With the silent of this blog, I'm going to break it again after a few weeks. Now again , time to live with cricket. The matches will begin in next month.Until then, we have something to talk about. Also, you can see the schedule of Sri Lankan tour in Australia, below.
************************ No doubt, Murali on Top ************* 
Darell Hair
Some of Murali loving people burning a stunt of Darell Hair to show their openion
Beginning from Arjuna Ranathunga's time, a gap between Murali and Australia has raised. Some times it must be between Shane Warne and Murali, but both of them are not responsible for the matter, it's between some people in both countries like umpire Darrell Hair ,who created this big controversy. Darrell Hair, who called No-Ball action against Murali, before the world cup of 1996, has created many troubles for him after that.But Murali has reached to the world no.1 figure through those rival activities.
************************ Arjuna advised Muralidharan ************ 
Darell Hair, Murali and Arjuna Ranathunga in the ground when the trouble aroused
In this juncture again, Former Captain Of Sri Lanka, Arjuna Ranatunga has advised Murali, not to play in Australia in the coming series of November.The only solution for him is refrain from face to face action on Australian soil to avoid more controversies, according to the former skipper, who was the giant figure behind Murali when the last trouble era.Murali respect much for him but this time he disclaimed the idea and said,
"I am used to any situation and will accept the way it comes perhaps it may motivate me more to take on the challenge" as a real lion as a replay but he respects the former captain as before.
We can't predict what'll happen for Murali in time to come. Hope nothing trouble in this time avoiding much talked controversy.
********************* Schedule of the matches ****************
October 2007-------------------------------
Sat 27 - Mon 29
10:30 local, 01:00 GMT Cricket Australia Chairman’s XI v Sri Lankans
Adelaide Oval
November 2007-----------------------------
Fri 2 - Sun 4
10:00 local, 00:00 GMT
Queensland v Sri Lankans
Allan Border Field, Brisbane
Thu 8 - Mon 12
10:00 local, 00:00 GMT
1st Test - Australia v Sri Lanka
Brisbane Cricket Ground, Woolloongabba, Brisbane
Fri 16 - Tue 20
10:30 local, 23:30 GMT
2nd Test - Australia v Sri Lanka
Bellerive Oval, Hobart
January 2008-------------------------------
Wed 30
10:00 local, 23:00 GMT
Prime Minister’s XI v Sri Lankans
Manuka Oval, Canberra
February 2008------------------------------
Sat 2
10:00 local, 23:00 GMT
Tasmania v Sri Lankans
Bellerive Oval, Hobart
Tue 5
Floodlit Match
13:15 local, 03:15 GMT
India v Sri Lanka
Brisbane Cricket Ground, Woolloongabba, Brisbane
Fri 8
Floodlit Match
14:15 local, 03:15GMT
Australia v Sri Lanka
Sydney Cricket Ground
Tue 12
10:00 local, 23:00 GMT
India v Sri Lanka
Manuka Oval, Canberra
Fri 15
Floodlit Match
11:30 local, 02:30 GMT
Australia v Sri Lanka
W.A.C.A. Ground, Perth
Tue 19
Floodlit Match
13:45 local, 03:15 GMT
India v Sri Lanka
Adelaide Oval
Fri 22
Floodlit Match
14:15 local, 03:15 GMT
Australia v Sri Lanka
Melbourne Cricket Ground
Tue 26
10:00 local, 23:00 GMT
India v Sri Lanka
Bellerive Oval, Hobart
Fri 29
Floodlit Match
14:15 local, 03:15 GMT
Australia v Sri Lanka
Melbourne Cricket Ground
March 2008---------------------------------
Sun 2
14:15 local, 03:15 GMT
1st Final - TBC v TBC
Sydney Cricket Ground
Tue 4
Floodlit Match
13:15 local, 03:15 GMT
2nd Final - TBC v TBC
Brisbane Cricket Ground, Woolloongabba, Brisbane
Fri 7
Floodlit Match
13:45 local, 03:15 GMT
3rd Final - TBC v TBC
Adelaide Oval
if required
******************************************************
More Cricket Information,
Visit,
http://cricketschedule.blogspot.com
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Murali , Again in the Danger Zone ? Schedule of the matches
Monday, October 08, 2007
Sanath, Done it again !!! Playing 400 Matches with 300 Wickets
Sanath Jayasiriya, the unbelievable cricket sports star in our era, has done and proved it again with 400 cricket one day matches. The first cricketer in the history has played 400 one day internationals.
Jayasiriya, who started the career in 1989 , scored more than 12,175 runs with 306 wickets. He has scored 100's in 25 matches with highest score 189. The best bowling figure is 29 runs for six wickets. Got 114 catches and five wickets in 4 times.The batting average for Sanath is 32.79 , for bowling 39.48.
Then, those figures have proved without any argument, The world's best cricketer is Sanath Jayasiriya.The only cricketer in the world's history played more than 400 matches, scored more than 12,175 runs and got more than 306 wickets, we can't expect even Sanath know that.
The Second place , Sachin Tendulkar (India) has started the sports career in 1989 too, has played 398 one day internationals, scored more than 15,450 runs with average 44.11 , 41 centuries, got only 152 wickets with average 43.86, best 5/32, has got 5 wickets in 2 times according to the reports.
The Third Place, Inzamam-Ul-Haq, played 378 one days, scoring 11,739 runs to the average of 39.52 ,10 centuries ,got only 3 wickets had started the career in 1991, finished in 2007 with the "ICC Cricket World Cup - 2007".
Sanath Jayasiriya, at 38 of age, congratulation for the Un-Disputed success in the field.
(
Is there any important information about Sanath Jayasiriya ? Please keep it here as a comment to share the knowledge !)
Sunday, September 30, 2007
The New 50-50 One Day rules, Going To Change By Today Onwards..
Today is the 1st of October. From today onwards the ICC is going to introduce some new regulations for one day format of cricket. Those rules are validated for the series Sri Lanka-England. Those are the new rules,
• There’ll be a free hit after if it’s a front-foot No-Ball.
• After the 1st power play, that means during second and third power plays, an additional fielder will be permitted outside the fielding , inner circle.
• If there is a problem, like rain , number of overs have to be reduced. If so number of overs for each power play will be reduced accordingly.
• Minimum distance for boundaries was 140 yards . It’ll change to 150 yards.
The minimum on one side is of 65 yards , straight boundaries 70 yards, previously was 60 yards.
• If one side refused to play the mach for any reason, The match referee has the right to choose the winning team.
• If a new batman not ready to play after 2 minutes with a wicket, umpires can impose Time-Wasting penalties for him.
• A new ball can be used in 35th over onwards, but the decider is the leader of the team, who lost the toss.
