Slides
March 31, 2013
Captain Ponting eyes IPL glory for Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians made it to the final in 2010 and also progressed to the knockout in the last two years but haven't won the title yet which captain Ricky Ponting hopes will happen this year.
Nobody has to tell Sachin to go: Shukla
Senior BCCI official Rajeev Shukla feels that Sachin Tendulkar should be allowed to retire on his own terms considering the huge contribution the veteran batsman has made to Indian cricket.
MCA ban on Shah Rukh Khan stays, say officials
Mumbai Cricket Association's five-year ban imposed on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) owner Shah Rukh Khan last year stands and he will not be able to attend his team's IPL match against hosts Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on May 7.
March 30, 2013
Australia series helped me get back my rhythm: Ishant
India pacer Ishant Sharma feels that he has got his "rhythm back" in the recently-concluded home Test series against Australia after spending the better part of last year on the sidelines due to ankle surgery.
Experienced players being pushed out too soon: Tait
Former Australia pacer Shaun Tait feels that seasoned players like Shane Warne, Matthew Hayden, Jason Gillespie shouldn't have hurried retired which would have enabled a smooth transition for the next generation.
I feel 100 per cent and am looking forward to IPL: Sehwag
With just four days to go for the sixth edition of the Indian Premier League, Delhi Daredevils opener Virender Sehwag is all set for the battle ahead.
March 28, 2013
I don't like to set targets for myself: Tendulkar
Mumbai Indians' iconic player Sachin Tendulkar does not want to set any targets for himself in the forthcoming sixth edition of the Indian Premier League as the senior Indian batsman is focused on winning the maiden IPL crown for the home team's loyal fans.
Doing well in overseas Tests is most important: Gambhir
Lauding the team for their 4-0 triumph over Australia in the recently concluded Test series, out-of-favour opener Gautam Gambhir today stressed on the need to win Test series abroad in order to be recognized as a force in world cricket.
Young Aus batsmen lack class of Ponting, Clarke: Chappell
Batsmen in the mould of, or, as talented as Michael Clarke or the retired Ricky Ponting, may never be seen in Australia again if the 'holes in the production line' are not addressed by the country's cricket administrators, says former great Ian Chappell.
NZ batsman Ryder in coma after bar bust-up
New Zealand batsman Jesse Ryder is in an induced coma at a Christchurch hospital after suffering serious head injuries in an altercation outside a local bar, police said on Thursday.
March 27, 2013
Pujara, Ashwin achieve career-best Test rankings
India's middle-order batsman Cheteshwar Pujara and off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin have achieved their career-best rankings in batting and bowling, respectively in the latest ICC Test Player Rankings released in Dubai.
Dravid backs Pujara to do well in ODIs
Impressed with young Cheteshwar Pujara, former Indian captain Rahul Dravid said that the Saurashtra lad had it in him to do well in the limited overs as well.
March 26, 2013
ICC Test rankings: England consign India to 3rd
Test team rankings after the latter managed to salvage a draw in the final Test against New Zealand in Auckland on Tuesday.
Thrashed Australia can be No. 1 again: Arthur
Australia can bounce back from their 4-0 humbling away to India and become the top test nation within two years, according to head coach Mickey Arthur.
India vs Australia: Super Six who made the difference
picks six individual performances that proved decisive in India beating Australia 4-0 in the just-concluded Test series.
Dhoni has built a new, young Team India
Instead of lamenting the loss of greats, M S Dhoni used the Australia Tests to groom a bunch of youngsters into what could well be the nucleus of a champion outfit, says .
March 25, 2013
Arthur unlikely to be sacked after India debacle
Despite Australia suffering a humiliating 0-4 Test series whitewash against India, coach Mickey Aurthur is unlikely to be sacked as Cricket Australia has backed him to continue at the job though the Board termed the team performance as "unacceptable".
BCCI's faith in team and captain justified: Srinivasan
The 4-0 clean sweep against Australia in the just-concluded Test series has justified the BCCI's faith in the team and its leader Mahendra Singh Dhoni, according to Board President N Srinivasan who said a "stern" test awaits the team when they tour South Africa.
Is Australian cricket's class of 2013 worst ever?
A livid Australian media labeled their side as "worst" in 34 years and ridiculed the shot selection of their top order batsmen to "insanity" after India inflicted a humiliating 4-0 whitewash on the visitors.
Report card: 10/10 for Pujara, Jadeja; 4 for Tendulkar
India's dominating showing in the just-concluded Test series was built on impressive performances by several young players. Check out how M S Dhoni's squad performed.
The 0-4 margin has been extremely disappointing: Watson
The demoralising whitewash at the hands of India seems to have shaken the Australian team to the core as stand-in captain Shane Watson said it will be a big challenge for them to recover from the reversal.India recorded a historic 4-0 clean sweep, taking revenge for a similar humiliation Down Under last year.
'Defensive' Dhoni is here to stay
India's most successful Test captain, MS Dhoni, comes hard at his critics. The skipper stresses on balance approach to captaincy.
March 24, 2013
Has Sachin Tendulkar played his last Test match in India?
In the Delhi Test one got the feeling that this might be the last occasion when the fans would see Sachin Tendulkar bat in India, says
An all-round Ravindra Jadeja show!
Ravindra Jadeja grabbed headlines for scalping the Aussie skippers roaring his way into the record books. The Rajkot left-arm spinner definitely deserves to be the top performer of the match.
I am glad that India has Duncan Fletcher as coach: Dhoni
One man who was the most relieved after India's 4-0 series win over Australia was coach Duncan Fletcher.
Ashwin plays a starring role in the Indian success story
R Ashwin faced a lot of criticism after his lackluster showing against England and many wondered whether he was the man to take the Indian spin legacy ahead.
Fletcher asked me to work on my delivery stride: Ashwin
Man of the Series, Ravichandran Ashwin, who emerged as the highest wicket-taker in the four-Test rubber with 29 scalps, has said he made a few changes in his bowling technique after the home series against England.
It's a big boost to win 4-0 with this unit: MS Dhoni
Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni has applauded his team for a 4-0 series whitewash against Australia, saying every player showed character to come out with flying colours of what has been a tough phase for Indian cricket in the last one and a half years.
PHOTOS: India vs Australia, Delhi Test, Day 3
India completed a historic 4-0 clean sweep against Australia by recording an emphatic six-wicket victory in the fourth and final Test in New Delhi on Sunday.
March 23, 2013
The match is evenly poised, reckons Vijay
Opener Murali Vijay believes the fourth Test match is evenly poised after India's disappointing performance with the bat and is hoping the tailenders can build a sizeable first innings lead, on Day 3.
Lyon spins a web around India, says tough to chase 100
Nathan Lyon deserves credit for leading Australia's revival as he claimed five wickets to keep the visitors in the contest after Day 2 of the fourth and final Test in Delhi on Saturday.
Lyon's five-star performance sends India crashing
Australian offie Nathan Lyon's deadly performance after tea sent India reeling on Day 2 of the fourth Test in New Delhi. He is our top performer of the day.
PHOTOS: India v Australia, Delhi Test, Day 2
Images of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia being played at the Feroz Shah Kotla
Want India to do well at home and away: Ganguly
Having re-established their hegemony in the familiar environs of home with three successive Test wins against Australia, India should strive to once again become a force to reckon with in the alien conditions abroad, feels former captain Sourav Ganguly.
March 22, 2013
It's Ashwin's turn again at Kotla
Ravichandran Ashwin made most of helpful conditions and finished with wonderful figures of four for 40 as Australia struggled to 231 for eight after electing to bat in the fourth Test.
It's getting tougher and tougher to bat: Smith
It is not unusual for an Indian pitch to start turning from Day 1. But the crack-filled track at the Feroz Shah Kotla is showing ominous signs, and already question marks have arisen whether the fourth Test against Australia will last the full five days.
A dream come true to captain Australia: Watson
All-rounder Shane Watson, who has been named Australia's stand-in skipper on Friday, said that leading the national team is like a dream come true and admitted he was mentally preparing for the job as soon as he landed in New Delhi for the fourth and final Test.
Kotla pitch a 'three-day' wicket?
The Feroz Shah Kotla pitch for the fourth and final Test between India and Australia has come under criticism from the former players, who have termed the track as a "three-day" wicket.
PHOTOS: India v Australia, Delhi Test, Day 1
Images from the first day's play in the fourth and final Test between India and Australia at Kotla.
Photos: Won't let back problem end career, says Clarke
The latest recurrence of Michael Clarke's back spasm has raised questions about his long-term future but the Aussie captain insisted that the chronic back troubles, which have plagued him for nearly half his life, will not force him to cut short his international career.
March 21, 2013
'It took us a third tour to learn how to win in India'
Legendary leg-spinner Shane Warne threw his weight behind Australia coach Mickey Arthur, saying it would be unfair to make the South African the scapegoat for the team's poor showing on the ongoing tour of India.
