New Delhi, Oct 4 (SocialNews.XYZ) Winning the 1983 Men’s ODI World Cup at Lord’s was a historic moment for India, who weren’t given a chance by anyone to clinch the trophy. Life for India as a cricketing nation was never the same since then, giving the country the belief to dream and achieve big in the sport.

Four years later, in 1987, India went on to do something big – host the next edition of the Men’s ODI World Cup, alongside Pakistan. It got the World Cup hosting back in 1996, a tournament best remembered for co-hosts Sri Lanka setting a new template of ODI batting and running all the way to the trophy.

In 2011, the Men’s ODI World Cup was back in India, alongside Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, kick-starting a trend of the host nation winning the coveted trophy when MS Dhoni slammed the most unforgettable six over long-on off Nuwan Kulasekara at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Cut to now, and Men’s ODI World Cup is back in India after 12 years. But this time around, circumstances are different. India, firmly established as the superpower in the cricketing world, is solely hosting the mega event from October 5 to November 19.

With T20 leagues gaining popularity worldwide, fans are becoming less interested in the 50-over format, leading to uncertainty and tension about its future. Many are wondering – can India help the Men’s ODI World Cup, and the format, in an identity crisis, assert its relevance in a world fastly pivoting towards the razzmatazz of T20s.

The relationship between India and men’s ODI cricket is very interesting. The 1983 victory drew a generation in India towards watching the game and eventually take up the sport. Hosting the 1987 World Cup and ending England’s monopoly on it gave the country a taste of the atmosphere of a global event.

Being one of three hosts for the 1996 World Cup gave it continuity, which ended in a heartbreak for India. The victory on home soil in 2011 was met with a sense of jubilance and satisfaction, as Sachin Tendulkar finally got his hands on the elusive trophy. In 2023 World Cup lies an opportunity for India to revive interest in ODIs and get fans to be in love with the 50-over game all over again.

From the evening of July 14, 2019, when Jos Buttler ran-out Martin Guptill and England completed its ODI resurrection ride by clinching the trophy at Lord’s on the back of a superior boundary count-back over New Zealand, one would have rarely thought that ODI cricket will be at a place where its existence would be questioned four years down the line.

If one sees the reasons behind ODI cricket in an identity crisis under a microscope, lots of reasons emerge – the Covid-19 pandemic, lack of ODI cricket matches in the 2019-23 cycle, the Super League going out after 2023 World Cup qualifications were sealed, talk of eight hours of playing ODIs being viewed boring, especially the middle overs being called too long for comfort viewing, and T20 leagues cropping up, vying for space and cramping international calendar.

No wonder that the talk of reducing ODIs has been gaining steam, with newly-appointed MCC chief Mark Nicholas recently talking of how the format should be played only in World Cups or how the MCC World Cricket Committee had proposed to reduce men’s ODI games after 2027 World Cup, which will have 14 teams.

Quinton de Kock and Naveen-ul-Haq already announced about bidding goodbye to ODIs after the upcoming World Cup in India. But Ben Stokes, the Player of the Match from that dramatic night at Lord’s, has come out of retirement from the format to play in the tournament.

At the same time, left-arm pacer Trent Boult is back in New Zealand’s colours after a year of playing franchise T20 leagues, for chasing that coveted ODI World Cup trophy which eluded him in 2015 and 2019. Despite uncertainty, Stokes and Boult's choices prove players are still drawn to the men's 50-over cricket event.

The 2023 World Cup has an element of uncertainty which stands in a good intriguing way. With Covid disrupting schedule and two T20 World Cups, plus as many World Test Championship Finals taking centre-stage, apart from injuries, it meant no team could field full-strength sides in ODIs continuously.

That’s where the opinions are divided - no one knows what’s in store or who are the outright favourites – something which England were in 2019. Hosts and two-time World Cup champions India are hot favourites, and seeing them tick all boxes in Asia Cup and series win over Australia, one can sense that they are primed to hit their peak in the World Cup. 

England go into an ODI World Cup as defending champions, and despite the less of intimidating aura, look assured. Australia seem to be formidable in batting, all-rounders and fast bowling, but look light in spin cupboard. New Zealand are back as perennial dark horses who can sneak into knockouts and maintain a stoic look.

South Africa look great as a batting and spin unit, but are light in fast-bowling, due to Anrich Nortje’s absence. Pakistan has nice mix of left and right-handed batters, but have weakness in spin and fast-bowling cupboards.

Sri Lanka can threaten big teams, but losing Wanindu Hasaranga is a tremendous blow. Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Netherlands can be giant killers, but need to click as a unit to upset the apple cart. The tournament will miss the Calypso flavour West Indies bring, making it the first time the two-time winners are not in the mega event.

When the first ball of the tournament opener between England and New Zealand will be bowled in the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday, fans will put their worries over 50-over cricket on silent mode and be transported to a world where they, as well as players, will go through a cycle of emotions best described by the ‘Navrasa’ for the next seven weeks.

While ‘Rasa’ means state of emotions, ‘Nava’ is self-explanatory: of nine different emotional states in Ayurveda. They go as: joy, power, anguish, respect, pride, bravery, glory, wonder and passion. The 2023 Men's ODI World Cup can bring back the joy of watching a 50-over game and the contentment it provides, which is not easily found in T20 matches.

