t20 world cup

T20 World Cup 2024: Hope having both Rohit and Virat works out well for India, says Sanjay Manjrekar

Danijones5 months ago04 mins

Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar thinks he would have chosen a much younger Indian group for the T20 World Cup, since overloading the team with seniors hasn’t worked in the past. Manjrekar stated that India currently has no choice but to combine Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the opening spot, despite his preference for the youthful and promising Yashaswi Jaiswal. Rohit and Kohli did not play many T20 matches for India last year, but they returned as selectors trusted the experienced players. “Ideally, I would not have gone that way; I would have stuck with a slightly more younger kind of, core set of players but the selectors have committed themselves to the icons, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli,” Manjrekar said on Star Sports’ Press Room World Cup edition on Friday. “Now that they are in the squad, it’s impossible to have Virat Kohli batting at No. 3 because then you don’t get the full rally of Virat. Rohit Sharma has to open, so now, India in a way have forced themselves to have only one kind of combination — two right-handers,” he said. T20 WORLD CUP 2024: FULL COVERAGE Manjrekar does not think Jaiswal would find a place in the Indian XI. “Unfortunately, Jaiswal will have to sit out. I would have gone completely with a new lot (and) then he would have had a lot more flair and it would be something different,” he said. “(But) India have trusted the seniors a move that hasn’t worked over the years let’s hope it works this time,” Manjrekar added. The former India batsman also addressed concerns that Mohammed Amir and Shaheen Shah Afridi would pose a threat to the Indian hitters in the two arch-rivals’ showdown on June 9. “Mohammed Amir played his last international T20 seven years back. We have no idea what his form is like today. Shaheen Afridi is not the same bowler that he was two years ago. India have handled him really well, if you remember the Asia Cup, even in the 50-overs World Cup we had a one-sided match. I do not see Pakistan as a major threat to India, plus the names (of) Mohammed Amir and Shaheen Shah Afridi. I do not think this is a problem for India,” he added. Published By: Saurabh Kumar Published On: May 31, 2024

‘Selectors have trusted Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli but…’: Sanjay Manjrekar says he ‘would not have gone that way’ this time | Cricket News

