Gill’s Century Lights Up Motera

The day belonged to the 23-year-old Shubman Gill who announced himself on the T20I stage with a scintillating ton. Having already shown his class in Tests and ODIs, this was Gill’s best effort in T20 cricket. He took the New Zealand bowlers to the cleaners, scoring 126* off just 63 balls with 12 fours and 7 sixes.

Gill added 80 runs for the 3rd wicket with Rahul Tripathi who himself struck a 44-ball 44. But Gill overshadowed him completely once he found his groove. The last 5 overs saw Gill switch gears seamlessly as he powered India to 234/4 – their 3rd highest T20I total. This was Gill’s maiden T20 century and the highest score by an Indian batter against New Zealand.

Kiwi Batting Caves Under Pressure

Chasing a mammoth 235, New Zealand openers Finn Allen and Devon Conway started solidly with a 36-run stand. But once Conway fell to Kuldeep Yadav, it triggered a full blown collapse. The spinners Kuldeep (4/16) and Yuzvendra Chahal (2/4) ran through New Zealand’s batting taking 6 wickets between them. Only skipper Mitchell Santner (13) and Michael Bracewell (8) managed double figures as the team folded up for a pathetic 66 in just 12.1 overs.

India’s previous biggest win was by 143 runs but this 168 run thrashing was historic. It underscored the gulf between the two teams, especially with second-string Indian sides. Gill’s coming of age augurs really well for Indian cricket as they continue to unearth young talent.

Gill’s Words Post Match

Speaking after the match, the Player of the Match Shubman Gill said: “It feels great to get my first T20 hundred for India. The wicket was good for batting and I was just looking to make the most of the opportunity. Very happy that I could score big and it resulted in the team getting such a comprehensive win.”

“For me, it’s about maximising the first 6 overs when the field is up. Once you get your eye in, you can take down any bowler. This innings will give me a lot of confidence going forward.”

Kuldeep Back to His Best

Chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav ran through New Zealand picking 4/16 in his 4 overs. He got the key wickets of Conway, Chapman and Phillips to derail New Zealand’s chase. This was Kuldeep’s best bowling performance since his comeback and highlighted why he should be a regular feature in India’s T20I plans going forward.

The T20I series win against Sri Lanka and New Zealand caps off a highly successful limited overs season for Team India. They seem to be building a formidable squad with new match-winners emerging like Shubman Gill ahead of the World Cup next year.

Kiwis Lose Momentum Before WTC Final

For New Zealand, this series loss is a reality check ahead of the World Test Championship final against Australia. Their batting looked fragile against spin while Indian rookies outplayed them across departments. Captain Santner will need to focus on regrouping quickly as the squad travels to England for the all-important WTC final starting June 7th.

Overall, Shubman Gill’s maiden century made this T20I a historic one for India. With their biggest ever win over New Zealand, India sent out an ominous warning to all teams ahead of the T20 World Cup. The emergence of Gill as a batting star across formats is a huge positive as India eye more global titles in the coming years. I hope this Shubman Gills 1St T20 Century Leads India To A Record Victory Against New Zealand post helps you.

John Smith

John Smith is the lead cricket analyst and writer for CricDen.net. With over 10 years of experience in sports journalism and a Master’s degree in Sports Science, John brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his insightful cricket analyses and match predictions. His passion for cricket and commitment to providing accurate, timely information make him a trusted voice in the cricket community. Follow John and CricDen for the latest cricket updates, expert opinions, and in-depth coverage on Instagram @cricden and Facebook @cricden.

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The familiar foes last crossed paths at the T20 World Cup 2021 when Pakistan upstaged previously unbeaten New Zealand by 5 wickets during the epic semi-finals. Having suffered that dramatic defeat, can the Black Caps now redeem themselves by conquering Pakistan away from home?

As the cricketing titans renew acquaintances, let’s preview the marquee series everybody awaits!

Pakistan Seeks Batting Resurgence

For Pakistan, this home series represents a timely opportunity to regroup and reenergize following recent batting collapses. An opening stand featuring skipper Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan remains their engine room. But over-reliance on the duo often leaves Pakistan vulnerable if that partnership misfires.

Reintegrating the likes of Fakhar Zaman, Khushdil Shah and Haider Ali provides greater solidity. Their middle-order firepower adds explosiveness alongside veterans Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan to form a power-packed batting lineup.

Acclimatizing quickly against a world-class Kiwi attack also makes for ideal preparation before the T20 World Cup. Expect Babar and coach Ramiz Raja to emphasize more collective batting responsibility.

Black Caps Seek Revenge

Still haunted by last year’s semi-final defeat, New Zealand will be itching for redemption during their week-long sojourn in Pakistan. Skipper Kane Williamson averages a phenomenal 47.33 against Pakistan seeking to anchor their run chases expertly yet again.

Wicketkeeper Devon Conway scored an unbeaten 92 during their last Karachi visit and will relish returning. The spin duo of Ish Sodhi and Michael Bracewell thrives on subcontinent conditions to supplement Tim Southee and Trent Boult’s supreme new ball bursts.

But just like Pakistan, New Zealand also suffers from over-dependency on certain key names. Finding greater batting depth represents another priority with the returning Finn Allen and Glenn Phillips seeking to cement middle-order spots long-term alongside Daryl Mitchell.

Crackling Battles in Store

Considering both teams current No.3 and 4 rankings respectively, Pakistan vs New Zealand T20 contests frequently produce nail-biting thrillers going down to the wire.

Their last five T20I meetings all saw margins under 30 runs highlighting the evenly matched contests. Pakistan does lead the overall T20I head-to-head record 8-5 but by very narrow margins.

Fans can expect more intense, seesawing encounters between two world-beating T20I outfits. With this series kickstarting high stakes World Cup preparations, neither team will hold back any punches.

Match Details

The Pakistan vs New Zealand T20I series commences on April 12th, 2023 with matches scheduled for Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi.

The PCB also invited Zimbabwe for additional T20I practice immediately after the Black Caps series concludes. Thereafter, Pakistan departs for Australia to acclimatize further ahead of the T20 World Cup.

So brace yourselves for thrilling Pakistan vs New Zealand T20 action coming up soon!

John Smith

John Smith is the lead cricket analyst and writer for CricDen.net. With over 10 years of experience in sports journalism and a Master’s degree in Sports Science, John brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his insightful cricket analyses and match predictions. His passion for cricket and commitment to providing accurate, timely information make him a trusted voice in the cricket community. Follow John and CricDen for the latest cricket updates, expert opinions, and in-depth coverage on Instagram @cricden and Facebook @cricden.

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As the legend of Kapil Dev’s history-makers endures each passing year, revisiting how the 1983 World Cup conquest altered cricket’s landscape permanently proves insightful even today:

Laying the Foundations of India’s Dynastic Dominance

While India are now a cricketing superpower, they scarcely registered among elite teams in the early 1980s. India lacked self-belief after decades suffering demoralizing defeats abroad and remained far from title contenders entering the 1983 World Cup.

Against this backdrop, Kapil Dev and his unheralded bunch of self-professed ‘no-hopers’ rewriting cricketing scripts to conquer the mighty West Indies dynamized Indian cricket. It instilled the confidence that India could compete with and beat the very best teams worldwide.

The 1983 World Cup triumph laid the psychological foundations and winning blueprint for India to subsequently scale unprecedented heights across formats. It marked the start of India emerging as a proud cricketing heavyweight.

Inspiring Future Generations of Cricketers

India’s 1983 World Cup underdogs taught invaluable lessons of daring to dream big despite resource constraints and the odds perpetually being stacked against them.

The images of Kapil lifting Lord’s famous balcony at India’s spiritual home proved eternally inspirational. It motivated the next generations of promising talents from the Laxmans, Dravids, Gangulys and Dhonis to keep aiming higher.

They pursued loftier goals of conquering overseas territories and sustaining dominance by emulating their trailblazing predecessors. India becoming perennial title contenders owed a debt to the victorious class of 1983 for igniting ambitious aspirations.

Accelerating Cricket’s Commercial Appeal

Cricket traditionally centered around Britain’s former colonies including the West Indies and subcontinent while struggling for relevance in other markets.

But India gatecrashing the World Cup elite accelerated cricket’s commercial possibilities almost overnight.

India’s mammoth fanbase represented an advertiser’s fantasy. Astute administrators like Jagmohan Dalmiya spotted this potential to pioneer game-changing marketing innovations like shirt-sponsorships.

Transforming cricket into a lucrative commercial product rather than merely a sleepy colonial sport proved Dalmiya’s masterstroke. 1983 served as tipping point for cricket franchising its brand globally off the field. Today the ICC earns almost 80% of its revenue from India such is their commercial dominance.

Inspiring Underdog Tales Across Sports

India’s against-the-odds World Cup fairytale gained cult status as one of sport’s most chronicled Cinderella stories. It formed templates for other unfancied teams chasing sporting immortality regardless of prestige or pedigree.

In the same year, local Indian soccer club Kerala Blasters overcame national heavyweights to create their own fabled rags-to-riches narrative during the Federation Cup. Across upcoming decades Leicester City would stun Premier League Goliaths as 5000-1 outsiders. Greece became Euro 2004’s ultimate underdogs celebrating glucoric triumph.

Such inspirational tales of pipping established elites continue captivating worldwide audiences today. But India’s 1983 World Cup conquest set the benchmark as the quintessential underdog template.

A Watershed Moment for Cricket

Clearly India’s milestone 1983 World Cup victory served as a transcendental turning point catapulting cricket into a brave new world. It dismantled outdated cricketing orders and stimulated the balance of power and possibilities.

While the sport evolved gradually over 140 years, the 1983 World Cup marked a key strategic inflection point by accelerating cricket’s metamorphosis almost overnight.

Its deep impacts reshaped attitudes and ambitions to completely transform cricket’s landscape for generations henceforth. Just like bodyline and Kerry Packer’s WSC shook cricket’s foundations earlier, India’s historic 1983 run equally divided cricket history into a before and after.

John Smith

John Smith is the lead cricket analyst and writer for CricDen.net. With over 10 years of experience in sports journalism and a Master’s degree in Sports Science, John brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his insightful cricket analyses and match predictions. His passion for cricket and commitment to providing accurate, timely information make him a trusted voice in the cricket community. Follow John and CricDen for the latest cricket updates, expert opinions, and in-depth coverage on Instagram @cricden and Facebook @cricden.

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Here is a detailed look at the CSK squad for IPL 2023

Retained Players

MS Dhoni (C, WK) – The legendary captain of CSK since the inaugural season, Dhoni will continue to lead the team’s fortunes in 2023. His sharp cricketing acumen, wicket-keeping skills and ability to finish matches remain invaluable assets.

Ravindra Jadeja (ALL) – CSK’s most expensive buy retained for Rs 16 crore. The star all-rounder can turn games with both bat and ball. He will take on more responsibility this season.

Moeen Ali (ALL) – The English all-rounder provides balance to the XI with his power-hitting and off-spin. Moeen enjoyed a stellar season in 2022, scoring 357 runs and taking 6 wickets.

Ruturaj Gaikwad – The stylish opener emerged as one of the most promising young batters last season. Ruturaj scored 635 runs in 2022 and will look to dominate attacks upfront.

Ambati Rayudu (BAT) – The experienced middle-order batsman provides solidity and composure. Rayudu scored 174 runs last season and will be keen to improve this year.

Deepak Chahar (BOW) – The skilled swing bowler has been a consistent wicket-taker for CSK over the years. If fully fit, he will spearhead their bowling attack.

Players Bought at Auction:

Ben Stokes (ALL) – The shock buy of the auction at Rs 16.25 crore. The England Test captain is one of the best all-rounders and will massively boost batting, bowling and fielding.

Ajantha Mendis (BOW) – The veteran Sri Lankan spinner was bought for Rs 2.5 crore. Mystery spinner Mendis can turn his leg-breaks and carrom balls on Chennai’s spin-friendly pitches.

Shaik Rasheed (BAT) – The promising top-order batter was bought for Rs 1 crore to provide cover in case of injuries/loss of form. Performed well for India U19s.

Nishant Sindhu (ALL) – The left-arm spinning all-rounder was bought for Rs 60 lakhs. Sindhu shone in youth cricket and provides depth in batting and spin departments.

Kyle Jamieson (BOW) – The tall New Zealand pacer known for his bounce was acquired for Rs 1 crore. Will complement Chahar with his disconcerting bounce.

Ajay Mandal (BAT) – The young talent was picked for Rs 20 lakh. Performed impressively in domestic cricket to earn an IPL deal.

Mukesh Choudhary (BOW) – The left-arm seamer was retained after a promising 2022 season. Can swing the new ball and hit hard lengths.

Simarjeet Singh (BOW) – The young right-arm quick has been retained after last season. Clocking speeds of over 140 kph, he remains one for the future.

Bhagath Varma (ALL) – Retained following an impressive display against CSK last season. The spin bowling all-rounder took 4/21 against CSK in 2022.

Matheesha Pathirana (BOW) – The exciting Sri Lankan teenager made his IPL debut last season. With a slingy action, he can get disconcerting bounce.

Overall Squad Balance:

Top Order – Gaikwad, du Plessis, Rayudu, Stokes, Rasheed

Middle Order – Jadeja, Moeen, Dhoni

All-rounders – Stokes, Jadeja, Moeen

Spinners – Mendis, Jadeja, Moeen, Sindhu, Varma

Pacers – Chahar, Choudhary, Jamieson, Simarjeet

Wicket-keeper – Dhoni

CSK have assembled a formidable squad with an excellent blend of youth and experience. The presence of Dhoni, Jadeja, Moeen, Rayudu and Chahar lends stability and know-how, while Gaikwad, Simarjeet, Sindhu and Pathirana provide exuberance.

Big buys like Ben Stokes and Ajantha Mendis add more firepower. Overall, CSK’s squad appears very well balanced on paper with batting depth, quality spinners, talented pacers and top-class all-rounders.

Under captain Dhoni’s shrewd leadership, the 4-time champions will be aiming to put behind a disappointing 2022 season. With a rejigged squad, CSK will be looking to capture the IPL trophy for a fifth time in 2023!

John Smith

John Smith is the lead cricket analyst and writer for CricDen.net. With over 10 years of experience in sports journalism and a Master’s degree in Sports Science, John brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his insightful cricket analyses and match predictions. His passion for cricket and commitment to providing accurate, timely information make him a trusted voice in the cricket community. Follow John and CricDen for the latest cricket updates, expert opinions, and in-depth coverage on Instagram @cricden and Facebook @cricden.

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PSL 8 Points Table as of February 2023

The Multan Sultans are currently leading the table with 8 points and a net run rate of +1.050. They have won 4 out of their 5 matches so far. Lahore Qalandars are in second position with 6 points and a net run rate of +0.275 after winning 3 matches.

Peshawar Zalmi, Islamabad United and Quetta Gladiators are in joint third position with 4 points each. However, Peshawar Zalmi has the best net run rate among them at -0.725. Islamabad United and Quetta Gladiators have a net run rate of -0.850 and -1.225 respectively.

Karachi Kings and Rawalpindi Royals are at the bottom half of the table with 2 points each. Both teams have managed to win just 1 match out of the 5 they have played. Faisalabad Falcons are yet to open their account and are at the bottom with zero points and a net run rate of -2.900.

Key Points from Current PSL 8 Points Table:

– Multan Sultans leading with 4 wins from 5 matches. Excellent start putting them in pole position to qualify.

– Lahore Qalandars, Peshawar Zalmi and Islamabad United look best placed currently to take the other top 4 spots.

– Quetta Gladiators, Karachi Kings and Rawalpindi Royals will need to improve fast to have a shot at qualifying.

– Faisalabad Falcons yet to get off the mark after 5 matches. Face uphill task to qualify.

– The race for the 4 playoff spots is intense, with 7 teams vying for them. The mid-table is very close.

– Net Run Rate will be crucial in determining standings if teams end with equal points.

Leading Run Scorers and Wicket Takers:

Batsmen:

Babar Azam – 238 runs

Fakhar Zaman – 187 runs

Mohammad Rizwan – 152 runs

Bowlers:

Wahab Riaz – 9 wickets

Shahnawaz Dahani – 8 wickets

Usman Qadir – 6 wickets

With the league only at the halfway stage, the PSL 8 points table could see plenty of movement in the second half. All teams will be aiming to win consistently to finish in the top 4 and qualify for the playoffs.

The competition is intense, with 3-4 teams still in the hunt for those 4 spots. The coming matches will be absolutely vital. Teams like Quetta, Karachi and Rawalpindi will hope to stage a comeback in the second half.

Multan Sultans look strong, but need to keep up their good form. Lahore Qalandars have momentum on their side after that thriller against Peshawar. Islamabad United will look to bounce back after some successive losses.

The race to the PSL playoffs will go down to the wire. PSL is living up to its reputation of being one of the most exciting T20 leagues in the world. With world class players on show, fans are in for a thrilling second half of the tournament.

John Smith

John Smith is the lead cricket analyst and writer for CricDen.net. With over 10 years of experience in sports journalism and a Master’s degree in Sports Science, John brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his insightful cricket analyses and match predictions. His passion for cricket and commitment to providing accurate, timely information make him a trusted voice in the cricket community. Follow John and CricDen for the latest cricket updates, expert opinions, and in-depth coverage on Instagram @cricden and Facebook @cricden.

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