Cricket Today Magazine (January 2020)

Jan 17, 2020











DIAMOND



A NOTABLE www.crictoday.com

LANDMARK

FOR A CLASSY,

DEDICATED


CRICKETER


DHONI’S IPL

STINT AS

SELECTION

CRITERIA IS

UNFAIR


5 PLAYERS


FOR WHOM

IPL 2020 IS THE

LAST CHANCE




Manish: A vital





cog in the Indian




batting line-up

FROM THE


EDITOR’S DESK For day-to-day updates join us on Facebook and Twitter

website: www.crictoday.com



EDITORIAL BOARD
hile most of transformed himself from just Editor
the atten- another middle-order batsman to Manish Verma
tion in the Australia’s `golden boy’ and the [email protected]
build-up to most talked about cricketer in the Assistant Editor
the World world. Eye rubbing and mind-blow- Mohd. Asim
W T20 in ing are the immediate adjectives that Contributing Editors
Australia later this year is being come to mind and somehow even Sreelata S. Yellamrazu
focused on the opening slot and the these seem inadequate. And yet it’s Bhavesh Bhimani
bowling options, the middle-order amazing to recall how much destiny
batting is also something India need has played a part in Labuschagne’s Graphic Designer
to keep a close eye on. Of course, in sensational rise. First, there was Mandavi Yadav
a 20-over contest, the middle and Smith getting hit by Archer. And but
lower-order do not get a lot of for the one-year bans handed to Production Co-ordinator
chances to score big. Smith and David Sunil Chaudhary
But, it is their contribu- Warner for their part in Photos
tion that can often the ball-tampering AP, Fotocorp, Raj Kumar
make the difference scandal at Newlands in
between a challenging 2018 Labuschagne BUSINESS OFFICE
and match-winning might still be in
score. These batsmen Queensland waiting for DIAMOND MAGAZINES PVT. LTD.
can either build on his chance to play Test X-30, Okhla Ind. Area, Ph-2, New Delhi-20,
great starts or consoli- cricket. Ravi Shastri, Tel 011-40712100 Fax (011) 41611866
date in case of a quick the Indian coach, Director (Mktg.) Manish Verma,
fall of wickets. In the recently indicated that E-mail : [email protected]
above sense, Manish Mahendra Singh Dhoni,
Pandey can prove to be former Indian captain ADVERTISING OFFICES
a vital cog in the could well call time Delhi- Vivek Chahal, Adesh Solanki
Indian batting line-up Manish Pandey can prove to out on his one-day Mumbai- Praveen Chandra, C. Garima 9820129206, Kolkata- Shashi
as far as the World T20 be a vital cog in the Indian international career. Nayyar 9830374259, Bangalore- Pratap Kumar 9845234036, Justine
is concerned. While batting line-up. Whether it is pure Kumar, 9845013231, Nagpur- Mrs. Khisti 9822202082, Chennai-
Sathish C. Anand 9841023010, Hyderabad- V. Sunil Kumar
Pandey has not played speculation on his 9160834356, Ahmedabad- Madan Menon 9898002522, Punjab-
a lot of T20 games for India over the part or divulging of information Puneet Arya 9316969911, Pune- Prasad Datar 9822112674,
last few years, he keeps dropping about the absentee player is beside Dehradun- Sharad Sharma 08755147616, Ranchi- Zahid Anwar
hints of what he can deliver at fre- the point. His suggestion that the 8084655893, Patna- DPN Shahi 9431495493, Bhopal-Sweety
quent intervals. Pandey is 30 now, former captain could make a place Bichpuria 9425006237, Jaipur- Himanshu Patni 9828198296,
an age when most batsmen are at for himself in the ICC Twenty20 Kanpur- Praveen Srivastava 9935526000
their peak. Team India must thus World Cup by his playing the Indian
ensure that they utilize his potential Premier League seems blatantly
to the maximum. And what better unfair. For a player who no longer
stage than the World T20 to do so? plays the long format, at thirty-eight
The whole world knows by now how years of age, it was expected that
Marnus Labuschagne got his big Dhoni would turn up at every limit-
break as it is part of cricketing folk- ed-overs tournament that India
lore. Steve Smith gets hit by Jofra played in if his intention was to
Archer at Lord’s, Labuschagne extend his career. Enjoy the
becomes Test cricket’s first concus- action-packed edition of Cricket
sion substitute and since then he has Today…
Total Pages 38 with Cover
Copyright
2005 "Cricket Today" is a registered trademark of The Diamond
Group. All rights reserved. No Part of this publication may be
reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form
or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopied, recorded or
otherwise, without prior permission.
Published and Edited by Manish Verma on behalf of Diamond
Magazines Pvt. Ltd. Published at X-30, Okhla Industrial Area,
Phase-2, New Delhi-20, Tel 011-40712100
Editor Manish Verma, E-mail : [email protected]

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WHAT’S HOT QUOTES


WHAT’S NOT




VIRAT KOHLI KAGISO RABADA
Virat Kohli contrib- The 24-year-old He really controlled
uted a superb 89 off Rabada, a star of that middle part
91 balls as the hosts the sport, received a which was really
scored 289-3 in 47.3 demerit or disciplinary important
overs. KL Rahul’s point for his over-
dismissal brought zealous celebration. An
Sharma and Kohli accumulation of those FINCH ON
to the crease, and points led to him being SMITH’S KNOCK
together they eased banned for what will
to a 100-wicket be the series-deciding
partnership off 116 fourth and final test
balls. next week.

