News Analysis India

Tag: Yashasvi Jaiswal

  • Yashasvi Jaiswal or Virat Kohli who will open for India in T20 World Cup 2024? Sunil Gavaskar Picks This Opener | Cricket News

    India’s superstar batsman, Virat Kohli, has been in the form of his life during the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season, scoring over 700 runs. Despite facing consistent criticism from former India opener Sunil Gavaskar regarding his strike rate, Kohli’s stellar performance has earned him praise and a potential new role in the Indian lineup. Gavaskar, previously skeptical of Kohli’s strike rate, has now endorsed him to open alongside Rohit Sharma for India, citing his recent IPL form. Notably, Gavaskar expressed doubts about left-hander Yashasvi Jaiswal’s form, suggesting he may not be the ideal candidate to partner Sharma at the top of the order for the Men in Blue.

    India’s WC T20 2024 Warm-Up Match: Different Opening Combination

    India’s warm-up game against Bangladesh hinted at a different opening combination, with Sanju Samson partnering Sharma due to Kohli’s late arrival from the United States. While Rohit Sharma clarified that the team composition is not finalized, the absence of Jaiswal from the opening slot indicates he might not be the preferred choice for the T20 World Cup 2024. Gavaskar emphasized Kohli’s exceptional form and suggested that his place as an opener alongside Sharma is justified, considering his recent performances. Regarding Jaiswal, Gavaskar noted a decline in his form compared to previous outings.

    “The kind of form Virat Kohli has been in, especially in the second half of the season, he should open with Rohit Sharma. Good players are good players, the kind of form Kohli has shown in the IPL, he has to open the batting . It’s good to talk about the left-hand, right-hand combination on television, but good players are good players no matter where they bat,” Gavaskar said in an interview after the T20 World Cup opener between USA and Canada. “Yashasvi Jaiswal hasn’t been in the sort of form we saw him in during the Test series,” the India legend said of the left-hander who will compete with Virat for the second opener’s spot.

    Despite Kohli’s absence from the warm-up game, he remains hopeful of featuring in India’s playing XI as they kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on June 5. However, Jaiswal might have to wait for his opportunity, given the indispensability of Kohli and Sharma to the team’s top order.

    India’s World Cup campaign to begin soon

    India’s T20 World Cup journey includes matches against Ireland, Pakistan, USA, and Canada, with expectations high for Kohli’s potential role at the top alongside Sharma.

  • Tushar Deshpande’s Instagram Story Adds Salt To RCB’s Wounds, CSK Star Delets It Later | cricket news

    In an era where social media blunders are rapidly amplified, Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) pacer Tushar Deshpande found himself at the center of controversy following his Instagram story mocking Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). After RCB’s defeat to Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the IPL 2024 Eliminator, Deshpande’s ill-timed post added fuel to the fire, leading to a backlash that prompted its swift deletion.

    Tushar Deshpande’s Instagram story. pic.twitter.com/bXSed8pf7Y — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 22, 2024

    Also Read: Angry Sanju Samson’s ‘Use Your Brain’ Gesture To Yashasvi Jaiswal Goes Viral During RR vs RCB Game In IPL 2024 Eliminator- Watch

    A Heartbreaking Defeat for RCB

    Royal Challengers Bangalore, riding high on a six-match winning streak, faced a crushing blow as their IPL 2024 campaign ended in the Eliminator against Rajasthan Royals. Despite posting a competitive total of 172/8, courtesy of valuable contributions from Virat Kohli (33 off 24) and Rajat Patidar (34 off 22), RCB’s efforts fell short. RR’s chase, spearheaded by Yashasvi Jaiswal’s explosive 45 off 30 balls and Riyan Parag’s composed 36 off 26, ensured they reached 174/6 in 20 overs, knocking RCB out of the tournament.

    Deshpande’s Instagram Faux Pas

    As RCB fans mourned yet another missed opportunity, Tushar Deshpande’s Instagram story added insult to the injury. The CSK pacer posted a photo of Bengaluru Cantonment railway station with the caption “CSK fans are built different,” subtly mocking RCB’s repeated failures. However, recognizing the insensitivity and potential backlash, Deshpande quickly deleted the post.

