Home Sports
Category:

Sports

India etched its name in the annals of sports history by clinching both the men’s and women’s titles at the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup 2025. Held at the iconic Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, the Indian teams showcased unparalleled mastery, defeating Nepal with commanding margins—54-36 in the men’s final and 78-40 in the women’s final.

Women’s Team: A Masterclass in Strategy and Synchronization

The Indian women’s team put on a flawless display, exemplifying speed, coordination, and tactical brilliance. From the outset, they asserted their dominance, with captain Priyanka Ingle leading the charge in Turn 1. Nepal struggled to counter India’s relentless offensive, succumbing to quick touches and strategic gameplay.

India racked up an impressive 35 points in the first turn, keeping Nepal from securing a single Dream Run. Despite a spirited comeback attempt by Nepal in Turn 2, led by Dipa BK, India maintained a comfortable halftime lead of 35-24.

Turn 3 witnessed India’s absolute command, pushing the scoreline to a staggering 73-24. The highlight came in Turn 4 when Chaithra B, named Player of the Match, executed a spectacular Dream Run that sealed India’s victory by a 38-point margin.

Coach Sumit Bhatia lauded the team’s tactical brilliance, stating, “History was made today. Our campaign was built on confidence and well-timed strategies. We reserved some of our best moves for the knockout stages, ensuring peak performance when it mattered the most.”

Adding a bittersweet note to the celebrations, 2023 Arjuna awardee and former captain Nasreen Shaikh announced her retirement after the historic win.

Men’s Team: A Display of Sheer Dominance

The men’s final saw India replicate the women’s team’s dominance, beginning with a thunderous Turn 1. Ramji Kashyap and Suyash Gargate set the tone with breathtaking sky dives and precise touches, catapulting India to a 26-0 lead while denying Nepal any Dream Runs.

Nepal launched a counteroffensive in Turn 2, with Janak Chand and Suraj Pujara narrowing the gap, but India still held a solid 26-18 halftime lead.

In Turn 3, India reasserted its control, as captain Pratik Waikar delivered multiple sky dives, supported by stellar performances from Kashyap and Ganpule. The team surged ahead to a commanding 54-18 lead.

Despite Nepal’s valiant efforts in the final turn, India’s defense, spearheaded by Waikar and Sachin Bhargo, remained impenetrable. Contributions from Mehul and Suman Barman further solidified India’s position, culminating in a 54-36 victory and the men’s title.

Speaking after the match, skipper Waikar remarked, “Nepal’s strength lies in chasing, and they could have trapped us. But our focus on improving defensive tactics paid off. This victory ensures that the growth of kho kho as a sport will continue.”

A New Era for Kho Kho

The triumph marks a monumental moment for kho kho, elevating its status on the global stage. Coach Ashwini Kumar hinted at the sport’s bright future, revealing that the next edition of the World Cup is likely to be hosted by England in 2027.

As India celebrates this historic achievement, the victories are more than just titles—they are a testament to the nation’s growing prowess in indigenous sports. With such stellar performances, kho kho is poised to garner global recognition, inspiring future generations to take up the game.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

In an enthralling rain-shortened match, New Zealand powered past Sri Lanka to seal the ODI series 2-0. Despite a stunning hat-trick by Maheesh Theekshana, Sri Lanka’s top-order struggles continued, leading to a resounding 113-run defeat.

Ravindra and Chapman Lay the Foundation

New Zealand’s innings was anchored by a commanding 112-run partnership between Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman. Their calculated aggression propelled the team to a competitive total of 255 for 9 in their allotted 37 overs.

Ravindra, who struck a scintillating 79 off 63 balls, showcased his versatility, blending powerful off-side strokes with deft leg-side sweeps. Chapman, not to be overshadowed, contributed a robust 62 off 52 balls, dominating the leg side with precision and flair. Together, they turned the screws on Sri Lanka’s bowlers, neutralizing the seamers early and weathering the spinners’ challenge.

Theekshana’s Hat-Trick: A Bright Spark in a Dim Chase

Sri Lanka’s bowling shone briefly in the final overs, thanks to Theekshana’s hat-trick—a rare feat that momentarily lifted their spirits. His precision dismantled New Zealand’s tail, limiting them to just 63 runs in the last 10 overs.

