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Tag: Washington Sundar

  • First time in 147 years: Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar script historic record in MCG Test – AUS vs IND

    First time in 147 years: Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar script historic record in MCG Test – AUS vs IND

    In an unprecedented display of resilience and skill, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar have carved their names into cricket history books during the third day of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.

    Nitish Kumar Reddy’s brilliant maiden century

    Nitish, the 21-year-old all-rounder, walked into bat when India were in a precarious position at 191/6, still trailing Australia significantly. His determination and technique were on full display as he not only anchored the innings but also scored his maiden Test century, becoming the first Indian at number eight to achieve this feat Down Under.

    Washington Sundar’s crucial role in a record partnership

    Nitish’s knock was a mixture of patience and aggression, showcasing his ability to adapt under pressure. Alongside Reddy, Washington, known for his off-spin bowling, played an equally crucial role. Together, they formed a partnership that not only frustrated the Australian bowling attack but also broke records.

    Also READ: AUS vs IND: Fans go wild as Nitish Reddy hits maiden century on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test at MCG

    Breaking records: A partnership for the ages

    Their stand for the eighth wicket was not just about the runs but about the number of deliveries faced, with both players reaching over 150 balls in their innings – an achievement never before seen by batters at these positions in Test matches. Their partnership has achieved what no other pair from numbers eight and nine in the batting order has done in 147 years of Test cricket history for India. The duo’s resilience was evident as they faced 210 deliveries together, setting a new benchmark for endurance and skill at the MCG, one of cricket’s most iconic venues.

    India fightback on the bank of Nitish and Washington’s batting heroics

    Nitish’s innings was nothing short of spectacular, with him remaining unbeaten on 105 runs off 176 balls, including 10 fours and a six. His father’s emotional reaction to his son’s achievement, captured on camera, added a heartwarming human element to the sporting spectacle. Washington, on the other hand, played a more measured innings, scoring a half-century off 146 balls, providing the perfect foil to Reddy’s more aggressive approach.

    The partnership was crucial in reducing India’s deficit to 116 runs by the end of Day 3, giving India a glimmer of hope in what seemed like a lost cause earlier in the day. The duo’s effort was not just about personal milestones but about team survival, showcasing the depth and quality of Indian cricket’s lower order.

    Also READ: Twitter reactions: Nitish Kumar Reddy leads India’s fightback against Australia with stellar ton on Day 3 of MCG Test

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  • WATCH: Mohammed Siraj’s bail-switching ritual brings good fortune for Jasprit Bumrah on Day 1 of the AUS vs IND 4th Test

    WATCH: Mohammed Siraj’s bail-switching ritual brings good fortune for Jasprit Bumrah on Day 1 of the AUS vs IND 4th Test

    Cricket has always been a sport rich in tradition and superstition, and Day 1 of the fourth Test between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was no exception. An intriguing moment unfolded when Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj flipped the bails off the stumps while Australian batter Marnus Labuschagne was on strike, a ritual believed by some in the cricketing world to bring good luck and wickets for bowlers.

    Mohammed Siraj’s superstition: Bail-switching at play

    In the 43rd over of the Australian innings, Siraj approached the stumps and deliberately switched the bails, an act that caught the attention of onlookers. Labuschagne, unfazed, simply walked away. This was not the first time such an incident had occurred between the two players. A similar moment at the Gabba saw Labuschagne reversing the change and subsequently losing his wicket shortly after. Siraj even playfully informed Labuschagne about his actions, adding an air of levity to the tense match. However, on this occasion, Siraj’s ritual did not immediately bear fruit.

    While Siraj’s superstition didn’t work for him, it appeared to pave the way for teammate Jasprit Bumrah. In the 45th over, Bumrah dismissed Usman Khawaja in a dramatic turn of events. Khawaja, who was well-set on 57 runs off 121 balls, attempted a pull shot against a short-of-length delivery but mistimed it. The ball found its way to KL Rahul at short mid-wicket, leaving Khawaja walking back with a rueful smile. This breakthrough was crucial for India as Bumrah continued to demonstrate his prowess as a match-winner.

    Here is the video:

    Also READ: WATCH: Steve Smith gets hit in the groin area by Akash Deep; Australian star reacts comically

    Labuschagne, who had looked solid at the crease with a composed 72 off 145 balls, eventually fell in the 66th over. Washington Sundar, introduced into the attack, enticed the batter into an expansive shot. Labuschagne, failing to get to the pitch of the ball, mistimed his shot and was caught by Indian skipper Virat Kohli at mid-off. This dismissal, coming right after the drinks break, was a significant moment for the Indian side as they sought to regain control.

