Battle for the Crown

Since the epic IPL finale, almost ten days have passed and many people especially CSK fans are yet to come out of the result. There were memes and funny comments being speculated in social media regarding that. Jokes apart being a great admirer of Cricket, I have to admit that Cricket is a real winner in the end.

“Make hay while the sun shines” – this proverb traces its origin to England where bright sunlight is a rare sight. The action now shifts to England, the destination where the new buzz is happening – Cricket’s biggest carnival ICC Cricket World Cup is back. Rather than discussing or debating about the Indian squad, I decided to do this in a Q & A format on the most common set of questions I have received.

 

1. Is 2019 World Cup group stage the best of all the ICC WC group stages?

Certainly yes and since it’s a round-robin phase it will be a challenging one for all the teams. It will bring the best out of all teams. ICC has limited to only 10 teams in this World Cup and that’s how World Cups are meant to be. Compete against the top teams and bring your best. I’m a big fan of super 8’s stage which took place in the 2003 and 07 edition compared to only 2 groups in 2011 and 15 World Cup.

2. Is this the strongest squad for India in all World Cups?

India is going into the World Cup with still haven’t settled their No:4 issues. Had their top order fails, their middle order will surely be tested in English conditions. But rather than saying the strongest squad, I would say they have a balanced side with good pace trio, young all-rounders, best batsmen and the best wicket-keeper.

According to me, India’s strongest Squad was during the 2007 World Cup which had Dravid, Sachin, Ganguly, Sehwag, Yuvraj, Dhoni, Zaheer etc. Unfortunately, they were knocked out in first round itself thus proving “Even a homer nods”.

3. Who would you consider as Favourites for this World Cup?

Playing in familiar conditions with a good depth-in lineup, the home team (England) are surely one of the favourites. Next favourites are Australia – the daddy of ICC tournaments is suddenly looking formidable and balanced with the inclusion of Steve Smith, David Warner & 5 pace bowlers. With the World’s best batsmen, best bowler and best wicket-keeper, India are entering this tournament as favourites too.

West Indies and Pakistan will be the dark horse in this tournament.

4. What’s the most important phase in One Day matches?

For a bowling team, the important phase is to take wickets in the powerplay and control the middle overs i.e overs 15-40. The bowlers must not only restrict the batsman from scoring but also provide necessary breakthroughs, thus keeping the opposition under pressure.

For a batting team, the vice-versa of the above i.e getting off to a flying start in the powerplay and building partnerships in the middle overs and making optimum use in the death with wickets in hand.

5. What will be India’s chances to beat England in the World Cup?

Looking at the form England are in even a total of 350 plus would be dangerous. Taking wickets at regular intervals will be the key. I would not pick Kuldeep for the England game as there is no team other than England who knows how to play him well.

6. Who will finish in top-four?

Since it is a round-robin format, It is a very long tournament and anything can happen. Building momentum is the key as we have seen teams in IPL who have won in the first half and succumb in the second half. Also, there are teams who have bounced back in the second half. Similarly, teams in this World Cup too can either bounce back or lose momentum.

But still, my predictions are India, England, Australia and either West Indies / South Africa in Semi-finals.

Indian team is set to leave for England today and are set to play their warm-up games against New Zealand and Bangladesh on May 25 and 28 respectively.

Stay tuned for further updates on the World Cup matches until then it’s Amithrayvon signing off thereby wishing Indian team on behalf of billions of people all the best to bring the World Cup back. #Bleed Blue #Chak De India #Whatver it takes.

 

Clash of the Titans at the Home of Cricket

             

Edgbaston, England witnessed one of the greatest test cricket in recent times. That’s how test cricket are meant to be challenging and there’s no doubt why every player anxiously waits for his maiden call up to represent his team in this long format. Even though the result at Edbaston was produced within four days, there was a fair contest between both the teams with the bat & ball. England has drawn their first blood to go 1-0 up in the series by registering a win in their historic 1000th test match. Both teams played competitive cricket & in the end the home team ended on a winning side by beating the visitors by a mere 31 runs, which will be added to the record books of “win by a slimmest margin”.

