#Seam bowler

[klabauters]

A friend of mine made a custom hat for Lutz, out of an old felt bowler. The leather strip is an old belt that they attached to give it some more height:

It's essentially a tiny cylinder now. The details in the leather are burned, not tooled. Which is only exciting to me because I exclusively know how to tool leather.

It's not exactly as pirate-y as I'd expected, but since this crew has a thing for wearing ridiculous cylinders, this is just as fitting.

I'll dull out the blue seam with some leftover fabric dye, and then comes the fun part: while players who portray aristocratic, upper class characters usually have very fancy but plain hats, the lowbrow street rat style characters usually have shitty, scrappy but intricately decorated hats. In short, you just stick every trinket you can find to your hat and call it a day. Like these guys:

You just sew everything you want to your hat. Coins, playing cards, your own "wanted:" posters like these guys up there, buttons, whatever. I've just been sewing that stuff onto my woolen coat so far

[thehutpoint]

I've published this photo once, but nów I got IT in better quality, so here you have it again. From the left: Titus, Scott, Kathleen, Teddy. And of course the ponies, right, left and center. Admire the glorious outfit Titus wears and when you are satiated with it's sartorial splendour, imagine yourself a day on the races, Anno Domini 1910. Ladies in sophisticated dresses and elegant hats. Gentlemen in morning coats, silk ties and top hats. Overall atmosphere of elegance, the sun sparks in the shiny shoes of the gentlemen and jewellery worn by the ladies. And then there shuffles in HIM, with his usual gait of a man on skis, but without them, slightly hunched in his worn out Norfolk coat with pockets full of needful things. The weathered tweed bowler sits on the back of his head, the pants certainly saw their better days and the hobnail boots, with seams full of the coal dust, raise the dust with each shuffling step. Here comes the one and only captain Lawrence Oates, absolutely unique gem of a man.

[news365timesindia]

[ad_1] Bumrah walking back to his run up. Pic credits ( Debasis Sen) Agnijit Sen at the MCG Imagine you are the best fast bowler in the world. You instil fear in the minds of your opposition the moment you mark your run-up. You are in their heads. Suddenly, a 19-year-old teenager takes you on. Misses the first few. You offer a smile. You know you’ll eventually get him. Out of nowhere, you go for 14 runs in one over and 18 in another. Sam Konstas laps, reverse-scoops, makes room and pummels you all around the park. What would your mindset be? More importantly, what would your team do now? Very casually, the teenager gives an interview in the middle of the match. He says he would love to take you on once again. This contest marked the opening session of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia. Konstas vs Jasprit Bumrah round 1. Won by Konstas, fair and square. As a result of Konstas’s fiery knock and valuable contributions from Australia’s top order, they reach 237/2 at one point of time. In the meantime, Bumrah has got rid of Usman Khawaja, but that was with a rank loose ball. Even Bumrah broke into a smile after that dismissal. Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith looking well-set and ominous. The much-debated selection, Washington Sundar, comes in the attack and takes out Labuschagne. In walks Travis Head at No. 5. Head, the man with consecutive Player of the match awards in the last two tests against India. Twin daddy hundreds leading up to this Boxing Day Test. Immediately, Rohit Sharma turns to his trump card, Bumrah. Today, Bumrah’s first spell read: 38 runs in 6 overs without a wicket. First ball, Steve Smith pinches 3 runs due to a misfield from Mohammad Siraj. Head vs Bumrah now. Exactly what Rohit wanted. First ball angling down leg, Head misses a flick. Bumrah goes back to his bowling mark. Takes a breather. Starts running in again. Delivers the ball full steam. Perfect line to leave, Head is all but certain and he shoulders arms, like any batsman would do. Head did absolutely nothing wrong. But wait, if Head is Voldemort, Bumrah is no less than Albus Dumbledore of Hogwarts. The ball pitches on the perfect length, makes a wicked inward deviation off the seam, and clips top of off stump. Dream, dream ball for any fast bowler.And mind you, this was a red Kookaburra ball that was 67 overs old. Head, by far the most in-form batter in the series, walks back puzzled and disappointed. But that was just the start. The next batter, Mitchell Marsh, somehow survived the last three balls of the over and was squared up on a couple of occasions. Terrific line, perfect length and seam movement. Next over, Marsh is back on strike. Third ball of the over, he creams a drive through covers. Immediately, Bumrah hits the hard length. The ball bounces awkwardly, keeps climbing, and Marsh is unable to keep it down as it lobs up towards gully. Doesn’t carry though. But it does enough to create doubts in Marsh’s mind. He has been short of runs this entire series. He knows it. So does Bumrah. So what does Bumrah do? Tries something fancy? No. Keeps it simple, exactly what he has been doing this entire series. Last ball of the over. This time not the hard length. Not that bounce. But not short enough to pull either. Marsh tries to drag it from outside off and edges it to Rishabh Pant. So, what does this do? At the end of the day: 21-7-75-3. The wickets of Khawaja, Head and Marsh. Add to this, the second new ball has been taken. A fresh Bumrah will run in tomorrow morning ready to take out Smith and the rest. This is what makes the man so so special. It’s one thing having plans, it’s a completely different thing to execute them at the highest level. To do that repeatedly, relentlessly. And what does he do when he’s successful? Just a slight shrug of shoulders, small celebration with teammates and off he goes to his bowling mark once again. Ready to weave another magical spell. Ready to re-establish the fact that Jasprit Bumrah is by far the greatest fast bowler India has ever produced.

