CRICKET
Dasun Shanaka to captain Lanka
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Dasun Shanaka on Friday became the 10th Sri Lankan captain in the past four years.
In the white-ball format, Shanaka is the 6th captain in four years, his predecessors being Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Lasith Malinga, Dimuth Karunaratne and Kusal Perera.
The previous captain, wicketkeeper-batsman Kusal Perera has been ruled out with a shoulder injury.
Shanaka leads a 23-member squad for the six-match series against India starting 18 July.
The series comprises 3 ODIs and 3 T20 matches.
The squad was announced by Sri Lanka Cricket after getting formal approval from sports minister Namal Rajapaksa.
Team status
The team was rocked by the withdrawal of senior cricketer, Angelo Mathews, 34 in the first week of July.
As per reports, Mathews was unhappy with his contract and disillusioned by the treatment accorded to him by the board.
However, the SLC has managed to put up a competitive team.
It contains several experienced players like vice-captain Dhananjaya de Silva, Akila Dhananjaya, Isuru Udana and Kasun Rajitha.
What’s more, there are exciting batting talents like Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando and Charith Asalanka.
Their spin-bowling unit looks settled with the likes of Lakshan Sandakan, Akila Dananjaya and Wanidu Hasaranga.
Interestingly, there is left arm wrist spinner too – Lakshan Sandakan in the squad.
There are three uncapped players in Lahiru Udara, Shiran Fernando and Ishan Jayaratne.
The trio of vice-captain Kusal Medis, wicketkeeper-batsman Niroshan Dickwella and Danushka Gunathilaka have been suspended owing to their bio-bubble breach in England.
The series begins on Sunday with the one-dayers.
India will be led by Shikhar Dhawan and Bhuvneshwar Kumar will be the vice-captain.
The series was postponed by 5 days after positive Covid-19 cases hit the Sri Lankan camp upon their arrival from England
Sri Lanka squad
Dasun Shanaka (Captain), Dhananjaya De Silva (Vice Captain), Avishka Fernando, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Ashen Bandara, Minod Bhanuka, Lahiru Udara, Ramesh Mendis, Chamika Karunaratne, Dushmantha Chameera, Lakshan Sandakan, Akila Dhananjaya, Shiran Fernando, Dhananjaya Lakshan, Ishan Jayaratne, Praveen Jayawickrema, Asitha Fernando, Kasun Rajitha, Lahiru Kumara, Isuru Udana.
CRICKET
Mohammad Rizwan Faces Backlash for Underwhelming Knock in Pakistan’s Loss to South Africa
Mohammad Rizwan has come under heavy fire for his performance during Pakistan’s loss to South Africa in a high-stakes match. Critics described his innings as lackluster, accusing him of playing a “shameless” and “criminal” knock that failed to meet the demands of the situation. His inability to accelerate scoring when required drew ire from fans and analysts alike, with many questioning his intent and decision-making under pressure.
While Rizwan’s cautious approach ensured some stability, it proved inadequate against South Africa’s aggressive game plan. His inability to shift gears in critical moments ultimately hurt Pakistan’s chances, and his performance sparked a broader debate about his role and strategy in the team’s batting order. Some commentators were particularly scathing, questioning how Rizwan could reflect on his effort given the circumstances.
The incident has added to the scrutiny of Pakistan’s overall performance in the tournament, with many demanding better strategies and execution from key players. Rizwan, regarded as a pivotal figure in the lineup, now faces the challenge of responding to the criticism and delivering under pressure in future matches.
CRICKET
Karnali Strengthen Playoff Aspirations; Lumbini Break Winless Streak
The Nepal Premier League (NPL) witnessed dramatic turnarounds as Karnali Yaks secured their third consecutive victory and Lumbini Lions registered their maiden win. Karnali cruised to a seven-wicket win over Pokhara Avengers, powered by William Bosisto’s brilliant bowling performance, claiming 6 wickets for 28 runs. This victory places the Yaks in a strong position for playoffs.
Meanwhile, the Lumbini Lions finally ended their winless run by defeating Chitwan Rhinos by 33 runs. Rohit Paudel starred with an outstanding all-round performance, scoring 80 runs and taking 4 wickets for just 17 runs. The Lions’ bowlers complemented Paudel’s efforts, restricting the Rhinos and ensuring a much-needed morale boost.
Both results have shaken up the league standings as the tournament heads toward a tense conclusion. With Karnali firming their playoff prospects and Lumbini gaining momentum, fans can expect high-intensity action in the upcoming matches.
BGT
Andy Roberts Declares Mohammed Shami as India’s Best Bowler
West Indies cricket legend Andy Roberts has lauded Mohammed Shami as India’s most skilled pacer, emphasizing his superiority in effectiveness and consistency over others, including Jasprit Bumrah. While acknowledging Bumrah’s ability to claim crucial wickets, Roberts expressed that Shami’s control, seam positioning, and adaptability under diverse conditions set him apart.
Roberts critiqued Mohammed Siraj, stating he has yet to reach the same level as Bumrah and Shami. He highlighted that Shami’s ability to relentlessly hit good lengths and extract movement makes him India’s standout bowler. He urged Indian cricket to focus more on nurturing such talent for long-term success in international cricket.
Roberts’ observations offer a fresh perspective on India’s pace attack dynamics, sparking debates among cricket fans worldwide.
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