News Analysis India

Tag: Virat Kohli

  • T20 World Cup: Team India’s journey from clinching maiden trophy to repeated heartbreaks | Cricket News

    New Delhi: Six months after the bittersweet ODI World Cup campaign, Indian cricket fans embrace and turn their attention to the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 in the hope that Rohit and Co can finally end the 11-year ICC trophy drought that the country is suffering.

    From the inaugural edition of the tournament in 2007 in South Africa to the ninth edition of the tournament set to take place in the United States of America and the Caribbean, here is a look at India’s journey across 17 years:

    2007 World Cup:

    India made history by becoming the first-ever winner of the T20 World Cup. The tournament was full of memorable moments like the iconic India-Pakistan bowl-off and Gautam Gambhir’s heroics in the final.

    Gambhir’s 75 in the final helped a struggling side put up a defendable total. Alongside Gambhir, Rohit Sharma was also responsible for a quickfire 30 runs in the final which propelled India’s score to 157 against Pakistan.

    Wickets at regular intervals saw the Pakistan side struggle until Yasir Arafat and Sohail Tanvir’s crucial cameos with Misbah-ul-haq saw the game tilt in the Men in Green’s favour. India needed to defend 12 runs in the final five deliveries with only one wicket remaining.

    The second ball of the over bowled by Joginder Sharma was slammed by Misbah for six over long-on and it seemed the game was over. An attempt to scoop the ball over fine leg on the next delivery saw Sreesanth take a comfortable catch and secure victory for India.

    Struggle To Reach Knockouts:

    In eight editions of the tournament played so far, Team India have failed to make the knockouts in four.

    2009-

    Defending champions India entered the 2009 tournament with high expectations. After topping their group they faced tough opposition in England, South Africa, and the West Indies. The Men in Blue finished at the bottom of their group after failing to win a single game. South Africa went on to lose to eventual winners Pakistan in the semifinal.

    2010-

    The very next year saw India’s struggles continue as they faced hosts West Indies, Australia, and Sri Lanka in the Super Eight and once again failed to register a win, making it two Super Eight eliminations in a row.

    2012-

    The 2012 T20 World Cup was a strange one for India, playing in the sub-continent with Sri Lanka as the host, India faced Australia, South Africa, and Pakistan in the Super 8. The Men in Blue registered two wins against SA and Pak , respectively. But a devastating nine-wicket loss against Australia saw them miss out on a spot in the semifinals, making it the third consecutive early exit for the country.

    2021-

    The 2021 T20 World Cup was perhaps the worst display by India in the World Cup. Not only did the team lose its first-ever World Cup match against Pakistan, it lost to New Zealand as well in the group stages which resulted in the team being knocked out in the preliminary round itself.

    Heartbreak Knockout:

    2014-

    The tournament was Virat Kohli’s first ICC tournament in which he displayed his full capabilities, scoring 319 runs including 77 runs in the final against Sri Lanka. But his performances went in vain as India could only put up a score of 130 runs in the game, a target which was chased in 18 overs by Sri Lanka.

    Kohli’s 319 runs in six innings still stands as the most by a player in a single edition.

    2016-

    India’s performance in the 2016 World Cup was a bittersweet one. Despite losing their first game of the Super 10’s stage against New Zealand, hosts India went on to win against Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Australia in their next three games to secure a well-deserved semifinal berth. The semifinal at Wankhede was won by West Indies, who went on to beat England in the final.

    2022-

    India and England faced off in Adelaide in the semifinals of the tournament. Virat Kohli’s fifty runs and Hardik Pandya’s blistering 63 off 33 took the side to 168 runs in the first innings. Unfortunately for India, Jos Buttler and Alex Hales were two men in form on the night as the opening partners remained undefeated helping England romp to an easy 10-wicket victory for England.

    Virat Kohli’s Dominance

    Virat Kohli made his T20 World Cup debut in the 2012 edition of the tournament and what has followed since has been nothing short of historic. Throughout the five editions he has played in, he has scored 1141 runs in 25 innings across five editions at an average of 81.5 and a strike rate of 131.3. He has scored 14 half-centuries, the most in the tournament’s history, and is also the only player to win the Player of the Tournament award twice.

    Spinners Lead The Way

    Ravichandran Ashwin is India’s most successful bowler in the history of the tournament. The 37-year-old played his first T20 World Cup in 2012 and has taken 32 wickets in the five editions of the tournament. He is followed by Ravindra Jadeja who has 21 to his name. Irfan Pathan is India’s highest wicket-taking pacer with 16 to his name.

