Smith and Kumble Blame the Pitch!

The skippers of both the sides blamed the Chepauk pitch for the drawn first test match in Chennai.

Probably the rain before the week of the start of the test could have hampered the conditions of the pitch. He also mentioned that the pitch did not crack or deteriorate as expected and the weather condition also added to the existing woe.

Both the captains praised the batting of Virendra Shewag. Smith said, "all credit to him for the way he played"

In the meantime, Sachin is not playing the second test due to groin injury. Kaif is his replacement.

Both the captains expect the Ahemadabad pitch to produce a result.

Kaif replaces injured Sachin, back in Indian Team!

With his willow doing the talking, Mohammad Kaif is back in the Indian team as a replacement for Sachin Tendulkar for the 2nd test.

Sachin is ruled out of the second test to start on April 3 in Ahemadabad due to groin injury. He was advised two weeks rest after the Australian Down Under tour. The Physio sent a fitness report on every player, but there was no time as the series against South Africa started immediately.

Kaif, who had a successful domestic season, finally found his place back in the Indian team. Though it is not sure whether he will be in the playing XI, as Yuvaraj is already waiting for his turn, we have to wait and see whether he will be given chance before being removed from the team once Sachin is back.

Kaif's last appearance for India was in 2006 against West Indies. Kaif's records:

Test Cricket and ODI

13 test and 125 ODI
22 innings in test and 110 innings in ODI
3 not out in test and 24 not out in ODI
624 runs in test and 2753 runs in ODI
148 not out is his highest in test and 111 not out in ODI
1 hundred in test and 2 hundreds in ODI
3 fifties in test and 17 fifties in ODI

Sachin and Kumble Injured!

Sachin will miss the 2nd test and it is almost confirmed that he is suffering from the groin injury. He was already advised to take two weeks rest which he didn't pay attention to.

He was also not in the field but had a substitute fielder. He missed part of the fielding on 1st, 2nd and 4th day. He was not in the picture on 5th day.

Anil Kumble, the skipper, who also felt a strain in the groin area, did not risk bowling too many overs. As the game was trending towards draw, both Sachin and Kumble felt that it is safe to take a back seat rather than risking their future.

Kumble's situation will be evaluated on April 2, a day before the start of the 2nd test.

Kaif is looked as a replacement for Sachin and he will be joining the team for the second test in Ahemadabad.

RP Singh also seemed to be unfit for the 2nd test. He recently recovered from hamstring injury, but he seems to be not fit 100 per cent.

Let us hope that Kumble recovers faster though Sachin is not available for 2nd test. Get well soon guys!

In the meantime, Ishanth Sharma has been declared fit and will most likely to play in the 2nd test.

Ishanth Sharma Declared Fit!

One of the upcoming cricket heroes of Indian Cricket, Ishanth Sharma is declared fit and can play the next test against South Africa.

Ishanth Sharma rocked the Australians during the India's down under tour during 2008 tour. His devastating bowling in Perth test paved way for India to win the test match. He also contributed in the Commonwealth Bank Series, which India won.

Skipper Kumble mentioned that, "Ishanth is looking good," and will take the call before the next test.

McKenzie's Century Helps SA to Draw first test!

The first test ends in a draw on the 5th day in Chepauk, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. McKenzie played a crucial innings again scoring a century this time. He missed the century in the first innings but didn't make the mistake this time. He went beyond 150 in the 2nd innings to take this test to a draw!

Resuming the day at 131 for 1, the first hour was crucial for both the teams. If India succeded in getting erly break-throughs, it would have been tougher on the tourists. But, Amla, the man in form along with McKenzie played both Kumble and Harbhajan very well to bring another 150 run partnership in this test. Though McKenzie was dropped by Sreesanth in the deep square leg, the partnership was growing until Kumble produced a delivery that bounced and hit the edge and went to the hands of Dravid in the slip. Though India took wickets of Kallis for 19, Prince for 5, and de Villiers for 11, it seemed tough to take all the wickets of South Africa in time.

McKenzie was not out on 155 off 339 balls with 13 fours and a six and Amla scored 81 off 148 balls with 9 fours. These two have batted out 81.1 overs of the 123 overs SA had to bat.

Kumble's effort of trying VVS Laxman to bowl 10 overs and couple of overs from Ganguly did not help.

Kallis has to find his form immediately to help South Africa to further strengthen their batting line up. He failed in both the innings and is important that he scores in the next two games.

Shewag for his record breaking 319 was adjudged man of the match, though Amla and McKenzie contributed in both the innings.

Final Score:

Toss: South Africa

Result: Match Drawn

Man of the Match: Shewag (India)

Venue: Chennai, India

Date: March 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 2008

Captain: Smith (SA), Kumble (India)

Score:

South Africa 1st Innings 540 allout in 152.5 overs (Smith 74, McKenzie 94, Amla 159, deVilliers 44, Boucher 70, Morkel 35, Kumble 2 for 106, Harbhajan 5 for 164)

India 1st Innings 627 allout in 155.1 overs (Shewag 319, Jaffer 73; Dravid 111, VVS Laxman 39, Steyn 4 for 103, Nitni 3 for 128, Harris 3 for 203)

South Africa 2nd Innings 331 for 4 declared in 109 overs (McKenzie 155 not out, Smith 35, Amla 81, Harbhajan 3 for 101)

Records - Most Runs in Test Cricket!

You can read, review and understand the highest run scorer in test cricket. This list contains the top 10 highest run-getters in test cricket:

1. Lara - 11953 runs in 131 matches and 232 innings
2. Sachin - 11782 runs in 147* matches and 238 innings (* currently playing 147th test)
3. Border - 11174 runs in 156 matches and 265 innings
4. Steve Waugh - 10927 runs in 168 matches and 260 innings
5. Gavaskar - 10122 runs in 125 matches and 214 innings
6. Dravid - 10031 runs in 120* matches and 206 innings (* currently playing 120th test)
7. Ponting - 9776 runs in 116 matches and 193 innings
8. Kallis - 9490 runs in 117* matches and 198 innings(* currently playing 117th test)
9. Gooch - 8900 runs in 118 matches and 215 innings
10. Miandad - 8832 runs in 124 matches and 189 innings

India Missed Opportunity to have Upper Hand!

Though India took 87 runs lead in the first innings, they missed a good opportunity to take a lead of more than 175 and to put pressure on SA. This would have definitely put SA in trouble as they should play for draw and not for win, whereas India had all the opportunity to go for full attack and try for a win.

Resuming the day at 468 for 1, Shewag added ten and went past his own previous record of 309 against Pakistan in 2004 in Multan. His new highest score in test cricket is 319. Smith took th new ball in the first over of the day. Nitni dismissed Shewag caught at slip. He played the shot away from the body without moving the feet. The book took the outside edge and flew to slips. When Tendulkar walked-in, as usual, the crowed cheered him with a thunderous applause. He didn't last long. Nitni once again struck for South Africa through his outswinger pitched up to Tendulkar, who chose to drive, but ended up edging into 2nd slip for a duck.

At the one end Dravind was timing the ball well and staying at the crease. Ganguly was hitting the ball well, but the curt of a short ball from Harris took the edge and Boucher took the catch.

After the first two wickets partnership, nothing flourshing in favor of India. The batsman were surrendering to South Africans cheaply. When Dravind and Laxman were cruising well, Dravind scored his century after lunch. During lunch, India were 7 runs ahead with Dravind on 99. He scored his 25th test century and first in Chennai. He also crossed 10000 run mark when he was on 80.

The Chepauk cricket ground had full of records in this test. Dravid reached his 100 off 272 balls with 14 fours. He was caught at slips by Kallis of Nitni. The three crucial wickets of the day were picked by Nitni--Shewag, Sachin and Dravid. India were leading with 33 runs when Dravid was out. It was left to Dhoni and Laxman to add more to the total, but Dhoni trying to hit Steyn, stepped out of the crease couple of times. Steyn expecting it, he bowled a short ball, which took the gloves and went to Boucher. He was out for 16. This was the first wicket of Steyn, but he used that opportunity and rattled the tail enders. Kumble, Harbhajan and RP Singh were bowled and their stumps were uprooted by Steyn. Kumble scored 3, Harbhajan and RP Singh were out for zero.

Sreesanth got injured just above his left wrist trying to prevent the bouncer from Steyn. The swelling was treated and he continued his innings. Laxman mis-timed the Harris flighted delivery and gave a simple return catch to him. India were all out for 627 and missed a good opportunity to put a huge total on the board. They also didn't carry out their plan of playing out the full day.

Summary of the records:

1. Shewag scored his highest score in test cricket--319;

2. Shewag scored fastest triple hundred--300 of 278 balls;

3. Dravid scored 10,000 runs and is the 6th batsman in test cricket history and third batsman for India. The others are: Lara, Tendulkar, Waugh, Border, and Gavaskar;

4. This is the first time where a double century partnership was scored for the first two wickets;

Starting the 2nd innings with a deficit of 87 runs, Smith and McKenzie played well hitting few bounderis and taking singles and twos. Smith was adjudged leg before off Harbhajan for 35. McKenzie scored his 2nd fifty of this series and is back-to-back 50. He is still batting on 59 and his partner Amla is batting on 35.

