Know About Samit Dravid, Rahul Dravid’s Son Who Is Selected For India U19
Samit Dravid has been called up for India U-19 series Against Australia. Samit’s Selection for U-19 Series Samit Dravid, son of legendary Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid, has been included in the Under-19 India cricket squad that is set to compete against Australia. The 18-year-old all-rounder will feature in both one-day and four-day formats, a huge boost to his fledgling career. Samit’s Strong Domestic Performances Currently representing Mysore Warriors in the KSCA Maharaja T20 Trophy, Samit Dravid has been amongst the runs and wickets. The right handed all-rounder played a crucial role in Karnataka’s maiden Cooch Behar Trophy title at the start of this year, scoring 362 runs and picking up 16 wickets in eight matches. Series Details The series is expected to have three 50-over games and two four-day matches when India ‘U-19’ will host against Australia ‘U-19’ at Puducherry and Chennai. While the one-day team will have Mohd Amaan as captain, Soham Patwardhan will lead in the four-day side. Samit Carrying Forward The Dravid Legacy By the end of his glittering career, Rahul Dravid had amassed 24,208 runs in international cricket-one of the legends in Indian cricket. Although he never won a World Cup as a player, under him as head coach, India managed to win the title of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 and thus he left his full mark on Indian cricket. Now, it is time for Samit Dravid to create his own legacy as he heads into the international stage with the India U-19 team. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
How An Ordinary Mumbai Boy Became A Household Name In Cricket
A young boy from Mumbai dreaming of playing cricket at the highest level spending countless hours on the bustling maidans of the city. That boy is Rohit Sharma and today he’s not just a cricketer but a legend in the making. From The Grassroots Rohit’s journey began in the narrow lanes of Borivali, where he first picked up a bat. As a child he was mesmerized by the game and with every swing, he inched closer to his dream. His raw talent was soon spotted by the Dronacharya Awardee, Mr. Dinesh Lad, who converted Rohit from a raw material to a finished product. Listen From Rohit’s Dronacharya Rohit quickly rose through the ranks, making his debut for Indian Cricket Team in 2007. However it wasn’t an easy ride. Early in his career, consistency eluded him and there were whispers about his potential being unfulfilled. Rohit earned his initial IPL contract at the Deccan Chargers in the inaugural season of the league and then shifted to the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2011 season. Since then Rohit has been the face of Mumbai Indians with his spectacular performances. Shifting To The Top Gear Everything changed in 2013 when Rohit was asked to open the innings in ODIs. It was as if a switch flipped. The world witnessed a different Rohit Sharma—one who could single-handedly change the course of a game. His elegant yet powerful stroke play earned him the nickname “Hitman” and a label that stuck after he smashed multiple double centuries, a record that stands unmatched. Rohit’s Family: A First Priority Beyond the cricket field, Rohit’s life is just as remarkable. He married Ritika Sajdeh in 2015, his close confidante and manager. Their bond is often highlighted in the media, especially their adorable daughter, Samaira, who was born in 2018. Rohit Sharma’s journey from the dusty maidans of Mumbai is a story of perseverance, raw talent and an unyielding love for the game. His rise to becoming one of the most feared openers in cricket didn’t happen overnight—it was the result of years of dedication and an unwavering belief in his abilities. Whether he’s smashing centuries at Wankhede or leading India to victory, Rohit embodies the spirit of a true sportsman. His story isn’t just about records and titles, it’s about inspiring millions to chase their dreams no matter where they start. The Sportz Planet Desk,Nitya Sutrave
Women’s T20WC: BCCI Announces Team India Squad
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the final, 15-member squad representing India in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, which is going to be held in the UAE from 3rd to 20th October. The top 10 women’s cricketing nations will compete for the prestigious title in Dubai and Sharjah. India to be led by Harmanpreet Kaur Harmanpreet Kaur will lead the charge for the 4th consecutive edition of the T20 World Cup with Smriti Mandhana as her deputy. Two important inclusions in the squad are wicket-keeper batter Yastika Bhatia and all-rounder Shreyanka Patil, both of whom are subject to fitness tests. Tournament Format and Groups The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 will host a total of 23 matches, scheduled in a round framing where teams are distributed with 2 groups of 5. First group includes defending champions Australia, along with India, Pakistan, New Zealand and Sri Lanka. Other group has Bangladesh, England, South Africa, West Indies and Scotland. All