Deepak Chahar

Cricket/Indian Premier League 2021 (IPL 2021)/News

Kevin Pietersen Doesn’t Know What Kieron Pollard Was Thinking As Jasprit Bumrah Was Taken Off After 1 Over

Published on September 20, 2021

Kevin Pietersen feels Mumbai Indians missed a trick, allowing Chennai Super Kings to get to over 150 when they had them on the mat at 24/4. Kevin Pietersen was pretty outspoken at the mid-innings interval of the Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians Match 30 of the IPL 2021, believing MI lost grip of the game when they allowed CSK to come back in the game after having them on the mat at 24/4 in the Powerplay(6 overs).

CSK finished their innings on 156/6 thanks to Ruturaj Gaikwad’s innings of 88 not out and Dwayne Bravo who played a cameo of 23 runs from just eight balls, including three massive sixes besides picking 3 scalps. CSK was 24/4 at one stage and Ambati Rayudu was retired hard but the momentum was shifted as unlike the opening pacers Trent Boult and Adam Milne, the spinner Krunal Pandya(2 overs 27 runs) was too expensive.

Kevin Pietersen file image | Faheem Hussain - Sportzpics — Kevin Pietersen file image | Faheem Hussain – Sportzpics

Kevin Pietersen: Mumbai Indians Missed A Trick And Lost Despite Starting Well

The total proved to be a match-winning one as MI finished on 136/8; thus, losing the contest by 20 runs. Kevin Pietersen was sceptical of Kieron Pollard’s captaincy, pointing out areas where he felt Mumbai Indians should have been tactically smarter.

“Mumbai started so well. They really got themselves into the game. They knew they needed to get themselves going. They lost their captain so he was replaced. And they started so well. CSK was 4 down very early. Ambati Rayudu retired out. When you get that many wickets early, you have to keep your foot down. You talk about momentum; you need to keep it going,” Pietersen said during the innings interval on Star Sports.

“I think Mumbai Indians missed a trick. I don’t know what Kieron Pollard was thinking by not bowling Jasprit Bumrah for 2 or 3 overs. They could have been 40/7, 50/7. CSK could have been 60, 70, or 80 all out. I’m not being silly when I say that. You have got to bowl your fast, strike bowlers.”

Jasprit Bumrah was taken off after just one over, and the ball was handed to Krunal Pandya and Rahul Chahar. Although Rahul Chahar bowled a tight spell at one end, Krunal Pandya leaked runs with Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ravindra Jadeja growing in confidence. Apart from the MI pacers Trent Boult, Adam Milne, and Jasprit Bumrah who took 2 wickets each, the other bowlers failed to take a scalp.

Kevin Pietersen: Mumbai Indians Should Have Cleaned CSK Out

The two Ravindra Jadeja and Ruturaj Gaikwad stitched a partnership of 81 runs to put CSK back in the game, which is something Kevin Pietersen reckons should have been avoided given the fact that 3 of their top four were all dismissed for ducks – Ambati Rayudu was retired hurt – MS Dhoni fell for 3 and Suresh Raina for 4.

Dwayne Bravo. (AFP)/ AFP PHOTO / PUNIT PARANJPE

“They were allowed into the game. There is nowhere in this world that they should have been in this game. Mumbai Indians should have cleaned them out. These are things that are discussed in team meetings. If you had been 40/4 or something like that, you don’t bring spinners in and if you do, you don’t put fielders in the boundary,” Pietersen added at the end of the match.

Ravindra Jadeja and Dwayne Bravo scored 26 and 23 respectively before being dismissed while Faf du Plessis, Moeen Ali, Suresh Raina, and MS Dhoni couldn’t contribute even 5 runs each. For CSK, pacers Dwayne Bravo scalped three wickets and Deepak Chahar took two scalps. For Mumbai Indians, Saurabh Tiwary was the highest scorer after playing a knock of 50 runs.

With this win, Chennai Super Kings went to the top of the IPL table while Mumbai is now in danger of falling outside the top 4 if they get on a losing streak.

Chennai Super Kings 156 for 6 (Gaikwad 88*, Jadeja 26, Milne 2-21) beat Mumbai Indians 136 for 8 (Tiwary 50*, Bravo 3-25, D Chahar 2-19) by 20 runs

Cricket/Indian Premier League 2021 (IPL 2021)/News

Playing Against IPL’s Toughest Team Mumbai Indians Is Like Playing A Final: Dwayne Bravo:

Published on September 20, 2021

Dwayne Bravo, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) all-rounder said that any match against Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL) feels like a final. Dwayne Bravo’s remarks came after due to his all-around performance CSK defeated Mumbai Indians by 20 runs on Sunday here at the Dubai International Stadium.

For CSK, opener Ruturaj Gaikwad had played an unbeaten inning of 88 runs as the MS Dhoni-led outfit posted 156/6 in the allotted twenty overs despite being in troubles after being 24/4 inside the powerplay. Dwayne Bravo also played a cameo of 23 runs from just eight balls, including three massive sixes besides picking 3 scalps.

