AUS v IND: What Makes Australia Dominate In Pink Ball Tests?
As Australia prepares for another day-night test match in Adelaide, there is a lot to look forward to as this side is confident of avenging the heavy defeat at India’s hands in the first test. However, Australia’s brilliant record in pink-ball tests stands at its own pedestal. Notching up all seven of the day-night tests at the Adelaide Oval and 11 of 12 overall at their home, they have their best track record. Following are the factors that feature why Australia is dominating day-night tests. Win The Toss And Batting First In Pink Ball Test The secret to Australian success in day-night tests seems to be winning the toss and batting first. Indeed, they have won all seven of their matches when deciding to bat first, posting monstrous totals-often well over 400 runs. An earlier success by West Indies batted first and scored 311 and then went on to win the match by eight runs is an excellent example of how batting first gives a head start. Of the 12 day-night tests played at home, ten have seen the team winning the toss opt to bat. England were exceptions in Adelaide (2017) and Hobart (2022), both of which they lost after failing to build on their early advantage. In like manner, New Zealand in 2015 and Sri Lanka in 2019 could not make a mark after opting to bat, managing scores of just 202 and 144, respectively. Even when South Africa declared at 259/9 in Adelaide in 2016 to bowl under lights, Australia’s unbroken partnership at stumps showed how important it is to have a solid first innings score. India’s 2020 loss, despite having a first-innings lead of 53 runs, remains one of the rare exceptions to this pattern. The New Ball Effect The new pink ball used in day-night tests significantly upgrades the performance of seam bowlers compared to its red version. Fast bowlers have particularly flourished under this condition, especially the Australian fast bowlers. Since 2015-16, the average for fast bowlers in the first 20 overs of a red-ball test has been 33.02. However, in pink ball tests, it drops down to 24.56. Australia’s fast bowling has been very effective with the pink ball, averaging just 18.87 in the first 20 overs, compared to 25.01 with the red ball. Even the visiting quicks, on average, have done a better job with the pink ball (33.94) than with the red (45.91). That gap makes batting in the early sessions of a pink ball test much tougher than in day games. Batting Issues In The Final Session The last session of a day-night test, which is generally played under lights, is the most challenging for batsmen. Fast bowlers reign supreme in this phase with an average of 20.30, as opposed to 23.03 in the first session and 32.01 in the second. The Australian bowlers are even more lethal, with an average of 14.66 under lights in all 12 day-night tests. Visiting bowlers have an average of 32.08 under lights. Interestingly, the Adelaide Oval presents a different picture, where the fast bowlers do well in the first session (23.02) than in the third (25.66). Australia’s pacers are as deadly in the afternoon, with an average of 17.42 and 18.26 respectively. Nathan Lyon’s Performance While Australia’s fast bowling cartel has shone in day-night test matches, Nathan Lyon has also played a crucial role in his side’s dominance. As a spinner, Lyon outshines visiting spinners in such conditions. Since the 2015-16 season, Lyon has averaged 25.58 in pink ball tests and 31.80 in red ball tests at home. His ability to take wickets at the right time and at a faster rate than with the red ball, has made him a valuable player in Australia’s current dominance. The visiting spinners, however, have fared poorly in Australia. Since 2015-16, they have averaged 62.31 in red ball test matches and 64.44 in pink ball test matches, while Nathan Lyon has been a contrast to all of them every time. Leading Run Getter In Pink Ball Tests Marnus Labuschagne has been outstanding in pink ball tests. With 894 runs at an average of 63.85 and four centuries, Labuschagne is the highest run-getter in pink ball test matches for Australia. Travis Head with two hundreds is the next best. Leading Wicket Taker In Pink Ball Tests Mitchell Starc has been Australia’s leading wicket-taker in pink-ball Tests. With 66 wickets at an average of 18.71, he is the only player in Australia to have taken 50-plus wickets in this format. Along with Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood have also kept excellent records, with averages under 20. Australia In Pink Ball Tests Australia’s near-perfect record in day-night tests at home comes from a couple of factors. All these have been part of the bat-first strategy, the effectiveness of seamers with the new pink ball and the dominance of Australian bowlers under lights. Nathan Lyon’s success as a spinner in these conditions adds to Australia’s formidable reputation. With Labuschagne, Starc and Lyon leading the charge, Australia remains a force to be reckoned with in day-night test matches and continues to make it hard for opponents to beat them on home soil. Will Australia keep dominating in the pink ball test or will India have the upper hand this time in Adelaide? The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
AUS v IND: Get Familiar With Pink Ball Before The Adelaide Test
