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  • Two Stars Missing Against Australia! Who Made the Buzzing Indian Cricket Team XI?

    Two Stars Missing Against Australia! Who Made the Buzzing Indian Cricket Team XI?

    Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has revealed his preferred Indian Cricket Team playing XI for the upcoming first T20I against Australia, scheduled for Wednesday, October 29, at the Manuka Oval in Canberra. In his lineup, Pathan left out Nitish Kumar Reddy and Kuldeep Yadav, opting instead for a pace-heavy combination suited to Australian conditions.

    India Seek Redemption After ODI Series Defeat

    Team India, led by Shubman Gill, will look to bounce back after a disappointing ODI series loss to Australia. The hosts clinched the first two matches by seven and two wickets, respectively, before sealing a nine-wicket win in the final game. With the T20I series beginning, India aim to regain momentum and confidence ahead of the next ICC events.

    Pathan’s Top Order: Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill Lead the Charge

    Pathan picked Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill as openers. Gill, who struggled in the Asia Cup, will hope to find form on Australian pitches. Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav (captain) are slotted at No.3 and No.4, respectively. Both youngsters were standout performers during the Asia Cup 2025, with Abhishek scoring 314 runs at a strike rate of 200 and Tilak contributing 213 runs in six innings.

    Middle Order and All-Round Options

    Sanju Samson was named as the wicketkeeper-batter, while Axar Patel and Shivam Dube were included as the team’s all-rounders. Pathan emphasized that both can provide balance to the lineup with bat and ball.

    Varun Chakaravarthy Over Kuldeep Yadav

    With Hardik Pandya sidelined by injury, Pathan opted for a pace-dominated attack comprising Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshit Rana. For the lone specialist spinner slot, he chose Varun Chakaravarthy over Kuldeep Yadav, citing the former’s ability to bowl in the powerplay and add a “mystery element” to India’s bowling unit.

    Pathan on Team Balance

    Speaking on his YouTube channel, Pathan said Harshit Rana’s cameo in the second ODI gave the management confidence in his batting abilities lower down the order.

    “If Harshit plays at No.8, India’s order till No.7 looks strong with two all-rounders—Dube and Axar—who can together deliver six overs,” Pathan noted. “Then you can play two frontline pacers in Arshdeep and Jasprit. As for the spinner, I’m leaning toward Chakaravarthy because he can bowl in the powerplay. But if the team management prefers Kuldeep, that’s also not a big issue.”

    Irfan Pathan’s Predicted India XI for 1st T20I vs Australia

    Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Sanju Samson (WK), Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy

    India will hope this combination helps them start the T20I series on a winning note against a confident Australian side.

  • ICC Womens World Cup 2025 May Remain Just Out of Reach! Will India’s Thorn Be Barun, Not Australia?

    ICC Womens World Cup 2025 May Remain Just Out of Reach! Will India’s Thorn Be Barun, Not Australia?

    Excitement is already buzzing among fans of the ‘Women in Blue’ ahead of the ICC Womens World Cup 2025 semifinals. India’s team, overcoming a losing streak, thoroughly outplayed New Zealand to secure their semifinal spot. Harmanpreet Kaur and her teammates have shown that they will not go down easily. However, weather could become a major obstacle on India’s path to the dream final.

    The semifinal between India and Australia will be held on Thursday at the Navi Mumbai ground. This same venue has posed significant weather-related challenges in India’s previous two matches. Against New Zealand, the game had to be shortened, and against Bangladesh, play was halted within minutes due to rain. Weather forecasts predict heavy rain with thunderstorms on Tuesday and Wednesday, with intermittent showers possible even on Thursday.

    Indian fans are already anxious. The question on everyone’s mind is: “What happens if the match is completely washed out due to rain?” According to ICC rules, every effort will be made to complete the match on the scheduled day. Matches can be shortened to ensure a result. However, if no ball is bowled on the scheduled day, the match will be played on the reserve day, which is Friday for the semifinals.

    Gambhir Stands by Suryakumar as Gear Up for India vs Australia

    In special situations, if the match starts but rain interrupts play, the remainder of the game will be continued on the reserve day. There is, however, one condition: both teams must have the opportunity to play a minimum of 20 overs. On the reserve day, play may begin much later than originally scheduled if needed.

