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freenewstoday · 3 years

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New Post has been published on https://freenews.today/2021/03/06/patels-journey-to-test-stardom/

Patel's journey to Test stardom

India captain Virat Kohli hands Axar Patel his cap ahead of the spinner’s Test debut against England on 13 February

Three Tests, three successive heavy England defeats and four five-wicket hauls for Axar Patel.

It was perhaps fitting England’s final batting collapse on a chastening tour of India was, once again, at the hands of India’s newest spin sensation.

Never before has an Indian spinner enjoyed such a productive debut series as Patel has against England.

From the moment he was handed his Test cap by India captain Virat Kohli on 13 February, he has tormented England’s batsmen, picking up 27 wickets at an average of just 10.59.

So who exactly is this almost-overnight sensation? From the mystery surrounding his name to a short yet impressive stint in county cricket, BBC Sport delves deeper into the 27-year-old’s journey to international stardom.

Axar or Akshar? The rise of Patel

Patel has taken four five-wicket hauls in just six innings since making his Test debut

Born in the Anand district of the state of Gujarat, Patel – like many young boys and girls in India – grew up with a love for cricket, but playing professionally was not on the radar.

At the age of 15, however, his talents as a gifted batsman and seam bowler were noticed by peers, friends and, notably, his dad who encouraged Patel to take the sport more seriously.

Just three years later, in just his second first-class match, Patel gave us a glimpse into his future when he took 6-55 for Gujarat against Delhi.

Followers of his social media – he has more than 750,000 on Instagram alone – may notice he goes by the name Akshar, and there are conflicting reports as to the correct spelling and pronunciation of his name.

Some suggest a school principal spelt it wrong on an official form, while others say it was down to a clinical error from a nurse when he was born.

Regardless, Patel started to make a name for himself on the cricket field in 2013 when, aged 19, he was drafted by Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League.

Despite not playing a game for the franchise, Patel rubbed shoulders with the very best cricket had to offer, in a team which was captained by Australia batsman Ricky Ponting and included India greats Sachin Tendulkar and spinner Harbhajan Singh.

BBC Test Match Special pundit and former Indian cricketer Abhishek Jhunjhunwala says Patel’s introduction to IPL cricket delivered invaluable experience.

“When you play in such a big tournament, you get to tap into great cricketers and coaching staff, some of the greatest in the world. It was brilliant for Axar,” Jhunjhunwala said.

Patel’s promise was spotted by Kings XI Punjab who drafted him for the 2014 season, when he took 17 wickets.

His performances caught the eyes of the national selectors and Patel made his debut in a one-day international against Bangladesh in the summer of 2014, followed by his T20 debut the following year.

Test cricket ‘a piece of cake’

Patel became a mainstay in the Punjab team, picking up 61 wickets over five seasons before moving to Delhi in 2018.

He has gone on to play 38 one-day internationals and 11 T20s for India but waited almost seven years for his foray into the longer format.

Patel, selected as a replacement for the injured Ravindra Jadeja, missed the first game against England due to injury.

In the second Test, however, he made an immediate impact, taking seven wickets in the match, including 5-60 in the second innings.

It was the third game – a pink-ball Test in his home city of Ahmedabad – in which he really shone with figures of 6-38 and 5-42 as India romped to another comfortable victory.

Jhunjhunwala says Test cricket “instantly seemed like a piece of cake” for Patel.

“He’s been a decent performer in domestic cricket but to do it on the big stage in Test cricket, I don’t think anybody could have predicted that,” he said.

Axar developed a formidable partnership with team-mate Ravichandran Ashwin, with former England captain Michael Vaughan saying they “exhibited a masterclass in spin bowling”.

But what exactly is it that makes such Patel such a threat with the ball?

“The biggest ammunition is his line and length,” Jhunjhunwala says.

“He’s relentless with his length which makes it so difficult for the batsmen to get any runs off him.”

Jhunjhunwala, who played domestic cricket in India up until 2012, also praised Patel’s arm ball – a straighter delivery which deceived and bewildered several England batsmen over the series.

“He bowls fast, often over 100 kilometres per hour, and when one ball is turning and one is not, it is really difficult for any batsman,” he said.

For Patel, there is a secret behind the success of his arm ball.

“I was a fast bowler in the early days of my career, which is why my bowling style is a bit quicker,” he said after the third Test.

“So, I think my experience of being a fast bowler also helps me bowl arm balls.”

Bringing Bollywood to Durham

Patel is likely to be a part of India’s squad for this summer’s tour of England, but it will not be his first taste of playing in English conditions.

In 2018 he had a short stint with Durham – playing in four first-class games in the County Championship – where he stuck up a friendship with Ireland international Barry McCarthy.

“We came from different backgrounds but we just gelled,” the Dublin-born bowler says.

“I play international cricket yet nobody in Ireland has a clue who I am. Whereas he was already playing international cricket in India and couldn’t leave the house.”

Nowadays Patel is very active on social media – so much so that even his dog has an Instagram account – but he was a “quiet character” when he first arrived at Chester-le-Street, according to McCarthy.

However, it did not take long for Patel’s personality to shine through.

“We had a culture of speaking your mind and having a laugh at Durham and on a bus journey down to Glamorgan he just seemed very quiet, I wasn’t sure how he’d fit in,” McCarthy says.

“But by the time we were on the journey back, it all changed.

“The team were having a few beers as it was a long drive back. Axar wasn’t drinking but he really got involved.

“He put on some Bollywood music and was showing us all his dance moves.”

‘Red-ball cricket is not for me’

Patel averages 17 from seven innings in T20 cricket for India at a strike-rate of 125.92

McCarthy is not surprised by Patel’s early success in Test cricket, but was not sure what to expect when they first met.

“We were watching an England v India Test on the TV in the changing room and I said to him ‘that could be you’ and he said ‘no, I’m not sure red-ball cricket is for me, it’s very long,'” McCarthy recalls.

Patel, who has a first-class career batting average of 33.54, including 14 half-centuries and one century – scored an unbeaten 95 in the game against Glamorgan and took 7-54 against Warwickshire a few weeks later.

“His knock against Glamorgan showed us he’s a genuine all-rounder and I expect him to go on and perform with the bat in Test cricket too,” says McCarthy.

“And that spell of bowling in Birmingham was just phenomenal, it wasn’t a turning pitch. He just knew his own game so well.”

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gokul2181 · 4 years

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Feeling yet to sink in but my life hasn't changed at all: Pat Cummins on IPL big bucks | Cricket News

New Post has been published on https://jordarnews.in/feeling-yet-to-sink-in-but-my-life-hasnt-changed-at-all-pat-cummins-on-ipl-big-bucks-cricket-news/

Feeling yet to sink in but my life hasn't changed at all: Pat Cummins on IPL big bucks | Cricket News

Pat Cummins. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

NEW DELHI: It’s been six months since he struck IPL gold with a record-breaking bid but Australian pace spearhead Pat Cummins says his life hasn’t changed one bit because he has never been the sort to be too affected by either success or failure. The world No.1 Test bowler was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for a record Rs 15.5 crore (AUD 3.17 million), making him the highest paid foreign player in the history of the league. “I would like to think my life doesn’t change much at all,” Cummins told PTI in an exclusive interaction when asked about the impact of the headline-grabbing event last December. “I try my best in every game I play but I try to not let any successes or setbacks change my life too much,” the 27-year-old added. Asked whether the high of that day has faded away, he said, “Not really.” “May be, once I get over there to play,” added the star bowler. A lot of cricketers have had changed priorities since the advent of private T20 leagues but Cummins is a chip off the old block who, like India skipper Virat Kohli, values the Test format. “I grew up watching and loving Test cricket and nothing has changed. I think it is the most challenging format because it tests your skill, stamina, mental strength,” he explained. “Each and every Test win is incredibly satisfying,” said Cummins, who has 143 wickets from 30 Tests at an impressive average of 21.82. With Cricket Australia allowing its players to start outdoor training, the speedster is back sweating it out in the nets but said that it would take some time to reach peak match condition. “It takes at least a couple of months to build back up to full pace and fitness but luckily we have some time. We started bowling two weeks ago. So, we will be ready for when we start,” said Cummins. From Cummins’ point of view, it would be good to start with the T20 format and probably by the time the Test matches (Afghanistan first followed by India) start in December, he would be ready for the rigours of five-day cricket. “White ball is certainly a bit easier physically to prepare for. It’s good that by the time Tests start in November-December, we would have built up in T20s and ODIs so should be fine,” said the man, who has 284 international wickets. While he didn’t comment on the much-hyped series against India at the end of the year but the first Day/Night Test between the two teams in Adelaide from December 11-15 is something he is looking forward to. “We enjoy the Pink Ball Tests, especially at Adelaide where it is a great spectacle,” Cummins’ statement was a reiteration of Australia’s dominance in Pink ball matches at the Adelaide Oval. The fast bowler also didn’t seem too worried about the adjustments cricketers will have to make when the sport starts amid the Covid-19 pandemic. For starters, saliva can no longer be used to shine the ball. “There may be some minor adjustments like we have all had to make in our lives and jobs but cricket is a sport where we don’t have to tackle or make contact directly with other players. So, I don’t think the game will be compromised too much,” he said. Despite his share of injuries, Cummins has been the face of Australian pace attack which also comprises Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. So what kind of legacy would he like to create for a country that has produced Dennis Lillee, Glenn McGrath, and Brett Lee to name a few? “I think a legacy is for others to judge,” he replied. “Who knows, hopefully a long career with some successes. We have a pretty special team full of superstars at the moment. Hopefully we can carve out our own little bit of history,” he concluded.

