Tuesday, November 26
In the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, Tim Paine defended sledging Ravichandran Ashwin, stating Ashwin often got him out, which frustrated him. Despite this, India won the series 2-1. Ashwin, along with Hanuma Vihari, secured a draw in the Sydney Test, after which he missed the Brisbane Test due to a back spasm.
MS Dhoni recalls the challenge of playing the final day in drawn Test matches, feeling it was exhausting and monotonous. At a promotional event, he expressed his preference for the current, more result-oriented Test matches. Dhoni retired in 2014 as India's most successful Test captain, noted for his calm leadership and strategic acumen.
India's cricket fans express concern over Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's poor form in Tests against New Zealand, questioning their absence from domestic cricket. Former selector Sunil Joshi emphasizes the need for top players to participate in domestic matches to improve their performance against spin.
MS Dhoni praises the evolving nature of Test cricket, highlighting the shift towards an aggressive, result-driven approach. He notes the game's transformation over time and the increasing focus on securing results, making Test matches more exciting and meaningful even when conditions are challenging.
Former PCB chairman Ramiz Raja defends his post-match remarks to Shan Masood after Pakistan's 2-1 Test series win over England. Raja clarifies his intention was to explore how the team overcame recent struggles, not to belittle their achievement. Responding to criticism, he highlights the impact of social media misinterpretations and asserts his respect for Masood's captaincy.
The ICC World Test Championship standings are highly competitive, with India and Australia leading. Both teams face crucial upcoming series that will determine their chances of making it to the 2023 title clash. Sri Lanka, South Africa, and New Zealand also remain in contention. England, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the West Indies are currently out of contention for the final, but they will be looking to finish the cycle on a positive note with strong performances in their remaining matches.
A 24-year-old fan from China's Anhui province cycled 13,000 kilometers over seven months to meet football star Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia. Despite severe challenges, including high fever in Armenia, Gong achieved his dream, meeting Ronaldo who hugged him, shook hands, and signed memorabilia. Gong expressed his fulfillment in an online video.
Manchester United have dismissed Erik ten Hag after a defeat at West Ham left the club in 14th place in the Premier League. Appointed in 2022, ten Hag’s early success faded amid inconsistent performances and last season’s disappointing 8th-place finish. The club now seeks a new manager to revive its fortunes.
India's 12-year unbeaten home run in Test cricket ended after New Zealand won the first two matches of a three-match series, breaking India's 18 series winning streak. The last time India faced a series whitewash at home was in 2000 against South Africa. New Zealand now aim for a clean sweep.
Left-arm spinners have consistently troubled India in Tests, with notable performances from Monty Panesar, Rangana Herath, Steve O'Keefe, Ajaz Patel, Tom Hartley, and Matt Kuhnemann post-2010. Their effective spells on Indian pitches have led to remarkable victories for their respective teams, showcasing the impact and challenges of facing quality spin bowling.
