Speculation rages over Ganguly's role as Team India coach

MUMBAI: Will another chapter be added to the famous Sourav Ganguly story? Over the past couple of days, there has been intense speculation that the 'Prince of Kolkata,' who led India with much success, could be the team's next coach.

Reports have said that the charismatic former India skipper has expressed interest in the job left vacant by Duncan Fletcher, whose term ended after the World Cup. Some even said that Ganguly had meet Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) president Jagmohan Dalmiya in this regard.

On Thursday, Ganguly vehemently denied that he was in the fray. "I am hearing this for the first time. I don't want to say anything on this. Let's not speculate. Don't jump the gun," he said.

He also denied speaking to Dalmiya about it. "No, who says all this? They (BCCI) haven't spoken to anyone and neither have I spoken to them. That's the truth and let's stick to that. I meet him (Dalmiya) every day because he is the president of Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) and I am the joint secretary of CAB," he clarified.

Interestingly, Ganguly also said that both he and Dravid had the skills to do the job. "Both can be (good coaches). Rahul was a great player," he said.

Curiously, Dalmiya, a known backer of Ganguly, didn't deny the possibility completely. "It may happen. It is not ruled out. Till now, there is nothing on this. Who knows what will happen in the future? Let's wait for the decision. We won't hide anything from the media," the wily 74-year-old said.

BCCI secretary Anurag Thakur admitted that he and Dalmiya have had intense discussions in this regard and had sought the views of all the 'stakeholders involved'.

"Dalmiya and I will be speaking to senior board members and the senior players. We also sought the captain's view and we can assure that the best man available for the job will be appointed," Thakur said.

Sources said that Ganguly is more keen on the job of the team director, a position which was occupied by former India all-rounder-turned-commentator Ravi Shastri till the World Cup.

However, it has also emerged that Shastri himself wants to continue in his new role. Apparently, the players are comfortable with Shastri's working style.

A master on technique, Dravid also enjoys the confidence of the 'boys' and had a healthy time with the team during his short stint as the batting consultant in England before the Test series last year.

He has also been a 'mentor' of the Rajasthan Royals for the past couple of seasons -a role which he has performed successfully. The only glitch is that Dravid himself has expressed his inability to be with the team for long periods.

In the mix are Sanjay Bangar, Bharat Arun and R Sridhar, who have assisted Shastri in his Team India job for the past few months. The positive role of the trio has been appreciated by everybody .

The question is, if the board goes for a desi coach instead of a foreigner, will it be a superstar or a less popular but effective man?

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Speculation rages over Ganguly's role as Team India coach

MUMBAI: Will another chapter be added to the famous Sourav Ganguly story? Over the past couple of days, there has been intense speculation that the 'Prince of Kolkata,' who led India with much success, could be the team's next coach.

Reports have said that the charismatic former India skipper has expressed interest in the job left vacant by Duncan Fletcher, whose term ended after the World Cup. Some even said that Ganguly had meet Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) president Jagmohan Dalmiya in this regard.

On Thursday, Ganguly vehemently denied that he was in the fray. "I am hearing this for the first time. I don't want to say anything on this. Let's not speculate. Don't jump the gun," he said.

He also denied speaking to Dalmiya about it. "No, who says all this? They (BCCI) haven't spoken to anyone and neither have I spoken to them. That's the truth and let's stick to that. I meet him (Dalmiya) every day because he is the president of Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) and I am the joint secretary of CAB," he clarified.

Interestingly, Ganguly also said that both he and Dravid had the skills to do the job. "Both can be (good coaches). Rahul was a great player," he said.

Curiously, Dalmiya, a known backer of Ganguly, didn't deny the possibility completely. "It may happen. It is not ruled out. Till now, there is nothing on this. Who knows what will happen in the future? Let's wait for the decision. We won't hide anything from the media," the wily 74-year-old said.

BCCI secretary Anurag Thakur admitted that he and Dalmiya have had intense discussions in this regard and had sought the views of all the 'stakeholders involved'.

"Dalmiya and I will be speaking to senior board members and the senior players. We also sought the captain's view and we can assure that the best man available for the job will be appointed," Thakur said.

Sources said that Ganguly is more keen on the job of the team director, a position which was occupied by former India all-rounder-turned-commentator Ravi Shastri till the World Cup.

However, it has also emerged that Shastri himself wants to continue in his new role. Apparently, the players are comfortable with Shastri's working style.

A master on technique, Dravid also enjoys the confidence of the 'boys' and had a healthy time with the team during his short stint as the batting consultant in England before the Test series last year.

He has also been a 'mentor' of the Rajasthan Royals for the past couple of seasons -a role which he has performed successfully. The only glitch is that Dravid himself has expressed his inability to be with the team for long periods.