However, the damage was already done. The solid middle-order contributions from Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, and Mitchell Santner ensured New Zealand’s total was more than competitive.

Sri Lanka’s Batting Woes Continue

Chasing 256 at a required rate of 6.92, Sri Lanka faltered spectacularly. Their top order crumbled to 22 for 4 within the first five overs, with poor shot selection and sharp New Zealand fielding compounding their woes.

Pathum Nissanka miscued a lofted drive, Kusal Mendis edged behind, and Avishka Fernando’s ill-timed shot went straight to point. To make matters worse, Captain Charith Asalanka’s misjudged single led to a run-out that epitomized Sri Lanka’s disarray.

Though Kamindu Mendis fought valiantly with a gritty 64, the lack of partnerships spelled doom. His 57-run stand with Janith Liyanage was the sole highlight of an otherwise lackluster chase.

New Zealand’s Bowling Brilliance

New Zealand’s seamers were relentless, with Will O’Rourke leading the charge, taking 3 for 31. Jacob Duffy and Matt Henry provided stellar support, dismantling Sri Lanka’s batting lineup with clinical precision. The fielding effort was equally impressive, highlighted by Nathan Smith’s stunning boundary-line catch that dismissed Eshan Malinga.

A Series to Forget for Sri Lanka

Despite fielding a full-strength squad, Sri Lanka failed to capitalize on favorable batting conditions. Rain delays had dampened the ball, offering an advantage, but the team’s recurring top-order collapses proved insurmountable.

On the other hand, New Zealand demonstrated depth and resilience, winning decisively despite missing key players due to injuries. Their commanding performances underline their status as a formidable force, even when under strength.

Looking Ahead

As New Zealand celebrates a well-deserved series victory, Sri Lanka faces tough questions about their batting frailties. With the ODI World Cup approaching, addressing these issues will be crucial if they hope to compete at the highest level.

For now, the Kiwis have sent a clear message: even in adversity, their grit and execution make them a team to watch.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

On a remarkable December 12, 18-year-old D Gukesh etched his name in chess history by becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion. The young prodigy defeated China’s reigning champion, Ding Liren, in a fiercely contested match in Singapore, claiming the title with a score of 7.5–6.5. Gukesh is the first teenager to achieve this milestone and only the second Indian, after the legendary Viswanathan Anand, to lift the coveted trophy.

A Battle of Nerves and Brilliance

The championship match saw high drama and exceptional skill as Gukesh navigated through intense moments with composure beyond his years. Starting on the back foot after losing the opening game, Gukesh clawed his way back in Game 3. The following seven games ended in draws, showcasing the resilience of both players.

The turning point arrived in Game 11, where Gukesh secured a pivotal victory. Ding, refusing to back down, responded with a flawless win in Game 12. The tension reached its peak in the final classical game, where Gukesh, with sharp and precise moves, capitalized on a critical error by Ding to clinch the title.

A Legacy Built on Humility and Excellence

Gukesh’s emotional response to his victory, marked by tears of joy and a humble gesture of resetting the chessboard, won hearts worldwide. The 18-year-old’s journey symbolizes the spirit of perseverance and determination.

Reactions from Chess Legends

The chess community erupted with praise for Gukesh’s historic feat. Former World Champion Viswanathan Anand, who mentored Gukesh, expressed his immense pride. “It’s a proud moment for chess, for India, and for me personally,” Anand remarked, highlighting the youngster’s relentless attitude and Ding’s spirited challenge.

Garry Kasparov, whose record as the youngest champion Gukesh broke, lauded the Indian talent pool and emphasized India’s promising chess future. “The summit has been reached, and now the goal must be to raise it even higher,” Kasparov stated.

Judit Polgar, a legendary figure in chess, admired Gukesh’s ability to handle pressure in such a high-stakes match. Her sister, Susan Polgar, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing Gukesh’s exceptional qualities and future potential as an ambassador for the sport.

However, not all reactions were celebratory. Vladimir Kramnik criticized Ding’s critical error, calling it a “childish one-move blunder,” reflecting on how the match was decided.