Danijones5 months ago08 mins

NEW DELHI: Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar suggests that opting for a younger Indian squad for the T20 World Cup might have been more advantageous, considering the previous lack of success with senior players.He advocates for injecting youthful talent like Yashaswi Jaiswal into the mix, rather than solely relying on experienced players.Despite the absence of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from many T20 matches last year, selectors have chosen to reinstate them, presumably banking on their experience.Manjrekar notes that the default opening pair now appears to be Rohit and Kohli, whereas he would have preferred exploring alternatives, such as incorporating the promising Jaiswal.“Ideally, I would not have gone that way; I would have stuck with a slightly more younger kind of, core set of players but the selectors have committed themselves to the icons, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli,” Manjrekar said on Star Sports’ Press Room World Cup edition on Friday.“Now that they are in the squad, it’s impossible to have Virat Kohli batting at No. 3 because then you don’t get the full rally of Virat. Rohit Sharma has to open, so now, India in a way have forced themselves to have only one kind of combination – two right-handers,” he said.Manjrekar doubts that Yashaswi Jaiswal would secure a spot in the Indian XI.“Unfortunately, Jaiswal will have to sit out. I would have gone completely with a new lot (and) then he would have had a lot more flair and it would be something different,” he said.“(But) India have trusted the seniors a move that hasn’t worked over the years let’s hope it works this time,” Manjrekar added.The former Indian batter also rejected the idea that Mohammed Amir and Shaheen Shah Afridi would present a significant threat to the Indian batters in the upcoming clash between the two arch-rivals on June 9th.“Mohammed Amir played his last international T20 seven years back. We have no idea what his form is like today. Shaheen Afridi is not the same bowler that he was two years ago.“India have handled him really well, if you remember the Asia Cup, even in the 50-overs World Cup we had a one-sided match. I do not see Pakistan as a major threat to India, plus the names (of) Mohammed Amir and Shaheen Shah Afridi. I do not think this is a problem for India,” he added.Meanwhile, Irfan Pathan labeled left-arm spinner Imad Wasim as a potential threat.“As a left-arm spinner with the new ball, he is not bad. He is a smart, bowls stumps to stumps and if the ball grips then he could be a threat,” he said.Manjrekar expressed confidence in Hardik Pandya‘s ability to excel as a finisher.“My vote will always go to Hardik Pandya. I know he had a pretty quiet IPL, but go back to the last T20 World Cup that India played, the last match, semis against England at Adelaide.“Hardik Pandya got 60 off 30 balls at a strike rate of 190 after India had got 62 in their first 10 overs.“When it comes to T20 World Cup – marquee events – back those guys who actually excel on the big stage and for me it will always be Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant ahead of people like Shivam Dubey, until we see him on the big stage,” he said.Pathan mentioned that both Pandya and Dube would fulfill distinct roles in the competition.“Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube will play different roles. Hardik will have a set role to finish the game and Shivam will play as a floater, as a reinforcer against the spinners,” he said.Manjrekar highlighted India’s cautious approach in the first round of the tournament, drawing parallels to their early exit in the 2007 50-overs World Cup in the Caribbean.“India will feel the pressure of the first round because (in) 2007 (in) the West Indies, funny things (had) happened. I see India up and running very quickly. (But) I’m just going to watch this Indian team in the matches that matter – semis and the finals,” he said.“For India, World Cups are not anymore about getting into the final round. It’s about what you do in the final rounds,” he added.Manjrekar also asserted that Kohli tends to face extra pressure in knockout games because of his stature, a situation not mirrored by Rohit.“Virat does take it upon himself. You see that happening in all the big games to bat a little longer, perhaps feels obliged because of the kind of stature that he has in Indian cricket to bat longer rather than just come and bat freely,” he said.“But Rohit Sharma will do that, no matter his stature. We saw that in the ODI World Cup. But I’m worried about Virat really when it comes to semis and the finals,” he added.(With PTI inputs)

Hardik Pandya’s injury scare touched upon as 2007 T20 World Cup winner sets all-rounder’s bowling workload

Danijones5 months ago05 mins

Hardik Pandya is among the Indian players in New York gearing up for the start of the 2024 T20 World Cup and there are possibly more eyes on him and how he performs than any of his teammates. Pandya, who captained India in T20Is for much of 2023, had a horrific 2024 season in the Indian Premier League (IPL), which was also his first season as captain of the Mumbai Indians. Hardik Pandya bowled sparingly for much of the first half of the IPL(AFP) A host of off-field issues resulting from his replacing Rohit Sharma as captain of MI in his first season back with the franchises led to the fans at the Wankhede Stadium, and almost every other stadium in the country, turning on him. This seemed to affect his own and the team’s performance as well, with the five-time champions finishing bottom of the table with just four wins in 14 matches. Pandya picked 11 wickets in 14 matches but also had an economy of 10.75. He scored just 216 runs in 14 matches at a strike rate of 143.05 and average of 18.00. Unlock exclusive access to the latest news on India’s general elections, only on the HT App. Download Now! Download Now! The all-rounder was picked in the Indian team for the 2024 T20 World Cup despite this form and former fast bowler RP Singh has said that Pandya will have to bowl his full quota of four overs in the tournament. “Hardik bowled in the IPL and bowled four overs so there’s no injury scare. Hardik’s bowling will be important and he will have to bowl all his quota of 4-overs,” he said. There was renewed speculation over Pandya’s fitness in the first half of the IPL when he bowled sparingly. However, he picked up his bowling workload as the tournament progressed. ‘If Dube bowls it’ll be added advantage for India’ Singh also said that Shivam Dube bowling for India would be an added advantage for the 2007 champions. “If Shivam Dube bowls too, then it will be an added advantage for India ahead. Shivam may not play some matches initially but whenever he plays, he will perform well and score runs for India,” he said. Pandya had to deal with boos and jeers in almost every stadium of the country, particularly in Mumbai where fans seemed to have never accepted him as a replacement for Rohit Sharma. Pandya had been traded by the Gujarat Titans, whom he had led to the title in their debut IPL season and the runners-up position in the next, to the Mumbai Indians in the most high-profile before the auction last year. However, there was widespread anger among MI fans over him replacing Rohit as captain Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more.Explore now !. Stay updated with the latest cricket news, T20 World Cup 2024 updates, and match highlights. Explore the World Cup Schedule 2024, track the World Cup Points Table, follow Virat Kohli’s performance, and stay ahead with the stats on World Cup Most Wickets and World Cup Most Runs on the Hindustan Times website and app. News / Cricket News / Hardik Pandya’s injury scare touched upon as 2007 T20 World Cup winner sets all-rounder’s bowling workload

