Daily Archives: July 28, 2023

Cricket Highlights, 28 July: MLC 2023 (Qualifier) – Seattle Orcas vs Texas Super Kings

Cricket Highlights, 28 July: MLC 2023 (Qualifier) – Seattle Orcas vs Texas Super Kings

Cricket Highlights, 28 July: MLC 2023 (Qualifier) – Seattle Orcas vs Texas Super Kings

Seattle Orcas vs Texas Super Kings (Qualifier) – Highlights

Seattle Orcas has registered a massive nine-wicket victory over Texas Super Kings with 30 balls to spare in the Major Cricket League (MLC) 2023 qualifier today. Along with that, they’ve confirmed the final as the first team of the tournament.

Texas Super Kings captain Faf du Plessis decided to bat first after winning the toss. The Texas Super Kings were able to score only 126 runs for 9 wickets in the scheduled 20 overs due to the assertive bowling of the Seattle Orcas bowlers. In reply, Seattle Orcas cruised to victory with the loss of just 1 wicket with 5 overs in hand.

 

The batters of the Texas Super Kings started well. They picked up 42 runs after losing 2 wickets in 6 overs of power play. However, opener du Plessis (5) fell victim to Imad Wasim before that in the last ball of the 3rd over of the innings. Devon Conway then departed for 24 off 19 balls. 

 

After that, the innings of the Texas Super Kings collapsed like a house of cards. No batsman came to the wicket to accelerate the team’s run-wheel speed. Milind Kumar (5 runs off 10 balls) returned with the team’s 50 runs. Cody Chetty returned when the team total was 63 runs. He scored 24 runs off 21 balls. Another batsman Mitchell Santner (2) went back for 66 runs.

 

After that, the Texas Super Kings were knocked out of the match as David Miller (16) returned to the pavilion being a victim of Andrew Tye at the team’s 92 runs. However, bowling all-rounder Daniel Sams did not give up. He was fighting alone. As a result, the Texas Super Kings scored 100 runs in 102 balls.  

In the end, Sams played a fighting innings of 26 runs off 25 balls, but no other batsman on the team could give him worthy company. Besides, Calvin Savage made 14 runs off 11 balls for the Texas Super Kings.

 

Pacer Andrew Tye snapped the maximum number of three wickets with 32 runs in 4 overs for Seattle Orcas. Spinner Imad Wasim picked up 2 wickets for 23 runs in 4 overs. Besides, Harmeet Singh and Cameron Gannon got 1 wicket each.

Chasing an easy target of 127 runs, opener Nauman Anwar became a victim of pacer Rusty Theron in the 2nd over of the innings. He returned to the pavilion scoring just 2 runs in 6 balls for the team’s 10 runs. But after that, the innings of Seattle Orcas did not go back foot. For the 2nd wicket, wicket-keeper batsmen Quinton de Kock and Shehan Jayasuriya put together an impeccable partnership of 117 runs off 78 balls.  

 

De Kock has been on top of the bowlers. As a result, he picked up a half-century in 31 balls smashing 4 fours and 3 sixes. However, Jayasuriya was giving de Kock worthy company at the other end of the wicket. As a result, he was unbeaten with 31 runs off 34 balls. On the other hand, de Kock played a devastating unbeaten innings of 88 runs off 50 balls and left the field winning the game for his team. Where there were 10 fours and 4 sixes.

 

De Kock played the match-winning innings and was adjudged Player of the Match. On the other hand, the Texas Super Kings were defeated and they will face MI New York tomorrow in the challenger match. And the winning team in that match will finally take the field in the final match against the Seattle Orcas on Sunday.

 

Seattle Orcas vs Texas Super Kings Scoreboard

Texas Super Kings – 126/9 (20.0)

Seattle Orcas – 127/1 (15.0)

Result – Seattle Orcas won by 9 wickets

Player of the match – Quinton de Kock

 

Cricket Highlights, 28 July: MLC 2023 (Qualifier) – Seattle Orcas vs Texas Super Kings Quinton de Kock

Seattle Orcas vs Texas Super Kings Playing XIs

Seattle Orcas

Wayne Parnell (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Shehan Jayasuriya, Nauman Anwar, Heinrich Klaasen, Dwaine Pretorius, Shubham Ranjane, Imad Wasim, Harmeet Singh, Cameron Gannon, and Andrew Tye.

Texas Super Kings

Faf du Plessis (c), Devon Conway (wk), Milind Kumar, Cody Chetty, David Miller, Daniel Sams, Mitchell Santner, Calvin Savage, Mohammad Mohsin, Gerald Coetzee, and Rusty Theron.

