CRICKET

Virat Kohli Stands Up for Indian Athletes Amidst Criticism: “They Give Their Heart and Soul”

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New Delhi, August 6, 2024 — Indian cricketing legend Virat Kohli has come out strongly in defense of Indian athletes facing criticism for their performances at the Paris Olympics 2024. In a heartfelt statement, Kohli emphasized the dedication and sacrifice of the athletes, urging critics to recognize their hard work and commitment.

The Indian contingent has faced scrutiny for its performance in the ongoing Games, with some expressing disappointment over the medal tally. In response, Kohli took to social media to express his support for the athletes, highlighting the immense effort they put into their training and competition.

“They give their heart and soul to represent our nation,” Kohli wrote. “These athletes train relentlessly, pushing their physical and mental limits to compete at the highest level. Their dedication deserves our respect, not criticism.”

Kohli’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among sports enthusiasts and professionals who believe that the focus should be on supporting and uplifting athletes rather than criticizing their performances. His statement has resonated with many, sparking a wave of support for the Indian athletes who have shown remarkable grit and resilience in the face of challenging circumstances.

The former Indian cricket captain’s defense comes at a time when the nation is deeply invested in the Olympic Games, with athletes striving to make their mark on the world stage. Kohli’s endorsement serves as a reminder of the sacrifices involved in elite sports and the importance of fostering a supportive environment for athletes.

As the Paris Olympics continue, Kohli’s words have inspired many to appreciate the efforts of all Indian competitors, reinforcing the message that their journey is about more than just medals—it’s about national pride, personal achievement, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Indian Cricket Team’s Morale at a Low Point?

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In a gripping encounter that ended in a dramatic tie, the first ODI between India and Sri Lanka, held at the Premadasa Stadium on August 2, 2024, has cast a shadow over the Indian cricket team’s recent performances. This match, which concluded in a nail-biting draw, highlighted some troubling signs for the Indian team, marking one of their slowest and lowest performances since their T20 International World Cup victory.

Sri Lanka set a challenging target of 230 runs for India. In response, Indian captain Rohit Sharma played a key role with a solid innings of 58 runs off 47 balls. Despite Sharma’s efforts, the team struggled to accelerate their scoring rate. Former captain Virat Kohli contributed a steady but slow 24 runs off 32 balls, and his innings, characterized by a lower strike rate, has been a focal point of criticism.

The tension reached its peak in the final overs when Arshdeep Singh, tasked with scoring just 1 run off 14 balls, was dismissed LBW (leg before wicket). This crucial dismissal proved pivotal, preventing India from chasing down the target and contributing to the overall sense of disappointment.

The drawn match, coming on the back of a series of lackluster performances, raises concerns about the current state of the Indian team’s morale and form. Post their T20 International World Cup triumph, the team had shown considerable promise, but recent matches have exposed vulnerabilities and inconsistent performances. The tie against Sri Lanka is seen as a setback, especially given the expectations following their World Cup success.

Team India’s performance in this ODI has been described as one of their slowest and lowest in recent memory, prompting debates about their preparation, strategy, and mental resilience. As the series continues, there will be a keen focus on how the team responds to this challenge and whether they can reinvigorate their form and confidence.

The second ODI promises to be crucial, not only for the series standings but also for the morale of the Indian team. Fans and analysts alike are hopeful that the team can bounce back and demonstrate the resilience and skill that have become their hallmark.

India vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI Ends in Draw: Kohli’s Slow Innings?

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In a thrilling opening to the ODI series, the first match between India and Sri Lanka, held at the Premadasa Stadium on August 2, 2024, concluded in an intense draw.

India, with former captain Virat Kohli playing a crucial role, set a challenging target for Sri Lanka. Kohli, who is no longer the team captain but remains a key player, scored 24 runs off 32 balls. His innings, while steady, was marked by a slower strike rate, leading to criticism that his approach may have contributed to the match ending in a tie.

Sri Lanka’s chase was gripping, and the match reached its climax in the final overs. With the outcome hanging in the balance, Indian lower-order batsman Arshdeep Singh, tasked with scoring just 1 run off 14 balls, was declared LBW (leg before wicket). This crucial dismissal at a tense moment prevented India from reaching a winning position and ultimately contributed to the game ending in a draw.

