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Bazball trolled as England cop huge defeat by 434 runs against India at Rajkot

Charbel Coorey
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Bazball trolled as England cop huge defeat by 434 runs against India at Rajkot

Cricket News: Bazball trolled as England cop huge defeat by 434 runs against India at Rajkot

England’s tour of India, which began so promisingly after an Ollie Pope and Tom Hartley-inspired victory at Hyderabad, has gone pearshaped. Two Tests later, England copped one of their biggest-ever defeats in Tests, losing by 434 runs at Rajkot to go 2-1 down in the series.

Bazball has come under fire for a couple of key reasons. The first was Joe Root’s shot with England right in the contest early on day three. The second was on the back of Ben Duckett’s comments after Yashasvi Jaiswal played yet another blinder in this series. Both instances screamed of a side so in love with their style of play that reading the room is not always on the agenda.

Joe Root has ammassed over 11,000 Test runs due to his abundant skill and talent. Bazball has certainly seen some good from Root, but also the ugly, none more so than in this series. Their premier batsman has not made a mark, often the own architect of his dismissals rather than the bowler doing anything special.

After his ugly swipe in the second innings at Visakhapatnam, Root then reverse swept a Jasprit Bumrah delivery to second slip that he has caressed through the covers countless times throughout his superb career.

Yes, backing yourself is key. But, playing the situation is also vital to succeeding in big Test matches. Bumrah is one of India’s key bowlers, and even more so when R Ashwin wasn’t available. A huge opportunity was wasted.

The dismissal changed the game, with England collapsing from 224/2 to 319 to hand the advantage to India. Then, Jaiswal further drove home that advantage, which to which Ben Duckett claimed that England should take some credit for opponents playing in an aggressive style.

“When you see players from the opposition playing like that, it almost feels like we should take some credit that they’re playing differently than how other people play Test cricket,” Duckett said. “We saw it a bit in the summer and it’s quite exciting to see other players and other teams are also playing that aggressive style of cricket.”

Bazball trolled as England cop heavy defeat at Rajkot

The reactions came in thick and fast after the events of the past two days. England were right in the match, but were completely dominated from thereon as they suffered their second-largest defeat by runs in Test history.

England will need to bounce back quickly. The fourth Test begins at Ranchi on the 23rd of February, which is now a must-win match for England if they wish to regain The Pataudi Trophy.

England’s biggest defeats in Tests (by runs)

Charbel Coorey
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England’s biggest defeats in Tests (by runs)

Cricket News: List of England’s top 6 biggest defeats in Tests by runs | What is England’s largest defeat in Tests?

England’s 2024 Test against India at Rajkot began in promising fashion. They took the first three wickets within the first hour of the Test. However, from thereon, things went pearshaped.

After India recovered to post 445, Ben Stokes’ team collapsed in their first innings to hand the hosts a 126-run lead. Yashasvi Jaiswal, courtesy of his second double-century of the series, combined with Shubman Gill (91) and Sarfaraz Khan (68*) to pile on 430/4 and leave England needing an improbable 557 to win.

Worse, England collapsed to 122 all-out in the chase to raise questions of their biggest defeats in Tests. Here is a look at their top six.

England’s top 6 biggest defeats in Tests (by runs)

6. 405 runs vs Australia, Lord’s, 2015

England won the 2015 Ashes but suffered one of their biggest-ever defeats during that series. After losing the first Test by 169 runs at Cardiff, the Australians roared back at Lord’s courtesy of Steve Smith’s 215 that set up their huge first innings score of 566/8d.

England didn’t muster much in response, falling 254 short of Australia’s first innings score. The visitors then bludgeoned 254/2 at more than five runs per over to leave England needing 509. They only managed 103 in the chase.

5. 409 runs vs Australia, Lord’s, 1948

Australia again. Lord’s again. This time 67 years earlier. Sir Donald Bradman’s team thrashed England by 409 runs courtesy of a dominant third innings display (460/7d) that left the hosts with a mammoth 596 to chase.

