Sunday 31 March 2013

England Women To Take On Pakistan In July

Source: The Nation 28/03/2013
In: Sports
LONDON - Pakistan Women will take on England Women in two One-Day Internationals and two Twenty20 Internationals from 1st to 5th July.
England Women will take on Pakistan Women in two One-Day Internationals and two Twenty20 Internationals from 1st to 5th July in a set of additional international fixtures.
Louth will host its first One-Day International before the remaining three matches, the Twenty20s on the same day, will be played at Loughborough University.
Ahead of the internationals, Pakistan will play two Twenty20s and a one-day game against England Women's Academy on 27th and 29th June at Loughborough University.

Sri Lanka Stun Bangladesh in T20

Sri Lanka Stun Bangladesh in T20
Pallekele: Kusal Perera and Jeevan Mendis starred with the bat as Sri Lanka overcame Bangladesh by 17 runs in the one-off T20I in Pallekele on Sunday.
Kusal Perera and Jeevan Mendis starred with the bat as Sri Lanka overcame Bangladesh by 17 runs in the one-off T20I in Pallekele on Sunday.

Sri Lanka hold onto their No.1 ranking in T20Is for this year. In the end, Bangladesh did well to come close to the Sri Lankan total and this was also their highest total batting second in T20Is. 199 was always going to be a tough chase, but Mohammad Ashraful (43) started off well with some big hits.

Bangladesh falling short by 17 runs. They conceded 19 wides to Sri Lanka's five, leaked 55 runs from overs 17 to 19 in Sri Lanka's innings, and Ashraful (43) got a poor decision.
Sri Lanka hold onto their No.1 ranking in T20Is for this year. In the end, Bangladesh did well to come close to the Sri Lankan total and this was also their highest total batting second in T20Is. 199 was always going to be a tough chase, but Mohammad Ashraful (43) started off well with some big hits.

Bangladesh falling short by 17 runs. They conceded 19 wides to Sri Lanka's five, leaked 55 runs from overs 17 to 19 in Sri Lanka's innings, and Ashraful (43) got a poor decision.

Cricket: Pakistan drops Younis from Champions Trophy squad

Pakistan on Sunday omitted out-of-form Younis Khan from a 30-man initial squad for the eight-nation Champions Trophy after the middle order batsman flopped in recent one-day matches.

Pakistan face the West Indies in their opening match on June 7 before clashing with South Africa (June 10) and arch-rivals India on June 15.

Probables: Nasir Jamshed, Mohammad Hafeez, Imran Farhat, Ahmed Shehzad, Misbah-ul-Haq, Haris Sohail, Asad Shafiq, Umar Akmal, Shoaib Malik, Umer Amin, Sohail Tanvir, Hammad Azam, Azhar Ali, Shahid Afridi, Asad Ali, Anwar Ali, Junaid Khan, Mohammad Irfan, Wahab Riaz, Umar Gul, Rahat Ali, Ehsan Adil, Imran Khan, Aizaz Cheema, Yasir Arafat, Saeed Ajmal, Abdul Rehman, Zulfiqar Babar, Kamran Akmal, Mohammad Rizwan.

Gautam Gambhir set to join Kolkata

He has recovered really fast. He will be fine once he lands in Kolkata tomorrow. He is looking forward to play the first match," KKR assistant coach Vijay Dahiya said after their practice on Saturday.Meanwhile, Kolkata Police Commissioner Surajit Purkayastha expressed his satisfaction after a recce of the stadium.Windies mystery spinner Sunil Narine will also join the squad on Sunday.It's difficult to replace somebody of the stature of Akram. Lee is a fantastic bowler and his first role will be that of a player. Of course his experience will be helpful," Dahiya said.Being the champions, KKR will host the opening ceremony and the final will also be held in Kolkata.He was satisfied with the inspection. He suggested that a technical official should be posted near the 17 newly-installed turnstiles at Eden Gardens," a CAB official said.We have earned it (by winning IPL V) for the people of Kolkata. We have set high standards. Having done that, we all are looking forward to doing it again," Dahiya said.Former Aussie pacer Brett Lee will double up as mentor in absence of Wasim Akram.

Mumbai Cricket Association

The Indian Premier League franchise owner had been prohibited from entering the Wankhede Stadium premises after he had an altercation with a security guard and had reportedly threatened an official after an IPL match in May last year. The Bollywood superstar had initially refused to apologize for his behavior, thus evoking the MCA to stick with the suspension.Two months ago, the MCA had added to its IPL contract with the Mumbai Indians and the BCCI that only accredited persons could enter the Wankhede Stadium and those who have been banned will not be allowed to enter. It is understood that the MCA do not wish to revisit their agreement with the home franchise.On Saturday, MCA officials met with the Board of Control for Cricket in India to decide the fate of the five-year ban imposed on the Kolkata Knight Riders boss.I don't want to talk much on the issue again. The MCA has taken its stand and we will follow it," Sawant added. IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla, who had attempted to broker peace between the warring parties, stated that SRK should be allowed inside the stadium by virtue of being a team owner.Two months ago, the MCA had added to its IPL contract with the Mumbai Indians and the BCCI that only accredited persons could enter the Wankhede Stadium and those who have been banned will not be allowed to enter. It is understood that the MCA do not wish to revisit their agreement with the home franchise.