    Australia ends Day 1 strong but not unscathed

    At stumps, Australia had posted a formidable 311 runs for the loss of six wickets. Steven Smith remained unbeaten on 68, showcasing his class with five boundaries and a six. Bumrah emerged as the standout performer for India, claiming three wickets and providing critical breakthroughs. While the day belonged largely to Australia, India’s disciplined bowling ensured the game remained finely poised. As both teams prepare for Day 2, the focus will be on whether India’s bowlers can capitalize on the momentum or if Australia’s lower order will stretch their advantage.

    Also WATCH: Ricky Ponting’s double standards criticizing Virat Kohli while ignoring his own past in the 4th Test | AUS vs IND



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  • Nitish Kumar Reddy to be dropped as India plan huge changes to combination for MCG Test

    Nitish Kumar Reddy to be dropped as India plan huge changes to combination for MCG Test

    The Indian cricket team is all set to make some surprising changes to their playing XI for the must-win Boxing Day Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 against Australia, starting on December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne.

    Indian captain Rohit Sharma is all set to return as the opener in the fourth Test against Australia. A Times of India journalist claimed that Rohit Sharma will open the innings alongside young talent Yashasvi Jaiswal in the Boxing Day Test against the Australian side at the MCG.

    Also Read: Rohit Sharma removes KL Rahul as opener, finalizes India’s new opening pair for MCG Test

    India set to play two spinners in the Boxing Day Test; Nitish Kumar Reddy set to be dropped

    With this change, KL Rahul is expected to shift to the No. 3 position in the batting order for the crucial Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne. In a crucial decision for the must-win fourth Test, India is also considering playing two spinners.

    Ravindra Jadeja is a sure pick for the MCG showdown, but Nitish Kumar Reddy will have to make way for Washington Sundar in the playing XI. Nitish Kumar Reddy will be dropped for the much-awaited clash as India is favoring Washington Sundar to keep their hopes alive in the ongoing Test series.

    To be continued…



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  • “Gautam Gambhir is one of the biggest idiots in Indian Cricket”- Twitter reacts to Ashwin-Jadeja snub

    “Gautam Gambhir is one of the biggest idiots in Indian Cricket”- Twitter reacts to Ashwin-Jadeja snub

    The highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 finally got underway at Optus Stadium, Perth. After winning the toss, Jasprit Bumrah announced that India will bat first on a surface with good and even bounce.

    However, there was a huge surprise in India’s team selection. Before this match, there was speculation of one out of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja being in the Playing XI. However, Gautam Gambhir sprung out a huge surprise by omitting both the veteran spinners.

    None of Ashwin and Jadeja were in the Playing XI as India picked the young off-spinning allrounder Washington Sundar ahead of them. Sundar was selected as the lone spinner in the Playing XI. As a result, Gambhir was slammed by the fans for dropping two inexperienced players.

    Also read: “Happy retirement Virat Kohli” – Twitter blasts India legend on 1st failure in Australia

    Fans slam Gautam Gambhir for dropping Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin

    India handed out two debuts

    It was a huge surprise to see both Jadeja and Ashwin getting dropped and the youngster Washington Sundar getting a game. It is the first time since the Gabba Test in the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy that none of Ashwin or Jadeja are playing in a Test for India.

    Earlier, India handed out two debuts to the youngsters Nitish Kumar Reddy and Harshit Rana. Both the youngsters are exciting prospects and can be the X-factor for the team.



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  • IND vs BAN 2024: Team India’s best XI for the T20I series against Bangladesh

    IND vs BAN 2024: Team India’s best XI for the T20I series against Bangladesh

    Team India are gearing up to face Bangladesh in the upcoming three-match T20I series, starting October 06 at the New Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium in Gwalior. This comes on the heels of their recent two-match Test series, in which India dominated and completed a whitewash, winning both games convincingly. While the hosts look to extend their winning momentum, the visitors are determined to stage a comeback in the shortest format.

    A young squad led by Suryakumar Yadav

    The Indian squad for the T20I series will feature a relatively young lineup under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav. The selectors have opted for new faces and rested several Test regulars, including Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Axar Patel, Rishabh Pant, and Mohammed Siraj, with an eye on the upcoming home Test series against New Zealand later this month.