( I appreciate your replay if there is any other regulations, I’ve forgotten to mention)
Thursday, September 27, 2007
The first Ball
As an Indian, it feels very nice to start contribution to “A Different Stroke” very close to a day when India lifted the inaugural T-20 world cup. I had started writing this piece just around 30 minutes after this event. Although it is not the first time I am pouring my heart out writing on cricket, but starting as a contributor for the first time, it is like as if I am going to open an innings in an international (20, 50 or infinity notwithstanding) after a few knocks at domestic cricket. Let me come out of this and move along.
Rather than restricting myself to the final and India’s win, I would look back to the whole tournament. I am restricting myself to purely cricket point of view, minus the cheer-girls / boys and related extravaganza that had been brought in to bring more crowds, specially the fast generation (what is it now – Z?). I just mentioned a little bit of my thought when I requested the moderator to consider me as a contributor; quite a few of us cricket-lovers and cricket thinkers are flummoxed by the happenings in the whole tournament. I would like to bring the issues straight out.
At the outset I admit that I have never been so mistaken in my life in any matter related to cricket. But my agony was little bit lessened when I saw the whole world also did so. All people said this is a bigger graveyard for the Bowlers. This statement is repeated even today by Vettori (of all people). The same was said when in mid eighties rules for ODIs were also altered every now and then. But let us think very clearly. I see T-20 is a chance for resurgence of the bowlers. Let us not bother about the figure / statistics in RPO; the benchmark cannot be same (and should not be compared with ODI and tests). This is because in T20- you cannot bat out an opposition. Chris Gayle could not do it. Almost all the T20 matches till now in this World cup, has been won by good bowling, and this is going to stay. Even out of 27 matches, Player of the match award has gone to Bowlers in 11 cases including the final and 3 to all-rounders. The player of the tournament also has gone to Afridi predominantly for his bowling performances, as he conceded himself. The Batsmen have almost reached saturation, unless you take cricket back to the "gulleys" via tennis and badminton courts. Till then, My Dear Bowlers – don’t feel left out. Go and enjoy the sweet smell of grass under the sun. Your expiry date is somewhat far-off.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
How The T-20 World Cup Went On... ! What Next ?
Now, the very first Twenty20 cricket world cup is over giving some unexpected entertainment with comparing others. When I was thinking about that, I wanted to know how the matches went on and find out what is Shah Rukh Khan's factor as a behind scene. Then, this is what I'm doing now to share the the information with you.I know many of you'll copy this to PCs.
Groups,
Group A: Bangladesh, South Africa, West Indies
Group B: England, Australia, Zimbabwe
Group C: New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Kenya
Group D: India, Pakistan, Scotland
* September 11 South Africa vs West Indies,
(Johannesburg)
South Africa won by eight wickets
* September 12 New Zealand vs Kenya,
(Durban)
New Zealand won by nine wickets
* September 12 Pakistan vs Scotland,
(Durban)
Pakistan beat Scotland by 51 runs
* September 12 Australia vs Zimbabwe,
(Cape Town)
Zimbabwe won by five wickets
* September 13 West Indies vs Bangladesh,
(Johannesburg)
Bangladesh won by six wickets
* September 13 England vs Zimbabwe,
( Cape Town)
England won by 50 runs
* September 13 India vs Scotland,
(Durban)
Match abandoned, rain
* September 14 Sri Lanka vs Kenya ,
(Johannesburg)
Sri Lanka won by 172 runs
* September 14 Australia vs England,
(Cape Town)
Australia won by eight wickets
* September 14 India v Pakistan,
(Durban)
India win bowl-out 3-0 after tie
* September 15 Sri Lanka vs New Zealand,
( Johannesburg)
Sri Lanka won by seven wickets
* September 15 South Africa vs Bangladesh,
( Cape Town)
South Africa won by seven wickets
*********** Super 8 ***********
* September 16 New Zealand vs India,
(Johannesburg)
New Zealand won by 10 runs
* September 16 Australia vs Bangladesh,
(Cape Town)
Australia won by nine wickets
* September 16 South Africa vs England,
(Cape Town)
South Africa won by 19 runs
* September 17 Pakistan vs Sri Lanka,
(Johannesburg)
Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by 33 runs
* September 18 New Zealand vs England,
(Durban)
New Zealand bt England by five runs
* September 18 Australia vs Pakistan,
( Johannesburg)
Pakistan bt Australia by six wickets
* September 18 Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka,
(Johannesburg)
Sri Lanka bt Bangladesh by 64 runs
* September 19 South Africa vs New Zealand,
(Durban)
South Africa won by six wickets
* September 19 England vs India,
(Durban)
India won by 18 runs
* September 20 Australia vs Sri Lanka,
(Cape Town)
Australia won by 10 wickets
* September 20 Bangladesh vs Pakistan,
(Cape Town)
Pakistan won by four wickets
* September 20 South Africa vs India,
(Durban)
India won by 37 runs
*********** Semi Finals ***********
* September 22 1st semi-final: New Zealand vs Pakistan,
(Cape Town)
Pakistan won by six wickets
* September 22 2nd semi-final: India vs Australia,
(Durban)
India won by 15 runs
*********** The Grand Finale ***********
* September 24 Final: Pakistan vs India,
(Johannesburg)
India won by five runs
What Next ?
The Champions Trophy, will be held next year (2008)in the month of September in Pakistan. It'll be over in two weeks.After that in 2010.The only problem is to fix dates to Twenty20 world cup with international calendar scheduled to be held around the world. There will be another ICC World Twenty20 in England in 2009 according to the ICC.their first priority is for the Test, after that for 50 over matches.
Shah Rukh Khan factor :
When I read today's international news papers , I've seen something interested article but on the first page of one of the news papers in India.That tells
"Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif had mentioned earlier that it was SRK’s presence that inspired Dhoni and his men to victory." Because "Chak De! India" film had inspired all of India.
Shah Rukh was there because The BCCI and Sharad Pawar had invited him in last 2 hours.His sun wanted to see the match then.
Rashid Latif also explained "He was the ‘X’ factor that lent that extra edge to the Indian team"
Shah Rukh Khan has said,
"I am glad to be able to contribute through them. But, in this case, I was another Indian among the spectators cheering the boys with my mind, body, heart and soul. Yeah, I was praying fervently as well, but then so was everyone else."
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Unexpected expectation, Sri Lanka has been eliminated from 20-20 Cup, AND Australia ! Are they cheaters ?
Unexpected expectation, Sri Lanka has been eliminated
The 1st Twenty20 world cup dream for the Sri Lankan is shattered. That dream never comes true in any case. The runner up for the World Cup was unable goes through
In to the top four countries. Are you going to blame on Jayasuriya ? No, Sanath is not the team. He is in the team. Then, Murali ?We must not mentally ill when Sanath and Murali the both are not there. But, There’s a team. The best eleven players of the country are there. They must play and show the best! The burden mustn’t target only the top players but the whole team.
