Pro20 Champions India out of World Cup 2009

Pro20 World Cup winners 2007 – India, is out of the Pro20 World Cup competition after losing to England by three runs. England scored a reasonable target of 153 / 7 in their 20 overs. India lost crucial wickets during their run chase and needed 19 runs of the last over bowled by man of the match Ryan Sidebottom, managing only 15, only three runs short. Ryan Sidebottom took 3 wickets for 31 runs and Greame Swann 2 for 28 . India needed to win the match against England to qualify for the semi finals.

Earlier in the day Sri Lanka got a scare by Ireland but manage to win their super 8 group game by 9 runs. Sri Lanka scraped together 145 runs thanks to a 78 run contribution by man of the match Mahela Jayawardene. Sri Lanka qualified for the semi finals. Pakistan play Ireland today and England play West Indies and the winners between England and West Indies will most probably advance with South Africa to the Pro20 cricket semi finals.

South Africa clinical Pro20 win over England

The first two games of the Pro20 cricket world cup has been completed with good results for South Africa. New Zeland won their game against Ireland scoring a big total of 198 for 5 in their 20 overs. Ireland were bowled out 84 runs short and lost wickets at regular intervals.

South Africa won their first game of the 2009 Pro20 Cricket World Cup Super 8 round in England by 7 wickets with 10 balls to spare. South Africa produced another magnificent bowling performance, reducing England, who won the toss and decided to bat first on a difficult track to a low score off 111 all out. South Africa continues to impress with bat and ball and excellent fielding.

Youngster wayne Parnell were the pick of the South African bowlers with bowling figures of 3/14, spinners Roelof van der Merwe with 2 wickets and Johan Botha impressed once again in the middle part of the innings, proving that spinners in Pro20 cricket play a huge role. Man of the match Jacques Kallis scored a slow steady 57 not out – scoring his first international half century in the Pro20 format of the game. Jacques Kallis also contributed hugely with the ball and ended with bowling figures of 2 for 28. I’m a little bit dissapointed with South Africa’s approach regarding the run chase but having said that the wicket offered something for bowlers and batsmen. Overall a very professional performance by South Africa. South Africa’s next match is on Sunday against the West Indies at the Kensigton oval in London.

Pro20: Will Kevin Pietersen spoil it for South Africa

South Africa play against England in their first match of the Pro20 cricket world cup super 8's round tonight at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. The Proteas would love to dismiss batsmen Kevin Pietersen as early as possible as Pietersen delivered his best batting performances against his ex country men and will look to prove a point once again against the South African's. Kevin Pietersen looked in good nick when England played Pakistan to advance to the super 8 rounds. England looked a different team with their star batsmen in the team after a shock loss against the Netherlands. Pietersen did not play in the Netherlands match.

On their last encounter South Africa lost a one day series in England against England 4 - 0 when Pietersen captained the English team after South Africa won the test series. Since their last encounter South Africa has added more options to their bowling attack by means of spinners Johan Botha and Roelof van der Merwe and left arm seamer Wayne Parnell who is growing in stature. Key to South Africa's 2009 T20 World Cup campaign will be the success off the opening partnership between Jacques Kallis and Graeme Smith and the role of Albie Morkel in the batting line up. Sometimes Albie Morkel gets sent in too late and are unable to make a massive impact on the final batting score.

Should the South African bowlers contain Ravi Bopara and Kevin Pietersen it will be plain sailing and one hurdle closer to become 2009 Pro20 World champs. This game could be decided in the first 6 overs batting and bowling wise for South Africa. Big game!

Pro20 Cricket India win rain reduced game

India crushed Ireland in a 18 over run reduced Pro20 cricket world cup first round game by 8 wickets. Ireland batted first and lost wickets at regular intervals. India reduced the Irish team to 112 for 8 in their 18 overs. Zaheer Khan did the damage and took four wickets for 19 runs in his 4 overs. Indian opener Rohit Sharma scored an unbeaten 52 of 44 balls and Gautam Gambir supported Sharma with a patient 37.

Sri Lanka beat West Indies by 15 runs due to a excellent opening partnership of 124 by Sanath Jayasuriya (81 off 47 balls) and Tillakaratne Dilshan (74 off 47 balls). Sri Lanka scored an excellent 192/5 in their 20 overs. West Indies managed 177-5, after a excellent counter-attack by Dwayne Bravo and Ramnaresh Sarwan, whith a 77 off 59 balls fifth wicket partnership.

The first games of the Pro20 world cup super eights round starts off today at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. New Zealand will take on Ireland and South Africa play England. Two groups with four teams each participate in the super 8 with the top two teams of each group playing off in the semi finals. The serious part of the tournament starts today and teams like South Africa would love to start off with a bang and book their semi final spot as early as possible. The 2007 ICC Pro20 cricket world cup hosted by South Africa will remind the South Africa cricket team that only one slip up could be the end of their tournament. Let's hope all ends well for South Africa this time around.

Pro20 World Cup - Will South Africa Break The Jinx?

For instance, the 1992 World Cup was an almost sure win but its result was marred by rain. Those were the days when the Duckworth-Lewis method was not yet introduced to the cricketing world. They lost to Australia due to the absurd situation where they had to score 22 runs from just 1 ball. Similarly, in the 1999 World Cup, South Africa and Australia were pitched against one another once in the Super Six match and another time in the semi-final. Both times South Africa was unable to record a victory as they lost the Super Six match and the semi-final was an exciting tie with the Aussies getting the best of the game. This way the South African team could not make it into the finals.

The 2003 World Cup was hosted by South Africa but they couldn't make it any farther than the group stage because of confusion in figuring out the number of runs they had to make in order to chase the rival team's score. Shaun Pollock, the then captain of the team, resigned because of the mishap and Graeme Smith replaced him. However, Pollock continued playing for his team. Smith's captaincy has been able to make the team perform somewhat better than earlier. To give them their due, some of the main players of the team retired, such as, Allan Donald and Jonty Rhodes. Hanse Cronje also met with an untimely and unfortunate end both in his career and life. 2004 was not such a great year as they lost every tournament except one against West Indies.

