Amidst the Sri Lanka cricket team’s disappointing performance in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023, the secretary of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), Mohan de Silva, has tendered his resignation. This decision follows scathing criticism from the nation’s sports minister and highlights the unique oversight of the sports ministry over SLC, as is the case with other sports organizations in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka’s ODI World Cup journey took a disastrous turn, leading to their elimination from the semifinal race after a crushing 302-run defeat to India on November 2 in Mumbai. The Sports Minister had expressed his determination to seek answers from Sri Lanka Cricket regarding their poor showing.

Before the World Cup, Sri Lanka had shown promise by reaching the final of the Asia Cup 2023, where they defeated Pakistan. However, the final turned into a nightmare as they were bowled out for a mere 50 runs, with India’s Mohammed Siraj claiming six wickets.

Resignation Amidst World Cup Woes: SLC Secretary Steps Down

In the ODI World Cup, their campaign began on a bleak note with losses to South Africa, Pakistan, and Australia in their first three matches. They managed to revive their fortunes with victories over the Netherlands and the struggling defending champions, England.

In their subsequent match, Sri Lanka faced a defeat against Afghanistan before encountering India, who vividly brought back memories of their Asia Cup 2023 final defeat in Mumbai.

While chasing a target of 358, Sri Lanka’s hopes were quickly dashed in the first two overs as Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj took three wickets. Mohammed Shami completed the rout, securing a five-wicket haul as Sri Lanka were bowled out for a mere 55.

The loss in this crucial match resulted in stern remarks from the sports ministry, which typically maintains a cooperative relationship with the cricket board. It’s worth noting that, according to ICC rules, the government is not permitted to directly interfere in cricket board matters, and this issue has been a point of contention between the sports ministry and SLC for some time.

See Also : Sri Lanka Abandons Delhi Practice Session Amid Pollution Concerns, Casting Doubt on BAN vs SL Match

Sachin Tendulkar, an acclaimed cricketing legend, known as one of the sport’s greatest batsmen, is soon to receive a monumental honor at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium. A 22-foot statue of the cricket icon will be unveiled on November 1, coinciding with the India-Sri Lanka ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 match.

Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister to Attend

Tendulkar, boasting an illustrious career with records like 15,821 Test runs and 18,426 ODI runs, will grace the unveiling ceremony. Distinguished figures, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, will attend as the chief guest and guest of honor. Prominent representatives from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will also be in attendance.

The statue, portraying a 50-year-old Tendulkar delivering a straight-six off Australian legend Shane Warne, was crafted by the renowned painter-sculptor Pramod Kale. This grand tribute to the cricketing icon aims to inspire future generations of cricketers and carry forward Sachin Tendulkar’s legacy in Mumbai Cricket.

See Also : England’s ODI World Cup 2023 Performance May Affect Their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Chances, Concerning Jos Buttler

Wankhede Stadium holds a special place in Tendulkar’s heart, serving as the venue for his emotional farewell in November 2013 during his 200th and final Test match. Tendulkar’s deep-rooted connection with Mumbai, where he was born and raised and developed his cricketing skills under the late Ramakant Achrekar’s guidance, makes this honor all the more significant.

This life-size statue is a befitting tribute to a cricketing legend whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the sport, destined to inspire aspiring cricketers and fans worldwide. Sachin Tendulkar’s remarkable journey in the realm of cricket has been a beacon of inspiration for millions, and this statue at Wankhede Stadium symbolizes the celebration of his enduring legacy and extraordinary career in the sport.

Pakistan’s World Cup struggles persist as a fresh controversy emerges, putting captain Babar Azam’s private messages in the spotlight on live television. In addition to their on-field challenges, off-field issues continue to capture public attention and provoke reactions. Many more facets of this story are expected to unfold in the days to come.

Local reporters have unveiled a payment dispute involving Pakistani cricketers and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). It has come to light that players have not received their earnings for the past four to five months, despite the announcement of central contracts during the Asia Cup. However, the distribution of payments remains pending.

PCB Chairman Zaka Ashraf, in an interview with ARY News, attributed the delay in payment to the need for adhering to proper procedures. He clarified that players had insufficient time to sign contracts before their departure, which led to delays in paperwork and subsequently, payment processing. Ashraf also mentioned that the contracts are currently in transit to India for finalization.

PCB Chairman Shuts the Door on Babar Azam as Private Chats Leak

Numerous reports indicate that Pakistan’s captain has taken a prominent role in voicing players’ grievances, making efforts to get in touch with Ashraf, who is alleged to have ignored his calls and messages.

