India have countered criticism about the team's advantage of playing all Champions Trophy matches in Dubai, sparked by their refusal to tour Pakistan. Former cricketer Brad Haddin claims this has only added pressure on them, he also suggests that Australia may capitalise on the situation in the semif-inal.
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Smriti Mandhana climbed to the second spot in ICC Women's ODI batting rankings after stellar performances in the series against Ireland. Deepti Sharma reached fourth in bowling rankings and sixth among all-rounders. Australian Ashleigh Gardner led the all-rounders' list, delivering outstanding performances in the Ashes.
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar shares his insights on the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL), reminisces about the impact of tennis ball cricket on his game, and emphasizes the importance of grassroots cricket. Tendulkar discusses the introduction of reverse swing and innovative scoring rules in ISPL, encouraging participants to play passionately while staying true to themselves and their roots.
Pratika Rawal's career-best 89 and Tejal Hasabnis's unbeaten 53 powered India's chase of 239, leading to a six-wicket victory over Ireland in the first Women's ODI. Smriti Mandhana set the stage with a rapid 41, while Gaby Lewis's 92 anchored Ireland's innings to a total of 238 for 7.
Sunil Gavaskar criticizes the Indian coaching staff for the team's 1-3 series defeat against Australia. He questions their contribution to improving batting and queries their preparedness for upcoming challenges. The critique comes after Australia reclaimed the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and secured a World Test Championship final spot by winning in Sydney.
India's spirited avoidance of the follow-on in the Brisbane Test against Australia, thanks to a late partnership between Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep, surprised the Australian team. The Indian dressing room's exuberant celebration, particularly over Akash Deep's boundary, prompted speculation from Nathan Lyon that India's top-order batsmen were keen to avoid batting late on day four.
Shardul Thakur's resilient 113 not out rescued Mumbai from a dire situation against Jammu & Kashmir. Despite severe cramps, his partnership with Tanush Kotian helped Mumbai gain a 188-run lead. This performance serves as a strong reminder of Thakur's tenacity and skill, even as questions about his future in international cricket linger.
Virat Kohli's decision to move to the UK received significant support on social media, contrasting with the criticism Aamir Khan faced a decade ago. Kohli's behavior during the Boxing Day Test against Australia highlighted a broader issue of entitlement and aggression in India.
Zimbabwe have announced their squads for the upcoming home series against Ireland, including a one-off Test, three ODIs, and three T20Is. Uncapped players Vincent Masekesa and Nicholas Welch have been included in the Test squad. Sean Williams returns after injury, while the ODI and T20I squads see several changes. The series begins on 6th February in Bulawayo.
R Sai Kishore, a standout left-arm spinner in India's domestic circuit, has become a central figure in the Gujarat Titans' bowling lineup this IPL season. Benefiting from the departure of Noor Ahmad, Kishore's impressive performances, including a critical 2 for 22 spell against RCB, underline his evolution and skill.
New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been appointed captain of the Desert Vipers for the upcoming ILT20 season, replacing Colin Munro. The 33-year-old signed a two-year deal and aims to lead the team to victory after their runner-up finish last season. Ferguson emphasizes an aggressive, wicket-taking approach as captain and empowering players.