Maybe, Bumrah will raise a silent toast to Siraj for the misfield today. What a game-changer that turned out to be. After all, ‘We all believe in Jassi bhai. Game-changer player he is!’ Also have a look at:  The Australians in the huge #BoxingDay crowd expected another virtuoso knock from #TravisHead, but a moment of brilliance from #JaspritBumrah sent him on his way, and dragged into back into the contest after the early Konstas blows.@BoriaMajumdar writeshttps://t.co/iSmKOnDUAJ — RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) December 26, 2024 For more sports content follow : RevSportz The post Boom Boom Magic – Again appeared first on Sports News Portal | Latest Sports Articles | Revsports. [ad_2] Source link

[news365times]

[ad_1] Bumrah walking back to his run up. Pic credits ( Debasis Sen) Agnijit Sen at the MCG Imagine you are the best fast bowler in the world. You instil fear in the minds of your opposition the moment you mark your run-up. You are in their heads. Suddenly, a 19-year-old teenager takes you on. Misses the first few. You offer a smile. You know you’ll eventually get him. Out of nowhere, you go for 14 runs in one over and 18 in another. Sam Konstas laps, reverse-scoops, makes room and pummels you all around the park. What would your mindset be? More importantly, what would your team do now? Very casually, the teenager gives an interview in the middle of the match. He says he would love to take you on once again. This contest marked the opening session of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia. Konstas vs Jasprit Bumrah round 1. Won by Konstas, fair and square. As a result of Konstas’s fiery knock and valuable contributions from Australia’s top order, they reach 237/2 at one point of time. In the meantime, Bumrah has got rid of Usman Khawaja, but that was with a rank loose ball. Even Bumrah broke into a smile after that dismissal. Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith looking well-set and ominous. The much-debated selection, Washington Sundar, comes in the attack and takes out Labuschagne. In walks Travis Head at No. 5. Head, the man with consecutive Player of the match awards in the last two tests against India. Twin daddy hundreds leading up to this Boxing Day Test. Immediately, Rohit Sharma turns to his trump card, Bumrah. Today, Bumrah’s first spell read: 38 runs in 6 overs without a wicket. First ball, Steve Smith pinches 3 runs due to a misfield from Mohammad Siraj. Head vs Bumrah now. Exactly what Rohit wanted. First ball angling down leg, Head misses a flick. Bumrah goes back to his bowling mark. Takes a breather. Starts running in again. Delivers the ball full steam. Perfect line to leave, Head is all but certain and he shoulders arms, like any batsman would do. Head did absolutely nothing wrong. But wait, if Head is Voldemort, Bumrah is no less than Albus Dumbledore of Hogwarts. The ball pitches on the perfect length, makes a wicked inward deviation off the seam, and clips top of off stump. Dream, dream ball for any fast bowler.And mind you, this was a red Kookaburra ball that was 67 overs old. Head, by far the most in-form batter in the series, walks back puzzled and disappointed. But that was just the start. The next batter, Mitchell Marsh, somehow survived the last three balls of the over and was squared up on a couple of occasions. Terrific line, perfect length and seam movement. Next over, Marsh is back on strike. Third ball of the over, he creams a drive through covers. Immediately, Bumrah hits the hard length. The ball bounces awkwardly, keeps climbing, and Marsh is unable to keep it down as it lobs up towards gully. Doesn’t carry though. But it does enough to create doubts in Marsh’s mind. He has been short of runs this entire series. He knows it. So does Bumrah. So what does Bumrah do? Tries something fancy? No. Keeps it simple, exactly what he has been doing this entire series. Last ball of the over. This time not the hard length. Not that bounce. But not short enough to pull either. Marsh tries to drag it from outside off and edges it to Rishabh Pant. So, what does this do? At the end of the day: 21-7-75-3. The wickets of Khawaja, Head and Marsh. Add to this, the second new ball has been taken. A fresh Bumrah will run in tomorrow morning ready to take out Smith and the rest. This is what makes the man so so special. It’s one thing having plans, it’s a completely different thing to execute them at the highest level. To do that repeatedly, relentlessly. And what does he do when he’s successful? Just a slight shrug of shoulders, small celebration with teammates and off he goes to his bowling mark once again. Ready to weave another magical spell. Ready to re-establish the fact that Jasprit Bumrah is by far the greatest fast bowler India has ever produced.

Maybe, Bumrah will raise a silent toast to Siraj for the misfield today. What a game-changer that turned out to be. After all, ‘We all believe in Jassi bhai. Game-changer player he is!’ Also have a look at:  The Australians in the huge #BoxingDay crowd expected another virtuoso knock from #TravisHead, but a moment of brilliance from #JaspritBumrah sent him on his way, and dragged into back into the contest after the early Konstas blows.@BoriaMajumdar writeshttps://t.co/iSmKOnDUAJ — RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) December 26, 2024 For more sports content follow : RevSportz The post Boom Boom Magic – Again appeared first on Sports News Portal | Latest Sports Articles | Revsports. [ad_2] Source link

[lotuscricket]

IPL 2025 Mumbai Indians (MI): Can the Blue Brigade Reclaim Their Glory?

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is a cricketing carnival, and few teams embody the spirit of this tournament better than the Mumbai Indians (MI). Known for their dominance and consistency, MI is the most successful franchise in IPL history. But as IPL 2025 approaches, the big question is: Can the Mumbai Indians rise again and take home their record-breaking trophy? In this blog, we’ll analyze MI’s squad, strategies, and key players for the 2025 season, breaking it down so even a young cricket fan can enjoy the journey. Let’s dive into the possibilities for the Blue Brigade!