Ernie Toshak (5/40), Ray Lindwall (3/61) and Bill Johnston (2/62) ensured England didn’t get close, knocking them over for 186 in 78.1 overs.

4. 423 runs vs New Zealand, Hamilton, 2024

England lost by 400+ runs twice in 2024, with the second coming in Hamilton. After bowling New Zealand out for 347 (after having them 231/7 and 272/8) on a relatively flat pitch, England completely imploded.

Ben Stokes’ team were rolled for 143 in 35.4 overs to hand New Zealand the advantage. Kane Williamson did not relent, striking his 33rd Test century en route for 156. The Black Caps’ second innings score of 453 set England a mammoth 658 to win.

With the pitch still good for batting, England’s batting effort was riddled with poor shots. They lasted 47.2 overs second time around, falling short by a huge 423 runs. Ben Stokes did not bat due to a hamstring injury, and while he has pulled off heists in his career, it is safe to say this one would have been a stretch.

3. 425 runs vs West Indies, Manchester, 1976

England dismissed the great West Indies side for what looked to be a modest total of 211 in their 1976 series. However, that’s where the good news ended.

From there, the Windies dominated. First, Andy Roberts (3/22), Michael Holding (5/17), and Wayne Daniel (2/13) wreaked havoc to roll England for 71. The visitors showed no mercy in their second innings, with tons to Gordon Greenidge (101) and Viv Richards (135) setting up their total of 411/5d.

Needing 552 to win, Andy Roberts (6/37) ripped through the England lineup once again to help bowl the hosts out for just 126. The West Indies went on to win the five-match series 3-0.

2. 434 runs vs India, Rajkot, 2024

Bazball has seen a revival in England’s Test cricket fortunes since its inception in 2022. Before Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes took over as coach and captain, England had won just one in 17 Tests, with the last being a 1-0 series defeat in the West Indies.

However, McCullum and Stokes have also overseen England’s second-biggest defeat in Test history. England, who were 224/2 in reply to India’s 445, collapsed to 319 before Yashasvi Jaiswal took over.

Chasing 557 to win, England were out of the contest very early, falling to 28/4. They were soon bowled out for 122 to lose by a whopping 434 runs.

1. 562 runs vs Australia, The Oval, 1934

Defeat by 562 runs against Australia in 1934 is a record that England may never break. Australia racked up a mammoth 701 in their first innings, with Sir Donald Bradman smashing 244 at a strike rate of 90.03. Bill Ponsford (266) also piled on the misery.

In reply, England’s 321 looked miniscule in comparison. Australia then decided to pile on further pain by batting again and hitting 327, leaving England with the small measure of 708 runs to win.

They may as well not have gone out to bat. Clarrie Grimmett (5/64) led the way as Australia knocked England over for 145 to seal the deciding Test of the 1934 Ashes in the most dominant fashion.

“One-in-a-million bowler”: Reactions to R Ashwin taking his 500th Test wicket

Charbel Coorey
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“One-in-a-million bowler”: Reactions to R Ashwin taking his 500th Test wicket

Cricket News: Fans, pundits, former players, and legends react to R Ashwin taking his 500th Test wicket for India

Ravichandran Ashwin has joined elite company, becoming the ninth bowler – and second Indian after Anil Kumble – to take 500 Test wickets. The offspinner brought up the milestone by dismissing Zak Crawley on the sweep on the second afternoon of the third Test against England at Rajkot, sparking widespread reactions of congratulations online.

Ashwin has been a standout performer spanning over a decade, underpinning India’s dominance at home in particular. He is the fastest Indian to all the major milestone up to the 500th scalp, reaching his 50th, 100th, 150th, 200th, 250th, 300th, 350th, 400th, 450th, and 500th quicker than anyone else.

