#A young player was playing a cricket match

[ronika-writes-stuff]

Thoughts on Ishan :

(and ict in general)

1. When he opted out of India's test squad before our series with S. Africa....I knew... I KNEW it will be a long time before we'll get to see him playing for India again.

And then few weeks later Rahul Dravid said in a press conference... He can come back... Just play domestic.... My heart sank.

Here's the thing, I don't blame him at all for taking a break due to mental fatigue.

I fully support his decision as well. He prioritised himself and that's good.

But my dude... If I was your friend, if I was there with you... I wouldn't have let you go.

I would have grabbed his trousers and refused to let go. This is team India. You take one step back and 10 other people are standing right behind you ready to take your place.

Shubhman gill was hyped up so much... Remember his 126 in 63 balls against New Zealand?

But he faltered.

And Today he's in reserve.

Jaiswal is going to be our new opener in all 3 formats very soon. And there's nothing wrong with that. The guy earned it.

Ishan left the South Africa Series and a month later during the india Vs England test Series Jurel was picked and he did an excellent job.

Now imagine... Imagine if Ishan was there instead... If ishan had scored those 90 runs.....he would have made his place permanent.

I'll repeat myself.... I don't blame him for leaving... But he should have thought this through. Especially when a guy like Rahul Dravid is your coach.

(he's the same guy who gave declaration during a test match when Sachin Tendulkar was about to score a century. He's not as innocent as he looks.)

Another thing which really hurts me is how so many people complain about him being benched and then dropped but Yaar....there are tons of players who have gone through this.

Even Ashwin was benched. He said in an interview that when his team would win he wouldn't even feel like going in the ground to congratulate them coz of how hurt he felt.

It happens.

.

.

.

Anyways My overall opinion on this drama is :

1. I support him for leaving.

2. But I hate that he left.

3. A block of ice would be a better coach than Rahul Dravid.

Anyways... Jo hogaya so hogaya.

What I want now is for him to focus on his future.

And He can start by leaving Mumbai Indians.

MI was the team who would pick young players, groom and invest in them and make them capable enough for team India.

The MI we have seen this year is no longer that team. It doesn't matter how many reels their insta page puts out, the atmosphere of that team is tense, awkward and a hot mess.

If Mumbai really cared about a future captain as they claimed.... They should have made Ishan their new captain...like how csk and gt did with ruturaj and gill.

But oh well.

Right now... The best he can do is keep himself fit, play domestic and leave MI at THE EARLIEST.

That team, it's atmosphere, the mismanagement and inner conflicts (believe me, they exist) will not help him at all.

Imo, he doesn't need a team to grow. He has developed a good skill set. What he needs now is a stage.

A team like Kkr, RR or Gt will be great for that because these teams don't drop Their players after 1 or 2 matches... Have good coaches, stable environment and a good atmosphere overall.

Ishan is an excellent wicket keeper + batsman and the type of cricket he plays is best suited for t20 format (one day and test also but especially t20).

Whether we win or lose this t20 world cup... This one is the last one for our senior players.

After that, our youngsters will take charge (at least they should).

Yashasvi and Abhishek should be our openers.

Gill, rutu and Riyan would perfect be for middle order.

Ishan, with his explosive batting style, would be the perfect finisher.

Also... This dumb culture of batters not learning bowling (encouraged by this stupid impact rule) that has developed in the Indian team needs to STOP.

Look at Australia and New Zealand's t20 squad. Look at how many all rounders they have.

Look at ours. We won the 2007 cup because of all rounders as well.

Also... We cage our players. We hold them back. A player like Travis head is playing with such ferocity because his style and mindset is supported by his captain, his team and his media.

Meanwhile... If an Indian player attempts to do the same and doesn't make a big score in 2 -3 matches... He'll be benched instantly.

Another thing... If we look up the stats of our players in this year's t20 wc squad...

Except virat, Bumrah and maybe kuldeep ...everyone else is on ram bharose.

When players like n. reddy, ishan, rutu, gill, Riyan, natrajan... will be groomed and given enough opportunities....their aggressive style will be supported instead of criticized.... that's when we will win trophies.

@fangirlingintellectual @roseromeroredranger @snowcloudsss

@ishuess @bimesskaira

[handeaux]

Why Did Cincinnati Abandon Cricket To Become America’s First Baseball Powerhouse?

You can blame the Civil War for Cincinnati becoming the home of professional baseball. Well into the 1860s, this was a cricket town with “town ball” and “base ball” taking a distant second place to bowlers and wickets.

The curious researcher can still find references to Cincinnati’s early cricketeers today, but most often as footnotes to the history of baseball. However, it is not too much of a stretch to say that baseball would not have prevailed in Cincinnati without the boost it received from the old-time cricket clubs.

Cincinnati’s cricket clubs were formidable opponents, hosting international matches with Canadian teams and participating in home-and-away rivalries with cricket clubs in Chicago, Cleveland and Pittsburgh. Cincinnati cricketeers were professionals long before the nascent Red Stockings decided to pay their players.

Cricket was most definitely an Englishman’s game and Cincinnati before the Civil War was largely a city of English origins. The Cincinnati Gazette [6 October 1853] summed up the popularity of the “manly old game”:

“Cricket matches are now quite in fashion. We see notice of them in numerous exchanges, East, North and West. Wherever Englishmen are found, there a Cricket Club is found with them.”

Although Cincinnati newspapers carried stories about out-of-town cricket matches as early as the 1820s, local cricketeers didn’t get organized until the 1840s. The Queen City Cricket Club convened in 1843 every Thursday at 2:00 p.m. at “Wade’s Woods” northwest of the intersection of Liberty Street and Central Avenue. By 1845, the Western Cricket Club offered some stiff competition to the Queen City club and the two teams battled it out on grounds located “at the foot of Eighth Street” in the Millcreek bottoms near the Whitewater Canal. It appears that the players were solidly middle-class – salesmen, plumbers, carpenters and shopkeepers – the sorts of folks who could spare a weekly afternoon to indulge in outdoor recreation.

By 1850 the Union Cricket Club, apparently a merger of the Queen City and Western clubs, was the dominant local team. Cricket grounds were hard to come by and the Union Club played variously at the Orphan Asylum lot where Music Hall now stands, on a wood-ringed field off Madison Road in East Walnut Hills, near the canal in Camp Washington and at the back of what later became known as Lincoln Park, location of Union Terminal today. From time to time, reports indicate that adherents of “town ball” or “base ball” also made use of the Union Cricket grounds, but only on days when the cricketeers were otherwise occupied.

Among the Cincinnati cricket stalwarts back in the day was Jonathan Hattersley, born in Sheffield, England, in 1835. Hattersley emigrated to the United States as a young man, arriving in New Orleans and working his way up the rivers to Cincinnati. After a failed start as manager of a weaving operation, he set himself up as the sales agent for a number of British steel refineries. He later joined the firm of Thomas Turner, manufacturer of cutting and slicing equipment. Hattersley married the owner’s daughter, bought out his father-in-law, and set up a saw manufactory with his son, Harry. Before the Cincinnati Fire Department went professional in 1853, Hattersley battled blazes with the Franklins, one of the amateur companies active in the city. He was among the founders of the Western Cricket Club and later became president of the mighty Union Cricket Club. His office in the saw blade factory on Third Street served essentially as the club’s headquarters.