    Among the new additions, pacer Mayank Yadav, who gained recognition in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, has been selected for the squad. Additionally, all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who impressed during the IPL, makes a return after an earlier injury ruled him out of the Zimbabwe tour. Abhishek Sharma, who scored a century in just his second T20I during the Zimbabwe series, also rejoins the squad.

    Also WATCH: IND vs BAN – Virat Kohli gift his bat to Shakib Al Hasan after India’s series win against Bangladesh

    India’s best playing XI for the T20I series against Bangladesh:

    1. Abhishek Sharma

    • Strength: Aggressive opening batter with the ability to hit big shots early in the innings. His left-arm orthodox spin adds value as a sixth bowling option.
    • Expectation: Abhishek is expected to provide aggressive starts at the top and chip in with the ball when needed, bringing balance to the team.

    2. Sanju Samson (WK)

    • Strength: A reliable wicketkeeper-batter with explosive power hitting. Samson has the ability to play both anchors and aggressive roles.
    • Expectation: Samson’s consistency will be key. As a middle-order batter, he is expected to stabilize the innings and accelerate during the death overs.

    3. Suryakumar Yadav (C)

    • Strength: Unorthodox and aggressive shot-making capabilities that put bowlers under pressure. He excels in pacing the innings with a 360-degree range of shots.
    • Expectation: As the captain, Suryakumar is expected to lead from the front, utilizing his experience to score runs and guide the younger players with his tactical acumen.

    4. Hardik Pandya

    • Strength: A dynamic all-rounder with immense hitting power and the ability to pick crucial wickets. He also has a knack for handling pressure situations.
    • Expectation: Hardik will play the role of a finisher with the bat and serve as a crucial middle-overs bowler. He will also be responsible for providing leadership support to Suryakumar.

    5. Riyan Parag

    • Strength: An aggressive middle-order batter with a strong ability to hit sixes at will. He also bowls leg-spin, providing an additional bowling option.
    • Expectation: Parag is expected to play a finisher’s role and contribute with quick runs in the latter stages of the innings, while also chipping in with the ball when needed.

    6. Rinku Singh

    • Strength: Calm under pressure with the ability to finish games, Rinku has showcased his talent for finishing close chases with his fearless batting approach.
    • Expectation: Rinku will be tasked with anchoring the innings in tough situations and finishing games with his big-hitting ability, especially in pressure scenarios.

    7. Shivam Dube

    • Strength: A powerful hitter capable of clearing the boundary with ease. His medium-pace bowling also adds depth to the bowling attack.
    • Expectation: Dube is expected to bat in the lower middle order, adding quick runs in the death overs, and also contribute with the ball to fill the fifth or sixth bowler role.

    8. Washington Sundar

    • Strength: A versatile all-rounder who is economical with the ball in powerplays and capable of contributing handy runs down the order.
    • Expectation: Sundar is expected to control the flow of runs in the powerplay with his off-spin and play a supporting role with the bat, ensuring depth in the batting lineup.

    9. Ravi Bishnoi

    • Strength: A young leg-spinner with variations that trouble batters, Bishnoi has the ability to pick up crucial wickets in the middle overs.
    • Expectation: Bishnoi will be responsible for breaking partnerships in the middle overs and providing breakthroughs with his aggressive wrist spin.

    10. Mayank Yadav

    • Strength: A pace bowler known for his speed and aggressive bowling style, he impressed in the IPL with his wicket-taking ability.
    • Expectation: Mayank will be expected to use his pace to unsettle the Bangladeshi batters, particularly during the powerplay and death overs, providing a breakthrough option for the team.

    11. Arshdeep Singh

    • Strength: Left-arm seamer with great control over yorkers, especially during the death overs. His ability to bowl with precision makes him a reliable death bowler.
    • Expectation: Arshdeep will lead the pace attack and is expected to deliver tight overs at the end, curbing runs during the death and taking wickets with his well-executed yorkers.

    Also READ: Rohit Sharma reveals Team India’s ‘winning gameplan’ after splendid triumph against Bangladesh in Kanpur Test

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  • WATCH: Washington Sundar dismisses KL Rahul with a stunning delivery in Duleep Trophy 2024-25

    WATCH: Washington Sundar dismisses KL Rahul with a stunning delivery in Duleep Trophy 2024-25

    In a gripping contest during the opening match of the Duleep Trophy 2024 between India A and India B, fans at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium were treated to a spectacular moment when Washington Sundar clean bowled KL Rahul in the 48th over of India A’s first innings.