Why Are Mumbai Indians Special? The Mumbai Indians are not just a team; they’re a legacy. With five IPL titles under their belt, MI has set the gold standard for performance, leadership, and talent scouting. Their secret? A perfect mix of experienced players and young stars who bring fresh energy to the field. Led by the dynamic Hardik Pandya, MI has a reputation for thriving in high-pressure situations, particularly during playoffs. Over the years, they’ve built a fanbase that stretches far beyond Mumbai, making them one of the most loved franchises in cricket. Mumbai Indians Squad for IPL 2025 The IPL 2025 auction saw Mumbai Indians making some bold moves to strengthen their team. Here’s a look at their key players: Batsmen - Tilak Varma: A young left-hander with a knack for scoring big runs, Tilak has become a vital cog in MI’s batting lineup. - Dewald Brevis: Nicknamed "Baby AB," Brevis is known for his innovative strokes and fearless approach. - Rohit Sharma: The former captain and seasoned opener remains a crucial part of MI’s batting lineup, bringing experience and class to the top order. All-rounders - Hardik Pandya (Captain): Returning to MI as captain, Hardik brings his all-round skills and fiery leadership to the forefront. His ability to lead from the front makes him the perfect successor to Rohit Sharma. - Cameron Green: The Australian powerhouse brings balance with his big-hitting and reliable seam bowling. Bowlers - Jasprit Bumrah: MI’s pace spearhead and one of the world’s best bowlers, Bumrah is key to their success. - Jofra Archer: Partnering with Bumrah, Archer’s fiery pace and variations make MI’s bowling attack lethal. - Piyush Chawla: The veteran leg-spinner adds variety to MI’s bowling arsenal. Wicketkeeper - Ishan Kishan: As MI’s go-to wicketkeeper and explosive opening batter, Ishan plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the innings. Strengths of Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025 - Balanced Squad: MI’s lineup features a perfect blend of youth and experience, giving them the flexibility to adapt to any situation. - Strong Leadership: Hardik Pandya’s leadership is a proven recipe for success. His aggressive style and smart decision-making will inspire the team to give their best. - World-Class Pacers: The Bumrah-Archer duo can dismantle any batting lineup, especially in death overs where precision is key. - Explosive Middle Order: With players like Cameron Green and Tilak Varma, MI’s middle order can turn games around even after a shaky start. Challenges MI Might Face

- Injury Concerns: Players like Bumrah and Archer have had fitness issues in the past. MI’s success heavily depends on their availability. - Over-reliance on Key Players: While MI has a star-studded lineup, over-reliance on players like Hardik Pandya and Bumrah could backfire if they’re out of form. - Spin Bowling Depth: While Piyush Chawla brings experience, MI might struggle on spin-friendly tracks if they don’t develop younger spinners. Strategies for IPL 2025 1. Powerplay Domination: MI’s openers, Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma, need to maximize the powerplay by scoring aggressively. Setting a strong foundation will ease pressure on the middle order. 2. Middle-Over Control: With Cameron Green and Dewald Brevis in the middle overs, MI can maintain a healthy run rate and avoid collapses. Rotating the strike and occasional boundaries will keep the scoreboard ticking. 3. Death Over Magic: Bumrah and Archer are MI’s trump cards in the death overs. Their ability to bowl yorkers and slower deliveries can restrict opponents from scoring big. 4. Flexible Playing XI: Mumbai’s bench strength allows them to tweak their playing XI based on pitch conditions and opposition strengths. This adaptability can give them an edge. Key Matches to Watch - MI vs CSK: The El Cl��sico of IPL! Whenever Mumbai Indians take on Chennai Super Kings, it’s a high-voltage encounter. Expect fireworks from both sides. - MI vs RCB: Can Virat Kohli’s RCB break their jinx against MI? This match is always a thriller. - MI vs GT: Facing the Gujarat Titans will test MI’s bowling unit against players like Shubman Gill and Rashid Khan. IPL 2025 Prediction for Mumbai Indians With a well-rounded squad and the hunger to reclaim their dominance, MI looks set for another strong season. If their key players remain fit and the team executes strategies effectively, there’s no reason why Mumbai Indians can’t add a sixth trophy to their cabinet. While MI are strong contenders, IPL’s unpredictability makes every match a challenge. Will the Blue Brigade script another glorious chapter in their legacy? Only time will tell. Final Thoughts Mumbai Indians’ journey in IPL 2025 will be an exciting one to watch. As fans, we can expect thrilling performances, brilliant captaincy, and unforgettable moments. Whether they win or not, one thing’s for sure: MI will fight till the last ball. Who do you think will shine for MI in IPL 2025? Share your predictions in the comments below! Read the full article

[rajsingh1919]

How to Create the Best Team For IPL 2025 In Fantasy Cricket?

Fantasy cricket is an exciting way to engage with the IPL season, combining your knowledge of the game with strategic decision-making. With IPL 2025 on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to start planning your fantasy cricket team. Building the best fantasy cricket team for IPL 2025 involves a mix of thorough research, creative budgeting, and staying updated on the latest news.

This guide will walk you through step-by-step strategies, covering everything from understanding the points system to last-minute team tweaks, helping you build a winning IPL fantasy team.

Understanding the Points System

Before you start creating your fantasy team, it’s vital to familiarize yourself with the points system of the platform you’re using. Each platform has its unique rules, and knowing them inside out can give you a competitive edge.

Key Points to Note:

Batting Points: Runs, strike rates, and milestones (e.g., half-centuries or centuries) earn points. However, poor strike rates may incur penalties.