will have to play 4 matches in the group stage and from each group top 2 teams will qualify for the semi-final. India’s opening matches India, on their part, will begin their quest against New Zealand and have two warm-up games against South Africa and West Indies scheduled before the main tournament. With the Men In Blue lifting the title earlier this year, all expectations are now on the Women In Blue to lift their crown and bring home another T20 World Cup. Team India Squad Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Shafali Verma, Deepti Sharma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh (WK), Yastika Bhatia (WK)*, Pooja Vastrakar, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh Thakur, Dayalan Hemalatha, Asha Sobhana, Radha Yadav, Shreyanka Patil*, S. Sajeevan Traveling reserves Uma Chetry, Tanuja Kanwer, Saima Thakor The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Shikhar Dhawan Retires: Top 5 Knocks Of Gabbar In International Cricket
Very few cricketers evoke the same flair and tenacity as Shikhar Dhawan. Fondly nicknamed “Gabbar,” Shikhar Dhawan’s career has spanned a decade and is a story of grit, elegance, and an undying love for the game. His journey from the dust-bowl grounds of Delhi to the pinnacle of international cricket shall be remembered not only for the runs he scored but also for the style in which he played the game—always with an infectious smile and an aggressive yet graceful style. On the day Shikhar Dhawan announced his retirement from international cricket, what needed to be done was to turn back and see those innings which shaped his legacy. Be it his dazzling debut or the match-winning performances in high-pressure games, Dhawan’s career forms a collection of iconic moments forever etched in the memory of cricket fans globally. Here, revisit five of his most memorable innings that define his contribution to Indian cricket. 1. Debut – 187 vs Australia, 2010 Dhawan’s Test debut against Australia was nothing short of spectacular. Facing a formidable Australian bowling attack, the Delhi-born cricketer announced his arrival with a breathtaking 187, setting the record for the highest score by an Indian on Test debut. His innings was adjudged to be an exemplary combination of confidence and skill which put his skillful abilities with the bat in the limelight and scripted the foundation for India’s victory. This knock not only secured the victory but was also a starting point in Dhawan’s journey as one of the pivotal figures in the Indian batting line-up. 2. Champions Trophy 2013 – 137 vs England The situation was clear: any runs would count in the ICC Champions Trophy final in 2013. That 137 for Dhawan was of paramount importance in the context of India’s chase. His association with Virat Kohli turned out to be the deciding factor, and his ability to perform under pressure earned him the Player of the Tournament award. This knock testified more to his ability to rise to any situation and play match-winning innings whenever it really mattered. 3. ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 – 137 vs South Africa One of Dhawan’s most memorable innings was saved for a strong South African bowling attack during the 2015 ICC World Cup. His 137 off 146 balls helped India post a challenging total and secure a crucial win against one of the tournament’s top contenders. Playing in Melbourne, Dhawan’s knock broke India’s jinx against South Africa in World Cups and proved he can perform on the biggest stage. 4. India’s Tour Of Sri Lanka 2017 – 190 vs Sri Lanka Dhawan’s 190 off 168 balls against Sri Lanka during the Galle Test was an example of his attacking bent of mind in the game’s longer format. His blistering innings set up the scene for a comprehensive Indian victory, underlining his reputation as one of the most dangerous batsmen in the team. This aggressive and incisive knock would go a long way in proving that Dhawan has the mettle to dominate any bowling attack in any format. 5. West Indies Tour Of India 2018 – 190 vs West Indies When Dhawan needed reaffirmation in his Test career, he came up with a masterclass in the form of a knock of 190 against the West Indies in Rajkot. Runs came both in terms of elegance and power, as Dhawan’s innings saw him hit 26 fours, proving very crucial to India’s victory. This not only reinstated his place in the Test team but also proved that Dhawan could adapt and do well in any situation. As Shikhar Dhawan walks into the sunset of international cricket, it will be recalled not only for the runs he scored but also for the manner in which he played the game—being infectious with his smile, fearless in his approach, and always rising to the occasion. His legacy thus is one of flair, resilience and rising to an occasion with what looked like never-say-die attitude—his contribution to Indian cricket, in general, cannot be belittled. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Gabbar Calls Time On His Cricketing Career