    KL Rahul’s departure 

    Rahul, who had been anchoring India A’s innings after facing 111 deliveries, seemed well-settled with a score of 37 runs, including 4 boundaries. However, his resistance came to an unfortunate end surprisingly and dramatically. In only his second over, Sundar delivered a well-flighted ball that dipped and turned sharply after being tossed up around the off-stump. Rahul attempted a paddle sweep but misjudged the trajectory, resulting in the ball sneaking past his bat and crashing into his leg stump. Disappointed, Rahul shook his head as he walked off the field, visibly frustrated with the manner of his dismissal.

    Here is the video:

    Also WATCH: Harshit Rana gives a flying kiss send-off to Ruturaj Gaikwad in Duleep Trophy 2024-25

    India A’s struggles in the first innings  

    The highly anticipated match saw India A struggling to chase down India B’s imposing first-innings score of 321, with Musheer Khan shining for the opposition, crafting a brilliant knock of 181 runs. India B’s innings was wrapped up after a competitive effort, with India A’s Akash Deep leading the bowling attack, picking up 4 wickets.

    In the first innings of India A, the team was bowled out for a total of 231 runs. From the India B side, Navdeep Saini was the standout bowler, claiming 3 wickets in his 16-over spell. As Day 3 progresses into the final session, India B has come out to bat and has already reached 104 runs for the loss of 4 wickets. They currently hold a commanding lead of 194 runs.

    Also READ: Fans cheer as Musheer Khan’s century lifts India B in Duleep Trophy 2024-25 game against India A



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  • ‘Indian team has always been one where everyone puts their hands up’ – Sundar expresses confidence for final ODI against SL

    ‘Indian team has always been one where everyone puts their hands up’ – Sundar expresses confidence for final ODI against SL

    Given the outcomes of the last two ODI encounters between Sri Lanka and India before this white-ball series, where India overwhelmingly defeated Sri Lanka by 302 runs in the Cricket World Cup 2023 and subsequently bowled out the hosts for a paltry 50 in the first innings of the Asia Cup 2023 final, it is surprising that India now finds itself in a precarious position, trailing 1-0 with the final match scheduled for August 7, 2024.

    Ahead of the final ODI of the series, Indian all-rounder, Washington Sundar, defended his team’s capabilities and the proficiency of the batters. He noted that while the final game was expected to feature similar spin-friendly conditions, he emphasized that the team was replete with adept players of spin. Sundar highlighted that many team members possessed significant experience playing on such turning tracks, having faced similar conditions in domestic matches and even in the longest format of the game.

    “We’re quality players of spin. The first two games have been played on exceedingly spin-friendly pitches, and more of the same is expected for Wednesday. We’ve always played on these kinds of pitches, even at home, even in Test matches. In domestic cricket, we play a lot of games on such wickets,” stated Sundar, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

    Sundar, who was named Player of the Series in the recently concluded series against Zimbabwe, remarked that the key lay in each player adhering to their strengths and executing their roles effectively. He also noted that the Indian team had consistently demonstrated collective resilience over the years, with every player stepping up to the challenge when needed. Sundar expressed confidence in the team’s ability to stage a comeback.

    “It’s just a matter of finding a way in their own individual self, and trying to get the job done. Everyone knows it’s a challenging wicket. The Indian team has always been one where everyone puts their hands up, especially when the challenge arises,” mentioned Sundar.

    It’s an opportunity for us to find a way to get the job done in crunch situations: Sundar

    Sundar expressed the goal of restricting Sri Lanka to 200 runs or fewer if the hosts bat first in the final ODI, recalling that they had previously put Sri Lanka in similar predicaments. He viewed the third ODI as a crucial opportunity for the team to demonstrate their ability to perform under pressure, emphasizing that such critical scenarios are likely to arise in future tournaments.

    “We’d love to get them out for 200 or less than that. We had them in that situation in both matches. With big tournaments coming up, we’ll be in similar situations, and it’s an opportunity for us to find a way to get the job done in crunch situations. We just need to put our hands up and win those critical situations in the game,” added Sundar.

    A significant challenge for India in this series has been their inability to curtail Sri Lanka’s lower-middle order batters, particularly Dunith Wellalage, from constructing crucial partnerships in the final 10 overs. This issue will undoubtedly be at the forefront of Sundar’s mind, as he is one of the three spinners expected to play a pivotal role in thwarting any potential middle-order partnerships by the Lankans in the final match of the series. 