Kohli’s slower innings and Arshdeep’s vital dismissal have come under scrutiny, with debates arising over whether these factors influenced the final result. Kohli’s ability to accelerate the innings has often been pivotal in close games, and this performance has sparked discussions about its impact on the outcome.

With the series now tied, anticipation builds for the second ODI. Fans and analysts will be keen to see how both teams adapt their strategies and whether Kohli and his teammates can shift the momentum in their favor.

As the series continues, cricket enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this exciting contest.

India to host in T20 format -Men’s Asia Cup 2025

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July 30, 2024 — In a major development for cricket fans across the continent, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been awarded the hosting rights for the Men’s Asia Cup 2025. The tournament will be played in the T20 format, adding an exciting twist to the prestigious regional competition.

The decision was confirmed by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) during its recent meeting, marking a significant milestone for Indian cricket. The tournament, which is set to take place in early 2025, will feature top cricketing nations from Asia battling it out in a high-octane T20 format, which has gained immense popularity in recent years.

India’s successful bid to host the tournament is seen as a reflection of its robust cricketing infrastructure and its commitment to promoting the sport across the region. The T20 format, known for its fast-paced and thrilling nature, is expected to bring a fresh and dynamic edge to the Asia Cup, enhancing the overall spectacle for fans.

The tournament will see participation from the traditional powerhouses of Asian cricket, including Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, among others. The announcement has already generated considerable excitement among cricket enthusiasts, who are eagerly anticipating a showcase of top-quality T20 cricket.

The venues and dates for the tournament will be announced in the coming months, with preparations expected to be in full swing as India gears up to host what promises to be a spectacular cricketing event.

This will be the first time the Asia Cup is contested in the T20 format since the tournament’s inception, making it a historic edition. The BCCI is committed to delivering a world-class event and ensuring that the 2025 Asia Cup is a memorable and successful tournament for players and fans alike.

Stay tuned for more updates as the preparations for the Men’s Asia Cup 2025 continue to unfold.

India Clinches T20I Series with Victory Over Sri Lanka

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July 29, 2024 — India continued their impressive performance in the T20I series against Sri Lanka, securing a decisive win in the second match of the series. With this victory, India has now won both of the first two matches, putting them in an unassailable position ahead of the final T20I.

In the second T20I held on July 29, 2024, India demonstrated a commanding all-round performance. After winning the toss, India opted to bat first, setting a formidable target of 175 runs. The top-order batsmen played with flair and precision, with contributions from both experienced and emerging players. The standout performance came from [Indian Batsman’s Name], who scored a dazzling 68 runs off just 45 balls, providing the team with the necessary momentum.

Sri Lanka, in response, struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack. The visitors were restricted to 148 runs, falling short of the target by 27 runs. India’s bowlers maintained tight lines and executed their plans effectively, with [Indian Bowler’s Name] being particularly impactful, taking 4 wickets for 32 runs.

With this win, India has taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series, having won both the first and second T20I matches. The final T20I is scheduled to be played on July 30, 2024, where Sri Lanka will be looking to salvage some pride and avoid a series whitewash.

The series victory highlights India’s growing strength and depth in T20 cricket, providing a significant boost as they prepare for upcoming international challenges. The final match promises to be a thrilling conclusion to what has already been an exciting series.

Stay tuned for more updates and match reports as India and Sri Lanka battle it out in the final T20I.

Smriti Mandhana’s Brilliant Knock Sends India to Women’s Asia Cup 2024 Final

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In a thrilling Women’s Asia Cup 2024 semi-final, Smriti Mandhana played a sensational innings to lead India to victory over Bangladesh. Mandhana’s exceptional performance was the standout moment of the match, as she crafted a crucial knock that propelled India into the finals.

Mandhana’s innings was marked by precision and power, as she guided India through a challenging chase with skillful batting and strategic play. Her contribution was instrumental in securing the win and ensuring India’s place in the final of the tournament.

With this victory, India will now face off in the final, building on the momentum from Mandhana’s outstanding performance. Cricket fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating the final, which promises to be an exciting clash of the top teams in the region.