Shikhar Dhawan, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, announced his retirement from international cricket after a glorious 14-year stint. The 38-year-old left-handed opening batsman took to social media on Saturday morning, 24th August, 2024 to share the news, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by cricket fans worldwide. Retirement Announcement “It’s important to turn the page to move forward in life and that’s why I am announcing my retirement from international and domestic cricket,” Dhawan said in a video posted on his social media accounts. “I am leaving with peace in my heart that I played so long for India. I’ve told myself don’t feel sad that you won’t play for India anymore, but feel happy that you played for the country.“ Dhawan’s Final Appearance Dhawan last played competitive cricket in April 2024, turning out as the captain for Punjab Kings in the IPL. Across his international career, he compiled 24 centuries from 269 matches—17 in ODIs and seven in Tests—cementing his status as a modern-day great of the limited-overs format. Dhawan – A Modern Day Great Known for his consistency in ODIs, Dhawan retires as one of only eight players in the format’s history to score more than 5000 runs at an average of plus 40 with a strike rate above 90. Among Indians, he shared the feat with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Dhawan had last represented India in the ODI series against Bangladesh in December 2022. Dhawan’s Test Debut While Dhawan made his mark across all formats, it was his ODI performances that really set him apart. His journey to international stardom began with a sensational Test debut against Australia in Mohali in 2013, where he smashed an 85-ball century—the fastest by a Test debutant—and went on to score 187 runs in a match-winning effort. The Real ‘GABBAR’ Of The Champions Trophy Dhawan’s most prolific year came in 2013 when he scored 1162 runs in ODIs at an average of 50.52 and a strike rate of 97.89. The crowning moment of that year was his outstanding performance in the Champions Trophy, where he scored 363 runs in five innings with two hundreds, which piloted India to victory. This was the start of a potent opening partnership with Rohit Sharma, which, for now, is the fourth-best in ODI history and second-best for India, sitting only behind the legendary opening pair of Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly. Key Contributions Over the next couple of years, Dhawan continued to excel in multi-team tournaments, topping the charts as India’s highest run-scorer in the 2014 Asia Cup, World Cup 2015, Champions Trophy 2017, and Asia Cup 2018. Thereby, pressure handling developed into his key asset in an India ODI setup. Injury Setback During the 2019 World Cup Dhawan’s ODI career was put on the brakes in 2019 when he got injured on the thumb during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 in England just after scoring a century against Australia at The Oval. Despite the setback, Dhawan’s contributions were recognized as he was entrusted with captaincy duties for India’s second string sides in the latter half of his career. Gabbar Belting It In The IPL Dhawan has had some success in IPL teams like Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Deccan Chargers, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings. Currently, he is the second-highest run-scorer in IPL history, just a run behind Virat Kohli, with 6769 runs from 221 innings, at a strike rate of 127.14. Dhawan’s Domestic Dominance But apart from his international and IPL exploits, Dhawan has also been an important domestic cricketer. He was a part of Delhi’s Ranji Trophy-winning team in the 2007-08 season, while at the Under-19 World Cup in 2004 he was the top run-scorer for India. Farewell to a Legend As Dhawan retires from international cricket, he leaves behind a legacy of being one of India’s greatest ODI players. What he has accomplished as a player and as a leader is for eternity, and the fans will always remember his fearless batting and trademark celebrations. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Shreyas Iyer Opens Up On How Rohit Sharma’s Distinct Way of Communicating Impacts Team
While Rohit Sharma continues to win hearts with his performance, both with the bat and with his on-field antics, the hilarious stump mic conversations and words like “ye” and “wo” at the time of playing have become sources of entertainment for Indian cricket fans. The endearing and occasionally forgetful nature of Rohit only seems to add to his charm, converting him in reality to a true entertainer on the field. Shreyas Iyer Shares Insights on Rohit’s Quirky Communication There was much buzz recently at the CEAT Cricket Awards held in Mumbai on Rohit’s quirky style of communication. One of his colleagues who has shared the cricketing field for several years now is Shreyas Iyer. He shed light on what it is like to work with Rohit Sharma and how the team handles situations where the skip constantly uses ambiguous words. “These are like fill-in-the-blanks for us. We just visualize whom he can refer to at that time and we understand his feelings. We have been playing together for so many years. And what he is trying to say is not that he keeps beating around the