File photo of Dwayne Bravo. Image Source : GETTY IMAGES — File photo of Dwayne Bravo. Image Source: GETTY IMAGES

Dwayne Bravo: Playing Against IPL’s Toughest Team MI Is Like A Final

Ruturaj Gaikwad scored 88 to bail CSK out of trouble batting first. The MS Dhoni-led outfit posted 156/6 in the allotted twenty overs after being 24 for four inside the powerplay. CSK was 24/4 at one stage and Ambati Rayudu was retired hard but the momentum was shifted after opener Ruturaj Gaikwad scored an unbeaten 88 off 58 balls which included 9 fours and 4 sixes.

Ravindra Jadeja and Dwayne Bravo scored 26 and 23 respectively before being dismissed while Faf du Plessis, Moeen Ali, Suresh Raina, and MS Dhoni couldn’t contribute even 5 runs each.

“It’s a good feeling, obviously against MI it’s the toughest team in IPL and it’s like a final playing against them, always a good feeling to win. Just tried to protect me in the last stages of CPL and when I came over here, just had one bowling session which was yesterday, and happy to get 4 overs through today.”

“Now I bat lower down the order with the batting line-up like CSK, for me, it’s just about trying to get the momentum and try to capitalize, adjust and adapt,” Dwayne Bravo told host broadcaster Star Sports after the match ended.

“Just try to give the best of my ability whenever I go out to bat. Gaikwad has been our star player end of last season and this season and he is a quality player. Played proper cricket shots and played till the end. He has an appetite for runs and it’s good to get over the line this game,” he added.

For CSK, pacers Dwayne Bravo scalped three wickets and Deepak Chahar took two scalps. For Mumbai Indians, Saurabh Tiwary was the highest scorer after playing a knock of 50 runs.

CSK Goes On Top Of The IPL 2021 Points Table

With this win, Chennai Super Kings went to the top of the IPL table while Mumbai is now in danger of falling outside the top 4 if they get on a losing streak. CSK will next lock horns against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Friday. With Ravindra Jadeja (26 off 33), Ruturaj Gaikwad added 81 off 64 balls for the fifth wicket.

Chennai Super Kings (Image Credit: Twitter)

That set the platform for some late-overs hitting, which Ruturaj Gaikwad and Dwayne Bravo (23 off 8) did with aplomb, Super Kings taking 58 off the last four overs. MI never looked comfortable in their chase and was 94/6 before recovering slightly but couldn’t manage more than 136.

With 3 wickets, Dwayne Bravo becomes the third-highest wicket-taker in IPL history after Lasith Malinga(170) and Amit Mishra (166). He has taken 159 scalps from 145 matches.

Chennai Super Kings 156 for 6 (Gaikwad 88*, Jadeja 26, Milne 2-21) beat Mumbai Indians 136 for 8 (Tiwary 50*, Bravo 3-25, D Chahar 2-19) by 20 runs

Cricket/Indian Premier League 2021 (IPL 2021)

IPL 2021: CSK vs MI- CSK’s Predicted XI For The 1st Match

Published on September 17, 2021

IPL 2021, UAE leg is all set to get underway from September 19 and it would be a blockbuster to get things rolling in UAE as defending champions Mumbai Indians lock horns with familiar foes in Chennai Super Kings in Dubai. While expectations would be high from both sides, the winner would be the one side who holds their nerves best on the given day as both teams are well-matched on paper.

The two teams have met on 32 occasions, with Mumbai being the winners 19 times. CSK holds the 2nd spot in the points table with 10 points. The MS Dhoni-led side has won 5 matches and lost 2 out of 7 matches. On the other hand, Mumbai Indians are in the 4th spot in the points table with 8 points. Out of 7 games, MI has won 4 matches and lost 3. In the earlier encounter in India in IPL 2021, MI won the match by 4 wickets while chasing a mammoth target of 219 runs.

For CSK, they have concerns to address ahead of their opener against MI as a couple of their stars – Faf du Plessis and Sam Curran – may miss out. While the SA cricketer picked up an injury during a CPL match and that puts his participation in doubt, the English all-rounder has arrived in Dubai only on Wednesday morning and has to serve a mandatory 6-day quarantine – which makes him unavailable.

Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians ©BCCI/IPL

IPL 2021:- Chennai Super Kings Predicted XI:-

Robin Uthappa

Robin Uthappa might get a chance to play for Chennai Super Kings in the match against Mumbai Indians as Faf du Plessis is currently injured. Faf du Plessis recently faced a groin injury during a CPL 2021 and reports suggest that he might need one week to recover.

As a result, the team might give Robin Uthappa a chance in the opening slot against Mumbai Indians. The unfailingly consistent and proven match-winner, Robin Uthappa, who has scored 4607 IPL runs, was traded to Chennai Super Kings by the Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2021 Player Auction.

Ruturaj Gaikwad

Ruturaj Gaikwad will be the other opener CSK might choose in the opening game of IPL 2021. Ruturaj Gaikwad executed a great batting show in the first leg, scoring 196 runs in 7 games at an average of 28. He also smacked 2 half-centuries, while batting at a strike rate of 128+.

Moeen Ali

After his brilliant quickfire knocks in the first leg of IPL 2021, Moeen Ali is most likely to be part of the CSK’s playing XI against MI. The England player played 6 matches in the first leg, scoring 206 runs in 6 innings at an average of 34.33. The leg-handed batsman owned a strike rate of 157+ and also hit 1 fifty. He also picked 5 scalps averaging an impressive 14.8.

