The three-match T20I series between India and Sri Lanka began on Saturday, July 27, in Pallekele. Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bowl first against the world champions.

New captains lead the way

This match starts a new chapter for both teams as they have new T20I captains. Suryakumar Yadav has taken over from Rohit Sharma as India’s T20I captain after Rohit retired from the format. Charith Asalanka is the new captain for Sri Lanka, following Wanindu Hasaranga’s resignation after their poor T20 World Cup performance, where they didn’t advance past the group stage.

“We are going to bowl first. The pitch looks good, and we want to see how it plays. We’re going with a 6-5 batters-bowlers combination. I want to give each player specific roles, so we’re using five bowlers. You can expect more wins and consistency,” said Asalanka after winning the toss.

Shivam Dube and Sanju Samson left out

India’s new team management surprised everyone with their team selection. Allrounder Shivam Dube and star batter Sanju Samson were left out of the Playing XI for the series opener. Dube played in all eight of India’s games at the T20 World Cup last month, and Samson was also part of the squad.

Despite some good performances, Dube seems to need to prove himself to the new management. Instead of Dube, the team has given young Riyan Parag another chance to shine in international cricket.

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Sanju Samson was the star of the match as India beat Zimbabwe by 42 runs to win the series 4-1 on Sunday, July 14.

Samson led India to a 42 run victory over Zimbabwe in Harare, ending the series with a 4-1 score. His impressive 58 runs and Mukesh Kumar’s great bowling secured the win. Zimbabwe struggled with their middle order and couldn’t chase 168 runs, getting bowled out for 125.

Zimbabwe won the toss and chose to bowl first. Raza bowled the first over with a no ball that Yashasvi Jaiswal hit for six. After another six on the free hit, Raza bowled Jaiswal out.

Sanju Samson Leads India to Victory

Zimbabwe’s bowlers were disciplined and took the wickets of Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, reducing India to 40 for 3 in 5 overs. Samson quickly found form, stabilizing the innings with Riyan Parag, adding 65 runs together.

After Parag’s dismissal, Samson accelerated with help from Shivam Dube, who scored 26 off 12 balls. Samson’s 58 off 45 balls was crucial before Zimbabwe fought back by taking his wicket. Rinku Singh’s final hits pushed India’s total to 167 in 20 overs, setting a challenging target.

Zimbabwe Struggles with the Chase

Zimbabwe’s chase started badly, with Mukesh Kumar dismissing Wessley Madhevere for a duck in the first over. He took Brian Bennett’s wicket in his second over and nearly got Tadiwanashe Marumani out, but a no ball saved Marumani, who then attacked Ravi Bishnoi.

Marumani and Dion Myers added 44 runs before Washington Sundar dismissed Marumani. Myers and Raza built another partnership, but things fell apart after Myers was dismissed by Dube. Zimbabwe collapsed from 85 for 3 to 90 for 6 in two overs, including a mix up leading to Raza’s run-out. Abhishek Sharma took another wicket, leaving Zimbabwe struggling at 94 for 7.

Faraz Akram’s late hitting provided some excitement, but Mukesh Kumar finished the job, ending with 4-22 as India won the series 4-1.

Indian youngsters shine despite criticism

After losing the first T20I, India’s young players faced criticism, labeled as IPL stars. However, Abhishek Sharma, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Ravi Bishnoi stepped up, ensuring an easy series win.

The inclusion of World Cup squad members like Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shivam Dube strengthened the team, proving too much for Zimbabwe. Shubman Gill’s effective captaincy also contributed to the success, leaving him pleased with his team’s performance.

With an upcoming tour in Sri Lanka, it’s uncertain who will join the T20I series as India begins a new chapter under Gautam Gambhir.

Gill though impressive as captain, faced mixed reviews for his batting. As the series top run scorer, his choice to open the innings over emerging players like Jaiswal and Abhishek Sharma sparked debate. Gill might consider batting at No. 3 to secure his place in the T20I team, taking inspiration from players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma on adapting and thriving in the format.

Shubman Gill, leading a young Indian team without senior players, has announced the opening pair for the first T20I against Zimbabwe. This series marks the beginning of a new era for Indian cricket, kicking off their preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026.

Gill himself will open alongside the in-form Abhishek Sharma in the series opener at Harare Sports Club on Saturday, July 6th.

“I will open with Abhishek Sharma, and Ruturaj Gaikwad will bat at No. 3,” Gill told reporters on the eve of the match.