The Moves That Made History

The final game unfolded with precision and intensity:

  1. Nf3 d5 2. g3 c5 3. Bg2 Nc6 4. d4 e6
    … [moves continue until white resigned].

Gukesh’s ability to seize the initiative in the closing stages underscored his tactical acumen and mental fortitude.

A Phenomenal Year for Indian Chess

Gukesh’s triumph adds to an extraordinary year for Indian chess, marked by dominance at the Chess Olympiad and the rise of a new generation of talent. This victory reaffirms India’s position as a powerhouse in the global chess arena.

A Bright Future for Gukesh and Indian Chess

As Gukesh returns home with a well-earned prize of $1.3 million, his journey is far from over. With unparalleled talent, humility, and ambition, Gukesh is poised to scale even greater heights, inspiring millions of chess enthusiasts worldwide.

This historic victory is not just a personal milestone for Gukesh but a defining moment for Indian chess, heralding a new era where “Vishy’s children” continue to shine on the global stage.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

The highly anticipated clash between YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul and boxing legend Mike Tyson delivered on its promise of electrifying entertainment. On Friday, November 15, in Dallas, Texas, Jake Paul secured the most significant victory of his career, defeating Iron Mike Tyson via unanimous decision in an unforgettable main event broadcasted by Netflix.

The victory didn’t come easy. Paul, trailing after the first two rounds, showcased grit and determination, turning the tide to claim a 78-74 decision on the unofficial scorecard. Tyson, returning to the ring after a 19-year hiatus, started strong but succumbed to fatigue as the bout progressed.

The Journey to the Ring

Initially scheduled for June, the fight was postponed after Tyson suffered an ulcer flare-up. The lead-up to the rescheduled bout was rife with tension. At the weigh-ins, Tyson slapped Paul, fueling the rivalry. Both fighters entered the arena brimming with confidence — Paul predicted a knockout, while Tyson vowed a “vicious win.”

The contrast in their walkouts mirrored their personalities: Paul embraced his signature flamboyance, while Tyson took a stoic and solitary approach, earning cheers from the Texas crowd.

Round-by-Round Breakdown

  • Rounds 1 & 2: Tyson dominated the early exchanges, using his legendary power to back Paul into the ropes. Judges scored both rounds 10-9 in favor of Tyson.
  • Round 3: Paul turned the momentum with a series of precise jabs, leaving Tyson on the defensive. Paul claimed the round, narrowing the score to 29-28.
  • Rounds 4-6: Fatigue began to take its toll on Tyson. Paul capitalized, landing combinations that dictated the pace and secured the lead with scores of 58-56 by the end of Round 6.
  • Final Round: Tyson mounted a valiant effort, but Paul’s energy and strategy proved superior. Both fighters exchanged respect in a heartwarming moment as the final bell rang.

A Financial Windfall

The fight was as lucrative as it was entertaining. Rumors suggest Jake Paul pocketed $40 million, while Tyson earned $20 million, marking a historic payday for both fighters.

A Star-Studded Undercard

The event wasn’t just about the main bout. Fans were treated to thrilling matchups across various weight classes:

  • Super Lightweight: Katie Taylor retained her title against Amanda Serrano via unanimous decision in a fiercely contested bout, despite controversial point deductions for headbutts.
  • Welterweight: Mario Barrios and Abel Ramos fought to a split draw, delivering a gritty showdown that left fans divided.
  • Super Middleweight: India’s Neeraj Goyat triumphed over Whindersson Nunes via unanimous decision, though critics deemed the match a mismatch.

What’s Next?

The question on everyone’s mind is, “What’s next for Jake Paul?” After taking down one of the sport’s legends, Paul has solidified himself as more than just a YouTube sensation. Meanwhile, Tyson’s return, though brief, showcased glimpses of his former brilliance, leaving fans wondering if the legend might step into the ring one last time.

This event, blending nostalgia and modern-day spectacle, will undoubtedly remain etched in boxing history.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

The second T20I between Australia and Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground was nothing short of a rollercoaster. From record-breaking starts to spirited fightbacks, the game had it all. Ultimately, it was Australia who emerged victorious, securing a 13-run win to claim the series with one game to spare.