T-20, Is Sri Lanka ready to play?
Twenty-20 is a new game to the world of cricket. If we say Sri Lanka has lack of experience, for the most of the countries same. With Australia , Sri Lanka lost the 7th wicket before 50 on the score card. That seems lack of knowledge on T-20. There wasn’t a plan to fulfill the dream to reach another round. With Jayasuriya to the duck, other end Upul Tharanga for 4 runs ,created the links for the rest of the team to go out. They haven’t a good plan or they didn’t use the plan. They thought big ones will bring more marks forgetting to be in the ground without giving any more wickets. If any one did that, the result won’t be the same!
England tour!
T-20 is gone. With learning from the past, prepare for the future. England tour will begin from next month. Lot of hard work to do escape from the poor situation now in. In these days England team is not much better as out of the torment so early. Sri Lanka has the chance to get profit from the situation.
If you want to see the England – Sri Lanka matches schedule in October,Or more information regarding cricket or sports,
http://cricketschedule.blogspot.com
Is Australia good enough to be in the TOP of the world.
If we use something unusual to win a game , others tell we are cheaters. So Adam Gilchrist used to have a Golf ball (broken) in his glove, when the last World Cup went on. Is he using it right now again? He has said that ball have given some more power to hit. If it’s real, Some fours come down to 2 or 3 runs. Sixes must be less than six likes four or less than four….
Another thing is some people who head some important positions feel “Open batmen’s of the Australia team are using some drugs, if not so , why anyone else can’t bats like them.”
Then, there are some rumors , Australia isn't good enough to play a genuine game. We can't come to conclusion that is same. Some times excellent people have been blamed by jealous ones, if so, Australia well be get rid of the rumors.
What do you think,
Is Australia team genuine ?
Monday, September 17, 2007
Twenty20 - With Sanath Jayasuriya
Some times win ! Some times lost ! That's the game of our life !Not always on the TOP ! , 
Now it's the second round of World Twenty20 cricket world cup. The game between Sri Lanka and Pakistan is over with breaking the hearts of all Sri Lankan cricket lovers. For the 1st time , Sri Lanka lost in the T20 world cup.Every one want to see Sanath Jayasuriya's batting than anyone else . Is it a good sign ?
Sanath Jayasuriya Factor,
In 4 overs , Sanath has given them more than 64 runs, so he was unable to make runs to the score. The one who had made the winning of last 2 games , was in a big trouble in bawling and batting.He is a top class cricketer in from any kind of games, like Test, One day or T-20 etc.with unbelievable records. Then, anyone don't have the right to blame him in such a tiny fault with comparing his past.jayasuriya , 38 of age with good fitness to the game , must remain till next Worl cup, that comes after next 3 years. Wait and see what will happen in the next games , Will Jayasuriya be able to keep his reputation ( That'll never last anyway) in next Twenty20 matches ?
Only the time tells !
Thursday, September 06, 2007
CSA Charge Bosman
Cricket South Africa seems set on supplementing their potential income over the next few weeks by fining their players. With just days to go before the opening match of the T20 World Cup between South Africa and the West Indies there seems to be no end in sight to the battle between the players and administrators in the game in South Africa.
Following on from the Jacques Kallis saga, which lead to Mark Boucher being fined half his match fee from every game he plays in the forthcoming competition for speaking out against the omission of Kallis, to Andrew Hall making himself unavailable for South Africa and rumours of him signing up for the ICL, comes the news that Loots Bosman has been charged by CSA for breaching CSA's rules and conduct.
Bosman, the South African opening batsman, was withdrawn from the T20 squad on the basis of a back injury he sustained when he crashed into an advertising board in Zimbabwe. Bosman responded to his withdrawal in a newspaper article which appeared in the Beeld on Wednesday where he said
"I am fine, ask my physiotherapist in Bloemfontein who treated me last week. I am very, very, disappointed. Mickey [Arthur] tells too many lies."
Mickey Arthur, the South African coach, responded to Bosmans claims that the CSA's medical advice was suspect in the same article, saying
"It is understandable that he would be disappointed," said Arthur, "but his reactions are very immature and I am disappointed how he has handled this."
Bosman has been one of the leading Pro20 batsman in South African domestic franchise cricket with an impressive average of 32,33 in 23 matches at a strike rate of 147,93 including a top score of 104 and 3 fifties. His international T20 record is as impressive with an average of 38,5 in 3 matches and a top score of 53 not out. As one of the most experienced 20/20 players in South African cricket Bosman was expected to play a major role in the upcoming tournament for the host nation. He has been replaced in the squad by fast bowler Andre Nel.
The replacement of a batsman by a fast bowler is suspect given the nature of things between CSA and the players. While many had been hoping that Jacques Kallis would be the man called up to replace Bosman, the more obvious and warranted choice would have been Morne van Wky. The Eagles batsman, and franchise team mate of Bosman, has been the domestic limited over and Pro20 batsman of the season over the last few seasons, and was unlucky not to be included in the initial squad. Following South Africa's warm up series in Zimbabwe it was decided that the the bowling lacked an edge and the opportunity to call up Nel was taken at the earliest opportunity.
Another view on the Nel call up could be that he has been included to ensure he does not follow in the footsteps of Andrew Hall who resigned from the national team following his exclusion from the T20 squad. Nel and Hall were South Africa's best bowlers at the World Cup in the West Indies earlier this year.
There is clearly problems in South African cricket, with mistrust and lack of communication between the players and administrators causing new problems each week. The South African cricket team will have to come together in spite of this if they are to win the T20 World Cup in the coming weeks, and unite the team and country, and forget about their problems - for a couple of weeks at least.
Monday, September 03, 2007
Hall Quits - Joins ICL?
IN the latest episode of the soap opera that is Cricket South Africa Andrew Hall, the Proteas all rounder, has quit international cricket, and is expected to sign with the rebel Indian Cricket League.
Following on from the drama of the Jacques Kallis exclusion from the T20 squad, and his resignation as vice captain following the announcement, and the subsequent fine imposed on Mark Boucher for speaking out against the Kallis omission, these are turbulent times at CSA.
While it seems Hall's decision is impetuous, a reaction, like Kallis, to be left out of the T20 squad (and Abdul Razzaq of Pakistan who also retired on being left out of their squad) the recent spat of events suggests more than just the players bruised ego's and perhaps a cricket board that does not have the players trust or respect. In Halls case he was called back early from his stint at Kent in County Cricket to prepare for the T20 World Cup, and was then left out of the squad and sent on an SA "A" tour to Zimbabwe. In a recent TV interview following the squad announcement and the Kallis saga Joubert Strydom, the new convener of selectors, said that the team had been decided almost a month before the announcement, and the decision to "rest" Kallis had been made then. If this is the case then why was Hall called back from Kent if they already knew he wouldn't be in the squad? Even if he were to be standby for the squad, should someone fall out, surely playing County Cricket would be more beneficial to him and SA then a couple of four day games against Zimbabwe?