Suresh Raina

Suresh Raina is another player who might make it into the playing XI during CSK’s opening game against Mumbai Indians in IPL 2021. In 7 matches so far, the left-handed batsman scored 123 runs in 6 innings at an average of 24.60. Suresh Raina has also hit a half-century in one game. He has played exactly 200 IPL games and has scored 5491 runs in IPL and is the third-highest run-getter in IPL history.

Ravindra Jadeja

Ravindra Jadeja is one player who will definitely make it into the playing XI for CSK in the opening encounter against Mumbai Indians in IPL 2021. The left-handed batsman scored 131 runs in 6 innings at an average of 131. He also batted at a strike rate of 126+ and scored a half-century. He also picked 6 wickets while bowling at an economy of 6.70 and an average of 26.83.

MS Dhoni

MS Dhoni will lead the team in the match against Mumbai Indians in IPL 2021 opener. In the first leg, the wicketkeeper-batsman could not come up with a big knock in any game. In 4 innings, he scored 37 runs averaging a below-par 12.33. MS Dhoni is the best option for a wicketkeeper for CSK.

While MS Dhoni has hung up his boots on a 16-year illustrious career for Team India, he will be seen donning the CSK colours once again. MS Dhoni would want to end IPL 2021 on a winning note as this season may be the last one for the keeper. CSK failed to qualify for the first time in IPL history in 2020 but the MS Dhoni-led team will want to make amends.

Imran Tahir

Imran Tahir is another player who might make it to CSK’s playing XI in the opening game. Since the IPL 2021 2nd phase will take place in UAE, spinners will be a lot more effective. As a result, CSK might induct 42-year-old veteran Imran Tahir into the team for the game against Mumbai Indians.

The 2019 purple cup winner, who picked 26 scalps in 17 games in 2019, didn’t get enough opportunities in IPL 2020 and IPL 2021. He played only 4 games in the last 2 seasons picking up 3 scalps.

Mitchell Santner

For another spinner in the team, Mitchell Santner can be part of CSK in the IPL 2021 opener against Mumbai Indians. The Kiwi player did not play any match during the first leg. In 6 games in IPL so far, the bowling all-rounder Santner has picked 6 wickets and scored 32 runs. His matches came in 2019 and 2020 but he didn’t get enough opportunities to prove himself.

Deepak Chahar is the first pacer that CSK will pick in the IPL 2021 opener against Mumbai Indians. The right-arm pacer showed magnificent form in the first leg, picking 2 four-wicket hauls. With 8 wickets in 7 games, he averaged 24.12 and an economy of 8.04.

Lungi Ngidi

Sam Curran and Dwayne Bravo might miss the first game due to quarantine protocols. Hence, Lungi Ngidi might play as a pacer in the opening game against Mumbai Indians. During the first leg, the South African pacer played 3 matches. He picked 5 wickets at an average of 25, with a three-wicket haul in one match.

Shardul Thakur

Shardul Thakur is another pacer that CSK might go for. The right-arm pacer played all 7 matches during the first leg. He scalped 5 wickets. He was a bit costly with his economy rate of 10.33 and his average of 53.4 wasn’t that good.

However, he is a crucial bowler for CSK with his ability to pick wickets when the team needs them. Moreover, he is also a great tailender batsman as proved in the Test tours to England and Australia in international cricket. He has picked up 51 scalps in 52 IPL games so far.

Other options:-

Ambati Rayudu

In 7 matches in the Indian leg of IPL 2021, Ambati Rayudu scored 136 runs averaging 34 at an excellent strike rate of 200 and might play in the middle order. Once a regular in the Indian ODI team, Ambati Rayudu would come in handy for the CSK in the middle-order, if needed.

Josh Hazlewood

Josh Hazlewood played 3 games in IPL 2020. Josh Hazelwood had cited personal reasons for pulling out of IPL 2021. In his absence, CSK roped in left-arm pacer Jason Behrendorff from Australia. However, he did not play a single game for the 3-time champions in IPL 2021.

But Josh Hazlewood announced his availability for the UAE leg of IPL 2021. He has picked 1 scalp in his brief IPL career playing 3 games for CSK. Josh Hazlewood, who played only 3 matches for CSK last season, will be available to play for the 3-time champions in the remainder of the season, starting September 19 in the UAE.

CSK Playing XI vs MI: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Robin Uthappa, Moeen Ali, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu/ Mitchell Santner, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (c & wk), Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Lungi Ngidi, J Hazlewood/Imran Tahir

Chennai Super Kings. Image Credits: Twitter

Cricket/News

It Can Be A Blessing In Disguise For CSK Players Are Not Tired By Playing Too Many International Matches: Gautam Gambhir

Published on September 13, 2021September 13, 2021

Gautam Gambhir talked about the one advantage MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have over other teams in the UAE leg of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir believes playing less competitive cricket can be a blessing for players representing the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Gautam Gambhir AFP — Gautam Gambhir Photo Credit: AFP

Gautam Gambhir: It Can Be A Blessing In Disguise For CSK Players Are Not Tired By Playing Too Many International Matches

Gautam Gambhir is an integral part of the recently announced star-studded commentary lineup for the second leg of the IPL 2021. The first half of the cash-rich league played in India was suspended after several cases of Covid-19 were reported inside IPL’s bio-bubble.

