Shikhar Dhawan’s Most Impactful Test Performances for India

August 26, 2024

Shikhar Dhawan, known for his aggressive batting and flair in limited-overs cricket, also made a significant impact in the longer format of the game. Although his Test career wasn’t as lengthy as some of his peers, Dhawan’s contributions were memorable and often game-changing. Here, we look at his most impactful Test performances, highlighting his ability to dominate the opposition with a blend of skill and audacity.

190 against Sri Lanka

Dhawan’s highest score in Test cricket came during India’s tour of Sri Lanka in 2017. Playing at the picturesque Galle International Stadium, Dhawan unleashed a batting masterclass, scoring 190 off just 168 balls. His aggressive approach, marked by a strike rate of 113.09 and 31 boundaries, set the tone for India’s dominant performance in the series.

Opening the innings, Dhawan’s blitzkrieg laid the foundation for India’s massive first-innings total of 600. His quick scoring allowed the team to maintain pressure on the Sri Lankan bowlers, who struggled to find any rhythm. This knock was not just about runs; it was about setting a tempo that the Sri Lankans could never match.

187 against Australia

Shikhar Dhawan’s Test debut was a blockbuster hit, as he smashed 187 off 174 balls against Australia in 2013, leaving Aussie bowlers spinning like they were on a carnival ride!

Dhawan’s innings were a masterful display of aggression and finesse. His strokeplay was mesmerizing, with boundaries effortlessly coming off his bat, even against top bowlers like Mitchell Starc and Peter Siddle. This debut performance set a new benchmark, as he recorded the fastest century by a debutant in terms of balls faced.

173 against Bangladesh

In 2015, Dhawan and the Fatullah pitch had a love fest, as he piled on 173 runs, while Murali Vijay added 150. Together, they turned the scoreboard into a carnival, helping India declare at 462/6.

Dhawan’s innings was characterized by his trademark aggressive style, but it also displayed his ability to play a long innings. Despite his brilliant knock, the match ended in a draw due to rain, but Dhawan’s performance stood out as a testament to his ability to adapt and thrive in different conditions.

134 against Sri Lanka

Galle seems to have been a favorite hunting ground for Dhawan, as he registered another impressive century there in 2015. Scoring 134 off 271 balls, Dhawan played a crucial role in helping India post a competitive total of 375 in response to Sri Lanka’s first-innings score of 183.

Dhawan’s dazzling 173 and Virat Kohli’s stylish 103 had India flying high, but the second innings turned into a rollercoaster, ending with a 63-run defeat despite their earlier fireworks.

119 against Sri Lanka

Dhawan’s third century of the 2017 Sri Lanka tour came during the third Test at Pallekele. India, batting first, amassed an impressive total of 487, with Dhawan making a swift 119 off 123 balls. His innings combined aggression with precision, leaving the Sri Lankan bowlers struggling from the outset.

This knock, along with Hardik Pandya’s explosive 108, ensured that India had a huge total to defend. The Indian spinners then took over, with Kuldeep Yadav and Ravichandran Ashwin dismantling the Sri Lankan batting lineup twice in quick succession. India won the Test by an innings and 171 runs, completing a 3-0 series whitewash.

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Cricket Prediction | Netherlands vs Canada | 4th T20I | Aug 26, 2024 – Let’s see who will win the Match.

August 26, 2024

NED vs CAN Match Analysis

In the fourth game of the Netherlands T20I Tri-series 2024, which is scheduled to take place at Sportpark Maarschalkerweerd in Utrecht, host Netherlands will be eager to keep up their winning streak when they meet Canada.

Thanks to outstanding performances from Michael Levitt, Scott Edwards, and Kyle Klein, the Netherlands defeated the USA by 102 runs in the first game of the tri-series. Netherlands’ lead at the top of the table has grown as a result of this outcome.

However, against the Netherlands, Canada will want to right the wrongs and deliver a better performance with the bat and the ball.