Abhishek Sharma Prepares for Maiden T20I Cap Alongside Gill

Abhishek, known for his explosive batting in the IPL with 484 runs at a stunning strike rate of 204.22, will earn his first T20I cap. The left hander’s aggressive batting style in the powerplay overs could be crucial in Harare’s slower conditions. His debut is well-deserved, and the young player from Punjab is expected to capture attention with his attacking approach.

In this series against Zimbabwe, India has rested most of their World Cup-winning players such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja.

Only five members are Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Yashavi Jaiswal, Khaleel Ahmed, and Sanju Samson included in the squad. However, Dube, Jaiswal, and Samson, who were part of the main World Cup squad, will miss the first two T20Is due to extended celebrations following their victory. Jitesh Sharma, Sai Sudharshan, and Harshit Rana will replace them for these matches.

India’s revised squad for the Zimbabwe tour

Shubman Gill (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Abhishek Sharma, Rinku Singh, Sanju Samson (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Riyan Parag, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Kumar, Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube.

India vs Zimbabwe 2024 schedule

1st T20I on July 6, Saturday
2nd T20I on July 7, Sunday
3rd T20I on July 10, Wednesday
4th T20I on July 13, Saturday
5th T20I on July 14, Sunday

The euphoria following India’s T20 World Cup victory has reached fever pitch, and the celebration is set to continue in grand fashion. Four Mumbai-based players, integral to the squad’s triumph, are to be felicitated at the Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan. This event marks not just a celebration of their achievements but also a recognition of Mumbai’s contribution to Indian cricket.

Mumbai’s cricketing heroes

Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma, the captain of the Indian cricket team, led from the front with his strategic acumen and exceptional batting skills. His leadership was pivotal in guiding the team to their second T20 World Cup title.

See Also: Team India honored by PM Modi for T20 World Cup 2024 triumph

Suryakumar Yadav

Known for his explosive batting and innovative shots, Suryakumar Yadav played a crucial role in the middle order. His performances added much-needed stability and firepower to the team.

Shivam Dube

Shivam Dube, with his all-round capabilities, contributed significantly both with the bat and ball. His versatility made him a valuable asset throughout the tournament.

Yashasvi Jaiswal

The young and talented Yashasvi Jaiswal showcased his potential on the world stage, impressing everyone with his fearless approach and solid performances.

The Event at Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan

The announcement of the felicitation came from Maharashtra state assembly speaker Rahul Narwekar. The felicitation ceremony is scheduled for Friday afternoon at the Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan Complex. This event is expected to be attended by key political figures, cricketing legends, and fans, making it a grand celebration of Mumbai’s cricketing heroes.

Prime Minister’s meeting with the Team

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted the World Cup-winning team at his residence, where he had a memorable conversation with the players. This meeting underscored the importance of their victory and provided an opportunity for the players to share their experiences.

During the meeting, the players wore special jerseys with “CHAMPIONS” emblazoned on the front and two stars above the Team India crest, symbolizing their two T20 World Cup titles. The interaction was filled with smiles and stories, reflecting the joyous spirit of the occasion.

Historical Context

India’s T20 World Cup win on June 29 ended an 11-year wait for an ICC trophy. The last major ICC title was the Champions Trophy in 2013, won under the leadership of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. This victory is a significant milestone in Indian cricket, rejuvenating the spirit and enthusiasm among fans.

BCCI’s Gesture to the Prime Minister

BCCI president Roger Binny and secretary Jay Shah presented a customized Team India jersey to PM Modi, with “NAMO” and “1” inscribed on it. This gesture symbolized the unity and pride shared by the nation and its leaders.

In the T20 World Cup 2024 final, certain moments will etch themselves into their memories the roar of the crowd, the tension in the air, and the heroics that unfolded on the lush green field. Among those heroics, Virat Kohli’s masterful 76, Jasprit Bumrah’s exceptional bowling, and Hardik Pandya’s nerve-wracking final over will undoubtedly take center stage. But there’s one player whose contribution often remains a footnote, overshadowed by the spotlight on the star Axar Patel.

Axar’s crucial knock in final

The match began with India losing three wickets for a mere 34 runs during the PowerPlay. The situation was dire, and India needed a circuit-breaker. Enter Axar Patel, the unassuming all-rounder who would soon play a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of the T20 World Cup.