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  • Netizens celebrate as India completes a T20I series whitewash with a super over victory against Sri Lanka

    Netizens celebrate as India completes a T20I series whitewash with a super over victory against Sri Lanka

    In a pulsating finale to the T20I series, the Indian cricket team, led by Suryakumar Yadav, secured a dramatic victory over Charith Asalanka’s Sri Lanka in the third and final T20I at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday (July 30). India achieved a clean sweep in the series, winning 3-0, despite facing a challenging final match that extended into a Super Over. The Indian side emerged victorious from a precarious position, largely due to the exceptional bowling performances of Rinku Singh and Suryakumar in the final overs of the match.

    India’s resilient performance

    Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bowl first, putting India on the back foot early on. The Lankan bowlers restricted the Indian top order significantly, with only Shubman Gill managing to make a substantial impact. Gill scored 39 runs off 37 balls, while the rest of the top-order struggled, with Yashasvi Jaiswal (10), Sanju Samson (0), Rinku (1), Suryakumar (8) and Shivam Dube (13) all failing to contribute effectively. India lost five wickets for just 45 runs, struggling to build a solid foundation.

    Despite the top-order collapse, Riyan Parag (26 off 18 balls) and Washington Sundar (25 off 18 balls) provided some valuable contributions. Their efforts, along with Gill’s innings, helped India post a total of 137 runs for 9 wickets in 20 overs. Maheesh Theekshana was the standout bowler for Sri Lanka, claiming three wickets.

    Also READ: SL vs IND: Fans spark meme fest as Sanju Samson registers back-to-back ducks in the T20I series

    Sri Lanka’s chase and super over drama

    In response, Sri Lanka’s chase was anchored by Kusal Mendis, who scored 43 runs off 41 balls. However, key moments in the match turned the tide in India’s favor. Washington Sundar‘s crucial double-wicket over in the 17th over, where he dismissed two Sri Lankan batters, significantly tightened the contest. When Sri Lanka needed 9 runs from 12 balls, Rinku, making his T20 debut as a bowler, delivered a stunning 19th over. He dismissed Kusal Perera (46 off 34 balls) and Ramesh Mendis, leaving Sri Lanka needing 6 runs off the final over.

    Captain Suryakumar took charge of the last over for India and delivered a remarkable performance, taking two wickets and conceding only five runs. This superb bowling effort restricted Sri Lanka to 137 runs for 8 wickets in their 20 overs, and the match proceeded to the Super Over.

    The decisive super over: India’s thrilling finish

    The Super Over began with Sri Lanka batting first, facing a crucial task to set a challenging target for India. Sri Lanka’s innings nevertheless was quickly disrupted by India’s Sundar, who delivered a masterful performance.

    Sundar’s accuracy and composure under pressure were evident as he restricted Sri Lanka to just 3 runs in their Super Over. His first delivery resulted in a single, and he followed up with a well-placed ball that yielded another single. Sundar’s next delivery trapped a Sri Lankan batter in front of the stumps for a critical wicket. After another dot ball and a single, Sundar struck again, taking another wicket and ensuring the Sri Lankans could only manage a total of 3 runs.

    With the modest target set, India’s Suryakumar took on the challenge of chasing down the runs. He faced the first ball of the Super Over with intent, and with a powerful stroke, struck a boundary through the infield. This boundary not only secured the winning runs but also sealed the match for India, confirming their clean sweep of the series with a 3-0 victory.

    Here’s how Netizens reacted:

    Also READ: New captain to lead as Sri Lanka announces 16-member ODI squad for India series



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  • IND vs ENG 2024: India’s probable playing XI for the 2nd Test against England in Visakhapatnam

    IND vs ENG 2024: India’s probable playing XI for the 2nd Test against England in Visakhapatnam

    Following the setback against England in the Hyderabad Test, the Indian cricket team faced additional challenges as KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja were ruled out of the upcoming Visakhapatnam Test due to quadriceps and hamstring injuries, respectively. In the absence of Virat Kohli, Rahul played a crucial role in the middle-order during the series opener, while Jadeja showcased his all-round prowess with five wickets and a vital 87 in the first innings.

