Rohit Sharma, who pulled off an improbable victory for Deccan Chargers against Kolkata Knight Riders Saturday, said his good performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) will boost his confidence ahead of next month's Twenty20 World Cup.
Sharma's unbeaten 32 off 13 balls saw Deccan Chargers romp home with six wickets while chasing 161 in their must-win IPL game.
"Knocks like this would obviously boost my confidence going into the T20 World Cup. There is still some time left for the World Cup. We have some time to prepare it," said Sharma who has struck two half-centuries in the tournament.
Chargers needed 21 off the last over from IPL debutant Mashrafe Mortaza and Sharma kept his composure to hit two sixes and as many fours.
Sharma said he knew that Mortaza was under pressure after being hit for a four in the first ball.
"I knew that 21 runs in one over were not going to be easy. But when he (Mortaza) bowled a no-ball and I got a four, then I knew that it's easily possible because the wicket was good the ball was coming on nicely. If you hit the boundary off the first ball, the pressure is back on the bowler. I thought I must take full advantage," he said.
"Mortaza didn't start off that well and was under pressure. We decided to have a go. We had wickets in hand so that was not a problem."
"I knew that he would bowl right in the blockhole. So there was a certain plan that I decided and it came off very well."
[the artical was orgiginally published at http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/007200905171751.htm]
Showing posts with label ipl 2009. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ipl 2009. Show all posts
Monday, May 18, 2009
Chennai seek to cement semi-final berth
Big Picture
As the race for a place in the semi-finals intensifies, the entertainment value of the last few games has shot up drastically, with the audience treated to a series of last-over thrillers. Teams that began shakily have now emerged serious contenders while some that were resting easy at the top have been made to regret their slip-ups. But amid the unpredictability, there have been constants.
Kolkata Knight Riders have had a horrendous tournament and have been out of the running for some time but now they've even squandered the opportunity to determine who makes it to the top four, throwing away hard-won advantages to concede improbable victories. On the other hand, Chennai Super Kings have been highly consistent and now have their best chance of ending any mathematical possibility of not finishing in the 'safe zone'.
Chennai are currently placed second and will confirm their qualification for the semi-finals if they beat Kolkata. If they lose though, they'll face the frustrating prospect of having to rely on the outcome of their final league game against Kings XI Punjab, and possibly net run-rate to see where they finish. Kolkata have another chance to dent some hopes, but their torrid run combined with a recent tendency to be excessively generous to their opponents at the death means Chennai will have few fears.
Form guide (completed matches, most recent first)
Chennai - WLWWW
Chennai's march in the competition was boosted by a run of five-successive wins, ended by Royal Challengers Bangalore in Durban. However, a win over Mumbai Indians in their previous game made up for the blip, taking them to the brink of qualification. Their opening combination has been a worry. Matthew Hayden has been prolific, but has lacked support from the other end. The first-wicket has averaged 21.7 in the last six games, as M Vijay, Parthiv Patel and S Badrinath have struggled to bat long enough. Suresh Raina is Chennai's second-highest run getter but has managed one half-century in 11 games and 48 runs in his last three. Hayden's too far ahead to catch up, but Raina ought to make a greater impact at No.3. Their bowlers have proved reliable throughout, successfully defending targets in four of their last six games, and giving Bangalore a serious scare despite their batsmen posting just 129.
Kolkata - LLLLL
Of their last seven losses, four have been decided in the final over and the last two have been the most agonizing. Kolkata showed signs of revival, with their batsmen, especially the foreign recruits, stepping up. Brad Hodge, Morne van Wyk and David Hussey have each justified their induction and even their captain, Brendon McCullum, shrugged off his poor form, carting 84 against Bangalore in Centurion. But it was their fast bowlers who let them down badly after the spinners had put them in strong positions. Ajit Agarkar and Ishant Sharma fed Ross Taylor full tosses and he punished them to snatch an unlikely win for Bangalore. Bangladeshi fans desperately waiting for Mashrafe Mortaza's appearance were in for a nightmare. Their star player was unable to prevent Deccan Chargers from knocking off 21 required for a win in the final over and earned the dubious distinction of bowling the most expensive spell in the IPL this year.
Watch out for
MS Dhoni - His leadership has been impressive, and so has his batting. Dhoni has moved himself around considerably in the middle order, and backed up his two half-centuries with some cameos, proving effective at the death. With Hayden dominating the top order, Dhoni has been the stand-out player in the middle. He's been involved in four 50-plus partnerships in the last seven games, two each with Hayden and Raina, batting out till the end of the innings to string a favourable result each time.
David Hussey - Kolkata missed him for much of the IPL, but Hussey made an immediate impact upon his return from the UAE, providing the innings a major boost with two quickfire 40-plus contributions. He helped Kolkata almost double their score after the 15th over, clattering a 17-ball 43 against Deccan, and must ideally play a greater role with his offspinners, especially when the pace attack has proved his team's undoing.
Teams
Parthiv Patel opened for Chennai against Mumbai after sitting out for five matches, but suffered a first-ball duck. He could, yet again, make way for M Vijay, though Chennai may still give him another go. Jacob Oram has made just one significant contribution with the bat this IPL, and his average of 15.50 is disappointing. In eight matches, he's only bowled two full spells, and if his team wishes to strengthen its batting, George Bailey could be drafted in.
Chennai Super Kings: 1 Parthiv Patel/M Vijay, 2 Matthew Hayden, 3 Suresh Raina, 4 MS Dhoni, 5 S Badrinath, 6 Jacob Oram/George Bailey, 7 Albie Morkel, 8 Sudeep Tyagi, 9 Shadab Jakati, 10 Muttiah Muralitharan, 11 L Balaji.
Kolkata's predominant concern in their previous couple of games has been their bowling. Agarkar has been their most expensive bowler - among those who've played five or more games - conceding 9.73-an-over, and Kolkata may look to bring in Ashok Dinda in his place. Mortaza's hammering at the hands of Rohit Sharma, much to the disappointment of those who so eagerly awaited his IPL debut, could cost him his place, and the team may want to induct Charl Langeveldt, whose inclusion in the XI is long overdue.
Kolkata Knight Riders: 1 Brendon McCullum, 2 Sourav Ganguly, 3 Brad Hodge, 4 David Hussey, 5 Wriddhiman Saha, 6 Yashpal Singh, 7 Charl Langeveldt/Mashrafe Mortaza, 8 Murali Kartik, 9 Ajit Agarkar/Ashok Dinda, 10 Ishant Sharma, 11 Shoaib Shaikh.
Stats and Trivia
Head-to-head record
The previous game between the two teams was washed out in Cape Town. Chennai emerged victors in both contests last year, with Hayden and Dhoni combining to complete a nine-wicket win in the first. In the second, Makhaya Ntini took 4 for 21, including a hat-trick, and the Chennai openers did well enough before rain intervened to win the match by the D/L method.