This seems to be another case of ill treatment to a player who has always given his all for his country. Hall had become the new Boeta Dippenaar of South African squad, in and out of the team irrespective of performance, and never sure of his place, no matter how much he merited it. In all Hall played 21 Test matches and 88 ODI's for South Africa. In both Tests and ODI's he batted almost everywhere in the order, from opening the innings to number 9 or 10, and had his best results as an opening batsman. his top scores of 81 against Sri Lanka in ODI's and 165 in Tests against India were both made at the top of the order. Initially a batting allrounder in the ODI team, Hall has become more of a bowling allrounder in the last few seasons, and has established himself as one of the best death bowlers in world cricket. Hall picked up 45 Test and 95 ODI wickets.
Hall looks set to join former team mates Nicky Boje and Lance Klusner in signing up for the ICL, but while they had both been retired from international cricket for some time, Hall becomes the first player to actively retire to join the rebel league. This would reinforce the suggestion of his disillusionment with CSA. The Titans franchise team are looking into recruiting hall for the forthcoming domestic season.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Proteas Beat Zimbabwe
South Africa laboured to a 5 wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the first of three ODI matches being used as a warm up to next T20 World Cup.
Although South African never looked like doing anything but winning this match, the manner in which they did told of a side that hadn’t played much cricket in months. The bowling was solid, the fielding very good, and the batting did the job required, but it all lacked inspiration. Although many will argue that the laboured performance was worrying, it was actually exactly what these matches in Zimbabwe were pencilled in for - to rid the team of any cob webs, allowing them to be ready for the T20 show piece.
An inept batting performance by the Zimbabwe top and middle order saw them at 72-7 and in danger of losing the match before lunch. But a spirited lower orde fightback by Chigumbura and Brent helped them past 200, and a degree of respectability. The innings began with some impressive stroke play by Sibanda, but like the rest of the top order he got out just when he started to look like he would give the South Africans something to think about. He edged a ball from Pollock to Smith, who took a brilliant catch low to his right. After that the wickets fell regularly, with an alarming 5 run outs, much to do with the Zimbabwean indecision as with the South African fielding. Taibu, on his return to Zimbabwean cricket, offered a brief glimmer of hope, but that was snuffed out as he fell for 22 to the impressive Morne Morkel, making his South African ODI debut. It was left to Chigumbura and Brent to rescue the Zimbabwe innings, and each batted carefully at first and then opened up a bit, both reaching half centuries, Brent being undefeated as the innings closed on 206. Chigumbura, who batted well in the Afro Asia series, has shown enough to suggest that he needs to move up the order if Zimbabwe are to be competitive in the future. He is able to grind out runs as well as find the boundary, and it is with him that the Zimbabwe future lies.
For South Africa, Pollock was his steady self, and nothing less can be expected of the old pro, finishing with 1/25 in 8 overs. However it was the bowling of debutant Morne Morkel and Vernon Philander, playing his third ODI, that will have pleased the selectors the most. Morkel, bowling at first change, has the type of controlled aggression that usually comes with experience. He is able to bowl quick while remaining economical at the same time. A weapon that will surely be utilised much more in the future. Giving South Africa a strike bowler who does not leak runs. Philander, who impressed in his first two games against Ireland and India in May, and who was named player of the tournament at the emerging players tournament in Australia recently, topping both the batting and bowling tables, continued to suggest he may be a leading player for South Africa in the present and not just the future. He picked up 2 early wickets in his spell, and was bowling when Zimbabwe slipped from 67-2 to 72-7. His economical bowling saw his figures after his first spell read 2/4 from 6 overs. He returned to bowl at the death where he conceded 11 runs in 2 overs.
On the batting side, there were half centuries from Smith, debutant Bodi, and de Villiers, who slipped down the order to four. Smith rarely looked comfortable, seeming to be under the weather, yet still managed to score his 50 off just 57 balls. Bodi, although far from the fluid, boundary hitting, batsman of domestic cricket, played some elegant flicks and lofted shots, and will be pleased with his debut performance. De Villiers looked the most comfortable at the crease and until he ran himself out never looked in any trouble against the Zimbabwean attack. It was left to Pollock and Philander to see South Africa home, winning with 2 boundaries in succession from Philander with 22 balls and 5 wickets to spare.
Although the performances of Morkel, Philander, Bodi and de Villiers will have pleased the South Africans, there is much they need to do to improve, to reach the higher standard that they aim for, and build momentum to next months tournament. They have two more matches this weekend to iron out any kinks and to give time out in the middle to their squad. For Zimbabwe, they’ll just be hoping to remain competitive.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Boucher In Trouble
Mark Boucher, the South African wicket keeper, is set to appear before a disciplinary board after recent remarks he made in a newspaper article regarding the exclusion of Jaques Kallis from the T20 squad. Upon his exclusion Kallis resigned as vice captain and questioned his future in the national team.
Bouchers remarks in the Business Day allude to non cricketing reasons behind Kallis omission from the squad.
"
It is either those who have an issue with him, and have a chip on their shoulders, or those who have ulterior motives."
"He's the best allrounder we've ever had and he's saved more [limited overs] games than anyone realises - and he is a far better one-day player than he is given credit for."
Boucher will appear at a hearing on Friday.
Taking into account the reasoning by the selectors, at least in public anyway, for Kallis omission, that they want him rested for the long, tough, season ahead, it is worth considering a few points. Firstly Pakistan, India and New Zealand have not included their best Test batsmen either. Dravid, Tendulkar, Ganguly, Mohammed Yusuf and Stephen Fleming have all been left out of their squads and been given an extended break in order to get more from them in Test and ODI cricket in the coming season. There is also a case for Flemings exclusion on the basis that it allows a more comfortable transition of the captaincy to Vettori. Yet none of these other players have put up a fuss (Pakistans Abul Razzaq criticized his omission but it appears that he is being dropped and not rested.) If Kallis is being rested due to the heavy workload he carries within the test and ODI teams, then why aren't Pollock and Ntini being afforded the same break? Clearly Kallis wanted to be involved so its not a case of a player opting out or being happy with a few more weeks of golf. If the argument was that Kallis is not suited to T20 cricket then what of Ntini? He doesn't offer anything with that bat and has bowled 30 balls in international T20 games and gone for 65 runs without taking a wicket. A record that suggests that he shouldn't be in the squad. Ntini has carried the Test and ODI attack for a couple of seasons now and perhaps his lack of form at the World Cup was because of to much cricket. Perhaps he to should have been rested. While it may be seen to most as a childish reaction by Kallis, and perhaps it is, it's still not a bad thing to have a player so upset about being left out, even when assured he isn't be dropped. A player who has scored over 8000 Test runs, over 9000 ODI runs and has taken over 200 wickets in Test and ODI cricket who has nothing to prove to anyone yet still gets this upset about not being selected for the least serious, least important form of the game? Surely that cant be the worst thing.