Generally, in test match cricket, a day is called off as the sun sets. However, not this time as India and Australia are set to face off in a thrilling day-night test match in Adelaide. The game will throw light on the ongoing debate between the traditional red ball and the pink ball. Although both are for the same purpose in cricket, they have distinct features that can dramatically alter the dynamics of a match. We very well understand that as sports fans, you all surely are in curiosity to know more on the pink ball which is going to be used in the second test at Adelaide. Therefore we have tried to answer a couple of queries about the pink ball. Does Pink Ball Have Better Visibility? One of the most discussed variations between the pink ball and the red ball is its visibility factor. The pink ball has been designed strictly for day-night test matches and provides better visibility under floodlights. The red ball becomes dull after some time and appears brown when it wears out, but a pink ball retains its color for a longer period such that players can see them clearly even under floodlight. This is because the coating of the pink ball consists of a special pigment along with a polyurethane layer that gives the ball a glossy finish. The pink ball has black stitching, making it more visible than the white stitching of the red ball that fades under the lights. This is vital in a day-night game where, at times, the track of the ball should be viewed more easily because the ball has to change over from bright daylight to evening. How Is The Pink Ball Made? The making of the pink ball contributes much towards its performance during test matches. The pink ball is made with synthetic materials with linen. It helps the bowlers have a good grip compared to other balls. The polyurethane coating adds a layer of durability, ensuring that the ball stays in good condition even after 40 overs. Such a feature becomes important, especially in day-night test matches, where the ball has to go through multiple phases of play under different light conditions. How Is The Red Ball Made? In comparison, the red ball is dyed with a wax coating, which tends to lose its shine quickly. Over time, the red ball begins to fade and turns brownish, making it harder for the players to spot, especially when the lights come on. While both balls are durable, the pink ball holds up better under floodlights, giving it an edge in the later stages of the game. What Makes The Pink Ball Swing For A Longer Time? The pink ball’s design impacts its behavior in terms of swing and bounce. Much like the red ball, the pink ball offers strong swing in the initial overs, thanks to its lacquer layer. However, the pink ball shines for a longer period than the red ball and this is why it remains swinging for a much longer time. This makes the pink ball much favourable for fast bowlers, especially in the initial and middle overs of the game. However, because of its new bounce, although it loses up and coming in the duration of the match, it tends to continue swimming very well, still leaving chances to the bowler through that time. Compared to that the red ball fades both the swim and bounce right after around 40 overs with a resulting tough control that will not get easier. As far as pink ball has gone is the role inside the test match under light, daylight or otherwise day-night test matches. Has The Pink Ball Affected Test Match Cricket? The pink ball has totally changed the face of test match cricket, especially in day-night matches. Traditionally, test matches were played in the day and the red ball was the preferred choice. However, with the advent of day-night test matches, the pink ball has become a must. Its design allows it to be used in conditions where the red ball would struggle to perform. For players, getting used to the pink ball is crucial in order to succeed in day-night test matches. The pink ball behaves differently than the red ball, and the strategies have to be altered according to it. Whether it is adjusting to its visibility under lights or understanding its swing patterns, mastering the pink ball is becoming an integral part of modern-day test cricket. The Pink Ball’s ‘Glowing’ Influence With the pink ball continuing to make its mark in international cricket, it is apparent that it has revolutionized the way test match cricket is played. Its superior visibility, enhanced durability and the ability to maintain swing and bounce for longer periods give it a distinct advantage over the red ball, especially in day-night fixtures. Does The Pink Ball Generate Excitement? With India and Australia set to face each other in Adelaide in the second test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the pink ball promises another level of excitement to this game. Players and coaches from both the teams and fans off-course are sure to see a thrilling contest where the pink ball will once again be at the center of things. India has the momentum after winning the first test match in Perth. On the other hand, Australia has never lost a pink ball-test match in Adelaide. Do let us know your thoughts on which team can make optimum use of the pink ball and come strong in the second test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Which Team Will Make It To The WTC25 Final?