Recovering Jesse Ryder

Ryder was moved on Sunday from the intensive care ward of Christchurch Hospital to a regular ward as he recovers from a fractured skull and punctured lung. On Saturday the 28-year-old was brought out of an induced coma and removed from a respirator.New Zealand cricketer Jesse Ryder has told well-wishers "I'm okay" three days after suffering severe head injuries in a fight outside a Christchurch bar.In a statement Sunday, Ryder said "I just want to let everyone know that I'm OK.I feel heaps better today but still really tired. I've been reading your messages that have been sent so thank you to everyone for thinking of me over the last few days

KKR preparing to unleash

Senanayake is a different type of bowler and that is why he was picked at the auction. He is difficult to read and along with Narine, he will add to our bowling firepower," KKR assistant coach Vijay Dahiya said on Saturday.The KKR team sans most of its high-profile players continued to slog at the nets under the watchful eyes of pace spearhead Brett Lee who also is the bowling mentor after Pakistani legend Wasim Akram stepped down as the bowling coach.The 27-year-old Senanayake, yet to make his IPL debut, was the highest wicket-taker with 16 scalps in the 2011-12 Sri Lanka Premier League.Though Lee has been wonderful in his new role, replacing someone of the stature of Akram whose experience and credentials are huge, is difficult. As for Lee, his major role will be as a player, added Dahiya.Meanwhile, Narine who was instrumental in leading KKR to their maiden IPL title last year taking 24 wickets from 15 games, and skipper Gautam Gambhir are scheduled to reach the city Sunday.Though effusive in his praise for Lee, Dahiya conceded that it was difficult to replace some one of the stature of Akram.The team's other star players including Yusuf Pathan and Jacques Kallis are slated to join the rest of the squad in the city latest by April 1.

Brad Hodge

Watson was restricted solely to batting duties during Australia's recent 0-4 whitewash against India in the Test series as a part of an injury-prevention plan so that he could be available as an all-rounder in full capacity for the Ashes series in July.He is a dominating player. He might not have done so well recently but can change the face of the game," he said.Stating that Watson would put the 'homework gate' episode behind him when he takes the field for the Royals, Hodge said:I'm not sure. He might start bowling from third or fourth match. But it is up to him to decide if he wants to bowl or not. The Rajasthan team management is considering strategies in both cases. He would be available for entire IPL and it would be good to see him bowl," Australia batsman said.He would be happy to be with the Royals after what happened to him a few days back. He has a place for the Royals in his heart. Nice things (also) happened to him in the last week. He was blessed with a baby. He would be looking to get back into good form.Watson had decided to put bowling on the backburner after injuring his calf during the Sri Lanka series, but while watching Indian skipper MS Dhoni bludgeon the Aussie attack in the first Test he was convinced to eventually bowl again.

Ashok Menaria

I am ready to bat anywhere according to demands of situation. I often get out caught because I hit in air but I try my best to fill in the role given to me," Menaria said.Conceding that he has failed to live upto the expectations, Menaria said the requirements of the team have compelled him bat at different positions.Yes we had some good matches recently but all that is past now. I am looking for a good IPL. I tend to keep it tight. It will depend on the strategy whether I open the attack or not.The 22-year-old left-handed batsman said he was looking forward to do a lot of bowling in the cash-rich Twenty20 league starting on April 3.Regarding Rajasthan Royals' first match on home ground against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders, Menaria felt that there would be no pressure on his side.I had a good season in domestic cricket where I batted and bowled well. I am looking for more opportunities to bowl in IPL-6.

Indian women to play

The first T20 international will be played at Baroda's Reliance Sports Complex.The three-match T20 international matches will be played at Baroda on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.The Indian women's cricket team will start its limited-overs series campaign against Bangladesh in Baroda on Tuesday.The three-match ODI series will be played at the Sardar Patel Gujarat Stadium, Motera on April 8, April 10 and April 12.

Bangla rock bands rooting

Though busy with their next album, Cactus, one of the first Bangla rock bands, plan to go to the KKR matches despite their hectic schedule.I will try to make it for some of the matches and cheer for them. It is 'Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo Re' (KKR's theme song, which translated into English, reads "We will do it, we will fight it out, we will win it") for us," Ghosh told IANS.We are ardent fans of KKR and we will cheer for them along with the audience," he saidKnown for their 'urban folk' beats, Bangla band Bhoomi's bass guitarist Abhijit Ghosh wishes his favourite knights pull off and manage another win.We support KKR through and through. We are very busy with our album but we will take time out for some of the KKR matches," Sibaji "Baji" Paul, Cactus's drummer told IANS.No doubt KKR is my favourite. They won last year and I wish them all the best. The opening match is very significant.

Tamil Nadu politicians

Speaking to NDTV's Barkha Dutt, the former Sri Lankan cricketer said while he believes sports and politics should be kept separate, it is not the case in reality. "Politics and sports should be kept separate. It has been for the last so many years. But it happens every time India goes into general elections, this is the way Tamil Nadu politicians have been behaving. They are more keen on getting extra votes, try to fool the public. They should not drag sports into their political benefits. (But) that is what is happening today in south India," he said.Ranatunga though continues to maintain that it is the Sri Lankan players who should have refused to participate in IPL. "It's a sad day for all of us. It's a sad day for cricket. If our players are not accepted in Tamil Nadu, why are they going to play in the other part of India? This (IPL) is a franchise organized private tournament. They (Sri Lankan players) should think of their honour and dignity and think of the country," he said.There have been protests all over Tamil Nadu for days now, with all major political parties and students demanding that the Centre take a strong stand against Sri Lanka for its alleged war crimes in the final months of the civil war that ended when defence forces crushed the separatist Tamil Tigers in May 2009.A day earlier, Sri Lanka's T20 skipper Dinesh Chandimal had, according to reports, refused an offer to participate in IPL. This despite 13 of his national teammates participating in the tournament which starts April 3.After Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa wrote to the Prime Minister saying that no Indian Premier League (IPL) matches would be allowed in the state capital if they involved Sri Lankan players, umpires or officials, the IPL governing council decided at a hurried tele-conference with team owners that Sri Lankan cricketers will not play IPL matches in Chennai.

Younis Khan ignored

Younis, 35, was the major omission from the list of probables and the selectors' decision signalled the end of his ODI career. He has turned out for Pakistan in 253 ODIs.The selectors also ignored senior all-rounder Abdul Razzaq, who has been out of favor for sometime.The former captain struggled in the recent one-day series in South Africa and has been out of form in this format of the game since last year.The one-day international career of Pakistan's former captain Younis Khan appeared to have come to an end on Sunday as the national selectors did not include him in the list of 30 probables announced for the ICC Champions Trophy.The selectors have also sidelined wicketkeeper Sarfaraz Ahmed although he played in the Tests in South Africa.He did score a half century in the one-day series in India in December but otherwise he has struggled to hit form.They have, however, included a number of uncapped players in the probables list, including keeper Rizwan Ahmed and fast bowler Imran Khan.

