Afridi believes Pakistan can break India jinx

Shahid Afridi is confident Pakistan can break the hoodoo against India in the World Cup. 

Pakistan's scoreline against India in World Cups is 5-0 and this has been well-documented. In the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, Pakistan get ready to face India for the sixth time and the clash on February 15 in Adelaide promises to be a tense affair.
However, Pakistan allrounder Shahid Afridi believes the team is not disheartened by their poor record against India in the World Cup. "There is always a first time. I know it is a crunch game for both the teams and fans from all over the world are coming to see it. The hotels have been booked months in advance.There is so much hype and the expectations of the fans are enormous. However, we have the confidence and the ability to surprise any team on give day. But, both the teams know how to handle pressure. On our part, we plan to treat it as just another game. However, being the first game in World Cup, both will be desperate to start with a win, so that they can take the momentum and confidence into the remainder of the tournament," he said just before the start of the warm-up game against Bangladesh at the Blacktown Oval in Sydney.
Afridi expressed hope that the two teams play each other more often in ODIs and not just in major ICC tournaments. "We have not played each other often enough. I hope we get to play against each other even outside the World Cup," he said. Afridi is closing in on a unique double of 8000 runs and 400 ODI wickets and his bowling workload is all set to increase following the absence of Mohammad Hafeez due to injury and Saeed Ajmal due to problems with his bowling.
The 35-year-old has announced that he will retire from ODIs after the end of the World Cup and he wants to go out on a high. He said the side would want to emulate the efforts of the 1992 World Cup winning team. However, it will not be easy considering that the current squad is plagued with injuries. "The 1992 team was a combination of seniors and youngsters. This team has got some talented youngsters as well and we're expecting a lot from them," he said.

Tour diary: Christchurch's earthquake aftermath

The Christchurch Cathedral lies crippled, missing its spire and tower. 

"Welcome to the war zone," read a New Zealand friend's message when I switched on my phone on arrival in Christchurch at about midnight Saturday. The message hit home the next afternoon, walking around downtown Christchurch's business district. A stark departure from the surroundings of Hagley Park, across the road from the scenic Botanical Gardens, the area was ravaged by the earthquake of February 22, 2011.
On that day, a 6.3 magnitude aftershock of an earlier earthquake that occurred in September 2010 caused a disastrous disruption to Christchurch. There were nearly 200 fatalities and 10,000 injuries. It is reckoned that 70 percent of the buildings in the city's central business district were demolished. Losses are estimated to be in the vicinity of 40 billion dollars. It is a disaster that forever changed the way Christchurch thought about its vulnerability to earthquakes.
Walking around the city centre the next day was something of a sombre experience. Countless buildings remain boarded up, with wires running along their peripheries. There are several collapsed brick and mortar structures and ones that look like that could collapse at any minute. The gothic Christchurch Cathedral lies crippled, missing its spire and tower. Numerous cranes and bulldozers and other such heavy machinery lie idle today, but come Monday will come back to work, their loud noise drowning out any other possible sound nearby. There are scant signs of the ICC World Cup taking place here, only a few flags flying atop street lights and one poster on a wooden gate opposite one of the building still boarded up and awaiting restoration.
The desolation hangs heavy over a first-timer like myself. Even considering it is a Sunday, downtown wears a deserted look - like it could be a lot used on a Hollywood film set, but on a day after shooting has packed up. "There used to be a lot of activity here," says one local resident, "but since the earthquake, the charm of downtown Christchurch had lessened. It's not like there's a lot more buzzing during the week."
Two days later, when offices and shops are open and retailers at the Re:Start container mall - a lovely outdoor area with portable stalls, kiosks, cafes and stores catering home-made items, and now in its third location owing to construction progress - I do see a marked difference. Catering to over 50 businesses now, the open-air mall attracts locals and tourists, including New Zealand cricketers Corey Anderson, Trent Boult and Adam Milne, the area is not so desolate as I found it on the weekend. Yet at almost every corner, and significantly owing to the vast skyline overhead due to the absence of any tall buildings or high-rises since the earthquake, there are reminders of what was once.
The 13-storey Central Police Station - for 40 years the headquarters for police in Christchurch and the only tall building remaining in the area - is due to be blown up next week. The police moved out in 2012 after concerns it wouldn't withstand another big shake. "There were complaints from the coppers every time we passed by that they felt the floor move," half-jokes Reg, a jovial Mauri tourist tram operator, when we roll past it.
One positive is the impressive street art which has seen a revival since the earthquakes, which adds life and colour to the streets of the city. That Christchurch is transforming is evident - there are numerous state-sponsored initiatives that are attempting to take advantage of the destruction of 2011.
But there are clear obstacles. A report in a local newspaper details the difference of opinions in the Christchurch City Council, whose long-term vision to triple the city's population to one million and to have two million living in the greater city is not so clear-cut. Budgets threaten to extend as infrastructure expands, and there are concerns over the destruction of drinking water supplies and rivers. Bottlenecks facing commuters from Christchurch's satellite towns could be increased, worry some, and there is no commuter rail network. Other critics feel that major changes to development rules in central Christchurch favour investors and could create slums.

Street art has seen a huge revival since the earthquakes, bringing back life and colour to Christchurch. 

Yet what is visible to an outsider like me is only the physical damage caused by that tragic day in 2011. Joan, a taxi driver, offers a hint at a much tougher, deeper loss. "For me," she says, "the pain of knowing that so many people lost their jobs after the earthquake is more painful than the physical destruction."

Another sobering reminder of how 20 seconds of natural disaster left such a deep impact on an otherwise homely city. May the cricket give resilient Christchurch residents more reason to smile.

Australia to host 2020 edition of World Twenty20

David Richardson has confirmed that Australia will be the hosts of the 2020 edition of the World Twenty20. 

Australia have been confirmed as hosts for the World Twenty20 competition in 2020. Speaking to media, ICC chief executive David Richardson confirmed that the T20 event will be held for the first time Down Under.
Australia, along with New Zealand, are currently hosting the upcoming 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, and Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland said it would be a honour to host a global event on behalf of the ICC. "We haven't cast our minds that far ahead yet, 2020 seems like a long way away. We'll focus our attention on that after this tournament," he said.
There was some confusion regarding New Zealand's status as the co-hosts of the tournament in 2020. However, an NZC spokesman said the statement from the press conference with Richardson was incorrect and that Australia would be the sole hosts. NZC CEO David White was unaware of New Zealand's involvement in the tournament.
Australia last hosted an ICC event 23 years ago and Richardson lamented the long wait. "We haven't cast our minds that far ahead yet, 2020 seems like a long way away. We'll focus our attention on that after this tournament," he said.
Following the end of the 2015 World Cup, India will host the 2016 edition of the World Twenty20 while England will host the Champions Trophy in 2017 and the World Cup in 2019.