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Major League Cricket 2023 Cricket Prediction | Challenger: MI New York vs Texas Super Kings

Major League Cricket 2023 Cricket Prediction | Challenger: MI New York vs Texas Super Kings

Major League Cricket 2023 Cricket Prediction | Challenger: MI New York vs Texas Super Kings

Match Details

Match

MI New York vs Texas Super Kings, Challenger | Major League Cricket 2023   

Date

29/07/2023 (Saturday)

Time

05:30 (GMT+5) / 06:00 (GMT+5.5) / 06:30 (GMT+6)

Format

T20

Venue

Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas

MI New York vs Texas Super Kings at a Glance

  • The Texas Super Kings have lost two matches in a row, and their batsmen have struggled.
  • MI New York is led by Rashid Khan and Trent Boult, providing for a potent attack.
  • Nicholas Pooran, Pollard, and Tim David are the bats for MI New York.

MI New York vs Texas Super Kings Team Preview

MI New York

MI New York was one of the league’s worst performers, but according to the tournament’s style, they managed to sneak into the playoffs with only two victories from five games. They would be very confident going into this match, however, as they have gained momentum as we have approached the playoffs.   

Monak Patel and Shayan Jahangir are doing well at the top, and they are expecting a fantastic performance. Pooran, Dewald Brewis, and Pollard form a powerful middle order that should do well here. Tim David, along with David Weise and Rashid Khan, must score rapid runs down the order. Trent Boult and Nosthush Kenjige bowled exceptionally effectively in the previous game and will try to maintain that trend in this game. Rashid Khan thrives under pressure and must bowl good lines in the middle overs with David Weise.

Texas Super Kings

The Texas Super Kings looked great at the start of the tournament and held second place for the most part. They finished second in the league with three victories from five matches, only to lose to Seattle Orcas in the quarter-final. None of their veterans batted, and they could only achieve an under-par score batting first.

Devon Conway has scored runs in this tournament, and he and Faf du Plessis will want to set up a huge opening wicket stand. David Miller, Cody Chetty, and Milind Kumar must form middle-order alliances. The bowling assault must recover from their dismal performance in the previous game. Mitchell Santner has extensive experience and will be required to bowl tight spells in the middle overs alongside Gerald Coetzee and Calvin Savage. Kumar and Mohammad Mohsin will also need to perform well.

MI New York vs Texas Super Kings Team Playing Squads

MI New York Squads

Major League Cricket 2023 Cricket Prediction | Challenger: MI New York vs Texas Super Kings MI New York

Kieron Pollard (c), Nicholas Pooran (wk), Shayan Jahangir, Tim David, Monank Patel, Dewald Brevis, David Wiese, Nosthush Kenjige, Rashid Khan, Trent Boult, and Ehsan Adil.

Texas Super Kings Squads

Major League Cricket 2023 Cricket Prediction | Challenger: MI New York vs Texas Super Kings Texas Super Kings

Faf du Plessis (c), Devon Conway (wk), Milind Kumar, Cody Chetty, David Miller, Mitchell Santner, Calvin Savage, Daniel Sams, Gerald Coetzee, Rusty Theron, and Mohammad Mohsin.

MI New York vs Texas Super Kings Team Form in Last 5 Matches

MI New York – W L W L W

Texas Super Kings – L W L W L

MI New York vs Texas Super Kings outfield report

MI New York vs Texas Super Kings outfield reportMajor League Cricket 2023 Cricket Prediction | Challenger: MI New York vs Texas Super Kings MI New York vs Texas Super Kings outfield report

It is a small field, and establishing winning totals has traditionally been difficult at this facility. The team pursuing the score has always had the upper hand. This is a high-stakes game, and we expect the side that wins the toss to bowl first.

The skies over Dallas will be clear, and we anticipate favorable batting conditions.

The pitch will be flat, allowing batsmen to play their strokes and score rapid runs. On this track, bowlers have no room for error. The team that bats first will try to score roughly 180 runs.

 

MI New York vs Texas Super Kings Prediction

Winning the toss

  • MI New York

Player of the Match

Most sixes

  • MI New York – Nicholas Pooran
  • Texas Super Kings – Devon Conway

Most wickets

  • MI New York – Trent Boult
  • Texas Super Kings – Gerald Coetzee

Most runs

  • MI New York – Nicholas Pooran
  • Texas Super Kings – Devon Conway

Team Scores Batting First

  • MI New York – 170+
  • Texas Super Kings – 160+

 

According to our prediction, MI New York will win this match.

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Cricket Highlights, 28 July: West Indies vs India (1st ODI)

Cricket Highlights, 28 July: West Indies vs India (1st ODI)

Cricket Highlights, 28 July: West Indies vs India (1st ODI)

West Indies vs India (1st ODI)

The visiting India had to struggle to get a win despite the host West Indies being bowled out for just 114 runs. Ishan Kishan alone scored 52 runs, but they lost 5 wickets to make the remaining 63 runs. India cruised to a 5-wicket victory in the first ODI of the series against the West Indies in Barbados on Thursday (July 27).