The remainder of the 14th season will be contested in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 19. Speaking ahead of the mouth-watering clash between CSK and Mumbai Indians (MI) which is billed as the curtain-raiser of the UAE leg, Gautam Gambhir explained how the Yellow Brigade can actually benefit from the players who are not getting a crack at international cricket.

In the build-up to the UAE leg of IPL 14, the former Indian opener and full-time cricket pundit talked about the one advantage MS Dhoni-led CSK has over other teams in the 2021 edition of domestic cricket’s biggest extravaganza.

“Yes, they have the players who do not play much cricket, but it can be a blessing at times because you don’t have the pressure to play international cricket or making a comeback. They have put themselves in a position that even if they start slightly slowly, it will not make too much of a difference. If they start slowly in one or two matches, you will still be able to qualify for the top four and once you do that, it could be anyone’s game,” Gambhir said.

The 2021 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) can be MS Dhoni’s last one with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) if the charismatic leader of the Yellow Brigade opts to call time on an illustrious T20 career at the age of 40. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, CSK has secured the 2nd spot in the IPL 2021 after playing seven matches. CSK is only behind table-toppers Delhi Capitals in the current IPL 2021 standings.

Gautam Gambhir: CSK Will Be Confident That They Performed Well In The Difficult Wankhede Ground During India Leg Of IPL 2021

During the India leg of the IPL 2021, MS Dhoni-led CSK capped off an impressive run at the Wankhede Stadium.

“Plus after playing at the Wankhede, if you are going to these conditions, you will be better placed because Wankhede is very difficult ground. They have done something good to be in this position despite having such a squad. They will take that confidence with them,” the former Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals skipper added.

After a forgetful campaign in IPL 2020, MS Dhoni-led CSK made a spectacular comeback in the 14th season of the cash-rich league. The three-time champions are placed second on the points table with five wins and two defeats from seven matches.

The 14th season of IPL, which was postponed in May this year in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic across India and bio bubble breaches, will resume on September 19 in Dubai with a blockbuster clash between CSK and MI.

With the ball, Deepak Chahar and Sam Curran were the standout performers while Faf du Plessis and Ruturaj Gaekwad formed perhaps the most consistent opening combination of the IPL. The inclusion of spin all-rounder Moeen Ali infused a new sense of edge to the side and with the bat, the left-hander was aggressive and never allowed any momentum to slip.

File image of former India captain Sunil Gavaskar | AFP

Cricket/News

Sunil Gavaskar Picks His 15-Man India Squad For 2021 T20I World Cup

Published on September 8, 2021

Sunil Gavaskar has named his 15-man roster for the showpiece event ahead of the official announcement of India’s squad for the T20 World Cup 2021.

Indian cricket lovers are holding on to their nerves, awaiting the selection committee’s announcement of the 15-man squad for the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2021. While fans have had their discussions over who deserves a spot in the team and who doesn’t, the experts are also weighing in. India legend Sunil Gavaskar also picked his 15-man squad for the showpiece event ahead of the official announcement.

Sunil Gavaskar Picks Krunal Pandya And Injured Washington Sundar In His 15 Man Squad For The Upcoming 2021 T20I World cup

Sunil Gavaskar surprisingly left out two stalwarts of Indian cricket in the form of Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer. While Shikhar Dhawan has been one of India’s most important batsmen in ICC events, Shreyas Iyer made the No. 4 position in white-ball cricket his own with some really responsible outings in the last couple of years.

Instead, Sunil Gavaskar put his confidence in spin-bowling all-rounder Krunal Pandya.

“He’s an all-rounder, a very experienced player, has performed very well in the IPL for the past many years so he surely deserves a place. He’s left-handed, which is an advantage as well,” he said over the selection of the elder of the Pandya brothers.

Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar — two spin bowling all-rounders — made the cut in Sunil Gavaskar’s team though there isn’t much clarity on the selection of Washington Sundar because of his injury.

Washington Sundar, who plays for Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL, had traveled to England with the Indian Test squad but returned to the country after injuring his finger while playing in a County game that served as a practice game for the visitors. He was ruled out from the Test series against England and the UAE leg of IPL 2021.

The T20I World cup 2021 is slated to begin immediately after the conclusion of the IPL and it remains to be seen if Washington Sundar is picked in the Indian squad without playing a single IPL game.

Sunil Gavaskar Picks Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, And Bhuvneshwar Kumar Alongside Deepak Chahar And Shardul Thakur As Pacers

In terms of pacers, the original Little Master went with the experienced trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar while Chennai Super Kings duo of Deepak Chahar and Shardul Thakur also received his nod. Yuzvendra Chahal was the only specialist spinner selected in the 15-man team by Sunil Gavaskar.

Sunil Gavaskar’s India squad for T20 World Cup 2021: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli (c), KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar (subject to fitness), Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, and Yuzvendra Chahal.

It also has to be noted that a total of 18 players will be picked for the showpiece event, including three reserves. The official announcement of the squad is expected to be made on Wednesday (September 08).