Score at the end of Day 4:

Toss: South Africa

Venue: Chennai, India

Date: March 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 2008

Captain: Smith (SA), Kumble (India)

Score:

South Africa 1st Innings 540 all out in 152.5 overs (Smith 74, McKenzie 94, Amla 159, deVilliers 44, Boucher 70, Morkel 35, Kumble 2 for 106, Harbhajan 5 for 164)

India 1st Innings 627 all out in 155.1 overs (Shewag 319, Jaffer 73; Dravid 111, VVS Laxman 39, Steyn 4 for 103, Nitni 3 for 128, Harris 3 for 203)

India lose 3 wickets in the first session!

India lost three wickets in the first session of the 4th day's play. Shewag was out for 319, adding ten more to the over-night score. He has gone past his previous best and set a new highest score for himself. He is also the highest individual run scores in Indian test cricket history.

The new ball did the trick when his foot didn't move for the ball pitched-up to him. The outside egde went straight to slips.

Tendulkar, didn't last for long. He tried to kick-off his innings with a single, but Amla fielded it very well. He was out in the same over trying to drive the ball, but it took the outside edge and flew to second slip. Both Shewag and Sachin fell to Nitni.

Sourav was timing and placing the ball well. He tried to cut the short ball from Harris, but it raised little higher than he anticipated. On the way to keeper, it just kissed the edge of the bat and Boucher took the catch.

During lunch, India were 547 for 4 and leading by 7 runs with Dravid on 99 and Laxman on 6.

Rahul Dravind Crosses Ten Thousand Runs in Test Cricket

Rahul Dravid crossed his ten thousand run mark in test cricket on Day 4 of the first test against South Africa in Chepauk, Chennai. He is the third Indian batsman achieve this milestone. The others are:

Sunil Gavaskar

Sachin Tendulkar

He has achieved this in his 120th test match. Requring 80 runs at the start of this test match to reach 10,000 and he did it without any trouble.

The BCCI and other leading cricketers congratulated and sent their wishes to Dravid!

Shewag demolished South African Hopes!

Shewag, the man of the day, test, innings, test! He demolished the South African bowling attcak all over Chennai ground. The MA Chidarambaram Stadium in Chennai was under complete fire of fours. The statdium known as MAC in Chennai proved lucky to India this time.

Lots of records were broken in the day and in the Indian innings. Shewag's triple hundred is the fastest triple hundred in test cricket, with 278 balls.

The beauty was his six to go from 193 to 199 off Nitni. He then glanced to mid-wicket for a 3 to cross the double hundred. He reverse swept Harris, pulled Steyn and Nitni. Steywn had not effect in the innings as the pitch was not helping the bowlers.

The only wicket that fell on the day was off Wasim Jaffer. He playd the forward, but the ball took outside edge and flew to first slip. He scored his 50 off 107 balls and that was his 10th fifty in Test Cricket. Both Jaffer and Shewag added 213 runs for the first wicket.

Shewag scored his century of 116 balls. During lunch India were 176 for no wicket with Jaffer on 60 and Shewag on 110. Between lunch and tea India lost the wicket of Jaffer for 73. Kallis acted quick to grab the catch in 1st slip.

The wall of Indian cricket, Dravid joined Shewag for the 2nd wicket. Dravind started slowly scoring 11 off 61 balls. Shewag's batting should have added to the confidence of Dravind and he also scored fifty. Shewag scored 108 runs between lunch and tea in less than 100 balls.

He scored the 2nd hundred off 78 balls and was timing the ball very well. Steyn had no clue about the line and length because Shewag was in scoring mood.

The 3rd hundred of the triple-century came in 84 balls. He was smashing the ball in all parts of the ground of all the bowlers. Smith was struggling to place fielders as the ball was always going in the gap. Smith didn't place the field well during the start of the day. Both Jaffer and Shewag was under no pressure as they were taking singles placing the ball in the gaps in deep cover and square leg.

Shewag and Dravid were at the crease batting with 309 (off 292 balls with 41 fours and 5 sixes) and 65 respectively. Shewag needs 1 run to go past his own record of his highest score. If he scores another 92, he will be the highest run scorer in an innings in Test Cricket. Wait and see whether he does it.

Click here to see the full records of this test match.

Score:
Toss: South Africa
Venue: Chennai, India
Date: March 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 2008
Captain: Smith (SA), Kumble (India)
Score:
South Africa 540 all out in 152.5 overs (Smith 74, McKenzie 94, Amla 159, deVilliers 44, Boucher 70, Morkel 35, Kumble 2 for 106, Harbhajan 5 for 164)
India 468 for 1 in 106 overs (Shewag 309 batting, Jaffer 73; Dravid 65 batting)

Records Day in Chennai!

Lots of records were created and broken on Day 3 of first test in Chennai between India and South Africa. Indian's were breaking the records this time. India scored 376 runs for the loss of one wicket in 90 overs today.

1. He is the first batsman to score more than 250 runs in a day of more than 50 yeaers; It was dne by Dennis Compton in 1954 against Pakistan.


2. This is the second triple-century by an Indian. He was the first one too. He scored 309 against Pakistan in Multan in 2003-04.


3. This is the first time that a batsman had gone past 300 runs in India; previous best was the unforgettable 281 by Laxman in Kolkata.


4. This is the fastest triple hundred in Test Cricket. He scored his 300 in 278 balls.


5. Shewag is the third batsman to score two triple-hundreds; Others are Brain Lara and Don Bradman.


6. Shewag joined Bradman and Dennis Compton in the record for scoring more than 250 runs in a day.


7. This is the first time two double-century partnerships have been made for the first and second wicket in test cricket. The first wicket partnership was between Wasim Jaffer and Shewag for 213 runs and an unbeaten 2nd wicket partnership of 255 between Dravid and Shewag.


8. Shewag's lucky day seems to be March 28. He scored 200+ runs on March 28 against Pakistain in 2004 and in the next day he made 308. Again in 2008, March 28, he made 257 runs. Out of the total 468, he made 309 which is 66%.


9. In a day, he has scored 257 out of the 376 runs scored by Indians, which is 68.35%.

Records are meant to be Broken and let us hope Shewag breaks Lara's Record of 400!

Shewag Creates Record!

Shewag has created history in Indian and world cricket! He was hitting all over the ground and it was a tough day for South Africans. The ball was flying in all directions. This is his 3rd consecutive 150 or more runs.

This is his 2nd three hundred plus score in test cricket. His has equalled his previous record of 309 against Pakistan. If we scores one more run, that will be his highest score. He is continuing his good form against South Africa.

He never gave a chance to the South African to earn his wicket. He was reverse sweeping, pulling, driving, hooking, hitting in the air, and what not.

He never bothered about his hundred or double hundred and trible hundred. He hit a six off Nitni over square leg to go to 199 Then he glanced to mid-wicket for a 3 to go past beyond 200.

He has created many records during the day and still batting at 309. Can he go past 400 and create one more world record? Wait and see day 4!!

He scored his 300 in 278 balls, which is a record.

Sri Lanka wins First Test!

Sri Lanka have beaten West Indies for the first time in West Indies. Vaas was the pick of the bowlers taking half of the West Indian wickets.

Resuming the last day at 96 for 1, West Indies needed 341 runs and Sri Lanka wanted 9 wickets.

Bravo and Sarwan were batting well and didn't hurry at all. They're not going for win, but trying to save the game. They added 134 for the 2nd wicket and it looked like Sri Lanka was losing the grip in the game. Muralitharan, the experienced and leading test wicket taker gave the break through by dismissing Bravo through a beautiful caught and bowled. That was the turning point of the game. Samuels was caught behind off Vaas for 10. Chandrapaul followed him for 3, bowled by Vaas. WI were struggling at 178 for 4 with 50 overs to bat out.

Both Muralitharan and Vaas were getting wickets and providing break throughs for Sri Lankans. Gayle was the lonely warrior battling in the field. When 8th wicket fell at 89th over, West Indies needed to play out 24.3 overs. Both Gayle and Taylor were negotiating with Muralitharan's doosra and off-spin.

They played out 12 overs very well. New ball was taken by skipper Jayawardane and given to Vaas. He gave the break through with a short ball which edge to slips. With Gayle and Powell on the crease with 10.5 overs to spare. They were batting well, but the poor shot selection by Powell off Vaas finished the match. He tried to hit the ball over mid-off, but Muralitharan jumped and took a one-handed catch to give Sri Lanka the lead in the series. Gayle was not out on 51, which actually does not matter.

Score:

Toss: Sri Lanka

Venue: Providence Stadium, Guyana

Date: March 22-26, 2008

Captains: Jayawardane (Sri Lanka), Gayle (West Indies)

Man of the Match: Vaas (Sri Lanka)

Short Score:

Sri Lanka 1st Innings 476 for 8 declared in 162 overs (Vandort 52, Warnapura 120, Sangakkara 50, Jayawardane 136, Vaas 54 not out, Taylor 4 for 110, Gayle 2 for 66)

West Indies 1st Innings 280 all out in 111.5 overs (Sarwan 80, Hinds 37, Ramdin 38, Senn 28, Taylor 27 not out, Vaas 3 for 48, Mirando 3 for 59, Muralitharan 3 for 112)

Sri Lanka 2nd Innings 240 for 7 declared in 57 overs (Warnapura 62, Jayawardane 33, Samaraweera 56 not out, Bravo 2 for 54, Benn 3 for 59)

West Indies 2nd Innings (437 to win 113 overs) 315 all out in 106.2 overs (Bravo 83, Sarwan 72, Gayle 51 not out, Vaas 5 for 61, Mirand 2 for 70, Muralitharan 3 for 112)

Day 2 of the first test in Chennai belonged to South Africa. They scored 236 runs and lost 6 wickets in little over 2 sessions.