By all accounts Kallis lead the team in Ireland admirably, especially with his dealing with the young players, Philander, Duminy and Tshabalala, both on and off the field, so there is a strong desire to retain him as vice captain. Lets hope that happens.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Kallis Quits as Vice Captain
Following his omission from the South African T20 squad Jacues Kallis has stepped down as vice captain of the ODI and Test teams, raising doubts about his future.
Kallis, one of the finest all rounders in history, expressed his disappointment at being left out of the T20 squad when issuing his vice captaincy resignation.
"I have resigned as vice-captain and I'm considering my options with regard to the rest of my career," Kallis said. "I have been thinking long and hard over the weekend and there is still a lot of emotion involved because I am extremely disappointed. I was very excited about the tournament and hoping to make a huge contribution.
"I feel I have a lot of good cricket left and my best years might even be ahead of me. Ideally I would like to play many more years for my country but this weekend caused me to question my future for the first time."
The timing of this suggests that Kallis made the decision based on emotion rather then thought, and it is hoped that he changes his mind, particularly by CSA chief executive Gerald Majola.
While there is no doubting his class and ability there has long been debate amongst South African fans about Kallis position in the ODI team, when some regarding his run scoring on the slow side. However, with cricket in general moving towards a more aggressive approach to batting, Kallis has upped his strike rate considerably over the last season or so, and has maintained his position as the linchpin in the Proteas batting line up.
While Kallis has shown a more aggressive streak in ODI's he still tends to take a few over to play himself in before cutting loose. With this in mind, and the fact that you have less time to play yourself in in T20 cricket, the feeling is that Kallis best role would be opening the innings. Here he could take an over or two to gain a feel for the pitch and bowling, before opening up. However with Graeme Smith, Loots Bosman, AB de Villiers and Gulam Bodi already competing for the two openers births (one really with Smith guaranteed one of the positions) the likelihood of this happening were slim. While Kallis has played 6 T20 games, both internationally and domestically, the likes of Bosman and Bodi have played over 20, giving them far more experience and expertise in this form of the game.
New chairman of selectors, Joubert Strydom, has put forward the taxing schedule over the next 18 months as the reason for Kallis being rested, and not dropped. Over this period South Africa travel to Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, England and Australia, and with this in mind the selectors felt it prudent to give Kallis a longer rest so as to come back refreshed and able to better handle the rigours of being am all rounder and the batting back bone of the team.
Kallis decision, though brash and immature (in terms of timing and not his person) clearly outlines the disappointment he feels at missing out on this inaugural tournament, being hosted by his country. While this can be understood and sympathised with, the rest that he will gain will benefit the test and ODI team, and Kallis himself, bringing a rested, focused and driven Kallis to the field for a tough season ahead. One that ends with a series against Australia. Kallis omission may be the best thing for his game, and the hopes of South Africa's team in the long run.
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Concentration
A study of concentration. Zaheer Khan has been one of the stars of the recent test series. Confidence, competitiveness and success can be a very heady mixture and it will be interesting to see if it carries over into the maelstrom of the one day game.
Kallis Left Out
South Africa announced their 15 man squad for the Twenty20 World Cup, to be held in South Africa, in September. Perhaps the biggest surprise was the exclusion of Jacques Kallis, who had been named as vice caption when the 30 man provisional squad was announced last month.
While Australia chose to send the basically the same team that had done duty for them in the Caribbean World Cup, with the exception of the now retired Glenn Mcgrath, the South African team sees 7 players included who did not make the trip to the West Indies. While Australia have gone the root of seeing limited over players as limited over players, be it in a 50 over game or 20 over game, the South Africans have chosen a squad geared towards the shortest form of the game. This would explain the exclusion of Kallis, one of the finest all rounders in the history of the game, who's game is perhaps least suited to T20 cricket. Kallis has in the past shown that he is capable of playing an aggressive innings, as he did against the West Indies in the World Cup, but he still needs a few overs to play himself in, a luxury that is not available as much in T20 cricket. So Kallis will have a longer rest to gear him up for a long season that begins with a tough tour to Pakistan almost immediately after the tournament ends.
In Golam Bodi, JP Duminy, Johan van der Wath, Albie and Morne Morkel, Vernon Philander and Thandi Tshabalala, all of whom did not go to the World Cup, the Proteas have chosen players to give them more options, and fire power, players suited and tested in the quick smash and grab game. Bodi, an attacking opening batsman, has been rewarded for his domestic performances in Pro 20 cricket over the last few seasons, and should be given his chance at some stage of the 2 week tournament. Duminy, a stylish, stroke playing middle order batsman, has played ODI's for South Africa, and gives them the option of spin as well. In van der Wath, Albie Morkel and Vernon Philander South Africa have some hard hitting batsman, capable of clearing the boundaries at will, as well as seam and swing bowling options. All three should play apart with bat and ball for the Proteas. Morne Morkel, the tall fast bowler, gives the attack the raw pace and aggression, that can complement Pollocks perfect line and length, while having the added bonus of being pretty economical as well. Morkel should find himself in the South African Test and ODI squads soon.
Andre Nel, Charl Langeveld, Ashwell Prince, Andrew Hall, Robin Peterson, Roger Telemachus miss out from the team that left for the West Indies in March. Andrew Hall can perhaps count himself unlucky as his economic death bowling could have been an advantage, however in Pollock, Ntini, van der Wath, Morne Morkel, Albie Morkel, and Philander the selectors probably feel they have enough variation and options in the pace bowling department. Another player who can count himself unlucky not to make the team is Morne van Wyk, who has been the outstanding domestic batsman in Pro 20 cricket over the last few years, and did well against India and Ireland in May, when deputising for the injured Smith. Again the numbers where not in his favour this time as the batting line up looks particularity imposing, with Smith, de Villiers, Bosman, and Bodi all competing for the openers birth.
The squad has met the racial targets set out by CSA, of 7 from 15 non white players, and has not been weakened at all. All the players there are selected on merit, and any 11 chosen from these 15 will be hard to beat. South Africa will go into the tournament confident of winning the inaugural Twenty20 World Cup.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Sri Lanka Cricket hits back at Bedi
Media manager hints at possible legal action against the former Indian skipper for his outburst
Sri Lanka Cricket officials yesterday hit back former Indian test captain Bishan Singh Bedi over his alleged comment that Sri Lanka’s champion spinner Muttiah Muralitharan is a “monster” setting wrong precedent to youngsters.