 Virat Kohli loves the strategy of playing with five bowlers as he beleives the importance of taking twenty wickets to win a test match. His mantra also worked well as Indian bowlers kept England batsmen & Barmy army quiet not leaking too many runs. Ashwin & Ishant  were the main spearheads who were assisted by Umesh and Shami. Usually India’s bowling will be a worrying factor abroad but this time the tide has changed. Their batting order collapsed completely and the skipper was left with no support. His vital knock of 149 & 51 kept India in the hunt till the end delaying England’s victory for a while. “Indian batting line up is like a chimera, with Kohli being the lion head and other batsmen like the body of a goat”- quoted by an analyst. The Indian lineup seems to look heavily reliant on him which is a big worrying concern. It’s time for the veterans Vijay, Rahane to step up alongside Virat soon or else there is no surprise awaiting for another disastrous overseas tour.

There have been some speculation regarding Virat Kohli & team management on selecting the playing eleven & bringing in Ashwin ahead of Dinesh Karthik for the first test. Had the result gone in India’s way the same people would have appreciated their moves. So that’s why they are called as critics & they’re better to be ignored. The action now shifts to the Home of Cricket, Lords for an exciting thriller on the cards.

Kohli has a penchant for changing teams & has never played with the unchanged team since his tenure as a captain in 2015. Also looking to the fact how Indian top order failed, Kohli & team management will have various permutations and combinations in their mind. With Lord’s expected to be a good pace friendly track, Cheteshwar Pujara should see himself back at number three replacing Dhawan or Rahul. The Indian vice captain and overseas specialist Ajinkya Rahane sees himself in the brink of exit from the squad owing to his failures in the last 11 innings without a score of 50. The man who is known for his flamboyant stroke making and defense techniques seems to lack confidence on playing against swinging deliveries. Considering the prevailing conditions India is likely to go with two spinners.

My Probable X1 for the second test:

Murali Vijay, K L Rahul , Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Ravichandra Ashwin, Hardik Pandya/Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Shami, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav.

Fact trivia : Last time when India played at Lords in 2014, Ishant’s fiery spell led them to victory. Can the lightning strike twice?

Indian team is wounded but not down as Virat Kohli’s men are capable of producing a comeback.

Can Indians get Independence from the British once more at the Home of Cricket or will it be England & Barmy army singing all way along to go 2-0 up in the series ? Stay tuned till tomorrow for live action until then it’s Amithrayvon signing off with high hopes of levelling the series. #Bleed blue

Can King Kohli Conquer England ?

Edgbaston, England is all set to kick start the historic and most awaited test series between England and India welcoming the English summer.  The conditions in England have currently changed producing a heatwave which seems almost like conditions playing in Mumbai or Chennai. India should make use of their wrist spinners in these favorable conditions “Make hay while the sun shines “- this proverb usually traces its origin to England where bright sunlight is a rare sight.

However considering these situations alone, this series will not be a walkover as both sides are evenly poised as on paper. But the hosts have a slight advantage as India’s last test series win in England came way back a decade ago under the captaincy of Rahul Dravid. So it will be an uphill task for Virat & his men to turn the tide in India’s favor considering the injury woes of their in-form bowlers Bhuvaneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah.

Adding to this, India also faces batting woes as their only left-hand opener Shikhar Dhawan failed to open his account in a practice game while Pujara, failed to make an impact despite his county practice. Even the Indian captain has his own ghosts of 2014 series haunting him where he managed to score mere 134 runs at an average of 13.40 – a number which he would love to forget. Hope he had worked on his exploits to outside off-stump.

India’s key to success will be how their batsmen get adapted to the English conditions. Ajinkya Rahane will be the backbone of India’s middle order considering his good performance in overseas. According to my perception, considering the recent form, KL Rahul should be opened alongside Vijay.

Dinesh Karthik who comes in place of injured Saha will like to strive hard to mark his place in the team as a permanent wicketkeeper for a greater extent. He has superfluous memories of  2007 tour of his contribution owing to India’s series win. Umesh Yadav and Mohammed Shami will be the spearhead of Indian bowling in absence of bhuvaneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah. Hardik Pandya is the only bowling all-rounder and he will be tested under English conditions.

Key Players: Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Ajinkya Rahane, Umesh Yadav

X-factor: Murali Vijay, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ishant Sharma

Here is my probable X1 for the 1st Test

Murali Vijay, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Ravichandran Ashwin / Kuldeep Yadav.