Australia’s Explosive Start and Pakistan’s Fiery Comeback

Australia opened the match with an intent to dominate, racing to an explosive start. Their top order capitalized on loose deliveries, reaching 50 runs in just 19 balls — a feat that seemed to set the tone for a massive total. However, Pakistan had other plans.

Haris Rauf, Pakistan’s bowling maestro, led the fightback with a scintillating four-wicket haul. Abbas Afridi complemented him brilliantly, claiming three wickets and tightening the screws on Australia’s aggressive batting lineup. What seemed destined to be a mammoth total was reduced to a modest 147/9 by the end of the innings.

Spencer Johnson Steals the Show

Defending 147, Australia found their hero in Spencer Johnson. His fiery spell tore through Pakistan’s top order, dismissing captain Mohammad Rizwan and vice-captain Agha Salman in consecutive deliveries. Johnson’s five-wicket haul proved decisive, deflating Pakistan’s chase just as it began to gain momentum.

Despite a spirited recovery attempt by Usman Khan and Irfan Khan, Pakistan fell agonizingly short, managing 134 by the end of their innings.

A Rain-Soaked First T20I

The series opener was a spectacle of a different kind. Rain reduced the game to a mere seven overs per side, but that didn’t dampen Australia’s spirits. Glenn Maxwell’s quickfire 43 propelled the hosts to 93/4.

Pakistan, in response, crumbled under pressure, losing wickets in a heap. Their dismal performance saw them setting an unwanted record — the lowest score at the fall of the fifth wicket in T20I history. The collapse from 48/4 to 64/9 showcased Australia’s bowling prowess, with Xavier Bartlett and Nathan Ellis sharing six wickets between them.

What Lies Ahead for Pakistan?

After a historic ODI series win against Australia, Pakistan entered the T20Is with high hopes. However, back-to-back defeats have raised questions about their batting depth and adaptability under pressure.

While their bowling unit, led by Rauf and Afridi, has shown resilience, the batting lineup will need to regroup and deliver in the final T20I to salvage some pride. The team’s ability to bounce back from this setback will determine whether they can reclaim their footing in the shortest format.

Conclusion

The series has so far been a showcase of Australia’s depth and adaptability and Pakistan’s moments of brilliance interspersed with lapses in execution. As the two teams head into the final match, all eyes will be on Pakistan to see if they can turn the tide and finish the series on a high.

For cricket enthusiasts, this series has been a reminder of the unpredictable charm of T20 cricket — where fortunes change in the blink of an eye, and heroes emerge when least expected.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

In a striking performance that marked a new chapter in Afghanistan cricket, 18-year-old spinner Allah Ghazanfar has taken the spotlight with his outstanding six-wicket haul against Bangladesh, driving his team to a commanding 92-run win in the first ODI held in Sharjah. With an impressive 6 for 26 in just 6.3 overs, Ghazanfar turned Bangladesh’s chase of 236 into a collapse from 132/3 to 143 all out, setting a new record in Afghanistan-Bangladesh ODI history by surpassing Shakib Al Hasan’s 5-29 from the 2019 World Cup.

Ghazanfar’s rise to fame didn’t happen overnight. His journey began with ambitions as a fast bowler, but under the mentorship of former Afghanistan captain Dawlat Ahmadzai, he transitioned into a mystery spinner—a decision that would later yield remarkable results. His talent first gained attention during the 2024 U-19 World Cup, where he picked up eight wickets in four matches. This stellar showing earned him a call-up to Afghanistan’s senior squad, where he debuted in ODIs against Ireland.

His exceptional skills carried over to the Emerging Asia Cup, where he was instrumental in Afghanistan’s victory over Sri Lanka A in the final, clinching the Player of the Match award. His growing reputation even caught the eye of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL, who brought him in as a replacement for Mujeeb Ur Rahman. Though he didn’t play in any IPL matches, his presence in the title-winning squad showcased his potential on a global stage.