With only 15 test matches left in the current WTC cycle, the battle for the top two has really heated up. No side yet, is guaranteed a place in the WTC25 final and several teams still have a shot at landing one of the coveted spots. Here’s how the teams are shaping up as they go into the final stretch: South Africa Percent: 59.26, matches remaining: SL (1 home Test), PAK (2 home) A big win for South Africa at Durban has put them in a good position, but they still need to pick up more points to guarantee qualification to the WTC25 final. If they lose to Sri Lanka but win both their remaining Tests against Pakistan, then they would still have a fair chance of qualification with 61.11%. However, the two teams that could surpass them both are Sri Lanka and India. If South Africa somehow draw their second Test against Sri Lanka and then beat Pakistan 1-0, things would be much safer than they are now. In this best-case scenario, winning each of their next two series could guarantee them a place at the final, with only a possibility of Australia and India outscoring them. Sri Lanka Percent: 50.00, matches remaining: SA (1 away Test), AUS (2 home) Sri Lanka’s loss in Durban has complicated their route to the WTC25 final. They can get a maximum of 61.54% if they win their remaining three tests, which will guarantee them a spot in the final. However if they lose another test, they will rely on other teams’ performances as South Africa, India and Australia could surpass them. In order to stay ahead of the pack, Sri Lanka should aim to win the series against South Africa and Australia in their last matches. New Zealand Percent: 50.00, matches remaining: ENG (2 home) New Zealand’s chances are somewhat doused by its dismal performance in Christchurch, reducing their highest possible points to 57.14%. Though this leaves them a thin chance, they still have a mathematical chance to be in the WTC25 final. For instance, if the Australia-India series goes 1-1 and other series end in draws, New Zealand will top the table. However they would need a number of results to go in their favor to qualify and will rely on a series win against England for their hopes. India Percent: 61.11, matches remaining: AUS (4 away) A dominant win in Perth has increased India’s chances of qualifying into the final, however they need to finish strong in the remaining series against Australia. To be confirmed for a place in the WTC25 finals, India need to win three out of four remaining tests at Australia. In case India wins 3-0, it would get more points than Sri Lanka’s best achievable points and also would stand better than South Africa. While it has lesser points, they might also qualify among top two. However this all greatly depends on other teams. India’s fate is tied not only to their own results but also to the performances of South Africa, Australia and Sri Lanka. Australia Percent: 57.69, matches remaining: Ind (4 home Tests), SL (2 away) Australia’s loss to India in Perth has placed them under pressure. With their remaining six tests, they need four wins and a draw to stay in the hunt. If they win both the home series against India and Sri Lanka, they will exceed Sri Lanka’s maximum potential points. However Australia can finish at the top two only if they make their remaining series spotless, especially the one against Sri Lanka in the away series. Even if India wins 3-2 in the current series, Australia may finish ahead as they would have swept Sri Lanka. Pakistan Percent: 33.33, matches remaining: SA (2 away), WI (2 home) Pakistan’s revival at home has come too late in the cycle. Their maximum possible points of 52.38% still leave them with slim chances of qualification. To even have a chance, they would need several results to go their way. If Sri Lanka and New Zealand fail to go well in their remaining series, Pakistan may still end up in the running for a second-place finish. However, even a perfect record in their last four Tests most likely will not be enough to secure them a place in the final without other results working in their favor. England Percent: 43.75, matches remaining: NZ (2 away) England’s hopes of qualification are very low however not impossible. They now stand at 43.75% after their win in Christchurch, which means that there is very little margin for error. Still, on paper, they can mathematically finish second if all the other results go in their favor. If India loses all the remaining tests and South Africa and Sri Lanka do not garner enough points, England could sneak into second place. However, their chances of qualification for the WTC25 final are extremely low. Bangladesh and West Indies (Eliminated) Both Bangladesh and the West Indies are effectively out of the running for the top two positions in the WTC25 and their points and results aren’t enough to challenge the leaders. As the last 15 test matches take place, the battle for a place in the WTC25 final at Lord’s is bound to intensify. South Africa, Sri Lanka and India have a shot at it, whereas Australia, New Zealand and Pakistan still have a very slim chance. A few results will determine who finally goes to the final however one thing is sure, the race to the final of the WTC25 is wide open. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