bush. We know what exactly he means,” said Shreyas Iyer. Simple Logic by Rohit Sharma in Response Rohit, who is known for his straight forwardness, turned around and replied to Iyer’s remarks with a simple logic in his way of communicating. He said that he wants every player to be himself on the field and, as a leader, he applies the same rule on himself. The relaxed and humorous approach would not only keep the team content but also positive in keeping an ambiance within the squad. A Night of Celebrations at the CEAT Cricket Awards It was a memorable night at the CEAT Cricket Awards for both cricketers. Rohit Sharma won the prestigious Men’s International Cricketer of the Year, where he was lauded for his spectacular performance on the international platform, and Shreyas Iyer bagged the award for “Outstanding Leadership” in the IPL 2024 season, where he led the Kolkata Knight Riders to a title win. Camaraderie and Success Donning the blue jersey, Rohit and Shreyas have been assets for Indian cricket, and both on and off the cricket field, the camaraderie they share is unmatchable. The friendship and mutual respect were there for all to see, and the camaraderie they shared was visible with the success they tasted together in the CEAT Cricket Awards. The fans will continue to have more fun, not just with Rohit’s comic timing but also with how effective a leader he can actually be. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
How Sports Science Is Shaping the Future of Top Sports in India
Tapping into the national passion for both sports, progress in sports science is unlocking new insights that set a new course for athletes and their trainers. This new discipline is changing the face of sports like cricket and football across Indian pitches. Revolutionizing Cricket Through Data and Analytics Traditionally, cricket was ruled by instinct and experience; it’s becoming the game of data-driven people now. Advanced analytics is used by teams such as the Indian Cricket Team and IPL franchises for breaking down every single aspect of the game. Biomechanical analysis helps tinker with the actions of bowlers and perfect batting styles. For example, player load monitoring systems record physical strain, allowing to prevent injuries and maintain peak performance throughout the year. This technology helps tailor training regimens and recovery programs, thus optimizing both individual and team performance. Transforming Football with Advanced Technology It is sports science that is doing the same for football in India. Teams in the Indian Super League and national teams are rapidly transitioning to GPS tracking and performance analytics. These advanced facilities track players’ movements, workload, and tactical positioning down to the last inch. Coaches use this information to fine-tune strategies and game plans for superior fitness among players. Sports scientists are also developing nutrition and recovery strategies specific to footballers’ demands in an effort to increase the quality of the play and prolong athletes’ careers. The Future of Indian Sports Such effects of sports science are not restricted to mere immediate performance benefits; on the contrary, they set the base for long-term growth of Indian sports through an innovative culture and evidence-based practice. Further investment will see even greater development in cricket and football, offering a more competitive and exciting future to avid sports enthusiasts right across the country. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
3 Years Since Virat Kohli’s Fiery One-Liner At Lords
2 sessions of play were left on that day at the Lord’s. India had posted a target of 272 with just 60 overs remaining in the 2nd test match against England in 2021. The Indian Cricket Team makes a huddle. In walks then skipper, Virat Kohli and throws a fiery one liner that was going to be remembered for ages. “For 60 overs they should feel hell out there” said Virat. And that was the exact thing that happened next. That was a shattering blow to England from the Indian pace unit, particularly Mohammad Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah, as both combined to dismantle the English batting line-up at the Home of Cricket. The struggles of England started right at the beginning as openers Dom Sibley and Rory Burns fell for ducks, with Bumrah and Shami laying the groundwork in the very first over. Captain Joe Root was attempting to graft the innings, but was dismissed for 33 following an excellent catch by Virat Kohli in the slips off an inch-perfect delivery from Jasprit Bumrah. Ishant Sharma joined in with the fall of Haseeb Hameed and Jonny Bairstow to reduce England to 67/4 in an extremely precarious position. Despite the best efforts of Root, England collapsed for a meager 120 all out against the target of 272 runs. Siraj led from the front in the late attack on England’s tail with four timely wickets; Bumrah added three to his tally to close out the game and secure the dominating 151-run victory for India. The Indian bowlers, with spicy spells and continuous pressure, ensured a delightful victory that is going to be there in memory for any debacle encountered by India. Kohli’s words probably acted as the fuel to the fire. The 2021 Lord’s test match between England and India is surely the one remembered for the ages. Courtesy – Virat Kohli and his words of wisdom. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