'It will take centuries to produce another Sehwag'
Virender Sehwag's coach AN Sharma tells it was unfair to drop the dashing Delhi right-hander. 'He still has a couple of years left in him.'
PHOTOS: Team India prepares for clean sweep at Kotla
India will be going into the fourth and final Test against Australia in Delhi on Friday with an eye on history. Never in their cricketing history have they whitewashed a team 4-0 in Test matches, and Mahendra Singh Dhoni has the golden opportunity to add another memorable chapter to his glorious career.
Ishant says his role is to contain with new ball
India fast bowler Ishant Sharma says the team is riding high on confidence following three consecutive victories against Australia and will be hoping to make it a 4-0 clean sweep in Delhi.
'Guys will be richer in experience after India tour'
Former captain Ricky Ponting says he himself failed repeatedly before learning to perform in India and the bunch of Australian cricketers playing there will be able to handle the conditions better next time.
India aim for clean sweep against jittery Australia
Standing on the cusp of history, an upbeat India will go for the kill against a beleaguered Australia as they aim for an unprecedented 4-0 clean sweep by inflicting another defeat on the visitors in the fourth and final Test starting in New Delhi on Friday.
Sachin Tendulkar recommended me for captaincy: MS Dhoni
Mahendra Singh Dhoni still feels shy to speak to his idol Sachin Tendulkar off the field but says his honest opinions on a cricket field about team strategy, including occasional differences of opinions with the veteran, might have landed him the India captaincy in 2007.
March 20, 2013
Is everything alright between Clarke and Watson?
While Shane Watson was focused on the training session ahead of the fourth and final Test here at the Feroz Shah Kotla, Michael Clarke was busy talking to coach Mickey Arthur.
I did not want to break down in front of Yuvi: Tendulkar
Sachin Tendulkar said he was scared of breaking down in front of Yuvraj Singh when he met the left-handed batsman in London after his treatment in the United States for a rare germ cell cancer.
I don't want to rate this Australian side: Sourav Ganguly
Former India skipper Sourav Ganguly has said that the current Australian side is the worst-ever to tour India.
Will Rahane's long wait for Test debut finally end?
With the series in their pocket, it will be interesting to see if India hand Ajinkya Rahane a long-awaited Test debut in New Delhi, says
ICC Test rankings: Kohli, Vijay achieve career best spots
Courtesy his 153-run knock against Australia in the Mohali Test, India opener Murali Vijay has jumped 16 places to career-best rank of the 43rd but Cheteshwar Pujara dropped out of top-10 in the latest ICC rankings for Test batsmen.
'Team India played with the same intensity in three Tests'
Sunil Gavaskar has lauded India for their dominating performances against Australia in the ongoing Test series.
March 19, 2013
Team India Report Card: Dhawan scores a perfect 10
Team India did well to win the Mohali Test against Australia, despite a day being washed out. A progress report on the team.
Far from madding crowd, Viru-Gauti begin a second innings
They have walked in together at the start of the innings on innumerable occasions but on Monday, at a nondescript ground called Teri Oval, long time opening partners Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir began the second and inarguably the toughest innings of their cricket careers.
We would like to go home with a win in Delhi: Clarke
The prospect of suffering a rare series-whitewash against India is looming large on them but Australian skipper Michael Clarke said such a situation has not arisen due to lack of hard work and they would do everything to sign off the tour with a win in Delhi.
The coming days will be slightly tougher for Dhawan: Dhoni
Shikhar Dhawan has made a stupendous start to his Test career but the opener will face a sterner test in future since he has raised his own expectations with his fabulous batting on debut, India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni has said.
Indian cab driver's son tipped to save Aus for Ashes
An Indian-origin rookie Australian pace bowler has been tipped as a probable hope for the Ashes after an explosive start to his first-class career and adapting well to the pressures of the Sheffield Shield.
Realistic Dhoni not thinking of whitewash yet!
Mahendra Singh Dhoni said batting was identified as a major problem in the England series and the team focussed on getting big scores against Australia, which proved a game changer.
'This is the most inexperienced Aussie side'
Legendary Sunil Gavaskar does not believe that the present Australian team is the weakest to have toured India, but feels the Michael Clarke-led outfit is undoubtedly the most inexperienced side to have visited the Indian shores.
March 18, 2013
The star performers in Mohali
India's victory push was led by the blitzkrieg from debutant Shikhar Dhawan and his opening partner Murali Vijay as they put on a huge opening stand in quick time to make up for the lost time. We present to you the top performers in the 3rd Test in Mohali.
Why was Dhoni chasing a draw?
Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni surprised everyone when he admitted that India was contemplating playing it safe and batting for a draw rather than going for victory after losing quick wickets in the run-chase.
The turning points of the Mohali Test
The first day's play was washed out, yet India had enough time to register a six-wicket victory over Australia in the third Test in Mohali to take a 3-0 lead in the series.
We don't think about revenge in sport: Dhoni
Shikhar Dhawan has made a great start to his Test career but the opener will face a sterner test in future since he has raised his own expectations with his fabulous batting on debut, India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni said.
India v Australia: The score so far
Check out the head-to-head Test record between the two countries.
Photos: India vs Australia, Mohali Test (Day Five)
The Aussies suffered Monday morning blues and how! Rediff.com takes a look at how the day unfolded for the Aussies in Mohali.
Differences sorted out, Watson set to jet back to India
Shane Watson said on Monday that the homework gate issue is firmly behind him and he is looking forward to joining the Australian Test team in Delhi ahead of the fourth and final Test in Delhi after sorting out his differences with coach Mickey Arthur and high performance manager Pat Howard.
Watson to return to India after serving ban
Australia's vice-captain, Shane Watson will join the team ahead of the fourth and final Test against India, starting in Delhi from March 22.
March 17, 2013
Siddle, Starc spoil India's perfect script
The day was perfectly set for India to continue their dominance with the bat till Australia's pace bowling duo of Peter Siddle and Mitchell Starc spoiled the script for the Sunday crowd in Mohali, with a superlative bowling effort.
Forgotten man Bhuvneshwar swings it India's way
Bhuvneshwar Kumar was literally a forgotten man a couple of days ago. He got to bowl just nine out of the 141.5 overs that were bowled in Australia's first innings. But his three-wicket burst in the second innings has left Australia in a mess and put India firmly in the driver's seat to push for a victory.
How one mistake turned M Vijay's attitude and fortunes
India opener Murali Vijay, who scored a century on Sunday revealed that he decided to change his game and stick in there to avoid throwing away his wicket like he did in the 1st Test in Chennai.
Injured Clarke unable to bat on Day 4
Australia received a severe jolt in their second innings when captain Michael Clarke was unable to bat after an injury on day four of the third Test in Mohali on Sunday.
'Sacking of players by Arthur could be a masterstroke'
Former Australia coach John Buchanan believes that the sacking of four players was a hardline strategy, which could either make Mickey Arthur an Ashes hero or finish his career as an Aussie coach.
PHOTOS: India v Australia, Mohali Test, Day 4
Photos of the Third Test between India and Australia being played in Mohali
March 16, 2013
'Dhawan reaping rewards of consistency at domestic level'
Shikhar Dhawan's childhood coach Tarak Sinha tells Rediff.com's , his ward's good form and consistent performances at the domestic level, helped him score a ton on debut in Mohali on Saturday.
I have worked hard and now I'm more mature: Dhawan
Shikhar Dhawan, who scored a maiden Test ton on debut said it was a dream for me to score so well on debut and that he is a more mature player now.
Dhawan's blitz leaves Aussies running for cover
Australia must have breathed a sigh of relief as a late rally from their lower order took them past 400 after they were reeling at 273 for seven at stumps on day two.
Stats: Dhawan announces himself at big stage
Shikhar Dhawan announced his arrival on the Test arena with a breathtaking unbeaten 168-ball 185 during which a number of records fell by the wayside.
Dhawan takes charge after Smith, Starc rescue act
Despite the first day's play being washed out, the third Test match between India and Australia, played at Mohali, is still proving to be an entertaining one. We look at the players who shone on Day 3.
Tracking 'destroyer' Dhawan's cricketing journey
Indian Premier League (IPL) chief Rajiv Shukla on Saturday congratulated left-handed opener Shikhar Dhawan for his outstanding knock on his debut game against Australia in the third Test match in Mohali. Here, we chart the rise of Indian cricket's newest sensation.
'Garam' Dhawan decimates Australia in Mohali
India Opener Shikhar Dhawan launched an exceptional onslaught on the Australian bowlers during India's first innings, slamming the fastest century by a debutant after the tourists were bowled out for 408.
Fearless Dhawan gets rousing praise from Sidhu
Former India batsman Navjot Singh Sidhu heaped praise on Shikhar Dhawan for scoring the fastest Test century on debut on Saturday.
PHOTOS: India v Australia, Mohali Test, Day 3
Images of the third Test between India and Australia being played in Mohali
Did Fletcher deserve to stay as India coach?
