‘Apna time aayega’: Prithvi Shaw takes inspiration from ‘Gully Boy’ Ranveer Singh

Cricket fans and experts were expecting to see the young Prithvi Shaw come out guns blazing during the India tour of Australia, perhaps even in New Zealand.

Unfortunately for the teenager, he suffered a freak ankle injury while fielding in the deep during India’s practice match ahead of the first Test against Australia. He stayed on with the team hoping to be fit for the second Test, but was eventually ruled out of the entire series.

Shaw has still not returned to competitive cricket but his latest Twitter post has made it clear that he is raring to do so.

Also READ: Zaheer Khan picks his Indian squad for the 2019 World Cup

He posted a picture of himself holding the bat as he sought inspiration from ‘Apna Time Aayega’ rap from Ranveer Singh’s upcoming movie “Gully Boy”. The rap has taken the country by storm with youths using it heavily on social media. And 19-year-old Shaw also could not refrain from using it, writing, “Aapna Time Aayega… Injury se Fit Hoke…. Mein Aur Run Banayega… Apna Time Aayega…”

Aapna time aayega…
Injury se fit hoke…
Mein aur run banayega…
Aapna time aayega…#Gullycrickettointernationalcricket #ps100 pic.twitter.com/lTRUmW7WaI

— Prithvi Shaw (@PrithviShaw) January 30, 2019

Shaw made his India debut last year in the first Test of the home series against West Indies. He shone right on his debut and scored a century. Shaw followed up with 103 runs in the second Test. In two Tests, he scored 237 runs to bag ‘Man of the Series’ award.

The former India U-19 captain is currently recovering from the injury but is still not fit as he hasn’t been included in India A squad for the first unofficial Test against England Lions. As of now, Shaw will be looking forward to playing for Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2019 that starts on March 23.

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2Gdclxz

Trent Boult rattles debutant Shubman Gill with a nasty bouncer

Shubman Gill did not have the kind of international debut he would have expected. India were bowled out for 92, their second lowest ODI total against New Zealand and the hosts chased down the paltry total with 212 balls to spare.

With Virat Kohli rested for the final two ODIs and MS Dhoni missing out again due to injury, Gill got his maiden international cap with the senior men’s team a year and a day after his sensational hundred against Pakistan in the semifinal of the Under-19 World Cup.

The 19 year-old walked out to bat after India had lost the wicket of left-handed opening batsman, Shikhar Dhawan. The ball was swinging and Trent Boult was on fire.

But for 21 balls, Gill showed he belong to the big stage. He played a few good looking shots and held his own against a dangerous bowling attack in conditions which aided swing.

However, there was one moment in the match apart from the delivery he got out to, where Gill did not look comfortable. It was a nasty bouncer from lightning Boult that hit Gill straight on the helmet in the 10th over of the Indian innings.

The extra pace and bounce surprised Gill, he clearly was late on the pull shot. The ball rattled the youngster and was assisted by Indian physiotherapist Patrik Farhart before he resumed batting.

Boult was prompt enough to check on the teenager after vicious bouncer.

pic.twitter.com/hzLjWS29iP

— Baahubali (@bahubalikabadla) January 31, 2019

In the next over, Boult got the better of Gill with a full length delivery. The right-hander played it on the up and ended up scooping it straight back to the bowler, who accepted the return catch gleefully.

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2Bhl7r3

Zaheer Khan picks his Indian squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019

With the much-awaited World Cup only four months away now, the former cricketers are dishing out their best squads. All the teams are looking to fine-tune their skills ahead of the ICC event and are using the ongoing international games to try out a few things before finalising on the final team for the 2019 World Cup.

Former India pacer Zaheer, meanwhile, donned the hat of a selector and gave his opinion on how India’s squad should look like for the 10-team tournament.

The World Cup is scheduled to begin on May 30 with South Africa taking on hosts England, while the two-time World champions India will begin their campaign on June 5 against the Proteas in Southampton.

Zaheer, who played an important role in India’s second World Cup triumph in 2011 at home, revealed his squad in a video posted by Cricbuzz on their Twitter handle.

In the 15-man squad, Zaheer has picked the dynamic duo, Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan, as his openers with skipper Virat Kohli coming in at the crucial No. 3 slot. The former left-armer opted to go with the veteran MS Dhoni at No. 4 while his choice for the No.5 spot was either Ambati Rayudu or Dinesh Karthik.

Zaheer has backed Kedar Jadhav to do the job for his side in lower middle-order with Hardik Pandya being the only fast bowling all-rounder in the squad.

Also READ: Gautam Gambhir picks his Indian squad for the 2019 World Cup

Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal are the two leading spinners in the 15-member team with Ravindra Jadeja being the backup spinner. As expected, Zaheer has picked Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Shami as his three main pacers.

Interestingly, Zak went with rookie Rishabh Pant, who was left-out from India’s recently held ODI series Down Under and the ongoing series in New Zealand. For the final spot, the Mumbaikar has kept the choice open for out of form KL Rahul or the fourth seamer.

Zaheer Khan’s Indian squad for the ICC World Cup 2019:

Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli (c), MS Dhoni (wk), Ambati Rayudu/Dinesh Karthik, Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul/a fast bowler.

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2TjEQxj

Shikhar Dhawan’s wayward throw leaves Hardik Pandya furious

During the 3rd ODI between New Zealand and India at the Bay Oval, India’s comeback man Hardik Pandya was not at all impressed by the fielding effort of his teammate Shikhar Dhawan.

The incident occurred in the 14th over of the match when Ross Taylor and Kane Williamson were batting in the middle after Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami sent back the Kiwi openers Martin Guptill and Colin Munro respectively.