 

Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja played a big role with the ball in India’s victory. Kuldeep scalped the maximum number of 4 wickets for 6 runs in just 3 overs. He bowled 2 maiden overs on the day. As a result, he was also selected as the player of the match. On the other hand, Jadeja took the second-highest 3 wickets conceding 37 runs in 6 overs.  

 

Indian captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and decided to field first. Shardul Thakur picked up wickets for the Men in Blues in the beginning. After that, the Caribbeans lost 3 wickets within 45 runs under the attack of Hardik Pandya and the debutant Mukesh Kumar. Captain Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer tried to take charge of the team in the fourth wicket. But Jadeja did not allow them to make a pair of more than 43 runs.

 

At the end of 15 overs, the hosts scored 88 runs for 3 wickets. From that position, the Caribbean’s innings ended after scoring 114 runs in 23 overs. In other words, the last 7 wickets of the host team fell down to score just 26 runs. The two spinners Jadeja and Kuldeep attacked the Caribbeans from both sides.

After the fall of the fourth wicket for 88 runs, something unexpected on the innings of the Caribbeans. Jadeja bowled Hetmyer (11), who returned to the ODI team after two long years, in the 16th over of the innings. This Indian spinner hunted a pair in his next over. He quickly sent back Rovman Powell (4) and Romario Shepherd (0) to the dressing room.

 

Then Kuldeep did the work of trimming the tail off. He kept taking one wicket after another. Hope was playing alone at the end. As the ninth batter, Kuldeep also showed him the way to the dressing room. Hope got lbw scoring 43 off 45 balls. Apart from that, 22 runs from 18 balls came from the bat of Alick Athanaze.  

Skipper Rohit did not open the innings after getting an easy target. He gave opportunities to the others in the team. Shubman Gill and Ishan started the innings for the team. Ishan scored 52 runs, but Shubman got out with just 7 runs. He was caught at slip while playing the ball outside the off stump.

 

Suryakumar Yadav played in place of Virat Kohli at number three but could not score well. He returned to the pavilion after scoring 19 runs off 25 balls. Hardik, who came down at number four, was unlucky. Bowler Yannic Cariah went to grab a catch of Ishan, but he failed. However, the ball hit his hands and broke the wicket towards the non-striker. Hardik tried to return but could not place the bat on the ground. He got out for just 5 runs.

Then an opportunity came to Shardul. Going down to bat at number five, he got out for just one run. In the end, Rohit confirmed the victory with Jadeja. Jadeja remained unbeaten on 16 runs and Rohit on 12 runs.

Gudakesh Motie took the highest number of 2 wickets for West Indies. Besides Jayden Seales and Yannic Cariah took 1 wicket each. The second match of the three-match series will be played next Saturday (July 29). After that, the last match will be held after a break of two days.

 

West Indies vs India Scoreboard

West Indies – 114/10 (23.0)

India – 118/5 (22.5)

Result – India won by 5 wickets

Player of the match – Kuldeep Yadav

Cricket Highlights, 28 July: West Indies vs India (1st ODI) Ishan Kishan

West Indies vs India Playing Xis

West Indies

Shai Hope (c & wk), Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Alick Athanaze, Rovman Powell, Shimron Hetmyer, Romario Shepherd, Dominic Drakes, Yannic Cariah, Jayden Seales, and Gudakesh Motie.

 

India

Rohit Sharma (c), Ishan Kishan (wk), Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Shardul Thakur, Umran Malik, and Mukesh Kumar.

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Cricket Highlights, 24 July: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan (2nd Test)

Cricket Highlights, 24 July: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan (2nd Test)

Cricket Highlights, 24 July: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan (2nd Test)

Sri Lanka vs Pakistan (2nd Test)

Sri Lanka and Pakistan met in the 2nd match of the 2-match Test series in Sri Lanka on July 24. In that thrilling match, Sri Lanka could not survive in front of Pakistan’s great players, so they had to leave the field with a loss of 1 innings and 222 runs. At the same time, Abdullah Shafique scored a double century for Pakistan and won the man of the match title. Besides, Agha Salman took the man of the series.

 

Sri Lanka is unable to compete with Pakistan on its own turf. They took a significant hit in the first innings of the second test in Colombo after losing the first in Galle. In the 1st innings, Nasim Shah-Abrar Ahmed bowled out the Lankans for 166 runs in 48.4 overs. However, Sri Lanka decided to bat at home after winning the toss. When Shan Masood’s superb throw ran out Nishan Madushka (4) at the start of the team’s 9 runs, the Lankans began to struggle.

 

The second wicket was lost by the home team for 23 runs. Kushal Mendis (9) arrived this time with the loss of his wicket. Then, the seasoned Angelo Mathews failed to inspire the team. He came back for 9 runs off Nasim. After that, Nasim struck Dimuth Karunaratne (17) with an excellent delivery in his subsequent over. Four wickets were lost by the Lankans for a total of 36 runs.