Ashwin’s thinking and understanding of the game has captured millions worldwide. Not only does he possess the most beautiful of conventional offspin deliveries, skillful carrom and devastating arm balls, but he has the mind to go with it. An example was how he dismissed Marnus Labuschagne caught behind from around the wicket with a slight change in the seam, getting the ball to go across the right-hander after turning the previous delivery into the stumps.

With the offspinner still bowling nicely, who knows how many wickets he will end up with. For now, fans and Ashwin himself can revel in this terrific achievement.

IND vs ENG 2024: Reactions to R Ashwin taking his 500th Test wicket

“500 Test wickets for a one-in-a-million bowler!” tweeted legend Sachin Tendulkar. “In AshWIN the SpinNER, there was always a WINNER. 500 wickets is a huge milestone in Test cricket. Congratulations, Champion!”

“A champion bowler who never stops to learn. Congratulations @ashwinravi99 on this monumental achievement! Wonderful to see another Indian spinner joining the club.” tweeted Anil Kumble, who is currently India’s leading wicket-taker with 619.

Here are some of the reactions from fans, pundits and other former players to Ashwin’s superb achievement.

Kane Williamson the quickest ever to 32 Test centuries

Charbel Coorey
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Kane Williamson the quickest ever to 32 Test centuries

Cricket News: Kane Williamson reaches 32 Test centuries in the least number of innings in Test history

Kane Williamson has become the fastest player to reach 32 centuries in terms of number of innings in Test cricket history. The former New Zealand captain achieved the feat in his 172nd knock, beating Australia’s Steve Smith, who previously held the record with 32 centuries in 174 outings.

Williamson brought up the milestone on the fourth day of the second Test against South Africa at Hamilton. It is fitting that the century was brought up in the fourth innings of a home Test where he has typically done his best work, this time in a potentially tricky run chase of 267 in a game that an under-strength South Africa had the better of for the most part.

Kane Williamson takes the fewest innings to achieve 32 Test centuries

Cricket News: Kane Williamson reaches 32 Test centuries in the least number of innings in Test history

Kane Williamson became the seventh player to reach 32 Test hundreds in 200 innings or less, roaring to the mark thanks to seven tons in his last seven tons. He has got to the milestone quicker than some of the very best batsmen to ever grace the game, at an average above 55. At 33 years of age, one feels Williamson can continue on his trajectory to achieve further greatness by the time his career his over.

Williamson’s latest achievement is another big feather in his cap. He is the only Black Cap to have over 8,000 Test runs, and he is heading quickly towards 9,000 as his 100th match nears. Also, no other New Zealander has 20 Test hundreds, with Ross Taylor and Martin Crowe next best with 19 and 17 respectively.

Also, Williamson’s fourth innings exploits are something to behold. Yes, New Zealand is a country where batting last is often easier than in other nations, but over 1,000 runs at an average above 56 is nothing to be scoffed at. In fact, five of his 32 centuries have come in the fourth dig.

Much was made of South Africa’s touring party for this series. However, New Zealand were in danger of being on the wrong end of one of the biggest upsets in Test history. But, Williamson’s 32nd century was just as calm and measured as so many of his others right when his team needed it.

Looking ahead, the upcoming series against Australia promises to be a big test for Williamson. But, he has the form and class to deliver, as his numbers show. One can be excused for revelling in such an achievement before a big series, but Williamson, humble and focused as ever, will aim to be as ready as possible for Pat Cummins and co.

If he can deliver big in that two-match duel, the Black Caps could well enjoy their first Test series win (of more than one match) over Australia since 1986.

What is Ravindra Jadeja’s First Class record at Rajkot?

Charbel Coorey
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What is Ravindra Jadeja’s First Class record at Rajkot?

Cricket News: A look at Ravindra Jadeja’s incredible First Class record in matches at Rajkot

Ravindra Jadeja’s love affair with the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot continued as he struck an important, unbeaten 110 on day one of the third Test against England.

