“Highs in Between, But Traumatic at Most Times” – Aaeen’s Journey

Cricket in this part of the world is not just a sport, but it’s a passion. Passion that transcends generation. In a nation where cricket is more than simply a game, fans of the sport are fiercely loyal to their side, fed by memories of victories and setbacks on the field. One Pakistani cricket enthusiast stands out, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of a dedicated follower of the game. Aaeen (@dumblittleluck_) shares her early memories, Babar Azam fanatic, PAK IND rivalry and much more.

Twitter/X – @dumblittleluck_

Earliest Cricket Memories:

Aaeen reminisced about her earliest cricket memory, recalling the heartbreak of Pakistan’s loss to India in the 2007 T20 World Cup final. Despite the disappointment, she credited this match for igniting her love for cricket and her admiration for Dhoni’s captaincy.

Earliest memories ahh, always breaks my heart, it has to be that 2007 T20 WC final loss to India, with Misbah attempting to play that scoop shot though it ended up straight in the fielder’s hand, but that match laid down the base of my indefinite love for this beautiful sport and made me an admirer of Dhoni the captain.

Journey as a Fan:

Describing her journey as a fan, Aaeen characterized it as bittersweet, filled with highs and lows that epitomize the rollercoaster experience of supporting Pakistan cricket.

Bitter sweet, it had to be like this, with as many heart breaks as one can take with days of absolute highs in between but traumatic at most times.

Favorite Player:

When asked about her favorite player, she unequivocally named Babar Azam and highlighted his remarkable 196-run innings against Australia in Karachi as one of his finest performances.

Babar Azam. Many favorite innings but his 4th innings 196 vs Australia at Karachi 2nd test 2022 to draw the test has to be among his finest work.

Memories of Pakistan’s Victory in the Champions Trophy Final:

Recollecting the historic victory against India in the Champions Trophy final, she vividly recounted the overwhelming joy she experienced and the lasting impression it left on her as a devoted fan.

A school student glued to the tv ditching studies, I was over the moon (chaand par the apun). That was the highest point of my journey as a Pakistan cricket fan. Nothing, absolutely nothing tops that feeling. Singing the national anthem on top of my lungs, mouka mouka chants all around, boys lifting the trophy, etched in my memories forever.

The Captaincy Controversy:

Discussing the controversy surrounding Babar Azam’s exit as captain, Aaeen expressed understanding of the pressure he faced and hoped that relinquishing the captaincy would allow him to focus solely on his batting prowess.

It was about time Babar left captaincy or in true words being removed of it. Sure there were some tactical blunders many times by him but he was like a deer surrounded by wolves (ex cricketers and journalists) since 2022 mainly. At least now he can work on batting solely without any captaincy pressure.

This interview was taken a few days ago since PCB, today, announced that Babar Azam will lead Pakistan in the men’s team in white ball cricket.

Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim’s Potential Return:

As the conversation shifted to the upcoming T20 World Cup, she shared mixed feelings about the potential return of Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim to the squad, considering their respective contributions and recent form.

Imad Wasim, yes, considering his experience in the Caribbean and the clutch player he is. As for Amir, I have mixed feelings, considering his mostly hate-loveless relationship with Pakistan cricket since he was dropped from the squad under Misbah’s management. Even his recent run in PSL wasn’t that impressive. But to see two left arm pacers bowling with the new ball and then Naseem, it will be fun so I am surely excited to see what lies ahead.

Arch Rivals India:

Reflecting on memorable encounters against arch-rivals India, she cited the triumphant 2017 Champions Trophy final and Shaheen Afridi’s stellar performances as standout moments.

It has to be winning the 2017 CT trophy against them and most recently Shaheen’s new ball spell  to get the best out of India’s top order and famous 152-0 to top it all.

Preferred Playing XI for the T20 World Cup 2024:

Finally, she revealed her preferred playing XI for the T20 World Cup 2024, showcasing a blend of seasoned players and potential inclusions, while also considering the pitch conditions for optimal performance.

Saim
Babar
M. Haris/Fakhar/Usman Khan
Shadab
Azam (wk)
Iftikhar
Imad
Shaheen 
Naseem
Amir/Haris Rauf
Abrar/pacer (considering pitch)



As cricket enthusiasts anticipate the excitement of the upcoming tournament, insights from passionate fans like her provide a unique perspective on the game and its players. Stay updated on all the latest news and interviews by following me on Instagram and Twitter!

Twitter – @bhavsarj2_0

Instagram – @bhavsarj2_0

Test Match Victories Away from Home Should Receive Greater Points – John Wright!

Explore the candid reflections of John Wright as he delves into his earliest memories, shares insights on Bazball, role of WTC, and a myriad of other intriguing topics in this exclusive interview.

X – @johnwright15



Early Memories and Childhood Hero:

Wright fondly recalls his introduction to cricket, ignited by his father who took him to the first ODI World Cup Final in 1975. The atmosphere of West Indies’ victory over Australia left a lasting impression, with Clive Lloyd’s unbeaten century etched in his memory. As a youngster, Wright followed Essex CCC religiously, idolizing batting maestros like Graham Gooch and Ken McEwan.

My father took me to the first ODI World Cup Final in 1975. West  Indies beat Australia. It was 60 overs a side back then. Clive Lloyd scored an unbeaten century. Late 1970s to early eighties would follow Essex CCC home and away. Graham Gooch & Ken McEwan were my early batting heroes.

When asked about his childhood hero, Wright unequivocally named Graham Gooch, whose prowess with the bat inspired him during his formative years in the sport.

On Bazball:

Wright provides insightful analysis on the evolving nature of cricket, particularly in adapting to different conditions when it comes to Bazball. Reflecting on England’s recent struggles in India, here’s what he has to say.

Bazball needs to adapt to the conditions pending venue & surface.  Although England lost 4-1 in India, they frustratingly tossed away ascendency in a few tests. Bazball was only dominating early against the new ball before the spinners got to work with the softer ball. I don’t see Bazball succeeding  in India over a long series. I would expect Bazball to be dominant at home & in Pakistan. In Australia and India I think it needs to adapt to the conditions and quality of opposition with less arrogance.