2007 saw the Proteas become the No. 1 ranked team but they did not put up a very impressive show in the 2007 World Cup. It was an event full of ups and downs for them. They had brilliant wins over England, West Indies, Ireland, Netherlands and Scotland, as well as a marginal win over Sri Lanka. Then they went downhill by losing in a terrible fashion to Australia, New Zealand and Bangladesh. This made them fall down from the top of the cricket rating. This was not all. They also lost to Australia in the semi-finals with the lowest ever score they had ever managed in the World Cup. They were all bowled out for 149.

Despite all these pitfalls, South Africa has once again emerged as the top ranking team in one day cricket. They stand at number 5 in the test cricket ratings. This is the result of a large number of wins that they recorded from January to November 2005. The South African team has also had the privilege of being the team with the longest successful run chase and the second highest total scored by a team in a 1-day International match which they played against Australia in 2006.

In the first ICC Pro20 World Cup in which South Africa played host, they lost to India in the last match of the Super 8s and thus could not progress any further. What is left to see is whether they will be able to get rid of this jinx which they have been suffering from since long in winning major events. The 2009 Pro20 World Cup taking place in England will be a test of their strength as a team and their ability to face challenges. With Shaun Pollock gone, all eyes will be on newcomers Dale Styen, Albie Morkel and Morne Morkel. Do keep track of the progress of the South African team if you are a cricket fan. If you cannot go to watch the matches or even see them on TV due to screening problems. Keep yourself up to date by checking live scores online.

By: Peri Witny

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Peri Witny is an author of Sports Articles. Try ScoresPro.com for the best live coverage of the ICC Pro20 World Cup Results

Pro20 Cricket New Zealand tests South Africa

South Africa has won their final first round match against the New Zealand "black caps" in the 2009 ICC Pro20 Cricket World Cup after scoring a low 128 runs in their twenty overs. JP Duminy added 29 of 23 balls to the South African score. New Zealand bowled and field brilliantly to reduce the South African cricketers to a modest 128 runs. New Zealand had to score 15 runs from their last over bowled by Wayne Parnell to win the match but managed to score 13 runs leaving South Africa with a one run victory. New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum scored a patient 57 of 56 balls and the turning point in the match was when he was stumped of a Roelof van der Merwe delivery in the 17Th over. Once again the spinners was successful during the middle overs of the innings.

South Africa has been tested and they did not fail, to defend such a low score does say much about the character of the South African team. They will feel happy as this match would give them lots of confidence on the bowling aspect of their game going into the Super 8 round. I still feel that Albie Morkel should get in earlier as he can be destructive with the bat, he almost always comes in to late with not enough balls to spare.

Earlier in the day Pakistan beat the Netherlands by 82 runs to go through to the next round and sadly the Netherlands will pack their bags and head home.

Today's Pro20 matches:
Sri Lanka vs West Indies
India vs Ireland

Aussies exit Pro20 World Cup tournament

Strike two and you are out! Sri Lanka ended the Australian twenty20 cricket world cup campaign by beating Australia by 6 wickets in Nottingham, England on Monday night. Australia only managed to score 159 for the loss of 9 wickets but at one stage it looked like they were heading for a reasonable score. Australia lost wickets at regular intervals, the Sri Lankans spinners did the trick and their game plan was to rotate the bowlers frequently disallowing the Australian batsmen to settle. Only Mitchell Johnson showed some resistance and ended on 28 not out.

Sri Lanka lost their stalwart Jayasuriya early without him adding runs to the Sri Lankan total. Dilshan 53 off 32 balls and Kumar Sangakarra 55 not out played brilliantly and Sri Lanka reach the total with one over to spare. Sri Lanka could face an easier road to the semi finals as they are place in the Super Eights groups with Ireland and possibly Netherlands if they can manage to win or lose by a small margin against Pakistan. Sri Lanka Pro20 cricket team will be playing West Indies Pro20 cricket team tomorrow 10 June.

Today's matches will see South Africa being tested for the first time in this tournament when they play the New Zealand "black caps". Both South Africa and New Zealand are through to the Super Eight Group stages but both teams will want to do well to go in to the next round to keep the winning momentum.

Crucial match for Pakistan today as they take on the Netherlands they need to win and win big otherwise they will go home after today. Exciting times for the Netherlands Pro20 cricket team.

Sri Lanka to end Australia's Pro20 cricket campaign?

Sri Lanka has got every chance to finish Australia off today. A win for the Sri Lankan team will see Australia exit in the first round of the ICC T20 Cricket world cup in England. West Indies beat Australia on Saturday in their group's first game convincingly in just under 16 overs. Even if the Australians manages to win their game against Sri Lanka they might still have an early exit from the tournament due to their poor net rate after the big Windies defeat. It's simple if they want to secure a place in the next round they will need to win big today.

Australia have all to play for today, amazingly Australia Pro20 cricket team opted to play without any recognised spinner in Saturday's match against the Windies. Nathan Hauritz will probably play today and this could mean Brett Lee sits out after going for 56 in 4 overs and only one wicket to show for his day's work. All eyes on Sri Lanka.

Pro20 World cup cricket in full swing

We have seen some excellent cricket during the weekend with one upset surprise when Netherlands won England off the last ball. England had to win Pakistan on Sunday to prevent a early exit tournament which they manage to do with 48 runs. India played Bangladesh and won with 25 runs. I had a feeling that the West Indies would overpower Australia which they did by means of captain Chris Gayle hitting a quickfire 88, the innings was a pleasure to watch and we've seen some of the biggest sixes of the tournament yet. Australia faces early exit when they play Sri Lanka today which should be a cracker of a match.