Bowling Points: Wickets, economy rates, and four or five-wicket hauls are highly rewarding.

Fielding Points: Catches, run-outs, and stumpings can add bonus points.

Captain and Vice-Captain Multipliers: Your captain earns double the points, and the vice-captain earns 1.5x points.

Example: If your captain scores 50 runs and takes 2 wickets, the additional multiplier can significantly boost your team’s overall score.

Analyzing Player Performance and Form

The performance and form of players are among the most important aspects of team selection. While star players are obvious choices, recent form often outweighs past glory.

Steps to Analyze Performance:

Study Recent Matches: Evaluate how players have performed in the lead-up to IPL 2025, including domestic leagues and international games.

Consistency Matters: Look for players who consistently deliver, even under pressure.

Player Matchups: Some players perform better against specific teams. For example, a batter with a history of success against a particular bowling lineup might be a wise choice.

Example: A player like Rashid Khan, known for his consistency in the T20 format, is a reliable pick for wickets and economy points.

Balancing Star Players with Budget Picks

Your fantasy cricket budget requires careful planning. It’s tempting to pick an all-star lineup, but that’s rarely feasible due to salary cap restrictions.

Tips for Balancing:

Invest in Core Players: Allocate a significant portion of your budget to 2–3 marquee players who are expected to be consistent performers.

Find Hidden Gems: Identify uncapped players or those who are in form but undervalued. These budget picks can offer excellent returns on investment.

Monitor Squad Depth: Teams with strong benches may rotate players, so focus on those likely to play most matches.

Example: Emerging talents like Tilak Varma in previous seasons have been game-changers for fantasy players.

Monitoring Pitch and Weather Conditions

Understanding the pitch and weather conditions is crucial when building a team. A player’s performance can be significantly influenced by external factors.

How to Evaluate Conditions:

Research Venues: Check historical data for each stadium—some favor batsmen, while others assist bowlers.

Consider Weather Forecasts: Rain can reduce overs and favor bowlers with tight economies or all-rounders.

Adapt to Playing Surfaces: For example, spinners thrive on dry pitches like Chennai, while pacers excel on seaming tracks like Mohali.

Pro Tip: Adjust your team composition based on these factors to gain an edge.

Utilizing Captain and Vice-Captain Selection Wisely

The captain and vice-captain are your team’s most crucial picks, as their performance multiplies your points.

Best Practices for Selection:

Focus on All-Rounders: Players like Hardik Pandya or Glenn Maxwell contribute with both bat and ball, doubling their chances of earning points.

Match-Based Decisions: Choose captains who excel against specific teams or on certain pitches.

Avoid High Risks: Don’t gamble on players with inconsistent performances for these roles.

Example: If a player like Virat Kohli is in top form, making him your captain can result in massive rewards.

Last-Minute Updates: Keeping an Eye on Playing XI

Even the best-laid plans can go awry if a player doesn’t make it to the playing XI. Ensure your team is up-to-date before the match starts.

How to Stay Updated:

Follow Official Announcements: Teams usually confirm their playing XI 30 minutes before the match.

Use Reliable Sources: Check verified Twitter accounts, team websites, or fantasy platform updates.

Swap Out Benched Players: Make quick adjustments to replace inactive players with active ones.

Pro Tip: Platforms often allow changes until the toss, giving you time to make last-minute corrections.

Additional Fantasy Cricket Strategies for IPL 2025

Here are more tips to help you dominate fantasy leagues this IPL season:

Track Player Injuries: Avoid selecting players recovering from injuries or those prone to frequent fitness issues.

Diversify Your Team: Pick players from different teams to spread the risk.

Build Multiple Teams: Experiment with different combinations to maximize your chances of success.

Follow IPL Auctions: Note which players were picked at high prices—they’re likely to feature prominently in their teams.

Example: Players bought for high sums in the auction often carry the team’s expectations and are given key roles.

How Gali Disawar Mix Enthusiasts Can Relate

Fantasy cricket and games like Gali Disawar Mix share common traits: both require strategic thinking, pattern recognition, and informed decision-making. Just as analyzing trends helps in fantasy cricket, it’s equally valuable in Gali Disawar Mix. Enthusiasts can apply these skills to enhance their performance in gaming platforms that demand a mix of luck and logic.

Conclusion: Start Building Your Winning IPL Fantasy Team

Crafting the best fantasy cricket team for IPL 2025 involves careful research, real-time adaptability, and a deep understanding of the game. Whether you’re a cricket fanatic or someone looking to sharpen your gaming skills, these strategies can help you dominate your fantasy league.

So why wait? Start analyzing, strategizing, and building your dream team today. Whether it’s your fantasy league or Gali Disawar Mix, remember: the key to success lies in smart decisions and calculated risks. Assemble your winning team now and make IPL 2025 a season to remember!