Build-up to 2023 World Cup, the 13th edition of the competition, has been a little chaotic: delayed schedule announcement, then a revise in dates of nine games and fans taking to social media over inadequate ticket sales which itself came out late. But weather and pitches permitting, platform is set for fans to enjoy 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup in India and take a break from the talks of the format’s future.

Who knows what will happen in the 48 matches happening in two months or who will clinch the trophy on November 19. So, set your alarms and finish work early to fully enjoy the matches as India prepares to take the lead in reviving the popularity of ODIs, just like it happened in 1983.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Oct 4 (SocialNews.XYZ) Australia overcame Pakistan in a thriller on the final day of Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 warm-up matches. Elsewhere, Afghanistan won a rain-affected clash against Sri Lanka and the elements also proved troublesome in Thiruvananthapuram, where India’s scheduled clash with the Netherlands was washed out.

At Hyderabad, Glenn Maxwell struck 77 in Australia’s 351 for seven while Marnus Labuschagne contributed with bat and ball as Pakistan fell 14 runs short despite 90 from captain Babar Azam.

Australia made a rapid start having chosen to bat, David Warner dominating an opening stand of 83 before falling for a 33-ball 48 in the 13th over. Mitchell Marsh (38), Steve Smith (27) and Marnus Labuschagne (40) all made starts before Maxwell seized control of the middle overs.

The all-rounder brought up his half century with one of six sixes, eventually making 77 from 71 deliveries before he was dismissed by Shadab Khan. Josh Inglis (48) and Cameron Green (50*) kept the momentum going, adding 83 in eight overs for the seventh wicket to carry Australia to a daunting total as Pakistan’s death bowlers suffered, Haris Rauf’s nine overs costing 97.

Pakistan’s reply was faltering at 82 for four before a fine stand by Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed brought them right back into the contest. The skipper struck a typically fluent 90 from just 59 balls while Iftikhar struck six fours and four sixes in his 83 before becoming Labuschagne’s second scalp, leaving his side 227 for five.

Labuschagne then put down Mohammad Nawaz off the bowling of Marsh with the batter going well on 38 as the run chase went deep, but the seamer got his man for 50 shortly afterwards as Warner held on to a routine chance at third man. That left Pakistan needing 26 from four overs but Labuschagne returned to take the final wicket, Hasan Ali picking out Marsh at long-off.

Meanwhile, Kusal Mendis’ sparkling century was not enough to earn Sri Lanka victory as a Rahmanullah Gurbaz-inspired Afghanistan won a rain-affected clash in Guwahati. Batting first, Mendis arrived at the crease following the early departure of Dimuth Karunaratne and was quickly into his stride.

The 18th over was particularly punishing, Mendis taking 18 from it including three consecutive boundaries, and he quickly moved to a 59-ball century. With his score on 158, including 19 fours and six sixes, Mendis retired at the end of the 30th over and Afghanistan fought back with the ball thereafter, Mohammad Nabi claiming four for 44 – including two in two balls in the 39th over – as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 294 with 22 balls unused.

Kasun Rajitha claimed the scalp of Ibrahim Zadran amid a miserly opening spell which saw his five overs cost just two runs, but Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Rahmat Shah proved much tougher to dislodge. The pair’s century stand came either side of a rain delay, after which the target was adjusted to 257 from 42 overs, and kicked on in style as the target loomed into view.

Rahmanullah was first to three figures, hitting three sixes in the 31st over before clearing the ropes three times in succession in the next, which also saw him bring up his century. He and Rahmat both retired shortly after, as Azmatullah Omarzai hit the winning runs with 23 balls to spare.

But the weather was not kind in Thiruvananthapuram through the warm-up fixtures and the theme sadly continued on Tuesday. India’s match with the Netherlands was abandoned without a ball being bowled, leaving both to now focus on their World Cup openers. The hosts begin against Australia on Sunday, with Netherlands opening up against Pakistan on Friday.

Brief Scores: Australia 351/7 in 50 overs (Glenn Maxwell 77, Cameron Green 50 not out; Usama Mir 2-31, Mohammad Nawaz 1-34) beat Pakistan 337 in 47.4 overs (Babar Azam 90, Iftikhar Ahmed 83; Marnus Labuschagne 3-78, Pat Cummins 2-34) by 14 runs

Sri Lanka 294 in 46.2 overs (Kusal Mendis 158, Pathum Nissanka 30; Mohammad Nabi 4-44, Mujeeb Ur Rahman 1-25) lost to Afghanistan 261/4 in 38.1 overs (Rahmanullah Gurbaz 119, Rahmat Shah 93; Kasun Rajitha 1-18, Lahiru Kumara 1-58) by six wickets (DLS method)

Source: IANS

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Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 2 (SocialNews.XYZ) South Africa captain Temba Bavuma will join the ICC Men's ODI World Cup squad in Delhi on Tuesday, the country's cricket board said on Monday.

Cricket South Africa in a statement said Bavuma "will travel back to India on Monday" and "will join up with the squad in Delhi on Tuesday".

While the Proteas have already arrived in India for the showpiece event, the right-handed batter flew back home last week due to family reasons.

Proteas' T20I skipper, Aiden Markram is at the helm in Bavuma’s absence for the warm-up matches, the first of which against Afghanistan was abandoned due to rain at the Greenfield International Stadium on Friday and the second against New Zealand, here on Monday.