Scotland gave New Zeland a scare when they manage to score 89 runs in 7 overs in a rain reduced match but New Zealand manage to pass the total with one over to spare due to big hitting by Ross Taylor and Scott Styris. In South Africa's first game of the tournament we saw a clinical performance from South Africa. South Africa scored 211 in their 20 overs and it was AB de Villiers who hit a quickfire 79 of 34 balls after a great platform has been set by Jaques Kallis 48 and Graeme Smith 38. South Africa managed to bowl Scotland out for 81 runs after Dale Steyn did some early damage in the first over of Scotland's innings. Johan Botha and Roelof van der Merwe bowled excellent again in the middle overs to set up a 130 run victory.

Thus far South Africa and the West Indies looks like the in-form team and favorites to compete in the final. I think South Africa can do it, but T20 cricket can be unpredictable and the teams who holds their nerve should manage to lift the 2009 T20 Cricket World Cup.

Netherlands Pro20 cricket teams steals England's thunder

The Netherlands won a thrilling opening match against 2009 ICC Twenty20 cricket world cup hosting Nation England after rain spoiled the opening ceremony of the 2009 ICC Twenty20 Cricket World Cup ceremony.

Minnows cricket nation Netherlands added salt to the wounds by beating England by 4 wickets. England got off to a well than average start and after 11 overs the score was on 101 for the loss of 1 wicket. England only managed to score 67 runs in their last 9 overs but still posted a respectable total of 162 in their 20 overs.

Netherlands had different plans and with regular boundaries they were in control from the start. Netherlands manage to get the winning runs off the last ball after on a overthrow. They were ecstatic to say the least.

England will be under pressure on Sunday when they play Pakistan, a loss would mean a 1st round exit. Hats of to the Netherlands cricket team by keeping their nerve and pulling off this magnificent win. Man of the match Tom de Groot’s 49 off 30 balls pave the way for the Netherlands to record their first win against one of the bigger cricket nations. Pakistan Pro20 cricket team awaits.

Pro20 Cricket World Cup is here!

The 2009 ICC Pro20 cricket world cup starts today with England playing against the Netherlands in the tournament opener. I'm looking forward to the Australia vs West Indies game on Saturday, somehow i feel this is going to be a cracker.

At this point i'm getting nervous i would love South Africa to win this tournament and hope this doesn't end in dissapointment like all previous world cup tournaments. Herschelle Gibbs holds the key and looks in form. South Africa take on Scotland on Sunday. Watch this space!

This weekends matches and prediction:

Friday 5 June

England v Netherlands - (England)

Saturday 6 June

New Zealand v Scotland (New Zealand), Australia v West Indies (West Indies), Bangladesh v India (India)

Sunday 7 June

South Africa v Scotland (South Africa) , England v Pakistan (England)

Pro20 Cricket World Cup: Warm-up Results 3 June 2009

South Africa bowled very well in their twenty20 cricket world cup warm-up game against Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka only managed 109 in their 20 overs made South Africa work hard for victory. South Africa reached the low total with only 5 balls to spare. Both the openers failed with Jacques Kallis lbw on 2 and Graeme Smith 1 caught. 

Full Results

Ind v Pak India won by 9 wickets

Eng v WI England won by 9 wickets

SA v Sri South Africa won by 6 wickets

Netherlands v Scotland Netherlands Pro20 cricket team won by 7 wickets

Pro20 Warm-ups Results 2 June 2009

Ricky Ponting lead from the front by scoring 56 against New Zealand. Australia struggled on 26 for two, chasing a total of 148. Michael Clarke (49 not out) shared a 104 run partnership with captain Ricky Ponting in their 2nd twenty20 world cup warm-up match. Australia reached the score with 4 balls to spare. England was unconvincing in their 136 runs chase against Scotland and reached the total with 6 balls to spare.

Full results

Aus v NZ Australia won by 7 wickets

Eng v Scotland England won by 6 wickets

Ban v Sri Sri Lanka won by 4 wickets

Ire v WI West Indies won by 9 wickets

Today's Warm-up games

South Africa v Sri Lanka

Netherlands v Scotland

India v Pakistan

England v West Indies

Pro20 world cup warm-up games 1st of June 2009

Their were no real surprises during the first day of the twenty20 world cup cricket warm-up games. South Africa won their game against Pakistan by 59 runs. Pakistan lost wickets regularly and never looked as if they were going to make it difficult for South Africa. 

Results
Australia beat Bangladesh by 38 runs
Ireland beat Netherlands - decided by super over (6-2)
South Africa beat Pakistan by 59 runs
New Zealand beat India by 9 runs

Todays warm-up games: 

2 June 2009
Bangladesh vs Sri-Lanka
Ireland vs West Indies
Australia vs New Zealand
England vs Scotland

Pro20 Cricket world cup warm ups underway

The second Pro20 cricket world cup is underway 

Pro20 Cricket world cup warm ups underway

The second Pro20 cricket world cup is underway today Australia plays against Bangladesh and Australia should win comfortably. In the second game Ireland will take on the Netherlands which should be evenly balanced match but favorites to win will be Ireland.

The thriller of the day is the match between South Africa and Pakistan but on recent form South Africa should win the match although Pakistan are a formidable side but unfortunately lack consistency. Hopefully they will be able to change that this time around as the tournament progresses.

South Africa team to play pakistan:

Graeme Smith (capt), Jacques Kallis, Herschelle Gibbs, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Mark Boucher, Albie Morkel, Roelof van der Merwe, Johan Botha, Wayne Parnell and Dale Steyn.

Pro 20 Cricket Bowling and batting depth hold the key

I believe South Africa could win this years edition of the t20 / pro20 world cup in England. This time around the batting and bowling depth of the South Africans will make them a formidable opponent.  South Africa are able to look at a lot of bowling options and are able to bat very deep but their competitive edge lies in their fielding.