 

Then, that initial catastrophe was overcome by Dinesh Chandimal and Dhananjaya de Silva in the fifth wicket. Using 119 balls, they scored 85 runs in total. The Sri Lankans appeared to have changed course. But then Nasim struck once more. This time Chandimal (34). Similarly, the following section is all by Abrar Ahmed. Abrar’s leg-spin bowling destroyed Sri Lanka. In his subsequent three overs, the Lankans lost three wickets.

 

A golden duck shot by Sadeera Samarawickrama. After getting a 50, Dhananjaya de Silva also fell victim to Abrar. Dhananjaya hit nine fours and one six in his 57-off-68-ball total. In Abrar’s following over, Prabath Jayasuriya (1) was out by being run out. Abrar also claimed the final two Lankan wickets. Ramesh Mendis, who scored 27 from 44 balls, was the last batsman to attempt a comeback and ultimately succumbed to the leg-spinner.

 

For 69 runs, Abrar grabbed 4 wickets. Nasim took 3 wickets for 41 runs. One wicket was taken by Shaheen Shah Afridi.

By knocking Sri Lanka out for 166 runs in the first innings, Pakistan put itself in a good position to win the match. The day was over with 145 runs and 2 wickets for Babar Azam’s squad. Rain prevented the entire game from being played on the second day, but Pakistan pulled away from Sri Lanka on the third. They had 563 runs for the loss of 5 wickets by the third day. Pakistan gained ground by 397 runs in the meanwhile. The next step was to determine where Babar Azma’s team ended. The innings were afterward declared to have 576 runs.

 

Imam-ul-Haq, one of the two Pakistani openers, was out for 6 runs. After that, Shaan Masood and Abdullah Shafique combined for 107 runs. In 47 balls, Shan Masood scored 51 runs. Following that, Babar Azam and Abdullah Shafique combined for 89 runs. Then, Babar Azam was ejected after scoring 39 runs.

After that, With Saud Shakeel, Abdullah Shafique formed a 109-run partnership for the fourth wicket. After scoring 57 runs, Saud Shakeel was out. Then, Sarfraz Ahmed left the field hurt after scoring 14 runs.

 

Eventually, having faced 326 balls With 19 fours and 4 sixes, Abdullah Shafique scored 201 runs before being removed. Agha Salman, though, attacked the Lankan bowlers in the pair for the sixth wicket. Using 152 balls, Agha Salman scored 132 runs. Moreover, he made 15 fours and 1 six. By the finish, Mohammad Rizwan had 50 runs and was still unbeaten.

 

The hosts may have believed they could at least put up a fight in the second inning. However, two bowlers, Noman Ali, and Naseem Shah, put an end to the Lankans. For the Lankans, Angelo Mathews battled by himself. But in the end, the seasoned batter held on without being defeated. With seven fours and two sixes, Mathews scored 63 from 127 balls. In their second innings, the Lankans amassed 188 runs to be declared out after 67.4 overs. As a result, they departed the field with a loss of 1 inning and 222 runs.

For Pakistan, Noman Ali grabbed 7 wickets by himself, for 70 runs. The final three wickets fell to Nasim for 44 runs. All three wickets were bold out.

 

Sri Lanka vs Pakistan Scoreboard

Sri Lanka (1st innings) – 166/10 (48.4)

Pakistan (1st innings) – 576/5 d (134.0)

Sri Lanka (2nd innings) – 188/10 (67.4)

Pakistan (2nd innings) – 

Result – Pakistan won by an innings and 222 runs

Player of the match – Abdullah Shafique

Player of the series – Agha Salman

Cricket Highlights, 24 July: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan (2nd Test) Agha Salman

Sri Lanka vs Pakistan Playing Xis

 

Sri Lanka

Dimuth Karunaratne (c), Sadeera Samarawickrama (wk), Kusal Mendis, Dinesh Chandimal, Ramesh Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva, Prabath Jayasuriya, Angelo Mathews, Asitha Fernando, Nishan Madushka, Dilshan Madushanka

 

Pakistan

Babar Azam (c), Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk), Imam-ul-Haq, Saud Shakeel, Noman Ali, Agha Salman, Shaheen Afridi, Shan Masood, Naseem Shah, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed

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Cricket Highlights, 28 July: MLC 2023 (Eliminator) – Washington Freedom vs MI New York

Cricket Highlights, 28 July: MLC 2023 (Eliminator) – Washington Freedom vs MI New York

Cricket Highlights, 28 July: MLC 2023 (Eliminator) – Washington Freedom vs MI New York

Washington Freedom vs MI New York (Eliminator) – Highlights

MI New York and Washington Freedom faced each other in an eliminator match of Major League Cricket starting this year. Batting first in that match, MI New York set a moderate target in the allotted 20 overs. But Washington Freedom couldn’t reach the target as the scheduled 20 overs ended. As a result, they were eliminated from the series with a loss of 16 runs. On the other hand, Dewald Brevis won the man of the match title by batting well for MI New York.