South Africa will open their ODI World Cup campaign against 1996 champions Sri Lanka at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on October 7.

Source: IANS

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Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 2 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) on Monday announced that it has roped in former India captain Ajay Jadeja as its team mentor for the upcoming Men's ODI World Cup happening from October 5 to November 19 in India.

Jadeja captained India in 13 ODIs, and overall played 196 matches, becoming its eighth-highest run-getter in the format by scoring 5359 runs while averaging 37.47 with six hundreds and 30 fifties against his name, apart from playing three World Cups.

One of his most memorable ODI innings was his cameo of 45 off 25 balls in the 1996 Cricket World Cup quarter-final against Pakistan in Bengaluru, including smashing 40 runs off the final two overs against fast-bowling great Waqar Younis.

He also played 15 Tests for India from 1992 to 2000, scoring 576 runs at an average of 26.18 with four half-centuries to his name and a best individual score of 96. Jadeja, who made his first-class debut for Haryana in 1988, played 111 first-class and 291 List A games, scoring over 8000 runs with 31 hundreds and 88 fifties combined from both formats of the game.

After his international career was brought to a halt by a five-year ban due to match fixing, Jadeja worked in some movies as an actor. Though his plea of seeking permission to play international cricket was dismissed by the Delhi High Court, Jadeja did get back to playing domestic cricket for Delhi and later on, became captain-cum coach of the Rajasthan team.

Once his playing days were over, Jadeja ventured into cricket commentary and even served as head coach of Delhi team in 2015-16 season, but quit the role just a fortnight after being appointed into it.

Afghanistan, captained by Hashmatullah Shahidi, will open its 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup campaign against Bangladesh at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on October 7.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Oct 2 (SocialNews.XYZ) Ahead of 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup, Afghanistan’s premier leg-spinner Rashid Khan has lashed out at former Afghanistan Cricket Board Chief Executive Shafiq Stanikzai over ‘past compromises’.

Taking to social media platform ‘X’, formerly known as Twitter, Rashid also asked Stanikzai to stop spreading false information about the team, while claiming that Afghanistan is having its fittest squad till date for the upcoming ODI World Cup happening in India from October 5 to November 19.

“I think it’s the best and one of the most fit teams we have ever had for any of the mega events so far and I believe we can deliver to the best this time. Many compromises has been done during your management @ShafiqStanikzai in the past while selecting the teams for the Wold Cups which has costed the nation many important games.”

“Instead of spreading false information it should be better to support this bunch of great and best guys,” wrote Rashid. Stanikzai was the ACB Chief Executive from 2014-2019 and had also founded the T20 franchise tournament named ‘Afghanistan Premier League’. In his response, Stanikzai admitted to being “bewildered” by Rashid’s claims.

“My Dear Champ @rashidkhan_19 Your tweet has left me somewhat bewildered. It appears to be at odds with the sentiments you've previously expressed. Do you recall your past tweets where you lauded me, dedicating victories to my contributions to the ACB after my tenure?”

“Initially, I had no intention of responding to your tweet; I thought I'd save the ear-twitching for our next meeting. However, since you've accused me falsely and given your global star status, with millions of fans worldwide, and my own cricket administration role, with admirers across the globe, I feel compelled to set the record straight and remind you of my achievements for Afghan Cricket.”

Stanikzai went on to list what all was done in his tenure with ACB. “1. I meticulously crafted the team for the 2016 T20 World Cup, where Afghanistan won four games, including a victory against the reigning champions, West Indies.”

“2. I nurtured our U19 team, which clinched the Asia Cup and reached the World Cup semi-finals. 3. Every Afghan player recognized as a test cricketer owes their success to my dedication. 4. The domestic cricketers who hold the title of First-class cricketers are products of my management and compromises.”

“5. Your and Nabi's IPL selections, without prior exposure, were orchestrated and the result of my management. 6. The presence of 14 standard cricket stadiums in Afghanistan stands as a testament to my management.”

Stanikzai concluded by saying he hasn’t ever criticised Afghanistan or Rashid. “I still vividly recall our last phone conversation, your words of admiration for me, and concerns with the current system. Please understand, I haven't criticized you or the team. Nevertheless, I do possess profound insights into preparing a team and players for mega events.”

“My champion, your tweet did disappoint me, but rest assured, I still hold you in high regard and remain immensely proud of you and the entire team. I am, and will forever be, an ardent admirer of you and the Blue Tigers. With respect and best wishes,”

Afghanistan will open its 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup campaign against Bangladesh at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on October 7.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Oct 2 (SocialNews.XYZ) Former India opener Virender Sehwag is hoping that talismanic batter Virat Kohli ends up scoring a lot of centuries in the upcoming 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup and ends up becoming the leading run-scorer of the tournament.

Kohli is all set to play in his fourth Men’s ODI World Cup after participating in last three editions - in 2011, 2015, and 2019, first of which gave him a winner’s medal. In the 2019 World Cup, Kohli made 443 runs in nine innings, averaging 55.37, including five half-centuries.

“Cheeku (Virat Kohli) didn’t score a single century in the 2019 World Cup (in England). This year I hope he scores many hundreds and ends up as the leading run-scorer in the tournament. Then, I want him to be carried on the shoulders and get a round of the ground," said Sehwag to Cricbuzz.

