India captain Rohit Sharma praised Varun Chakravarthy's impressive performance against New Zealand, making the four-spinner strategy tempting for the Champions Trophy semifinal against Australia. Chakravarthy's accuracy and variations have improved, showcasing his capability. Rohit highlighted the crucial contributions of the middle-order, especially Axar Patel, ahead of the semifinal clash.
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Sam Konstas, a 19-year-old opening batter, is set to debut for Australia in the Boxing Day Test against India, replacing Nathan McSweeney. Former captain Ricky Ponting acknowledges Konstas's talent and attitude, noting his significant challenge against India's top bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah. Ponting believes Konstas is ready to handle the pressure and maintain his attacking style.
Jasprit Bumrah's stellar performance in the Border Gavaskar Trophy earned him acclaim from Sachin Tendulkar, calling him the world's best. Bumrah's record-breaking 32 wickets couldn't prevent India's 1-3 series defeat to Australia, eliminating them from World Test Championship final contention. Australia's comeback and Bumrah's brilliance were key highlights of the series.
Sunrisers Hyderabad, struggling to replicate last season's aggressive approach, face Punjab Kings, who boast a fearless batting approach led by new batting sensation Priyansh Arya. Punjab have already posted two 200+ scores, showcasing their depth under Shreyas Iyer's leadership.
Falcon Risers Hyderabad and Srinagar Ke Veer began their ISPL Season 2 campaigns with emphatic victories. Hyderabad triumphed over Chennai Singams by eight wickets, chasing 69 runs easily. Srinagar Ke Veer then dominated KVN Bangalore Strikers, winning by 10 wickets, with Sagar Ali scoring the season's first half-century.
KKR head coach Chandrakant Pandit acknowledges every team values home ground advantages and understands the preference for spin-friendly pitches. However, he emphasized that pitch preparation remains under the curator's control and the team focuses on playing with the provided conditions.
Former India coach Ravi Shastri anticipates Rohit Sharma will retire from Test cricket after being dropped from the fifth Testbum against Australia. Stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah claimed at the toss that Rohit opted to sit out for the benefit of the team. Rohit has struggled this series and hasn't performed well since missing the first Test.
Marcus Stoinis, Australian all-rounder, retires from ODIs after 74 matches, to focus on T20Is. Cricket Australia will replace him for the ICC Champions Trophy. Stoinis, a pivotal ODI player, helped in the 2023 ODI World Cup win. Coach McDonald praised his contributions and leadership. His exit coincides with injury concerns for Cummins and Hazlewood.
After India's loss to Australia, BCCI implemented family accompaniment restrictions during tours, sparking debate. Virat Kohli expressed dissatisfaction, while Yuvraj Singh's wife, Hazel Keech, supported it, saying the policy helps players stay focused. The policy allows families for 14 days on tours over 45 days and 7 days on shorter tours.
Ricky Ponting believes Rohit Sharma faces significant challenges in returning to Test cricket after not being part of the fifth Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test. Ponting suggests it might be a long and difficult road back for Rohit, considering India's next Test match is months away and Rohit is at the back end of his career.
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders head coach Dwayne Bravo highlights the ILT20's importance in enhancing UAE cricket, providing local players with crucial experience. Bravo draws parallels to Indian Premier League and Big Bash League's impacts, stressing community development. Sharjah Warriorz' victory, driven by Johnson Charles and key bowlers, enhances their playoff prospects.