There is a saying that First Impression is the Best Impression.  Will Virat Kohli and men stun England and go 1-0 up in the series or will it be Barmy army singing all way along? Stay tuned for further updates until then it’s Amithrayvon signing off.

 

Mahi’s Day

The journey started for him as a Ranchi’s local boy to emerging as a country’s favourite boy😎After Kapil devils led Ind to a maiden world cup triumph ,many great players evolved after that and captained in world cups .Some of the players like Sunny,Srikanth,Azhar,Sachin,Dada,Jammy led their team in world cups but it was one man who made a billions dream alive after a long drought of 28 years by playi.But the talking point of his career was when he captained the young side and led them to winning the maiden inna

gural T20 title without the big boys(senior players).He achieved many records adding many feathers to his cap despite some poor tour overseas.Just when Aussies was ruling the ICC tournaments and was on a run for their hatrick of champions trophy ,mahi had other ideas by leading ind to win all the ICC titles 😍As a captain he didn’t leave a single stone unturned

p.s-Happy bday to India’s pride 🎂♥️ from trophy collector to ticket collector🕴🏻

Flaunt the men in blue

Almost a year and decade have passed since the ICC Cricket World Cup 2007, West Indies.Still, I can remember it like yesterday and as a fifth class student then, that World cup was special as my childhood hero & favourite player  Rahul Dravid was captaining the star-studded Indian team.But all the joy that knew no bounds ended within two weeks when World Cup favourites surprisingly ended their campaign in the first round itself after suffering a shocking loss to minnows Bangladesh followed by Srilanka on Mar 23,2007.That Friday was a mournful one as still, I could remember that dreadful night with shedding tears of mine.That not only ended India’s World Cup campaign but also Dravid’s quest to claim the Cup.Post his retirement, he began to coach India-A & under-19 boys and nurturing young talents.His hard work & dedication has finally reaped into the fruit as new history is rewritten on (3.2.2018) as the under-19 boys led by Prithvi Shaw led  India to its 4th Under-19 World Cup title.This day will cherish in the memories of these young Turks forever as they jump on to their another phase of their life the national team.Dravid could not achieve it as a player way back in 2003 when they had a chance against Australia in finals nor could he do it in 2007 while he captained.Finally, a bunch of young boys mentored by him gifts him a World Cup.Lightning can strike twice traces its meaning to 2007 World Cup in Caribbean Islands as 2018 Calendar is same as that of 2007.Happy tears seeing Dravid lift the world cup, the wait is over at last.Hope to see a lot of players from this team representing national side soonGreatness begins here#jammyforevrr#bleedblue#U-19 WC Champions.

The Unsung hero of Indian Cricket

Rahul Sharad Dravid, born 11 January 1973 is a former Indian cricketer and a former captain, widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of cricket.He is currently serving as a head coach for the under-19 & A teams.

Early life:-

Dravid was born in a Marathi family at Indore, Madhya Pradesh & was raised in Bengaluru.Dravid earned a nickname “Jammy” during his school days as his father used to work for a company that made jams.He started playing cricket at the age of 12 and represented Karnataka at the under-15,under-17 & under-19 team before making his Ranji Trophy debut in Feb 1991.Dravid enjoyed a fruitful Ranji season playing alongside his future team-mates Kumble & Srinath ending up the season with 380 runs at a sturdy average of 63.3.His selection for South zone cricket team in Duleep trophy was not at all a surprising one considering his stats in the Ranji.Most students in Bengaluru opted for Engineering course as these colleges used to actively support cricket.But Dravid chose commerce so he could end up doing CA or MBA had he failed in cricket.But he did not make his parents worry as he was about to earn his place in the Indian team.

Dream Test Debut:-

Dravid kept scoring as many runs & centuries in first-class matches & also he represented Indian cement which is now the owner of the most successful IPL team Chennai Super Kings led by one of the most successful former Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni.The long apprenticeship was finally over when Dravid finally made his debut on June 6,1996 in the home of cricket, Lords.When he walked into bat, half of the Indian side were bundled out with mere 202/5 on board & still trailing by over 100 runs.His partner, Sourav Ganguly his senior by 6 months was also making his debut.Little did Dravid knew that he was playing with his future captain who was affectionately called as Dada.The duo added 94 runs with Dravid missing out on a well deserved 100 falling short of mere 5 runs while the latter went on to score a maiden 100.Dravid made his ODI debut against Sri Lanka in June 1996 however his ODI debut was not a successful one when compared to his test debut.

If Gavaskar built his reputation in West Indies, it was in the English summer that Dravid carved a special place of his own scoring 6 Test hundreds and 4 fifties at an average of almost 70 runs in his 13 tests in England.This stat is also the most impressive performance by an Indian batsman.

Career:-

When India toured South Africa in 1996-97, Dravid was awarded the man of the series being the top-scorer for India with 277 runs at an average of 55.40.He continued his splendid performance with the bat following up with centuries against New Zealand, West Indies and holds a record for scoring a century against all test playing nations.On the cricket field, Sachin had been a lone ranger so far but now he had a trusted companion to share the burden, a cricketer blessed with similar guts and commitment.Jammy was slowly beginning to earn the new name as “The Great Wall of India” owing to his solid, immovable & impenetrable technique.Between April 2002 & July 2006,he played 49 tests & scored 4720 runs with an sturdy average(68.40) comprising of 14 test 100’s & 22 test 50’s.In that period, India won tests in Australia, Pakistan, South Africa, England & West Indies & Dravid contributed about 23% of team’s total runs the most by any Indian batsman so far.It was arguably the most glorious period in Indian cricket & Dravid was its central pillar.Dravid was also awarded Man of the Tournament in 1999 World cup.

“Until 2001, we would rely on Sachin to win us games.For the next five years, it was Rahul whose batting took us to another level” says former captain Sourav Ganguly.Also, sportswriter Rohit Brijnath also quoted“Laxman offered me art, Sehwag liberation, Tendulkar consistent genius, but Dravid taught us that the ability to reassure is a gift”

Historic test:-

When the all-conquering Australians under Steve Waugh came to India in 2001, which was famously called as the final frontier.Australia was onto their 17th test consecutive victory at Eden Gardens after scoring a massive 445 in their first innings and bowling out India for a mere 171 gaining a lead of 274.After being enforced the follow-on, Dravid walked in at No:6 with the scoreboard reading 232/4 with India needing 42 runs to avoid an innings defeat.Seeing the scoreboard of India on stumps of Day 3,who would have thought that the match would go until final day,but “Miracles do happen” traces its meaning to Day 4 of Eden Gardens test, when Dravid & Laxman duo kept on batting for the entire day without losing a wicket adding a record-breaking 375 runs before declaring at 657/7.Laxman scored his career-best 281 and Dravid’s 180 made India set a target of 385 for Australia.India became the 2nd team to win a match after being enforced the follow-on.The Eden-Gardens test in 2001 still goes as one of the famous tests wins for India in record books.

Dravid also made a successful impact in India/s tour of Australia in 2003-04.His 233 in first innings and 72* in second innings in Adelaide led India to their first win in Australia after many years under the leadership of Ganguly.Dravid bagged the man of the series award scoring 619 runs at an average of 103.16

Greatest test knock ever in Headingley:-

“Make Hay while the Sun shines”.This proverb usually traces its meaning to England where bright sunlight is a rare sight.When India toured England in 2002, Sourav Ganguly won the toss in Headingley and made a surprising decision to bat first in damp & overcast conditions -conditions favourable for the bowlers, who were eagerly waiting for their captains to win the toss, so that they could bowl.It was really tough conditions for the batsman to bat on, but the Great Wall of India went on to score a fine hundred-a greatest test innings any player could have played.Harsha Bhogle in his recent interview also mentioned his discussion with Dravid during that test match lunch break.He quoted“John Wright, Indian Coach told Dravid that if he went on to make this knock into a 100, this will be the highest point in your cv when you retire”.So 2002 Headingley witnessed the finest knock played by an Indian batsman.

Wall stands tall:-

India’s tour of England in 2011 was a forgetful one as Dhoni’s led team experienced a series whitewash 4-0.The only Indian player who stood tall was none other than Rahul Dravid scoring 461 runs with a sturdy average of 76.83 comprising of 3 100’s and filled up one of the few remaining blanks in his hugely impressive CV-a hundred at Lord’s.“I had just missed out being on Lord’s honours board in my first Test in 1996 but I got it in my last”, he points out.