The Australian Cricket Injury Paradox: A Deeper Dive
Cricket, a sport of both finesse and brute force, is not immune to injuries. While injuries are inherent to any physical activity, cricketers playing in Australia seem to face a disproportionate risk, particularly for hamstring strains. This phenomenon, often termed the “Australian Cricket Injury Paradox,” warrants a deeper investigation. Contributing Risk Factors Several factors contribute to this elevated injury risk: 1. Intense Playing Conditions: 2. High-Intensity Cricket Formats: 3. Larger Playing Fields: 4. Unique Playing Style: 5. Gender-Specific Considerations: Common Injury Patterns Hamstring strains are the most prevalent injury type in Australian cricket. Other common injuries include: By understanding the multifaceted nature of cricket injuries and implementing effective prevention strategies, cricketers can minimize their risk of injury and continue to perform at their best. The Sportz Planet Exclusive,Dr. Amol Patil Consultant Sports PhysicianFormer Team Doctor (Indian Boxing Team) | Former Consultant MY&S (Mission Olympic Cell)
AUS vs IND: Heroes Emerge From The Toughest Rivalry
Cricket’s toughest rivalry has commenced today at the Optus Stadium in Perth as India locked horns in a 5 match test series against Australia. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, as it is called, would be no short of excitement, thrill and emotions as the series progresses. So how did it all start? Well here’s the answer. The Birth Of The Toughest Rivalry The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is one of the fiercest rivalries in cricket history and it didn’t find its beginning with a handshake between Australia and India but with blood, sweat and glory. From its beginning in 1996 with the rivalry between two cricketing icons, Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar, the Border-gavaskar Trophy has evolved to a contest of supremacy, pride and unforgettable moments. Over the years, the rivalry has gathered new facets with players like Virat Kohli, Steven Smith and Rishabh Pant turning it into a captivating saga that has mesmerized cricket lovers worldwide. Virat Kohli, The Real King Of Australia It was not until the early 2000s when India started making their presence felt against Australia. The rivalry was aflame in 2008 when India toured Australia for a desperately contested series marked with umpiring controversies and superb drama. However, it was the modern team that really transformed the rivalry into a legendary one. Virat Kohli, was handed over the test match captaincy of the Indian Cricket Team by MS. Dhoni back in 2014. He stepped up in Australia with an unquenchable thirst to consume runs. He was the master of the 2014 series in Australia. Kohli’s aggressive batting and mental toughness that no one else boasts of made him a nuisance for the Aussies. The world witnessed him scoring 692 runs from four matches at an average of 86.50 with four and registered four hundreds and one fifty with Australian bowlers getting frustrated at their own wits’ end. Not only was he impressive with his runs, but the way he played with a clear intention—that of conquering each and every pitch, every bowler and every challenge that came his way. By the time India returned for the 2018-19 series, Kohli had firmly established himself as one of the greatest players to have ever played in Australia. Rishabh Pant’s GABBA Heroics It wasn’t just Kohli who became synonymous with success in Australia. The Gabba Test in 2021 became one of the most iconic moments in cricket history, thanks to the heroics of Rishabh Pant. India was staring at defeat, with a depleted squad and a mountain to climb on the final day of the Brisbane Test. Yet Pant, the fearless wicketkeeper-batsman, played a knock for the ages. His 89* took India to a historic victory, chasing down the daunting target on the last day securing a series win in Australia for the first time in 71 years. Pant’s audacity and confidence became a symbol of the new India – a team that refused to back down no matter the odds. The Rise Of Steven Smith Steven Smith emerged as a modern-day batting sultan on the Australian side, with battles against India being the best proof of his growth. An unorthodox technician from every point of view, Smith proved mentally tough against an Indian bowling onslaught. His batting in 2014 was nothing short of legendary as the man hit centuries at almost every venue for Australia. The rivalry between Smith and India’s bowlers, especially the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah, has been the subplot for every Border-Gavaskar series over the years. Smith’s uncanny capacity to score runs in pressure-cooker situations has made him one of the most revered modern-day batters. A Rivalry For The Ages The Border-Gavaskar Trophy isn’t just a series. It’s a saga that tells the tale of two cricketing powerhouses, with players like Kohli, Pant, Smith and many others elevating the drama to new heights. It’s a rivalry that will continue to captivate, where every ball bowled, every run scored and every wicket taken adds to the legend. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