‘They may not need me’: David Warner on playing 2025 Champions Trophy | Cricket News

Danijones5 months ago07 mins

NEW DELHI: The experienced Australian batsman David Warner is determined to end his international career on a high note, stating that the Australian team will adopt a “fearless” approach during the T20I World Cup in their pursuit of creating history.While Warner has announced his retirement from the longer formats, he has not completely ruled out the possibility of returning for the 2025 Champions Trophy if the Australian team requires an opening batsman.However, he believes that the team may not need his services for that particular event.The T20 World Cup, which has been expanded to include 20 teams, will be hosted by the West Indies and the United States in June. All of Australia’s matches will take place in the Caribbean. The tournament presents a unique opportunity for Australia to achieve a remarkable feat in cricket.The 37-year-old Warner is among a select group of four players, including Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Travis Head, who have the chance to become the first team in history to simultaneously hold three International Cricket Council trophies, having already won the World Test Championship and ODI World Cup in the past year.“Being part of that potential history, you only sit back and reflect on those things when you’re completely done and dusted,” Warner, who is in Trinidad, said as quoted by The Sydney Morning Herald. “I did an interview with the ICC recently asking me about it and all the tournaments I’ve been a part of, and I can’t remember them all, but it’s been great,” he added.However, he continues to hint that it may not be the end, referencing the ICC’s revived Champions Trophy, a mini-World Cup scheduled to be held in Pakistan next year.“They may not need me,” he added with a laugh.Warner was forced to miss the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) this season due to an injury to his left hand. Despite this setback, he showcased his readiness by scoring an impressive 54 runs off just 21 deliveries in a practice game against Namibia held in Trinidad last week.Warner, however, will not be participating in any matches until Australia’s opening encounter against Oman, which is scheduled to take place in Barbados on Thursday.Warner’s journey towards bidding farewell to the grand stage has been quite remarkable. In November, Australia emerged victorious against India in India to clinch the ODI World Cup title. Later, in January, he bid adieu to traditional cricket during the Sydney Test match. It is highly anticipated that he will make his final appearance in T20 internationals while playing in the Caribbean.Regardless of when the star batsman decides to hang up his boots, one thing is certain: Warner will undoubtedly give his all and go out with a bang, no matter which team he faces in his final moments on the cricket field.“We’ve always played fearless and I think that’s why we’ve been so successful over the last few years. We don’t care about our spot in a team, we just care about doing the best that we can, and making sure that whatever we’re doing, we’re trying to be that match winner,” he said.“And the fortunate thing is that we’ve got so many of them. One might come off one day, the next day someone else will come off. So we just know that one person in that top six, if they can get anywhere between 60 to 80 runs at a good strike rate, we know we’re always going to post a good total. It’s the same with the new ball. If Starcy [Mitchell Starc] is swinging the ball, we’ll get early wickets, and that brings the spinners into the game,” he added.Warner is confident that Australia’s resounding triumph against India in the World Cup late last year, coupled with their impressive showing versus South Africa in the semi-final, has provided them with a psychological advantage over their competitors.“If you look at the way that we performed with our backs up against the wall after the first couple of games [losing badly to India and South Africa], you just never count us out,” he said.(With ANI inputs)