[the article was originally published at http://content.cricinfo.com/ipl2009/content/story/404794.html]
As the race for a place in the semi-finals intensifies, the entertainment value of the last few games has shot up drastically, with the audience treated to a series of last-over thrillers. Teams that began shakily have now emerged serious contenders while some that were resting easy at the top have been made to regret their slip-ups. But amid the unpredictability, there have been constants.
Kolkata Knight Riders have had a horrendous tournament and have been out of the running for some time but now they've even squandered the opportunity to determine who makes it to the top four, throwing away hard-won advantages to concede improbable victories. On the other hand, Chennai Super Kings have been highly consistent and now have their best chance of ending any mathematical possibility of not finishing in the 'safe zone'.
Chennai are currently placed second and will confirm their qualification for the semi-finals if they beat Kolkata. If they lose though, they'll face the frustrating prospect of having to rely on the outcome of their final league game against Kings XI Punjab, and possibly net run-rate to see where they finish. Kolkata have another chance to dent some hopes, but their torrid run combined with a recent tendency to be excessively generous to their opponents at the death means Chennai will have few fears.
Form guide (completed matches, most recent first)
Chennai - WLWWW
Chennai's march in the competition was boosted by a run of five-successive wins, ended by Royal Challengers Bangalore in Durban. However, a win over Mumbai Indians in their previous game made up for the blip, taking them to the brink of qualification. Their opening combination has been a worry. Matthew Hayden has been prolific, but has lacked support from the other end. The first-wicket has averaged 21.7 in the last six games, as M Vijay, Parthiv Patel and S Badrinath have struggled to bat long enough. Suresh Raina is Chennai's second-highest run getter but has managed one half-century in 11 games and 48 runs in his last three. Hayden's too far ahead to catch up, but Raina ought to make a greater impact at No.3. Their bowlers have proved reliable throughout, successfully defending targets in four of their last six games, and giving Bangalore a serious scare despite their batsmen posting just 129.
Kolkata - LLLLL
Of their last seven losses, four have been decided in the final over and the last two have been the most agonizing. Kolkata showed signs of revival, with their batsmen, especially the foreign recruits, stepping up. Brad Hodge, Morne van Wyk and David Hussey have each justified their induction and even their captain, Brendon McCullum, shrugged off his poor form, carting 84 against Bangalore in Centurion. But it was their fast bowlers who let them down badly after the spinners had put them in strong positions. Ajit Agarkar and Ishant Sharma fed Ross Taylor full tosses and he punished them to snatch an unlikely win for Bangalore. Bangladeshi fans desperately waiting for Mashrafe Mortaza's appearance were in for a nightmare. Their star player was unable to prevent Deccan Chargers from knocking off 21 required for a win in the final over and earned the dubious distinction of bowling the most expensive spell in the IPL this year.
Watch out for
MS Dhoni - His leadership has been impressive, and so has his batting. Dhoni has moved himself around considerably in the middle order, and backed up his two half-centuries with some cameos, proving effective at the death. With Hayden dominating the top order, Dhoni has been the stand-out player in the middle. He's been involved in four 50-plus partnerships in the last seven games, two each with Hayden and Raina, batting out till the end of the innings to string a favourable result each time.
David Hussey - Kolkata missed him for much of the IPL, but Hussey made an immediate impact upon his return from the UAE, providing the innings a major boost with two quickfire 40-plus contributions. He helped Kolkata almost double their score after the 15th over, clattering a 17-ball 43 against Deccan, and must ideally play a greater role with his offspinners, especially when the pace attack has proved his team's undoing.
Teams
Parthiv Patel opened for Chennai against Mumbai after sitting out for five matches, but suffered a first-ball duck. He could, yet again, make way for M Vijay, though Chennai may still give him another go. Jacob Oram has made just one significant contribution with the bat this IPL, and his average of 15.50 is disappointing. In eight matches, he's only bowled two full spells, and if his team wishes to strengthen its batting, George Bailey could be drafted in.
Chennai Super Kings: 1 Parthiv Patel/M Vijay, 2 Matthew Hayden, 3 Suresh Raina, 4 MS Dhoni, 5 S Badrinath, 6 Jacob Oram/George Bailey, 7 Albie Morkel, 8 Sudeep Tyagi, 9 Shadab Jakati, 10 Muttiah Muralitharan, 11 L Balaji.
Kolkata's predominant concern in their previous couple of games has been their bowling. Agarkar has been their most expensive bowler - among those who've played five or more games - conceding 9.73-an-over, and Kolkata may look to bring in Ashok Dinda in his place. Mortaza's hammering at the hands of Rohit Sharma, much to the disappointment of those who so eagerly awaited his IPL debut, could cost him his place, and the team may want to induct Charl Langeveldt, whose inclusion in the XI is long overdue.
Kolkata Knight Riders: 1 Brendon McCullum, 2 Sourav Ganguly, 3 Brad Hodge, 4 David Hussey, 5 Wriddhiman Saha, 6 Yashpal Singh, 7 Charl Langeveldt/Mashrafe Mortaza, 8 Murali Kartik, 9 Ajit Agarkar/Ashok Dinda, 10 Ishant Sharma, 11 Shoaib Shaikh.
Stats and Trivia
- Chennai have averaged 37.2 per wicket in the Powerplay, scoring at 8.45 runs per over. Kolkata haven't done as well, averaging 23.61 per wicket and scoring at 6.43 an over
- Balaji is the only bowler from the two teams in the list of the top ten wicket-takers in the competition, with 13 from 10 games at 18.92
- Hayden has struck 21 sixes in the competition, the second-highest in the IPL this year, after Adam Gilchrist. He's followed by Raina with 17
Head-to-head record
The previous game between the two teams was washed out in Cape Town. Chennai emerged victors in both contests last year, with Hayden and Dhoni combining to complete a nine-wicket win in the first. In the second, Makhaya Ntini took 4 for 21, including a hat-trick, and the Chennai openers did well enough before rain intervened to win the match by the D/L method.
[the article was originally published at http://content.cricinfo.com/ipl2009/content/story/404794.html]
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
“Raj must have my nail marks on his arms”
If you don’t know anything about cricket but still go ahead and buy an IPL team (strictly to stay in the news and make some moolah), what can you do to make it look like you are crazy about the game? Lace your words with plenty of emotion, of course!
That’s exactly what Shilpa Shetty is doing, apart from flashing an unwavering smile constantly. So now we’re all suffering from an emotional overdose. Just see the sentiments and words she’s been throwing at us...
“It’s terrible to play against a friend’s (Shah Rukh Khan) team but all’s fair in love and cricket, I guess” Shilpa’s blog.
“Obviously it’s a game and we all want to win. However, there is a lot of camaraderie between us. We care for each other and even party together” On how much she, Preity and SRK love each other.
“I did go to meet Shah Rukh on the field but he had already left. Actually, it’s quite awkward to meet someone you know especially when you have won and the other person has lost. But then, we have been friends for too many years to let anything like that come between us” After Rajasthan Royals beat the Kolkata Knight Riders.