STEVE SMITH SHIKHAR DHAWAN
Smith reached his Shikhar Dhawan suf-
hundred off 117 balls. fered a shoulder injury
Overall, he hit 14 fours whilst fielding, went
and a six, adding to 98 for an X-ray and did
runs in the previous not bat in India’s reply.
match at Rajkot. He He is doubtful for the He’s very sure
and Labuschagne upcoming T20 series in of what he
added 127 runs for New Zealand. The left- wants to do
the third wicket. They handed batsman was in
looked in command good form and his latest VIRAT ON
before Marnus was injury could trouble LABUSCHAGNE
dismissed by Jadeja. India against the Kiwis.

MOHAMMED SHAMI MITCHELL STARC
India’s bowlers, He was hit for a plenty
led by Mohammed of runs by the Indian
Shami’s 4-63, did batsmen. Mitchell Starc
well in restricting was expected to lead
Australia to a sub-par the bowling attack but
total. Australia had his mediocre perfor-
won the first ODI mance in the series has
in Mumbai by 10 put his place under the
wickets. India won the scanner. Starc looked Nobody can say we
second ODI in Rajkot clueless against the played an inferior
by 36 runs. rivals. Australia side

SHASTRI ON
ROHIT SHARMA AARON FINCH INDIA’S WIN
Sharma He didn’t
scored 119 last long as he
runs off 128 was run out.
balls with eight The Auss-
fours and six ies scored a
sixes as he well compiled
anchored India’s hundred in the
run-chase in first ODI but
the third and fell short in the
final one-day remaining two
international. matches. Aaron
This was in reply Finch’s early Cricket is not
to Australia’s dismissal in bigger than life
286-9. His the final match
29th ODI hun- ended Austra- MUSHFIQUR ON
dred came at lia’s hopes PAK’S TOUR
the right time of posting a
for his team. huge total.


JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 03
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X THE


FACTOR























































Remarkable
Comeback


Members of the
Indian cricket
team pose with
the winners’ tro-
phy after their
win in the third
one-day inter-
national cricket
match between
India and Aus-
tralia in Banga-
lore. India won the
series 2-1.

04 CRICKET TODAY JANUARY 17, 2020
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JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 05
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X THE


FACTOR





























































Hitman Show


Rohit Sharma
scored his 29th
ODI hundred as
India defeated
Australia by sev-
en wickets with
15 balls remaining
to win their three-
match series 2-1.
He scored 119
runs off 128 balls.

06 CRICKET TODAY JANUARY 17, 2020
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JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 07
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X THE


FACTOR





























































Magical Bat


Australia’s David
Warner checks
out the bat of
India’s Manish
Pandey after India
won the third one-
day international
cricket match
between India and
Australia in Ban-
galore.

08 CRICKET TODAY JANUARY 17, 2020
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JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 09
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LIFESTYLE





HOMAGE TO

FANS























England’s Ben Stokes shared a moving
message for his fans, who have been show-
ering love on the all-rounder during his
‘very tough’ weeks. Stokes’ father, Ged, was
admitted to a hospital on December 23
following a serious illness. Thanking
his fans for all the wishes, He pro-
vided an update saying his
father is improving day by day.
“Just want to share a bit of love
back to everyone after all the
love we have all received”. An
emotional stokes penned, “It
has been a very tough few
weeks for us all with what
has happened to my father
Ged. He continues to improve day by
day but it’s going to be a slow process.”







David Warner is followed by millions in
India. He represents Sunrisers
Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League
and has carved a niche for himself in one
of the leading T20 leagues. The south-
paw was at his best in the first ODI
between India and Australia. He was
praised by Finch. Meanwhile, Warner
is waiting for Virat’s call in order to
get an invitation for dinner. “I’m
really looking forward to it and wait-
ing for Virat to invite me over din-
ner,” Warner said. “Got my phone
waiting here, Virat,” he added.


10 CRICKET TODAY JANUARY 17, 2020
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WIVES TO DECIDE
PARTICIPATION

Warner and Aaron Finch are one of the
most destructive pairs in international
cricket. Finch and Warner scored magnifi-
cent tons in Mumbai and led Australia to
a comfortable win. When Warner was
asked about his chances of opening the
batting with Finch in the 2023 World DANCING SUPER-
Cup, he said, “I think we’ll speak to our
wives first. We’ll both be 36 or 37, I’ve got STARS
three kids – I hope that’s the last one –
and in that three years you’ve got form, Sourav Ganguly was made to dance by
wives, family,” said Warner. “We’ve got a India off-spinner Harbhajan. Appearing in a
great bunch of guys here that, potentially Bengali quiz game show, Dadagiri
with our senior players, can make that Unlimited, alongside several other former
(2023) World Cup,” Warner added. and current India cricketing stars, Ganguly
was made to dance on a popular Bollywood
song ‘Senorita’. Alongside Dada, Harbhajan,
Zaheer Khan, Sehwag, Laxman and Ashwin
were present on the show. Usha Uthup, who
Shikhar Dhawan recent- was also on the show, sang “Senorita” from
ly shared an interesting the Bollywood hit “Zindagi Na Milegi
picture of his nutritious Dobara”. All the cricketers were enjoying the
breakfast after Akshay performance when Harbhajan started groov-
Kumar nominated ing. The Turbanator then held Ganguly’s
him for ‘What’s In hands and started dancing with him on the
Your Dabba’ chal- stage, as the rest of the cricketers laughed
lenge’. He took to his and clapped.
official Instagram
account to post a
detailed description AIR POLLUTION IN
of his meal.
“Thank you so CHENNAI
much @akshayku-
mar Paaji, for nomi- Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin
nating me. Let me show recently came forward to show his concern
Country is you all a sneak peek into over the worsening environmental condi-
my breakfast. To begin tions in Chennai due to Bhogi
in turmoil they give me all my natu- celebrations. The locals were
with, I love my fruits,
seen lighting bonfires on the
Sunil Gavaskar opened up on ral sugars. In this case, I’m occasion which subsequently
the ongoing nationwide protests eating Papaya and increased the air pollution in
led by students’ over Citizenship Pineapple, pineapple being Chennai. The 33-year-old
Amendment Act (CAA) and the the fat burner. Sprinkled bowler took to his official
recent attack on the students of the some flax seeds and sun- Twitter handle and wrote a
Jawaharlal Nehru University. “The flower seeds on it as well. bold message about the alarm-
country is in turmoil. Some of our Next, there are baked ing conditions in Chennai,
youngsters are out on the street when they beans for my protein and “Massive smog in Chennai this
should be in their classrooms. Some of avocado toast which is morning owing to Bhogi burn-
them are ending up in hospitals for good fat. A tasty Masala ing, entire nose getting blocked
being out on the streets,” he said. Uttapam with Sambar and black discharges later in
which makes the day. I am not sure if it’s
it a carb-loaded
FOR MORE LIFESTYLE breakfast which worth spoiling the planet fur-
ther in the name of traditions.
NEWS LOG ON TO: keeps my energy up There has to be a way to educate everyone
www.crictoday.com
the whole day!” and make them understand.”

JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 11
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& NEWS


EVENTS





GAUTI PICKS A

WINNER




















Gautam Gambhir has said that Virat is a
“far, far better” batsman than Smith as far
as white-ball cricket is concerned. Keeping
the records in mind, Gambhir said that
Smith is no way near to Kohli. “Virat Kohli
is far far better than Steve Smith in white-
ball cricket. There’s no comparison. I would
not compare Kohli to Smith in white-ball
cricket,” Gambhir told ‘Star Sports’ on
the eve of India’s first ODI against
Australia. Virat Kohli has been an
absolute run-machine in ODIs and has
already notched up 43 hundreds in the for-
mat. In 242 matches, the Indian captain
has amassed 11,609 runs at an average of
59.84 and with a strike rate of 93.28. GOOD NEWS FOR
Smith, on the other hand, has managed
3810 runs in 118 matches. SOUTH AFRICA

It is good news for all AB de Villiers’ and
South Africa fans as he is mulling a return to
international cricket with the upcoming T20
World Cup in Australia. Talking about him
getting back to business as far as South
Africa are concerned, de Villiers said that it
A New Zealand fan who racially abused might be a possibility. “I’ve been talking to
England fast bowler Jofra Archer during a ‘Bouch’, (former captain and new director of
test match at Mount Maunganui in cricket) Graeme Smith and (current captain)
November has been banned from domestic Faf (du Plessis) back
and international matches in New Zealand home, we’re all keen
for two years. New Zealand Cricket said the to make it happen,”
28-year-old Auckland man admitted respon- said de Villiers - who
sibility after being identified by a police is currently playing
investigation. Police issued the man with a for Brisbane Heat in
verbal warning for using insulting language the Big Bash League.
and New Zealand Cricket has contacted the However, people still
man to inform him he is banned from inter- need to hold their
national and domestic matches until 2022. horses and limit their
The man would be liable for further police expectations as noth-
action if he breaches the ban, New Zealand ing has been final-
Cricket spokesman Anthony Crummy said. ized yet.

12 CRICKET TODAY JANUARY 17, 2020
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RECORD BREAKING SKIPPER Virat Kohli has said that India are ready to
face Australia in a Day-Night Test Down
Virat Kohli was named captain of the ICC’s Test and One Under. India had refused to play a day-night
Day International (ODI) Teams of the Year for the third time Test in 2018-19. However, Virat Kohli is not
in a row. The International Cricket Council has announced only ready to face the fire but is also confi-
its annual awards and even named Test and ODI elevens, dent of positive outcomes. Earlier,
selected by the experts on the basis of last year’s perfor- Australian skipper Tim Paine had challenged
mance. Kohli has been one of the most prolific leaders in Virat Kohli to start the summer with a pink
recent times. He had started 2019 with a Test series victory ball Test. Responding to this, the Indian
in Australia and never looked back from there. Under him, Talisman said, “We are absolutely up for the
Team India won the Test series against the West Indies, challenge and whether its Gabba,
South Africa, and Bangladesh as well. Thanks to these top- Perth doesn’t matter to us. We do
rated performances, India are currently at the top of have the skill sets now to compete
the ICC World Test Championship. The ODIs too against anyone in the world any-
were dominated by India under Virat Kohli. where in any format of the game.”
India played their first-ever pink-ball
Test at home where they defeated
Bangladesh at the Eden Gardens.

BIG SHOW IS BACK BEST MOMENT TOUGH


Glenn Maxwell has booked his ticket to OF CAREER COMPETITORS
South Africa as he has been roped in to play
the T20 series for Australia, beginning next Virat Kohli has revealed Ricky Ponting was one of the
month against the Proteas. He will play for that his favorite career greatest batsmen of his time.
Australia for the first time since taking a moment will always be the Australia were
mental health break last October. Australia day he was picked for the phenomenal and
will play three T20s and three ODIs on a national team in 2008. went on to win
white-ball tour that will see Steve Smith and Kohli, who is currently two World Cup
David Warner return the world number one titles under his
to Cape Town for the batsman in both the Test captaincy. The
first time since the and ODI formats, was speak- 45-year-old legendary
ball-tampering scan- ing at an ‘Audi’ launch event batsman, who is a part of
dal. Maxwell – who in Mumbai. “...for me, the the commentary panel in
has been raining moment that will always be the ongoing Big Bash
havoc with the bat for very dear to me or special is League, opened up about
Melbourne Stars is the day that I got selected in the bowlers he found
likely to bat at either the Indian team. I was at home tough to face. “Wasim
No. 3 or No. 4 in the with my mother, watching the Akram and Curtly
T20Is as Australia news, I was getting no infor- Ambrose were easily
prioritizes its white- mation from anywhere and as the best fast bowlers
ball fortunes with my name flashed I had no idea I’ve ever faced. Shoaib Akhtar
T20 World Cups in what to do,” Kohli recalled in clearly the quickest but
2020 (Australia) and response to a query. Harbhajan Singh got me out
2021 (India). more than anybody.”


JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 13
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COVER


STORY















MANISH PANDEY






A VITAL COG IN







INDIA’S WORLD







T20 PLANS









While Pandey has not
played a lot of T20 games

for India over the last few
years, he keeps dropping
hints of...


BY RENIN WILBEN
hile most of the attention in
the build-up to the World T20
in Australia later this year is
being focused on the opening
slot and the bowling options,
W the middle-order batting is
also something India need to keep a close eye on.
Of course, in a 20-over contest, the middle and
lower-order do not get a lot of chances to score
big. But, it is their contribution that can often
make the difference between a challenging and
match-winning score. These batsmen can either
build on great starts or consolidate in case of a


14 CRICKET TODAY JANUARY 17, 2020
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JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 15
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16 CRICKET TODAY JANUARY 17, 2020
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quick fall of wickets. In the above sense, Manish
Pandey can prove to be a vital cog in the Indian batting
line-up as far as the World T20 is concerned. While
Pandey has been in and out of the Indian team ever
since his international debut in 2015, he proved on
Friday, against Sri Lanka at Pune, what a great asset he
can be to the Indian team in the middle and late overs.
Momentum is the most crucial aspect of T20 batting. It
doesn’t matter whether or not wickets are falling at the
other end. The runs need to keep coming, and the flow
cannot be halted considering the shortness of the for-
mat.
Pandey’s unbeaten 31 from 18 at Pune was crucial in
the sense that he did not let Sri Lankan bowlers get a
grip over the Indian innings. After a great start provid-
ed by opener Shikhar Dhawan (52 from 36) and KL
Rahul (54 from 36), India found themselves losing
their way at 122 for 4, with Sanju Samson (6) and
Shreyas Iyer (4) falling cheaply. At that point, Lanka
could have held the Indian innings to a gettable total.
But, Pandey ensured the pressure was back on the
bowling side with an enterprising cameo. He, most
importantly, made sure that even the fall of wickets did
not impact India’s scoring.
While Pandey has not played a lot of T20 games for
India over the last few years, he keeps dropping hints
of what he can deliver at frequent intervals. His most
impactful knock in T20Is for India was the unbeaten
79 from 48 he made against South Africa at Centurion
in February 2018. India had slumped to 90 for 4 bat-
ting first in the contest and Pandey, with the aid of MS
Dhoni (52 not out from 28), lifted India to 188. While
the knock is not much remembered as it came in a los-
ing cause, it was another reiteration of Pandey’s quality
batsmanship.
For various reasons, the Karnataka batsman has not
played as many T20I games as he would have liked for
India over the years. But, as the World T20 approaches
closer, it is imperative that the Indian think-tank gives
a consistent run to Pandey in the batting order. Come
to the big tournament, Pandey must have the confi-
dence that India have belief in his abilities in the for-
mat. Pandey is, after all, a highly experienced perform-
er in the T20s. In 235 matches, he has amassed 5,235
runs at a strike rate of 124.37 and an average of 31.53
with three hundreds and 26 fifties.
In the IPL, the highly-talented Pandey has proved
that he is a big-match performer. He was the man of
the match in the 2014 IPL final, smashing 94 from 50
(7 fours, 6 sixes) as Kolkata Knight Riders successfully
chased down 200 to lift the title. Apart from the pres-
sure of the big finale, the fact that KKR lost both their
experienced openers -- Robin Uthappa (5) and skipper
Gautam Gambhir (23) -- put additional burden on
Pandey. But, the batsman only relished the mighty
challenge and came out on top, a precious quality for a
T20 batsman.
Pandey is 30 now, an age when most batsmen are at
their peak. Team India must thus ensure that they uti-
lize his potential to the maximum. And what better
stage than the World T20 to do so? n

JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 17
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FEATURE





































Stokes was destined for great
things when he made his inter-
national debut in 2011. While

he did not always live up to
the billing...
TRACING THE







INCREDIBLE






RISE OF BEN







STOKES












18 CRICKET TODAY JANUARY 17, 2020
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Inset: He was the star of
the show for England in
the World Cup.
Background: He made 135
not out to lift England to a
one-wicket victory.



.

.
.
JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 19
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BY RENIN WILBEN

