India lose U19 World Cup; Virat Kohli unavailabe for England test; Jadeja calls father’s interview taylored; Fabian Allen Mugged at Gunpoint; Ritika Sparks Controversy with Response to MI Coach
Australia Clinches U19 World Cup Title, Defeats India by 79 Runs
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Australia secured victory in the U19 World Cup final, dashing Indian dreams with a commanding 79-run win. This marks Australia’s fourth U19 title and their first since 2010, as they emerged victorious over India in a highly anticipated showdown.
Indian Challenge Falls Short
Despite a valiant effort, India faltered in their pursuit of Australia’s target of 254 runs. The Indian batting lineup struggled to form significant partnerships, with Mahli Beardman and Raf MacMillan leading the relentless Australian bowling attack.
Mahli Beardman’s fiery spell of 3/15 and Raf MacMillan’s crafty off-spin (3/43) proved to be instrumental in dismantling the Indian batting unit. Their consistent pressure prevented India from gaining momentum, ultimately contributing to Australia’s triumph.
India faced early setbacks as key batsmen, including skipper Uday Saharan and Musheer Khan, failed to make substantial contributions. Despite Adarsh Singh’s valiant effort with the bat, India struggled to counter the pace and bounce of Beardman and the spin of MacMillan.
Collective Australian Effort
While no individual Australian batsman posted a substantial score, collective contributions, particularly from Harjas Singh (55) and Oliver Peake (46*), propelled Australia to a competitive total. Their cohesive batting display ensured that India faced an uphill battle in their chase.
Despite the loss, Indian bowlers Raj Limbani (3/38) and Naman Tiwari (2/63) showcased commendable performances, picking crucial wickets to keep Australia in check. Limbani’s pace and Tiwari’s variations posed challenges for the Australian batsmen.
Notable moments in the match included Harry Dixon’s (42) and skipper Hugh Weibgen’s (48) crucial partnership, which provided stability to the Australian innings. Additionally, Harjas Singh’s resilient fifty and Oliver Peake’s unbeaten knock guided Australia to a commanding total.
BCCI Announces Virat Kohli’s Unavailability for Last 3 Tests vs England
Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has decided to opt out of the remaining Test matches against England, extending his absence from the series due to personal reasons. Kohli’s decision comes after missing the first two Tests, further impacting India’s lineup for the crucial encounters in Rajkot, Ranchi, and Dharamsala.
BCCI’s Respectful Response
In a statement released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), they affirmed their support for Kohli’s choice, emphasising their respect for his personal circumstances. The statement underscored the importance of understanding and backing the former captain’s decision, reflecting the organisation’s commitment to player welfare.
While KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja have returned to the squad, their participation remains contingent upon receiving fitness clearance from the BCCI’s medical team. Both players missed the second Test due to injuries, and their availability for the upcoming matches hinges on their recovery and assessment by the medical staff.
Notably, Shreyas Iyer will also be absent from the remaining Tests, although the specific reasons behind his unavailability were not disclosed by the BCCI. Iyer’s absence adds to the lineup challenges for India, prompting speculation about the team’s composition for the upcoming fixtures.
India’s Victory in Second Test
India’s triumph in the second Test against England, where they secured a 106-run victory in Vizag, provided a morale boost for the team. The win levelled the five-match series and injected renewed confidence into the squad ahead of the upcoming challenges against the English side.
Bengal pacer Akash Deep received his maiden Test call-up, joining the Indian squad as a replacement for Avesh Khan. Khan, who continues to represent Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy, made way for Deep in the national team setup, marking an important milestone in the young bowler’s career.
The third Test of the series is scheduled to commence on February 15, 2024, in Rajkot, setting the stage for another intense battle between India and England. This will be followed by the fourth Test starting from February 23, 2024, in Ranchi, before culminating with the fifth and final Test in Dharamsala on March 07, 2024.
West Indies Cricketer Fabian Allen Mugged at Gunpoint in Johannesburg
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West Indian international cricketer Fabian Allen faced a distressing encounter of a gunpoint mugging in Johannesburg, raising concerns about player safety during the SA20 league. The 28-year-old all-rounder, representing the Paarl Royals franchise, was targeted outside the Sandton Sun Hotel, leaving him shaken.
Assailants Rob Allen of Personal Belongings
Armed assailants confronted Allen near the renowned hotel, forcibly taking away his phone and personal belongings, including a bag. The incident occurred in the early hours of January 25, sparking worries about the security of players participating in the SA20. Multiple sources connected to the Paarl Royals team, SA20, and Cricket West Indies (CWI) confirmed the incident. A representative from CWI assured that Allen is unharmed, expressing relief after establishing contact with the player.