“But as we won, I was standing on a chair, screaming and shouting with two people trying to hold me. Raj must have several nail marks on his arms” After winning against the Delhi Daredevils.
“It was a fun day... Graeme (Smith) taught me how to bat and Shane (Warne) taught me how to spin the ball! We played for a bit and after I ran four times between the wickets I was gasping for breath” Shilpa’s blog.
We are sure you can’t bear the torture anymore, so we’re stopping right here!
[the article was originally published at http://www.masala.com/11981]
Mumbai Indians v KXP: Statistical Highlights
Statistical highlights of the Indian Premier League match between Mumbai Indians and Kings XI Punjab.
- # While chasing, the eight-wicket win is Mumbai Indians` first in the 2009 edition of the IPL.
- a victory over Kings XI Punjab, Mumbai Indians are placed fourth in the points table.
- XI Punjab have lost six matches out of 11 played.
- Sohal (43 off 23 balls) has recorded his highest IPL score, surpassing the 30 off 17 balls against Deccan Chargers at Kimberley on May 9, 2009.
- -Paul Duminy (2/15) has registered his best bowling performance in the IPL, eclipsing the 1 for 15 against Delhi Daredevils at East London on May 8, 2009.
- Tendulkar`s unbeaten 41 off 29 balls, is his highest score in his last seven innings in the IPL.
- Bravo (70 not out off 59 balls) has registered his highest score in the IPL, bettering the 64 not out off 53 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders at Kolkata on April 29, 2008. The said innings is his third fifty in the IPL.
- (4-0-9-1) has received his first Man Of Match award in the IPL for his excellent economical figures.
- Indians have posted their fifth victory in the second edition of the IPL. Their eight-wicket win is their first in four matches against Kings XI Punjab.
[the article was originally published at http://cricket.zeenews.com/fullstory.aspx?nid=20196]
Indian Premier League's SMS game withdrawn
The controversial SMS game introduced in the Indian Premier League (IPL), which triggered strong criticism that it promoted gambling, was discontinued on Tuesday with organizers taking note of reservations expressed by sports minister M.S. Gill and many former cricketers.
The organizers decided to stop the game with immediate effect.
“There was no formal complaints about the game but the sports minister’s views were taken into account and the organizers have withdrawn the game,” said Rajiv Shukla, a senior Board of Control for Cricket in India official and a member of the IPL executive board.
Gill had last week denounced the SMS game in which fans made ball-by-ball predictions for cash prizes, saying it amounted to gambling.
“This is viewed as ‘openly encouraging gambling and betting’, which official bodies do not resort to, even in countries where betting is legal; all this ‘to make money and enlarge their TV viewership base’,” the minister said in a statement.
[the article was originally published at http://www.livemint.com/2009/05/12223828/IPL8217s-SMS-game-withdrawn.html]
The organizers decided to stop the game with immediate effect.
“There was no formal complaints about the game but the sports minister’s views were taken into account and the organizers have withdrawn the game,” said Rajiv Shukla, a senior Board of Control for Cricket in India official and a member of the IPL executive board.
Gill had last week denounced the SMS game in which fans made ball-by-ball predictions for cash prizes, saying it amounted to gambling.
“This is viewed as ‘openly encouraging gambling and betting’, which official bodies do not resort to, even in countries where betting is legal; all this ‘to make money and enlarge their TV viewership base’,” the minister said in a statement.
[the article was originally published at http://www.livemint.com/2009/05/12223828/IPL8217s-SMS-game-withdrawn.html]
Turning up the IPL heat
After three weeks of frantic, non-stop cricket, the battle for semi-final spots in the 2009 Indian Premier League is starting to take shape and Wednesday's key clash between leaders Delhi Daredevils and the Deccan Chargers at Kingsmead (4.30pm) is going to be keenly contested.
After a week's break, it's Durban's turn again to host the IPL circus with Wednesday's match followed by a double-header on Thursday. The final double-header will take place in Durban on Wednesday next week, completing a grand total of 16 matches in Durban - the most held in any of the eight venues.
Victory for the Delhi franchise, who also have a game in hand, would go a long way to confirming their position in the top four but the top of the table is so congested that a win for the Chargers would take them level on points with their opponents.
In such a tightly contested competition only one of the eight franchises, the Kolkata Knight Riders, are out of contention for the semis.
Delhi opener Gautam Gambhir has been deputising, pretty successfully, as the team's captain in the absence of the injured Virender Sehwag. One of the points of interest for another big crowd at today's match is whether big-hitting opener Sehwag will be fit to return and, if he does, who will make way for him?
Up until now Australian David Warner has played the big-hitting role at the top of the order.
Another fascinating development is that Glenn McGrath, who, despite being valued at $350 000, has yet to play a game in this year's tournament - easy money for him although it is no doubt frustrating for the most economical fast bowler in world cricket.
Perhaps the lean, lanky paceman, who retired from international cricket after the 2007 World Cup, is being kept out of the side by his compatriot Dirk Nannes.
Durban fans will again be keen to see the prolific AB de Villiers who has struck 271 runs for his team at an average of 67.75, the best of the tournament.
By contrast the Deccan Chargers have had a topsy-turvy time, winning their first four matches and then losing four of the next five. They will be hoping to continue the form they showed in their last match when they thumped 2008 champions the Rajasthan Royals by 53 runs.
After a sizzling start Herschelle Gibbs has suffered a big slump in form and was dropped for the match against Rajasthan. He hopes to return to action at Kingsmead, one of his favourite run-making grounds.
On Thursday the double-header will feature the Royal Challengers Bangalore against the Chennai Super Kings in the early match, with the 4.30pm clash between the Mumbai Indians and the Rajasthan Royals.
The pitch for all three matches will be the Test strip which provided some high-scoring matches last week. Former Kingsmead groundsman Phil Russell, who is helping with pitch preparation, predicted the surface would be a "belter" although a little slow because of the weekend rain.
[the article was originally published at http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=6&click_id=4&art_id=vn20090513064429456C804418 by Patrick Compton]
After a week's break, it's Durban's turn again to host the IPL circus with Wednesday's match followed by a double-header on Thursday. The final double-header will take place in Durban on Wednesday next week, completing a grand total of 16 matches in Durban - the most held in any of the eight venues.
Victory for the Delhi franchise, who also have a game in hand, would go a long way to confirming their position in the top four but the top of the table is so congested that a win for the Chargers would take them level on points with their opponents.
In such a tightly contested competition only one of the eight franchises, the Kolkata Knight Riders, are out of contention for the semis.
Delhi opener Gautam Gambhir has been deputising, pretty successfully, as the team's captain in the absence of the injured Virender Sehwag. One of the points of interest for another big crowd at today's match is whether big-hitting opener Sehwag will be fit to return and, if he does, who will make way for him?
Up until now Australian David Warner has played the big-hitting role at the top of the order.
Another fascinating development is that Glenn McGrath, who, despite being valued at $350 000, has yet to play a game in this year's tournament - easy money for him although it is no doubt frustrating for the most economical fast bowler in world cricket.