The Union Cricket Club dominated Cincinnati cricket from the 1840s into the 1870s. Its bench was so deep that the club supported two teams – the stars and a farm team both under one roof. While the “first eleven” participated in matches from Chicago to the East Coast, the “second eleven” kept the hometown fans occupied by playing clubs from Northern Kentucky, Lawrenceburg and some smaller Ohio towns. The Union Club even challenged a championship English club then touring the states but couldn’t reconcile schedules. About half the Union Cricket Club players were paid professionals.

It was Jonathan Hattersley who recruited George and Harry Wright to Cincinnati from New York’s stellar St. George Cricket Club. Although the Wright brothers carried the original Cincinnati Red Stockings to baseball glory, they arrived in the Queen City as professional cricket players. Harry Wright was also from Sheffield, born the same year as Jonathan Hattersley. One may assume they had met in childhood. In an interview with the Enquirer [20 August 1875], Harry, by then manager of the Boston Red Stockings, recounted his arrival in Cincinnati:

“I was under contract, and was offered very fine inducements to leave New York. When I arrived in Cincinnati cricket was all the rage, but it finally subsided, and from the club I managed the old Red Stockings of that city was organized. I would like to say in this connection that the uniform I used as the cricketer was adopted by the Base-Ball Club.”

Wright glosses over what specific factors caused the “rage” for cricket to “subside,” but baseball scholars generally point to the Civil War, which brought young men from all over the United States together and gave them a great deal of free time when they weren’t busy shooting each other. Simon Worrall, writing in Smithsonian Magazine [October 2006] describes the wartime conditions that promoted baseball over cricket:

“A year before the Civil War broke out, “Beadle's Dime Base-Ball Player,” published in New York City, sold 50,000 copies in the United States. Soldiers from both sides of the conflict carried it, and both North and South embraced the new game. It was faster than cricket, easier to learn and required little in the way of equipment: just a bat (simpler to make than a cricket bat, which requires sophisticated joinery), a ball and four gunnysacks thrown on a patch of ground, and you're ready to play.”

By the time the war ended, Cincinnati seethed with baseball fever. Even Jonathan Hatterley’s son, Harry, took up baseball, catching for the junior-league Pickwicks in Cincinnati. A group of young executives – many of them Civil War veterans – organized the Cincinnati Base Ball Club on 23 July 1866 and quickly allied with the Union Cricket Club, who already had very nice facilities ready for play. According to Harry Ellard’s 1907 “Baseball in Cincinnati”:

“In 1867 the club moved to the grounds of the Union Cricket Club, with which was made a quasi alliance. These grounds were situated at the foot of Richmond Street. They were used in the summer for cricket and baseball and in winter were flooded and used for skating purposes, where great enthusiasm was manifested in this winter sport, with a series of interesting carnivals.”

Harry Wright and his brother George were convinced to give up cricket to lead America’s first professional baseball team. The rest, as they say, is history. Still, Harry, George and the rest of their team did not totally abandon cricket. It is not often reported that the Cincinnati Red Stockings, during their undefeated inaugural season, actually played a cricket match. In San Francisco, on 28 September 1869, the Cincinnati baseball team engaged the “All California Eleven.” According to Ellard:

“For the sake of variety and amusement they played a game of cricket with the California eleven, in which they showed that they could play cricket as well as baseball.”

The former cricketeers now known as the Cincinnati Red Stockings prevailed 118 to 79.

[archoneddzs15]

Super Famicom - Pinocchio

Title: Pinocchio / ピノキオ

Developer: Virgin Interactive Entertainment / Disney Interactive Studios / Walt Disney Feature Animation Florida Inc. / Westwood Studios

Publisher: Capcom

Release date: 20 December 1996

Catalogue Code: SHVC-ACGJ-JPN

Genre: Platform Action

No. of Players: 1

There was a time when people always associated licensed games with poor quality. This is not always true, as there were many good games of the 16-bit era based on Disney properties that defied this rule. Mickey Mania, The Lion King, Castle of Illusion… Pinocchio (published by Capcom in Japan) is sadly not among them. While Pinocchio is a very good effort, it has a few serious problems and some uneven difficulty despite being a very easy game. There are better platform games out there on the Super Famicom though, so it’s not essential by any means, just an okay game with some very good graphics and sound. There were Sega Genesis and Game Boy versions released in the USA and Europe, and there was supposed to be a Sega 32X version of Pinocchio but that did not end up happening. I would imagine the Sega 32X version matching up with this Super Famicom version had it been finished and seen a release.

Pinocchio was originally based on a book before it was a movie. The book was good too, drawing inspiration from such classics as Jonah and The Whale and Pygmalion. I could gush on and on about how Pinocchio’s story really resonates with me, but the story only plays a limited role in this game. Presentation-wise, Pinocchio recycles a lot of content from Mickey Mania and The Lion King. You can find sprites, pieces of levels, and even a few sound effects. Pinocchio even sounds just like young Simba! If you can get past the recycled content, Pinocchio is a very beautiful game, featuring plenty of colors, sprites with some very high animation counts for their time, and some detailed backgrounds. Pinocchio’s music has an almost MIDI-like quality to it. It’s very basic while also sounding good. The music takes a lot of inspiration from the music in the actual movie, which is a very good thing. There are voice clips and sound effects too, but they are mostly recycled.

Gameplay-wise, it's bog standard. Run, jump, and occasionally attack enemies. The game doesn’t actually tell you this, but to progress in a few levels, you need to press “up” to through an arch door in the background. Most of the time though, you’re just jumping through levels trying to reach the goal. There are a few mini games to go through too. You have a dancing game where you copy what the computer does, fight off moths as Jiminy Cricket, and do a ducking/jumping segment on a roller coaster and a raft. You also have a segment near the end where you have to collect planks before going to the goal. Level design is okay for the most part, except for a few times that give you blind jumps.

[sasukeisawake]

BODYLINE; a @derridaspectres wip intro

genre: sports drama, pulp, murder mystery, noir 

status: drafting 

cws: violence, death, blood and gore, self-harm, alcohol abuse, unhealthy relationships, discussions of classism, casteism, and anti-indigenous and religious discrimination

elevator pitch: whiplash (2014) meets raymond chandler, expect they’re all talented and deeply obsessive sapphic cricketers. 

summary: 

The river water had had its way with Ekta Munda by the time the cops found the body. The thick-dark spill of her hair was knotted through with water hyacinth and her flesh was marbled white. Her face, they said, lay frozen in a death-rictus smile...

Kriti Sinha and Ekta Munda were once a devastating, inseparable batting duo. On the cricket pitch they terrorised opposing bowlers, racked up unthinkable run totals, and for a brief and glorious moment lay siege to the impenetrable walls of the ‘gentleman’s game’. But when they were both sixteen, a fateful match and a keen-eyed headhunter sent their lives hurtling in different directions: Ekta’s to the fame and fortune of franchise cricket, Kriti’s to the unspeakable mundanity of assistant coaching her old (and patently terrible) high school team. 

That probably would have been the end of it, too, if Ekta’s dead body hadn’t been found floating in a river days after her most successful franchise season to date. And while the rest of the cricketing world seemed content to express, ad infinitum, their deep sorrow at the death of such a promising young player, her old partner suspects foul play. Grieving and paranoid, Kriti makes a desperate bid to wrangle her way into Ekta’s old team in order to conduct a private, off-the-books investigation. 