Cricket Twitter/X:

As an active participant on Cricket Twitter/X, Wright appreciates the platform for its ability to unite fans globally. While acknowledging occasional fanaticism, he values the diverse perspectives that enrich discussions about the sport.

I love talking about cricket. And like to think I am not biased to what I watch whoever is playing. The majority of people on cricket Twitter are great, sometimes the fanatics of certain iconic players are quick to be offended about any slight criticism but I suppose where would the sport be without the global passionate supporters.

Role of WTC:

Expressing mixed feelings about the points structure, Wright believes the World Test Championship has certainly elevated the status of Test cricket. However, he advocates for greater recognition of away victories to truly reflect the challenges teams face on foreign soil.

It has helped. But I don’t necessarily support the points structure. I think test match victories away from home should receive greater points.

Impact of The Hundred:

While not entirely sold on The Hundred format, Wright acknowledges its positive impact on women’s cricket, attracting a younger demographic to the sport.

I don’t particularly like the Hundred. Only because I don’t think the game effectively needs another format. They should have just franchised it as T20 format. But the women’s game has developed massively because of The Hundred. Got lots of young girls and the next generation interested in the sport which has to be a good thing.

Predictions for ICC Events:

Looking ahead, Wright shares his predictions for upcoming ICC events. He sees India as a strong contender for the T20 World Cup, with dark horses like the West Indies looming. In the World Test Championship, he anticipates a showdown between Australia and India, with conditions likely favoring the former if held in England.

I think India might win the T20 World Cup. But bumrah must be fit to play. I think without the pressure of hosting it might help. And the players will be match ready as IPL completes a week before . Dark horses are West Indies. I think England will struggle. WTC – Australia v India final. If it’s in England, Australia will be favourites and might justify that favouritism purely on conditions especially if it’s early in English summer as per last time.

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“England Playing this Brand of Cricket Would be a Big Challenge for India in England” – Tony Steele!

As the world of cricket constantly evolves, so do the stories of those deeply entrenched in its allure. In this interview, seasoned cricket aficionado Tony Steele shares his remarkable journey from early memories of the sport to his reflections on its current landscape.

Tony Steele X – @tds122

A Journey Ignited:

Recalling his earliest encounters with cricket, Tony reminisces about the pivotal moments that ignited his passion. It was the summer of ’87 and during Pakistan’s tour of England, that Tony’s true obsession with the game took root.

I vaguely remember watching highlights of England’s tour of Australia in 86/87. Chris Broad scored a lot of runs. But a true obsession started in the summer of 87 and Pakistan’s tour of England. My future hero Wasim Akram would be playing (Lancs fan) but it was another Pakistani that caught my eye – Abdul Qadir – a leg spinner . What is this??  I was almost as mesmerized as the english batters.

From Pallet Wood to Passion:

Inspired by the magic witnessed on the field, Tony embarked on his own cricketing journey. Despite the initial financial hurdle, Tony’s determination prevailed.

That series inspired me to try and play the game. My first bat was a humble piece of pallet wood, but for my 10th birthday, I scraped together £10 to buy a proper bat. The shopkeeper kindly offered me the cheapest bat for £10, and from that moment on, I was inseparable from my prized possession.

The Impact of “Bazball”:

Delving into the contemporary cricketing landscape, Tony offers insights on the transformative impact of “Bazball” – a term coined to describe England’s assertive approach under the leadership of Ben Stokes. Expressing optimism for England’s future, Tony also shares his prediction.

Also Read: From Solapur to Cook Islands: A Cricket Fan’s Journey of Passion and Persistence

My opinion is that it’s generally good for English cricket.  Apart from the brilliant Root and Stokes to a certain extent, I believe it’s the best way for the rest to go about things. Stokes is an exceptional captain (although I disagreed strongly with the day 1 declaration in The Ashes) and the series record is above par.  Always going to be a big ask in India. This Indian team, even with a few big names missing are virtually unbeatable at home over a 4 or 5 match series. Their recent record proves it. One must be realistic. I think England playing this brand of cricket would be a big challenge for India in England – would be a thrilling series. I predict England will dominate their home summer. Australia away will be more complicated. I see spicy pitches doing a lot. It’s not impossible to win in australia playing this brand. Often the aggressive approach is the best way vs them.  I expect a competitive series down under which we haven’t had for a while.

“Never Write Anderson Off”:

With reverence, Tony pays tribute to the enduring legacy of Jimmy Anderson. Highlighting Anderson’s enduring prowess and the anticipation surrounding his performance in the upcoming summer, here’s what he has to say.

First of all, the man is a legend and a physical freak! A rule I always go by is never write champions off. He’s still bowling to a high level – let’s see how he goes this summer.

Navigating the Cricketing Landscape:

Expressing his views on the Hundred, Tony reveals a nuanced perspective. Emphasizing the importance of prioritizing traditional formats, Tony advocates for enhancing the County Championship and T20 Blast.

I struggle with the notion of the Men’s Hundred. I don’t feel it’s necessary but I understand the financial aspect. I would say its impact on County Cricket and International schedules are both negative and would rather focus on the Championship and enhancing the Vitality Blast. It’s been great exposure for the womens game though, and absolutely should always be a place for it in their calendar.

Gazing into the Future:

Contemplating the future of English cricket, Tony envisions a bright trajectory in Test cricket. However, he cautions against the widening gap in the number of games played compared to other cricketing nations.

I would say bright in Test Cricket but hate to see a gap developing in games played when comparing England, India, Australia to other nations. In ODIs, England needs to appreciate how long 50 overs is again. T20 – all about hitting form at the right time in that particular world cup. WTC?  not a fan of the unequal amount of games played worth different amounts of points per win. I also do not like the idea of a one off final.

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From Solapur to the Cook Islands: A Cricket Fan’s Journey of Passion and Persistence

In this interview, cricket enthusiast and banking professional, Rahul Patil, takes us through his remarkable journey from Solapur, Maharashtra, to the picturesque Cook Islands, and in the midst of this his love, career shifts, and a fervent passion for the sport.

