BY SACNILK

2018 has been one of the years to remember for the India captain Virat Kohli. In the domination of the bowlers, he was the one who dominated with the bat throughout the year in all three formats. He got the reward for that by becoming the first-ever player to win Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for Cricketer of the year, ODI Cricketer of the year, and Test Cricketer of the year in a single year.## With each passing game, the Indian captain getting to Sachin Tendulkar's all-time records in ODIs. In recently concluded series against West Indies, Kohli scored two back to back hundreds and now just 7 short from Tendulkar's 50 hundred. During the series, he surpassed Sourav Ganguly to become 8th highest run-getter in ODIs.## Here is the list of the TOP 10 batsman with most ODI runs:## 1. Sachin Tendulkar (IND) - Legendary Sachin Tendulkar is arguably the greatest batsman of all time after Sir Don Bradman. He has more runs than any other batsman in International matches. In ODIs, Tendulkar has scored 18,426 runs in 463 matches with an average of 44.83 and strike rate of 86.23. Sachin Tendulkar also has scored 49 centuries along with 96 half-centuries. He is the first player to score a double century in ODIs when he scored 200* against South Africa.## 2. Kumar Sangakkara (SL/ICC/Asia) - Kumar Sangakkara is arguably the greatest batsman Sri Lanka has ever produced. He has scored 14,234 runs in 404 matches with an average of 41.98 along with 25 centuries and 93 half-centuries. Sangakkara has been one of the key reasons behind Sri Lanka's success in cricket during his career.## 3. Ricky Ponting (AUS/ICC) - Ricky Ponting is one of the most successful captains of all time. During his tenure, Australia won 2 World Cups and in 2003 World Cup final against India played an innings of his life. In 375 ODIs, he has scored 13,704 at an average of 42.03 with 30 hundred and 82 fifties. Among him, Tendulkar and Lara have always been a debate of the best batsman and he never looked too far behind in that.## 4. Sanath Jayasuriya (Asia/SL) - Another Sri Lankan legend who redefined the batting with his attacking shot-making ability. He has been one of the greatest openers of all time and has scored 13,430 runs in 445 matches at an average of 32.36 with 28 hundred and 68 fifties. He has scored one of the fastest centuries in one-day cricket when he made 48-ball century against Pakistan in Singapore in 1996.## 5. Mahela Jayawardene (Asia/SL) - Jayawardene and Sangakkara have scripted many famous wins for Sri Lanka together. He has been one of the pillars for Sri Lankan batting line up for 17 years. During his long career, he scored 12,650 runs in 448 ODIs at an average of 33.37 with 19 hundred and 77 fifties.## 6. Inzamam-ul-Haq (Asia/PAK) - Inzamam-ul-Haq is famous for his slow running between the wickets but he never looked slow while scoring runs. With his aggressive style of batting, he is one of the greatest batsmen Pakistan have ever produced. In 350 ODIs, he scored 11,739 runs at an average of 39.52 and strike rate of 74.24 with 10 hundred and 83 fifties.## 7. Jacques Kallis (Afr/ICC/SA) - Arguably the greatest all-rounder of the 21st century, Jacques Kallis has had a successful career. He was South Africa's one of the pillars in middle order during his career and more than handy bowlers who always provided breakthroughs when his team needed the most. in 328 ODIs, he scored 11,539 runs at an average of 44.36 with 17 hundred and 86 the fifties.## 8. VIRAT KOHLI (IND) - Sachin Tendulkar's records were looking untouchable until Virat Kohli come. Some of the former player's likes of Allen Border and Micheal Clarke believes that Virat is the greatest ODI batman world cricket has ever seen. His records speak for him. In just 239 ODIs, he has scored 11,520 runs at an extraordinary average of 60.31 and strike rate of 93.21 with 43 century (only behind Tendulkar). Fans call him with the names of 'Chase master', 'King Kohli', 'Chase King'. He is the only active batsman in top 10 batsman list of leading run-scorer in ODIs. Kohli is just 19 runs short from surpassing South African legend Jacques Kallis wh has scored 11,539 runs in ODIs.## 9. Sourav Ganguly (Asia/IND) - Popularly known as 'Dada', Sourav Ganguly has been one of the best left-arm batsmen. He has been the part of India's famous Feb-five squad. In 311 ODIs, Ganguly scored 11,363 runs at an average of 41.02 with 22 hundred and 72 fifties. He has been one of the successful captains for India. He led India to World Cup 2003 final where India lost to Australia and scripted some of India's famous overseas wins.## 10. Rahul Dravid (Asia/ICC/IND) - If cricket is gentlemen's game then Rahul Dravid is that gentlemen who have been one of the respected players on and off the field. He famously is known for 'The Wall' because of his determined batting in Tests. In ODIs, he scored 10,889 runs 344 matches at an average of 39.16 with 12 hundred and 83 fifties.## As of August 14, 2019## Follow for more...