Duncan Fletcher has the worst record in Tests among all his predecessors. Under him India also suffered the ignominy of back-to-back whitewashes in England Australia in 2011. Yet, he was given a year's extension by the BCCI.
March 15, 2013
What Cowan promised coach Arthur in his presentation
Australia opener Ed Cowan revealed that he had told coach Mikey Arthur that he would bat for long periods and provide solidity to the batting. And he did!
Making Clarke my bunny feels good, says Jadeja
Coming into the series, Michael Clarke was one Australian batsman the Indian bowlers feared a lot. In the previous series between the two teams, Clarke had smashed 329 not out in Sydney in January and then hit 210 in the fourth Test in Adelaide.
The No. 3 Indian curse hits Australia hard!
Michael Clarke's golden duck in Mohali confirmed Australia's worst fears. Despite the juggling of the batting order, the No. 3 position continues to be jinxed for Australia in this series.
PHOTOS: India v Australia, Mohali Test, Day 2
Images from Day 2 in the third Test between India and Australia at Mohali.
Ponting backs Watson in Australia crisis
Suspended Australia vice-captain Shane Watson received the backing of former skipper Rickie Ponting on Thursday as crisis surrounding the team rumbled on.
India is a tough place to play: Hussey
Retired Australian batsman Michael Hussey has said that he did not reveal his plans to quit international cricket until the week before the Sydney Test in January because he had feared he would have been dropped earlier from the team had he done so.
March 14, 2013
Hussain brands axed Aussie players 'lazy, disrespectful'
Former England captain Nasser Hussain has termed the axed Australian quartet from the Mohali Test as lazy and disrespectful and said that they will never forget the public humiliation of being dumped.
When Laxman-Dravid floored Australia 12 years ago
Harish Kotian looks back on VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid's 376-run partnership at the Eden Gardens that halted Australia's run of 15 consecutive Test victories.
Steven Smith up for the challenge of India's spin
Australia's spinner-turned-batsman says he's hoping to contribute with bat and ball over the next few days in the Mohali Test.
Clarke has to run his own team: Boycott
Former England batsman Geoffrey Boycott criticised Australian coach Mickey Arthur for treating the players like "school children" and said he finds the idea of setting the cricketers written tasks as "childlike".
Watson is a team player, says Hayden
Sacked Australian vice-captain Shane Watson got the backing of former opening batsman Matthew Hayden while ex-captain Ricky Ponting refused comment on the unprecedented dumping of four key players from the team for the third Test against India.
March 13, 2013
'We haven't played good cricket to taste success'
Desperate to put an end to the controversy surrounding the suspension of four players including vice-captain Shane Watson, Australia skipper Michael Clarke said he doesn't want to "look backwards" and focus on the third Test, starting on Thursday.
Under-fire Howard offers peace to Watson
Under-fire Cricket Australia performance chief, Pat Howard, has offered to make peace with the sacked Australian vice-captain Shane Watson who had hit back after the former questioned his commitment to the national side.
'India shouldn't let their guard down against Aussies'
The Australian team might be in "disarray" after the suspension of their four cricketers but former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has warned Mahendra Singh Dhoni and his boys against complacency ahead of the third Test starting in Mohali Thursday.
PHOTOS: Harbhajan turns to old friend Sachin for help
Sachin Tendulkar was seen giving good friend and teammate Harbhajan Singh a few guidelines to improve his bowling on Wednesday, the eve of the third Test at Mohali.
'Well-prepared' Dhawan set for Test debut
Shikhar Dhawan says he will be under no pressure when he makes his Test debut against Australia in the third Test at Mohali after having performed well in the domestic season.
First Look: Spinning track awaits Australia in Mohali
The going will continue to get tough for Australia in the third Test at Mohali. The home side, as expected, has again opted for a turning track at the Punjab Cricket Association stadium.
'Lot of cricket still left in Sachin Tendulkar'
Can Virender Sehwag return to the Test squad? How many years does Sachin Tendulkar have left in Test cricket? Hear it from former India stumper and chairman of selectors Kiran More.
Australia's Homework Gate: Tide turns against Watson
After 24 hours of the most withering abuse directed at Australia's management for excluding Shane Watson and three other cricketers from the Test team, the tide turned on Wednesday with a flurry of support for the "line in the sand".
Aus will miss Mohali masters Watson, Johnson this time
With pride hurt and the series on the line, Australia are desperate to snatch a victory in the third Test against India, which commences at Mohali on Thursday. But they will miss the services of Shane Watson and Mitchell Johnson who were stars of the 2010 Mohali Test.
'Disgraceful Aus players don't deserve ounce of sympathy'
The quartet of Shane Watson, James Pattinson, Usman Khawaja and Mitchell Johnson doesn't deserve an ounce of sympathy for their disgraceful behaviour that led to their sacking from the squad facing India in the third Test match in Mohali, according to sports journalist Peter Badel.
March 12, 2013
I was wrong, but hard to accept suspension: Watson
Sacked all-rounder Shane Watson said it was "wrong" on his part not to submit the presentation to the coach, but the "harsh" punishment for such a protocol breach is hard to accept.
Photos: India-Aus prepare ahead of Mohali Test
Images from India and Australia's nets session in Mohali on Tuesday.
Can use this as warning against complacency: Pattinson
Australia's fast bowling sensation James Pattinson revealed that the four players, including him, were banned from the third Test not only for not handing presentations to coach Mickey Arthur but for various other reasons.
Aussies must overcome the first innings curse
"Our poor first innings scores have let us down," Michael Clarke said after the Hyderabad defeat. feels the Aussie batsmen need to set the agenda, the way Alistair Cook and his team did against the Indians last winter.
Applause and brickbats for Arthur on sacking decision
Coach Mickey Arthur has received applause from a section of Australian media while a few experts pilloried him for the "nonsense" decision to axe four players from the side on disciplinary ground.
March 11, 2013
Rahane still waiting to clear the Test
Despite being named in India's squad way back in November 2011, Ajinkya Rahane is still to play a Test. is as clueless as him why he hasn't made his debut yet.
Cricketers react sharply to suspension of Aus players
Former cricketers such as Dean Jones and Michael Vaughan on Monday reacted sharply to the exclusion of four Australian cricketers, which includes vice-captain Shane Watson, from the side for the third Test against India starting Thursday.
Are struggling Aussies going the Windies way?
Former selector John Benaud feels the national cricket team's continuing decline is similar to the one endured by the mighty West Indies, blaming it on complacency during the period of domination.
March 10, 2013
'For cricket Sachin is Maradona and Pele put together'
South African pace legend Allan Donald feels cricket would be a poorer sport once Sachin Tendulkar retires from the scene as the Indian veteran is "Maradona and Pele put together" for the game.
March 08, 2013
Rutherford puts life in perspective after debut ton
About a year ago, New Zealand opening batsman Hamish Rutherford was spending his days working as a barista in a coffee shop unsure of when his next first class game would be.
'Sehwag could have been given a chance in Mohali'
Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar feels that Virender Sehwag could have been given another chance keeping in mind the batting-friendly pitch in Mohali, which will host the third Test against Australia from March 14.
In-form Ashwin vindicates Dhoni's decision
R Ashwin is in line for another player of the series award, says . After the first two Tests against Australia, has already a tally of 18 wickets, four more than he finished with against England.
Need to be aggressive and keep pressure off Clarke: Wade
The Australian cricketers behaved like 'sitting ducks' in the opening two Test losses against India, said wicket-keeper Matthew Wade as he called on his teammates to be more aggressive.
Sehwag could have scored a 300 in Mohali, says Hayden
Virender Sehwag's axing from the Indian squad for the third and fourth Test would make Australia "happy" and the struggling opener, according to Matthew Hayden, could have broken his run of poor scores with a "triple ton" in Mohali.
Is there a way back for Virender Sehwag?
India can ill-afford to just give up on this swashbuckler. Virender Sehwag needs to be given one more a chance, at least in the middle order, says .
March 07, 2013
Photo: Michael Clarke and wife at Taj Mahal
Australian captain Michael Clarke enjoyed an off-day in Agra visiting the Taj Mahal along with his wife Kyly.
Wagner, Martin flatten England's vaunted batting
Neil Wagner and Bruce Martin proved able standbys as the backup duo made the most of their surprise inclusion to take four wickets each and help New Zealand bowl England out for 167 on the second day of the rain-shortened first Test.
Why Pujara will not go the Kambli way
Just by the numbers alone, Cheteshwar Pujara's feats in Test cricket match the ascent of two flamboyant batsmen who shone briefly, before fading into oblivion. , who knows Pujara well, explains why the Saurashtra batsman will not end up like Lawrence Rowe and Vinod Kambli.
'Aus cricketers will have to hold their steel in India'
Don Argus, one of Australia's leading business leaders, whose review of Australian cricket charted the country's course back to world domination, says India is the 'toughest environment' to blood youngsters.