This incident marks the second security-related episode involving SA20 players in recent times. As the league progresses to its play-offs stage, concerns about player safety remain paramount. Paarl Royals are scheduled to play the Eliminator on February 7, with the final set for February 10.
Franchise Provides Support to Allen
The Paarl Royals franchise, owning the Rajasthan Royals side in the IPL, assured that Allen was provided with extra security following the incident. Despite the ordeal, Allen expressed his commitment to continue participating in the SA20, featuring in the playing XI twice after the incident.
In a statement, the Royals franchise emphasised Allen’s safety, stating that he is safe and enjoying his time at the SA20. The franchise works closely with the league to ensure the safety and well-being of its players and staff, maintaining a balance between security measures and personal time.
Rohit Sharma’s Wife Ritika Sparks Controversy with Response as MI Coach Justifies Captaincy Change
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The decision by the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Mumbai Indians to replace Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya as captain sparked a frenzy on social media, with thousands of fans expressing their disapproval. The franchise faced backlash after announcing the leadership change, resulting in a significant loss of followers across various social media platforms.
Coach Mark Boucher Defends Captaincy Change
In a podcast, Mumbai Indians coach Mark Boucher defended the captaincy change, describing it as a purely ‘cricketing’ decision aimed at easing the burden on Rohit Sharma and providing Hardik Pandya with an opportunity to grow as a leader. Boucher emphasised the transition phase and the intention to allow Rohit to focus more on his batting without the added pressure of captaincy.
Reacting to Boucher’s explanation, Rohit Sharma’s wife Ritika Sajdeh stirred up fresh controversy with her comment on social media. While the comment was brief, its implications sparked a wave of discussions and debates online, adding fuel to the already heated conversation surrounding Mumbai Indians’ leadership change.
Boucher’s Vision for Rohit Sharma’s Role
Boucher highlighted Rohit Sharma’s exceptional leadership skills but expressed a desire to see him excel as a player without the added responsibilities of captaincy. The coach emphasised the importance of Rohit playing with freedom and enjoying the game, aiming to bring out the best in the seasoned cricketer.
Despite relinquishing the captaincy in the IPL, Rohit Sharma continues to lead the Indian national team, maintaining his stature as a prominent figure in Indian cricket. Boucher expressed optimism about Rohit’s future, hoping to witness him perform with a renewed sense of joy and enthusiasm on the field.
India Pulls Off Thrilling Victory Over South Africa to Reach U19 World Cup Final
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In a thrilling encounter against hosts South Africa, India managed to secure a remarkable victory, overcoming a precarious position to win by two wickets and book their spot in the U19 World Cup final. The match was marked by a sensational 171-run partnership between captain Uday Saharan and Sachin Dhas, propelling India towards victory in Benoni.
India’s Rocky Start in Chase
India’s decision to chase for the first time in the tournament didn’t yield favourable results initially, as they found themselves struggling at 32/4 while pursuing a target of 245. The top order collapse, including the dismissals of Adarsh Singh, Musheer Khan, and Arshin Kulkarni, put India under immense pressure early in the innings.
The drinks break proved to be a turning point for India, as captain Uday Saharan and Sachin Dhas showcased exceptional resilience and determination, forging a monumental 171-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Dhas played aggressively, hitting boundaries at regular intervals, while Saharan held the innings together with a composed knock, leading India’s remarkable comeback.
Despite the brilliant partnership, India faced a late scare as South Africa fought back with quick wickets towards the end. The run-out of captain Saharan, followed by the dismissals of Murugan Abhishek and Sachin Dhas, created tension in the Indian camp. However, Raj Limbani’s crucial boundary and composed finish ensured India’s victory with seven balls to spare.
Saharan and Limbani Shine with the Ball
Earlier in the match, Uday Saharan’s assessment of the conditions proved crucial as Raj Limbani capitalised on early seam movement to claim vital wickets. South Africa’s batting was anchored by Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Richard Seletswane, but disciplined bowling from India, particularly by Musheer Khan, restricted their scoring in the middle overs.
India’s nerve-wracking win sets up a tantalising final showdown in the U19 World Cup against the winner of the Australia vs Pakistan semi-final. Despite the challenges faced against South Africa, India’s resilience and determination have put them in a strong position as they aim to clinch the prestigious title once again.
Delhi Capitals Coach Ricky Ponting Provides Update on Rishabh Pant’s IPL 2024 Availability
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Delhi Capitals’ head coach Ricky Ponting has shed light on Rishabh Pant’s readiness for the upcoming IPL season, stating that while the dynamic cricketer is confident about playing, uncertainties remain regarding his role as captain and wicketkeeper due to lingering injuries from a car accident.