WC Countdown #3: When the chokers tag was born

One bit of momentary madness cost South Africa dear and the tag of 'chokers' was born. 

South Africa's World Cup sojourn has been littered with unfortunate ends. In 1999, they looked to be the favourites to clinch the trophy during the group stages. Lance Klusener had been their talisman throughout the tournament and in the semi-final against Australia, it was he who looked set to take them through to their first World Cup final.
Chasing 213, South Africa's middle order fought back from a Shane Warne-induced collapse to get closer to the target. Glenn McGrath's 49th over yielded two wickets and left Klusener with Donald to get 9 off the final over. Damien Fleming came in and was promptly smacked for consecutive fours by Klusener. South Africa needed just 1 more from the next four balls. Klusener was on strike and had an experienced non-striker in Allan Donald.
Should have been a cakewalk really. But pressure and high stakes bring out the strangest reactions in the best of sportspersons and create fascinating drama. The third ball of the over was hit straight to mid on. South Africa needed 1 from three with Klusener still on strike. The next bit of madness would go on to haunt the Proteas for years to come.
Klusener hit the fourth ball straight down the ground and raced down for a single. Allan Donald was ball-watching and had his back to Klusener. Mark Waugh dived across and flicks the ball back to the bowler, Fleming, who rolls it down to the wicket-keeper. Donald was caught way short. Klusener realised the horror of it and kept running towards the pavilion even as a distraught Donald stared down at the pitch. A tie was all Australia needed to pip South Africa and reach the final because they had beaten South Africa in the earlier Super Six stage.
Klusener - South Africa's hero in 1999 and an ice-cool finisher, was ironically guilty of losing his nerve when it mattered the most. Donald had taken four wickets in the game and had a rather simple job at hand with the bat but he too failed.
One bit of momentary madness cost South Africa dear and the tag of 'chokers' was born. A tag that haunts them till the day.

Kohli transformation from support cast to top role

India's chances heavily depend on Virat Kohli. 

Adelaide: Virat Kohli heard someone hail him in the hotel lobby on Monday afternoon and halted. He took his shades off to exchange pleasantries. The gesture was not done for effect but the air of confidence in his eyes sparkled before he readjusted the dark glares on the bridge of his nose and stepped out into sunny Adelaide.
It was almost as if the India vice-captain wanted this one gesture alone to dispel the growing lack of confidence in his team in the run-up to the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015. As India prepare for their big game against Pakistan at the Adelaide Oval on Sunday, more than anyone else, Kohli will be aware that his role has changed drastically from four years ago.
Back in 2011, he started off with a century on his World Cup debut but in a team laden with batsmen like Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar, Gautam Gambhir and Yuvraj Singh, not to speak of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, he was but part of the support cast. In the four years, he has become the bulwark of India's batting, earning the respect of his peers around the world.
Though Ajinkya Rahane is in good form, Kohli's challenge appears to have grown larger since Suresh Raina, another 2011 World Cup winner, has played only one knock of note recently a 51 against Australia in an ODI last month sandwiching a pair in the Sydney Test and two scores of 1 each against England.
Sir Vivian Richards may speak of Kohli as a modern legend but if India are to stretch their stay in the World Cup till the very end, he will have to consistently manage the middle order, not only to ease the pressure off Raina's back but also for Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja to be able to play the finishers' role without having to focus overly on restricting damage and rebuilding.
Indeed, Kohli will have to extend his golden form from the Tests in Australia into the World Cup. On Sunday, there was a sense of purpose in his walk to the middle he headed straight to non-striker Shikhar Dhawan after Rohit Sharma was out to a tame dismissal in the warm-up against Australia.
The Indian vice-captain looked in good touch, stepping out to carve Josh Hazlewood inside out over covers and leaning into a classical cover drive off Mitchell Starc to show that he was ready to play his part. He was beginning to assume control when his innings was cut short by an inside-edge to the pad and the stumps to present Starc the first of his two wickets.
For a batsman who has scored 6,232 runs in 150 ODI games, Kohli knows well that he could be judged by his performance in the World Cup. More so in the wake of talk about how Dhoni is not in as complete control of the dressing room as before. Kohli's sole focus will have to be on the task of leading India's batting in the World Cup.
The look in his eyes on Monday suggested that Kohli is in a comfortable place with his cricket. Over the next few weeks, starting with Sunday's emotionally surcharged match with Pakistan, the 26-year-old will have the opportunity to emulate one of his idols, Sachin Tendulkar, in emerging as the leading scorer in a World Cup.

WC Countdown #4: Gibbs drops the World Cup

In 1999 at Headingley, Steve Waugh's Australia faced off against Hansie Cronje's South Africa in a high-stakes game. Australia desperately needed to win if they were to qualify for the semi-final. South Africa did most things right for a large part of the game. Especially, Hershcelle Gibbs. After Cronje won the toss and opted to bat, Gibbs anchored the innings with a fine 101 that helped South Africa rack up 271.
South Africa's pacers soon reduced Australia to 48/3 in the chase. In walked skipper Steve Waugh to join Ricky Ponting. The duo started the repair work in earnest. Australia did not have much batting to come after Waugh and it was no doubt a very important partnership. One break is what South Africa sought to regain control of the game. Then it happened.
Waugh, batting on 56, whipped a Klusener delivery straight to mid wicket. Gibbs, stationed there, was one of South Africa's best fielders and one of the best in the world at that time. Waugh looked gone for all money but Gibbs, in his eagerness to celebrate, tried to throw the ball up as soon as he got hold of it. Much to everyone's shock, the ball slipped out of his hands and Waugh survived. He went on to score an unbeaten 120 that helped Australia finish ahead of South Africa in the Super Six stages. It meant little at that point but would go on to have significant impact later in the tournament.
"You've just dropped the World Cup, Hersh," Waugh was famously quoted as saying to Gibbs immediately after the drop. In hindsight, the quote and the drop catch grew into one of the most iconic moments in World Cup history. South Africa were knocked out in the semi-final after a nerve-wracking tie against Waugh's men. Australia's win in the Super Six stages had helped them qualify ahead of South Africa.
Thus Gibbs' drop catch went on to become, arguably, the most famous drop catch in World Cup history. 