Where was the fight, Martyn asks Australian team
Baffled by the Australian cricket team's meek surrender in the first two Tests against India, former batsman Damien Martyn questioned the selection of a few "bits and pieces" players in the squad.
Check out the squads for IPL 6
With less than a month to go for the sixth edition of the Indian Premier League, the nine franchises announced their registered squads for the cash-rich event, starting on April 3 in Kolkata.
March 06, 2013
'Selectors must take call on Sehwag's fate as opener'
Former India captain Rahul Dravid has said that the national selectors must take a call on whether to continue with struggling Virender Sehwag as an opener in the Test series in South Africa later this year or give someone else a chance.
'Was it murder or suicide in Hyderabad'"Was it murder or suicide in Hyderabad yesterday?", the Australian media asked in the wake of their team's humiliating defeat at the hands of India.
Should Sehwag be dropped from the Test team?
Virender Sehwag is living on borrowed time. While the rest of the Indian batsmen were plundering runs against the inexperienced Australian bowling, the dashing opener had three straight failures.
Desperate Australia contemplating changes for third Test
Desperate to claw their way back in the series, Australia's chief coach Mickey Arthur on Wednesday said they are not averse to the idea of making a few changes in the playing eleven if that can change their fortunes.
After defeat, Aussies practice on fifth day track
Australian batsmen haven't been able to survive enough overs in the last two Tests to know what it is like batting on a typical Indian track on the fifth day of a match and that prompted them to practice on the Test-match strip in Hyderabad.
Two Tests, twin landmarks... MSD proves himself twice over
In beating Australia comprehensively in the first two Tests of the ongoing series, MS Dhoni, while silencing his many critics, has confirmed that, at present, he is the best man to lead India, says .
Clarke takes responsibility for disappointing batting
A livid Michael Clarke has lashed out at his team-mates for the manner in which they lost the first two Tests against India, saying 'we have let each other down'.
March 05, 2013
India's most successful Test captains
Mahendra Singh Dhoni became the first Indian skipper to register six victories against Australia in Tests after India won the second Test in Hyderabad by an innings and 135 runs on Tuesday.
Clarke to bat up the order in Mohali
With the pressure mounting on him, Aussie skipper is left with no choice but to bat up the order, says Bikash Mohapatra
Adulations pour in for India's 'unprecedented' win
The Indian cricket team was swamped with congratulatory messages after their crushing victory over Australia in the second cricket Test in Hyderabad with BCCI vice-president Rajiv Shukla terming it as an "unprecedented" win.
Cheteshwar should avoid the hook shot, says his father
Whenever Arvind Pujara watches his son Cheteshwar bat in a Test match, the doting father in him turns into a coach and he begins to dissect his favourite student's game.
'There is no excuse for making 237 after winning toss'
A dejected Michael Clarke was apologetic for letting their fans down. The Australian captain who withstood the Indian spin attack hopes for a turnaround from his players.
Dhoni is India's most successful Test captain
Mahendra Singh Dhoni is epitome of humility as he surpassed Sourav Ganguly to become most successful Test captain in the history of Indian cricket.
Photos: How the spinners wrapped the Test for Team India
Spinners R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja produced a mesmerising spell as India crushed a clueless Australia by an innings and 135 runs in less than three and half days to win the second cricket Test and take a 2-0 lead in the four-match series in Hyderabad on Tuesday.
Jadeja leads India's victory charge
Ravindra Jadeja proved his mettle once again with a striking performance. The left-arm spinner ran through the Aussies batting line-up in the morning to give the home team a 2-0 lead in the series.
Hyderabad Test: Clarke's dismissal was the turning point
Michael Clarke whose batting was the saving grace in the first Test, in Chennai, was expected to play a stellar role to save the match for his team. But Australia's captain fell short and the chances of his team salvaging the Test also evaporated.
'Problem lies with way spinners are handled in Aus'
Spin legend Shane Warne says there is a "problem" with the way young Australian spinners are "handled" at the domestic level and stresses on the importance of putting more emphasis on aggressive bowling.
March 04, 2013
Stats: Pujara on record-breaking run
Cheteshwar Pujara became the first Indian batsman to post a double hundred in Tests at Hyderabad. He enjoys an impressive record at the venue, averaging 181.50, his runs' tally being 363 in two innings.
Having batted well against Swann, Panesar helped: Pujara
The last time Cheteshwar Pujara batted at the Rajiv Gandhi stadium in Uppal, Hyderabad, he scored 159, his maiden hundred. Seven months later, he returned to the venue and outdid the effort with a double ton. Bikash Mohapatra reports.
Lyon's axing a tactical blunder by Australia: Dravid
Former India skipper Rahul Dravid has termed Australia's decision to drop Nathan Lyon from the ongoing second Test as a "tactical blunder" and said the visting captain Michael Clarke must take some responsibility for the off-spinner's axing.
Meet Test cricket's specs stars
Virender Sehwag has started wearing glasses. Have spectacles reduced The Sledgehammer's batting to a dismal spectacle? Rediff.com looks at other cricketers who played with glasses.
PHOTOS: Pujara's double ton flattens Australia on Day 3
Cheteshwar Pujara struck his second Test double century to ensure a huge first-innings lead as hosts India took a stranglehold of the second Test against a hapless Australia.
March 03, 2013
Stats: Vijay-Pujara's record stand flattens Aussies
Murali Vijay and Cheteshwar Pujara shared an unbroken stand of 294 runs -- India's highest second wicket partnership against Australia, eclipsing the 224-run stand between Mohinder Amarnath and Sunil Gavaskar at Sydney in 1985-86.
I was under pressure to deliver: Vijay
The Indian opener justified the faith shown on him by captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni by scoring an unbeaten 129, putting his team in a comfortable position en route, on Day 2 of the second Test match in Hyderabad.
Hyderabad Blues: Cricketers pay homage to blast victims
The India and Australia cricket teams, on Sunday, payed tribute to victims of the bomb blast that took place in Hyderabad last week.
PHOTOS: Vijay, Pujara hit tons as India dominate Day 2
Images from Day 2 of the second Test between India and Australia played in Hyderabad on Sunday.
March 02, 2013
We can definitely restrict India under 230: Wade
They have not posted a big first innings total but Australian wicketkeeper-batsman Matthew Wade says their bowlers can still get them a lead against India in the second cricket Test.
It was always a dream to play Test for India: Bhuvneshwar
Indian seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar said that his main aim was to bowl "within the stumps" and that has helped him pick up three top-order Australian wickets on the opening day of the second Test in Hyderabad.
Dean Jones pays tribute to 'unflappable, enigmatic' Dhoni
He does not have the grace of a Sachin Tendulkar nor the "silky soft hands" behind stumps like Syed Kirmani but Mahendra Singh Dhoni will retire as one of India's top three players of all time, feels former Australian cricketer Dean Jones.
Clarke could join the elite 13,000-run club: Chappell
Legendary Greg Chappell has heaped praise on Michael Clarke, saying the responsibility of leading Australia has only got the best out of him and tipped the current skipper to emulate his predecessor Ricky Ponting by scoring 13,000 Test runs.
Photos: Total recall of India vs Aus, 2nd Test, Day 1
Rediff.com presents how the day unfolded for India and Australia in Hyderabad on Saturday.
March 01, 2013
Don't write Australia off yet: Brett Lee
Former Australian speedster Brett Lee said he was not surprised by the Chennai pitch and backed his country to bounce back in the four-Test series despite suffering an eight-wicket defeat in the first match against India at the M A Chidambaram Stadium.
Dhoni set the tempo as a captain: Ashwin
Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin feels that Mahendra Singh Dhoni's magnificent batting form reflected on his captaincy which helped India produce a clinical performance in the first Test against Australia.
Clarke hints at spin tweak for second Test
Though Australia are still undecided about the composition of their team for the second Test, captain Michael Clarke says if they go with one spinner, it doesn't necessarily have to be Nathan Lyon.
MS Dhoni: Captain Cool and how he bats criticism away
The year 2012 didn't bring a lot of cheer to Team India, and to MS Dhoni in particular. A string of losses saw the India captain receive a lot of flak from the media for his poor tactics and failed batting. But Dhoni insists he has remained largely unaffected by the criticism. Read on to find out how!
Ashwin says India keyed up after clinical Chennai win
India spinner R Ashwin says England defeat not haunting team and squad is in a positive mindset after clinical performance against Aussies in Chennai.
MacGill backs Maxwell-Lyon combine for Hyderabad Test
Australia's newly-appointed spin mentor Stuart MacGill has warned the team against bringing in Xavier Doherty for the second Test as he feels the left-arm tweaker is 'not a Test bowler' and the move would boomerang on the visitors.
Aussies need to dig deep in Hyderabad
The Australians struggled in the first Test in all departments, with only captain Michael Clarke, debutant Moises Henriques and pacer James Pattinson putting up a semblance of a fight. Now, with the Hyderabad pitch, once again, likely to favour spinners, the Aussies will have to dig deep if they have to square the series.