Sehwag, a member of the 2011 World Cup winning team, went on to say that Kohli and captain Rohit Sharma deserve to win the upcoming tournament. Unlike Kohli, Rohit missed out on being a part of 2011 World Cup winning team and is now the team’s captain on the tournament’s return to home soil.

“These two (Rohit & Kohli) senior players deserve to win the World Cup. Rohit Sharma was so close to getting picked for the 2011 World Cup but missed out. Later he became the Badshah of ODIs, he deserves to win a World Cup trophy once because he is a fantastic player," he added.

India, the 1983 and 2011 champions, will open its campaign against five-time champions Australia on October 8 at the MA Chidambaram in Chennai. It’s the first time India is solely hosting the Men’s ODI World Cup and Sehwag wants the side to break a drought of winning global trophies, which has been there for a decade, in this year.

“The best part about this Indian team is that there is a good mix of youth and experience. The combinations are also very nice. I have full hope that the team will win the World Cup this year. There’s been a lot of emptiness after winning the tournament in 2011, now it is time for them to join this club. Crowd will be there to support you all.”

Source: IANS

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Hyderabad, Oct 2 (SocialNews.XYZ) Pakistan’s vice-captain Shadab Khan admitted that his recent performances weren’t up to the mark, but added that with some rest before the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup begins, he is now hopeful of giving a good performance in the tournament.

Shadab, the leg-spin all-rounder, has picked just 13 wickets in 11 ODIs this year. Moreover, he didn’t have a great time in the Asia Cup last month, picking only six wickets in five matches at an average of 40.83, leading to Pakistan not taking many wickets or getting control from its spinners in middle overs.

"From a cricketing point of view, the Asia Cup didn't go well, but that's the beauty of cricket: you learn from your mistakes, and there is always an opportunity to learn and play good cricket. After we lost the Asia Cup, we got a good rest, and I believe it's no more a skill game but a mental game, and it's the World Cup. You can make good decisions when you are relaxed mentally."

"I do understand that my recent form is not good, but I have the skills. Just that when you are not performing, you are mentally a bit down, but skill-wise, there is no issue. From the mental aspect, things have changed after I got the rest, and hopefully, we will give a good performance in the upcoming World Cup," Shadab was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz in a press conference.

Shadab also backed left-handed opener Fakhar Zaman to be back in form in time for the World Cup. Zaman has struggled to get runs of late, making only 65 runs in five innings in Asia Cup and didn't get to bat for Pakistan in their first warm-up match against New Zealand on October 29.

"He is a big player for us, an impactful player, and whenever he performs, the team wins. His three centuries this year have come in winning causes and every team wants this kind of player to play for their side. We have no doubt about his ability, and we back him as he is a world-class player," he added.

Shadab expressed firm belief in his view that the tournament will be won by the team which bowls the best on a given day. "This is my feeling: the team that bowls well will win the World Cup. Given the conditions, it will be difficult to contain the batters and pick wickets, given the nature of flat tracks and small boundaries."

"So I feel the team that bowls well will win the tournament, and we have world-class bowlers, and as a bowling unit, if we perform well we will become champions."

Source: IANS

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Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 2 (SocialNews.XYZ) Talismanic batter Virat Kohli is expected to join the Indian team here on Monday after flying to Mumbai from Guwahati due to a personal emergency. The Indian team landed in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday evening ahead of their second warm-up match against the Netherlands on Tuesday.

A report in Cricbuzz said a source from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that he went to Mumbai for personal reasons. "Virat will rejoin the team soon," the source was further quoted as saying in the report.

India’s first warm-up match against England at the Barsapara Cricket Ground in Guwahati was cancelled due to rain without a single ball bowled on Saturday. The report added that there is a chance that India's second warm-up match could also be affected by rain, either completely or partially.

Their practice session on Monday is also subject to weather being fine, which has thunderstorms being forecasted. “India will train from 2 to 5pm at the St Xaviers College Cricket Ground,” said an update from the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA).

The warm-up matches in Thiruvananthapuram have been affected by rain till now. The South Africa-Afghanistan game on September 29 was abandoned due to rain, while the Australia-Netherlands clash on September 30 became a 23-over contest but wasn’t completed due to rain.

South Africa are scheduled to play New Zealand in their second warm-up match on Monday before India play their game against Netherlands on Tuesday. India, the 1983 and 2011 champions, will open its campaign against five-time champions Australia on October 8 at the MA Chidambaram in Chennai. It’s the first time India is solely hosting the Men’s ODI World Cup.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Oct 1 (SocialNews.XYZ) South Africa’s middle-order batter David Miller believes the current side are capable of doing something special in the upcoming 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup, happening from October 5 to November 19 in India.

South Africa come into the tournament on the back of a 3-2 series win over Australia back home. The Proteas, yet to win the most coveted trophy in Men’s ODI cricket, will open their World Cup campaign against 1996 champions Sri Lanka at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on October 7.

"We genuinely believe that we can do something special. The reality is we haven't won a World Cup so there's no point brushing that under the carpet. But personally I don't live with those things on my shoulders. The past is the past. It doesn't impact me at all."

"It's about what's in front of you...the next ball, your next moment. I know the other guys are in the same mindset. We're looking at it as a chance to create history. What a brilliant opportunity this is. If we play well, we know we've got a helluva chance," said Miller to BBC.