Sri Lanka Cricket’s media manager Samantha Algama said that they are “greatly disappointed and concerned” by the statements made by Bedi and added that Sri Lanka Cricket sincerely believes that appropriate action should be taken by the authorities to prevent such incidents from recurring.
Hinting at possible legal action by the spinner, Algama said “Sri Lanka Cricket will support any and all efforts by Muralitharan to take corrective action in the matter” in a written statement sent to “Daily Mirror”, referring to our lead story yesterday, where Bedi was quoted.“While SLC respects the right of individuals to form their own opinion regarding the matter of illegal bowling actions; we feel that Mr.Bedi's comments are defamatory and are intended to cause harm to Mr.Muralitharan's reputation, his achievements and also disparages the ICC's ruling on the said matter.” Algama added.
Explaining the matter further, Algama stated “Mr.Muralitharan's bowling action has been scrutinized time and again by bowling experts, bio-mechanical experts and medical experts and has been found to be within the laws of the game. Furthermore, the ICC has also set in place procedures that deal with suspected illegal actions. Mr. Bedi should be aware of these procedures and processes.”
“It is irresponsible for a person of Mr.Bedi's stature in the game to make such public comments where he has clearly attacked the personal integrity of Mr.Muralitharan and the technical competency of the ICC. Mr.Bedi has needlessly, unfairly and deliberately targeted Mr.Muralitharan in his vituperative outburst.” Algama’s statement added.
Murali will take legal action against Bedi says manager
Muttiah Muralitharan’s manager Kushil Gunasekara in a statement to “Daily Mirror” yesterday said that the champion spinner will take legal action against Bedi’s comments shortly. Following is Gunasekara’s statement.
I refer to the media publication that appeared in the Daily Mirror of 9th August 2007 pertaining to the repulsive comments made by Mr Bishan Singh Bedi which is of a very serious defamatory nature to bring disrepute and tarnish the impressive image of Mr Muttiah Muralidaran.
It is no surprise that the ugly behaviour and unjustified allegations made by Mr Bishan Singh Bedi depicting more of a personal attack coincides with Murali’s attempt to achieve the highest number of test wickets by any bowler in the history of the game in the not too distant future.
The legal team of Mr Muttiah Muralidaran will shortly institute legal action against Mr Bishan Singh Bedi in view of the sordid and ghastly manner in which he has condemned by way of a severe character assassination to undermine Mr Muttiah Muralidaran’s magical art of spin bowling.
Strong SA A Team for Zimbabwe
Boeta Dippenaar will lead a strong South Africa A team in two 4 day games in Zimbabwe over the next 2 weeks.
The squad contains a host of players with international experience and seems to be a combination of fringe and current full squad members.
The inclusion of Andre Nel, Charl Langeveld, Andrew Hall. Ashwell Prince, Paul Harris and Hashim Amla, all usually members of the Test squad, seems to suggest that they wont be part of the Twenty20 World Cup squad due to be announced in Cape Town on Saturday. If they were part of that squad then surely they would be in Cape Town this weekend and not playing in Zimbabwe?
So if we can guess that those picked for these matches will almost certainly miss out on selection for the Twenty20 squad then Morne van Wyk can count himself very unlucky to be in Zimbabwe. While his inclusion may indicate that he is in the minds of the selectors for Test selection, the fact that he has been the outstanding batsman in domestic Pro 20 should have surely guaranteed his selection for Septembers show piece. At the same time the exclusion of Vernon Philander seems to suggest that he will make Saturdays squad selection.He should be a very exciting, useful option during the tournament.
While noting that the likes of Nel, Hall, Amla, Prince, Harris and Langeveld have been included to get their season off to a start, with a series to Pakistan following directly after the Twenty20, another interesting observation is the spin options in the 14 man squad. Paul Harris, who played in the last Test series against India, in joined by Johan Botha as well as spin options from Imran Khan and Justin Ontong. So while the selectors must be applauded for attempting to rectify South Africas well known spin problem we have to ask why Thandi Tshabalala has not been included? If he is seen as the future of South African spin bowlers then surely he needs as much exposure as possible before being included in the Test squad? This is what A team's are for.
The selectors have also stated that Neil Mckenzie was not selected as they feel his stint with Somerset in County Cricket would benefit him more. Thus allaying any fears that Mckenzie was once again over looked and is not in their plans.
The full squad is: Boeta Dippenaar (capt), Yusuf Abdullah, Hashim Amla, Johan Botha, Andrew Hall, Paul Harris, Imran Khan, Charl Langeveldt, Andrè Nel, Justin Ontong, Alviro Petersen, Ashwell Prince, Thami Tsolekile (wk), Mornè van Wyk.
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Sri Lankan players too approached to play in the ICL
A wealthy rebel league in India seems set to take Sri Lankan cricket by storm as several top players have been approached to join the lucrative series, sources said yesterday.
The Indian Cricket League promoted by Zee Telefilms, the country's largest lmedia group, features six teams that will play Twenty20 matches across India. Each team in the league, which has not been recognized by the International Cricket Council or the Board of Control for Cricket in India, will have four international players, two Indian stars and eight up-and-coming players.
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) sources said several players were privately approached by agents during a series here with Bangladesh, but that the SLC would not allow any contracted players to join the rebel league.
"If they go ahead and join the league, the result would be similar to the 1982 rebel tour to South Africa," an SLC source said. Fourteen Sri Lankan cricketers led by Bandula Warnapura were banned for 25 years in 1982 for playing in the South African series.
But press reports here said that retired Russel Arnold has accepted the offer and is negotiating with the new league. Arnold was not available for comment. At least two other Sri Lankan star players have been offered contracts ranging from US$500,000 to US$600,000 for each of the three years in the playing contract.
Indian Cricket League in contact with 60 international players
Former England captain Tony Greig and Indian Cricket League representative claimed recently that the breakaway league was in contact with 60 international players.
With the likes of West Indian Brian Lara already signing for the Twenty20 competition and ex-Australian Glenn McGrath already expressing his desire to be a part of the competition, there seems to be a plan to rope in several star cricketers.
ICL is offering up to $2.3million for a three-year contract to certain stars with the original contracts known to include a loyalty payment, and anybody who hesitates will find their payments reduced if they try to get back on board later, a FOX Sports report added.
The powerful Indian cricket board has made it clear that it will impose life bans on any of its international players or youngsters who are associated with the ICL. The board is determined to spoil the breakaway competition.
Racial Targets to be Met
Cricket South Africa has stated that racial targets will have to be met for the fast approaching Twenty20 World Cup, which South Africa will host, in September.
What this means is that, just as in the World Cup in the Caribbean, 7 of the 15 members of the World Cup squad will have to be non-white. While the rest of the world may not share the same problem, South African cricket has to take into account the injustices of its countries history and attempts to bring parity to the playing fields, to have a team that represents the people of the country. That is a fact that South Africans have to come to terms with and stop quibbling about. While I have always maintained that quota's, or targets, should be used at domestic level and not at international level, the reality is that the system is here to stay - for now at least.