Promoted up the order, Axar walked in with a steely resolve. His 47 off 31 balls was a blend of aggression and calculated risk-taking. While Kohli meticulously accumulated runs through singles and doubles, Axar provided the necessary fireworks. His innings complemented Kohli’s beautifully crafted 76, ensuring India reached a competitive total of 176.

The near-villain moment

Cricket is a game of twists and turns. Axar’s heroics were followed by a moment of heartbreak. In the same match, he bowled the 15th over, an over that would haunt him. Facing the onslaught of South African batsmen Heinrich Klaasen, Axar conceded 24 runs. His non-dominant right hand, which had earlier wielded the bat with precision, now struggled to find its line and length. The villainous over threatened to undo all his hard work.

Axar’s performance ensured favorable entry points for India’s big hitters. Shivam Dube, who had struggled earlier, scored a crucial 27 off 16 balls. Axar’s knock had laid the foundation, and now it was up to others to build upon it.

India eventually clinched victory by seven runs, ending their 13-year wait for a world title. Axar’s near-villain moment was overshadowed by the euphoria of the win, but it remains a testament to the rollercoaster of emotions that cricket can evoke.

In the end, Axar Patel’s journey from batting India out of trouble to conceding 24 runs in that fateful over captured the essence of T20 cricket. Cricket fans will forever remember his near-villain moment, a chapter in the grand saga of India’s T20 World Cup triumph.

In a thrilling encounter between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at M.A Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Ruturaj Gaikwad etched his name in IPL history by becoming only the eighth captain to score a century.

Dynamic Partnership of Ruturaj and Shivam

A stellar partnership with Shivam Dube complemented Gaikwad’s monumental achievement, as they amassed 104 runs in just 46 balls. Their dynamic collaboration was pivotal in setting up a formidable target for LSG. Shivam Dube scored 66 runs off 27, and Gaikwad scored 108* runs off 60 balls.

See Also: IPL 2024: Major boost to SRH as star pacer returns, ACB grant NOC

An array of remarkable shots, including powerful sixes and well-timed boundaries, marked Gaikwad’s innings. Notable highlights include Gaikwad’s lofted six over backward square and exquisite cover drive to reach his century.

Gaikwad’s innings epitomized class, precision, and determination, showcasing his ability to control the game from the outset. His second IPL century underscored his talent and impact as a key player for CSK in IPL 2024.

Milestones of the Match

Highest individual scores for CSK (IPL)
127 – Murali Vijay vs RR, Chennai, 2010
117* – Shane Watson vs SRH, Mumbai WS, 2018 final
116* – Michael Hussey vs PBKS, Mohali, 2008
113 – Murali Vijay vs DC, Chennai, 2012 Q2
108* – Ruturaj Gaikwad vs LSG, Chennai, 2024

Century partnerships for 4th wicket or below for CSK
109* – MS Dhoni & S Badrinath vs KKR, Kolkata, 2010
108* – MS Dhoni & David Hussey vs SRH, Ranchi, 2014
104 – Ruturaj Gaikwad & Shivam Dube vs LSG, Chennai, 2024
102* – Ambati Rayudu & Ravindra Jadeja vs MI, Delhi, 2021
101 – MS Dhoni & Ambati Rayudu vs RCB, Bengaluru, 2018

Shivam Dube for CSK
Inns: 33
Runs: 1018
Avg: 37.7
SR: 161.07
50s: 8
HS: 95*

CSK’s Dominance in the Match

CSK exhibited dominance throughout the match, with Gaikwad’s exceptional performance spearheading their formidable total of 210 runs. Despite early setbacks, CSK’s batting lineup showcased resilience and firepower, courtesy of Gaikwad and Dube’s partnership.

Rahane’s early dismissal and Mitchell’s failure to make an impact at number 3 were setbacks for the team. However, Ruturaj Gaikwad stole the spotlight tonight. He was in top form from the beginning and played flawlessly throughout his innings. Gaikwad showcased impeccable timing, precise placement, and sheer class, culminating in his second IPL century. Jadeja was promoted to number 4 but couldn’t contribute much, yet the partnership between Dube and Gaikwad turned the game around.

Dube’s aggressive batting style dominated the LSG attack, especially against slower off-cutters, sending the ball sailing over deep mid-wicket multiple times. Dube’s innings proved to be crucial as CSK crossed the 200-run mark. Additionally, the crowd was thrilled to witness MS Dhoni’s brief appearance, smashing his only ball to the boundary. It sets the stage for an exciting chase for LSG.