In the mix are Sanjay Bangar, Bharat Arun and R Sridhar, who have assisted Shastri in his Team India job for the past few months. The positive role of the trio has been appreciated by everybody .

The question is, if the board goes for a desi coach instead of a foreigner, will it be a superstar or a less popular but effective man?

Follow TOI Sports on Twitter >> @TOISportsNews

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Bangladesh elect to bat against Pakistan in first ODI

DHAKA: Bangladesh's stand-in captain Shakib Al Hasan won the toss and elected to bat in the first one-day international against Pakistan in Dhaka on Friday.

Shakib is leading the hosts in the absence of Mashrafe Mortaza, who is serving a one-match ban for slow over rates during the recent World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The match marks the start of a new era for Pakistan following the one-day retirement of skipper Misbah-ul Haq and senior all-rounder Shahid Afridi after the World Cup.

Batsman Azhar Ali is captain of the new-look team that includes just four players who took part in the World Cup. Pakistan handed one-day debuts to batsman Mohammad Rizwan and all-rounder Saad Nasim.

The tourists were boosted by the return of off-spinner Saeed Ajmal after an eight-month absence due to an illegal bowling action.

Teams:

Bangladesh: Shakib Al Hasan (capt), Tamim Iqbal, Soumya Sarkar, Mohammad Mahmudullah, Mushfiqur Rahim, Sabbir Rahman, Nasir Hossain, Arafat Sunny, Taskin Ahmed, Rubel Hossain, Abul Hasan.

Pakistan: Azhar Ali (capt), Sarfraz Ahmed, Mohammad Hafeez, Fawad Alam, Mohammad Rizwan, Haris Sohail, Saad Nasim, Saeed Ajmal, Wahab Riaz, Rahat Ali, Junaid Khan.

Umpires: Ruchira Palliyaguruge (SRI) and Sharfuddoula Saikat (BAN)

TV umpire: Nigel Llong (ENG)

Match referee: Jeff Crowe (NZL)

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Bangladesh elect to bat against Pakistan in first ODI

DHAKA: Bangladesh's stand-in captain Shakib Al Hasan won the toss and elected to bat in the first one-day international against Pakistan in Dhaka on Friday.

Shakib is leading the hosts in the absence of Mashrafe Mortaza, who is serving a one-match ban for slow over rates during the recent World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The match marks the start of a new era for Pakistan following the one-day retirement of skipper Misbah-ul Haq and senior all-rounder Shahid Afridi after the World Cup.

Batsman Azhar Ali is captain of the new-look team that includes just four players who took part in the World Cup. Pakistan handed one-day debuts to batsman Mohammad Rizwan and all-rounder Saad Nasim.

The tourists were boosted by the return of off-spinner Saeed Ajmal after an eight-month absence due to an illegal bowling action.

Teams:

Bangladesh: Shakib Al Hasan (capt), Tamim Iqbal, Soumya Sarkar, Mohammad Mahmudullah, Mushfiqur Rahim, Sabbir Rahman, Nasir Hossain, Arafat Sunny, Taskin Ahmed, Rubel Hossain, Abul Hasan.

Pakistan: Azhar Ali (capt), Sarfraz Ahmed, Mohammad Hafeez, Fawad Alam, Mohammad Rizwan, Haris Sohail, Saad Nasim, Saeed Ajmal, Wahab Riaz, Rahat Ali, Junaid Khan.

Umpires: Ruchira Palliyaguruge (SRI) and Sharfuddoula Saikat (BAN)

TV umpire: Nigel Llong (ENG)

Match referee: Jeff Crowe (NZL)

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Fast bowling dying due to cricket overkill: Holding

SHANGHAI: West Indian legend Michael Holding has been impressed with the growth of fast bowling India but rued the decline of the art in world cricket due to an overkill of the game.

"I was very impressed with Indian fast bowlers, especially Mohit Sharma and Mohammad Shami. It was surprising to me. I think what has contributed to India's fast bowling is the changing of the nature of pitches in India. They have now better pitches, bouncy pitches and it is encouraging bowlers and it helped their batsmen to handle bouncers as well," Holding said at the sidelines of the Laureus World Sports Awards on Wednesday.

"Last October I visited India and was pleasantly surprised by the sporting bouncy pitches. I would have begged on my knees for such pitches in 1983," he added.

The man who was known as whispering death, said fast bowling is dying because of excessive cricket.

"In World Cup any bowler would have disappeared, especially in the last 10 overs with smaller boundaries and bigger bats and fielding restrictions. What is killing fast bowlers is the amount of cricket that is being played. It is difficult to maintain your fitness, speed and skill," he said.

Talking about India's performance at the World Cup, Holding said: "I think most teams were at a disadvantage batting second. The amount of runs India were chasing, I said to myself no chance. If India would have batted first then they could have scored 300 plus. "

Holding said he was bored and disappointed with the World Cup.