[trendingnews19]

Teen prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi's struggles against seam bowling was apparent during his brief stay as India U-19 comprising IPL contract owners struggled badly during their 43-run defeat to Pakistan in the Youth Asia Cup in Dubai on Saturday. After muscular left-hander Shahzaib Khan thrashed Indian bowlers to submission with 10 sixes in his 159 off 147 balls, Indians were never in sight of victory target of 282. They eventually got out for 238 in 47.1 overs but rising youngsters like Suryavanshi (1), Ayush Mhatre (20), C Andre Siddarth (15) and left-arm spinner Hardik Raj (0/47 in 6 overs) won't be amused with their performance. However it must be mentioned that Mhatre with his touch and range looked a cut above the rest in the Indian team as he got out for 20 which had five boundaries.The bulky left-hander Suryavanshi, who has had a very poor Ranji season, just got a solitary run as tall medium pacers Ali Raza and Abdul Subhan troubled him a lot.Lot is expected of the Rajasthan Royals' Rs 1.10-crore signing but at 13 year and 8 months, he needs a lot of work to be even consistent at U-19 international level.Subhan squared up Mhatre with a delivery that rose from length and moved a shade to take his outside edge, while Suryavanshi' feet didn't move when Raza slipped an angular fuller ball that he edged to the keeper.The biggest disappointment turned out to be skipper Mohammed Amman, who dragged his way to 16 of 43 balls and his innings was one of the reasons that India U-19 couldn't really get the momentum once Mhatre was gone.Nikhil Kumar's 67 was the only saving grace.In the bowling department, India depended on their two spinners -- leg-spinner Mohammed Ennan (0/34 in 2 overs) and Raj, and both were taken to task by Shahzaib.Especially Ennan, who either bowled half-trackers or over-pitched deliveries, all of which were dispatched into the stands.In fact, Mhatre (2/30 in 7 overs) had to be brought in to cover for him and promptly got a couple of wickets, but Shahzaib had done enough damage and 280-plus was a winning total at the U-19 level.(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.) Topics mentioned in this article

[cmi-times]

IPL Auction 2025: 7 Players Mumbai Indians Can Buy with Their Remaining Budget

The IPL Auction 2025 is around the corner. And as in each season, big moves with Mumbai Indians can be expected to strengthen their team. Well, with a good core of retained Indian players, including Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma, and Tilak Varma, Mumbai Indians will have an excellent national backbone, which forms the core strength. Though their primary emphasis will be on quality foreign players, particularly fast bowlers, as Wankhede Stadium is an outright fast-tracking surface. Here are 7 players MI could target to strengthen their squad within their available budget:

Josh Hazlewood (Australia) - Fast Bowler Josh Hazlewood’s precise line and length make him a potent threat in any condition. MI’s interest in him would be particularly strong given the flat pitches at Wankhede Stadium, which can benefit fast bowlers who can generate swing. Hazlewood’s ability to bowl under pressure in the death overs and his experience in T20 leagues around the world make him an ideal candidate for MI's bowling attack.

Dawid Malan, England Top-order batsman Dawid Malan, the top-order batsman of England, would be one excellent pick for MI. Consistency is one of his key strengths, and with Malan, an innings is anchored to a better extent. Malan comes across as versatile, considering he can play against both pace and spin. He has enormous experience in T20 cricket in leagues like Big Bash League and The Hundred, so that automatically adds value to the batting line-up for MI.

Lockie Ferguson (New Zealand) – Fast Bowler In the past, MI has often backed strong pace bowlers, and Lockie Ferguson is no exception. He's been renowned for his raw pace and can be a massive destroyer of batsmen in the death overs. His express speed coupled with his ability to bowl yorkers even when in pressure situations makes him an expensive asset in T20 cricket. Against Wankhede, where swift bowling can cause serious problems for batsmen, Ferguson might find solace along with Bumrah and Pandya.

Adam Zampa - Leg Spinner 4. Australia Adam Zampa, of course, is a proven wicket-taker, one who is a specialist in the middle overs. With Wankhede sometimes allowing spinners to gain a seam that helps them win the game, Mumbai might just need Zampa to provide the right arm of control and variation. Experience in the IPL for Royal Challengers Bangalore and his attendant performances in other T20 leagues make him a high-profile target for MI looking to strengthen their spin arsenal.

Shimron Hetmyer (West Indies) – Middle-order batsman Shimron Hetmyer is an aggressive middleorder bat, but a hitter nevertheless. He has the ability to fire in the latter half of the innings, which is a great asset for MI to have as a finisher. With the aim of a power-hitting depth in the squad, Hetmyer's experience in T20 cricket and the time he has spent in IPL would add to his value for the team. His aggressive stroke play could complement MI's strong top-order batsmen such as Suryakumar Yadav and Rohit Sharma.

Kyle Jamieson (New Zealand) - All-rounder Kyle Jamieson is well balanced between his pace and batting depth. He can bowl consistently at a speed of 140 km/h plus and chip in with the bat towards the end, making him a valuable asset to MI across both departments. He will complement Hardik Pandya as an all-rounder and provide some extra heft with their bowling attack on flat Wankhede pitches.

Rilee Rossouw (South Africa) – Top-order Batsman The game may turn out to be a game-changer for MI if Rilee Rossouw manages to form partnerships at the top of the order with aggressive strokes. With his experience playing T20 leagues around the world, Rossouw has a reputation for coming under pressure and accelerating games as needed. Rossouw might be the injection MI will need to give depth in the middle overs and allow players like Suryakumar Yadav and Rohit Sharma to come out and play freely at the top.

Conclusion With IPL Auction 2025 around the corner, Mumbai Indians will do some shrewd maneuvering to add strength to their squad, especially in the foreign player department. Fast bowlers are going to be some of the major targets for MI, especially going by the nature of Wankhede Stadium's pitch. Josh Hazlewood, Lockie Ferguson, and Adam Zampa will bring fire in their bowling attack while Dawid Malan, Shimron Hetmyer, and Rilee Rossouw will provide the batting lineup depth and versatility. If MI can get these players within the remaining budget, they will have a strong, well-balanced squad to challenge for the title in IPL 2025.

Keep watching CMITimes for more updates on the IPL Auction 2025 and Mumbai Indians' strategies!

[sjsports123]

The Different Types of Cricket Balls

There is a widespread belief that the type of ball used has a significant effect on the game. This seems to make no sense in terms of physics.