Jesse Ryder's absence

Jesse's incident was unfortunate. We really feel sad for it. His absence would mean additional responsibility. We have to rise to the occasion," the 20-year-old Delhi youngster said.Asked whether he would be batting in one of those positions, Chand said, "The team management had not told him anything so far. I will bat in whatever position the team management will ask me.Ryder went into medically-induced coma after being attacked twice. He is believed to have suffered serious head injuries after the assaults and has now been moved out of the intensive care as his condition was improving.Asked about the Eden Gardens, Chand said, "It is a famouse venue in the cricket world. It is a matter of prestige to be able to play at this venue," Chand, who had played here earlier, said.Local media quoted doctors as saying that Ryder suffered a fractured skull and a collapsed lung.While most of the members of his side have already arrived in the city, former skipper Virender Shewag, Johan Botha, Morne Morkel and Irfan Pathan will join the team on Monday.Chand, the former under-19 captain of the Indian team that won the World Cup last year, told media after practice here, "I have played well in Ranji matches this season. I have to maintain this form. I hope I would be able to retain the form I displayed in Ranji matches.

Donald wants players

The cash-rich T20 league has not been a good experience for the most expensive franchise in the event, with the side finishing near or at the bottom in the last two editions, which prompted the management to elevate Donald from bowling coach to head coach this year.Terming his new role "intimidating" in a tournament that moves "at a million At times, (we tried) quick fixes, which didn't work. I see that the teams that have been successful in the IPL have stuck with a certain group of players for a long period of time. And that's what I intend to do.miles per hour", the former South Africa pace spearhead has urged his players to work as a team.You just can't be pleasing cricketers for the sake of it. I just want guys to be part of the team and helping each other out. The care factor for me is huge. I want guys to look after each other. That creates that relaxed environment that I talk about," Donald said.I am going to have a meeting with our overseas players on their own to explain their commitment to our cause for the next two months. Every one of those players wants to play. I would be disappointed if I wasn't picked.That's pretty much what I look for. How we gel as a team, how we grow as a team and how we care as a team is going to be the key for us.

Gautam Gambhir

The star opener hit the nets with a vengeance facing the likes of pacers Brett Lee, Rajat Bhatia and Laxmipathy Balaji after his arrival in the city on Sunday. One of the first to come out for the nets, the southpaw had an extended batting session, even though he seemed a trifle edgy.He is an inspirational captain and played a major role in KKR becoming the champion last year. He looked in fine nick at the nets," said Bhatia.After being dropped from the Indian Test team, Gambhir has been more focused and working really hard," Bhatia told media persons post the net practice session at the Eden Gardens here."It is difficult to reach the top but it is much harder staying at the top. Being the defending champions, of course brings pressure but at the same time it also helps in bringing out your best," he added.Suffering from a prolonged slump in form, the opener was recently dropped from the Test squad.Last year we reached the semi finals, and this year too, our initial aim is reaching the semis and then take things as they come," said Daredevils batsman Unmukt Chand.The Knights though would be hoping Gambhir, the second highest run getter (590) in IPL's previous edition, returns to form sooner than later.

Maharashtra drought-hit

Tawade said he had written to IPL chairman Rajiv Shukla to reconsider organising the T20 matches in Mumbai.Shiv Sena last week asked owners of IPL teams to contribute Rs.500 crore towards drought relief from the revenue generated through the event.There are talks of donating a part of revenue generated out of IPL matches to drought-hit Maharashtra. But when it comes to choosing between revenue and water, water is more important," Tawde said.IPL's sixth season will begin April 3 and end May 26. Eight matches will be played in Mumbai.He said they had also criticised spiritual leader Asaram Bapu for wasting tonnes of water for celebrating Holi.Moreover, this water is used in a state seeing the worst drought of the century. It is not justified," he said.Farmers paid a heavy irrigation water tax so wastage of water should be curbed, he said.What sense does it make to use many thousand litres of water to maintain the pitch on which cricket matches are played," the BJP leader said.The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, Shiv Sena and the Republican Party of India have also objected to IPL matches being played in the city citing the same reasons.

Sri Lanka beat Bangladesh

The opener, who was named man-of-the-match, hit four sixes and five fours in his 44-ball knock as Sri Lanka posted a challenging 198-5 before restricting Bangladesh to 181-7.Skipper Mushfiqur Rahim (39) and Mohammad Mahmudullah (31) kept Bangladesh's hopes alive with a 50-run stand for the fifth wicket before both fell in the 15th over to leave their team struggling at 137-6.Mohammad Ashraful top-scored for Bangladesh with a 27-ball 43 while seamers Angelo Mathews and Thisara Perera each bagged two wickets for Sri Lanka.Mendis hit three sixes, including two in an over from left-arm spinner Abdur Razzak, and two fours in his 17-ball 37 while Mathews contributed an unbeaten 30 off 27 deliveries.I am happy about my first win as captain," said Sri Lanka skipper Dinesh Chandimal.The hosts made a brisk start after being put in to bat as they raced to 52 in the opening five overs, with Kusal Perera playing attacking shots against both pace and spin.Kusal Perera gave us the start and we continued after that. We put up a good total and that is why we won.Perera hit seamer Shahadat Hossain for two fours and a six in the first over of the match before smashing two more sixes, one each off spinners Sohag Gazi and Razzak.Bangladesh suffered a setback after reaching 68-2 in the eighth over as Ashraful was given out leg-before. He hit seamer Thisara Perera for two successive sixes and then a four in the same over.

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

Electing to bat, Punjab suffered a top-order collapse to be reduced to 20 for four in the sixth over before they recovered a bit to score 122 for eight in their allotted 20 overs at the Holkar Stadium.Opener Asad Pathan (32) and one-down batsman Niraj Patel (14) put up a 50-run partnership, before they were both dismissed in the eighth over with the team score of 52.Pacer Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of the Gujarat bowlers as he returned with three wickets for just 14 runs from his four overs. Mehul Patel chipped in with two wickets, while Rohit Dahiya and Rakesh Dhurv took wicket apiece.Gujarat chased down the target with 13 balls to spare.Manprit Juneja (31), who hit a breathtaking unbeaten 108 in their final Super League match against Kerala yesterday, and Abdulahad Malik (31 not out) put up a further 64 runs together, as Gujarat kept abreast with the required run-rate.Amitoze Singh top-scored for Punjab with a 42-ball 49, while wicketkeeper-batsman Chandan Madan contributed with 25 runs.For Punjab, left-arm spinner Rajwinder Singh grabbed two wickets for 40, while Siddarth Kaul bagged a wicket.Chasing a modest target of 123, Gujarat started badly as they lost their wicketkeeper captain Parthiv Patel (1) with the score on two.

Harbhajan

When I played 100 Tests, it felt great but I have started realising that more important are the relationships that you have developed over the years," the 32-year-old off-spinner told PTI during an exclusive interview here on Sunday.Obviously, 100 Tests was big thing considering from where I had come. I never imagined I would reach this far. In the first innings in Chennai, I was nervous but it got better in the second innings.It's those you have played cricket with and have known along the way. I would rather be known as a cricketer who was a good human being than being dubbed as a top player and an equally worse human being," he added.It's great to have Anil bhai around. It not only helps to have around while talking cricket but other aspects too. He (Kumble) is someone who can gauge my state of mind. He has always been there with me to give me right kind of advice. His mentorship with MI will be a huge advantage not only for me but for other players," he sounded ecstatic.For Harbhajan, if 90 out of 100 people like him, he will consider it as an achievement.So apart from Mumbai Indians, which is the team that can go the distance in this edition of IPL, he said, "Chennai Super Kings is a very balanced side. They are a real good team and has played consistently good cricket over the last five editions.I only hope that when I stop playing the game, people would say that they cherished being in my company. I know 100 out of 100 guys won't say the same but I want at least 90 people to say that 'Bhajji achha insaan tha' (Bhajji wasn't a bad juman being)," the veteran of 101 Tests said during a free-wheeling chat at a city hotel.

Very excited to be back

Obviously, I am very excited to be back in IPL. I said when I had finished playing last time, hopefully I will be able to come back and play again. The way things have worked out -- with my retirement from international cricket and finishing off the domestic season for Tasmania and playing well -- have given me the opportunity to be back here," said the Aussie at his first media conference here today.I am going to be here for a couple of months and then have a two-month stint at Surrey and another month or five weeks at the Caribbean Premier League as well. Now my whole focus is to make sure that I am the best player and best leader for Mumbai Indians for the next two months.He said retirement from the hectic international schedule has given him time to concentrate on T20 leagues.To be captain of any franchise is exciting but to think that I am the captain of Mumbai Indians and I will be playing alongside Sachin Tendulkar and Harbhajan Singh, some of the guys I have had great battles over the years, as well as some of my Australian team mates and some of the young local Indian talent I have come across in the last couple of days is great.The reason I did not come back to IPL 2 and 3 was because I had too much international cricket on at that time. And now that I don't have international cricket, the opportunities for me to play in these domestic tournaments are really opening up.

Monkeygate memory

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting on Sunday assured that the infamous "Monekygate" episode won't have an effect on the Mumbai Indians dressing room as he gears up to lead Mumbai Indians in the sixth edition of IPL.Ponting and MI team's chief mentor Anil Kumble were the rival captains in the controversy-marred Sydney Test of January 2008 when Australian team member Andrew Symonds accused India's Harbhajan Singh, who is an MI player now, of racial abuse.No, no. We are all friends for the next few months. That's one thing I have made very clear to the guys already. Sachin and Harbhajan have not been around the team yet. We will meet up with those guys. We are one, the Mumbai Indians are one," said Ponting at his first media conference ahead of the IPL franchise team's campaign in season 6 of the cash-rich T20 League commencing on April 3.The Australians complained that Harbhajan allegedly called Symonds a "monkey" during day three of the second Test of the 2007-08 controversy-marred series.I want to play well and captain the side well. I will not leave any stone unturned as far as preparation of team is concerned and ensure that everything we do is for one another," Ponting, who has retired from international cricket, said.

Gujarat and Punjab in T20 tourney final

Super League (Group A) match of the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament, on Tuesday. ... In reply, Gujarat knocked off the target in 19.4 overs as Patel and ... Holkar Stadium here, Karnataka defeated Punjab by two wickets.

Indore, Mar 31: Left-hander Manprit Juneja smashed an unbeaten 108 as Gujarat thrashed Kerala by 90 runs to set up title date with Punjab in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 championship here on Saturday (March 30).

Kerala captain Sachin Baby must have rued his decision to put the opposition in though it seemed that his gamble would pay dividends as Gujarat were struggling at 31 for three in the fifth over. But Juneja and Abdulahad Malik (84 not out)turned the match on its head with an unbroken partnership of 202 runs from 15.4 overs for the fourth wicket. Malik was no less aggressive than Juneja as his unbeaten 84 came from just 46 balls with the help of nine fours and three sixes.

Future bright for girls’ cricket at Lowerhouse

LOWERHOUSE CC are celebrating county call-ups for several of their girls.
Top of the tree are Maddy White and Hannah Till, who have recently returned from a five-county competition in Dubai. The tour was for the Under 19 age group, but the girls (pictured) are under 16 and under 17 respectively.
LANCASHIRE League champions Lowerhouse are turning into a female cricket production line with a host of their juniors winning Lancashire call-ups.
Hannah is an opening bat and wicket keeper and received praise for her batting in Dubai.
Maddy is an all-rounder and excellent fielder.
At Under 15 level, Lowerhouse have three girls.

County Cricket News

One month into the season and Yorkshire are sitting on top of both Division One of the Championship and Group B of the Clydesdale Bank 40. So far the move to install Andrew Gale as club captain during the winter has proven to be inspired.
Ashwell Prince,
who was part of Lancashire’s 2012 LV= County Championship campaign which resulted in relegation, is poised to return to Old Trafford as a Kolpak player for the 2013 and 14 seasons as they look to regain their position in the top flight.
Prince, 35, scored over 1000 runs for the club in 2012, but will have to give up any hopes of a recall to the South Africa side if he is to re-join them for the upcoming season. The club have signed Australian Simon Katich from Hampshire as their overseas player.