Jadeja’s effort took him to 1,564 runs in 17 First Class innings on this ground at an incredible average of 142.18. Four fifties and six centuries make up this mighty tally, including a high score of 331.

Interestingly, not even the great Sir Donald Bradman has over 1,500 First Class runs at a single venue with an average above 125.

Ravindra Jadeja’s record at Rajkot goes from strength to strength

Ravindra Jadeja’s incredible batting record at Rajkot.

Two of Jadeja’s four Test hundreds have come on this ground. He struck an unbeaten 100 against West Indies back in 2018. However, he came in to bat with India well placed at 470/5 on that occasion, with Prithvi Shaw (134) and Virat Kohli (139) striking tons.

This time around, Jadeja walked into a bit of chaos after returning from a hamstring injury. India had lost three wickets cheaply – two to Mark Wood and one to Tom Hartley – to sit in a troublesome position of 33/3. But, there was a sense of calm when Jadeja began to go about his work, combining defensive solidity with proactive strokeplay to keep things moving first with Rohit Sharma and then debutant Sarfaraz Khan.

Jadeja’s only blemish of the day was in his 90s. He looked more passive as he drew closer to the ton, surviving a very close LBW shout on 93 that would have been given out had England reviewed. Then, seeking his 100th run, Jadeja left Sarfaraz stranded after the debutant struck a superb 62 off 66 balls.

But, with all that said and done, Jadeja will begin day two with an eye to more runs. After all, this is his ground. And, India, 326/5 after day one, need him to continue on his merry way given the surface is proving to be a good one for batting.

India fans’ reactions to Rohit Sharma named as captain for 2024 T20 World Cup

Charbel Coorey
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India fans’ reactions to Rohit Sharma named as captain for 2024 T20 World Cup

Cricket News: India fans have shared their reactions online to the news Rohit Sharma will captain the team in the 2024 T20 World Cup

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have confirmed that Rohit Sharma will captain the team in this year’s T20 World Cup. There was some uncertainty following the 2023 ODI World Cup as to whether Rohit will take the reigns for the T20 edition to be held in June in the West Indies and USA, but the BCCI have stood firm with the opening batsman.

Rohit didn’t play a single T20I after the 2022 World Cup campaign where India lost to England in the semi-final. However, the opener returned for the Afghanistan series where he produced a superb performance in the third match.

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah said, “The fact that he was returning after a year to lead in the Afghanistan series recently meant he was obviously going to [lead in the T20 World Cup].

“In 2023 (final) at Ahmedabad, even though we did not win the World Cup after 10 straight wins, we won hearts. I want to promise you that in 2024 (T20 World Cup), under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy, we will hoist the Indian flag in Barbados.”

Rohit and India have the task of breaking their ICC trophy drought that is now over a decade long. Time and again, India have reached the business end of tournaments only to fall short, with last year’s ODI World Cup Final against Australia arguably the most heartbreaking.

However, with Rohit playing more fearlessly at the top with a number of talents coming through the ranks in T20s, India feel confident they can build on last year’s showing.

Reactions to Rohit Sharma retaining the captaincy for the 2024 T20 World Cup

India fans took to social media to share their thoughts. Many were supportive of the decision. Others were skeptical, pointing to the make up of the team. Below are some of the reactions.

Reactions in support of the decision:

Fans skeptical of the decision:

What are your thoughts? Are India right to stick with Rohit Sharma as captain or should they have gone in a different direction?

Rajkot pitch report for 3rd IND vs ENG Test

Charbel Coorey
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Rajkot pitch report for 3rd IND vs ENG Test

Cricket News: A look at the Rajkot pitch for the third Test between India and England starting on February 15

The ten-day-long break between the second and third Test is set to end, with anticipation building ahead of the Rajkot showdown. It has been a fascinating series between India and England so far, with the visitors landing the first blow in Hyderabad before the hosts fought back to win in Visakhapatnam.