This is the second edition of the TPro20 cricket world cup and all of the teams have gained more experience since the first pro20 world cup cricket tournament held in South Africa. This year England will feel the pressure and expectations of the public due to them hosting the tournament. India the Pro20 title holders is a team with lots of talent and will try to defend their title and might walk away with the title yet again due to their experience gained from the ipl.

South Africa play their first game on June 7 against Scotland and also two warm up games against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. 

Twenty 20 World Cup Batsmen Rankings

Batting	Team	Runs
ML Hayden	AUS	265
G Gambhir	IND	227
Misbah-ul-Haq	PAK	218
Shoaib Malik	PAK	195
KP Pietersen	ENG	178
JM Kemp	SA	173
AC Gilchrist	AUS	169

Pakistan Twenty20 Squad

Pakistan Twenty20 Squad (Final 15):

Younis Khan (captain), Salman Butt, Ahmed Shahzad, Misbah-ul-Haq, Kamran Akmal, Fawad Alam, Shoaib Malik, Shahid Afridi, Sohail Tanvir, Yasir Arafat, Shoaib Akhter, Umar Gul, Mohammad Aamir, Saeed Ajmal, Shazaib Hassan.

Twenty20 World Cup: Australian Squad

Australia announced their 15 man squad for the Twenty20 World Cup in England.

Ricky Ponting (captain), Michael Clarke (vice-captain), Nathan Bracken, Brad Haddin, Nathan Hauritz, Ben Hilfenhaus, James Hopes, David Hussey, Mike Hussey, Mitchell Johnson, Brett Lee, Peter Siddle, Andrew Symonds, David Warner, Shane Watson.

Australian bowler Brett Lee had an good last half of the ipl tournament for the Kings Punjab and should provide problems for the other teams in the competition. 

IPL 2009 Winners: Deccan Chargers

Last years bottom of the indian premier league log teams Deccan Chargers and Royal Challengers Bangalore was fighting for the 2009 title in the final. After an average batting performance from the Deccan Chargers, Royal Challengers Bangalore was left with chasing a low scoring total of 144 to win the ipl of 2009. 

Bangalore Royal Challengers was cruising to victory but poor shot selection from Rahul Dravid open up the flood gates for the Deccan Chargers to come back into the game which they grabbed with both hands as wickets fell regularly and in the end Royal Challengers Bangalore fell short with only 6 runs. Well done for the comeback kids Royal Challengers Bangalore in reaching the final and well done to the Deccan Chargers for winning the ipl 2009 title. I think the IPL 2009 hosted by South Africa was a huge success. Can't wait for the 2010 edition. 

 Next month we'll see England host the twenty 20 cricket world cup and i can't wait to see the standard of cricket as a large number of international players was involved in the 2009 ipl. Watch this space for more news, updates and logs on the twenty 20 cricket world cup in England.

Recent Trends in Cricket (ipl)

These days IPL Twenty20 cricket matches are going on in India. IPL cricket is one of the largest and most-hopeful new business opportunities in India today. For the first time in the history of world cricket, Internet has taken lead over traditional TV coverage of the matches. People are more fascinated in watching cricket matches on internet. Online live IPL cricket matches are available on many websites With its spectacular onset from April 18th, Twenty20 IPL Cricket proves to be a fantasy option of cricket game. We can proudly say that Cricket now belongs to India. It will be a super hit as it is very much in style everywhere in India. One of the goals behind starting this domestic competition is to discover new domestic talent. Cricket fans are in high spirits with the game's condensed format that finishes within three hours unlike the usual game which takes five days. IPL is delivering Global cricket at our doorsteps.

IPL is the strength for cricket and is the biggest money-spinner in cricket today. It has crushed the purses of cricketers. Cricket in India has crowned IPL with top dollar. The advertisement world, print media, electronic media, sportsmen, film industry and even common men/women are making lots of money out of IPL T20 party. IPL might even reinvent cricket as a night-out option and develop newer formats of cricket. It is collapsing the boundary of region and language within India. The players of different social and cultural backgrounds share the dressing room, showing unity in diversity. Every team is allowed to have as many as four overseas players aiming at developing international relations.

The IPL is in sync with current social trends that celebrate multiplexes and malls, and promotes gloss and glamour over content. IPL is the broker between sports and entertainment. It brings together various market impulses. Welcome to the IPL branded cricket entertainment which is smartly packaged and home delivered. The result is so strong that the market is active with enthusiasm. The successful implementation of the idea of IPL needs to be appreciated. No doubt IPL will change the spirit and nature of cricket.Though IPL Cricket is flourishing with its positive aspects, it has some negative aspects too. 

IPL is sometimes considered as rape of Cricket. Like fast food, IPL can be unhealthy. It is perhaps unimpressive and disappointing to see the conflicts between two teams and the pouring of unpleasant words on each other. IPL is sure to be too taxing on the players. Players were bought like stocks at a share market in IPL. The Indian Cricket Board has almost forgotten its way to the bank as franchisees shower them all the money. It’s clear that cricketing ability was not the only criterion for gambling at IPL. IPL cricket sometimes seem to be terrible while looking at the scoreboard, match-fixing, cultural discrimination, conflicts, betting slam. The game is bound to suffer as it is getting its newer formats.

IPL Cricket doesn’t present convincing cricket image. It only projects India as a share market. Time has to tell whether the changing face of cricket is better or worse.

Prasanna Moorthy is a cricket coach having intense knowledge in the field.To contact him mailto:prasanna.moorthy@gmail.com and for further cricket shop, updates, info and to buy best cricket equipments,cricket bats,cricket balls,cricket gear visit http://www.procricketgear.com

A Little Bit of History About Cricket

The resolute of cricket has forever been loved by the entire country. Whenever the tournament starts, the cricket enthusiasts overlook their daily work and sticks to his/her television set. The maturity of cricket lovers have thorough erudition of the cricket saga. Cricket story could take you to the 16th century era or even back to give you an insight into the cause of sport. The story of cricket throws light on every phase of the cricket, be it county cricket, native cricket or international cricket. Cricket narration also informs about the original system and regulations produced, for live the match. 