The ball starts life as a large sheet of leather, dyed either red or white. It is then cut into four pieces and stitched together covering a string-spun chunk of cork.

Durability

The cricket ball is a crucial component of the game, providing batsmen and bowlers with unique challenges. From the distinct swing and seam movement of a red leather Heavy cricket balls in Test matches to the visibility and behaviour of white and pink cricket balls in limited-overs and day-night tests, understanding the differences between the different types of cricket balls helps players adapt their skills and tactics accordingly.

Durability is essential for a cricket ball, as it needs to be able to withstand highspeed play. It also requires good stitching, as it must be able to withstand wear and tear without compromising its structural integrity.

The TENNEX cricket tennis balls are designed for durability, ensuring they can stand up to the rigours of the game. The heavy design provides a more challenging training experience for players, helping them develop their strength and improve their batting and bowling skills. These balls are also ideal for casual play and practice sessions, as they can withstand a variety of weather conditions.

Weight

The weight of the cricket ball is important because it affects the amount of momentum imparted on the bat. Batsmen often choose a bat that feels light or heavy to them, depending on their strength. This is because a bat with the right amount of weight will allow them to maximize their swing speed.

The spherical cricket ball is made from leather that has been dyed the iconic red or modern white. It has a cork core, which is layered with tightly wound string and covered by a leather case with a slightly raised seam. The top-quality balls used for the highest level of competition have a covering constructed from four pieces of leather shaped like the peel of a quartered orange, with one hemisphere rotated by 90 degrees to the other and stitched together using six rows of stitches.

Bowling faster is a goal of many cricketers. Petersen and colleagues found that a 10week program of training with underweight and overweight cricket balls did not increase the bowling speed of male club-level cricket players.

Bounce

The bounce of a cricket ball is an essential factor in its performance, as it influences the bowler’s ability to swing and grip the pitch. A new ball has a higher bounce than an older one, and this is due to the difference in its materials and manufacturing. It is also influenced by the surface conditions and weather.

In general, bowlers described as having a heavy ball are not actually very fast, but they are able to impact the bat with greater force than is suggested by their pace. This is because they are able to generate a lot of backspin.

When choosing a cricket ball, it is important to consider its weight, material quality and seam strength. It is also vital to ensure that it is durable and that its seam position and stitching are properly placed, especially for spin bowlers. The textured surface is also important, and brands such as Kookaburra and SG are known for their excellent grip.

Feel

In a cricket ball, a cork sphere is layered with tightly wound string and covered by two leather halves. Each half is stitched with an inner seam and a raised outer seam. The seams create a distinctive feel when struck by a bat. The higher the seam, the more the ball will vibrate when hit. Usually, a high quality ball for international level cricket will have three seams and six rows of stitches. Lower-quality balls may have two seams.

Often the best way to find out how heavy a cricket ball is is by playing with one. Ideally, you will use a regulation cricket bat rather than a tape ball. This will ensure that the bat is safe if it is hit by the ball.

Commentators often describe a bowler as having a “heavy ball”. What does this mean in physics terms? A heavy ball simply means that a delivery seems to impact the bat with more force than is expected from its pace.

[sportsmedia08]

Six Essential Equipment in Cricket

Cricket, a bat-and-ball game, has a rich history and a global following. To play the game, certain essential equipment is required. Here are six basic pieces of equipment used in cricket:

1. Bat

The bat is the primary tool used by a batsman to hit the ball. It is typically made of willow wood, which is known for its durability and lightness. The bat has a handle and a blade. The blade is flat and wide, allowing the batsman to strike the ball with force. The handle is used for gripping the bat and controlling its swing.

Cricket Bats

2. Ball

The ball is a hard, leather-covered sphere that is used to bowl to the batsman. It is filled with cork and rubber, which gives it its weight and bounce. The seam of the ball is crucial as it can help the bowler to swing the ball through the air. The color of the ball varies depending on the format of the game. In Test and first-class cricket, a red ball is used, while in limited-overs cricket, a white ball is used.

3. Wickets

The wickets are a set of three stumps made of wood, which are placed upright in the ground. On top of each stump, two bails are placed horizontally. The batsman is out if the bails are dislodged from the stumps. The wicketkeeper stands behind the stumps to try to catch the ball and dismiss the batsman.

4. Helmet

A helmet is a protective piece of equipment worn by the batsman to protect their head from being hit by the ball. It is made of a hard outer shell and a soft inner lining. Batsmen are required to wear helmets in all forms of cricket.

Cricket Helmet

5. Pads

Pads are protective gear worn by the batsman to protect their legs from being hit by the ball. They are made of a hard outer shell and a soft inner lining. Batsmen are typically required to wear pads when facing fast bowlers.

Cricket Pads

6. Gloves

Gloves are worn by the batsman to protect their hands from being injured when they hit the ball. They are made of a durable material and have padding to absorb the impact of the ball. Batsmen are typically required to wear gloves when facing fast bowlers.

Cricket Gloves

Cricket Batting Gloves

In addition to these basic pieces of equipment, cricket players may also use other items, such as a drink bottle, sunscreen, and a cap. The specific equipment used by a player will depend on their role in the team and the conditions of the match.

[global-newz]

Jordan Cox Poised to Step Up in New Zealand Tour Amid Smith's Absence

Jordan Cox, the young Essex cricketer, is likely to make his Test debut for England on the upcoming tour of New Zealand. Cox, who is currently serving as a backup wicketkeeper to Jamie Smith on the Pakistan tour, could step in as Smith is expected to miss part of the series for the birth of his first child.