Former wicketkeeper Rashid Latif has corroborated this claim. However, Ashraf refuted these accusations during an interview, asserting that Babar had never reached out to him.

According to Latif, as he stated on PTV Sports, “Babar Azam has been messaging the chairman for two days, but he hasn’t replied. He’s been messaging Salman Naseer (PCB COO) and Usman Wahla (PCB Director).”

In contrast, Ashraf dismissed these claims, saying, “He [the captain] has never called me. The team’s captain has a level – he can communicate up to the director or COO.”

See Also : Is it still possible for England to reach the semi-finals despite their loss to India ?

A circulating video clip includes an excerpt from ARY News where a conversation between Babar and PCB COO Salman Naseer is disclosed. A WhatsApp screenshot displays a message from Salman inquiring whether Babar had contacted the PCB Chairman regarding the issue. In response, the 29-year-old appears to deny having made such a call.

Revelation Emerges from Journalist Regarding Leaked Chats

Wasim Badami, the anchor who initially reported the leaked chats, faced criticism from both fans and former Pakistani cricketers, notably Shahid Afridi, who directly expressed his disapproval. Badami addressed the issue by taking to his official platform to clarify his position.

“As a team, we made an erroneous decision by sharing Babar’s chat with a senior PCB official,” he explained. “In essence, we were deliberating an hour before the show about not making private chats public. Just five to seven minutes before the show, we received a clip in which Zaka Ashraf is heard saying, ‘I am giving you this screenshot and I am asking you to show it live on screen. If he’s admitting responsibility on TV,’ and we thought we could share it. It wasn’t the optimal decision,” he admitted.

The Indian cricket team extended their victorious streak in the ICC World Cup 2023 by overpowering England with a resounding 100-run victory this past Sunday. Notably absent from the match once again was the versatile pace-bowling all-rounder, Hardik Pandya, who continues to recover from an ankle injury.

The looming question on the minds of fans is whether Hardik Pandya will make a comeback for the upcoming match against Sri Lanka on November 2 and be available for selection. The cricketer has been sidelined for the last two matches, including the clash with New Zealand, after sustaining an ankle injury during a bowling attempt against Bangladesh.

The Race Against Time and Injury: Can Pandya Make It Back for Sri Lanka Clash?

A recent report by the Times of India indicates that the 30-year-old T20 captain is likely to rejoin the team in Mumbai, where the India vs. Sri Lanka match is scheduled to take place at the Wankhede Stadium on November 2. However, the report also underscores concerns about his match fitness.

A reliable source disclosed, “Yes, Hardik Pandya, presently in the process of recuperation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, will rejoin the team in Mumbai. At this juncture, it remains uncertain whether he will participate in the Sri Lanka match, but his inclusion in the team is planned.”

Hardik Pandya sustained his ankle injury during the match against Bangladesh on October 19 while bowling. In his absence, captain Rohit Sharma incorporated middle-order batsman Suryakumar Yadav and fast bowler Mohammed Shami to fill the void.

Shami has distinguished himself as a standout performer, amassing nine wickets in two games, while Suryakumar played a pivotal role by contributing 49 runs against England, creating a selection dilemma for the skipper as the ICC World Cup 2023 approaches its knockout stages. As for Hardik Pandya’s performance in the tournament, he has secured five wickets in four matches but has managed only 11 runs with the bat.

India currently leads the round-robin standings with a flawless record of six victories in as many games, all but securing their place in the semifinals with three matches remaining. Their next fixtures include South Africa on November 5 and the Netherlands on November 12.

In the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023, Jos Buttler and his team are enduring a challenging campaign, teetering on the edge of elimination following a demoralizing defeat to India on Sunday. With just two points from six matches, England currently languish at the bottom of the points table, having suffered their fifth loss in the tournament.

While the recent loss to table-topping India at Lucknow’s Ekana Cricket Stadium has certainly dented their prospects, there remains a slim but daunting chance for them to secure a spot in the final four. Mathematically, England hasn’t been eliminated yet, despite their solitary win in the tournament. To progress to the semi-finals, they must win their remaining three matches and rely on other match results.

In their campaign, England initiated with a loss to New Zealand, secured a win against Bangladesh, and then went on to suffer consecutive defeats against Afghanistan in Delhi, South Africa in Mumbai, Sri Lanka in Bengaluru, and India in Lucknow this past Sunday.

How can England still qualify?

With three matches left, the maximum points England can accumulate are eight. This won’t be sufficient to surpass India’s 12 points or South Africa’s 10 points in the table. Their best hope is to equal New Zealand and Australia’s tally.