ICC Trials AI Tool To Combat Social Media Abuse In Women’s Cricket
Cricket tests Social Media Monitoring Pilot Cricket has conducted a pilot on the monitoring of social media and discovered that almost one in five of the comments made on a player or team’s social media account are abusive or spam. Running the program with its recently concluded ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE, the ICC made use of an AI tool developed by the tech company GoBubble to fend off abuses online. It scanned more than 1.4 million comments on 60 player accounts and 8 team accounts. There were more than 270,000 instances of racism, sexism, homophobia and other types of harassment. Protecting the Women Players The initiative was part of the overall effort by the ICC towards making the playing environment safe for women, especially as growing attention is being taken for women’s games. The service was used through the accounts of those players and teams who are opting into a new service launched to address growing concerns about online abuse, particularly against female athletes. The case of online abuse, targeting female players and their spouses, has increased manifold. Certain instances have been stated to cause grave mental health issues. In that regard, the attempt made by the ICC will make social media a comfortable platform for the cricketers. Considering the growth of the game among women, new teams’ establishment, more matches and dedicated league window, light on and pressure on women cricket will be there. Working of AI Tool GoBubble AI tool: There are two major functions that the GoBubble AI tool has. It can detect nasty talk across any language, filter itself to single players or teams, as well as identify bots posting unrelated content. This helps stop abusive comments from being posted and also removes unwanted promotional posts, such as cryptocurrency adverts on player pages. It also means that the tool can be customized, so particular instances of historic abuse directed towards certain players can be proactively filtered out. Player Advocacy for the Initiative South African wicketkeeper-batter Sinalo Jafta, one of the players who have voiced their experience with online abuse, has been a strong advocate for the initiative. Prior to the tool, Jafta would rely on a friend or family member to monitor her social media accounts, deleting everything harmful that is posted. It allows players like Jafta to engage their fans online while being protected from different hostile content. Positive Engagement in Social Media The aim of the programme is to empower cricketers to freely share their personal experiences and stories with their followers without yet another burden of online harassment. ICC expects that this might encourage more players to embrace social media as a tool to connect with fans, especially because positive social media engagement may help the players have a more intimate relationship with the next generation of fans. Future Plans Current Expansions are only up to the end of 2025 that offers the service only to women players. It has already been planned to establish a similar version for male players if the demand is quite high. Then, the ICC will decide on whether it has really worked, gauging the feedback from the players and the impacts of social media interactions before further expansion takes place. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
OTD: Maxwell Smoked Afghanistan With A Double Century At CWC23
It was 07th November, 2023. The Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai was bathed in sunshine as Australia took on Afghanistan in a must win CWC23 encounter. However darkness loomed over the Australian Cricket Team, until Glenn Maxwell arrived at the crease. Here’s What Had Happened Australia’s dream of reaching the semifinals of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 had begun to slip through their fingers in dramatic fashion as Afghanistan, riding on impressive victories against England and Pakistan, were living out their dream. Afghanistan’s Ibrahim Zadran played an anchor role by crafting a sublime 129* off 143 balls in the first innings of the game. Afghanistan was 291/5, a score that looked far too big for the Aussies coming into the match, considering how their top order has generally collapsed all tournament long. Second Innings Then came the Afghans’ bowling. Rashid Khan, Naveen-ul-Haq and Azmatullah Omarzai completely crippled the Australian batting line-up. By the 22nd over, Australia was faltering at 91/7 and the Australian Cricket Team looked dead in the