The Indian side, which managed only 150 runs in its first innings, began its second innings with an incredible display of skill and patience from the opening duo. Their partnership not only gave India a solid foundation but also highlighted the importance of taking chances on the field—something Australia learned the hard way.

In the 41st over of India’s second innings, Yashaswi Jaiswal edged a ball towards the slips, presenting an opportunity to Australian fielder Usman Khawaja. However, the Aussie missed a straightforward catch that proved to be a turning point in the game. Jaiswal, who was already building momentum, capitalized on this lifeline and went on to score a magnificent 161 runs. This missed chance allowed India to cross the 350-run mark, setting a formidable target for Australia.

Had Khawaja held onto that catch, the outcome of the match could have been significantly different. Australia, already under pressure from a struggling batting order, might have gained an upper hand with Jaiswal’s wicket. Instead, the missed opportunity turned costly for the visitors.

Team Lineups for the Perth Test

Australia Playing XI:

• Pat Cummins (Captain)
• Usman Khawaja
• Nathan McSweeney
• Marnus Labuschagne
• Steven Smith
• Travis Head
• Mitchell Marsh
• Alex Carey (Wicket Keeper)
• Mitchell Starc
• Nathan Lyon
• Josh Hazlewood

India Playing XI:

• Jasprit Bumrah (Captain)
• KL Rahul
• Yashaswi Jaiswal
• Devdutt Padikkal
• Virat Kohli
• Rishabh Pant (Wicket Keeper)
• Dhruv Jurel
• Nitish Reddy
• Washington Sundar
• Harshit Rana
• Mohammed Siraj

First Innings Recap

The first innings saw both teams grappling with the challenging Perth pitch. India was bundled out for 150 runs, with Australia faring no better, collapsing for just 104. However, the tables turned in the second innings with the brilliant partnership between Jaiswal and Rahul, putting India in the driver’s seat.

Looking Ahead

The missed catch by Khawaja will undoubtedly haunt the Australian side as they look to salvage the game. For India, the focus will be on maintaining their momentum and securing a decisive win in the series opener.

This thrilling start to the Border-Gavaskar Test series sets the stage for an exciting contest between two cricketing giants.

The post Jaiswal and KL Rahul’s Record Partnership Powers India in Border-Gavaskar Series appeared first on Vizag One.

Performance Overview

In the 2024 domestic season, Rohit Sharma managed only 133 runs across 10 innings, while Virat Kohli fared slightly better with a total of 192 runs. Both players combined scored just two half-centuries over five Tests, a stark contrast to their past performances. While India recently won a two-match Test series against Bangladesh, their dismal performance against New Zealand has reignited discussions about the future of these seasoned players.

This is not the first time the Indian team has faced difficulties against New Zealand; a similar situation arose during the World Test Championship in 2019. After the series, Rohit Sharma openly acknowledged his subpar performance as both captain and batsman, admitting he failed to deliver his best.

Virat Kohli’s Form Woes

Virat Kohli has been grappling with poor form throughout the 2024 season. In six Tests, he managed to score only 260 runs at a disappointing average of 22.72. Once a dominant force against spinners, Kohli’s average at home has plummeted from 72.45 (2013-2019) to just 32.86 in recent times. His struggles are further highlighted by the fact that he has fallen victim to left-arm spinners 12 times since 2020, a concerning trend that has raised alarms among fans and selectors alike.

Rohit Sharma’s Continued Decline

Rohit Sharma, who led India to victory in the T20 World Cup, has also been struggling to find his rhythm. Despite a commendable 400 runs in the series against England earlier this year, he managed only 91 runs in three Tests against New Zealand. A particularly alarming moment came during a chase of 147 runs in the Mumbai Test when he was dismissed by a short ball from Matt Henry. In his last 10 Test innings, Rohit has scored more than 20 runs only twice, raising questions about his ability to perform under pressure.

The Team Management’s Dilemma

Given the declining form of key players like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane, the Indian team management has opted to replace them with younger talent in domestic cricket. However, the question remains: can Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli be dropped under such circumstances? While both players have made significant contributions to Indian cricket, their current performance levels are cause for concern.

As selectors look for potential replacements and the team explores new talent, the tolerance for Kohli and Rohit’s inconsistent performances is waning. With crucial series like the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on the horizon, it remains to be seen how long the selectors will continue to back these two veterans amidst growing pressure for change.

The post Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s Struggles: Should They Be Removed from the Indian Team? appeared first on Vizag One.

Historically dominant in the Test format, India had a disappointing 2024, finishing the year with an unprecedented record of four home Test losses. This is only the second time in Indian cricket history that the team has lost four Test matches at home in a single year, the last occurrence dating back to 1969.