    Analyzing the Game: RCB’s Batting Woes

    RCB’s innings had moments of brilliance but lacked the finishing touch needed to secure a higher total. Kohli’s quickfire 33 and Patidar’s solid 34 laid a promising foundation, but the middle-order struggled to accelerate. Despite a spirited effort, the score seemed insufficient against a resilient RR side. Avesh Khan (3/35) and Ravichandran Ashwin (2/29) were instrumental in keeping RCB’s total in check.

    Rajasthan’s Resilience: Jaiswal and Parag Shine

    Chasing 173, RR faced early jitters but quickly found their rhythm with Jaiswal’s aggressive approach. His 30-ball 45 included some stunning boundaries, providing the necessary momentum. Parag’s calm demeanor under pressure was commendable, as he anchored the chase with a crucial 36 off 26 balls. The duo’s efforts were complemented by Rovman Powell’s late cameo (16* off 9), sealing the win for Rajasthan.

    Turning Points: Siraj and Ferguson’s Efforts

    Mohammed Siraj’s late strikes (2/33) gave RCB a glimmer of hope, dismissing Parag and Hetmyer in quick succession. Lockie Ferguson’s crucial breakthroughs, including the dismissals of Jaiswal and Kohler-Cadmore, momentarily shifted the game’s momentum. However, Powell’s calculated assault in the final overs dashed RCB’s comeback hopes.

    The Road Ahead for Rajasthan Royals

    With this victory, Rajasthan Royals advanced to face Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Qualifier 2, setting up an exciting clash for a place in the IPL final. RR’s win, breaking a four-match losing streak, reinvigorates their campaign and showcases their potential to go all the way.

    Social Media’s Double-Edged Sword

    Deshpande’s Instagram story serves as a reminder of the double-edged sword that is social media. While it can enhance fan engagement and provide a platform for personal expression, it also requires a level of sensitivity and awareness, especially in the heat of competitive sports. The incident underscores the need for athletes to exercise caution and empathy in their online interactions.

  • Why Rajasthan Royals Wearing ‘Pink Jersey’ Against RCB In IPL 2024? , cricket news

    In the pulsating arena of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, amidst the soaring highs and nail-biting matches, Rajasthan Royals have brought forth a unique hue of cricketing spirit. Ahead of their clash against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the Royals have not only pledged their prowess but also their hearts, donning a special all-pink matchday kit as part of their resounding ‘Pink Promise’.

    A Symbol of Empowerment

    As the cricketing titans step onto the field, it’s not merely about chasing victory but also about championing a cause. The Pink Promise resonates beyond the boundaries of the stadium, echoing the unwavering support to the empowered women from rural Rajasthan. It’s a tribute, a salute to those driving significant societal transformation, imbued with the spirit of solidarity and empowerment.

    Inspirational Narratives

    The Royals, led by the dynamic Sanju Samson, have embarked on a journey that transcends mere cricketing excellence. Their commitment to donate a portion of ticket sales and jersey proceeds to the Royal Rajasthan Foundation stands as a testament to their vision of ‘Aurat Hai Toh Bharat Hai’ (If a woman thrives, so does the nation). Every boundary scored during the RR vs. RCB clash promises to illuminate six homes in the Sambhar region with solar power, a beacon of hope and progress.

    A Victorious Streak

    But beyond the philanthropic endeavors lies the sheer brilliance on the cricketing field. Rajasthan Royals have emerged as an unstoppable force in IPL 2024, maintaining an unblemished record so far. Their triumphs over Lucknow Super Giants, Delhi Capitals, and Mumbai Indians stand as a testament to their mettle, with players like Sanju Samson, Riyan Parag, and Kumar Sangakkara leading the charge with exemplary performances.