water. No way back, this was one such collapse that made you feel. However as all of us witnessed, this game was going to take a turn no one could have predicted. Glenn Maxwell: The Lone Warrior Stood Tall In came Glenn Maxwell, Australia’s free-spirited all-rounder, with the dice turned over against him. Australia was seven wickets down and barely above 90 runs. Afghanistan could think of little reason they weren’t going to pull off a sensational win. Yet Maxwell was no ordinary batter. The moment was too big. The challenge was too great. And Maxwell – ever the maverick – relished it. Maxwell’s innings began nervously, with a few dropped catches and a couple of rusty shots, however something was brewing beneath the surface. Before it all boiled over, Maxwell took control, started hitting boundaries like it was bread buttered on the other side. Hang on, there was more to this story than a mere brutal counterattack-something more. Maxwell batted through the pain. Cramping severely, unable to move easily, he could only laboriously reach a quick single for whatever runs came his way. Still, his bat was swinging like a man on a mission. Maxwell’s Assault Maxwell started rather meekly on 22 off 26 balls. Once he got going, though, it was a storm in a teacup. In the next 102 balls, he would amass an astonishing 179 runs-hit 21 boundaries and 10 sixes, each strike a cry of defiance. Every stroke made it seem impossible suddenly possible. The scoreboard changed very quickly, so did the sense of disbelief in the stands. More than just a stellar score, Maxwell’s innings of 201 not out off just 128 balls sent a statement down the corridor of cricketing history. Maxwell became the first cricketer to hit a double-century while chasing in an ODI and the first Australian to do so in a World Cup. Impossible to chase was made suddenly possible and the Australian fans’ jaws dropped in disbelieving awe as they witnessed it. A Contest Of The Body By the 41st over, Maxwell’s runs were accumulating. He was visibly laboring, not really being able to move his legs without seizing. At one stage he collapsed on the floor in agony, his body playing him up at a time when he could least afford it. However, with such a determination in his eyes he would not leave the field. A brief field treatment enabled him to play on, however the spasms left him hardly able to change positions. Still, he pounded away—every boundary, every six a work of sheer will. What was remarkable, though, was how Maxwell scored 54 of his remaining 60 runs without shifting his feet—using sharp hand-eye coordination to dispatch the ball over the boundary. His power hitting turned out to be a demonstration of superhuman mental strength. Australia, which was all but finished and out of the match, was now thrusting ahead to victory, all due to Maxwell’s raw audacity and intestinal fortitude. Maxwell And Cummins Stand At Glory’s Gate With Maxwell, the Australian skipper, Pat Cummins, calm under pressure, hung on for life itself, playing a crucial, if understated, role in what will eventually emerge as the highest eighth-wicket partnership in ODI history. Cummins’ 12* off 68 balls look pretty inconsequential on paper, however his resilience helped get Maxwell across the line to hold up the Afghan bowlers long enough for the Big Show to finish what he started. Their 202-run stand was an improbable partnership, especially given the catastrophic start Australia had had. Together, Maxwell and Cummins orchestrated one of the most thrilling comebacks in World Cup history. With just five balls remaining, Maxwell cleared the rope one final time and took Australia home in a chase that seemed beyond impossible. Afghanistan’s Ultimate Near Miss Effort Indeed, it is very nearly a near miss and as exciting as it gets could be heart-breaking for Afghanistan. Their effort, although not as spectacular as Maxwell, stands applause of its own. The composed 129* from Zadran anchored the innings, while the bowlers did their best to spoil the Australian’s chase. Rashid Khan remained threatening throughout and Naveen-ul-Haq and Azmatullah Omarzai produced crucial breakthroughs, however they could just not stop Maxwell from winning this one for Australia. Maxwell’s Legacy For The Ages Maxwell’s double century will forever be written in cricket history as one of the greatest individual performances to be seen. Not only a knock of power and panache, but also of grit, determination and mental strength. Maxwell did not just win Australia the match, he changed the course of the tournament, producing a chase that will be spoken about for decades on end. In the aftermath of victory, when Maxwell lay exhausted on the pitch with minimal ability to move about, every single player in the Australian team gathered around him acknowledging the magnitude of his achievement. Maxwell, drenched in that sweaty Australian shirt, slowly walked up the stairs of the Wankhede dressing room. Australia, more
How Birthday Boy, Virat Kohli Is The King of Comebacks?
