In a stunning display of power hitting and clinical bowling, the Delhi Capitals surged to a crucial 19-run victory over the Lucknow Super Giants, keeping their slim IPL playoff hopes alive in a riveting encounter on Tuesday. The Capitals’ commanding performance was spearheaded by Abishek Porel and Tristan Stubbs, who delivered sensational fifties to set up an imposing total of 208 for 4.

Explosive batting from Abishek Porel and Tristan Stubbs set the stage for Delhi Capitals

Porel’s blistering 58 off just 33 balls, supported by Shai Hope’s brisk 38, laid a solid foundation as the pair stitched together a formidable 92-run partnership in just 49 balls. Stubbs then took charge with a breathtaking 57 not out off 25 deliveries, including three fours and four towering sixes, forming crucial stands with Rishabh Pant (33) and Axar Patel (14 not out) to propel the Capitals to a daunting total.

Ishant Sharma displays clinical bowling keep Delhi’s playoff hopes alive

The bowlers, led by Ishant Sharma’s early strikes, maintained the pressure on the Super Giants, restricting them to 189 for 9 despite Nicholas Pooran’s explosive 61 and Arshad Khan’s valiant unbeaten 58. Delhi’s triumph not only bolstered their own playoff aspirations but also paved the way for the Rajasthan Royals’ qualification, leaving the Lucknow Super Giants on the brink of elimination.

See Also: Mixed reactions from fans as Pant’s comeback IPL comes to end

With this crucial win, the Capitals moved level on points with Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad, with their playoff fate now hanging in the balance, contingent on a series of other results.

In a memorable moment during the IPL 2024 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday, star batter Virat Kohli and veteran pacer Ishant Sharma engaged in a lighthearted exchange, igniting laughter and camaraderie on the field. Kohli, known for his competitive spirit, couldn’t resist teasing Ishant after scoring a couple of boundaries off his bowling.

During the fourth over of RCB’s innings, Kohli cheekily suggested to Ishant to have a fielder at first slip after edging one past the keeper for a boundary. This playful banter continued when Kohli unleashed a no-look six over deep wicket off Ishant’s bowling, prompting Ishant to respond with a jovial tug and a friendly exchange of words.

Watch the video…

The Kohli-Ishant camaraderie extends back to their early playing days in Delhi and their shared experiences in the Indian cricket team. Despite their competitive nature on the field, the mutual respect and friendship between the two players were evident as they shared a light moment amidst the intensity of the match.

The banter between Kohli and Ishant quickly became a talking point on social media, sparking a meme fest among cricket fans and enthusiasts. Fans appreciated the camaraderie and sportsmanship displayed by the two players, highlighting the lighter side of professional cricket.

Kohli teases Ishant on ground

Later in the game, when Ishant came out to bat, Kohli didn’t miss the opportunity to continue the banter, teasing the lanky pacer in good spirits. Although Ishant had the satisfaction of dismissing Kohli during the match, it was Kohli who had the last laugh as RCB emerged victorious, keeping their hopes alive in the race for the playoffs.

See Also: Watch: Dhoni special for fans at Chepauk after beating Rajasthan

While RCB celebrated their win, Delhi Capitals faced a setback in their quest for a top-four finish. Despite being mathematically still in contention, the defeat practically dashed their hopes of securing a playoff spot. Nonetheless, the light-hearted banter between Kohli and Ishant provided a memorable moment in an action-packed IPL encounter, showcasing the camaraderie and spirit of the game.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is a cricketing extravaganza and a platform where legendary cricketers showcase their skills. However, as time passes, cricketers inevitably face the prospect of bidding farewell to the field. The ongoing IPL tournament could be the last season of their career. In such a situation, if we talk about those 5 legendary players whose IPL 2024 could be the last IPL season, then their names are as follows-

1. Mahendra Singh Dhoni (CSK)

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, fondly known as ‘Captain Cool,’ has been a stalwart of Indian cricket and the IPL. However, at 42, Dhoni’s physical fitness has become a concern, exacerbated by recurring orthopedic issues. With speculation rife about his retirement, IPL 2024 could be the swansong for the former Chennai Super Kings captain. Under his leadership, CSK achieved enormous success in this league. CSK won the IPL title five times under his leadership. At the start of the season, Dhoni passed the baton of CSK leadership role to young batter Ruturaj Gaikwad.