STANDBYS

Rahul Chahar/ Varun Chakravarthy: It could be a toss-up between the Mumbai Indians’ leg-spinner and Varun Chakravarthy, KKR’s mystery spinner.

Prithvi Shaw/Shikhar Dhawan: The choice could be between Shikhar Dhawan and Prithvi Shaw. The flamboyant Mumbai opener has shown he could get into the fifth gear quicker than Shikhar Dhawan as he scored the most runs ever in the 50 overs domestic tournament Vijay Hazare Trophy. But Shikhar Dhawan, his DC teammate posted the most runs in IPL 2021 so far.

Mohammed Siraj/Mohammed Shami: While Mohammed Siraj is in red-hot form, he is yet to establish himself as a T20 bowler. Mohammed Shami’s experience and wicket-taking ability could give him an edge.

Axar Patel: Like-for-like backup for spinner all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.

Washington Sundar: His selection is subject to recovery from a finger injury.

Frederick Overdiek of the Netherlands holds the record for the most magical spell in T20 cricket.

Cricket/News

Frederique Overdijk Bagged 7 Scalps In France-Netherlands T20I Match

Published on August 27, 2021

Frederique Overdijk bagged seven wickets in her four overs and conceded just three runs to restrict France to 33 runs in 17.5 overs in the women’s T20 World Cup Europe qualifiers. The Netherlands’ pacer Frederique Overdijk became the first pacer ever to take seven wickets in a T20I match.

Frederique Overdijk first pacer to take 7 wkts in a T20I — Frederique Overdijk the first pacer to take 7 wickets in a T20I | Courtesy: Netherlands Cricket | Photo Credit: Twitter

Frederique Overdijk Bagged 7 Wickets In Her 4 Overs Conceding Only 3 Runs To Restrict France To 33 Runs

On Thursday, Frederique Overdijk bagged seven wickets in her four overs and conceded just three runs to restrict France to 33 runs in 17.5 overs in the women’s T20 World Cup Europe qualifiers at the La Manga Club Ground in Cartagena, Spain. The Netherlands then cruised to a nine-wicket victory in 3.4 overs.

Netherlands Women’s Cricket Team (Image Courtesy: ICC)

Frederique Overdijk had six bowled dismissals and one lbw in her four overs. Out of the four overs, two were maidens. It was the first time any bowler, male or female, had taken a seven-wicket haul in T20Is. Frederique Overdijk went past the previous record held by Nepal’s Anjali Chand, who scalped six wickets for zero runs against the Maldives in 2019.

Brief scores: France 33 in 17.3 overs (Poppy McGeown 8, Frederique Overdijk 7/3, Eva Lynch 1/3) lost to the Netherlands 33/1 in 3.4 overs (Robine Rijke 21 not out, Babette de Leede 10, Thea Graham 1/11) by nine wickets.

She dismissed the opposition skipper Tara Britton, Poppy McGeown, Thea Graham, Emmanuelle Brelivet, Tracy Rodriguez, Emma Chance, and Maelle Cargouet en route to the world record. France was restricted to a paltry total of 33 runs in 17.5 overs, which The Netherlands side chased down quickly in 3.3 overs.

Frederique Overdijk went past the previous record held by Nepal’s Anjali Chand, who snapped six wickets for zero runs in 2.1 overs against the Maldives a couple of years ago. It was only the 8th T20I match for the youngster. She has managed to pick a total of 11 wickets to her name, at the bowling average of 14.00, in her two-year career so far.

Gaby Lewis Becomes The First Ireland Women’s Player To Score A T20I Ton

On the first day of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier, Netherlands’ Frederique Overdijk grabbed all the headlines for her record-breaking spell of 4-2-3-7, the best figures in the T20I history. The magnificent spell reduced France to just 33 runs as they were bowled out in 17.3 overs. The Netherlands chased down the total in under four overs to register their first win of the day.

Gaby Lewis makes history as Ireland start Qualifier tournament with big win ©Cricket Ireland

Earlier in the day, the Dutch fell short against Scotland after they could only put up 98 runs in their quota of 20 overs batting first. Despite losing their way towards the end, opener Sarah Bryce’s 36-ball 46 ensured that Scotland got across the line with more than three overs to spare.

In the second match of the day, Gaby Lewis stole the show with an unbeaten 60-ball 105* against Germany and became the first Ireland Women’s player to score a T20I century. Chasing 197 was always going to be a tough ask for the German players as they finished the innings with just 32 runs, falling short by a massive margin of 164 runs.

In men’s cricket, five bowlers have taken six wickets in T20I innings; India’s Deepak Chahar has the best bowling figure amongst those- 6/7 in 3.2 overs against Bangladesh in Nagpur in November 2019. That terrific bowling performance included a hat-trick as Bangladesh collapsed from 110/2 in the 13th over to be bowled out for 144.

Sri Lanka’s Ajantha Mendis is behind Deepak Chahar with two six-wicket innings hauls, followed by India leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal and Australia’s left-arm spinner Ashton Agar.

India Squad For Sri Lanka Tour (Image: BCCI)

Cricket/News

The Tour Of Sri Lanka Has Been A Waste For India: Yajurvindra Singh

Published on July 30, 2021

Yajurvindra Singh reckons that the decision to send a young squad comprising of several uncapped fringe players to the Sri Lanka tour has proved to be a wasteful exercise and termed it as a goodwill gesture on the part of the BCCI to help the financially struggling Sri Lankan cricket board.