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xtruss · 4 years

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‘Lahore Attack Taught Me a Lot About My Character and Values’: Kumar Sangakkara

— Andrew Miller | UK editor, ESPNcricinfo

Kumar Sangakkara speaks in Lahore at the start of MCC's tour

Pakistan's emergence from international purgatory is slowly but surely coming to fruition. In recent years the growth of the PSL, and the willingness of its overseas stars to put themselves forward for the knock-out stages in Karachi and Lahore, has helped to accelerate a process that culminated, late last year, in Sri Lanka's arrival for the first Tests on Pakistan soil in more than a decade.

Bangladesh too have decided the time is nigh to get the show back on the road, with the second Test of their two-part tour due to take place in Karachi in April, after last week's innings win at Rawalpindi was lit up by a hat-trick for Pakistan's latest teenage sensation Naseem Shah.

But for sheer symbolism, few matches will resonate more than the one taking place under the Gadaffi Stadium floodlights on Friday, when Kumar Sangakkara leads his MCC side in a T20 contest against Lahore Qalanders. In doing so, he will return to the scene of the most shocking atrocity to be visited on an international sporting team since the Munich Olympics in 1972.

The events of March 3, 2009 are all too well known to cricket's tight-knit global community. As the Sri Lanka team bus approached the stadium for what should have been the third morning of the second Test against Pakistan, they were ambushed by 12 gunmen on the Liberty Roundabout, sprayed with bullets and subjected to rocket and grenade assaults, in an attack that left six policemen and two civilians dead, as well as the driver of the minibus carrying the match officials.

Heroically, the Sri Lankans' bus driver, Mehar Mohammad Khalil, kept their vehicle moving towards the stadium compound despite having his tyres shot from beneath him, but amid the chaos, seven of the team suffered shrapnel and gunshot wounds - most seriously, Tharanga Paranavitana and Thilan Samaraweera, who only the previous day had completed his second double century in a fortnight.

Sangakkara himself had a shockingly near miss. As he related in his MCC Spirit of Cricket lecture in 2011, in the very moment that he turned his head to attend to Samaraweera, he felt the wind of a bullet fizz past his ear and strike his seat. The last time he and his team-mates departed the Gadaffi Stadium, it was as evacuees in a military helicopter. His return, more than a decade later, provides closure on the one hand, and hope on the other.

Meher Muhammad Khalil drove the Sri Lanka team to safety during the 2009 terror attack

"I don't think I need any flashbacks, because I remember that day and those moments so very clearly," Sangakkara told ESPNcricinfo, on the day of the team's arrival in Pakistan. "It's not something I relive or wallow in. But it's an experience you should never forget, because it gives you perspective in terms of life and sport, and you learn a lot about your own values and characters, and those of others.

"I have no reservations about talking about it, it's not something that upsets me, but these sorts of experiences can only strengthen you. Today I consider yourself very fortunate to be able to come back here to Lahore, and at the same time remember the sacrifice of all those who lost their lives that day."

The emotions among the Sri Lankans ran understandably wild in the immediate aftermath of the attack, though as Sangakkara recalled, their innate resilience shone through first and foremost, along with a certain grim humour too. Within minutes, Ajantha Mendis, himself injured in the attack, was reaching for his poker chips and setting up a card school, while Sangakkara's own thoughts somehow kept coming back to Paranavitana's terrible first taste of international cricket - a golden duck on debut, and now hospitalised with a bullet in his chest.

"I think everyone deals with it in their own personal way," Sangakkara said. "But at the same time, what really unites us is that you face adversity and you face challenge, and you have to get past it, and you've got to do that successfully. It's about moving forwards and upwards and being part of cricket. Being Sri Lankan you learn those lessons quite well, because throughout our civil war, cricket was a unique vibe.

"We speak about the attack at various times," he added. "We even have a laugh about it, in terms of what we went through, because it helps sometimes to look at it with a bit of humour, even though there was a tragic loss of life, and other serious injuries within that incident.

"And I think for us also, it's brought home the fact that being a cricketer on the international stage, you are not immune to real-life situations and the experiences of other people that you might not otherwise connect with. It's really a strengthening experience for us, a humbling one as well, and it puts a lot of things in perspective."

Sri Lankan players prepare to board a Pakistani military helicopter

That said, Sangakkara had no reason to think he'd ever come back to Lahore after the attack, certainly once it became clear that international cricket would not be returning to Pakistan before his retirement in 2015. But as MCC president - an office that speaks, in his words, of "stewardship and legacy" - he felt a compunction to lead a side back to the country to help to spread the word that one of the game's "powerhouses" is open for business once again.

"There is history and tradition galore at MCC but to actually use that to benefit the game, not just in the UK and within the club framework, but beyond that, internationally, will edify the philosophy of MCC," Sangakkara said. "We feel we have a role, not just as the guardians of the spirit and laws, but of the game itself. We leave a legacy of trust and support in all the countries that we tour."

The 12-man squad, which will be coached by Ajmal Shahzad and also features the likes of Ravi Bopara, Ross Whiteley and Roelof van der Merwe, is due to play four fixtures in the space of six days - three of them in the leafy environs of Aitcheson College, the so-called "Eton of Pakistan", which counts Imran Khan among its most illustrious old boys.

Most of the trip, in fact, will be a far cry from the hustle and hype of a full international tour, and Sangakkara was at pains to point out that MCC's presence was not about pointing fingers at any Test nations that might still be having doubts about committing fully to a return to Pakistan - least of all the next scheduled visitors South Africa, who are due to tour the country next month, pending security clearance.

"Our message is very simple," said Sangakkara. "We are here because we are confident that we will have a great tour. There's been a huge effort by Wasim Khan [managing director] at the PCB, and the government, to get us here, and once we are able to show that this tour has gone off successfully, that message will resonate beyond Pakistan, and go a long way towards strengthening the purpose of other sides who are making the decision to come back.

"These things take time. You have to build confidence by sending the right message, then you need the right protocols and the right arrangements in place. But it's great to see it all gathering momentum. More and more teams are talking about it, and more teams are coming back."

As for Sangakkara's own return, his first 24 hours back in Pakistan have turned out to be improbably relaxing.

"I did spend some time thinking what it would feel like, coming back to Lahore, going to the ground and staying at the Pearl Continental Hotel," he said. "But the reception at the airport was brilliant, everyone was so passionate about us coming here. It really made us relax, getting into the bus. It feels lovely to be back, and I'm glad I made the decision to come back to Lahore and be part of this tour.

"It's about reigniting the passion and the spark of inspiration for young Pakistani boys and girls, who want to be able to watch their heroes, playing at home in front of them in the flesh. The best in the world, competing and winning and doing great things.

"There's no greater legacy can be left behind than that, and for MCC to be part of that effort to bring international cricket back to Pakistan, I think we can all be quite proud."