Captaincy Record:-

Dravid was appointed the Indian captain in late 2005 after a spat broke up between Ganguly and new coach Greg-Chappell.Despite the disastrous World Cup in 2007 following an early exit in the group stage after a shocking defeat to Bangladesh, Dravid led India to many series wins under his leadership.However, Greg Chappel’s tenure as Indian coach proved to be a nightmare for the Indian team as many rifts broke inside the dressing room.Sachin also mentioned about this in his biopic”We were as a team in the field but there was no unity among us thanks to Greg Chappel’s coaching techniques”.

Dravid led India to a historic series win against West Indies in their home soil in 2006 -their first series win since 1971.Also, he was the first Indian captain to win a test match in the South African soil.Dravid also led India team to hold the record for most wins while chasing target(17 matches).After the unforgettable world cup in 2007, Dravid stayed as captain & led India to his first test series win since 1986 before giving up the responsibilities to young Mahendra Singh Dhoni, popularly known as Captain Cool.If Ganguly was fire, Rahul Dravid was Indian cricket’s ice-man -a song of Ice and Fire in reference to the popular American series Game of Thrones.If Dravid provides a comforting link with Indian cricket’s past, Dhoni has truly revolutionized its present i.e if Dravid is cool, then Dhoni is Captain Cool.

Achievements:-

• Dravid is the fourth highest run-getter in tests with a tally of 13,288 runs averaging 52.31 comprising of 36 Test hundreds & also more than 10,000 ODI runs.
•  Dravid scored 7,690 runs at an average of 53.03 away from home-second highest after Sachin Tendulkar.

• Dravid has faced more deliveries (31,258) and spent more time in the middle while batting than any other batsman in the history of test cricket.
• Dravid holds the world record for taking most number of catches as a non-wicket keeper fielder in Test cricket with a tally of 210 catches from 164 matches.
• Dravid and Sachin have involved in more hundred run stands than any other batting pair-6,920 runs with 20-century stands.

And many more ………

Conclusion:-

No Indian cricketer has carried himself with greater dignity and composure in whatever he did on and off the field than Dravid, a steely character.That he played much of his cricket in the shadow of Tendulkar means that we may never quite appreciate the magnitude of some of his statistical achievements.“If Sachin is the Superman of Indian cricket, then Dravid is his Dark Knight”.Dravid announced his retirement on 9th March 2012 bidding goodbye to the International cricket after serving for 16 years.Dravid is also called as the Gentleman of Cricket and his career proves that “Nice guys don’t finish last”.

Since his retirement, cricket has not been the same for me and still miss his action in the field.

“I have failed at times but I haven’t stopped trying”-Rahul Dravid

Wishing you a very happy birthday and all the best for the under 19 world cup starting on January 12.Return home with the cup from New Zealand-a humble request from your fan.#Jammy forver#Gentleman’s Day

India- ready to face Thunder down Under

Newlands, Cape Town is all set to kick-start the freedom series between India & South Africa, which appears as the most anticipated fiery contest for Indian fans.Indian team led by Virat Kohli arrived in South Africa a week before the series for their preparation camp.Most players boarded the flyte along with their family members & welcomed the new year 2k18 in African Islands.As the sun failed to show outdoors, Indian team were forced to practice indoors & chill up with the dishes cooked in Sun-foil oil.

Stats so far…

India was the first country to visit South Africa, after their re-admission into international cricket post the apartheid era.1992-93 was called the historic series as Sachin became the first player to be given out by the third umpire & Omar Henry at the rip age of 40 became the oldest player ever to make a test debut.India tasted their first win in the South African soil in 2006 series under the leadership of Rahul Dravid in Wanderer, Johannesburg-thanks to Sreesanth’s 5-wicket haul and Ganguly’s hard-fought 51 in his comeback match.Lightning also struck twice, when India defeated Proteas for the second time under the leadership of Captain Cool in 2010, Durban.Sachin Tendulkar was the standout man in that series as he raced to his 50th test century.

Leading run-scorer:

For India:1161 runs by Sachin Tendulkar from 15 matches.

For South Africa:974 runs by Jacques Kallis from 9 matches.

Leading wicket-taker:

For India:45 wickets by Anil Kumble from 12 matches

For South Africa:40 wickets by Allan  Donald from 7 matches.