See Also: Watch: Dhoni special for fans at Chepauk after beating Rajasthan

MS Dhoni entered the IPL fray in 2008, embarking on a journey that would cement his legacy as one of the greatest players in the tournament’s history. Over the years, Dhoni has graced the IPL stage with his exceptional batting prowess in 262 matches, amassing a staggering total of 5,218 runs.

With a remarkable batting average of 39.23, Dhoni has been a linchpin for his teams, often delivering match-winning performances. Among his many achievements in the IPL, Dhoni has registered an impressive tally of 24 half-centuries, with his highest individual score at an unbeaten 84 runs.

Dhoni’s ability to find the boundaries is evident from his impressive count of 360 fours and 251 sixes throughout his IPL career. His penchant for finishing matches in style has endeared him to cricket fans worldwide, earning him the moniker of ‘Captain Cool.’

2. Amit Mishra (LSG)

Amit Mishra, the seasoned leg-spinner representing Lucknow Super Giants, finds himself in a similar predicament as Dhoni. At 41 years old, Mishra’s playing opportunities and fitness concerns have dwindled. It’s unlikely that Mishra will feature prominently in future IPL seasons, making IPL 2024 a possible curtain call for the leg-spin maestro.

Amit Mishra made his IPL debut in 2008 and has been a prominent figure in the tournament. Throughout his 162-match career, Mishra has showcased his bowling prowess by claiming 174 wickets. With an impressive average of 23.84, Mishra has proven to be a formidable force in the IPL bowling lineup. He has maintained an economy rate of approximately 7.38 runs per over, demonstrating his ability to consistently contain batters while taking wickets.

Mishra’s best individual bowling performance in the IPL came with figures of 5/17, highlighting his match-winning capabilities with the ball. In the IPL Auction 2024, the Lucknow franchise secured Mishra’s services for Rs 50.00 Lac, recognizing his value as a seasoned spinner.

3. Wriddhiman Saha (GT)

Gujarat Titans wicket keeper-batsman Wriddhiman Saha has had a distinguished career in Indian cricket. However, at 39 years old and with retirement from international cricket behind him, Saha’s IPL prospects seem bleak. His absence from domestic cricket further diminishes the likelihood of seeing him in the IPL beyond 2024.

Wriddhiman Saha entered the IPL arena in 2008, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in the tournament. Throughout his IPL career, which spans 170 matches, Saha has consistently performed with the bat, amassing 2,934 runs. His batting average is a respectable 24.25, reflecting his ability to contribute consistently to his team’s success.

Saha’s IPL portfolio boasts one century and 13 half-centuries, with his highest individual score being an unbeaten 115 runs. His knack for scoring boundaries is evident from the impressive tally of 296 fours and 87 sixes that he has accumulated over the years.

In the IPL Auction 2024, the Gujarat franchise secured Saha’s services for Rs 1.90 Cr, recognizing his worth as a reliable wicketkeeper-batsman.

4. Dinesh Karthik (RCB)

Royal Challengers Bangalore’s dependable wicketkeeper-batsman, Dinesh Karthik, may appear fit on the field, but at 38, age catches up with even the most seasoned players. As he approaches 40, Karthik’s future in the IPL remains uncertain, with teams possibly preferring younger talent over experienced campaigners.

Dinesh Karthik stepped into the IPL arena in 2008, marking the beginning of a prolific career in the tournament. Over the years, Karthik has showcased his batting prowess in 254 IPL matches, accumulating 4,817 runs. With an impressive batting average of 26.61, Karthik has established himself as a dependable middle-order batsman in the IPL circuit.

Throughout his IPL journey, Karthik has notched up an impressive tally of 22 half-centuries, with his highest individual score standing at an unbeaten 97 runs. His ability to find boundaries is evident from the 464 fours and 160 sixes he registered in his IPL career.