Perhaps the lean, lanky paceman, who retired from international cricket after the 2007 World Cup, is being kept out of the side by his compatriot Dirk Nannes.
Durban fans will again be keen to see the prolific AB de Villiers who has struck 271 runs for his team at an average of 67.75, the best of the tournament.
By contrast the Deccan Chargers have had a topsy-turvy time, winning their first four matches and then losing four of the next five. They will be hoping to continue the form they showed in their last match when they thumped 2008 champions the Rajasthan Royals by 53 runs.
After a sizzling start Herschelle Gibbs has suffered a big slump in form and was dropped for the match against Rajasthan. He hopes to return to action at Kingsmead, one of his favourite run-making grounds.
On Thursday the double-header will feature the Royal Challengers Bangalore against the Chennai Super Kings in the early match, with the 4.30pm clash between the Mumbai Indians and the Rajasthan Royals.
The pitch for all three matches will be the Test strip which provided some high-scoring matches last week. Former Kingsmead groundsman Phil Russell, who is helping with pitch preparation, predicted the surface would be a "belter" although a little slow because of the weekend rain.
[the article was originally published at http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=6&click_id=4&art_id=vn20090513064429456C804418 by Patrick Compton]
Taylor trumps McCullum in IPL cricket battle
Ross Taylor triumphed in the battle of the New Zealanders against Brendon McCullum Tuesday as Bangalore defeated Kolkata by six wickets in an Indian Premier League thriller.
McCullum struck an unbeaten 84 at Centurion Park as bottom team Knight Riders reached 173-4 from 20 overs only to be passed by Royal Challengers, who made 176-4 in 19.2 overs with unbeaten 81-run Taylor the hero.
Friend and foe praised Taylor after one of the most exciting finishes in the five-week Twenty20 tournament as teams chase a top-four finish and a place in the semi-finals next weekend.
"Ross was fantastic and took the game away from us after I thought our total would be good enough to secure victory," said McCullum of official man-of-the-match Taylor.
Bangalore and South Africa wicketkeeper Mark Boucher added: "The innings of Ross was as good as it gets. We were under a lot of pressure to win and he pulled us through."
Taylor said: "The innings was a relief as I have been struggling in the IPL this season. I desperately wanted to repay the faith shown in me by the coaching staff."
McCullum struck two sixes and 10 fours as he stayed at the crease from start to finish of a Kolkata innings that gathered momentum in the second half after labouring to 69-2 by the 10-over 'tactical break'.
The Kiwi also pulled off the catch of the tournament so far to send South African Jacques Kallis packing after his opening partnership with Kiwi Jesse Ryder had yielded 58 runs for Bangalore.
Ryder departed five runs later and after Bangalore were in run-rate trouble for several overs, Taylor let loose and his five sixes and seven fours steered the team home.
Victory lifted Bangalore two places to fifth on the eight-team standings, one point behind defending champions Rajasthan Royals with three round-robin fixtures to play.
[the article was originally published at http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5i-I_msWqBUYF9CCK6D_L93pRCnzA]
Monday, May 11, 2009
Fake IPL blogger: All Rubbish?
My editor mailed me the other day asking me to do a piece on the "big buzz" of IPL-2, the 'fake player' blog. So, here I go, though, heart of hearts, I would rather stay off this, but then, the Editor's wishes are my command!
The TG (Today's Generation) simply loves this fake player blog going by the eyeballs and responses. I wasn't aware of this blog until a couple of weeks back when a friend mentioned it and urged me to take a look which I did at the first opportunity.
My initial reaction was one of shock at the content, the language and the sheer gossip. Truth to tell, I quite enjoyed the racy style of writing, but then, I said to myself that the blogger, who obviously has had good education, could have put the skill to better use than indulge in innuendos.
The internet offers unparalleled and convenient anonymity that this blogger has willfully exploited without a care in the world. However, I am sure, with some diligence, the blogger's code can be cracked and the writer identified. But then, it depends on how much credence you wish to subscribe to the blogger's writings. Some of my journalist friends, who are clued into the murkier side of cricket, have already speculated on the identity (some claim they have) of the blogger. A theory doing the rounds is that this blogger is not even part of the KKR team!
In any case, the blogger has said he (I presume it's a male) would identify himself on conclusion of the IPL. He has even cleverly put up a poll seeking the reader's votes on whether he should disclose his identify or remain anonymous. The poll also offers a few other choices that I would rather not mention here!
I do not like to get judgmental, but for the sake of this article, here are some of my thoughts:
One, the blog caters to our base instincts and voyeurism since the posts talk about the nocturnal activities of not just the players, but also the commentators and a few others who are closely involved in the IPL.
Two, the blogger dwells on team meetings, telephone calls, personal equations within the team without identifying the persons he mentions. Rather, he has tagged these persons with nicknames through which you can easily identify these worthies provided of course, you are clued in on the subject.
Three, the blogger has not cloaked himself in morality and in fact, justifies his "disclosures" by saying he is giving what the reader wants while being unmindful of the fact that in doing so, he is ratting on his mates. That, to me, is absolutely unforgiveable act of treachery and breach of trust (if you are serious about team sport, then you will know what I mean). I can sense a lot of bitterness that is never far from the surface.
Four, how much of truth is there in these posts? The blogger himself admits that he got his "facts" wrong on a few occasions, but attributes it to a deliberate ploy on part of the management just to prove the blogger wrong!
In conclusion, I would say that this blogger has succeeded in opening a can of worms. To be honest, I have never been a great fan of the KKR whose coach, John Buchannan has been as much responsible for the team's downfall as any player with his crazy theories and ejecting Ganguly from captaincy. Perhaps, it is time he junked his laptop.
The point is that these issues, as well as his own personal grouses (whatever they are), have provided the 'fake blogger' ammunition to fire the gun from an anonymous shoulder.
To say the least, this 'fake blogger' thing is likely to remain a mystery as to the identity of the author and his motives. Personally, it is a 'time pass' and one of those 'True confessions..' variety. But if you have a taste for such writings and snippets, then by all means, enjoy!
Having said that, I pray that this blog is not a harbinger of low-class e-journalism. Old fashioned you might call me, but I would like some sanctity (or what is left of it) of this game that I dearly love to be preserved and cherished.
[the article was originally published at http://sify.com/sports/cricket/ipl/iplfullstory.php?a=jflqCBfbdaa&title=Fake_IPL_blogger_All_bakwaas&scategory=Twenty20&event=IPL_2009]
The TG (Today's Generation) simply loves this fake player blog going by the eyeballs and responses. I wasn't aware of this blog until a couple of weeks back when a friend mentioned it and urged me to take a look which I did at the first opportunity.
My initial reaction was one of shock at the content, the language and the sheer gossip. Truth to tell, I quite enjoyed the racy style of writing, but then, I said to myself that the blogger, who obviously has had good education, could have put the skill to better use than indulge in innuendos.