 

Washington Freedom’s Captain won the toss and chose to bowl first and invited MI New York to bat. Batting first, the MI New York openers couldn’t get off to a good start. They lost 3 wickets for the team’s 41 runs. Opener Monank Patel left the field after being run out first. He scored only 5 runs in 10 balls. Nicholas Pooran faced no less shame. After playing 10 balls, he scored only 1 run and was bowled out by Saurabh Netravalkar. Then Shayan Jahangir returned to the pavilion in the 10th over. He scored 25 runs off 27 balls with the help of 3 fours. 

 

Then Dewald Brevis and Tim David came on the field and together they took the team’s total to 116 runs. They also made a pair of 75 runs in 40 balls. But in the 16th over, Tim David returned to the dressing room after falling into the trap of LBW. He scored 23 runs off 12 balls with 1 four and 2 sixes before getting out. After that, Dewald Brevis himself left the field at the team’s 122 runs. He scored maximum runs for them. He scored 57 runs off 41 balls with the help of 4 fours and 3 sixes.

 

Besides, David Wiese scored 3 runs from 4 balls and Rashid Khan scored 2 runs from 5 balls. In the end, Steven Taylor was unbeaten on 15 runs from 12 balls with the help of 1 six. In the end, their innings stopped at 141 runs after losing 7 wickets with 10 runs extra.

Saurabh Netravalkar took 2 wickets for 25 runs in 4 overs for Washington Freedom. Besides, Marco Jansen, Justin Dill, and Akeal Hossain took 1 wicket each. 

 

Batting with a target of 142 runs, Washington Freedom’s innings stopped at 125 runs after losing 9 wickets as the scheduled 20 overs ran out. No one can cross the 30-run barrier for them. Marco Janssen scored the highest run for them. He scored 28 runs off 18 balls with the help of 1 four and 3 sixes. Andries Gous scored 24 runs with the help of 4 fours after playing 25 balls. Mukhtar Ahmed scored 19 runs from 19 balls with the help of 1 four and 1 six. Glenn Phillips scored 20 runs off 19 balls. Akeal Hossain scored 11 runs off 14 balls with the help of 1 four. The rest, no one could reach the 2-digit house. 

 

Mathew Short scored 8 runs, Captain Moises Henriques scored 2 runs, Obus Pienaar scored 4 runs, and Justin Dill scored 3 runs. Also, Anrich Nortje remained unbeaten on 4 runs, and Saurabh Netravalkar on 1 run. 

Trent Boult took 4 wickets alone for MI New York. Nosthush Kenjige took 2 wickets. Besides, David Wiese took 1 wicket.

 

Washington Freedom vs MI New York Scoreboard

MI New York – 141/7 (20.0)

Washington Freedom – 125/9 (20.0)

Result – MI New York won by 16 runs

Player of the match – Dewald Brevis 

 

Cricket Highlights, 28 July: MLC 2023 (Eliminator) – Washington Freedom vs MI New York         Dewald Brevis

Washington Freedom vs MI New York Playing XIs

Washington Freedom

Moises Henriques (c), Andries Gous (wk), Mukhtar Ahmed, Obus Pienaar, Akeal Hosein, Marco Jansen, Justin Dill, Glenn Phillips, Anrich Nortje, Matthew Short, Saurabh Netravalkar

MI New York

Nicholas Pooran (c & wk), Monank Patel, Steven Taylor, David Wiese, Rashid Khan, Tim David, Nosthush Kenjige, Trent Boult, Dewald Brevis, Shayan Jahangir, Ehsan Adil 

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Crawley and Root Propel England with a Record-breaking Partnership

Crawley and Root Propel England with a Record-breaking Partnership

Crawley and Root Propel England with a Record-breaking Partnership

In a thrilling display of cricketing prowess, Zak Crawley and Joe Root managed to propel England to a commanding position in the fourth Ashes Test at Old Trafford. Their breathtaking partnership after lunch on day two left the spectators in awe and cemented England’s dominance over Australia.

 

The Mind-Blowing Innings of Zak Crawley

Zak Crawley’s explosive knock of 189 off just 182 balls was nothing short of a cricketing spectacle. With impeccable stroke-making and fearless aggression, Crawley swung the Manchester Test England’s way, stunning both fans and opponents alike. His innings showcased his immense talent and potential as an opener for England.

 

A Partnership for the Ages

The partnership between Zak Crawley and Joe Root was nothing short of historic. Coming together at the fall of Moeen Ali’s wicket, they took charge of the game and put Australia’s bowling attack under immense pressure. The duo’s remarkable camaraderie and understanding in the middle was evident as they orchestrated a run-fest that left the opposition clueless.