WC Countdown #5: When DRS saved Tendulkar

At a decisive moment in the match, DRS came to India's rescue 

By the time the 2011 World Cup headed towards its business end, the Decision Review System had already become India's nemesis. While the 2.5 metre rule that gave Ian Bell a reprieve in Bangalore left them aggrieved, India, in the other matches, got it wrong most of the times when it came to referring decisions. In fact, before the semi-final match against Pakistan, they had reviewed 11 times and got it right only twice. However, they did review one successfully in the all-important game against their arch-rivals and that review, along with some dropped catches, proved crucial for India's success.
For the Punjab Cricket Association stadium in Mohali, there could not have been a bigger match, when India and Pakistan locked horns in the semi-final of the 2011 World Cup. Any game between the arch-rivals results in everything else taking a back seat in both countries, and when it is a World Cup match, and that too one of such magnitude, with Prime Ministers of both countries also present at the stadium, riveting cricket was definitely expected.
Opting to bat first, India posted a competitive total of 260/9, thanks to Sachin Tendulkar's 85 off 115 balls. India may not have even reached that total had Tendulkar not decided to use the DRS in the 11th over. India had only one review available at that stage as Virender Sehwag had earlier made an unsuccessful attempt at using the technology for his benefit. When Saeed Ajmal struck Tendulkar on the pad, it looked plumb and umpire Ian Gould had no problems in raising his finger straight away. However, what happened after that left Pakistan ruing their luck.
The ball pitched on line and it appeared as though it would crash on to the leg stump. However, Hawk-Eye suggested that the ball was missing leg and the umpire, who shook his head with disbelief, overturned his decision. The Pakistan players were shocked at the decision as was the umpire, who all thought that the ball was headed only one way - onto the stumps.
Having received a reprieve, Tendulkar went on to make a sizable contribution to help India to a good score. Pakistan then lost their way in the chase and had to bow out of the competition after their fifth loss against India in a World Cup match.
Ajmal later claimed that he had bowled an arm ball and said the system misread it. "I don't know how the television replays showed my delivery turning towards the leg side because I had bowled an arm ball and it went straight." Conspiracy theories also made rounds, claiming that replays showed a different delivery which was superimposed deliberately to save the batsman.
However, Hawk-Eye Innovations defended the accuracy of its tracking technology by publishing details of Tendulkar's reprieve on its website. Stephen Carter, the managing director of Hawk-Eye, said: "The path Hawk-Eye showed was accurate and the Decision Review System was used correctly to overturn the umpire's original decision. The Hawk-Eye track lines up perfectly with the video of the real ball from release to impact point."
"The commentators said on air that Tendulkar had been 'caught on the crease'. From the front-on angle it does look like Tendulkar has been hit when batting in his crease. However, Tendulkar was almost two metres out of his crease when struck," he further stated.

Big hitters to watch out for

The implementation of the new ODI rules - two new balls from either end and fewer fielders in the outfield - has already seen the record of fastest century broken twice in the last 13 months. If that is any indication, the 2015 ICC World Cup, comprising 49 matches in all, could see a few more records go to pieces. Cricbuzz draws up a list of big hitters who could do so in Australia and New Zealand.

1. Glenn Maxwell

The Australian batsman showcased his power-hitting in the 2014 Indian Premier League where he scored 552 runs at an awe-inspiring strike rate of 187.75 with the help of 36 sixes across 16 matches. While Kevin Petersen is credited with bringing the switch hit into the public eye, there is no doubt it's Maxwell who has it taken to another level. His no-holds-barred approach has made him a much-feared opponent. Even though Maxwell has failed to transfer his IPL batting into international cricket, it has to be said that he is a big threat to bowlers and that the World Cup could be his stage to run amok.

2. Corey Anderson

The New Zealand allrounder shocked the cricket world on January 1, 2014 by breaking Shahid Afridi's 17-year record of the fastest century in ODI history. Anderson took 36 balls against West Indies to outdo Afridi, who took 37 against Sri Lanka in 1996. The left-hander then further strengthened his reputation by scoring 95 not out off 44 balls to help Mumbai Indians reach the 2014 IPL play-offs. In light of New Zealand's small stadiums, Anderson appears a scary prospect.

3. AB de Villiers

If you thought Corey Anderson's feat was beyond imagination, de Villiers further raised the bar when he smashed a surreal 31-ball hundred against West Indies last month. South Africa's ODI captain eventually fell for a 44-ball 149 after hitting a record-equalling 16 sixes. Despite having been mostly favourites in the past, South Africa's best performances came in 1992, 1999 and 2007 when they reached the semis. Looking at de Villiers' form, this edition may turn out to be the end of their long wait for the World Cup trophy.

4. MS Dhoni

The India captain has not scored much of late but he is a big-tournament player. Who could forget his match-winning 91 not out against Sri Lanka in the 2011 World Cup final? The fact that he is playing his last World Cup is reason enough for Dhoni to be motivated. He has the knack of pulling off unexpected results, so don't be surprised if he once again succeeds in doing that - even though not many are willing to put their money on his team. Dhoni remains one of the best finishers in the game.

5. Chris Gayle

In form or out of form, you can't discount the big West Indian. The last year or so hasn't been very fruitful for Gayle on account of injuries but his recent match-winning scores of 77 and 90 in T20Is against South Africa have brought him back into reckoning. The pitches in Australia and New Zealand have true bounce and that makes him a dangerous customer. West Indies would hope that Gayle fires at the top because that's their only chance to put up a fight.

6. Brendon McCullum

McCullum has arguably become New Zealand's most important player in the last couple of years. His talent lies in the fact that he could shift gears. McCullum is capable of dropping or weighing anchor according to the situation and that makes him one of the most dangerous limited-overs batsmen in the world. Due to the home advantage factor, this edition is New Zealand's best chance in years to have a go at the title but for that dream to come true, the Black Caps captain has to be at his best.

7. Thisara Perera

The Sri Lankan allrounder has a consistency problem but on his day he can tear apart any bowling unit. Perera is heading into the World Cup in poor form after scores of 0, 5, 0, 2 and 20 in the recent ODI series against New Zealand, but he remains a vital cog in the team's plans. Sri Lanka are blessed to have two world-class big-hitting allrounders in him and Angelo Mathews.