Former India cricketer Yajurvindra Singh opined that BCCI’s decision to send a second-string outfit for an international series against Sri Lanka degraded the essence of a national side.

Yajurvindra Singh: International Cricket Is An Entirely Different Ball Game From IPL

India won the ODI series 2-1 but lost the T20I series by the same margin – that after they lost several players to covid forced isolation. In a helpful gesture, the BCCI agreed to send an Indian team to Sri Lanka to help out the SLC recover losses due to the pandemic.

“The idea of India sending two teams, one to England to play the Test series there and the other to Sri Lanka for limited-overs series was actually demeaning to the very essence of a national side. “

“One can debate on the fact that India can make two international level cricket teams. If so, one wonders as to why India has not won a single major tournament in the last six years. The quantity is surely there for one to see, however, it is the skill and quality of a player at the top level that makes the difference. Performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) is a good indicator to unearth talented cricketers, but international cricket is an entirely different ball game.”

Yajurvindra Singh, however, isn’t pleased with this act of the governing body thrusting young IPL stars into international cricket. He felt that the “national pride and prestige” is at stake in international matches and the board had damaged it as Sri Lanka registered their first-ever T20I series win over India.

Yajurvindra Singh: The Tour Of Sri Lanka Has Been A Waste For India As It Was A Goodwill Gesture By BCCI To Help Struggling Sri Lankan Cricket Board

India was up against Sri Lanka for the limited-overs series comprising of six games. The men in blue won the ODI series but lost the T20I series while playing with its depleted side. The visitors were marching up in all the confidence before the COVID-19 scare broke in their camp and they had to go up with their limited options.

“The tour of Sri Lanka, involving three ODIs and equal number of T20Is, has been a waste for India. The whole exercise was a goodwill gesture by the BCCI to help Sri Lankan cricket board which is struggling financially.”

“One appreciates being nice to one’s neighbour and to assist them in their hour of need, but one has to realise that national pride and prestige is at stake. Apart from this, points are accumulated for qualifying for World Cup tournaments and so generosity may not be the best option.“

“India may have won the ODI series but had to face a defeat in the last game. In cricket, one never takes one’s opponent lightly and India in doing so lost valuable points by losing a match. Although, it was a golden opportunity for the youngsters, their performance against a relatively weak Sri Lankan side would not be an ideal indicator of their ability against top cricket sides, ” said Yajurvindra Singh.

Yajurvindra Singh, who featured in 4 Tests for India between 1977 and 1980, was disappointed seeing the tour head coach Rahul Dravid also “fell victim to the system” for making a number of changes in the third ODI after India had won the series by winning the first two ODIs.

Rahul Dravid had earlier claimed that they will always be fielding their best eleven and giving opportunities to inexperienced players wasn’t their priority. But for the third ODI six changes were made – five ODI debut caps were handed – including dropping of Deepak Chahar, the Man of the Match in the second ODI.

“Sri Lanka look like a team in complete disarray and the small wins against India have given them a ray of hope for their future. Rahul Dravid insisted that his squad will play to win all the matches and that it will not be possible to give everyone an opportunity to play on such a short tour. He too fell victim to the system by making changes. One felt that he failed to understand that this was not an India A side but an India senior side and that every match is important as it goes down in cricket history.”

“The T20 series between India and Sri Lanka had to be completed despite the Covid infection of Krunal Pandya and the quarantine requirements of a few other players.This is precisely why Indian cricket looks good with plenty of options. But the Indian team management is unable to finalize ideal combinations.”

“The IPL will be more of an Indian domestic affair and one has to understand that even in full flight, the bowling arsenal of each team is not as potent and of the same caliber as that of a good International side. “

“India needs to be cautious that a Sri Lankan pandemic and quarantine situation does not arise in England. The BCCI needs to ensure that replacements are on call, if required, at short notice. One dreads to think of an Indian side with fringe players being inducted to make their Test eleven.”

In the same line of events, former India Test cricketer Yajurvindra Singh had stated that the entire Tour was a waste, and the Indian side just played the whole series in order to assist the Sri Lankan cricket board financially. Yajurvindra Singh added that sending a B-side team to a nation is altogether not a good idea only. He added that there is a lot of difference between playing IPL and shining at the international level.

Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL 2021 — Varun Chakravarthy[photo: Twitter]

Cricket/News

VVS Laxman Hails Varun Chakravarthy As He Shines On T20I Debut Against Sri Lanka

Published on July 26, 2021July 26, 2021

Varun Chakravarthy’s big day arrived on Sunday when he made his international debut in the 1st T20I vs Sri Lanka and he made it special by picking up the wicket of Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka. He returned with figures of 1/28 from his 4 overs, to make a decent start to his international career.

India beat Sri Lanka by 38 runs on Sunday in the first T20I to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Suryakumar Yadav’s knock of 50 and skipper Shikhar Dhawan’s 46 at the top of the order helped the tourists post 164 on the board after 20 overs. After that Bhuvneshwar Kumar (4/22) and Deepak Chahar (2/24) ensured the wind was taken out of Sri Lanka’s sails in their chase as the team collapsed to 126.

