Rishabh Pant https://www.cricketwinner.com Rishabh Pant Fri, 22 Nov 2024 13:41:31 GMT https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html https://github.com/jpmonette/feed en Copyright © 2024 Cricket Winner. All Rights Reserved. <![CDATA[India all out for 150 as Hazlewood leads Australian attack in Perth]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/india-all-out-for-150-as-hazlewood-leads-australian-attack-in-perth/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/india-all-out-for-150-as-hazlewood-leads-australian-attack-in-perth/ Fri, 22 Nov 2024 07:35:25 GMT

Australia’s bowlers showcased outstanding skill and precision, reducing India to a challenging position in the ongoing Test match in Perth. The standout performances came from Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, who took key wickets as India struggled to build partnerships. With precise bowling and sharp fielding, the hosts are in a commanding position.

Reddy's promising knock cut short by brilliant catch

Amidst the top-order fall Reddy was trying to stand tall on his debut match, but in a moment of brilliance, Usman Khawaja took a stunning running catch to dismiss India's Nitish Reddy for 41 (59). Reddy had been looking confident at the crease, displaying impressive shots, including an upper-cut for six and a few boundaries. However, his promising innings ended when he top-edged a pull shot off Pat Cummins’ bowling, handing Khawaja a spectacular catch.

Pant falls to Cummins after brief resistance

Rishabh Pant, who had been playing steadily, fell for 37 (78) when a thick leading edge was caught by Steve Smith in the slips off Cummins’ bowling. Pant’s dismissal proved to be a turning point, as India lost another key wicket, leaving their middle order exposed.

Earlier Dhruv Jurel (11 off 20) also fell to Starc, caught by Labuschagne, while Washington Sundar (4 off 15) was dismissed poking outside off, caught by Carey. KL Rahul (26 off 74) was given out caught behind after a review confirmed an edge. Virat Kohli (5 off 12) and Devdutt Padikkal (0 off 23) fell to short-pitched deliveries, both caught by Khawaja and Carey respectively. Yashasvi Jaiswal (0) was another early casualty, edging Starc to McSweeney at gully. India’s lower order struggled to resist, and they were eventually dismissed by the Australian bowlers in a dominant performance.

See Also: "Follow the process" - Here's what Kohli says Yashasvi before the Perth Test

Marsh strikes twice, breaking India's middle order

Australia’s bowlers delivered a clinical performance, picking up wickets at crucial moments and putting India under constant pressure. Pat Cummins was the standout, claiming key wickets, including that of Nitish Reddy, who was caught by Khawaja after a tough midwicket chance, and Bumrah, who edged a full delivery to Carey. Josh Hazlewood also played a pivotal role, dismissing both Kohli and Padikkal, with the former caught by Khawaja and the latter caught by Carey. Nathan Lyon, with his subtle spin, contributed by dismissing Nitish Reddy with a reverse-sweep catch, further rattling the Indian lineup. Mitchell Starc made his mark with wickets of Jurel and Jaiswal, while Mitchell Marsh’s accurate bowling accounted for Sundar, caught by Carey. The Australian bowlers, led by Cummins and supported by Hazlewood, Lyon, Starc, and Marsh, were relentless in their efforts, securing India’s collapse and restricting them to a modest total.

India were bowled out for 150, with Nitish Reddy (41) and Rishabh Pant (38) being the top scorers. Australia’s bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood (4/29) and Mitchell Marsh (2/12), dominated the innings.

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<![CDATA[Pant leads gritty fightback; Where's the wall? Fans ask]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/pant-leads-gritty-fightback-where-s-the-wall-fans-ask/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/pant-leads-gritty-fightback-where-s-the-wall-fans-ask/ Fri, 22 Nov 2024 07:01:07 GMT

India barely managed to crawl past the 100-run against a relentless Australian bowling attack. The absence of seasoned campaigners like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane was palpable as Mitchell Starc and Mitchell Marsh tormented the Indian lineup. Fans couldn’t help but reminisce about the duo, who are now offering insights from the commentary box instead of their usual stoic presence at the crease.