South Africa will enter the mega event as the fourth-best team in Men’s ODI Rankings, and have five batters, including Miller, in the top 15 individual rankings list. Miller is averaging 60.7 with a strike-rate of 114.15 in the last World Cup cycle. He is backing his batting group to fire in Indian conditions.

"We have performed consistently well over the past four years. I'm not personally a stats-driven guy. But it's good to look at the numbers and know that the work we've been putting in has produced some positive contributions. For me it's about making a situational impact. Can I take the game on? Can I see a chase home?"

"That's where games are won and lost. I think we've proved some people wrong. Take Temba (Bavuma). He's had so much flak from a lot of people and he's basically just shoved it right back in their faces. He's a terrific captain and a phenomenal player in this format. It's a strong line-up. We back ourselves to compete with the bat," he added.

Miller also acknowledged that left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj will have a huge role to play in the World Cup. "We've been playing together since we were 11. It's actually an inspiration watching his progress. He's 'Mr Consistency'. He's such an important player for us."

He signed off by saying that despite unimpressive returns in other formats, South Africa have some optimism to do well in the upcoming tournament. "We know that things haven't been great in South African cricket all the time."

"But (new coach) Rob (Walter) has emphasised that we're representing a proud country and we have a chance to unite people through sport. We take that very seriously. The language and energy is really positive. We just can't wait to get stuck in and give it horns."

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Oct 1 (SocialNews.XYZ) Legendary England fast-bowler Stuart Broad has backed talismanic all-rounder Ben Stokes to show his true worth when the knockout matches happen in the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup, happening from October 5 to November 19 in India.

Ahead of the World Cup, Stokes made a stunning return to ODI cricket after initially retiring from the format last year through the series against New Zealand last month, which included hitting 15 fours and nine sixes in his amazing knock of 182.

Stokes, Player of the Match in the 2019 Men’s ODI World Cup final at Lord’s, which England won by the boundary count-back rule over New Zealand as the Super Over ended in a tie, also set the new record for the highest individual score by any batter in England men's ODIs.

“From an England perspective, Stokes will show his true worth in the knockout games. Because when the World Cup comes to a head, you want him in the middle order. His ability to cope with pressure is one of the main reasons he has been picked. It isn’t a quality that’s inherent.”

“You learn it from experience and Stokes learned from his lowest moment, in the final of 2016’s Twenty20 World Cup. Since getting hit for four sixes by Carlos Brathwaite, look at how he’s coped with pressure scenarios. Since then, England have won a couple of World Cups, and some Ashes Tests because of him,” wrote Broad in his column for Daily Mail on Sunday.

He also sees fast-bowling all-rounders Chris Woakes and Sam Curran as vital figures with the ball in England’s defence of the trophy starting from October 5 in Ahmedabad against New Zealand, in a re-match of the 2019 final.

“So, this time, if England are going to come out on top, it’ll be because the bowlers that have performed and I see Chris Woakes and Sam Curran as vital in this regard. I don’t know that the selectors will risk playing Mark Wood in every game, preserving his pace for when they need it the most, whereas I’d imagine Woakes and Curran will be penned in at No8 and No9, playing every game.”

Broad also noted that young batter Harry Brook was included at the last minute in Jason Roy’s place due to his overall ability instead of his skills in just 50-over format. “Harry Brook can bat anywhere from one to six, while both of those two are top-three players and although Brook wasn’t in the initial squad they picked, he was on the plane in most people’s minds. It was the right call to get him in.”

“Unfortunately for Jason, a back spasm arrived which allowed the opportunity for Malan to carry on the fine form he’s always shown in an England shirt. Sport often is about timing and it shows more evidence of a strength in depth that preceding generations have not had pre-World Cup.”

“The only other comparable decision was Jofra Archer replacing David Willey in the previous tournament in the UK. It’s the only time I can recall England leaving out a strong player from the squad. Brook has played just six one-day internationals but like Archer four years ago, he’s in for his overall potential not proven 50-over ability.”

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Oct 1 (SocialNews.XYZ) Legendary England fast-bowler Stuart Broad reckons India are overwhelming favorites to win the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup and added that if everything goes according to the plan for the hosts’ in the tournament, then they will be very difficult to stop.

India last won the Men’s ODI World Cup when they were co-hosts of the tournament in 2011, after winning the 1983 edition in England. Since winning the 2013 Champions Trophy, a global title has eluded them.

But with the trend of hosts’ winning the last three Men’s ODI World Cups and India winning Asia Cup last month has led to a sense of optimism around their chances this time. India will open their 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup campaign against Australia on October 8 in Chennai.

“If England manage to retain their World Cup title, it will be a phenomenal effort but my overriding feeling is that if India play their perfect tournament, they are going to be very difficult to stop.”

“Jos Buttler certainly has the team to challenge, one with the ability to post high totals, but I just think India, as hosts and the top-ranked ODI side, will be a hugely difficult proposition to get past.”

“Recent history shows you that home teams tend to prosper in 50-over World Cups: it was in India in 2011, and India won; the final was in Australia in 2015, Australia won the trophy; England won in 2019. So, on that basis alone, India would have to be huge favourites,” wrote Broad in his column for the Daily Mail on Sunday.

Broad, who played 2011 Men’s ODI World Cup, feels England, the defending champions, will be at a disadvantage due to constant traveling for playing matches in India. “Then take into account that they’re playing pretty decent cricket, and their key fast bowling star Jasprit Bumrah is coming back to full fitness.”