The internet offers unparalleled and convenient anonymity that this blogger has willfully exploited without a care in the world. However, I am sure, with some diligence, the blogger's code can be cracked and the writer identified. But then, it depends on how much credence you wish to subscribe to the blogger's writings. Some of my journalist friends, who are clued into the murkier side of cricket, have already speculated on the identity (some claim they have) of the blogger. A theory doing the rounds is that this blogger is not even part of the KKR team!
In any case, the blogger has said he (I presume it's a male) would identify himself on conclusion of the IPL. He has even cleverly put up a poll seeking the reader's votes on whether he should disclose his identify or remain anonymous. The poll also offers a few other choices that I would rather not mention here!
I do not like to get judgmental, but for the sake of this article, here are some of my thoughts:
One, the blog caters to our base instincts and voyeurism since the posts talk about the nocturnal activities of not just the players, but also the commentators and a few others who are closely involved in the IPL.
Two, the blogger dwells on team meetings, telephone calls, personal equations within the team without identifying the persons he mentions. Rather, he has tagged these persons with nicknames through which you can easily identify these worthies provided of course, you are clued in on the subject.
Three, the blogger has not cloaked himself in morality and in fact, justifies his "disclosures" by saying he is giving what the reader wants while being unmindful of the fact that in doing so, he is ratting on his mates. That, to me, is absolutely unforgiveable act of treachery and breach of trust (if you are serious about team sport, then you will know what I mean). I can sense a lot of bitterness that is never far from the surface.
Four, how much of truth is there in these posts? The blogger himself admits that he got his "facts" wrong on a few occasions, but attributes it to a deliberate ploy on part of the management just to prove the blogger wrong!
In conclusion, I would say that this blogger has succeeded in opening a can of worms. To be honest, I have never been a great fan of the KKR whose coach, John Buchannan has been as much responsible for the team's downfall as any player with his crazy theories and ejecting Ganguly from captaincy. Perhaps, it is time he junked his laptop.
The point is that these issues, as well as his own personal grouses (whatever they are), have provided the 'fake blogger' ammunition to fire the gun from an anonymous shoulder.
To say the least, this 'fake blogger' thing is likely to remain a mystery as to the identity of the author and his motives. Personally, it is a 'time pass' and one of those 'True confessions..' variety. But if you have a taste for such writings and snippets, then by all means, enjoy!
Having said that, I pray that this blog is not a harbinger of low-class e-journalism. Old fashioned you might call me, but I would like some sanctity (or what is left of it) of this game that I dearly love to be preserved and cherished.
[the article was originally published at http://sify.com/sports/cricket/ipl/iplfullstory.php?a=jflqCBfbdaa&title=Fake_IPL_blogger_All_bakwaas&scategory=Twenty20&event=IPL_2009]
South Africa coach Micket Arthur worried about SA cricketers
South African cricket coach Mickey Arthur is worried about his players suffering burnout ahead of next month’s Twenty20 World Cup in England because of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL).
“I have it in the back of my head all the time that the boys could burn out during the IPL before the tournament (in England),” Arthur told the Afrikaans weekly Rapport here.
“The last thing I want is to take a team that is burnt out to England. That is why I am in regular contact with them and plead with them that they should condition themselves in a way that will ensure that there is still petrol in the tank for the tournament in England.”
Arthur said he was very proud of the performance of the South African players in the eight IPL franchise teams: “They are among the big stalwarts in their respective teams.
“I have been particularly impressed by the way in which they have taken on the responsibility to win the matches for their sides.”
Arthur appealed to his players to give him their best for just three weeks more in the England series, after which they could “go and relax for two months and forget about cricket altogether”.
[the article was originally published at http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/world-news/south-africa-coach-worried-about-cricketers-ipl-burnout_100191061.html]
Kings XI, Mumbai Indians in a must-win situation
Both Mumbai Indians and Kings XI Punjab are in a must-win situation as they face each other in the Indian Premier League (IPL) at the Centurion Park here Tuesday.
The two teams have to win all their four remaining matches if they want to make the semi-finals. But Mumbai Indians will also be looking to avenge their three-run loss to Kings XI Punjab in their previous encounter April 29.
Both the teams have come back to their winning ways after having lost their past few matches.
Mumbai Indians comprehensively defeated Bangalore Royal Challengers Sunday and will be hoping to carry forward the winning momentum.
South African Jean Paul Duminy, the Man of the Match against Royal Challengers, said that Mumbai Indians will be looking for a win against Kings XI.
“It has been a good experience so far. But there are few more games that we need to win now. Hopefully, we can carry forward this winning momentum to the coming matches. I am happy that I contributed to my team’s cause,” said Duminy.
Mumbai Indian’s chief mentor Shaun Pollock said that the team is planning to take each game at a time.
“We know that if we don’t win all the matches then we will be out of the tournament. Our future is in our hands. We have to play matches against top five teams of the tournament. We would like to take each game at a time. At some stage in the tournament every team faces such situations,” said Pollock.
Mumbai Indians are one of the most balanced side in the IPL. With greats like Sachin Tendulkar and Sanath Jayasuriya in their batting line-up, they also have Zaheer Khan and Lasith Malinga in the bowling department. Zaheer, who missed the last match, is expected to be back in the side.
Kings XI Punjab also have a good batting line-up but their bowling and fielding hasn’t been up to the mark. The return of Australian speedster Brett Lee has, however, bolstered their bowling attack.
Lee, who is making a comeback from an injury lay-off, was the best Kings XI bowler in their win against Deccan Chargers Saturday. He also wielded the bat sensibly to take his team to a win with one ball to spare.
Kings XI coach Tom Moody said: “The competition’s particularly close. We obviously welcomed back Brett Lee; he made us a little more potent at the top with some pace. And he also showed his skills down the order to be able to finish the game (with a victory). His energy in the game was important.”
Moody, however, is not happy with the quality of cricket his team has played so far in the league.
“We haven’t played particularly played good cricket so far. And we look forward to improving every game we play,” he said.
The coach is worried about his bowlers’ inability to deliver in the death overs.
“So that’s something we need to address seriously. It is a good time for players to reflect and work on the areas that we need to polish up on,” Moody maintained.
[the article was originally published at http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/world-news/kings-xi-mumbai-indians-in-a-must-win-situation-preview_100191066.html]
Will McCullum resign as captain of KKR ?
Will Brendon McCullum live up to the claim he made and resign as captain of the Kolkata Knight Riders in the DLF Indian Premier League? Well, that's what he was asked after yet another loss to Delhi Daredevils. here are his answers.
On resigning: At the moment, all that I am focusing on is the next few games. Trying to do whatever I can, try as hard as I well possibly can to get something going. I was proud of today's effort, I thought the guys tried worked real hard. Disappointing that we didn't win, but I thought the effort and intensity on the field with the ball was fantastic. So if we can get a score of around of 120 it was great too. I know I mentioned that a couple of games ago and that is something that I have got to look at. Work out with the coaching staff next year, what the goal is. But whatever happens I will be totally committed to Kolkata Knight Riders and helping to get us get some results in the future that we all are immensely proud of.