This T20 World Cup, cricket is going truly global

Danijones5 months ago09 mins

This is a T20 World Cup of a few noteworthy firsts. For the first time ever, American audiences (though a large majority will probably be Southeast Asians) will get an intimate glimpse of cricket’s superstars at the biggest stage as the initial part of the marquee event — US and West Indies are co-hosts — passes through the plush streets of New York, Texas and Florida. Uganda players celebrate(ICC) The ninth edition of the T20 World Cup is also the first time that 20 teams are taking part. That means this tournament is longer in duration than any previous T20 World Cup. While the shortest format is the most amenable to the grand endeavour of growing the game to newer territories, the expansion to 20 teams — they have been placed in four groups of five each — is likely to come at the cost of some drab, one-sided contests early on. For that to not be the case, the nine Associate members participating will have to punch considerably above their weight. Unlock exclusive access to the latest news on India’s general elections, only on the HT App. Download Now! Download Now! Widening the cricketing landscape are newcomers in Uganda, Canada and United States. While the United States’ entry is by virtue of being co-hosts, Uganda and Canada have made the cut from regional qualifiers in Africa and Americas respectively. Uganda’s journey to the global stage is particularly heartwarming, for never has a team from the East African country, rife with poverty and human rights issues, played a World Cup in any sport at the senior level. It was in November last year that the historic feat was accomplished, sparking scenes of unbridled joy, song and dance among the Ugandan players that circulated widely on social media. The qualification was thoroughly deserved — they finished second to Namibia in the campaign — once they were able to get the better of Zimbabwe and Kenya. As skipper Brian Masaba said then, three years of planning went into their efforts. “We came into this tournament trying to seal a World Cup slot,” Masaba, a 32-year-old bowler who works as a procurement manager in Kampala to make ends meet, had told HT. “We firmly believed that it was possible. We had put in a lot of work. The association in Uganda was very keen to get us here by organising a lot of games and tournaments. We have played maybe 40-50 T20Is over the last three years. It’s not a mistake that we are going to the T20 World Cup.” That the Ugandans will be rubbing shoulders with players from Afghanistan, New Zealand, West Indies — they are in Group C where Papua New Guinea is the fifth team — is an opportunity of a lifetime. “This opens a lot of doors for cricket back home. It is going to popularise the sport in the country. It puts Ugandan cricket on the map. Just sharing a field with guys that we have seen playing on television, hopefully we can interact and learn from the best,” Masaba said. Unlike most Associate teams that rely heavily on players from the subcontinent, the composition of Uganda’s squad suggests that cricket has a presence among the native black population. Simon Ssesazi is their leading run-getter with 2072 runs in 78 matches while Henry Ssenyondo, with 94 scalps in 77 matches, has taken the most wickets. The Indian angle cannot be negated either given that Dinesh Nakrani, Alpesh Ramjani and Ronak Patel are integral members of the squad. The Indian connect has also been bolstered by the appointment of Abhay Sharma as coach. Sharma, a former Delhi and Railways wicketkeeper, has worked as a fielding coach with the Indian men’s and women’s teams in the past. US and Canada, home to a sizeable number of expatriates from this part of the world, also have quite a few players of Indian origin in the mix. In United States’ case, left-arm spinner Harmeet Singh and batter Milind Kumar plied their trade in India’s domestic circuit before making the switch across the Atlantic. Harmeet, 33, played in the Indian Premier League (IPL) besides turning out for his state team Mumbai, and earned praise for his classical bowling approach from eminent names like Dilip Sardesai and Ian Chappell in his early years. He was also part of the India U-19 team that won the U-19 World Cup in Australia in 2012. Milind learned the game in Delhi, but his headline act came for Sikkim when he topped the run-scoring list in the 2018-19 Ranji Trophy season with 1,331 runs in eight matches. As recently as in the 2020/21 season, he played 50-over games for Tripura. Left-arm pacer Saurabh Netravalkar, a software engineer working at Oracle, was the leading wicket-taker for India in the 2010 U-19 World Cup in New Zealand. All-rounder Corey Anderson, once an integral member of New Zealand’s white-ball teams and the holder of the record for the fastest ODI ton (36 balls), is also adding muscle to the American middle-order. Having played 13 Tests, 49 ODIs and 31 T20Is for the Kiwis — the last of which was in 2018 — Anderson moved to the US in 2021. His considerable international experience may just come in handy when they begin their campaign against Canada in Group A, which also includes India, Pakistan and Ireland. Neither of these newbies, of course, are expected to do anything more than make up the numbers. But you hope that they benefit from this exposure and make strides by the time the next T20 World Cup is held in India in two years’ time.