NED vs CAN Team Preview & Squads

Netherlands

The team’s batting lineup, which includes Michael Levitt, Max O’Dowd, Scott Edwards, Vikramjit Singh, and Zach Lion Cachet, will be expected to provide the majority of the runs. With four boundaries and four sixes, Scott Edwards of the Netherlands concluded the innings with an undefeated 81 runs off 40 balls, demonstrating his exceptional play in the previous game. In addition to Edwards, Michael Levitt, the opener, amassed 68 runs off just 34 balls with five sixes and six boundaries.

When it matters most, bowlers like Paul Van Meekeren, Daniel Doram, Vivian Kingma, Ryan Klein, and Kyle Klein will be relied upon to provide the big hits for the squad. Vikramjit Singh was the Netherlands’ best bowler in the previous game, taking three wickets for sixteen runs in his three overs. In addition to Singh, Paul van Meekeren, Kyle Klein, and Zach Lion Cachet also bowled well and each took two wickets.

Netherlands Squads

Netherlands

Scott Edwards (c & wk), Michael Levitt, Vikramjit Singh, Noah Croes, Aryan Dutt, Ryan Klein, Kyle Klein, Zach Lion Cachet, Paul van Meekeren, Max O’Dowd, Daniel Doram

Canada

The team will rely on players like Rayyan Pathan, Aaron Johnson, Pargat Singh, Saad Bin Zafar, and skipper Nicholas Kirton to score the majority of the runs when they bat. So far this season, Netherlands skipper Nicholas Kirton has topped the batting rankings with 113 runs in two innings.

The team will be counting on bowlers like Jeremy Gordon, Dilon Heyliger, Harsh Thaker, Kaleem Sana, and Saad Bin Zafar to make significant breakthroughs when needed.

Canada Squads

Canada

Nicholas Kirton (c), Shreyas Movva (wk), Parveen Kumar, Harsh Thaker, Dillon Heyliger, Ravinderpal Singh, Jeremy Gordon, Rayyan Pathan, Kaleem Sana, Aaron Johnson, Saad Bin Zafar

NED vs CAN : Match Details
Match	Netherlands vs Canada, 4th T20I \| Netherlands T20I Tri-Series, 2024
Date	26/08/2024 (Monday)
Time	17:00 (GMT+5) / 17:30 (GMT+5.5) / 18:00 (GMT+6)
Format	T20I
Venue	Sportpark Maarschalkerweerd, Utrecht
Recent performance	Netherlands – L L L W W	Canada – W L A L NR
Live Streaming Details	Click here to watch the Live Streaming Score on JeetBuzz News

NED vs CAN outfield report

Sportpark Maarschalkerweerd, Utrecht

The only three Twenty20 Internationals played at Sportpark Maarschalkerweerd in Utrecht have been won by the team batting second. Both sides aim to secure the vital toss, bowl first, and limit the other team to less than 160 runs.

The game’s weather is expected to be mild with light clouds and a modest wind.

In the four T20I matches played at Utrecht, the first innings have averaged 150 runs. In the third T20I Tri-series encounter at Utrecht, the Netherlands recorded the highest total of 217 for 5 against the United States. The Netherlands defeated the USA by a commanding 102 runs.

NED vs CAN Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches

The NED won three games in their last four matches and CAN won one.

Netherlands vs Canada Prediction

Winning the toss

Netherlands

Player of the Match

Netherlands – Scott Edwards

Most runs

Netherlands – Scott Edwards
Canada – Aaron Johnson

Most wickets

Netherlands – Vikramjit Singh
Canada – Dilon Heyliger

Most sixes

Netherlands – Scott Edwards
Canada – Aaron Johnson

Team Scores Batting First

Netherlands – 150+
Canada – 120+

According to cricket analysts, the Netherlands has a 71% chance of winning.

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How Critical Is David Warner’s Absence for Australia in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy?

August 26, 2024

With David Warner out, the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy just got a whole lot trickier for Australia.With Warner’s retirement, it’s like losing a game-changer in the final overs. His absence looms large, casting a shadow over Australia’s strategy in this high-stakes clash. Let’s unpack why Warner’s departure is the cricketing equivalent of missing a key player in a high-stakes poker hand and what it means for this epic series.