    Crafting the optimal XI amidst key player absences

    With both Rahul and Jadeja unavailable for the second Test, the Indian think tank is confronted with the task of making strategic decisions to maintain the balance of the Playing XI. The selectors introduced Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar and Saurabh Kumar to the squad, presenting a significant challenge for the management to determine the optimal combination for the upcoming fixture. This unforeseen situation requires careful consideration and tough calls to ensure a well-balanced and competitive team takes the field in Visakhapatnam.

    Also READ: Players who can replace Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul in India’s playing XI for the 2nd Test against England

    India’s expected playing XI for the 2nd Test against England in Visakhapatnam:

    Rohit Sharma (c)

    • Dominant opening presence: Rohit Sharma, the seasoned opener and captain, provides invaluable stability and leadership at the top.
    • Spin Mastery: His adeptness at tackling spin and guiding the team from the opening position is crucial, especially in challenging conditions.

    Yashasvi Jaiswal

    • Youthful dynamism: Yashasvi Jaiswal brings a youthful and dynamic approach, showcasing exceptional skills in playing spin effectively.
    • Aggressive adaptability: His aggressive batting style and adaptability make him a valuable asset in the top order.

    Rajat Patidar

    • Technique and temperament: Known for his solid technique and composed temperament, Rajat Patidar excels in anchoring the innings and building partnerships.
    • Spin savvy: His ability to rotate the strike and handle spin, positions him as a suitable candidate, particularly on turning tracks.

    Sarfaraz Khan

    • Solid technique: Sarfaraz, with a solid technique against spin, proves effective in navigating challenging conditions.
    • Confident spin player: His long experience in domestic cricket and confidence in playing spin make him a worthy inclusion, adding resilience to the team.

    Shreyas Iyer:

    • Middle-order maestro: Shreyas Iyer, a reliable middle-order batter, demonstrates an exceptional ability to handle spin with ease.
    • Aggressive proficiency: His aggressive style of play and proficiency against spin make him an essential and dynamic part of the playing XI.

    Washington Sundar:

    • All-round dynamo: Washington, an all-rounder with spin-bowling skills, significantly adds depth to the batting order.
    • Handy off-spinner: His off-spin capabilities prove handy on turning tracks, making him a valuable asset with both bat and ball.

    KS Bharat (wk):

    • Wicketkeeping proficiency: KS Bharat, with wicketkeeping skills and the ability to bat under pressure, is a suitable replacement behind the stumps.
    • Valuable gloveman: His proficiency against spin further enhances his worth, making him an indispensable addition to the team, especially given his role as a wicketkeeper.

    Axar Patel:

    • Left-arm precision: Axar Patel, known for his accurate left-arm spin, has the potential to exploit spinning conditions effectively.
    • Batting depth: His control over line and length, coupled with batting abilities, significantly adds balance to the team.

    Ravichandran Ashwin:

    • Spin maestro: A seasoned off-spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin remains a proven performer on turning tracks.
    • Variations and experience: His wide range of variations and extensive experience make him a key player in the spin department.

    Kuldeep Yadav:

    • Wrist-spin magic: Kuldeep Yadav, a wrist-spinner, introduces much-needed spin variation to the bowling attack.
    • Dual turning threat: His ability to turn the ball both ways poses a significant challenge for the opposition on spin-friendly pitches.

    Jasprit Bumrah (vc):

    • Pace spearhead: Serving as the vice-captain and pace spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah consistently delivers crucial breakthroughs.
    • Dynamic seam movement: His capability to generate bounce and movement complements the spinners effectively.

    Also READ: India vs England 2024 Test Series: Broadcast, Live Streaming details: When and where to watch in India, USA, UK and other countries

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    TAGS: 2nd Test Axar Patel England England tour of India 2024 Ind vs Eng India INDIA vs England INDvENG Jasprit Bumrah KS Bharat Kuldeep Yadav Rajat Patidar Ravichandran Ashwin Rohit Sharma Sarfaraz Khan Second Test Shreyas Iyer Vishakhapatnam Vizag Washington Sundar Yashasvi Jaiswal

    CATEGORY: Featured India Test

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  • Players who can replace Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul in India’s playing XI for the 2nd Test against England

    Players who can replace Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul in India’s playing XI for the 2nd Test against England

    Things have taken a downturn for the Indian cricket team after a 28-run loss in the first Test against England. The team now has faced the additional setback of being without the services of key players Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul in the upcoming second Test in Visakhapatnam. The absence of these crucial contributors adds to the challenges for India as they have sought to bounce back in the five-match Test series.

