket, Joseph left the field without speaking to Hope after completing a wicket-maiden.West Indies coach Darren Sammy attempted to calm Joseph outside the boundary, but the fast bowler remained adamant and went to sit in the dugout. After a brief sit-out, Joseph rejoined the match without further incident, but he resumed bowling later in the 12th over only.Joseph finished with figures of 2 for 45 in his 10 overs, as England posted 263/8 in their 50 overs. The unusual episode did not affect West Indies' overall performance, as they cruised to an eight-wicket victory. Keacy Carty (128*), and Evin Lewis (102) led the successful run chase, reaching the target with 42 balls to spare, sealing a series win for the hosts.The incident between Joseph and Hope remains a talking point, but the West Indies’ dominant performance overshadowed the controversy on the field.

India's recent home Test series loss to New Zealand has raised concerns about the future of head coach Gautam Gambhir. The team's first home Test series defeat in 12 years, and their first-ever clean sweep in a 3-match series, has brought Gambhir's coaching decisions under scrutiny.One of the key factors contributing to India's downfall was Gambhir's insistence on preparing rank-turners for the Pune and Mumbai Tests. This decision has been criticized by former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali, who believes it was a mistake to abandon the approach of Gambhir's predecessor, Rahul Dravid.Ali praised Dravid's coaching philosophy, which involved preparing pitches that would turn on the last couple of days. In contrast, Gambhir's pitches have allowed even part-time spinners to extract significant turn from the first day.Ali also questioned Gambhir's understanding of player psychology. He believes that Gambhir's aggressive approach, which encourages batsmen to play T10 and T20 style in Test cricket, is unfair to players like Virat Kohli.Gambhir's coaching philosophy and the performances of veterans like Kohli and Rohit Sharma will be crucial to India's success in their upcoming tour of Australia. The team faces a daunting task in the 5-Test series, and Gambhir's ability to guide them through the challenges will be tested.