 

Record-Breaking Run Rate

During the second session on day two, England amassed a staggering 178 runs at a jaw-dropping run rate of 7.16. This display of batting excellence was the highest run rate witnessed in the ongoing Ashes series, showcasing England’s dominance and superiority on their home turf.

 

Double-Century Stand in Test History

Crawley and Root’s partnership of 206 off just 178 balls created a monumental record. It became the double-century partnership with the highest recorded run-rate in Test history, a feat that reverberated across the cricketing world. Their ability to score at such a blistering pace set a new standard for partnerships in Test cricket.

 

Crawley’s Batting Prowess in Ashes Innings

Zak Crawley’s strike-rate of 103.84 during this innings ranks as the second-highest in an Ashes innings of 150 or more runs. This puts him in an elite category, second only to Adam Gilchrist’s legendary innings at Edgbaston in 2001. Crawley’s performance was not only a personal triumph but also added to the legacy of England’s proud cricketing history.

 

Crawley’s Impact on England’s Ashes Quest

With his magnificent 189, Zak Crawley has undoubtedly given England a tremendous boost in their quest to level the Ashes series. His display of aggressive batting and fearlessness has provided England with the momentum needed to take on the formidable Australian team.

 

England’s Strong Position at Stumps

At the end of day two, England had amassed a formidable total of 384/4, taking a lead of 67 runs over Australia. This strong position puts England in the driver’s seat and sets the stage for an enthralling contest in the remaining days of the Test.

 

As the game enters day three, England will be determined to further extend their first-innings lead and put the Australians under pressure. With the dynamic partnership of Crawley and Root setting the tone, England will look to capitalize on their momentum and consolidate their advantage. In conclusion, Zak Crawley and Joe Root’s record-breaking partnership in the fourth Ashes Test has propelled England to new heights. Their aggressive stroke-play, historic run-rate, and brilliant understanding in the middle have left an indelible mark on cricketing history.

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Pakistan’s Sensational Win Puts India in Good Company

Pakistan’s Sensational Win Puts India in Good Company

Pakistan's Sensational Win Puts India in Good Company

In a thrilling display of cricket prowess, Pakistan has risen to the top of the ICC World Test Championship standings with a sensational four-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test held at Galle on Thursday. This resounding triumph not only catapulted Pakistan to the pinnacle of the championship but also placed them in the illustrious company of India, sharing the coveted spot with a 100 percent win-percentage after one match each in the new cycle. This article delves into the remarkable achievement of Pakistan, the standout performers, and the implications it bears for the upcoming cricketing battles.

 

Pakistan’s Masterful Performance

The victory target of 131 runs set by Sri Lanka proved to be a mere formality for Pakistan’s exceptional batting lineup. Despite Sri Lanka managing to claim three wickets on the final morning, Pakistan’s batsmen exuded confidence and composure as they successfully chased down the runs prior to lunch. The heroics of Imam-ul-Haq, who remained unbeaten on a brilliant half-century (50*), and Agha Salman (6*) brought the match to an exhilarating end, showcasing Pakistan’s formidable batting strength.

 

Joining India at the Summit

With this emphatic victory, Pakistan has now joined arch-rivals India at the top of the World Test Championship standings. Both teams boast a perfect win-percentage after one match apiece in the new cycle, setting the stage for an enthralling rivalry that cricket enthusiasts across the globe eagerly await. This achievement also signals the resurgence of Pakistan’s Test cricket and is a testament to the team’s relentless pursuit of excellence.

 

The New World Test Championship Cycle

As the new cycle of the World Test Championship commences, Pakistan has laid down a marker for the rest of the cricketing world. Their strong performance in the opening Test against Sri Lanka in Galle has demonstrated their intent to compete fiercely for the championship title. With more matches on the horizon, Pakistan will be eager to maintain their unbeaten record and stamp their authority on the tournament.

 

Redemption after Missing the Final

The recent World Test Championship Final (2021-23) witnessed Australia emerging victorious, defeating India in a thrilling contest at The Oval last month. While Pakistan showcased their dominance in the inaugural cycle of the championship, they narrowly missed out on qualifying for the final. However, with this resounding win against Sri Lanka, Babar Azam’s side has reaffirmed their credentials as serious contenders for the coveted title in the ongoing championship cycle.

 

Key Players in Pakistan’s Triumph

The victory over Sri Lanka was a collective effort, and several players stood out with their exceptional performances. Apart from the match-winning innings from Imam-ul-Haq and Agha Salman, other players also played pivotal roles. The dynamic duo of Shaheen Afridi and Hasan Ali wreaked havoc with the ball, relentlessly troubling the Sri Lankan batsmen and picking up crucial wickets. The captain, Babar Azam, exhibited his class with a crucial knock in the first innings, laying the foundation for Pakistan’s eventual triumph.