    Injury woes for Team India ahead of the second Test

    Jadeja’s injury unfolded on the fourth day of the first Test in Hyderabad, and it was a sight of concern as he has looked visibly distressed and in pain after being run out by Ben Stokes. The nature and severity of his injury have raised doubts about his availability for the crucial second Test. On the other hand, KL Rahul has complained of pain in his right quadriceps, further depleting the team’s resources for the upcoming fixture.

    India quest for redemption against England in Visakhapatnam

    The second Test between India and England is scheduled to commence on Friday, February 2, at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam.  Despite the challenges, the Indian team will aim for a strong comeback, looking to regroup and perform at their best in front of the home crowd. The absence of Jadeja and Rahul presents a chance for other players to step up and make a mark in this crucial encounter. Cricket enthusiasts will be eagerly watching as India strives for redemption and aims to turn the tide in their favour in the ongoing Test series against England.

    Ravindra Jadeja’s absence: Evaluating replacement options

    The Indian team faces a challenging situation with the absence of Ravindra Jadeja in the upcoming Test. Here are two potential replacements:

    1. Washington Sundar: The multifaceted all-rounder

    • Bowling prowess: Sundar’s off-spin deliveries are not only accurate but also consistently land on a challenging length, providing crucial control and containment. This precision makes him a reliable asset in maintaining pressure on the opposition.
    • Batting stability: Beyond his bowling prowess, Sundar possesses a calm and composed batting style, adding stability to the lower order. His ability to accelerate when needed brings a dynamic element to the team’s batting lineup
    • Left-hand advantage: As a left-hander, Sundar’s presence offers a valuable counterbalance against England’s left-arm spinners. This strategic advantage can disrupt the opposition’s bowling plans and create opportunities for the Indian team
    • Recent form: Sundar’s recent exploits with the India A squad highlighted his adaptability and readiness for the demanding Test arena. Consistent performances in various formats demonstrated his game fitness and ability to contribute effectively

    2. Kuldeep Yadav: The wrist-spin wizard

    • Unique challenge: Kuldeep’s left-arm chinaman deliveries, capable of spinning both ways, present a distinctive challenge for batters. This unique skill set adds an element of complexity to the opposition’s strategy, testing even seasoned players.
    • Unpredictability: The unpredictability Kuldeep brings to the bowling attack is evident in his last Test appearance against Bangladesh in 2022. Batters find it challenging to predict the direction and degree of turn, making him a potent wicket-taking threat.
    • Test-ready: Despite limited opportunities, Kuldeep’s success against international sides underscored his readiness for the Test format. His ability to adapt to different conditions and provide breakthroughs makes him a valuable asset in the longer format.

    Also READ: Fans celebrate as Sarfaraz Khan earns maiden India call-up for the 2nd Test against England

    KL Rahul’s setback: Exploring batting alternatives

    With KL Rahul sidelined due to a quadriceps issue, India looks for alternatives in the opening slot. Here are two potential replacements:

    1. Rajat Patidar: The domestic sensation

    • Consistent performances: Patidar’s consistent run-scoring in domestic cricket, particularly in the Ranji Trophy, positions him as a standout candidate for the opening slot. His ability to convert starts into substantial scores showcases reliability.
    • Top-order stability: As a top-order batter, Patidar brings technical proficiency to the table. His knack for building partnerships offers the stability needed at the beginning of the innings, setting the tone for the rest of the lineup.
    • Technique and temperament: Patidar’s solid technique and temperament under pressure enhance his reliability. Tested in the domestic circuit, he has shown the ability to anchor the innings and provide a solid foundation.

    2. Sarfaraz Khan: The explosive batter

    • Recent exploits: Sarfaraz’s explosive performances in the Ranji Trophy and India A matches underline his current form and readiness for international cricket. His ability to score quickly adds a dynamic aspect to the opening partnership.
    • Aggressive approach: Known for his aggressive stroke-play, Sarfaraz can unsettle the opposition’s bowling strategy from the outset. His attacking approach can put pressure on the bowlers and give India an early advantage.
    • Prolific run-scorer: Being one of the most consistent batter in India’s domestic cricket further solidifies Sarfaraz’s credentials as a dependable option. Consistency in domestic cricket provides a strong case for his inclusion in the playing eleven.

    Also WATCH: Sarfaraz Khan’s father reacts to Mumbai batter’s selection in Team India; expresses gratitude with folded hands

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