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Tag: Jasprit Bumrah

  • Sachin Tendulkar Set To Boost Team India’s Spirits At T20 World Cup 2024 Clash Against Pakistan In New York | Cricket News

    The anticipation for the T20 World Cup 2024 is reaching fever pitch, and Indian cricket fans have another reason to celebrate. Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar is expected to be present at India’s highly anticipated match against arch-rivals Pakistan. This epic showdown is scheduled for June 9 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.

    Sachin Tendulkar is likely to attend the India vs Pakistan match at New York in the T20I World Cup. [PTI] pic.twitter.com/ihjcVVvLeK — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) May 28, 2024

    Also Read: Kevin Pietersen Calls Ambati Rayudu A ‘Joker’ After IPL 2024 Final, Video Goes Viral – Watch

    The Master Blaster’s Presence: A Morale Booster

    The confirmation of Tendulkar’s attendance comes from a reliable source close to the International Cricket Council (ICC). The source revealed, “Yes, if all goes well, Sachin will be watching the match in New York and cheering the Indian team.” While it’s still uncertain whether Tendulkar will interact with the players before the match, his presence alone is expected to significantly boost the morale of the Indian team.

    Rohit Sharma and his squad will undoubtedly draw inspiration from seeing one of cricket’s greatest icons in the stands. Tendulkar, who remains the highest run-scorer in both Tests and One-Day Internationals (ODIs), has always been a beacon of excellence and motivation for Indian cricketers. His illustrious career, spanning over two decades, set the benchmark for the sport, and his support could be a pivotal factor in such a crucial game.

    Historic Rivalry Rekindled in a New Arena

    The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is legendary, often transcending the sport to become a cultural phenomenon. Matches between these two teams are always high-stakes affairs, laden with pressure and excitement. This year, the T20 World Cup has added a unique twist by hosting the marquee clash in New York, marking the first time these two teams will face off on American soil in a World Cup match.

    The Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, situated on the outskirts of New York, is expected to be filled to capacity. Fans from both nations, along with a vibrant diaspora, will converge to witness this historic match. The electric atmosphere, combined with Tendulkar’s presence, promises an unforgettable experience.

    Standout Performances to Watch

    While Tendulkar’s presence is a major highlight, the players on the field will be the ultimate focus. Captain Rohit Sharma, known for his explosive batting and strategic acumen, will lead the Indian team. Jasprit Bumrah, returning from injury, will spearhead the bowling attack with his lethal pace and precision. Suryakumar Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal are also key players expected to make significant contributions.

    Pakistan, on the other hand, will rely on their own stars to counter India’s challenge. Babar Azam, one of the world’s top batsmen, will be crucial in anchoring his innings. Shaheen Afridi, with his fiery pace and ability to swing the ball, will aim to unsettle the Indian batsmen early on. The match is poised to be a thrilling contest of skill and nerve.

    Tendulkar’s Enduring Legacy

    Sachin Tendulkar’s involvement in cricket extends beyond his playing days. He has frequently been associated with the ICC and other cricketing bodies, often serving as a brand ambassador. His presence at key matches, such as the 2015 and 2023 World Cups, underscores his enduring influence in the sport. Even in retirement, Tendulkar continues to inspire millions. His journey from a young prodigy to a cricketing legend is a testament to his dedication, talent, and passion for the game. His upcoming appearance in New York is not just about watching a cricket match; it symbolizes the connection and respect he maintains with the sport and its global fanbase.

  • India’ T20 World Cup 2024 Squad: Who Are The Confirmed Names? Who Are The Contenders Vying For A Spot? , cricket news

    India T20 World Cup 2024 Squad: India’s selection committee headed by Ajit Agarkar is going to have some sleepless nights ahead of the squad announcement for the T20 World Cup 2024. Except for a few names, one cannot for sure still say that this is going to. be the squad that will be in USA and West Indies for the mega event. There have been some outstanding performances in IPL 2024 which will make the job of the selectors even more tough. The tournament starts in June and the squad is likely to be announced by the start of May.

    Some of the names who are almost confirmed are veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav and Kuldeep Yadav as the leading wrist spinner. Arshdeep Singh has had a good IPL so far, so he should too make the cut. But there are still nine spots up for grabs.