X – @rahulpatilnz

Early Life:

Born in Solapur, Rahul Patil spent 28 formative years in the vibrant atmosphere of Goa before embarking on a journey that would lead him across continents. It was during a holiday in Hong Kong that he met his now-wife, Caroline, in a serendipitous encounter that could rival any Bollywood romance. After navigating a long-distance relationship spanning two years, Rahul made the bold move to New Zealand in 2011, where he began his professional career with a Toyota dealership in Wellington before transitioning to his current role at ANZ Bank.

After a long-distance relationship for almost 2 years, we got married, and I moved to New Zealand in 2011. I worked for a Toyota Dealership in Wellington till 2016 and then joined my current employer, ANZ Bank. Through ANZ, I got an opportunity to live and work in the Cook Islands for 2 years, and that is where my cricket media journey began. 3 years and two World Cups later, I feel life has been very kind to me. Everything in life happens for a reason.

Provincial Cricket Structure in New Zealand:

New Zealand’s cricket landscape boasts a robust provincial structure, serving as the bedrock for talent development and grassroots participation. Rahul Patil sheds light on the intricacies of this system, highlighting the existence of six provincial teams.

New Zealand has 6 provincial teams, i.e., Otago, Canterbury, Wellington, Central Districts, Auckland & Northern Districts. Otago & Canterbury are South Island teams, whereas the rest are all based in the North Island. The boundaries of these 6 provinces are marked by NZC, and all the clubs within the boundaries of the province come under the umbrella of the provincial team. For example, Wellington has 23 clubs. Most clubs will have various teams in the different Cricket Wellington competitions for men, Women & Juniors. Performances in club cricket are the basis of selection for various Cricket Wellington representative teams. Rachin Ravindra plays for Hutt District Cricket Club, whereas Devon Conway played for Victoria University of Wellington Cricket Club. The same formula is used in other provinces, too.

Cricket Culture in the Cook Islands:

Venturing beyond the shores of New Zealand, Rahul offers a glimpse into the captivating cricket culture of the Cook Islands. Comprising 15 islands nestled in the Pacific Ocean, with a population of 15,000, the Cook Islands epitomize the spirit of cricket as a unifying force in small communities.

The interesting thing to note here is that there are about 80000 Cook Islanders living in New Zealand and a further 60000 Cook Islanders living in Australia. As the islands are small and there is nothing much to do for recreation, sport is a massive part of the lives of all Cook Islanders. Cricket is mainly played in Rarotonga, but the islands of Aitutaki, Pukapuka, and Mangaia also have their own cricket tournaments. Currently, the Cook Islands only play T20 cricket, and the men are ranked 59th in the world out of 91 ranked countries. Rarotonga has 8 clubs that have both men’s and women’s teams. The national side is made up of players playing in the local club competition and players living in New Zealand who have Cook Islands heritage. Most of the clubs have their own grounds. There is one artificial surface, whereas the rest are all turf wickets. The clubs prepare their own wickets by watching YouTube videos and making the most of available resources. Cook Islanders have a lot of power along with good hand eye coordination. If they connect, they will easily clear any boundary. Their weakness lies in game awareness and strategy, but this will come with experience. The next assignment for the men’s team is a T20 World Cup qualifier in Samoa in August this year.


Balancing Banking and Cricket Media:

For Rahul Patil, navigating the demands of a full-time banking career while pursuing a passion for cricket media is a delicate balancing act that requires meticulous planning and unwavering dedication. As he immerses himself in the dynamic world of cricket analysis and commentary, Rahul offers insights into his daily routine and upcoming commitments, particularly with the impending IPL season on the horizon.

Managing my full-time banking job and building an alternative career for myself in cricket media is a constant juggling act. I focus on New Zealand & Indian cricket. To write and talk about it, I need to watch a lot of games. The time difference between India and New Zealand doesn’t help either. The IPL is starting soon, and I will be reviewing every game on the “Snickometer” podcast along with my co-host Sarvesh Utpat. For the duration of the IPL, my daily schedule will be as follows.

Wake up – 2.30 am

Watch the match – 3.30 am to 7.00 am

Record the post-match review – 7.00 to 7.30 am

Work at my full-time job – 8.30 am to 5.00 pm

Spend time with my wife & kids – 6.00 pm to 7.30 pm

Sleep – 7.30 pm to 2.30 am

Two things that really help are an extremely understanding family and an employer that really supports me to follow my passion. My wife has accepted the fact that her husband is having an affair with a woman called cricket, and my kids know that their dad is happy when he watches cricket.

Perception of Kane Williamson in New Zealand:

In the eyes of New Zealanders, Kane Williamson isn’t just a cricketer; he’s a national icon and a paragon of excellence. Rahul offers a glimpse into the reverence and admiration that Williamson commands, asserting that his ascendancy to the title of New Zealand’s greatest cricketer is all but inevitable.

We knew very early on that Kane Williamson was going to be the best batter to have ever played for New Zealand, so his achievements don’t surprise anyone. Only one man stands between Kane and the title of New Zealand’s best cricketer ever, i.e. a certain Sir Richard Hadlee. In the next few years, if Kane’s record away from home and against stronger opposition improves, then that title will be well and truly his. Kane’s greatness lies not only in the runs he scores but the way he carries himself on and off the field. He epitomises everything that Kiwis pride themselves on hard work, humility, and respect. Williamson is the kind of guy that you would want your kids to have as a role model. The kind of guy that you hope your daughter brings home as her boyfriend one day. The kind of guy you could trust your life with if you were in hospital. The kind of guy you would happily buy a second-hand car of. The bollard of honesty. The epitome of sincerity.

Reflections on the World Cup 2023 in India:

Recalling his assignment covering the ODI World Cup in India, Rahul recounts a whirlwind journey that took him from the sprawling stadiums of Ahmedabad to the culinary delights of Hyderabad and the cricketing fervor of Chennai. As the sole New Zealand-based journalist following the Blackcaps, he offers a firsthand account of the camaraderie and support extended by the team, making the experience truly unforgettable.

