India's head coach Gautam Gambhir defended Virat Kohli's ability against leg-spinners after a crucial win over Australia in the ICC Champions Trophy semifinals. Gambhir dismissed criticism regarding India’s alleged advantage of playing all matches in Dubai, emphasizing team performance and preparation in neutral conditions.
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Xavier Bartlett made a promising IPL debut for Punjab Kings, taking a wicket in his first over against KKR. Despite PBKS's batting struggles, Bartlett contributed with the bat after his impressive performance in the Big Bash League, where he was the leading wicket-taker. His recent international success, including multiple wickets, highlights his potential impact for Punjab Kings this season.
Ricky Ponting highlights Mohammed Shami's pivotal return for India in the series against England, essential for upcoming ICC Men's Champions Trophy. Ravi Shastri stresses the importance of managing Shami's workload in ODIs as his performance and fitness will be key, easing pressure on Jasprit Bumrah and providing crucial bowling depth for India.
Asked whether it was difficult to make Dhoni take up the captaincy again, Fleming said, “No, he understood the situation. Ruturaj didn’t want to go but it’s an unfortunate situation.” CSK host Kolkata Knight Riders in Chennai on Friday.
Ravichandran Ashwin recounted an incident during the Border Gavaskar Trophy involving Virat Kohli and fast bowler Akash Deep. Kohli's advice to bowl straight led to Akash losing his rhythm, giving Steve Smith the opportunity to score a century. Ashwin emphasized the importance of understanding a bowler’s mindset. Later, Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket.
Afghan pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi was fined 15% of his match fee for dissenting an umpire's decision during the second ODI against Zimbabwe. He disputed a not-out LBW call against Craig Ervine, receiving a demerit point. Despite this, Afghanistan triumphed by a record 232 runs, propelled by Sediqullah Atal's century and Abdul Malik's 84. The final ODI is scheduled for Saturday.
Vidarbha secured a spot in the Ranji Trophy semifinals with a 198-run win over Tamil Nadu. Seamer Nachiket Bhute's three-wicket haul and Yash Rathod's century were key. Chasing 401, Tamil Nadu was bowled out for 202, with Pradosh Ranjan Paul and Sonu Yadav's half-centuries providing brief resistance. Vidarbha dominated throughout the match.
Former Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne has announced his retirement from international cricket after his 100th Test match against Australia. At 36, he has scored 7,172 runs in Tests and 1,316 runs in ODIs, deciding to retire due to his recent form and the limited number of Test matches played annually.
Australia took a 2-1 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with a 184-run win over India in the Boxing Day Test. Pat Cummins, who was named Player of the Match, praised the team for their all-round effort. Cummins contributed significantly both with bat and ball. Australia's strategic play, including not declaring to reduce India's chances, was key to the victory.
MI Cape Town inched closer to securing a spot in the SA20 Playoffs after their match against Durban Super Giants was called off due to bad weather. While MI Cape Town accumulated two points to tie with Paarl Royals, Durban remains at the bottom of the standings, making their playoff chances slim.
Cricket Australia has revealed its 15-man squad for the ICC Champions Trophy, featuring Matt Short and Aaron Hardie. The squad highlights all-round capabilities, with notable players like Nathan Ellis included. Captain Pat Cummins faces uncertainty due to an injury, and Steve Smith may lead in his place. Australia aim to secure their first Champions Trophy since 2009.