    Will Hardik Pandya get picked?

    Hardik Pandya, the batting all-rounder, is not in great form either with bat or ball which is a huge concern. However, if he is bowling and batting without any discomfort, Hardik should make the cut. Shivam Dube and Rinku Singh are two names who are fighting for one spot in India playing 11 at the World Cup. But selectors may opt to take both of them to WC as backups for each other. Shivam should easily make it as he can bowl too.

    Three-way battle really for keeper’s slot

    The fight is for the wicketkeeper’s slot. There are six contenders in the form of Ishan Kishan, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Jitesh Sharma, Sanju Samson and Dinesh Karthik. But the real battle mostly should be between Pant, Samson and Rahul. One or maybe two of them could be picked, depending upon what roles they are told to play.

    The bowling department: Tough fight among pacers

    Kuldeep should definitely be the first choice wrist spinner. But India will need another spinner, maybe a wrist or a finger spinner. It could be a battle between Axar Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal who make the cut.

    Then came the pacers. Apart from Bumrah and Arshdeep, India will need 2 more pacers. These two names are very hard to pick. Delhi Capitals’ Khaleel Ahmed, Sunrisers Hyderabad’s T Natarajan, Punjab Kings’ Harshal Patel, and even Mohit Sharma, Mukesh Kumar have become contenders for the spot.

    With no Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj completely out of form, India will have to make a bold choice. Mayank Yadav can be a surprise and bold pick but also a risky one. He has an X-factor which is his extreme pace. But he also lacks experience.

    India’s likely T20 World Cup 2024 squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant/Sanju Samson/KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Two more pacers and one spinner

  • 'This Is Clownery..': Social Media Furious After Ben Stokes' Ball To Dismiss Rohit Sharma Hailed By British Media As 'The Best In Series' | cricket news

    Ben Stokes decided it was enough waiting for the first ball in eight months. Wickets were hard to come by in Dharamsala and despite no nod from the team's physio, Stokes felt he needed to lead from the front and bowl a few overs. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill's partnership had already pushed England on back foot on day 2 of the fifth and last Test. England were desperate for a breakthrough and not many had expected that Stokes would provide that so soon.

    Also Read | After Rohit Sharma's 2nd Test Hundred Vs England, Geoffrey Boycott's Controversial Statement Is Viral Again

    The first delivery in 251 days from Stokes landed outside off at good length. It held its line before shaping away ever-so-slightly to hit the off. Rohit could not do much about it. That was a peach from one of cricket's greatest all-rounders. Rohit had a smile on his face as he walked back. He knew he had been done by an excellent delivery and he needed not regret the dismissal.

    Stokes was happy but he stopped himself from celebrating it in an animated way. However, his teammates were maybe impressed. Mark Wood had his hand off his head and a big shock on his face. Stokes bowled the first ball in 251 days and it worked. It cleaned up a batter who had faced over 160 deliveries and never looked like getting out.

    The social media was soon abuzz with reactions to Stokes. While many hailed Stokes for being a great leader and risking his injury to come and deliver the goods, many went on to call the delivery the best in the series. BCC cricket correspondent Jonathan Agnew went on to compare Stokes first-ball wicket to that Ian Botham's first-ball wicket after he came back from 63-day drugs suspension.

    “Ben Stokes provided an Ian Botham moment of scene-stealing drama to announce his return…,” wrote Telegraph's Nick Hoult.

    Stokes, who is going through a lean patch as batsman, began to get massive praise for this one ball. This was not appreciated by many Indian fans on social media, who reminded the world that Bumrah had bowled a screamer to Ollie Pope not long ago. Another Twitter user and a fan said that sports website talkSport called Stokes' delivery to Rohit as the ball of the series. That user ranted, “Last piece of rant for today..TalkSport called Stokes ball as the best ball of the series. I mean..Bumrah literally had stokes cleaned up in Hyderabad and then Pope in Vizag. These are just two of so many I can put across here. This is beyond delusion..this is clownery.”

    Check some reactions to Stokes receiving praise for this delivery to Rohit below:

    Last piece of rant for today..TalkSport called Stokes ball as the best ball of the series.