    Even with these safeguards, fear lingers. If rain disrupts play on the reserve day as well, disappointment will be inevitable for Indian fans. In such a scenario, the finalist will be determined based on the points table. Since India is behind Australia on points, Australia would advance to the final.

    Past experiences show that the Indian women’s cricket team can perform exceptionally under pressure. Defeating New Zealand to secure a semifinal spot and rallying after defeats prove their resilience. Yet this time, fans are more worried because India’s dream final is threatened by the rain.

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    This World Cup semifinal is not just a contest on the field—it is also a battle against the weather. If the Indian team can play patiently and luck favors them, they could still advance to the final. Otherwise, missing the semifinal due to rain would mean a heartbreaking exit from the World Cup for the team and its supporters.

    As the shadow of rain looms closer, excitement continues to rise. The India vs Australia semifinal is not just a cricket match—it’s a duel with the elements. Cricket fans now eagerly await Thursday’s reserve day, which will determine the fate of Indian women’s cricket: will they dash to the final, or will their dreams come to an end?

  • Gambhir Stands by Suryakumar as Gear Up for India vs Australia

    Gambhir Stands by Suryakumar as Gear Up for India vs Australia

    The five-match T20 series between India vs Australia begins on Wednesday, and excitement is sky-high just months before the World Cup. While the Indian team has been in red-hot form, captain Suryakumar Yadav has faced sharp criticism for his poor run with the bat — scoring only 100 runs in his last 11 innings. Yet, the ever-confident “Mr. 360” remains unfazed, declaring firmly, “The runs will come.”

    Confidence Amid Poor Form

    Speaking to reporters before the Australian tour, Suryakumar addressed questions about his form:

    “I believe I’ve been working hard enough — just as I always have. I trained well in India, and I’m putting in the same effort here. Both my body and mind are in good rhythm, and that’s what matters most.”

    Suryakumar, known for his explosive stroke play and fearless cricket, has been one of India’s most dangerous T20 batters. Despite his recent slump, he refuses to lose confidence.

    “I’m not thinking about runs. The team’s goals come first. I want to play according to the situation and take one game at a time,” said the Indian captain.

    Gambhir’s Unwavering Support

    India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has also backed his skipper. In a recent interview, he said:

    “I’m not at all worried about Suryakumar’s form. He’s the kind of player who can turn a match around with a single innings.”

    According to Gambhir, consistency is measured differently in T20 cricket — what matters most is intent and the willingness to take risks for the team.

    “This Indian side plays fearless cricket. We want every player to express themselves and contribute as the team requires. Suryakumar is doing exactly that,” Gambhir added.

    The Numbers Tell a Story

    In his last 20 T20 innings, Suryakumar has scored 330 runs. Even though India lifted the Asia Cup, he couldn’t quite rediscover his best form with the bat. However, his performance in the 2025 IPL was spectacular — 717 runs in 16 innings — giving the team management hope that he can regain his rhythm on Australian soil.

    Experts believe that Australian pitches suit Suryakumar’s style perfectly. With true bounce and pace on offer, his timing and range of shots could shine once again. His role will be crucial — especially in accelerating the scoring between the middle and death overs.

    Confidence Is His Weapon

    On the eve of the series, Suryakumar’s self-belief was evident:

    “Every match is a new challenge. My job is to play my role and help the team achieve its goals. The runs will come — I just need to stay patient.”

    This series is not just important for Team India, but also a personal test for Suryakumar Yadav. A return to form with the bat could make India an even more dangerous side under his leadership. Fans are eagerly waiting for the moment when his bat once again lights up the skies over Canberra.

  • Suryakumar Yadav explosive on Jasprit Bumrah’s Experience Ahead of T20I Series in Australia

    Suryakumar Yadav explosive on Jasprit Bumrah’s Experience Ahead of T20I Series in Australia

    Indian T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav has highlighted the immense value of Jasprit Bumrah experience in Australian conditions, ahead of India’s upcoming T20I series Down Under. The pacer’s familiarity with the pitches, weather, and game scenarios in Australia is expected to play a crucial role in India’s campaign.

    Speaking to the media, Yadav said, “I think the way he has played his cricket for the last so many years, he has kept himself right on the top, and he knows how to prepare for a good series.” The Indian skipper emphasised that Bumrah’s experience is a key asset for the team, especially in conditions that are vastly different from those in India.