5. Ishant Sharma (DC)

Delhi Capitals’ experienced fast bowler, Ishant Sharma, faces the dual challenge of age and fitness concerns. At 35, Sharma’s pace bowling prowess may be on the wane, compounded by potential fitness issues. With the demands of T20 cricket and younger talents emerging, IPL 2024 could mark the end of Sharma’s IPL journey.

Ishant Sharma entered the IPL arena in 2008, marking the commencement of his journey in the tournament. Over the years, Sharma has participated in 108 IPL matches, showcasing his bowling prowess on various occasions. With 89 wickets to his name, Sharma has proven to be a valuable asset for his teams in the IPL.

Sharma’s bowling statistics include an average of 34.93, with an economy rate of approximately 8.21 runs per over. His best individual bowling figures stand at an impressive 5/12, reflecting his ability to deliver match-winning performances when called upon.

The Delhi Capitals (DC) squad is witnessing a blend of anticipation and concern as assistant coach Pravin Amre sheds light on the status of key players. Ishant Sharma, the seasoned pacer, is slated to rejoin the team by next week, marking a potential boost in their bowling lineup. However, the road to recovery appears more extended for opener David Warner, grappling with a lingering thumb injury sustained earlier this month.

Ishant Sharma’s Return and David Warner’s Injury

According to Pravin Amre, DC’s assistant coach, Ishant Sharma’s absence due to back spasms will soon end. However, the journey to full recovery for David Warner is expected to be more prolonged, given the nature of his left thumb injury.

See Also: Shahrukh Khan smashes his maiden fifty in IPL

Ishant Sharma’s Back Problems

Ishant Sharma’s absence from the squad stemmed from persistent back spasms, hindering his participation in crucial matches. With his imminent return, DC anticipates a bolstered bowling attack, adding depth and experience to their lineup.

“Ishant has been having back spasms. He will also take a week to recover. By the time we return to Delhi he will be fit,” he added.

David Warner’s Left Thumb Injury

On the other hand, David Warner’s injury timeline remains uncertain, with estimations ranging from one to two weeks for recovery. The injury, sustained during a match on April 12, has prompted meticulous scans and rehabilitation efforts to ensure Warner’s swift return to peak form.

“Warner will take 1-2 weeks to recover. His scans revealed an injury,” Amre said.

Upcoming Matches and Team Dynamics

DC’s impending clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) underscores the significance of each player’s availability and form. With Sharma’s potential return on the horizon, DC aims to capitalize on his expertise to secure crucial victories.

Following the encounter with KKR, DC’s itinerary includes a home game against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on May 7. The match assumes added significance as DC strives to maintain momentum and solidify its position in the playoff race.

Playoff Implications

As the league progresses towards the playoff stage, every match outcome carries profound implications for the standings. DC’s strategic prowess and adaptability will be tested as they navigate the complexities of player injuries and opposition dynamics.

Fraser-McGurk’s Explosive Batting

Amidst the uncertainties surrounding player injuries, the emergence of Jake Fraser-McGurk has injected a dose of excitement into DC’s campaign. The young Australian showcased his batting prowess with a scintillating innings, leaving spectators and analysts alike in awe of his talent.

“He is a natural. If you see his set-up, he believes in a stable base. And he has excellent hand speed. And when you are batting in the powerplay, you have only one fielder on the leg side. So that’s a good area to hit; even a mis-hit can get you a boundary. But if you see in this game, he played smart cricket. When the bowlers bowled wide, he hit a couple of sixes on the off side also. So he has that ability too, and his shot selection is very good,” Amre said.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a cornerstone of cricketing excellence since its inception in 2008. Over the years, this money-rich T20 franchise league has not only showcased the talents of budding cricketers but also provided a platform for seasoned veterans to extend their careers.

As the 2024 edition of the IPL approaches, speculation mounts about the potential swansongs of celebrated players who have graced the tournament with their brilliance. Now, for many players, this IPL 2024 might be the last time they are featuring in this cash-rich league. Take a look at 5 players who might not feature in the next IPL season.

MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings)

Despite advancing age and concerns about fitness, MS Dhoni has defied expectations with his enduring presence in the IPL. After winning his fifth IPL title in 2023, Dhoni’s future in the tournament remains uncertain as he approaches the age of 43.