The 24-year-old Cox, who made his international debut in the T20 series against Australia earlier this year, has impressed the England camp with his talent and versatility. England head coach Brendon McCullum confirmed that Smith might play only the first Test in New Zealand before returning home.

"At this stage, it looks like Jamie will probably play the first one and may miss the next two," McCullum stated. "It would be great to have a look at Jordan Cox as well. New Zealand is a comfortable place to keep wicket."

Smith, who has become England's first-choice wicketkeeper this summer, has won eight Test caps since his promotion. He will be behind the stumps for the final Test against Pakistan, starting in Rawalpindi this week. Cox, on the other hand, has been part of the England squad as a backup but hasn’t played in a Test match yet. He joined Essex from Kent for the 2024 season but hasn’t kept wicket in first-class cricket since a serious finger injury in mid-2023.

Despite his limited experience as a wicketkeeper, McCullum praised Cox's overall abilities. "His keeping is solid," McCullum said. "He’s one of those guys who seems to excel at everything, and he's got a high ceiling in terms of talent, especially with the bat. There’s a good chance he’ll get the opportunity in New Zealand."

With the tour of New Zealand on the horizon, England is expected to finalize their squad after the conclusion of the Pakistan series. The absence of Smith could necessitate the addition of extra batting cover, although McCullum has indicated that England might not need to bring in another wicketkeeper, as Ollie Pope has previously filled in behind the stumps.

The potential changes to the squad also include the removal of spinner Rehan Ahmed, as New Zealand's conditions are not expected to favor a third spinner. Fast bowlers such as Josh Hull, Dillon Pennington, and Jamie Overton are among the contenders for the extra seam-bowling spot.

Cox is set to be among the players released from the Pakistan tour to join England's white-ball squad for the West Indies series. Olly Stone, who returned home from Pakistan last week to get married, is also expected to be available for the West Indies tour.

With the New Zealand tour approaching, England faces key decisions on how to manage the transition while continuing their momentum from the Pakistan series. McCullum remains optimistic about the team’s chances in both series, saying, "We’ll come up with the right tactics to give ourselves the best chance of nabbing the series win

[thinkingofyours]

🌟 Mohammed Siraj: The Rising Star of Indian Cricket! 🌟

From the streets of Hyderabad to the grand stadiums of international cricket, Mohammed Siraj’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. Known for his lethal seam movement and fiery pace, Siraj has made a significant mark in the cricketing world. 🏏

✨ Key Records:

Test Matches: 74 wickets in 27 matches, with a best of 6/15. ODIs: 68 wickets in 41 matches, best figures of 6/21. T20Is: 14 wickets in 15 matches, best of 4/17. Siraj’s ability to swing the ball and deliver quick bouncers has made him a crucial player for Team India. His standout performances in the 2023 Asia Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup have cemented his place as a top bowler. 🌍🏆

[news365timesindia]

[ad_1] Left: Pat Cummins, Right: Marnus Labuschagne. Photo: Debasis Sen Soon after the Sydney Test match in January 2019 had been called off and the press conferences from both captains were over, Tim Paine, accompanied by his wife and other family members, was seen pushing his child’s stroller and silently walking out of the SCG. There were a handful of Indian fans waiting outside the ground, but none bothered to walk up to Paine to ask for a picture. Paine, who had led Australia with dignity and poise in the aftermath of Sandpapergate, hadn’t been able to deliver results. Good behaviour, while it was important, wasn’t enough in the absence of match-winning performances from Paine and his team. Losing a series at home to India added to the sense of dejection. Australia, many thought, had the bowlers. It was almost the same bowling attack as now, but it wasn’t good enough to push India. Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood (now out injured) and Pat Cummins weren’t at their best, and India won their first series in Australia in 71 years. If anything, 2021 was even better for India. It was a tougher series and, yet again, India emerged triumphant. And now, it is time for the Boxing Day Test, a match that could decide the fate of this evenly contested series. Seeing the fragility in the top-order batting, Australia have called up 19 year old Sam Konstas, who many feel has the talent. Australian cricket, much like India’s, it is fair to say, is in transition. “India will be delighted to have come here 1-1, and from here on, anything can happen,” felt former Australian captain Michael Clarke. While many believe that Konstas is as good and talented as Dave Warner and have talked him up on television, he needs to play a solid Test innings to convince one and all that he has it in him to be a fixture in the Australian team going forward. While Konstas could well be given a long rope, the same can’t be said of Marnus Labuschagne, who showed glimpses of solidity in Adelaide before falling yet again to some good Indian bowling in Brisbane. For the Latest Sports News: Click Here Australia outplayed India in Adelaide to level the series (PC: X) With the ball, the best talent that Australia can turn to is Scott Boland. Boland has been in superb form in domestic cricket and has both waspish pace and guile. He can move the ball off the seam, and could be a very good back-up for Starc and Cummins. Perhaps Australia’s national selectors need to recalibrate as well. The best case in point is their handling of Nathan McSweeney. No player, suffice to say, would want to be in his shoes at the moment. He was picked for the first three Tests and dropped before the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Now, if Usman Khawaja continues to fail, will it mean that McSweeney is brought back for Sydney? Is he the replacement for Steve Smith going forward? Such selection methods can have a cruel effect on the mind of a player, and McSweeney could end up being scarred. So, can Australia make it count at the MCG? With the Adelaide win behind him, Pat Cummins does have a bit more time. But not much. A loss against India, and things could unravel very fast for him. Patience isn’t a virtue of the Australian cricket public, and just like Paine before him, Cummins will be at the receiving end if things go wrong against a fairly fragile Indian batting line-up.   Also Read: Back at the nets, and back in my element The post Pat Cummins and Australia team in transition hope to avoid Tim Paine-like fate appeared first on Sports News Portal | Latest Sports Articles | Revsports. [ad_2] Source link