For England to have a shot at the semi-finals, they must win all of their remaining matches and hope that either or both New Zealand and Australia lose all their remaining three matches. In such a scenario, all three teams would have the same number of points, and the team with the superior net run rate (NRR) will advance.

However, this scenario is far from straightforward. In addition to their own victories and favorable outcomes in England and Australia’s matches, England must also depend on other match results. Currently, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and the Netherlands still have a chance to finish with more points than England. This means that England must also hope that all these teams lose at least one match and work to improve their own NRR.

India is gearing up for their upcoming match against reigning champions England in Lucknow. The Indian team is set to face an underperforming English side at Ekana Stadium this Sunday afternoon. With an undefeated streak in the tournament’s league games, India looks poised for the subsequent rounds. In contrast, England, after three consecutive losses, finds itself in the precarious 9th spot on the points table.

Another defeat could signal the end of England’s journey in this grand tournament. Indian opener Shubman Gill began promisingly against New Zealand in Dharamsala but couldn’t capitalize on the start. He found Lockie Ferguson’s pace challenging, eventually succumbing to a short-pitched delivery. Attempting an aggressive shot over point against Ferguson, Gill couldn’t keep his shot in check and was caught by Daryl Mitchell at third man.

Gill’s Rigorous Training to Tackle Short Balls

Recognizing the need for improvement against short deliveries, Indian opener Shubman Gill took to special training at Ekana Stadium, Lucknow. After spending time batting in the nets, Gill brought in a staff member armed with a badminton racket and tennis ball. He practiced specifically against short balls delivered at high speed, highlighting his intention to rectify his shortcoming evident during the match against the Blackcaps in Dharamsala.

England’s Mark Wood, known for his aggressive short-pitched deliveries and fearsome pace – much like New Zealand’s Lockie Ferguson – is another bowler Gill is likely preparing for. His intense training session at the Ekana Stadium underlines his determination. Shreyas Iyer, another Indian batsman, has also faced difficulties with short balls from Kiwi pacers. His repeated attempts to counter such deliveries with hook or pull shots didn’t pay off at HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala.

Former Indian batsman Aakash Chopra pointed out Pakistan’s recurring difficulties against wrist spinners, observing that the pattern persists in the World Cup. He opined that spinners like Adil Rashid and Ish Sodhi might be formidable adversaries for Pakistan in the following games.

During the recent game against South Africa in Chennai on October 27, Tabraiz Shamsi, the left-arm wrist spinner, gave the Pakistan batting line-up a hard time. He claimed the prized wickets of Babar Azam, Iftikhar Ahmed, and Saud Shakeel, giving away 60 runs in his 10-over spell.

Aakash Chopra: Pakistan Struggles with Leg Spin

On his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra shared insights about Pakistan’s historical struggles against leg-spin. He referenced legendary bowlers like Shane Warne and Anil Kumble who had often outfoxed Pakistani batsmen with their leg-spin deliveries.

“Pakistan has always found it tough against leg-spinners. We’ve seen the likes of Shane Warne making them dance to his tunes. And who can forget Anil Kumble’s record-breaking 10-wicket haul in an innings against them?” Chopra commented.

“And in this tournament, don’t even get me started – bowlers like Kuldeep Yadav, Adam Zampa, Noor Ahmad, Tabraiz Shamsi, Adil Rashid, and Ish Sodhi have all posed threats. While Rashid and Sodhi are yet to face Pakistan, I’m sure they’ll make an impact when they do.”

South Africa’s bowlers managed to restrict Pakistan to a score of 270 in 46.4 overs. Under the leadership of Temba Bavuma, the South African team managed a thrilling chase, surpassing the target with just one wicket in hand and 16 balls to spare. This victory propelled them to the pinnacle of the 10-team points table.

Aakash Chopra: Marco Jansen Sets the Tone Early On

Former Indian opening batsman Aakash Chopra lauded the performances of South African bowlers Marco Jansen and Gerald Coetzee for their consistent display of skill in the World Cup. According to Chopra, Jansen has been instrumental in giving early breakthroughs, managing to bag at least two wickets in every game.

“In every match of this World Cup, Marco Jansen has been a certainty to grab a minimum of two wickets. In the recent game, he even claimed three,” Chopra observed. “He sets the tone right from the outset. Gerald Coetzee, too, has been effective.”

Jansen and Coetzee are the spearheads of the South African bowling attack in the World Cup, having taken 13 and 12 wickets respectively. Jansen is currently the fourth-highest wicket-taker of the tournament, closely followed by Coetzee in fifth position.