Player Of The Week

Player Of The WeekCricket World Player Of The Week - Ravindra Jadeja

There are a multitude of strong contenders for this week's Cricket World Player of the Week award from Peter Fulton's twin centuries in the Auckland Test to Shane Shillingford's ten wickets against Zimbabwe and AB de Villiers' series-clinching innings in the final ODI against Pakistan. However, because his performance helped his side achieve a historic 4-0 whitewash over Australia Ravindra Jadeja just pinches it due to his excellence in Delhi

Brett Lee ready for new challenge in IPL 6 Read more at: http://www.thatscricket.com/news/2013/03/30/brett-lee-ready-new-challenge-ipl-6-066913.html

Brett Lee ready for new challenge in IPL 6

Kolkata, Mar 30: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) pace spearhead Brett Lee, who also has been made the bowling mentor replacing Pakistan legend Wasim Akram, Friday (March 29) said he was prepared for the new challenge. "I am really proud and pleased to say that I am the bowling mentor while still playing. It is a challenge and I am looking forward to it," Lee said after leading KKR bowlers through a grueling net practice at the Eden Gardens here. The former Australian pacer replaced `Sultan of Swing` Wasim Akram who earlier stepped down as KKR bowling coach as he wanted to spend more time with his family. "Wasim chose to spend time with his family so good luck to him. He was a great help for the bowlers and I will try my best as the new mentor," said Lee.

The KKR have an exciting bowling attack with Lee and West Indian offie Sunil Narine who was instrumental in the city franchise winning its maiden IPL crown in 2012. Medium pacers Laxmipathy Balaji and Rajat Bhatia are two other vital cogs in the bowling attack which also boasts the like of young left armer Iqbal Abdulla. Equaling KKR`s IPL victory with Pakistan becoming world champion, Akram had described his bowlers as "the best in the world" and said he "can beat any team with this bowling attack"

Sialkot’s sensational 3-run win over Rawalpindi

LAHORE: Sialkot Stallions recorded a sensational three-run victory over Rawalpindi Rams in the second semi-finals of the Faysal Bank Super Eight Twenty20 Cup here at the Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday.
Now, Sialkot Stallions will play the final against Faisalabad Wolves at the same venue on Sunday.
Chasing 140, Rawalpindi Rams lost three wickets in the final over and were all out for 136 in exact 20 overs.

Bangladesh level Sri Lanka ODI series

Sri Lanka: Bangladesh defeated Sri Lanka by three wickets in the third and final one-day international in Pallekele on Thursday to level the series 1-1.
Colombo, Mar 31: Dinesh Chandimal, Sri Lanka's T20 international skipper and has rejected offers to play in the sixth edition of the IPL, cricket board sources claimed. Chandimal was not among the 13 Sri Lankan players originally contracted to play...
Opener Anamul Haque (40) and Nasir Hossain (33 not out) were the main scorers for Bangladesh.
Tillakaratne Dilshan earlier top-scored for Sri Lanka with a solid 125, while Kusal Perera (56) and Kumar Sangakkara (48) were the other main scorers.
Bangladesh's left-arm spinner Abdur Razzak finished with 5-62 off 10 overs.
Sri Lanka won the opening match by eight wickets in Hambantota while the second one-dayer at the same venue was abandoned due to rain

Saturday 30 March 2013

Injured Premier League

The talismanic England batsman has been ruled out of the IPL with a knee injury sustained during the tour of New Zealand recently. Pietersen played in the first two drawn Tests but missed the third, at which time the ECB released a statement saying he needed six to eight weeks to recover. Pietersen's withdrawal is major setback for Delhi Daredevils, whom he joined in 2012 and helped guide to the play-off stages of IPL 5.Delhi Daredevils team director TA Sekar admitted on Thursday that the franchise was looking for a replacement for the Jharkhand fast bowler, who has not played any form of competitive cricket since IPL 5 on May 25, 2012. Aaron is still on the recovery trail from a back injury. Even before it has started, the sixth season of the league has seen franchises hit by several significant player injuries. As of Saturday, the injury toll count for IPL 6 had reached eight, with five of nine franchises losing or standing to lose key members of their squads. The worst hit so far has been Delhi Daredevils, who have lost two key batsmen and a genuine quick even before their first preparatory camp got underway.

Super-Eight T20 Cup: Misbah-led Faisalabad through to final

Super-Eight T20 Cup: Misbah-led Faisalabad through to final LAHORE: Faisalabad Wolves qualified for the final of the Faysal Bank Super-Eight Twenty20 Cup defeating Lahore Lions by two runs after a sensational contest here at the Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday.Misbahul Haq marshaled his troops to perfection as Faisalabad Wolves won a nail-biting semi-final over the Mohammad Hafeez-led

Needing nine off the final over, Lahore managed a boundary off the first ball before Adil turned it on, taking two wickets to dismiss the opposition short of the target.
What should have been a comfortable stroll for Lahore turned out to be a nail-biting finish and a win for Faisalabad. Boasting of several Pakistan internationals , Lahore were off to a perfect start in pursuit of a meagre target at the Gaddafi Stadium.
Hafeez, who took three for 30 to help his side restrict Faisalabad earlier in the day, then hit a quickfire 36 off just 27 balls to put his side on top. Nasir Jamshed (46) and Hafeez added 57 for the second wicket but the dismissal of Pakistan Twenty20 captain turned the match around.

Abdur Razzak becomes

Razzak entered the third ODI against Sri Lanka on 195 ODI wickets and moved to 198 inside his first eight over bowled. In his fifth over he struck to dismiss Kumar Sangakkara, who drove a catch to midwicket on 48; Razzak then bowled Thisara Perera with the last ball of his sixth over; in his eighth he had Sri Lanka's captain Angelo Mathews stumped.Bangladesh's second most successful bowler in ODIs is Mashrafe Mortaza, with 161 from 126 appearances. In terms of matches played for Bangladesh, Razzak is at second with 141 caps. Mohammad Ashraful has played the most - 172. With figures of 8-0-39-3, Razzak was taken out of the attack after 42 overs and returned to bowl the 46th, with Sri Lanka's score at 247 for 6. That over failed to produce a wicket for the addition of 12 runs, and Razzak was called back to bowl his final over, the 50th of Sri Lanka's innings. On the first delivery Nuwan Kulasekara was trapped lbw to give Razzak his 199th ODI wicket, and No. 200 came on the very next as Sachitra Senanakaye was bowled for a golden duck. It was Razzak's fourth five-wicket haul in ODIs. He finished with 5 for 52 off ten overs.

IPL franchises

Four franchises IANS spoke to were confident that the issue would be sorted out by the time the Twenty20 tournament reaches its business end. Their contention is that there should be a level playing field among the contestants when they play in Chennai, which will host 10 matches. The franchises feel the IPL will be robbed of good competition and it will be in a win-win situation for Chennai Super Kings is they are allowed to get away with it.The franchises wondered when matches could be taken out of Hyderabad in 2010 during the Telangana agitation, why can't this be done in the case of Chennai when the situation is painted as more volatile by the state administration. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa has insisted that IPL matches can be played in Chennai only if there is no Sri Lankan player or team official. There is growing unrest in Tamil Nadu over the atrocities against ethnic Tamils in Sri Lanka during the civil war against Tamil Tigers that ended in 2009. A top official of an IPL franchise, which will also be led by a Sri Lankan, said the franchises are still in discussions whether to play in Chennai with the IPL rider or not and a final decision would be taken either late Saturday or Sunday. "In the past, the IPL Governing Council has set a precedent by shifting matches out of cities where safety and security were a matter of concern. If matches could be shifted out of Hyderabad during the height of Telengana agitation why not now? How can we play play-off and knockout matches without our key players," the official asked, while speaking to IANS on condition of anonymity. One senior official of a franchise, which will be led by a Sri Lankan, said the argument that the Super Kings, owned by Indian cricket board board president N. Srinivasan's company India Cements, also has two Sri Lankans would not wash as fast bowler Nuwan Kulasekara and leg-spinner Akila Dananjaya were not regular starters. "There is no level playing field in Chennai. How can we afford to miss our captain and other crucial players when we are playing a play-off or a knock-out match in Chennai," asked the official while speaking to IANS.

Veteran cricketers

He suffered a hamstring injury during the tournament and could play only seven matches from which he mustered only 172 runs with one half-century. At that time, he was 40 years old and it was apparent that age was catching up with him and after Punjab's last match of the IPL 2012, he told reporters that he had played his last match and expressed the desire to become a coach. "I would say I've played my last game of cricket just there, Gilchrist said after the match. "I'll go away and have a think about it and talk to the franchise.But come IPL 6, the 41-year-old did a complete volte-face and made himself available for the tournament. He will lead Punjab again and it will be interesting to see what Gilchrist brings to the table given he has not played any competitive cricket in the last year. It's probably high time for the legendary glovesman to either shape up or ship out. If the franchise is still keen to keep me involved as coach, which is a role I've really enjoyed.

Bangladesh probable

1 Mohammad Ashraful, 2 Shamsur Rahman, 3 Jahurul Islam, 4 Mushfiqur Rahim (capt & wk), 5 Mahmudullah, 6 Nasir Hossain, 7 Mominul Haque, 8 Ziaur Rahman, 9 Sohag Gazi, 10 Abdur Razzak, 11 Rubel Hossain.

Sri Lanka probable

1. Kusal Perera, 2. Dilshan Munaweera, 3. Lahiru Thirimanne, 4. Dinesh Chandimal (capt & wk), 5. Angelo Perera, 6. Angelo Mathews, 7. Jeevan Mendis, 8. Thisara Perera, 9. Shaminda Eranga/ Chaturanga de Silva 10. Sachithra Senanayake, 11. Lasith Malinga.

Upbeat Bangladesh

Sri Lanka had named five uncapped players in the squad clearly hinting that they are going to take their chances in the last game of the tour but they would vary looking at the resilient way Bangladesh have performed throughout the tour. .Debutant Shamsur Rahman, who came into the squad for the injured Tamim Iqbal could very well make his international debut owing to his good Bangladesh Premier League performances. The match, expected to be interrupted due to rain, will also give a chance for Sri Lanka to test their rookies with young Nondescripts Cricket Club player Angelo Perera looking set to wear Sri Lankan colours for the first time after being on the bench for the ODI series. Bowlers Chaturanga de Silva and Ishan Jayaratne are also in line for a debut in the Dinesh Chandimal led team. Drawing a Test match, winning an ODI and levelling a series Bangladesh have done exceedingly well and they would like to end the tour on a high

Injured Premier League

Mumbai Indians the elusive

Clearly there is a strategy in place. Mumbai want to finally win the IPL and the changes made in the off-season point to a shift in thinking. In Ponting, Tendulkar, Kumble and Wright the franchise has four individuals with immense on and off-field tactical nous, aside from the obvious skill that Tendulkar and Ponting bring with the bat. Kumble is India's highest wicket-taker in Tests and ODIs and has been associated with the IPL as player and later in a similar mentorship role with Royal Challengers Bangalore. Wright, 58, brings to the table the experience of 82 Tests and 149 ODIs as a batsman, as well as coaching experience having overseen India from 2000 to 2005 and New Zealand from 2010 to 2012.Ponting, back in the IPL after four years and in outstanding first-class form following his international retirement, could be the fillip that Mumbai need. A lack of killer instinct has been a problem for Mumbai in the past, but the arrival of Ponting could change that. Tendulkar, relieved of the captaincy and potentially looking at a proven performer at the other end when he opens for Mumbai, could turn in the defining season of his IPL career. How Maxwell performs is also a major aspect of Mumbai's progress to follow in 2013. And if the likes of Coulter-Nile get playing time, Mumbai's bowling attack will be even stronger. There is no shortage of knowledge and tact in Kumble and Wright.Wright played a big role in shaping India from a team of contenders overseas to winners overseas. He may be new to the IPL but his reading of the game is outstanding. Wright fits Mumbai's apparent need - to take a superbly talented team of cricketers and instruct, lead and guide them to a winning formula consistently. How Wright works with the franchise's domestic pool talent could also prove crucial, considering his extracting of talent with lesser-known India players when he coached the national team. Kumble comes on board in a big role and how he functions with Tendulkar and Ponting will be interesting to see. If the trio clicks, and Wright manages to oversee their relationship with his inputs, Mumbai have a quarter that is capable of transforming the team. Add in Robin Singh and Jonty Rhodes and their weight of knowledge and IPL experience, and Mumbai have the greatest support staff in the league.