‘I prefer Arshdeep over Siraj in the death because of…’: RP Singh on India’s fast-bowling combination in T20 World Cup | Cricket News

Danijones5 months ago06 mins

NEW DELHI: Former India pacer Rudra Pratap Singh believes that Punjab Kings didn’t utilise young Arshdeep Singh effectively during the recently concluded IPL. However, he thinks that the left-arm pacer can prove to be very effective during the death overs at the T20 World Cup, especially alongside Jasprit Bumrah.Arshdeep managed to secure 19 wickets from 14 games in IPL, but his economy rate of 10.03, largely due to facing ‘impact player’ onslaughts, left him somewhat disheartened.RP Singh, who was India’s bowling hero in the 2007 T20 World Cup in South Africa, stated his preference for Arshdeep over Mohammed Siraj for the upcoming tournament.“If we assess Arshdeep on the basis of his IPL performance, I think he hasn’t been utilised well,” RP Singh made these comments in response to a PTI query during a promotional event where the Indian team’s jersey was unveiled for the inaugural World Championship of Legends.“The utilisation of the bowlers also depends on their captain, in which conditions he uses them, in which situation he makes them bowl and how best that he thinks his bowler is.”RP Singh feels that the wicket at Nassau County will be on the slower side and suggests that Arshdeep, instead of bowling pacey length deliveries, should focus on using cutters effectively.“Talking about the length on the tracks in the USA during an early morning start, as per my understanding, there should be a bit of slowness in the wicket. So, the ideal length will be somewhere around just short of good length.“There will be not a lot of swing for the bowlers but the bowlers with variations, not only just yorkers but also slower ones, leg and off cutters. These deliveries will be utilised a bit more by Arshdeep, so the success rate will be automatically higher for him and that’s what I understand about the wickets in the US.”RP also believes that Jasprit Bumrah should ideally bowl three overs in the back-10, as it would apply significant pressure on the opposition batting unit.“Death bowling is really important in T20 cricket. Bumrah may bowl three overs in the death overs. He is our mainstay there. My preference alongside Bumrah in the death is Arshdeep over Siraj because of the variations he has. I think Siraj can be impactful in a game when he is bowling with the new ball. Otherwise, it should be Bumrah and Arshdeep.”Arshdeep’s left-arm action naturally creates challenging angles for right-handed batsmen, making him a crucial asset. Having another left-armer like Khaleel Ahmed in the World T20 reserves adds depth to the bowling unit.“Left arm pacers are always an advantage especially against right-handed batters. It is not like two or more left-arm seamers can’t play together. Zaheer Khan, Ashish Nehra and I have played in multiple games together.”For achieving the perfect balance, it’s crucial for Hardik Pandya to bowl his full quota of overs. This would provide the team with the flexibility to field three specialist spinners, potentially allowing Yuzvendra Chahal to join Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja in the playing eleven.“Hardik bowled in the IPL and bowled four overs so there’s no injury scare. Hardik’s bowling will be important and he will have to bowl all his quota of 4-overs. If Shivam Dube bowls too, then it will be an added advantage for India ahead.“Shivam may not play some matches initially but whenever he plays, he will perform well and score runs for India.”(With PTI inputs)

T20 World Cup: India look to assess pitch and second fast-bowling option in only warm-up game | Cricket News