    A Clash of Titans

    As the Sawai Mansingh Stadium braces for the clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the anticipation is palpable. While Rajasthan Royals bask in the glory of their victories, RCB, led by the seasoned Faf du Plessis, stand as formidable adversaries, seeking redemption after a rollercoaster ride in IPL 2024. The stage is set for a showdown of epic proportions, where every stroke of the bat and every delivery will script a tale of triumph and tenacity.

  • India vs England 5th Test: 'There Was Guy Called Rishabh Pant,' Rohit Sharma Takes Witty Dig At Ben Duckett's Baseball Comment For Yashasvi Jaiswal | cricket news

    India's captain, Rohit Sharma, faced the press confidently ahead of the 5th Test against England in Dharamsala. When questioned about England batsman Ben Duckett's remarks regarding the credit for Yashasvi Jaiswal's aggressive batting, Rohit responded assertively. He reminded everyone, with a touch of humor, of Rishabh Pant's explosive batting prowess. Rohit suggested that perhaps the England team, particularly Ben Duckett, had not witnessed Pant's batting displays, leading to such comments. In his response, Rohit skillfully delivered a message while maintaining a light-hearted tone, emphasizing India's strength in batting, particularly Pant's aggressive style.

    “There was a guy called Rishabh Pant in our team, probably Ben Duckett hasn't seen him play,” Rohit said when asked about the comment made by the England batsman. (IND vs ENG 5th Test: Rohit Sharma Makes Big Statement On Playing 11 As Rajat Patidar Is Likely To Play In Dharamsala)

    Yashasvi Jaiswal has been India's standout performer in the series, amassing 655 runs in four matches with an impressive average of 94.57 and a strike-rate of 78.63. During the Rajkot Test, his boundary-laden innings caught the attention of England's Ben Duckett, who attributed Jaiswal's aggressive approach to the influence of England's 'Bazball' style of play.

    “When you see players from the opposition playing like that, it almost feels like we should take some credit that they're playing differently than how other people play Test cricket,” Duckett had said.

    Rohit Sharma said, “there was a guy named Rishabh Pant in our team, probably Ben Duckett hasn't seen him playing.” (On Duckett's statement of Jaiswal learning from England). pic.twitter.com/pp5wvmF9iq Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) March 6, 2024

    No praise is enough for Ravichandran Ashwin, said captain Rohit Sharma on Wednesday, praising the off-spinner ahead of his 100th Test as a “rare” talent critical for the team's success. The fifth and final Test against England, starting on Thursday, is inconsequential to the final outcome of the series as India have already taken an unbeaten 3-1 lead. But it has become significant due to the 100-Test milestone set to be achieved by Ashwin and England batsman Jonny Bairstow.

    “(It's a) big achievement for any player to play 100 Tests. It is a big milestone. He has been a match winner for us. What he has done for us, no praise is enough,” Rohit said on the eve of the match.

    “His performances over the last five-seven years, every series he has contributed. It is rare to have players like him,” he added.

    “I want to congratulate him for his 100 test landmark, of course to get near it as the toss hasn't happened. It feels good to reap rewards of your hard work,” the skipper said.

    They have been national teammates for close to a decade and half but it was more than 20 years back when a then precocious Mumbai off-spinner Rohit was pitted against talented opener Ashwin in Vijay Merchant (U-16) and Cooch Behar Trophy (U- 19).

    “As a captain, I have seen him since U-19, U-17 days. He batted at that time, was an opener and then he started bowling. And I used to bowl (off-spin) and then became a batsman, so it became up and down for us but it has been good for Indian cricket.”

    Ashwin, the “cricket scientist”, has evolved a lot in these 14 years, feels Rohit.

    “As a cricketer, he (Ashwin) has evolved in his game and he has a lot of intelligence and if you get a player like this in the team then you don't have to think too much. If you give the ball to him , then he drives the game. How to bowl, what field to set and what to do, I am talking about the planning during the game.”

    The Indian skipper also spoke about how process-driven R Ashwin is.