What South African, and world fans in general, must not mistake is the quality of the players selected. The non-white players, although meeting targets, are not of a sub standard to their white team mates. Ntini has lead the bowling attack in both limited and test cricket for a number of years now, Prince has been the most consistent Test batsman of the last 2 years, and Hashim Amla's run scoring at domestic level over the last few years has demanded a place in the test team. Saying that the non white players are in the team based on colour is an insult to them and the system.
The problem arises however in the strict meeting of those targets. By saying that we have to have 7 rather than we would like to have 7 the selectors are harming the game at this level. In the recent World Cup the target was met, with Roger Telemachus being the 7th player. Telemachus is good enough to play at this level, and can do a job for the team, however he did not play a single game at the event. That isn't the problem, Australia didn't utilise every member of their squad, as most other teams did, but the problem comes with the players left behind. Johan van der Wath is good enough to make the first eleven never mind the touring 15, yet when he is continuously left behind because he is fighting for 8 places and not 15, he must begin to think of his future. Continuously being overlooked must make Kolpak a very appealing avenue. Morne van Wyk was given a chance on South Africa's recent tour to Ireland, where he showed he was ready for international cricket. If he subsequently gets over looked after that, not to mention him being the outstanding domestic batsman of recent seasons in all forms, he too will begin to think of a future in England. The flaws in the system mean that if South Africa continue to overlook their talent they will lose them, and the England team in a few years could be all South African.
The signs that the system are working, and don't need to be rushed, are there. At the recent Emerging players tournament in Australia, which was won by South Africa, Vernon Philander topped both the batting and bowling tables, JP Duminy and Alviro Pieterson featured highly on the batting side, and Yusuf Abdullah on the bowling. So if the talent coming through is a representative mixture of white and non white then surely in a few years the full team will be too, irrespective of targets? There is only danger in rushing through such a sensitive system. The players want to believe that they are the best, and not that they are numbers in a target game. That sort of thinking set back the career of a promising player like Justin Ontong, and although he is beginning to fulfill his undoubted potential, can not be allowed to happen again.
South Africa is in the unenviable position of having to marry sport and politics, a combination that does not go together well. If the country and people are to move forward, if they are to be the best, they must hold on to their pool of talent. Targets should be a goal and not set in stone. The best players will come through the system and targets will be met - they should not be forced.
Friday, August 03, 2007
Philander Stakes a Claim
The South African Emerging team successfully defended the title they won last year by defeating New Zealand in this years final in a competition that also included emerging teams from India and the hosts, Australia.
While the South African team can be pleased with their performances, and the experience gained by some of its younger players, the most pleasing aspect of the tour was the prolific form of all rounder Vernon Philander.
They say the true measure of an all rounder, a genuine all rounder, is if he is able to hold his place in the team as both a batsman and a bowler, and not a batsman who bowls a bit or a bowler who can bat, as is the case of many of the “all rounders” in cricket today. Philander, who made his international debut in South Africa’s recent short series in Ireland, provided his credentials as an all rounder by topping both the batting and bowling tables at the tournament. In 6 matches Philander bowled 48 overs and 5 balls, taking 13 wickets at an average of 9,15. He topped the wickets taken, best average, and best economy tables. His economy rate of 2,43 was by far the best and showed that he was able to stem the run rate as well as take wickets when called upon to bowl his fast medium seamers. In the 6 matches Philander, batting in the middle order, was called upon to bat 4 times, and ended not out on 2 occasions. He scored 141 runs at an average of 70,50, the best average of the tournament, and a strike rate of exactly 100.
Philanders all round ability, and the experience he is not getting, is a shining light for South African cricket. It has been suggested that Philadner is one of the players who is seen as a potential replacement for Shaun Pollock, when the great Polly calls it a day, but on current form there is no reason that he should not be in the team with Pollock right now. It can do his young, growing, career no harm to be taken under the wings of Pollock and Kallis at this stage of his development. With bat or ball in hand, Vernon Philander, and South African crickets, future looks bThursday, July 19, 2007
South Africa Name 30 Man Twenty20 Squad
The squad, which will be trimmed to 15 next month, contains no real surprises. Graeme Smith, who missed the recent trip to Ireland, returns as captain, with Jacques Kallis stepping down to his usual role as vice captain.
After much has been made of South Africa's lack of variation in the Caribbean World Cup the selectors have included 8 players who could offer a spin option in the 30 man squad. Robin Peterson, who was the only front line spinner in the world cup squad, is included after being dropped for the Irish tour. Thandi Tshabalala, who travelled to Ireland is also included, as is Johan Botha, who is currently captaining an Emerging Players team in Australia, a team that also includes Gulam Bodi, JP Duminy, Morne Morkel, Justin Ontong, Alviro Peterson, Vernon Philander and Tshabalala.
Hard hitting all rounder Johan van der Wath makes a deserved recall to the squad, but whether or not the selectors pick him for the final 15 only they know. A player of his all round ability and talent should be in all South African squads, however if they past few selections have been anything to go by the selectors may not pick him. Lets hope they are brave enough to realise they have been wrong in not selecting van der Wath and pick him this time, giving him an extended run to cement a place in the future ODI team. With Justin Kemp seemingly playing as a batsman and not the all rounder role that he has been picked for it is time that van der Wath and Vernon Philander are given a run in the team.
With this being South Africa there is more to any national selection that purely picking the best available players. There are 14 players of colour in the 30 man squad, all of whom are there by merit and not simply for the colour of their skin, and this should placate any political interference.
While the squad may be the initial 30 man selection, and will be halved next month, it is encouraging to note the Neil Mckenzie has been included. Mckenzie has been out of the national fold for some time now, and despite strong domestic performances has been over looked time and time again, with the selectors seemingly discarding him to the past. He has now been rewarded with selection, but lets hope that they intend to give him a fair chance at making the 15 man team, and any future ODI and Test squads, and that this is not just a transparent attempt to quieten their detractors.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Rhodes Still A Protea
Rhodes, regarded by many as the best fielder in the world during his playing days with South Africa, had only been contracted by Cricket South Africa until the Cricket World Cup in March/April. Since then
many online sports betting interests have been speculating as to whether or not he would be retained by the South African cricket team, with Jonty himself saying that much owed to what his family thought of him spending time away touring with the team. After the arrival of his ex team mate, and close friend, Alan Donald, to the England coaching set up, it was believed that Jonty could follow, becoming England's
permanent fielding coach, a position they have not filled since Trevor Penney left to assist Tom Moody in Sri Lanka in 2005. There was also talk of Sri Lanka looking to recruit Rhodes as new coach Trevor Bayliss assistant coach. Rhodeshas distanced himself from such rumours by stating
"I can honestly say I have never received any offers from England," Rhodes
toldNews24.com. "Some time ago there was a rumour I was going to coach Sri
Lanka,but I was never approached by them either."