David Warner’s impact on Australian cricket is nothing short of legendary. Hanging up his boots as the fifth-highest run-getter in Aussie Test history, Warner racked up a colossal 8,786 runs in 112 matches, flexing an average of 44.6. His 26 tons are a testament to his knack for blitzing bowling attacks and holding the fort. On home turf, Warner was a near-unstoppable force, hammering 5,438 runs at a jaw-dropping average of 57.85 in 58 Tests. His magnum opus? That unforgettable 335* against Pakistan in Adelaide, is a knock that will echo through the ages.

Warner’s experience and consistent performance on home soil have made him an integral part of Australia’s batting lineup. His absence in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will leave a significant void, as Australia prepares to face India in a five-match series that will have major implications for the World Test Championship final.

Since David Warner’s retirement, Australia’s batting lineup has been like a jigsaw puzzle missing a piece. Steven Smith, the middle-order magician, was shuffled up to open the innings, but the transition was bumpier than a fast bowler’s bouncer. In the four Tests post-Warner, Smith has struggled to fill the giant shoes, amassing just 171 runs in eight innings at a modest average of 28.50. His best score in this new role has been a valiant 91*—a bit like trying to win a race on a flat tire.

Smith’s difficulties as an opener highlight the challenge of replicating Warner’s impact. His failure to establish himself in this role raises questions about whether Australia will stick with him at the top or revert to his more familiar position at No. 4. The selectors face a crucial decision in finding a suitable partner for Usman Khawaja at the top of the order.

David Warner’s record against India is notable, particularly in Australian conditions. In 21 Test matches against India, Warner scored 1,218 runs at an average of 31.23, including four centuries. These performances were predominantly in Australia, where he accumulated 760 runs from 10 Test matches. Warner’s ability to take on the Indian bowlers and play impactful innings makes his absence particularly significant in this series.

Given the competitive nature of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the stakes involved, Warner’s experience and past performances against India could have provided Australia with a crucial advantage. His absence may tilt the balance in favor of the Indian team, who will be relieved not to face one of their most formidable opponents.

David Warner’s absence is a colossal blow to Australia’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy campaign. With his record-shattering performances and vast experience, losing Warner is like losing a key player in a high-stakes poker game. As the team gears up for this showdown, they’ll need to dig deep and channel their inner cricketing superheroes to overcome the void left by Warner’s departure.

Record-Breaking Test Debuts by a Number 9 Batter

August 26, 2024

Test cricket is often associated with the elegant strokes of top-order batters and the gritty resistance of middle-order stalwarts. However, there are moments when the lower order, particularly the number nine batters, step up to the plate and deliver performances that defy expectations. These innings, played under immense pressure, not only rescue their teams but also etch their names in the annals of cricket history. Here, we celebrate five remarkable debut performances by number nine batters in Test cricket.

Milan Rathnayake (Sri Lanka)

Milan Rathnayake (Image Source: X(Twitter))

Topping our list is Milan Rathnayake, who made an unforgettable Test debut for Sri Lanka against England in Manchester in 2024. With Sri Lanka reeling at 113/7, Rathnayake’s entry at number nine seemed like a formality. However, what followed was an extraordinary display of grit and determination.

Rathnayake scored a record-breaking 72 off 135 balls, surpassing the previous highest score by a number nine debutant. His innings included six boundaries and two sixes, and more importantly, it helped Sri Lanka recover to a respectable total of 236. His 63-run partnership with captain Dhananjaya de Silva was instrumental in Sri Lanka’s fightback.

Balwinder Sandhu (India)

Balwinder Sandhu (Image Source: X(Twitter))

Balwinder Sandhu’s debut innings in the fourth Test against Pakistan at Hyderabad (Sind) in January 1983 remains one of the most memorable performances by a number nine batter. Facing a formidable Pakistani bowling attack led by Imran Khan and Sarfraz Nawaz, Sandhu walked in with India in deep trouble.