    Rohit Sharma is one of the only two players (Shakib Al Hasan is the other) to play in every edition of the tournament. The Hitman has scored 963 runs in 39 matches at an average of 34.39 and a strike rate of 127.88 across eight editions.

  • As RCB Crash Out Of IPL 2024, Virat Kohli’s Tendency To FAIL In Knockouts Huge Worry For India In T20 World Cup 2024 | cricket news

    It has happened again. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have crashed out of IPL 2024. If you are an RCB fan, you must be very upset or agitated right now. You have seen it before and you are seeing it now. You have every right to feel dejected. While the players must not get trolled and hated online, the correct questions should be asked. First and foremost to Virat Kohli, who is the oldest face in this franchise, playing for them since 2008. RCB just does not seem to have the stomach for fight in the playoffs. They cannot cross the last few milestones.

    Virat had a great season for them. He was one of the main reasons why RCB bounced back after winning six games on the trot. He says he does not listen to his criticism of batting strike rate but one saw how he employed sweep shots to good use to ensure runs came at good a pace. His strike rate in most of the matches at the latter stage of the tournament was over 200 which is a good sign for India as well. Having said that, Virat’s habit of not scoring enough runs in the knockouts of the big tournaments is still a big issue, both for RCB and India.

    India have lost several semifinals and finals since 2013. RCB have made it to the playoffs and finals as well under his captaincy or when he played but Virat has been poor performer in these crucial matches. What happens to him in the playoffs is still an unsolved mystery.

    Virat scored 33 off 24 balls but was done in Yuzvendra Chahal. On a track that required him to bat longer and deep, he lost his wicket in just the 8th over of the innings. RCB have now lost 10 matches in IPL playoffs, which is most by any team. That sort of concludes RCB and also Virat’s struggles.

    RCB’s top-order required to bat well on a track that was not so poor to bat on as the Bengaluru team made it look like. Faf du Plessis, Virat, Cameron Green and Rajat Patidar, who comprise the top four, failed to get starts or convert the starts into something substantial.

    IPL is a thing of past now for Kohli. He shifts focus on the T20 World Cup 2024. The good thing is that he is looking to score with a better strike rate. He may or may not open for India at the mega event in USA and West Indies. But he is surely batting in the top 3. The Indian team would have taken a huge dose of confidence if Virat had led the team to an IPL victory with his brilliant performances in the playoffs and the final. It could have ended his series of failures in the knockouts. But sadly, that trend has not been broken.

    India will be hoping that even if Virat does not have a solid T20 World Cup, his game peaks during the knockouts if Men in Blue qualify. India need match-winners in the knockouts. Yuvrajs, Gambhirs, Dhonis, Raina have all done the same in the past and that is why we have ICC trophies to show. It is about time a huge match-winner like Kohli delivers the goods in the knockouts.

  • ‘Classless Players, Apni Aukaat Mat Bhulo’: CSK, RCB Fans Begin Social Media War After Faf du Plessis And Co ‘Neglect’ MS Dhoni | cricket news

    After the IPL 2024 clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), a controversy took place and interestingly it involved the former Chennai captain MS Dhoni, who has possibly played his last IPL. Dhoni has not yet announced his IPL retirement but with the way he thanked the Chennai crowd after their last match at home, it appears ‘Thala’ wants to bid goodbye to the only cricket tournament he plays after international retirement. Dhoni would have liked to end on a good note, with the record-making sixth IPL trophy. Alas, it was not to be.

    Also Read | WATCH: Ambati Rayudu In Tears As RCB Knock CSK Out Of IPL 2024

    CSK had themselves to be blamed as after starting well, their campaignd derailed and this season they lost more games at home than expected. In the end, they needed a simple win to qualify for the playoffs. But they batted poorly in the chase and could not achieve the cut-off score even to qualify.

    RCB, on the other hand, won 6 matches on the trot to qualify. They won some of these matches by good margin also which boosted their Net Run rate (NRR). They were on the cusp on being knocked out early but they picked up their game in the last 3 weeks and will now play the Eliminator vs Rajasthan Royals.

    RCB fought hard and had every right to celebrate the win over CSK in their lowest group match. The celebrations were extended on the ground. An upset MS Dhoni lined up in a queue to shake hands with the RCB players. Upon seeing their celebration, he left the ground after shaking hands with the support staff of the opposition camp.