“Contrast to England. Without sounding like I am giving them excuses, they have got a pretty tough draw, to be honest. They do not play two games in the same location, instead travelling from city to city.”

“Others have the luxury of being able to book somewhere for a week and play two games. They do not. But the fact every team plays everyone else in the round robin stage means England would be absolutely distraught not to make the semis and final.”

Broad also thinks two-time runners-up New Zealand and 1992 champions Pakistan have it in them to be semi-finals contenders in 2023. “As for the other semi-finalists? Pakistan will be a threat. Their bowling is full of natural wicket-takers and is their huge strength. In players like Babar Azam they have some high quality batters but Haris Rauf and Shaheen Shah Afridi can blow opponents away.”

“I’d then probably say New Zealand over Australia. Why? Because, New Zealand are the ultimate tournament team. Put their team sheets next to each other and you’d always lean towards the Aussies with Steve Smith, David Warner, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, but New Zealand just find a way.”

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Oct 1 (SocialNews.XYZ) Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal opened up on his exclusion from India’s squad for the upcoming 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup, saying that he is now used to the omissions, something which has now happened with him in the last three global events. At the same time, Chahal added that he now wants to move on and focus on playing Tests for India.

Chahal did not find a place in India’s 15-member squad for the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup, happening on the home soil from October 5 to November 19. A regular in India’s white-ball squads since his debut in 2016, Chahal had played in 2019 Men’s ODI World Cup in England, picking 12 wickets.

“I understand that only fifteen players can be a part, because it’s a World Cup, where you can’t take 17 or 18. I do feel a little bad, but my motto in life is to move on. I’m used to it now… it’s been three World Cups (laughs),” Chahal was quoted as saying by Wisden India.

Since then, Chahal has not managed to make an ICC tournament appearance. While he missed out on the 2021 Men’s T20 World Cup, he was selected in the next edition of the tournament in Australia, where Chahal couldn’t get a game.

His exclusion from 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup was a huge talking point, with many former players like off-spin great Harbhajan Singh saying Chahal should have been taken in the squad. Chahal, meanwhile, flew to England for a short three-game county championship stint with Kent and is now focused on getting a chance to play Tests for India.

“That’s why I came here [at Kent] to play because I want to play cricket somewhere, somehow. I’m getting a chance here with a red ball, and I seriously want to play red ball for India. So it was a good experience for me.”

“I spoke to the coaches too, and they’re happy I’m playing somewhere, because you can practice as much in the nets, but match is match. I’m getting to play at a very good level here – first division, County – learning a lot here,” he added.

With Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin in the Indian ODI side for the World Cup, Chahal opined the competition for spin slots in the team is a motivation for him to do well and force his way back into the side.

“I don’t think too much in that sense (on competing with other spinners in the Indian team)’, because I know if I perform well, I’ll play. Someone or the other will eventually replace you in the future. That time will come someday.”

“I take up the challenge in this way: definitely, they are doing well and I appreciate that. The main goal is that India should win, because this is not an individual game. If I am part of the team or not, they are like my brothers. Obviously, I support India (team). I like the challenge: it tells me I need to work hard so that I come back.”

Source: IANS

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Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 1 (SocialNews.XYZ) Mitchell Starc took a brilliant hat-trick as Australia’s bowlers flexed their muscles against the Netherlands on another rain-interrupted day of warm-up matches for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.

The match here was reduced to just 23 overs per side because of consistent afternoon rain but Starc was worth the wait as he ripped through the Netherlands’ top order.

Further rain prevented a result, while the day’s other match between India and England was abandoned without a ball being bowled.

Magic Mitchell in top form 

With 49 wickets in his last two 50-over World Cups, Mitchell Starc knows how to peak at the perfect time for cricket’s biggest event – and it appears he has done so once again.

Chasing 167 to win, the Netherlands hoped for a fast start but Starc had other ideas. Taking the first over, he struck with just his fifth ball by trapping Max O’Dowd LBW for a duck and then bowled Wesley Barresi.

At the beginning of his second over, he completed the hat-trick by again careering into an unsuspecting batter’s stumps – this time Bas de Leede's.

Colin Ackermann’s unbeaten 31 offered some resistance before more rain fell in the 15th over, with the Netherlands 84 for six, and prevented a result. 

Earlier, Australia elected to bat and lost opener Josh Inglis in just the second over, but Steve Smith and Alex Carey staged a 57-run partnership before the wicketkeeper was bowled by Roelof van der Merwe for 28. 

Smith, who like Starc was a member of Australia’s 2015 World Cup-winning squad, top-scored for Australia with a fluent 55 and was supported by all-rounder Cameron Green (34) and Starc (24). 

India v England washed out 

Rain arrived just 10 minutes before the first ball was due to be bowled in Guwahati and did not relent, forcing India v England to be abandoned.

England, who start the defence of their title against New Zealand in the tournament’s opening game on Thursday, are due to play Bangladesh on Monday, while India play Netherlands on Tuesday. 