    “What you see on the field is the result of a lot of off-field stuff and the work done on one's bowling. I have often seen him bowling with just one stump before a match — one hour 45 minutes before a game. Bowling at one stump a day before a Test. This is cricket's basics. I have seen him bowl regularly at one stump and this has been a process for him. And the biggest thing is that he is a big team player and we saw that in Rajkot Test, when it was a difficult situation for him, but he called and said 'I want to come back and do something for the team'. You see this rarely, and when you have players like this, then your head is held high. ”

    Ashwin, who recently became only the second Indian after Anil Kumble to cross 500 wickets in the game's longest format, made his Test debut in 2011 and has enjoyed more highs than lows during a 13-year journey.

  • Yashasvi Jaiswal After Epic Sir Don Bradman Record; Also Very Close To Breaking 75-Year-Old World Record In 5th Test At Dharamsala Vs England | cricket news

    Some more records are set to be broken in the fifth Test vs England in Dharamsala. R Ashwin and Jonny Bairstow are set to play their 100th Test in the beautiful hill station of Himachal Pradesh. England pacer James Anderson is also on verge of 700 Test wickets as he is just two away from joining the likes of Shane Warne and Muttiah Muralitharan. Yashasvi Jaiswal is also on brink of a huge record, not one but three.

    Also Read | R Ashwin To Play 100th Test: A Look At His Iconic Career So Far

    Let's talk about the first record he is very close to achieve. Yashasvi can become the first batsman after the great Sir Don Bradman to smash three double centuries in a series. The UP-born batsman has already hit two in the ongoing series vs England. Bradman had hit three in an Ashes series vs England in the year 1930.

    Yashasvi has, so far, scored 655 runs in the series after playing four matches that includes two double tons. If he manages to score 125 more runs, he will not only become the leading run-scorer in a Test series played by India but also the highest run-getter in a Test series played in India.

    pic.twitter.com/v6jRU1PIQt— BCCI (@BCCI) March 5, 2024

    Currently, both of these records are held by West Indies Everton Weeks who hit 779 runs in a five-match Test series vs India in 1948 and 1949. Sunil Gavaskar sits on the second spot in both of these lists (most runs in Test match involving India and also played in India).

    Right now, Yashasvi is tied with Virat Kohli at number 3 in most runs in a Test series played in India list. Gavaskar is on 2nd with 732 runs against West Indies in 1978 and 79.

    In the list of cricketers with most runs in Test series involving India, Steve Smith is at the third spot with 769 runs when he hit these runs in 2014-15. Pakistan's Mudassar Nazar had smashed 761 runs in 1982-83 and is at the fourth place. England's Graham Gooch scored 752 runs in 1990 vs India in just 3 matches. Joe Root is next with 737 runs in 5 Test matches on England's last tour of India in 2021-22.

    Coming to the Test series between India and England, the hosts are leading 3-1 in the series and will aim to finish on a high while the visitors are looking to make it 3-2 and sign off from India on a good note.

  • Dear Ben Duckett, Yashasvi Jaiswal’s Fiery Double-Hundred Is Not Baseball-Inspired; Here’s Proof | cricket news

    Dear Ben Duckett, I hope this letter finds you well. First of all, commiserations on the loss in the third Test vs India in Rajkot. You were exceptional in the first innings where you constructed a superb 153 off 151 balls. That was one electrifying innings of yours where you dominated from Ball number one. Even Jasprit Bumrah could not stop you. The authority with which you batted reflected the true nature of the current style of cricket England have adopted in the Tests. Bazball, which you and the English media likes to call it.

    We, outside of England, have no problem with it. You guys have created a style of cricket that is rarely seen in a team for such a long time. And honestly, congratulations for that.

    Test cricket has seen players like Virender Sehwag, Adam Gilchrist, Kevin Pietersen, and most recently Rishabh Pant play with a sense of urgency and clarity in their head. But for a team to collectively play the same style is probably the first time. And I must admit that while this brand of cricket is attached with huge risks, like we saw in the 2nd innings in Rajkot, continuing to take these risks shows your courage.