BY SACNILK

Indian team captain Virat Kohli becomes the first ever player to win the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Cricketer of the Year, the ICC Men's Test Player of the Year and the ICC ODI Player of the Year trophy in a single year for his brilliant performance in 2018 where he scored 2735 runs in all three formats.## This is the second time in a row when Virat Kohli has won Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Cricketer of the Year and the first time he's won ICC Test cricketer of the year. Along with the awards, Virat Kohli named the captain of the ICC's Test and ODI Team of 2018. Under his captaincy, India won Test series in Australia for the first time and also the ODI series as well.## "It feels amazing. It's a reward for all the hard work that you do throughout the calendar year. I feel really grateful and very, very happy with the team doing well at the same time myself performing. Having recognition at the global level from the ICC is something you feel proud of as a cricketer because you understand that there are many players playing the game," Virat said.## "To be rewarded in this manner from amongst all of them is obviously a very proud moment for me and something that gives you more motivation to keep repeating the same things because you have to keep the standard of cricket up and keep bringing inconsistent performances. From that point of view, these awards give you that extra motivation."## Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who has had a wonderful 2018 with bat and gloves, won ICC Emerging Cricketer of the year. He along with Virat and Jasprit Bumrah has been included in ICC's Test team of 2018.## India players had a wonderful time in 2018 where they dominated in ODIs. As many as four Indian players have been included in ODI Team of the year and three players found themselves in Test Team of the year.## Test Team: Tom Latham (New Zealand), Dimuth Karunaratne (Sri Lanka), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Virat Kohli (India) (c), Henry Nicholls (New Zealand), Rishabh Pant (India) (wk), Jason Holder (Windies), Kagiso Rabada (South Africa), Nathan Lyon (Australia), Jasprit Bumrah (India), Mohammad Abbas (Pakistan).## ODI Team: Rohit Sharma (India), Jonny Bairstow (England), Virat Kohli (India) (c), Joe Root (England), Ross Taylor (New Zealand), Jos Buttler (England) (wk), Ben Stokes (England), Mustafizur Rahman (Bangladesh), Rashid Khan (Afghanistan), Kuldeep Yadav (India), Jasprit Bumrah (India).## Scotland's Calum MacLeod won the ICC Associate Player of the Year awards while Australia's limited-overs skipper Aaron Finch won the T20I Performance of the Year for his 172 against Zimbabwe in Harare in July last year. New Zealand captain Kane Williamson won ICC Spirit of Cricket award while Kumar Dharmasena was named the Umpire of the year.## Follow for more...

BY SACNILK

After being suspended from the team in pending inquiry, BCCI acting President CK Khanna has put his foot down in Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul's matter and has allowed them to join the team for New Zealand tour.## "I suggest that pending inquiry, we reinstate both the cricketers in the Indian squad immediately and allow them to join the team in New Zealand at the earliest," Khanna wrote in a mail to the Supreme Court-appointed committee of administrators (CoA) and the BCCI office-bearers. ## Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul made a crass comment in an Indian talk show 'Koffee with Karan' and therefore, they were suspended from the Australia and New Zealand tour in the pending inquiry. ## However, the suspended duo demand an unconditional apology and hence, BCCI President believes that their career should not be kept in a limbo.## "They made a mistake, and they have already been suspended and called back from the series against Australia. They have also submitted an unconditional apology. We must not keep their careers in limbo," Khanna added while urging for a meeting between CoA and BCCI office-bearers.## Khanna also refused to call a special general meeting of the board, as demanded by some state units. "As per the constitution of the BCCI, an ombudsman can be appointed at the Annual General Meeting (AGM). But the matter (appointment of ombudsman) is already sub-judice," Khanna wrote, replying to BCCI treasurer Anirudh Chaudhry. ## Both the players are allowed to join the squad in New Zealand. The tour for five ODIs and three T20Is is set to begin from 23 January at McLean Park, Napier. ## The tour will start from ODIs first from 23 January and 3 February and later three T20Is will be played from 6 February to 10 February. ## Follow for more...

BY SACNILK

How life can change within a span of just one year, Shubman Gill is the perfect example of it. Life is moving so fast for him since he put his first step in professional cricket. Around this time last year, Gill was playing Under-19 World Cup in New Zealand and a year later he is all set to begin his international career for his national side at the same place as he has included for the New Zealand tour (ODIs only) starting from January 23.## Well, Shubman Gill is happy and excited and why wouldn't he be as it has nothing sort of dream come true to share a dressing room with his idol Virat Kohli. He hides no emotion to express his excitement as he is going to share dressing with Kohli. He is also hopeful of pushing himself for World Cup spot.## "I am really excited to share the dressing room with Virat. It is a surreal feeling. He is my idol. I like the way he handles pressure. Now, I'll get the chance to learn from him directly. Often I watch Virat's batting videos on YouTube. Whatever I learn, I try and put it into practice in the nets," the youngster told TOI.## "If I do well for my country, then there is a chance that I might even make the 2019 World Cup squad. For that, I will have to make good every opportunity that is given to me," he said. "My preference is the opening slot but if I am given an opportunity in the middle-order, I will try and maximise that chance."## Shubman Gill's selection was on the line as he has been in dream form since India's Under-19 World Cup triumph where he smashed 372 runs in 5 innings at an average of 124 and won the man of the tournament award. Also, his Ranji Trophy form has been stupendous where he has smashed 728 runs in 5 matches at an average of 104. "The Ranji season so far has been great for me. I am in good nick and hitting the ball well. The confidence of having scored runs on a consistent basis is there. Grinding it out in domestic cricket has improved my game enormously," said Gill.## However, Gill thought it was a surprise call-up for him but happy that he got an opportunity to play for his country. "It was a surprise call-up for me. I was just going to sleep and suddenly at around 1 am, I got messages from reporters saying that I have been selected. For the first few seconds, I was in a state of shock. After that, I went and told my father. Initially, I thought this was more of a speculation type of news; but then when I got the call from BCCI, I was over the moon."## The 19-year old also thanked India's A coach Rahul Dravid who coached Under-19 team last year World Cup for the evolution in his game. "I am deeply influenced by Rahul Sir. He has been with me for the last two years - at the U-19 level and then during India 'A' tours. He understands my batting really well. He ensured my batting evolved and got better."## India's Tour of New Zealand will start from January 23 to 10 February where 5 ODIs and 3 T20Is will be played. The tour will start from one-day internationals.## Follow for more...

BY SACNILK

Australia began 2019 with a comfortable 34-runs win over India in the one-day format. Australia had an awful 2018 where they could manage only 2 wins and lost as many as 13 in the 50-over format. Australia couldn't ask for a better start of a year as former world no. 1 team has taken a 1-0 lead in 3-match series.## With the help of this win, Australia became the first and only country to win 1000 matches in all three formats (Test, ODI, T20I). Despite their struggle in all three formats in recent times, Australia has won most matches in Tests and ODIs than any other team in the world. Apart from Australia, only three teams have been able to win more than 700 matches in the history of the cricket.## Here is the list of the TOP 5 countries with most international wins## 1. AUSTRALIA (1000 WINS) - Since the beginning of the cricket, Australia has been a most successful team in the history of the game. They played their first match in 1877 against England and since then they have played 818 Tests, 920 ODIs, and 114 T20Is and have won 1000 matches (384 Tests, 558 ODIs, 58 T20Is). During this period, Australia has won Five 50-over world cups and has been the team to beat during the time period of 1990 to 2010.## 2. ENGLAND (774 WINS) - England is the country who invented cricket. England played their first match against their Ashes rivals in 1877 and has played 1007 Tests, 721 ODIs, and 105 T20Is so far and has won 774 matches (364 Tests, 360 ODIs, 50 T20Is). Despite inventing cricket, England couldn't win the 50-over world cup. Their only major ICC tournament win came in the shortest format of the game when they became T20 champion in 2010 after beating Australia in the final.## 3. INDIA (711 WINS) - India has emerged as one of the teams to beat since the start of 21st century. In their 86-year of cricketing history, India has played 533 Tests, 954 ODIs, and 110 T20Is and has won 711 matches (150 Tests, 492 ODIs, 69 T20Is). The biggest moment for Indian cricket came in 1983 when India became world champions for the first time by beating defending champions West Indies under the captaincy of Kapil Dev and 28 years later, India lifted the World Cup for the second time under MS Dhoni. Apart from winning 50-over World Cup twice, India has won inaugural T20I World Cup in 2007 and Champions Trophy in 2014.## 4. PAKISTAN (702 WINS) - Pakistan is known for producing fast bowlers and has won many matches because of the great pacers. Since their first match (In 1952), Pakistan has played 422 Tests, 899 ODIs, and 139 T20Is and has won 702 matches (136 Tests, 477 ODIs, 89 T20Is). Pakistan has won 50-over World Cup (1992), T20I World Cup (2009), Champions Trophy (2017) at least once in their cricketing history.## 5. WEST INDIES (608 WINS) - From 1970 to 1980, West Indies was an almost unbeatable team. During this period, Windies won two World Cup (1975, 1979) and in 1983, they lost to India in the final at the iconic Lords Cricket Ground. Windies have played 539 Tests, 788 ODIs, and 104 T20Is so far and have won 608 matches (171 Tests, 388 ODIs, 49 T20Is). Apart from two 50-over World Cups, Windies have won two T20I World Cups (2012, 2016) and Champions Trophy in 2004.## Stats till 12 Jan 2019.## Follow for more...

BY SACNILK

Not long ago, Mayank Agarwal was scoring a mountain of runs in domestic cricket and 'A' level but he was still like a lost star where his stars refused to align. It was frustrating for Mayank as he didn't get an opportunity despite scoring consistently. However, he was included in 2-match series against West Indies at home but he didn't get a match to play and later was dropped for the Australia tour.## But Karma had other plans, the Karnataka batsman was drafted into the squad after the first two Tests as Prithvi Shaw's injury in practice match came as a blessing for him. He straightway included into playing XI for Boxing Day Test in Melbourne and he didn't let this opportunity go with a well-compiled 76-runs on bouncy MCG pitch. That inning was enough for him to grown his confidence as he played a crucial 42-runs knock in the second innings in between the fall of wickets at the other end.## Mayank missed out on converting two half-centuries into hundreds but finished his three-innings series with an impressive 195 runs (76, 42, 77). After coming back to India, he was happy while giving an exclusive interview to TOI and spoke about the trip.## Excerpts:## What were your thoughts when you touched down in Australia?## I was just excited to be a part of the Indian team. I was going to be part of a series which was being intensely fought and was interestingly poised at one-all, and I was looking forward to being there.## The moment when you were handed the India cap...## Getting the cap was nice but the thing that struck me the most at that moment was the encouraging words I received from Virat (Kohli) and everyone around. A couple of days before my debut, Ravi (Shastri) sir spoke to me and said, 'Mayank, you will get your chance. We know you have come up the hard way; you've scored the runs and those things will really help you when you play'. Virat too was very encouraging and said, 'It is a big place to make your Test debut. Bigger the place, bigger the opportunity and greater chance of an impact you can make'. It felt fantastic to be accepted and supported by everyone.## How reassuring was it to have your good friend and statemate KL Rahul in the squad?## We've played a lot of cricket together. It was very comforting to have one of my best friends on the side. He made sure I was comfortable. Obviously, having your best mate meant the vibes and energy levels were high. Once there, we both went out for coffee and he sat me down and spoke to me. I asked him about the Aussie bowlers. He told me about his experience and what he made of it. I was watching the matches, but getting first-hand information from my best mate, who was playing in the series, was also nice and that really helped.## The 76 on debut, how did that feel?## To be honest, I was nervous at the start. Once I got two-three shots away and got going, then I just got into the zone. It was just me, talking to myself and saying, 'I've come here with a plan and I'm going to stick to it.' I just tried to be in the moment and not think about anything else.## Did you thrive on self-belief?## Probably. Also, it is the confidence that came from the fact that I had got a lot of runs before (going to Australia). Also, I prepared well for the match. At practice, Sanjay (Bangar) sir and I made a few notes about what the spinners and pacers would look to do. With everyone rallying around me, I was in a good space.## Which according to you was your best innings in Australia?## Honestly, I don't like to compare. I wouldn't say this was better or that was good. I thought each innings had different importance to it.## Any regrets on missing out on a century?## I wasn't very disappointed when I got out in the first match (at 76) because I thought that Pat Cummins delivery kicked more than I expected. But in Sydney, I was upset with myself. It wasn't about a hundred, but I could have got a bigger score. I was disappointed at the way I threw my wicket away. That said, I also had a plan on how I was going to play and pace my innings. The plan was to attack Nathan Lyon and that did not work out. If there is a lesson from it and I can improve myself as a player, then it is a lesson well learnt.## What was your biggest takeaway from the series?## A lot of confidence and the experience of playing international cricket. During the tour, I understood what it takes to be there and perform.## How did it feel to hold the trophy?## I can't put down the feeling in words... it was indescribable. The one thing I can say is that people often told me, Test cricket is the ultimate form of cricket and I have experienced it.## With the Test debut done, are you looking at the limited-overs breakthrough now?## Like I have always said, every person's journey is different. I've made it to the Test team and I'm grateful for that. What's got me this far is sticking to the process, hard work and playing every game to the best of my ability. I will take whatever comes out of it. I'm not thinking too much ahead. I'm just going to take things as they come. When the time is right, that (limited-overs debut) too will happen.## Follow for more...

BY SACNILK

It was a historic day for the Indian cricket that ended 71-year old drought under the captaincy of Virat Kohli by winning a Test series in Australia for the first time and. India won the 4-match Test series by 2-1 and became the first Asian country to win a Test series Down Under. However, India will be disappointed as they couldn't finish Test series with a win as the 4th Test ended up drawn after rain washed out 5th and final day at Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Sydney on 7 January 2019.## It was a series where India dominated the Aussies throughout the series. However, Australia bounced back with a win in Perth after losing in Adelaide, but apart from that they never look to win or even drawn the series, it was India who dictates terms. For Virat Kohli It was his by far biggest achievement and it should be as none of the other Indian captains could able to do what this Indian team has done.## It was 12th instance India played a Test series in Australia and 11 previous occasions, either they lost or drawn the series. Take a look at the results of each tour -## 1947/48 - Australia (4-0)## 1967/68 - Australia (4-0)## 1977/78 - Australia (3-2)## 1980/81 - Drawn (1-1)## 1985/86 - Drawn (0-0)## 1991/92 - Australia (4-0)## 1999/00 - Australia (3-0)## 2003/04 - Drawn (1-1)## 2007/08 - Australia (2-1)## 2011/12 - Australia (4-0)## 2014/15 - Australia (2-0)## 2018/19 - INDIA* (2-1)## Team India also became the only 5th visiting side to win a Test series in Australia after England, West Indies, South Africa, and New Zealand. England is the only team who has beaten Australia more than 10 times in their own backyard.## Visiting sides winning series in Australia:## England (13 times)## West Indies (1979/80, 1984/85, 1988/89 & 1992/93)## New Zealand (1985/86)## South Africa (2008/09, 2012/13, 2016/17)## India (2018/19)## It was India's 6th series win in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) countries where only South Africa is the only remained country India hasn't won a Test series.## Series wins in 'SENA' countries for India:## 3-1 in NZ, 1967/68## 1-0 in Eng, 1971## 2-0 in Eng, 1986## 1-0 in Eng, 2007## 1-0 in NZ, 2008/09## 2-1 in Aus, 2018/19## One can talk about the strength and depth of Australia, who missed Steven Smith and David Warner, but one can't question the hard work and discipline shown by the Indians. The No.1 Test side has shown the great character under the difficult circumstances. Cheteshwar Pujara, India's no.3 batsman looked in form of his life who went on to score 521 runs in 7 innings that helped him win Man of the series. In the first Test where India was in deep trouble at 41/4 and Pujara played a sublime 123-runs knock that actually became the difference between the two sides. He scored 3 centuries in the series and has impressed everyone with his sheer determination.## On the other hand, if Pujara setup the innings it was the bowlers who converted them into results. India's pace trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, and Ishant Sharma looked as lethal as you ever seen. Bumrah has been go to man for Virat who has been by far the best bowler of the series with 21-wickets.## India overcomes their familiar mistakes in batting point of view where they depended on individual performances of Virat Kohli that cost them series lose against South Africa and England. Against Australia they done everything right where batsmen scored runs along with Kohli and bowlers were at their usual best.## Follow for more...

BY SACNILK

Team India is on the line to create history in Australia as they are one step away from winning a Test series in Australia for the very first time. India captain Virat Kohli who has been standout performer for India in recent overseas tours, is leading from the front in ongoing series against Australia however, it is Cheteshawar Pujara who has been by far the best batsman in 4-match Test series where it has already scored 521 runs in 7 innings with 3 centuries and a half-century.## On the other hand, despite been overshadowed by Pujara's brilliance, Virat Kohli has been one of the standout performers in this series and has reached another milestone during his short 23 runs innings on the opening day of the Sydney Test. He completed 19,000 runs in International matches and quickest ever to do so surpassed legendary Sachin Tendulkar who took 33 innings more than Virat. Virat Kohli is also the 3rd highest run-getter for India across formats.## Here is the list of TOP 5 Indian batsman with most international runs:## 1. Sachin Tendulkar (34,357 Runs) - It is said that no record is bigger than Sachin Tendulkar. Such has been domination of the master over two and half of decades in an international career. The master blaster has created many records to break and scoring most runs is one of them. In his 24 years of career, Sachin had scored 34,357 runs (15,921 in Tests, 18,426 in ODIs, 10 in T20Is) at an average of 48.52 in 782 innings of 664 matches. His highest score of 248* came against Bangladesh in 2004. The master had also touched the rare feat of 100, 100s (51 Tests and 49 ODIs).## 2. Rahul Dravid (24,064 Runs) - Another legend who arguably the greatest Test batsman at no.3 position. Rahul Dravid, popularly known as 'The Wall' has done wonders for India. His marathon knock of 233 against Australia in the first innings of Adelaide Test in 2003 has been highlight of his career that saw India winning that Test by 4 wickets. He remained unbeaten on 72 in the second innings and took India to a famous win. He has scored 24,064 runs (13,288 Tests, 10,889 ODIs, 31 T20Is) in 599 innings of 504 matches at an average of 45.57 including 48 centuries (36 Tests and 12 ODIs). ## 3. Virat Kohli (19,012* Runs) - If there is a batsman who looks to break Sachin Tendulkar's record that is Virat Kohli. The run-machine is reaching new heights with every passing match. Virat has scored 19,012 runs (6,613 Tests, 10,232 ODIs, 2,167 T20Is) so far in 399 innings of 358 matches at the phenomenal average of 56.24. He has scored 63 centuries (25 Tests, 38 ODIs) which is third highest after Sachin Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting (71).## 4. Sourav Ganguly (18,433 Runs) - A fearless captain who led India to some memorable wins in overseas conditions. Sourav Ganguly, popularly known as 'Dada' was India's one of the best batsmen and one of the greatest captains of all time. He led India to the final of World Cup 2003 where they lost to Australia. Ganguly had scored 18,433 runs (7,212 Tests and 11,363 ODIs) in 485 innings of 421 matches with an average of 41.42 including 38 hundred (16 Tests and 22 ODIs).## 5. Virendra Sehwag (16,892 Runs) - Virendra Sehwag was one of the batsmen who changed the way of seeing Test cricket with his aggressive style of batting. He arguably was one of the greatest openers since the start of 21st century. He is one of only 4 batsmen who has scored 2 triple centuries in Tests. After his knock of 309 against Pakistan, he nicknamed 'Sultan of Multan' where he dominated some of the best bowlers of the world. Sehwag had scored 16,892 runs (8,586 Tests, 8,273 ODIs, 394 T20Is) at an average of 40.62 in 431 innings of 363 matches including 38 hundred (23 Tests and 15 ODIs.## Follow for more...

BY SACNILK

Unlike Test, batting has been much easier in one-day format in 2018. It has been a landmark year for England in ODIs and emerged as the most favourite team to lift the World Cup to be held in England. On the other hand, India too had a brilliant year and their top order has dominated batting chart as well as ICC rankings. Bowling too has been brilliant where spinners came out as much more affected than the pacers.## The year 2018 was all about building up for 2019 where most of the teams have experimented in their playing XI considering the all-important World Cup next year. After looking at the performances, we have picked the players who stood out and made a difference in our ODI XI of 2018.## Here we are presenting you the best possible ODI XI of 2018:## 1. Rohit Sharma (IND) - The second highest run-getter after Virat Kohli with 1030 runs in 19 matches at an average of 73.57, Rohit Sharma started the year with low scores against South Africa but till the end of the year he came out as one of the only three batsmen with more than 1000 runs. He notched up 5 centuries and 3 half-centuries with his highest score being 162 against the Windies at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai. He is also the second rank batsman in ICC ODI Ranking.## 2. Jonny Bairstow (ENG) - Jonny Bairstow has emerged as one of the most dangerous openers this year where his strike rate has been 118.22 (highest among the top run-getters). The right-hander has scored 1025 (Third highest) runs in 22 matches at an average of 46.59 including 4 centuries and 2 fifties with his highest score of 139 runs.## Other option as an opener - Shikhar Dhawan (IND), Shai Hope (WI)## 3. Virat Kohli (IND) - This is as obvious as it gets for the number one batsman. Kohli scored 1202 runs in 14 matches averaging a stellar 133.55 in 2018, which started with a 112 against South Africa in Durban. Kohli scored a 160 not out in Cape Town again, helping India win the series 5-1. He then ended the year with three consecutive hundreds against the Windies.## 4. Ross Taylor (NZ) - The 34-year old and one of the most experienced New Zealanders, Ross Taylor has had a phenomenal year with the bat. He has scored 639 runs in 10 innings with an average of 91.28 with the help of 2 centuries and 4 half-centuries where his highest score was 181*. Joe Root also was the other contender at no.4 but Taylor's ability to score quick runs earns him this spot.## 5. Jos Buttler (ENG) - The wicket-keeper batsman had a stupendous year where the 671 runs in 18 innings of 23 matches with an impressive average of 51.62 at no.5. His ability to score quick runs at the end of innings makes him a valuable player. His strike rate has been 113.53 and has scored 2 centuries (both came against Australia) and 4 half-centuries.## 6. Shakib Al Hasan (BAN) - The number 1 all-rounder from Bangladesh had a wonderful year with both bat and ball. Shakib's evergreen ability to turn games on its head makes him a different player from others and his record also justified that with 497 runs to go with 21 wickets across 15 matches.## 7. Thisara Perera (SL) - Thisara Perera has had a pretty good year in 50-over cricket despite Sri Lanka's dwindling fortunes. The 29-year old left-hand all-rounder has made handy contributions with the bat lower down the order averaging 34.58 and has also picked up 25 wickets at a very good average of just 20.72.## 8. Rashid Khan (AFG) - Arguably the best spinner at present in limited overs cricket, Afghanistan's leggie has had an outstanding year in the 50-over format. His abilities with bat and his mysterious bowling make him an outstanding player at no.8 for any side in the world. He has grabbed 48 wickets (most by any bowler) in 20 matches with an economy rate of under 4 per over.## 9. Kuldeep Yadav (IND) - Now India has their own Chinaman in Kuldeep Yadav and batsmen haven't able to pick his googlies. Wrist spin is certainly the way to go in limited overs cricket nowadays and Kuldeep Yadav is master in this. With 45 wickets in 19 games, Yadav was the second highest wicket-taker of 2018. He makes a deadly partnership with Yuzvendra Chahal. The spin duo helped India to win ODI series against South Africa in South Africa 5-1 where Yadav picked 17-wickets in 6 matches.## 10. Jasprit Bumrah (IND) - Wickets up front with the new ball, wickets at the death with some deadly variations, Jasprit Bumrah the rank 1 bowler can do it all at the moment. The 25-year old right-arm pacer has been standout bowler across formats. Bumrah took 22 wickets in 13 matches with an economy rate of 3.62 which is rare in modern day cricket.## 11. Mustafizur Rahman (BAN) - The left-arm pacer from Bangladesh has had a wonderful year with the ball. He picked up 29 wickets in 18 matches at an average of 21.72 and economy rate of 4.20. His ability to deceive batsmen with slower balls makes him one of the best bowlers in the world at present.## Follow for more...