"There was too many one-sided games in World Cup. Too many sides batted first and batted out the opposition. Teams batting second were not competitive. I found that aspect of the game boring. Many a times I slept over during the second innings," he said.

"I would love to see a shorter World Cup, which doesn't necessarily mean lesser teams, and more competitive cricket with proper size bats."

Talking about the format of next World Cup, he said: "If ICC has 10 teams then 10 months ahead of the tournament they should have top six teams qualify for the main draw, while the rest four should face a play-off. I don't want the Test playing nations qualifying automatically."

The 61-year-old Holding also revealed that he was offered a short bowling coach stint by two-time India coach Anshuman Gaekwad for Baroda cricket team last year.

"I was asked by Mr. Gaekwad to join as a bowling coach of Baroda for a short time last time. I said I would but then for some reason it didn't work out," Holding said.

"I am ready to coach the bowlers and help out any cricketer across the globe if I can. So I may consider any offer of coaching in future but right now I can't take up that because of my TV commitments."

Two-time World Cup champions West Indies have been going downhill for many years with problems erupting both on and off the field.

Asked what could be the way forward, Holding said: "We need to change the attitude of the officials and also improve the infrastructure, concentrate on grassroot. They are trying to pay first class cricketers which is a good sign but then that can't be your primary aim. You can't only pay mediocre cricketers. You have to make sure that they are better cricketers when they reach first class cricket."

Holding was also critical of Twenty20 cricket. "Twenty20 cricket is doing a lot of damage to traditional cricket not only in West Indies but all over the world. It is affecting poor nations as cricketers want to earn money. I think the administration has to have respect for the players. If they had that, what happened in India would not have happened."

Holding also said it is easier to indulge in corruption in Twenty20 cricket than Test cricket.

He was also critical of revamping Test cricket. "I have never been a fan of revamping Test cricket. You can't play Test under lights in such conditions. Until they can find a ball which can be sighted very well under lights and also find conditions which doesn't change from day to night, I cannot be a fan."

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Fast bowling dying due to cricket overkill: Holding

SHANGHAI: West Indian legend Michael Holding has been impressed with the growth of fast bowling India but rued the decline of the art in world cricket due to an overkill of the game.

"I was very impressed with Indian fast bowlers, especially Mohit Sharma and Mohammad Shami. It was surprising to me. I think what has contributed to India's fast bowling is the changing of the nature of pitches in India. They have now better pitches, bouncy pitches and it is encouraging bowlers and it helped their batsmen to handle bouncers as well," Holding said at the sidelines of the Laureus World Sports Awards on Wednesday.

"Last October I visited India and was pleasantly surprised by the sporting bouncy pitches. I would have begged on my knees for such pitches in 1983," he added.

The man who was known as whispering death, said fast bowling is dying because of excessive cricket.

"In World Cup any bowler would have disappeared, especially in the last 10 overs with smaller boundaries and bigger bats and fielding restrictions. What is killing fast bowlers is the amount of cricket that is being played. It is difficult to maintain your fitness, speed and skill," he said.

Talking about India's performance at the World Cup, Holding said: "I think most teams were at a disadvantage batting second. The amount of runs India were chasing, I said to myself no chance. If India would have batted first then they could have scored 300 plus. "

Holding said he was bored and disappointed with the World Cup.

"There was too many one-sided games in World Cup. Too many sides batted first and batted out the opposition. Teams batting second were not competitive. I found that aspect of the game boring. Many a times I slept over during the second innings," he said.

"I would love to see a shorter World Cup, which doesn't necessarily mean lesser teams, and more competitive cricket with proper size bats."

Talking about the format of next World Cup, he said: "If ICC has 10 teams then 10 months ahead of the tournament they should have top six teams qualify for the main draw, while the rest four should face a play-off. I don't want the Test playing nations qualifying automatically."

The 61-year-old Holding also revealed that he was offered a short bowling coach stint by two-time India coach Anshuman Gaekwad for Baroda cricket team last year.

"I was asked by Mr. Gaekwad to join as a bowling coach of Baroda for a short time last time. I said I would but then for some reason it didn't work out," Holding said.

"I am ready to coach the bowlers and help out any cricketer across the globe if I can. So I may consider any offer of coaching in future but right now I can't take up that because of my TV commitments."

Two-time World Cup champions West Indies have been going downhill for many years with problems erupting both on and off the field.

Asked what could be the way forward, Holding said: "We need to change the attitude of the officials and also improve the infrastructure, concentrate on grassroot. They are trying to pay first class cricketers which is a good sign but then that can't be your primary aim. You can't only pay mediocre cricketers. You have to make sure that they are better cricketers when they reach first class cricket."