8. Eoin Morgan

The England captain's ODI ton against Australia in the Carlton Mid Tri-Series recently highlighted his character a great deal. Out of England's 234, 121 came off the bat of the left-hander. The additional responsibility of captaincy seems to be working for him. While England's chances of a good show look very weak, no team can take them lightly thanks to the presence of Morgan.

WC Countdown #7: When Kapil Dev upstaged King Viv

The shot that led to the catch... 

An underdog punching above its weight is something that always fascinates followers of cricket. One of the earliest such stories, when it came to ODI cricket, happened during the 1983 World Cup when 'Kapil's Devils' overcame some of the best teams in the World to lift the trophy for the first time. It was a roller-coaster journey for the Indian team, one that concluded with skipper Kapil lifted the Prudential World Cup trophy high atop the Lord's balcony. One of the proudest moments for any Indian cricketer or the ardent followers of the game in the country was made possible by the captain himself, who took a terrific catch to send back 'King' Viv Richards, which completely changed the course of the final.
Apart from being one of the strike bowlers in the side, Kapil's batting and fielding prowess also came to fore in the third edition of the multi-team event. While Kapil had done a decent job with the ball throughout the tournament, his batting also went to new levels when he registered the highest individual score of the tournament - a match-changing 175 against Zimbabwe in the league stage. While that was one of the most important knocks by an Indian player, the catch he took to send back the dangerous Richards is an indelible moment etched in the memory of Indian cricket fans.
Batting first, India could only manage a feeble total of 183 as Andy Roberts, Malcom Marshall, Michael Holding and Joel Garner combined to do a fine job with the ball. Although West Indies lost Gordon Greenidge early in their reply and Desmond Haynes also fell cheaply, Richards was sending the Indian bowlers on a leather hunt at the other end, flaying them to all parts of the park. Having crossed 30 in quick time, with the help of seven boundaries, Richards was taking the game quickly away from the Indians and West Indies were looking favourites to lift a hat-trick of world titles.
Not many would have fancied India to stage a comeback when Richards was going great guns. However, the catch that Kapil took lifted their spirits and there was no stopping the team from the sub-continent after that. It was just past the 12th over when Richards, on 33, miscued a hook off Madan Lal and the ball travelled towards mid-wicket. Kapil, stationed at mid-on ran back, and across to his right, but it appeared as though the ball would land well clear of him.
Any other fielder, especially one from the sub-continent, might have taken it easy, realising that there was quite a distance to cover. However, Kapil did not think so. With both hands cupped text-book style, the Indian captain held on to the ball safely, and did so quite comfortably at the end.

What followed Kapil's brilliant catch was a spate of West Indian wickets going down. Larry Gomes, Clive Lloyd and Faoud Bacchus departed in quick succession, and from 57/3, West Indies slipped to 76/6. Jeff Dujon and Marshall tried to get the defending champions back on track, but they could not pull off anything special and India went on end West Indies' winning run in World Cup finals.

WC Countdown #6: Lasith Malinga's devastating four in four

The super-eight clash between South Africa and Sri Lanka during the 2007 World Cup in Providence was firmly in South Africa's grasp. Chasing 210 for victory, they were 206/5 in the 45th over with victory just a stroke away. However, Lasith Malinga produced an astonishing display of death bowling which almost gave Sri Lanka victory. Malinga's unprecedented feat of four wickets in four balls established his credentials on the big stage and his mantra of bowling fast, straight and in the yorker length became the blueprint for bowling at the death in limited overs.
In his first spell, Malinga had struggled for penetration and he finished with figures of 7-0-43-0. He was brought back in the 45th over and in the first four balls, he was hit for a boundary and a couple by Shaun Pollock. With just four needed, the game seemed dead and buried. Malinga changed it dramatically. In the fifth ball, he bowled a slower delivery that landed on a fuller length. Pollock played inside the line of the delivery and the ball crashed into leg stump. In the next ball, Malinga bowled yet another full, slow ball outside off and Andrew Hall scooped it straight to cover. At 206/7, some nerves were starting to show and there was anticipation in the air.
Chaminda Vaas conceded just one run in the 47th over, Malinga bowled a full and fast delivery outside off that lured Jacques Kallis, who was batting on 86, into a loose drive. He edged it to the keeper and Malinga became the fifth bowler to take a hat-trick in the World Cups. He went one step better and cleaned up Makhaya Ntini with a fast yorker on middle stump to take four wickets in four balls. At 207/9, the advantage was with Sri Lanka. His next ball to Charl Langeveldt just missed the off stump.
Vaas bowled a maiden in the 48th over and Malinga got one last chance to take the last wicket. However, Robin Peterson edged the second ball to third man and South Africa achieved victory by one wicket with 10 balls to spare. After the end of the match, Malinga said, "I am happy that I took a hat-trick. The old ball was reversing and I tried to get five in a row but unfortunately didn't get it. We are a team that fights till the end." 

Chennai Super Kings to be transferred to new subsidiary of India Cements

CSK will now be owned by a subsidiary of India Cements, Chennai Super Kings Cricket Ltd. 

Having been informed by the Supreme Court that he cannot contest Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) elections until he gives up ownership of Indian Premier League (IPL) team Chennai Super Kings (CSK), N Srinivasan-led India Cements will now transfer CSK to a new subsidiary, Chennai Super Kings Cricket Ltd.

In a filing to the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), India Cements said it has completed the required documentation for transfer of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise to Chennai Super Kings Cricket Ltd. "The board will consider at the meeting on February 11, 2015 reorganisation proposals relating to the said subsidiary," it said.

Earlier on September 26, 2014, the board of directors of the company had approved the proposal to demerge CSK into a wholly-owned subsidiary of the company, by transferring its net assets at cost. It had also stated that the effective date of transfer will be January 1, 2015.

Last month, a Supreme Court bench of Justice TS Thakur and Justice FMI Kalifulla had assailed the amendment in BCCI rules permitting cricket administrators, like Srinivasan, to have any commercial interest by owing teams in IPL and Champions League, and said it would be conflict of interest.

The apex court had also directed that BCCI elections be held in six weeks "subject to the condition that no one who has any commercial interest in BCCI events (including N Srinivasan) shall be eligible for contesting the elections for any post whatsoever."

The rider in the judgement made it difficult for Srinivasan to become BCCI president, unless he quickly relinquished his interest in the CSK.

The need of the hour for India is pace: Brett Lee

Out here, India need quick bowlers, who can bowl good bouncers and have a good slower delivery in their armoury: Brett Lee,

Former Australia pacer Brett Lee feels India will need their pacers to be at the top of their game if they are to successfully defend the ICC Cricket World Cup. India come in to the quadrennial event with a number of headaches over their form and their bowlers' inability to trouble batsmen. Lee, who was part of the triumphant 2003 Australia World Cup squad, underlined Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav as the men who should take the lead role in the Indian attack.

"I think what India needs to do is ensure that the fast bowlers are fully fit. Ishant Sharma, to me, could be a bowler that could play a huge role along with someone like Yadav, who was rested for the recent match in Perth. Now whether he was injured or whether he was pre-rested to be ready for this World Cup campaign... the need of the hour for India is pace," said Lee.

"Out here, they need quick bowlers, who can bowl good bouncers and have a good slower delivery in their armoury along with the skills to bowl during the death overs. What I mean by bowl at the death is to be able to deliver fast 145kph yorkers that can knock out a team. This is because they are not playing on wickets like those in India that are dusty and the ball turns and swings. Here, they would be playing on wickets that are conducive to fast bowling. They need good, young fast bowlers," Lee added.

Lee refused to predict which team would clinch the Cup on March 29, the date of the summit clash, saying that the complete team in the mega-event would hold aloft the coveted trophy. 

"I've said it all along that the team that will win the trophy on March 29th will be the most complete team. So that doesn't mean on paper they are the best cricket nation, it doesn't even mean that that every player is a superstar in that team. What it means is that the team, which over the course of the seven weeks of World Cup, plays the best cricket on every particular match day is the champion. I think Australia has a great chance of winning the World Cup just like India, South Africa and New Zealand," he summed up.

Zaheer confident of India playing World Cup semis

Zaheer advised India's team management to open the bowling with Mohammed Shami. 

Zaheer Khan, the Indian fast bowler, feels India's performance in the recently-concluded tri-series in Australia where they failed to win a single match, will not affect the psyche of the players heading into the 2015 World Cup. India open their World Cup title defence against Pakistan on February 15, which will be preceded by two warm-up games against Australia and Afghanistan.

In an interview with PTI Bhasha, Zaheer said India could make the last four of the competition. "(The) World Cup is a new tournament and I don't think India's performance in tri-series will affect them. They have also got a long break after that and if you see the format also, I am sure India will play the semi-finals," Zaheer was quoted as saying.

"The Indian team had a long Australia tour and played at almost every venue. This can work to their advantage."

Zaheer, who has been nursing injuries as a result of which he had to miss out on the Indian domestic season, tipped Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as players who India would rely on during the course of the competition.

"Rohit and Virat's form will be crucial to India's World Cup chances," he said. "Rohit will be opening the innings with Virat coming at either Nos 3 or 4 depending on the match situation. Both have the ability to bat through the innings or even play the anchor, a role necessary in such a tournament."

Along with India, Zaheer said hosts Australia and New Zealand along with South Africa have the ability to last the distance as the "World Cup is a long tournament and injuries play a crucial role", but equally important is to have a "settled team and gain momentum at the right time",

"Injuries are part and parcel of the game but you have to find the right combination," he said. "It's not about bowling only. Cricket is a team game and batsmen also have to give their best. I am hopeful that India will deliver an all-round performance."

Zaheer assessed India had their bowling combination wrong during the tri-series, and suggested opening the bowling with Mohammed Shami. "If you ask my suggestion, they should give the new ball to Shami, who will set the tone. The first spell will be very crucial. I will only say that taking wickets is the only key to restrict run-rates."

He said the new rules of using two new balls and involving fielding restrictions applied to all and teams must have become used to them. "We have been playing with the new rules for a while now. As far as death overs are concerned, the bowlers must think clearly. I am sure they will do well," he said of the Indian pacers.

Pragyan Ojha cleared to play by BCCI

Pragyan Ojha's bowling action has been cleared by the BCCI.

Left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojha, who had been banned for a suspect bowling action, has been cleared by BCCI and is available to play in First-Class matches with immediate effect. Ojha had earlier been asked to report to the ICC-accredited testing centre in Chennai after he was reported in December, 2014. He had subsequently been withdrawn from Hyderabad's Ranji Trophy squad.

Ojha underwent official assessment in the Chennai testing centre on January 30, 2015 under the surveillance of high performance coaches from BCCI and biomechanic experts. Ojha is all set to feature in Hyderabad's Ranji fixture against Himachal on Friday.

The spinner, who has played 24 Tests and 18 ODIs for India, last made his international appearance way back in November 2013 as his action was under scrutiny. Hyderabad Cricket Association requested the BCCI to have Ojha's action tested after the bowler had taken some corrective measures with the help of coaches.

The latest test results have found that the left-arm spinner's action now satisfies the requirement, which means that he can resume bowling immediately.

"National level cricket player, Pragyan Ojha has been permitted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to bowl in domestic matches with immediateeffect. His elbow extension was found within the permissible limits in all deliveries bowled during the Test matches," stated a BCCI release.

A delighted Ojha thanked the BCCI for coming up with the decision to allow him to resume bowling. "I look forward to playing domestic matches. I am grateful to the BCCI for arriving at the decision in such a short time. I hope that I get the opportunity and honour to play for India soon and wish the Indian cricket team all the best for the World Cup."

Michael Clarke: Not ready for international cricket yet

Michael Clarke bowled two overs and made 34 in a practice match against Bangladesh.

Playing for Cricket Australia XI, Michael Clarke bowled two overs and made 34 in a practice match against Bangladesh on Thursday but said he wasn't yet ready for international cricket.

The Australia Test and ODI captain hasn't played international cricket since suffering a hamstring injury in the first Test against India in Adelaide in December. Despite injury concerns, he was named in the 2015 ICC World Cup squad, on condition he proved his fitness ahead of team's second Pool A game against Bangladesh on February 21.Last week on his return to competitive cricket, Clarke scored 51 for Western Suburbs in Sydney Grade Cricket.

"The ideal world was to field for at least half the game I managed 32 overs which was nice," Clarke, who had been set a target of fielding a minimum of 25 overs by the Cricket Australia medical staff, told reporters after the Bangladesh game.

"The body feels good, I just got a bit more treatment now but I pulled up pretty well. I've been bowling for the past three weeks in the nets.

"The [CA XI] skipper [Ashton Turner] needed a couple of overs so he asked if I was happy to bowl and I was certainly happy to bowl a couple of overs there.

"Then to have a bat as well - it was another step forward.My opinion, I think there's probably still a gap between where I am now and playing a one-day international for Australia.

"The fortunate thing is I've got plenty of time to close that gap."

Australia play India in an official World Cup warm-up at the Adelaide Oval on Sunday and Clarke will join his team-mates on Friday. However, he ruled himself out of the game."At this stage I don't think I'm playing that match [against India]," Clarke said.

"The plan is for me to join the boys in Adelaide, fly with the boys to Melbourne then play the practice match against the UAE [at the MCG on Wednesday].

"They probably would have liked a hundred today, probably would have liked me to field for the whole 50 overs as well."

WC Countdown #8 - A different ball game for Adam Gilchrist

Tom Freston, former CEO of MTV, put a spin on what he considered innovation. He said, "Innovation is taking two things that already exist and putting them together in a new way". In 2007, a cricket glove and squash ball, two things that had been in existence for quite a while, were put together and 149 hugely significant runs were born of their union.

By his standards, Adam Gilchrist had had a quiet World Cup in 2007, especially in comparison to his opening partner Matthew Hayden. As Australia swept away one opposition after another, the wait for a Gilchrist special increased. Then one fine day, it was the World Cup final. Familiarity, they say, breeds contempt. Not for that Australian team. They played World Cup finals for fun and won. 

Standing up to Australia in Barbados were Sri Lanka, only the second side to have previously beaten them in a World Cup final. The scene was set and the spectators were served an instant classic. Adam Gilchrist strutted out and 'squashed' the Sri Lankan attack into submission. He scored a typically brutal 149, the highest score in a World Cup final helping Australia win their fourth title. There was, however, a brief moment after he had gotten to his century that stayed etched in memory. After getting to the three-figure mark, Gilchrist waved and repeatedly pointed towards his left glove, a rather strange celebration for a century in a World Cup final. Or so, one thought.

At the post-match conference, Gilchrist explained the method behind his manic batting and his celebration. He said he'd slipped in a squash ball inside his left glove so that his bottom hand wouldn't be too dominant. He credited this idea to little known Bob Meuleman, his batting coach, who had suggested using a foreign object inside his glove to improve his grip. Gilchrist's revelation instantly sparked heated debates about the legality of the act. A few days later, an MCC official confirmed, "It is no different to wearing inners under your gloves". And that was that.

Adam Gilchrist had scored 14 ODI hundreds before that game against Sri Lanka, none of them half as significant as his fifteenth. The occasion was special, the occasion was important and Gilchrist had a ball.

Bat makers question likely ICC crackdown on sizes

Bat manufactures claim that there are reasons other than the size of the bat to blame for the unfair balance between bat and ball. 

The International Cricket Councils reported decision to crack down on bat sizes during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015, has caused bat manufacturers and batsmen to raise eyebrows, a report in the Sydney Morning Herald has said. They claim that there are reasons other than the size of the bat to blame for the unfair balance between bat and ball.

Bat makers pointed out that other modifications like reduced boundaries, the use of two new white cricket balls and restriction on the number of fielders outside the 30-yard circle had contributed to the imbalance. They have argued that the impending action on bat sizes was short-sighted.

In the last couple of years, India opener Rohit Sharma has scored two ODI double centuries while New Zealand's Corey Anderson and South Africa's AB de Villiers have shattered the record for the fastest century in 2014 and 2015 respectively. Many other standout batting performances have led to a debate on the modern bats helping batsmen gain the upper hand.

It's purely because you're using a brand new ball for the first 20 overs. I've got cricket bats here in my business and they're half the size and they ping just as much. Its only a psychological thing, Kunal Sharma, whose Spartan Sports provides Chris Gayle and Mahendra Singh Dhoni their bats told the Sydney Morning Herald.

Gunn and Moores Brand Manager Greg Eime said smaller grounds were also a factor. Effectively the game has changed and the way the batsmen play has changed. It's a combination of a lot of things, even down to the players' physical fitness and strength. To go finger pointing at the bats, I don't think that's quite fair, he said from England.

Gray-Nicolls Sponsor Manager Michael Reid said a number of changes, and not bat sizes, have contributed to higher scores. Batsmen have echoed the sentiments of the bat manufacturers, with players like Dan Christian and Ed Cowan stating that the change in ODI rules is the prime factor.

Last year, former India player Sanjay Manjrekar sparked off a debate by voicing his concerns in a column on ESPNcricinfo. He wrote that bats were getting chunkier by the day while not getting heavier, giving batsmen an unfair advantage.

ICC chief executive David Richardson told ESPNcricinfo that the balance between bat and ball might have shifted a bit too much. When some batsmen are mis-hitting, the ball is just carrying over the rope instead of being caught at the boundary, some cricket people believe that it is unfair. MCC, as law makers, and the ICC will be looking at giving perhaps some consideration to placing limitations on the depth of a bat in particular, he said.

Is this New Zealand's best shot at the World Cup?

Before the 2015 World Cup, New Zealand have established a winning habit that is bordering on Australia-like consistency and efficiency. 

New Zealand are approaching the 2015 ICC World Cup in a different way. The air of unpredictability that has been hanging around the team for the last couple of seasons has given away to a winning habit that is bordering on Australia-like consistency and efficiency. From the depths of despair in October 2013 when they were swept away 0-3 by Bangladesh, New Zealand have established a consistency under the captaincy of Brendon McCullum that has been eye-catching.

The first giant steps in their path to success was their 4-0 series win over India, a team that had won six out of seven bilateral ODI series, in early 2014. Later in the year - they did not play ODIs in the West Indies - the team showed they were no pushovers when they defeated Pakistan 3-2 in the UAE.

After a blip in the series against South Africa which they lost 2-0, New Zealand roared back by winning 4-2 against Sri Lanka and sweeping Pakistan 2-0. Skipper McCullum has said that he is happy with the way the pre-World Cup pieces are falling into place. Slowly, like a well-oiled machine, every single component of the New Zealand team is functioning to optimum effect. It is a complete team in all facets and this World Cup gives New Zealand a golden chance to win the World Cup.

Here's why.

Aggression at the top

Think of World Cup opening partnerships since 1992 and one observes that the team which had the most devastating openers have done wonderfully. In 1992, it was Mark Greatbatch's aggression which propelled New Zealand. In 1996, Sanath Jayasuriya and Romesh Kaluwitharana stole the show. In 1999, 2003 and 2007, Adam Gilchrist, in company with Mark Waugh and then Matthew Hayden, decimated oppositions. In 2011, India were served well by Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar.

Heading into this World Cup, McCullum and Martin Guptill are the openers who can take the game away with their aggression. McCullum has blazed away this summer although he has not yet sustained it for longer periods. Guptill has struggled for consistency but with 115 runs at an average of 57 in the recent series against Pakistan, he is slowly coming back to his destructive best. If Guptill and McCullum blaze away, every opposition has a good chance of getting steamrolled.

Kane Williamson in top form

Williamson is in freakish form, scoring 1114 runs at an average of 74.2. In 15 matches, he has nine fifties and three centuries. These numbers define consistency and heading into the tournament, Williamson is capable of creating waves in this tournament. Thanks to Williamson's consistency, New Zealand have stability even if the openers fail.

A solid middle order

If Williamson fails, Ross Taylor offers the buffer. He started off 2014 with three consecutive centuries (two against India at home and one against Pakistan in the UAE) and after a slight dip in form, came back strongly with 96 in the sixth ODI against Sri Lanka in Dunedin. By scoring a fifty and a hundred in the two matches against Pakistan, Taylor has signalled his readiness for the tournament.

The masterstroke, though, is the inclusion of Grant Elliott. There was plenty of criticism of Elliott's selection, with many believing that Jimmy Neesham was given an unfair deal. However, Elliott was silently making a case for himself with some solid knocks for Wellington in the 2014-15 Ford Trophy.

In four matches, he had made 193 runs at an average of 48 and a strike-rate of 101. With the ball, he had taken six wickets at an economy rate of 5.71. By his performances, Elliott was slowly building a case for himself in New Zealand's middle order. After a failure in his comeback match, he then showed his utility by reviving New Zealand in an 88-run stand with Williamson in Nelson to help script victory by four wickets in pursuit of 277. In Dunedin, Elliott again underlined his worth as he shared a world record 267-run stand with Luke Ronchi to blow Sri Lanka away. While Ronchi pulverised the Sri Lankan bowling, Elliott provided a calming influence and played some smart cricket by scoring at a healthy pace. His value increased in the coming matches and in the first ODI against Pakistan, he picked up 3 for 26 and scored an unbeaten 64 to help the hosts to victory in Wellington. By his performances, Elliott is living up to his nickname of 'Magic'.

Then there is Corey Anderson, who has enjoyed a good run with both bat and ball against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. His 81 in the first ODI against Sri Lanka came when the team was in a spot of bother at 101 for 5 chasing 219 for victory. In his last three ODIs, Anderson also came good with the ball by taking nine wickets. The fact that he can play aggressively and sensibly according to the situation makes him a useful player when it comes to finishing the innings. With the middle order having solidity, sensibility and aggression, New Zealands batting is in great shape.

Luke Ronchi

During New Zealand's only series loss in 2014 to South Africa, Ronchi was the bright star with knocks of 99 and 79. For a long time, New Zealand had been craving for stability in the wicketkeeping department for Brendon McCullum. Ronchi seemed to have answered that call during the series against Sri Lanka. In the fourth ODI in Nelson, New Zealand needed 25 off 18 balls but Ronchi changed the course of the match by smashing three sixes and a boundary off Thisara Perera to seal a four-wicket win.

If his unbeaten 32 off 15 balls signalled Ronchi's finishing prowess, then his knock in Dunedin put him in a different league. At 93 for 5, Ronchi stepped in and proceeded to dismantle the Sri Lankan bowlers. His aggression was sustained and in an exhibition of clean hitting, Ronchi blasted 170, the third-highest score by a wicketkeeper in ODIs and the highest by an Kiwi keeper. Ronchi's steady keeping behind the wickets has allowed McCullum to play and captain in a free mind.

New Zealand's pace arsenal

They are spoilt for choices when it comes to the pace bowling department. Adam Milne has excited with his pace and ability to trouble the batsmen in all conditions, which makes him the X-factor in the team. Trent Boult and Tim Southee are proven match-winners while Mitchell McClenaghan's strike-rate in ODIs gives them plenty of attacking options. The dark horse in the bowling line-up remains Kyle Mills. At 35, the experience he lends to the bowling is vital. With his ability to vary his pace and bowl accurately in slow conditions, Mills has underlined his worth. The best part about the bowling is the ability of the bowlers to hunt in pairs and keep chipping at regular intervals.

Spin - a weak link

If there is a potential weakness in the bowling, it is in the spin department. Daniel Vettori has made a comeback after a long injury break. In five matches against Sri Lanka, Vettori picked up only one wicket but he finished with an economy rate of 4.30. It will be interesting to see whether New Zealand employ him as an attacking option or as a container during the middle overs.

On the other hand, Nathan McCullum is a decent utility player. Both players have tended to be inconsistent with the bat while they have struggled with penetration with the ball. New Zealand coach Mike Hesson has said the rotation policy of the bowlers will continue depending upon the conditions and the opposition. The major rotation, in all probability, will take place between these two.

Best team not to win the cup - New Zealand, 1992

Everything worked for New Zealand until they came up against the 'Cornered Tigers' 

Be it Mark Greatbatch playing the role of a pinch-hitter, offie Dipak Patel opening the bowling, medium pacers coming to the fore or the skipper himself showcasing tremendous form, everything worked for co-hosts New Zealand in the 1992 World Cup and they seemed destined to become the first home team to lift the trophy. Having won seven games on the trot, the Black Caps were in red-hot form, until they were up against a mercurial Pakistan side.

Three of New Zealand's batsmen finished in the top-ten list of run-getters in the '92 World Cup while two Black Caps bowlers made it to the top-ten list of wicket-takers, evidence that they were the most dominant side in the fifth edition of the world event. However, none of that could change the fact that the hosts were taken by surprise, one that will haunt them over and over until they finally lay their hands on a trophy.