    Also Read | Watch: Yashasvi Jaiswal’s Sensational Six-Hitting Spree Against James Anderson

    Having said that, your comments after Day 3 didn’t land well in India and elsewhere, including your own country. While no one is denying that Bazball has actually created a storm, to take undue credit for any aggressive display of batting by the opponents does not look great on English cricket.

    Jaisball supremacy _ _

    Yashasvi Jaiswal _ scores another mighty ton in the #IDFCFirstBankTestSeries! __#INDvENG #JioCinemaSports #BazBowled pic.twitter.com/FTufkA6YqJ — JioCinema (@JioCinema) February 17, 2024

    While you rightly called Yashasvi ‘a superstar in the making’ after his 100 in the second innings, you were completely wrong when you said, “When you see players from the opposition playing like that, it almost feels like we should take some credit that they’re playing differently than how other people play Test cricket.”

    Do you know the strike rate of Yashasvi before this England series began? I am assuming the answer is a ‘No’. So here’s a quick look: Jaiswal had batted with a strike rate of 75 thrice in the seven innings before the home series vs you all. Two of these innings were played with strike rate of over 120.

    Yashaswi’s first-class average and Test strike rate is nearing 70. The point is this: while Yashasvi showed great urgency and was helped by a lucid track to score runs freely, also thanks to some poor bowling by England, if tomorrow the situation arises where he needs to dig in the whole day to save a Test match, he will do that. This is playing for a draw or time. This, I’m pretty sure, you guys don’t associate with Bazball.

    Many of former English cricketers like Nick Knight, Michael Vaughan feel that while Bazball is exciting, one must admit that England have got carried away by the name, at times. Remember that despite Bazball, you have not really won anything substantial except maybe the series in Pakistan. Remember the Ashes? When you guys could have beaten Aussies at home?

    England lost the last 18 wickets for 234 inside 75 overs .. a warning sign to them in tough conditions against a good side that if you give them a sniff things can escalate very quickly .. India have been brilliant this last 2 days .. # INDvENG — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 18, 2024

    Even when this England team have lost in the last 2 years you have always been able to take positives .. or they haven’t been hammered .. this is looking like a wake up call that surely sends a message you can’t just play one way against quality teams .. #INDvENG — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 18, 2024

    Here’s what Vaughan said on your team’s performance after the Rajkot Test: “Even when this England team have lost in the last 2 years you have always been able to take positives .. or they haven’t been hammered … this is looking like a wakeup call that surely sends a message you can’t just play one way against quality teams.”

    Vaughan also reminded you that just because you have started playing attacking cricket from the last two years, it does not mean that the world was not playing this style ever before. “Duckett also reckons they deserve credit for the way Yashasvi Jaiswal is batting, as if no player in history has ever played an attacking shot. They talk about not playing for the draw, but to me that’s disrespectful to Test cricket. The draw is a Crucial part of the game, and in the five-Test contest has often provided the bedrock of some great series victories,” Vaughan said.

    Former England cricketer Nick Knight had warned you guys of not playing an ‘extreme’ version of ‘Bazball’ before the series, underlining the setback England faced in the last Ashes. Knight wrote in his Dafa News column, “I am sure Indian fans are curious to see ‘Bazball’. I think they have watched England play this brand of cricket and are familiar with it. I think in the Ashes summer, the England team played extreme Bazball but now they must play a more refined Bazball to be effective. A refined ‘Bazball’ is to find the right moment to express yourself and put the opposition under extreme pressure. There were a couple of times in the Ashes series where they got the focus wrong. If they learn from that experience and find the right moment to fire, they can benefit from it. Perhaps when the condition suits England, you will see them attack the India bowlers. That will make for a great watch.”

    I know that any style of cricket is brutally criticized after a loss. But the crux of this open letter to you is to send a reminder that England are not ‘inspiring’ the world yet to play a certain style of cricket. Every team has its own DNA and it would not change overnight. Various factors like changes in domestic cricket, nature of pitches, board’s word have a role to play on how a team plays on the ground.