But Kriti soon realises that the glamorous face of franchise cricket has an underbelly darker and seedier than she could have ever imagined-- to keep her wits, and indeed her life, about her, she can’t trust anyone. Not the team’s glamorous and stunningly beautiful actress owner; not the sainted playing eleven their seethingly jealous substitutes; and certainly not Arya Pandey, the icy and prodigious opening batsman whose contempt for Kriti is only matched by their incredibly effective partnership on the pitch together. Arya bats like a dream and behaves like a living nightmare, but there’s something about her that Kriti just can’t ignore-- something dark and compelling... and maybe even murderous? 

what to expect from this wip: long, loving descriptions of bombay, cricket and playing cricket in bombay | complicated relationships | unreliable narration | meditations on sport as nation and sport as religion | the dehumanisation of fame | corruption, conspiracy and scandal | prose that’s just seven raymond chandler impersonations in a trenchcoat | ‘they’re all gay but trust me, that’s the LEAST of their problems’

please ask if you would like to be +/- from the taglist! 

tagging some people who’ve expressed interest in this wip: @battlelitanys | @dallonm | @phantomnations | @mellifluas | @goose-books | @thelittlestspider | @artbyeloquent | @thepixiediaries | @retrogayyde | @sageblogsthings | @keen2meecha | @transwizardwrites | @analogued | @khufiya-khaufnak-antariksh | @crookedway​ 

[askitah]

Waves Of Rameshwaram: Where Friendship Meets It's Dusk

Authors: Akshita Tiwari, Mansha Vats, Devi Krishna

In a small and picturesque coastal town Rameshwaram nestled in South India, during the serene years of 1940’s, life unfolded with simplicity and ease. Where the sun beat down relentlessly on its inhabitants, lived two best friends, Madhavan and Karthi. Legends were made about their friendship, which included an implicit agreement that they would face every obstacle together and conquer the world. Long before they could recall, their journey together had begun, and as the years went by, it had only deepened, like a fine wine, with each passing day deepening the underlying ties that bound them. The small village was full of tales of its own, and right in the middle of it all, Madhavan and Karthi’s friendship grew like a sweet lotus in a tranquil pond. They shared ideas for future travel as well as calm discussions under the old banyan tree. Their bond extended through the town's dusty streets.

Karthi was a hardworking farmer's kid. Madhavan, on the other hand, was the privileged son of the revered teacher of the local Meenakshi Vidyalaya, benefiting from the luxuries of education and culture his father's prestigious position, despite his father's white-collar position, Madhavan stayed down-to-earth. Even though their worlds couldn't have been more dissimilar, their friendship remained strong. As the sun continued to rise and set over Rameshwaram, the plot took a turn by the arrival of Vishnu, the powerful and influential son of the MLA. Vishnu’s entry seemed to have expanded their world to include a new constellation. Initially, they faced some clashes with each other. Moreover, Karthi found Vishnu to be arrogant, but Madhavan wanted to ignore this fact and befriend him because of his intelligence. By making genuine efforts to bridge the gap between his friends, Madhavan played the role of an effective mediator ultimately forming an inseparable bond among the three friends. Karthi, on the other hand, was aware of the changes in their friendship's dynamics. He noticed that both of his close friends' parents held high-profile, white-collar occupations, while his father laboured in the fields, and a wave of jealousy started to sweep over him. Although he made an effort to hide it, he was consumed with envy.

It was then that the school revealed the date for the annual cricket match among various schools in Rameshwaram. Vishnu, having a creative and innovative spirit, decided to form a cricket team named Cricket at Meenakshi Vidyalaya (CMV) to represent their camaraderie and unity. Both Madhavan and Karthi were enthusiastic about the idea and assisted Vishnu in gathering team mates and all the required equipment. On October 17, they played a match against the Deccan Academy Cricket Club (DCT). Sadly, Karthi's jealousy was simmering beneath the surface and by allowing his envy to control his behaviour during the crucial cricket match ultimately determined the future of their friendship. He made a conscious decision to perform below par to ruin their team's prospects of winning. He believed that Madhavan would naturally take responsibility for their failure, creating the seeds of animosity that would finally ruin their friendship. The atmosphere was electrifying as the match progressed. To support the young players, families and friends gathered. While Vishnu's parents gladly saw their son's accomplishments, Karthi invited his uncle Sankar, Madhavan invited his parents and grandmother. Their unwavering friendship should have been on display that day, but instead, it turned into a fight where Karthi's jealousy threatened to tear their relationship apart from the inside out.

As the sun dipped behind the horizon of Rameshwaram, a gloomy atmosphere settled over the cricket field. Rajam, sat disheartened, nursing the wounds of a humiliating defeat in their cricket match. The burden of the loss weighed heavily on his shoulders. While Visnu grappled with the bitter outcome of the match, a separate drama was unfolding in the surrounding woods. Madhavan, trying to avoid the blame he was facing from others for the loss, unintentionally, found himself lost in a forest, a maze of tall trees and rustling leaves. Sankar, Karthi's uncle, had come to discuss some matters with Madhavan's father, unaware of Madhavan's predicament. Sankar, typically a jovial man, grew increasingly anxious when learned about Madhavan's disappearance. He quickly conveyed this news to Vishnu and the entire town, spreading the worry rapidly.

Vishnu, still carrying the weight of the lost match, felt an additional responsibility weighing on him. Concern for his friend Madhavan filled him with a sense of duty, and his leadership instincts kicked in. In a swift decision, he acquired a firearm, fearing the worst for Swami in the unforgiving forest. With the gun in his hands, Madhavan joined Sankar in their frantic search for Madhavan. Worries about their friend's well-being loomed large as they combed the woods, their footsteps echoing with anxiety. Sankar's voice quivered as he called out Madhavan's name, the typically cheerful uncle now a man burdened by the fear of losing him. In the heart of the woods, Vishnu's heart raced with a mix of dread and determination. Just as he turned a corner, he stumbled upon a perplexing sight. There was Karthi, openly celebrating with the opposing team. It was a sight that stoked Vishnu's simmering anger and feelings of betrayal.

While Vishnu was about to confront Karthi, Madhavan's situation took a sinister turn. In the dimly lit forest, he unintentionally encountered a venomous snake, its menacing gaze sending chills down his spine. Panic surged through Madhavan, a tightening grip on his chest, heart racing, breaths shallow. Anxious thoughts cascaded, time warped, and he found himself caught in the paralyzing grip of fear. He saw no option but to flee from the threatening reptile. Vishnu was startled by Madhavan's desperate cries. He couldn't ignore the desperate pleas of his dear friend. Rapidly, Vishnu and Sankar rushed towards Madhavan to rescue him. The forest was now a chaotic scene of panic and fear. They stumbled through the undergrowth, guided solely by the echoes of Madhavan's terror-stricken voice. Eventually, their frantic search led them to the terrified boy, huddled against a tree, tears streaming down his face. Sankar, aiming to secure their safe return to the village, began to look for nearby assistance. Meanwhile, Vishnu, his voice trembling with emotion, started to recount to Madhavan the shocking and painful truth about Karthi's treacherous actions during the match. Madhavan, initially in disbelief, gradually allowed Vishnu's words to sink in, his emotions transitioning from confusion to a sense of betrayal.

As Vishnu guided Madhavan away from Sankar, weighed down by the knowledge of Karthi's betrayal and the trauma Madhavan had endured, he couldn't help but hope that this revelation was a lie. Vishnu took Madhavan to the spot where Karthi was celebrating with the members of the opposing team. As Madhvan witnessed this scene, a wave of disloyalty and anger washed over him. Filled with a mixture of emotions, he confronts Karthi, and soon, all three of them find themselves embroiled in an intense argument. In an attempt to prevent the squabble, D. P. Raghavendra (DCT team's captain), hastily grabbed a nearby iron rod. Suddenly a loud thud echoed in the woods, diverting the teacher’s attention during their evening stroll and leading them to the kids. Following the sound, Ranga also rushed to the scene only to discover Vishnu’s tragic death. 