Leading wicket-keeper:

For India:19 dismissals by MS Dhoni from 7 matches

For South Africa:41 dismissals by Mark Boucher from 8 matches.

Highest total:

For India:459/10 at Centurion in 2010

For South Africa:620/4d at Centurion in 2010

Lowest total:

For India:66 at Durban in 1996

For South Africa:84 at Johannesburg in 2006

Highest Individual scores:

For India:169 by Sachin Tendulkar at Cape Town in 1997.

For South Africa:201* by Jacques Kallis at centurion in 2010.

What to look out for-India:

This is the “most balanced” Indian Test side to ever board a flight to South Africa was quoted by the chief national selector MSK Prasad.The No:1 side, flying on cloud nine with nine successive series win is sure to be tested in bouncy-pacy tracks against No:2 side(Proteas) when they lock horns.2k18 is going to test Virat’s captaincy skills as he is going to face an overseas challenge for next 24 months after a successful home season.Last time, when India won a test match in South Africa, many players in the current line-up have not made their debut.So, it will be a great test of patience to leave the ball outside-off  & a strong will of determination to face the speedsters for youngsters.India also has strengthened their pace spearheads equally to match that of Proteas bowling attack to turn this series into a fiery-contest.India also has an advantage of a young bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya who is a recent sensation in the Indian team.Many former players have also praised & compared him to that of Kapil Dev.He balances the squad, which India lacked in the past series.Also to add, Rahane has a sturdy average in Overseas conditions.India also needs contribution from the tail-handers to boost their chance of winning.

Key players: Murali Vijay, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya             Rahane, Ishant Sharma

X-Factor: Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvaneshwar Kumar

Injury concerns: Mohammad Shami

Also Sir Ravindra Jadeja, likely to miss the first test due to Viral fever.

 

 

My Probable X1 for the first test:-

1)Murali Vijay 2)KL Rahul 3)Cheteshwar Pujara 4)Virat Kohli(C) 5)Ajinkya Rahane(VC) 6)Hardik Pandya 7)Wriddhiman Saha(Wk) 8)Ravi Ashwin/Bumrah 9)Bhuvaneshwar Kumar 10)Ishant Sharma 11)Mohammad Shami/Umesh Yadav

 

Virat Kohli would like to start 2k18 on a fresh note after being rested for the Sri Lankan series due to his wedding.He is no more a poster boy and is a family man now.So, there is a saying that “with great power comes great responsibility” ……Virushka has been a recent talk of the town in Social media, paper, web etc…referring the couple to that of an F.R.I.E.N.D.S series character Mondler-Wishing them a very happy married life.

Will Virat Kohli create a history by winning a series in South Africa ending the long 25-year wait ..? or will he too eat the dust like other Indian Captains?India needs to play out of their skin to turn the pressure back on Proteas.They also have to learn playing the new ball well and patience to leave the ball outside off. India needs to adapt to the South African pitches & conditions early, else there is no surprise that there is a white-wash awaiting for them.

“Well begun is half done“, So if India makes a strong start to the series going 1-0 up -it boosts huge confidence to the entire squad & management & also a statement to the South Africans, that we are here to create a history.#Bleed blue..

Stay tuned until tomorrow for further updates.Until then it’s Amithrayvon greeting off with New year wishes for everyone.

Virat’s next mission-Operation Overseas

 

The Board of control of cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the Indian test squad for the South African tour, starting on 5th of January 2K18.After completing a successful & long home season, Indian team is all set to begin its overseas campaign under the leadership of young& fearless Kohli (probably the new marriage boy).On their overseas journey, their first encounter will be against the Proteas, comprising of 3 tests,6 ODI’s & 3 T20’s.

Shikhar Dhawan, Murali Vijay & KL Rahul have been included to fill the opening slots.The middle order is balanced with the likes of Pujara, Kohli, Rahane & Rohit.Indian vice-captain, Rahane who went through a lean patch scoring mere 17 runs in the recently concluded Sri Lankan series, looks to break the jinx and return to form.His stats also prove that he has a good overseas record.

Parthiv, on the other hand, returns to the squad after playing three tests during England’s test series in India last year.Also, chairman of selectors MSK Prasad has justified his selection by saying “When you go to South Africa, you need two wicket-keepers.We cannot take a chance with niggle or injury.Also, Parthiv has performed beyond our expectations when given a chance.So there’s no debate about his selection”.