Pandya bowled a short of length delivery to Taylor, who somehow managed to pull it in the mid-wicket region. Dhawan, who was placed in the short mid-wicket region, quickly collected the ball but his wayward throw allowed Taylor and Williamson to take an extra run.

The two batsmen initially took a single and were not ready for the second run until Dhawan’s throw went towards square leg with no one around.

Also WATCH: Hardik Pandya takes a blinder to dismiss Kane Williamson

Rohit Sharma attempted to stop the ball but failed to as it was Kedar Jadhav, who eventually collected the ball and threw it back to the wicket-keeper, Dinesh Karthik.

Frustrated with Dhawan’s effort, Pandya uttered “Come on yaar” to let his disappointment known.

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2MGOJTe

Twitter Reactions: Trent Boult destroys India as New Zealand claim an easy win in the 4th ODI

Trent Boult got the ball to move both ways, and gave India the kind of match they’d want to brush aside as a ‘one-off’ or a ‘bad day’, setting up an easy eight-wicket win in the fourth ODI in Hamilton.

The left-arm pacer returned with stunning figures of 10-4-21-5 to bowl the visitors out for 92 in just 30.5 overs. The Blackcaps chased it down in 14.5 overs, the entire game lasting only 3.5 hours.

In the absence of regular skipper Virat Kohli and an injured MS Dhoni, the Indian batting unit found the going tough against the Kiwi bowling attack. Seven Indian batsmen were dismissed for single-digit scores, unable to tackle the moving ball.

Also, in terms of balls remaining (212), this is India’s worst defeat in the ODIs.

Here’s how Twitter reacted to the match:

Disappointing day for Team India today, they can learn to adapt and absorb the pressure better in conditions that are conducive for swing bowling. It was also an outstanding 10 over spell from Trent Boult who exploited the conditions well and bowled beautifully. #4thODI

— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) January 31, 2019

Not india’s day today but was really happy to see Shubman make his debut. He’s definitely one for the future.#NZvIND

— R P Singh रुद्र प्रताप सिंह (@rpsingh) January 31, 2019

See what happens when a team don’t have there best batsmen in.

— Mark Waugh (@juniorwaugh349) January 31, 2019

Easy-peasy for NZ. 92 too shallow a score to defend. Twice that may have been competitive on this pitch. Given their performances in the oast year, this match can be seen as a one-off disaster. No Kohli or Dhoni too. But India must guard against complacency

— Cricketwallah (@cricketwallah) January 31, 2019

It’s a bad day, not a bad team. Bad shot selection, not bad players #NZvIND #KeepCalm

— Gaurav Kapur (@gauravkapur) January 31, 2019

A Ten-Over spell by Boult. Broke the back of India’s batting. But two dismissals that disappointed more came from the other end—Rayudu and DK. Both loose shots. #IndvNZ @StarSportsIndia

— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) January 31, 2019

Newzeland given a wake up call to Indian team.They moved the ball and got https://t.co/UrV7jTOD4x of the main batsman should have stayed till the end got fighting total.

— Madan Lal (@MadanLal1983) January 31, 2019

When Trent Boult is in full flow, few sights better in world cricket. #NZvIND

— Vinayakk (@vinayakkm) January 31, 2019

Man of the match- Trent Boult
SCORECARD of 4th ODI: https://t.co/NRcZknjv80#Hamilton #NZvIND #INDvNZ #Cricket #TheCricketTimes pic.twitter.com/FQIc7CaqYw

— The Cricket Times (@CricketTimesHQ) January 31, 2019

Rohit Sharma: "One of our worst batting performances in a long, long time."#NZvIND

— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) January 31, 2019

In terms of balls remaining (212), this is India's worst defeat in the ODIs. A clinical, comprehensive victory for New Zealand. #4thODI #NZvIND @BLACKCAPS

— Navneet Mundhra (@navneet_mundhra) January 31, 2019

Lowest ODI team totals in New Zealand. #Cricket

73 – NZ v Sri Lanka
74 – NZ v Australia
74 – PAK v New Zealand
89 – ENG v New Zealand
92 – IND v New Zealand
93 – BAN v New Zealand
94 – NZ v Australia
105 – NZ v Australia
108 – IND v New Zealand
108 – IND v New Zealand

— Daniel Alexander (@daniel86cricket) January 31, 2019

Man of the moment Trent Boult! 5-21 and signing autographs for the kids in the crowd #NZvIND pic.twitter.com/egAcQFxWtb

— Scott Styris (@scottbstyris) January 31, 2019

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2SiGUZ9

Twitter Reactions: India bowled out for 92 after Trent Boult’s sensational spell

India have been embarrassingly bowled out for their second lowest ODI score against New Zealand in Hamilton on Thursday, dismissed for 92 after just 30.5 overs.

After losing the toss and being sent in to bat, the Men in Blue slumped to 40 for 7 in the 17th over, albeit minus superstar Virat Kohli who has been rested for the remainder of the series.

Left arm fast bowler Trent Boult caused havoc for the Indian top order, with the swing bowler ripping out openers Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, debutant Shubman Gill and Kedar Jadhav in quick succession.

All-rounder Hardik Pandya played a lone hand smashing four boundaries on his way to 16, before becoming Boult’s fifth victim as the Kiwi speedster finished with figures of 5-21.

Tailenders Kuldeep Yadav (15) and Yuzvendra Chahal (18) helped India in crossing over their lowest ODI score against New Zealand of 88, set in 2010.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

92 all out India … Can’t believe any team would get bowled out for under a 100 these days !!!!!!

— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) January 31, 2019

This spell from Trent Boult is, in one word, sensational. What a bowler!