Cricket’s favourite son, Virat Kolhi, turns 36 today. Kohli, now a King, once was a youngster just like all of us who was dealing with his own ups and downs in his career. However, his ‘not to give up’ attitude has taken him to the peak he sits on today. Despite criticism, scrutiny and the inevitable highs and lows that the game of cricket brings, Kohli has everytime shown his knack of getting up from the depths of a lean patch to deliver when India has most needed him to. From unforgettable centuries to crucial match-saving knocks, here’s a look at how Kohli has always staged a remarkable comeback when the Indian Cricket Team has needed him to step up. 1. Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2011-12 Virat Kohli made his first massive comeback in Australia during the tour in the 2011-12 series, which became a turning point for him. At just 23, Kohli was still finding his feet in test cricket, having struggled with low scores. It was the legendary Indian trio of Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman who first came up against the stiff task of facing the swift and fiery Australian attack but Kohli was the brightest spark in a series where disappointments for India did not seem to end. Despite all this pressure, Kohli’s grit came through. He was India’s highest scorer in the series with over 300 runs, of which a fantastic knock of 116 in Adelaide defined his lines of fearless intent and pointed to immense potential. Kohli arrived on the international circuit as a player to watch by at the same time proclaiming his arrival with maturity and control that defied the years. 2. Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2014-15 The summer of 2014 was probably the darkest phase of Kohli’s test career. As he returned from that disastrous tour of England, he found himself struggling against swing and seam, with scores of 1, 8, 25, 0, 39, 28 and 20 across 10 innings to leave him with an average of just 13.50. Kohli’s vulnerability to the moving ball was heavily criticised and the critics were quick to question his place in the team. However, Kohli’s reply was just fantastic. When India toured Australia in the same year, he played one of the best test series. Kohli became India’s top run-getter in Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2014-15 by scoring 692 runs in four tests and four centuries. His monumental efforts not only ensured that India drew the series but also proved to the world that Kohli could handle pressure and that such a slump was just a temporary setback for a cricketer of his ilk. This series marked one of the defining moments in his career and further reinforced his status as one of the modern greats. 3. Asia Cup T20 2022 Kohli went through perhaps the most disastrous phase of his life in the years 2019 and 2022. The stripping away of T20I captaincy and then the tests and ODIs captaincy did make it a very painful period of Kohli’s life wherein centuries became scarce. That was also added by his 1020-day spree without a century at any format. Again, Kohli showed his mental strength. After taking a much-needed break away from cricket, Kohli returned with batting form in spectacular style in the 2022 Asia Cup. It was a crunch game against Afghanistan where Kohli finally turned up the scoreboard with his first T20I hundred after nearly three years, ending the long wait with a dazzling knock. It was a testament to his resilience, ability to shut out the noise and his determination to bounce back from one of the most trying periods in his career. 4. Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023 In 2023 again, the career of Kohli in test cricket went under the sharp scanner due to which he had gone without scoring a test century for over three years. Coming into the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, the form of Kohli again became a topic of discussion due to which a mighty challenge awaited India from their rivals to retain the series at home. Kohli was the challenge India needed at Ahmedabad in the fourth test when India needed a good show to level the series and make it to the World test Championship final. A match that seemed to be heading towards a draw was turned on its head by Kohli, who played a monumental 186, a knock that helped India draw the match and gave India a 2-1 series win. This was his first appearance this century and proved to be an apt demonstration of his rise to the challenge when India needed him the most. Kohli’s innings was more than a personal milestone-it was a signal that the “King” of Indian cricket had returned. The knock was not merely about runs but about resilience, determination and leadership qualities that have made Kohli one of the most admired cricketers in the world. Through this career, he has been proving time and again that setbacks are just setups for comebacks. Whether it was his performance in Australia in 2011-12, his revival in 2014-15, his return to form in 2022 or his match-winning knock in 2023, Kohli has proved that the true measure of greatness is not how one fares during their peak but how they respond during times of adversity. On Virat Kohli’s 36th birthday, we’re reminded that this man never gave up on form slumps, on criticism or any form of pressure. Standing like a pillar for the Indian Cricket Team and to his fans everywhere, Virat Kolhi remains the kind of spirit a champion always embodies. This is to many more comebacks, milestones and records from one of the finest ambassadors cricket has ever got. The Sportz Planet Desk,Athharva Shetye
The Science Behind Athletes Eating Chewing-Gum While On Field