Following the blackcaps at the ODI World Cup in India was a fascinating experience. I have traveled more outside India than in India. Over the years, I had seen every cricket stadium in India on the TV but had never experienced watching a cricket match live anywhere in India apart from Goa. My journey commenced in Ahmedabad at the world’s biggest stadium. I then got a taste of some of the best biryanis in the world along with the passion of Hyderabad’s cricket fans. The cricketing knowledge of Chennai’s fans blew me away, and I was glad to see the professional way the matches were organised at Chepauk. The beauty of watching cricket at the foothills of the Himalayas blew me away, whereas the cricketing vibe in Pune was excellent. Bengaluru had the most vocal fans, whereas watching the semifinal in a jam-packed Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai was exhilarating. As I was the only New Zealand based journalist following the blackcaps, the team really looked after me well and supported me with interviews and content. It was a trip of a lifetime and one that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

Stay updated on all the latest news and interviews by following me on Instagram and Twitter!

Twitter – @bhavsarj2_0

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“Streets of US will Bleed Blue; Expecting the T20 World Cup to be a Huge Success!”

It was a delightful experience conversing with Karthik Rao. His warm appreciation of my recent cricket fan interviews reignited my enthusiasm for conducting insightful discussions. With several more interviews in the pipeline for my blog, I’m excited to share Karthik’s perspectives with you today. So, without further ado, let’s delve into our engaging conversation and relish the insights he brings to the cricketing world.

X – @Cric_Karthikk

Early Memories:

Karthik Rao shared his passion for various sports including Cricket, Tennis, Formula 1, NBA, and even American Football (NFL) which he fell in love with about five years ago. However, cricket holds a special place in his heart, with memories dating back to his childhood.

I have been a fan of cricket right from my childhood, my earliest (daunting) memory of watching this sport was that Marillier knock v India in 2002, it’s etched in memory.

Cricket’s Lessons:

When asked about the lessons cricket has imparted on him, Karthik spoke about the values of teamwork, resilience, and selflessness. He emphasized how cricket teaches individuals to rise above doubts, work together as a team, and celebrate success collectively.

Cricket holds a close place in my heart, say it teaches you so many things, what is teamwork and how to stand up and prove your doubters wrong, how you can put a smile on others faces while they enjoy your success as their own, we before I and the list goes on.

IND vs ENG Series:

Reflecting on the recently concluded India-England series, Karthik acknowledged England’s commendable performance despite the odds stacked against them. He praised their aggressive approach and highlighted the emergence of young talent within the Indian team.

India are expected to win at home quite convincingly but England did more than a decent job to be honest and did stick to their aggressive approach. The scoreline might say a different story but they did push us to the wall and asked our team that extra bit of effort to win those games. The highlight for me is the emergence of the youngsters, almost everyone stepped up and proved if trusted and given chances we can prove ourselves and win the team some games.

The Return of Pant:

Discussing the highly anticipated return of Rishabh Pant to the cricketing arena, Karthik expressed excitement and admiration for the young wicketkeeper-batsman. Pant’s journey back to the field after his accident promises to be a captivating storyline, and Karthik, like many cricket enthusiasts, eagerly awaits his comeback.

Rishabh Pant is one guy whom everyone loves and adores. His return does bring joy to cricket fans faces, his comeback story will be the talk of this IPL for sure. I personally am not expecting anything from him, all I want is a fit Rishabh Pant enjoying his time out in the middle (If he can entertain and show up big time for his team, irrespective of which franchise you support you would love/wish to see that happen).

Also Read: I am Happy as an Indian Cricket Fan!

Controversial Cricketing Takes:

When asked about his most controversial cricketing take, the fan brought up an intriguing proposal: introducing a free hit in Test cricket. He suggested that bowlers should not be penalized for aggression as long as it doesn’t involve personal abuse.

Why not introduce a freehit in Test Cricket and the bowlers should not be fined for being aggressive if it doesn’t include personal abuse.

IPl and T20 World Cup 2024:

Looking ahead to the IPL and T20 World Cup 2024, he described the former as a cricket carnival, anticipating fierce competition with the expansion to 10 teams. As for the T20 World Cup, he shared a mix of emotions, from the joy of securing tickets to disappointment over missing out on certain matchups.

IPL is always like a cricket carnival, there will be excitement no matter what once the season starts, expecting nothing less this year, with 10 teams and only 4 to make it to the playoffs the competition will be immense. Hope we can witness more superovers this season. Coming to the T20 WorldCup, happy and sad at the same time, glad I was able to book tickets for IND v IRE game, disappointed to miss out of IND v PAK tickets, looking forward to 🇮🇳 lifting the 🏆. Streets of New York will BleedBlue and I am expecting it to be a huge success here in the US (don’t know who bought/got them, re-sale value for those tickets is insane right now – check stubhub/vividseats for yourself).



Cricket Literary Insights:

Despite not being a voracious reader, Karthik confessed to accumulating a collection of cricket-related books in digital format. While he admitted to not having read them all yet, he expressed a desire to delve into these resources eventually. Mentioning titles such as “Cricket 2.0,” “Playing it my way,” and “Timeless Steel,” he acknowledged the value of literature in enriching one’s understanding and appreciation of the sport.



Impact of WTC and Future of Test Cricket:

Turning to the World Test Championship (WTC), the fan acknowledged its role in reigniting interest in Test cricket. He emphasized the significance of the format, particularly when powerhouse teams like India are involved. Reflecting on the future of Test cricket, he proposed innovative ideas such as hosting the WTC Finals in various locations worldwide and implementing a relegation/promotion system to diversify competition.

The spotlight will always be on them if India is playing, the BGT always stands right on top as we get to see two heavy weights lock horns. This BGT will be even more competitive and fierce as Australia will look to keep the 🏆 at home and show to the world they are still the best team and team to beat. WTC definitely did bring some excitement to the test format and ICC should look to host the Finals in all parts of the world rather than sticking to few venues. Maybe introduce a relegation/promotion system?! Divide it into two pools and it might bring more audience as right now only few teams dominate this format and right after the schedule/FTP is announced we can decide/pick who can make it to the WTC Final (1 out of 2 if not 2 finalists).

