CRICKET
Test team of the year 2023
Test cricket was played less in the year 2023. Barring some big series like Border Gavaskar Trophy and Ashes, there were not many series where a lot of matches were played. It ensured that the Test format suffered a lot. But that’s how the things are. In other series, there were not more than 2 matches in a series, which was not good to see. Even in series involving top teams like India and SA, only 2 Tests were played.
There was no shortage of good cricket though. There were many players who gave their best performances in the year. Unlike ODIs, Tests had performers from different teams. Hence, more players can be seen in the side apart from just a single side, which was the case in ODIs. Two cycles have taken place in the WTC in the year 2023. The WTC 2023 final acted as a perfect Seperator between the two.
As the calendar year has almost come to an end, here is the Test team of the year 2023.
Top Order
At the top of the order, the team will feature Usman Khawaja of Australia. The Southpaw was the best batter of the year by some margin who scored runs in India and England in the big series. To partner him as an opener would be Zack Crawley of England, who had an equally impressive year as a batter. At the top of the order, Crawley can provide aggressive starts which can complement well with Khawaja.
There were many players in contention for the other opener like Ben Duckett, Rohit Sharma, and Dimuth Karunaratne. But Crawley was too good. At number 3, the team will have Kane Williamson, who was pretty obvious in the XI. The Kiwi batter won many matches for New Zealand with the bat despite not playing as many games as one would have liked. Kane was very good even as a captain.
Middle Order
At number 4, the side will have the class of Joe Root. The English batter has elevated his level as a batter with aggression. Since the arrival of Bazball, the way Root has been playing is incredible to watch. To follow him would be a fellow teammate, Harry Brook, who was a bit more impressive as a batter. Brook played terrific knocks against New Zealand and Australia. The youngster was the emerging player of the year.
At number 6, the side will have Tom Blundell as the WK batter. There were not many options for the spot, as not many keepers did as well as batters and vice versa. Blundell was good in both roles. At number 7, Ravindra Jadeja will be the All-rounder in the side. The Indian cricketer was great as a bowler, did a good job as a batter and was excellent as a fielder as usual.
Bowlers
Pat Cummins will be the leader of the attack and will operate with the new ball in the team. Cummins would also lead the side and intimidate the opponents with his unique character. To partner him with the new ball would be Stuart Broad who did everything he possibly could as a bowler in the year. Broad capped off his career in the best way possible after bowling so well in the Ashes 2023.
As the first change, the team will have Mark Wood. Just the sheer pace of Wood is enough to intimidate the batters. But he has an outswinger and can bat as well. To partner him in the old ball would be Ravichandran Ashwin, who would be the spinner in the attack. The star spinner bowled well on spin-friendly conditions and also on flat wickets and showed why he is rated highly in the longest format of the game.
Test team of the year 2023: Usman Khawaja, Zack Crawley, Kane Williamson, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Tom Blundell (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Pat Cummins (C), Ravichandran Ashwin, Mark Wood, Stuart Broad
BGT
Virat Kohli and Steve Smith Predicted to Bounce Back by Shastri
Ravi Shastri has predicted that Virat Kohli and Steve Smith will soon reclaim their dominant form in cricket. Speaking about the performances of the current Fab Four, Shastri acknowledged that Kohli and Smith have recently struggled compared to Kane Williamson and Joe Root.
Shastri believes Virat Kohli and Smith, despite their dips, remain formidable players. He highlighted their experience, dedication, and ability to perform under pressure as key factors in their potential resurgence.
The former Indian coach emphasized the cyclical nature of sports, where even the best players face challenges. He expressed confidence in Kohli’s and Smith’s capacity to learn from setbacks and adapt their game accordingly.
Kohli’s recent performances have lacked consistency, raising questions about his form. Similarly, Smith has encountered difficulties in maintaining his usual high standards. Shastri stressed that such phases are natural for elite athletes and often lead to greater determination.
Williamson and Root currently lead the Fab Four in terms of performance and consistency. Shastri praised their recent contributions but reminded fans not to underestimate Kohli and Smith.
Shastri’s analysis underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in cricket. He pointed out that both players have a history of overcoming challenges, making their eventual comeback more likely.
Fans and experts continue to debate the dynamics of the Fab Four, with each player’s journey offering unique lessons. Kohli and Smith’s ability to bounce back will be closely watched in the coming months.
This discussion highlights the ever-evolving nature of cricket, where even legends face tough phases. Shastri’s optimism offers hope for fans eagerly anticipating Kohli’s and Smith’s return to peak form.
BGT
Ravichandran Ashwin Reveals Travis Head’s Tactics Against Bumrah
Ravi Ashwin has unveiled Travis Head’s strategic approach to countering Jasprit Bumrah and India’s bowling attack. During a recent discussion, Ashwin analyzed Head’s clever ploys on the field, which played a pivotal role in his performance.
According to Ravi Ashwin, Head adjusted his batting stance to disrupt Bumrah’s bowling rhythm. This minor but effective tweak allowed Head to execute his shots more confidently. Ashwin emphasized that such tactical adjustments reflect Head’s understanding of the game.
Head’s strategy involved standing outside the crease to negate Bumrah’s swing and reduce his effectiveness. This move put pressure on the Indian bowlers, forcing them to alter their lengths. Ashwin acknowledged the intelligence behind this approach, calling it a calculated risk.
Ashwin also highlighted Head’s ability to target specific bowlers, capitalizing on their weaknesses. By playing aggressively, Head shifted the momentum in his team’s favor. This strategy demonstrated his adaptability and composure under pressure.
India’s bowling unit struggled to contain Head’s counterattacking style. His approach exposed gaps in India’s plans, prompting them to reassess their strategies. Ashwin noted that such performances underscore the importance of adaptability in international cricket.
The revelation sheds light on how top players study and exploit their opponents. It also emphasizes the need for constant evolution in cricket tactics. Ashwin’s insights provide valuable lessons for players and fans, highlighting the game’s strategic depth.
Ashwin’s observations will likely influence their bowling strategies as India prepares for future matches. Understanding and countering such tactics can help teams improve their performance against aggressive players like Head.
BIG NEWS
Nepal Premier League Becomes a Watershed Moment for Nepali Cricket
The NPL has become a watershed moment for Nepali cricket, elevating the sport to new heights. With its success, the league has brought national and international attention to Nepali cricket, attracting a broader fan base and better sponsorships.
This landmark event showcases the immense talent present in Nepal and provides a platform for local players to shine. The league has paved the way for a new generation of cricketers to gain recognition and advance their careers in the sport.
The NPL has also given Nepali cricket more global exposure. International players joining the league help raise the level of competition, further inspiring the local players. The league’s popularity continues to grow as it evolves and promises to be a cornerstone of Nepali cricket in the years to come.
As the league progresses, it is expected to inspire future stars and increase the overall development of cricket in Nepal. Fans eagerly follow every match, enjoying the thrilling action and supporting their favorite players and teams.
In conclusion, the Nepal Premier League has transformed Nepali cricket, setting the stage for future growth. This momentous development will surely lead to even greater success for Nepali cricket on the international stage.
The NPL has also sparked interest in domestic leagues across emerging cricket nations. It serves as a model for other countries to develop their cricketing infrastructure and provide young talent. As the NPL continues to grow, it is expected to play a vital role in shaping the future of Nepali cricket.
Fans have embraced the tournament, creating a sense of national pride. The NPL’s rise reflects the growing global interest in domestic cricket leagues and their role in nurturing future talent. It’s a significant milestone for Nepali cricket, ensuring that the sport will continue to evolve in the coming years.
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