After a few days, the final rites and rituals for Vishnu’s premature demise were respectfully concluded. His parents, family, friends, and the whole town of Rameshwaram was left devastated. His father along with the teachers united in grief to coordinate the necessary formalities, ensuring justice prevailed with the DCT Captain who was held responsible for the misery. Madhavan carried the weight of the subsequent controversy and tragedy, while Karthi grappled with guilt over the consequences of his envy-driven actions. The once inseparable trio had been fractured. The scars ran too deep, ensuring they could never restore the camaraderie they once shared.

Moral: Eliminating prejudice, thinking before acting and controlling jealousy is important as it can lead to an irreversible destruction.

[kammartinez]

By Natasha Frost

Fans celebrated in central Melbourne this week after a national triumph: The Matildas, the Australian women’s soccer team, had defeated Canada, the reigning Olympic champion, 4-0.

It was a glorious victory after a dismal start to the Women’s World Cup for one of the two host teams. In Federation Square, Australians held up gold and green scarves and bellowed, “Up the Matildas!”

Two years earlier, the same city had seen a similar outpouring of support for the Australian women’s cricket team. Inside Melbourne Cricket Ground, more than 86,000 people had gathered to watch the final of the Women’s T20 World Cup, while 1.2 million people tuned in from elsewhere in Australia.

For Ellyse Perry, an Australian sporting legend who has represented the country in both the cricket and soccer World Cups, the 2020 match — the largest crowd ever to watch a women’s cricket match — was a milestone for women’s sports in Australia.

“It’s really now starting to become embedded in general society, and it’s commonplace,” she said. “We don’t think differently about it. It’s not an oddity any more.”

For as long as there have been sports in Australia, women have clamored to play and participate. What is believed to be the world’s first cycling race for women took place in Sydney in 1888; the country’s first golf championship, in 1894, was women only; and at the 1912 Olympics, Australian women won silver and gold in the first women’s Olympic freestyle race.

Yet even though Australian women’s sports have an extensive and proud history, only recently have they received significant mainstream support. A strong run in the World Cup — Australia will face Denmark in the round of 16 on Monday — was seen as an opportunity to change that, to cement the place of women’s sports in the country’s daily rhythms and conversation.

Australia’s win over Canada saved it from an early elimination, and sent it to a game against Denmark on Monday.Credit...Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Sam Kerr, the Matildas star who is widely regarded as one of the best players in the world, said the impact of the tournament on women’s soccer was all but unimaginable.

“For years to come, this will be talked about — hopefully, decades to come,” she told reporters last month, citing an uptick in young boys and girls coming to women’s soccer games.

A longer view on the history of women’s sports in Australia involves many moments of triumph, but also times when able and enthusiastic sportswomen were simply shut out.

“There are peaks and troughs all the way through,” Marion Stell, a historian at the University of Queensland, said of women’s sports in Australia. “Women make advances — but then it goes away again. It’s never a smooth upward curve.”

Only in the past couple of decades had female athletes been able to make consistent strides on pay, opportunities and representation, she added. Today, half of all Australian girls play sports at least once a week, according to the Australian Sports Commission, compared with about 30 percent of girls in the United States.

“I don’t think anyone would have dreamed that it would happen so quickly,” Dr. Stell said. “On one hand, it’s been very slow. But on the other hand, when it happened, the floodgates just opened.”

Yet despite their enthusiasm, and their prodigious talent for bringing home Olympic medals, female athletes in Australia have, like their international peers, historically been sidelined, blocked or simply not taken seriously.

In 1980, women’s sports made up about 2 percent of print sports coverage in Australia. By 2009, women’s sports made up about 9 percent of television news coverage, according to a report from the Australian Sports Commission. But the balance appears to be shifting: A poll last year found that nearly 70 percent of Australians had watched more women’s sports since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic.

Fans watching the Australia-Ireland match in Melbourne on the World Cup’s opening night.Credit...Hannah Mckay/Reuters“A lot of it has been in line with the way that social perception has changed more broadly, in terms of how we perceive women’s role in society, and particularly the workplace,” said Perry, the sports star.

Dr. Stell, the historian, pointed further back. She saw the 1976 Montreal Olympics, where Australia failed to win a single gold medal, as a turning point. The country’s lackluster performance spurred a significant backlash in the Australian news media, which described the results as a “crisis for the government” and called for action for Australia to “regain its lost athletic potency.”

Women had historically been something of a golden goose for Australia at the Olympics, making up a minority of the country’s total athletes but often winning the majority of its medals. At the 1972 Games in Munich, for instance, 10 out of 17 Australian medals were won by women, even as they made up only about 17 percent of the team.

And so in 1981, Australia established the Australian Institute of Sport, a high-performance sports training center for both men and women that, for the first time, gave women the financial support to concentrate on their sports full-time — beginning with Australian rules football, basketball, gymnastics, netball, swimming, tennis, track and field and weight lifting.

That was followed a few years later by the Sex Discrimination Act, which prohibited discrimination on the basis of gender or sexuality.

“Those two things together might be some kind of watershed,” Dr. Stell said. “But not, I guess, in the public imagination — more in sporting women’s lives.”

The Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra, established in 1981.Credit...David James Bartho/Fairfax Media, via Getty Images

The facility offered dedicated training space to women in a variety of sports.Credit...Andrew Rankin/Fairfax Media, via Getty Images

Even after that, female athletes in most other sports often had no alternative but to play in a semiprofessional capacity. In the mid-1990s, as male Australian cricket players were on the cusp of striking over what they felt was inadequate remuneration, female players in the sport barely had their expenses covered, and often had to pay their own way to compete. Most juggled jobs and other commitments alongside their sports careers.

“How did it make me feel? I just wanted to play as much cricket as I possibly could,” said Belinda Clark, who was the captain of Australia’s World Cup-winning women’s cricket teams in 1997 and 2005.

She added: “We all structured our lives — our working lives and our personal lives — around being able to do that. That comes at a financial cost. We all accepted that.”

In recent decades, cricket has led the charge on fair pay for female athletes in Australia. While male cricketers still significantly out-earn their female counterparts, the majority of female players earn at least 100,000 Australian dollars, or $66,000. By comparison, female players of Australian rules football, rugby league, netball and professional soccer have a minimum salary of less than half of that — a source of ongoing tension since it is far below the country’s living wage.

Across all sports, perhaps the most important factor for female athletes was having women in positions of responsibility across journalism, management, coaching, umpiring and administration, Dr. Stell said.

In the early 1980s, Australian universities began to offer the country’s first sports management degrees. “That kind of allowed women to get a kind of professional qualification so that they could take the administration of sports off the kitchen table and make it more professional,” she said.

Belinda Clark next to statue of herself, with Quentin Bryce, the former governor general of Australia, at left.Credit...Brett Hemmings/Cricket Australia via Getty Images

Women are gradually becoming more visible as sports people in Australia. But it was not until earlier this year that a female cricket player was celebrated in statue form for the first time, though the country claims more than 70 statues of male players.

A bronze statue of Clark was unveiled at Sydney Cricket Ground in January; it is the first public statue of any female cricket player anywhere in the world. Representation of that kind sends a powerful message, especially to younger players, Clark said.

“What are the photos in the club? Who’s on the honor boards? What are we saying to the people that walk in this door?” she asked. “Are you part of this, or are you a guest or a visitor?