Stay updated on all the latest news and interviews by following me on Instagram and Twitter!

Twitter – @bhavsarj2_0

Instagram – @bhavsarj2_0

I Am Happy as an Indian Cricket Fan!

We won the Windies series (1-0) which was expected, drew the South African series (1-1) which was expected, we beat England in India (4-1) which was yet again expected given the way we play Test Cricket nowadays especially with respect to the World Test Championship. However, the way we have competed against South Africa in South Africa and especially against England in India is the reason I am extremely happy with this Indian Cricket Team.


No Rishabh Pant, no Virat Kohli, no Mohammad Shami, no KL Rahul after the first test, Jadeja wasn’t fit for that one test and the fact that we have looked past Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane from the longest format of the game shows this Indian side is in the transition phase. Yet when you have a young and slightly inexperienced side in International Cricket and play against a team who hasn’t lost a test series since 2022, and to win 4-1 shows how strong the domestic setup is.

When Virat Kohli announced that he would not be available for the Test series, and when India lost the first test by 28 runs, it would have been a tough ask for Rohit Sharma’s men to make a comeback of this fashion. Michael Atherton also said that it would be disappointing if England lost the series from here on. But that’s what happened.

Also Read: Meet the Wizard Behind the Cricket Compilation Curtain


We can always talk about how Yashasvi Jaiswal had a fabulous series with the bat, or the redemption of Shubman Gill after the first test, or the announcement of Dhruv Jurel in the International setup, or Kuldeep Yadav’s exceptional performance with the ball. We can also talk about Sarfaraz Khan’s twin half-centuries on debut, or the performances from Indian seniors like Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin and Mohammad Siraj. But Rohit Sharma’s captaincy has to be given enough credit whenever we talk about this series. Overshadowed by Ben Stokes performance as captain and specifically after the first test loss, the Indian captain was certainly under a lot of pressure and it remained that way throughout the series. I am happy with the way he led this new yet inexperienced side to a 4-1 victory against England.

📷 – @Shebas_10dulkar

When you see the way this Indian side plays cricket, and taking the scoreline into consideration, one would think surely they would have enough trophies to back this performance with. However, though that’s not the case and the fact that we haven’t won any ICC event since MS Dhoni lifted the Champions Trophy in 2013, we still have plenty of things to be proud of. We are the number 1 in the Test rankings, number 1 in ODI’s, number 1 in the T20Is, number 1 in the World Test Championship, runners up in the WTC 21 as well as 23, runners up in the T20 World Cup 2014, Champions Trophy 2017 and World Cup 2023 and we have almost always managed to get till the Semi-finals of ICC events ever since we won our last trophy. Of course, we failed to qualify for the knockouts in the 2021 T20 World Cup but despite that performance, I think we are the most consistent side and we as ICT fans should be extremely proud of this fact. Term us as chokers but you can always be assured that whenever there is an ICC Trophy, India will always qualify for the knockouts.

📷 – ICC

Amidst the swirling currents of politics within the Indian cricket ecosystem, I find solace in my unwavering support for the team. While acknowledging the inevitable complexities surrounding the board, captaincy, management, and players, it’s evident that being a fan of the wealthiest cricket board comes with its fair share of challenges. Yet, what truly astounds me is the remarkable resilience of the Indian cricket team. Despite the occasional turbulence off the field, their on-field performance remains consistently stellar. It’s a testament to their determination and commitment to excellence, demonstrating that, despite the noise, the essence of Indian cricket continues to shine bright.


As we are done with the first half of the World Test Championship, I am happy with where we stand currently. India has Bangladesh and New Zealand to play at home and then a Border Gavaskar Trophy down under at the end of this year. There is another possibility of India qualifying for the World Test Championship finals next year. And in between all this, there is a T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy to play and I am confident that our side will do exceptionally well in these tournaments too.

Meet the Wizard Behind the Cricket Compilation Curtain

In the vast world of social media, there exists a niche community dedicated to cricket enthusiasts, and within this realm, one figure stands out for his dedication to curating long compilations of cricketing highlights. Meet @KohliSensual∅5, the mastermind behind these compilation videos. In this interview, he shares insights into his journey, challenges faced, and future plans.

Twitter/X – @KohliSensual∅5

Discovering the Passion

Born out of an unexpected turn of events, @KohliSensual∅5 reminisces about his cricketing journey, which began in 2007. Initially indifferent to the sport, a pivotal moment during the India vs England super 8 match of the 2007 T20 World Cup changed everything. Witnessing Yuvraj Singh’s historic six sixes in an over ignited a newfound passion for the game. Since then, he has been an ardent follower of cricket, meticulously documenting every series India has played.

Earlier I used to hate this sport in my childhood when my grandfather used to watch. Then one night I was watching India vs England Super 8 match of 2007 T20 WC. There I saw Yuvraj Singh hitting 6 sixes in that over. From that day I started following this sport and also became fan of Yuvraj Singh.

Behind the Scenes

The process of creating the mammoth compilation videos might seem daunting, but for @KohliSensual∅5, it’s a labor of love. Armed with a collection of matches and assistance from friends, he meticulously crafts each video using a video editing app. Sourcing stats and series information from reliable cricket platforms, he ensures each compilation is comprehensive and engaging.

I usually have a collection of some matches and if I dont find some of them then I take help of two of my friends, they usually provide me the highlights and rest of the cutting and pasting work is done by me only with the help of Inshot app. And for stats and series, I take help from Espncricinfo, Cricbuzz, Howstat and Cricmetric.

Overcoming Challenges

While compiling videos spanning over a decade, @KohliSensual05 encounters minimal challenges. The primary obstacle? Slow internet speeds which prolong the downloading process. Despite this, his dedication remains unwavering, driven by his passion for the sport.

Actually there are very minimal challenges I face while compiling these videos. Only challenge I face is low speed internet. Then it takes lot of time to download these clips as each match usually consists of 1.5-3 GB or more.