    I mean..Bumrah literally had stokes cleaned up in Hyderabad and then Pope in Vizag. These are just two of so many I can put across here.

    This is beyond delusion..this is clownery — Anuj Nitin Prabhu (@APTalksCricket) March 8, 2024

    IND bowler delivers a world class spell, runs through the middle of the ENG order Press: Bazball blah blah blah

    Ben Stokes bowls 5 Ok overs and gets one ball to misbehave off the pitch

    Press: THE GREATEST BALL OF THE SERIES! WHO WRITES HIS SCRIPTS!

    — cricketingview (@cricketingview) March 8, 2024

    Man for this insane PR Ben Stokes deserves the National Creator award Modiji… https://t.co/PUDigPjc5n — Varun (@wizardrincewind) March 9, 2024

    India are in a commanding position in the fifth Test, leading by over 255 runs on the morning of Day 3. The hosts are already leading 3-1 in the series and a 4-1 result looks almost certain now.

  • India Vs England 5th Test Playing 11s: Will KL Rahul And Jasprit Bumrah Return For Dharamsala Test? What We Know So Far | cricket news

    India’s wicketkeeper and batsman KL Rahul played just one Test before he was ruled out of the second due to an issue in his quadriceps. He was rested in Visakhapatnam but even after a long gap before the Rajkot game, Rahul was only at 90 percent fitness and BCCI didn’t risk including him in the squad. He has not attained full fitness yet and also missed the Ranchi Test. As per a new report on Cricbuzz, Rahul’s participation in Dharamsala is still unclear as the batsman has flown to London for an expert opinion on his injury.

    Also Read | Ind Vs Eng Test Series: Report Cards Of Debutants

    Rahul is still feeling pain in his right quadriceps for which he had undergone a surgery in London. He made his comeback in Asia Cup 2023 after which he successfully played in the ODI World Cup and in South Africa. But the pain is back and BCCI as well as National Croquet Academy (NCA) don’t want to take any risks with him as the cricketer is of utmost importance to them.

    With India already 3-1 up in the series, BCCI might not want to take any risk with a 90 percent fit Rahul. It has also been reported that one more batter and one bowler might be rested in Dharamsala as BCCI looks to manage workload of players.

    The good news for Jasprit Bumrah fans is that he is likely to return for the Dharamshala Test. This is the ground which offers assistance to the Pacers and for the first time in the series we might get to see three paces in both the playing 11s.

    No words just pure emotions_

    A series win to remember _#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/AtyB7tJq4c — BCCI (@BCCI) February 26, 2024

    Coming back to Rahul, he also leads Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The fact that he is very close to regaining full fitness means Rahul is certain to play IPL 2024. Even if he misses the first few games, he should be able to get back to LSG midway through the season.

    As far as England are concerned, they are unlikely to make massive changes to the playing 11 knowing they would want to finish the series on a high note, going back with a 3-2 scoreline rather than 4-1. One change that may want to make is including Dan Lawrence in place of Jonny Bairstow. Lawrence has been warming the bench so far and with Bairstow in such a poor form, Lawrence can be tried at the No 5 slot. Knowing fast-paced nature of Dharamsala pitch, we might also see three pacers also in England XI in the form of James Anderson, Mark Wood and Ollie Robinson. As per report, England and India are set to fly to Dharamsala on March 2.

    India’s playing 11 for 5th Test Vs England may look like this: Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal (Devdutt Padikkal), Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Axar Patel/Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj

    England probable playing 11: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow/Dan Lawrence, Ben Stokes, Ben Foakes, Tom Hartley, James Anderson, Mark Wood, Ollie Robinson

  • ‘Auraton Ke Bodies Ke Baare Mein…’, Jasprit Bumrah’s Wife Sanjana Ganesan Fat-Shamed On Instagram; Check Her Brilliant Reply To A Troll | cricket news

    Cricketers do receive a lot of love in India for their achievements on the field. But the brutal world of social media also sends them hate in equal amount. Sometimes, it does not require a cricketer to fail to get this hate. There is an unorganized community on internet these days whose sole purpose is to spread negativity and abuse these athletes and their families. Jasprit Bumrah and his wife Sanjana Ganesan is a celebrity couple who also, on a daily basis, faces the online trolling.