[news365times]

[ad_1] Left: Pat Cummins, Right: Marnus Labuschagne. Photo: Debasis Sen Soon after the Sydney Test match in January 2019 had been called off and the press conferences from both captains were over, Tim Paine, accompanied by his wife and other family members, was seen pushing his child’s stroller and silently walking out of the SCG. There were a handful of Indian fans waiting outside the ground, but none bothered to walk up to Paine to ask for a picture. Paine, who had led Australia with dignity and poise in the aftermath of Sandpapergate, hadn’t been able to deliver results. Good behaviour, while it was important, wasn’t enough in the absence of match-winning performances from Paine and his team. Losing a series at home to India added to the sense of dejection. Australia, many thought, had the bowlers. It was almost the same bowling attack as now, but it wasn’t good enough to push India. Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood (now out injured) and Pat Cummins weren’t at their best, and India won their first series in Australia in 71 years. If anything, 2021 was even better for India. It was a tougher series and, yet again, India emerged triumphant. And now, it is time for the Boxing Day Test, a match that could decide the fate of this evenly contested series. Seeing the fragility in the top-order batting, Australia have called up 19 year old Sam Konstas, who many feel has the talent. Australian cricket, much like India’s, it is fair to say, is in transition. “India will be delighted to have come here 1-1, and from here on, anything can happen,” felt former Australian captain Michael Clarke. While many believe that Konstas is as good and talented as Dave Warner and have talked him up on television, he needs to play a solid Test innings to convince one and all that he has it in him to be a fixture in the Australian team going forward. While Konstas could well be given a long rope, the same can’t be said of Marnus Labuschagne, who showed glimpses of solidity in Adelaide before falling yet again to some good Indian bowling in Brisbane. For the Latest Sports News: Click Here Australia outplayed India in Adelaide to level the series (PC: X) With the ball, the best talent that Australia can turn to is Scott Boland. Boland has been in superb form in domestic cricket and has both waspish pace and guile. He can move the ball off the seam, and could be a very good back-up for Starc and Cummins. Perhaps Australia’s national selectors need to recalibrate as well. The best case in point is their handling of Nathan McSweeney. No player, suffice to say, would want to be in his shoes at the moment. He was picked for the first three Tests and dropped before the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Now, if Usman Khawaja continues to fail, will it mean that McSweeney is brought back for Sydney? Is he the replacement for Steve Smith going forward? Such selection methods can have a cruel effect on the mind of a player, and McSweeney could end up being scarred. So, can Australia make it count at the MCG? With the Adelaide win behind him, Pat Cummins does have a bit more time. But not much. A loss against India, and things could unravel very fast for him. Patience isn’t a virtue of the Australian cricket public, and just like Paine before him, Cummins will be at the receiving end if things go wrong against a fairly fragile Indian batting line-up.   Also Read: Back at the nets, and back in my element The post Pat Cummins and Australia team in transition hope to avoid Tim Paine-like fate appeared first on Sports News Portal | Latest Sports Articles | Revsports. [ad_2] Source link

[allaboutcricketstore]

Exploring the Variations: Red vs. White Cricket Balls and Their Manufacturing Process

Cricket (just like in most sports) has its fair share of debates—and one of the hot topics amongst fans and players alike is the difference between red and white cricket balls. Is one type better? Does the manufacturing process even matter for something like a cricket tennis ball forpractice? While the color difference might seem superficial, it really does spark passionate discussions. Everyone from coaches to players to fans all weigh in on whether one ball performs better or if the manufacturing process should be the same for both red and white cricket balls.

Understanding the red and white Red balls reigned supreme in traditional test matches for centuries because these balls are known for their durability and ability to swing under specific conditions. It was only in the late 20th century that white balls were used specifically for limited-overs formats like T20 and ODI matches. The color white was not a random choice—it was chosen to enhance visibility for both players and spectators, particularly during day-night games played under floodlights.

Color is not the only distinguishing factor between white and red cricket tennis balls. The materials and manufacturing process also vary and affect the ball’s performance on the field.

Swing potential

Many factors impact a cricket ball’s swing potential, such as the materials and construction. A white ball is made of alum-tanned leather, while red is made of dyed leather. The former is more resistant to wear and tear. Meanwhile, red balls have a pronounced seam that helps generate more swing compared to the minimally obvious seam on white ones. Swing potential is also affected by the ball’s condition and the bowler’s technique and skill.

Although there is no exact answer on which ball has better swing potential, red balls are generally more suitable for swing bowling because of their dyed leather construction and pronounced seam. The dyed leather promotes a more significant contrast between the rough and shiny sides to aid in conventional swing, while the seams offer better grip and movement through the air. As red balls deteriorate with use, they become ideal for reverse swing (another bowling technique).

On the other hand, white balls are constructed with alum-tanned leather, which prioritizes durability over swing-friendly characteristics. The less prominent seams also limit the movements through the air. That said, some adept bowlers can achieve swing with white balls,

Not sure which ball to buy?

All About Cricket Store is the best place to shop for red and white cricket balls from brands like Vamos, Focus, SG, AAC, AJ, and SF. They also carry cricket tennis balls by Nivia and Headly for practice. If you need help choosing, feel free to chat with their experts for advice. You can also read the buying guides on their website.