Pant's lone fight amid the collapse

Amid a top-order failure, Rishabh Pant stood tall with his characteristic grit and flair. He endured the Aussie pace barrage, including a fiery spell from Mitchell Starc, and capitalized on a rare dropped catch by Pat Cummins. Pant's ability to counter-attack gave India a glimmer of hope, especially after debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy joined him to stabilize the innings. Their partnership, although scratchy, ensured India crossed the 100-run mark. A fuller delivery on a straighter line swings away late, catching Rishabh Pant's outside edge as he tries to flick. Steven Smith at second slip grabs a sharp catch, ending Pant's valiant knock of 37 off 78. India now reeling at 121/7.

However, it wasn’t smooth sailing. Starc's probing deliveries and Marsh's crucial breakthroughs left India reeling. A spirited effort from Pant brought some respite, but the road ahead remains arduous for the hosts.

See Also: AUS vs IND, Perth Test: Was KL Rahul really out? Explained

Fans yearn for Pujara and Rahane's stability

As the wickets kept tumbling, fans turned nostalgic, recalling the resilience of Pujara and Rahane. Social media was abuzz with comparisons, with many lamenting the absence of the experienced duo in the lineup. Their commentary, insightful as ever, added salt to the wounds of fans yearning for their calmness under pressure.

The current Indian batting order may have talent, but the lack of experience was evident against the likes of Starc and Cummins. As India inch forward, the onus lies on Pant and the lower order to salvage what remains of a challenging innings.

See Also: IPL 2025 to start on March 14; Dates revealed for next three seasons

 

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<![CDATA[Top 5 Indian Batting Innings from the BGT played in Australia]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/top-5-indian-batting-innings-from-the-bgt-played-in-australia/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/top-5-indian-batting-innings-from-the-bgt-played-in-australia/ Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:46:49 GMT

In the ecosystem of intense cricket rivals, the India vs Australia clash, a.k.a, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, has always aroused a sense of anticipation for a fierce game amongst many cricket fanatics. Hailed as one of the best vs. best series, the tournament has provided some wholesome cricketing action and moments meant to be remembered for the coming ages of the sport.

One such aspect would be the batters who did the trick with their willows and struck memorable batting performances, making it a treat to the eye. That said, amongst many from the list, here's a list of the top five batting innings from the Indian roster that has defined a whole of what a Border-Gavaskar Trophy matchup looks like. 

Rahul Dravid: 233 runs off 446 balls in Adelaide 2003-04

Rahul Dravid played an essential part in India's victory in the Adelaide test during the 2003/04 tour. Australia scored 556 runs, with Ricky Ponting contributing 242. In response, India was reduced to 85/4, and VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid came together. The two struck a massive 303-run stand for the fifth wicket to get India back into the game. Rahul Dravid scored 223 runs off 446 balls, while Laxman contributed 148. Dravid smashed 22 fours and one six in his knock, helping India score 523 runs. Australia responded 196 to Ajit Agarkar's 6/41, giving India just 230 runs to win. After Virender Sehwag had a terrific start, Dravid stepped in again. Dravid spearheaded the chase with 72*, helping India to scalp a convincing victory by four wickets.

Virat Kohli: 116 runs off 213 balls in Adelaide 2011-12

Virat Kohli produced a fantastic innings of 116 runs off 213 deliveries at the Adelaide Oval in January 2012 during India's fourth and final Test tour of Australia. In the first innings, a young Virat showed talent, commitment, and poise against a formidable Australian bowling attack. He played with a good attitude, counterattacking when appropriate and defending well when needed. Kohli's century in Adelaide was his first Test century, and it was noteworthy, as he demonstrated excellent shot selection, timing, and footwork, allowing him to collect runs easily. Although India eventually lost the match, the youngster's innings made an indelible impact and laid the groundwork for his future success.