Resuming the day at 304 for 4, Amla scored the first century of the series. The four through extra cover brought his 4th century in 173 balls with 14 fours. de Villiers was struggling at one end though he scored few quick fours of Kumble, but didn't last long. He was caught behind when tried to drive through off side. The new ball gave the break-through that India wanted.
Amla and Boucher continued the domination, but Boucher's poor call put a break to Amla's good innings. He crossed 150 in 248 balls and was timing the ball well. The cut to cover off Kumble seem to be a run, but good fielding by Sreesanth created the mess between stricker Boucher and Amla. Boucher was few steps down in the pitch, but Amla was almost through the run. The throw by Sreesanth to the wrong end didn't stop Dhoni to pass the ball to Kumble in the bowling end to run out Amla, who was too far away from the crease. This was his first century against India.

Boucher who scored his 28th half-century in Test Cricket, was hitting the ball well. He hit 9 fours in his 70. When he tried hit the ball across over long-on, it took the edge and flew high towards slip where Dravid grabbed it humbly. The score was 510 for 7 and Morkel joined.

The pitch was not helping the bowlers much. Morkel scored an useful 35 and was caught and bowled off Harbhajan. It was a straight and simple catch to the bowler.

The last two wickets added 20 runs to the board. Harris didn't pick the straight ball from Bhajji and edged the ball to first slip. Last batsman to be dismissed was Steyn. He hit the ball high in the air, RP Sing ran across from long-on and took a good catch to finish the South African innings at 540.

Harbhajan was the pick of the bowlers. He picked 5 wickets giving away 164 runs and Kumble picked 2 wickets, Sreesanth and Shewag picked 1 each.

The Indian chase started with 21 overs to play in the day. Shewag and Jaffer opened the innings positively. They were playing shots through gully and driving and cutting the ball to the fence. Shewag hit Nitni for a six over third man. It was a short ball and upper cut over the boundary. Similar shot was played by Jaffier off Nitni for a six.

Shewag scored his 50 off 59 balls with 6 fours and a six.

At the end of day 2, India are 82 for no wicket in 21 overs. Jaffer batting on 25 and Shewag is on 52.

Score:

Toss: South Africa

Venue: Chennai, India

Date: March 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 2008

Captain: Smith (SA), Kumble (India)

Score:

South Africa 540 all out in 152.5 overs (Smith 74, McKenzie 94, Amla 159, deVilliers 44, Boucher 70, Morkel 35, Kumble 2 for 106, Harbhajan 5 for 164)

India 82 for no loss in 21 overs (Shewag 52 batting, Jaffer 25 batting)

Restrict SA to 375 - Harbhajan!

"Chennai wicket is always like this, good for batsmen in the first two days. You cannot be complaining about it. We will try to get them out within another 80 runs. That is our target."

"We have to get just two more wickets and then the tail will start. If we do that, we are in the game. If we restrict them to less than 375, it will be a great effort on our part," said the off-spinner, who took 2 wickets.

"Tomorrow will be a different story. It is just a matter of a few good deliveries and the match will turn. If we contain the boundaries tomorrow, it will be difficult for the batsmen," Harbhajan said.

Let us see whether Indians are able to restrict them within 375!

England Wins Series!

Losing the first test and struggling at 0-1 in the test series, England bounced back beautifully to win the series 2-1. Their form has not been good in the recent past and this should givem them a good relief, especially winning the series abroad.

Monty Panesar took 6 for 126, his career best figures which helped England to win the test and the series. Sidebottom rocked in the first innings and Panesar did the same in the 2nd innings.

Resuming the day 222 for 5, England struck in the 9th over last ball. Taylor was catught by Collingwood for 74. McCullum was bowled in a gap of 3 over and became the 5th victim of Panesar.

A steady 48 run partnership didn't bother England too much because as they were already breaking partnerships often. Panesar removed Patel through a flight delivery which was swept fine but Broad dived and finished with a splendid catch. He was out for 18.

Vettori gave a simple catch to Ambrose and last batsman to be dismissed was Martin. Sidebottom uprooted the off-stump of Martin with that the wonderful series came to an end along with the Test Career of Stephen Fleming.

A positive for New Zealand was the few runs from Southee. In the first test, he took 5 wickets in the first innings and then scored 77 not out in the second innings. He provided good entertainment towards the end of the innings. He scored 77 off 40 balls with 4 fours and 9 sixes. He hit 5 sixes off Panesar including three sixes in the same over and 2 off Anderson.

Toss: England

Result: England won by 121 runs

Serires Result: England won the series 2-1

Player of the Match: Sidebottom (England)

Player of the Series: Sidebottom (England)

Short Score:

England 1st Innings: 253 all out in 96.1 overs (Pietersen 129, Collingwood 30, Broad 42, Martin 2 for 74, Southee 5 for 55, Patel 2 for 37)

New Zealand 1st Innings 168 all out in 48.4 overs (How 44, Fleming 59, Sidebottom 7 for 47, Broad 3 for 54)

England 2nd Innings 467 for 7 declared in 131.5 overs (Cook 37, Strauss 177, Pietersen 34, Bell 110, Ambrose 31, Broad 31 not out, Patel 2 for 104, Vettori 4 for 158)

New Zealand 2nd Innings 431 all out in 118.5 overs (Bell 69, Fleming 66, Taylor 74, McCulum 42, Vettori 43, Southee 77 Not Out, Broad 2 for 78, Panesar 6 for 126)

Day 1 belongs to SA!

What a crucial toss to win for South Africa in the first test in Chennai? I am sure skipper Smith should be happy that he won the toss and made the right decision to bat. The pitch looks in favor of batsman for the first 2 to 2.5 days and then for spinners. Well, if that is the case, SA is playing with only one specialized spinner though Smith can roll his arm.

Smith and McKenzie handled the new ball well and used the wicket that helped the batsman. They both scored 50 and started the series in style. This is the first hundred run partnership of the series.

The ball was coming on to bat nicely and the pitch didn't help neither Sreesanth nor RP Singh. The pacers tried their best, but didn't succeed in taking wickets. All the 4 wickets that fell today went to spinners.

The break-through was as usual given by the skipper Kumble, who dismissed the counter-part. When he tried to drive the ball to mid-on, but gets beaten by the flight and the ball hits the bat at the top and flew to mid-wicket and Laxman took a simple catch.

The 2nd wicket between McKenzie and Amla crossed 50, but McKenzie missed to score his hundred by 6 runs. He was dismissed by a flight straight delivery off Harbhajan which took the edge when McKenzie tried to defend expecting a turn. Dravid made no mistake on this simple catch to dismiss him for 94 and he was disappointed having missed a good opportunity to score a century.

Kallis, the experienced person in the side didn't last long. He was out for 13 off Harbhajan. The flighted delivery took the inside edge, bumped from the pads and went straight to Jaffer in short-leg. Though the umpire didn't give out, Kallis walked himself to relieve Harbhajan from the shock of poor decision by the umpire.

What a catch by Kumble, leading by example, to dismiss Prince. The googly was driven back to the bowler in the air and Kumble dived to his left to grab beautiful one-handed catch.

Amla is still in the crease looking dangerous for the Indians. He is batting on 85 and will be looking for his 4th test hundred.

At the end of day 1, South Africa was 304 for 4.
Short Score:
Toss: South Africa
Venue: Chennai, India
Date: March 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 2008
Captain: Smith (SA), Kumble (India)
Score:
South Africa 304 for 4 in 90 overs (Smith 74, McKenzie 94, Amla 85 batting, Kumble 2 for 61, Harbhajan 2 for 92)

England need 5 wickets to Win Series!

Resuming the Day 4 at 416 for 5 with a over all lead of 501, England delcared their 2nd innings at 467 with the target of 553 to win. Strauss was out on 177 and Ambrose was out for 31.

New Zealand were 222 for 5 at the end of Day 4 in the allotted 82 overs. They have to play the full quota of 90 overs or score 331 runs. Bell and Fleming were playing well and scored their half-century. They both added 99 runs for the 2nd wicket when the partnership was broken by Panesar. Soon Fleming followed him, out for 66 off Panesar. Broad picked 2 wickets and Panesar 3 wickets.

Short Score:

England 1st Innings: 253 all out in 96.1 overs (Pietersen 129, Collingwood 30, Broad 42, Martin 2 for 74, Southee 5 for 55, Patel 2 for 37)
New Zealand 1st Innings 168 all out in 48.4 overs (How 44, Fleming 59, Sidebottom 7 for 47, Broad 3 for 54)
England 2nd Innings 467 for 7 declared in 131.5 overs (Cook 37, Strauss 177, Pietersen 34, Bell 110, Ambrose 31, Broad 31 not out, Patel 2 for 104, Vettori 4 for 158)
New Zealand 2nd Innings (553 to win) 222 for 5 in 82 overs at the end of Day 4 (Bell 69, Fleming 66, Taylor 34 batting, Broad 2 for 40, Panesar 3 for 49)

Kumble Honored for Getting 600 Wickets!

The veteran and Indian skipper Anil Kumble was honored today for his great achivement--bagging 600 test wickets, in test cricket.

Sharad Pawar, the BCCI president, presented him with a special ball, weighing close to 300 gram and studded with 1,500 of the finest diamonds sourced from Antwerp. Made by Orra Diamonds, it was interspersed with approximately 600 oval rubies.

Pawar started by remembering this time a year ago. "India lost to Sri Lanka on March 23 and I needed to have an urgent meeting with the members of the home ministry to discuss plans to protect the players and their families. I'm happy that we are in a joyous mood today, celebrating India's victories and leaving that bad phase behind."

Shastri saluted Kumble for his champion qualities but said his humility stood out among the legends. He also lauded Dilip Vengsarkar, the chairman of selectors, for appointing Kumble as India's Test captain at a period of transition in Indian cricket.

The hour long function was attended by Indian and South African team members, members of BCCI, Gerald Majola, Chief Executive of the Cricket South Africa.

The function was arranged almost after two months of completing 600 wickets. The victim was Andrew Symonds, leg before wicket in Perth Test, which India won. He is the first Indian cricketer to achive this land mark.

Kumble said, "I'm overcome by emotion and am at a loss for words and over the 18 years of playing cricket I have seen several changes in the game."

He also said, "Cricket has been seen as a batsman's game but it's important to have a bit of balance between bat and ball. I hope the balance is restored in the future."

He thanked all those who were involved with his development as a cricketer and fondly remembered his first captain Azharuddin, first coach Bishan Singh Bedi, first room mate Ravi Shastri--all of whom were present in the fuction. He added Andrew Leipus to the list for playing a big role in his rehabilitation from a shoulder injury in 2001.

He also said that Shane Warne and Muralitharan are good friends of his. They discuss about spin bowling during their chat. They have high regards for each other.

He thanked Sachin, Dravind, Ganguly, Venkatesh Prasad, and his spin partners from Raju to Harbhajan.

He finished by saying, "with so many tests coming up, I am sure we'll get a chance to meet again soon to celebrate 700 wickets." After a wry smile, he finished by saying "Thank you!"

Congratulations on a wonderful achievement Kumble! We are proud of you! Keep going.... All the best!

England on top in final test!

New Zealand in big deep trouble at the end of day 3. They have virtually lost the series and the test match, it is just a matter of time or rain that should save them from this big defeat!

Sidebottom's beautiful second and subsequent spells helped England to come back into the game. Day 2 was completely bowler's day which saw 15 wickets fall. Resuming the day 2 at 240 for 7, England lost the remaining 3 wickets for 13 runs and ended the first innings at 253.

New Zealand started the innings with high hope of taking a big lead and putting England in the back seat. England struck in the first over by sending Bell for a duck trapped in front of the wicket. How and the former skipper Fleming added 102 runs for the 2nd wicket and became a threat for England. Sidebottom struck again by pitching the ball up and had Fleming push the ball but edged to second slip. He was out for 59, the only scorer for New Zealand who passed 50. The next 8 wickets fell for 65 runs which was a complete shock to the New Zealand cricket lovers. Sidebottom rattled the New Zealand innings by picking wickets regularly and accompanied by Broad on the other end. The next to go was How. Sidebottom changed the angle and bowled round the wicket. How was made to drive the ball, which took the edge and went to first slip. Broad got Taylor for 2, and the next 3 wickets were picked by Sidebottom again.

This has to be Sidbottom's day and he was on top of the world. Skipper Vettori is the 3rd and final two digit scorer for NZ. He made 14 and was the last bastsman to get out. New Zealand was all out for 168 in 48.4 overs. Do you believe that they're bowled out in less than 50 overs.

With 85 runs ahead of New Zealand, England started the 2nd innings. They had to play 32 overs to complete the 2nd day. They lost two wickets and ended the day at 91. Cook and Vaughan were dismissed for 37 and 4 respectively.

Resuming day 3, both Pietersen was dismissed for 34 when the substitute field Ross Tylor stunned everyone by a brillant catch at first slip. When Pietersen tried to play it on the leg side off Vettori, the ball took the back of the bat and went to first slip. Taylor reacted quickly to grab it, who couldn't have seen the ball at all. England were 140 for 3 at that stage.

Strauss and Bell played sensibly and scored centuries to give England a very big lead. Strauss scored 173 and is still batting with Ambrose. He scored his 100 of 226 balls with 16 fours. Bell scored his century in 150 balls with 16 fours and 2 sixes. They both added 187 for the 4th wicket which really took the game away from NZ. Skipper tried everything to turn the game, but the day belong to England. The consolation came in the form of Bell's wicket, when he tried lot the ball and didn't get the elevation right. Collingwood's dismissal was a soft dismissal, a straight caught and bowled to Vettori.

When will England declare? Whether New Zealand can chase a big total in 2 days time? Whether they will play out all the 150+ overs they need to bat to make a draw?

Short Scores:

England 1st Innings: 253 all out in 96.1 overs (Pietersen 129, Collingwood 30, Broad 42, Martin 2 for 74, Southee 5 for 55, Patel 2 for 37)

New Zealand 1st Innings 168 all out in 48.4 overs (How 44, Fleming 59, Sidebottom 7 for 47, Broad 3 for 54)

England 2nd Innings 416 for 5 in 122 overs at the end of Day 3 (Cook 37, Strauss 173 batting, Pietersen 34, Bell 110, Ambrose 28 batting, Vettori 3 for 135)

Sri Lanka on top in the First Test!

West Indies trailing by 369 runs in the first innings with 4 wickets in hand at Lunch on Day 3. Can they at least score 170 runs to avoid the follow-on?

Sri Lanka declared their 1st innings at 476 with the loss of 8 wickets. Warnapura and skipper Jayawardane scored century to help Sri Lanka to go beyond 450+ runs in the board. Vaas was not out on 54. Vaas and Jayawardane added 126 runs for the 7th wicket which proved crucial to West Indies. JE Taylor picked 4 wickets and was the successful WI bowler.

With 16 overs to bat in Day 2, West Indies lost Gayle in the 3rd over for duck off Vaas. West Indies ended day 2 with 29 for 1.

They lost 3 more wickets till lunch on Day 3 with Smith, Samuel and Chandrapaul back in the pavilion. Sarwan is in the crease with 64 and West Indies is really struggling.

Short Score:
Sri Lanka 479 for 8 declared in 162 overs (Vandort 52, Warnapura 120, Sangakkara 50, Jayawardane 136, Vaas 54 not out, JE Taylor 4 for 110, Gayle 2 for 66)
West Indies 107 for 4 in 44 overs on Day 3 at Lunch (Sarwan 57 batting, Mirando 2 for 32)

Sri Lanka cruising well in the First Test! Warnapura Scores Century!

Sri Lanka winning the toss and deciding to bat first, both the openers Warnapura and Vandort managed the first session well. West Indian bowlers were not able to get the break-through they wanted. Vendort scored 50 off 115 balls and Warnapura scored his 50 off 91 balls.

Sri Lanka went to lunch with 85 for no loss in 31 overs. The break-through came when Taylor trapped Vendort in front of the wicket for 52 and the first wicket partnership was 130. Sangakkara, the man in form has joined Warnapura and added 27 so far.

Warnapura was dropped at slips for 95 by Bravo. Warnapura tried to slash Gayle and the quick edge went through the slip and Bravo didn't react quickly to grab it.

Warnapura scored his century off 183 balls with 12 fours. The score is 163 for 1 with 33 overs more to go in the day.

New Zealand on Top in the Final and Deciding Test! Pietersen scored century!

In the third and final test between England and New Zealand, Kevin Pietersen's century helped England to put a decent total on the board. After winning the toss and with the confidence carried over from the previous victory, England decided to bat first. May be, it back-fired and sure that they wouldn't be happy as they didn't use the opportunity to put a huge total on the board.

Though Vettori was unhappy that he didn't win the toss to bat first because of the missing two key players--Oram being one of them, when England slipped to 36 for 4, he should have been much happier that he lost it. Captain Vaughan was the first man to go for 2. Strauss followed him in with a duck, followed by Cook for 2, Bell who is expected to score and save England was also dismissed for 9 leaving England trail at 36 for 4 in 23.1 overs. Two of the four wickets were taken by the debutant Southee. Kevin Pietersen batted well, swept Vettori for a six and showed his aggression rather than staying in the crease and playing safe.

Collingwood scored 30 and added 89 runs for the 5th wicket with Pietersen. Ambrose also didn't last longer and was dismissed for a cheap 11. Once again, England continued to lose wickets and struggling at 147 for 6. New Zealand was hoping to remove England within 200, but Broad's unbeaten 42 with Pietersen helped England to go beyond 200 run mark. Pietersen scored his century after a long time (he didn't even score 50 in the last 10 innings that he played). He took 163 balls and 10 fours to reach his three figure mark. The new ball gave the break-through to the New Zelanders when Southee removed Pietersen for 129. When he was out, the score was 208 for 7. Broad with 42 and Sidebottom with 3 are in the crease and will resume the day tomorrow.

Short Score:
Toss: EnglandCurrent Position: New Zealand has upper hand
Englad 240 for 7 in 92 overs (Pietersen 129, Collingwood 30, Broad 42 batting, Southee 3 for 46, Patel 2 for 37)

Dhoni and Harbhajan fit for 1st Test against SA

Dhoni and Harbhajan passed the fitness test today and can play the first test against South Africa starting 26th of this month in Chennai.

If Dhoni didn't play, Dinesh Karthick would have got the chance for playing, but he passed it and it is almost sure that Dinesh Karthick will not play.

Sri Lanka tour to West Indies 2008

Sri Lanka is touring West Indies this year for a 2 test and 3 one-day match. Though there was no 20-20 scheduled, the 3 ODI matches is expected to compensate for that. This is the first series played in West Indies after the world cup in 2007. One of the most successful batsman of West Indies, Brain Lara has retired and is not in the team. Whether the team will be able to win the Sri Lankans, we have to wait and see.

The schedule:

Practice Match

March 17-19, 2008, Guyana President's Select XI v. Sri Lanka at Providence Stadium, Guyana
March 29-31, 2008, West Indies A v. Sri Lanka at Shaw Park, Tobago

Test Match

March 22-26, 2008, 1st Test at Providence Stadium, Guyana
April 3-7, 2008, 2nd Test at Queen's Park Oval, Trinidad

ODI

April 10, 2008, 1st ODI at Queen's Park Oval, Trinidad
April 12, 2008, 2nd ODI at Queen's Park Oval, Trinidad
April 15, 2008, 3rd ODI at Beausejour Stadium, St Lucia

Good luck to both the teams!

Prasad and Robin Singh Stay!

The bowling coach and the fielding coach of the Indian Cricket Team has been retained for the forthcoming series against South Africa. It was said that the BCCI was not happy with them because they have signed IPL teams as coaches without consent from BCCI.

Venkatesh Prasad was retained after the improved performance in the bowling department during the down under series against Australia. He was signed by Vijay Mallya's Bangalore team and Robin Singh was signed by Hyderabad's team.

The speculation was that the new coach Gary Kirsten wanted his own men to support the Indian team in all the departments and BCCI was supporting the new coach. The post of the interim coach Lalchand Rajput is also under danger. It may be noted that this series of India against South Africa in India is the first official series for Gary Kisten as coach.

The official news is that, both Venkatesh Prasad and Robin Singh stay as bowling and fielding coach respectively.

Schedule of Australia's tour to West Indies

Australia is touring West Indies from mid of May till first week of June 2008. They play one three-day practice match, test matches, one 20-20, a ODI practice match and then 5 one-day internationals. Few key players from West Indies are expected to miss, but we have around a month's time to know the status of the squad.

Practice Match

May 16-18, TBD v. Australia, venue to be decided

Test Matches

May 22-26, 1st Test at Sabina Park, Jamaica
May 30-June 3, 2nd Test at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua
June 12-June 16, 3rd Test at Kensington Oval, Barbados

T20

June 20, 20-20, Kensington Oval, Barbados

Practice Match

June 21, D/N, University of Vice Chancellor's XI v. Australia at Three Ws Oval, Barbados

ODI

June 24, 1st ODI at Arnos Vale Ground, St. Vincent
June 27, 2nd ODI at National Cricket Stadium, Grenada
June 29, 3rd ODI at National Cricket Stadium, Grenada
July 4, 4th ODI at Warner Park, St. Kitts
July 6, 5th ODIat Warner Park, St. Kitts

Good luck to both the teams!

Hair is back in ICC Elite Panel!

Hair is back in the ICC Elite Panle of Umpires. He was banned from umpiring internationl cricket games after the controversial decision during the England v. Pakistan match. Pakistan lead by Inzmam did not come out to the ground due to controversies, Hair who was one of the the umpires in that match, awarded the match to England.

The Australian umpire was removed from the elite panel after PCB won the legal battle. The news is that he is back in the panel again after attending a six-month rehabilitation program.

Well come back Hair!

Ishanth Sharma Ruled out of First Test!

Ishanth Sharma who is suffering a toe injury is not playing the first test. He is not yet fit and his further playing with the injury woud only worsen his condition! India never wanted that!

While he was out, Yuvaraj has been given a chance to prove his credibility in the test version of the game. Murali Karthik opted as third spin bowler was also left out due to injury he sustained during the domestic cricket. While Piyush Chawla has taken over his place.

Dinesh Karthick will play the first test if Dhoni fails to prove his fitness. He has a sprained finger and hence need to prove his fitness.

Anil Kumble is the captain of the team. The trio--Ganguly, Dravid, and VVS Laxman come back to the team.

The squad:
Squad for first two Test Wasim Jaffer, Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman, Yuvraj Singh, Mahendra Singh Dhoni (wk), Irfan Pathan, Anil Kumble (capt), Harbhajan Singh, Piyush Chawla, Sreesanth, RP Singh.

Indian Team Announced for 1st and 2nd Test against SA!

The Indian team for the first and second test against South Africa has been announced today by the selection committee. No big surprises in the composition of the team. Kumble is still the skipper and as expected, the three giants VVS Laxman, Ganguly, and Dravid are back in the team. It was learnt from the press that there was debate about including Wassim Jaffer becuase of his poor show in the Down Under series in Australia. Finally, he got added to the team and he should be a relieved man.

Yuvaraj, though did not perform well in the tests, he was given chance again to show is calibre. This is going to be a challenge for him to prove himself as a capable player in all three forms of the game--Test, ODI and 20-20.

Dinesh Karthik is a reserve player and as a light chance of getting into the first test in case if Dhoni is not fit. Murali Karthik was included in the squad, but his injury during Deodhar trophy needed few weeks of rest. So, Piyush Chawla who was a reserve player got the chance of getting into the squad. The squad includes three fast and 2 spin bowlers.

Ishanth is ruled out of the first test because of his toe injury. Let us hope he get backs to normalcy soon!
The Squad:

1. Anil Kumble (Captain)
2. Wassim Jaffer
3. Virender Shewag
4. Rahul Dravid
5. Sachin Tendulkar
6. Sourav Ganguly
7. VVS Laxman
8. Yuvaraj Singh
9. Mahendra Singh Doni (WK)
10. Irfan Pathan
11. Harbhajan Sing
12. Sreesanth
13. Rudra Prathap Singh
14. Piyush Chawla
15. Dinesh Karthik (Reserve WK)

Good luck India!

England Finish Formalities - Series is levelled!

England finished the formalities on the 5th day levelling the series 1-1. Resuming at 242 for 6, New Zealand's chance of winning or playing out the 90 overs was almost impossible. As expected, England started by picking the wicket of skipper Vettori for a duck. He was caught by Cook off Sidebottom.

Mills accompanied McCullum and addd 24 for the 8th wicket. When Mills on 13, he was trapped in front of the wicket off Sidebottom. Gillespie was caught behind of Anderson for 9. The last batsman to get out was McCullum on 85. He played sensible cricket, but no one was there to give him company in the middle.

Sidebottom picked 5 wickets while Anderson and Broad picked two each. Ambrose was declared as player of the match.

Final Score:

Toss: New Zealand

Result: England won by 126 runs

Man of the Match: Ambrose (England)

England 1st Innings 342 in 107 overs (Cook 44, Vaughan 32, Pietersen 31, Collingwood 65, Ambrose 102, Mills 2 for 86, Gillespie 4 for 79, Oram 3 for 46)

New Zealand 1st Innings 198 in 57.5 overs (Fleming 34, Taylor 53, McCullum 25, Vettori 50 not out, Anderson 5 for 36, Collingwood 3 for 23)

England 2nd Innings 2943 in 97.4 overs (Cook 60, Strauss 44, Bell 41, Collingwood 59, Martin 2 for 77, Mills 2 for 59, Oram 3 for 44, Gillespie 2 for 63)

New Zealand 2nd Innings 438 to win - 311 in 100.3 overs (Bell 29, Fleming 31, Sinclair 39, Taylor 55, Oram 30, McCullum 85, Sidebottom 5 for 105, Anderson 2 for 57, Broad 2 for 62)

Final Score:

England need 4 wickets to win 2nd Test!

England has a bright chance of levelling the series against New Zealand. With a target 438 in almost 2 days to go and close to 174 overs of play, New Zealand lost the first wicket at 18 in the form of in-form batsman How. Bell fell for 29 caught behind off Broad. Fleming followed Bell in the same over for 31. The double blow in the same over put New Zealand in the back seat.

Sinclair and Taylor played sensibly and hit few good fours. Sinclair was caught by Bell off Anderson for 39 and he added 81 for the 4th wicket. Taylor was batting well and scored his first 50 off 65 balls with 8 fours. He failed to convert his 50 into an hundred. Sidebottom gave the breakthrough by sending Taylor to pavilion for 55.

Oram and McCullum added 69 runs for the 6th wicket. Just before the light was offered to the batsman, Oram was dismissed for 30 caught at gully by Pietersen off Sidebottom.

Sidebottom ended the day with 3 crucial wickets and broad picked 2. With one more day to, England requires 4 wickets and New Zealand either has to protect the day or score 196 runs. McCullum batting with 43 and skipper Vettori is along with him in zero.

Earlier, started the day at 277 for 9, England added 16 runs to the score and the last wicket was taken by Martin.

The score so far:

Toss: New Zealand
Result: Awaited
Man of the Match: Awaited
Score:
England 1st Innings 342 in 107 overs (Cook 44, Vaughan 32, Pietersen 31, Collingwood 65, Ambrose 102, Mills 2 for 86, Gillespie 4 for 79, Oram 3 for 46)
New Zealand 1st Innings 198 in 57.5 overs (Fleming 34, Taylor 53, McCullum 25, Vettori 50 not out, Anderson 5 for 36, Collingwood 3 for 23)
England 2nd Innings 2943 in 97.4 overs (Cook 60, Strauss 44, Bell 41, Collingwood 59, Martin 2 for 77, Mills 2 for 59, Oram 3 for 44, Gillespie 2 for 63)
New Zealand 2nd Innings 438 to win - 242 for 6 with one more day to go (Bell 29, Fleming 31, Sinclair 39, Taylor 55, Oram 30, McCullum 43 batting, Sidebottom 3 for 72, Broad 2 for 38)

Pictures of Various Cricket Grounds Around the World!

Australia

Melboure Cricket Ground famously knowns as MCG

Picture 1: MCG in Night

Picture 2 taken during the day time

England has upper hand at the end of Day 3 in 2nd Test

England has a very good chance of levelling the series against New Zealand with a massive 421 runs lead with a wicket in hand. Whether New Zeland will be able to score 400+ runs in the 2nd innings with almost 2 days left, we have to wait and see.

Skipper Collingwood was the last batsman out on Day 3 for 59. He faced 116 balls and hit 10 fours. Earlier Alastair Cook made 60 to give a good start to England's second innings. Resuming day 3 at 4 for no wicket, England lost captain Vaughan early for 13. Cook and Strauss added 106 for the 2nd wicket and when everything was going fine for England, Mills sent Cook back to Pavilion. Strauss followed Cook after he added two runs with Pietersen. With score board reading 160, Pietersen fell for 17 when Martin's finger touched the ball and hit the stumps while Pietersen was far away from the crese. Then it was left to Bell and Collingwood to add some good runs to the score board. When Bell was on 41, he was caught by Sinclair of Oram. Ambrose was bowled for 5 and the score was 231 for 6. Broad added valueable 16 runs to his score and was soon out. Sidebottom was out for duck and the score was 260 for 8. Finally, Collingwood also fell LBW to Gillespie and the score is 277 for 9.

Oram picked 3 wickets, Mills and Gillespie took 2 wickets each.

Will England carry on the good bowling in the 2nd innings or will New Zealand create history by chasing 400+ in the last innings and win the test? Will have to wait and see this good test cricket--with no complaints on sledging or claiming a catch that was not taken or no big contraversies in umpiring decisions.

South Africa is World No. 1 in ODI!

South Africa displaces Australia as number one in the One-day International ranking. With the 3-0 white wash of Bangladesh, South Africa has gained more points and is leading the ranking table. India is in 4th place though it is equal in rating with New Zealand, which is in 3rd spot.

The recent ODI Ranking

1. South Africa 43 Matches, 5478 Points, 127 Rating
2. Australia 44 Matches, 5597 Points, 127 Rating
3. New Zealand 38 Matches, 4312 Points, 113 Rating
4. India 56 Matches, 6330 Points, 113 Rating
5. Pakistan 33 Matches, 3595 Points, 109 Rating
6. Sri Lank 44 Matches, 4716 Points, 107 Rating
7. England 40 Matches, 4200 Points, 105 Rating
8. West Indies 37 Matches, 3567 Points, 96 Rating
9. Bangladesh 32 Matches, 1459 Points, 46 Rating
10. Ireland 8 Matches, 227 Points, 28 Rating
11. Zimbabwe 31 Matches, 552 Points, 18 Rating
12. Kenya 6 Matches, 0 Points, 0 Rating

South Africa clean sweeps Bangladesh in both Test and ODI!

South Africa completed the tour with clean white wash! Bangladesh should improve their standard of cricket and be competitive in the internatinal market!

Test Matches

Match 1: Mirpur
Toss: Bangladesh
Result: South Africa won by 5 wickets
Man of the Match: Kallis (South Africa)
Score:
Bangladesh 1st Innings 192 in 54.4 overs (Nafees 25, Ashraful 34, Ahmed 44, Hasan 30, Mortaza 29, Steyn 3 for 27, Morkel 5 for 50, Both 2 for 57)
South Africa 1st Innings 170 in 60.3 overs (Amla 25, Botha 25, DeVilliers 46, Hossain 6 for 27, Rafique 2 for 55)
Bangladesh 2nd Innings 182 in 73 overs (Siddique 74, Steyn 4 for 48, Kallis 5 for 30)
South Africa 2nd Innings (205 to win) 205 for 5 in 67.5 overs (McKenzie 26, Smith 62, Amla 46, Prince 38, Hossain 3 for 70, Rafique 2 for 54)

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Match 2: Chittagong
Toss: South Africa
Result: South African won by an innings and 205 runs
Man of the Match: Smith (South Africa)
Man of the Series: Steyn (South Africa)
Special News: Word record for the first wicket was broken on 1st March by Smith and McKenzie. They scored 415 for the first wicket, which is now the world record. They have pushed the Indian partnership of 413 runs betwen Vinoo Mankad and Pankaj Raji in 1956 against New Zealand in Chennai.
Score:
South Africa 1st Innings 583 for 7 in 161.1 overs (McKenzie 226, Smith 232, Amla 38, Kallis 39, Hossain 3 for 107, Rafique 2 for 132)
Bangladesh 1st Innings 259 in 70.4 overs (Nafees 69, Razzak 33, Hasan 40, Steyn 4 for 66, Ntini 4 for 35)
Bangladesh 2nd Innings 119 in 39.5 overs (Nafees 31, Razaak 32 not out, Steyn 3 for 35, Peterson 5 for 33)

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ODI

Match 1: Chittagong
Toss: Bangladesh
Result: South Africa won by 9 wickets with 79 balls remaining
Man of the Match: Smith (South Africa)
Score:
Bangladesh 178 in 48.2 overs (Iqbal 82, Nel 3 for 24, Langeveldt 2 for 32, Morkel 2 for 30, Harris 2 for 30) lost to South Africa 180 for 1 in 36.5 overs (Gibbs 57, Smith 103 not out)

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Match 2: Mirpur
Toss: Bangladesh
Result: South Africa won by 7 wickets with 11 balls remaining
Man of the Match: Nel (South Africa)
Score:
Bangladesh 173 in 48.2 overs (Hasan 52, Hasan 63, Nel 4 for 27, Langeveldt 3 for 31) lost to South Africa 179 for 3 in 48.1 overs (Smith 28, DeVilliers 69 not out, Duminy 49 not out, Razzak 2 for 32)

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Match 3: Mirpur
Toss: Bangladesh
Result: South Africa won by 7 wickets with 94 balls remaining
Man of the Match: JA Morkel (South Africa)
Man of the Series: Smith (South Africa)
Score:
Bangladesh 143 in 42.5 overs (Nafees 25, JA Morkel 4 for 29, Botha 3 for 34) lost to South Africa 147 for 3 in 34.2 overs (Smith 68 not out, DeVilliers 40)

Pakistan Proposes New Schedule to CA

The Pakistan Cricket Board has proposed new schedule to Cricket Australia. Due to security reasons, Australia have announced cancellation of the tour few days back. The Australian cricketers are happy that they do not need to go through the stress and strain during the tour. But, ICC is clear that they wanted to proceed with the Champions Trophy scheduled in the same country later this year.

PCB has considered the international tours and presented two schedules to Australia. Though official dates are yet to be confirmed, initial proposal sent for Australia consists of two options--November this year or March next year.

All the cricket lovers wanted to see both the slides clash, but others think otherwise!

ICC Champions Trophy Team Group Announced!

The September scheduled ICC Champion's Trophy groups were announced today. This will be held in Pakistan this year and everyone expects that all the teams will participate in this tournament including Australia.

In 2005 it was decided that only the top 8 teams in the ranking will play in 2 groups. The teams listed below 8 will not qualify! This year, Bangladesh, Ireland and Zimbabwe lose out because they are not in the top 8. The teams that occupied the top 8 positions are Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, England and West Indies.

These 8 teams were divived into two groups and each team will get an opportunity to play the other team in the league stage. The top two teams from each group will play semi-finals and the winners of semi-finals will play in the final.

The detailed schedule with venue will be announced in the next few days. The group:

Group A: Australia (1), India (4), Pakistan (5), and West Indies (8)
Group B: South Africa (2), New Zealand (3), Sri Lanka (6), and England (7)

Ganguly, Dravid and Kumble Passed Fitness Test!

Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravind and Skipper Anil Kumble have passed the fitness test and were announced fit to play the South Africa tour. Whether Sourav and Rahul will be part of test squad, we have to wait and see!

Gibbs and Nel Dropped for Indian Tour

Herschelle Gibbs and Andre Nel were dropped from the South African squard for the Indian tour. The poor form of Gibbs resulted in SA take this brave decision.

South Africa squad: Graeme Smith (capt), Ashwell Prince, Hashim Amla, Mark Boucher (wk), AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Paul Harris, Jacques Kallis, Charl Langeveldt, Neil McKenzie, Morne Morkel, Makhaya Ntini, Robin Peterson, Dale Steyn

South Africa Tour Schedule to India

South Africa to tour India during March and April 2008. They play 3 test matches against India and no one-day international or 20-20 matches scheduled. They have beaten Bangladesh 2-0 this month in Bangladesh and are in full form to take the only team that has beat Australia in Australia during the last 5 years. South Africa will a tough challenge especially in the sub-continent soil.

Schedule:
1st Test: March 26-30, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
2nd Test: April 3-7, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad
3rd Test: April 11-15, Green Park, Kanput

Good luck to both the teams!

New Zealand Wins First Test! England Erased

Match 1:
Toss: New Zealand
Results: New Zealand won by 189 runs
Man of the Match: Vettori (New Zealand)
Score:
New Zealand 1st Innings 470 in 138.3 overs (How 92, Fleming 41, Taylor 120, McCullum 51, Vettori 88, Mills 25 not out, Sidebottom 4 for 90, Collingwood 2 for 42)
England 1st Innings 348 in 173.1 overs (Cook 38, Vaughan 63, Strauss 43, Pietersen 42, Bell 25, Collingwood 66, Ambrose 55, Martin 2 for 60, Mills 2 for 61, Patel 3 for 107, Vettori 2 for 88)
New Zealand 2nd Innings 177 for 9 Declared in 55 overs (How 39, Fleming 66, Vettori 35, Sidebottom 6 for 49, Panesar 3 for 50)
England 2nd Innings 110 in 55 overs (Bell 54 not out, Martin 3 for 33, Mills 4 for 16)

New Zealand Takes ODI Series 3-1!

First Win for New Zealand!

Match 1: Wellington

Toss: England

Result: New Zealand won by 6 wickets with 20 overs Remaining

Man of the Match: Styris (New Zealand)
Score:

England 130 in 49.4 overs (Mustard 31, Shah 20, Martin 2 for 22, Styris 2 for 22, Patel 2 for 14) lost to New Zealand 131 for 4 in 30 overs (Ryder 31, McCullum 42, How 28, Taylor 24 not out, Broad 3 for 26)

New Zealand led 2-0! One more Easy Win!

Match 2: Hamilton

Toss: New Zealand

Result: New Zealand won by 10 wickets 31.5 overs Remaining

Man of the Match: Ryder (New Zealand)
Score:

England 158 in 35.1 overs (Cook 53, Pietersen 29, Martin 2 for 44, Mason 2 for 29, Vettori 2 for 16) lost to New Zealand 165 for no loss in 18.1 overs (Ryder 79 not out, McCullum 80 not out)

England Captain series is still alive!

Match 3: Auckland
Toss: New Zealand

Result: England won by 6 wickets 3 overs Remaining

Man of the Match: Collingwood (England)
Score:

New Zealand 234 for 9 in 50 overs (Taylor 31, Oram 88, Vettori 42, Anderson 2 for 41, Broad 3 for 32, Collingwood 3 for 43) lost to England 229 for 4 in 44 overs (Revised Target is 229 in 47 overs) (Bell 73, Pietersen 41, Collingwood 70 not out, Vettori 2 for 23)

Thriller! Still Series Live after Tied Match!

Match 4: Napier

Toss: New Zealand

Result: Match Tied--1st ball 1 run by centurian How, 2nd ball 1 run by Vettori, 3rd ball 2 runs by How, 4th ball, 1 run by How, 5th ball, How was run out, last ball 2 runs, captain Vettori on strike, a chance of run out was missed and they take one run and the match is tied
Score:

England 340 for 6 in 50 overs (Cook 69, Mustard 83, Bell 43, Pietersen 50, Collingwood 54 not out, Vettori 2 for 66, Ryder 2 for 14) tied with New Zealand 340 for 7 in 50 overs (Ryder 39, McCullum 58, How 139, Taylor 48, Broad 2 for 75)

New Zealand Wins the Series 3-1!

Match 5: Christchurch

Toss: New Zealand

Result: New Zealand won by 34 runs and 4 wickets by Duckworth Lewis (D/L) method

Man of the Match: McCullum (New Zealand)

Special News: Chasing 243, when rain stopped play, New Zealand were 213 for 6 in 37 overs. The play didn't resume and at the end of 37 overs, by D/L method, they should have been in 180. Since they were at 213, New Zealand won by 4 wickets and 34 runs.
Score:

England 242 for 7 in 50 overs (Cook 42, Pietersen 39, Shah 29, Wright 47, Mascarenhas 29 not out, Mills 4 for 36, Vettori 2 for 28) lost to New Zealand 213 for 6 in 37 overs (Supposed to be at 180 in 37 overs when rain stopped play) (McCullum 77, Taylor 41 not out, Styris 25, Sidebottom 3 for 51)

England Wins the 20-20 Series 2-0! Continues its Winning Habit!

Match 1: Auckland

Toss: New Zealand

Result: England won by 32 runs

Man of the Match: Mascarenhas (England)

Score:

England 184 for 8 in 20 overs (P. Mustard 20 in 13 balls with 2 fours and a six, Pietersen 43 in 23 balls with 6 fours and a six, Collingwood 26 in 22 balls with 1 four and a six, Shah 23 in 17 balls with 2 fours and a six, Mascarenhas 31 in 14 balls with 1 four and 4 sixes, Swann 15 not out in 10 balls with 2 fours, Mills 2 for 43, Martin 2 for 34) beat New Zealand 152 in 19.2 overs (Ryder 22 in 21 balls with 4 fours, Oram 61 in 40 balls with 7 fours and 2 sixes, Sidebottom 3 for 16, Mascarenhas 2 for 19)

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Match 2: Auckland
Toss: Christchurch
Result: England won by 50 runs
Man of the Match: Collingwood (England)
Score:

England 193 for 8 in 20 overs (Mustard 40 in 24 balls with 3 fours and 3 sixes, Wright 30 in 19 balls with 5 fours and a six, Collingwood 54 in 28 balls with 5 fours and 3 sixes, Shah, 47 in 35 balls with 4 fours and 2 sixes, Hitchcock 2 for 43, Southee 2 for 22) beat New Zealand 143 for 8 in 20 overs (Taylor 21 in 10 balls with 1 four and 2 sixes, How 31 in 25 balls with 3 fours, Mills 30 not out in 22 balls with 2 fours and a six, Sidebottom 2 for 19, Mascarenhas 2 for 25, Swann 2 for 30)

England in New Zeland - 2008 Schedule

Schedule:
England is touring New Zeland during this year and play in two 20-20, 5 ODI and 3 test matches. The schedule is as follows:

20-20:

1st 20-20: February 5, 2008, D/N at Eden Park, Auckland
2nd 20-20: February 7, 2008 D/N at Jade Stadium, Christchurch

ODI (50-50):

1st ODI: February 9, 2008 D/N at Westpac Stadium, Wellington
2nd ODI: February 12, 2008 D/N at Seddon Park, Hamilton
3rd ODI: February 15, 2008 D/N at Eden Park, Auckland
4th ODI: February 20, 2008 D at McLean Park, Napier
5th ODI: February 23, 2008 D/N at AMI Stadium, Christchurch

Test Matches:

1st Test: March 5-9, 2008 at Seddon Park, Hamilton
2nd Test: March 13-17, 2008 at Basin Reserve, Wellington
3rd Test: March 22-26, 2008 at McLean Park, Napier

The last time England tour to New Zeland ended in a drawn series with each team winning one test match and one ended in a draw.

Aussies Cancel Pak Tour!

Cricket Australia (CA) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have announced that Australia's tour to Pakistan in Mach-April 2008 has been cancelled. The new dates will be announced after the meeting with both the cricket board officials.

Now, it is up to PCB to manage the loss incurred due to the cancellation of this tour. They approached India for few one day matches, but BCCI did not accept the offer stating heavy cricket season.

The news is that both the board officials will meet during the next few weeks and decide on the new date. I think with the recent bomb blast in Lahore where one of the matches has been scheduled, the chances of Australia touring Pakistan during this season is not possible.

Final 2: India Wins the CBS Cup! Aussies Stunned!

India wins the Commonwealth Bank Series for the first time! Australia has lost it for the 2nd consecutive time and they will not get a chance again because this is the last triangular series in Australia!

Chasing 259 runs at 5.18 runs per over, Australia had the equal chance of winning this game and moving to Adelaide. The Brisbane wicket was good and it the score was not that tough to reach especially for the world champions!

The chase did not start well. Gilchrist was caught behind in the 3rd ball of the first over. Once again Praveen Kumar provided the good start for the Indians. The poor shot selection of Ricky Ponting continued here as well. He tried to play his best short--the pull, but he didn't pick it at the right time and gave an easy catch to Yuvaraj at mid-on. He was out for 1 with the score board reading 8.

Clarke and Hayden were timing the ball well and picking ones' and twos'. The poor shot selection of Aussies continued when Clarke tried to pull Praveen Kumar, which didn't rise as he expected, but knocked the top of the off stump. He was out for 17 and the score was 32.

Once again Hayden and Symonds Company were under pressure to score runs without losing the wicket. Hayden, the in-form batsman was timing the ball well and hit lofted shots, stepped out of the crease and hit over mid-wicket for few fours. Symonds hit a huge six of Piyush Chawla and a four of Harbhajan. They were maintaining the score just under 5 runs per over picking singles and converting them to two's at times. Hayden scored another half-century and proved that he is a danger batsman who can turn the match towards Australia anytime.

When everyone was thinking that the match was going away from India, poor calling from Symonds, good fielding by Yuvaraj, nice collection of ball by Harbhajan ran out Hayden. Symonds defended the ball by playing forward and started for a single. When he realized Yuvaraj was approaching the ball faster than anticipated, Hayden was already half way through the pitch and couldn't back on time to save his wicket. Yuvaraj proved that he is one of the best fielder's in the world, picked the ball, saw that Hayden was half-way, threw the ball one bounce at the bowler's end where Harbhajan collected it neatly and completed the rest of the job. The big break-through came in the form of Hayden's run out. He was out for 55 off 68 balls with 7 fours. In the same over, Symonds was trapped leg before and Harbhajan dismissed him one more time and proved that he is on top.

The two blows put India back into the game. From 121 for 3, Aussies slipped to 123 for 5. But, Hussey and Hope built the innings for Australia with a crucial 76 run partnership for the 6th wicket. Hussey's running between the wickets was very good and Hopes also matched him well. They were hitting the ball well and when Hussey edged Sreesanth, the decision was referred to third umpire to ensure that the catch was cleanly taken by Dhoni. The decision was in favor of India and the score was 199 for 6 in 42 overs. Hopes was timing the ball and taking the match away from Indians. He swept Piyush Chawla and pulled Pathan.

The last 30 balls required 36 runs with 4 wickets in hand. The 46th over added 9 runs to Australia's total and the last 24 balls required 31. The next 24 balls requiring 31, Praveen Kumar started the over. The fourth ball of the over got a wicket in the form of Lee. He missed to read the slower ball when he tried to hit the ball across the line and was bowled for 7. Johnson joined Hopes and tried to take Australia to Adelaide. Johnson's nick of Harbhajan to a four of third man reduced some tension. With 21 runs requiring 12 balls, Sreesanth had Johnson nick the ball to Dhoni. With 8 balls and 20 runs, Hopes hit a flat six which added more tension to the Indian camp. With one more ball in Sreesanth's over, it was tension all over the ground and viewers. Sreesanth's full toss fetched one run to Hopes.

Dhoni had only two choices--Pathan or Piyush and he picked Pathan to bowl the last over. Australia needed 13 runs and India either requires 2 wickets or bowl the six balls by giving less than 12 runs. Pathan was picked to bowl the over and the first ball went for a single to third man which brought Bracken to strike. The 2nd ball got a wicket when Bracken tried to hit over long on, but the slower ball had him hit to mid on where Piyush Chawla held his nerve and took a shaky running catch. Australia lost the 9th wicket, but was sort of okay because it brought Hopes on strike. With 4 balls, 12 runs, Hopes sent the ball to long-off and the quick running brought 2 runs and also Hopes back on strike. Last 3 balls needed 10 runs, but this time, the full toss, Hopes hit the ball straight to the fielder in mid-on at the edge of the circle and the celebrations started! India won the cup for the first time! Pathan bowled the last over very well and took his 2 wickets.

Earlier, the Indian innings started once again with a good partnership of 94 runs for the first wicket. Sachin's innings was remarkable as he was driving and hitting Lee over point for four. Uthappa timed the ball well and was cautious of running as well. Sachin's groin injury was playing in the minds of the batsman. The drive in the air of Stuart Clark and then straight pull in the same over showed his control over the game. He reached his 50 in 70 balls. Soon, India lost Uthappa when he tried to hit the ball over long on but the edge went in the air to mid-off. He was out for 30 of 49 balls leaving India at 94 in the 21st over.

Gambhir was looking good and was maintaining the run rate along with Tendulkar. His over ambitious shot of hitting Michael Clarke for a six over mid on went straight to the fielder. He was out for 15 off 16 balls leaving India at 121 for 2 in 25.2 overs.

Yuvaraj started with a huge six of Michael Clarke played few good shots. His run a ball innings had 2 fours and 2 sixes. His six over the longest boundary in mid-wicket off Symonds was his best shot. But, in the same over, the short ball provoked him to hit similar shot which went straight to the fielder near the boundary line. He was out for 38 when India was going well at 175 in 35 overs. Tendulkar once again showed his disappointment over Yuvaraj's irresponsible shot.

Tendulkar when tried to place the ball to long-on and take a single, scooped the slower ball in the air, but beautiful diving catch by skipper Ponting sent him to the pavilion, 9 short of his 43rd ODI century. His wonderful 91 came from 121 balls with 7 fours. India playing well at 205 for 4 in 39.2 overs, it was a good chance for India to go beyond 280 runs on the board. But quick wickets of Sachin and Rohit Sharma put the brake in the Indian innings. Rohit was caught by Symonds--a straight forward catch at extra cover off Michael Clarke--his 3rd wicket.

It was left to Dhoni and Pathan to score some runs. Pathan scored 12 in 20 balls, with runs are not easily adding, Dhoni also got out when he tried to hit over long-on but only found the fielder. Harbhajan was LBW to Lee for 3. India was struggling at 240 for 7 in 48 overs--35 in 52 balls, Praveen Kumar was facing Lee. You could say that 3 fours of Lee's over turned the match and helped India to go past 250. Lee's short ball hit Praveen's arm guard and went for 4 in third-man, then he hit him over point, giving himself room for another 4. The single brought Harbhajan to strike, but he was trapped in front of the wicket. Piyush edged the next ball to third man boundary. The 49th over added 13 to the total and the last over was bowled by Bracken. He bowled well with a wicket and gave only 5 runs. India finished their innings with 258 for 9. Michael Clark and Bracken were the pick of the bowlers with 3 wickets each and Symonds was costly, ending with 1 for 27 in 3 overs.

Man of the Match was rightly given to Praveen Kumar for providing early break-throughs', taking key wickets. Thanks to Sachin for his important 91, Yuvaraj for his brilliant fielding that ran out Hayden.

Final Score:
India 258 for 9 in 50 overs (Uthappa 30, Sachin 91, Yuvaraj 38, Dhoni 36, Bracken 3 for 31, Michael Clarke 3 for 52) beat Australia 249 in 49.4 overs (Hayden 55, Symonds 42, Hussey 44, Hopes 63, Praveen Kumar 4 for 46, Sreesanth 2 for 43, Pathan 2 for 54)

Man of the Match: Praveen Kumar (India)
Man of the Series: Bracken (Australia)

Final 1: Sachin Guides India to Win the First Final!

Do you believe that Sachin haven't scored an ODI century in Australia? The first century in Australia and that has helped India to take a 1-0 lead in the 3-match final--the last of the triangular tournament in Australia.

After winning the toss and rightly electing to bat first, Australian's top order was rattled by Praveen Kumar, the surprise move by Dhoni. Gilchrist and Ponting tried to pull Praveen, but Gilly ended scooping the ball to mid-on and Yuvaraj took it easily. Ponting dragged the ball to the stumps. Michael Clarke was given a rough caught behind decision in Ishanth Sharma's bowling. When Aussies were struggling at 24 for 3 in 5.5 overs, Hayden continued his good form against Indians and scored a good half-century. Symonds provided a good company and both of them were cruising along well. The 100-run partnership came in 104 balls off which Symonds scored 31. Harbhajan got his man once-again through a flighted delivery. Though Symonds was successful in hitting Harbhajan for couple of fours, he hit straight to the fielder's hand in long on. Hussey and Hayden tried to continue from where Symonds left, but the sweep by Hayden in the air to deep mid-wicket was brilliantly caught by Piyush Chawla leaving Australian score to struggle at 135 for 5 in 27.3 overs.

Hussey's 45 really helped Australia to put a decent score and go beyond 200-run mark. The 5 run per over when Hayden was dismissed was brought under control by Indians. At the end of the 47th over, the score was 212 for 7 with Hopes and Hussey back in the pavilion. The quick 17 by Lee in 10 balls took the score to 239 for 8. India gave 27 runs in the last three overs, which was crucial while chasing.

The moderate score of 240 was thought to be difficult because in the previous occasion against Australia, Indians failed to chase 204. So, Australia had possibilities of winning the game and the Indian innings started with a good 50-run first wicket partnership of this series. Uthappa and Sachin brought the 50 in the 11th over. Uthappa was dismissed when he played a beautiful pull of Hopes was thought to be a good four, but Hussey at deep mid-wicket proved otherwise by taking a very good catch. Gambhir was run out for 3 when he responded late to Sachin's call for 2nd run. It was an easy run but he was watching the ball and fielder by the time Sachin was almost in half-of-the pitch.

Yuvaraj started the innings well, but didn't last long. He was bowled by Hogg. The younger Rohit joined Tendulkar at 87 for 3 and they both played well pulling, sweeping, driving the best bowling attack.

Tendulkar suffered cramp, which prevented him from playing few strokes. Lee apologized to Tendulkar when he sent a beamer, which slipped from his hand. The two top-cuts by Sachin was an example why he is stamped as best batsman in the world. Rohit on the other hand was giving good company to Sachin. He played sensibly listening to Sachin's advise and picking one and two. His drive and pulle of the fast bowlers were treat to watch. He started his scoring with a beautiful drives of Bracken which should have given him the world of confidence to build a long innings.

They both added 123 runs for the 4th wicket in 128 balls. Rohit was bowled by Hopes through a straight delivery which knocked his off stump. With 30 to win in 51 balls, Dhoni joined Tendulkar. They both finished the game in 4.2 overs. Dhoni was not out on 15 in 12 balls with 3 fours and Sachin was not out on 117 off 120 balls with 10 fours.

This is the first win in Sydney in the 12 encounters against Australia. This is Sachin's first hundred against Australia in 39 matches.

Final Score:
Australia 239 for 8 in 50 overs (Hayden 82, Symonds 31, Hussey 45, Praveen Kumar 2 for 49, Harbhajan 2 for 38) lost to India 242 for 4 in 45.5 overs (Tendulkar 117 Not Out, Rohit Sharma 66, Hopes 2 for 42)

Man of the Match: Sachin Tendulkar (India)