Brief score: Australia 166/7 in 23 overs (Steve Smith 55, Cameron Green 34; Roelof van der Merwe 2/12, Bas de Leede 2/25) v Netherlands 84/6 (Colin Ackermann 31 not out, Scott Edwards 14; Mitchell Starc 3/18, Sean Abbott 1/10) 

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Sep 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) Former captain Nasser Hussain said he's still unsure over how England will fit young batter Harry Brook into their batting line-up ahead of the defending champions starting their 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup campaign against New Zealand at Ahmedabad from October 5.

England included Brook in its final 15-member squad for the World Cup, with experienced opener Jason Roy being excluded to accommodate him at the eleventh hour. Brook had been out of England’s provisional 15-man squad, with many asking for his inclusion based on his red-hot form in shorter formats.

The Brook-Roy swap evoked Hussain replacing Nick Knight ahead of England’s opening match in the 1999 World Cup, but he laughed off those comparisons. "Not at all... I think they pretty much know five of their top six, to be honest."

"They still know it's going to be Bairstow, Malan, Root, Buttler... it's whether Harry Brook plays. They've obviously picked him, but how do they get him into the top six and have all their bowling options? They're not quite where they were, but they're certainly not 1999!" Hussain was quoted as saying by The Mirror.

He also feels that all is not over for Roy in international cricket, who missed England’s series win over New Zealand before the World Cup due to back spasms. "Certainly not chaotic, far from it. I think it's more ruthless than chaotic. It was his position to lose, and he didn't lose it through lack of form... he lost it through lack of fitness."

"Take nothing away from Jason Roy, he will be (remembered) as one our greatest ever white-ball cricketers. The other day here (at The Oval against New Zealand) when Stokes got his 182, they put up the list of highest scorers (for England). Roy was featuring on there."

"He can go nought, nought, nought - but then he'll get you a massive 150 or whatever. It just shows the talent they have. They wanted Brook in the end, and the injury to Roy opened that door. I don't think you should write off Jason Roy."

Since their 2019 World Cup triumph on home soil, England have played only 42 matches in the format, winning 22 while losing 16 of them. In between, they won the T20 World Cup in 2022 in Australia, while playing Ashes too. Hussain feels England couldn’t have done much in their ODI World Cup preparation due to other formats taking precedence.

"They're just looking at the schedule, and I absolutely agree with this. I think it's what boards need to do... every board should be focusing up until that T20 (World Cup next year) on T20 cricket. And when it's a 50-over year, you should be focusing on that."

"Unfortunately for England, occasionally that four-year (ODI World Cup) cycle clashes with the Ashes - as it did this summer - so they had to focus on the Ashes. Before that was the T20 World Cup, and they had to focus on that."

"They won that T20 World Cup, and they had a pretty good Ashes as well. They've got it just about right. These lads play so much white-ball cricket now anyway, a lot of them have played in India. I don't see any other option rather than the one they've taken."

Source: IANS

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Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) South Africa are hoping to have captain Temba Bavuma back with the team ahead of starting their campaign in the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup by 'early next week', after the right-handed batter flew back home due to family reasons, thus missing warm-up matches.

“It is a personal situation. We are just looking forward to him coming back. There is nothing wrong with Temba personally. It is still early days in this World Cup campaign. A guy like Temba has played a lot recently and played very well. We are hoping to have him back early next week, with the impact on the team negligible,” head coach Rob Walter was quoted as saying by iol.co.za.

Aiden Markram will be at the helm in Bavuma’s absence for the warm-up matches, the first of which against Afghanistan was abandoned due to rain at the Greenfield International Stadium on Friday.

South Africa are already without fast-bowlers Anrich Nortje and Sisanda Magala, both of whom were ruled out of the entire tournament due to suspected stress fracture in the back, and left knee injury respectively.

South Africa will open their ODI World Cup campaign against 1996 champions Sri Lanka at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on October 7. For now, Walter is hoping that the Proteas get some game time ahead of the tournament opener through second warm-up match against New Zealand, who won their warm-up match against Pakistan in Hyderabad.

“We’ve had three excellent days of training. But it is never great missing game-time. We are fortunate that we have played recently. I think we are in a good position. We would have loved to had a run out, but hopefully we can get one in two days’ time,” he added.

Source: IANS

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Guwahati, Sep 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) India’s ace off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin admitted that he did not think of being in the side’s 15-member squad for the upcoming Men’s ODI World Cup, adding that life can be full of surprises.

On September 28, the last day of finalising World Cup squads, Ashwin replaced injured left-arm spinner Axar Patel in India's final 15-member for the mega event on home soil. Ashwin, who made a comeback to the format in the recent 2-1 ODI series win against Australia, joins Virat Kohli as one of only two players in the squad who also featured in the 2011 World Cup winning campaign.

“I would have said that you were joking. Life is full of surprises. Honestly did not think I would be here. Circumstances have made sure I am here today, the team management have shown trust,” said Ashwin in a chat with broadcasters before the warm-up match against England was delayed due to rain in Guwahati.

Ashwin is now the only specialist off-spinner in India's 2023 World Cup squad, and having played 115 ODIs, and picking 155 wickets at an economy rate of 4.94 since his debut in the format in 2010. He added that his attention is on enjoying the tournament to the fullest.

“All you can do is turn the ball both ways, and I think I can do it. Dealing with pressure is paramount in these tournaments and it will dictate how the tournament goes. Being in a good space, enjoying this tournament will keep me in good stead. This could be my last World Cup for India, so enjoying the tournament is of utmost importance.”