    Also Read | WATCH: Jadeja’s Wife Loses Cool When Asked About Father In law’s Allegations Towards Her

    On Monday, when Bumrah posted a promotional video on his Instagram page, which is an advertisement for a brand and also features his wife Sanjana, the trolls filled the comments section with filthy words. The target was Sanjana who has obviously put on weight post her pregnancy. Post-pregnancy fat is not abnormal and you can lose weight too via some simple exercises. Without going further into science, even if Sanjana was an overweight person, she did not deserve this hate. Fat-shaming anyone is not right but some people get a lot of fun when they do it to others.

    Sanjana Ganesan’s reply on the Instagram post. pic.twitter.com/DgIhrtRurs

    — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 12, 2024

    “Bhabhi Moti lag rahi hai,” was one of the many comments on this Insta post, which loosely translates to sister-in-law is looking fat. Sanjana gave a beffiting reply to this troll, underlining his lack of scientific temperament. She said, “You cannot even learn things from the science books in your school and here you have come to show your knowledge about women’s bodies. Get lost. (School ki science textbook toh yaad hoti nahi hai tumse, bad auraton ke bodies ke baare You are commenting on me. Run away from here.”

    While Sanjana’s reply was much-needed and accurate, it did not stop many others to continue to fat-shame her. Check some of the terrible comments made on the post below:


    Remember that Sanjana is a successful sports broadcaster. She is a digital presenter with International Cricket Council (ICC) and has covered many Cricket World Cups with Star Sports where her TV career started. She was aa finalist at Miss India 2014 and took part in Reality TV show Splitsvilla. Every now and then, the wives of these cricketers get targeted by unsupportive fans whenever their husbands do not perform on the field. Anushka Sharma (Virat Kohli’ wife), Ritika Sajdeh (Rohit Sharma’s partner) are also among the Cricket WAGs who have faced online trolling on regular basis.

    Afer Bumrah became the new World No 1 Test bowler in the world, he reacted to the achievement by posting an Instagram Story for his haters. He posted an image reflecting on how there is very less support when an athlete is struggling and so much praise when he or she is at peak. Comments like ‘Ab toh sharam kar le Bumrah’ were constantly shared on Instagram when the pacer was out for a year due to injury.

    Bumrah will soon be seen again in the third Test vs England, starting on February 15, in Rajkot. He is bowling superbly at the moment and England are deeply worried on how to tackle him.

  • Jasprit Bumrah’s Cryptic Post After Becoming ICC No.1 Bowler In Test Goes Viral | cricket news

    In a momentous turn of events, India’s pace sensation, Jasprit Bumrah, has ascended to the summit of the International Cricket Council’s Test bowling rankings. Bumrah’s stellar performance in the recent series against England catapulted him to this historic milestone, marking him as the first-ever Indian fast bowler to achieve such a distinction. With a commanding match haul of nine wickets, Bumrah played a pivotal role in securing India’s series-levelling triumph over England.

    _Jasprit Bumrah’s Instagram story. _ pic.twitter.com/uQhZaQmKQD — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 7, 2024

    A Cryptic Message

    In the aftermath of this remarkable achievement, Bumrah took to Instagram to share a cryptic post, encapsulating the essence of his journey. The enigmatic photo depicts juxtaposed images of empty stands and crowded arenas, symbolizing the contrast between support and acknowledgement. Amidst the barren terraces, the inscription reads, “The Support,” while the bustling crowds bear the message, “The Congratulations.” Through this intriguing visual narrative, Bumrah poignantly highlights the disparity between adversity and triumph, underscoring the significance of resilience in the face of challenges.

    From Trolling to Triumph

    Bumrah’s ascent to the summit of ICC’s Test bowling rankings is a testament to his unwavering determination and unwavering commitment to excellence. Despite enduring a grueling hiatus spanning over two years due to injury, Bumrah’s relentless pursuit of excellence has culminated in this historic achievement. The journey from being ruthlessly trolled during his injury-enforced absence to reclaiming his rightful place as India’s premier pace spearhead is a narrative of resilience, fortitude, and unyielding spirit.