Cheteshwar Pujara: 193 runs off 373 balls in Sydney 2018-19

India had a 2-1 lead going into this match and was confident of retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the end of the series. Cheteshwar Pujara, who has been immaculate throughout the series, is determined to put on a show for the last time to assist India achieve its goal. Pujara demonstrated his typical calm, discipline, and resistance when dealing with the dangerous Australian onslaught. However, he used every opportunity to knock the poor deliveries away, scoring 22 boundaries in his innings of 193 runs off 373 deliveries. As Pujara continued to pile up the runs, Australia's last-ditch bid to escape a series triumph faded. The batter appeared unstoppable at times, and his psychological drain on the opposition's bowling assault may have played a vital role in India's historic series triumph.

Also Read: Top 5 Memorable Border-Gavaskar Trophy matches played in Australia

 Virat Kohli: 169 runs off 272 balls in Melbourne 2014-15

In December 2014, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Virat Kohli produced one of his best Test innings against Australia. On the first day of the Boxing Day Test, Kohli showed incredible determination and perseverance. He scored an impressive 169 runs off 272 deliveries, including 30 boundaries. His performance was critical in stabilising the Indian innings and laying a firm foundation for the squad. This innings demonstrated Kohli's ability to thrive under challenging conditions and against top-tier competition. Notably, Kohli's effort at the MCG in 2014 helped India take a significant first-innings lead, but the team could not win the match.

Rishabh Pant: 89* runs off 138 balls in Brisbane 2020-21

The victory in the Brisbane Test (Gabba) Test in 2021 is widely regarded as one of the most defining moments in Indian cricket history, thanks to Rishabh Pant's unbeaten match-winning knock of 89 runs off 138 deliveries, anchoring India's successful chase of 328 runs, the highest-ever target chased at the Gabba. In addition, against all odds, the Indian cricket team won a surprising series triumph over Australia at the tough 'Fortress Gabba,' a location where Australia had not lost a Test since 1988. Pant, who finished fifth, demonstrated maturity and control. Pant, known for his aggressive and reckless batting style, was unconcerned about the occasion's scenario or pressure. 

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<![CDATA[Top 5 Memorable Border-Gavaskar Trophy matches played in Australia]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/top-5-memorable-border-gavaskar-trophy-matches-played-in-australia/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/top-5-memorable-border-gavaskar-trophy-matches-played-in-australia/ Wed, 20 Nov 2024 12:24:22 GMT

The tension is always high in the India-Australia rivalry, especially in the game's purest form. The two sides have played some of the most memorable Tests in the game's history. This legendary rivalry dates back several decades, during which both cricketing powerhouses dominated the prestigious Test format. The thrilling confrontations between India's tenacious batting and Australia's fearsome bowling arsenal are at the core of this long-standing rivalry.

To summarise, this is a straightforward fight of the best vs the best. India have won the Border-Gavaskar trophy (BGT) four times in a row, and the hosts from Australia are eager to reverse the trend in the upcoming five-match Test series. That said, here's a comprehensive list of the five Test matches played in Australia that have made a mark on several cricket fanatics since the BGT's inception.

·   2003 Adelaide

The 2003 Adelaide clash-up was India's first Test victory in Australia since 1980-81 when they won in Melbourne. After Ricky Ponting's 242 propelled Australia to 556 in the first innings, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman re-wrote their epic partnership at Eden Gardens with a historic 303-run stand for the fifth wicket. Dravid's fourth Test double-hundred was a resounding response to his doubters who questioned his ability to score runs in Australia.

The Indian number three not only exorcised the ghosts of the 1999-2000 Australia trip with this innings but also joined the ranks of the greats. Ajit Agarkar's remarkable statistics of 6/41 guaranteed that Australia were bowled out for 196 runs in their second innings, setting India a 230-run goal. Dravid followed up his first-innings effort with an unbeaten 72 in the second as India chased down the mark and won by four wickets to grab a 1-0 series lead against Australia for the first time in history.