    So, while England are free to play Bazball and hopefully they reach the top playing it and dominate the world cricket too. But one must admit that baseball is still a work in progress. If you guys, go on to win a World Test Championship one day and two to three teams decide to fully adopt Bazball, then you can take this credit. For now, we are happy playing Jais-Ball.

    Thanks and regards,

    A cricket enthusiast.

  • Watch: Yashasvi Jaiswal’s Sensational Six-Hitting Spree Against James Anderson | cricket news

    In a breathtaking display of power-hitting, Yashasvi Jaiswal, the young sensation from India, left cricket fans awestruck as he launched an assault on England’s veteran bowler James Anderson, sending the ball sailing over the ropes for three consecutive sixes. The scene unfolded on Day 4 of the India vs. England 3rd Test match in Rajkot, marking yet another milestone in Jaiswal’s burgeoning career. Ever since bursting onto the international scene, Yashasvi Jaiswal has captured the imagination of cricket enthusiasts worldwide with his fearless stroke play and unwavering confidence. His meteoric rise in Test cricket has been nothing short of spectacular, and his latest exploit against the legendary James Anderson further cements his status as a rising star in the cricketing world.

    JAISWAL SMASHED 3 CONSECUTIVE SIXES AGAINST ANDERSON ___pic.twitter.com/HsAoK1XpTt — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 18, 2024

    The Showdown: Jaiswal vs. Anderson

    As the match entered a crucial phase, with India looking to consolidate their position, James Anderson, England’s premier fast bowler, took the ball in hand to stem the flow of runs. However, what followed was a display of sheer audacity from the young Indian opener. With exquisite timing and immense power, Jaiswal dispatched Anderson’s deliveries with disdain, lofting them effortlessly beyond the boundary ropes for three consecutive sixes.

    Historic Feat

    Jaiswal’s assault on Anderson not only showcased his remarkable talent but also etched his name in the annals of cricketing history. This was only the second instance in Anderson’s illustrious career that he had been subjected to such punishment, a testament to Jaiswal’s extraordinary skill with the bat. The young prodigy’s ability to take on one of the greatest bowlers of all time speaks volumes about his temperament and fearless approach to the game.

    Setting Records Ablaze

    In addition to his breathtaking six-hitting spree, Jaiswal achieved several significant milestones during his innings. His blitzkrieg propelled him to a remarkable double century, making him the first Indian batsman to hit 20 or more sixes in a Test series and 10 or more in a single Test innings. Furthermore, Jaiswal’s feat of reaching three 150-plus scores in just 13 innings places him among elite company, surpassing stalwarts like Cheteshwar Pujara in the process.

    The Dawn of a New Era

    As Yashasvi Jaiswal continues to rewrite the record books with his scintillating performances, Indian cricket finds itself blessed with a prodigious talent capable of dominating the international stage for years to come. With each blistering stroke, Jaiswal reaffirms his status as a future icon of the game, leaving cricket aficionados eagerly anticipating the next chapter in his remarkable journey.

  • WATCH: India Cricket Stars Seek Divine Blessings At Ujjain’s Mahakaleshwar Temple On Makar Sankranti | cricket news

    After a resounding 2-0 lead in the ongoing IND vs AFG T20I series, the India cricket team stars, including Tilak Verma, Washington Sundar, Jitesh Sharma, and Ravi Bishnoi, embarked on a spiritual journey to seek blessings at the revered Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti. The cricketers actively participated in the sacred ‘Bhasma Aarti,’ a ritual performed between 3:30 AM and 5:30 AM at the Mahakaleshwar Temple. Expressing their joy, the players shared with ANI, “It was a pleasure to be here and to take the blessings of Lord Shiva.”