February 28, 2013
We need to play aggressively to beat India: Watson
The Australians need to play their aggressive brand of cricket and be at their absolute best if they are to beat India in the second Test match, visiting all-rounder Shane Watson said.
I am never going to give up bowling: Watson
Shane Watson has realised he can never give up bowling completely in his career after watching his teammates getting butchered by the Indian batsmen during the first Test.
Good for India if Dhoni bats at no 6: Dravid
Former India skipper Rahul Dravid on Wednesday suggested that Mahendra Singh Dhoni should consistently bat at number six in Tests as it can potentially change the complexion of the side in abroad series.
Chennai Test: The three positives for Australia
Sure, Australia were outplayed in the Chennai Test, but not all was lost for the visitors, says .
One down, can Australia do an England?
Australia don't have a quality spinner who can make India suffer. Michael Clarke's team, says , will do well if it even draws a Test or two!
February 27, 2013
A tiger resides in 'slight man' Tendulkar: Hayden
Sachin Tendulkar's size never matched his status, writes former Australia batsman Mathew Hayden, in the book 'Sachin - Cricketer of the Century'.
The trio who made it possible for India
For once the Indian win was not crafted by just a couple of players. Barring a couple of failures, virtually the entire team contributed to the Chennai triumph. identifies the three heroes who led the Indian charge to victory.
Dhoni's career-best score, but not most memorable
Mahendra Singh Dhoni appears to be modest in his interview with Rediff.com's about scoring his majestic double century.
Dhoni has changed; he's more assertive: Gavaskar
Former skipper Sunil Gavaskar says Mahendra Singh Dhoni has become more assertive and the Board of Control for Cricket in India and selectors' faith in him will only spur him to do better.
Rewind: How India strangled the Aussies in Chennai
India won the opening match in the four-Test series against Australia by eight wickets on Tuesday. Captain MS Dhoni and spinner R Ashwin were the wreckers-in-chief, as the Aussies were outplayed on a dustbowl of a pitch through the five days of the Test. Rediff.com looks back moments from the memorable victory.
February 26, 2013
We need to give more time to Sehwag: Dhoni
Virender Sehwag's patchy form continued but skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni still believes that the senior opener should be given more time to get back to form as he is a match-winner.
'Will bat at No.6 till Jadeja gets used to Tests'
MS Dhoni looked a satisfied man after his team beat Australia in the first Test. says his decision to persist with spinners and bat up the order played in India's favour.
We were outplayed in this Test: Clarke
Michael Clarke's rather straightforward admission shortly after Australia had been thoroughly outplayed in the opening Test at the MA Chidambaram stadium on Tuesday.
India vs Australia: The Turning Points
After a depressing Test series against England, Team India began the four Test series against Australia on a winning note. , who covered the first Test at the M A Chidambaram stadium in Chennai, identifies the turning points in the game.
Photos: India's emphatic win over Australia
Images from the fifth day's play in the first Test between India and Australia.
February 25, 2013
'I was in disbelief that Clarke got out for under 100'
Had it not been for Moises Henriques Team India would be celebrating on Tuesday.
Dhoni surpasses Tendulkar, Gavaskar!
Mahendra Singh Dhoni smashed a record 224 against Australia in the first Test in Chennai on Monday to surpass Sachin Tendulkar's record of highest individual Test score by an Indian captain.
PHOTOS: Dhoni, Ashwin take India on brink of big win
Images from Day 4 of the first Test match between India and Australia in Chennai, on Monday.
February 24, 2013
Indian batsmen showed how to bat on this pitch: Wade
After being hammered around the park, Australian wicket-keeper Matthew Wade said Indian batsmen showed them how to bat on such a pitch which is deteriorating fast but still has lot of runs in it.
That hundred in Adelaide remains special: Kohli
While MS Dhoni's flamboyance ensured he would dominate the headlines even as Team India consolidated its position on Day Three of the opening Test against Australia in Chennai, another knock also deserves a mention.
Dhoni sizzles as top performer of Day 3
The top performer of the day has to be Mahendra Singh Dhoni.
PHOTOS: Dhoni makes a point, Oz don't quite enjoy itImages from Day 3 of the first Test played between India and Australia in Chennai on Friday.
February 23, 2013
'Sachin's timing the ball differently in this innings'
Cheteshwar Pujara, with whom Sachin Tendulkar struck a 93-run partnership for the third wicket said that the Master Blaster looked positive from the outset.
'Should have stuck to initial plan against Tendulkar'
Australia paceman James Pattinson rues changing bowling tactcs against Sachin Tendulkar and says bowling in shorter spells was the plan from the outset.
PHOTOS: Tendulkar leads India's recovery in Chennai
Australian batsmen frustrated Indian bowlers with determined batting before being bowled out for 380 in their first innings on the second day of the first Test against the hosts, in Chennai on Saturday.
February 22, 2013
Henriques claims Clarke had calming influence on him
Australia's Moises Henriques, on Friday, said that his skipper Michael Clarke's presence in the middle had a calming influence on the debutant, who signalled his arrival on the big stage with a crucial half-century on the opening day of the first Test against India in Chennai.
Ashwin's first Test at Chepauk an affair to remember
It was R Ashwin's first Test match on his home ground and the 26-year-old had made it an occasion to remember with figures of six for 88.
Photos: Clarke hits ton; Ashwin traps Aussies
Images from Day 1 of the first Test played between India and Australia in Chennai on Friday.
February 21, 2013
In-form Clarke confident of good show by Australia
In October 2004, a 23-year-old went out to bat in the Chinnaswamy stadium and returned having made 151. It was a memorable debut.
Harbhajan keen to make 100th Test a memorable one
It's official! Harbhajan Singh will be finally playing in his 100th Test match. The offie has been included in the Indian XI for the opening Test against Australia at the MA Chidambaram stadium starting Friday.
Tendulkar needs to justify his place!
Sachin Tendulkar's last century came more than two years ago against South Africa. Considering his current run, the maestro has to justify that at age 40 he can contribute more to the side than just experience, says .
$750,000, rise in rankings in India, England's sight
The Test championship mace is out of their reach but a plump prize purse of $750,000 is at stake when India will take on Australia and England clash with New Zealand in their respective series in days ahead.
I have a big role with both bat and ball: Henriques
Australian all-rounder Moises Henriques on Wednesday said that his bowling and batting techniques suited the conditions in the sub-continent and he would look to make the most of them during the Test series against India.
February 20, 2013
PHOTOS: Gavaskar delivers MAK Pataudi memorial lecture
Emphasising the significance of Test cricket when the slam-bang Twenty20 format is gaining huge popularity, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar on Wednesday asked the game's administrators to ensure that the longer version of the game remains the "pinnacle" of the sport.
Forget revenge, Team India has a lot of work to do
So while going for a series win against Australia can be construed as 'positive mindset', hopes of a revenge win, a 4-0 whitewash might just backfire, says .
Fit Warner to play 1st Test, Henriques set for debut
The suspense over David Warner's availability for the first Test against India ended today with Australia naming him in the playing XI, which will also see all-rounder Moises Henriques making his debut in baggy green.
'We will have to be at our best against Indian spinners'
Australian all-rounder Shane Watson says they will take a cue from the way England successfully countered the Indian spinners this winter, in the upcoming four-match Test series starting on Friday.
I consider myself as an attacking option: Lyon
Australia off-spinner Nathan Lyon said that he would be looking to attack the Indian batsmen on spin-friendly tracks rather than containing them when the four-Test series commences in Chennai on Friday.
Reverse swing will be crucial against India: Starc
Pacer Mitchell Starc feels that since Indian batsmen play spin well and Australia's strength is their pace attack, they should "try to maximise" their strengths.
February 19, 2013
'We have the ability to do well against Indian spinners'
Australian captain Michael Clarke sought to dismiss talks of his side's vulnerability against spin bowling, saying they would not be intimidated by the home team's slow bowlers in the high-profile Test series starting in Chennai on Friday.
'We know what to expect from Tendulkar'
Sachin Tendulkar may be approaching his 40th birthday, but Australian opener David Warner is aware of the threat the senior India batsman could pose in the upcoming Test series.
Arthur confident of Warner recovering in time for 1st Test
The suspense over David Warner's availability for the first cricket Test against India has not yet ended but Australian coach Mickey Arthur is 'pretty sure' that the explosive opener will come through fit for the match starting in Chennai on Friday.
'India against Australia is going to be a good series'
Ignored by the selectors for the first two Tests against Australia, middle-order batsman Yuvraj Singh has said the upcoming four-match series for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting on Friday will be a 'good' contest.
Captains will be keen to make their mark: McGrath
Pace bowling legend Glenn McGrath feels the upcoming Test series between Australia and India could see a keen leadership contest, with both captains seeking to make a mark for different reasons.
February 18, 2013
Australia can beat 'under pressure' India: Warner
Australian opening batsman David Warner feels that with India under pressure with recent reverses, his side has the resources to beat Mahendra Singh Dhoni's men in the upcoming four-match Test series starting on Friday.