Sharing the Passion

Taking to social media, @KohliSensual∅5 shares his compilations with the world, providing a platform for cricket enthusiasts to relive iconic moments. Despite occasional frustrations of uncredited reposts on YouTube, he remains undeterred, understanding that the essence of cricket lies in its shared experience.

Sometimes I feel so frustated that there are many people nabbing my stuff and posting that on YouTube. But at the end of the day clips are not owned by me plus I am providing these clips myself on a very big platform so anyone can use that either for viewing or for posting that. So I dont care much about this thing. 

Navigating Copyrights

While copyright concerns loom large on platforms like YouTube, he has managed to evade such issues on Twitter, leveraging his knowledge of the platform’s algorithms. However, he remains vigilant, knowing that the landscape can shift unpredictably.

Till now I haven’t faced any issues regarding copyright. Because I know about Twitter (X) algorithm. They generally send more copyright to IPL stuff. International they rarely send plus you can see my clips are way before 2010s so there is a very minimal chance but you never know anything can happen in the near future.

When I asked him what drove him to create these long packages of cricket content on social media, here’s how he responded.

I am on this platform since 2022. I have been doing this past year. Last year was consistently posting ball by ball type of videos. But because of some in real life commitment i had to stop this. Also my main account got suspended because of copyright at 2.7k followers. So I took a long break of 5-6 months and came back again as I got some free time for a month or two.

Future Endeavors

@KohliSensual∅5 expresses a desire to create a compilation featuring former Indian cricketer Zaheer Khan in the future, citing his admiration for Khan’s bowling action. However, the scarcity of clips poses a challenge. 

I would love to work upon the Zaheer Khan compilation but the main problem is that clips featuring him aren’t available much neither on YouTube nor in my collection. The reason is because I used to love his action. Me being myself a left arm fast bowler in childhood somewhat got inspired by him. If I find his clips then surely I will work upon him.

It took around five to six days for him to compile the 50 minute video of Ravichandran Ashwin picking up 500 wickets. As @KohliSensual∅5 embarks on his journey, his dedication to preserving cricketing history and sharing his passion with the world serves as a testament to the enduring popularity of the sport. With each compilation, he not only celebrates the achievements of cricketing legends but also fosters a sense of camaraderie among fans worldwide. So, the next time you stumble upon one of his videos, take a moment to appreciate the dedication and love poured into each frame.

Feel free to explore the compilation archive shared by KohliSensual on this Google Drive link for a comprehensive look at all the compilations to date.

Make 21 Years of Age to Enter Social Media, Get Their ID card Before Entering the Arena

Q) We all are aware that the Australian players have been bombarded with a tremendous amount of negativity by Indians. First thing I would like to ask you is how and when did you first come to know that the players are facing backlash? The reason behind this question is to understand whether this is an issue that has occurred in the last couple of years or it goes slightly earlier when the social media was brand new to the world.

I think SM has been with us for the last 15 years. I got to know about these abuses when people started to target Kohli’s daughter. Those words were for a 4-month-old kid. I was shocked.

Q) Obviously we are all aware that Indians are on top when it comes to abusing players and sometimes it’s our own players. Mike Tyson came up with a hard-hitting quote on the dark side of the internet where he is saying social media has made people comfortable with disrespecting people and not getting punched for it. Would you like to expand on this?

These things are increasing like wildfire because people who are using social media as a viel where no one can them there, it gives them that cushion of comfort that no one is gonna do harm to them.

Q) Before the internet era, people used to throw stones at players house or use their pictures to make a pyre and shame them by burning it. Now it’s social media abuse. Where do you see this pathetic trend going in the future and will it ever stop?

I can’t see them stopping anytime soon, people are frustrated, and the lack of empathy is never gonna end. Attention is something that makes their brain blind.

Q) When you see so much of abuse that the cricketers and even some fans go through, how much does it affect their overall experience?

It will obviously affect one’s life, you must have seen some cricketers and Bollywood celebs discuss these incidents in press conferences.

Q) It’s been a while since this online abuse first began and earlier players may have gotten heavily affected because of this. Do you think the cricketers are now aware of this issue and therefore can be mentally prepared to tackle this? And if so, how terrible is it for any player just to mentally be prepared for something they shouldn’t even be prepared for in the first place?

See either they can turn off their comment section or stop reading the comments because these things won’t stop so better to be prepared and tackle carefully.

Also Read – Decoding Online Harassment of Australian Players and Unveiling the Dark Side of Fandom

Q) Do you think the media plays a pivotal role in the contribution of negativity seen on social media platforms? How can they tackle this?

Good question, in recent past approximately 6-7 years of media has been pathetic. They have a set an agenda and will keep barking, the credibility of media has gone significantly down and now people are moving to YouTube channels just because some of media people still have some spine and they can talk. They have been fired by the news channels and forced to start YouTube channels.

Q) Have you observed any efforts or initiatives within the cricket community to address and combat online harassment and abuse?

Not yet

Q) Is there an age factor that plays this role in the negativity seen online? Do you think there is a certain age parameter that has largely contributed towards this issue?

I am 100% sure about it, most of the abusers are teenagers, they don’t have that sense of understanding and some are very lonely and find social media to entertain their fantasy.

Q) What role do you think governing bodies should play in addressing and mitigating the dark side of the internet within the cricket community?

Make 21 years of age to enter social media and get their ID card before entering the arena. Pass some strict rules for abusing online.

Q) Mental health plays a huge role behind the abuse towards players or fans. Clearly it shows India are still behind when it comes to displaying frustration or maintaining their health when a certain event didn’t go the way they would like to go. Your take on this?

See when there is low employment and people are not engaged in any productivity work they will use social media to vent out their frustration. The World Cup is a big event…we have seen this even in IPL and many leagues. Mental health is important for everyone.

Jab apke apni zindagi main खुशी nahi hoti to apko lagta hai kisi aur ko bhi khush nahi hona chahiye.

Twitter – @cricdrugs

ALL MEN ARE PIGS!

Following their victory over the hosts in the ODI World Cup 2023 finals, Australian players faced online abuse from some Indian fans on social media.

Remember when the feminists said “All men are pigs”? They were so right about this. And I’ll explain that through this article why is that so. Because men can get away with anything these days. This includes abusing sportspersons on social media and giving death threats to their family members.

A part of me is ashamed for what the Australian players went through. Their only crime was they beat India in the finals to clinch their 6th World Cup title. Because that meant a string of abuse from none other than Indian fans. I’m ashamed to be living in a country where these people breathe the same air I breathe.

Instagram comments section of Travis Head

But another part of me is further ashamed because these men don’t know how to cope with a loss. They are not aware that abusing the opposition, and sometimes our own players on occasions, will not bring the desired results they were after. It only highlights a failure to address mental health issues adequately. @thefallingsweep perfectly sums up this issue through his excerpt from my interview.

This kind of vile abuse is unacceptable. We definitely have to evolve as fans in the years to come. Having interacted with many young people like you on this app; I am quite hopeful that “a few good men and women“ will carry us through the coming decades. Remember whether it’s 83, 2003, 2023 and maybe even 2043 – a balanced rational response is always a sign of a civilised society. Hate is tiresome. Love is timeless.

– The Falling Sweep
Instagram story of Jimmy Neesham

To see your team lose in the finals is disappointing. But it’s still okay. To see fans of your own national team abuse other players in their comments section is thoroughly infuriating. That’s completely not okay. And to see these men hate and abuse cricketers on social media on a day where men are acknowledged for their existence is absolutely depressing. There is nothing to acknowledge on 19th of November and it should be scrapped until such men are behind bars.

There are always two sides to a coin. Social media is also the same coin that can not only help connect people from various parts of the world but it can also break spirits. Here’s where Anurag Rekhi’s excerpts can really open your eyes about the dark side of the internet.

It’s definitely easy to hide behind a keyboard and type what your dark passenger feels. At times I think the person typing such stuff is trying to seek attention because they know it will be spoken about.

– Anurag Rekhi

This desire for attention, this pathetic longing for others to pay heed to what one has written, this sense of inadequacy can literally drive people to write what I like to call, ‘the devil’s mind’.

Before the internet era, people used to throw stones at players house or use their pictures to make a pyre and shame them by burning it. Now it’s social media abuse. Just ask yourself, where do you see this pathetic trend going in the future and will it ever stop? The answer to this question can be best summed up by @thefallingsweep as well as Anurag Rekhi as they state their views below:

As far as social media goes, it’s going to become only worse. The advent of AI will amplify the two evils – misinformation and disinformation. These two together with the vile trolls will only serve as a Molotov cocktail that will raze down any sensible interaction online between well meaning fans.

– The Falling Sweep

Since you are mentioning about the future then it’s in our hands now. We need to start teaching our kids how to be a sport, accept defeats, learn to respect others, that value system has begun to lose weight. I will go a bit longer here. My Daughter is 8 she gets really pissed if she doesn’t win in a competition and her first thought is “the judge or the teacher doesn’t like me” it’s not the one who won was better than me today and I have to improve. It may sound a tiny example but that’s where it starts. We shouldn’t be satisfying the ego when they are in the development stage. We need to discuss, explain why you lost, how you can better next time and keep working hard. Rather than making irrelevant assumptions and statements about why you didn’t win.

– Anurag Rekhi

With so much negativity and hate surfacing online, one would think of the role played by the governing bodies in addressing and mitigating the dark side of the internet. And there has been a case filed against a man responsible for giving death threats to Virat Kohli and his family. But that’s the only instance where the media has made me aware that justice has prevailed. Only after screaming our hearts out that these people were made to be responsible and held accountable for their actions.

Here’s where the words of @thefallingsweep echoed inside my head when he said the following:

Governing bodies are taking advantage of this to push laws / bills that restrict the freedom of citizens such as the Data Protection Bill. So it’s a fine line between freedom of expression and throttling the discourse (a few glimpses of it we have seen on Twitter like shadow bans and killing the reach or even suspension of accounts during farmer protests). A troll ecosystem installed by the establishment by proxy works overtime to rain abuse and spread a fear psychosis that further enables the establishment to use this as a pretext to clamp down on free speech.

– The Falling Sweep

The media plays a crucial role in addressing and highlighting societal issues. Without their exposure, awareness about these problems remains limited, underscoring the importance of media in spreading awareness.

The job of media in sports is presenting facts, pre analysing the game & then post game dissecting what the team who won did right and where the team who lost went wrong. Rather than talking from the game point of view our media doesn’t treat sportsmen as icons (they do to capture eyeballs) at times they are treated as properties we own and have to perform how we expect them to.

– Anurag Rekhi

“Some men just want to watch the world burn”. This is from the dialogues of Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Dark Knight’ where Alfred tells Bruce Wayne about the psychopathic nature of men. Anurag Rekhi raises an intriguing point about our tendency as a nation to pull each other down, when, in reality, it should be the opposite.

Shahrukh Khan once on Koffee with Karan said that we as a nation are obsessed on betting on horses. We always like to compete one against the other. Like we have seen it on twitter – chokli vs Vadapav, Kohli vs SRT, MS vs Ro & by the way these are fan clubs with India flag on who want to watch Rohit fail Virat succeed so they can build on their icons brand.

– Anurag Rekhi

A Hypothetical Scenario

India is playing a World Cup in Australia. They already lost their first two games and everyone wrote them off. Now they make a comeback. They win 9 in a row and lift the World Cup after x number of years. They share their happiness through social media expressing their joy. And a certain section of fans, who are haters of Indian cricket, start abusing the players and their family members. I hope that day never comes but if it happens, ask yourself this one question irrespective whether you are a fan or not, are you going to stay silent?

I am writing this article with the intention of spreading awareness that one day people will learn to cope with their mental illness and think twice before posting anything on social media. You have a right to criticize a player. That’s freedom of expression. You have no right to abuse a player especially under the comments section of their social media.

I don’t claim to be a saint. I have myself made plenty of mistakes. I have also expressed my disappointment but that has been through my own social media account. If my views have ever hurt you in any way, I would sincerely apologise as those were never my intentions but just my flow of emotions and a brainfade on my part. Like Harsha Bhogle tweeted that there is a sense of maturity among everyone on accepting the results, I am also learning to do the same. After all, SPORTS IS THE GREATEST LEVELLER.

