Cricket - Int News
Maheesh Theekshana sent for injury rehab, to join World Cup squad later
BIPIN DANISri Lanka's World Cup squad which reached Guwahati today (Wednesday) is without its ace-spinner Maheesh Theekshana.“The 23-year-old right-arm off-spinner had not boarded the flight", a top Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) official confirmed."He did not attend the religious ceremony (conducted on Tuesday) either,” the source further added."At present, his participation in the World Cup is not in doubt but now he has been sent to the rehabilitation centre at the High Performance Unit. His fitness is being monitored by physio Thihan Chandramohan,” the source said.The spinner had been ruled out of the final of the men's Asia Cup against India because of a hamstring injury he picked up during Sri Lanka's last-ball win against Pakistan.According to multiple sources, there was a difference of opinion between the physio and the radiologist.It was assumed to be a Grade 3 injury but it did not have a big tear, though the MRI scan was indicating it, according to the medical team.He is therefore included in the squad and likely to join the team during a later stage of the tournament. The 15-member team which reached Guwahati has Chamika Karunaratne as a traveling reserve.
"Siraj's donation to unsung heroes more important than his performance"
BIPIN DANIIndian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj's decision to dedicate his Player of the Match award in the Asia Cup final has won the hearts of many."I want to give this cash prize (USD 5000) to the groundsmen. They deserve it. If they were not around, this tournament would not have been successful", the 29-year-old Siraj had announced at the presentation on Sunday. "We are more happy with his act of donating rather than his match performance", Mohammed Mahboob Ahmed, the secretary of the Charminar Cricket Club says. Siraj first started playing with the tennis ball but learned playing with the leather ball at this club. "Siraj has come from a very poor family back-ground. His father was an auto driver in Hyderabad. Siraj knows how poor people struggle to survive and therefore he has decided to give his prize money to the laborers in Sri Lanka". Siraj ran the Sri Lankan players ragged in the final. He produced a devastating spell of swing and seam bowling returning figures of 6 for 21 in seven overs as Sri Lanka were skittled out for 50. He became the first Indian bowler to take four wickets in an over in men's internationals. "We are very happy with his performance but more so because he cared for the poor groundsmen", Mehboob added. Siraj has stayed very humble. After having bagged a big IPL deal, Mohammed Siraj still remembers the hardships his parents had to endure in his childhood. When he was bought at the IPL auctions, Siraj had then vowed that the first thing he would do with the money would be to buy a new house for his family. And he has fulfilled his promise. "In his childhood, Siraj used to get a lot of bashing from his mother because he didn’t like studying. He was not good at studies. His brother, Ismail, on the other hand, excelled at academics in IT. However, today Siraj’s mother must be proud of whatever his son has achieved so far". "Sadly, Siraj's father (Mohammed Ghaus) is not alive to see his journey. He passed away in 2020 when Siraj was in Australia in 2020 and he could not attend the funeral because of the Covid restrictions. He, however, has become stronger now and is bound to get more and more success", Mehboob added.
Mudassar Nazar attends Kenya's past cricketers' reunion
BIPIN DANIFormer Pakistani all-rounder Mudassar Nazar was one of the foreign invitees at the colourful and enjoyable 3rd Edition of Kenya Past Cricketers Reunion held in Nairobi last week. This was revealed by Subhash Modi, the Hon. Coordinator/PRO: Kenya Past Cricketers Reunion Third Edition 2023. Speaking exclusively over the telephone from Nairobi, he said, "Mudassar has not played cricket in Nairobi but was in charge of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in the past. We invited him with his wife Jackie Janmohamed, who is the former Chairlady of Cricket Kenya and also Immediate Past Chairlady of Africa Cricket Association and also the first Kenyan Lady Umpire to umpire top cricket league matches in Nairobi"."Her support for cricket in Kenya is simply praiseworthy. Jackie has been supporting our cricketing functions since its inception in 2018. We value her unending support. Jackie Janmohamed, besides one of our platinum sponsors, was also our honoured Chief Guest. Janmohamed lives in Nairobi but she travels a lot overseas. She is one of the well-known lawyers here in Kenya"."Mudassar Nassar, a well-known Pakistan Cricketing Icon is husband to Jackie Janmohamed. The reason for inviting Mudassar was because he has served ICC and Kenya's National Cricket Academy with dedication and commitment", added the former international umpire Modi.Mudassar lives in Pakistan, Nairobi, Dubai, and United Kingdom (UK) depending on his travel plans, and work commitments.