Pakistan hindered by lack of home Tests: Misbah
Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq reiterated his belief that the continued boycott of his country by international sides is hindering their chances of becoming the leading Test nation.
South Africa to retain Test mace
Victory in the Cape Town Test against Pakistan has guaranteed South Africa the number-one position on the ICC Test Championship table at the 1 April cut-off date and also a hefty prize purse of $450,000 for the achievement.
India are on the wane and vulnerable: Lawson
The retirement of some batting greats and the recent failure to dominate England with spinners on home soil make India a "vulnerable" side in the upcoming Test against Australia, former cricketer Geoff Lawson has commented.
February 17, 2013
Will IPL million-dollar baby Maxwell get Oz Test cap?
Australia's national selector John Inverarity hinted at all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, the only million-dollar buy at this year's IPL players' auction, could be picked for the first Test in Chennai.
Gambhir's absence is good for Australia: Hayden
Gautam Gambhir's exclusion from India's squad for the first two Tests against Australia is a "positive" development for the tourists, feels former cricketer Matthew Hayden.
February 16, 2013
Tendulkar returns as Indian team begins training camp
The Indian team on Saturday began their three-day training camp ahead of their Test series against Australia starting next week with a three hour-long practice session in Bangalore, with senior batsman Sachin Tendulkar returning in the mix after his retirement from ODI cricket.
February 15, 2013
I expected Gambhir to be in Test team: Clarke
Australian captain Michael Clarke on Friday sought to play mind-games ahead of the high-profile Test series against India, saying that opener Gautam Gambhir's omission from the Test squad has come as happy news for his bowlers.
Oz media right in slamming BCCI's resistance to DRS?
The Board of Cricket Control in India's (BCCI) continuous opposition to the use of the controversial Decision Review System (DRS) has drawn flak from the Australian media.
Australia vs India A: Chance for Gambhir to prove a point
Axed from the Test team after a prolonged form slump, India 'A' skipper Gautam Gambhir will have a point to prove when he leads out the side in a three-day warm-up cricket match against the Australians starting in Chennai on Saturday.
'Aussies winning once in 43 years in India not surprising'
Australian captain Michael Clarke has said it is not surprising that Australia have won just a single Test series in India in 2004 over the past 43 years.
'An in form Tendulkar makes India a great batting side'
Fit-again Australian pacer James Pattinson believes India still boast of a "class batting line-up" despite the retirements of Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman and the visitors will have to work really hard to beat the hosts in their own backyard during the four-Test series.
'We'll show the Australians how to play cricket in India'
When Australia take on India in the opening Test in Chennai, a lot of fireworks can be expected on the field, and all of the same needn't be about the game.
February 14, 2013
Coach: Gautam Gambhir working hard to make a comeback
'Daily, we make him play at least 700, 800 balls so that he knows which one to play and which one to leave,' reveals his coach Sanjay Bharadwaj.
Is he India's new bowling hope?
Bhuvneshwar Kumar spoke to Harish Kotian on his unbelievable start to international cricket, on what it means to him to make it to the Indian Test team and how he is preparing for the Aussie batsmen.
'We've to ensure that Tendulkar doesn't score many runs'
As much as he "enjoys" Sachin Tendulkar's batting, Australian captain Michael Clarke's primary endeavour during the upcoming four-match Test series against India will be to stop the veteran from scoring "too many runs".
Which Indian cricketer would you like as your Valentine?
It's that time of the year when love (or a crush) seeks precedence over every other mundane thing in one's daily routine. Be it Irfan Pathan's sweet smile that can melt one's soul or Virat Kohli's aggression and bad-boy image that makes the girls go weak in their knees, Indian cricket has it's share of eligible bachelors. So girls, let your hearts speak, take your pick and vote for the Indian cricketer you'd like to date this Valentine's.
MS Dhoni's final chance to save his Test captaincy
Will the series against Australia be the last chance for Dhoni to save his captaincy?
February 12, 2013
I will be fit for opening Test: Clarke
Recovering from a hamstring problem, Michael Clarke remains a doubtful starter for the second warmup game but the Australian skipper is confident that he will be fit for the opening Test against India beginning in Chennai on February 22.
February 11, 2013
Team India and Kohli unmoved in ODI rankings chart
India maintained its number one spot in the ICC ODI Championship table while Virat Kohli retained his number three position among batsmen in the latest rankings issued on Monday.
India has experienced players: Wade
Despite the retirement of Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman and India's recent Test series defeats, Australian wicketkeeper Matthew Wade believes the hosts still are a very difficult team to beat at home.
I am happy to be back in the Test squad: Harbhajan
The selectors handed out of favour spinner Harbhajan Singh another lifeline when they picked him up in the 15-man Indian squad for the first two Tests against Australia.
February 10, 2013
Rest of India retain Irani Cup, Mumbai's wait continues
Rest of India retained the Irani Cup for the eighth year in succession having got the better of Mumbai on the basis of first innings lead at the Wankhede stadium in Mumbai on Sunday.
February 09, 2013
I need to convert fifties into hundreds: Rayudu
Rest of India batsman Ambati Rayudu, who cracked an unbeaten 118 against Mumbai, is happy with the way his batting is shaping up but said he needs to convert the fifties into hundreds.
Should Harbhajan, Sreesanth get Test recall?
The debacles of the past year and a half would weigh heavy on the national selectors when they meet in Mumbai on Sunday to pick the squad for the eagerly-awaited Test series against Australia with the form of key players being a massive concern.
Replicate England's success mantra to beat India: Jones
Former batsman Dean Jones feels Australia should replicate the bowling tactics employed by England in order to come up trumps in the upcoming Test series against India.
February 08, 2013
Fit again Sreesanth focused on 'enjoying the game'
It's been quite a while S Sreesanth donned national colours. The Kerala-born bowler, who turned 30 on Wednesday, played the last of his 27 Tests against England in August 2011 the fourth Test at The Oval.
Tendulkar keeps adding to his book of records
Sachin Tendulkar's name has become synonymous with records over the years. Save the one for the best batting average Sir Don Bradman's impeccable 99.94 leads that one by a huge margin the Master Blaster has almost every other record in his name, the format notwithstanding.
India's fast bowling woes ahead of Australia Tests
The Indian selectors will face a huge dilemma when they sit down on Sunday to select the Indian squad for the Test series against Australia, starting later this month.
February 07, 2013
Oz tour of India: Raina a viable selection option
With the Indian batting in disarray, Suresh Raina's recent good form gives the Selection Committee, meeting shortly to decide on the squad for the home series against Australia, food for thought.
Watson role not so elementary for Australia
Whatever role he ultimately plays in the Australia team this year, the sight of Shane Watson driving and pulling his way to a blockbuster of a century at Manuka Oval on Wednesday was a joy for his compatriots to behold.
Australia will attack India with pace, says Siddle
The wickets in India might be considered a spinner's paradise but Australian fast bowler Peter Siddle feels his team's chances of winning the upcoming Test series there would depend on how well its pacers perform on the dustbowls.
February 06, 2013
Angry Mithali slams Indian team after World Cup flop
Livid with her bowlers after the humiliating first-round exit from the Women's cricket World Cup, India captain Mithali Raj said their collective failure in the must-win group match against minnows Sri Lanka is a bolt from the blue for her.
South Africa's De Villiers relishing keeper's role
The question of whether AB de Villiers should keep wicket for South Africa in Tests may have been answered by his record-breaking performance in his team's 211-run win over Pakistan at the Wanderers.
February 05, 2013
I've a great chance to come back in Team India: Harbhajan
Harbhajan Singh has termed the Irani Cup match as the "biggest" he could have got in recent times as the off-spinner intends to stage a comeback to the Indian cricket team for the upcoming four-match Test series against Australia.
Amla stays modest despite topping rankings
Hashim Amla occupies the top spot in both the Test and One-Day rankings but would not call himself the best batsman even in the South African dressing room.
WAGs up the glamour quotient at Australian cricket awards
The function to honour Australia's best cricketers at Crown Palladium in Melbourne on Monday also had the WAGs in attendance. As the couples walked on the red carpet, the shutterbugs had a great time clicking.
Kevin Pietersen can help England do Ashes double: Vaughan
Former cricket captain Michael Vaughan, who is spending more time on the dance floor than watching cricket, believes that England can achieve the Ashes double at home against Australia now that high scoring and brilliant Kevin Pietersen is back in favour.
February 04, 2013
Confident Suresh Raina eyes comeback to Test team
Suresh Raina has been in red hot form in the last few months having scored four half-centuries on the trot in the ODIs against England and broken into the top 10 of the ICC ODI batting rankings for the first time in his career.
It is time to de-regulate One-day cricket: Warne
Legendary spinner Shane Warne has slammed CA's controversial rotation policy and suggested changes in the format of limited over games in part two of his manifesto on the future of Australian cricket.