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) January 31, 2019

All class @trent_boult #NZvsIND

— Mitchell McClenaghan (@Mitch_Savage) January 31, 2019

Trent Boult 5-21 (10 overs) – his 5th five-wicket haul in ODI's

Boult equals Sir Richard Hadlee for the most five-wicket hauls in ODI's for New Zealand

2nd best ODI figures by a New Zealand bowler against India – Shane Bond 6-19 at Bulawayo in 2005#NZvIND #BlackCaps

— Fox Sports Lab (@FoxSportsLab) January 31, 2019

India bowled out for a sub-100 total in ODIs for the first since August 2010. Their last under-100 total was also against NZ in Dambulla. #NZvInd

— Mazher Arshad (@MazherArshad) January 31, 2019

South Africa was bowled out for 150 the other day. NZ in this series. Moment the Ind team fails one day the reaction is extreme.
This is a sport and it is not played by machines. Bad days happen. We need to be patient and not over react.

— Boria Majumdar (@BoriaMajumdar) January 31, 2019

Man of the moment Trent Boult! 5-21 and signing autographs for the kids in the crowd #NZvIND pic.twitter.com/egAcQFxWtb

— Scott Styris (@scottbstyris) January 31, 2019

India's highest score in this innings: Chahal – 18*

— Broken Cricket (@BrokenCricket) January 31, 2019

Kuldeep and Chahal showed once again why they are so important together in the middle overs #NZvIND

— Gaurav Kalra (@gauravkalra75) January 31, 2019

5 for 21 in ten overs. Truly a Boult from the blue!

— Joy Bhattacharjya (@joybhattacharj) January 31, 2019

What a spell from Boult! #NZvIND pic.twitter.com/Mq9jQzsv6P

— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) January 31, 2019

Best figures for NZ vs India (ODIs):

6/19 S Bond, Bulawayo, 2005
5/21 T BOULT, Hamilton, 2019 *
5/22 A Adams, Queenstown, 2003
5/23 R Collinge, Christchurch, 1976
5/26 J Oram, Auckland, 2002#NZvIND https://t.co/GcPs6oMPMo

— Deepu Narayanan (@deeputalks) January 31, 2019

Most 5-fors for New Zealand in ODIs:

5 – Richard Hadlee
5 – TRENT BOULT*
4 – Shane Bond #NZvIND

— Umang Pabari (@UPStatsman) January 31, 2019

1. Indian batting
2. Indian batting without Kohli & Dhoni#NZvInd pic.twitter.com/4ZsTpHln1T

— Bollywood Gandu (@BollywoodGandu) January 31, 2019

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2Tnnkbz

Update on MS Dhoni’s fitness ahead of the fourth ODI against New Zealand

Former skipper MS Dhoni sat out of the third ODI against New Zealand due to a hamstring injury, making it only the third occasion when the veteran stumper was ruled out of the playing XI.

At 37, Dhoni has been one of the fittest cricketers of the current generation and it’s a rare occasion when fans witness an Indian line-up sans his name in white-ball cricket.

The last time he was out of the playing XI was way back in 2013 when he missed three ODIs due to a hamstring injury in a tri-series in the West Indies.

After missing the previous ODI against the Blackcaps, Dhoni now looks set to return for the dead rubber. He was seen sweating it out in the nets ahead of the fourth ODI in Hamilton.

Also READ: R Sridhar reveals how Indian team have improved as a catching unit

The BCCI’s Twitter handle posted the pictures of Team India’s practice sessions on Wednesday. It will be interesting to see who will make way for Dhoni though as Karthik deserves another go after playing impressive knock in the third ODI.

Snapshots from #TeamIndia's training session ahead of the 4th ODI against New Zealand #NZvIND pic.twitter.com/KTmYgLwK5n

— BCCI (@BCCI) January 30, 2019

It is quite possible that the reserve players might also get a chance as Khaleel or Siraj can come in for Mohammed Shami, who has had a hectic schedule so far. Youngster Shubman Gill may get to make his India debut as he can come in place of rested skipper Virat Kohli for the last two ODIs against New Zealand.

With an unassailable lead 3-0 in the five-match series, captain Kohli signed off his tour Down Under on a high with a first ODI series win in New Zealand in 10 years.

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2UqCZH9

R Sridhar reveals how Indian team have improved as a catching unit

A ‘blindfold technique’ to increase reaction time, leather balls of various weights to gauge trajectory in breezy conditions and a simulation machine for slip-catching have made the Indian team a remarkably improved catching unit, fielding coach R Sridhar revealed in a recent interview.

While ‘blindfold technique’ is specifically used for red-ball cricket in England, a simulation machine is ‘Teammate’ is used for slip-catching in Australia.

When asked about the ‘blindfold technique’, Sridhar said, “We have a feeder behind a curtain and the catcher doesn’t know from where the ball is coming from.

“We would slide it from under the curtain. It did improve their reaction time (reflex), we did that extensively in England throughout the Test series. It is specifically for red-ball cricket.”

Also READ: ICC reveals men’s T20 World Cup 2020 fixtures

Now, balls of varying weights are being used during the ODI series against New Zealand in order to help the players prepare for skiers with steady breeze threatening to change the trajectory.

“We brought a different type of machine called ‘Teammate’ for slip-catching simulations. We did a lot of blindfold work or reaction work. By the time, we reached Australia, it was a well-oiled machine and if you see, Virat Kohli took some brilliant catches,” the fielding coach added.

When asked about how the team is countering the breeze while handling skiers, Sridhar said, “The biggest challenge you face in New Zealand as a fielder is the breeze. Most of the batting and bowling plans are based around that breeze.

If we see the ball wobble a lot in air, we try and simulate that in practice, use balls of different weights, so that the ball swerves and swings more in the air.”