A glorious run:

With 456 runs at a terrific average of 114.00, Martin Crowe led from the front and played starring roles in most of New Zealand's wins in the Benson & Hedges World Cup. Greatbatch's attacking batting up-front (313 runs at a strike-rate of 87.92) provided New Zealand fine platforms while Andrew Jones (322 runs at an average of 46.00) and Ken Rutherford's (212 runs at an average of 42.40) contributions were also crucial to New Zealand's success. 

While the batters did a good job, Black Caps also needed the bowlers to come to the party, which they did. Chris Harris (16 wickets) led the way, while the likes of Willie Watson (12 wickets), Gavin Larsen (9 wickets) and Danny Morrison combined well to tie down the opposition batsmen, who also found it difficult to come to terms with an off-spinner bowling with the new ball. In fact, none of the front-line bowlers conceded more than five an over, which proved crucial in New Zealand's unbeaten run for their first seven matches.

Despite David Boon's hundred in their opening game, New Zealand had no problems overcoming Australia, while none of Sri Lanka, South Africa, Zimbabwe, West Indies, India or England had any answers to the home team on a rampage. 

When it went downhill:

The batsmen were largely untroubled against some of the best like Allan Donald, Craig McDermott, Malcom Marshall, Curtly Ambrose, Kapil Dev and Ian Botham. However, Wasim Akram's ability to move the ball prodigiously and Mushtaq Ahmed's variations started the downfall of the hosts. When they were bowled out for 166 in their final league game against Pakistan and slipped to their first loss of the tournament, many thought New Zealand's failure was an aberration. 

Crowe (91) and Rutherford (57) ensured that New Zealand reached a commanding 262/7 in the semi-final against the same opposition they faced in their final league match. However, an experienced campaigner (Javed Miandad 57* off 69) doing what he does best and a rookie (Inzamam-ul-Haq 60 off 37) playing like it was the end of the world, meant that New Zealand's summer of glory came to an abrupt halt. Pakistan won the first semi-final by 4 wickets with an over to spare and Imran Khan's "Cornered Tigers" went on to make history.

In retrospect, New Zealand's agony could have been avoided if skipper Crowe had been on duty - he did not take the field in the second innings, tending to his hamstring injury and leaving the leadership duties to John Wright - or if Wright had not used the pair of Larsen and Harris in an extended spell. However,'Wright got it Wrong' and New Zealand failed to go the full distance.

Lehmann: Clarke on track for World Cup

Lehmann gave Clarke's race to recover from hamstring surgery its firmest backing. 

Australia head coach Darren Lehmann is 'sick' of speculations surrounding Michael Clarke's fitness and said the 33-year-old will be up and running to captain the side for the World Cup. Clarke's availability had been uncertain after he sustained a hamstring injury during the Test series against India, but Lehmann gave full backing to his return to action.

"I don't know why we're worried about leaders too much," Lehmann said in Brisbane. "At the end of the day, we know he [Clarke] is going to be right to go."

Clarke recently scored 51 runs for Western Suburbs against Gordon in a Sydney Grade match at Chatswood Oval. He looked comfortable during his fielding drills in the nets on Wednesday morning and is set to play another game - for Cricket Australia XI against Bangladesh on Thursday. "We're really confident in that, and he's confident - that's more important. We need him playing and leading well. He's ahead of schedule and plays tomorrow again. If he gets through that with no dramas, then we have another box ticked," Lehmann said.

Clarke is required to meet the February 21 deadline in order to prove his World Cup fitness, or else be ruled out. However, Lehmann hinted that Clarke's current fitness might even enable him to spring a surprise and turn up for the opening game against England. "When he gets back we've got to make sure he's right to go," Lehmann toldAdelaide radio station FIVEaa. "He knows that, he's diligent, he's good to go and really confident he'll be right to lead us hopefully before Bangladesh, but definitely by Bangladesh."

While Clarke was out nursing his injury, Steven Smith was made in charge of the Test team following which there were reports of a squabble between him, his team-mates and Cricket Australia. Lehmann though, shrugged off the possibility of any such such event. "You've just got to deal with it, don't you?" he said. "Everyone is entitled to their opinion but, for us, we know we are in a good space."

Lehmann also popped in a word about his stand-in ODI skipper George Bailey, who's been struggling for form. With just 21 runs in the past four innings, it is assumed that Clarke will come in as a direct replacement for Australia's vice-captain. "George needs to make some runs like everyone else in the side, there's no doubt about that. He knows that better than most," Lehmann said.

"There's no difference between the top player and the 15th player. We're a squad and one thing I do know of World Cups is that you need a squad to win it. I can't complain about his work ethic and everything he has brought as a captain to the table.

"It's just a bit of confidence, and that can happen in this game as we know. As selectors, we'll sit down and work out what the best side and combination is when they're all fit and available."

WC Countdown #9 - Jonty Rhodes' stunning run-out of Inzamam

'Jonty Rhodes knew there was a chance, decided not to throw, other than himself. He gets there first, and wipes everything out.'

March 08, 1992. The day Jonty Rhodes announced himself. The day he became synoymous with jaw-dropping fielding. 22 years old, with a mop cut that made him look younger than he actually was, and as vigilant and spectacular as they come - Rhodes was certainly a sight to behold in a South African team that had made its debut in World Cups and was already getting everybody to sit up and take notice.

Already recognized as a superlative fielder, Rhodes took it a notch further up during the game against Pakistan. His run-out of Inzamam-ul-Haq is easily one of the most viewed videos and pictures in cricket, but even 22 years after his incredible leap to shatter the stumps at the strikers end, the moment remains enduring and awe-inspiring.

Chasing a revised target of 194 in 36 overs, Pakistan were closing in thanks to a vital stand of 61 between captain Imran Khan and Inzamam. Inzi, in particular, looked in ominous touch and had slammed his way to 48. Ominous until he decided to sneak a single off Brian McMillan in the 31st over.

The Pakistan batsman missed a heave and tried to steal a leg-bye. He only taken a few steps towards the non-strikers end before he was sent back by Imran Khan. Jonty Rhodes, fielding at point, however, was on the ball in a flash. With only one stump to aim at, Jonty opted for something more eye-catching than a throw. He raced forward and hurled himself towards the stumps. His arm fully outstretched, and his body parallel to the ground Rhodes shattered the stumps. Inzamam was caught short of the crease and South Africa had claimed the all-important wicket.

That proved to be the turning point in the game and South Africa went on to win the rain-marred game by 20 runs.