Displaying remarkable composure, Sandhu scored 71 off 88 balls, with nine boundaries and two sixes. Although India eventually lost the match by an innings and 119 runs, Sandhu’s fighting knock was a beacon of hope in an otherwise dismal performance by the Indian team.

Darren Gough (England)

Darren Gough (Image Source: X(Twitter))

In June 1994, England’s Darren Gough, better known for his fiery fast bowling, played a pivotal role with the bat on his Test debut against New Zealand in Manchester. Coming in at number nine with England in a precarious position, Gough scored 65 off 126 balls, including 10 boundaries.

Gough’s innings was crucial in steering England to a respectable total of 382. While the match ended in a draw, Gough’s contribution with the bat was widely praised.

Monde Zondeki (South Africa)

Monde Zondeki (Image Source: X(Twitter))

Monde Zondeki, the fast bowler turned unexpected hero, smashed 59 off 128 balls on his Test debut against England in Leeds 2003. With a bat in hand and boundaries flying, Zondeki’s gritty innings were the surprise package that powered South Africa to a formidable 342.

Zondeki’s effort was not just about the runs but also the time he spent at the crease, frustrating the English bowlers and giving his team the platform they needed to secure a 191-run victory.

Wilf Ferguson (West Indies)

Wilf Ferguson (Image Source: X(Twitter))

Kicking off our list is Wilf Ferguson of the West Indies, who made his Test debut against England in Bridgetown in January 1948. Batting at number nine, Ferguson’s unbeaten 56 in the second innings was instrumental in helping the West Indies declare at 351/9.

In an era when lower-order batters were not expected to contribute significantly with the bat, Ferguson’s knock was a refreshing display of resilience.

5 Pakistan Batters Who Reached 1,000 Test Runs in Record Time

August 26, 2024

Pakistan has produced legendary Test cricketers, with a select few reaching 1,000 Test runs faster than their peers. These batters showcased exceptional skill and played crucial roles in Pakistan’s historic cricketing triumphs. This article highlights the careers of the five fastest Pakistan batters to reach this milestone.

Saud Shakeel: 20 Innings

Saud Shakeel (Image Source: X(Twitter))

Saud Shakeel, the latest entrant to this elite list, equaled Saeed Ahmed’s long-standing record by reaching 1,000 Test runs in just 20 innings. Shakeel, who made his Test debut in 2022, quickly established himself as a dependable middle-order batter for Pakistan. His consistent performances, particularly under pressure, have drawn comparisons to some of Pakistan’s greatest batters.

Shakeel’s path to 1,000 runs, highlighted by a double-century in Galle and six half-centuries, showcases his calm under pressure, especially against Bangladesh, and marks him as a future great in Pakistan’s batting legacy.

Saeed Ahmed: 20 Innings

Saeed Ahmed (Image Source: X(Twitter))

Saeed Ahmed blazed a trail as Pakistan’s first batter to smash through the 1,000 Test run barrier in just 20 innings back in 1959—a record that held its ground for 65 years. Making his debut in 1958, Ahmed quickly became the rock in Pakistan’s batting lineup, setting a gold standard for consistency and class.

In his 41-Test career, Ahmed scored 2,991 runs at an average of 40.41, including five centuries with a top score of 172. His rapid 1,000-run milestone was a key achievement in Pakistan cricket, setting a benchmark for future generations.

Sadiq Mohammad: 22 Innings

Sadiq Mohammad (Image Source: X(Twitter))

Sadiq Mohammad, a key figure in Pakistan’s cricketing history, reached the 1,000-run mark in just 22 innings, placing him third on this prestigious list. Debuting in 1969, Sadiq was known for his resilience and technically sound batting, often providing much-needed stability at the top of the order.

In 41 Tests, Sadiq Mohammad scored 2,579 runs at an average of 35.81, including five centuries and a top score of 166. His steady performances were crucial as Pakistan established itself on the global stage, making him a key pillar of the batting lineup.