Cricket annals informs you about the beginning of bat, which is one of the superior gear in the pastime. The bat worn in the near tournaments was imaginary in 18th century; while the before form of bat resembled a hockey push. In the before period, pelt pieces were used as balls. They are now made up of bung and are sheltered with hand-stitched leather quarters. Cricket story has forever been a basis of information for the cricket lovers. This information could also be used as mention ideas, when a cricket enthusiast requests to have a comprehensive education of the resolute. 

Cricket memoirs depict the exact character of the pastime. This narration familiarizes you with the tradition and society of cricket. Cricket story always raised the curiosity of the cricket enthusiasts. It is because cricket story sharpens their awareness about the willing and makes a plug ignoble for them. In actuality, cricket annals helps the enthusiasts to delve profound into the willing and understand the facts. The plucky of cricket has earned a varied acclaim and its popularity chart is increasing with the passage of time. 

The Cricket History is a determined encyclopedia of several sides of the match. Cricket was first played by adults in the beginning of 17th century, in some parts of Sussex and Kent. In the same century, the cricket place to North America via English colonies. In 18th century, the cricket motivated to West Indies and India. Similarly, it place to New Zealand and South Africa in 19th century. This part of the cricket memoirs informs about the increasing popularity of the diversion in countless parts of the world. 

The brave of cricket has got an ironic story that unfolds interesting facts about the spirited. Rules and regulations have been an important part of the tough. Cricket history has got all the niceties about the ahead formation of system. In 1727, the "articles of accord" was bent to uncover the program of procedure. The rules were more amended in 1774 after the innovation of internal stumps, lbw and other factors. Cricket history does not end here; fairly it has an entire lot of information about the nitty-realistic of cricket. 

Cricket and only cricket have become the ought of cricket lovers. You get to see a good bowler or a batsman or an all-rounder in every part of the country. The talent of cricket is shinning in the light of the increasing fame of the game. This makes it necessary for the cricket enthusiasts to have a thorough skill of cricket history. It is because this information will help them to enhance their skill.

Want to find out about how to play cricket and cricket scoring? Get tips from the Cricket Rules website.

Twenty20 World Cup Fixtures - England 2009

The Twenty20 World Cup fixtures for 2009 to be played in England has been released. South Africa is favorites to win this time around and are currently in 1st place on the ICC rankings for ODI teams, folloed by Australia. We should see a cracker of a tournament.

Warm up Games

Wednesday, May 27th 2009

Ireland v New Zealand 14:00 Derby

Monday, June 1st 2009

Bangladesh v Netherlands 15:00 Canterbury

Monday, June 1st 2009

Ireland v Netherlands 13.30 Lords 

Australia v Bangladesh 13.30 Trent Bridge

New Zealand v India 17:30 Lords 

Pakistan v South Africa 17:30 Trent Bridge

Tuesday, June 2nd 2009

Ireland v West Indies 13.30 The Brit Oval

England v Scotland 17:30 Trent Bridge

Australia v New Zealand 17:30 The Brit Oval

Wednesday, June 3rd 2009

Sri Lanka v South Africa 13.30 Lords

Netherlands v Scotland 13.30 The Brit Oval

England v West Indies 17:30 Lords

India v Pakistan 17:30 The Brit Oval

Group Games

Thursday, June 4th 2009

Bangladesh v Sri Lanka 17:30 Trent Bridge

Friday, June 5th 2009

England v Netherlands 17:30 Lords

Saturday, June 6th 2009

Australia v West Indies 10.00 The Brit Oval

New Zealand v Scotland 13.30 The Brit Oval

India v Bangladesh 17:30 Trent Bridge

Sunday, June 7th 2009

South Africa v Scotland 13.30 The Brit Oval

England vs Pakistan 17:30 The Brit Oval

Monday, June 8th 2009

Ireland vs Bangladesh 13.30 Trent Bridge

Australia vs Sri Lanka 17:30 Trent Bridge

Tuesday, June 9th 2009

Pakistan vs Netherlands 13.30 Lords

New Zealand vs South Africa 17:30 Lords

Wednesday, June 10th 2009

Sri Lanka vs West Indies 13.30 Trent Bridge

India vs Ireland 17:30 Trent Bridge

Super Eights to follow the group games

Cricket Blogs Manifest Expression Of Cricket Feelings

There are various platforms where cricket is discussed. But it is very difficult to give all sorts of expression of your thoughts on every platform. Fans search such medium, which is conducive to express his most coveted feelings. The invention of cricket blogs can be termed as to be perfect platform of expressing all cricket related feelings. Basically, first we need to understand the meaning of blogs. Blogs are medium of communication provided by websites in which one is free to express one’s feelings of anger, joy, humor and all the things one wants to express. When blogs are used for cricket, it confines, purely to the world of cricket. Cricket blogs are presented with views and comments of not expertise but of cricket lovers.

Cricket blogs are growing much popularity among cricket lovers and it is making them internet friendly. Cricket blogs are meant to give information plus personal opinion of a fan. Cricket blogs have given huge platform to fan to share his displeasure and admiration of cricketer or team. Views and comments about cricket are given in newspaper too. But only experts and established journalist are supposed to give comments on the subject. That is not sufficient for a fan to obtain as human tendency urges him to express his own thought regarding the subject.

In cricket blogs fan can highlight any issue mattering or affecting cricket. The issue can be of particular player, team, and umpire or about the match or the latest controversy. Blogs are presented with the flavor of making reading interesting but with candid expression. Making cricket blogs are a fun and a medium of getting oneself informed about the latest happenings of cricket. Cricket blogs bind like-minded fan in one chain. There they can post their comments on blogs created by any one. Cricket blogs can present the miffed and delighted attitude of a fan simultaneously. This is platform where fan or opponent can express their views without any expertise. Any one attached with the game of cricket can create cricket blogs and can freely express his or her thoughts.