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bigyack-com · 4 years

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Exclusive | Navdeep Saini reveals how he got his first wicket, World T20 ambitions - cricket

Navdeep Saini was an uncut diamond when the Karnal-born pacer was plucked out of anonymity and thrust into the Delhi Ranji Trophy team by Gautam Gambhir, amid opposition, six years ago. Now 27, Saini showed he is close to the polished article for India on Sunday on ODI debut in Cuttack on Sunday—the bouncer did Shimron Hetmyer and the yorker arrowed into Roston Chase’s stumps soon after. On his India audition in August, he took 3/17 on T20 debut at Lauderhill, US, against the Windies. Selected for the January home series against Sri Lanka and Australia, the rising pacer talks about how he plotted his dismissals in Cuttack, and about learning the finer points of his trade from India’s best pacers.ExcerptsAfter a good start in T20Is, how tough was it to cope with a groin injury?Injuries can happen to anyone. The important thing is how you comeback and match the standards or take it a level higher. If you’re mentally and physically strong, 100% you can earn your place back.How do you look back on your ODI debut?I was mentally prepared. I knew it was another golden opportunity to prove myself, so just went out and gave my everything.ALSO READ: ‘Goes unnoticed sometimes’: Sourav Ganguly hails highest wicket-taker Ravichandran AshwinTalk about your first ODI wicket—Shimron Hetmyer.When I was playing Ranji Trophy, I wasn’t thinking much about white-ball cricket. My childhood friend Mohit Kalyan (Haryana batsman) follows a lot of cricket on TV. So I called him up to know who was batting well when I received the ODI call-up. He told me about Hetmyer and (Kieron) Pollard and came up with the plan of bowling certain lengths to the West Indies batsmen.Was bowling at Hetmyer’s body part of that plan?Absolutely. I was aware West Indies big-hitters love room outside off-stump. Mohit and I had discussed this. I decided to bowl short and close to Hetmyer’s body, and with my pace I knew it won’t be easy to pull me from that length. (He was caught at fine-leg trying to pull).What about the yorker to bowl Roston Chase?I was practising the yorker while playing Vijay Hazare Trophy. In limited-overs cricket, it is very important to bowl at the death. Also, I was playing Ranji Trophy, where you have to consistently hit one area, which helped a lot. You have to be mentally strong to execute anything. You may have practised less but if you have mental strength to bowl a particular ball to a batsman in an international match, that is the biggest plus point.How is the Indian team atmosphere?The atmosphere in the Indian dressing room is one of the main reasons behind our success. Even when I returned for the final ODI, every member, including the support staff, came up to me and said it’s a big opportunity, and I should remain calm. That helped a lot.ALSO READ: Jasprit Bumrah, Shikhar Dhawan comebacks add spice to Ranji contestsWhat about Kohli?Virat bhai only has one advise, ‘jo cheez tu abhi tak karta aa raha usi cheez ko khulke karna hai, bina dare, bina kuch soche.’(what you’ve been bowling till now, you must do it whole-heartedly, without fear or worrying too much). I was a bit nervous at the start of my first spell. He told me to just focus on the job. The big crowd in Cuttack is no different from IPL and I should just express myself with ball in hand.How is your relationship with other India pacers?We keep talking to each other. When I started my second spell, Mohammad Shami was at mid-off. He guided me on how to handle the pressure because at that time the batsmen were looking for quick runs. He told me not to get defensive but look for wickets.How do you deal with competition with so many quality fast bowlers there?There is a lot of competition, but I see that as an opportunity. The bowling line-up we have is the best in the world right now. So, we don’t have to look elsewhere for competition. I always think about what I can do more to rise to the level of Bumrah, Shami or Ishant. The team management also comes into play. There is a process in place. We have been given clear roles and even if I don’t play a few games, that doesn’t mean I’m out of the scheme of things. The communication is really good.India need a pacer who can bowl with the new ball and at the death for the T20 World Cup.I try to be ready for every situation, whether bowling with the new ball or at the death. The goal will be to be a part of India’s T20 World Cup squad. But there is still some time to go. If I start thinking too much about the future, it will only put unnecessary pressure. It’ll be better if I prepare for one series at a time.What is your plan for the Sri Lanka and Australia series?I want to be consistent with the new and old ball. If I can execute my plans of hitting the lengths at the start and getting the yorkers right in the end, it really won’t matter who my opponents are. If I’m mentally strong enough, then the match situation or opposition won’t be much of a problem.What is the one thing you would like to add to your bowling?Yorker, I need to perfect that art. Every time I see Bumrah, I get a feeling he is at a different level. I want to achieve a yorker like Bumrah has. Read the full article

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thisdaynews · 4 years

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New Zealand v England: Mahmood makes debut in second T20

New Post has been published on https://thebiafrastar.com/new-zealand-v-england-mahmood-makes-debut-in-second-t20/

New Zealand v England: Mahmood makes debut in second T20

New Zealand v England – 2nd T20BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

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Scorecard; Tour schedule

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By Callum Matthews

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Jonathan Agnew

BBC cricket correspondent

What a riposte that is! He has smashed it.

Jonathan Agnew

BBC cricket correspondent

That was a lively first ball. I like the look of that.

Jonathan Agnew

BBC cricket correspondent

It is a beautiful day. When Wellington turns it on, it really is lovely.

1 overs

NZ 3-0

Guptill gets off the mark with a push into the covers for a single – before a leg-bye and a flick into the leg side ends the over.

Good, solid start from Sam Curran.

0.3 overs

NZ 0-0

Curran now gets one to nibble past Guptill’s outside edge.

Encouraging start from the Surrey all-rounder.

Post update

Steven Finn

England bowler on BBC Test Match Special

There’s a little bit of swing there for Sam Curran, targeting those pads.

0.1 over

NZ 0-0

Great start from Sam Curran, right up in the block hole. Martin Guptill does well to dig it out.

Posted at 1:001:00

Post update

The players are out in the middle.

Sam Curran is going to get us going, just like he did in the first game on Friday.

Posted at 0:580:58

Brown aims to put forward World Cup claim

England bowler Pat Brown, who made his debut in the first match on Friday, says he wants to be “impressive enough” in the series to be considered for selection at next year’s T20 World Cup.

The 21-year-old T20 specialist only broke into the Worcester first team in 2017 and is on his first competitive foreign tour after finishing his university studies.

“I’m very proud to have worn the England colours and made my debut as it’s something that looked out of the question three or four years ago,” said Brown, who dismissed Kiwi batsman Ross Taylor for his first international wicket.

“For now, I want to take every moment in on this tour and learn as much as I can, but in the longer term, everyone in that dressing room has their eye on the T20 World Cup and I am no different.”

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

Post update

Steven Finn

England bowler on BBC Test Match Special

Saqib has got some pace. I was watching him in the warm-up and even off a short run, he’s got a whippy action. He’s one of those guys that looks like he’s trying to bowl quick. It’ll be interesting to see how he goes.

Posted at 0:530:53

‘It’s something you dream about’

BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra

Saqib Mahmood speaking to TMS:“It’s something you dream about as a child. I’ve still got to pinch myself. I always loved cricket as a youngster.

“Playing for England was always a dream. I remember someone said a while ago you line up all your caps from every team you play for.

“For me, I’m in this environment and I’ve got to make the most of it. For now, I’m focusing on the T20s, get out there, perform, and the Tests will come after.”

Post update

Posted at 0:490:49

Denly ruled out of T20 series

Getty ImagesCopyright: Getty Images

In case you missed it, Joe Denly has been ruled out of the remainder of this five-match T20 series because of an ankle injury.

The Kent batsman, 33, sustained ligament damage to his right ankle during practice on Thursday.

Denly will stay in New Zealand and begin a rehabilitation programme with the of the recovering for the two-Test series which begins at Mount Maunganui on Thursday, 21 November (22:00 GMT on 20 November).

England have not summoned a replacement at this stage.

Posted at 0:460:46

Tune in

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Tonight’s coverage from Test Match Special is just getting under way.

Join Jonathan Agnew and the rest of the team by using the play icon at the top of the page.

#debut #second

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toldnews-blog · 5 years

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New Post has been published on https://toldnews.com/sports/real-challenge-begins-when-you-reach-the-top/

'Real challenge begins when you reach the top'

Jasprit Bumrah has enjoyed a phenomenal first year of international cricket, from a memorable Test debut in Cape Town to a nine-wicket haul in Melbourne, followed by a historic series win in Australia. In a freewheeling chat with TOI, the 25-year-old talks about his cricket.

Excerpts from the interview…

They’re all talking about you and your action for a year now, but you haven’t said much yourself. Are you generally this shy?

(Laughs) Not at all! I’m not shy. I do speak. It’s just that I take my time to open up, ever since I was a kid. People who know me will give you a different report if you ask them.

Dennis Lillee says you remind him of Jeff Thomson. You were born seven or eight years after Thomson retired. He too had an unusual action and will be remembered as one of the greatest. Being different can have its benefits too…

I’ve always been like this. I don’t take a lot of opinions seriously. Opinions change by the day, depending on what you bring to the table, how you perform. You can’t be taking every opinion seriously. What I try and do is focus on my strengths – what I can do, how far can I push myself – and I back them up with the best effort I can put in. If you don’t believe in yourself, nobody can help you. That’s something I’ve spent a good deal of time telling myself.

Tell us about your childhood…did you always want to bowl fast?

As a kid, I was like anybody else, playing cricket, enjoying it. The only difference is, right from when I can remember, I always used to love bowling. I used to play a lot of tennis-ball cricket and still remember telling my friends, I’ll give you three-four chances, you just keep batting and I’ll bowl. It was then that I began to realize that I was quick. Nobody told me that. When you play tennis-ball cricket, you’ve got to be faster in the air. The surface is of no help. That was one of the reasons that focusing on pace alone become important. I’m lucky I’ve been able to fulfill that dream.

Did you grow up watching any fast bowler or bowlers in particular?

I used to admire a lot of fast bowlers. I used to watch cricket on TV only for the fast bowlers. I was never a fan of watching big sixes or batsmen scoring hundreds. I always used to enjoy watching fifers and bowlers bowling fast, scaring batsmen, intimidating them. No particular bowler as such.