So, what will the Rajkot pitch have in store? This will be just the third Test played on this ground, with batsmen finding joy in the two matches. The last Test took place in 2018 where India hammered West Indies by an innings and 272 runs after pummelling 649/9d batting first. Two years earlier, it was a high-scoring draw between England and India where both sides scored well over 450 in their first innings.

Rajkot pitch report for 3rd Test between India and England 2024

Images of the Rajkot pitch have surfaced on social media two days out from the Test. There appears to be a touch of grass on the surface which could hold it together for the first few days before it begins to take more spin. If so, it should be a fine batting pitch in the early stages.

Hot and clear conditions are forecast for the five days which makes the toss an important one. The two first innings totals in Tests at Rajkot are 649/9d and 537, and the ground has a reputation for being one of the best batting surfaces in the country. However, any presence of grass will bring the skilled pacers from either side into the game early, where they need to pounce.

Also, even if it a flat surface, both teams are a good chance of offering opportunities for wickets given the attacking nature of their batting.

Pitch won’t be a rank turner – Kuldeep

Spinner Kuldeep Yadav shared his thoughts on the Rajkot pitch in a press conference. “It is not going to be a rank turner, but will be a good wicket,” he said.

“When we say it is going to be a batting (friendly) wicket we do not mean that 700-800 runs will be scored here, but it will be a better wicket compared to playing on a rank turner. I hope it helps the spinners who play.”

Both teams have their injury and availability concerns. Jack Leach is out of the series due to a knee injury, while Shreyas Iyer and Virat Kohli will not feature. However, Ravindra Jadeja is likely to play according to Kuldeep.

“He (Jadeja) is doing his routine (work). He did one session yesterday and I think he is available. I am not (even) sure of my position because there are two days left for the game. If I get the opportunity, I will be more than happy. I do not think too much about if I am playing or not — I just enjoy my day and keep working hard and that is my process,” Kuldeep said.

This Test is a crucial one in England’s quest to become the first team since 2012 to win a series in India. A defeat means they will have to win both the final two Tests which will be a mighty difficult task.

Sikandar Raza shares his thoughts on IPL vs PSL plus his Zimbabwe future

Charbel Coorey
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Sikandar Raza shares his thoughts on IPL vs PSL plus his Zimbabwe future

Cricket News: Speaking to SportsNow, Zimbabwe all-rounder Sikandar Raza shared his thoughts on which league – IPL or PSL – is better

Although Zimbabwe missed out on qualification to the 2024 T20 World Cup, all-rounder Sikandar Raza is looking forward to a big year of T20 cricket. Currently playing for Dubai Capitals in the ILT20 League, Raza is excited for the leagues coming up, particularly the IPL.

In an exclusive interview with SportsNow, Raza said he is focused on preparing for IPL 2024 where he will line up for the Punjab Kings once again. Last year, he struck 139 runs at an average of 27.80 and strike rate of 141.83, and took three wickets.

“There is no better preparation than to be playing cricket,” Raza said. “So, ILT20, of course, is a high-standard league. I am going to play PSL from here. I am looking forward to that PSL.

“So, you know, my preparation leading to IPL will be playing ILT20 and PSL and that. I mean, you cannot substitute game time. I think that should be the best preparation one can have before an IPL.”

IPL is by far the best league – Sikandar Raza

When speaking about what makes the IPL so special, Raza said player availability is the biggest factor. Also, the crowd and atmosphere contributes to memorable matches.

“I just think that the availability of all the players for one tournament makes IPL really special,” said Raza. “In most of the matches we play, the crowd comes and supports their teams.

“That’s something that’s really different in IPL,” he continued. “The only other league when it comes to crowd that comes close is PSL. So, I think IPL definitely stands out with a couple of factors, yes.

“IPL is by far the best league when it comes to PSL also. Like, it is much better than PSL. That’s what I’m trying to say. Yeah, I’m not a big fan of comparisons, but yes, it is. I think IPL is the biggest league on the planet.”