Varun Chakravarthy Finally Debuted And Had A Successful Outing In The 1st T20I

The Indian spinners also had a successful outing in the 1st T20I with the duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Krunal Pandya picking a wicket each and also keeping the runs in check.

The third spinner in the game for India was debutant Varun Chakravarthy, who finally made his Team India debut. The ‘mystery spinner’, who has made a name for himself by playing for Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, had failed to make his debut in the past despite being named in the Indian squad for the Australia tour and England series as he had failed the fitness test.

But his big day arrived on Sunday and he made it special by picking up the wicket of Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka. Varun Chakravarthy returned with figures of 1/28 from his 4 overs, to make a decent start to his international career.

Varun Chakravarthy Got An X-Factor: VVS Laxman

Former India batsman VVS Laxman lavished praise on Varun Chakravarthy and said that the ‘mystery surrounding his bowling’ gives the spinner an X factor.

“Firstly, I am glad that he (Varun Chakravarthy) got this opportunity because twice he was already selected, but didn’t pass the fitness test and was not part of the squad. I think there’s a lot of chat about the mystery surrounding his bowling,” Laxman said on Star Sports’ show Game Plan.

“I was talking with the Sunrisers batsmen and they are all impressed with the way and the consistency with which he bowls in different parts and phases of the match. He can bowl with the new ball, he can come and take wickets whenever the captain and the team want to break a partnership – that means he’s got an X-factor,” Laxman added.

VVS Laxman further said that Varun Chakravarthy needs to be given more opportunities to play international cricket in order to groom him and that he shouldn’t be expected to show ‘miracles’ from his first game.

“We just want him to get exposure of international cricket and the only way he can do that is by making him play. So, I’m sure that he is really looking forward to this opportunity, but one thing which we have realised over years is make sure you give him the opportunity. Don’t expect miracles from game one. It is very important to show patience and belief in a player,” the former Indian middle order batsman said.

Varun Chakravarthy became the talk of the town after he was purchased for a whopping ₹8.4 crore in the IPL auction by Kings XI Punjab, now Punjab Kings, after a good show in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL). He though had an underwhelming season with KXIP and was then bought by KKR, for whom he picked up 24 wickets in 20 games so far.

He has several variations up his sleeve and was picked up by the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2020 to beef up their spin bowling department. He did not disappoint and picked 17 wickets in the 2020 IPL season at an average of 20.94.

His bowling highlight was a 5-wicket haul against Delhi Capitals and also bamboozling some of the best batsmen in world cricket throughout the season. He picked 7 wickets in IPL 2021 till the postponement of the event due to the bio bubble breach.

Cricket/News

Prithvi Shaw Scores A Golden Duck On His T20I Debut But Shikhar Dhawan Hopes He Will Bounce Back

Published on July 26, 2021

Prithvi Shaw registered a golden duck on his debut in the first T20I on Sunday but skipper Shikhar Dhawan feels the opening batsman will bounce back in the next game against Sri Lanka.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar picked four while Deepak Chahar scalped two wickets as India defeated Sri Lanka by 38 runs in the first T20I.

India's Prithvi Shaw plays a shot as Sri Lanka's wicketkeeper Minod Bhanuka watches during the third ODI at Colombo. (Photo | AP) — India’s Prithvi Shaw plays a shot as Sri Lanka’s wicketkeeper Minod Bhanuka watches during the third ODI at Colombo. (Photo | AP)

Prithvi Shaw Is Playing Really Well And He Will Bounce Back: Shikhar Dhawan

The Indian opener Prithvi Shaw has made the most of his form, since being dropped following the first Test in the Australia tour, and was in blazing touch versus the Lankans. His 24-ball 43 in the series-opening ODI and a run-a-ball 49 in the third and final ODI were a treat to watch for all. But he was dismissed in the very first ball of the match on his T20I debut off Dushmantha Chameera.

“Prithvi is playing really well and I am sure he will bounce back in the next game. It’s very hard to pick Varun, even I find it difficult when I am facing him in the nets,” said Dhawan after the win.

Indian bowlers got the job done without any trouble as the visitors took a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series. India bundled out Sri Lanka for 126 in the 19th over.

“Sri Lanka were playing well but we knew our spinners will get some turn. Yuzi and KP bowled really well. And even Varun, playing his first match,” said Dhawan.

Dushmantha Chameera and Wanindu Hasaranga had picked two wickets to help Sri Lanka restrict India to 164/5 despite Suryakumar Yadav’s fifty. India handed debuts to Prithvi Shaw and Varun Chakravarthy for this match.

The home side came into this match high on confidence after winning 3rd ODI and also gave debuts to two players in Charith Asalanka and Chamika Karunaratne. Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka won the toss and chose to field first keeping in mind the dampness of the pitch and the faint grass covering as well.

After making an impressive debut in the ODI series against Sri Lanka earlier this week, Prithvi Shaw recorded an unfortunate golden duck in the T20I series opener in Colombo on Sunday.

Prithvi Shaw was outfoxed by the away swinger from Dushmantha Chameera as the youngster registered the unwanted score in his first appearance in the format. He became the second Indian batsman to register the figure after KL Rahul had recorded the same in his debut appearance against Zimbabwe in Harare back in 2016.