ngland all-rounder Ben Stokes contin-
ued his great run in the New Year as
well, with a scintillating all-round per-
formance at Cape Town that enabled
England to the square the Test series
Eagainst South Africa 1-1. After smash-
ing 72 from 47 that set South Africa an improbable tar-
get of 438, Stokes then ran through the Proteas tail
with three quick wickets on the last day, to undermine
a stubborn fightback from the hosts. It was the latest in
the growing line of memorable match-winning perfor-
mances from Stokes. Here’s a look at how the New
Zealand-born England cricketer has grown in stature
as a world-class all-rounder over the years.
A PROMISING START AND WORLD T20 MELTDOWN
Stokes was destined for great things when he made his
international debut in 2011. While he did not always
live up to the billing, Stokes did enough to tell the
world of the potential he possesses. In 32 Tests from
his debut in December 2013 to 2016, the all-rounder
scored 1,902 runs at an average of 33.96. The phase
included four hundreds, including the
staggering 258 against South Africa at
Cape Town in the high-scoring
drawn Test in January 2016. Stokes’
other centuries came against India
at Rajkot (November 2016),
Australia at Perth (December 2013),
and New Zealand at Lord’s (May
2015). With the ball, Stokes claimed
6 for 36 against the Aussies at
Nottingham in 2015, and 5 for 73
versus India at Mohali in November
2016.
In ODIs, from his debut in August
2011 to December 2016, Stokes had
a lean phase with 1,034 runs in 47
matches at an average of 27.94, and
39 scalps averaging 37.76. Apart
from a hundred against
Bangladesh, he picked
up 5 for 61 against the
Aussies at
Southampton in
September 2013. the 2016 World Cup T20 crown. In I8 T20Is from
Stokes had a hor- September 2011 to December 2016, Stokes had only
rible run in T20Is eight wickets to show at an average of nearly 50.
in this phase and
hit a massive BRAWL CONTROVERSY AND REDEMPTION
low when he In September 2017, Stokes made news for unwanted
was smashed reasons as he was arrested following a brawl in Bristol
for four consec- while celebrating a night out after a crushing victory
utive sixes by over West Indies in a one-dayer. Following the contro-
Carlos Brathwaite versy, Stokes was stripped of vice-captaincy and also
as West Indies stole lost his place in the Ashes squad, a series in which

20 CRICKET TODAY JANUARY 17, 2020
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2019: THE YEAR OF BEN STOKES
After many ups and downs, 2019 finally saw Stokes
transform his potential into extraordinary performanc-
es. He was, without doubt, the star of the show for
England in the World Cup at home. In 11 matches, he
smashed 465 runs at a strike rate of 93.18, and an
average of 66.42 with five fifties. With the ball, he
chipped in with seven wickets. More than the numbers,
it was the timing of his runs that stood out. In the
England were thrashed 4-0. In August 2018 though, Above: He smashed 465 World Cup final, when the crown seemed to be slipping
the all-rounder was cleared of affray charges by the runs at a strike rate of away, he produced some fine big-hitting to take the
court, paving the way for his return to the England 93.18. game to the Super Over, in which he again scored a
team. Left: Stokes immediately precious 8, as England stole the World Cup from New
Following his reinstatement, Stokes immediately made a difference and Zealand.
made a difference and played a key role in England’s played a key role. Then, at Headingley during the Ashes, he made an
3-0 Test triumph in Sri Lanka. Stokes contributed 187 Right: England stole the incredible 135 not out to lift England to a one-wicket
runs with the bat, scoring two fifties. He also picked up World Cup from New victory in a chase of 359. England were 286 for 9 when
5 wickets with the ball, including 3 for 30 in the final Zealand. the last man Jack Leach walked in. Stokes was strand-
Test at Colombo, as England outshone the Lankans in ed on 61. One man though believed victory could still
the latter’s den. be achieved and pulled off ‘mission impossible’.n


JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 21
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FEATURE








DHONI’S IPL STINT AS SELECTION







CRITERIA IS UNFAIR





































































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DHONI’S IPL STINT AS SELECTION










Questions were raised by for- Left: MS Dhoni is still
mer teammates about Dhoni’s of the picture frame.
Right: Dhoni will turn u
bizarre loss of form post the for the Chennai Super
Kings.
IPL season... Below: Dhoni has repe
edly chosen to stay aw
from the game.
BY SREELATA S. YELLAMRAZU


avi Shastri, the Indian coach, recently indi-
cated that Mahendra Singh Dhoni, former
Indian captain, could well call time out on the role of mentor in the dressing room, something
his one-day international career. Whether the likes of Rishabh Pant would consider invaluable.
it is pure speculation on his part or divulg- Yet despite having a top contract with the Board
Ring of information about the absentee of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Dhoni has
player is beside the point. His suggestion that the been allowed time away from the game. In a con-
former captain could make a place for himself in fusing scenario, while Sourav Ganguly stays evasive
the ICC Twenty20 World Cup by his playing the on the subject of Dhoni - sometimes feigning igno-
Indian Premier League seems blatantly unfair. rance and sometimes coming out in support, the
Dhoni has repeatedly chosen to stay away Indian think tank sends feelers that Dhoni is still
from the game after his dubious turn at the ICC part of the makeup even if the Indian selection
Cricket World Cup in England last year. For a panel has conveyed to Dhoni that in his absence,
player who no longer plays the long format, at they were keen to move on.
thirty-eight years of age, it was expected that Now with Shastri suggesting that Dhoni turn-
Dhoni would turn up at every limited-overs ing up for the Chennai Super Kings in the upcom-
tournament that India played in if his inten- ing IPL season and performing could be consid-
tion was to extend his career. ered worthy of a criteria for selection for the
However, the situation has been the polar Indian squad for the ICC Twenty20 World Cup
opposite. later in the year, it seems blatantly unfair that
Questions were raised by former teammates even a player of such stature and caliber would
at the Chennai Super Kings and in the be accorded such a privilege when all along,
Indian cricket team about Dhoni’s bizarre despite the truth being in contrast to the theory,
loss of form post the IPL season and at the players have been advised as have the selectors
time of the major ICC event in England. that the IPL cannot be the criteria for selec-
With Dhoni’s form a huge question mark, tion.
it made little sense for Dhoni to be pursu- When a player is not showing up for
ing the ambitions of playing for team national duty, which would only require a
India at the cost of another young player few days in the season given the emphasis
who could be groomed. on Test cricket, Virat Kohli and his men have
But despite constant suggestions from worked for their places in the team. To accord
the Indian think tank that Dhoni is still Dhoni the privilege of making the team on his own
part of the picture frame, there has will and have his form determined by the IPL is
been no attempt on the part of the for- both, misleading and demeaning, for the players
mer Indian captain and wicketkeeper who are showing up every day, working to be
to put his hand up, make himself avail- counted and have legitimately earned the right to be
able for the squad in limited-overs given the opportunity. What is the message Indian
cricket and if not playing, at least play cricket wants to send? n


JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 23
www.crictoday.com

OPINION











HOW DESTINY HAS






PLAYED A PART IN





THE RISE OF MARNUS





LABUSCHAGNE?