    Historic Milestones

    Bumrah’s remarkable feat adds another illustrious chapter to India’s cricketing annals, joining the ranks of esteemed predecessors such as Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and the legendary Bishan Singh Bedi. His ascent to the summit of ICC’s Test bowling rankings not only etches his name in the annals of cricketing history but also serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring cricketers worldwide.

    Looking Ahead

    As Bumrah savors the sweet taste of triumph, his journey serves as a poignant reminder of the indomitable human spirit’s power to transcend adversity and achieve greatness. With his sights set on scaling even greater heights, Bumrah’s ascent to the summit of ICC’s Test bowling rankings heralds a new era of dominance for Indian cricket.

  • Neeraj Chopra Reacts To Broadcasters Not Showing Him On Big Screen Or TV During World Cup Final, Says ‘I Want Them To…’ | Other

    India’s greatest Track and Field athlete Neeraj Chopra was in the stands of the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad to watch the World Cup final between India and Australia in November 19. While the broadcasters showed a host of celebrities from Bollywood and other film industries of the country. who attended the game on the big screen at the ground and on TV, Neeraj was not even shown once. The camera at the ground failed to recognize or spot India’s most decorated sportsperson in the last five years.

    Also Read | WI’s Shai Hope Says THIS MS Dhoni Advice Helped Him Chase Down Target Vs England In 1st ODI

    The 25-year-old has now reacted to the snub by the cameramen at the stadium. In an interview with the Indian Express, Neeraj spoke on how he felt when the likes of Shah Rukh Khan, Ranveer Singh were continuously shown in the big screen and he was not. As expected, Neeraj came up with a very Neeraj-like response, saying that he does think too much about these things. However, Neeraj said, not showing his matches on TV troubles him.

    “I want them to show me when I compete. When I participate in the Diamond League they don’t telecast it properly. Woh cheez hai asli (that’s the real deal). At that time, they only show highlights. I went to Ahmedabad. just to watch the match and I thoroughly enjoyed it.


    “I would have obviously enjoyed it more had India won, but I had a good time in the stands. I never wanted the camera to pan towards me, that thought didn’t even cross my head,” said Neeraj.

    Who Is Neeraj Chopra’s Favorite Fast Bowler?

    Neeraj was also quizzed about his favorite fast bowler in the Indian team and he took the name of Jasprit Bumrah. The dynamics of fast bowling and javelin throw are almost the same. The athlete runs in at fast pace, stops and then delivers the ball/throws the javelin. Neeraj finds Bumrah’s bowling action quite unique and also had an advice for India’s leading fast bowler. Neeraj advised Bumrah to lengthen his run-up as doing it will help him extract more pace.

    The star javelin thrower has won almost everything that is there to be won for a Track and Field athlete. From Olympics gold to World title to Diamond League trophy, Neeraj has it all. However, there is one small dream of his which is still unfulfilled, which is to participate and win the top honors at an international event in India. Neeraj hopes that global event is hosted soon.

  • Transition phase every team goes through: Mumbai Indians vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah

    By PTI

    PUNE: Mumbai Indians vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah understands and accepts the hard truth that Mumbai Indians is indeed going through a “transition phase” and the new kids in the block need to understand how to react to pressure situations in a high intensity tournament like IPL.

    MI have already lost four games on trot and lack of bowling options is hurting the five-time champions badly.

    “It’s a transition phase that every cricketer understands, and every team goes through that. We are in that phase; we have got a new group,” Bumrah said.

    “So understanding the format of the IPL, how you have to handle pressure and achieve success in this league.

    “We are going through that. We are looking forward that we go through this transition, and then we have all the players we had and the quality will come back again,” he said.

    For Bumrah, it is important that MI lives in the present rather than stressing on the past “Right now, we live in the present.

    Yes, things have not gone according to plan so far, but we keep on fighting and we keep on finding a way,” Bumrah was quoted as saying in media release issued by the franchise.

    “That is the way the game of cricket works. Whenever a challenge comes, you try to find solutions to the challenge and we are trying to do that,” he added.

    Bumrah feels that the tracks have been heavily loaded in favour of batters this time and the toss has proved to be crucial so far.

    “This year when the wickets are helping the batters and it’s difficult to take wickets, you have to find your ways. We are no different. We are trying to find new ways. We’ve come up with a few plans,” the right-arm speedster said, without divulging the plans.