Shikhar Dhawan: India Was 10-15 Runs Short But It Was Still A Good Total

The Indian skipper felt the visitors were 10-15 runs short of the par score. Shikhar Dhawan himself scored 46 and Suryakumar Yadav scored 50 while Sanju Samson was looking good but was dismissed for 27. Hardik Pandya failed once again while Ishan Kishan failed to increase the run rate much.

” I thought we were 10-15 runs short but we felt it was still a good total. We played quite well after losing a wicket on the first ball. Getting to 50 in the powerplay was good,” said Dhawan.

“I think only 5% scope of improvement. Surya is a great player and we enjoy watching him bat. He was taking pressure off me as well,” he added.

India and Sri Lanka will next lock horns in the second T20I on Tuesday. India may try to change the opening combination as they have uncapped openers RCB’s Devdutt Paddikkal and CSK’s Ruturaj Gaikwad on the bench waiting for their chances.

Cricket/News

Yuzvendra Chahal Focuses On Performing Well And Isn’t Concerned About Competition Between Spinners

Published on July 26, 2021

Yuzvendra Chahal, an Indian leg spinner, after defeating Sri Lanka in the first T20I of the three-match series, said that is not concerned about the healthy competition between the spinners in the squad as his prime focus lies is on performing well for the Men in Blue.

Man of the Match Bhuvneshwar Kumar picked four scalps while Deepak Chahar scalped two wickets as India defeated Sri Lanka by 38 runs in the first T20I on Sunday. Indian bowlers got the job done without any trouble as the visitors took a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series. India bundled out Sri Lanka for 126 in the 19th over.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Image Credit: Twitter)

Yuzvendra Chahal Focuses On Performing Well

As has been the case right through the tour, Sri Lanka was decent with the ball, containing India to 164 for 5, but their batting let them down once more. Between the end of the 5th and 16th over, Sri Lanka scored only 69 runs and lost five wickets. Essentially, with the likes of debutant Varun Chakravarthy impressing, and Yuzvendra Chahal delivering another outstanding spell, Sri Lanka lacked the firepower to mount a serious challenge.

“Definitely, when the bench strength is so good, we have a pool of 30 players. Everyone is doing well, my focus is just on performing well. If you perform well, you stay in the team and if you aren’t, then you cannot stay in the team. I do not look at what others are doing, my focus is on giving good performances,” said Yuzvendra Chahal during the virtual post-match press conference.

India's Yuzvendra Chahal celebrates the wicket of Sri Lanka's Avishka Fernando during the first one day international cricket match between Sri Lanka and India in Colombo, Sri Lanka. (AP Photo) — India’s Yuzvendra Chahal celebrates the wicket of Sri Lanka’s Avishka (AP Photo)

“When I was not playing, I was working with my bowling coach and I was working on my craft. Even during the lockdown, I was looking at where I should be bowling. I backed myself before coming on this tour.

“We knew we were 10-15 runs short, but that is okay. Whatever the score is, we have to defend that. My job is to control the middle overs and I was very happy that I did it. I always back myself,” he added.

Yuzvendra Chahal was pretty crucial for India in the middle-overs as he forced the pressure on the batters before Deepak Chahar and Bhuvneshwar Kumar came up with a flurry of wickets towards the end.

During the 7th over of Sri Lanka’s chase, leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal provided the crucial breakthrough for Team India as he bamboozled Dhananjaya de Silva with a classical leg-spinning delivery which turned sharply and kissed the top of the middle stump. He returned with figures of 1/19 in 4 overs.

Yuzvendra Chahal Told Varun Chakravarthy To Bowl Normally In His Debut T20I

The first T20I match saw young opener Prithvi Shaw and mystery-spinner Varun Chakravarthy making their debut for Team India. While Prithvi Shaw departed for a first-ball duck, Varun Chakravarthy picked 1 wicket of Dasun Shanaka conceding 28 runs.

When asked about his conversations with fellow spinner Varun Chakravarthy, Chahal said: “We talked before the match, I told him just to bowl how you do normally. I know the pressure can be there in the first match, it always stays there. I suggested to keep bowling the way he does, nothing changes whether you are playing international cricket or IPL.”

Earlier, Dushmantha Chameera and Wanindu Hasaranga picked two wickets each as Sri Lanka restricted India to 164/5. Suryakumar Yadav top-scored for the visitors as he played a knock of 50 runs.

“Talking about today’s match, the end from where I was bowling from, the boundary on the leg-side was shorter and the Sri Lanka batters were looking to hit me on the legside. So that is why I did not bowl googly much, I was just looking to bowl dot balls. The total was not that big and we could not afford conceding fours and sixes, hence I kept mixing it up,” said Chahal.

“During the lockdown, I talked to the coach, there was nothing much that I needed to change, I was just looking to think about one line that I need to be bowling more. I discussed it with bowling coach Bharat Arun. The more confident I am in my bowling ability, the better I will bowl,” he added.

Coming to bat at No.4 Suryakumar Yadav once again proved his mettle. After bagging the man of the series award in the recently concluded ODI series, the Mumbai Indians batsman began the T20I series with a fantastic half-century off just 34 balls and helped his team put a respectable total of 164 runs.

Deepak Chahar

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