Grateful for Punjab Kings & won’t turn my back on Zimbabwe – Raza

Raza also spoke about his appreciation for the Punjab Kings. They purchased the all-rounder at the 2023 auction and have retained him ahead of the 2024 season. Now, the talented cricketer is seeking to repay the faith.

“I am very grateful and blessed that Punjab picked me,” said Raza. “And I don’t think I can ever repay their faith. I mean, they were the only team that raised the baton on the auction day.

“So, if they hadn’t done that, I don’t think I would have been part of IPL last year, let alone this year.”

“I think IPL is the biggest league on the planet.”

Sikandar Raza

In welcome news for Zimbabwe fans, Raza said he is still committed to the national team. As mentioned, the team won’t be participating in the upcoming World Cup, but Sikandar hopes Zimbabwe can continue moving forward.

“As long as there is strength and there is focus and there is fitness that I have, I will remain committed to Zimbabwe,” he said. “I am happy to miss out on franchise tournaments because I have international commitments. But I will not turn my back on Zimbabwe now.

“Overall, the quality and standard of cricket we [Zimbabwe] are trying to play now suddenly is getting better. And it’s a work in progress. But, I can assure you that myself and the Zimbabwe cricket have got together, and we have drawn a pathway that will put Zimbabwe on the map pretty quickly.”

6 uncapped Indian players to watch out for in the IPL 2024 season

Charbel Coorey
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6 uncapped Indian players to watch out for in the IPL 2024 season

IPL 2024 season preview: 6 uncapped Indian players to keep an eye out for in the upcoming season

The IPL 2024 Auction made headlines for the astronomical amounts certain players were bought for. Mitchell Starc broke Pat Cummins’ record which was held for less than two hours, while various others also landed big deals.

Among those who landed hefty deals for IPL 2024 were some talented, uncapped Indian players. The IPL has typically been a platform for up-and-coming talent to show their worth on such a grand stage, and it will be no different in the upcoming season.

IPL 2024: 6 uncapped players to watch out for

A number of players will be looking to make even more of a name for themselves. Here is a look at six uncapped Indian players to watch out for this season.

Sameer Rizvi – Chennai Super Kings

When the Chennai Super Kings come knocking, it’s because they see a player who can offer value in a clearly-defined way. Sameer Rizvi, referred to as the “right-handed Raina”, is arguably the uncapped Indian player to keep the closest eye on in IPL 2024.

Involved in a bidding war where CSK eventually came out winners with 8.4 crore, Rizvi has made quite the impression in his short career to date. In seven matches in the 2023 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he finished with 277 runs at an average of 69.25 and strike rate of 139.89. He does most of his work at number four, and CSK eye him as a player who not only could deliver in 2024, but for many years to come.

“People compare me with Raina because of the way I play,” Rizvi said soon after the auction. “If people call me a right-handed Raina then I’ll aim to do what he did for CSK. Even I love fielding like him. I’ll give it my everything.”

Shubham Dubey – Rajasthan Royals

IPL 2024 season preview: 6 uncapped Indian players to keep an eye out for in the upcoming Indian Premier League season

Shubham Dubey lit up the 2023 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy competition with his magnificent finishing. In one of the matches, he finished with an unbeaten 58 from just 20 balls to lead Vidarbha to a successful chase of 213 against Bengal. The innings included three fours and six sixes.

Overall, Dubey scored 221 runs at an average of 73.66 and strike rate of 187.28. Finishing was an area the Royals struggled a little in 2023, and it is no wonder why they spent 5.80 crore to acquire his services.

Kumar Kushagra – Delhi Capitals

That the Delhi Capitals splurged 7.2 crore on 19-year-old Kumar Kushagra may have come as a surprise. After all, Kushagra’s T20 batting stats (11 matches, 140 runs, avg. 15.55, SR 117.64) are nothing to write home about yet.