Afghanistan’s captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, expressed confidence in the young talent, highlighting his impressive control and spin variety. “He is a special talent with a bright future. He bowled well in the first spell, but there was that no-ball (laughs). I’m thrilled with the options we have on the bench,” Shahidi shared, acknowledging Ghazanfar’s game-changing abilities.

Bangladesh’s captain, Najmul Hossain, reflected on his team’s collapse, admitting, “I think my wicket turned the match. I was the set batsman, so my dismissal put us in a tough spot. But credit goes to Afghanistan’s spinners for their remarkable performance.”

As Ghazanfar’s career continues to rise, he embodies Afghanistan’s growing cricketing legacy. His historic feat not only brings new hope to Afghan fans but also signals that this young spinner could be a force to watch on the global stage in the years ahead.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

In a high-stakes ODI series decider, England’s captain Liam Livingstone pulled off an unforgettable chase, showcasing a dazzling unbeaten 124 from just 85 balls, which outshone West Indies captain Shai Hope’s resilient 117. This thrilling five-wicket victory allowed England to level the series at 1-1 and proved to be a career milestone for Livingstone, marking his maiden century in the 50-over format.

England’s Chase and Livingstone’s Masterclass

The 329-run target set by the West Indies appeared formidable, especially after England’s early struggles with only notable contributions from Phil Salt (59) and Jacob Bethell (55). However, the pairing of Livingstone and Sam Curran (52) turned the tide, putting together a crucial 140-run partnership off 107 balls. Livingstone’s fireworks came alive in the final 10 overs, where he transformed his measured 46 off 57 balls into a blazing 124*, with 78 off his last 28 deliveries. His devastating stroke play in these final overs included nine sixes and a flurry of boundaries that decimated the West Indies bowling attack.

Livingstone’s knock wasn’t just about explosive batting; it was about leadership and grit. He built his innings smartly, waiting for the right moment before launching an all-out attack. In a particularly punishing stretch, he took left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie for 30 runs across two overs and hammered Jayden Seales and Shamar Joseph for an onslaught of sixes, leaving the bowlers helpless.

The West Indies Innings: Hope and Co. Build a Stiff Target

Earlier in the day, West Indies opted for a solid build-up, anchored by their captain Shai Hope. His 117 off 118 balls was classic Hope — patient yet punctuated with bursts of aggression. Coming in after both openers departed early, Hope anchored the innings, supported by a fluent 71 from Keacy Carty and a quickfire 54 from Sherfane Rutherford. The team effort allowed West Indies to post 328 for 6, a challenging total for the visitors.

Hope played anchor for most of the innings, especially when Carty joined him to add 143 runs for the third wicket. Carty’s contribution was invaluable, showing composure and resilience, while Rutherford’s brisk 54 from just 35 balls helped lift the scoring rate during the final 10 overs. Shimron Hetmyer and Matthew Forde provided vital cameos, allowing the hosts to add 93 runs in the closing overs, setting England a daunting target.

Fielding Missteps, But England Bounces Back

While England’s bowlers struggled, their fielding lapses almost compounded their troubles. Dropped catches cost them early breakthroughs, giving the West Indies batters second chances that led to higher scores. Despite this, England managed to pull things together. Archer and Rashid provided breakthroughs, helping stem the run flow in the middle overs. Turner, making his ODI debut, struck early by removing Evin Lewis, and Rashid chipped in with Carty’s wicket at a critical juncture.

The Road Ahead

With the series squared, this victory highlights England’s depth and resilience. Livingstone’s captain’s knock will undoubtedly be a defining moment in his career, showcasing his ability to anchor an innings and take charge when the stakes are high. For the West Indies, Hope’s anchoring role has been invaluable, and the side will look to capitalize on his form in future matches.

As both teams prepare for the final ODI, fans can expect another thrilling contest. With Livingstone in top form, England’s prospects look promising, while the West Indies will be eager to regroup and return stronger to defend their home turf.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

In a time of momentous achievements for New Zealand sports, the White Ferns’ emphatic 76-run victory over India in the second ODI in Ahmedabad may seem understated. However, this win does more than just level the three-match series; it propels New Zealand’s path toward direct qualification for next year’s ODI World Cup, a major milestone in the Women’s Championship. New Zealand’s triumph was underscored by commanding performances from experienced players, with captain Sophie Devine stealing the show. Her all-around contribution—79 runs off 86 balls followed by three crucial wickets—cemented her role as a linchpin for her team.