    One cannot say whether Dhoni got angered by RCB’s extended celebrations over playoffs qualification on the field but cameras have recorded him leaving the ground.

    On social media, a sort of war has erupted since then. RCB fans are targeting Dhoni for not waiting to shake hands with opposition players. On the other hand, CSK fans are also alleging that RCB players did not show respect to a senior player like MSD by ignoring him.

    One Twitter user, who happens to be a CSK fan, wrote that RCB players are classless and the should not forget that Dhoni won 5 IPL titles for CSK and should have been respected. The RCB fans also gave fitting replies to the CSK fan, saying that all MSD had to was walk 50 meters or less to shake hands.

    Check out RCB and CSK fans at loggerheads below:

    The classless RCB players who took turns to do cartwheels on the field like they had won the IPL trophy making the 5 times champions CSK team wait forever. Cricbuzz rightly criticized the RCB players for not shaking hands with #Dhoni. No class.

    Apni Aukaat mat bhulo#RCBvsCSK pic.twitter.com/iDpiu4Xe1k — Riya Sharma (@RiyaSharma9724) May 19, 2024

    Its Matter Of just 30 Seconds

    Ms Dhoni Couldn’t Walk 50meters For 30 Seconds To Shake Hands? pic.twitter.com/PY78qEu7gA

    — kanuga (@kanuga1431) May 19, 2024

    This man could walk to the pitch when he was already out just to argue with umpires on a no-ball but can’t walk 50m to shake hands with opposition?? What happened to spirit of cricket??https://t.co/LKa7TPIOIU — Akshay (@aksh__96) May 19, 2024

    The mystery continues over Dhoni’s future at CSK. Is he going to come back to win another title for Chennai next season as a player. Experts say that if BCCI keeps the Impact Player rule, in which 12 players can take part in an IPL game across the two innings, there are more chances for aging Dhoni playing next season again. The rule gives him the cushion to play purely as a batter lower down the order.

  • ‘I Don’t Need Anyone’s Approval…’,: Virat Kohli’s Defiant Response To Critics Ahead Of RCB vs CSK In IPL 2024 | cricket news

    As the IPL 2024 season unfolds, Virat Kohli finds himself at the center of a storm, his performances scrutinized and his methods questioned. But for the batting maestro, external noise holds little significance – his currency is performance, a philosophy instilled by his father from an early age. In a candid interview ahead of the high-stakes RCB vs CSK clash, Kohli addressed the ongoing debate surrounding his strike rate. “I don’t need anyone’s approval or assurance,” he asserted, his words carrying the weight of a seasoned campaigner. “Performance is my only currency.”

    Also Read: IPL 2024 RCB vs CSK Weather Report From Bengaluru: Will Rain Play Spoilsport?

    Kohli’s resolute stance echoes the sentiment of his predecessor, MS Dhoni, whose unorthodox batting approach often drew criticism. Yet, Dhoni’s ability to finish matches for India cemented his legacy, a trait Kohli admires. “He’s probably the only person who knows what he’s doing!” Kohli exclaimed, drawing parallels to his own mindset of taking the game deep.

    The RCB Connection

    For Kohli, the motivation to excel extends beyond personal milestones. His unwavering commitment to the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise stems from the deep connection he shares with the fans and the camaraderie within the team.

    “These little things, the expressions on people’s faces when they see you, you cannot demand it from fans. It’s a very organic process,” Kohli reflected. In an era where player loyalty is often tested, Kohli’s dedication to RCB stands as a testament to the value he places on the human aspect of the game.

    The Impact Player Debate

    As the IPL embraces the ‘Impact Player’ rule, a new dynamic has emerged, one that Kohli believes has disrupted the balance between bat and ball. Echoing Rohit Sharma’s sentiments, Kohli expressed concern over the dominance of batters, stating, “Bowlers are feeling like what they should do.”

    With teams struggling to defend even formidable totals, Kohli called for a rethink of the rule. “I am sure Jay bhai (BCCI secretary Jay Shah) has mentioned it already that they will review it,” he said, advocating for a balanced approach that allows both disciplines to thrive.

    The Pursuit of Excellence

    At the core of Kohli’s philosophy lies an unwavering pursuit of excellence, a journey that began with his father’s guidance. “Only if you’re capable, you will make it,” Kohli recounted, reflecting on the values ​​that have shaped his remarkable career. As the cricket world eagerly awaits the next chapter in the Kohli saga, one thing is certain: this modern-day legend will continue to march to the beat of his own drum, mastering the game on his own terms, and leaving an indelible mark on the sport he loves.

