In a notable SA20 debut, 18-year-old Lhuan-dre Pretorius scored 97 off 51 balls, leading Paarl Royals to a dominant nine-wicket win against Sunrisers Eastern Cape. Pretorius, focusing on team success over personal milestones, received significant support from Joe Root. Despite a strong innings by Aiden Markram, Royals’ bowlers restricted Sunrisers to 175/5, ensuring a confident victory.
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Star Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav on Sunday became the fifth Indian spinner and 13th Indian bowler to take 300 international wickets. Achieving this milestone against Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy, he recorded figures of 3/40, helping India bowl out their rivals for 241. Kuldeep's achievement highlights his stellar contributions to India's spin attack.
Rishabh Pant missed India's training due to viral fever and KL Rahul will continue as the preferred wicketkeeper for the Champions Trophy match against Pakistan. Coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed that Rahul is the first-choice, following his strong performances, including a confident display against Bangladesh, securing his position in the playing XI.
Michael Clarke, former Australian cricket captain, has been inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame. Clarke, known for his outstanding performance, achieved over 8600 Test runs, 28 centuries, and a triple century at the SCG. Praised for his leadership, especially after the tragic death of Phil Hughes, Clarke expressed his honor during the Sydney ceremony.
Ron Draper, the oldest living Test cricketer, passed away at 98 in Gqeberha. Draper played two Test matches for South Africa in 1950. His first-class debut was marked by a century on his 19th birthday. Draper is remembered for his continued cricketing career until 1959-60, maintaining an impressive average of 41.64.
Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has secured a 49% stake in The Hundred franchise Trent Rockets for just under £40m, with the entire franchise valued at £79m. Nottinghamshire retains 51% ownership. Southern Brave is later expected to be sold to Delhi Capitals' co-owners, finalizing the investment in all seven Hundred teams.
Joe Root stresses the necessity of consistency ahead of England's five-Test series against India, beginning June 20. Root, England's top Test run-scorer, is prepared for the challenge and emphasizes the importance of performing consistently well in such major series.
Sri Lankan spin legend Muttiah Muralitharan believes India’s chances in the ICC Champions Trophy will hinge on the form of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Muralitharan highlighted India's well-balanced bowling attack, emphasizing the role of spinners on the subcontinent-friendly pitches in the UAE.
Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has advised Virat Kohli to ease off on practice and maintain a relaxed mindset ahead of India's crucial match against Pakistan. Kohli has been facing challenges against spin bowling and spent extended hours in the nets on Saturday. Manjrekar also commented on Rishabh Pant's situation and India's overall performance, expressing confidence in team's chances against Pakistan.
Jay Shah, ICC chairperson, has been inducted into the newly formed World Cricket Connects Advisory Board. This independent group will address crucial issues in cricket during the event at Lord's on June 7 and 8. This symposium aims to bring together the most influential voices in the sport to debate and shape the future of cricket.
Brian Bennett's career-best 169 and Blessing Muzarabani's 4 for 51 led Zimbabwe to a 49-run victory over Ireland in the first ODI in Harare. Captain Craig Ervine supported with 66. Despite a fightback from George Dockrell and Andy McBrine, Ireland were all out for 250 in 46 overs. Further matches are scheduled for Sunday and Tuesday.