Former Test cricketer, Henry Olonga apologizes to Heath Streak
BIPIN DANIFormer Zimbabwe fast bowler Henry Olonga was believed to be the first one to have unintentionally spreaded the death news of Heath Streak, However, the 48-year-old has denied being instrumental in the fiasco and has named the middle order batter Sean Williams for this confusion. Olonga also shared the screenshot of the Whatsapp chats between Sean Williams and Pommie Mbangwa, where the death news first surfaced. Speaking exclusively over the telephone from Australia, where Olonga resides, he said, "My tweet got more traction. I issued my various retractions and apologies to Heath". Explaining the sequence of the confusion, he says, "It is complicated and although I could share some personal intimate correspondence between the Streaks, I shall limit it to what is simple. We all heard it is imminent. So I know how grave things are"."I was even asked along with others touched by his life to provide a eulogy so that Heath can see them while he is here, which I did. Then someone else published on Twitter that it had actually happened. Gave a RIP tribute basically. Someone currently who is playing in the CPL and who is very close to Heath. He then deleted the tweet many hours later. A Facebook page announced it. Zimbabwean and Rhodesian sportsmen I think. I did check with two other former players who confirmed it. We were all obviously mistaken"."I did ask the family but got no response from them or another former teammate. It was late at night as I am in Aus. By then a few others had posted about it so I then did a tribute with pictures and the rest as they say is history. I had a somewhat higher traction than the others. Mid afternoon Streaky replies to my enquiry of his well being and gets in touch to correct the story. I amend all my posts and here we are. It has been a sad day as I really did think we lost him so try processing that with what we have now. Of course no malice intended and it grew a life of its own"."Heath and I are on good terms. It just went a little crazy. Of course I have apologised", Olonga concluded.
Green Shirts teach cricket to Afghanistan, claim 142 runs win in ODI
Pacers ruin Afghan batting line-up, Haris Rauf snares 5 batters, Shaheen 2Sports Bulletin ReportHambantota (Sri Lanka): An aggressive bowling spell by right-arm pacer Haris Rauf (5 for 18) destroyed Afghan batters, who were chasing merely 202 runs in 50 overs to create new history, in the first One Day International fixture of a three-match tie here at Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, Sooriyawewa, Sri Lanka on Tuesday.Pakistan captain Babar Azam won the toss and decided to bat first, as Green Shirts as Fakhar Zaman departed in the first over. Afghanistan bowlers kept it tight as Pakistan continued to lose wickets at regular intervals. Iftikhar Ahmed's gritty innings and Shadab Khan's crucial contribution lifted Pakistan's total, guiding them to a competitive score of 201 all out in 47.1 overs.Imam-ul-Haq's composed knock of 61 runs anchored the innings, while Iftikhar Ahmed's 30 runs and Shadab Khan's enterprising 39 were pivotal in setting up a defendable target. The Afghan bowlers, led by Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Mohammad Nabi, showcased their prowess to ensure Pakistan didn't run away with a bigger total. Some late-order resilience exhibited by Naseem Shah helped Pakistan reach the 200-run mark.Afghanistan's chase faltered right from the beginning as they lost early wickets under the pressure of Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah's fiery pace. Rahmanullah Gurbaz showed some resistance with 18 runs, but Afghanistan's middle-order struggled to find stability. Haris Rauf's five-wicket haul completely dismantled Afghanistan's batting lineup.Azmatullah Omarzai's valiant 16, despite retiring hurt, was the only silver lining for Afghanistan. Their innings concluded at a mere 59 runs in 19.2 overs, giving Pakistan an emphatic 142-run victory.Haris Rauf, with his outstanding figures of 5 wickets for 18 runs, was undoubtedly the star of the match, earning him the well-deserved Player of the Match award.The win puts Pakistan ahead in the three-match series, leading Afghanistan 1-0. Both teams will meet again for the second ODI at the same venue on 24 August.Scores in Brief:Pakistan: 201 all out in 47.1 overs (Imam-ul-Haq 61, Shadab Khan 39, Iftikhar Ahmed 30; Mujeeb Ur Rahman 3-33, Mohammad Nabi 2-34)Afghanistan: 59 all out in 19.2 overs (Rahmanullah Gurbaz 18, Azmatullah Omarzai 16 not out; Haris Rauf 5-18, Shaheen Shah Afridi 2-9, Naseem Shah 1-12)Player of the Match: Haris Rauf (Pakistan)
Cricket News: ITCC announces to launch Tape-ball women's cricket in Sri Lanka
