Sports
Morkel: Nitish Has a Magical Bowling Ability and Aims for Consistency
Morne Morkel, India’s bowling coach, praised Nitish Kumar Reddy for his potential to deliver exceptional deliveries. Reddy, a seam-bowling all-rounder, is eager to improve his bowling consistency and increase his overs in the upcoming Test series against England, which kicks off on June 20 in Leeds.
Reddy made his Test debut during the Australia tour last year and scored a century at the MCG in the Boxing Day Test. Currently, he is competing for a spot in the playing eleven as a seam bowling all-rounder, alongside Shardul Thakur. In two red-ball matches against the England Lions, Reddy bowled a total of 26.5 overs, although he has yet to solidify his position as an all-rounder.
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“Having more bowling options is advantageous,” Morkel stated. “He’s talented and can bowl those special deliveries. It’s crucial for him to work on his consistency, and we’re committed to helping him with that. I’ve encouraged him to bowl more often.”
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“I want him to have the ball in his hands more often. We all know what he can achieve with the bat. If we can provide him with those bowling options, especially in these conditions, he could greatly enhance our bowling attack,” Morkel added during a training session with reporters.
When asked about India’s bowling combination balance, Morkel responded, “We’re pleased with our balance. However, as a bowling unit, it’s vital to find the necessary pace for Test matches.”
“We’ve discussed extensively how we will approach the matches against England. So far, our preparations are on track. On match day, execution will be key,” he continued.
Morkel also expressed his admiration for Jasprit Bumrah’s rhythm and intensity during practice but emphasized the management’s cautious approach to his workload throughout the summer. Head coach Gautam Gambhir noted that Bumrah wouldn’t participate in all five Test matches due to workload considerations.
“He understands how to prepare and get ready. I’ve been impressed with his energy during the last three days. It’s exciting to see his form, and I’m glad he’s in good physical condition,” Morkel remarked.
“We’ll manage him wisely, as he’s essential to our success, but the first three net sessions were a promising display of his ability with the Dukes ball,” he added.
According to Morkel, India’s bowlers must start strong to counter England’s aggressive batting lineup, which is quick to capitalize on mistakes. “Assessing a net session is one thing; it’s another for our guys to adapt to fielding for 90 overs, which will take time,” he explained.
“We need to recognize this and practice patience. Adjusting quickly is vital as this series will test us. Given England’s playing style, we need to be at our best; we can’t afford to ease into the series,” he emphasized.
“One of the most impressive aspects in recent days is how the players have taken responsibility and stepped up. They understand the challenges ahead, which is encouraging for us as coaches,” Morkel concluded.
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Royal Challengers Bengaluru created history in the Women’s Premier League by scoring the highest number of runs in the first over of a match. RCB scored a massive 23 runs in the opening over, setting a new WPL record.
This historic moment took place during the match against Gujarat Giants at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Gujarat Giants bowler Renuka Singh Thakur conceded 23 runs in the first over, making it the most expensive opening over in WPL history.
Renuka began the over with a wide delivery. The ball went past the wicketkeeper and crossed the boundary, resulting in five runs. RCB batter Grace Harris then took charge of the over. She smashed four consecutive boundaries, putting the Gujarat Giants under pressure.
During the over, Renuka Singh bowled two more wides, adding extra runs to the total. On the final delivery of the over, Grace Harris struck another boundary. This completed a dramatic and record-breaking first over for RCB.
With this, Renuka Singh Thakur recorded the most expensive first over ever bowled in the Women’s Premier League. The previous record was held by Tanuja Kanwar. She had conceded 21 runs in the first over while playing for Gujarat Giants against Mumbai Indians in the 2023 season.
In the same match, Royal Challengers Bengaluru batted first and put up a strong total. RCB scored 182 runs for the loss of seven wickets in 20 overs. The team showed aggressive batting throughout the innings.
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Gujarat Giants chased the target but failed to keep up with the required run rate. They were bowled out for 150 runs in 18.5 overs. As a result, Royal Challengers Bengaluru won the match by 32 runs.
This victory strengthened RCB’s position in the tournament and added a historic achievement to the Women’s Premier League records.
On the first day of the second Test between India and South Africa at Barsapara Stadium, South Africa made a strong start, reaching 247 for 6 at stumps.The venue, Barsapara Cricket Stadium, hosted its very first Test match in history — making the day special for Guwahati and cricket in Assam.
South African skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and chose to bat first.Their openers, Aiden Markram (38) and Ryan Rickelton (35), gave a solid start with a partnership of 82 runs.Later, Tristan Stubbs added 49 before getting out, while Bavuma made 41.
India fought back well thanks to a strong performance by spinner Kuldeep Yadav. He picked up 3 wickets and gave away only 48 runs in 17 overs.Ravindra Jadeja also chipped in with an important wicket, dismissing Bavuma. In the final over before stumps, Mohammed Siraj struck, getting Tony de Zorzi out.At the end of play, Senuran Muthusamy was unbeaten on 25, and Kyle Verreynne was 1 not out.
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The light became a concern late in the day. As visibility dropped, play was stopped, and light issues forced the umpires to call it a day early.Overall, India ended Day 1 with a degree of satisfaction. The bowling attack showed discipline, especially through their spinners, and they managed to check the South African momentum.
India A began their Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 campaign with a huge total against the UAE in Doha. Captain Jitesh Sharma won the toss and chose to bat first. Vaibhav Suryavanshi then produced a stunning innings. He scored 144 runs from just 42 balls. His knock included 11 fours and 15 sixes.
Suryavanshi reached his fifty in 17 balls. He completed his century in only 32 balls. He added 163 runs for the second wicket with Naman Dhir, who made 34. Jitesh Sharma also played a quick innings and scored a fast fifty.
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India A finished at 297 for 4 in 20 overs. The team now holds a strong position in the match.
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