Cricket blogs contain numerous issues of cricketing world. Its takes fan to the depth of cricket knowledge that inspires them to create blogs or post comment. Through cricket blogs you can share your opinion and views about cricket or cricket personalities fearlessly. You can criticize the behavior or performances of any player or policy of cricket board of any country, which you feel is embarrassing by posting your comments on cricket blogs. You can admire performances of your favorite player or can show displeasure about the activity of any player or team of the world. One is completely free to express all that he feels.

Websites have provided an amazing platform to cricket lovers to express themselves. Cricket lovers can give own version of reviews, predictions or briefed report of game viewed by him. It is very easy to create cricket blogs on websites. You just have to search cricket-dedicated websites, and after that you just need to get registered in the site to be eligible for blogging.

Cricket blogs, virtually, has provided mental appeasement to cricket frenzied who love talking and discussing cricket.

Ella Wilson is a cricket fanatic. She simply loves the game and tries to catch live action no matter where she is. At Stickiewicket she works on Online cricket statistics, world cup schedule, live cricket match, cricket blogs and cricket world cup records among other things.You can see her works athttp://www.stickiewicket.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ella_Wilson

Improvement of Cricket

(A) Popularise cricket!

1. Restructure Current test teams.

For Cricket to improve first the quality of the current test teams should be improved. Teams like England and West Indies need to be more competitive. Here are some suggestions:

• Introduce cricket in schools and colleges.
• More cricket competitions should be held.
• Cricket telecasts should be shown on free to air channels.
• Short forms of the sportlike twenty20 should be played to capture public imagination.
• Improvement of cricket stadiums and fields.
• Increase the competiveness of domestic competition.
• Selection based only on merit NOT on quotas.
• Encouraging native peoples such as coloureds, Aborigines & Maoris to represent the national squad.

2. Restructuring Current ODI Teams.

It is disheartening for the current ODI status teams to play only during world cups. Such an unfair policy would never see new teams improve. Teams such as Canada, UAE, Scotland, Namibia & Holland should be given permanent ODI status and official tournaments should be played amongst themselves and the 3 bottom ranked test teams. An age limit of 35 yrs should be imposed to encourage youngsters.

Kenya should be given Test Status.

3. League Format

All teams Test and ODI should be ranked in groups of 5. The top 5 will be grp A. Next 5 B and so on. Teams in a particular group are allowed to play with teams in their own group as well as adjacent groups only. eg. Group A cannot play group C teams. [Except Tests & World Cups] Every year, the groups are restructured.

4. Improve quality of Upcoming teams

To ensure that debutants in ODI competitions have an international exposure to cricket before their debut, international tournaments should be held. Here's what should be done.

• Two international annual tournaments should be held. Two teams should be selected from each country. 1. Team that has won the domestic competition and 2. A mixed bag composed of the best players of the other teams. This would give budding players the required international exposure. Venues rotated annually.
• An auxillary domestic competition should be held. At least 5 local teams and 3 international teams (best players) compete in ODI and test matches. Any ODI status country can participate.
• Teams wishing to improve their game can learn from the following countries on tour:
  • Batting: India, Australia
  • Spin Bowling: India, Sri Lanka
  • Fast Bowling Australia, South Africa
  • Seam Bowling: England, New Zealand.

• The ICC must have a clear process for teams obtaining ODI and test status. This is what it should do.

  To get associate status, local boards should ensure:

  • A cricket education program is introduced in schools
  • Cricket equipment is readily available
  • Adequate playing grounds are available
  • International matches are telecast on free to air TV channels and radio.
  • A well maintained website of the national cricket authority.

  To get permanent ODI status teams should:

  • Be placed 1,2 or 3 in the ICC Associate World Cup.
  • Have at least one accredited (C grade --see gradings below) stadium.
  • see pt 4 above.

  To get Test Status teams should:

  • Have a waiting period of 5 years after ODI status
  • Have at least a B grade stadium
  • Toured all test playing nations & played first class matches there.
  • Won at least 10 ODI matches against Test nations.

5. Introduction of cutting-edge technology

I feel that technology should be introduced to cricket. This is what cricket needs.

1. Helmet cams.
2. Use of tracking technology for LBW decisions.
3. Use of high frame rate cameras to ascertain run-outs and stumpings.
4. Use of lasers to compliment run out decisions.
5. Use of sensors in bails and in the boundary rope to determine if the batsman is out OR hit a 4.
6. Use of stump microphone to determine close catching decisions.
7. Use of yellow & red cards to suspend players from the game of repeatly flouting rules.
8. Use of 'Eye-Vision' technology to enhance TV viewing.
9. Use of 'True Track' technology to give the distance the ball carried (6's)
10. Use of biodegradable paint to colour the infield and outfield.

6. The ICC.

Here are some reccomendations to the ICC

1. Change its name to something more representative like Global Cricket Federation (GCF).
2. No veto rights to member nations.
3. Be a part of the International Olympic Commitee.
4. Strive to make Cricket an Olympic sport.
5. Increase penalties for drug offences & racial abuse.
6. Play the National Anthem before the start of each match in the World Cup.
7. Playoff for 3rd place in the WC
8. Gold, Silver or Bronze Medals given to each player in WC. (like in football)
9. Have at least 24 teams play in the WC.
10. For the World Cup international icons should be made chief guests. eg UN Sec. General, Monarch of England, sportstars, premiers etc.

ICC Online

1. Obtain the domain names like cricket.com, .org, etc.
2. In the site have detailed info like player and team stats, current news, player profiles, how the sport is played, links to national boards, online telecast of matches, history, facts and stats, rankings etc.
3. Provide software to calculate the Duckworth Lewis results.
4. Use latest programming languages like XML, SQL, ASP etc. for website.
5. Setting up of blogs and bulletin boards.

7. Taking on the Globe.

To encourage more countries to take up cricket, cricket must be marketed well. Teams like Malaysia, Nepal, Singapore have a good program and must be encouraged to obtain ODI status.