Sports Bulletin ReportHouston TX (USA): International Tapeball Cricket Council (ITCC) has announced to launch of the first-ever inaugural women's Tape-ball tournament in Sri Lanka under the aegis of Tape-ball Cricket Council of Sri Lanka (TCCSL) aiming to highlight the incredible talent and skill of women cricketers in the exciting format of Tape-ball cricket.According to an official of ITC, the Tape-ball cricket has gained immense popularity in recent years especially in informal matches played on streets and in alleys. It is a modified version of cricket where a tennis ball wrapped in electrical tape is used allowing for a faster more dynamic game. This format has captured the imagination of cricket lovers worldwide and has provided a platform for many talented players to showcase their abilities.President ITCC USA Aamir Siddique said:“It is high time that women's cricket receives further recognition and support and this tournament is a significant step towards achieving that. We firmly believe that women's cricket deserves equal standing and opportunities in the sporting world. This tournament will provide an inclusive and competitive platform for female cricketers to exhibit their skills passion and love for the game.Teams from around Sri Lanka will have the opportunity to participate in this historic tournament showcasing the diversity and talent that exists within women's cricket. The tournament will feature a round-robin stage followed by knockout matches culminating in an exciting final to determine the champions.In addition to promoting women's cricket this tournament will also serve as a platform for social empowerment inclusivity and gender equality. It will inspire young girls and women to pursue their dreams and break barriers in the world of sports.We invite all cricket lovers supporters and enthusiasts to join us in celebrating the extraordinary talent and determination of these remarkable women cricketers. Let us come together to witness the thrill passion and excitement of the first-ever inaugural women's Tape-ball tournament.”
Mohammad Waseem to lead UAE squad against New Zealand T20Is Series
Faisal Khokhar Dubai (UAE): Mohammad Waseem is all set to make his T20I captaincy debut in the three-match series against New Zealand which will be played at the Dubai International Stadium from Thursday, 17 August. Waseem – 23 T20Is for UAE – was appointed the ODI captain earlier this year. He now takes over the reins of the national men’s side for T20Is. The 16-member squad includes two uncapped youngsters, all-rounder Faraazuddin and left-arm spinner Jash Giyanani. Both players have been rewarded for consistent performances in domestic cricket and for UAE A’ team. Prolific ODI batter Asif Khan is also set to make his T20I debut after a series of impressive performances in ODIs including the fastest century for an Associate Member batter earlier this year in Nepal. UAE squad for T20I series against New Zealand: Mohammad Waseem (captain), Ali Naseer, Ansh Tandon, Aryansh Sharma, Asif Khan, Aayan Afzal Khan, Basil Hameed, Ethan D’Souza, Faraazuddin, Jash Giyanani, Junaid Siddique, Lovepreet Singh, Mohammad Jawadullah, Sanchit Sharma, Vriitya Aravind and Zahoor KhanSchedule (UAE vs New Zealand):August 17, 2023 (Thursday) First T20I at 6 pm Dubai International StadiumAugust 19, 2023 (Saturday) T20I at 6 pm Dubai International StadiumAugust 20, 2023 (Sunday): Third T20I at 6 pm Dubai International Stadium
Shami and Bumrah best among fast bowlers, says Sir Curtly Ambrose
BIPIN DANIFormer West Indies fast bowler Sir Curtly Ambrose rates India's Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah as two among the world's best fast bowlers. The 60-year old ex-right arm fast bowler, who has 630 international wickets (405 in Tests and 225 in ODIs', he has not played T-20I as he retired from international cricket in 2000) was speaking to an India-born cancer specialist Nilesh Mehta living in the USA. "He (Ambrose) rated Shami and Bumrah the best fast bowlers India has produced in recent times. According to Ambrose, Bumrah, who has recently recovered from his long injury, is different (in his bowling action). Ambrose believes that he has never seen a bowler like that before, Bumrah is highly effective. There are quite a few other good bowers also". "Another bowler who has impressed Ambrose is Australia's Pat Cummins. Pat Cummins is a decent bowler. He does not have any extra pace, but he bowls well"."Ambrose now watches cricket a bit, He does not watch it as much as most people do. Even when he was playing, he didn’t watch it much. He takes a little peek to see what’s happening, and goes to a corner, plays some music in his ears, and just relaxes because he finds watching cricket for an extended period makes him tired". Ambrose, however, loves to coach and commentate. "Ambrose's overall assessment of WI cricket on my radio show was primarily focusing around the kind of pitches being made in the West Indies. We cannot make pitches which are "low and slow" - We need to make bouncier pitches which would play to our strengths. He is not against T20 cricket but for him the real deal is Test cricket. His passion for music is unparalleled as he continues to regularly perform at the Sandals Resort in Antigua". "He is not a big fan of Indian food. As far as coaching is concerned, he feels that "man" management is very important. It is important to understand the player and then guide him or her in cricket", concludes Dr. Mehta.