Batting first on a pitch perfect for stroke-making, openers Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer put on a solid foundation, amassing an 87-run partnership in just over 15 overs. Bates and Plimmer skillfully struck 13 fours and a six, using timing over power to exploit the batting-friendly surface. Despite early efforts by Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, who introduced spin by the sixth over, India’s fielding lapses, particularly from Deepti Sharma, allowed New Zealand’s top order to build steadily. Plimmer capitalized on these lapses, bringing the fireworks with a six and a four off debutant Priya Mishra.

India’s breakthrough came from Radha Yadav, who exhibited incredible fielding with a diving catch to remove Plimmer for 41. This moment sparked a slight dip in New Zealand’s scoring rate, as India’s off-pace bowlers made runs harder to come by. However, Devine’s arrival at the crease reinvigorated the innings. She forged a brisk 60-run partnership with Maddy Green, accelerating New Zealand’s total to a competitive 259/9, with Devine batting through the final stages. Radha Yadav’s standout efforts in the field complemented her bowling, where she finished with figures of 4 for 69.

India’s chase began on a challenging note, with veteran seamer Lea Tahuhu dismissing star batter Smriti Mandhana in the very first over. Tahuhu struck again in the fourth over, trapping Shafali Verma, while Yastika Bhatia also fell victim shortly thereafter, leaving India struggling at 26 for 3. As the Indian innings unraveled, Harmanpreet Kaur and Jemimah Rodrigues attempted to revive the chase with a 38-run stand, but Devine’s bowling prowess surfaced once more. She struck twice in quick succession, claiming both Rodrigues and the Indian captain.

With India reeling at 102 for 7 by the 26th over, a steep defeat seemed inevitable. But Radha Yadav showed resilience with the bat as well, stitching a spirited 70-run partnership with Saima Thakor for the ninth wicket. Although her 45-run effort ultimately couldn’t alter the outcome, it served to reduce the margin and added to her already impressive day on the field.

New Zealand’s performance in Ahmedabad not only leveled the series but demonstrated the depth and determination within their ranks, particularly through Devine’s leadership and all-round prowess. The White Ferns’ momentum is now undeniable, and with valuable Women’s Championship points secured, their journey to the World Cup appears increasingly promising.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Virat Kohli’s return to the No. 3 batting position for the first Test against New Zealand proved to be a costly gamble. With Shubman Gill ruled out due to neck stiffness, the Indian team was left to rethink its top-order strategy at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The absence of Gill, India’s regular No. 3, created a crucial vacancy that needed filling. Rather than bringing in a replacement who had experience in that slot, Kohli took it upon himself to step up—only for the plan to backfire.

Kohli’s Struggle at No. 3: History Repeats Itself

The decision to promote Kohli was unexpected, especially considering his past struggles at this position. In his illustrious 116-Test career, the star batter has seldom batted at No. 3, doing so only six times before this game. With a meager average of 19 and a top score of 41 while batting at this spot, it was a risky move. Despite his phenomenal record at No. 4, where he has consistently delivered for India, Kohli’s choice to shift up in the order seemed to be driven more by the circumstances than by sound strategy.

A Raucous Welcome Ends in Disappointment

The Bengaluru crowd erupted as Kohli strode to the crease, filling the void left by Rohit Sharma’s dismissal in the 7th over. The Indian skipper had just lost his stumps trying to take on Tim Southee, and in walked Kohli—barely waiting for Sharma to leave the field. There was a sense of anticipation, a belief that Kohli would turn things around at his IPL home ground. However, reality quickly set in. Nine balls later, a rising delivery from young pacer Will O’Rourke proved too hot to handle. The ball jagged back in sharply, took the inner edge of Kohli’s glove, and was safely pouched at short fine leg. The bold experiment had ended in disaster—Kohli was dismissed for a duck.