See Also: How much do the IPL captains earn? Find it out

After winning his fifth IPL in 2023, many expected him to announce his retirement, seeing he was not the same player throughout the season, but Dhoni made no such announcement. Speculations abound that IPL 2024 might mark Dhoni’s final hurrah, with fans bracing themselves for the possibility of bidding farewell to the iconic former Indian captain. 

Dhoni’s contributions to Chennai Super Kings and his indelible impact on the league make his potential retirement a momentous event in IPL history. This year, he handed over the captaincy of CSK to Ruturaj Gaikwad. In July 2024, MS Dhoni will be 43. Being a wicket-keeper and one about to reach 43, Dhoni’s appearance in the 2025 season looks improbable.

Amit Mishra (Lucknow SuperGiants)

Amit Mishra, the seasoned spinner, made a remarkable comeback to the IPL in 2023 at the age of 40, signing with the Lucknow Super Giants. With 166 wickets in 154 IPL games, Mishra’s illustrious career has been characterized by his guile and mastery over spin bowling.

The spinner stood out with his crafty bowling and wicket-taking prowess and has been in contention for the prestigious purple cap for more seasons than not during his long spell in the T20 league. However, citing his advanced age, he could be on his last legs as well.

Renowned as the “Hat-trick Man,” Mishra etched his name in IPL history by claiming three hat-tricks in the 2008, 2011, and 2012 seasons. His ability to outsmart batters with his crafty bowling has been instrumental in his team’s success over the years.

David Warner (Delhi Capitals)

David Warner, the highest-scoring overseas batter in IPL history, could be nearing the twilight of his IPL career. With a string of stellar performances and a cult following in the Indian subcontinent, Warner’s potential retirement would mark the end of an era in T20 cricket.

The maverick opener is likely to play his final T20 World Cup this year, and the southpaw, who has created a cult following in the Indian subcontinent with his brilliant batting and off-the-field antics, could also be inching towards retirement from the IPL.

As Warner prepares to play his final T20 World Cup, speculation mounts about his retirement from the IPL. With close to 6400 runs to his name, Warner’s legacy as one of the IPL’s most iconic batters is firmly established.

Ishant Sharma (Delhi Capitals)

Veteran Indian pacer Ishant Sharma, who missed the 2022 season, returned to the IPL in 2023 with Delhi Capitals. 35 years old, Sharma acknowledges that IPL 2024 could be his final season, marking the end of a distinguished career.

Ishant made his IPL debut in 2008. He has played 105 matches to date in his IPL career, and he took 86 wickets, with an average of 35.24, conceding nearly 8.20 runs per over with a best individual figure of 5/12. In the IPL Auction 2024, the Delhi franchise acquired the services of Ishant Sharma for Rs 50.00 Lac. The 35-year-old is not part of the Indian team anymore, and he also knows that this could be his last season in the IPL.

Shikhar Dhawan (Punjab Kings)

Shikhar Dhawan, the veteran Indian opener, will be playing his 17th straight season in the IPL. Leading Punjab Kings in IPL 2024, Dhawan’s illustrious career may be nearing its conclusion. Retirement looms on the horizon, and with his growing age, there are very few chances that he will continue playing in 2025.

PBKS bought him in a 1pl 2022 Auction for 8.25 Crores. Dhawan, a consistent run-getter in the competition, is the second-highest run-getter in the IPL’s history. With a wealth of experience under his belt and a large number of runs against his name, the swashbuckling left-hander will be crucial to PBKS’ fortunes.

He made his IPL debut in 2008. Shikhar Dhawan has played 221 matches to date in his IPL career and has scored 6,755 runs, with an average of 35.37. He has also slammed 2 centuries and 51 half-centuries, with his highest IPL score being 106* runs. Shikhar Dhawan has hit 766 fours and 152 sixes in his IPL career. He has played for six different franchises in his IPL career, but the 39-year-old is more likely to retire after the IPL in 2024.

IPL 2024 season has kicked off with an unexpected setback for the Delhi Capitals as veteran bowler Ishant Sharma sustained an injury during their match. This news comes as a blow to the team, particularly considering their reliance on Sharma’s experience and skill in the pace department.