Lee prepared to fill

I am really proud and pleased to say that I am the bowling mentor while still playing. It is a challenge and I am looking forward to it, Lee said after leading KKR bowlers through a grueling net practice at the Eden Gardens here.Lee, however has big shoes to fill as Akram associated with now Gautam Gambhir-led side for the past three seasons, was a part of the core team along with coach Trevor Bayliss and played a key role in KKR`s maiden IPL title last year.The former Australian pacer replaced `Sultan of Swing` Wasim Akram who earlier stepped down as KKR bowling coach as he wanted to spend more time with his family.The KKR have an exciting bowling attack with Lee and West Indian offie Sunil Narine who was instrumental in the city franchise winning its maiden IPL crown in 2012Wasim chose to spend time with his family so good luck to him. He was a great help for the bowlers and I will try my best as the new mentor," said Lee.Kolkata: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) pace spearhead Brett Lee, who also has been made the bowling mentor replacing Pakistan legend Wasim Akram, Friday said he was prepared for the new challenge.

Ryder doesn't remember assault

Ryder’s manager Aaron Klee however said the left-hander could not recollect the assault that left him unconscious and in a critical condition.hristchurch: New Zealand cricketer Jesse Ryder is out of his induced coma and has begun talking as he begins his journey towards full recovery from his assault in Christchurch on Wednesday night.The left handed batsman is also believed to be breathing without the assistance of a ventilator.Ryder had suffered serious head and lung injuries after being brutally assaulted on Wednesday Ryder was set to represent Delhi Daredevils in IPL season six. The Delhi franchise had paid USD 260000 for his services in the latest IPL players` auction. night.Police have arrested two men in connection with the case and they will be produced in court on April 4.

Misbah turns down

Misbah said he has discussed this with all his players and they all agreed that overall they all needed to be more positive while batting and put aside fears of losing our wicket.Misbah added he has heard what the critics have had to say, adding it has fired him up and also made him reassess how he can play a more purposeful role for his team as a batsman and for himself. Misbah added they have all pushed him to play more shots and be more positive, adding he has no intentions of returning to play T20s for Pakistan and he has changed his batting style because he believes he can continue to play ODIs which he doesn’t want to quit now.Islamabad: Under pressure Pakistani captain Misbahul Haq has turned down calls to quit one-day cricket, insisting from now on he would be batting with a much more positive intent in the fifty-over format after getting the stick for batting slowly in limited over cricket.The 38-year old, who has been Pakistan’s test captain since 2010 and ODI skipper since 2011, has come in for criticism in Pakistan for his batting and captaincy after his side were swamped 3-0 in the test series in South Africa and lost the one-day series 3-2.

Cowan ahead of Ashes

Cowan will link up with the side next month for its first seven County Championship matches and eight limited-overs games.Newell added he could understand if England board is not that thrilled about it but he was looking for a good-quality opening batsman, adding the Indian Premier League (IPL) is on and a lot of good-quality opening batsmen are in the IPL. The stint should allow him to acclimatize to English conditions before the Ashes starts at Trent Bridge, Nottinghamshire`s home ground, on July 10.Sydney: English county side Nottinghamshire has defended their decision to sign Australian opener Ed Cowan ahead of crucial Ashes this year.Nottinghamshire director of cricket Mick Newell said Cowan`s recruitment might not be perfect from England`s perspective but its good for their team.

Kane Richardson excited

Australian one-day pace man Richardson touches down on the subcontinent on Saturday to start a life-changing 700,000 dollars debut IPL gig with Donald`s Pune Warriors.Richardson rates linking with first-time head coach Donald, who took 330 wickets at 22 in 72 Tests using premium 150km/h fast bowling, as a priceless cricket education.Pune snapped up Richardson despite him playing just six first-class games, drawn by the strapping 22-year-old`s 140km/h seamers, handy batting and dynamic fielding.Richardson added Donald now leads that great South African pace attack and just learning what blokes like Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel do will be awesome, adding if he could take anything away from him, it would be awesome.However, a back hot spot flared while he was representing Australia A against England Lions in Hobart six weeks ago, jeopardizing a payday second only to Mumbai Indians all rounder Glenn Maxwell`s one million pound 2013 auction price.Richardson, however, is gutted he won`t get to play under his childhood idol, Michael Clarke, at Pune, who is sidelined until June by a degenerative back condition. Richardson said it was after three weeks he got an email asking me why he hadn`t been playing, adding Donald got a bit worried and asked if a replacement player was needed but he added he has had six weeks off and he is good to go.

Lakshmipathy Balaji gets engaged

Priya Thalur was a regular attendee at Balaji’s IPL matches and both maintained their ‘just friends’ status in front of the media to escape the limelight. The event comes as good fortune, with the IPL 6 season about to kick in. The Kolkata Knight Riders get ready to play their first match this IPL season on April 3.As the best of wishes shower on the newly engaged couple, everyone will be eager to see him put up splendid performances on the pitch.Balaji will be looking forward to seeing Priya in the stands, much like Pujara when he had his lady luck - wife Pooja - on his side in the Tests.Chennai: Indian fast bowler Lakshmipathy Balaji and model-girlfriend Priya Thalur exchanged rings on Monday. The couple followed akin Cheteshwar Pujara and Yusuf Pathan who exchanged vows to seal their marriages recently.In past we’ve seen seniors like Sachin Tendulkar and M S Dhoni getting their motivation from their partners, cheering from the stands.