Holding was also critical of Twenty20 cricket. "Twenty20 cricket is doing a lot of damage to traditional cricket not only in West Indies but all over the world. It is affecting poor nations as cricketers want to earn money. I think the administration has to have respect for the players. If they had that, what happened in India would not have happened."

Holding also said it is easier to indulge in corruption in Twenty20 cricket than Test cricket.

He was also critical of revamping Test cricket. "I have never been a fan of revamping Test cricket. You can't play Test under lights in such conditions. Until they can find a ball which can be sighted very well under lights and also find conditions which doesn't change from day to night, I cannot be a fan."

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Team India remains No. 2 in ICC ODI rankings

DUBAI: The Indian team has retained its second position in the one-day internationals rankings list after finishing as semifinalists in the recently-concluded ICC Cricket World Cup.

With 116 points, India are placed just six points behind world champions Australia, who have garnered 122 rating points to their credit.

India are followed by South Africa (112), Sri Lanka (108), New Zealand (107, England (101), Pakistan (95).

Pakistan, however, are in danger of losing their seventh place ranking if they lose 0-3 to Bangladesh in the upcoming thee-match ODI series, starting in Mirpur on Friday.

But they have a chance to reduce England's six point advantage by one if they win the series 3-0, while a 2-1 victory would see Azhar Ali's team remain on 95 points.

Meanwhile, three Indian batsmen -- Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan and Mahendra Singh Dhoni -- figure in the top-10 table for ODI batsmen.

While Kohli continues to be the highest ranked Indian batsmen at number four position, Dhawan is at No. 6 followed by skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni at the eighth spot in the chart, which is still headed by South Africa's AB de Villiers.

Unfortunately, none of the Indians could earn a place in the top-10 bowlers' list, which has Australia's Mitchell Starc at the top.

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Team India remains No. 2 in ICC ODI rankings

DUBAI: The Indian team has retained its second position in the one-day internationals rankings list after finishing as semifinalists in the recently-concluded ICC Cricket World Cup.

With 116 points, India are placed just six points behind world champions Australia, who have garnered 122 rating points to their credit.

India are followed by South Africa (112), Sri Lanka (108), New Zealand (107, England (101), Pakistan (95).

Pakistan, however, are in danger of losing their seventh place ranking if they lose 0-3 to Bangladesh in the upcoming thee-match ODI series, starting in Mirpur on Friday.

But they have a chance to reduce England's six point advantage by one if they win the series 3-0, while a 2-1 victory would see Azhar Ali's team remain on 95 points.

Meanwhile, three Indian batsmen -- Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan and Mahendra Singh Dhoni -- figure in the top-10 table for ODI batsmen.

While Kohli continues to be the highest ranked Indian batsmen at number four position, Dhawan is at No. 6 followed by skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni at the eighth spot in the chart, which is still headed by South Africa's AB de Villiers.

Unfortunately, none of the Indians could earn a place in the top-10 bowlers' list, which has Australia's Mitchell Starc at the top.

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Aditya Verma requests BCCI to grant membership to CAB

NEW DELHI: Cricket Association of Bihar (CAB) secretary Aditya Verma requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday to grant the state body membership of the national governing panel.

In a letter addressed to newly-appointed BCCI secretary Anurag Thakur, Verma requested that the impasse engulfing cricket administration in the eastern state should be addressed at the soonest.

Presently, there is no recognized cricket board in Bihar to promote the game with three governing bodies -- Bihar Cricket Association (BCA), Association of Bihar Cricket (ABC) and CAB -- involved in a legal battle to determine which authority will control cricketing activities in the state.

"We at CAB believe that we are in a position to fill the gap that exists today. From 2002 onwards, we have been continuously organising cricketing events in Bihar with a view to promoting and encouraging the game," Verma wrote.

"It is with this fervent hope that we approach you and request you to consider us for being conferred with the full Membership of the BCCI. Our objectives are the same as those of BCCI and we would want to work along with BCCI."

Verma added: "We are ready to accept any conditions that the BCCI may deem fit to. If, however, for any reason the BCCI finds that this cannot be achieved immediately, then at least the BCCI may consider constituting an Ad hoc Committee for the state of Bihar for promoting the game of cricket."

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Donald steps down as South Africa bowling coach

CAPE TOWN: Allan Donald has stepped down as bowling coach of South Africa, confirming his departure on Tuesday after four years in the role.

Donald was appointed in June 2011 as part of Gary Kirsten's management team and continued in the role under current coach Russell Domingo from August 2013.

"I have had some time to reflect after the World Cup and have come to the conclusion that the time is right to move on," the 48-year-old said in a statement from Cricket South Africa.

"It was always a big dream of mine to work in the South African cricket environment after my playing days and I was incredibly honoured to be given the opportunity. The last four years have been the best of my life."