Danijones5 months ago05 mins

NEW DELHI: Yashasvi Jaiswal will strive to contribute to the team’s combination puzzle with a valuable performance, while Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj must showcase their best efforts during India’s sole T20 World Cup warm-up match against Bangladesh before their tournament opener on June 5.Despite all 15 players being regular starters for their respective IPL teams, the squad boasts an abundance of talent.However, discovering the optimal combination will be crucial to ending India’s 11-year international trophy drought.In the warm-up game, it is anticipated that all 14 players, except for Virat Kohli, who is expected to arrive sometime before the practice match, will be given an opportunity to play, as the game does not have official status. This will provide a chance to assess each player’s form after most of the core team members enjoyed a two-week break.Captain Rohit Sharma and departing head coach Rahul Dravid will need to make two critical decisions. Even if Jaiswal is in good form, integrating him into the team will be challenging, as it would require leaving out a power-hitter like Shivam Dube from the playing XI.It is a foregone conclusion that Jaiswal might have to sit out, allowing Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to open the batting. This decision could also create an opportunity for Dube to feature later in the tournament.“Shivam Dube is a six-hitting machine. He can be the ‘x-factor’ in the T20 World Cup. But if Shivam has to be in the XI, then you can’t play Yashasvi. Rohit has to take that call and I prefer both pace-bowling all-rounders in the XI. If Shivam plays, he can take on the opposition wrist spinners in the latter half,” Suresh Raina, one of India’s premier T20 batters of his time, said on Friday when asked about a possible combination.India’s second challenge will be identifying Jasprit Bumrah‘s opening pace-bowling partner. Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj have been inconsistent in the IPL, and their performances have not met expectations.RP Singh, a key player in India’s victory in the first edition, believes that Hardik Pandya‘s four overs will be crucial. Furthermore, he suggests that Arshdeep should be the second frontline pacer on the newly-installed drop-in pitch.Discussing the ideal length to bowl on the US pitches during early morning starts, Singh emphasized the importance of variations, which make Arshdeep a better bet compared to Siraj.“As per my understanding, there should be a bit of slowness in the wicket. So, the ideal length will be somewhere around just short of good length. There will not be a lot of swing for the bowlers but the bowlers with variations, not only yorkers but also slower ones, leg and off cutters…,” RP replied to a PTI query during a promotional event in Delhi.“These deliveries will be utilised a bit more by Arshdeep, so the success rate will be automatically higher for him and that’s what I understand the wickets in the US,” he explained.Facing Bangladesh on a pitch that offers less pace, India’s middle-order batsmen will be tested by the spin duo of Shakib Al Hasan and Mahedi Hasan. Additionally, they will need to find answers to the variations posed by cutter master Mustafizur Rahaman.(With PTI inputs)

‘Rohit Sharma is someone who can..’: Shakib Al Hasan hails India skipper ahead of T20 World Cup warm-up match | Cricket News

Danijones5 months ago03 mins

NEW DELHI: Shakib Al Hasan, the seasoned all-rounder from Bangladesh, has lauded Indian skipper Rohit Sharma ahead of their T20 World Cup warm-up encounter. Shakib emphasized Rohit’s ability to single-handedly alter the outcome of a game.The two Asian teams are set to clash in a preparatory match at the Nassau County Cricket Stadium located in New York on Saturday.Shakib’s words highlight the immense respect and admiration he holds for the Indian captain’s cricketing prowess.“I think the way he led India in the last few years was terrific. He has a tremendous record as a captain. I think all the players respect him as a leader of the team and he’s someone who can take the game away from the opponent single-handedly,” Shakib said in a Star Sports video posted on X. On the other hand, Rohit emphasized the significance of acclimatizing to the conditions in the United States before their opening match against Ireland, scheduled for June 5. Adjusting to the new environment will be crucial for the team’s performance.“We’re looking to understand the conditions more importantly (before the tournament proper) as we haven’t been here before. (We will) try and make the most of the conditions, get used to what it’s going to be like on June 5 when we play our first game,” ICC quoted Rohit as saying.“It’s just about getting into that rhythm of getting the feel of the ground, pitch and stuff like that,” he added.The opening batter eagerly anticipates the presence of spectators in the stands as the United States, in collaboration with the West Indies, prepares to host its inaugural cricket World Cup.“People in New York will be very interested in coming and watching the World Cup, with the World Cup happening for the first time here. I’m pretty sure all the fans across the various teams are quite excited and looking forward to this tournament. And also as players can’t wait to get started,” Rohit said.(With IANS inputs)