However, the bidding war came about due to the sheer potential he possesses, plus his solid records in First Class (1,185 runs, avg. 40.86) and List A cricket (700 runs, avg. 46.66, SR 89.05).

Speaking of List A cricket, one innings that put him on the map was his 67 off 37 balls for Jharkhand against Maharashtra in a successful chase of 355. He hit four fours and five sixes to seal a fantastic victory.

Shahrukh Khan – Gujarat Titans

Soon after he was released by the Punjab Kings, Shahrukh Khan was picked by the 2022 champions Gujarat Titans for 7.4 crore. Khan’s finishing ability is his biggest asset, and it will be interesting to see how he fares with a current strike rate of 134.81 in 33 IPL matches.

Shahrukh didn’t have the best of tournaments in the 2023 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, hitting just 45 runs in five innings at a sub-100 strike rate. However, the big stage of the IPL with a franchise who have performed well in their first two seasons can bring out the best in him.

Karthik Tyagi – Gujarat Titans

Talented pacer Karthik Tyagi has the chance to cement his place in an IPL team under the guidance of Ashish Nehra and co. Tyagi has performed well in the competition in the past, producing memorable performances in the 2021 edition where his yorkers caught the eye. There is no doubt he will be motivated to deliver – especially at the death – where higher honours could await him in the future.

The Titans secured Tyagi for just INR60 lakh in the auction, and can get some serious value for money if the pacer produces what he is capable of.

Riyan Parag – Rajasthan Royals

It might seem strange to see Riyan Parag on this list given he has been around in the IPL for quite some time now. However, this is the time for him to deliver.

Parag has often been criticised by fans and pundits for his inconsistency in performances and on-field antics on occasions. But, Rajasthan Royals have stood firm, and this could be the season where they shift him to number four after Parag performed so well in that position domestically.

His 2023 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign would have come as great joy to the Royals. Parag finished with the most runs (510) at a whopping average of 85.00 and strike rate of 182.79 with seven fifties in ten matches. Can he translate some of those numbers to the IPL? Time will tell.

Other players including Arshin Kulkarni (Lucknow Super Giants) and Shaik Rasheed (Chennai Super Kings) will be chomping at the bit to perform well if they get the opportunity. Indeed, it should be another tournament where some uncapped players enhance their reputation in front of huge audiences.

SA20 2024 Final Reactions: Sunrisers Eastern Cape win second straight title

Charbel Coorey
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SA20 2024 Final Reactions: Sunrisers Eastern Cape win second straight title

Cricket News: Reactions to Sunrisers Eastern Cape winning their second straight title in the SA20 2024 Final

Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC) have taken out their second straight SA20 2024 title, smashing Durban’s Super Giants (DSG) by a whopping 89 runs in the Final at Cape Town.

Batting first, only Dawid Malan (six off four balls) missed out, with Jordan Hermann (42 off 26 balls) combining with player of the match Tom Abell (55 off 34 balls) for a match-turning 90-run stand in 8.4 overs. Then, the South African duo of captain Aiden Markram (42* off 26 balls) and Tristan Stubbs (56* off 30 balls) took SEC above 200.

In the chase, DSG never had a sniff. Only Wiaan Mulder and Dwaine Pretorius crossed 20 among the top seven, with question marks as to why the team sent Heinrich Klaasen in as late as the 11th over with over 14 runs per over needed. In the end, Marco Jansen finished with 5/30 with Daniel Worrall (2/15), Ottniel Baartman (2/17) and Simon Harmer (1/18) also in the wickets.

The triumph represents another wonderful moment for Aiden Markram and SEC. It is another trophy for Markram as a captain, and the way they dismantled a DSG side who had a fine tournament themselves was quite impressive.

SA20 2024 Final: SEC far too strong as they win their second title

Here are some of the reactions to a brilliant win for Sunrisers Eastern Cape:

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