For cricket to succeed regional sporting giants should be given top priority. These countries are regional giants and act like a catalyst to spread the sport to neighbouring countries. The countries are: China, USA, Russia, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Nigeria Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Morrocco, Sweden, Fiji, Argentina and Brazil.

Have a brand ambassador for cricket. People who know about the sport and are internationally famous should be selected. Names such as Russel Crowe, Shaggy, Christian Vieri (footballer ITALY) make good ambassadors.

Cricket should be introduced equally to all races and women should also be encouraged to take up the sport.

Marketing Blitz

If I were the president of the ICC, this is what I would do to promote the sport in a country.

• See that major sport shops stock up cricket gear.
• Pitches are readily available.
• Cricket is shown on free to air channels.
• A cricket program is introduced in schools and universities.
• Well known directors should be requested to make cricket themed movies starring well known actors.
• Introducing the sport to famous sportmen, politicians, actors, directors, media personalities, businessmen and making them enjoy the sport.
• The next step would have a advertising blitz in famous newspapers, magazines, top internet sites, TV, radio. The ads should be run for a month or so. Promos showing the country's top personalities supporting cricket should be aired. _ Nothing like having the country's premier in the promo.
• The marketing blitz should cummulated with top international teams playing along with the host nation in a tournament.

(B) Rules that have to be changed:

1) Elimination of the Leg-bye rule.

The Lb rule is pretty unfair to the bowler. By elimination such a rule would allow the batsman to play at the ball, instead of getting runs of the deflection of his clothing.

2) Direct Hit on the stump renders the ball dead.

At present if a fielder hits the stumps directly when the batsman is taking a run & he is safe, if it deflects of it, the batsman can run overthrows (extra runs). By enabling the ball 'dead' it would encourage the fielders to hit the stumps more often. If the batsman ran after this, the extra runs would be overruled.

3) Leg-side LBW decision

At present, if the ball is pitched outside the leg-stump, but is a clear LBW decision, the batsman is not out. Due to advances in technology today, we can predict an LBW. Hence LBW decisions should be simplified by this method, if the trajectory appears to hit the stump the Batsman is OUT.

4) Correct Nomenclature

Terms such as leg-spin and off-spin are outdated. Better terms would be wrist spin and finger spin.

(C) Accredation to stadiums

The ICC must start rating stadiums. The better the rating of the stadium more matches it is allowed to hold. Here are my parameters. Points are shown alongside in y/n format.

Lights 40/5

Capacity (in 1000's)

Pitch invasion history? 0/20

Smooth Entry/Exit 30/5

Crowd Management history good/bad 30/5

Match history 1st & 2nd inn win ratio (40-60 range) 50/10

Grassy field 10/5

Facilities (practice, media, parking, toilets, food) 35/10

Replay screen 20/0

Electronic Scoreboard 15/5

Sightscreen moving needed? 0/10

PITCH:

Bounce (good/low) 30/10

Support for bowlers 20/5

Ave. Runs in the range (240-280) 50

200,>280 20

<200>

Pitch plays true till the end? 60/20

Divide the stadium pts by 4 to get the percentage.

90+=A, 80-90=B and so on. Pitch points should be above 70 for AA accred.

About The Author The author is a 21 yr student. He is the author of the site Learn cricket. http://cricketlearn.tripod.com cricketlearn@myrealbox.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nicholas_Alphonso

Indian Cricket Goes Through Constant Ups And Down

Indian cricket is very popular in sub continent. There are few countries in sub continent that are involved in cricket. Indian team is considered a balanced and powerful one to compete with any strong team of the world. People are crazy and very passionate about cricket in India. Indian cricket team has always been very strong. It got its name registered in cricket history by giving innumerable records. Indian cricket team has given many world-class batsmen, bowlers who created history. In India, if it to be said that people talk cricket, read cricket, sleep cricket and walk cricket, it will not be wrong.

Indian cricket has been under tremendous pressures till now. This makes Indian cricket player tense and disturbed. We happened to see that pressures on international ground. We lost some almost winning matches due to pressures. Indian cricket has never been free from controversies. Even some controversies overshadowed world cricket. Controversies have been responsible placing ups and down in Indian cricket.

Indian cricket has been influencing from media, politician and of course of their fans. These elements have stunned Indian cricket time to time. Players, coaches and selectors had to face fans aggressions. This caused them to feel agony. That led government to increase Security and safety of Indian cricket team. Indian cricket is governed by BCCI and BCCI is richest board of cricket world. It lured politician and industrialist to join board. That created tussle between board’s members. It became a big issue of discussion for cricket fans. Former president of BCCI Dalmiya had to resign for bungling of fund of cricket board. Now current president is Shard Pawar.

There have been foreigner coaches for Indian cricket. John Wright was first foreign coach of the Indian team and he is from New Zealand. Greg Chappell is the current coach of Indian team. Unfortunately no one is spared in Indian cricket Sourav gangly had to go out after breaking out skirmish between him. That led to change Indian captain few years back. There can be taken few names that rose to controversy. Those ugly affairs dented the Indian cricket team.

There is a very interesting part of Indian cricket is influence of media. The impact of Media over Indian cricket has been very powerful. Tiny issues or any controversy could not be sneaked away from eyes of media. Whether the matter is of off the field or on the field, media extensively covered the issues. Media influenced selection committee and the bating line up of Indian cricket team. Media captured all issues of Indian cricket with utmost priority. There is not only negative aspect that media offered but also there has been a very encouraging role of media. Indian cricket acquired highly esteemed status in India due to media’s extensive coverage. This caused great popularity of cricket in India.