“It symbolizes that you’re actually part of it. You’re no longer coming, cap in hand, to beg for an opportunity.”

[redeyedroid]

Scots generally don't go much for cricket. Which I find odd, considering how consistently terrible England have been for most of my life. If there's one thing that brings the people of Scotland together, it's England losing at sport.

Cricket's eccentric as hell; the objectives often incomprehensible and bizarre, even to people who follow the game; it's impenetrable terminology has multiple ways of labeling the same things; the simple idea of who is winning and who is losing may be undiscernable for days; it can go on for five days and still end in a draw and they only decided to end matches like that because once, decades ago, a test match went on so long one team risked missing their boat back home; a series of five or more matches can go on for months; people are forced to keep playing long after the result has been decided; bowling and batting require completely different skills and techniques, yet some players master both; it's greatest trophy, The Ashes, is only contested by two nations and is, essentially, a self-deprecating shitpost; and one of the greatest memes of all time originates from a dropped catch in 2019.

But, because the people of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka love it like nothing else, it is the second most popular sport in the world. And I love it, too. Be it Mitchell Starc clean bowling Rory Burns with the first ball of the 2021/22 Ashes, beginning a series of quite staggering English ineptitude; or Virat Kohli, the greatest batter of this generation, hitting back-to-back sixes off Haris Rauf in front of 95,000 people at the Melbourne Cricket Ground while leading India to an extraordinary win against Pakistan at the 2022 T20 World Cup, cricket offers dramatic moments of brilliance with a regularity other sports struggle to match.

If you want an idea of exactly how popular cricket is in India, Kohli has 60 million more instagram followers than Brady, Serena and LeBron combined. His is the 16th most followed account in the world. The only sports stars with larger followings are Messi and Ronaldo. Like the greatest players in any sport, time appears to slow down around him when he's at his best, his balance and timing perfect as he makes an almost impossible task look like the easiest thing in the world (batters have a fraction of a second to react to a ball being bowled at them. Against the fastest bowlers, they might not even be able to see the ball at all, instead relying on triggers and clues and experience to hit it.)

I picked up a love for cricket from my dad, who himself picked it up one rainy summer afternoon (what do you think happens in summer in Scotland?) when he was young and there were only two TV channels. He loves the great West Indian team of the 1970s and 80s like no other. They're probably his favourite thing in sporting history. A found love, rather than the familial support for Hibs he inherited from his father.

(For that, I'd recommend the excellent documentary, Fire In Babylon. No knowledge is needed, beyond that in cricket, unlike baseball, there is no restriction against a bowler aiming at the batter's body. And the West Indian team had a succession of players who bowled at the speed of light and terrorised batters across the world. They also had, in Gordon Greenidge and Viv Richards, the two great batters of the - possibly any - era).

I missed much of their quarter century of dominance, being too young or not actually alive, but I do remember their last great bowlers, Courtney Walsh and Curtley Ambrose, while the great Trinidadian, Brian Lara, twice set records for the highest individual score in test cricket, first scoring 375, then an unbeaten 400, a record that still stands today and which may now never be bettered. Of course, both those scores came against England.

There was a lot of listening to cricket on the radio, driving places when we were on holiday in the summer. It was a summer sport then, coverage only following teams when they came to England. In the winter, when England went away, we got little, for this was the age before wall-to-wall sports TV.

For instance, I remember bits of Australia's 1993 Ashes rampage coinciding with daytrips along Hadrian's Wall, among other places, but I have no memory of the following, equally one-sided series in Australia in 1994/95.

Not that test cricket is at all rampageous, containing, as it does, breaks for lunch and tea, and even at it's most fast paced only has a ball bowled every 45 seconds or so, this being repeated about 500 times a day, with maybe 1 in 4 actually being scored from. You can miss great chunks of matches only to find nothing has fundamentally changed when you return. One man dressed in white hurls a small red ball at another, who most often declines the opportunity to hit it as it whizzes past. It is often as close to being a day-long nap as any sport can be.

Today, like football, the sport is played everywhere, all the time. The South Asian nations have spread it across the world, far beyond the borders of the British imperial possessions where the colonial administrators introduced it. Wherever there is a strong community of people from the subcontinent, cricket will be found and while there are less than a dozen full members of the ICC, there are now lots of associate members all competing against each other (the USA is the 18th-ranked men's ODI team, for example). There's almost always something to watch somewhere.

Powered by TV money (rights for the Indian Premier league are, on a per-game basis, now the second most expensive sporting event in the world, after the NFL) the compressed, high-scoring excitement of T20 has become the most popular format of cricket, which is bad for me. Because my preference is for the full-fat, slow-motion weirdness of a test match. It's what I grew up with and in my mind, the game is not for the swift. There's a reason they're called tests. The game should be an examination of technique and concentration and endurance that lasts for ages and ends with two poor bastards trying to scratch out a draw by batting for a day and a half because their side trails by 450 runs and the other 9 players on their team are idiots who got out in ridiculous ways. And then, after they inevitably fail, they do it again a week later. And maybe they lose horribly two more times and their team finds itself 3-0 down with two matches to play, but those matches still get played, even though they won't change the result of the series, because that's also part of the test. Or maybe it rains all summer and no matches are played, because the English, with maniac optimism, like to invent games that cannot be played if it's raining (see also: tennis).

I recognise that this is churlish of me. The women's game, like in so many other sports a niche afterthought, is being supercharged by an influx of cash from India, as the men's IPL has this year expanded into a women's tournament. The TV rights for this sold for £95m, the 5 franchises sold for half a billion. The top players - most players, probably - will make more from it than they do for the rest of the year. T20 is an extraordinary boost for the women's game, where tests are rarely played.

This is A Very Good Thing, but I'll always prefer tests.

Only three nations now have the economic power and talent pool to devote equal attention to all three formats of the game. Only England, India and Australia still play full test series against each other. The rest now play two- or maybe three-match series and only occasionally. The form the future of the game will take is in doubt. The West Indies might fracture amidst a proliferation of T20 franchise leagues, their players - naturally and understandably - touring the world and playing in half-a-dozen dozen leagues, their talents auctioned and drafted and paid far more than they get from tests.

But today I'm going to ignore the question marks about cricket's future and the maybe slow death of anything other than T20. Because today, one of the last remaining marquee matchups begins. Tomorrow, the women's T20 World Cup starts in South Africa. In a couple of months I will consume as much of the two IPLs as I can. In the summer, England will host Ashes series for both men and women that promise much. Australia's men currently holds the ridiculous little urn and are the top ranked side. England's men are actually very good right now and have many fine and likeable players, and a part of me finds that very irritating. Either or neither could win. For the other, England's women are also good, but Australia's are much gooder (for real. Ellyse Perry should be counted among the greatest female sports stars of all time. A world class bowler and batter, she has represented Australia at World Cups in both cricket and football).

All that is for tomorrow and beyond. Today, Australia's men begin a 4-match test series in India. India will probably win. It is incredibly hard to win anywhere as a touring team because weather and pitches vary a great deal from country to country and strongly favour the home team, no matter how lowly they are ranked. The West Indies comfortably beat England last year, and Australia struggled to a draw in Sri Lanka. And of all the places to tour, India is the hardest place to win of all. A series win in India is a rare and treasured thing.

The problem with touring India are the pitches. They are slow and dusty and - like most subcontinental tracks - favour the arcane arts of spin bowling, where a bowler uses his fingers or wrist to put spin on the ball in the hope that when it hits the pitch it grips and it's trajectory changes, deceiving the batter. Pitches are prepared to take advantage of this and push India's home field advantage as much as possible. Teams who play warm-up matches before tests in the hope of acclimatising will find placid, grassy pitches that offer not a hint of the demonic conditions the test series will likely bring. Cricket has never been a gentleman's game.

Australia have one, very very good spin bowler in Nathan Lyon and a number who are either untested or not good. They are likely to suffer against Indian batters who have known how to play spin since picking up a bat. India have Ravichandran Ashwin, also a very very good spinner, but in Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav they have several who are merely very good and likely to prosper against Australian batters who are less good away from Australia (Jadeja, injured for most of the last 6 months is arguably the best all-rounder in men's cricket today. A prodigiously talented bowler and batter, he is also among the best fielders in the men's game).

Australia have barely toured anywhere since the pandemic began, but their team has played very well at home and their glitchy batting goblins Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith are incredibly good. I have hope they make the series competitive (though for me, their approaches to batting are too angularly idiosyncratic compared to the gloriously pure techniques of Kohli and Babar Azam of Pakistan). But I also hope that Kohli finds form and has a series for the ages.

The man's due.

PS Old Deadspin did a decent primer on cricket years ago and you can still read it, if you don't mind giving the site clicks...

[scotianostra]

Mike Denness was born 1st December 1940, Bellshill, North Lanarkshire.

Denness is the only Scottish born person to have captained the full England cricket team,  I would like to point out the two famous cricketers who captained England are sometimes classified as Scots, Douglas Jardine and Tony Greig both had Scottish parents, but Jardine was born in Mumbai and Greig in South Africa.

He was born in Bellshill, but the family moved to Ayr when he was young. With the Denness home situated adjacent to Ayr Cricket Club’s Cambusdoon ground, the young Mike gravitated towards that game.

He was not solely a cricketer. At Ayr Academy, he was a member of the legendary unbeaten rugby XV which included two other future national captains: Ian Ure, who captained the Scotland team in a non-cap international against Israel during the 1967 world tour, and Ian “Mighty Mouse” McLauchlan, who captained Scotland on a record number of occasions.

While he was a good enough rugby player to go straight into the Ayr RFC 1st XV on leaving school, he was a far better cricketer, winning his first Scotland cricket cap when still at Ayr Academy. His promise attracted the attention of Kent, where he made his debut in 1962, recommended to the county by another Scot to have played for them, Jimmy Allen, then a team mate at Ayr. He played more than 700 first-class matches and List A matches over his 22-year first-class career. He was a right-handed bat, either an opener or going in first wicket down.

Few contemporary batsmen were more stylish than Mike Denness at his peak, in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Tallish and slim, well-balanced, immaculately dressed on and off the field, possessed of a fine array of strokes and an excellent cover fieldsman to boot, Denness looked a model cricketer in every way. It was his misfortune that when those qualities won him the England captaincy, after Ray Illingworth's dismissal, he lacked the support of one of the players on whom he was most dependent. 

Geoff Boycott, who made no secret of how acutely he coveted the captaincy himself, played only the first six of Denness's 19 Tests as captain, which fatally holed England's prospects against Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thomson in Australia in 1974-75. 

Deposed when Australia won the first Test of 1975 at Edgbaston, Denness took his medicine with typical graciousness. He later became an ICC match referee but, at Port Elizabeth in 2001-02, his decision to sanction six Indian players, including Sachin Tendulkar, caused such a furore that the Indian and South African boards barred Denness from officiating in the next match, at Centurion. The ICC responded by withdrawing Test status from the game.

Mike Denness died in April 2013 after a battle with cancer during his final days as president of Kent

[imranparekh]

Cricket Icons: Unforgettable Tales of the Greatest Players

Cricket is more than just a sport; it celebrates passion, skill, and perseverance. Over the years, many players have risen to legendary status, leaving an indelible mark on the game and inspiring millions worldwide. These cricketers have achieved remarkable success and set new benchmarks that continue to influence upcoming generations.

From perfect batting strokes to mesmerizing bowling, the following stories offer glimpses into the lives of cricket's greatest legends, capturing the essence of their remarkable careers.

Sir Don Bradman: The Unmatched Genius

Sir Don Bradman, often regarded as the greatest batsman of all time, set the bar for future cricketers with his extraordinary consistency and impeccable technique. Born in Australia in 1908, Bradman's career was exceptional. He amassed a staggering 6,996 runs in Test cricket at an average of 99.94, a record that still stands today and is unlikely to be surpassed. His elegance at the crease and ability to read bowlers made him a nightmare for opponents.

Bradman's rise to fame was a story of dedication and hard work. His discipline in practice—famously honing his skills by hitting a golf ball with a cricket stump against a water tank—helped him become the player he was. Beyond statistics, Bradman's influence on the game remains profound, as his sportsmanship and commitment inspire cricketers worldwide.

Sachin Tendulkar: The Master Blaster

Sachin Tendulkar is a name synonymous with cricket in India and beyond. Known as the "Master Blaster," Tendulkar's career spanned over two decades, making him one of the most enduring figures in cricket. Born in Mumbai in 1973, Tendulkar's journey began at 16 when he debuted for India. By the time he retired, he had amassed over 34,000 runs in international cricket, cementing his place as one of the greatest ever to play.

Tendulkar's consistency across all formats of the game set him apart. His ability to adapt to different conditions and bowlers was extraordinary, and his longevity in the sport made him a role model for young cricketers. Tendulkar's century of centuries in international cricket remains a record, and his calm demeanor under pressure made him a beloved figure not just in India but worldwide.

Sir Viv Richards: The Swaggering King

During his cricketing career, Sir Viv Richards was a force to be reckoned with. Born in Antigua in 1952, Richards represented the West Indies with a blend of aggressive batting and striking style that few could match. He played a key role in making the West Indies the most dominant team in world cricket during the 1970s and 1980s. Richards' power-hitting and confident attitude made him a crowd favorite and a fearsome opponent.

Viv Richards was known for his fearlessness. Whether facing pace or spin, Richards had the unique ability to dictate terms to the bowlers, often unsettling them with his sheer presence at the crease. His strike rate in Test and One-Day Internationals (ODIs) was phenomenal for his era, as he consistently scored runs rapidly. His impact extended beyond the cricket field, as Richards became an icon for Caribbean pride and excellence.

Shane Warne: The Magician of Spin

Shane Warne, one of the greatest leg-spinners the world has ever seen, revolutionized the art of spin bowling. Born in Australia in 1969, Warne's entrance into the cricketing scene changed the dynamics of bowling. At a time when fast bowlers dominated, Warne's ability to deceive batters with turn and variation brought spin bowling back into the spotlight. His 708 Test wickets are a testament to his mastery of the craft.

Warne's career was filled with memorable moments, but none more iconic than the "Ball of the Century" in 1993 when he bowled England's Mike Gatting with a stunning leg break. His on-field success was complemented by his larger-than-life personality, making him a global cricketing superstar. Beyond his records, Warne's impact on the sport is seen in the resurgence of leg-spin bowlers who look up to him as an inspiration.

Brian Lara: The Elegant Stroke Master

Brian Lara, hailing from Trinidad and Tobago, was another West Indian cricket great whose batting style was defined by elegance and flair. Born in 1969, Lara's batting record is studded with monumental achievements, including the highest individual score in Test cricket (400 not out) and first-class cricket (501 not out). Lara's ability to build mammoth innings made him a vital asset for the West Indies team, particularly when they struggled to regain their former glory.

What made Lara special was his natural ability to time the ball and play strokes that were both technically perfect and aesthetically beautiful. Whether facing the world's best pace attacks or spinners, Lara had an innate ability to dominate bowlers with his trademark cover drives and hooks. His records define his legacy in cricket and the joy and elegance he brought to batting, making him one of the most revered players of all time.

Jacques Kallis: The Perfect All-Rounder

Jacques Kallis is widely regarded as the best all-rounder in cricket history. Born in South Africa in 1975, Kallis had the rare ability to excel both with the bat and the ball, making him an indispensable asset for his team. He scored over 10,000 runs in Test and ODI cricket while also taking more than 250 wickets in both formats, a feat unmatched by any other player in the game.

Kallis was known for his rock-solid batting technique and his versatility as a bowler. He could adapt his style to suit any situation, whether the team needed quick runs or a solid defensive effort. His contributions to South African cricket are immense, as he played a significant role in elevating the team to one of the top-ranking sides in the world during his career. Beyond his numbers, Kallis' calm and composed approach to the game made him a respected figure across the cricketing fraternity.

Cricket has been graced by many legends who have shaped the game in unique and extraordinary ways. These players not only set records but also defined eras in cricket history. Their contributions transcend statistics and have inspired generations of fans and players alike. These legends have left an indelible mark, ensuring their stories will be told for years.

[chiragtomar]

https://empirenewswire.com/chirag-tomar-rising-star-of-cricket/

Chirag Tomar: Rising star of cricket

The Basic Knowledge of the Game: Knowing how to use a bat and a ball does not sum up this game, you need to have a basic understanding of various terms, equipment used in cricket and what are the rules and regulations of the game. Chirag Tomar, a name that has been steadily achieving importance in Indian cricket. He is a young and talented player with a promising future. Having grown up playing gully cricket with older boys in the lanes of Delhi, here’s how Chirag Tomar made his name in the cricket world. He is now fast becoming a prominent figure in international cricket. His performances showed in the various domestic matches from representing his team against challenging competitors to playing a crucial role in winning several matches against the USA. Tomar’s journey is superb and full of skill, determination, and unyielding spirit.

[starbiopic]

Tim David’s Brilliant Catch Spoils Jordan Cox’s Debut in Australia-England T20 Match

In a thrilling T20 match between Australia and England, Australian player Tim David pulled off a stunning catch, turning the game around and putting an early end to Jordan Cox’s debut innings. The young England cricketer, who was playing his first T20 match, had shown promising form before Tim David’s smart fielding sent him back to the pavilion. Jordan Cox’s Bright Start Fades Jordan Cox,…

[jaspercarter]

All you need to know about  Shubman Gill?

Born on September 8, 2001, in Fazilka, Punjab, Shubman Gill is a rising star in Indian cricket, known for his elegant and technically sound batting style. Gill first garnered attention at the 2018 ICC Under-19 World Cup, where he played a pivotal role in leading India to victory and was named the Player of the Tournament. His ability to play both defensive and aggressive strokes with ease marked him as a player to watch.

Gill made his international debut for India in January 2019 and quickly earned a reputation as one of the most promising young talents in world cricket. His calm demeanor, maturity on the field, and consistent performances in domestic and international cricket have solidified his place in the Indian team. A right-handed batsman, Gill has particularly excelled in Test matches, showcasing his ability to handle the pressures of the longer format of the game.

At just 23 years old (as of 2024), Gill has already established himself as a key player for India across all formats. Standing at 5 feet 10 inches, he is not only known for his technical prowess but also for his athleticism and sharp fielding skills. Off the field, Shubman is often linked to rumors about his personal life, but he prefers to keep his focus on cricket.

Gill's jersey number 77 is now synonymous with his identity in Indian cricket. With a bright future ahead, Shubman Gill is poised to be one of the next greats in the sport, with fans and experts alike watching his career with great anticipation. Follow him on Instagram at @shubmangill for updates on his journey and a closer look into his personal and professional life.

As he continues to evolve as a cricketer, Gill's journey is an inspiration to young athletes aspiring to make their mark on the world stage.

[digitalmarketingservices-1]

The Speediest Centuries in T20 International Cricket

What is the record for the fastest century in T20 International cricket?

The record for the fastest 100 in T20 International cricket is currently held by Sahil Chauhan of Estonia. He achieved this milestone on June 17, 2024, scoring a hundred in just 27 balls against Cyprus. This stunning performance not only set a new record but also showcased Chauhan’s extraordinary power and precision, making him a standout player in T20I history.

Who scored the second fastest century in T20 International cricket in 2024?

In 2024, Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton from Namibia scored the second fastest 100 in T20I cricket. Loftie-Eaton reached his hundred off 33 balls on February 27, 2024, during a match against Nepal. His aggressive approach and quick scoring were instrumental in Namibia’s strong performance during the game.

Who is the youngest player to score a T20I century in 2024?

As of 2024, Aritra Dutta from Singapore is recognized as one of the youngest players to achieve a T20I century. On February 11, 2024, Dutta scored a century off 44 balls against Japan. His ability to score quickly and set up a formidable total highlighted his potential and talent at a young age.

Has anyone from a non-Test playing nation scored a fast century in T20I?

Yes, there have been impressive performances from players representing non-Test playing nations. For example, Sahil Chauhan from Estonia and Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton from Namibia have both set records for fast centuries in T20Is. Their achievements emphasize the growing competitiveness and talent in the cricketing world beyond traditional Test-playing countries.

Which editions of the Men’s T20 World Cup did not have an individual century?

Not every edition of the Men’s T20 World Cup has featured a century. For instance, the 2007 and 2010 T20 World Cups did not see any individual century. These editions highlighted different playing conditions and strategies, showing that century-making in T20 World Cups can vary depending on numerous factors.

Conclusion

The realm of T20 International cricket has witnessed some of the most exhilarating batting performances, with record-breaking centuries that have captivated fans worldwide. Players like Sahil Chauhan and Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton have set new benchmarks with their rapid centuries, inspiring future cricketers to aim higher. As T20 cricket continues to evolve, the excitement and anticipation for even more spectacular innings remain high.

Are you a cricket fan eager to test your skills? Create your fantasy team on Vision11, the top fantasy app, and immerse yourself in the world of fantasy cricket. Every run, wicket, and catch can bring you closer to victory. Join the action and compete with fellow enthusiasts today!

Read Original Blog Here

[cricketimage]

Title: The Future of Cricket: Trends, Technologies, and Emerging Talents

Cricket is no longer just a sport; it's a global phenomenon that connects millions of fans worldwide. The evolution of cricket in the 21st century has introduced new formats, revolutionary technologies, and emerging talents, reshaping the future of the game. Let’s take a look at some of the most exciting trends in cricket today.

1. Rise of T20 Leagues

The advent of T20 cricket has transformed the way the game is played and consumed. From the IPL to the Big Bash, T20 leagues are now a breeding ground for talent and entertainment. These leagues have pushed the envelope with shorter, faster-paced games, attracting a younger audience and bringing in sponsorships worth millions.

T20 has made cricket more dynamic, with players specializing in different formats. Not only does it provide entertainment, but it's also become a launchpad for young talent to showcase their skills on the global stage.

2. Innovative Technologies in the Game

Technological advancements have made a significant impact on the game. From DRS (Decision Review System) to Hawk-Eye and Snickometer, these tools have enhanced the accuracy of decisions. Fans now experience the game more intimately with real-time data and visuals that explain every aspect of a match.

Another major development is the introduction of player-tracking technology, which allows teams to monitor player performance, fitness, and strategy on a deeper level. This trend will only grow, allowing teams to analyze match situations and performances with even more precision.

3. Cricket Analytics and Data-Driven Decision Making

Cricket has embraced the power of big data. Teams now rely heavily on analytics to make decisions both on and off the field. Using data to analyze player strengths, weaknesses, and potential matchups allows teams to strategize more effectively.

From field placements to bowling strategies, data plays a crucial role in modern cricket. Fans are also engaging with these analytics, diving deep into player stats to enhance their understanding of the game.

4. Emerging Cricket Talents

The future of cricket looks bright, with a new wave of talent emerging from different parts of the world. Players like Shubman Gill (India), Harry Brook (England), and Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan) are redefining the game with their exceptional performances.

These youngsters bring a fearless brand of cricket, showcasing innovation and aggression. With more opportunities at the domestic and international levels, the pipeline of talent is stronger than ever.

5. The Global Expansion of Cricket

Cricket is no longer confined to the traditional powerhouses like India, Australia, and England. The sport is spreading to newer regions, with countries like the USA, Japan, and Germany investing in the game. The expansion of T20 leagues to these countries is sparking interest among new fans, and the possibility of cricket in the Olympics could further boost its popularity globally.

6. Sustainability in Cricket

In recent years, sustainability has become a growing concern in cricket. Several teams and stadiums are adopting green initiatives, focusing on reducing their carbon footprint. From solar-powered stadiums to eco-friendly pitches, the game is taking steps to address environmental issues.

Conclusion

Cricket is evolving at a rapid pace, and its future is filled with excitement. The rise of new formats, technological advancements, and the emergence of young talent ensure that cricket will continue to captivate audiences globally. As the game grows, Cricket Khabri will be here to keep you updated on the latest trends and stories that shape the future of this beautiful sport.

More information :- https://cricketkhabri.in/

[nanas-45]

Archie Jackson: The Cricket Prodigy Whose Brilliance Was Cut Short

Archibald Jackson (5 September 1909 – 16 February 1933), also known as Archibald Alexander Jackson, was a cricketing prodigy whose career, though tragically short, left an indelible mark on the sport. With only eight Test matches to his name, Jackson's story is one of extraordinary talent and untapped potential.

A Star is Born

Born in Rutherglen, Scotland, Jackson’s early years were spent in the cricketing heartland of Balmain, Sydney, where his father’s connections to Australia and his family’s move in 1913 set the stage for young Archibald’s rise. A natural talent, Jackson began playing first-grade cricket at just 15, quickly making a name for himself with his elegant and fluid batting style.

The Rise of a Young Star

Jackson's ascent was meteoric. By the time he was 17, he was already donning the New South Wales colors. His performances were nothing short of sensational, with his early first-class matches showcasing his potential. He scored a remarkable 111 against St George, followed by a dazzling 198 against Western Suburbs, making it clear that this young talent was destined for greatness.

At 19, Jackson made his Test debut against England in 1929, and what a debut it was! He scored a stunning 164 runs in the first innings, becoming the youngest player to achieve a Test century. His grace and technique drew comparisons to the greats of Australian cricket, such as Victor Trumper and his mentor Alan Kippax. The cricketing world buzzed with excitement, with many believing Jackson could rival the legendary Don Bradman.

A Promising Career Plagued by Illness

Jackson’s early career was a whirlwind of achievements. He excelled in domestic cricket and was a key player for Australia. However, his promising career was marred by health issues. Despite his skill and potential, Jackson struggled during the 1930 tour of England, plagued by poor health and unfamiliar conditions. The following year, in the series against the West Indies, he had a standout performance in Adelaide but was soon sidelined by a series of low scores and health problems.

In early 1931, Jackson’s health took a severe turn. He collapsed and coughed blood before a Sheffield Shield match against Queensland, leading to a diagnosis of tuberculosis. Despite medical advice to rest, Jackson’s love for cricket led him to continue playing, though his condition worsened. He moved to Brisbane in hopes of improving his health but tragically, he passed away at just 23.

A Legacy of What Could Have Been

Jackson's career, though brief, was filled with brilliance and promise. His elegant batting, early success, and the comparisons to Bradman left a lasting impression on the cricketing world. His untimely death is a reminder of the fragility of life and the fleeting nature of greatness.

In the annals of cricket history, Archibald Jackson’s story stands as a poignant chapter—one of immense talent, unfulfilled potential, and the heartbreaking loss of a prodigy whose light burned too brightly, yet too briefly.

[pitchandplay1]

Pitch n Play: The Ultimate Kids' Cricket Experience in Edmonton

Cricket isn't just a sport; it's a passion, a way of life that starts early for many. In Edmonton, Pitch n Play stands out as the go-to destination for young cricket enthusiasts eager to hone their skills and immerse themselves in the game. Whether your child is taking their first steps into the world of cricket or looking to advance their abilities, Pitch n Play offers the ultimate kids' cricket experience in Edmonton.

Nurturing Young Talent: Kids Cricket Edmonton

At Pitch n Play, we believe that the foundation of a great cricket player is laid in childhood. That's why we've designed our programs to cater specifically to kids cricket in Edmonton. Our experienced coaches focus on building essential skills, from batting and bowling to fielding and understanding the nuances of the game. Each session is crafted to be fun and engaging, ensuring that children not only learn but also develop a love for the sport.

The Best Cricket Junior Academy in Edmonton

Pitch n Play is proud to be recognized as the best cricket junior academy in Edmonton. Our state-of-the-art facilities, combined with a curriculum that emphasizes both technical skills and sportsmanship, make us a top choice for parents and kids alike. We offer a range of programs for different age groups and skill levels, ensuring that every child gets the attention and training they need to succeed.

Our academy's success is reflected in the progress of our young cricketers, many of whom have gone on to represent their schools and local teams. With a strong focus on individual development, we help each child unlock their full potential and pave the way for a promising cricketing future.

A Comprehensive Cricketing Experience in Edmonton

Pitch n Play offers more than just training; we provide a comprehensive cricketing experience in Edmonton. Our programs include regular matches and tournaments, giving kids the chance to put their skills to the test in a competitive environment. These opportunities help them gain valuable match experience, learn to work as part of a team, and develop a winning mindset.

In addition to on-field training, we also emphasize the importance of fitness and nutrition, ensuring that our young players are well-prepared both physically and mentally. Our holistic approach to cricket training sets us apart as the best choice for kids cricket in Edmonton.

More Than Just Cricket: Bowling South Edmonton

At Pitch n Play, we understand that a well-rounded sports experience is essential for the overall development of children. That's why we also offer bowling at our Bowling South Edmonton

location, providing kids with a fun and engaging way to unwind after a rigorous cricket session. Bowling helps improve hand-eye coordination, focus, and concentration—skills that are also crucial on the cricket field.

Our bowling facilities are designed to be family-friendly, making Pitch n Play a great place for a day out with the kids. Whether it's a weekend activity or a birthday party, our bowling alleys offer endless entertainment for children and their families.

Join the Pitch n Play Family Today

If you're looking for the best cricket junior academy in Edmonton, Pitch n Play is the place to be. With our expert coaching, top-notch facilities, and a commitment to kids cricket Edmonton nurturing young talent, we offer an unmatched kids' cricket experience in Edmonton.

Whether your child is a budding cricketer or just starting out, Pitch n Play provides the perfect environment to learn, grow, and succeed. Join us today and give your child the gift of cricket—a sport that will stay with them for life.