India’s New Bowling Coach, Morne Morkel’s Coaching Resume
Morne Morkel has been confirmed as the new bowling coach for India’s men’s cricket team, seeing him join Gautam Gambhir in the coaching staff under a three-year contract. Now an Australian citizen, Morkel had a glittering international career for South Africa, playing 247 matches—86 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 44 T20Is—with a total count of 544 wickets. This, of course, includes 309 wickets in Tests, 188 in ODIs, and 47 in T20Is. Morkel’s Coaching Career Ever since his retirement from international cricket in March 2018, Morkel has built up quite a bank of coaching experience: 1. Morkel was with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for three seasons of the IPL, during both of which he was under the mentorship of Gambhir.2. Last year, Morkel was the fast bowling coach of Pakistan for their campaigns in the Asia Cup and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.3. A year before, Morkel had been Namibia’s bowling consultant at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022.4. Morkel was also involved with the New Zealand women’s team in the recently concluded ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa.5. Morne Morkel was also present at the coaching camp of the Durban Super Giants in the SA20 league. Morkel’s first assignment will be the series against Bangladesh in September, which has both Tests and T20Is. For the coaching team, the key challenge will be India’s tour of Australia later in the year for the five Test Matches. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Questions Loom Before The Border-Gavaskar Trophy
With the flame already ignited for one of the most famous rivalries in the history of cricket, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024 is going to be nothing short of action and intense drama. Though a couple of months are still left, many questions are yet to be answered as the series gets anticipated. If Not RO-KO Then Who? Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been India’s batting mainstays for more than a decade now. The Virat-Rohit duo has piled up 2629 runs for India while playing against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Although Rohit Sharma cemented his place in the Indian red ball side in 2018, he has been a major contributor when it comes to scoring runs. However, considering the age in the legs of both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma it is important for someone else from the batting order to step up and deliver it for the Indian Cricket Team. While the hopes rest on Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, it would be interesting to see if they can meet the expectations by facing the challenge down under. Who Will Join Jasprit Bumrah? Australia is known for producing fast and bouncy decks unlike India where the pitches are more spin dominant. To give Australia a tough fight, India need more resources in their fast bowling cartel to join Jasprit Bumrah and deliver. Fast bowlers, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammad Siraj and Shardul Thakur have a taste of wickets from down under. A couple of these guys alongside Bumrah might make a quality seam bowling attack. Steve Smith The Opener Or Steve Smith The Middle Order Batter? Any cricket fan who follows the Border-Gavaskar Trophy might be aware of how much Steve Smith is in love with scoring runs against India. Smith, till the end of last year used to bat in between number 3 to number 5 in test match cricket. However, including Cameron Green and the empty opening spot at the top post David Warner’s retirement made him think of pushing himself up the batting order. However, Smith opening the innings in test match cricket didn’t come off as a great decision. Smith hasn’t played in the whites and the famous Baggy Green since late January 2024 with Australia having no test matches scheduled in their calendar. However while playing against India, it would be interesting to see if Smith opens the batting or shifts back to any of numbers 3, 4 or 5 in the middle order. FYI – In the 18 test matches Steve Smith has played in the Border-Gavaskar series so far, Steve Smith has successfully piled 1887 runs at an ultra impressive average of 65.06. What’s Bigger – Border-Gavaskar Trophy or The Ashes? The intensity of the India-Australia rivalry has arguably reached the same level to that of the intensity of the England-Australia rivalry. While many believe that The Ashes being the oldest rivalry is cricket’s greatest showdown, some say that the Border-Gavaskar rivalry is the most fierce one due to the intense battles between the two cricketing powerhouses. Well, therefore we leave the answer to this question up to you. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye