The Indian batting lineup's struggles in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy have raised questions about the absence of Cheteshwar Pujara in the squad. Amidst reports of Gautam Gambhir pushing for Pujara's inclusion, the selectors chose to overlook the experienced batsman. With an impressive record in Australia and his ability to anchor the innings, Pujara's absence may have been a missed opportunity for Team India to solidify their batting lineup. Join and stay updated on all the latest developments in this ongoing debate.
Cheteshwar Pujara, the veteran Indian batsman, has been a notable absentee from the squad for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. This has sparked a debate about whether his exclusion was a wise decision and whether his presence could have bolstered the Indian batting lineup.
Background:
Pujara has an impressive record in Australia, averaging over 50 in 10 matches with four centuries. He is known for his ability to anchor the innings and play long, resilient knocks. In the previous Border-Gavaskar Trophy, played in 2018-19, Pujara was the leading run-scorer for India with 521 runs.
Selectors' Decision:
Despite his strong record, the selectors chose to overlook Pujara for the current series. This decision was reportedly influenced by the team's preference for a more aggressive batting lineup, with the inclusion of young players like Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill.
Arguments for Pujara's Inclusion:
Proponents of Pujara's inclusion argue that his experience and ability to play long innings would have been invaluable in the Australian conditions. His presence would have provided stability to the batting order and allowed other batsmen to play with more freedom.
Arguments against Pujara's Inclusion:
Others argue that Pujara's slow batting style may not be suited to the modern game. They believe that the team needs more attacking batsmen who can score runs quickly and put pressure on the opposition bowlers.
1. Why was Pujara excluded from the Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad?
Pujara was overlooked by the selectors in favor of a more aggressive batting lineup.
2. What is Pujara's record in Australia?
Pujara has an impressive record in Australia, averaging over 50 in 10 matches with four centuries.
3. What is the significance of Pujara's absence?
Pujara's exclusion has raised questions about the strength of the Indian batting lineup, especially in the absence of other experienced batsmen like Virat Kohli.
4. Who are the players that replaced Pujara in the squad?
Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill were the primary replacements for Pujara in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad.
5. Is Pujara still a valuable member of the Indian team?
Pujara remains a highly respected batsman with a strong record. However, his inclusion in the team may depend on the selectors' assessment of his current form and the team's overall batting strategy.
The first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-finals is set to be an exciting match-up as Arsenal and Newcastle face off. The Gunners are looking to add another trophy to their cabinet, but they'll have to navigate without key players against a confident Newcastle side. With a lineup that includes Martin Ødegaard and Alexander Isak, both teams will be vying for the advantage before their trip to St. James' Park. Catch all the action for free on ITV and ITVX in the UK.
The second ODI between New Zealand and Sri Lanka is set to take place in Hamilton and promises to be an action-packed match. With players like Rachin Ravindra and Will Young leading the teams, fans can expect thrilling performances on the field. Make sure to tune in for updates and coverage on Sportstar.
In the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final, Arsenal suffered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Newcastle United. The Gunners were only able to register three shots on target, leaving Arteta disappointed with their lack of clinical finishing. He highlighted Gabriel Martinelli's missed opportunity in the first half as a turning point in the match, as Newcastle went on to secure a two-goal lead and a strong advantage heading into the second leg. With only two teams in the competition's history failing to progress after winning the first leg away from home, Arteta and his team face a daunting task as they aim to turn the tie around in the return fixture.
Newcastle United took a big step towards the League Cup final with a 2-0 win against Arsenal in the first leg of their semi-final match. Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon both scored for the Magpies, who are seeking their first major trophy since 1969. While Arsenal have been on form in the Premier League, they struggled to keep up with Isak's impressive performance in this crucial match.
As Derrick Henry, star running back for the Baltimore Ravens, celebrates his 30th birthday, he selflessly donated his game-worn and signed cleats to raise awareness for Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Partnering with the Axe ALS Foundation, Henry shared a post on his Instagram story encouraging fans to join the cause and participate in a giveaway to win the one-of-a-kind cleats. This generous gesture comes just before a crucial match against the Cleveland Browns, where fans are eager to see Henry perform on the field once again.
After sitting out the win against Brentford due to illness, Arsenal striker Kai Havertz is set to make a comeback for their upcoming match against Brighton & Hove Albion. Manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that the German is ready to return to the squad and may feature in the starting line-up. Additionally, there is positive news regarding Raheem Sterling and Takehiro Tomiyasu's return from injury, while Ben White is progressing well in his recovery and could make an early comeback.
The January transfer window is yet to see any big deals, but that could all change if Chelsea's plans to sell players to finance the return of Marc Guehi are successful. Manchester United, Manchester City, Tottenham and Newcastle are also expected to be active in the market, while teams in the relegation battle will be looking to strengthen. Stay tuned to Express Sport for all the latest transfer updates.
In their Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg match against Newcastle, Arsenal suffered a 2-0 loss at home. Despite having 23 shots and generating 3.09 expected goals, Arsenal failed to score, with just three shots on target. Manager Mikel Arteta attributed part of the team's poor finishing to the difference in the ball used in this competition – made by Puma – compared to the one used in the Premier League, which is manufactured by Nike.
In a thrilling match, Newcastle emerged victorious with a 2-0 away win over Arsenal in the first leg. However, there were questions raised over Alexander Isak's opening goal, with suggestions of a push on Martin Odegaard being missed by VAR. Despite this, Isak brushed off any accusations, stating it was just part of the game. Arsenal's coaching staff also came under scrutiny for not marking Isak, who has been in top form recently. Will Newcastle hold on to their advantage in the second leg? That remains to be seen.
As the January transfer window opens, Arsenal are on the lookout for a new striker and their interest seems to be focused on Wolves' Matheus Cunha. The Gunners are in need of more goalscoring options, with midfielder Bukayo Saka their top contributor and out injured. While they have been linked with other attacking players, many are keeping an eye on the red-hot Cunha, who has already netted 10 goals for strugglers Wolves this season. However, the striker's recent involvement in unsavoury scenes after a match could hinder a potential move, with Cunha avoiding a longer suspension thanks to some luck.