·   2008 Sydney

The Sydney Test clash between India and Australia was one of the most contentious games in the sport's history. Happened way back in 2008, the match sparked controversy due to the number of umpiring errors by senior umpires Steve Bucknor and Mark Benson. Furthermore, Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh was charged with racist abuse to Aussies players like Michael Clarke, Andrew Symonds, and Ricky Ponting.

At the same time, Australian players were accused of lousy sportsmanship for attempting to influence the umpire's decision, resulting in several issues, and being touted as the infamous Monkeygate Scandal. Nonetheless, Australia won the game on Day 5 with minutes to spare, giving them a 2-0 series lead after winning the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.

·   2008 Perth

The Perth Test from the 2008 Border-Gasvaskar Trophy deserves to be included. Even though it only lasted four days, the game alternated between the two teams from session to session. The Anil-Kumble-led squad fought after falling 0-2 in the series to defeat the hosts and make it 2-1 heading into the final Test. At the time, no team had beaten the Australians at the WACA in Perth in almost eleven years.

To make matters better, it was India's first victory in Australia in over four years. It was much more crucial for the Indian team and spectators since the Test triumph in Perth came shortly after the SCG Test, which was beset by numerous issues, mainly the infamous Monkeygate Scandal. Overall, this match signified the impeccable grit and resilience of the Indian Cricket team.

·   2018 Melbourne

India's close victory over Australia in the series opener of the 2018-19 Tour in Melbourne provided a glimpse of how India will be a dominant red-ball team overseas. India got bowled out for 250 when Virat Kohli chose to bat first despite Cheteshwar Pujara's valiant 123. However, Indian spinners remained strong and never let the Australian batters settle in.

Travis Head top-scored with 72 as Australia were dismissed for 235, behind India by 15 runs. The visitors then extended their advantage by 307 runs, giving Australia a colossal target of 323 runs. The Indian bowlers grabbed the initiative, like they had in the previous innings, and bowled the hosts out for 291. Bumrah, Shami, and Ashwin took three wickets each as India.

·   2021 Brisbane

The Indian-Aussies clash up match in 2021 at the Gabba was an exciting and historic encounter, providing edge-of-the-seat cricketing entertainment. Australia won the toss and chose to bat first, amassing 369 runs in the opening innings. Marnus Labuschagne scored 108 runs, and debutant Washington Sundar took four wickets for India. In response, India scored 336 runs, with Shardul Thakur leading the way with 67 runs.

As a result, the Australians were bowled out for 294, giving India a target of 328. India, despite early losses, demonstrated amazing perseverance. Shubman Gill and Cheteshwar Pujara established a solid platform, while Rishabh Pant's aggressive effort boosted India's hopes. On the final day, Pant's undefeated 89 runs lead India to a historic three-wicket triumph. India won their first Test at the Gabba, breaking Australia's 32-year unbroken record there. It was also India's second straight Test series win in Australia.

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<![CDATA[Watch: Virat Kohli and Rishab Pant burst into laughter as Sarfaraz Khan makes a fielding blooper]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/virat-kohli-and-rishab-pant-burst-into-laughter-as-sarfaraz-khan-makes-a-fielding-blooper/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/virat-kohli-and-rishab-pant-burst-into-laughter-as-sarfaraz-khan-makes-a-fielding-blooper/ Wed, 20 Nov 2024 05:17:15 GMT

Scenes of absolute comedy ensued when Sarfaraz dropped a simple catch during the first day of India's pre-match ahead of the first Test. Sarfaraz was accompanied by Virat Kohli, Rishab Pant, and Dhruv Jurel who were all in close proximity to him. The group was in the midst of a routine fielding drill when this incident occured. 

Sarfaraz made a simple catch look too difficult when he attempted to gobble the ball with his palms out next to his face triggering an instant reaction from Virat, Pant, and Jurel who were left in splits. 

Here is how the incident unfolded 

The ball flew to the left of Sarfaraz at a very catchable height. What was supposed to be regulation catch turned out to be a moment of absolute comedy. Once the catch went down, players next to him could not hold their emoitions and immediately burst into laughter. 

That moment immideatly triggered a funny response from Kohli and Jurel who were seen covering their mouth whilst laughing whereas Pant couldn't stop laughing either and was left floored by the hilarious moment.  

How are they gearing up for the Perth showdown?

As per emerging reports, it is believed that Sarfaraz Khan may not get to feature in the playing Xl for the Perth Test. However, his wicket-keeping counter part Rishab Pant is set to play the first test as a wicket-keeper batsman in all likelihood. Moreover, with Gill ruled out due to a thumb injury, Devdutt Padikkal gets an opportunity to open the batting for India in the upcoming Test while Jurel is likely to play as frontline batter. All eyes will be on king Kohli and his deteoriating form and whether or not he will be able to reclaim his lost glory in Australia in his dying phase of his Test career. 

See also: Watch: Virat Kohli reveals his best Test knock in Australia
   

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<![CDATA['My retention wasn't about money', Rishabh Pant speaks out on leaving Delhi Capitals]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/my-retention-wasn-t-about-money-rishabh-pant-speaks-out-on-leaving-delhi-capitals/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/my-retention-wasn-t-about-money-rishabh-pant-speaks-out-on-leaving-delhi-capitals/ Tue, 19 Nov 2024 11:26:52 GMT

Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant is arguably the in-demand name in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction. He clarified that his departure from Delhi Capitals was not due to any disagreement with the franchise regarding his retention fee. Pant responded after Sunil Gavaskar suggested that he might have left the franchise due to a dispute over his retention fee. However, Pant confirmed this wasn't true.

Star Sports shared a video ahead of the IPL 2025 Mega Auction, Sunil Gavaskar said that sometimes players may leave their franchises to understand their true value in auction. As Pant's case isn't the same, Gavaskar expects that the wicketkeeper batter will be targeted by Delhi once again in the Auction.

See Also:- Daniel Vettori to attend IPL Auction amid First BGT Test

Sunil Gavaskar talks about Pant returning to Delhi Capitals

"Delhi would certainly want Rishabh Pant back in the squad. Sometimes when a player is to be retained, there is talk between the player and franchise about the fees that is expected. As you can see, some of the players who have been retained by the franchise, they've gone for more than what the No. 1 retention fee would've been. Maybe there was some disagreement over there (fees). "My feeling is Delhi would definitely want Pant back because they need a captain as well. If Rishabh Pant is not in their squad then they have to look for a new captain,".

Reacting to the video, Pant said his departure from the franchise wasn't about money.

"My retention wasn't about the money for sure that I can say," Rishabh Pant said in his reply to the post on X, formerly Twitter.

Rishabh Pant is expected to have all 10 franchised bidding for him. But as per the purse, he will likely join Punjab Kings, Lucknow Supergiants, or Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Even his return to DC via RTM can be ruled out.

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<![CDATA[Virat Kohli slips lowest Test batting rankings in last 10 years]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/virat-kohli-slips-lowest-test-batting-rankings-in-last-10-years/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/virat-kohli-slips-lowest-test-batting-rankings-in-last-10-years/ Wed, 06 Nov 2024 11:52:19 GMT

In the latest ICC Test batting ranking announcement, former Indian captain Virat Kohli slipped to the lowest points in the last 10 years. 

While the 36-year-old Virat Kohli is playing the senior batter role of the Test team, he recently disappointed in the three-match home Test series against New Zealand. While India suffered a shocking 3-0 defeat in the home Test series, the right-handed batter scored only 93 runs in six innings. 

After scoring a duck in the Test series opener at Bengaluru, Kohli scored fighting 70 runs in their second innings of the Bengaluru Test. However, his next four innings scores were 1, 17, 4, and 1 run, respectively. 

SEE ALSO: Jalaj Saxena creates history with unbelievable milestone in Ranji Trophy

Virat Kohli is now in the 22nd ICC Test batting rankings

Kohli’s poor batting performances forced him to go down eight spots in the ICC Test batting rankings as he is standing in 22nd place. It is his worst ICC Test batting rankings in almost the last 10 years. Last time, Kohli was outside the top 20 ICC Test batting rankings in December 2014. Meanwhile, the Indian captain Rohit Sharma also slipped to 26th position. 

While Indian batters Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, and Shubman Gill strongly performed in the recently concluded home Test series against New Zealand, they are in strong positions in the ICC Test batting rankings. 

Pant, Gill, and Jaiswal are shining in the Test batting rankings

Rishabh Pant finished the Test series as the leading run-scorer with 261 runs, including three half-centuries. By climbing to the five spots, the left-handed wicketkeeper-batter’s latest Test batting ranking is no. 6. 

Despite scoring 190 runs, the opener Jaiswal slipped one place to shining at the fourth place. While Shubman Gill scored 144 runs, he improved his rating to four places by standing in the 16th position. 

Sarfaraz Khan, who shined in the Bengaluru Test with a 150-run knock, scored only 21 runs in the next four innings. By falling to 11 places, he is standing in the joint 77th place.

English star Joe Root and New Zealand star Kane Williamson are in the first and second positions, respectively, in the latest ICC Test batting rankings. The new English star Harry Brook is in third place in the Test batting rankings. 

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<![CDATA[IND vs NZL: Team Analysis: What factors led to India's first-ever home series whitewash by New Zealand?]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/ind-vs-nzl-team-analysis-what-factors-led-to-indias-firstever-home-series-whitewash-by-new-zealand/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/ind-vs-nzl-team-analysis-what-factors-led-to-indias-firstever-home-series-whitewash-by-new-zealand/ Mon, 04 Nov 2024 11:26:20 GMT

In an unexpected turn of events, India's dominance at home was shattered when New Zealand achieved an extraordinary 3-0 whitewash, marking India's first-ever clean sweep loss in a home Test series. Known for their remarkable resilience on home turf, India struggled collectively, with both the batting and bowling departments failing to deliver against a sharp, determined New Zealand side. Despite being favorites, India faltered, and the series quickly spiraled into a historic victory for New Zealand—their greatest in Asia. This outcome spotlighted vulnerabilities in India’s lineup, with top-order batters repeatedly succumbing to pressure, and the entire squad failing to respond as a cohesive unit to New Zealand’s calculated approach.

As the series progressed, the Indian team seemed to grapple with growing internal and external pressure. After losing the first two Tests, India’s strategy took a controversial turn, altering pitches to be more spin-friendly in hopes of regaining control. However, the plan backfired, as New Zealand’s disciplined approach outclassed India's attempts to manipulate the conditions. Critics pointed to the lack of defensive techniques among India's top order, suggesting that a focus on grinding out long innings could have helped India endure New Zealand's persistent bowling attack. In the end, the series left India reeling and raised critical questions about preparation and adaptability in high-stakes home series.

See Also: IPL 2025 Retention: Can Ravindra Jadeja Live Up to His ₹18 Crore Retention Fee?

More Dependent on Rishabh Pant , Jasiwal , Gill

In India’s recent run of matches, a glaring pattern has emerged: the team’s batting heavily relies on the contributions of a few young stars. Players like Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill have shouldered the majority of the scoring responsibility, with Pant leading the charts with 422 runs across 10 innings, averaging an impressive 46.89 at a strike rate of 86.48. Jaiswal and Gill follow with 379 and 308 runs, respectively, but there’s a steep drop in contributions after them. This over-dependence on the top three has exposed India's middle order, revealing a lack of depth and experience in consistently supporting the team’s innings.

The stark difference between the top three run-scorers and the rest highlights a potential over-reliance on these players, putting immense pressure on them to perform in every game. With senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli failing to contribute significantly, the burden has fallen on the relatively younger batters. Rohit’s return of just 133 runs from 10 innings at an average of 13.3, and Virat’s 192 runs at 21.33, raise questions about their form and ability to anchor the innings under pressure. Their struggle to convert starts into impactful scores has placed the team in precarious situations, often leading to collapses when the top three fail to fire.

Additionally, the middle and lower order has offered only sporadic support, with players like Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, and KL Rahul failing to provide the consistency needed to stabilize or accelerate the innings. Although Jadeja has managed 199 runs, his average of 24.88 suggests he’s been unable to stay at the crease long enough to make a substantial impact. Ashwin and Rahul, too, have shown glimpses of form but lack the kind of sustained output needed to back up the top order effectively. The absence of dependable innings from the middle order has only magnified the failures of senior players and placed undue strain on Pant, Jaiswal, and Gill.

The pressure on the top three has been particularly evident in recent matches where challenging bowling attacks have quickly dismantled India’s lineup once they broke through the initial partnership. This imbalance has made the team vulnerable, especially in Test matches where patience and adaptability are key. While the younger players have shown resilience and flair, India’s over-dependence on them could lead to burnout, and without the support of experienced players

like Kohli and Sharma, the team’s prospects remain uncertain. If these senior players can’t bounce back, it could impact the team’s morale and performance in crucial upcoming series.

In light of these struggles, it’s crucial for India to reassess their batting strategies. The team needs to develop a plan that enables seniors like Rohit and Virat to regain their form while allowing the middle order to step up when needed. Without a cohesive batting unit, India’s success will remain fragile, overly reliant on the top three, and at risk of collapse in high-stakes matches. Strengthening the collective resilience of the lineup could be India’s best chance at bouncing back, preventing further historic losses, and re-establishing their dominance at home.

See Also: Should SRH Retain Klaasen for ₹23 Crore? A Worthy Investment?

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<![CDATA[Indian fans fume as Rishab Pant controversially given out caught by the TV Umpire]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/indian-fans-fume-as-rishab-pant-controversially-given-out-caught-by-the-tv-umpire/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/indian-fans-fume-as-rishab-pant-controversially-given-out-caught-by-the-tv-umpire/ Mon, 04 Nov 2024 06:54:56 GMT

Controversy erupted on the third day of the final test match between India and New Zealand at the Wankhede. India were tasked with chasing down 147 to save themselves from a rare embarrassing series sweep. The chips were down and India immediately found itself in trouble waters when they were reduced to 29-5 inside 10 overs. 

But Rishab Pant was the only Indian batter to throw the punches back at the New Zealand bowlers. The flamboyant wicket-keeper batter was in the mood to attack right from the word go and was more than ready to use his feet and deploy a wide range of sweeps against the spinning ball.

As all the batters failed to apply themselves on a tricky Wankhede pitch, Pant seemed far more resolute than the others and scored at an alarmingly high strike rate of over 100 to keep India in the run chase. But the moment he was removed by Ajaz Patel during the 22nd over, India’s hopes of winning the match quickly dissipated and the home side agonizingly fell short by 25 runs.  

Here is how the drama around his dismissal unfolded 

Pant resumed the second session after lunch on a very assuring note for India. He was going great guns and was batting beautifully on 64. Pant was riding his luck thus far and India were well on course for a consolation win. But the 27-year-old soon ran out of luck when Ajaz came on to bowl the 22nd over of the run chase.

After smacking Ajaz for a few boundaries in that over, Pant decided to use his feet during the fourth ball of the over. It was a generously tossed-up delivery that turned fractionally after pitching. Pant steps out of his crease to make contact with the ball but the ball balloons up in the air after hitting the pads and Blundell pouches it at short leg. At first glance, it appeared that Pant had not made any contact with the ball.