In their first series of the year, India faced England, narrowly losing the first match by just 28 runs but rebounding to win the series 4-1. Following that, they played two Tests against Bangladesh, securing victories in both. However, the encounter with New Zealand was a stark contrast, with India failing to secure a single win across all three matches.

The results reflect a shocking decline for a team that has maintained its dominance in Test cricket in recent years. This series loss is particularly painful for players and fans alike, as it evokes memories of a less glorious era in Indian cricket.

Captain Rohit Sharma did not shy away from expressing his disappointment. He referred to the series defeat as the “worst phase of my career” and took full responsibility for the team’s lackluster performance. In a candid press conference following the final match, Rohit stated, “This is not an easy thing to digest. We didn’t play our best cricket, and New Zealand outperformed us throughout the series. We made many mistakes, and as captain, I recognize that I did not deliver my best in batting either.”

The clean sweep serves as a wake-up call for the team, highlighting areas needing improvement as they look ahead to future series. The players will undoubtedly spend the off-season reflecting on their performances and aiming to restore their reputation as one of the strongest teams in international cricket.

The post India’s Historic Defeat: A Clean Sweep by New Zealand Marks Disappointing Year for Team India appeared first on Vizag One.

Match Schedule

Here’s the complete schedule for the India vs South Africa T20 series:

• First T20I:
  Date: November 8
  Location: Durban
  Time: 9:30 PM IST
• Second T20I:
  Date: November 10
  Location: Gekeberha
  Time: 9:30 PM IST
• Third T20I:
  Date: November 13
  Location: Supersport Park, Centurion
  Time: 9:30 PM IST
• Fourth T20I:
  Date: November 15
  Location: Johannesburg
  Time: 9:30 PM IST

Broadcast Information

Fans can catch the live telecast of the India vs South Africa T20 series on the following channels in India:

• Sports18
• Sports18 HD
• DD Sports

For those who prefer online streaming, the matches will be available on the JioCinema app.

Indian Squad for the T20 Series

The Indian team, led by captain Suryakumar Yadav, features a mix of experienced players and promising talents. Here’s the squad for the series:

• Suryakumar Yadav (Captain)
• Abhishek Sharma
• Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper)
• Rinku Singh
• Tilak Verma
• Jitesh Sharma (Wicketkeeper)
• Hardik Pandya
• Akshar Patel
• Ramandeep Singh
• Varun Chakravarthy
• Ravi Bishnoi
• Arshdeep Singh
• Vaishakh Vijayakumar
• Avesh Khan
• Yash Dayal

Conclusion

The T20 series against South Africa promises to be an exciting lead-up to India’s tour of Australia, which starts with a five-match series beginning November 22. Cricket fans are eagerly looking forward to the action-packed matches that lie ahead. Mark your calendars for November 8!

The post India vs South Africa T20 Series: Complete Schedule and Broadcast Details appeared first on Vizag One.

Kiwis Dominate Early, India Strikes Back:

New Zealand’s batsmen came out with confidence, managing to dominate the first session with ease. However, as the game progressed into the second and third sessions, India’s bowling attack found its rhythm. With key wickets falling at regular intervals, the Kiwis were bowled out for a modest total of 259 runs. The Indian bowlers, led by an impressive performance from the spin and pace departments, ensured that the match remained balanced going into the second innings.

Fan Protests Over Water Shortage:

Despite the exciting cricket action, the first day of the Test was marred by off-field controversies as fans in the stadium faced significant difficulties due to a shortage of drinking water. Around 18,000 fans gathered at the stadium, and most of them were seated in sections without roofs, exposed to the harsh sun.

After the first session, many spectators left their seats in search of water, only to find that the water stalls had run dry. As a result, there was a near-stampede at the booths, with frustrated fans chanting slogans against the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) for failing to provide adequate facilities. The situation became tense, but was quickly managed by security personnel, who distributed water bottles to the crowd.

Maharashtra Cricket Association Issues Public Apology:

Following the incident, the Maharashtra Cricket Association took full responsibility for the shortage and issued a public apology to the fans. MCA Secretary Kamlesh Pisal spoke to the media, saying, “We apologize to all the fans for the inconvenience caused. The delay in water supply was due to heavy traffic, which affected the arrival of the water lorries at the ground. We have since resolved the issue and have provided free bottled water to the spectators. We will take measures to ensure such incidents do not happen again in future matches.”

The MCA also explained that the stadium’s location on the outskirts of the city contributed to the problem, as it caused delays in logistics. They assured fans that extra care will be taken in the upcoming matches to avoid any further discomfort.

The Match Continues:

While the off-field issues stirred controversy, the on-field action remains as thrilling as ever. India, having restricted New Zealand to 259, will look to capitalize on their momentum and secure a strong lead as the match progresses. With two more days of exciting cricket ahead, fans are hoping the rest of the Test will go smoothly, both in terms of the cricket and the facilities provided.

The post India vs New Zealand Second Test: Kiwis Bowled Out for 259 as Maharashtra Cricket Association Apologizes for Water Shortage appeared first on Vizag One.

Injury Overview

During the first Test match, Pant was injured after a delivery struck his knee while he was behind the stumps. This incident raised concerns regarding his availability for the following match. Additionally, fellow teammate Ravindra Jadeja also faced a setback, as he was unable to keep due to a similar injury. Despite the discomfort, Pant demonstrated remarkable resilience, scoring an impressive 99 runs in the second innings, showcasing his commitment to the team.

Recovery and Readiness

According to reports from The Indian Express, Pant managed to play in the second innings of the first Test after receiving an injection for pain relief. Although he experienced some discomfort, he has now fully recovered and is ready to contribute to the team in the Pune Test. This news is particularly uplifting for the squad as they prepare for this crucial match.

Context of Previous Injuries

It’s noteworthy that Pant’s current injury is on the same knee where he underwent surgery following a serious car accident in December 2022. His absence during this period was a significant blow to the team. After Pant’s injury, Dhruv Jurel stepped in to take the wicketkeeping duties in the Bangalore Test, adding pressure to the squad dynamics.

Captain’s Caution

Indian captain Rohit Sharma addressed Pant’s situation following the team’s loss in the Bangalore Test, emphasizing the need for caution. He mentioned, “We are more cautious about Pant. He had an operation on his leg. So, we know what his situation is. He had knee surgeries. To be honest, he suffered a lot in the last year and a half. So, let’s be a bit careful about this.” Rohit acknowledged the struggle Pant faced, particularly in his batting performance during the match.

Looking Ahead

As the Indian team gears up for the crucial Test in Pune, Pant’s return to fitness will be a key asset. His ability to perform under pressure and his prior success on the field make him a vital player in India’s strategy against New Zealand. Fans and team members alike will be eagerly watching his performance in the upcoming match.

The post Rishabh Pant Declares Fitness for Second Test Against New Zealand appeared first on Vizag One.

Rohit’s Unwanted Record

With the recent loss, Rohit Sharma has now recorded three defeats at home under his captaincy, equating him with notable former captains like Bishan Singh Bedi, Sourav Ganguly, Sachin Tendulkar, and Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Despite his overall impressive record of 12 wins out of 19 Tests, this statistic has raised concerns among fans and experts regarding the team’s ability to maintain dominance on familiar grounds.

Captains with Most Home Losses

Historically, Rohit Sharma’s losses place him among the Indian captains who have faced significant challenges at home:

• Nawab Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi holds the record for the most losses at home, having lost 9 matches in his 40 Tests as captain.
• Kapil Dev and Mohammad Azharuddin follow closely behind, each losing 4 matches at home during their tenures. While Kapil captained 34 matches, Azhar led the team in 47 matches.

The recent defeat has reignited discussions about the pressures of captaincy in cricket, particularly in a country where expectations run high, and the home ground advantage is traditionally significant.

Looking Ahead

As India prepares for the second Test against New Zealand, all eyes will be on Rohit Sharma and the team to bounce back and level the series. The Indian cricketing fraternity hopes that this setback will serve as a turning point for the team, allowing them to regain their competitive edge and restore their reputation as a formidable force at home.

Conclusion

The Indian cricket team’s unexpected loss serves as a reminder of the ever-changing dynamics in sports and the unpredictability of outcomes, even for established teams. As Rohit Sharma and his team regroup, fans eagerly await their response in Pune, hoping for a revitalized performance.

The post Rohit Sharma Joins Unwanted Record: Indian Captain Faces Third Home Defeat appeared first on Vizag One.

On a day that would see India bowled out for a mere 46 runs—its lowest score on home soil—the implications of that decision became painfully clear. Rohit admitted after the day’s play that he misjudged the pitch conditions, stating, “I made a mistake in understanding the pitch.”

A Decision that Could Change History

Rohit’s choice has not only led to a dismal batting display but has also reignited hopes for New Zealand to achieve something monumental. The significance of this match lies in a 36-year gap since New Zealand last won a Test match in India, which dates back to 1988 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. If they manage to clinch victory in Bengaluru, it will not only mark a historic win but will also make the match unforgettable for head coach Gautam Gambhir.

With New Zealand poised to capitalize on this opportunity, the cricketing world watches closely. Rohit’s decision to bat first could prove to be a pivotal moment, reminiscent of a self-inflicted wound—some might even say a cricketing “suicide”—that might alter the trajectory of the game.

The Stakes for Gautam Gambhir

For Gambhir, leading the team to a historic defeat after such a long drought would be a heavy burden. Having recently taken on the role of head coach, this Test could become a defining moment in his career. With India’s batting lineup faltering, the prospect of a New Zealand victory becomes increasingly tantalizing.

Is There Hope for Team India?

Despite the gloomy outlook, it is essential to remember that cricket is notoriously unpredictable. With one innings left to play in this match, Team India still has a chance to turn the tide and salvage the game. However, based on current performance and the statistical weight of history, the likelihood of rewriting the narrative appears slim.

As the match progresses, fans and analysts alike will be glued to their screens, pondering whether Rohit Sharma’s decision will go down as a historic blunder or a catalyst for change in the dynamics of Indian cricket.

The post India vs New Zealand: Rohit Sharma’s Controversial Decision Could Rewrite 36 Years of Cricket History appeared first on Vizag One.

The Stakes Are High: Team India enters this series needing to win at least three out of their remaining seven matches, excluding the Bangalore Test, to secure a position in the WTC final. As they gear up for this challenge, they must also keep a keen eye on the performance of other competing teams.

The implications of a drawn match in Bangalore are significant. In the WTC format, teams earn 12 points for a win, 6 points each for a tie, and just 4 points each in the event of a draw. Thus, if the rain affects play and results in a draw, Team India will only gain 4 points, which could set back their pursuit of a final spot.

Current Standing and Future Matches: In this edition of the WTC, India has played a total of 11 Test matches, achieving 8 victories, 2 losses, and 1 draw, resulting in an impressive points percentage of 74.24%. Australia trails with a winning percentage of 62.50%, while Sri Lanka and England follow with 55.56% and 45.59%, respectively.

To maintain their chances of reaching the WTC finals for the third consecutive time, Rohit Sharma’s team needs to emerge victorious in four of the remaining matches. With two matches against New Zealand and five against Australia at home, the path is laid out clearly: win all four matches to assure their place in the final.

Monitoring Competitors: India’s immediate challenge is not only to focus on their performance but also to watch their competitors closely. Currently, Sri Lanka ranks third in the standings and will soon face South Africa. Given Sri Lanka’s form, securing victories in that series could further complicate India’s path. Additionally, England has shown promise against Pakistan, and their potential success poses another hurdle for Team India.

As the series unfolds, the pressure mounts. With rain potentially disrupting play, Rohit Sharma’s squad must capitalize on every opportunity they have. The next few matches will be pivotal not just for their aspirations but for solidifying their place in cricket history.

The post WTC Final Aspirations: India Eyes Victory Against New Zealand Amid Rainy Challenges appeared first on Vizag One.

India vs. Australia Test Series: What’s at Stake?

India is currently playing a T20 series against Bangladesh, with a Test series against New Zealand lined up next. Following these, India will tour Australia for a highly anticipated five-match Test series, starting from November 22. This Border-Gavaskar Trophy has been extended from four to five Tests, increasing the stakes even higher.

Team India’s performance against Australia in recent years has been remarkable, with memorable victories in the last two series. However, missing their star captain for any part of the series could impact the team’s momentum and strategies.

What Rohit’s Absence Could Mean for Team India

If Rohit Sharma misses one or two matches, Team India will need to adapt quickly. The first Test is scheduled in Perth on November 22, with the second match set for Adelaide on December 6. While the final decision on Rohit’s availability is still pending, the BCCI will likely finalize their plans in the coming days.

In 2020-21, India faced a similar situation when then-captain Virat Kohli returned home after the first Test in Adelaide for the birth of his first child. That series turned out to be a historic win for India despite Kohli’s absence.

Possible Replacement Options

Should Rohit Sharma be unavailable, the team will need an experienced player to step up as captain. Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, who led India to a remarkable victory in Australia last time, could take the reins again. Meanwhile, the team may also rely on the expertise of other senior players like Virat Kohli to guide the younger squad members.

Why This Series is Crucial

This Test series is more than just a contest for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With five matches scheduled, both teams will have ample opportunity to showcase their skills and establish dominance. Additionally, with the World Test Championship (WTC) points at stake, every match will be crucial for securing a spot in the WTC finals.

The potential absence of Rohit Sharma brings uncertainty but also presents an opportunity for other players to step up and demonstrate their abilities on a challenging tour. India’s recent performances have shown their depth and resilience, and fans will be eager to see how the team responds.

Stay tuned as we await official confirmation on Rohit Sharma’s availability. Meanwhile, the excitement around this India-Australia series continues to build, promising high-intensity action and memorable moments.

The post Rohit Sharma May Miss First Australia Test: BCCI Informed of Personal Reasons appeared first on Vizag One.