BY SACNILK

The year 2018 has been one of the worst years for batting in Test cricket. The year that registered the lowest batting average (26.28) since 1959 tells how much batsmen have struggled throughout the year. On the other hand, it was the bowlers who have dominated batsmen in almost every match being played.## Well, 2018 has written its script and one must admit that it has been one of the worst years to pick playing XI of 2018 in the basis of performances as there are batsmen who haven't been consistent barring a few batsmen. Bowlers have done their job well but it is batsmen who have disappointed.## Here we are presenting you the best possible XI of 2018 of Test cricket (on the basis of performances)## 1. Tom Latham (NZ) - It has been the hard year for openers. New Zealand's Tom Latham who scored 450 runs in 3 innings against Sri Lanka in most recently concluded series has scored 658 runs in 12 innings including 2 centuries and 2 half-centuries with an average of 59.81 this year. His highest score of 264* came against Sri Lanka at Basin Reserve, Wellington where he carried the innings. Latham is the only opener who has averages over 50 after scoring 300 or more.## 2. Dimuth Karunaratne (SL) - The Sri Lankan left-hander despite his team's poor show, has been in good form and played some match-changing innings. The gritty left-hander has recorded 743 runs in 17 innings with an average of 46.43. Also has scored a century and 7 half-centuries including a match-changing unbeaten 158 against South Africa in Galle.## 3. Kane Williamson (NZ) - A rock solid at number 3 and one of the modern day masters has a brilliant year. In UAE against Pakistan, he played some crucial innings which helped New Zealand to win a Test against Pakistan after 1969 away from home. Earlier in the year, Williamson had also showcased exemplary technique to handle the swing and seam bowling of England's James Anderson to crunch a brilliant hundred. In 12 innings Williamson scored 651 runs at an average of 59.18 with 2 centuries and 3 half-centuries.## 4. Virat Kohli (IND) - Virat Kohli, as usual, had had another stellar year with the bat. The Indian captain is one of only two batsmen who has scored more than 1000 runs in 2018. Virat probably the only batsman who has been consistent throughout the year. Against England in England, he scored 593 runs in 10 innings where all other batsmen were struggling to score in seaming and swinging conditions. Even before England series, he was the most successful batsman in South Africa earlier this year in 3-match Test series. In 24 innings of 13 matches, Virat scored 1322 runs at an average of 55.08 including 5 hundred and 5 fifties.## 5. Henry Nicholls (NZ) - Another New Zealander who had had a spectacular with the bat. His partnership of 212 for the 4th wicket with Williamson against Pakistan where he scored 126 runs has been the highlight of the year that turned the table in New Zealand's favour from a losing position. The left-hander has scored 658 runs in 12 innings at a brilliant average of 73.11 with 3 centuries and 3 half-centuries.## 6. Jos Buttler (ENG) - It was a comeback year for the wicket-keeper batsman and has been a brilliant comeback. The attacking right-hander gave a glimpse of his immense potential with a well constricted fifty in the second innings of the Lord's Test versus Pakistan. He also notched up his maiden Test hundred against India at Trent Bridge that came in losing cause but he played a crucial part in England's series victory with a couple of the fifties. He scored 760 runs in 18 innings with an average of 44.70 including a century and 6 half-centuries.## 7. Jason Holder (WI) - The West Indian captain had had a good year with both bat and ball. He seemed to be an only all-rounder who justified his all-rounder's role. He snared 33 scalps at an astonishing average of 12.39. In 2018, Holder also recorded his best match figures by taking 11 scalps for 103 runs against Bangladesh in Jamaica. The Windies skipper also scored 336 runs at an average of 37.33.## 8. Nathan Lyon (AUS) - Australia's off-spinner who has 335 wickets in 83 matches had had a brilliant year. It has always been difficult for any spinner to take wickets in Australia that has a history of producing spicy pitches. The 31-year old played 10 matches and took 49 wickets at an average of 34.02. His best match figure was 8 for 106 this year.## 9. Pat Cummins (AUS) - A handy batsman lower down the order and a lethal fast bowler, Pat Cummins has emerged as a valuable player for Australia this year. The tall fast bowler turned out to be the mainstay of Australia's pace attack, scalping 44 wickets at just 19.97. He registered his best figure against India at MCG where he grabbed 6/27 in second innings and played a gritty knock of 63 runs in losing cause.## 10. Jasprit Bumrah (IND) - It has been Jusprit Bumrah's year by far. The 25-year old with unorthodox action took his Test career by storm, grabbing 48 wickets at an average of 21.02 in 9 matches. He made his Test debut against South Africa and became the only Asian bowler to take 5-fers in each of SA, ENG, and AUS in a calendar year.## 11. Kagiso Rabada (SA) - The number 1 bowler in ICC Test ranking, Kagiso Rabada was the has been brilliant throughout the year. With 52 wickets in 10 matches, he is the leading wicket-taker of 2018.## Follow for more...