Sridhar also praised Hardik Pandya’s stunning catch to dismiss the Blackcaps skipper Kane Williamson at the Bay Oval on Monday.

“The desperation he brought was magnificent to see. He is always a good fielder and dying to get into the thick of things and be a part of this and get back to what he loves doing, that is to play cricket and as best as he can.”

“He (Pandya) made a very difficult catch look easy. It was a piece of magic and he is known for that and he is one of our best fielders. Hardik brings a lot to the team. Not only the balance but other factors as well,” he concluded.

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2RorcHj

Smriti Mandhana promises to give her ‘Player of the Match’ award to the bowlers

India opener Smriti Mandhana led the run chase that steered her side to a series-clinching eight-wicket win over New Zealand in the 2nd ODI at the Bay Oval on Tuesday.

Opting to field, India bowlers produced an excellent effort to bowl out the hosts for 161. With a target of 162, India eased towards the victory as Mandhana (90 not out) and Mithali Raj (63 not out) combined to take the team over the line.

Mandhana felt the total of 162 was easy to chase and it is the bowlers that deserve credit for restrict the White Ferns to such a low total.

Also READ: ICC announces the women’s T20I team of the year 2018

“162 was a very easy total to chase. I will be giving this award to all the bowlers in the team. They deserve it for restricting New Zealand to 161 on such a good wicket,” Mandhana said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

Brilliant from @BCCIWomen after a stellar bowling effort led by @JhulanG10 @mandhana_smriti and @M_Raj03 finished it in style. 2-0.

— Boria Majumdar (@BoriaMajumdar) January 29, 2019

Another cracker from @mandhana_smriti. But good to see the old guard of @JhulanG10 and @M_Raj03 winning games for India. And how good was Ekta Bisht (2-14 from 8 overs). The women matching the men in New Zealand.

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) January 29, 2019

The 22-year-old has been in excellent form in recent times and Tuesday’s half century was her eighth in the last 10 ODI innings. She hit 105 in the first match of the ongoing series.

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2DF2grp

ICC reveals men’s T20 World Cup 2020 fixtures

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the fixtures of the men’s T20 World Cup 2020 to be held in Australia.

The Indian men’s team is in Group 2, which also includes England, South Africa, Afghanistan and two qualifiers. India will begin its campaign with a tricky match against South Africa at the Perth Stadium.

The men’s competition, from October 18 to November 15, will feature several qualifying matches before Australia kick off the Super 12 group stages on October 24 against top-ranked Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

Australia, Pakistan, West Indies, New Zealand and two qualifiers make up one side of the draw, with defending champions Windies starting their title defence against the Black Caps on October 25.

Also READ: ICC World Cup 2019- Schedule, Fixtures, Time Table & Venue Details

India, England, South Africa and Afghanistan and two qualifiers make up the other side of the draw.

Men’s Pools 

First Round qualifiers

Group A: Sri Lanka, QA2, QA3, QA4

Group B: Bangladesh, QB2, QB3, QB4

Super 12 

Group 1: Pakistan, Australia, New Zealand, West Indies, A1, B2

Group 2: India, England, South Africa, Afghanistan, B1, A2

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2020 fixtures

Oct 24: Australia v Pakistan at SCG

Oct 24: India v South Africa at Perth Stadium

Oct 25: New Zealand v West Indies at MCG

Oct 25: QA1 v QB2 at Bellerive Oval

Oct 26: Afghanistan v QA2 at Perth Stadium

Oct 26: England v QB1 at Perth Stadium

Oct 27: New Zealand v QB2 at Bellerive Oval

Oct 28: Afghanistan v QB1 at Perth Stadium

Oct 28: Australia v West Indies at Perth Stadium

Oct 29: India v QA2 at MCG

Oct 29: Pakistan v QA1 at SCG

Oct 30: England v South Africa at SCG

Oct 30: West Indies v QB2 at Perth Stadium

Oct 31: Pakistan v New Zealand at The Gabba

Oct 31: Australia v QA1 at The Gabba

Nov 1: India v England at MCG

Nov 1: South Africa v Afghanistan at Adelaide Oval

Nov 2: QA2 v QB1 at SCG

Nov 2: New Zealand v QA1 at The Gabba

Nov 3: Pakistan v West Indies at Adelaide Oval

Nov 3: Australia v QB2 at Adelaide Oval

Nov 4: England v Afghanistan at The Gabba

Nov 5: South Africa v QA2 at Adelaide Oval

Nov 5: India v QB1 at Adelaide Oval

Nov 6: Pakistan v QB2 at MCG

Nov 6: Australia v New Zealand at MCG

Nov 7: West Indies v QA1 at MCG

Nov 7: England v QA2 at Adelaide Oval

Nov 8: South Africa v QB1 at SCG

Nov 8: India v Afghanistan at SCG

Semi-Finals

Nov 11: SCG

Nov 12: Adelaide Oval

Final

Nov 15: MCG

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2G533nj

Virat Kohli indirectly names his replacement for the last 2 ODIs against New Zealand

India won the third ODI against New Zealand by 7 wickets on January 28 and took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the ongoing series.

Mohammed Shami was adjudged the player of the match for his brilliant spell of 9-0-41-3.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to rest Virat Kohli for the last two ODIs and the T20I series in the ongoing New Zealand tour.

Now that India have won the ODI series, Kohli can go into his much-needed break happily. Meanwhile, during the post-match interview, Kohli indirectly hinted at the batsman who could come in as his replacement for the final two ODIs.