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    Bumrah, 31, is widely regarded as India’s pace spearhead across formats, and his record in Australia underlines his success. In T20 Internationals, he has played six matches, claiming eight wickets, while in One-Day Internationals, he has taken six wickets in four games. However, it is in Test cricket where he has truly excelled in Australia. Across 12 Tests, Bumrah has scalped 64 wickets, including four five-wicket hauls, showcasing his ability to adapt and dominate on fast and bouncy tracks.

    “He knows how to come and play cricket here. He has been here; he has visited this country the most of all the guys. So all of them have spoken to him. He is very open and very helpful in that,” Yadav added, underlining the pacer’s role not just as a performer but also as a guide for younger players in the squad.

    Bumrah’s overall tally in Australia across formats is impressive. He has played 22 matches, picking up 78 wickets. In T20Is against Australia specifically, he has featured in 14 matches, claiming 17 wickets. Such experience is invaluable, especially in a series that demands adaptability and tactical awareness.

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    For this tour, Bumrah will feature only in the five-match T20I series, as part of India’s workload management strategy. He was rested for the three-match ODI series, ensuring that he remains fresh and fit for the high-intensity T20 encounters. During his last Test tour of Australia, Bumrah was in sensational form, taking 31 wickets in just six matches, finishing as the top wicket-taker for India with an average of 13.06, a testament to his skill and consistency.

    “Yeah, definitely when he takes the ground, starts from tomorrow, it will be a good thing; it’s good to have him in the squad when we play in Australia,” Yadav remarked, expressing confidence in Bumrah’s ability to lead India’s pace attack and mentor other bowlers.

    India’s T20I squad for the tour is a blend of youth and experience, with Suryakumar Yadav as captain and Shubman Gill as vice-captain. The squad includes Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, and Washington Sundar. With a mix of established performers and emerging talent, India will look to make a strong impression in Australia.

    Bumrah’s presence in the squad not only strengthens the bowling attack but also provides guidance to younger players adapting to foreign conditions. His experience, skill, and calm temperament make him a key figure for India’s ambitions in Australia, a country known for challenging playing conditions.

    As India prepares to take on Australia in the T20I series, all eyes will be on Bumrah to deliver match-winning performances and set the tone for the rest of the squad. His knowledge of Australian pitches, coupled with his disciplined bowling, could prove decisive in a tightly contested series.

  • Shami-Shahbaz Duo Steer Bengal to Back-to-Back Wins in Ranji Trophy 2025

    Shami-Shahbaz Duo Steer Bengal to Back-to-Back Wins in Ranji Trophy 2025

    Bengal continued their impressive run in the Ranji Trophy 2025 as they secured a commanding victory over Gujarat at Eden Gardens, collecting six crucial points in their second consecutive win. The star pace duo of Mohammed Shami and Shahbaz Ahmed once again proved decisive, turning the match in Bengal’s favor.

    After a stellar performance in the first match, Shami carried his form into the second, claiming eight wickets against Gujarat, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings. Shahbaz, returning from injury, complemented him superbly, taking nine wickets across both innings. Together, their lethal bowling dismantled the Gujarat lineup, restricting them to just 141 runs in the second innings and sealing a 141-run win for Bengal.

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    Gujarat’s fightback on the fourth day had started promisingly. The partnership between Urvil Patel and Jaymit Patel had created difficulties for the home team. However, an unexpected injury to Urvil, who retired hurt, allowed Umesh Kumar to step in. Shahbaz’s sharp bowling quickly ended Gujarat’s resistance, and Shami’s magic in the final session, including three consecutive wickets, completely swung the match in Bengal’s favor. Even Urvil, who returned to score 109, could not salvage the innings.

    Earlier, Bengal’s first innings saw them post a total of 279 runs, with contributions from Sumanta Gupta (63), Abhishek Porel (51), and Sudip Kumar Gharami (56). Gujarat, in response, struggled under disciplined Bengal bowling. Only Manan Hingrajia (80) showed resistance as Shahbaz picked up six wickets for 34 runs. Gujarat were bowled out for 167, giving Bengal a significant 112-run lead.

    In the second innings, Bengal’s batting, though steady, drew some criticism for being overly cautious. Sudip Kumar Gharami and Anustup Majumdar both scored half-centuries, with Gharami registering back-to-back fifties across the innings. While the team faced criticism for not accelerating the scoring, the cautious approach proved effective in the context of weather interruptions and fading light, which could have prematurely ended play on multiple days. Bengal managed 214/8 declared, setting Gujarat a challenging target of 327 runs.

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    Urvil Patel initially gave Gujarat hope with a brisk knock, threatening a potential draw. But Shami and Shahbaz’s incisive bowling dismantled the batting lineup. Shami dismissed Abhishek Desai and Manan early, while Akash Deep removed Arya Desai. The Patel duo’s promising partnership was broken by Shahbaz, after which Shami took charge, picking up five wickets for just 38 runs. Shahbaz took three wickets in the second innings, bringing his match tally to nine.

    The combined brilliance of Shami and Shahbaz ensured Bengal’s dominance, allowing them to comfortably secure a 141-run victory. With this win, Bengal now has 12 points from two matches, signaling a strong start to their Ranji Trophy campaign.

    Shami’s pace and experience, paired with Shahbaz’s all-round capabilities, continue to be the cornerstone of Bengal’s resurgence in domestic cricket. On the other hand, Gujarat will need to regroup after depending heavily on individual performances, most notably Urvil Patel’s unbeaten century, to stay competitive.

    Match Summary:

    Bengal: 279 & 214/8 (declared)

    Gujarat: 167 & 185

    Result: Bengal won by 141 runs
  • BCCI Condemns Indore Incident, Vows Stronger Security

    BCCI Condemns Indore Incident, Vows Stronger Security

    New Delhi, October 25: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued an official statement condemning the incident that occurred in Indore involving Australian cricketers. BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia described the episode as a “deeply regrettable and isolated incident,” stressing that India has always been recognized worldwide for its warmth, hospitality, and care towards guests.

    The Official Statement

    In his statement, Saikia said:

    “This is a deeply regrettable and isolated incident. India has always been known for its warmth, hospitality, and care towards all guests. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards such acts. We appreciate the swift and effective action taken by the Madhya Pradesh Police in apprehending the accused. The law will take its due course to ensure justice is served. We will also review our existing safety protocols and strengthen them further, if necessary, to ensure such incidents are not repeated.”

    The words underline BCCI’s strong stance on player safety and its intent to reinforce India’s reputation as a safe and welcoming sporting destination.

    India’s Reputation at Stake

    India has long been considered one of the world’s most passionate cricketing nations and a leading host of international tournaments. Players from across the globe have often praised the country’s hospitality. This incident, therefore, has raised concerns over the safety of visiting teams and has the potential to affect India’s global sporting image if not addressed effectively.

    Swift Action by Police

    The Madhya Pradesh Police acted promptly in apprehending the accused, a move that has been welcomed by both the BCCI and cricket fans. State authorities have assured that stringent measures will be put in place to ensure the safety of all foreign players and teams touring India.

    Reviewing Safety Protocols

    The BCCI emphasized that player safety is of the highest priority. The board confirmed that it will be reviewing all existing safety protocols, identifying potential loopholes, and reinforcing security arrangements at stadiums, hotels, and public areas frequented by international teams.

    Cricket analysts pointed out that India, as the host of major events like the Indian Premier League (IPL) and international bilateral series, must ensure top-notch security not only for Indian players but also for overseas cricketers who draw millions of fans to the sport.

    Reactions from Fans and Experts

    News of the incident quickly went viral on social media, with fans expressing outrage and disappointment. Many argued that even a single isolated episode could tarnish India’s reputation in the cricketing world. Others appreciated the BCCI’s quick response and the police’s swift action, saying such steps would restore confidence among international players.

    Zero-Tolerance Policy

    The BCCI’s reference to a zero-tolerance policy reflects its determination to prevent similar events. The statement also signals that, if necessary, additional resources will be allocated to boost security systems in coordination with local law enforcement agencies.

    While the Indore incident is being seen as an unfortunate one-off, it has placed the spotlight firmly on the importance of player security during international tours. The BCCI’s strong condemnation, coupled with swift police action and assurances of tighter protocols, is expected to reassure not only the Australian team but also future visiting sides.

    India, often hailed as the heart of world cricket, will be keen to ensure that such incidents remain isolated and do not overshadow the nation’s legacy of hospitality and sporting excellence.