Javed Miandad: 23 Innings

Javed Miandad (Image Source: X(Twitter))

Javed Miandad, widely regarded as one of Pakistan’s greatest cricketers, ranks fourth on the list, reaching 1,000 Test runs in just 23 innings. Debuting in 1975, Miandad was renowned for his aggressive batting and sharp cricketing intellect.

Javed Miandad scored 8,832 runs in 124 Tests at an impressive average of 52.57, including 23 centuries and 43 half-centuries. His unbeaten 280* highlights his ability to dominate world-class bowlers, and reaching 1,000 Test runs early foreshadowed his legendary cricket career.

Taufeeq Umar: 24 Innings

Taufeeq Umar (Image Source: X(Twitter))

Taufeeq Umar, known for his patience and technical mastery, ranks as the fifth-fastest Pakistani to reach 1,000 Test runs, achieving this milestone in just 24 innings. Starting his journey with a debut in 2001, Umar established himself as a reliable opening batter.

Umar scored 2,943 runs in 43 Tests at an average of 38.72, with seven centuries and 14 half-centuries. His career-best 236 showcased his ability to anchor Pakistan’s innings, and his steady presence at the top order was key to many of Pakistan’s victories.

Major Overseas Players Making Their BBL Debut This Season

August 26, 2024

As the Big Bash League (BBL) seeks to maintain its standing amidst the explosion of T20 and T10 leagues globally, Cricket Australia (CA) is pulling out all stops to enhance its appeal. The BBL has faced challenges, including the loss of major overseas stars like Rashid Khan and issues with local player availability. However, with a fresh roster of international talent set to debut, the league is poised for an exciting season. Here’s a look at three standout overseas players making their BBL debut this year:

Finn Allen

Finn Allen’s addition to the BBL is arguably the most high-profile signing of the season. The dynamic New Zealand opener has chosen to forgo a central contract and a bilateral series to join the Perth Scorchers for his debut BBL season. Allen’s decision underscores his commitment to the league and emphasizes his crucial role in the Scorchers’ aspirations.

Allen’s remarkable T20 strike rate of over 168, the best for any top-order batter with more than 3,000 runs, makes him a perfect fit for the Scorchers’ aggressive batting approach. Perth fans, who have witnessed their team win back-to-back titles and reach the playoffs despite injury concerns, will be thrilled to have Allen in their ranks. His ability to dominate from the outset could prove crucial for the Scorchers as they aim for further success.

Tim Seifert

Tim Seifert’s gloves and bat are ready to make magic happen at Melbourne Renegades. Known for his dynamic performances in various T20 leagues around the world, Seifert brings a wealth of experience and explosive batting to the Renegades. His track record in the Lanka Premier League and the Caribbean Premier League attests to his ability to perform under pressure.

Seifert’s signing is a strategic enhancement for the Renegades, who encountered difficulties last season. His experience and ability to stabilize the middle order will be vital for the team. With Seifert anchoring the innings, the Renegades can expect a more balanced squad, offering both stability and a strong foundation for their performances.

Ollie Pope

Ollie Pope, England’s Test vice-captain, has signed with the Adelaide Strikers for his debut BBL season. Pope’s inclusion is notable given his recent form and leadership in international cricket. His experience and versatility will be a valuable asset for the Strikers, who finished last season in fourth place.

Pope, who has shown proficiency in T20 formats with a strike rate of 133, will benefit from the Australian conditions ahead of the Ashes series next summer. His ability to keep wickets and adapt to different styles of play will enhance the Strikers’ squad, providing them with a dynamic and skilled player capable of making a significant impact.

The addition of Finn Allen, Tim Seifert, and Ollie Pope to the BBL rosters marks an exciting development for the league. Each player brings unique skills and a wealth of experience to their respective teams, promising to elevate the competition and draw crowds. As the BBL navigates its way through a competitive landscape, these overseas signings could be the key to rejuvenating interest and ensuring a thrilling season ahead.