Rain, Changes, and the Toss: A Challenging Start for India

It wasn’t just the gamble on Kohli that made things tricky for India. The persistent rain leading up to the match had already delayed play on Day 1, turning the Test into a four-day contest. Under cloudy skies and floodlights, Sharma’s decision to bat first was a clear attempt to capitalize on a potentially deteriorating pitch. New Zealand, on their part, chose to strengthen their pace attack by including three seamers and spinner Ajaz Patel.

India made two changes to their playing XI, with Sarfaraz Khan and Kuldeep Yadav coming in for the injured Shubman Gill and Akash Deep. Sarfaraz, though included in the lineup, was an unusual choice for the No. 3 spot due to his limited experience in the top order, leaving Kohli to fill in the role instead.

India’s WTC Hopes on the Line

The stakes for India in this series couldn’t be higher. Currently leading the World Test Championship standings, a 3-0 sweep against New Zealand would all but guarantee their place in the final at Lord’s next June. With the next Tests scheduled in Pune and Mumbai, Kohli and his men are hoping to overcome the shaky start in Bengaluru and build on the momentum from their recent 2-0 series victory against Bangladesh.

New Zealand’s Subcontinental Struggles Continue

For New Zealand, the tour has been a grind. After a washed-out Test against Afghanistan in Greater Noida and a 2-0 series loss in Sri Lanka, their challenges have mounted on the subcontinental tracks. The conditions are hardly favorable, and a reduced four-day Test at Chinnaswamy poses its own set of difficulties for the visiting team.

Looking Ahead

As the series unfolds, the big question remains: who will step up to fill the void left by Gill’s absence? While Kohli’s experiment at No. 3 did not yield the desired results, the team management may have to reassess their strategy to secure a strong position in the remaining Tests. With the second Test just around the corner in Pune, a crucial opportunity awaits India to regroup and reinforce their push towards the WTC final.

5 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

In the final T20I against Bangladesh in Hyderabad, India is set to chase a series sweep while evaluating the performance of promising second-line players. Having already clinched the series 2-0 with victories in Gwalior and New Delhi, the team under Gautam Gambhir is hungry for another win. A clean sweep would nicely complement their 2-0 margin in the preceding Test series.

Beyond the series victory, the Indian squad is focused on finalizing their white-ball lineup in preparation for major tournaments like the Champions Trophy. With numerous important fixtures ahead, the team is keen on identifying backup options for their frontline players.

Gambhir’s management is particularly interested in assessing the readiness of bowlers like Mayank Yadav, who returned from injury, and spinner Varun Chakravarthy, who recently took three wickets in his first match in three years. The progress of Nitish Kumar Reddy, who impressed in the Delhi T20 with a quickfire 74 and a couple of wickets, will also be closely monitored.

However, the performances of openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma have raised concerns. Despite the advantage of batting at the top in T20s, Samson has recorded modest scores of 29 and 10, while Sharma has managed just 15 and 16. Their struggles have put pressure on the middle order, which previously had to recover from a shaky start.

The team management may consider giving opportunities to other players, including leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi and all-rounder Harshit Rana, if the openers continue to falter.

On the other hand, Bangladesh is aiming to secure their first win of the tour, requiring consistent performances from senior players like captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, Litton Das, and Mustafizur Rahman, all of whom have underperformed thus far.

India’s Squad: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya, Riyan Parag, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Mayank Yadav, Tilak Varma.

Bangladesh’s Squad: Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Parvez Hossain Emon, Tawhid Hridoy, Mahmud Ullah, Litton Kumer Das, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hassan Miraz, Shak Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Rakibul Hasan.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts

Our News Portal

We provide accurate, balanced, and impartial coverage of national and international affairs, focusing on the activities and developments within the parliament and its surrounding political landscape. We aim to foster informed public discourse and promote transparency in governance through our news articles, features, and opinion pieces.

Newsletter

Subscribe my Newsletter for new blog posts, tips & new photos. Let's stay updated!

Laest News

@2023 – All Right Reserved. Designed and Developed by The Parliament News

Are you sure want to unlock this post?
Unlock left : 0
Are you sure want to cancel subscription?
-
00:00
00:00
Update Required Flash plugin
-
00:00
00:00