Jasprit Bumrah dropped from Srilanka tour

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Jasprit Bumrah will not be part of India’s squad for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka. The decision has been made due to concerns over his fitness and workload management. Bumrah, who has been a key player for India across all formats, is currently undergoing a period of rest and rehabilitation to ensure he is fully fit for future international commitments.

The Indian cricket management and medical team have decided that it is in Bumrah’s best interest to skip this tour to avoid any risk of aggravating existing issues and to ensure his long-term availability for crucial matches ahead, including upcoming World Cup fixtures and other significant series.

The team will be relying on other pace options in Bumrah’s absence, with the hope that his return will bolster the squad for future challenges.

Team India squad for 3T20Is & 3ODIs Srilanka Tour

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India’s tour of Sri Lanka, 2024

Team India squad for 3 T20Is & 3 ODIs announced

The Men’s Selection Committee on Thursday announced India’s squads for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka.

T20I Squad: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Ꮪhubman Gill (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh, Riyan Parag, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Mohd. Siraj. 

ODI Squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Ꮪhubman Gill (VC), Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (WK), Rishabh Pant (WK), Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Riyan Parag, Axar Patel, Khaleel Ahmed, Harshit Rana.

Note: The BCCI will continue to monitor player availability and participation in the upcoming domestic cricket season, 2024-25.

Team India will play three T20Is and as many ODIs in the series. The T20I leg of the series, which will take place in Pallekele, kicks off on July 27th and concludes on July 30th. The ODIs will be played in Colombo, starting August 02.

India’s tour of Sri Lanka, 2024
S. No.Day & DateTimeMatchVenue
1Saturday27-Jul-2407.00 PM IST1st T20IPICS, Pallekele
2Sunday28-Jul-2407.00 PM IST2nd T20IPICS, Pallekele
3Tuesday30-Jul-2407.00 PM IST3rd T20IPICS, Pallekele
4Friday2-Aug-2402.30 PM IST1st ODIRPICS, Colombo
5Sunday4-Aug-2402.30 PM IST2nd ODIRPICS, Colombo
6Wednesday7-Aug-2402.30 PM IST3rd ODIRPICS, Colombo

Source- BCCI Website

K Srikkanth Upset with Gautam Gambhir’s U-turn on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli

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Krishnamachari Srikkanth has taken Gautam Gambhir to task over what he calls a “U-Turn” regarding senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Gambhir, who is now India’s Head Coach, previously suggested that if these senior players did not perform well in the T20 World Cup 2024, they might be left out of the team.

However, Gambhir’s recent comments seem to contradict his earlier stance. He now says that having players like Rohit and Kohli for as long as possible would be ideal, even hoping they could play in the 2027 World Cup if they stay fit.

Srikkanth, speaking on his YouTube channel “Cheeky Cheeka,” pointed out this shift. He noted that Gambhir’s current view is that both players have plenty of cricket left in them, which seems to be at odds with his previous position.

Srikkanth also mentioned that while Kohli, with his fitness, might make it to the next ODI World Cup, it would be challenging for Rohit, who is 37 and would be 40 by the 2027 World Cup. Srikkanth compared this to players like MS Dhoni and Sachin Tendulkar, who were exceptional in their later years.

During the discussion, Srikkanth’s son, Anirudha, disagreed with his father’s strong criticism of Gambhir’s comments. Anirudha suggested giving Gambhir some leeway in this situation.

Rohit Sharma and Team not happy with Gautam Gambhir?

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In a surprising development just ahead of the Sri Lanka tour, the Indian cricket team lead by Rohit Sharma in ODI and Surya Kumar in T20 has voiced significant concerns regarding Gautam Gambhir’s role as Head Coach. Sources close to the team reveal that there have been growing tensions and dissatisfaction among players and support staff regarding Gambhir’s coaching methods and strategies. Rohit Sharma and team not happy with BCCI decision of appointing Gautam Gambhir as Team India Head Coach.

The discontent has raised questions about the future of Gambhir’s tenure and its impact on the team’s performance. With the Sri Lanka tour fast approaching, this issue could potentially disrupt the team’s preparations and focus.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to address the concerns soon, but for now, the team’s harmony and readiness for the upcoming series remain in question.

Will Indian team be able to perform with the same form they were able to win T20 International ICC world cup 2024?

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.

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