    Tilak, Sundar, Jitesh and Bishnoi attend ‘Bhasma Aarti’ performed at the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga temple in Ujjain.pic.twitter.com/jI7EO0zaNw

    — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 15, 2024 Bhasma Aarti: A Unique Tradition

    The ‘Bhasma Aarti’ involves ash offerings and holds significant religious importance. Conducted during the auspicious Brahma Muhurta, it is believed that the wishes of the devotees who participate in this ritual are fulfilled. The temple priest, Sanjay Sharma, explained the elaborate ceremonies performed, including a holy bath of Lord Mahakal with Panchamrit.

    Cricket Stars’ Testimony

    The cricket players, seated in the temple’s Nandi Hall, expressed their gratitude, stating that it was a pleasure to be present and receive the blessings of Lord Shiva. This spiritual visit came on the heels of their victorious encounter against Afghanistan in Indore.

    Cricket Triumph at Holkar Stadium

    Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shivam Dube showcased stellar performances as India chased down 173 to secure victory in the IND vs AFG 2nd T20I at Holkar Stadium. Despite an early setback with the dismissal of skipper Rohit Sharma, Jaiswal, along with contributions from Virat Kohli and Dube, led India to a commanding win.

    Bhasma Aarti Goes Viral

    A video capturing the four cricketers, Ravi Bishnoi, Tilak Varma, Washington Sundar, and Jitesh Sharma, participating in the ‘Bhasma Aarti’ went viral on social media. The unique ritual, symbolizing the transient nature of life, resonated with fans.

    Tilak Varma’s Challenge

    While the cricketing stars soaked in the divine vibes, Tilak Varma faced cricketing challenges. Despite a commendable T20I record, competition within the Indian side, including the return of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, poses a challenge for him to secure a permanent spot in the playing XI.

  • IND vs SA 1st Test: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma Smash Balls All Over The Park In Nets Session; Ravindra Jadeja Hits A Big Six

    Team India provided finishing touches to their prep for the Test series vs South Africa. The first Test is to be played in Centurion from December 26 to 30.

  • ‘He explained how can I do well’: RR opener Jaiswal hoping for big scores after talk with Kohli

    By PTI

    ABU DHABI: Struggling to convert his starts into big scores in the ongoing IPL, young Rajasthan Royals opener Yashasvi Jaiswal is hoping for a change in fortunes after a post-match conversation with India and Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Virat Kohli.

    Following their seven-wicket loss to RCB on Wednesday, several Royals youngsters, including Jaiswal, had a long conversation with Kohli.

    “I wanted to know how to make it big. That was what I was talking about with Virat bhaiya, like how to make it effective and how can I help my team,” the 19-year-old said in a video posted by Rajasthan Royals.

    “He explained in a really nice way about how can I do well and improve. He also said about how can I be positive all the time and play little more. ” The left-handed opener has often failed to capitalise on his starts.

    He has scores of 31, 36, 5 and season’s best of 49 in the last four matches in the IPL.

    “I’m not doing what I really want to do. It’s good that I’m getting starts, I want to convert them into big scores whenever I get chance again. I need to work all the time and i need to know how to make it big.”

    Currently lying at seventh spot with four wins from 11 matches, Rajasthan Royals need to win all their remaining matches to stay in contention for a playoff berth.

    They face table-toppers Chennai Super Kings in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.

    “Yes, CSK have done really well but we have learnt from our mistakes. We are really confident to win the next matches,” he said about their match,” Jaiswal said.

    “Sometime it’s your day, sometime it’s not. We are confident, we will do what we can control. ” Having had the chance to train during the off-season, Jaiswal utilised the Royals’ state-of-the-art facilities in Nagpur and he said he’s now an improved cricketer.

    “I’ve done a lot during this time and I’m really thankful for RR to provide me the facility. I was there for two months and had conversation with every coaches. 

    “We were having practice and so many different stuff there. I think that was a really, really good time to improve my skills. I would say that is the only thing what I’ve done. I worked really hard in Nagpur.”

    Jaiswal also had a chat with iconic Sachin Tendulkar before representing Mumbai against Oman in a one-day series.

    “I’ve spoken about my cricket, after these hard work and practice, I’m quite confident. I know that I’ve prepared well for these games and I’m happy,” he said.