On whether it is bad luck or bad execution: (Brendon actually, you called him Brian, KKR Director of Cricket John Buchanan tells the journalist) Brilliant.. a bit of both. When things are going for you, you get the luck. Things obviously aren't going for us at the moment. And we are not getting the luck go our way. There are other areas that come into play. Tonight we were little bit unlucky to be three down early on. I think it was obviously frustrating to lose an early wicket, the manner in which it was lost. And I guess it put us on the back foot. Little things like that..nicks going between the slips, having the fielder at third slip rather than first slip. Just little things like that..that doesn't seem to go your way. When you are hoping that it would. I think we can play better, that's for sure. In terms of luck, it is certainly not going our way at the moment.
On why KKR have slipped this time: It's hard to put your finger (on any one thing). We haven't played well at all..I guess consistently well across the board during each game. We get our batting going well and our bowling and fielding lets us down. We get our bowling going well and our batting lets us down. We are not consistent across all the areas of the game. Certainly not because of lack of trying, guys out there trying as hard as we possibly can. Unfortunately things aren't going our way. But we have just got to stay up, stay as hopeful, and I guess be as committed and positive as what we can do. At some point it will swing, you don't stay down forever. You just got to keep getting up and, at some point, luck and results will swing our way. I guess hopefully that's sooner rather than later. But we have just got to stay buoyant throughout.
[read more at http://www.khabrein.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=22283&Itemid=60]
Questions over Amit Singh's bowling action
For the second time in a week, Rajasthan Royals fast bowler Amit Singh has been reported for a suspect bowling action.
Amit had been reported by umpires K Hariharan and Daryl Harper after Rajasthan's match against Bangalore on Thursday, but was included in the side to play the Chennai Super Kings on Saturday because he can continue to play until proven guilty of having an illegal action.
However the on-field umpires from the weekend clash in Kimberley, Gary Baxter and Kumar Dharmasena, reported the right-armer's action.
Video footage was then obtained and examined before the two officials, along with third umpire Amiesh Saheba, decided that further investigation was necessary under the Laws of Cricket section 24.3.
IPL organisers confirmed in a statement on Sunday that they have now referred the matter to the Rajasthan team management and the tournament's technical committee as per the Laws of Cricket.
He is the second Royals bowler to be cited during the IPL after doubts were raised over Kamran Khan's action.
[The article was originally published at http://www.cricket365.com/story/0,18305,6575_5312966,00.html]
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Chennai Super Kings defeats Deccan Chargers
Splendid top order batting, combined with devastating bowling, helped Chennai Super Kings record its third win on the trot as it outclassed Deccan Chargers by 78 runs in an action-packed Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket match here on Monday.
Chennai Super Kings had posted an impressive 178 for three after opting to bat.
Deccan Chargers never recovered after a catastrophic start and was bundled out for 100 in 14.4 overs.
Counterattack
Had there not been a counter-attack by Dwayne Smith (49) and Rohit Sharma (21), Deccan Chargers would have slumped to a more humiliating defeat.
Deccan Chargers had no idea that a disastrous start was waiting for it as its top three batsmen — Adam Gilchirst (0), Herschelle Gibbs (0) and V.V.S. Laxman (0) — went back without bothering the scorer.
From here, Smith and Rohit revived the innings with a dramatic 72-run stroke-filled partnership, but could not finish it off for their side.
Shadab Jakati excelled for Chennai Super Kings, picking up four wickets, but it was the pace duo of Albie Morkel (two for 24) and Sudeep Tyagi (one for 9) who set the platform for an exciting win.
[the article was originally published at http://www.hindu.com/2009/05/06/stories/2009050656371900.htm]
Gayle joins calls for IPL window
West Indies captain Chris Gayle has joined a growing band of international cricketers calling for a permanent window for the Indian Premier League.
Gayle leads the West Indians' defence of the Wisden Trophy at Lord's this week, having only been in the country since Tuesday morning due to commitments with Kolkata Knight Riders.
"There should be a window for the IPL where all players should be available, so that everybody can get the chance to be amongst and play against the best," said Gayle. "Make it just like a World Cup event, so that everybody gets a fair share of it."
Both the 29-year-old and Fidel Edwards were participating in the second season of the IPL as were England trio Kevin Pietersen, Paul Collingwood and Ravi Bopara, all of whom were back on these shores by last Friday.
Next year's IPL has been shifted to start in March, which will at least avoid a clash with the English domestic season, and staging it in a slot away from international scheduling appears to be the only way to preserve the pre-eminence of Test cricket.
Gayle was originally scheduled to join up with his colleagues over the weekend but requested to play another match for Kolkata Knight Riders, which meant he did not report to the team hotel until 48 hours before the start of Wednesday's first npower Test.
"We all knew this situation would happen. Basically it was a tour which was slid in," said Gayle, referring to the fact West Indies are deputising for Sri Lanka, who could not guarantee a full-strength side.
"We were all due at the IPL, so with it coming upon us we discussed the situation with the board members and they gave us permission to be back at a certain, particular time.
"It is nothing new, so people should not be surprised. No one is bigger than the game, so I asked for permission to come back a day later."
[the article was orginally published at http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5jNQcT4KzGGIYJvBLWKYZjWZWu8uA]
Andrew Strauss challenges IPL batsmen to rise to Test challenge
Andrew Strauss has challenged his IPL batsmen to prove they can switch from sloggers into battle-hardened Test men in the blink of an eye.
England's mammoth summer of cricket begins today at Lord's, and captain Strauss has his fingers crossed that Kevin Pietersen, Paul Collingwood, and Ravi Bopara can forget the IPL extravwithout aganza and remember what it takes to score a Test ton.
All three have only just returned from a stint in South Africa at the transplanted IPL and will try to prove that a lack of preparation and game time in English conditions won't get in the way of Test success.
"For the guys who've come in from the IPL to Test cricket their mindset the key," said Strauss, who is seeking payback against the West Indies after the series defeat in the Caribbean this winter.
"If they get that right then they'll perform well and at the moment it seems like they're in a good place.
"For the Twenty20 World Cup it was fantastic they were there, but for this Test series, it's important they put all that to the back of their minds and concentrate on what they are good at, Test cricket-wise.
"But they are all good experienced players and there is no reason why they can't do that. You don't want Test cricket to be devalued in any way, shape or form.
"There's a line there, and we certainly wouldn't want our players to be arriving two days before a Test."
Strauss was clearly giving West Indies captain Chris Gayle a nudge in the ribs for his 11th-hour arrival in England for the tour having stayed at the IPL to play in an extra match.
Gayle pitched up at Lord's on Monday having landed that morning to enjoy a blearyeyed net session which he claims did just the trick to get him ready for today's game.
Traditionalists will suggest his claims are nothing more than bravado, yet should he turn on the style at Lord's, then it will go a long way to prove the modern cricketer can have his cake and eat it.