The Proteas have not lined up a replacement as yet, but hope to have one in place by the time they tour Bangladesh for two tests and a series of limited overs matches in July.

Donald enjoyed a decade long test career as a feared fast bowler, collecting 330 wickets having made his debut as a 25-year-old when South Africa were readmitted to international cricket in 1992.

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Donald steps down as South Africa bowling coach

CAPE TOWN: Allan Donald has stepped down as bowling coach of South Africa, confirming his departure on Tuesday after four years in the role.

Donald was appointed in June 2011 as part of Gary Kirsten's management team and continued in the role under current coach Russell Domingo from August 2013.

"I have had some time to reflect after the World Cup and have come to the conclusion that the time is right to move on," the 48-year-old said in a statement from Cricket South Africa.

"It was always a big dream of mine to work in the South African cricket environment after my playing days and I was incredibly honoured to be given the opportunity. The last four years have been the best of my life."

The Proteas have not lined up a replacement as yet, but hope to have one in place by the time they tour Bangladesh for two tests and a series of limited overs matches in July.

Donald enjoyed a decade long test career as a feared fast bowler, collecting 330 wickets having made his debut as a 25-year-old when South Africa were readmitted to international cricket in 1992.

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BCCI mulls appointing a consultant to strengthen ACSU

KOLKATA: BCCI President Jagmohan Dalmiya on Tuesday said that the cricket board was contemplating appointing a consultant with an impeccable reputation to strengthen the Anti Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU).

"Already a full-fledged Anti Corruption Unit of the BCCI is in existence. However, in order to further strengthen the Anti Corruption Unit of the BCCI especially in matters related to the Indian Premier League (IPL), it is being contemplated to bring in someone with impeccable reputation and having experience in presiding over challenging investigations relating to sporting frauds as a consultant in addition to the existing set up," Dalmiya said in a statement.

The BCCI is yet to name the members of the ACSU sub-committee, as it has been kept on hold unlike the other sub-committees which were named on April 6.

Dalmiya, who has returned as the BCCI president at the Board's AGM, said: "BCCI believes in zero tolerance approach to corruption in the game and sporting frauds. After all, there has to be every effort to make cricket pure and spotless."

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Shame Australia have never won World T20: Johnson

MUMBAI: Australia recently won their fifth ODI World Cup and have also clinched two Champions Trophy crowns, however, they have never been able to lay their hands upon the ICC World T20.

They lost to India in the semifinal in the inaugural edition of the tournament and were second best to England in the final in 2010. For a team which has a lot of its players playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL), it's a real surprise.

India won the 2007 tournament under MS Dhoni, followed by Pakistan (2009), England (2010), West Indies (2012) and Sri Lanka (2014). Mitchell Johnson, who has been part of two World Cup-winning sides in 2007 & 2015, feels it's a shame that the Kangaroos have never won the biennial T20 championship.

"I would say that it's been hard luck for Australia for not winning it. The team has played well throughout the tournaments over the years and it's a shame that we haven't been able to translate our form into success. The IPL is a really exciting competition to be a part of and it will definitely allow the boys that are playing in it to enhance their T20 skills," Johnson told TOI in an email interview.

Australia were going through a rough patch until India's tour Down Under with questions over Michael Clarke's captaincy and the make-up of the team. But all speculations were put to rest with their fifth World Cup triumph.

"It's an amazing feeling to lift the cup for the second time. It is natural for teams to go through a transition at some stage and it is always exciting," stressed the left-arm pacer. After the ODI retirement of Michael Clarke, there were suggestions that Johnson too may quit the 50-over format to prolong his Test career. The West Australian though has no such plans.

"It's always frustrating when you get injured. I've had a few setbacks during my career but it is important to prepare well and keep a positive mindset. At the moment I am in good shape and I am bowling well so I don't need to do that," he said.

Johnson, who picked 17 wickets in his debut season with Kings XI Punjab last year, reckons that the Mohali outfit has the necessary firepower to clinch their maiden IPL crown. Kings XI ended runners-up last year falling at the final hurdle to Kolkata Knight Riders.

"Last year we had a great season and we are looking forward to taking the next step this year and winning the title. For me too it was a good season and hopefully I can continue to perform well.The team is in good form. We have great variety in our bowling attack and a very strong batting lineup with the likes of Glenn (Maxwell), (David) Miller, George (Bailey) and (Virender) Sehwag."

Kings XI head coach Sanjay Bangar too came in for special praise from Johnson. He even hinted that the former India opener might be the right man to coach MS Dhoni & Co following his efforts as assistant coach in Australia and England.

"Sanjay is a great coach and mentor and the players can learn a lot from his experience. The In dian team has a lot to take from him and it was reflected in their performance throughout the World Cup," said the pace ace, who has 283 Test & 239 ODI wickets to his credit.