Also WATCH: Rohit Sharma dives backward to save his wicket but fails badly

Talking about the team’s current combination, Kohli said, “Three clinical games for us. Couldn’t have asked for a better performance after the first two clinical games. The relentlessness of the side is something that really pleases me. We really enjoy ourselves and even at the end when Rayudu and Karthik were batting, we were sitting in the change room and cheering for every run.

That’s how the environment in the dressing room is. The guys believe in their skills and they are showing it on the field. When a guy doesn’t get runs in a couple of games, he’s actually hungry to score runs and the opposition feels a bit nervous because he’s gonna fire at some stage. So, that’s the kind of confidence we carry in the team right now; in the batting department as well as the bowling department.”

Speaking about the youngsters in the squad, Kohli said, “I think there are some outstanding talents. We saw Prithvi Shaw grab the opportunity with both hands. Shubman (Gill) is a very exciting talent and I saw him bat in the nets and I was like wow I was not even ten percent of that when I was 19.

So, that’s the confidence that they carry and it’s great for Indian cricket, the standard keeps going up and the guys coming in can make those impact performances straightaway. And, we are more than happy to give them chances and provide them the space to grow,” Kohli hinted that Shubman might make his India debut on Friday (January 31).

The final two ODIs will be played on Friday and Sunday (February 3) in Auckland and Hamilton respectively.

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2TjtAkF

New Zealand announce squad for last two ODIs against India

New Zealand has announced their squad for the last two ODIs against India, who have taken an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.

The Black Caps have drafted in all-rounder Jimmy Neesham and Todd Astle in place of Doug Bracewell and Ish Sodhi respectively.

Neesham was part of the squad that faced Sri Lanka at home recently before he suffered a hamstring strain. Meanwhile, Astle has recovered the from the knee injury that ruled him out of the series against Pakistan in November, a statement from New Zealand Cricket said.

Also WATCH: Anushka Sharma cheers for Virat Kohli in the Bay Oval ODI

“It’s great to welcome back the all-round skills of Jimmy and Todd and we’re looking forward to seeing what they can bring to the series,” NZ selector and former player Gavin Larsen said.

“We’re still looking to keep our options open with selections (for the World Cup) at this stage and ensure we continue to learn as much as we can about our players,” he added.

While the fourth ODI will be played on the last day of this month at Hamilton, the final ODI is scheduled for February 3 at Wellington.

New Zealand squad:

Kane Williamson (c), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (wk), Colin Munro, Jimmy Neesham, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor.

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2WswF3U

Anushka Sharma, Dipika Pallikal and Smriti Mandhana cheers for Virat Kohli in the Bay Oval ODI

Virat Kohli-led India easily defeated Kane Williamson’s New Zealand side by seven wickets in the third ODI at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Monday.

With the win, Men in Blue have claimed their first series win in New Zealand since 2009. The visitors first restricted the hosts to 243 and then easily chased down the target inside 43 overs.

Rohit Sharma and captain Kohli scored half-centuries as they took India to a comfortable position in the run-chase. Kohli’s gritty knock was laced with 6 fours and one six.

In the 26th over of second innings, Kohli completed his fifty with a nudge to long on, off the bowling of Mitchell Santner. It was yet another important contribution from Kohli during a run-chase.

New Zealand vs India, 3rd ODI – Scorecard

Virat’s wife – Anushka Sharma, who was present in the stadium along with Dipika Pallikal and Smriti Mandhana stood up to applaud Kohli’s efforts when he reached his fifty.

Here’s the video clip:

| @AnushkaSharma cheering for @imVkohli post his 50* against New Zealand in 3rd ODI today #Virushka pic.twitter.com/39UKS7ruO7

— Anushka Sharma FC (@AnushkaSFanCIub) January 28, 2019

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2CS9BCz

Twitter Reactions: India blow New Zealand aside to take an unassailable 3-0 lead

It was yet another cakewalk for the star-studded Indian batting lineup after the bowlers put in a outstanding performance to bowl New Zealand out for 243 in 49 overs after losing the toss in the third ODI at the Bay Oval in Tauranga on Monday.

Captain Virat Kohli and his deputy Rohit Sharma stitched together a 113-run partnership for the second wicket to lay the foundation for the 244-run chase.

Rohit top-scored with 62 while Kohli scored 60 before Ambati Rayudu and Dinesh Karthik took India over the line with an unbeaten 77-run stand for the third wicket. Rayudu remained unbeaten on 40 while Karthik scored 38 not out.

Also WATCH: Hardik Pandya takes a blinder to dismiss Kane Williamson

The match was nicely set up for the Indian bowlers led by Mohammed Shami, who finished with 3 wickets for 41 runs. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Hardik Pandya and Yuzvendra Chahal bagged 2 wickets each.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

ODI winners in South Africa, Australia & now New Zealand!! What a performance by #TeamIndia. Consistently upping the bar. #INDvsNZ

— Suresh Raina (@ImRaina) January 28, 2019

Another clinical performance by team india proud of u guys 3-0 against NZ in NZ . Congratulations skipper @imVkohli and team #NZvInd

— Rahul Sharma (@ImRahulSharma3) January 28, 2019

India is the best ODI team on the road….just going from strength to strength. One more dominating performance. #NZvInd @StarSportsIndia

— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) January 28, 2019

Main course appears over! Time for some dessert. Might try the……. humble pie #NZvsIND

— Scott Styris (@scottbstyris) January 28, 2019

Make that The was at it again !!!!!

— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) January 28, 2019

Shami has been absolutely brilliant. India's quest for the third seamer looks solved for me #NZvIND

— Hemang Badani (@hemangkbadani) January 28, 2019

Great win for India, another series win , after the ones in South Africa and Australia. Feel very happy for @MdShami11 , have always considered him an asset in 50 over cricket. #NZvsInd

— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) January 28, 2019

India's ODI series results after 2017 ICC Champions Trophy:
W W W W W W L W W W W#NZvIND #INDvsNZ

— Rajneesh Gupta (@rgcricket) January 28, 2019

For his spell of 3/41 from 9 overs, @MdShami11 is the 3rd ODI Player of the Match #NZvIND pic.twitter.com/nOxQeILgAT

— ICC (@ICC) January 28, 2019

That's Virat Kohli for you! #Cricket #TheCricketTimes pic.twitter.com/AW1Q8JjlDK

— The Cricket Times (@CricketTimesHQ) January 28, 2019

The big three didn't get a hundred and yet India have absolutely thrashed the Kiwis to seal the series. Didn't expect Australia to be the tougher team to beat…

— Saurabh Malhotra (@MalhotraSaurabh) January 28, 2019

Highest winning percentage as a captain in ODIs (Min.25 matches):
76.19 Clive Lloyd (64/84)
74.60 VIRAT KOHLI (47/63)
71.74 Hansie Cronje (99/138)
71.74 Ricky Ponting (165/230)#NZvIND #INDvsNZ

— Rajneesh Gupta (@rgcricket) January 28, 2019

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2sQucT2

New Zealand vs India 3rd ODI: “Your English, Bahut Achha” – Simon Doull to Mohammed Shami

India made light work of the 244-run chase and registered a comfortable 7-wicket win to clinch the five-match ODI series with an unbeatable 3-0 lead against New Zealand on Monday.

With the win, Virat Kohli has become the first Indian captain to win back-to-back ODI series in Australia and New Zealand.

After the match, Shami was awarded his second ‘Man of the match’ award of the ongoing series. He scalped three wickets and gave 41 runs in his nine overs.

Shami, who was accompanied by Kohli at the presentation ceremony spoke few words in English.

Also WATCH: Shikhar Dhawan’s wayward throw to Rohit Sharma leaves Hardik Pandya miffed

He said, “It’s really difficult to bowl against the wind. One comes with the wind and the other is against the wind. It is difficult but not too hard. Bhuvi at the other end was also a great help. Sticking to areas where we want to bowl is the key.”

At the end, Doull appreciated Shami’s English and said, “Your English, Bahut Accha. (Your English is very good)”

Here is the video:

Shami surprises Simon Doull by speaking in English who responds in Hindi "your English bahut achha (very good)" #IndvNZ pic.twitter.com/F9p9GDH0Ez

— Navjot Piddu (@DesiFamilyGuy) January 28, 2019

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2B5tOos

MS Dhoni out of Bay Oval ODI due to hamstring injury

New Zealand, who is currently trailing the five-match ODI series against India 0-2, on Monday, won the toss and chose to bat at the Bay Oval. Kane Williamson-led side made one change, with Mitchell Santner replacing Colin de Grandhomme.

However, when Virat Kohli came to speak, he dropped a bombshell to announce two changes. MS Dhoni, who has been in tremendous form in 2019 and has rediscovered his finishing prowess, was ruled out of the game due to a sore hamstring while Kohli announced that Hardik Pandya replaced Vijay Shankar in the playing XI.

The absence of Dhoni is a major blow for India as the former India skipper was finishing games in his trademark style during the ODIs against Australia and New Zealand. In Australia, after he hit a slow fifty which resulted in criticism, Dhoni responded with magnificent knocks of unbeaten 55 and 68 not-out to give India their first bilateral ODI series win on the Australian soil.

New Zealand and India are playing the third ODI at the same venue where the Men in Blue scored 324 runs in the second ODI. “Under the lights, we felt the ball came on better. We were quite satisfied, I personally would like to get the scoring rate up. In the last game, we could’ve got to 340,” felt the Indian skipper.

New Zealand playing XI: Martin Guptill, Colin Munro, Kane Williamson (c), Ross Taylor, Tom Latham (w), Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Doug Bracewell, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson, Trent Boult

India playing XI: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli (c), Ambati Rayudu, Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Karthik (w), Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2G8VFXQ

New Zealand Police issues a hilarious warning to its citizens regarding Men in Blue

Highlighting Men in Blue’s dominance in the first two ODIs against the Blackcaps, New Zealand police department has issued a hilarious warning to its citizens about the exploits of a ‘group touring the country’.

An all-round show by the Indian batsmen backed up by a four-wicket haul from Kuldeep Yadav helped India record their second successive win in the five-match series as they thumped New Zealand by 90 runs in the second ODI at the Bay Oval in Tauranga on Saturday.

Taking to Facebook, the Eastern District Police of NZ wrote, “Police would like to issue a warning to members of the public about the exploits of a group touring the country at the moment. Witnesses report seeing this group badly assault an innocent looking bunch of New Zealanders in both Napier and Mt Maunganui in the last week. Extra care should be taken if you are carrying anything that looks like a cricket bat or ball.”

The post found a chord with the fans with former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris also sharing a screenshot of the funny warning on his Twitter handle, saying: ‘very clever’.

Very clever!!! pic.twitter.com/34e7dZieOw

— Scott Styris (@scottbstyris) January 26, 2019

Meanwhile, New Zealand head coach Gary Stead heaped praise on Virat Kohli’s wrecker-in-chief, Kuldeep Yadav but expressed confidence that the Black Caps will be able to find ways to tackle the spin threat in the remainder of the ODI series.

“I have faith in our guys – we played the spin bowling very well against Sri Lanka and they had a lot of spinners as well, so it’s not like we can’t, we just haven’t done it effectively. The two wrist-spinners they have here are very effective bowlers – our challenge is to find a way to be better,” Stead said.

The Men in Blue will take on the Black Caps in the third ODI on January 28 at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui.

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2MBFRhu

‘It’s an honour,’ Gautam Gambhir reacts after being honoured with Padma Shri

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir, who retired last month from all form of cricket, has been honoured with the prestigious Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award on Saturday, 26 January.

“It’s an honour I accept with gratitude. But it’s an honour which also comes with responsibility,” Gambhir wrote on Twitter. “I’m living for the day when Gautam Gambhir the human being beats Gautam Gambhir the cricketer. That will be my day, my award to myself.”

It’s an honour I accept with gratitude. But it’s an honour which also comes with responsibility. I’m living for the day when Gautam Gambhir the human being beats Gautam Gambhir the cricketer. That will be my day, my award to myself. #PadmaAwards2019

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) January 25, 2019

Gambhir was once the No.1-ranked batsman on ICC Test Rankings for batsmen and was part of the Indian team that climbed to the top of the rankings. He accumulated 4154 Test runs at 41.95 with nine centuries and 5238 ODI runs at 39.68 with 11 centuries.

The southpaw is fondly remembered for his match winning knocks in the finals of the two ICC tournaments – 97 against Sri Lanka in the 2011 World Cup final and 75 against Pakistan in the 2007 T20 World Cup.

Gambhir led India against New Zealand in six ODIs and maintained an undefeated record, winning all the matches that Men in Blue played under him.

He also led Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Daredevils in the Indian Premier League (IPL) but his best stint came along with the Kolkata based franchise, which he led for seven years. He led the team to two titles in 2012 and 2014 as well.

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2MAggpr

Ranji Trophy 2018-19: Vinay Kumar left fuming after Cheteshwar Pujara was wrongly given not-out

Cheteshwar Pujara had been subject to a lot of criticism from several quarters for not walking despite edging the ball in the second semifinal of the ongoing Ranji Trophy between Saurashtra and Karnataka at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore.

Pujara was batting on just one run when the incident took place in Saurashtra’s first innings and went on to score 45 off 99 balls before being eventually dismissed by Abhimanyu Mithun.

A similar incident occurred in the second innings of the match where he was once again given a lifeline by the on-field umpire despite being clearly out much to the anguish of the opposition.

In the 25th over of Saurashtra’s second innings bowled by Vinay Kumar, Pujara edged a fuller delivery into the gloves of Srinivas Sharath.

The wicketkeeper and the close in fielders instantly went up for the appeal but the umpire, once again, was unmoved as in the first innings.

Vinay Kumar literally pleaded with the umpire to give the decision in his favour but he had to return empty-handed.

pic.twitter.com/zkG2SH1mjD

— Mushfiqur Fan (@NaaginDance) January 27, 2019

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2sPu1az

Rohit Paudel breaks Sachin Tendulkar’s record to become youngest male international half-centurion

Nepal batsman Rohit Paudel hit 55 off 58 balls against UAE, aged 16 years and 146 days, to become the youngest male player in history to score an international half-century.

The previous youngest was none other than India’s batting legend Sachin Tendulkar, who scored 59 runs in a Test match against Pakistan aged 16 years and 213 days, while in ODIs the record was set by Pakistan’s all-rounder Shahid Afridi, who smashed a 37-ball century, also a record at the time, aged 16 years and 217 days in his maiden international innings against Sri Lanka.

However, Rohit is some way off the overall record for all international cricket, with South Africa Women’s Johmari Logtenburg having struck Test and ODI half-centuries as a 14-year-old.

Also READ: Twitter bows down to MS Dhoni as he stumps Ross Taylor in less than a second

Paudel had come close to setting a world record when he made his ODI debut aged 15 years and 335 days back in August 2018. He then became the fourth-youngest male cricketer to make his ODI debut.

Paudel first attracted attention when he smashed Indian speedster Kamlesh Nagarkoti for 24 runs off five balls in the Under-19 World Cup three years ago.

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2UnPaof

Ranji Trophy 2018-19: Cheteshwar Pujara replies with a maximum after being sledged by Manish Pandey, Srinivas Sharath

During the second semi final of the ongoing Ranji Trophy between Karnataka and Saurashtra at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Karnataka captain Manish Pandey and wicket-keeper batsman Srinivas Sharath were heard passing comments to Saurashtra’s top-order batsman Cheteshwar Pujara.

It all happened during the 47th over of Saurashtra’s innings when Pujara was preparing to face Karnataka all-rounder Shreyas Gopal.

“One lazy step-out and we have him boys,” Pandey was heard as saying from his fielding position at first slip.

While Pandey hinted at his team getting the wicket if the batsman steps out, Sharath was of the opinion that wickets will fall in cluster. “That time of the day where wickets are going to fall in cluster boys. One good ball and we have him here,” Sharath said.

Pujara, who generally is quite calm and goes about his business quietly, decided to give a reply in his own style. The first delivery of the over bowled by Gopal was on leg stump and Pujara rocked back on the back foot and pulled it into the stands for a maximum.

pic.twitter.com/kMPkANCCYG

— Mushfiqur Fan (@NaaginDance) January 25, 2019

While Karnataka players attempt to distort Pujara’s focus went unsuccessful in that over, the batting stalwart was eventually dismissing by pacer Abhimanyu Mithun in the 55th over. Pujara scored 45 runs off 99 balls with the help of three fours and a six.

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2G1TJ3r

Hardik Pandya hit a 1000 balls under suspension in Australia: Kiran More

Hardik Pandya’s mentor Kiran More has revealed that the Indian all-rounder hit 1,000 balls in Australia after being suspended pending inquiry by the CoA over his sexiest remarks on women during the talk show, ‘Koffee with Karan’.

More said that Pandya revealed this to him while working in his academy in Baroda.