The Pakistan Cricket Team’s performance in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 has been disappointing. Despite a promising start with victories over the Netherlands and Sri Lanka in Hyderabad, Pakistan has suffered three consecutive defeats in the tournament. Their losing streak began with a defeat to India in Ahmedabad, followed by losses to Australia in Bangalore, and a significant setback against Afghanistan in Chennai. These results have prompted concern within the Pakistan Cricket Board.

The PCB has made a significant announcement

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a statement addressing their team’s performance in the 2023 World Cup and alluding to potential changes within their setup. Concerns raised by Pakistan fans and former cricketers regarding Babar Azam’s captaincy have prompted the PCB to respond. In their statement, the PCB expressed, “Looking forward, the board will make decisions in the best interest of Pakistan cricket based on the team’s World Cup performance.”

The PCB also revealed that both Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, and chief selector, Inzamam-ul-Haq, were given considerable autonomy and freedom for the duration of the tournament. They have called on fans to continue supporting their team and stand behind the players as there are still four crucial games left in the tournament. Babar Azam has come under significant criticism following Pakistan’s underwhelming performance in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.

Babar Azam is facing intense scrutiny and criticism

Several former Pakistan players have called for Babar Azam to step down from his captaincy role. Earlier reports even suggested that Babar Azam might consider resigning from the leadership position, prompting the PCB to explore new options for leading the national team. Potential candidates for the role may include Mohammad Rizwan, Shadab Khan, and Shaheen Afridi.

Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has been critical of Babar’s approach in the tournament, urging him to take a more active role during matches.

In the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, Pakistan has played five games, securing two wins but suffering three consecutive losses, accumulating a total of four points. As of now, they hold the 5th position in the points table. Despite the challenges, Pakistan still has a chance to reach the semi-finals if they can secure victories in their remaining four matches. Their next match is scheduled against South Africa in Chennai on October 27th.

Sri Lankan cricketer Matheesha Pathirana’s regrettable shoulder injury has forced his withdrawal from the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. Despite his determined efforts to recuperate, he suffered the injury during warm-up matches. Pathirana managed to participate in two matches in the tournament, facing off against South Africa and Pakistan. Unfortunately, the gravity of the injury compelled him to exit the competition.

Matheesha Pathirana’s spot has been filled by Angelo Mathews

Former Sri Lankan captain Angelo Mathews has been summoned to fill the vacancy left by Matheesha Pathirana. Pathirana’s inability to recover from a shoulder injury sustained during a warm-up match led to his exclusion from the tournament.

In compliance with the regulations, any replacement in the World Cup can only occur after approval by the Event Technical Committee of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. This procedure upholds fairness and the integrity of the competition. Teams are allowed to make alterations to their squad during the World Cup, but these changes must adhere to the criteria established by the cricket governing body.

See also:PCB Dismisses Reports of Dissatisfaction Within the Pakistan Team at the ICC World Cup 2023

The inclusion of Angelo Mathews bolsters Sri Lanka’s team. With his wealth of experience, having participated in 221 ODIs, and his familiarity with playing in India, he is poised to be a valuable all-rounder and a significant asset to the team.

The Pakistan Cricket Team’s journey in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 has been marked by ups and downs. They commenced with a strong start, notching victories in their initial two matches against The Netherlands and Sri Lanka.

Nonetheless, their winning streak was interrupted as they confronted their enduring rivals, India, along with challenging matches against Australia and Afghanistan. Pakistan has suffered losses in three consecutive fixtures, placing their campaign in jeopardy.

Intense Dispute Erupts Among Players, Babar Azam’s Alleged Isolation

Meanwhile, a significant number of Pakistani journalists have taken to social media to allude to ongoing tensions within the team. They have hinted at purported conflicts and have promised to reveal additional information. It is reported that a physical altercation involving two players occurred, and the team is currently grappling with escalating discord. Additionally, there are suggestions that the team’s captain, Babar Azam, may be experiencing isolation from a faction of players.

See also :Reports: Kashmiri Fast Bowler Samiullah Dar Joins England Camp as a Net Bowler during the Ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2023

PCB’s Clear-Cut Response

In response to the rumors circulating on social media regarding internal disputes within the team, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has addressed the situation. Pakistan’s supreme cricket governing body has emphatically refuted the allegations presented by numerous social media users

“The Pakistan Cricket Board vehemently rejects recent speculations regarding any internal conflicts within the national cricket team currently competing in the ICC World Cup 2023. Contrary to the rumors circulated by a specific segment of the media, the PCB unequivocally affirms the team’s unity and the absence of substantiated evidence for these claims. The PCB expresses its disappointment at the spread of such false information and underscores the critical importance of upholding journalistic ethics before disseminating such allegations,” stated the PCB in a press release posted on X (formerly Twitter).