Key Challenges Faruque Ahmed Will Face as the New BCB Chief

August 26, 2024

On August 21, 2024, former Bangladesh cricketer Faruque Ahmed was appointed as the new president of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), succeeding Nazmul Hasan. Ahmed’s appointment comes at a critical time for Bangladeshi cricket, as the country faces several pressing challenges on and off the field. With his extensive background in cricket as both a player and selector, Ahmed is expected to steer the BCB through turbulent waters. Here, we explore three significant challenges he will encounter in his new role.

Improving Performances

One of the most urgent issues Ahmed will need to address is Bangladesh’s inconsistent performance in overseas conditions. Historically, the Bangladeshi cricket team has struggled to make an impact outside home soil, particularly in Test matches. The team’s ongoing series against Pakistan is a testament to this struggle, as they have yet to secure a victory against them in Test cricket.

To tackle this challenge, Ahmed will need to prioritize arranging more overseas tours for the team. These tours are crucial for players to acclimate to different playing conditions and gain experience in handling diverse pitch and weather conditions. Additionally, Ahmed should focus on developing a robust preparation program that mimics foreign playing conditions, thus helping players adjust better and perform effectively under pressure.

Building Stability

A strong domestic structure is fundamental to nurturing talent that can succeed on the international stage. For Ahmed, creating stability in domestic cricket will be crucial for the long-term success of Bangladesh’s national team. This involves streamlining existing tournaments like the Dhaka Premier League and Bangladesh Premier League while possibly introducing new formats to keep the domestic scene vibrant and competitive.

Moreover, it is imperative that the BCB ensures transparency and meritocracy in player selections. Players who excel in domestic cricket should be given fair opportunities to represent the national team. Ahmed’s role will include overseeing that selectors are unbiased and make decisions based solely on performance, rather than external influences. This approach will help maintain the integrity of team selection and ensure that the best talent is identified and nurtured.

Team Synergy

Team harmony plays a crucial role in any cricket team’s success, and Ahmed will face the challenge of fostering positive dynamics within the Bangladesh squad. Senior players such as Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim have had their share of disagreements with the BCB officials in the past. To build a cohesive unit, Ahmed will need to navigate these relationships carefully.

It’s crucial to create an environment where senior players feel respected and valued. Ahmed should focus on bridging any gaps and promoting open communication between the players and the board. By nurturing a positive atmosphere, Ahmed can boost team morale and elevate overall performance. When players are content with their surroundings, their on-field performance is likely to mirror that positivity.

Faruque Ahmed’s new role as the BCB president comes with significant challenges, but also with the opportunity to make a lasting impact on Bangladeshi cricket. Improving the team’s performance abroad, stabilizing the domestic cricket structure, and building positive team dynamics are pivotal areas where Ahmed’s leadership will be tested.

Shikhar Dhawan’s Most Impactful Test Performances for India

190 against Sri Lanka

187 against Australia

173 against Bangladesh

134 against Sri Lanka

119 against Sri Lanka

More Cricket Article

Cricket Prediction | Netherlands vs Canada | 4th T20I | Aug 26, 2024 – Let’s see who will win the Match.

NED vs CAN Match Analysis

NED vs CAN Team Preview & Squads

Netherlands

Netherlands Squads

Canada

Canada Squads

NED vs CAN : Match Details

NED vs CAN outfield report

NED vs CAN Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches

Netherlands vs Canada Prediction

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How Critical Is David Warner’s Absence for Australia in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy?

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Record-Breaking Test Debuts by a Number 9 Batter

Milan Rathnayake (Sri Lanka)

Balwinder Sandhu (India)

Darren Gough (England)

Monde Zondeki (South Africa)

Wilf Ferguson (West Indies)

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5 Pakistan Batters Who Reached 1,000 Test Runs in Record Time

Saud Shakeel: 20 Innings

Saeed Ahmed: 20 Innings

Sadiq Mohammad: 22 Innings

Javed Miandad: 23 Innings

Taufeeq Umar: 24 Innings

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Major Overseas Players Making Their BBL Debut This Season

Finn Allen

Tim Seifert

Ollie Pope

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Key Challenges Faruque Ahmed Will Face as the New BCB Chief

Improving Performances

Building Stability

Team Synergy

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