We have all seen top athletes such as Virat Kohli, Marnus Labuschagne or Aaron Finch pop a piece of chewing gum on the field, seemingly a casual habit. However beyond the surface, chewing gum during sports isn’t just a quirky routine, it’s a scientifically-backed technique to boost performance. Chewing-Gum Boosts Focus And Agility A sports science report by Science ABC claims that the mind is stimulated by chewing gum. It does so with receptors in the mouth. Such receptors can receive stimulations through taste or movements of the jaw. Their stimulation causes them to trigger signals in the brain and thereby enhance mental activities. Increased mental activity in this manner calls for greater circulation of blood. The heart enhances such circulation by speeding its rate of pumping. It increases blood flow between the two, yet it benefits not only the muscle but the brain itself as well. That makes athletes sharper, quicker and more focused at high-stakes moments. Chewing gum can also maintain sharpness and quick reflexes during the field, enhancing biomechanics. Even though the matches are intense sometimes, a little difference makes all the difference in maintaining concentration and gum assists by keeping one’s senses sharp and attentive. For this reason, it does not become a habit, rather, it is a deliberate tactical choice for athletes desiring to remain at top performance. Stress Relief And Improved Concentration Another benefit of chewing gum is that it can be a stress-relieving agent. According to sports science, Chewing is said to stimulate the production of serotonin, which has been linked to keeping up with mood and minimizing levels of stress. This may be the key reason players in a crucial match get the composure and focus needed to win competitive games. Hydration And Comfort On The Field Chewing gum helps in the moistening of the mouth and eliminates the feeling of thirst. During high-speed games, the players do not stop for water very often. In this aspect, if the mouth is moistened by chewing gum, then there is this small relief, which makes the players fully concentrate on the game. A Performance Enabler Well, basically, chewing gum is just a habit for these athletes. It’s more of an adjunct that helps in terms of physical and mental performance to conquer the rigors of intense competition. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
A Matter Of Patience And Faith For The Indian Cricket Team
New Zealand had an upper hand over the Indian Cricket Team in the third test match at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. It turned out to be a 3-0 whitewash. Indians are not accustomed to such sort of loss at home so the outpour has been pretty strong too. However, as a die-hard fan, it’s very important to take a step back and evaluate the bigger picture. Does this loss indicate a downfall of intent, lack of leadership or poor coaching? Let’s dive into these pressing concerns with a balanced perspective. 1. Has The Indian Cricket Team Lost Its Intent? It is easy to get frustrated when the team we respect so much does not perform as per our expectations. However the difference between losing intent and losing to a good opponent is a world of difference. India did not lose because they lacked intent. New Zealand played super disciplined cricket that checked India’s aggression at bay. Moments of victory and defeat go hand in hand in sports. Every game, lost or won, presents an opportunity for introspection. The Indian Cricket Team would have come back to attack the next series with more precision and intent, as is their norm after suffering defeats. India is a side which draws momentum from losses and infuses that into their next match. This could just give them the fuel to rise against Australia in the much-hyped Border-Gavaskar series. So, instead of doubting their intentions, maybe we should believe in their resilience and wait for them to display it. 2. Should Rohit Sharma Be Sacked As India’s Test Captain? A big no.This is the most debated question, however Rohit Sharma’s contribution to the Indian Cricket Team is more than just a win-loss record. Rohit is someone who brings aggression and inspiration to his role and leads by example. He is a great player who does not care to place his wicket on the line for the team, something that is rarely seen in modern-day cricket. The leadership brand he delivers is of a willingness to counter-attack to set the tone for a bold innings. Every captain has ups and downs. What distinguishes them is that they can support their players through it all. The very fact that Rohit gives confidence to younger cricketers like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel and Aakash Deep all of whom have already gone on to become talent prospects under his mentorship he has proven to be players’ captain who trusts other teammates and creates a nourishing atmosphere that goes onto create long-term success although it also brings short term failure. Fans can now look past the last couple of losses and remember how many times Rohit’s leadership has instilled fearlessness into the Indian Cricket Team. And patience, they say, is a test of loyalty. I do not think we need to forget the devotion for the game in Rohit Sharma when we talk about him. 3. Is The Current Coaching Panel Not Up To The Mark? Judging the coaching panel after a few series would be rather premature. Coaching at national level often needs time to make an impact and success isn’t what you can expect instantly. It would be a different ball game indeed, however Gautam Gambhir has shown what potential he holds as a tactician in his stint with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), guiding them to the trophy in 2024. Fans must remember that each coaching team brings a different vision to the table and for Gambhir and his unit to establish theirs, they require time and trust. Success stories are seldom built overnight and a hasty judgment only undermines their efforts. Just as we have seen past coaches shape the team over seasons, Gambhir and his panel need a chance to build their legacy. With defeat, come accusations and despair. Each of the players, coaches and leaders has put in years of practice and sacrifice to bring themselves to that playing field. So let us rally behind them with understanding and encouragement rather than bash them. As in life, the sadness makes the wins that much sweeter in sport. The Indian Cricket Team’s journey was full of heart-stopping moments of glory and times of learning. Now, when they are at a crossroads, they need their supporters to stand with them and not bashing them. After all, faith is not tested in the moments of victory however in times of adversity. Let’s hold on to that faith and let’s watch the Indian Cricket Team bounce back. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
