Monday, 2 December 2013
Shikhar Dhawan breaks into top-10 of ICC ODI rankings for first time.
India opener Shikhar Dhawan has made it to the top-10 of the ICC
Player Rankings for ODI batsmen for the first time in his career after he
jumped two places to ninth in the latest update released on Sunday.
Dhawan has been rewarded for his 159 runs in three matches against
West Indies as he has moved to a career-high ninth position with a best-ever
ratings points of 736. Dhawan became the first batsmen to score five centuries
in ODIs in 2013.
India's Virat Kohli leads the field with South Africa captain AB
de Villiers just 17 ratings points behind in second place. With India playing
South Africa in a three-match series from December 5, Kohli and de Villiers
could well be facing-off for a stint at the top batting rank.
Hashim Amla has moved up a place to fourth while Dhawan's movement
has resulted in Misbah-ul-Haq slipping one position to 10th in the only other
changes inside the top 10.
Pakistan beat South Africa by 2-1, while India beat the West
Indies by an identical margin. However, the results did not lead to any change
on the ICC ODI Team Rankings table with all four teams retaining its pre-series
rankings - India (first), West Indies (seventh), South Africa (fifth) and
Pakistan (sixth).
Outside the top 20, the batsmen to move up are Darren Bravo in
30th (up by 10), Johnson Charles in 34th (up by one), Lendl Simmons in 38th (up
by two), Ahmed Shehzad in 43rd (up by 26), Marlon Samuels in 49th (up by four),
Darren Sammy in 65th (up by nine) and Yuvraj Singh in 70th (up by one).
Meanwhile, South Africa fast bowler Dale Steyn has continued his
upward move inside the top 10 of the ICC Player Rankings for ODI bowlers. Steyn
has moved up five positions to fifth after claiming nine wickets in two ODIs
against Pakistan.
Shikhar DhawanThe other two South Africa bowlers inside the top 10
are Morne Morkel in ninth and Lonwabo Tsotsobe in 10th.
India's Ravichandran Ashwin has moved up three places to 14th, while
Pakistan's Junaid Khan in 19th (up by seven) has moved into the top 20 for the
first-time ever.
Outside the top 20, Ryan McLaren in 22nd (up by four), Ravi
Rampaul in 28th (up by six), Shahid Afridi in 29th (up by two), Mohammad Shami
in 50th (up by 14) and Wayne Parnell in 54th (up by four) are some of the
others to move upwards.
Pakistan spinner Saeed Ajmal has maintained his hold on the
number-one rank on the ICC Player Rankings for ODI bowlers with West Indies'
Sunil Narine in second and India's Ravindra Jadeja in third place.
Meanwhile, Pakistan's Mohammed Hafeez has ceded the number-one
rank on the ICC Player Rankings for ODI all-rounders to Bangladesh's Shakib Al
Hasan, with Australia's Shane Watson moving up a place to second. Hafeez is now
ranked third in the all-rounders' list.
Sunday, 1 December 2013
Gambhir should be in team for SA tour
Mumbai: India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni
hinted that the side would miss the experience of opener Gautam Gambhir in South Africa. Dhoni
surprised the media at a press conference in Mumbai on Sunday by saying that
Gambhir, who is not part of the Test squad, is the third opener in the five-day
format. Gambhir has done well in the ongoing Ranji Trophy for Delhi.
"If you see, Gautam is definitely the third opener that we are considering. As of now, Murali Vijay and Shikhar Dhawan, they have done really well for us. So third opener as of now is Gautam," Dhoni said. (The battles in South Africa)
"I know (Gambhir is not part of the team) but he is the third opener. But you never asked if he is part of the team," Dhoni added before India left for their African Safari.
Dhoni also said that it was not decided who will replace Sachin Tendulkar at No.4 in Tests. (We will fight fire with fire: Dhoni)
"We are not decided on No.4. No one is going to replace anyone else. If possible, we will omit the number 4. And try to bat 1, 2, 3, 5, 6... And 12," said Dhoni.
The skipper also said it will be a fresh start for Indian cricket as the team embarks on a tour to South Africa without the Master Blaster, who retired from all forms of cricket last month.
Dhoni said the three-match ODI series that starts the tour will help the team prepare well for the two Tests. (Top-5 Indians to watch out for)
India will first play the ODI series in Johannesburg (Dec 5), Durban (Dec 8) and Centurion (Dec 8).
The only practice match, a two-day affair, is slated for Dec 14 and first Test starts Dec 18 in Johannesburg and the second from Dec 26 in Durban.
"If you see, there is always a new start," Dhoni added.
He said it will be a new challenge for his young team.
"Many of them have had good exposure if not in Tests, but in ODIs. It is a new challenge for all of them and a new learning curve. It is always a challenge when you go outside. Which length to bowl and to adjust to the bounce of the wickets. It is good to start with ODIs. As the batsmen can play their shots and express themselves and carry it into the Tests," Dhoni said.
Dhoni also hoped that the bowlers will perform better in the death overs unlike what they have done in the series against Australia.
"In different conditions the statistics would be different. There will be pace and bounce on offer for the fast bowlers. Along with the yorkers, they can use bouncers and a little bit pace. So we will see how it goes," he said.
The India captain said bowlers have improved a lot while bowling in the death overs, but expects a lot more from them.
"In the last few matches it has improved a lot but we are trying to see how to improve (more), so that we don't give lot of runs in the last 10 overs. If you see our Champions Trophy performance and if you compare our death (overs) bowling you will see that it is a completely different scenario. The ideal would be to compare how the Indian bowlers performed in the last 10 overs and how Australian bowlers performed in the death overs in the same game. Then it becomes more realistic," he said.
Dhoni said it would be a good series between the two top Test nations. (Full preview)
"If you see both the teams are well positioned in the rankings. In ODIs it is us and in Tests it is them. It is going to be an exciting and interesting series. The key is getting adjusted to conditions as early as possible," he said.
"They have a very good team, a well balanced team, with genuine all-rounders. Pressure goes hand in hand whether we play in India or away," he added.
Dhoni also said that the team management is yet to decide whether they will go in with five specialist bowlers. (Related: The rise of Mohammed Shami)
"We have to see the strength of our batting line up. At the same time, whether four bowlers are good enough to get the opposition out. If you see, at times five batsmen are not enough, even six are not enough. And if you see the last two Test matches, the number six batsman has had a lot of impact on the game. We will weigh how it is and then decide," he said.
"If you see, Gautam is definitely the third opener that we are considering. As of now, Murali Vijay and Shikhar Dhawan, they have done really well for us. So third opener as of now is Gautam," Dhoni said. (The battles in South Africa)
"I know (Gambhir is not part of the team) but he is the third opener. But you never asked if he is part of the team," Dhoni added before India left for their African Safari.
Dhoni also said that it was not decided who will replace Sachin Tendulkar at No.4 in Tests. (We will fight fire with fire: Dhoni)
"We are not decided on No.4. No one is going to replace anyone else. If possible, we will omit the number 4. And try to bat 1, 2, 3, 5, 6... And 12," said Dhoni.
The skipper also said it will be a fresh start for Indian cricket as the team embarks on a tour to South Africa without the Master Blaster, who retired from all forms of cricket last month.
Dhoni said the three-match ODI series that starts the tour will help the team prepare well for the two Tests. (Top-5 Indians to watch out for)
India will first play the ODI series in Johannesburg (Dec 5), Durban (Dec 8) and Centurion (Dec 8).
The only practice match, a two-day affair, is slated for Dec 14 and first Test starts Dec 18 in Johannesburg and the second from Dec 26 in Durban.
"If you see, there is always a new start," Dhoni added.
He said it will be a new challenge for his young team.
"Many of them have had good exposure if not in Tests, but in ODIs. It is a new challenge for all of them and a new learning curve. It is always a challenge when you go outside. Which length to bowl and to adjust to the bounce of the wickets. It is good to start with ODIs. As the batsmen can play their shots and express themselves and carry it into the Tests," Dhoni said.
Dhoni also hoped that the bowlers will perform better in the death overs unlike what they have done in the series against Australia.
"In different conditions the statistics would be different. There will be pace and bounce on offer for the fast bowlers. Along with the yorkers, they can use bouncers and a little bit pace. So we will see how it goes," he said.
The India captain said bowlers have improved a lot while bowling in the death overs, but expects a lot more from them.
"In the last few matches it has improved a lot but we are trying to see how to improve (more), so that we don't give lot of runs in the last 10 overs. If you see our Champions Trophy performance and if you compare our death (overs) bowling you will see that it is a completely different scenario. The ideal would be to compare how the Indian bowlers performed in the last 10 overs and how Australian bowlers performed in the death overs in the same game. Then it becomes more realistic," he said.
Dhoni said it would be a good series between the two top Test nations. (Full preview)
"If you see both the teams are well positioned in the rankings. In ODIs it is us and in Tests it is them. It is going to be an exciting and interesting series. The key is getting adjusted to conditions as early as possible," he said.
"They have a very good team, a well balanced team, with genuine all-rounders. Pressure goes hand in hand whether we play in India or away," he added.
Dhoni also said that the team management is yet to decide whether they will go in with five specialist bowlers. (Related: The rise of Mohammed Shami)
"We have to see the strength of our batting line up. At the same time, whether four bowlers are good enough to get the opposition out. If you see, at times five batsmen are not enough, even six are not enough. And if you see the last two Test matches, the number six batsman has had a lot of impact on the game. We will weigh how it is and then decide," he said.
Sachin Tendulkar leaves with stirring speech..
Sachin Tendulkar retired from
international cricket after playing his 200th and final Test. India went on to
win the second and final Test against the West Indies in Mumbai by innings and
126 runs to seal the series 2-0 and present Tendulkar with a perfect farewell
gift. The entire Indian team gave a moving lap of honour to the Little Master
as soon as the match ended. The Master Blaster gave an emotional speech that
had everyone in tears at the Wankhede Stadium. Here is the full text of his
speech
Friends,
please settle down, I will get more and more emotional! My life has been
between 22 yards for 24 years and it's hard to believe my wonderful journey is
coming to an end. but I would like to take this opportunity to thank people who
have played an important role in my life.
The
most important person in my life, who I have missed since since 1999 when he
passed away, is my father. Without his guidance I wouldn't be standing in front
of you. He gave me freedom at the age of 11 and told me: 'Chase your dreams,
but make sure you do not find short cuts. Don't give up, the path will be
difficult.' Every time I have done something special and raised my bat, it was
for my father. I miss him today.
My
mother, I don't how she dealt with such a naughty like guy me. I was not easy
to manage. She must be extremely patient. She took care of me for the last 24
years that I have played for India, but even before that she started praying
for me the day I started playing cricket.I think those prayers and blessings
gave me strength.
In
my school days, for four years, I used to stay with my uncle and aunt as my
school was far away. They treated me like their son. After a hard day's play, I
would be half asleep and mu aunt would be feeding me food so I could go again
and play tomorrow. I can't forget these moments.
My
eldest brother Nitin doesn't like to talk much but he said, 'whatever you do, I
know you will give 100 percent'. His encouragement meant a lot to me. My
sister, Savita, and her family, was no different. My first cricket bat was presented
to me by my sister, a Kashmir willow bat. That is where the journey began. She
still continues to fast while I bat.
Ajit,
my brother, I don't what do I talk about him. We have lived this dream
together. It all started from the age of 11, when he took me to Achrekar sir my
coach. And my life changed. You will find this hard to believe but even last
night he called to discuss my dismissal, knowing that there was a remote chance
of batting again, but just the habit we have developed, the rapport we have
developed.
Various
things we agreed upon and disagreed upon. We have had a lot of arguments over
my technique. Even last night he called me to discuss my dismissal. If I had
not done that, I would have been a lesser cricketer.
The
most beautiful thing happened to me in 1990 when I met my wife, Anjali. Those
were special years and it has continued and will always continue that way. I
know Anjali, being a doctor; there was a wonderful career in front of her. When
we decided to have a family, Anjali took the initiative to step back , she
decided that I should continue playing and she took care of the children.
Thanks for bearing with me for all the nonsense I've said. You are the best
partnership that I had in my life.
The
two precious diamonds of my life Sara and Arjun. They have already grown up. My
daughter is 16, my son is 14. Time has flown by. I've missed out on several
birthdays, holidays, annual days and sports days. Thanks for understanding,
both of you have been so special to me. I've not spent enough time with you but
I promise you the next 16 years or even beyond that, everything is for you.
My
in-laws - Anand Mehta and Annabel -- have been always supportive, loving and
caring. I discuss various things with them, we have a strong family. The most
important thing they did was allowing me to marry Anjali, so thank you very
much.
TIn
the last 24 years that I have played for India I have made new friends, and
before that I have had friends from my childhood. They have all had a terrific
contribution. As and when I have called them to come and bowl to me at the
nets, they have left their work aside to come and help me. Even for when I was
injured, I would wake up in the morning because I couldn't sleep and thought
that my career was over because of injuries, that is when my friends have woken
up at 3 o'clock in the morning to drive with me and make me believe that my
career was not over.
My
cricket career started when I was 11. The turning point of my career was when
my my brother Ajit took me to Achrekar sir and that is the best thing to have
happened to me. Sir would be taking me on his scooter all over Mumbai. I would
bat one innings in Shivaji Park and then the next at Azad Maidan to ensure that
I get enough match practice. On a lighter note, he's never said well played to
me for 29 years so that I don't get complacent. Maybe he can push his luck and
wish me now, well done on my career, because there are no more matches, sir, in
my life. I will be witnessing cricket, and cricket will always stay in my
heart, but you have had an immense contribution in my life, so thank you very
much.
My
cricket for Mumbai started right here on this ground, the Mumbai Cricket
Association (MCA), which is so dear to me. I remember landing from New Zealand
at 4 a.m. and playing a Ranji game the next day because I wanted to be a part
of Mumbai cricket, and not that somebody forced me. I have had a great
relationship with the BCCI who believed in me to give me a debut when I was
just 16. Thanks to the selectors.
We
see it on the mega-screen, Rahul, Laxman, Sourav, and Anil, who is not here,
and my team-mates right here in front me. You are like my family away from
home. I have had some wonderful times with you. It is going to be difficult to
not be part of the dressing room, sharing those special moments.
I will be failing in my duty if I didn't thank the doctors who have kept me fit. Given the injuries I have suffered. They have treated me in odd hours.
My dear friend the late Mark Mascarenhas. I miss him. My current management team WSG, for continuing what Mark has done. Someone who has worked closely with me for 14 years is my friend Vinod Nayudu.
The
media has backed me a lot, since my school days. Even today. Thank you. Thanks
to the photographers for capturing those moments.
I
know my speech has become long. I want to thank people who have flown in from
different parts of the world. I want to thank my fans from the bottom of my
heart. 'Sachin, Sachin' will reverberate in my ears till I stop breathing.
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