Pakistan's preparations for the crucial World Cup match against England in Kolkata showcased the team's focused training session. All-rounder Shadab Khan, recuperating from a concussion, appeared geared for a comeback. The team's skipper, Babar Azam, sought to make a significant impact in the tournament. After a two-day break in Kolkata, the Pakistani squad engaged in an extensive three-hour net session, emphasising all facets of the game. Shadab resumed bowling for the first time since his sidelining due to concussion after an awkward fall. Read more on TOI
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Cricket 2023: A Game of Inconsistency Cricket, often referred to as the gentleman's game, has always been known for its unpredictability. However, as we look ahead to the year 2023, it seems that inconsistency has become the defining characteristic of the sport. One of the major factors contributing to this inconsistency is the rise of T20 cricket. The shortest format of the game has gained immense popularity over the years, with leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Big Bash League (BBL) attracting global audiences. This has led to a shift in focus from the traditional longer formats, such as Test cricket, to the more fast-paced and entertaining T20 matches. While T20 cricket has undoubtedly brought in more viewers and revenue, it has also resulted in a decline in the overall quality of the game. Players are now more inclined towards hitting big shots and scoring quick runs rather than building an innings and playing a patient game. This has led to a decrease in the technique and skill required to succeed in the sport. Furthermore, the scheduling of cricket matches has become a major issue. In recent years, players have been subjected to grueling schedules, with back-to-back series and tournaments taking a toll on their physical and mental well-being. This has resulted in fatigue and injuries, leading to inconsistent performances on the field. Another factor that has contributed to the inconsistency in cricket is the lack of strong domestic structures in many countries. While countries like India, England, and Australia have well-established domestic leagues and structures, smaller cricketing nations struggle to provide their players with the same level of exposure and opportunities. This lack of development at the grassroots level has resulted in a significant gap in skill levels between teams, leading to one-sided matches and inconsistent performances. Moreover, the introduction of technology in cricket has added another layer of inconsistency to the game. The Decision Review System (DRS) was introduced to eliminate human errors in decision-making, but it has often been a subject of controversy. The inconsistency in the use of technology has led to debates and confusion among players, officials, and fans, further adding to the overall unpredictability of the game. In conclusion, cricket in 2023 is plagued by inconsistency. The rise of T20 cricket, the grueling schedules, the lack of strong domestic structures, and the introduction of technology have all contributed to this issue. While cricket will always have its fair share of unpredictability, it is crucial for the sport's governing bodies to address these concerns and strive for a more consistent and balanced game. Only then can cricket truly reclaim its status as the gentleman's game.