Shami may have only appeared in half of India's matches so far, but he's already the team's leading wicket-taker. His impressive performance includes two five-wicket hauls in the four games since he joined the playing eleven due to Hardik Pandya's ankle injury. With a total of 16 wickets, Shami currently holds the fourth spot among the tournament's highest wicket-takers. In comparison, his fellow pacer, Jasprit Bumrah, has taken 15 wickets in eight matches and is placed sixth. Read more on TOI
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Cricket 2023: Akram Explains the Game's Evolution Cricket, often referred to as the "gentleman's game," has come a long way since its inception in the 16th century. Over the years, the sport has witnessed several changes in its format, rules, and playing techniques. As we approach the year 2023, one of the greatest cricketers of all time, Wasim Akram, sheds light on the game's evolution and what we can expect in the future. Akram, known for his exceptional bowling skills and his ability to swing the ball both ways, believes that cricket has transformed significantly in recent years. The introduction of Twenty20 cricket in the early 2000s revolutionized the game, making it faster, more aggressive, and appealing to a wider audience. This format, with its shorter match duration and emphasis on power hitting, has attracted a new generation of fans and players. According to Akram, the cricketing landscape in 2023 will be dominated by the T20 format. He predicts that Test cricket, once considered the pinnacle of the sport, will take a backseat to the shorter formats due to declining viewership and the rise of franchise-based leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Big Bash League (BBL). The commercial success of these leagues has transformed cricket into a global entertainment spectacle, with players becoming household names and earning lucrative contracts. Furthermore, Akram believes that technology will play a significant role in shaping the future of cricket. The Decision Review System (DRS), which allows players to challenge on-field decisions using technology, has already become an integral part of the game. In the coming years, advancements in technology may lead to the introduction of other innovations, such as the use of artificial intelligence for umpiring decisions and player performance analysis. Another aspect that Akram highlights is the increasing importance of fitness and athleticism in modern cricket. Gone are the days when cricketers were known for their paunches and lack of agility. Today, players are expected to be in peak physical condition, capable of fielding acrobatically, running between wickets swiftly, and bowling consistently at high speeds. This shift towards athleticism has not only improved the overall quality of the game but has also made it more physically demanding. Akram also emphasizes the need for cricket to continue expanding its global footprint. Traditionally, cricket has been dominated by a handful of nations, primarily England, Australia, and India. However, in recent years, there has been a concerted effort to promote the sport in new markets, such as the United States, Canada, and various European countries. This push for global expansion aims to make cricket a truly global sport, with a diverse range of nations competing at the highest level. In conclusion, cricket in 2023 is set to be a fast-paced, technology-driven, and globalized sport. The rise of T20 cricket, advancements in technology, the emphasis on fitness, and the push for global expansion are all factors that will shape the future of the game. As cricket enthusiasts, we can look forward to witnessing the evolution of this beloved sport and the thrilling contests it will produce in the years to come.