Indian pace bowler Mohammed Shami built a home-made practice facility at his farmhouse during the COVID-19 lockdowns, which helped him maintain his skills and make a successful comeback in the World Cup. Shami's impressive performance of 5-54 against New Zealand earned him the Player-of-the-Match award. In early 2020, Shami set up a practice pitch, nets, and a clay running track at his farmhouse in Amroha, located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. This facility served as a convenient practice base for Shami and his younger brother, who is also a cricketer. Read more on TOI
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Title: Cricket 2023: The Unforgettable COVID Lockdown Season Introduction: The year 2023 will always be remembered as a significant period in cricket history. The sport faced unprecedented challenges due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. As the world grappled with the effects of the virus, cricket too had to adapt to a new normal. In this blog, we will delve into the unique circumstances surrounding the cricket season of 2023, exploring the impact of the COVID lockdown on the game. 1. The Empty Stadiums: One of the most surreal sights of the 2023 cricket season was the absence of fans in the stadiums. With social distancing measures in place, matches were played behind closed doors. The silence that enveloped the stadiums during crucial moments of the game was a stark reminder of the ongoing pandemic. However, technology came to the rescue as virtual fan walls and artificial crowd noises were introduced to recreate the atmosphere to some extent. 2. Biosecure Bubbles: To ensure the safety of players and staff, cricket boards implemented strict biosecure bubbles. Players were confined to designated hotels and stadiums, with limited contact with the outside world. The mental and emotional toll of living in such controlled environments for extended periods cannot be underestimated. However, these measures were necessary to keep the game going amidst the pandemic. 3. The Rise of Domestic Cricket: With international travel restrictions and the cancellation of many bilateral series, domestic cricket gained prominence during the lockdown season. As players were unable to represent their national teams, they focused on domestic competitions, leading to a renewed interest in local cricket. This shift allowed emerging talents to shine and provided a platform for players to showcase their skills. 4. The Advent of Virtual Cricket: As cricket boards searched for innovative ways to engage fans, virtual cricket tournaments gained popularity. Players competed against each other in online matches, bringing a new dimension to the game. These virtual tournaments not only provided entertainment but also allowed fans to connect with their favorite players in a unique way. 5. The Return of Cricket: Despite the challenges, the cricket season of 2023 saw the return of international cricket. Series and tournaments were rescheduled, and teams resumed their battles on the field. The joy of witnessing the game's return, even if from the comfort of our homes, was a testament to the resilience of the sport and its fans. Conclusion: The cricket season of 2023 will forever be etched in our memories as a time when the world faced adversity, and cricket adapted to survive. The empty stadiums, biosecure bubbles, and the rise of domestic and virtual cricket were all part of a unique experience. As the world slowly recovers from the pandemic, cricket will continue to evolve, drawing strength from the lessons learned during this challenging period.