  • WATCH: Rare Scene As Virat Kohli Smiles After Getting Out Against Ishant Sharma During RCB Vs DC Match | cricket news

    Veteran batsman Virat Kohli and bowler Ishant Sharma were involved in a friendly duel during the RCB vs DC clash at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday (May 12). Sharma had the last laugh after getting smashed by his old friend for a couple of big shots during the game. Both Delhi players share an old bond having played cricket for so many years together. Later on, Ishant Sharma delivered one of the most amiable send-offs in cricket history following his dismissal of Virat Kohli, disrupting RCB’s star-studded start in the fourth over of their innings. Ishant had faced a tough start himself after being hit for a boundary and a six off the first two deliveries of the fourth over.

    Watch the video here:

    Wholesome Kalesh b/w Virat Kohli and Ishant Sharma pic.twitter.com/VO1QFk3l5J Ghar Ke Kalesh (@gharkekalesh) May 12, 2024

    Virat Kohli hit a six against Ishant, Virat poked Ishant.

    Ishant Sharma dismissed Virat, Ishant teased Virat.

    Two best mates from Delhi. pic.twitter.com/uGOWTmbbPS Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 12, 2024

    Earlier, Axar Patel-led Delhi Capitals (DC) won the toss and decided to bat against Faf du Plessis’ Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 62nd match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday evening. .

    Axar Patel will be leading the Capitals after Rishabh Pant received a suspension due to slow-over rate in DC’s previous match. (IPL 2024: Why Rishabh Pant Is Not Playing DC Vs RCB Match?)

    Bengaluru are standing in seventh place on the standings with seven points after winning 5 of 12 matches in the tournament. They are coming into this match after sealing a 60-run victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 60 runs.

    The Delhi-based franchise is standing in fifth place on the IPL 2024 table with six points after winning six of 12 matches. They are coming into this match after beating Rajasthan Royals (RR) by 20 runs.

    The DC skipper Axar confirmed Kumar Kushagra will replace Rishabh Pant in the playing eleven. He further added that Rasikh Dar Salam has been included in the first eleven against the Bengaluru-based franchise.

    “Will bowl first. Bangalore’s wicket is always good. It’s a chasing ground. When we start well, we dominate the game. Rishabh was angry and had appealed as well against the suspension. He’s at the ground here, motivating the team. Kushagra comes “Rasikh Dhar is in,” Axar said.

    RCB skipper Du Plessis said they are playing good cricket and are confident in the dressing room. The Proteas cricketer also hoped that the wicket in Bengaluru would be a “good wicket”.

    “Little bit less grass than earlier games. Hopefully, it’s a good wicket. We look forward to every game now – we’re playing some good cricket. Have to start again. We have got more of that confidence in the dressing room. The Same team for us,” Du Plessis said.

  • RCB vs DC Dream11 Team Prediction, Match Preview, Fantasy Cricket Hints: Captain, Probable Playing 11s, Team News; Injury Updates For Today’s Royal Challengers Bengaluru Vs Delhi Capitals In M Chinnaswamy Stadium, 730PM IST, Bengaluru | cricket news

    The upcoming clash between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at Bengaluru promises to be a crucial encounter as both teams vie for a playoff berth in the Indian Premier League (IPL). DC currently occupies the fifth position in the points table, having secured six wins and suffered six losses, accumulating 12 points in total. Meanwhile, RCB finds themselves in the seventh spot, with five wins, seven losses, and 10 points to their name.

    In their previous outings, DC emerged victorious against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on May 7, while RCB secured a win against Punjab Kings (PBKS) just a few days prior. As the two teams prepare to battle it out on Sunday, fans eagerly anticipate a thrilling contest with high stakes.

    The spotlight of the season has undoubtedly been on Virat Kohli, who holds the prestigious Orange Cap for accumulating the most runs in the tournament thus far. Kohli has been in scintillating form, amassing a staggering 634 runs in 12 matches at a remarkable average of 70.44 and an impressive strike rate of 153.51. His outstanding performance includes a century and five half-centuries, with his highest score being an unbeaten 113 runs.