He was picked for the tour of

England last year as an extra
batsman. He didn’t find a place
in the team for the first Test of
the Ashes series...


BY PARTAB RAMCHAND

e started his Test career with a duck. In his
first five Tests, he scored 210 runs at an
average of 26.25. He was picked for the
tour of England last year as an extra bats-
man. He didn’t find a place in the team for
Hthe first Test of the Ashes series. And then
things started happening.
The whole world knows by now how Marnus
Labuschagne got his big break as it is part of cricketing
folklore. Steve Smith gets hit by Jofra Archer at Lord’s,
Labuschagne becomes Test cricket’s first concussion
substitute and since then he has transformed himself
from just another middle-order batsman to Australia’s
`golden boy’ and the most talked about cricketer in the
world.
Many cricket followers the world over might still
struggle to pronounce his surname but they certainly
know him by name. Labuschagne has even overshad-
owed Smith who was freely acknowledged as the best
Australian batsman since Don Bradman. In five Tests
during the summer against Pakistan and New Zealand

24 CRICKET TODAY JANUARY 17, 2020
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he has amassed 896 runs at an average of 112. The Above: Labuschagne against India that sealed Australia’s first home series
25-year-old right-hander scored a double century, two has even overshadowed defeat to an Asian opponent.
150s, a century and three half-centuries in eight Smith. Then came the tour of England, the Ashes series, the
innings. His run tally was the best for an Australian in Inset: He showed enough concussion substitute for Smith and Labuschagne has
a five-Test summer Down Under – surpassing superla- of his batting prowess in not looked back. In fact with his tally of 1104 runs in
tive efforts from Neil Harvey (834 in 1952-53) and England. 2019 at an average of almost 65 he finished clearly
Bradman (810 in 1936-37) among others and nine runs ahead of every other Test batsman. He showed enough
adrift of England’s Wally Hammond who scored 905 of his batting prowess in England when he finished the
runs in the 1928-29 Ashes series. Ashes series with 353 runs at 50.42 reeling off four
Eye rubbing and mind-blowing are the immediate consecutive half-centuries. But it is superb showing in
adjectives that come to mind and somehow even these Marnus the Australian summer that has seen him rapidly climb
seem inadequate. And yet it’s amazing to recall how up the ladder and at the moment he is No 3 in the ICC
much destiny has played a part in Labuschagne’s sen- was a rankings behind only Virat Kohli and Smith.
sational rise. First, there was Smith getting hit by surprise But for the modest and unassuming Labuschagne, all
Archer. And but for the one-year bans handed to Smith this has yet to set in. ``I haven’t really had a chance to
and David Warner for their part in the ball-tampering selection stop and reflect on the summer I have had,’’ he said
scandal at Newlands in 2018 Labuschagne might still against after the double century in the third Test against New
be in Queensland waiting for his chance to play Test Zealand in Sydney. ``For me, it has been a very special
cricket. Pakistan in summer but the real privilege is playing in this team.’’
Born in South Africa but raised in Brisbane, Next up for Labuschagne is Australia’s short tour of
Labuschagne was a surprise selection for the series the UAE. India when they play three ODIs. Having proved his
against Pakistan in the UAE in October 2018, class in no uncertain terms in cricket’s traditional for-
Australia’s first since the tainted tour of South Africa. mat he will now look to win his first ODI cap and
He did little of note batting down the order in his first cement his place in the shorter format. Few will doubt
two Tests before being recalled for the fourth Test his capabilities to do so.n


JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 25
www.crictoday.com

FEATURE










A NOTABLE







LANDMARK







FOR A CLASSY,






DEDICATED







CRICKETER








Over the years Pujara has

grown in stature and this is
best underlined by figures. In
75 Tests he has scored 5740
runs...







BY PARTAB RAMCHAND impeccable technique allied to an ideal temperament
has made him one of the most difficult batsmen to dis-
o be candid it comes as no surprise that miss in world cricket but even as he loves to occupy the
Cheteshwar Pujara has joined eight other crease he also churns out runs with strokes straight out
Indian batsmen with 50 or more first-class of the textbook.
hundreds. It was always on the cards that he Indeed, in these days of reverse sweeps, switch hits
would reach the landmark given his insatia- and helicopter shots it is heartening to know that there
T ble appetite for runs, his intense concentra- are batsmen like Pujara who still swear by the textbook
tion, his determination to stay at the crease and his approach. I have nothing against the other innovative
dedication to the art and craft of batsmanship. An shots and they have a place in a changing game and an

26 CRICKET TODAY JANUARY 17, 2020
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Above: Dravid was still
around Pujara hit a of the Indian cricket fans were filled with trepidation.
stroke-filled 72. Could the legend’s place ever be filled they asked their
minds filled with anxiety. But they need not have wor-
Left: He has scored ried. In his first innings for India at No 3 even as
15,000 runs at an average
of 54. Dravid was still around Pujara hit a stroke-filled 72 to
steer his team to a seven-wicket victory over Australia
in 2010 and it was quickly obvious that once the great
man called it a day the team had a ready and more
than adequate replacement.
Over the years Pujara has grown in stature and this
is best underlined by figures. In 75 Tests he has scored
He turns 5740 runs with 18 hundreds three of them doubles at