The mercurial bowler was not shy of having a word or two with the Indian players during the series Down Under and he is known to not take a backward step in a sledge fest.

But will he sledge compatriots like Sunrisers Hyderabad skipper David Warner and Rajasthan Royals captain Shane Watson when they face off? Pat came the reply: "There is always a bit of banter during state games in Australia.It's all part of good, clean, competitive cricket. The boys can expect a bit of sledging, but it's all in good taste."

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Aditya Verma requests BCCI to grant membership to CAB

NEW DELHI: Cricket Association of Bihar (CAB) secretary Aditya Verma requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday to grant the state body membership of the national governing panel.

In a letter addressed to newly-appointed BCCI secretary Anurag Thakur, Verma requested that the impasse engulfing cricket administration in the eastern state should be addressed at the soonest.

Presently, there is no recognized cricket board in Bihar to promote the game with three governing bodies -- Bihar Cricket Association (BCA), Association of Bihar Cricket (ABC) and CAB -- involved in a legal battle to determine which authority will control cricketing activities in the state.

"We at CAB believe that we are in a position to fill the gap that exists today. From 2002 onwards, we have been continuously organising cricketing events in Bihar with a view to promoting and encouraging the game," Verma wrote.

"It is with this fervent hope that we approach you and request you to consider us for being conferred with the full Membership of the BCCI. Our objectives are the same as those of BCCI and we would want to work along with BCCI."

Verma added: "We are ready to accept any conditions that the BCCI may deem fit to. If, however, for any reason the BCCI finds that this cannot be achieved immediately, then at least the BCCI may consider constituting an Ad hoc Committee for the state of Bihar for promoting the game of cricket."

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Shame Australia have never won World T20: Johnson

MUMBAI: Australia recently won their fifth ODI World Cup and have also clinched two Champions Trophy crowns, however, they have never been able to lay their hands upon the ICC World T20.

They lost to India in the semifinal in the inaugural edition of the tournament and were second best to England in the final in 2010. For a team which has a lot of its players playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL), it's a real surprise.

India won the 2007 tournament under MS Dhoni, followed by Pakistan (2009), England (2010), West Indies (2012) and Sri Lanka (2014). Mitchell Johnson, who has been part of two World Cup-winning sides in 2007 & 2015, feels it's a shame that the Kangaroos have never won the biennial T20 championship.

"I would say that it's been hard luck for Australia for not winning it. The team has played well throughout the tournaments over the years and it's a shame that we haven't been able to translate our form into success. The IPL is a really exciting competition to be a part of and it will definitely allow the boys that are playing in it to enhance their T20 skills," Johnson told TOI in an email interview.

Australia were going through a rough patch until India's tour Down Under with questions over Michael Clarke's captaincy and the make-up of the team. But all speculations were put to rest with their fifth World Cup triumph.

"It's an amazing feeling to lift the cup for the second time. It is natural for teams to go through a transition at some stage and it is always exciting," stressed the left-arm pacer. After the ODI retirement of Michael Clarke, there were suggestions that Johnson too may quit the 50-over format to prolong his Test career. The West Australian though has no such plans.

"It's always frustrating when you get injured. I've had a few setbacks during my career but it is important to prepare well and keep a positive mindset. At the moment I am in good shape and I am bowling well so I don't need to do that," he said.

Johnson, who picked 17 wickets in his debut season with Kings XI Punjab last year, reckons that the Mohali outfit has the necessary firepower to clinch their maiden IPL crown. Kings XI ended runners-up last year falling at the final hurdle to Kolkata Knight Riders.

"Last year we had a great season and we are looking forward to taking the next step this year and winning the title. For me too it was a good season and hopefully I can continue to perform well.The team is in good form. We have great variety in our bowling attack and a very strong batting lineup with the likes of Glenn (Maxwell), (David) Miller, George (Bailey) and (Virender) Sehwag."

Kings XI head coach Sanjay Bangar too came in for special praise from Johnson. He even hinted that the former India opener might be the right man to coach MS Dhoni & Co following his efforts as assistant coach in Australia and England.

"Sanjay is a great coach and mentor and the players can learn a lot from his experience. The In dian team has a lot to take from him and it was reflected in their performance throughout the World Cup," said the pace ace, who has 283 Test & 239 ODI wickets to his credit.

The mercurial bowler was not shy of having a word or two with the Indian players during the series Down Under and he is known to not take a backward step in a sledge fest.

But will he sledge compatriots like Sunrisers Hyderabad skipper David Warner and Rajasthan Royals captain Shane Watson when they face off? Pat came the reply: "There is always a bit of banter during state games in Australia.It's all part of good, clean, competitive cricket. The boys can expect a bit of sledging, but it's all in good taste."