    Beyond the IPL, Virat Kohli boasts a remarkable record across all formats of the game, establishing himself as one of the modern greats of cricket. While he may not be the first or even among the top ten to achieve 100 professional cricket centuries, Kohli’s milestone is a testament to his legendary career and unmatched consistency on the field.

    As the Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bangalore gear up for their clash, fans anticipate Virat Kohli to deliver yet another stellar performance, not only for the sake of his team’s victory but also to etch his name further into the annals of cricketing history.

    RCB vs DC: Probable Playing 11s

    Royal Challengers Bengaluru Predicted XI: Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis (c), Will Jacks, Glenn Maxwell, Rajat Patidar, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Anuj Rawat, Cameron Greem, Karn Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Yash Dayal.

    Delhi Capitals Predicted XI: Abishek Porel, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Shai Hope, Tristan Stubbs, Kumar Kushagra (wk), Lalit Yadav, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, Anrich Nortje, Khaleel Ahmed.

    RCB vs DC DREAM 11 PREDICTION IPL 2024

    WICKETKEEPERS: Dinesh Karthik, Abhishek Porel

    BATTERS: Jake Fraser-McGurk, Faf du Plessis, Virat Kohli(c), Tristan Stubbs

    ALL ROUNDERS: Will Jacks, Axar Patel (vc)

    BOWLERS: Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Khaleel Ahmed

    RCB vs DC: Squads

    RCB – Faf du Plessis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik, Suyash Prabhudessai, Will Jacks, Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Manoj Bhandage, Mayank Dagar, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj. , Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Rajan Kumar, Cameron Green, Alzarri Joseph, Yash Dayal, Tom Curran, Lockie Ferguson, Swapnil Singh, Saurav Chauhan.

    DC – Rishabh Pant (c), Pravin Dubey, David Warner, Vicky Ostwal, Prithvi Shaw, Anrich Nortje, Abishek Porel, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Lalit Yadav, Khaleel Ahmed, Mitchell Marsh, Ishant Sharma, Yash Dhull, Mukesh Kumar, Tristan Stubbs, Ricky Bhui, Kumar Kushagra, Rasikh Dar, Jhye Richardson, Sumit Kumar, Shai Hope, Swastik Chhikara.

  • WATCH: Rohit Sharma Can’t Control His Laughter Following Question On Virat Kohli’s Strike-Rate | cricket news

    Team India cricketer Virat Kohli’s strike-rate against spin has been the hot topic of the town for a while now with pundits criticizing for struggling against spinners in the middle-over phase. However, despite the fingers being raised at him, Kohli has managed to score 500 runs so far in the IPL 2024 season with an impressive average of 70. His strike-rate of the season so far is 147.59, which is certainly not slow for the leading run-scorer of the tournament.

    However, the strike-rate of Kohli seems to be of no worry for Team India captain Rohit Sharma and chief selector Ajit Agarkar. Both laughed off the criticism when a journalist asked them the question on Kohli’s strike-rate ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024.

    “He’s been in great form in the IPL, no concerns there at all,” Agarkar said stressing the need for experience in a World Cup campaign.

    “You’ve got to prepare knowing there’s a gap (between the IPL and a World Cup). That’s where experience does matter a lot. There’s no point over-thinking it.”

    Captain Rohit Sharma and Ajit Agarkar started smiling when the Journalist asked about the Strike Rate of Virat Kohli. pic.twitter.com/QFqN1arkDf The Ajay Cric (@TheCric_AJAY) May 2, 2024

    “If the tournament turns out to be like how the IPL is, where (a score of) 220 plays (against) 220, I think we’ve still got enough in the team, the balance, all the power, then you can match. that,” he added. (ICC T20 World Cup 2024: Pakistan’s Full Schedule Of Matches, Timings, Venues, Dates)

    Over the years, Kohli has faced a lot of criticism over many aspects of his game. He has looked to improve himself every single time and then replying to these critics using the microphone also. He did the same on Sunday evening when he was asked about the numbers he creates and whether he thinks too much about it. Kohli ensured he spoke his mind this time as well.

    Responding to a question by a commentator on his cricketing numbers, Kohli took this opportunity to get back to his critics. Kohli said that he does not really listen to the talk about strike rates and always looks to win the game for his side. Taking a potshot at the critics, especially those with a microphone in their hand, Kohli said that it is easier to sit and talk from the box.

    Here what Kohli said, “All the people who talk about strike-rates and me not playing spin well are the ones talking about the stuff. For me, it’s about winning the games for the team and there’s a reason why you have done it for. 15 years, you have done this day in and day out, you have won games for your teams, I am not quite sure that if you have not been in that situation yourself, to sit and talk about the game from the box. , people can talk about the assumptions day in and day out, but those who have done day and day out, they know what’s happening and it’s a kind of muscle memory for me now.”

  • Virat Kohli’s Unbelievable Six Over Long Off From Backfoot Leaves RCB Fans Stunned, Video Goes Viral – Watch | cricket news

    In a night where batting titans clashed at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, one shot stood out, etching itself into the annals of IPL history. As Virat Kohli strode to the crease for Royal Challengers Bangalore, the stage was set for a classic encounter against the formidable Gujarat Titans. Little did the fans know, they were about to witness a moment of pure cricketing genius that would set social media ablaze.

    Virat Kohli Smashed back to back Sixes in Sai Kishore’s bowling.#RCBvsGT | #GTvsRCBpic.twitter.com/Pxznv25Mgl — Don Cricket _ (@doncricket_) April 28, 2024

    The Viral Moment: Kohli’s Backfoot Punch Soars Into Oblivion

    In the 7th over of RCB’s innings, off-spinner Sai Kishore challenged Kohli with a shorter delivery. The former Indian captain, known for his impeccable timing and sublime shot-making, arched back and unleashed a straight-batted punch that left the crowd spellbound. The ball soared over the boundary rope, clearing the fielder’s outstretched leap with regrettable ease, a testament to Kohli’s incredible power and precision.

    Within moments, the viral video flooded social media platforms, with fans and pundits alike in awe of the sheer audacity and brilliance of the stroke. Kohli’s backfoot six wasn’t just a shot; it was a statement, a reminder of his enduring class and the reason why he is revered as one of the greatest batsmen of the modern era.

    Match So Far

    Amidst the frenzy surrounding Kohli’s viral six, the match unfolded into an enthralling contest between two heavyweight IPL teams. Batting first, Gujarat Titans amassed an imposing total of 200/3, propelled by a blistering 84 from Sai Sudharsan and Shahrukh Khan’s explosive 58 off just 30 balls. In response, RCB lost the early wicket of Faf du Plessis, but Kohli and Will Jacks steadied the ship, keeping their team in the hunt. Kohli’s 33 off 21 balls, punctuated by the viral six, injected momentum into RCB’s chase.

    Talk Around Virat Kohli’s Strike Rate

    Beyond the glitz and glamor of the IPL, the Virat Kohli saga has sparked a deeper conversation on the dynamics of T20 cricket. Gautam Gambhir’s recent commentary sheds light on the nuanced debate surrounding batting strike rates. In a sport where numbers often dictate perception, Gambhir’s insights offer a refreshing perspective. He emphasizes the importance of balance in team composition, advocating for a diverse range of batting styles to maximize performance. As Gambhir aptly notes, success in cricket is not merely measured by statistics but by the ability to adapt to the demands of the game.

  • Sanjay Manjrekar TROLLED After Dropping Virat Kohli From His India T20 World Cup 2024 Squad | cricket news

    Renowned Indian cricketer-turned-analyst, Sanjay Manjrekar, has unveiled his 15-member Indian squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, featuring some unexpected choices. Notably, the Mumbai cricket icon opted to exclude the talismanic Virat Kohli from his roster. Furthermore, both Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube found themselves omitted from the squad slated to journey to the USA and the Caribbean in June.

    His prediction/choice of players did not go down well with the fans as he left some big names like Virat Kohli from the squad. He was trolled brutally on social media for leaving out Kohli from his team. (Is Virat Kohli Playing Slow? Here’s What Faf du Plessis Said About RCB Star’s Strike Rate)

    “This is very difficult to pick, because there are too many quality players in the country at the moment. Especially after the IPL, you get too many options. But let me make an effort,” Manjrekar said on a special show on Star Sports before naming his 15 and explaining his rationale for the picks.

    REVEALED: @sanjaymanjrekar’s Fab 15 squad for the #T20WorldCup2024

    A few interesting names get his nod for the #VisaToWorldCup, but 1 MAJOR name misses out! Do you agree with his choices for #T20WorldCupOnStar Participate in the biggest opinion poll ever on our social… pic.twitter.com/nvHABDyLzi Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) April 26, 2024

    Manjrekar’s 15-member India team to play at the World T20:

    Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Avesh Khan, Harshit Rana, Mayank Yadav, Krunal Pandya.

  • 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