Hosts India, the 1983 and 2011 champions, will open its campaign against five-time champions Australia on October 8 at the MA Chidambaram in Chennai. It’s the first time India is solely hosting the Men’s ODI World Cup.

Source: IANS

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Hyderabad, Sep 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) After making 54 off 50 balls on his return to competitive action in New Zealand’s warm-up match against Pakistan, Kane Williamson was pleased over how his right knee held up pretty well and added that achieving this wasn’t a reality over five months ago.

There were question marks over Williamson’s participation in the event after rupturing the ACL in his right knee in March, while fielding in the opening match of IPL 2023 for Gujarat Titans, and had to undergo surgery on return to home.

Since then, his rehab and recovery progressed in such a manner that he was able to play Friday’s warm-up match as a specialist batter, using his timing and wrists to perfection against Pakistan’s bowlers.

"Just great to get through some batting out in the middle and be part of a match, which was really nice and it (knee) held up pretty well. (It needed) a little bit of icing afterwards but it's all part of the process.”

“Yeah, it wasn't a reality certainly five months ago and (I've) been quite fortunate with some of that recovery and to be named in the squad is really exciting for me and just really looking forward to getting out there again. It was nice to do that in the match,” Williamson was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo after the match ended.  

Williamson, unavailable for October 5 opening match against England in Ahmedabad, will be aiming to bat and field in the side’s second warm-up match against South Africa in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday. Though he hobbled on some occasions while batting on Friday, Williamson was able to share a 137-run partnership with centurion Rachin Ravindra.

"It was largely pretty good, which was pleasing. Nice to sort of build on that. It was a fantastic hit-out obviously. Pakistan are an outstanding side. I mean both teams were trying to get what they wanted out of it, in terms of bowlers getting overs they needed and time in the legs.”

“So, it's an exercise, but also nice to compete and do all those things. As a bowling unit and batting unit, plenty to take away from it. There's always things to work on and it was a great batting performance today. It was a really good surface and it's nice that we were able to put together partnerships and get time in the middle," he added.

Head coach Gary Stead was happy with Williamson's batting in the warm-up game and also explained how the side plans to ramp up his participation in a game in future. "It was great to see Kane out there albeit only with the bat.”

“We're hoping he will field 20-25 overs in the next game and we are slowly building him up towards that and making sure he can land and dive and do what he needs to do in the field to take full part for us in the future parts of the tournament."

"It was great to see Kane looking like he hadn't been away from the game. So, awesome to see and I think pretty warming overall from the team perspective that we know he's pretty close to getting to full fitness; not quite there yet, but we have another step on the way back."

Source: IANS

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London, Sep 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) Ahead of entering the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup as defending champions, England’s white-ball captain Jos Buttler said he wants his team to be aggressive, take on the game and be optimistic during the upcoming competition in India.

After leading England to Men’s T20 World Cup glory in 2022 in Australia, Buttler will be looking to add one-day success to his T20 crown when England try to retain their title in India from October 5 to November 19.

“I want us to be really aggressive, take the game on and always look to be positive. Maybe we need to get back to that a bit more. I want us to push boundaries and we can’t take it for granted, we’ll do that every time. Just because we’ve done it before doesn’t mean it will happen game after game,” Buttler was quoted as saying by Daily Mail.

Four years on from playing a key part in England getting the better of New Zealand to lift the ODI World Cup trophy for the first time, Buttler will be leading the team from the front as they attempt to defend their title, taking over from an inspirational leader in Eoin Morgan, who retired from international cricket last year.

“It’s been challenging at times, definitely, in different ways. But the captaincy came at a good time in my career. I was getting into my 30s and doing something I hadn’t done before was exciting.”

“I’ve just tried to be myself. That’s the big learning curve I’ve taken from it. I obviously worked closely with Eoin and we have a lot of similar views on the game, so I’m not too different in the way I want us to play,” added Buttler.

With a single-minded drive and a daring approach to playing an attacking brand of game in ODIs, Buttler is eager to re-experience the feel of winning a World Cup for the third time in 2023, starting from the tournament opener against New Zealand on October 5 in Ahmedabad.

“It’s incredibly satisfying to have won World Cups in 50-over and 20-over cricket. When you catch yourself saying that, you think it’s an incredibly cool thing to achieve, but also I’m hungry to achieve more and experience those feelings again.”

“I think 2019 was extra special because it was the first time we’d experienced anything like that and it was at Lord’s. Being part of the 2015 World Cup and being part of the turnaround was really something.”

“And the T20 World Cup was incredibly special in its own right. It was different being captain and I experienced a different journey, but both were fantastic. Hopefully there is more to come. We feel ready for what’s ahead of us.”

For many of England's key players, the upcoming ODI World Cup could be a last dance moment, but Buttler said no one is having such thoughts now, including himself. “I don’t know anyone’s intentions and I haven’t heard anything about international retirement from anyone in our group.”

“I don’t think anyone’s thinking that at the moment because they’re focused on the team and playing well at the start of an exciting campaign. But there might be individuals after this World Cup who want to make some kind of decision.”

“We don’t need to add pressure by saying this is the last dance or anything like that. We’re looking forward to the World Cup and we’ve got a really strong group of players. Any time you get to represent your country at a World Cup is very exciting and needs your full attention. You don’t want anyone thinking too far past it.”

Source: IANS

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