Hardik Pandya, having been rested for the Sri Lankan tests, has also returned to the test squad as an only fast-bowling all-rounder option for India.India’s No;1 & 2 bowler Jadeja & Ashwin will lead the spin department.Bumrah received his maiden test call-up owing to his good performance in the domestic cricket taking 89 wickets in 26 first-class games.He alongside Bhuvaneshwar, Shami, Umesh & Ishant will be the pace spearheads for India in pace-friendly conditions.Vijay Shankar, who earned his test call recently in the Sri Lankan series has been excluded & still has to wait for making his debut.

Full Squad: Virat Kohli (Capt), Murali Vijay, KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (vc), Rohit Sharma, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Parthiv Patel, Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah.

My Probable X1:1)Murali Vijay,2)Shikhar Dhawan/KL Rahul.3)Cheteshwar Pujara.4)Virat Kohli.5)Ajinkya Rahane.6)Hardik Pandya.7)Wriddhiman Saha.8)Ravi Ashwin/Jadeja.9)Bhuvaneshwar Kumar.10)Mohammad Shami.11)Umesh/Ishant.

This will be Virat Kohli’s first big challenge too as test captain, as India played only once outside the sub-continent since 2014-15 Australian series.

Will Virat Kohli’s men break the shackles ? or will it be Proteas all-round show in their home?.Stay tuned until January for what promises to be a most-anticipitated and fiery contest.Wish, it will be a good year  for India in 2018.#Bleed blue

Rohit Sharma named skipper,as kohli rested for Srilanka ODI series

Indian skipper, Virat Kohli will be rested for the ODI series against Sri Lanka.Rohit Sharma, who made a century in the second test, was earlier announced as vice-captain of the ODI side and will now get a chance to lead the side.Hardik Pandya, India’s new sensation returns to the squad to fill up the all-rounder position after enjoying a break during test series.

Since IPL, Kohli has been consistently playing cricket without taking a break.He is the only Indian player to have played in excess of 100 International matches since January 2015.Ahead of the Test series against Lanka, Virat said:”Definitely I do need a rest..why not?I’ll ask for it when I feel my body needs to take a break from cricket.I am not a robot, you can slice my skin and check, I bleed”.(Even Superheroes like Superman bleeds, then why not a human).Jokes apart, the leading run-getter in International cricket in 2017 will finally get a much-needed break.

Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit will be the regular openers.Also, Rahane gets a chance as a third opener owing to his splendid performance in the recently concluded ODI series against Australia and New Zealand.The middle-order is strongly balanced by limited- overs regulars Manish Pandey, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni & the likes of  Dinesh Karthik and Kedar Jadhav as well.

Young Turk Shreyas Iyer gets another opportunity to impress the selectors & Siddharth Kaul also earns his maiden ODI call-up.Ashwin & Jadeja yet again miss out to make to the squad with MSK-Prasad led panel feeling happy with the trio of Chahal, Kuldeep & Axar .Bhuvaneshwar Kumar & Jasprit Bumrah will be the pace spearheads as usual.Rahul, Shami&Umesh were the others to miss out on selection.

India will play three ODI’s & three T20’s against Sri Lanka before travelling to South Africa.However, the first and second ODI, which was supposed to start at 1:30 PM will start at 11;30 AM due to the prevailing cold weather in Dharamsala & Mohali.

ODI squad:Rohit Sharma(captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni(wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah,Bhuvaneshwar Kumar,Yuzvendra Chahal,Siddharth kaul.

 

 

Follow the Blues

Preview:-

After an emphatic series win over Australia & Newzealand in limited overs format, Virat Kohli & co will look to extend their dominance against the Lankan lions, probably the wounded lions.The action now shifts from limited overs format to red-ball contest, while Ind looks to finish their home season on high.

India, clearly with no doubt starts the series as favourites and yet, they must not take their opponents lightly.Last time these two team played, not so long as we know, Srilanka as a host didn’t even try to put Ind under pressure.Also, this resulting in a complete 9-0 series whitewash was not a surprising one at all.This Ghosts of past haunts them making difficult for Srilanka to forget this nightmare.

Srilanka, on the other hand, has just beaten Pakistan 2-0 in Middle-East but playing Ind in its home is as like as playing against lion in its own den.

Stats so far…

Srilanka has never won a test match in the past despite having stronger team lineup.In the last 13 years, only two teams have won a series in India.Former Srilankan player and world/s highest wicket-taker Muralitharan also expressed his views on the current Srilankan team and their slim chances of beating India.

What to look out for….Srilanka:-

Srilanka, currently ranked 6th in ICC test rankings have arrived in India with the dream of winning the series.They have a champion spinner Rangana Herath and also young and rejuvenated side led by Dinesh Chandimal.Last time, Srilanka toured India was a long way back in 2009 and the squads have completely changed for both Ind & Srl except the very few..But Ind’s lineup looks strong on paper compared to Lankans.But, who would have thought that Srilanka would create an upset by beating India in Champions Trophy in 2017. Yes, cricket is a funny & cruel game and history of this sport is full of unexpected results emerging from favourites & underdogs.So, Chandimal & co would believe that this is the right time to show that there is some fuel in their tanks too.

KeyPlayers:Dinesh Chandimal,Angelo Mathews,Ranagana Herath

X-Factor: Lahiru Thirimanne,Dimith Karunaratne,Suranga Lakmal

If Srilanka needs to create a record by winning the series, their key players especially Herath needs to step up, as for winning a test match, your bowler needs to take 20 wickets is what Kohli believes in.Mathews walking into the side as a mere batsman & not as a bowling option owing to his injuries adds further fuel to the fire.

What to look out for …India:-

India, currently ranked No:1 side sits pretty in the driver’s seat, enjoying the luxury of host team in their favourable conditions as clear favourites…The stats too prove that Virat & co have been at their extreme potential, winning nine, drawing two and losing just one of the 13 tests in the home season.Also, Ind fans are overwhelmed with joy to welcome their favourite spin duo -Ash & Jaddu, who lastly represented for India in champions trophy in June 2017.This duo has proved to be a match-winning option for India in many matches after Kumble-Bhajji combo.

Squad(for 1st & 2nd test): Murali Vijay, KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli(c), Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Saha(wk),Ravichandran Ashwin,Ravindra Jadeja,Kuldeep Yadav,Umesh Yadav,Ishant Sharma,Bhuvaneshwar Kumar,Mohd Shami.

Who will fill Pandya’s  place..?

The sudden decision by the selectors opting out Hardik Pandya giving him a break(rest) has left a void gap for Ind’s No;6 positions.The absence of all-rounder has made India try different combinations such as a third bowler or rope in another batsman.Considering the green surface at Eden, Bhuvi would be an ideal choice for his swing bowling also not forget his vital contribution with the bat in England & also supporting Dhoni during his splendid 224 in Chennai.If not, another choice would be to try Rohit as he has a good love affair with this Kolkota ground.

My view is to try in extra bowler as Ind’s batting order looks sturdy but we don’t know what is in the minds of Shastri & Vk.

Who will open…?

Will it be KL Rahul or Shikhar Dhawan or Murali Vijay opening for India?Vijay, being the third -highest run-getter in the home season and test specialist batsman will be an ideal & straight-forward choice for opening.But who will accompany him is the big debate going on between the team management.Dhawan was brought to the Srilankan tour as a replacement for the injured Vijay.But he utilised his opportunity giving a comeback by scoring two hundred making the job tough for the selectors.KL Rahul, on the other hand also kept himself in contention with consistent run of form scoring seven consecutive 50’s & if he gets a chance and scores one at Kolkota too, it will be a new record.

So, Ind would likely open with Vijay & Rahul.

Conclusion:-

Will it be a sweet revenge or complete surrender for Srilanka as they face highly determined No;1 side led by Captain Fearless.The spectators would be having many thoughts in their mind such as “Will Virat score his 50th International hundred?”Will Ash &Jaddu make a strong comeback and many more……Despite Srilanka’s good performance against Pakistan, we can predict by our own instincts that this series is going to be a dead rubber contest until some miracles happen.The only doubt is that whether Srilanka can salvage some pride by avoiding Innings defeat or surrender to a complete whitewash.

Will the wounded lions show some resilience or will it be all blues flaunting over?Stay tuned as both teams lock horns in Eden Gardens, Kolkata on 16th November.#Bleed Blue.#Vk’s Mission No:1.