Is the IPL destabilising national teams?
The drawing power of the Indian Premier League is destabilising national teams, says a column in the Sydney Morning Herald.
There's no added pressure whatsoever: Jaydev Unadkat
In a freewheeling interview with , Jaydev Unadkat tells why he isn't under pressure even after being purchased five times his base price by Royal Challengers Bangalore ahead of IPL VI.
February 03, 2013
If you do it right, the team follows your example: Sachin
A team man to the core in his illustrious cricket career spanning more than 23 years now, senior batman Sachin Tendulkar has a piece of advice for the youngsters -- hard work and commitment can earn a person respect from colleagues.
Maxwell is the surprise package at IPL auction
Rising Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell stole the thunder from his illustrious compatriots, fetching a whopping $one million (Rs 5.3 crore), while Abhishek Nayar and R P Singh also invited unexpectedly high bids in the players' auction for the sixth edition of the IPL in Chennai.
February 02, 2013
India's pace bowling: Not so fast, not so furious
Every time a fast bowler appears on the Indian cricket scene, there's a sense of anticipation -- will he be the "genuine" quick bowler that India has been looking for? As many as 24 fast bowlers have played Test cricket for India since Kapil Dev retired in 1994. Here are some of the fast bowlers who've now faded into obscurity.
Maxwell has game plan to tackle spinners on India tour
Set to make his Test debut against India, dashing Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has already chalked out his plans against spinners, and feels his brief experience of playing in Indian conditions will hold him in good stead in the upcoming four-Test series.
Clarke, Ponting to bag the riches in IPL auction?
Australian captain Michael Clarke and former skipper Ricky Ponting are likely to attract most attention when the nine franchises sit for the players' auction of the Indian Premier League 6 in Chennai.
January 31, 2013
PHOTOS: India thrash West Indies by 105 runs
Opener Thirushkamini Murugesan became the first Indian woman to smash a century in the 50-over World Cup as hosts piled up a commendable 284 for six against West Indies in their opening group league match in Mumbai on Thursday.
Harbhajan boasts India will blank Australia 4-0
Harbhajan Singh, who had some memorable performances against Australia, started the game of one-upmanship on Thursday by declaring that India will thrash Michael Clarke's men 4-0 in the upcoming Test series, starting February 22.
Australia seek all-round success on India tour
Australia have named a trio of unproven all-rounders in their Test squad for the tour of India and thrown a life-line to discarded spinner Xavier Doherty as they scramble to find a winning combination ahead of back-to-back Ashes campaigns.
January 30, 2013
I will never ever compromise on pace: Shami Ahmed
India's rising pace sensation Shami Ahmed feels cutting down on pace is one option he will never consider even though line and length, for him, are important aspects of fast bowling.
I wish to have some of Dhoni's calmness: Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli feels that one quality that he wishes to imbibe from his skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni is the art of "staying calm" in pressure situations.
I'm not scared and won't compromise on speed: Sreesanth
To recall the number of times S Sreesanth has injured himself is always going to be one hell of a task but the pacer, despite sustaining about a dozen fractures on his toe, is not ready to compromise on speed.
Expert replies: How many ODIs were won by last-ball 6?
replies to cricket-related questions he received from readers over the last few weeks.
Wicketkeeper-batsman Tare a star in his first season
Mumbai's Ranji Trophy triumph, says , was about consistent individual performances, particularly that of wicketkeeper-batsman Aditya Tare, who impressed in his first full season.
I never thought I will play for India: MS Dhoni
Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni today said he never expected to don the national colours and pointed out that the 'small-town' tag has made him a tougher player.
January 29, 2013
Aus, SL players make peace after fiery end to MCG T20
Australian and Sri Lankan players officially made peace following a fiery end to their final Twenty20 international, won by the tourists off the last ball, Cricket Australia said on Tuesday.
Mumbai, a team that intimidates... and dominates!
Mumbai's reputation in the Ranji Trophy, says , is enough to intimidate opponents and put them under pressure even before they take the field.
The most successful Test captains of all-time
As Graeme Smith sets out to become the first player to lead his side in 100 Test matches, figures out the most successful captains of all-time.
January 28, 2013
Mumbai has proved again it's a champion side: Tendulkar
Sachin Tendulkar played in Mumbai's first Ranji Trophy match this season, scoring a hundred (137) against Railways.
Confrontation sign of ultimate respect for rival: Gilly
Sparks fly whenever India and Australia clash on the cricket field but Adam Gilchrist does not see the need to curb the aggression as he feels 'heated confrontations' are actually a mark of respect to rivals.
Perseverance pays off for doughty Dhawal
Mumbai's bowling mainstay Dhawal Kulkarni tells Rediff.com's that the key to his success is being patient, sticking to the basics and doing things well.
January 27, 2013
Stats: Raina is 13th Indian to complete 4,000 ODI runs
Statistical highlights of the fifth cricket One-Day International between India and England, played in Dharamsala.
Dhoni showers big praise on Ishant, Jadeja despite loss
Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni said, had India batted 'more sensibly', the hosts could have won the fifth and final ODI in Dharamsala and wrapped up the series by a bigger margin.
PHOTOS: Bresnan, Bell lift England to victory in Dharamsala
A swashbuckling knock by Suresh Raina helped India reach a decent total of 226 in the fifth and final cricket ODI against England after an inept batting performance by the top-order batsmen in bowling friendly conditions, in Dharamsala on Sunday.
January 26, 2013
Raina wants to bat up the order with Test berth in sight
He has relished the role of a finisher in One-dayers but given a chance, Suresh Raina won't mind batting higher up the order.
Team India aims to finish on a high note
A morale-boosting series win sealed, India would be aiming to finish with a flourish when they take on England in the inconsequential fifth and final One-dayer at the picturesque HPCA stadium in Dharamsala on Sunday.
Time running out for out-of-form Gautam Gambhir
Struggling to make any serious contributions, it seems time for opener Gautam Gambhir is running out. Gambhir has been struggling to find form in all three versions of the game and would like to make a statement in the final ODI in Dharamsala on Sunday.
January 25, 2013
PHOTOS: Mumbai wary of Saurashtra in Ranji final
History and form make them the odds-on-favourites, but Mumbai are not taking things for granted ahead of the Ranji Trophy final against Saurashtra, beginning at the Wankhede stadium on Saturday.
January 24, 2013
'Average' Team India lucky to have captain Dhoni: Boycott
The Indian cricket team is 'very average' at the moment and is 'lucky' to have a captain like Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who is coping the blame for 'lack of quality in the side', feels former England skipper Geoffrey Boycott.
Rohit is one of the most god-gifted talent around: Dhoni
Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni praised Rohit Sharma for his contribution in India's comprehensive five-wicket victory over England in the fourth ODI in Mohali and described him as the "most god-gifted talent around".
January 23, 2013
Raina, Rohit partnership took the game away: Cook
England captain Alastair Cook gave credit to Indian batsmen Rohit Sharma and Suresh Raina for the five-wicket win of the home side in the fourth One-dayer in Mohali, saying the 68-run fourth wicket partnership between the two took the game away from his team.
Series win against England is a good achievement: Dhoni
India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni lauded the "overall good performance" of his players as they took an unassailable 3-1 lead over England in the five-match ODI series with a comprehensive five-wicket victory in the fourth and penultimate match in Mohali.
Photos: Team India seals series win over England in Mohali
India sealed the one-day series against England with an easy five-wicket win in the fourth game and take an unassailable 3-1 lead in Mohali on Wednesday.
January 22, 2013
The No 3 position works best for me: Kohli
Star batsman Virat Kohli says his prolonged slump in form was a bit "annoying", but staying calm and patient helped him overcome the lean phase.
Rejuvenated India look to clinch series in Mohali
Bolstered by two emphatic back-to-back wins, India will seek to clinch the ODI series against England by taking an unassailable 3-1 lead in the fourth match in Mohali on Wednesday with the under-fire hosts showing signs of rediscovering their winning touch.
January 21, 2013
England hoping to exploit Mohali's 'English' conditions
Describing the cold weather in Mohali as "very English", opener Ian Bell said England's pacers will have to exploit the conditions well in order to level the five-match ODI series when they take on India in the fourth and penultimate match in Mohali, on Wednesday.
January 19, 2013
Dhoni credits young bowlers for 'perfect script'
As he led the Indian cricket team for the first time at his home ground and scored the winning runs in the team's comprehensive victory over England, skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni said the script was just 'perfect' for Saturday's One-day game.
Ranchi ODI Images: Bowlers help India take 2-1 lead
Images from the third one-dayer between India and England at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi on Saturday.
January 18, 2013
India look to carry momentum in third ODI
Propped up by the massive series-levelling win in the second ODI, India will look to keep the momentum going when they go into the third one-dayer against England in Ranchi on Friday, hoping that skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni's first match in his hometown will prove lucky.