In a thrilling match, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) clinched a 20-run victory over the Mumbai Indians, even though Rohit Sharma scored a century. The key to CSK’s success was Matheesha Pathirana’s excellent bowling, supported by Tushar Deshpande and Mustafizur Rahman, which helped dismantle Mumbai’s batting lineup.

The match began with Mumbai Indians winning the toss and opting to bowl. Rachin Ravindra and A Rahane started the innings for CSK, with Rahane smashing the first boundary of the match. However, Rahane was soon dismissed by Gerald Coetzee, caught by Pandya. Ravindra also fell to Shreyas Gopal’s delivery, leaving CSK at 60/2 after 7.5 overs.

Ruturaj Gaikwad shines on the ground

Despite these early setbacks, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shivam Dube turned the tide with some remarkable batting, hitting boundaries and sixes at regular intervals. Gaikwad reached his half-century off just 33 balls, while Dube followed suit, completing his half-century in 28 balls. Their partnership propelled CSK to a commanding total, with Gaikwad eventually departing after scoring 150/2 in 15.2 overs, caught by Nabi off Pandya’s delivery. Daryll Mitchell’s dismissal further consolidated CSK’s score to 186/4 after 19.2 overs.

See Also: Watch: Vintage Thala at Wankhede against MI

MS Dhoni makes the magic

However, the highlight of the match came in the form of MS Dhoni’s explosive batting. Dhoni, known for his finishing prowess, showcased his skills by hitting a hat-trick of sixes in the final over, boosting CSK’s total to 206 runs.

In response, Mumbai Indians put up a strong fight, with Rohit Sharma leading the charge with a century in 19.3 overs. Despite Sharma’s brilliant innings, Mumbai fell short of the target by 20 runs, ultimately conceding victory to CSK.

With this win, Chennai Super Kings secured their fourth victory in six matches, earning crucial points and strengthening their position in the IPL standings.

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya won the toss and chose to bat first. Chennai Super Kings chose to send out Ajinkya Rahane as Rachin Ravindra’s opening partner as opposed to captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. The experiment failed though, with Rahane falling in the second over. However, Gaikwad and Ravindra have then given CSK a steady start after that.  In a riveting showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the ongoing cricket match saw some spectacular performances that highlighted the session.

See Also: Netizens troll Shreyas Iyer despite KKR’s victory over LSG

Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Innings

Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has been in fine form this season, played what could be his best knock so far. Scoring 69 off 40 balls, Gaikwad’s innings included five boundaries and an equal number of sixes, displaying a perfect blend of aggression and control.

Fastest to 2,000 IPL runs (by innings taken)
48 – Chris Gayle
52 – Shaun Marsh
57 – Ruturaj Gaikwad
60 – KL Rahul
63 – Sachin Tendulkar

Shivam Dube’s Aggressive Batting

Shivam Dube’s approach was clear from the start – attack. His array of shots, especially the boundaries off Shepherd and Madhwal, were crucial in keeping the scoreboard ticking. Dube’s fearless batting not only entertained the crowd but also put the opposing bowlers under pressure. Shivam is still playing on 62 off 32 balls.

Hardik Pandya’s Bowling

Hardik Pandya, known for his knack for breaking partnerships, did not disappoint. His delivery to Ruturaj Gaikwad was a masterpiece of pacing and placement, leading to a crucial wicket at a critical time in the game. This over not only showcased Hardik’s skill but also shifted the momentum of the game.

Mohammad Nabi’s catch to dismiss Gaikwad was a game-changer. Nabi, positioned at long-on, made a challenging run to secure a catch that looked like it might just elude him. This moment was pivotal and showcased the importance of fielding in modern cricket.

Chennai Super Kings returned triumphantly to their fortress at Chepauk, securing yet another victory and putting an end to Kolkata Knight Riders’ three-match winning streak today, on Monday. Led by skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, CSK chased down a below-par target of 138 runs with ease, finishing the game with 14 deliveries to spare and seven wickets in hand.

Winning the toss proved to be crucial as CSK chose to bowl first, restricting KKR to a modest total of 137/9. CSK’s bowlers maintained consistent pressure, ensuring KKR struggled to build partnerships. CSK’s pursuit of the target was smooth, with Ruturaj Gaikwad‘s unbeaten innings guiding them to their third win in five matches.