The South African coach, Mickey Arthur, has also reiterated the stance that Jonty will be part of his coaching stuff for the immediate future.
"Jonty has confirmed he's staying with us."and"He is an integral member of our
team and he is committed to staying withthe Proteas," Arthur said. "I don't know
where all these rumours start, butJonty's definitely with us. I hope we can
squash all these rumours"
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
A Sad Loss
The sad thing about the increasing number of test players in the world is that we have more heroes to morn.
Dilip Sardesai died this week at the age of 66. During a career spanning 11 years, Sardesai played 30 Tests and scored 2001 runs in 55 innings with an average of 39.23. Sardesai will be remembered for his performance during the tour of the West Indies in 1970-71 in which he scored a double hundred and two centuries to power India to a historic first-ever series victory in the Caribbean.
For every passing hero there are a lot of little boys, now middle aged men, who will have a fond memory of a quality player and their own excitable youth.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
A Future Without Pollock
"We need succession planning in key areas to ensure we have a pool
ofplayers who can play at this level. A guy like Shaun Pollock has given us
yeomanservice, but he needs to be managed through this season and a couple of
othersenior players do too," Arthur said.
"We've identified Vernon Philander as a possible back-up as anall-rounder,
along with Albie Morkel, who played in the Afro/Asia Cup, and RyanMcLaren and
Johan van der Wath, who I've been keeping an eye on in countycricket."
The fact that, post World Cup, the selectors have an eye on the future, and wont be waiting until their hand is forced, suggests that South African cricket is looking forward, and while this can only benefit the team in the long run, lets hope the Pollock has a few more years left in him yet. South Africa's star all rounder is far from finished.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
New Faces in Proteas Squad
A brief introduction follows of the new faces for those unfamiliar with South African cricket.
Morne van Wky
Morne opens the batting for his franchise team, the Eagles, in all forms of the game, but can operate anywhere in the top or middle order. He is a wicket keeper batsman, but whereas Boucher would be classed as a keeper who can bat, van Wyk would be a batsman who can keep. It is likely that, like AB de Villiers, another wicket keeper batsman, he will play as a batsman in this series, and will more than likely open the batting with de Villiers. He has played for South Africa before in an ODI, on the tour of England in 2003 he made his debut in the triangular series final, where South Africa were well beaten by England. Morne has a first class batting average of 39,15 with a top score of 200 not out, and a domestic limited overs average of 41,99 with a top score of 160 not out. van Wyk was recently named MTN Domestic Championship Cricketer of the Year, Standard Bank Pro20 Cricketer of the Year, and Domestic Players Player of the Year and the 2007 Mutual and Federal SA Cricket Awards evening.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Trevor Bayliss Appointed as New Sri Lanka Cricket Coach
"Trevor came before a high powered committee comprising Aravinda de Silva, Sidath Wettimuny, Michael Tissera, Anura Tennekoon and Duleep Mendis, who were very impressed with his presentation," said Mr. Uplai Dharmadasa, the chairman of the interim commitee of Sri Lanka cricket, in a media briefing.
Bayliss was one of the names suggested to SLC for the position by Moody. The others included Terry Oliver, the Queensland coach, who was also a strong contender. He was interviewed a fortnight ago.
Testing un explored talent, was always been the success behind Sri Lanka cricket. When Dave Whatmore became the Sri Lankan coach, his name was never recognized in the Cricketing world. Tom Moody was never a "brilliant" cricketer, through out his career, and hardly secured a place in the team in many occasions. But, he left Sri Lanka with a reputation for being one of the most successful coaches in the world.
That's why, in one of my earlier blog posts I highlighted it's always good for Sri Lanka cricket to look for some new names from Australia, rather than looking for established international coaches like John Wright or Dave Whatmore.
Speaking to a local TV channel, Bayliss said "There's nothing much to change in present Sri Lanka change". How ever he mentioned that, he'll not hesitate to do some changes, if required. According to Sri Lanka Cricket, Bayliss will start working with Sri Lanka team starting from this August.
Monday, June 11, 2007
Ford Says No To India
Ford was seen as the ideal replacement to the outspoken, disciplinarian, Greg Chappel, with his calm, understated style. He is widely regarded in both South Africa and England as one of the most astute, tactical coaches in the game, and it is clear to see why he was pursued by the BCCI. Whether they now decide to go with Emburey, or make a short term placement and begin the process again, is yet to be announced. After the reports that Ford had taken the job, and now the news that he has turned it down, the BCCI would like to ensure that this embarrassing situation is not repeated in the future.
Saturday, June 09, 2007
"A Different Stroke" Blog Competition - June July 2007
Here's your chance to win a copy of "The Official 2007 Cricket World Cup Review (DVD)" absolutely free! All you have to do is take part in "ADS Blog & Win!" competition for June & July.
Next three months, all international cricket teams are in full action after a short break since the world cup, so we got plenty of action from all over the world to talk here!
Let's get straight to the business. This is no joke or no scam. You will never (ever) have to pay anything, or have to buy anything from anyone to redeem the gift. Once you win it, it's all yours!
How to enter the competition?
Register on this site as a contributor, and just keep on blogging. Then you will automatically qualify for the competition, based on the rules mentioned below. (To register as a contrubutor, send an e-mail to cricketbloggers@gmail.com requesting the membership of this site)
Rules for the competition
What Posts are eligible for the competition?
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How the points are awarded?
5) Two Points will be awarded for each of your posts. More you post, more points you earn.
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7) One Point each for every comment made on your eligible posts. So encourage your readers to engage in an ongoing conversation. More the number of comments on your posts, more you earn points.
Example: If John Doe make 20 comments on your post, you'll get 2 points for the unique reader John Doe, and 20 points for the comments he made, making it 22 points in total.
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12) The competition is valid for posts made from 1st June to 31st July. At the end of July, site administrator(s) will count the points, based on the above competition rules and will decide the winner. Time to time, the latest standings of points table will be announced on the site.
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The winner will be announced before 15th of August. Site administrator(s) will contact the winners by e-mails, to arrange the delivery of the gift(s).
Few Tips to Take some advantage in the competition
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4) Make shorter posts (about 500 to 1000 words), with topics encouraging for discussion among others.
Hope this is clear enough. Write to cricketbloggers@gmail.com at any time, to clarify anything unclear.
Depending on the success in responses from you all, the prices will be increased next time, and winners will be selected every month! So, give your 100% to get this going. Who knows, the next price would be a free ticket to watch a live cricket match, at any venue you wish!
Kallis to Captain in Ireland