    Toss indeed has become a crucial factor.

    “If it was up to me, I would say win the toss. That really helps. But yes, whenever you come into this scenario, there is a little bit of help with the new ball, so maintaining a good line, trying to swing the ball upfront, I think will help you,” he quipped.

    “As soon as you come to the later stages, be it the first innings or the second innings, the wicket settles down (due to dew). So then maybe you have to start your death bowling a little early.

    “All of these pointers might help the other bowlers as well, so we’re looking to address that as soon as possible and then use it to our advantage,” he added.

  • Transition phase every team goes through: Mumbai Indians vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah

    By PTI

    PUNE: Mumbai Indians vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah understands and accepts the hard truth that Mumbai Indians is indeed going through a “transition phase” and the new kids in the block need to understand how to react to pressure situations in a high intensity tournament like IPL.

    MI have already lost four games on trot and lack of bowling options is hurting the five-time champions badly.

    “It’s a transition phase that every cricketer understands, and every team goes through that. We are in that phase; we have got a new group,” Bumrah said.

    “So understanding the format of the IPL, how you have to handle pressure and achieve success in this league.

    “We are going through that. We are looking forward that we go through this transition, and then we have all the players we had and the quality will come back again,” he said.

    For Bumrah, it is important that MI lives in the present rather than stressing on the past “Right now, we live in the present.

    Yes, things have not gone according to plan so far, but we keep on fighting and we keep on finding a way,” Bumrah was quoted as saying in media release issued by the franchise.

    “That is the way the game of cricket works. Whenever a challenge comes, you try to find solutions to the challenge and we are trying to do that,” he added.

    Bumrah feels that the tracks have been heavily loaded in favour of batters this time and the toss has proved to be crucial so far.

    “This year when the wickets are helping the batters and it’s difficult to take wickets, you have to find your ways. We are no different. We are trying to find new ways. We’ve come up with a few plans,” the right-arm speedster said, without divulging the plans.

    Toss indeed has become a crucial factor.

    “If it was up to me, I would say win the toss. That really helps. But yes, whenever you come into this scenario, there is a little bit of help with the new ball, so maintaining a good line, trying to swing the ball upfront, I think will help you,” he quipped.

    “As soon as you come to the later stages, be it the first innings or the second innings, the wicket settles down (due to dew). So then maybe you have to start your death bowling a little early.

    “All of these pointers might help the other bowlers as well, so we’re looking to address that as soon as possible and then use it to our advantage,” he added.

    PUNE: Mumbai Indians vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah understands and accepts the hard truth that Mumbai Indians is indeed going through a “transition phase” and the new kids in the block need to understand how to react to pressure situations in a high intensity tournament like IPL.

    MI have already lost four games on trot and lack of bowling options is hurting the five-time champions badly.

    “It’s a transition phase that every cricketer understands, and every team goes through that. We are in that phase; we have got a new group,” Bumrah said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-8052921-2’); });

    “So understanding the format of the IPL, how you have to handle pressure and achieve success in this league.

    “We are going through that. We are looking forward that we go through this transition, and then we have all the players we had and the quality will come back again,” he said.

    For Bumrah, it is important that MI lives in the present rather than stressing on the past “Right now, we live in the present.

    Yes, things have not gone according to plan so far, but we keep on fighting and we keep on finding a way,” Bumrah was quoted as saying in media release issued by the franchise.

    “That is the way the game of cricket works. Whenever a challenge comes, you try to find solutions to the challenge and we are trying to do that,” he added.

    Bumrah feels that the tracks have been heavily loaded in favour of batters this time and the toss has proved to be crucial so far.

    “This year when the wickets are helping the batters and it’s difficult to take wickets, you have to find your ways. We are no different. We are trying to find new ways. We’ve come up with a few plans,” the right-arm speedster said, without divulging the plans.

    Toss indeed has become a crucial factor.

    “If it was up to me, I would say win the toss. That really helps. But yes, whenever you come into this scenario, there is a little bit of help with the new ball, so maintaining a good line, trying to swing the ball upfront, I think will help you,” he quipped.

    “As soon as you come to the later stages, be it the first innings or the second innings, the wicket settles down (due to dew). So then maybe you have to start your death bowling a little early.

    “All of these pointers might help the other bowlers as well, so we’re looking to address that as soon as possible and then use it to our advantage,” he added.

  • Besides teammate Shami, Nathan Ellis hopes to pick brains of Jasprit Bumrah and Siraj in maiden IPL

    By PTI

    NEW DELHI: Having broken the stereotype for a successful fast bowler in Australia, the “not so tall” Nathan Ellis is set to tick off another major milestone in his fast rising career.

    After making a remarkable journey from club cricket to international cricket in little over 24 months, the first bowler to take a hat-trick on his T20 International debut is looking to learn from the best in his maiden IPL outing.

    Picked as a replacement for fellow Aussie Riley Meredith in the Punjab Kings squad, Ellis wants to pick brains of teammate and one of his favourite bowlers Mohammad Shami and also hopes to have a chat with the man with the “best yorker”, Jasprit Bumrah, and the “aggressive” Mohammad Siraj.

    Speaking to PTI from Dubai, Ellis described the phase in which he made his international debut before landing an IPL deal as overwhelming.

    “It is one of those of things you sort of dream about growing up but you know it’s never a reality and it’s never like you’ve definitely going to do it. So to be able to get on that Australia tour was a dream come true.

    “And then I wasn’t really expecting to get a game so to get a game and and sort of the results that came from that was amazing and still doesn’t feel really real. And then obviously to get the opportunity to come to the IPL with Punjab.

    “It’s (playing in IPL) is something that I’ve also dreamt about,” he said referring to the happenings of the last one month.

    Following his hat-trick in Bangladesh, Ellis was named as one of the reserves in the Australia squad for the T20 World Cup, which follows the IPL in the UAE.

    Having come to the UAE before with Big Bash franchise Hobart Hurricanes three years ago, Ellis has an idea of the conditions and says the IPL stint is bound to provide him with a valuable experience.

    “I don’t really have any specific expectations (from his first IPL). I’m prepared to play against the best players as it is the best T20 tournament in the world. So I’m very prepared that it’s going to be tough cricket,” said the death overs specialist.

    “Also I am really, really excited to talk to Mohammed Shami. I haven’t spoken to him yet but he’s been one of my favourite cricketers.”

    What about the players in other teams? “Bumrah is arguably the best T20 bowler in the world if not in general in all formats. I’d love to be able to get a hold of him and pick his brian if I get the chance. He definitely is the best yorker bowler in the world.

    “So I’d love to love to pick his brain, as well as Siraj’s. I think the way he has come on to the scene and I love how aggressive and how much energy he brings to the table I think that’s something that I tried to do as well,” said Ellis, who himself has a pretty effective yorker besides other T20 skills.

    Ellis picked up the sport seeing the likes of Brett Lee and Andy Bichel on television.

    Ever since he started playing junior cricket, he was reminded that he was not the usual tall fast bowler that Australian cricket is known to produce.

    However, the six feet tall bowler took all the criticism in his stride as he just wanted to play the game he loved.

    “Height is something that I’ve always had to deal with from junior cricket, all the way through now, especially in Australia with the stereotypical fast bowler in Australia is six foot five, tall, bouncy.

    “I’ve always had to break that down but the simple fact that at the end of the day I love playing cricket. And my mantra has always been you know if you’re performing and you’re taking wickets they can’t ignore you forever, whether you’re 8 foot tall of five foot tall.”

    He may have found instant success as a death bowler, Ellis feels he has the game for all formats.

    In the shortest format, he lies mostly on yorkers, cutters and slower balls to keep the batsman guessing.

    Bowling in the death can be unforgiving but Ellis loves the challenge.

    “It’s not a role that many people look forward as it it’s tough, and you have more bad days than good days. But I really, I really enjoy the challenge. I really enjoy me versus the batter battle.”

    “I also love it as you trying to stay a step ahead of the batter and structure different types of balls and different variations which is the crux of being a T20 bowler.”

    Asked to sum up the last 24 months, Ellis added: “I’m just trying to soak as much as I can, because I feel like it’s come really quick and I am worried that it might go really quick so I’m really trying to soak it up.”