Desperate to turn the tide in their favor, Latham decided to go for the review. The replay revealed a notable spike on the UltraEdge when the bat made contact with Pant's pad; however, a similar spike was observed when the ball approached the bat. But after the ball had passed the inside edge of his bat, an obvious delection was seen before the ball made contact with his pad. At that very moment, Pant immidiately approached the umpires and indicated to them that there was no bat involvement. The on-field umpires were in no mood to buy into his explanation and when the decisive moment came, umpire Illingworth reversed his "not out" decision to "out" as per the recommendation from the TV umpire. Pant stood his ground helplessly at first but reluctantly began walking towards the dressing room.

The decision came under severe criticism by the fans and the leading cricket experts. After the game, Rohit Sharma expressed solidarity with Pant and believed that the TV umpire made a glaring error in giving Pant out. In addition, retired South African batting star Ab de Villiers also came in support of Pant and questioned the TV umpire's  controversial out decision.

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<![CDATA[India in disarray as they lose six wickets before lunch on day three, Pant keeps India’s hopes alive]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/india-in-disarray-as-they-lose-six-wickets-before-lunch-on-day-three-pant-keeps-indias-hopes-alive/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/india-in-disarray-as-they-lose-six-wickets-before-lunch-on-day-three-pant-keeps-indias-hopes-alive/ Sun, 03 Nov 2024 06:34:37 GMT

As we speak, the third test between India and New Zealand is on a knife edge, with the home side in dire straits. In their pursuit of 147, India made a disastrous start to the run chase and lost their top order in no time with 29 on the board. Pant is the only batter who is now holding the Indian innings together by a thread. He is currently unbeaten on 53* and his side hopes that he stays till the end to help India avoid an embarrassing series whitewash at home. 

Here is how the drama unfolded on day three

New Zealand could only manage to add three more runs to their overnight total of 171-9 before being dismissed on 174 courtesy of Jadeja’s final wicket. This meant that India was required to chase down a target of 147, which by no means was a challenging ask. But with the pitch turning square, very few could anticipate the carnage that was to come in the Indian innings. 

Rohit Sharma kicked off the run chase with a few boundaries but he turned out to be the first Indian victim to fall and was removed by Henry during the third over. That wicket triggered a procession of wickets for team India as they went from 13-1 to 29-5 in virtually a blink of an eye. The spin duo of Ajaz and Phillips took over and accounted for the bulk of the damage. 

The Indian batters struggled against the spinning ball and failed to pick the natural variations which ultimately proved to be their downfall. Ajaz Patel once again proved to be a potent threat for the home side claiming figures of 4-43 while Phillips also managed to bag an all-important wicket of Jaiswal on five. Ajaz ran through the defenses of Gill, Kohli, Jadeja, and Sarfarz. Rohit and Pant are the only two batters to register double-figure scores. 

Apart from quality spin bowling, the shot selection of some of our batters were also questionable. Gill opting to leave a straighter ball and Sarafaz holing out to Ravindra at deep square leg to a full toss were some of the brain-fade moments our batters faced in the middle.

Pant shines with the bat and keeps India afloat 

In the face of an acute adversary, one man defied all odds. The flamboyant wicket-keeper batsman Rishab Pant played with a lot of purpose to give India a fighting chance of earning a consolidation win. On a deteriorating Wankhede pitch, Pant played some swashbuckling shots to entertain the home crowd. The 27-year-old did not hesitate to use his feet against the tossed-up deliveries and deployed his sweep shots precisely on numerous instances at a time when batters have largely struggled to get their feet moving. 

He teamed up with Jadeja to help India stitch a valuable 42 runs for the sixth wicket to get India close to the target. Unfortunately, the partnership was broken by Ajaz who once again came on top to have Jadeja caught at short leg. But Pant remained resolute and has raced to 53 in only 50 balls.

At the time of writing, the game was set up nicely at lunch on day three with India at 92-6 still requiring 55 more runs to avoid a rare clean sweep at home. Pant is a ray of hope for the Men In Blue who have their backs placed firmly on the wall. He will have to grind harder for the next few overs to see India home by the end of the second session.

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