BY SACNILK

2018 has been another phenomenal year for Test cricket especially for the bowlers where India's pace trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, and Mohammad Shami scripted a landmark year for Indian cricket. India that ended 2018 with a big 137-runs win against Australia in Boxing Day Test at Melbourne, the pace trio played a vital role in that who helped India to retain Border-Gavaskar trophy with one to play.## Jasprit Bumrah who debuted against South Africa in January 2017, has touched new height in Test cricket. He has been going to man for Virat Kohli not only in Test cricket but all three formats. Talking about the records both Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have ruled 2018 with bat and ball.## Here is the list of TOP 5 bowler with most Test wicket in debut year:## 1. Terry Alderman (AUS, 54 Wickets, 1981) - Australia's former right-arm fast-medium bowler who took 170 wickets in 41 Tests for Australia made his Test debut against England in 1981 and made his own with taking 54 wickets in 10 matches. His record of taking 54 wickets in debut year is yet to be broken. In the 1981 Ashes series he took 42 Test wickets, including nine on debut, the biggest haul in a series since Jim Laker's 46 in 1956 and the fourth-highest total of all time.## 2. Curtly Ambrose (WI, 49 Wickets, 1988) - Sir Curtly Ambrose has been one of the greatest bowlers of all time that world cricket has ever seen. Sir Ambrose made his Test debut against Pakistan in 1988 and went on to become the colossus of West Indies bowling in the 90s. He took 49 wickets in 11 Tests in 1988 which is the second highest by any bowler in his debut year. In 12 years of Test career, Sir Ambrose played 98 Tests for Windies and took 405 wickets with an average of 20.99.## 3. Jasprit Bumrah (IND, 48 Wickets, 2018) - Jasprit Bumrah is the new sensation in world cricket today. With his unorthodox action, he has become very hard to play for any batsman and with time passing, he is becoming even more lethal. In his debut series against South Africa in South Africa, he took 14 wickets in 3 matches and AB de Villiers was his first Test wicket. He carried that form into England series and took the same number of wickets in the last 3 Tests, unfortunately, he couldn't play first two matches due to injury. And now in ongoing series against Australia down under, he is the leading wicket-taker with 20 wickets in 3 matches. With 6 for 33 in 3rd Test in Melbourne, he became the first Asian bowler to take 5-fer against SA, ENG, and AUS in overseas in a calendar year. In 18 innings of 9 matches, he has taken 48 wickets with an average of 21.02.## 4. Steven Finn (ENG, 46 Wickets, 2010) - Steven Finn's career has been affected by injuries and fitness has been the biggest concern for the English pacer. However, he last played a Test in 2016, shone in his debut year of 2010 where he grabbed 46 wickets in 11 matches. In 36 Tests so far he has taken 125 wickets with an average of 30.41.## 5. Roy Tattersall (ENG, 44 Wickets, 1951) - Roy Tattersall was an English Right arm off break bowler who played only 16 Tests and took 58 wickets in which 44 came in his debut year (1951) in 12 matches. Despite his impressive record in first-class cricket (328 matches, 1369 wickets) Tattersall made only two further appearances in Test cricket in 1953 against Australia and in 1954 against Pakistan.## Follow for more...

BY SACNILK

2018 has been another year that has seen Virat Kohli's brilliance across formats. He started the year where he left 2017. A year that saw him conquering England where it failed miserably in 2014. He always looked determined at the crease and taking on the opposition with his sheer aggressive style of batting whether it's hitting boundaries or blocking the balls. It has been a year where most of the batsmen have struggled to score runs but not Virat. He has dominated every opponent he played against.## It has always been for any subcontinent batsman to score runs in overseas condition but Virat Kohli perhaps the only one who has dominated those conditions. And this is the result of this that he surpassed legendary Rahul Dravid to score most numbers of runs by an Indian player in a calendar year in overseas Tests. Though, he couldn't end the year on high as he got out on Zero in last innings of 2018 but has done enough to find himself among the leading run-getters in overseas.## Here is the list of TOP 5 batsman with most runs in a calendar year in Overseas Tests:## 1. Graeme Smith (1212 runs, 2008) - Former South African captain and one of the most successful captains Graeme Smith took 2008 by storm and smashed 1212 runs. Smith who has scored 9265 runs in 117 Tests, has been South Africa's one of the best batsmen of all time. He is South Africa's youngest captain who became country's captain at the age of 22. He retired from International cricket in 2014.## 2. Viv Richards (1154 runs, 1976) - Viv Richards has considered one of the greatest batsmen of all time. He was a member of West Indies team that was unbeatable in the '70s and '80s. In 1976, a year after West Indies won World Cup 1975, Sir Viv Richards scored 1154 runs in overseas Tests. Sir Richards played 121 Tests for Windies between 1974 and 1991 and scored 8,540 runs with an average of 50.23.## 3. Virat Kohli (1138 runs, 2018) - 2018 has been the year of India captain Virat Kohli where he has scored 1318 Test runs and 1138 runs came against England (593), South Africa (286), and Australia (259) in 10 matches. He also scored 4 centuries. The ranked 1 batsman was the highest run-getter in the series' against South Africa and England.## 4. Rahul Dravid (1137 runs, 2002) - Former India captain and legendary Rahul Dravid who has scored 13288 runs in 164 Tests have been India's one of the best overseas batsmen. In 2002, Dravid scored 1137 runs in overseas conditions and is one of only three Indian batsmen who has scored more than 1000 runs in overseas Tests in a calendar year. Dravid last played a Tests vs Australia at Adelaide Oval, Jan 24, 2012.## 5. Mohinder Amarnath (1065 runs, 1983) - Mohinder Amarnath was a man of comeback who played for India almost two decades. He played a crucial role in India's World Cup 1983 triumph. His defining season was 1982-83 where he made his come back to the side after three years and scored 1182 runs including five hundred in 11 away Tests against West Indies and Pakistan. And in 1983, he scored 1065 runs on overseas tours. Amarnath played 69 Tests for India and scored 4378 runs including 11 hundred.## Follow for more...