Gaikwad and Daryl Mitchell partnership can always make the magic

Although KKR had a brief opportunity to make a comeback, dismissing Rachin Ravindra early, CSK’s strong batting line-up, led by Gaikwad and Daryl Mitchell, denied them any chance of a fightback. Gaikwad’s brilliant innings, supported by a solid 70-run partnership with Daryl Mitchell, showcased CSK’s dominance throughout the match. Mitchell, despite batting at various positions in the previous games, displayed consistency and provided valuable support to Gaikwad at the crease.

Taking to the crease at No. 3, Daryl Mitchell played a supportive role alongside his captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad, contributing 25 runs from 19 balls. Gaikwad, who had faced batting woes in previous matches, seized the opportunity to shine, delivering a match-winning unbeaten 63 runs off 57 balls, the highest individual score of the day.

Gaikwad’s impeccable footwork and batting prowess allowed him to dominate the opposition, steering CSK towards victory with ease. The packed MA Chidambaram Stadium erupted with excitement as Shivam Dube blazed through with a quickfire 28 runs off just 18 balls, followed by a memorable appearance from the legendary MS Dhoni.

See Also: Chennai Super Kings beat Kolkata Knight Riders by 7 wickets; Points Table updated

Ravindra Jadeja becomes the king of the ground

CSK’s dominance was also evident in their bowling performance, with Ravindra Jadeja taking center stage. Jadeja’s exceptional spell of 3/18 turned the game in CSK’s favor, dismantling KKR’s batting lineup and claiming his 100th catch in the IPL.

KKR struggled against the spin duo of Jadeja and Maheesh Theekshana, failing to find boundaries for 34 balls. Mustafizur Rahman’s return bolstered CSK’s bowling attack, as he picked up crucial wickets to regain the Purple Cap.

Tushar Deshpande also made significant contributions, dismissing KKR’s danger men Rinku Singh and Andre Russell, along with claiming a wicket off the first ball of the innings.

CSK’s comprehensive bowling display restricted KKR to 137/9, ensuring an easy chase for the hosts. With this victory, CSK further solidified their position in the tournament standings, showcasing their prowess both with the ball and the bat.

Chennai has continued their winning streak with another impressive performance, securing their second consecutive victory in the tournament. From the beginning till the end, they displayed dominance over Gujarat, establishing themselves as strong contenders this season. This win marks Gujarat’s first loss against Chennai in the league stages of the competition, highlighting the home team’s advantage as hosts continue to dominate this season with seven consecutive wins.

See Also: IPL 2024: Breaking Down How Gujarat Titans Pulled Off the Heist Against Mumbai Indians?

Analysis of Shivam Dube’s Impactful Knock

Chennai’s innings was characterized by aggressive batting right from the start, as Shivam Dube took charge with his explosive fifty. His innings provided the momentum that Chennai needed, and he was ably supported by skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rachin Ravindra, who both played crucial innings in the middle overs to keep the scoreboard ticking.

Towards the end, Daryl Mitchell and Sameer Rizvi provided the finishing touches with their quick cameos, ensuring that Chennai posted a daunting total on the board. Despite some resistance from Gujarat bowlers, including Rashid Khan’s impactful spell, Chennai’s batsmen maintained their dominance throughout the innings, ultimately setting up their opponents for a challenging chase.

Gujarat faced an uphill battle from the start of their chase after losing their captain early. Despite efforts to stabilize the innings, they struggled to build partnerships and maintain the required run rate. Chennai’s bowlers capitalized on the pressure, picking up wickets at regular intervals and never allowing Gujarat to gain momentum. The margin of defeat for Gujarat in terms of runs was their largest in the tournament, highlighting Chennai’s dominant performance with both bat and ball in this encounter.

Gujarat began their chase with a sense of urgency, aiming for a quick start to keep up with the required run rate. However, losing their skipper Shubman Gill early in the third over put them on the back foot and increased the pressure on the batting side. Despite Wriddhiman Saha’s brief onslaught, his dismissal on the next delivery after being hit on the helmet further dented Gujarat’s hopes. Vijay Shankar’s failure to make an impact added to their woes, leaving Sai Sudharsan and David Miller to stabilize the innings.

Sudharsan and Miller formed a crucial partnership, attempting to steady the ship amidst mounting pressure. However, Miller’s dismissal shifted the momentum in Chennai’s favor, leading to a collapse in Gujarat’s batting lineup. From a relatively stable position at 96/3, they quickly found themselves struggling at 121/7 as wickets tumbled in quick succession. Despite the lower-order batsmen’s efforts to salvage the innings, Gujarat fell short, ultimately succumbing to a significant defeat with a margin of 63 runs.