An Unfortunate Twist

During the match, Ishant Sharma twisted his ankle while delivering a ball, forcing him to leave the field immediately. Mitchell Marsh was called upon to complete the over, highlighting the abrupt nature of Sharma’s departure from the game.

See Also: WATCH: Explosive Abhishek Porel takes DC to 174/9 against PBKS

The Injury Incident

The injury occurred during Sharma’s second over when he twisted his right ankle while bowling to Prabhsimran Singh. Despite efforts from the physio to alleviate the pain, Sharma was visibly discomforted and had to be escorted off the field.

With Sharma sidelined, the Delhi Capitals had to rely on Pravin Dubey as his substitute fielder. The extent of Sharma’s injury remains uncertain, raising concerns about his availability for future matches.

Amidst the disappointment of Ishant Sharma’s injury, it’s essential to acknowledge his significant contribution to the match. Despite initial struggles with his line and length, Sharma showcased his brilliance by dismissing the dangerous Shikhar Dhawan with a well-executed delivery.

Match Overview

Earlier, DC kicked off their IPL 2024 campaign with a match against Punjab Kings, where they faced challenges in capitalizing on a promising start by Mitchell Marsh and David Warner. Despite a strong start, Delhi Capitals failed to fully capitalize on their batting innings, managing to score 174/9 in their allotted 20 overs.

As the Delhi Capitals navigate through the challenges posed by Ishant Sharma’s injury, they must regroup and adapt their strategies to compensate for his absence in the upcoming matches. The team’s depth and resilience will be tested as they strive to maintain their competitiveness in the IPL 2024 season.

Sam Curran, who was the player in the final and the tournament at the 2022 World Cup. Is among 21 men who have listed the maximum reserve price of INR 2 crore for the 2023 IPL auction. Australian allrounder Cameron Green, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson and Nicholas Pooran. Who stepped down recently as West Indies white-ball captain. Overseas allrouders have always been a mega hit at mini auctions and the in-form trio of Curran, Stokes and Green will fancy a fat pay cheque as an early Christmas present on December 23. While Green has never featured in IPL, the England duo have significant experience.

A total of 991 players (714 Indian and 277 overseas) are part of the initial long list. Which the IPL shared with the 10 franchises on Thursday. The IPL will prune this down based on input from the franchises. Who have until December 9 to get back to the tournament authorities. Green turned a lot of heads during Australia’s white-ball series in India just before the T20 World Cup where he scored 118 runs at a strike rate of 214.54 while opening the batting. Coupled with his bowling the 23-year old could prove to be a big asset in T20 cricket.

Also Read: Tamim Iqbal out of Bangladesh’s ODI series against India, in doubt for Tests

Rahane, Ishant, Mayank, and more are ready to get picked by teams this auction

The list of 19 capped Indians mainly comprises discarded national players including Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and Mayank Agarwal. Ishant, who had gone unsold in 2022, is asking for 75 lakh. Agarwal has listed his base price at 1 crore. Left-arm fast bowler Unadkat, who has been among the highest-paid players at IPL auctions, has listed his base price at 50 lakh. Unadkat, having led Saurashtra to the Vijay Hazare Trophy final.

The 1 crore band: Mayank Agarwal, Kedar Jadhav, Manish Pandey, Mohammad Nabi, Mujeeb ur Rahman, Moises Henriques, Andrew Tye, Joe Root, Luke Wood, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Martin Guptill, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Heinrich Klaasen, Tabraiz Shamsi, Kusal Perera, Roston Chase, Rakheem Cornwall, Shai Hope, Akeal Hossein, David Wiese

With the third Test coming up, India may have a small headache picking Ishant Sharma or Umesh Yadav. Mohammad Siraj suffered a hamstring injury in the first innings of the second Test, and was limited in his bowling. He still bowled with injury, but the fire Siraj brings to the bowling attack was missing, and his pace was down. Over the past two series, Siraj has grown into one of India’s top Test bowlers, and there is a chance of him being rested, to look after his injury.

With Siraj sitting out, India will have to pick one out of Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav. Both bowlers are vastly experienced and were once the attack leaders. While Ishant Sharma has struggled for rhythm in recent times, Umesh Yadav has been at his best. With a lot of options though, Umesh couldn’t find a place in the eleven despite his brilliant form.