January 17, 2013
'Criticising Dhoni is like questioning Sachin's ability'
Mahendra Singh Dhoni's first coach Chanchal Bhattacharya on Thursday heaped praise on his beleaguered ward saying criticising the Indian skipper would be like questioning the run-making ability of Sachin Tendulkar.
January 16, 2013
Should Pakistan cricketers, artistes be allowed in India?
Former Indian players on Wednesday not only backed Hockey India's decision to send back Pakistanis but also advocated more stringent action even as players from across the border urged that the upcoming bilateral series should not be derailed due to the ongoing conflict.
India stay in 5th spot in ICC Test rankings
India retained the number five position, while South Africa further consolidated their lead in the latest ICC Test Championship rankings issued on Tuesday.
January 15, 2013
I read the track wrong: Dhoni
Crediting his bowlers for the thumping 127-run win over England in the second ODI, India's captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni on Tuesday said he read the Kochi track wrong as he initially thought it would become good for batting in second half and the visitors would benefit from that.
Photos: India rout England, level ODI series
Images from the second ODI between India and England, in Kochi, on Tuesday.
January 14, 2013
We all are responsible for win or defeat: Gambhir
Opener Gautam Gambhir backed the under-fire Indian bowlers, saying they alone cannot be blamed for defeats and the responsibility of a result lies with all the 11 players of the side.
Kochi ODI: India need to work on bowling frailties
Still reeling from their narrow nine-run defeat in the opening ODI match, a struggling India will have to work on their bowling frailties and inconsistent batting as they take on England in the second one-dayer in Kochi with the pressure on the home team.
January 12, 2013
Dhoni takes the blame for the loss against England
Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni said India could have chased down the stiff 326-run target set by England in the first ODI in Rajkot, had he and Suresh Raina stayed till the end.
January 11, 2013
PHOTOS: Tredwell has India in a twirl in first ODI
Images from the 1st ODI between India and England, in Rajkot on Friday.
January 10, 2013
Pujara unlikely to play in home ODI: Dhoni
Prolific Saurashtra middle-order batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, who slammed his career's second Ranji Trophy triple hundred, may have to wait a little more to make his ODI debut, Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni indicated on Thursday.
We'll have to do something no English team has done: Cook
Despite a dominant Test series victory over India a few weeks ago, England skipper Alastair Cook is wary of the hosts, saying the players of his "underdog" side will have to play out of their skins to repeat success in the One-day series, beginning in Rajkot on Friday.
India need to pull up socks to face England challenge
England will again be led by their victorious Test skipper Alastair Cook but their bowling attack, without the presence of several key Test bowlers, appears inexperienced and could be just the tonic needed by the bruised Indian batting line-up to get back into the groove.
Dhoni should give up India T20 and CSK captaincy: Dravid
Former India batting great Rahul Dravid believes Mahendra Singh Dhoni is still the best man to lead India in Test cricket but needs to give up the India T20 and Chennai Super Kings captaincies because "it is making him stale".
It was nice to be part of the Indian team: Rayudu
Ambati Rayudu has played for three Ranji Trophy sides in a career spanning a little more than a decade -- excluding the two years (2007-09) during which he was banned by the BCCI for playing in the now-defunct Indian Cricket League (ICL).
January 09, 2013
Spotted: 'God of Cricket' Tendulkar in Mussoorie
Reader Kshitij Sharma sent us this picture from Mussoorie.
Yusuf Pathan's bittersweet experience as captain
After being plagued by injury, Baroda captain Irfan Pathan returned to lead the team to the Ranji Trophy quarters. Now that Baroda's season is all but over Yusuf's stint as captain could, at best, be described as bittersweet, writes .
January 08, 2013
Gambhir, Rohit, Ashwin lucky to escape the axe
The Indian selectors conveniently omitted struggling opener Virender Sehwag from the ODI squad for the first three matches against England, while condoning other non-performers like Gautam Gambhir, Rohit Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin.
Dhoni rises to fourth in ODI rankings
India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni returned to the top five in the latest ICC Player Rankings for ODI batsmen following a consistent performance with the bat in the recently-concluded three-match ODI series against Pakistan.
January 07, 2013
Test Rankings: Hussey closes career with 11th spot finish
Just-retired veteran Australian batsman Mike Hussey ended his career at 11th spot in the International Cricket Council's Test Rankings.
Tendulkar's thirst for runs continues
On his return to Ranji Trophy cricket, Sachin Tendulkar scored a well-crafted, even though not spectacular, 108 against Baroda in the opening day of the quarter-final clash at the Wankhede stadium on Sunday and showed his thirst for runs is still intact.
PIX: Warne banned after bust-up with Samuels in Big Bash
Shane Warne has been fined A$4,500 (2,927 pounds) and banned for one game after a heated row with Marlon Samuels in a match in Australia's domestic Twenty20 competition on Sunday night ended up with bats and balls being thrown.
Fog, weather made chase daunting, says Misbah
Blaming the cold weather conditions responsible for his team's 10-run loss to India in the third ODI in New Delhi, Pakistan skipper Misbah-ul-Haq said the Kotla pitch changed its behaviour as the fog descended on the ground which made the run chase "very difficult".
January 06, 2013
PHOTOS: India edge out Pakistan in low-scoring thriller
Photos of the third and final One-day match between India and Pakistan being played at the Feroz Shah Kotla in New Delhi.
Dhoni lauds bowlers, fielders for Kotla win
India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni hailed his bowling and fielding department for notching up the face-saving 10-run win against Pakistan in the low-scoring third and final ODI of the series in New Delhi.
January 05, 2013
Dhoni doubtful for third ODI due to sore back
Licking the wounds of yet another series defeat, India's struggling cricketers will seek to restore some pride when they go into the last One-dayer against arch rivals Pakistan in New Delhi, on Sunday with their captain M S Dhoni being a doubtful starter because of a sore back.
Third ODI: India undergo rigorous practice
With only pride at stake after losing the three-match ODI series against Pakistan, the Indian team underwent a rigorous training session here today ahead of the final match on Sunday with the spotlight on some under-performing players, including opener Virender Sehwag.
India look to restore some pride against Pakistan
Battered and bruised by yet another series defeat, India's struggling cricketers will seek to restore some pride when they go into the third and final One-dayer against arch-rivals Pakistan in New Delhi on Sunday with the future of some of the under-performing stars at stake.
Dhoni should give up the Twenty20 format: Abbas
Pakistan batting legend Zaheer Abbas feels that under-fire Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni should take a break from Twenty20 captaincy to reflect on his game.
'I thought I won't be able to play cricket again'
He has two platinum nails inserted into his big toes and has cut down his run-up but pacer S Sreesanth says he has "a lot of fire in my belly" as he prepares for his comeback to the national team.
January 04, 2013
'Indian batsmen are terribly out of form since 2011 WC'
Two legends of world cricket, Sunil Gavaskar and Imran Khan have held IPL responsible for the Indian team's recent downfall, with the former going on to say that for some Indian players national duty comes second to the cash-rich Twenty20 league.
'Team India has played too much cricket recently'
Pakistan's dominance in the ongoing ODI series against India has surprised the country's former captain Zaheer Abbas, who feels the host team looks jaded after playing too much cricket.
I would love to be the punching bag: MS Dhoni
Humiliated at home for the second straight time in less than a month, India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni has blamed his batsmen and termed their performance "disappointing", but added that the team needs to access the situation with a cool-headed approach.
Scoring runs counts more than anything else: Parthiv
India discard Parthiv Patel tells he continues to work hard on his game every season because of the motivation of regaining his place in the team.
January 03, 2013
Team India has to improve as a team: MS Dhoni
Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has admitted that India will have to improve as a team after the hosts slumped to yet another series loss at home on Thursday.
PHOTOS: Jamshed, Junaid help Pakistan win series in India
Pakistan thrashed India by 85 runs in the second one-dayer at Eden Gardens to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.
Photos: Kolkata felicitates former India, Pak greats
Cricket fans went down the memory lane when a number of former players from India and Pakistan were felicitated to mark the 25 years of Indo-Pak ODI matches.
January 02, 2013
Lack of genuine all-rounder hurting India: Dhoni
Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni said that his side was finding it increasingly difficult to win matches with part-timers and would now need a genuine all-rounder keeping in mind the recent changes in ODI rules.
Kolkata ODI: India's batting need to fire to tame Pak
Wrecked by Pakistani seamers in their opening ODI match, India's under-fire cricketers will have to pull themselves up against the arch rivals when they clash in a must-win second cricket One-dayer, in Kolkata, on Wednesday with the form of their top-order batsmen a concern.
India will bounce back against Pak: Tendulkar
Sachin Tendulkar might have called time on his limited-overs career but he says his heart is still with the team and exuded confidence that India would bounce back in the ODI series against arch-rivals Pakistan.
January 01, 2013
2012, a forgettable year for Indian cricket!
As 2012 ends and the New Year takes over, the fans will be hoping that India can return to winning ways in 2013 and return to the top of the cricketing world.
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