Fast bowlers typically have classic open-chested, side-arm actions. How come you never tried copying that?

I wasn’t really interested in copying anybody’s action. I can understand what you’re saying – those fanboy moments. But that never happened to me.

In the Cape Town Test last year, your spell in the first Innings and the second innings just polarized opinion. Many changed their opinion of you after your Day Four spell…

I heard some of those opinions. I didn’t take them seriously then, don’t do that now. I take very few people seriously in my life. As a child growing up, I had a different action and people didn’t waste any time telling me that. I used to be inundated with suggestions on what I need to do and don’t. I didn’t listen to any of that. Never. It’s not like I don’t listen but what I do know is that at all times, I’ve got to find a way out on my own. That has given me a lot of self-belief – the idea of going and finding a way on my own. When I’m low, it is the same mindset that helps me today. Backing yourself is the best gift an individual can give himself.

How do you get your yorkers right so often?

As a kid, with the tennis ball, you can bowl only one kind of a delivery. There’s length in question, no bouncers. There’s only one ball that you have to practice. At that time, I played for fun. But later, when you start playing serious cricket, you realize the importance of that delivery. It still takes the same amount of hard work to get it right in a match situation. I do spend enough hours now trying to get all the little things correct. The line, the length, the bounce – the game now actively involves playing three formats which are very different from each other. So, there’s constant work to be done to stay in tune with each of them.

Did you consciously work on the away-going delivery?

It’s not like I couldn’t or didn’t have that in my armoury (earlier). Probably because I first managed to catch everybody’s attention in a particular format is why certain deliveries that I bowled were seen as core strengths. But I’m never happy with what I do, I’m always interested in expanding the base. It’s a big reason why I developed a good rapport with Shane Bond (Mumbai Indians’ bowling coach). You should ask him the number of questions I used to go to him with, all the time, asking him (how) I could add variety to my bowling.

Questions like…

What am I lacking right now? What are the deliveries, lengths I should try exploring? New ball, old ball – what line should I be bowling? The different surfaces and what it would take to adjust to them. There would be never-ending questions. The idea was to keep improving all the time.

How many deliveries do you need to get that rhythm going? On game eve, do you prefer relaxing or do you actually have to toil to find your groove?

Bowling is a lot about feel. Sometimes you get that feel in just two deliveries. Sometimes it doesn’t fall in place from the word go and it requires that much more toil and effort. Each day is a new day at work. It’s all about listening to your mind, going by gut feel.

Doubts have been expressed regarding your longevity with this action…

I’ve come to the realization that no action is perfect. Tell me a bowler who’s not been injured. That’s part of the game, specially these days when so much cricket is played. Your body adapts. With my kind of action, my strengths that I bring to the table, the constant question is, ‘How can I be effective?’

You’re also among the fittest members in the team right now…

When I first made the transition from first-class cricket to the international stage, I realised that if I had to sustain myself at this level, my idea of fitness would have to be taken to a whole new level. Fitness was the criteria back then too but international cricket is a different ballgame. Thankfully, I realized this quickly.

You have your cheat days?

Cheat days get lesser by the day. The more you inculcate discipline, cheat days just keep disappearing and there comes a time when the idea of a cheat day doesn’t even occur to you. I changed my diet, changed my training routines, starting ticking certain boxes that were new to my daily routine. It’s simple – if I have to give myself the best opportunity to perform, I’ve got to remain in the best shape possible. The thing is, reaching certain fitness levels is only half the work done. Staying there is the tougher half. The real challenge begins when you reach the top.

And then there’s mental fitness. How does that work for you?

Music. In my case, that helps me a lot. And yoga. Once I’m off cricket, nobody gets to know where I am, what I’m doing. When I’m with friends, family, we don’t talk cricket and that, I’ve realized, is important too. Not talking about cricket is as important as talking about cricket. You need to switch off in order to switch on.

Name a spell or a wicket that’s become your favourite…

No favourites as such. Debut in Cape Town, a series win in Australia – what can be more wonderful than that? You know, now that I look back, small things that happened between spells, between innings, how wonderfully I got to learn with each passing game. The first innings in Cape Town for instance, I bowled, learned what kind of line was required there, what the conditions demanded. And then coming back in the second innings keeping those aspects in mind, doing what was required – that is what I cherish.

Not everybody walks away with AB de Villiers as his first Test victim…

Yes, that was nice. Motivating.

There must be some wicket that you might remember for the way your plan worked…

The third Test in England. Trent Bridge. I had missed the first two Tests and was making a comeback and there was so much talk already in the England camp. They’d seen videos, there was some analysis and there were experts there who said, “This guy has only one type of delivery.” Some claimed I only had an away delivery for left-handers. I said fine, if this is what they’re thinking, then I have a bit of an advantage here. Because they don’t know that I have an out-swinger as well. I remember I was bowling to Keaton Jennings and I started with two away deliveries. I teased him by moving slightly over the wicket before bringing one back in slightly. It turned out to be just enough. Small joys are the best ones.

Earlier in your career, no-balls became a talking point. You seem to have worked on them till you got it right…

Firstly, in the World T20 semis, I didn’t bowl the no-ball. People tend to remember that because of the Champions Trophy. It was someone else who bowled the no-ball in the T20 game and I was the one who took the catch. But I’ve done that in the Champions Trophy so people are putting the other one on me too (laughs). But that’s okay. On a serious note, I did realize there was a problem (with no-balls) and I worked on it. The correction never happens overnight. So, I had to keep on working on it before I could move on.

Describe the key elements you focus on, especially before a big series coming up…

First, preparation is key. Second, keep an eye on the opposition, especially when you’re playing in their backyard. They know what’s best suited in their conditions, so constantly watching them can reveal things. Third: adapt. Keep repeating this.

Bharat Arun and Shane Bond are two coaches you have been closely associated with…

Bharat Arun has known me since my U-19 days. After playing some U-19 cricket for Gujarat, I went to the National Cricket Academy (NCA), that was the first time he saw me. Usually, when a coach sees a bowler for the first time, there’s bound to be some discussion on technique. But when he saw me, his first reaction was – you don’t need to change anything about your action. It’s nice working with Bharat Arun. He’s always open to discussions, backs me up all the time. Then, at Mumbai Indians, I came across Shane Bond. I had come back from injuries and was looking to find my feet again and a kind of a new journey began with him.

Rohit (Sharma) has been your captain at Mumbai Indians and always praises you…

He’s seen me before I was an India player and he’s seeing me now. He’s seen phases that I’ve been through. The thing with Rohit is, he’s never been different with me. He used to back me with a lot of space then and he does so now. He’ll come, ask me what I see or believe in, set the field accordingly and then keeps backing me up all the time. Some days it works, some days it doesn’t but it’s always reassuring.

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battingonjakku · 7 years

Text

A guide to the 18 counties and why you should/shouldn’t support each one

Hello! The county season is about to start which means a lot of chatter about it here for the next 6 months, so if you’re looking for a team to support, here’s a quick guide to choosing one – with help from several of our lovely cricket fam.

There are 18 to get through, so let’s get a crackin’

Derbyshire

Overseas players: Jeevan Mendis, Imran Tahir, Matt Henry

Recent internationals: Gary Wilson (Ire), Hardus Viljoen (SA, Kolpak)

England prospects: Harvey Hosein is a very promising wicketkeeper, though at a time when England are blessed with so many

Why you should support them: The one and only Michael Holding is the club president, and if you’re a Matt Henry fan this is the team for you, having recently signed for the T20 Blast. And Harvey Hosein is a qt.

Why you shouldn’t support them: I’m not sure I know anyone who supports them, so it could be lonely (I DON’T MEAN THIS AS A WAY OF DISRESPECT IF THERE ARE DERBY FANS HERE PLEASE COME OUT THE WOODWORK)

Durham

Overseas players: Stephen Cook, Tom Latham

Recent internationals: Ben Stokes, Mark Wood, Keaton Jennings

England prospects: Jack Burnham, Paul Coughlin

Why you should support them: BECAUSE OF THE UNJUST TREATMENT OF THE ECB, also they have the best academy in the country and are generally good eggs – it is, after all, the home of Paul Collingwood. And if you’re in the area, you’re close to @bibliolicious and @omgbroady too.

Why you shouldn’t support them: honestly I can’t think of one, support Durham.

Essex

Overseas players: Mohammad Amir, Neil Wagner

Recent internationals: Alastair Cook, Ravi Bopara

England prospects: Jamie Porter, Tom Westley

Why you should support them: if you’re a fan of Alastair Cook there will be a good three months of him (hopefully) churning out the runs for them in the CC, plus they have excellent comedy cricket through one of its kings: Ravi Bopara.

Why you shouldn’t support them: because it hurts too much, believe me. 2016 saw promotion in the CC but 2017 could be a battle after the big retirements of Graham Napier and David Masters.

Glamorgan

Overseas players: Jacques Rudolph

Recent internationals: Ruaidhri Smith (Scotland), Timm van der Gugten (Netherlands), Colin Ingram (Kolpak)

England prospects: Aneurin Donald

Why you should support them: CYMRU AM BYTH, The Only Welsh Team, putting the Wales into the ECB (wait a sec...)

Why you shouldn’t support them: No trophy since (I believe) 2004, and whilst they’re improving in LO formats particularly, they’re not obvious contenders in any competitions.

Gloucestershire

Overseas players: Michael Klinger, Cameron Bancroft, Andrew Tye

Recent internationals: :((

England prospects: Craig Miles, Matt Taylor

Why you should support them: Particularly strong one day team with a great history, and winning the 50 over cup against the odds in 2015. With Michael Klinger leading the way, definitely a team to watch in LO competitions.

Why you shouldn’t support them: If first class success is what matters to you, they’re not a great pick in the present or even history - never having been official county champions.

Hampshire

Overseas players: George Bailey

Recent internationals: James Vince, Liam Dawson, Reece Topley, Kyle Abbott (Kolpak), Rilee Rossouw (Kolpak)

England prospects: Mason Crane, Tom Alsop

Why you should support them: Michael Carberry is a reason in himeslf. Not only has he made his way back to training after treatment for cancer, he’s also a great influence and support for younger batsmen around the country. In Mason Crane they have one of the most hotly-tipped players in the country.

Why you shouldn’t support them: Not at all popular after Abbott and Rossouw ended their international careers to sign on Kolpak deals, and the beneficiaries of Durham’s relegation by the ECB last year - topped with their chairman saying it was the right thing to do

Kent

Overseas players: None so far, though Adam Milne may be on his way.

Recent internationals: Sam Billings, James Tredwell

England prospects: Daniel Bell-Drummond, Sam Northeast, Matt Coles

Why you should support them: Generally cricket’s good guys, plus the county ground has a tree! (and they literally had a new tree prepared for when the old one fell down, it’s one of my favourite quirks in county cricket). Also a team that really has an emphasis on home-grown talent.

Why you shouldn’t support them: Can perhaps a bit too unlucky - finishing second in Div 2 last year, the year when there was no promotion for coming second. And their kit is among the worst on the scene.

Lancashire (with help from @latenightwatchman)

Overseas players: Ryan McLaren, James Faulkner

Recent internationals: James Anderson, Jos Buttler, Young Haseeb Hameed, Stephen Parry, Shivnarine Chanderpaul (Kolpak), Dane Vilas (Kolpak)

England prospects: Saqib Masood, Liam Livingstone

Why you should support them: They have a group of really exciting young batsmen coming to the fore: Hameed, Livingstone, Jones, and Davies. Giles did really well in pushing them (perhaps sometimes out of necessity) and hopefully we'll see more of the same this year. And Hameed, Jones and Davies are adorable, in their own little ways.

Why you shouldn’t support them: it’s Lancashire. They have taken a couple of Kolpak signings this year, so we might see less of an emphasis on youth. Also the OT pitches last year were often really dull to try and prevent relegation, which didn't always make for exciting cricket.

Leicestershire (with help from @knockmeforsix)

Overseas players: Clint McKay, Sharjeel Khan, Cameron Delport, Luke Ronchi

Recent internationals: Kevin O’Brien (Ireland)

England prospects: Zak Chappell

Why you should support them: the perennial underdog who went two seasons without winning a first class game, but had a better year of 2016. Also a great producer of England talent over the years, including Stuart Broad and James Taylor. And Grace Road is adorable, with cheap hot dogs and the comm box being a glorified shed on the pavilion.

Why you shouldn’t support them: Here I quote: ‘we are not very good at cricket so if you like winning we are not the team for you’ (courtesy of Charlie)

Middlesex (with help from @twistsofsilver)

Overseas players: Brendon McCullum, Adam Voges

Recent internationals: Steven Finn, Eoin Morgan, Paul Stirling (Ireland)

England prospects: Toby Roland-Jones, Nick Gubbins, Olly Rayner, Dawid Malan, Tom Helm

Why you should support them: the reigning champions! of the CC and can be expected to challenge strongly again this year. And if you sit in the pavilion you have entertainment like Tim Murtagh breaking the MCC gate and looking sheepish. Also, Steven Finn. And Lord’s.

Why you shouldn’t support them: I saw Nick Compton get a century once. I can’t remember it. Also, for all its glory, Lord’s can produce some really lifeless pitches.

Northamptonshire

Overseas players: None from what I can tell

Recent internationals: Ben Duckett

England prospects: Graeme White, Richard Gleeson

Why you should support them: despite being underdogs with the smallest of budgets, have formed one of the best T20 teams - winning in 2016 & 2013 and coming second in 2015. James Taylor has just joined as a coach, too.

Why you shouldn’t support them: Not always popular for taking a number of players on Kolpaks - not the only culprits, but called out on it a lot

Nottinghamshire

Overseas players: Daniel Christian

Recent internationals: Stuart Broad, Alex Hales, Jake Ball

England prospects: I’m not sure if Harry Gurney counts, already having had a stint in the side, but his name often comes up among more left field options.

Why you should support them: A good bunch of players who have underperformed recently. Led by one of the most respected wicketkeepers on the circuit in Chris Read, in what will be his swansong season.

Why you shouldn’t support them: A richer team who have been accused of poaching players from ‘smaller’ counties (often Leicestershire tbh).

Somerset

Overseas players: Dean Elgar

Recent internationals: Josh Davey (Scotland), Michael Leask (Scotland), Roelof van der Merwe (Netherlands), Paul van Meekeren (Netherlands)

England prospects: Jack Leach, James Hildreth (still clinging here), Tom Abell, Craig Overton, Jamie Overton

Why you should support them: A really talented bunch too often overlooked by England selectors, also Marcus Trescothick is still going strong aged 41 and is a hero. Came close to winning the Championship in 2016.

Why you shouldn’t support them: They have a brilliant track record...at finishing second. Prepare your hopes to rise and be crushed at the final moment.

Surrey

Overseas players: Kumar Sangakkara, Aaron Finch

Recent internationals: Jason Roy, Zafar Ansari, Gareth Batty

England prospects: Sam Curran, Tom Curran, Scott Borthwick, Ben Foakes

Why you should support them: a really good group of players, blending experience with a lot of hot prospects for England. Tom and Sam Curran in particular are two of the most exciting players on the circuit.

Why you shouldn’t support them: they’re the team that people often love to hate, and one of the richer teams in the country who are often accused of buying too much of their talent (or at least the ones called out on it the most)

Sussex

Overseas players: Vernon Philander, Ross Taylor

Recent internationals: Chris Jordan, Tymal Mills, Matt Machan (Scotland), Ed Joyce (Ireland), Stiaan van Zyl (Kolpak), David Wiese (Kolpak)

England prospects: Delray Rawlins, Ollie Robinson

Why you should support them: A team with a good mix of experienced county pros and younger players, with the always-underappreciated (in this country certainly) Luke Wright leading the way. Also they’re by the sea which means nice instagrams.

Why you shouldn’t support them: Have had a couple of quiet seasons – including winning just one 50 over match in the last two years. Have taken a few high profile Kolpaks, too.

Warwickshire

Overseas players: Jeetan Patel

Recent internationals: Chris Woakes, Ian Bell, William Porterfield (Ireland)

England prospects: Sam Hain, Olly Stone, Josh Poysden

Why you should support them: Home of Ian Bell and Jonathan Trott, what other reasons do you want. Current 50 overs champions, too, plus a good crop of quicks - including The Nicest Man In Cricket, Chris Woakes

Why you shouldn’t support them: If you’re not a fan of the idea of franchises, their T20 team Birmingham Bears is the most obvious one to have gone in this direction, much to the ire of many of their own fans.

Worcestershire

Overseas players: John Hastings, Mitchell Santner

Recent internationals: Moeen Ali

England prospects: Brett D’Oliveira, Joe Clarke, Ross Whiteley

Why you should support them: the perennial yo-yo team, so must be due a promotion. A rising limited-overs team with lots of promising young talent, also they have one of the most picturesque grounds in the country. Jack Shantry is also something of a cult hero, and Tom Fell’s successful return in 2016 after overcoming cancer one of last year’s most heartwarming moments.

Why you shouldn’t support them: the perennial yo-yo team, so if you don’t want to deal with the emotions this brings with it, they might not be for you. Prone to moments of glory and moments of despair.

Yorkshire

Overseas players: Peter Handscomb, Travis Head

Recent internationals: Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Liam Plunkett, David Willey, Gary Ballance, Adil Rashid

England prospects: Jack Leaning, Matt Fisher

Why you should support them: I mean they’re my favourite team...also featuring lots of familiar faces of England’s present and past (Bresnan, Sidebottom, Lyth). Will expect to be challenging for the title come September after winning the Championship in 2014 and 2015.

Why you shouldn’t support them: they’re a team people love to hate, and the team everyone wants to beat, partly just to shut them up - which, um, is probably fair

#disclaimer: i may have missed some players here and there #thanks to those who gave a hand <3 #feel free to state your case if you think there's more to add :D #county cricket #cricket #county countdown

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rapecrisisdunedin · 7 years

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Why being a woman cricket fan in New Zealand blows chunks

TRIGGER WARNING for discussions of a rape trial and the rape myths and victim-blaming used therein It finally happened. Scott Kuggeleijn has been called up to the Black Caps for their final test match against South Africa. I’ve been expecting this day to come, but believed – hoped - it wouldn’t be so soon. I feel ill. I am sad for every woman in this country who lives with the aftermath of sexual assault. For many survivors of rape and sexual abuse, this is just the latest reminder that if a man harms you he will not be held accountable by the justice system and will probably go on to enjoy a successful and illustrious career in his chosen field. And when that man is in a very public position, some of us endure the constant reminder of that, and of what happened to us, over and over again.

Far from ‘destroying a man’s reputation’, accusations of rape and sexual assault seem only to destroy the reputation of his accuser. In this case, the complainant’s testimony was attacked on the grounds that she wore a short skirt, a singlet and had been drinking. It is galling to have to remind people that none of those things make her a liar or are evidence of her consent. It is galling that lawyers are even allowed to peddle these kinds of arguments in rape trials. The fact that they are admissible and that the jury in the retrial gobbled it up like popcorn at the movies speaks volumes about New Zealand’s culture of misogyny. The list of caveats that apparently nullify a simple, clear ‘No,’ is longer than the Waikato river. I’m sick of hearing myself state what should be obvious – that what we wear or drink has nothing to do with our willingness to have sex - and I’m sick of writing it.

I was further stunned by the lack of legal competency exhibited by Judge David Wilson, QC, who seems to be unfamiliar with some of the finer points of consent law. Under New Zealand law, consent for sex cannot be given if it is coerced. His instruction to the jury, that consent given reluctantly is still consent, would seem to contradict that rule, and sends a disturbing message to women: that our bodily integrity is fair game to any man who is pushy and dominating enough. To any man who makes us feel afraid to say no. So much for our ‘freely, enthusiastically, continuously’ slogans. This ‘Honourable’ Judge with some letters beside his name believes he knows better: women don’t have to want sex, but we have to put up with it, including when we don’t want it.

Right, I’ve done enough hashing over the details of the two trials. Madeleine Holden[1] and Madeleine Chapman[2] have eloquently shed light on the use of rape myth, slut-shaming and victim-blaming in the complainant’s trials (and I type ‘complainant’s trials’ deliberately, because let’s not kid ourselves: she was on trial, not Kuggeleijn), and why that’s a problem. The subject of this piece is more personal to me: how to be a woman fan of cricket when the culture of cricket says you are inferior to men.

The answer is going to be different for every woman. I love this game to the point of obsession. I love cover drives and cut shots and pull shots; I love a screamer of a catch, I love well-executed yorkers, swing bowling, and the thrill of a run-out. I saw the matches and got the shirts. I’ve had selfies with BJ and Kane. Corey Anderson’s and Matt Henry’s autographs are among my prized possessions. My co-workers, family and friends eye me askance that I would book annual leave when there’s a test match down at the University Oval or up in Christchurch at Hagley. They all know one of my other passions is feminism, and perhaps that’s part of the side-eye: how does one reconcile these two seemingly disparate enthusiasms? I wonder that too. Today, with Kuggeleijn on the squad, I’m tearing my hair out with the wondering. Sure, my ‘fave’ sport is problematic, but I don’t – shouldn’t – have to justify or account for my love of it to anyone. Except myself. And I can’t even do that anymore: as long as this man is on the team, I will not be watching or supporting the Black Caps. I’ll probably even cheer if I hear of Australia beating them. Good. And I hope Australia sledge us and play dirty and bowl underarm to their hearts’ content.

This team does not deserve my support as a woman. New Zealand Cricket, its governing body, does not deserve my support. The selection of Scott Kuggeleijn is not just a sad anomaly in an otherwise equal-opportunities professional sport. It is a logical outgrowth of male supremacy in the sport as a whole. Here are some examples of cricket’s disdain for, and indifference to women I have noticed over my last year-and-a-half of cricket fandom.

· At time of writing, the White Ferns (the New Zealand women’s cricket team, currently ranked third in the world [3]) have 15 players under contract. Those contracts are worth a minimum of $20,000 and a maximum of $34,000 [4]. The Black Caps, meanwhile, have 21 players under contracts ranging in worth from $85,585 to $205,266 [5]. This isn’t a pay gap so much as a pay chasm. Even men on the provincial teams earn more than the White Ferns.

· Last year, the ICC opted to fly women cricketers economy to the T20 World Cup while the men flew business class. After public outcry, Cricket Australia upgraded the Southern Stars’ tickets to business, but New Zealand Cricket didn’t see fit to do the same for the White Ferns.

· Toilets. Really, they are an issue. In spite of the fact that women make up almost 50% of the crowd at matches, we warrant inferior bathroom facilities. The Basin Reserve has only a handful of toilets for women. Men have four massive toilet blocks. I kept getting confused and bumbling into the urinals when I was there last weekend, assuming that my loos would just be at the opposite end to the men’s. Not to be: the opposite end of the block is more men’s loos. Ladies go round the back. But at least I could see in them: at the University Oval in Dunedin, the lights in the women’s toilet block were kaput all summer, and were only repaired in time for the Black Caps vs South Africa test early in March. If you think I’m being pedantic by pointing this out, think again. If women are to feel welcome at cricket matches, the least the grounds can do is offer us adequate toilet facilities.

· Oh my God, nobody thought the Otago Sparks vs Northern Spirit game, at the Uni Oval on the day after New Years’ Day, was worth cleaning up rubbish for. It was my first women’s cricket match, and I’d been excited about it for weeks, but the embankments were significantly different from any of the Otago Volts games I’ve attended. The empty beer cans scattered every which way (from the Volts’ game the night before) did not give a laid back ambience. They were symbolic of how women’s cricket is viewed in this country: garbage.

· Last year New Zealand Cricket was the subject of an independent study into the health of women’s participation in cricket. The study reported that the body was failing to engage women at all levels [6]. Sir Richard Hadlee’s response was, if you will pardon my creative paraphrasing, ‘I’VE BEEN TELLING THEM THIS FOR DECADES WHY IS NO-ONE LISTENING OMFG.’[7] (Thanks Sir Richard).

What all this demonstrates is that the cricket pitch is by no means a level playing field. Quite the opposite: cricket is structured, above and below, by sexism. Women’s status as second-class citizens is entrenched at all levels: as umpires, as administrators, as fans, and as budding and established cricketers. And so I ask, sincerely, what has the male cricketing establishment done to be worthy of my support? To be clear, I support women in the game and behind the scenes, wholeheartedly. But New Zealand Cricket tells us, and shows us, time and again that women are in their eyes lesser beings. Scott Kuggeleijn’s promotion to international representative is just the most recent example of it, and although deeply hurtful, not even slightly surprising.

When NZC CEO David White blithely states that he respects the judicial process, it’s a cop out. There is plenty of documented evidence that the judicial process is a routine failure when it comes to sexual violence cases.[8] That’s why the Law Commission has made recommendations for numerous changes (most of which are being ignored).[9] Yes, Kuggeleijn was acquitted. And if you’re anything familiar with the reporting of the case and came away convinced that justice was served, that the complainant gave free and willing consent, and that Kuggeleijn is an upstanding citizen with a right-on attitude toward women, then I’m afraid I don’t know what to say to you.

We can take from all this that New Zealand Cricket’s self-proclaimed interest in inclusion and diversity is worth less than the paper it is written on.[10] Want to be perceived as egalitarian? It’s simple: you treat women equally. You don’t hold up as international role models men who by their own admission see women as walking targets.[11] And that’s the other thing at stake here: while NZC are tacitly telling women and girls they don’t give a proverbial about them, they’re sending an even more dangerous message to boys and men. Boys, especially, who look up to the Black Caps, not just for their sporting prowess, but for lessons on how to be men. What might those children and young men make of this? Probably that harmful sexual behaviour is no barrier to success in cricket. Treat women as you please, they are a means to an end, and at the end of the day if you leave someone traumatised, don’t worry about it because you’re one of the boys.

Did anyone ever wonder where the so-called ‘Roastbusters’, that group of teenaged boys who sexually assaulted intoxicated young women, bragged about it online, and were never brought to justice, learned to do what they did?[12]

That didn’t spring out of nowhere. The culture of misogyny is all around us. It’s thriving at New Zealand Cricket. As passionate as I am about cricket, I can’t support this team anymore. Until the Black Caps stand up against violence against women, I have no interest in being a fan. Until New Zealand Cricket makes a serious commitment to undoing its structural sexism, I have nothing but criticism for them.

[1] http://thespinoff.co.nz/society/17-08-2016/legal-lesson-we-still-somehow-havent-learned-no-meant-yes-is-not-a-rape-defence/

[2] http://thespinoff.co.nz/society/24-02-2017/were-you-saying-no-but-not-meaning-no-on-the-tactics-of-scott-kuggeleijns-lawyer/

[3] http://www.espncricinfo.com/rankings/content/page/211271.html

[4] http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/310984/white-ferns-salary-gap-reflects-revenue-new-zealand-cricket

[5] http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/cricket/79538819/pay-rise-for-top-nz-cricketers-with-backtoback-india-tours-to-boost-coffers

[6] http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/cricket/86264938/independent-study-calls-out-new-zealand-cricket-for-engagement-levels-with-women

[7] http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/cricket/86294301/Sir-Richard-Hadlee-not-surprised-by-damning-results-of-study-into-women-and-cricket-in-New-Zealand

[8] McDonald, E. & Tinsley, Y. (2011) From “Real Rape” to Real Justice: Prosecuting Rape in New Zealand. Wellington: Victoria University Press.

[9] http://www.lawcom.govt.nz/sites/default/files/projectAvailableFormats/NZLC%20IP30.pdf

[10] http://www.blackcaps.co.nz/news-items/sport-unites-for-inclusivity-and-diversity

[11] http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11805426

[12] http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/10674764/Roast-Busters-case-No-charges-to-be-laid

#tw: rape #tw: rape trial #tw: victim blaming #tw: rape myths #scott kuggeleijn #cricket #sexism in sport #systemic sexism #new zealand cricket

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hsrsports · 4 years

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My life hasn't changed at all: Pat Cummins on IPL big bucks - Click on link to subscribe my channel https://ift.tt/34vXvMA Facebook - https://ift.tt/2Vjiyz6 Twitter - https://twitter.com/HsrSports Pinterest - https://ift.tt/2ywdZIH Tumblr - https://ift.tt/2z5qwmL Blog - https://ift.tt/2VlBDRu #Sports #SportsNews #Tournament Pat Cummins. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)NEW DELHI: It's been six months since he struck IPL gold with a record-breaking bid but Australian pace spearhead Pat Cummins says his life hasn't changed one bit because he has never been the sort to be too affected by either success or failure. The world No.1 Test bowler was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for a record Rs 15.5 crore (AUD 3.17 million), making him the highest paid foreign player in the history of the league. "I would like to think my life doesn't change much at all," Cummins told PTI in an exclusive interaction when asked about the impact of the headline-grabbing event last December. "I try my best in every game I play but I try to not let any successes or setbacks change my life too much," the 27-year-old added. Asked whether the high of that day has faded away, he said, "Not really." "May be, once I get over there to play," added the star bowler. A lot of cricketers have had changed priorities since the advent of private T20 leagues but Cummins is a chip off the old block who, like India skipper Virat Kohli, values the Test format. "I grew up watching and loving Test cricket and nothing has changed. I think it is the most challenging format because it tests your skill, stamina, mental strength," he explained. "Each and every Test win is incredibly satisfying," said Cummins, who has 143 wickets from 30 Tests at an impressive average of 21.82. With Cricket Australia allowing its players to start outdoor training, the speedster is back sweating it out in the nets but said that it would take some time to reach peak match condition. "It takes at least a couple of months to build back up to full pace and fitness but luckily we have some time. We started bowling two weeks ago. So, we will be ready for when we start," said Cummins. From Cummins' point of view, it would be good to start with the T20 format and probably by the time the Test matches (Afghanistan first followed by India) start in December, he would be ready for the rigours of five-day cricket. "White ball is certainly a bit easier physically to prepare for. It's good that by the time Tests start in November-December, we would have built up in T20s and ODIs so should be fine," said the man, who has 284 international wickets. While he didn't comment on the much-hyped series against India at the end of the year but the first Day/Night Test between the two teams in Adelaide from December 11-15 is something he is looking forward to. "We enjoy the Pink Ball Tests, especially at Adelaide where it is a great spectacle," Cummins' statement was a reiteration of Australia's dominance in Pink ball matches at the Adelaide Oval. The fast bowler also didn't seem too worried about the adjustments cricketers will have to make when the sport starts amid the Covid-19 pandemic. For starters, saliva can no longer be used to shine the ball. "There may be some minor adjustments like we have all had to make in our lives and jobs but cricket is a sport where we don't have to tackle or make contact directly with other players. So, I don't think the game will be compromised too much," he said. Despite his share of injuries, Cummins has been the face of Australian pace attack which also comprises Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. So what kind of legacy would he like to create for a country that has produced Dennis Lillee, Glenn McGrath, and Brett Lee to name a few? "I think a legacy is for others to judge," he replied. "Who knows, hopefully a long career with some successes. We have a pretty special team full of superstars at the moment. Hopefully we can carve out our own little bit of history," he concluded.

#Sports

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asfeedin · 4 years

Text

‘I don’t have to be the captain to take on a leadership role for South Africa’

In 2010, David Miller entered international cricket as a confident 20-year-old with a reputation of being a big-hitter and a rhyme to match his style. “If it’s the v, it’s in the tree; if it’s in the arc, it’s out the park,” he said, repeating a phrase his father had taught him. For five years, he thrilled with cheeky cameos before finally getting his first international hundred. Today, Miller is the most experienced member of South Africa’s ODI side. He has played in two 50-over World Cups, two Champions Trophies and two T20 World Cups, and is a few matches away from becoming the country’s most-capped T20I player.

He spoke about his new-found seniority in the side, his lesser-known love for the longest format, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.

Last summer was a particularly tough one for South African cricket, with only one series win from the five at home. Lungi Ngidi recently revealed it was a pep talk by you that sparked the turnaround and ultimately led to the ODI series win against Australia. Can you tell us a little more about that? It was during the first match of the ODI series in Paarl. Everyone knows what had gone on with Cricket South Africa and the number of retirements we’ve had, and that we have a new crop of players in the team. I always thought, even with all those things, we were in a great space because we had a lot of guys who have been around the block, even though not at international level. They are all very experienced domestically. So I just told them that now is the time we need confidence and self-belief to go forward and we need a shift in mindset.

With respect, international cricket is just another game. I said to the guys that all of them have been there before and played in must-win situations at domestic level. All that’s changed is the situation has heightened. I told them that everyone is capable of performing, everyone deserves to be here, and it’s about not waiting for a Quinton de Kock or David Miller to score the runs. Or even for Dale Steyn or Faf du Plessis to come back. This is the game now and we’ve got to play it. I think when that realisation that they can do it happened, things changed.

ALSO READ: 2019: South African cricket’s annus horribilis

It sounds like you have really stepped up into a position of seniority. Are you surprised your name has not come up much in captaincy discussions? I enjoy being a leader, and off the field and during practices, I like to help the guys. When I came up, there were a lot of leaders around and I learnt a lot from them. Then there comes a time when you have to step up and you realise you can lead too. After the 2019 World Cup, I had some time to reflect and I realised that maybe because I always had senior players around me, I didn’t necessarily need to step up, but now that they are gone, it’s my responsibility to lead. So I changed my mindset.

I don’t have to be the captain to take on a leadership role. Quinton de Kock is a good captain. He doesn’t overcomplicate things and he gives us a sense of calm. He is also very switched on in the field and knows what he wants from his bowlers and his field placings. He is street-smart and it helps having some senior guys from the domestic scene, like Rassie van der Dussen and Jon-Jon Smuts, around. That’s helped me too.

When you look back at the fallout from the World Cup, and given you had already stopped playing first-class cricket, did you consider walking away from international cricket and becoming a T20 freelancer? With a World Cup, we know that only one team can win, but the way we played and the number of things that didn’t go our way – it was really tough.

I thought about things a lot. My priority is still South Africa. I love playing for the country and I love the challenge of playing against the best in the world, so it’s never been an option for me to give it up. I know that I play in a few leagues, but that’s always outside of my national duties. And I am only 30. I still feel like I have a huge amount to offer.

David Miller made 64 in the first ODI against Australia in Paarl. South Africa went on to win the series 3-0 AFP/Getty Images

Does that mean you might consider changing your decision to retire from first-class cricket? You averaged 67 and 44.37 in the last two seasons you played in, so do you think there’s a chance you could come back and push for a Test place, especially as batting is such a big focus? I’ve never been one to rush into decisions, so when I made the decision to stop playing first-class cricket, I had thought about it for a long time. I knew I didn’t start well in my first-class career and that had pushed me to the back of the pecking order, which was fair enough. I also knew I couldn’t pick and choose between T20 and first-class, so that’s when I made the decision. But things can change and there may still be hope. I might have to have a discussion with Graeme Smith and Mark Boucher and it could be a possibility.