Pant’s Recovery Journey and Optimism
Rishabh Pant, who has been out of action since a serious car accident in December 2022, expressed his belief in being fit for the entire IPL season. Ponting, while acknowledging Pant’s optimism, emphasised that any contribution from him would be considered a bonus for the team.
Ponting revealed, “Rishabh is very confident that he’s going to be right to play. In what capacity we’re not quite sure yet.”
In the event of Pant’s unavailability, David Warner is poised to resume his role as captain for Delhi Capitals. Ponting expressed satisfaction with the squad’s composition post-auction but acknowledged the need for improved performance, especially after underwhelming seasons in the past.
Squad Strengths and Concerns
Ponting highlighted the addition of Harry Brook to the squad, augmenting the batting lineup alongside seasoned campaigners like Warner and Mitch Marsh. However, uncertainties loom over the fitness of key players like Anrich Nortje and Jhye Richardson, whose availability remains uncertain due to injury concerns.
Reflecting on Delhi Capitals’ batting woes in the previous season, particularly on home turf, Ponting emphasised the importance of bolstering the batting lineup to tackle varied pitch conditions. Despite the challenges posed by the home ground at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Ponting expressed confidence in the team’s ability to bounce back stronger in IPL 2024.
Ponting acknowledged the team’s shortcomings in batting quality in the previous season and emphasised the recruitment of highly talented young Indian players to address these deficiencies. With an eye on the future, Ponting stressed the importance of nurturing young talent and making strategic investments to bolster the team’s performance.
Virat Kohli Set to Miss Third and Fourth Tests Against England
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In a significant development, it has been reported that Indian skipper Virat Kohli is likely to sit out of the upcoming third and fourth Tests against England as well. Kohli, who missed the initial matches due to personal reasons, might extend his absence further, casting doubt on his participation in the fifth game of the series.
Kohli’s Absence and Potential Return of Injured Players
Kohli’s absence from the squad has been a cause for concern, with the veteran batter expected to miss additional matches. Meanwhile, there are indications of the return of injured players KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja for the upcoming Rajkot Test, providing a potential boost to the Indian team.
Reports suggest that Kohli’s absence could extend to the fifth Test as well, as he continues to address personal matters. His absence was confirmed by the BCCI ahead of the series opener, and despite his presence in Hyderabad initially, Kohli opted to withdraw from the ongoing series.
The possibility of Jadeja and Rahul returning for the Rajkot Test remains high, pending fitness clearance. Both players sustained injuries during the opening game, with Jadeja nursing a hamstring issue and Rahul experiencing quadriceps pain. Their return would bolster India’s squad ahead of crucial matches.
Mohammed Siraj’s Expected Return
In positive news for the Indian team, pacer Mohammed Siraj is set to make a comeback for the third Test after being rested for the previous game. His inclusion adds depth to India’s pace attack, providing a potent bowling option against the English side.
The upcoming third Test is scheduled to commence on February 15 at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, followed by the fourth Test at the JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi from February 23. The series will culminate with the fifth and final Test at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala, starting on March 7.
Ishan Kishan Unhappy with Team Management’s Consideration of Jitesh Sharma for T20Is
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Ishan Kishan has opted out of the Indian team ahead of the series against South Africa due to mental fatigue. Despite being excused by the team management, Kishan remains unavailable for selection. Recent reports suggest that he is unhappy with the inclusion of Jitesh Sharma in the T20I squad, which could impact his position in the playing XI.
Kishan’s Absence from Ranji Trophy
While Kishan has not represented Jharkhand in the Ranji Trophy, he is currently undergoing training with Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya at the Reliance Stadium in Baroda. Speculation arises that Kishan may return to competitive cricket during the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL).
Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma appear to be the preferred opening pair for India in T20Is, with Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav following in the batting order. This leaves limited opportunities for Kishan in the top order, prompting the team management to support Jitesh Sharma, known for his explosive batting lower down the order. Kishan reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with this decision and expressed a desire to step back from the squad.
Jitesh Sharma’s Opportunity
Jitesh Sharma has impressed in the chances he has received, showcasing both his batting prowess and wicket keeping skills. He aims to solidify his place in the team for the upcoming T20 World Cup, scheduled to commence on June 1. However, to secure his spot, Jitesh must deliver exceptional performances for Punjab Kings in the IPL, facing stiff competition from the likes of KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan.