In the history of the T20 World Cup, only Virat Kohli has… | Cricket News

Danijones5 months ago04 mins

NEW DELHI: When you talk about achievements or awards in any ICC tournaments, Virat Kohli‘s name has to be there and the talismanic Indian batsman stands out as the only player to have won two “Player of the Tournament” in the history of the T20 World Cup, in 2014 and 2016 editions.His ability to consistently deliver match-winning knocks under immense pressure is truly awe-inspiring.Kohli’s hunger for success, coupled with his impeccable technique and mental fortitude, has earned him a place among the cricketing greats.Shahid Afridi, the flamboyant all-rounder from Pakistan, etched his name in history by claiming the award in 2007. His explosive batting and crafty leg-spin bowling made him a formidable force on the field. Afridi’s ability to single-handedly turn the tide of a match with his audacious strokeplay and clever variations was a sight to behold. Tillakaratne Dilshan, the Sri Lankan batting maestro, was the recipient of the award in 2009. His innovative “Dilscoop” shot and aggressive batting approach left bowlers perplexed and spectators enthralled. Dilshan’s ability to adapt to different situations and his consistency at the top of the order made him a vital cog in Sri Lanka’s success.Kevin Pietersen, the swashbuckling English batsman, claimed the award in 2010. His ability to dominate any bowling attack with his array of audacious shots and sheer power made him a nightmare for opposition teams. Pietersen’s fearless approach and ability to rise to the occasion in crunch situations set him apart from his contemporaries.Shane Watson, the Australian all-rounder, was the deserving winner in 2012. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball made him an invaluable asset to his team. Watson’s power-hitting and incisive bowling spells often turned the tide in Australia’s favor, making him a true match-winner.David Warner, the swashbuckling Australian opener, etched his name in the annals of T20 World Cup history by claiming the award in 2021. His blistering batting displays, coupled with his exceptional running between the wickets, made him a force to be reckoned with. Warner’s ability to set the tone for his team with his aggressive intent was a sight to behold.Sam Curran, the young English all-rounder, emerged as the surprise winner in 2022. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball, coupled with his composure under pressure, made him a standout performer. Curran’s versatility and maturity beyond his years bode well for his future in the game.

Babar Azam: ‘Babar Azam should bat at…’: Shoaib Malik wants change in Pakistan skipper’s batting order | Cricket News

Danijones5 months ago03 mins

NEW DELHI: After Pakistan’s seven-wicket loss to England in the fourth T20I at Kennington Oval, former cricketer Shoaib Malik suggested that skipper Babar Azam should bat at number three. Babar scored 36 runs off 22 balls with a strike rate of 163.64, hitting 5 fours and 1 six. Malik, on his official X account, acknowledged the tough series and emphasized the need for a batsman who can rotate the strike in the middle overs, suggesting Babar as the best option.He also encouraged Azam Khan and Shadab Khan to maintain their confidence as vital players for the team.Malik wrote: “Tough series! Remember: we’ve been in tough spots before & came out stronger! IMO Babar should bat at no 03! We need someone in the middle overs to rotate strike, you are our best option. Azam & Shadab, you two are vital for our team, don’t lose confidence, play with heart, you are match winners. Going into the World Cup, keep your morale high, we’ve got this.” In the match, England chose to field first. Babar Azam (36 off 22) and Mohammed Rizwan (23 off 16) started strong, but Adil Rashid (2/27) and Moeen Ali (1/23) applied pressure, reducing Pakistan to 86/5. Contributions from Usman Khan (38 off 21) and Iftikhar Ahmed (21 off 18) helped Pakistan reach 157/10 in 19.5 overs. England’s bowlers Mark Wood (2/35) and Liam Livingstone (2/17) also performed well.In the chase, England’s openers Phil Salt (45 off 24) and Jos Buttler (39 off 24) dominated, making 78 runs in the powerplay. Despite a brief fightback by Haris Rauf (3/38), Jonny Bairstow (28* off 16) and Harry Brook (17* off 14) finished the match in 15.3 overs, securing a seven-wicket win for England.(Inputs from ANI)