Gayle said: "I'm good and I feel ready to go. Practising the day I got back wasn't difficult because you set your mind to do these things and it was good to have a hit and get a feel of everything so that I'll be ready for the game."
For Strauss the challenge this week is to bring an end to a rotten run of 14 series a win in the first Test match, and whether his men have been to the IPL or not he is demanding a ferocious start.
New head coach Andy Flower admitted in the Caribbean that it was a statistic that bothered him and he would be out to do things differently as a result.
The suggestion is that England players have been too relaxed before. Not this time if Strauss and Flower have anything to do with it.
Strauss added: "It is something we're mindful of and any thoughts of easing into the Test match summer, have to be avoided at all costs.
"A lot of that depends on our mindset and how we arrive at the ground in the morning and we want to put that record straight.
"We had good chats with the players and it looks like most of the guys have hit the ground running this season."
[the article was originally published at http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/2009/05/06/fired-up-or-burned-out-115875-21335716]
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
IPL teams may list on the stock market!
Like gladiators, cricketing stars from across the globe are battling it out for their respective Indian Premier League teams in the IPL T20 Cricket Tournament. The competition is on the cricket field today, but the day is not far away when it might move to the stock markets.
The huge success of the IPL has heralded a new innings in the history of Indian cricket. A huge money spinner, the two-year-old IPL is worth a whopping $2 billion, according the United Kingdom-based brand valuation consultancy Brand Finance.
"The IPL brand alone has a value of over $311 million. The brand can certainly create long-term value with its strong intrinsic strength and foundation. The IPL is just like any company today and it holds a long-term shareholder value. In 2-3 years, the IPL clubs may get listed on the bourses just like the popular English Premier League football teams," says Unni Krishnan, Country Manager, Brand Finance India.
This innovative form of the cricket has attracted a huge fan following across the globe. The IPL is a now a product with a 'made in India' tag and a huge brand value.
[the article was originally published at http://business.rediff.com/report/2009/may/05/slide-show-1-ipl-teams-may-list-on-stock-market.htm]
The huge success of the IPL has heralded a new innings in the history of Indian cricket. A huge money spinner, the two-year-old IPL is worth a whopping $2 billion, according the United Kingdom-based brand valuation consultancy Brand Finance.
"The IPL brand alone has a value of over $311 million. The brand can certainly create long-term value with its strong intrinsic strength and foundation. The IPL is just like any company today and it holds a long-term shareholder value. In 2-3 years, the IPL clubs may get listed on the bourses just like the popular English Premier League football teams," says Unni Krishnan, Country Manager, Brand Finance India.
This innovative form of the cricket has attracted a huge fan following across the globe. The IPL is a now a product with a 'made in India' tag and a huge brand value.
[the article was originally published at http://business.rediff.com/report/2009/may/05/slide-show-1-ipl-teams-may-list-on-stock-market.htm]
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Delhi looks to foil Deccan's charge today
For the past year-and-a half, Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir have become synonymous with success. However, they have failed to make their presence felt in the IPL so far, which is surprising given how prolific they've been. "We have been doing well for the last one-and-a-half years, so I think we were bound to fail some time," said Sehwag.
Point taken, but they will need to get into the groove as the Delhi Daredevils next face the Deccan Chargers, a team riding high on the back of its openers Adam Gilchrist and Herschelle Gibbs. They have been the most prolific and consistent opening pair in the league so far, keeping the Chargers a notch above the rest. "It's just going well for us. We have brought in quite a few changes in the team, and they seem to be working for us," said Gilchrist.
The amiable Australian, however, didn't agree that Gibbs and he gave the Chargers an edge over Delhi. "We all know how dangerous Sehwag and Gambhir can be. We are wary of them and they have the middle order clicking for them. So we just can't afford to entertain these thoughts," he said.
The middle order, especially AB de Villiers and Tillakaratne Dilshan, have been exceptional, given that they've had to absorb the failure of the openers and then place their team in a winning position. "It's a good sign for the team that every time someone is doing the job for us," Sehwag said, placing his finger on individuals coming good at different times.
The defeat against the Rajasthan Royals would have surely driven home the point that the Daredevils can't afford another flop show from the openers.
The teams don't seem to have worries about their bowling. The Delhi bowlers might have had a few nightmares in the wake of Yusuf Pathan's brutal hitting on Tuesday, but it was clear that no attack could have stopped him, given the way he was middling the ball.
Brace up for what is going to be a cracker of a match.
[the article was oringially published at http://www.hindustantimes.com/highpl/storypage.aspx?id=ffb1d738-a064-4abe-870d-55972eb4c661&category=Chunk-HT-UI-IPLSectionPage-TopStories]
Point taken, but they will need to get into the groove as the Delhi Daredevils next face the Deccan Chargers, a team riding high on the back of its openers Adam Gilchrist and Herschelle Gibbs. They have been the most prolific and consistent opening pair in the league so far, keeping the Chargers a notch above the rest. "It's just going well for us. We have brought in quite a few changes in the team, and they seem to be working for us," said Gilchrist.
The amiable Australian, however, didn't agree that Gibbs and he gave the Chargers an edge over Delhi. "We all know how dangerous Sehwag and Gambhir can be. We are wary of them and they have the middle order clicking for them. So we just can't afford to entertain these thoughts," he said.
The middle order, especially AB de Villiers and Tillakaratne Dilshan, have been exceptional, given that they've had to absorb the failure of the openers and then place their team in a winning position. "It's a good sign for the team that every time someone is doing the job for us," Sehwag said, placing his finger on individuals coming good at different times.
The defeat against the Rajasthan Royals would have surely driven home the point that the Daredevils can't afford another flop show from the openers.
The teams don't seem to have worries about their bowling. The Delhi bowlers might have had a few nightmares in the wake of Yusuf Pathan's brutal hitting on Tuesday, but it was clear that no attack could have stopped him, given the way he was middling the ball.
Brace up for what is going to be a cracker of a match.
[the article was oringially published at http://www.hindustantimes.com/highpl/storypage.aspx?id=ffb1d738-a064-4abe-870d-55972eb4c661&category=Chunk-HT-UI-IPLSectionPage-TopStories]
Steyn out of IPL for another week
Johannesburg: The Royal Challengers, battling in the IPL (Indian Premier League) here with just one win after five games, will be without pacer Dale Steyn until next weekend as he nurses a broken thumb.
The Royal Challengers will take on Kolkata Knight Riders in the first of a double header in the IPL at Sahara Kingsmead Stadium in Durban Wednesday in an attempt to move from the bottom of the log.
But they will continue to be without Steyn, who failed to appear in the last three Challenger games in the series after suffering the injury during the match at Cape Town last Wednesday in which his side succumbed to the Deccan Chargers.
While the injury was kept a secret until now, informed sources within the South African cricket squad said it was "a blessing in disguise" that Steyn was injured, as two weeks recovery time will allow him a much-needed break.
The Challengers though, will want Steyn back as soon as possible as coach Ray Jennings and captain Kevin Pietersen are under pressure to perform.