Indian cricket manage to get corers of rupees due to ad business. Every player gets a chance to make money through ads. Sachin Tendulkar, M.S.Dhoni, V.Sehwag are ads star who seem busy in signing up ads. Indian cricket has achieved big commercial deal with ad companies. That has promoted celebrity image of cricketers. Sometimes, cricketer has to pay price for it in form of criticism if they fail to perform up to the mark. 
The positive aspect about Indian cricket team is that after sustaining immense pressures and ups down it achieved a lot in bringing name and fame to Indian cricket.

Ella Wilson is a cricket fanatic. She simply loves the game and tries to catch live action no matter where she is.At Stickiewicket she works on Online cricket score,live cricket score,cricket world cup and indian cricket among other things.You can see her works at http://www.stickiewicket.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ella_Wilson

IPL Fixtures 2009: South Africa

18 April:

Mumbai Indians v Chennai Super Kings, Cape Town, 12:30pm
Rajastan Royals v Bangalore Royal Challengers, Cape Town, 4:30pm
19 April:
Dehli Daredevils v Kings XI Punjab, Cape Town, 12:30pm
Deccan Chargers v Kolkata Knight Riders, Cape Town, 4:30pm
20 April:
Chennai Super Kings v Bangalore Royal Challengers, Port Elizabeth, 4:30pm
21 April:
Kings XI Punjab v Kolkata Knight Riders, Durban, 12:30pm
Rajastan Royals v Mumbai Indians, Durban, 4:30pm
22 April:
Bangalore Royal Challengers v Deccan Chargers, Cape Town, 4:30pm
23 April:
Chennai Super Kings v Dehli Daredevils, Durban, 12:30pm
Kolkata Knights Riders v Rajastan Royals, Cape Town, 4:30pm
24 April:
Bangalore Royal Challengers v Kings XI Punjab, Durban, 4:30pm
25 April:
Mumbai Indians v Deccan Chargers, Durban, 12:30pm
Chennai Super Kings v Kolkata Knight Riders, Cape Town, 4:30pm
26 April:
Bangalore Royal Challengers v Dehli Daredevils, Port Elizabeth, 12:30pm
Kings XI Punjab v Rajastan Royals, Port Elizabeth, 4:30pm
27 April:
Deccan Chargers v Chennai Super Kings, Durban, 12:30pm
Kolkata Knight Riders v Mumbai Indians, Port Elizabeth, 4:30pm
28 April:
Dehli Daredevils v Rajastan Royals, Centurion, 4:30pm
29 April:
Kolkata Knight Riders v Bangalore Royal Challengers, Durban, 12:30pm
Kings XI Punjab v Mumbai Indians, Durban, 4:30pm
30 April:
Deccan Chargers v Dehli Daredevils, Centurion, 12:30pm
Rajastan Royals v Chennai Super Kings, Centurion, 4:30pm
1 May:
Mumbai Indians v Kolkata Knight Riders, East London, 12:30pm
Kings XI Punjab v Bangalore Royal Challengers, Durban, 4:30pm
2 May:
Deccan Chargers v Rajastan Royals, Port Elizabeth, 12:30pm
Dehli Daredevils v Chennai Super Kings, Johannesburg, 4:30pm
3 May:
Kolkata Knights Riders v Kings XI Punjab, Port Elizabeth, 12:30pm
Bangalore Royal Challengers v Mumbai Indians, Johannesburg, 4:30pm
4 May:
Chennai Super Kings v Deccan Chargers, East London, 4:30pm
5 May:
Rajastan Royals v Kings XI Punjab, Durban, 12:30pm
Dehli Daredevils v Kolkata Knight Riders, Durban, 4:30pm
6 May:
Deccan Chargers v Mumbai Indians, Pretoria, 4:30pm
7 May:
Bangalore Royal Challengers v Rajastan Royals, Centurion, 12:30pm
Kings XI Punjab v Chennai Super Kings, Pretoria, 4:30pm
8 May:
Dehli Daredevils v Mumbai Indians, East London, 4:30pm
9 May:
Deccan Chargers v Kings XI Punjab, Kimberley, 12:30pm
Chennai Super Kings v Rajastan Royals, Kimberley, 4:30pm
10 May:
Mumbai Indians v Bangalore Royal Challengers, Port Elizabeth, 12:30pm
Kolkata Knight Riders v Dehli Daredevils, Johannesburg, 4:30pm
11 May:
Rajastan Royals v Deccan Chargers, Kimberley, 4:30pm
12 May:
Bangalore Royal Challengers v Kolkata Knight Riders, Centurion, 12:30pm
Mumbai Indians v Kings XI Punjab, Centurion, 4:30pm
13 May:
Dehli Daredevils v Deccan Chargers, Durban, 4:30pm
14 May:
Bangalore Royal Challengers v Chennai Super Kings, Durban, 12:30pm
Mumbai Indians v Rajastan Royals, Durban, 4:30pm
15 May:
Kings XI Punjab v Dehli Daredevils, Bloemfontein, 4:30pm
16 May:
Chennai Super Kings v Mumbai Indians, Port Elizabeth, 12:30pm
Kolkata Knight Riders v Deccan Chargers, Johannesburg, 4:30pm
17 May:
Kings XI Punjab v Deccan Chargers, Johannesburg, 12:30pm
Rajastan Royals v Dehli Daredevils, Bloemfontein, 4:30pm
18 May:
Kolkata Knight Riders v Chennai Super Kings, Centurion, 4:30pm
19 May:
Dehli Daredevils v Bangalore Royal Challengers, Johannesburg, 4:30pm
20 May:
Rajastan Royals v Kolkata Knight Riders, Durban, 4:30pm
Chennai Super Kings v Kings XI Punjab, Durban, 4:30pm
21 May:
Mumbai Indians v Dehli Daredevils, Centurion, 12:30pm
Deccan Chargers v Bangalore Royal Challengers, Centurion, 4:30pm
22 May:
1st Semi-final, Centurion, 4:30pm
23 May:
2nd Semi-final, Johannesburg, 4:30pm
24 May:
Final, Johannesburg, 4:30pm

AB de Villiers Fan site

Cape Town Travel