Dravid

In an interview to a leading English newspaper, Dravid said that the Government and the BCCI are looking into the matter and they will handle the issue in the best possible way.Rajasthan: Former Indian captain and Rajasthan Royals skipper Rahul Dravid has said that the issue about the participation of Sri Lankan players in Chennai is unfortunate.He said that although the Royals have only one Lankan player, some other teams have more Sri Lankan players and they will have to change their strategies for the matches in Chennai.

Shaun Tait

I feel the likes of Jason Gillespie, Shane Warne, Michael Kasprowicz and Mathew Hayden were the players from whom the younger lot could learn and I feel they should have hung for more time," Tait said during an interaction with the media.It is not in the hands of players. They have to abide with what the authorities say. The IPL would not lose its global character but it is a shame that players have to face such situation. It is the decision taken by others. At the end of the day, IPL is an Indian tournament but a very good one, he said.I am not sure but there have been some changes in Australian cricket and at the domestic level too. The youngsters, when inducted into the team learn from their seasoned teammates," he said.I have been plagued with injuries in my career but still don`t want to cut down on my pace. I have not played one dayers for quite some time to reduce workload and concentrate on T20 only. To avoid more injuries, I work out a lot. But still I want to bowl around 150 kmph as cutting down on pace would be too difficult," said the Aussie quick.When asked whether the IPL was losing its global character in wake of the decision of pulling out Sri Lankan players out of Chennai and the few England players being barred by their respective counties, Shaun Tait called it a shame.

Trivedi

It was unfortunate that I was dragged into such a controversy when I had done nothing wrong. I am thankful to Rajasthan Royals who trusted me and allowed me to continue with them. This incident has made me more watchful. My focus would be on cricket and nothing else. But it is true that such incidents create pressure on you," said Trivedi, who has been with Rajasthan Royals since first edition of the IPL..He speaks with everyone and makes all feel that each player was equally important for team. Skipper Rahul Dravid is instrumental in team bonding. He has split us into groups and backs each one of us. He understands our backgrounds and motivates us," he said.Confident of a good showing in the tournament, Trivedi said they have a well-knit unit.He is so committed that he bats for two hours or more for a T20 game which lasts only for three hours," said Yagnik.We have been preparing well. Off late I was shouldered with the responsibility of keeping up the pressure in the middle overs. The death overs were a little bit of problem but we have worked upon it. We have quality bowling in a fit S Sreesanth, Phil Edwards, Shaun Tait and Faullkner. We all gel very well. I had a good domestic season and that would help me in the IPL-6, he said.

Dinesh Chandimal

Chandimal was not among the 13 Sri Lankan players originally contracted to play in the IPL auction. He is said to have rejected offers from Pune Warriors to fill in the void of the injured Australian captain Michael Clarke and from Delhi Daredevils to replace English batsman Kevin Pietersen, who is also injured.The ongoing political row with Sri Lanka involving the Tamil Nadu politicians and the resultant ban on Sri Lankan IPL players to play in Chennai has caused public anger in Sri Lanka.His rejection came amidst controversy over the Sri Lanka players` participation in the Chennai matches of the IPL.

T20 Ranking

Rank     Country       Points

1           Sri Lanka    131
2         West Indies     126
3         India                119
4       England           118
5        South Africa     117
6        Pakistan 119
7    Australia    102
8    New Zealand     98
9    Bangladesh    84
10    Ireland               82

Test Ranking

Rank     Country    Points

1       South Africa 128
2       England    118
3       Australia            110
4       India                112
5       Pakistan             104
6       Sri Lanka           92
7       West Indies       92
8       New Zealand    78
9       Bangladesh       1

Faysal Bank Super 8 T20 2013

The Faysal Bank Super Eight T20 Cup was a professional Twenty20 cricket league in Pakistan, initiated in 2011 by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and is currently sponsored by Faysal Bank. Each season has eight participants, which are the top eight teams from the Faysal Bank T20 Cup. It was replaced, along with the Faysal Bank T20 Cup, by the Pakistan Super League in 2013.

Faysal Bank T20 Super 8 Cup 2013 final match be on 31 March 2013. All matches of Faysal Bank T20 Super 8 Cup 2013 will be at Gaddafi Construction in Lahore. As per couple schedule Group A unit gift play Group B unit 1st Semi terminal and 2nd semi exam gift be Forgather A Group up and meet B Group runner up. Closing equalize gift matches a day with school teams involved in this circumstance; the tourney will be held from 26th March to 31st March 2013.

Faysal Bank Super 8 Cup 2013 All Teams Squads

March 30, 2013 |

Today is the 2nd Semi Final match of Faysal Bank T20 Super 8 between Sialkot Stallions vs Rawalpindi Rams that is played on 30th March 2013 at Qaddafi Stadium, Lahore. Here you can enjoy the Sialkot Stallions vs Rawalpindi Rams 2nd Semi Final Live Score Match Highlights that is played on 30th March 2013. Shoib
You can see the IPL 2013 All Teams Latest Jersey Kit Shirt Style New Design. IPL 2013 Teams Latest Jersey Style New Design Wallpapers, Photos, images and pictures etc. The Indian Premiere League is the one of the large just events in the state. Cricket is followed suchlike a establishment in India and much spread

Gayle under pressure, says Jayawardene

Gayle under pressure, says Jayawardene
COLOMBO:Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawardene says Chris Gayle won't be their sole focus in the final of the 2012 ICC World T20.

Jayasuriya defends selection of minister's son

Jayasuriya defends selection of minister's son
Mar 30, 2013: Sanath Jayasuriya has justified the selection of a minister's son in the Sri Lanka squad for the one-off Twenty20 against Bangladesh, after his selection panel attracted sharp criticism in some parts of the local media
"Ramith is a left-hand batsman who bowls right arm offspin, who can clear the boundaries and can hit hard," Jayasuriya said. "He's someone who can play Twenty20 cricket in the middle order, and you need players like that in this format. We're bringing him on as a batting allrounder who can bowl offspin."
"Ramith is a left-hand batsman who bowls right arm offspin, who can clear the boundaries and can hit hard," Jayasuriya said. "He's someone who can play Twenty20 cricket in the middle order, and you need players like that in this format. We're bringing him on as a batting allrounder who can bowl offspin."