 

With the first Test concluded, all eyes are now on the second encounter between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in Colombo, scheduled to commence on Monday. The anticipation and excitement are palpable as cricket fans brace themselves for another enthralling battle between these two talented teams. Pakistan will be keen to continue their winning momentum, while Sri Lanka will be determined to bounce back and level the series, setting the stage for an intense showdown.

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What to Expect from ICC Men’s T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier

What to Expect from ICC Men’s T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier

What to Expect from ICC Men's T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier

The anticipation is reaching its peak as the cricketing world gears up for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 EAP Qualifier, which is scheduled to be held in the beautiful landscapes of Papua New Guinea from 22nd to 29th July. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on an exhilarating journey through the format, qualification process, and fixtures of this highly awaited cricketing extravaganza.

 

Tournament Format and Road to Glory

With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 in the West Indies and the USA boasting a record 20 participating teams, the stakes have never been higher. Among these, 12 teams have already cemented their places in the showpiece event, leaving eight coveted spots up for grabs during the EAP Qualifier.

 

To kickstart the action, the 20 teams will be divided into four groups, each containing five teams. The top two teams from each group will progress to the fiercely competitive Super Eight phase. Here, the remaining teams will be split into two groups of four, battling it out for the top two positions to secure their passage to the semi-finals and ultimately the grand finale.

 

The Battle for Qualification

The composition of the 20 participating teams is a testament to the global nature of the sport, as it includes representatives from various regions:

 

Host Nations: USA and West Indies will have the honor of hosting this grand event on their home soil.

 

Top Performers from 2022 World Cup: The best eight teams from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 will be gracing the stage. The line-up comprises cricketing giants such as Australia, England, India, Netherlands, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, and Sri Lanka.

 

Best of the Rest: The ICC Men’s T20I Team Rankings as of 14th November 2022 played a crucial role in deciding the qualification of two exceptional teams – Afghanistan and Bangladesh.

 

Regional Qualifiers: The path to glory was arduous for eight teams who battled their way through the regional qualifiers from different corners of the world.

 

Regional Qualifier Finals – A Test of Tenacity

The regional qualifiers provided a gripping narrative of passion, determination, and unyielding will, as teams from diverse regions fought tooth and nail to book their tickets to the EAP Qualifier. Let’s delve into each regional final:

 

Europe (2 Qualifying Teams)

The European regional qualifier finals unfolded from 20th to 28th July 2023 in Scotland, where cricketing prowess reached its pinnacle. The following teams engaged in riveting contests to secure their spots:

Austria

Denmark

Germany

Ireland

Italy

Jersey

Scotland

 

East Asia Pacific (1 Qualifying Team)

From 21st to 29th July 2023, Papua New Guinea played host to the East Asia Pacific regional qualifier. This leg showcased a thrilling battle among the following teams:

Japan

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Vanuatu

 

Americas (1 Qualifying Team)

The Americas regional qualifier finals were set ablaze from 30th September to 7th October 2023 in Bermuda, where a fierce fight for supremacy unfolded. The participating teams were:

Bermuda

Canada

Cayman Islands

Panama

 

Africa (2 Qualifying Teams)

From 20th November to 1st December 2023, Namibia emerged as the battleground for the African regional qualifier finals. The following teams demonstrated their mettle in pursuit of qualification:

Kenya

Namibia

Nigeria

Rwanda

Tanzania

Uganda

Zimbabwe

 

Asia (2 Qualifying Teams)

While the dates and location for the Asian regional qualifier finals are yet to be disclosed, the teams that will be competing to secure their place are:

Bahrain

Hong Kong

Nepal

Oman

Singapore

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Winner of Sub Regional Qualifier A

Winner of Sub Regional Qualifier B

EAP Qualifier Fixtures – Clash of Titans

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Jamie Smith’s Ton Helps Surrey Take Control at Lord’s

Jamie Smith’s Ton Helps Surrey Take Control at Lord’s

Jamie Smith's Ton Helps Surrey Take Control at Lord's

In the exhilarating world of cricket, nothing ignites the excitement of fans more than a closely contested match between two county teams in the prestigious LV= Insurance County Championship. In a gripping London derby at the historic Lord’s Cricket ground, Surrey’s talented batsman Jamie Smith exhibited sheer brilliance, registering his second century of the season and propelling his team to a commanding position against Middlesex. This article delves into the captivating details of Smith’s extraordinary innings and an overview of the enthralling clash that unfolded at Lord’s.

 

Smith’s Resolute Century

Jamie Smith, at the tender age of 23, showcased maturity beyond his years, crafting a masterful knock of 120 runs. His innings was an epitome of elegance and resilience, as he remained unbeaten, guiding Surrey to a formidable total of 312 for 5 by the end of the day’s play. Smith’s century was not only a testament to his immense talent but also a pivotal factor in giving his team the much-needed edge in this high-stakes encounter.