Do you enjoy red-ball cricket? I absolutely love it. I still love watching Test cricket and I always wanted to play Tests. That was my goal growing up. And after my start, I found that in the last few years of my first-class career, I was scoring heaps and I was really enjoying it. I think I got better as I got older. I was building my innings better.

Time in the middle has been a consideration for you even in limited-overs cricket, where you sometimes get to the crease with just a few overs or balls left and are expected to make a big impact. Would you like to have time to set up your innings or the chance to bat longer? I’ve always wanted to bat higher, but at the same time, I felt really privileged to be playing. As you move on in your career, you want more responsibility and more time to get set and then finish off. We all have dreams, but it is also about what’s best for the team.

ALSO READ: Mark Boucher excited ‘to see the guys grow a bit’ in white-ball cricket

How have you dealt with the expectation that comes with being labelled a finisher? It’s part of the position that I play, so I’ve become thick-skinned. No one has to tell me that I should have won a game because I am the first one to know that I should have. It’s taken time for me to get used to that role and to what gets said about you when things don’t go your way, but then, on the other side, when the rewards come, they are so high that it makes it worthwhile.

How do you train for the role? Is it just about big hitting? Power-hitting and clearing the rope are things I worked hard on earlier in my career. But now, mentally I am in a great space, so I am working on a few other things. It makes a big difference having Mark Boucher around. He has taught us that the game is always evolving. Guys are getting quicker and smarter, and if you don’t keep working to get better, you will fall away. He has got us working on different skills and shots and putting myself under pressure in the nets so that I am prepared for different game-day scenarios.

Has your game progressed more under Boucher than other coaches? He is so experienced and has played for so long, and him and I have had similar roles in the middle order, so I can pick his brain. He is honest and open, but he is also cut-throat, which you want as a player. There’s no beating around the bush. You know exactly where you stand.

“The IPL is a cut above the rest, in terms of pressure. In every game, you are playing in front of 40,000 to 90,000 people. Then, off the field and in hotels, there are a lot of demands” BCCI

What are the big goals for the rest of your career? The 2023 World Cup is one of my goals and I am excited for what we can do in that tournament. We have a group that is in a similar space – a lot of young guys who are all a similar age and we know they will be available. It’s not a case of a whole lot of guys retiring after two years. It’s almost like we can grow for the next four years and it’s only a matter of time before things click.

So you think South Africa have a chance at the 2023 World Cup? We are right up there talent-wise and we produce a lot of good players. Maybe what we’ve lacked is pressure in domestic cricket, because we don’t draw the crowds that other countries get and that plays a big role in helping you cope with pressure. That could be something we need to look at and it’s started with the Mzansi Super League.

You’ve played in various leagues around the world. Could you describe the differences in the leagues you have played in? And do you intend to continue playing in them? All the leagues are unique. The ones I have played in most are the IPL and the CPL. The IPL is a cut above the rest, in terms of pressure, which is what you want. In every game, you are playing in front of 40,000 to 90,000 people. Then, off the field and in hotels, there are a lot of demands, from the public and the owners, so there’s a lot going on.

The CPL has a bit more flexibility. They call it the biggest party in sport and I guess it is. I do hope to keep playing, but moving into the latter part of my career, I want to play as much as I can but also listen to my body.

ALSO READ: Alternative Universe: South Africa win the 2015 World Cup

What has been the highlight of your career so far? The 2015 World Cup, which might be surprising. It was disappointing to lose and maybe we played some average cricket through the competition, but it was just a really good team vibe and a really good time in my career. I felt like I was playing well and the environment was good and the two months we spent in Australia and New Zealand were really special, even after how it ended. So hopefully we can create something similar again.

Although you’re very excited to play cricket, we know live sport is unlikely to return for a while. How are you coping with the current lockdown? It’s tough. I’ve got a back garden, so I am doing some workouts there, and I’ve got a passage, so I am hitting tennis balls, which takes me back to my days as a youngster. But that’s it. It’s frustrating because going into the nets is also a release for me. It gets me in a good space and it’s what I love, but I can’t do that at the moment. But I also know we are all in the same boat, so it’s just about dealing with it for now. And once the lockdown ends, we can see what we can do in terms of team camps and hopefully we can get going again.

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gokul2181 · 4 years

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Looking forward to playing under leadership of Virat Kohli, says Aaron Finch | Cricket News

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Looking forward to playing under leadership of Virat Kohli, says Aaron Finch | Cricket News

NEW DELHI: “I know how competitive and driven he is,” said Australia’s limited-overs skipper Aaron Finch while talking about the prospect of playing under the leadership of Virat Kohli for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. The IPL 2020 will be played in the UAE from September 19-November 10 and the tournament will run for 53 days. In the players’ auction which was conducted in December 2019, RCB managed to bag key players like Finch, Chris Morris, Dale Steyn, Joshua Philippe, and Isuru Udana. Addition of Finch into the side will now bolster RCB’s batting which already comprises of Kohli and AB de Villiers. In an interaction with ANI, Finch talked about playing alongside Kohli, the role of Justin Langer on his leadership, and what makes Kohli and Steve Smith stand out as leading batsmen in the world currently. “I can’t wait to join up with RCB. To get the opportunity to play for a franchise that has some of the greatest players in the world is going to be fun. It would have been amazing to play in front of the home crowd at Chinnaswamy but representing the franchise in UAE will still mean a huge amount to me,” Finch told ANI. “It will be my first time playing under Virat’s leadership but something I’m very excited about. Having played against him for a number of years now in international cricket and IPL I know how driven and competitive he is, that something I’m looking forward to seeing up close,” added the Australian ODI and T20I skipper. When asked whether Finch’s leadership skills will come in handy for the franchise, he replied: “I hope that my experience will come in handy, being able to help out anyone I can during the IPL. If that means I can help take some pressure off Virat then I will do everything I have to.” Finch has played 5 Tests, 126 ODIs, and 61 T20Is for Australia, and over the past few years, the right-handed batsman has become one of the most fierce opening batters around the world. His ability to strike big shots is the one thing that most teams dread about. Finch also has the record of registering the highest individual score in T20I cricket as he played a knock of 172 against Zimbabwe in 2018. However, the limited-overs skipper has not managed to cement his place in the Test line-up, and when asked about returning to the longest format of the game, Finch said: “I would love to get an opportunity to play Test cricket again, but realistically I think it will be very tough to force my way back into the team. Not having the opportunity to play as much first-class cricket as I would like to put the required runs on the board makes it a bit harder.” The right-handed batsman also explained the reason for Kohli and Smith being rated as probably the two best batsmen in the world currently. He also gave his take as to why the India-Australia series is now considered to be a “marquee” event in world cricket. “As for the best batsman in the world, you could throw a blanket over a handful of players over 3 formats. The consistency of Steve Smith and Virat Kohli in Test cricket both home and away over a long period of time probably makes them stand out from the rest,” Finch said. “The passion of Australian and Indian fans, along with an amazing history of close and competitive series makes it a marquee series. The pressures, the expectations, and the rivalry make it a brilliant series to be a part of,” he added. The T20 World Cup was slated to be played in Australia this year, but it has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. Now, in three years (2021-2023), three World Cups will be played (T20 World Cup 2021, T20 World Cup 2022, and 50-over World Cup 2023) and Finch said he is looking forward to his side being really competitive in all those tournaments. “World Cups are obviously the pinnacle of the white ball game and T20 is a format that we probably haven’t played our best cricket in the past. Having played a lot more of this format over the last couple of years as a team, we have seen some great improvement and it is really exciting. We feel as though our game plan can stand up to the pressure of a World Cup, then it just comes down to executing your skills on the day,” Finch said. Australian cricket was in a bit of turmoil in 2018 as the trio of Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft were banned for one year for their involvement in the ball-tampering scandal against South Africa in Cape Town. After that incident, Justin Langer took over as the coach of the side and Australia has now returned to its old winning ways. Australia is now the number one ranked side in the Test and T20I format, while the Finch-led lineup is at the fifth place in the ODI rankings. Talking about the effect of Langer, Finch said: “Justin has been great, not just for my batting but also my leadership and life. Like all coach/player relationships we are always talking about small things that we can look at to improve my game.” “When you are constantly going from series to series there isn’t always a lot of time to make big technical changes, a lot of the time it’s just a mental shift that can help you more than anything,” he added. Before the IPL starts, Australia is expected to tour England for a limited-overs series, comprising of three ODIs and as many T20Is. The side was last seen in action in March this year as they played one ODI against New Zealand in Sydney. After the first match, the remaining two ODIs were postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

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