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Aditya Verma requests BCCI to grant membership to CAB

NEW DELHI: Cricket Association of Bihar (CAB) secretary Aditya Verma requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday to grant the state body membership of the national governing panel.

In a letter addressed to newly-appointed BCCI secretary Anurag Thakur, Verma requested that the impasse engulfing cricket administration in the eastern state should be addressed at the soonest.

Presently, there is no recognized cricket board in Bihar to promote the game with three governing bodies -- Bihar Cricket Association (BCA), Association of Bihar Cricket (ABC) and CAB -- involved in a legal battle to determine which authority will control cricketing activities in the state.

"We at CAB believe that we are in a position to fill the gap that exists today. From 2002 onwards, we have been continuously organising cricketing events in Bihar with a view to promoting and encouraging the game," Verma wrote.

"It is with this fervent hope that we approach you and request you to consider us for being conferred with the full Membership of the BCCI. Our objectives are the same as those of BCCI and we would want to work along with BCCI."

Verma added: "We are ready to accept any conditions that the BCCI may deem fit to. If, however, for any reason the BCCI finds that this cannot be achieved immediately, then at least the BCCI may consider constituting an Ad hoc Committee for the state of Bihar for promoting the game of cricket."

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ACC headquarters to move to Singapore

KARACHI: As part of a restructuring process, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) will relocate its headquarters from Malaysia to Singapore, a senior official of the Pakistan Cricket Board said.

The final approval for restructuring the ACC will be given at the meetings of the ICC starting this weekend in Dubai.

"As part of the restructuring process the ACC headquarters will be moved to Singapore for some taxation laws reasons," he said.

Secondly he said since the ICC would now be looking after all development work of the ACC, the workforce of the Asian body would be reduced significantly.

"If there are now 20 staffers these will be reduced by more half while some former players among these staffers will be given other coaching assignments by the ICC as part of the development projects," the official said.

He said the restricting of the ACC had been discussed for a while now and a final decision taken which would be ratified at the ICC board meeting.

He said the ACC would also hold its meeting in Dubai. Asked about the future of long serving chief executive of the ACC, Ashraful Haq, the PCB official said he was unlikely to be retained in the restructured ACC set-up.

He said since the ICC provided funds for the development and staffing of the ACC it was felt it should directly supervise things.

Asked if the issue of appointing a new president of the ICC was on the agenda, the official said it would be discussed.

The ICC president's position has fallen vacant after the resignation of Mustafa Kamal of Bangladesh who resigned after the World Cup after a row with ICC officials over a statement he made after the India-Bangladesh match.

Although Pakistan's Najam Sethi is set to take over as the new president in June, the PCB official said the ICC could discuss three options in this regard.

"Bangladesh can constitutionally nominate another candidate to replace Kamal till June or it could forego its right to have its candidate as the president," he explained.

PCB will be represented by its chairman Shaharyar Khan, Najam Sethi and chief operating officer Subhan Ahmad at the ICC meetings.

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Aussie media lavish tributes on Benaud

SYDNEY: Australia's media reflected on the life of cricket great and esteemed broadcaster Richie Benaud in effusive tributes on Saturday.

Benaud, who had been fighting skin cancer and suffered serious injury in a car accident in late 2013, passed away in his sleep early Friday at age 84.

Overall Benaud played in or commentated on approximately 500 Test matches and has been lauded as the most influential Australian cricketer and broadcaster of his era.

The Sydney Morning Herald carried a 12-page wrap-around tribute, while the front cover of Sydney's Daily Telegraph remembered "a marvellous innings" and followed with five pages on the cricket icon in the news section and more in sports.

"Benaud the cricketer was as Benaud the commentator, a little apart from and above the rest," Greg Baum wrote in Melbourne's The Age newspaper.

"Benaud's cricket commentary spoke for itself. Inimitably, it is tempting to add, but the fact is that it was imitated all the time and everywhere.

"It was imitation in its sincerest form, nearer to idolatry than flattery."

Malcolm Knox, writing in The Sydney Morning Herald, focused on Benaud's playing career of 63 Test matches and never losing a series as captain, which ran for 28 games from 1958.

"As a cricketer, Benaud was more than a symbol of post-war liberality, an icon, with his unbuttoned shirt and emotional celebrations, of the change in style from 1948, when he played his first first-class game, to 1964, when he played his last: from Peggy Lee to the Beatles," he said.

"As a cricketer, Benaud was among the best Australia has ever produced."

Author Gideon Haigh said in The Australian newspaper: "Benaud the commentator seldom referred to his on-field experiences and accomplishments - a shrewd expedient which had the effect of making him seem almost ageless - and was amused when young admirers inquired innocently whether he had been a player.

"In fact, Benaud would rank among Test cricket's elite leg-spinners and captains had he never uttered or written a word about the game."