Umesh last played at the Oval, which was his first game in the fourth match of a five-match series. After waiting for an opportunity, Umesh Yadav bowled nicely, and took some key wickets using the unpredictable nature of the surface to his advantage. His ability to move the ball both ways was on display nicely, but even on days where the surface doesn’t help, Umesh Yadav can be a handful. He is among the fastest bowlers in the squad, and is skiddy in nature. With his skillset, Yadav can target the stumps well, but at times is a bit expensive due to his nature of bowling.

Ishant Sharma missed the Oval Test due to an injury, but may have been out even if fit. His form in Headingly was dipping, and the rhythm was completely off. Ishant Sharma got another chance in Kanpur, but couldn’t impress. He has shown glimpses of his early self, spraying the ball around and conceding runs easily.

Ishant’s lack of rhythm though could be due to the nature of his injuries. Since the beginning of 2020, Ishant Sharma was on and off with injury, and missed a few Tests during the period. While he was valuable in Lords, getting India into the game with key wickets, Ishant Sharma struggled in Headingly, putting doubts over his form and future again.

With an injury in the side, Sharma may get a chance to find his flow again. He has a slight advantage over Umesh Yadav due to his height. Height is a factor in which India has been lacking this series, as the South African pacers are considerably taller, and have been able to make better use of the inconsistent bounce on offer. While Ishant is no longer a hit the deck bowler, his height could still come as an advantage even as he sticks to his style of bowling full and swinging the ball.

If India however feels they need a faster bowler, who could also swing the ball both ways, Umesh Yadav will be the likely pick, despite his tendency to go for runs. Both bowlers have been apart of the set-up for a long time, and will be eager to get out their and make a stake for themselves as regular members again.

Someone said truly “Which joy will be greater than the joy of being useful for the country?” BCCI nominated Ishant Sharma Shikhar Dhawan and Deepti Sharma for the Arjuna Award for contributing their prestigious efforts in Sports which is proof of their hard work and genuine contribution.

Apart from these Rohit Sharma who is also known as Hitman’s name is nominated for one of the greatest awards in the sport that is the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award 2020 which was pretty much expected considering his contribution to many victories of Team India not only as a player but also as a captain in the absence of Virat Kohli.

In the year 2019 Rohit Sharma, the Hitman the vice-captain of India Named the ICC ODI cricketer of the Year for 2019 and become the First opener in the history of cricket who scored 5 ODI centuries in the single World Cup Tournament and the first player to have twin centuries in his maiden as a test opener

also read-England vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI Match Prediction

Shikhar Dhawan also holds the record for the fastest Test century on debut and is the only batsman in the world to have won two consecutive golden bats (for most runs) in the ICC Champions Trophy. He is also the quickest Indian batsman to reach 2000 and 3000 runs in ODIs and the second-fastest Indian to score 4000 and 5000 runs in ODIs.

What to say about A top-class all-rounder, Deepti Sharma who holds the record for the highest individual WODI score by an Indian player and is also the only Indian spinner to take 6 WODI wickets.

take a look-The astonishing reaction of the Umpire was not expected because of misbehavior of Shakib and Mahudullah

on the announcement, BCCI nominated Ishant Sharma Shikhar Dhawan and Deepti Sharma for the Arjuna Award Honorary Secretary of BCCI Jay Shah

he said “There is no bigger honor than representing your country, and being nominated for national awards is a recognition of your hard work. In the last five years, Rohit Sharma has not only raised the bar with his performances but has also led the Indian team with distinction in Virat Kohli’s absence.” 

He added “He deserves the highest sporting honor in the country. Ishant Sharma has been a warhorse while Shikhar Dhawan lifts the team’s morale with his fearless approach. Deepti Sharma has contributed a lot in Indian team’s consistent showing in the big-ticket events.”

These players are changing the present and constructing the golden future for the next generation in cricket sports

Arun Singh Dhumal stated on the announce BCCI nominated Ishant Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan and Deepti Sharma for the Arjuna Award “Receiving a national award is a huge honor. It is a culmination of your on-field performances and your character off the field. Indian cricketers have shown the competitive spirit on the ground and have come forward to help the country in this battle against the coronavirus.”