Cricket News: Pakistan to play Afghanistan in three ODIs next month
Sports Bulletin ReportLAHORE: Pakistan national cricket team will visit Sri Lanka to play a three-match One-Day International series against Afghanistan, which will be rolled into action from August 17, 2023 in Hambantota, Sri Lanka.According to an official of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the two teams will play the first two matches in Hambantota on 22 and 24 before they travel to Colombo for the final ODI on 26. These three matches will provide Babar Azam’s side an opportunity to fine-tune their combinations ahead of the 50-over ACC Men’s Asia Cup, which begins on 30 August with Pakistan playing Nepal at the picturesque Multan Cricket Stadium.Pakistan and Afghanistan have played four ODIs and Pakistan have won all of them. The two sides last played each other in the format in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019.Schedule: August 17, 2023: Pakistan assemble in Sri LankaAugust 19, 20, 21: Training sessionsAugust 22, 2023: First ODI, HambantotaAugust 24, 2023: Second ODI, HambantotaAugust 26, 2023: Third ODI, Colombo
Cricket News: Pakistan outclass Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs
Noman Ali's seven-fer takes Green Shirts to earn Series 2-0, Nasim gets three wicketsSports Bulletin ReportColombo (Sri Lanka): Noman Ali’s best figures in an innings led Pakistan to an emphatic innings and a 222-run win over Sri Lanka on day four of the second Test match at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo on Thursday.The win also kept Pakistan’s 100 per cent record in the Test series, clean sweeping the hosts in the two-match Test series and starting the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 on a winning note. Pakistan had defeated Sri Lanka by four wickets in Galle.Resuming their first innings at the overnight score of 563 for five in 132 overs, Pakistan declared their innings after two overs adding 13 runs and without losing any wickets. Rizwan who returned unbeaten on 37 the previous day, scored 13 runs and brought up his half-century off 67 balls, hitting four fours and one six. Salman Ali Agha, who played six balls in the morning, didn’t add any runs to his overnight score of 132, which included 15 fours and one six.In turn, Sri Lanka, resuming their second innings with a deficit of 410 runs, were found unplayable by the spin bowling from left-armer Noman Ali. Noman bagged first seven wickets to fall and ended up with match figures of 26-9-80-7. Naseem Shah, who bowled with pace and reversed swing the ball, bagged the final three wickets. He also took three wickets in the first innings and his match figures was 31.4-8-85-6.Abdullah Shafique for his maiden double century was named player of the match.Scores in brief (day 4 of 5)Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runsSri Lanka 166 all out, 48.4 overs (Dhananjaya de Silva 57, Dinesh Chandimal 34, Ramesh Mendis 27; Abrar Ahmed 4-69, Naseem Shah 3-41, Shaheen Shah Afridi 1-44) and 188 all out, 67.4 overs (Angelo Mathews 63 not out, Dimuth Karunaratne 41, Nishan Madushka 33; Noman Ali 7-70, Naseem Shah 3-44)Pakistan 576-5 decl, 132 overs (Abdullah Shafique 201, Salman Ali Agha 132 not out, Saud Shakeel 57, Shan Masood 51, Mohammad Rizwan 50 not out Babar Azam 39; Asitha Fernando 3-133, Prabath Jayasuriya 2-194)Player of the match – Abdullah Shafique (Pakistan)
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