32 later an average of fractionally under 50. He turns 32 later
this month and still has some years of cricket ahead of
this month him. But of course, he is a Test specialist and so is talk-
and has ed about only when the team plays the traditional for-
mat. Naturally enough he has an awesome first-class
environment eager for entertainment. But entertain- some years record – well over 15,000 runs at an average of 54 with
ment can come in many ways and the chiseled strokes the highest score of 352. No other Indian batsman has
of Pujara in a way constitute the highest art form in the of cricket scored more than his 13 double hundreds and he is
game. He has a vast repertoire of the strokes pre- ahead of well ahead of legends like Vijay Merchant (11), and
scribed in the coaching manual that would the purists’ Vijay Hazare, Sunil Gavaskar and Rahul Dravid who
eyes sparkle with delight. Yes, even in these days of him. have ten each. And now comes this latest achievement
slam-bang cricket there is a place for a classic stylist which puts him in an elite list with eight others –
like Pujara. Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, Dravid, Hazare, Wasim
Besides that as is well known he is an Indian crick- Jaffer, Dilip Vengsarkar, VVS Laxman and Mohammad
et’s crisis man. When Rahul Dravid retired the hearts Azharuddin.n


JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 27
www.crictoday.com

FEATURE







The 33-year-old Kiwi
pacer Mitchell McClena-
ghan hasn’t played any
international game...



BY GARIMA KOTROO

As the 13th edition of Indian Premier League
is still a few months away, the players are
gearing up to make their presence felt.
Everyone knows that IPL provides a great
chance to young and experienced players to
turn their fortunes in the cricket fraternity.
Even the selectors keep a close eye on the
performances of established cricketers. This
year also, some of the great performers
might get an opportunity to make a come-
back in international cricket if things go
right for them in the IPL 2020. Let’s take a
look at five cricketers for whom IPL 2020 is
the final chance to make an international
comeback.

5 PLAYERS







FOR WHOM







IPL 2020 IS






THE LAST







CHANCE








28 CRICKET TODAY JANUARY 17, 2020
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MITCHELL MCCLENAGHAN
The 33-year-old Kiwi pacer Mitchell McClenaghan hasn’t played any international game
over the past two years but he has been on fire for the Mumbai Indians in the Indian
Premier League. He has scalped 71 wickets at an economy rate of 8.5 in 56 IPL appearanc-
es. The left-arm bowler, who is capable of delivering a good performance in crucial situa-
tions, played a big role for Mumbai in IPL 2015 when the franchise won the prestigious
title for the second time. McClenaghan is an outstanding player but his inconsistency in
the international arena has made him the secondary option for New Zealand selectors.
Interestingly, he can still change the notion by performing well in the IPL 2020. With his
impressive bowling spells in the next edition of IPL, he could make a comeback in interna-
tional cricket.


















































MS DHONI Indian skipper hasn’t played any cricket
The year has changed but the specula- match after India’s heartbreaking exit
tions about MS Dhoni’s future in interna- from the 2019 World Cup semifinals.
tional cricket are still doing the rounds on However, Dhoni’s fans are still hoping for
social media. Everybody knows the fact his best performance in the IPL 2020. If
that this year is going to be very impor- he is able to perform in the next season of
tant for Team India as the Men in Blue the cash-rich league then he might get a
will be aiming to lift the ICC T20 World chance to come back in the international
Cup trophy in Australia. The former circuit.



JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 29
www.crictoday.com

CHRIS GAYLE
The swashbuckling batsman of West
Indies, Chris Gayle is best known for
his powerful shots in the world cricket.
Whether it is international cricket or SURESH RAINA
T20 leagues, he never misses a chance Indian batsman Suresh Raina has
to dominate the opponents with his lost his place in Team India but he
batting prowess. With 13175 runs in the has been one of the best players in
T20 format, Gayle has made a name for the Indian Premier League. The left-
himself. The 40-year-old southpaw hander, who plays for MS Dhoni-led
played his last international game Chennai Super Kings, has the rare
against Virat Kohli and team in August quality of performing well under the
2019. Since then he has been playing in critical situations. He has scored
the 20-over leagues around the globe. 5368 runs from 193 matches with a
He is currently representing the strike rate of 137.14 in his illustrious
Chattogram Challengers in the ongoing IPL career. At the age of 33, the next
Bangladesh Premier League. After the edition of IPL is the last chance for
conclusion of this showpiece event, Raina to make an international
Gayle will be seen in action for Kings XI comeback. India have tried many
Punjab in IPL 2020 which could be his options in the middle-order but most
final chance to make a comeback in the of them have failed to secure their
international arena. place in the squad. With this, Raina
has a great opportunity to return to
the T20I squad.
















ANDREW TYE
One of the most talented pac-
ers of Australia, Ander Tye is
all set to play for Rajasthan
Royals in the forthcoming sea-
son of IPL. The 33-year-old is
an excellent white-ball player.
He has taken 194 wickets in
142 T20 matches and
impressed everyone with his
unique game style. However,
Tye didn’t play a single game
in 2019 owing to his serious
elbow injury. The upcoming
season of the cash-rich league
is the final chance for Tye to
make an international come-
back. Tye will play for
Rajasthan Royals this year.







30 CRICKET TODAY JANUARY 17, 2020
www.crictoday.com

UP, CLOSE


&PERSONAL













I AM




FOND OF




MASALA





PURI





— MANISH PANDEY





Name: Manish Pandey, Born: September 10, 1989, My
Place of Birth: Nainital, Uttaranchal, Playing Role: Favourites
Middle-order batsman, Batting Style: Right-hand
bat, Bowling Style: Right-arm medium Favorite Batsman
AB de Villiers
Manish Pandey is the first Favourite Color
Indian to score a century in the Blue Favorite Actress
IPL. The right-handed bats- Priyamani
man was a part of the home Hobbies
team Royal Challengers Swimming Favorite Actor
Bangalore when he achieved
this milestone in 2009. He is Nature on field Shah Rukh Khan
currently representing India in Calm Favorite Car
shorter formats.
Like to play against BMW X3
First Love Australia
Cricket
Favorite Ball
Favorite sport apart from Pull Shot
cricket
Favourite Bowler
Football Morne Morkel
Favorite Food Favourite Band
Masala Puri Coldplay






JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 31
www.crictoday.com

&L & T EISURE
TRAVEL
RA
VEL
LEISURE























Favorite hotel in the world
ITC Sonar Bangla, Kolkata, is the best hotel
on this planet. I am a great admirer of this
place.
USP of the hotel
This place will always have special part in
life, having being here for years with Kolkata
Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League.
I was part of RCB in last edition but memo-
ries with KKR are still intact. The staff has
treated me like their family. Apart from the
ambience, the food is mouthwatering and the
fitness centre is full of modern and advance
machines. The best part of the hotel is pool
area, which is full of buzz and happening.

Your last visit there and the occasion
I came here with my team Royal Challengers
Bangalore in last edition of the Indian
Premier League.
SONAR BANGLA Favorite destination in the world

Malaysia is one of the most beautiful places
IS LIKE A SECOND on earth.
What is that you like about this place?
From people to culture, restaurants to natu-
HOME FOR ME ral beauty, Malaysia has everything to attract
anyone.

What do you like to do on holidays?
I like to be at home with my family, listening
– IQBAL ABDULLA to their stories. When they are away, I watch
my match videos.

ITC Sonar Bangla Most memorable meal while travelling
I once had food at some dhaba on Mumbai-
Pune Highway. From preparation to its taste,
the food was delicious.

What is the one thing you always pack
before leaving for any destination?
I keep janamaz (prayer mat used by
Muslims) first. n


32 CRICKET TODAY JANUARY 17, 2020
www.crictoday.com

TRENDING







“We spoke about ADMIRER OF
it, and I was very HITMAN
keen to have him Former Pakistani
back. That was cricketer Zaheer
even before the Abbas recently
showered
new coaching staff praise on the MR. 360 DISCLOSES
was on board” Indian INFORMATION
opener,
Rohit
Sharma, Squash-buckling and energetic
for his AB de Villiers said that legend-
brilliant ary South Africa captain Graeme
batting Smith, Australia batting talisman
style in the Steve Smith and India skipper
international Virat Kohli are in his list of the top
cricket. The three batsmen he has played with
72-year-old leg- or against. AB took those names
endary batsman when he was quizzed about the top
revealed that he batsmen, he has played with or
stops any move- against. Speaking about these
ment when Rohit cricketers de Villiers also stated
Sharma is at the that players like Graeme Smith
crease. “I don’t and Virat understand the game
move from the tele- well and are well aware of the situ-
vision screen when ation. “Very limited in his (Graeme
Rohit is batting. His Smith) technique but he finds a
batting gives me real way just an amazing character,” de
satisfaction and watch- Villiers was quoted as saying by
ing him play is pure bliss. I cricket.com.au. “Graeme Smith,
admire the way he creates a there is something about the
shot and plays where he wants to. Smiths. Graeme Smith (was), not
He picks up the ball very early and the flashiest players but he played
that is special.” Apart from Rohit, for the team and wanted to make a
Abbas also praised the Indian statement always. Virat Kohli is
skipper Virat Kohli for his similar. The kind of guys you don’t
impressive shots in the field. talk on the field”, de Villiers said of
the cricketing greats.
BACK ON TRACK


Bangladesh have agreed to play three
Twenty20s, two test matches, and a one-day
international in Pakistan starting next week.
The national cricket boards reached consen-
sus on the tour in Dubai in a meeting facili-
tated by International Cricket Council chair-
FAF DU man Shashank Manohar. The Bangladesh
Cricket Board said that its government was
allowing only short visits to Pakistan
PLESSIS because of rising tensions in the Middle
East. That put the two world test champion-
ON AB’S RETURN ship matches in doubt as the Pakistan
Cricket Board was adamant about staging all
of the tour matches in Pakistan. The boards
agreed to spread the tour over three visits.


JANUARY 17, 2020 CRICKET TODAY 33
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SOCIAL


BUZZ






insta














BEST DAY OF MY LIFE















DON’T GIVE EXCUSES.
MR AND MRS GET RID OF THEM TURN THE WHAT INTO SOWHAT!






twitter




@BoriaMajumdar: “Brilliant from @
tiwarymanoj and well done”



@KP24: “SA Cricket was a complete
To a lifetime of love and happiness shambles a month ago! It won’t be
Soaring High —Virat Kohli —Varun Aaron fixed in a month”




@cricketaakash: “India have missed a
trick with their allrounder strategy”



@Wriddhipops: “Keep Calm and Game
On”



@mayankcricket: “Blue skies, unending
meadows. New Zealand, you beauty”
Grateful and honoured to be taking these two
awards home — Jasprit Bumrah Sardari — Harbhajan Singh

34 CRICKET TODAY JANUARY 17, 2020
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CONTEST


CORNER





Find six differences between these two pictures














































Last month's winners: Javed (Pune), Simran (Shimla), Shankar (Delhi) In this contest you have to spot
six differences between both the
Last month’s answers: pictures. Three lucky winners will
get a Parker pen each.

Rules & Regulations for the contest

n Last date for entries: January 23, 2020.
n A draw will determine the winner.
n Winners name will be announced in the next
issue of cricket today.
n The prizes may vary from the one shown.
n Send in your answers along with your name,
occupation, address, contact No. and Email ID
at our postal address.

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BEST OF


THE WEEK
























































































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