India’s head coach Rahul Dravid has confirmed that Ishan Kishan will not be considered for the remaining three Test matches against England. This decision stems from Kishan’s absence from professional cricket since departing from South Africa, indicating that he is yet to resume competitive play.
Ravindra Jadeja Denounces Father’s Accusations, Defends Wife Rivaba
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Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has condemned an interview given by his father, Anirudhsinh Jadeja, to a Gujarati daily, labelling it as “scripted” and an attempt to tarnish the reputation of his wife, Rivaba. In the interview, Jadeja’s father accused him of disconnecting from the family and blamed Rivaba for creating discord.
Allegations Against Rivaba
Anirudhsinh Jadeja alleged that a dispute arose between Ravindra and Rivaba regarding the ownership of a restaurant after their marriage. He claimed that Rivaba insisted on transferring the restaurant’s ownership to her name, leading to a significant altercation between the couple.
Responding to his father’s allegations, Ravindra Jadeja denounced the interview as “meaningless” and “untrue.” He labelled it as a one-sided narrative and vehemently denied the accusations. Jadeja also defended his wife, stating that attempts to tarnish her image are unjust and unwarranted. While expressing his desire to address the matter further, Jadeja opted not to disclose additional details publicly.
Discord Within the Family
Anirudhsinh Jadeja further revealed strained relations within the family, claiming that Ravindra has not maintained cordial ties even with his sister. He expressed disappointment over not receiving calls from his son and emphasised that as the father, Ravindra should be the one reaching out. The allegations made by Jadeja’s father reportedly deeply saddened him and his sister.
Despite the controversy, Ravindra Jadeja is expected to rejoin the Indian squad for the remaining matches of the ongoing Test series against England. His absence from the second Test was due to injury, but he is likely to return to bolster the team’s lineup.
AB de Villiers Recants Statement About Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma’s Second Child
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Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers sparked controversy when he suggested that Indian cricketer Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma are expecting their second child, potentially impacting Kohli’s absence from the ongoing Test series against England. Kohli withdrew from the initial Test matches against England due to personal reasons, leaving doubts about his return.
AB De Villiers’ Initial Claim
During a YouTube live session, de Villiers initially indicated that Kohli was spending time with his family and confirmed the news of their second child. However, he later retracted his statement, asserting that the information was inaccurate.
Addressing the confusion, de Villiers admitted his mistake, emphasising that family priorities superseded cricket commitments. He clarified that the news of Kohli and Anushka expecting their second child was untrue. De Villiers emphasised the importance of respecting Kohli’s privacy and wished him well for his personal endeavours.
Kohli’s Prioritization of Family
De Villiers reiterated Kohli’s commitment to prioritising family, acknowledging that personal matters take precedence over professional obligations. Despite the uncertainty surrounding Kohli’s return to the cricketing arena, de Villiers expressed hope for his swift recovery and return to the game.
As speculation mounts regarding Kohli’s availability for the upcoming Test matches against England, India is yet to announce its squad for the third Test scheduled to commence in Rajkot on February 15. Reports suggest that Kohli might extend his absence beyond the third Test, potentially impacting the team’s lineup.
Prithvi Shaw Shines with Historic Century in Ranji Trophy Comeback
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Prithvi Shaw, the dynamic Indian opener, made a stunning comeback to competitive cricket, smashing a remarkable century in Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy Group B clash against Chhattisgarh. His scintillating knock of 159 off just 185 deliveries propelled Mumbai to a commanding position in the match.
Stellar Partnership and Team Performance
Shaw’s century before lunch not only demonstrated his exceptional batting prowess but also etched his name in the annals of Indian cricket history. He became the first Indian cricketer to score two centuries in the opening session of a first-class match, a feat previously unseen in Indian cricket.
Partnering with Bhupen Lalwani, Shaw orchestrated a formidable opening stand of 244 runs, laying a solid foundation for Mumbai’s dominance in the fixture. Lalwani’s contribution of 102 runs further bolstered Mumbai’s commanding position as they ended the day at 310/4, firmly in control of the game.
With four wins from five matches, Mumbai currently leads the Group B standings, showcasing their dominance in the tournament. Shaw’s exceptional form has been instrumental in Mumbai’s success, reaffirming his status as a formidable force in domestic cricket.
Shaw’s Remarkable Comeback Journey
Shaw’s return to competitive cricket comes after a six-month injury layoff, during which he underwent surgery and completed a rigorous rehabilitation process. His triumphant return to the game signifies his resilience and determination to excel on the cricketing stage.
As Shaw continues to impress with his stellar performances, cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate his participation in future matches, both domestically and internationally. His remarkable comeback serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers across the country.
