In the build-up to India’s Champions Trophy campaign, the focus was on Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness and the effect his absence would have on the pace battery. Mohammed Shami was returning from injury while the other two – Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana – didn’t possess too much experience. If that was the case in the … Read more
Pakistan head coach Aaqib Javed found himself in the eye of a storm following the team’s dismal performance in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy. As the questions ranged from the team’s poor show in the last three ICC events to the lack of aggression against India, the former international admitted that lack of experience hurt … Read more
India opener Shubman Gill on Wednesday consolidated his position atop the ICC ODI Batting Rankings after playing a big role in his team’s qualification for the semifinals of the Champions Trophy. Gill, who scored a match-winning 101 not out against Bangladesh and 46 against Pakistan in Group A matches played in Dubai this past week, … Read more
Pakistan was the nominal ‘home’ team for its must-win encounter against India. But in front of a near sell-out crowd, more than three-fourths of whom were decked in blue, the Men in Green got blown away by one of Virat Kohli’s classic ODI masterclass knocks as he belted out his best hits and reaffirmed his … Read more
There are many fabled sporting rivalries worldwide, be it between clubs or nation-states. However, it wouldn’t be hyperbole to say that an India-Pakistan fixture on the cricket field trumps most contests, and continues to be fierce. On Sunday, the latest instalment of cricket’s ‘El Classico’ — 136th in ODIs — will get underway at the … Read more
Pakistan head coach Aaqib Javed noted that the high-stakes nature of India-Pakistan games offers players the best chance to showcase their skills, and the extra pressure on the players gives this encounter its charm. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a knockout or whatever. It is beyond game, and that’s the beauty. If you look … Read more
India vice-captain Subman Gill refused to take Pakistan lightly despite the latter coming into the contest after a 60-run defeat to New Zealand in the first game. “We have been playing some good ODI cricket, and Pakistan have lost some of the matches that they have played recently, but by no means are we going … Read more