The encounter with the Kolkata Knight Riders will be the last game for Pietersen in the tournament as he has to return to England for the home series against the West Indies.
South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis is widely being touted to take over the Challengers' captaincy.
[the article was originally published at http://sify.com/sports/fullstory.php?a=je3o51cjhad&title=Steyn_out_of_IPL_for_another_week]
Monday, April 27, 2009
Will SRK be forbidden from watching IPL?
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan's
smoking act during an Indian Premier League (IPL) match April 21 has not gone down well with the anti-smoking lobby which is trying to ensure that television footage of celebrities smoking should not be broadcast.
The National Organisation for Tobacco Eradication (NOTE) said in a statement that its counterpart South African National Council Against Smoking (NCAS) is lobbying with the official broadcasters to ensure that footage of smoking, especially by celebrities, should not be broadcast.
"We have sent the details to Supersport, who are the official broadcasters of the IPL and the NCAS is in the process of soliciting an agreement that they will not show anyone smoking," NCAS's convener Peter Ucko informed NOTE.
NCAS has said that television footage showing icons smoking dangerously increases the chances of children and other non smokers picking up the habit as they try to emulate their heroes.
NCAS, in its letter to NOTE, further said that while smoking in public places is still not banned in South Africa, the department of health there was very active in lobbying for the concept of no smoking in public places.
"If Khan does it again we will ask the management to caution him, or we will seek his removal from the stadium," the press note states.
The NCAS has also assured that they would lobby with the chief executive officer of the Wandereres stadium Alam Kourie to enforce the 'no smoking in enclosed areas' law.
"We have also asked the stadium management to make no smoking announcements through the match and during drinks breaks."
[the article was originally published at http://movies.ndtv.com/newstory.asp?section=Movies&id=ENTEN20090091806]
smoking act during an Indian Premier League (IPL) match April 21 has not gone down well with the anti-smoking lobby which is trying to ensure that television footage of celebrities smoking should not be broadcast.
The National Organisation for Tobacco Eradication (NOTE) said in a statement that its counterpart South African National Council Against Smoking (NCAS) is lobbying with the official broadcasters to ensure that footage of smoking, especially by celebrities, should not be broadcast.
"We have sent the details to Supersport, who are the official broadcasters of the IPL and the NCAS is in the process of soliciting an agreement that they will not show anyone smoking," NCAS's convener Peter Ucko informed NOTE.
NCAS has said that television footage showing icons smoking dangerously increases the chances of children and other non smokers picking up the habit as they try to emulate their heroes.
NCAS, in its letter to NOTE, further said that while smoking in public places is still not banned in South Africa, the department of health there was very active in lobbying for the concept of no smoking in public places.
"If Khan does it again we will ask the management to caution him, or we will seek his removal from the stadium," the press note states.
The NCAS has also assured that they would lobby with the chief executive officer of the Wandereres stadium Alam Kourie to enforce the 'no smoking in enclosed areas' law.
"We have also asked the stadium management to make no smoking announcements through the match and during drinks breaks."
[the article was originally published at http://movies.ndtv.com/newstory.asp?section=Movies&id=ENTEN20090091806]
Friday, April 24, 2009
Fake IPL player blogger vanishes
The mole who created ripples in the Indian Premier League (IPL) by spilling out the juicy dressing room gossip of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has suddenly stopped posting his missives after his blog made waves in the media.
The last time he had made a posting on fakeiplplayer.blogspot.com was Wednesday, after it was reported that the blogger had been identified as an insider in the KKR camp and could be a former player.
"We had a team meeting but hardly anything of note was discussed. Looks like things are secret until the mole is caught. Most guys in contention have been asked to be prepared. Lordie was there in the meeting, although he didn't speak much," the blogger said in his last posting.
The blog has become hugely popular among fans and players as it provides inside information about KKR and also about the IPL parties.
The writer, who claims to be a fringe player in the KKR team, says: "I am a perennial no-hoper. And have no hopes of getting a match in the IPL."
"The team is full of super stars and all I do is bowl a bit, bat a bit, and field like a maniac. But, there's one thing I do very well. Serve drinks. And that's what I am expecting do in South Africa. And throughout the IPL, I will be bringing to you the 'aankhon dekha haal', right from inside the dressing room, meeting room and players' bedrooms," he had written in his first posting Saturday.
Since the first day of the IPL, the blogger has poured out interesting tidbits, including information about team meetings.
The blogger has also given nicknames to cricketers - Lord Almighty (Sourav Ganguly), Calypso King (Chris Gayle), Sheikh of the Tweak (Shane Warne) and Kaan Moloo (Ajit Agarkar).
The popularity of the blog made the KKR team management start a witch hunt for the mole, to the extent of banning laptops and Internet connections from hotel rooms.
KKR team director Joy Bhattacharya said in a statement: "There is a blog spot which purports to be from a member of the KKR entourage. Poison pen writing of the dirtiest variety, but far too many factual errors."
[the article was originally published at http://sify.com/sports/cricket/ipl/iplfullstory.php?a=jeyrnOcdcej&title=IPL_player_blogger_mysteriously_vanishes&scategory=Twenty20&event=IPL_2009]
The last time he had made a posting on fakeiplplayer.blogspot.com was Wednesday, after it was reported that the blogger had been identified as an insider in the KKR camp and could be a former player.
"We had a team meeting but hardly anything of note was discussed. Looks like things are secret until the mole is caught. Most guys in contention have been asked to be prepared. Lordie was there in the meeting, although he didn't speak much," the blogger said in his last posting.
The blog has become hugely popular among fans and players as it provides inside information about KKR and also about the IPL parties.
The writer, who claims to be a fringe player in the KKR team, says: "I am a perennial no-hoper. And have no hopes of getting a match in the IPL."
"The team is full of super stars and all I do is bowl a bit, bat a bit, and field like a maniac. But, there's one thing I do very well. Serve drinks. And that's what I am expecting do in South Africa. And throughout the IPL, I will be bringing to you the 'aankhon dekha haal', right from inside the dressing room, meeting room and players' bedrooms," he had written in his first posting Saturday.
Since the first day of the IPL, the blogger has poured out interesting tidbits, including information about team meetings.
The blogger has also given nicknames to cricketers - Lord Almighty (Sourav Ganguly), Calypso King (Chris Gayle), Sheikh of the Tweak (Shane Warne) and Kaan Moloo (Ajit Agarkar).
The popularity of the blog made the KKR team management start a witch hunt for the mole, to the extent of banning laptops and Internet connections from hotel rooms.
KKR team director Joy Bhattacharya said in a statement: "There is a blog spot which purports to be from a member of the KKR entourage. Poison pen writing of the dirtiest variety, but far too many factual errors."
[the article was originally published at http://sify.com/sports/cricket/ipl/iplfullstory.php?a=jeyrnOcdcej&title=IPL_player_blogger_mysteriously_vanishes&scategory=Twenty20&event=IPL_2009]
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)