 He additionally said that “. The last Indian cricketer to win the Khel Ratna was Virat Kohli and I hope Rohit Sharma too, gets this top award as he thoroughly deserves it. Ishant Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan have justified their talent and put in performances that their fans can be proud of. Deepti Sharma has contributed both with the bat and ball and deserves her nomination.”

As one of the Idiom says “Gold does not need polish to shine in the light” true players always emerge from their conditions no matter what, and that is what makes them great, if you are in the dark then you have to practice more because you have to get ready when light falls on you, these players also came from poor families, middle-class families, and we cricket lovers love them when they shine.

We are looking forward to the future prediction on the BCCI nominated Ishant Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan and Deepti Sharma for the Arjuna Award which is quite an interesting matter.

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At the age of 32, Ishant Sharma will be playing the 100th Test of what seems a very long career.

He is so young seems challenging to remember as he came into the scene very early in his career.

When Zaheer Khan’s likes, Irfan Pathan, RP Singh, and Sreesanth were in the squad and rotated as each was injury prone, Ishant broke in and impressed with his ability to bowl long spells.

He received support from his Delhi skipper Sehwag, who has seen him bowl eight to nine over spells in Ranji Trophy.

Unlike the other Indian pacers, Ishant Sharma had another gift.

He was tall and had swift action that allowed him to get pace on the ball without much effort.

He was erratic at times but developed into a handy workhorse.

Ishant Sharma’s Test career began back in 2007, with him replacing senior pacers in the early days.

He took a five-wicket haul in his second Test and went to Australia as a reserve bowler.

With Zaheer injured early in the tour, Ishant Sharma got a chance in the side, and his inclusion was a career-defining one.

He struggled with his lengths in Sydney, bowling in Australia for the first time but went on to understand the conditions and showed immense character during India’s win in Perth.

He enjoyed a good battle against Ricky Ponting, bowling an extended spell and picking up the wicket after being asked to bowl an extra over.

Throughout the match, he showcased his ability to move the ball around and let everyone know he could bowl long spells.

The spell and performance in Australia cemented his place in the side, and Ishant Sharma became India’s workhorse.

Through the years, he was given opportunities in white ball Cricket, but with injuries and lack of control, the pacer couldn’t make a big career in the short formats.

Even in Test Cricket, Ishant Sharma struggled with control, occasionally bowling loose deliveries, was criticized for not using his skillsets to the full potential.

He didn’t make the headlines much in the early 2010s but got his big break when India went abroad in 2014.

It was during 2014 when Ishant Sharma showed his ability to lead the bowling attack.

He started with nine wickets in Auckland and bettered his effort in Lords.

Touring England, India had to develop a new pace attack with Zaheer Khan injured and losing pace.

He played his last Test in New Zealand, and the spearhead of the attack changed to Sharma.

With doubts over the tall pacers ability, Sharma came up with a beautiful spell at Lords.

He was encouraged to use the short ball more with his height and took seven wickets in the Lords Test’s final innings to give India a historic win.

He made everyone believe his ability as the lead pacer, and his rise began from there, after a quiet period past his early brilliance.

The pacer learned and improved every time he toured, and his career hit another peak after 2016.

With India’s fast bowling contingent developing and bowlers like Umesh Yadav, Mohammad Shami, and Jasprit Bumrah all performing well, each player’s roles were clear.

Umesh Yadav was a beauty in India, Mohammad Shami was handy in the second innings and could get reverse swing with ease, and Jasprit Bumrah has pace, bounce, and a unique action providing the X-factor.

Along with them, Ishant Sharma was given bowling long spells, allowing the others to bowl in short bursts.

He improved his accuracy and was able to maintain his length, allowing pressure to build.

With handy support, Ishant Sharma became a more significant weapon taking 76 wickets in Test Cricket from 2018.

He started with high-pace bowling in the 140s-150s but has now come down a bit and maintained his control well.

After thirteen years, Ishant Sharma has developed into a complete bowler and is now set to play his 100th Test.

He will be the second fast bowler after Kapil Dev to achieve the milestone, and at his age, Kapil Dev’s tally could well be in sight.