Now I am completely aware that after I post this article, there will be a section of people who will call me a hypocrite. Interviewing men when I have kept the title as ‘All Men Are Pigs’ won’t sit right with them. All I can say is, speaking out against this issue won’t label you negatively; instead, it will further demonstrate your advocacy for a cause.

I would like to thank the two Twitter stars who have agreed to share their views on my platform. This article would have been difficult to come up with if not for their support and guidance. Their unwavering support has been a constant source of motivation, helping me to strive for excellence and urging me to succeed. You can follow them on Twitter as their handles are mentioned below.

The Falling Sweep – @thefallingsweep

Anurag Rekhi – @Dravidict

THANK YOU!

Rohit Sharma Was Writing A New Book All-Together In The Tournament, I Would Not Blame Him: The World Cup Final Review

Biswajeet Mahapatra – @20thwin_

Firstly, I would like to thank you for your participation in this interview. How was your last night’s sleep after India’s performance at the World Cup final?

Thank you for considering me for the interview. I went to sleep at 11 PM itself, but could not sleep at all. I woke up with a headache. My mind has been numb, such a heartbreak it has been. No words can describe it. Too much chaos in the mind. I remember Ashwin in his show saying, “It was the common men’s world cup”.

What went wrong according to you?

I think we lacked the intent and we were quite nervous at the final stage. Most importantly, I feel we have to accept the fact we often get outplayed on dry wickets, especially in D/N games. We do not have a wizard-like MSD to master the game plan for such pitches. Four boundaries in 40 overs, it was a bit too defensive considering the way India played. Yes, the lack of batting depth was an important factor. Kohli did great as usual, I wish Rahul did better with sneaking singles and doubles.

We cannot blame an individual for a loss but do you feel the way Rohit Sharma played Maxwell, especially after hitting the previous two deliveries before getting out for boundaries, made the difference? Was that the start of an avalanche?

The shot selection of Rohit will be the talk of town, but what if he played slow and got out like Iyer, He was almost caught at the boundary for a pull shot. Yes, the ‘what if’ will definitely haunt him more than anyone else. But to say if he had played slow, he would have got success is too much speculation. There is no answer to this question.

Image Credit – @ImTanujSingh

Textbook cricket says you hit a four and a six, you take a single next ball but Rohit was writing a new book all together in this World Cup. I would not blame him.

Do you honestly feel SKY must be reconsidered in this format?

SKY has been a disappointment. He lacked intent and planning, and strike rotation was at worst. We did not require boundaries, even nudging the ball around and seeking doubles would have been great to get to 260 at least. He is not meant for ODIs. He is a great T20 player but we have far more better talent and players with better temperament than him.

Siraj was our go-to bolwer with Bumrah in the powerplay. To see him bowling after 15 overs, did that cost us the finals? Because Shami and Bumrah did deliver for us in terms of wickets.

I agree that was a blunder. Siraj was a 2nd Change bowler and we literally were playing with four bowlers as Siraj is lethal with the new ball. Yes, he was out of form, but still new ball is different from a 4 overs ball. Shami could have come after 4 overs. It was evident Shami lacked control in the initial overs.

Few words for that extraordinary innings from Travis Head who is probably the next big thing in Cricket?

He has been an absolute monster. Right from tests to WTC to WCF, he has stood like a giant making sure to take his team home. The kangaroo DNA is just different. He showed the way to be aggressive and play sensibly at the same time. His catch of Rohit went down as great as Kapil Dev’s catch of Sir Viv Richards in the 1983 WC final.

Image Credit – Travis Head’s Twitter

I guess we romanticize too much “The next big thing”, what matters more is which team is able to achieve the “next big thing ” and Australia will always be at the forefront with the abundance of experience and attitude they have for big stage games.

Australia really bowled well and obviously their fielding was excellent. Those variations like slower balls, slower bouncers, bowling at the right lengths, can you tell us your views on the way they restricted India to 240?

Australia did stupendous planning and execution was so perfect. It was Cummins Gambit we were playing in. Once they got Rohit, the script was set. The field positioning set by them, the short square leg for Rahul and Kohli just restricted them from playing freely. They had a plan, they had the right ruthless attitude to execute it. Most importantly, they had the nerve to bring their 120% consistently throughout the match. 90s kids know how ruthless the Australians are.

How was KL Rahul’s knock in your view?

It wasn’t disappointing one. For a player like KL, you expect him to have a better strike rate. If not boundaries, he should have sought gaps and a bit of aggression. We did have the fear of lack of depth but he played a very different game from what India had played throughout the WC. We lacked the intent after the 10th over. Kohli despite the slowdown had a healthy strike rate.

Where does India go from now? Do you want Rohit Sharma to continue or would you like Virat Kohli to take the reins once again? Or would you like to see a youngster getting groomed?

Image Credit – @mufaddal_vohra

Rohit should continue for test matches as captain. We need to groom a new captain for ODIs now. Maybe Rahul. Rohit has been fantastic but I am not sure he will be there for 2027 WC. Like Mahi said, “We have only four years”. We need to go away from the idea of total dry pitches to more hard and pacer-friendly wickets. We need batsmen who can bowl at least 4-6 overs. There can be no excuse for that. I hope ICT does well and we get more players like Kohli and Rohit. We need young blood to lead now. This is the transition to the next generation now.

In the end, I would like to say that our team played like a dream. We did not expect such a dominating performance before the World Cup. It was almost the perfect script to lift the Cup, I was 100% sure. But in the end, I guess it takes something special to cross that final line and Australia has an abundance of it.

I hope we appreciate how great was 2007 and 2011. The knocks of Gambir in both finals and Dhoni in 2011 will go down as one of the most valuable knocks in the history of ICT post-1983.

Thank you for reading this interview. If you liked this discussion please feel free to share this article with as many as you can. Follow me on Twitter and Instagram, my handles for the same are mentioned below.

Twitter/X – @BhavsarJ2_0

Instagram – @bhavsarj2_0