 

Burns’ Crucial Contribution

While Smith took the spotlight with his splendid century, Rory Burns, the Surrey captain, played a significant role in building the foundation for the team’s imposing total. With a determined 79 runs to his name, Burns ably supported Smith, forming a crucial partnership that propelled Surrey’s innings forward.

 

Middlesex Bowlers’ Grit

Middlesex, aware of the significance of early breakthroughs, unleashed their bowlers with determination. Ethan Bamber, in particular, bowled with exceptional consistency, despite being unlucky not to secure any wickets on the day. Tom Helm and Ryan Higgins, however, reaped the rewards of their hard work, claiming 3 for 86 and 2 for 70, respectively, bolstering Middlesex’s resolve to bounce back on the following day.

 

Mark Stoneman’s Leadership

In the absence of Middlesex’s regular captain Toby Roland-Jones, the responsibility of leading the team fell to former Surrey batter Mark Stoneman. His astute captaincy was evident from the start, as he won the toss and opted to bowl in the challenging overcast conditions.

 

Higgins’ Early Impact

Ryan Higgins, the seam-bowling all-rounder, made an immediate impact, getting the prized wicket of Dom Sibley early in the innings. His tight line and length posed constant threats to the Surrey batsmen, making him a vital cog in Middlesex’s bowling attack.

 

Latham and Burns’ Crucial Partnership

Following the early wicket, Tom Latham joined Rory Burns at the crease, and the duo patiently built a steady partnership of 94 runs. Latham’s gritty 38 was laced with moments of elegance, and together with Burns, they withstood the early challenges posed by Middlesex’s bowlers.

 

Smith’s Flourishing Form

After a cautious start, Jamie Smith found his rhythm and started to unleash an array of strokes. His delightful cover boundaries off Tim Murtagh showcased his class and dominance in the middle, solidifying his position as Surrey’s key batsman.

 

Smith’s Gritty Journey to a Century

As he approached the three-figure mark, Jamie Smith faced a moment of uncertainty when a close call nearly cost him his wicket. However, he exhibited nerves of steel and went on to complete a well-deserved century, enthralling the spectators with his exceptional stroke play.

 

Towards the end of the day, Jordan Clark played a significant role in helping Smith steer Surrey to a commendable position. His composed innings of 34 not out included a vital boundary that earned his team an additional batting bonus point.

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India to Face Pakistan in Epic Asia Cup Opener

India to Face Pakistan in Epic Asia Cup Opener

India to Face Pakistan in Epic Asia Cup Opener

The much-anticipated Asia Cup is just around the corner, and cricket fans worldwide are gearing up for an epic showdown between arch-rivals India and Pakistan. Set to take place on September 2, this clash promises to be a spectacle of cricketing excellence, capturing the hearts of millions and igniting fierce passion among fans from both nations.

 

The Rivalry Renewed: India vs. Pakistan

The India-Pakistan rivalry is one of the most intense and storied in the history of cricket. Matches between these two cricketing giants are not just contests; they are moments of national pride and a reflection of the long-standing political and cultural ties between the neighboring nations. Every time India and Pakistan face each other on the cricket field, it becomes much more than a game—it becomes a battle for supremacy.

 

The Format: Group Stage and Super 4

The Asia Cup 2023 follows a captivating format, with three teams in each group, including India, Pakistan, and Nepal in one group. The group stage matches will kick off on August 30 in Multan, with Pakistan taking on Nepal in the tournament opener. India will begin their campaign on September 4 against Nepal in Kandy.

 

The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super 4 stage, where the competition will intensify. With Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh in the other group, the possibility of a high-voltage India-Pakistan clash in the Super 4 stage on September 10 looms large.

 

The Road to the Final

India’s path to the final is laden with exciting encounters. After facing Nepal in the group stage, India’s real test will come on September 12 when they take on Sri Lanka in the Super 4 stage. Sri Lanka, a formidable team in their own right, will pose a significant challenge for the Indian side.

 

Following the match against Sri Lanka, India will lock horns with Bangladesh on September 15. The possibility of facing Afghanistan in the Super 4 stage adds an element of unpredictability to India’s journey, as Afghanistan has shown remarkable growth in recent years and can surprise any team on their day.

 

Venues and Logistics

The hosting duties for the Asia Cup have been shared between Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Kandy and Colombo are the designated venues for the group stage and Super 4 matches, respectively. The decision to add a fourth venue was a wise move by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), ensuring that more matches can be accommodated smoothly. The R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo will witness some of the most exciting clashes in the tournament.

 

To ease logistical challenges and eliminate the need for frequent travel between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, the Asian Cricket Council has arranged charter and commercial flights for all participating teams. This ensures that the focus remains on the game, and players can perform at their best without the burden of long journeys.

 

The Asia Cup 2023 promises to be a cricketing extravaganza like never before. With India and Pakistan renewing their age-old rivalry on multiple occasions, the tournament is set to capture the imagination of cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

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