“When I was working with him in my academy in Baroda, I saw him hitting the ball cleanly. I asked him how he had managed to retain that touch. He told me, ‘Sir, I hit a thousand balls in Australia when I was removed.’ That’s the way to do it,” More told India Today.

Also READ: Gautam Gambhir picks his Indian squad for the 2019 World Cup

More also heaped a lot of praise on Hardik and said that he was happy that the youngster will get to play cricket again.

“I remember him as a very talented cricketer, who wanted to do everything – bowl, bat, field and he wanted to win. I am just happy he will get to play cricket again,” he recollected.

More also opined that things were blown out of proportion regarding the issue. He said that he doesn’t remember single misbehaviour from Hardik ever since he’s known him.

“He made a mistake and apologized. I think things were blown out of proportion. He doesn’t have a bad track record on the field. I have known him for long. There is not single cricket misbehaviour I remember,” concluded More.

The World Cup is now months away and India will only play a handful of matches (in New Zealand and at home against Australia). Hardik will join up with his India teammates soon and this will be a perfect opportunity for him to show what he can do on the field.

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2DCsCuq

Twitter bows down to MS Dhoni as he stumps Ross Taylor in less than a second

The master of the stumping in international cricket, MS Dhoni was at it once again at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui in the second ODI against New Zealand.

Chasing 325 to level the series, the Blackcaps were in a spot of bother when they lost Martin Guptill and Kane Williamson in the first powerplay. Colin Munro was soon back in the hut too when the spinners came on, and that left a lot of pressure on the in-form batsmen Ross Taylor and Tom Latham.

Gautam Gambhir picks his Indian squad for the 2019 World Cup

But Taylor had no answer to a moment of magic from the Indian wicket-keeper.

With Kedar Jadhav pushing one through that didn’t turn, Taylor’s outside edge was beaten. As he had overbalanced even so lightly, his back-foot was out off the crease for just a brief moment.

A matter of milliseconds and that’s all it took for Dhoni to whip the bails off.

WATCH: MS Dhoni pulls off a lightning-quick stumping to dismiss Ross Taylor

However, the best moment came when the 37-year-old was quick to appeal for the stumps, and remained confident that he has got his man, despite the rest of the Indian team remaining skeptical about it. The replays, though, confirmed Dhoni’s suspicion, as the Indian camp celebrated the big dismissal.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

.@msdhoni channeling his inner-flash to execute that stumping! #NZvIND #HallaBol pic.twitter.com/nRgw8ZlGj2

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) January 26, 2019

Terrific stumping by Dhoni to get rid of in-form Taylor. Dhoni and Jadhav are becoming Jodi No.1 for India!

— Cricketwallah (@cricketwallah) January 26, 2019

When it comes to stumpings, @msdhoni is the boss #GOAT #NZvIND pic.twitter.com/7CZX7AIs0B

— Sarah Taylor (@SarahTheCricket) January 26, 2019

How quick was that from Dhoni #lightening #NZvIND

— Deep Dasgupta (@DeepDasgupta7) January 26, 2019

OUT. Those Dhoni hands. And that Kedar’s bowling. #NZvInd

— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) January 26, 2019

The fastest hands in the East conjure up another dismissal. #Dhoni. Game over, I should think.

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) January 26, 2019

Jharkhand Tableau. pic.twitter.com/IP56tIKEsu

— Trendulkar (@Trendulkar) January 26, 2019

WATCH: Virat Kohli giggles as Ambati Rayudu comically braves a nasty blow

What a stumping DHONI!

What is he made of? Is he a superman? How does he find one such stumping in every match? One blink & you’re gone.

Unbeliveable is the only word for Dhoni. #INDvNZ @msdhoni

— Akash Jain (@akash207) January 26, 2019

OUT!

That is Dhoni's wicket. Look at the side hug MS. He's a gem. Jewel behind the wickets to the spinners.

— Nikhil (@CricCrazyNIKS) January 26, 2019

Life may give you a second chance, but don't expect a second chance from Dhoni ever, when it comes to his stumping.

— Keh Ke Peheno (@coolfunnytshirt) January 26, 2019

How Ross Taylor see's Dhoni…@msdhoni #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/9FmyEYI4OY

— Mayur (@yeahokigetit) January 26, 2019

Dhoni: How's the foot?
Umpire: High sir.#NZvIND #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/VWN8bbmNME

— Prof. Moriarty (@DesiOptimystic) January 26, 2019

The nano seconds were discovered to measure Dhoni's stumping.#INDvNZ

— Sunil- The cricketer (@1sInto2s) January 26, 2019

Genius is an understatement for MS Dhoni's wicket-keeping to spinners. Ross Taylor didn't even think he was in danger when the appeal was made. Brilliant. #NZvIND

— Vinayakk (@vinayakkm) January 26, 2019

MS Dhoni when he sees batsman millimeter outside crease. pic.twitter.com/xsQXNnjZ4I

— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) January 26, 2019

Dhoni when batsman leaves the crease#NZvIND pic.twitter.com/EqphEMavUe

— RS (@AwaraRish) January 26, 2019

Looks like Dhoni stopped time to do stumping. Only he was moving everyone else was standing like statue #NZvIND pic.twitter.com/FFmvsz415n

— Rishabh Srivastava (@AskRishabh) January 26, 2019

.@msdhoni & his lightning stumping is still a better Love Story.
Best Wicket Keeper for a reason!#NZvIND #MSDhoni #Dhoni pic.twitter.com/wJ2WZYnuk9

— MS Dhoni Fans Official (@msdfansofficial) January 23, 2019

from Blog – The Cricket Times | CricketTimes.com http://bit.ly/2S84ozX