Jim Maxwell, the doyen of Australia's radio cricket commentary, said of Benaud: "If cricket had ever anointed a pope it would be Richie Benaud.

"He has been the most influential, revered and respected person in the game for 50 years. As Australian captain he never lost a series. As a commentator he was precise, authoritative and deliciously understated.

"Richie was the master of the pause. Silence marked him as the best exponent of television's essential craft; let the picture tell the story, then utter appropriate gravitas, a memorably droll bon mot."

Prime Minister Tony Abbott has offered a state funeral to Benaud's family, describing his death as "a sad day for Australia".

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Aussie media lavish tributes on Benaud

SYDNEY: Australia's media reflected on the life of cricket great and esteemed broadcaster Richie Benaud in effusive tributes on Saturday.

Benaud, who had been fighting skin cancer and suffered serious injury in a car accident in late 2013, passed away in his sleep early Friday at age 84.

Overall Benaud played in or commentated on approximately 500 Test matches and has been lauded as the most influential Australian cricketer and broadcaster of his era.

The Sydney Morning Herald carried a 12-page wrap-around tribute, while the front cover of Sydney's Daily Telegraph remembered "a marvellous innings" and followed with five pages on the cricket icon in the news section and more in sports.

"Benaud the cricketer was as Benaud the commentator, a little apart from and above the rest," Greg Baum wrote in Melbourne's The Age newspaper.

"Benaud's cricket commentary spoke for itself. Inimitably, it is tempting to add, but the fact is that it was imitated all the time and everywhere.

"It was imitation in its sincerest form, nearer to idolatry than flattery."

Malcolm Knox, writing in The Sydney Morning Herald, focused on Benaud's playing career of 63 Test matches and never losing a series as captain, which ran for 28 games from 1958.

"As a cricketer, Benaud was more than a symbol of post-war liberality, an icon, with his unbuttoned shirt and emotional celebrations, of the change in style from 1948, when he played his first first-class game, to 1964, when he played his last: from Peggy Lee to the Beatles," he said.

"As a cricketer, Benaud was among the best Australia has ever produced."

Author Gideon Haigh said in The Australian newspaper: "Benaud the commentator seldom referred to his on-field experiences and accomplishments - a shrewd expedient which had the effect of making him seem almost ageless - and was amused when young admirers inquired innocently whether he had been a player.

"In fact, Benaud would rank among Test cricket's elite leg-spinners and captains had he never uttered or written a word about the game."

Jim Maxwell, the doyen of Australia's radio cricket commentary, said of Benaud: "If cricket had ever anointed a pope it would be Richie Benaud.

"He has been the most influential, revered and respected person in the game for 50 years. As Australian captain he never lost a series. As a commentator he was precise, authoritative and deliciously understated.

"Richie was the master of the pause. Silence marked him as the best exponent of television's essential craft; let the picture tell the story, then utter appropriate gravitas, a memorably droll bon mot."

Prime Minister Tony Abbott has offered a state funeral to Benaud's family, describing his death as "a sad day for Australia".

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ACC headquarters to move to Singapore

KARACHI: As part of a restructuring process, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) will relocate its headquarters from Malaysia to Singapore, a senior official of the Pakistan Cricket Board said.

The final approval for restructuring the ACC will be given at the meetings of the ICC starting this weekend in Dubai.

"As part of the restructuring process the ACC headquarters will be moved to Singapore for some taxation laws reasons," he said.

Secondly he said since the ICC would now be looking after all development work of the ACC, the workforce of the Asian body would be reduced significantly.

"If there are now 20 staffers these will be reduced by more half while some former players among these staffers will be given other coaching assignments by the ICC as part of the development projects," the official said.

He said the restricting of the ACC had been discussed for a while now and a final decision taken which would be ratified at the ICC board meeting.

He said the ACC would also hold its meeting in Dubai. Asked about the future of long serving chief executive of the ACC, Ashraful Haq, the PCB official said he was unlikely to be retained in the restructured ACC set-up.

He said since the ICC provided funds for the development and staffing of the ACC it was felt it should directly supervise things.

Asked if the issue of appointing a new president of the ICC was on the agenda, the official said it would be discussed.

The ICC president's position has fallen vacant after the resignation of Mustafa Kamal of Bangladesh who resigned after the World Cup after a row with ICC officials over a statement he made after the India-Bangladesh match.

Although Pakistan's Najam Sethi is set to take over as the new president in June, the PCB official said the ICC could discuss three options in this regard.

"Bangladesh can constitutionally nominate another candidate to replace Kamal till June or it could forego its right to have its candidate as the president," he explained.

PCB will be represented by its chairman Shaharyar Khan, Najam Sethi and chief operating officer Subhan Ahmad at the ICC meetings.

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