Saturday, 21 June 2025

 

How Rohit Sharma proposed to his wife Ritika, the cricketer himself revealed

Rohit Sharma

Rohit made this disclosure during a conversation with former cricketer Harbhajan Singh and his wife Geeta Basra.

Indian ODI team captain Rohit Sharma has retired from Test and T20 internationals. In his absence, Team India is currently on a tour of England. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma has shared the story of proposing to his wife Ritika Sajdeh. He made this disclosure during a conversation with former cricketer Harbhajan Singh and his wife Geeta Basra Singh.

Rohit told that he told Ritika that he was going to eat ice cream, but he took her to his childhood cricket ground. There, in the dark, Rohit proposed to Ritika by kneeling down in the middle of the pitch. His friend captured this special moment on camera.

Shared the entire story of proposing to Ritika Sajdeh

Rohit said on YouTube channel ‘Who is the Boss?’, my proposal was very romantic. I took her to the place where I started playing cricket. We were right here (somewhere on Marine Drive). She brought food from home. We ate. Then I told her let’s go eat ice cream, I am getting bored. So we took out the car and left. We crossed Marine Drive, Haji Ali, Worli. So she asked where is the ice cream shop? She doesn’t know anything after Bandra. I told her there is a good shop in Borivali, where I live. You have never come, so let me show you.

Rohit further told that, reached the ground and it was completely dark and she did not know that this is a ground. I had already told my friend to set something on the field and stay there to capture the moment. We parked the car. Then I got down on my knees in the middle of the field and proposed to her.

Indian batsman Rohit Sharma will now be seen playing only in ODI format. Under his captaincy, he has won the 2024 T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy for India. He is expected to play in the upcoming ODI World Cup.

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Thursday, 19 June 2025

 

Gaddafi Stadium Lahore Boundary Length

Gaddafi

Gaddafi Stadium, located in Lahore, Pakistan, is one of the most iconic cricket venues in the subcontinent. Named after the former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi in 1974, this stadium has witnessed countless memorable cricketing moments. It is the home of the Pakistan national cricket team and serves as a key venue for both domestic and international matches.

One of the lesser-discussed aspects of a cricket ground is its boundary length—a feature that significantly affects the style and pace of play. Let’s explore the boundary dimensions of Gaddafi Stadium and understand how they compare to other international venues.

Boundary Length of Gaddafi Stadium

The boundary length of a cricket stadium can vary slightly depending on pitch placement and ground conditions, but the International Cricket Council (ICC) sets minimum and maximum guidelines:

  • Minimum boundary: 59.43 meters (65 yards)
  • Maximum boundary: 82.29 meters (90 yards)

Gaddafi Stadium falls well within these parameters, with its boundaries offering a balanced playing field for both batters and bowlers.

Approximate Boundary Dimensions at Gaddafi Stadium

Boundary SideDistance (Meters)Distance (Yards)
Straight Boundary75 – 7882 – 85
Square Boundary (Off/Leg)65 – 6871 – 74
Third Man/Fine Leg60 – 6366 – 69
Long On/Long Off73 – 7680 – 83

Note: These figures are approximate and may vary slightly depending on the pitch position for a specific match.

The ground’s relatively even dimensions make it a fair ground for all formats—Test, ODI, and T20. In shorter formats, the mid-sized boundaries allow for exciting strokeplay without making it too easy for batters.

Influence of Boundary Size on Gameplay

The boundary dimensions at Gaddafi Stadium have a direct impact on how the game unfolds:

Batting-Friendly but Not a Paradise

  • The straight boundaries are long enough to challenge batters looking to clear the fence.
  • However, square boundaries are slightly shorter, encouraging horizontal-bat shots like cuts and pulls.
  • The combination creates a pitch that offers balance—not overly skewed towards batters or bowlers.

Support for Spin and Seam

  • For bowlers, especially spinners, the larger straight boundaries offer a safety net against lofted shots.
  • Seam bowlers benefit from good carry and bounce, particularly in winter and early spring conditions in Lahore.

Stadium Capacity and Infrastructure

While the boundary length is a physical dimension of the stadium, it’s important to consider the capacity and design of the ground as well.

FeatureDetails
Seating CapacityApproximately 27,000
Established1959
Architect (Renovation)Nayyar Ali Dada (for 1996 World Cup)
Floodlights InstalledYes (for day-night matches)
End NamesPavilion End, College End

Historical and Cultural Significance

Gaddafi Stadium is more than just a venue; it’s a symbol of resilience and cricketing culture in Pakistan. From hosting the 1996 Cricket World Cup final to being one of the first grounds to resume international cricket in Pakistan post-2009, its legacy is rich and layered.

Some iconic moments include:

  • 1996 World Cup Final between Sri Lanka and Australia.
  • Return of international cricket with Zimbabwe’s tour in 2015.
  • Lahore Qalandars’ home ground in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Comparison with Other Major Stadiums

StadiumStraight BoundarySquare BoundarySeating Capacity
Gaddafi Stadium75–78 m65–68 m27,000
Eden Gardens, Kolkata76–80 m66–70 m66,000
Melbourne Cricket Ground83–85 m75–78 m100,000

Compared to larger venues like the MCG, Gaddafi Stadium has moderate boundary sizes, which contribute to high-scoring yet balanced matches.

The boundary dimensions of Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, are in line with international standards and contribute to an exciting cricketing atmosphere. With its moderate straight and square boundaries, it allows for aggressive batting while still giving bowlers a fair chance. The stadium’s rich history and strategic architecture make it a cornerstone of Pakistan’s cricketing framework.

Whether you’re watching a tense PSL clash or a high-stakes ODI, the dimensions and design of Gaddafi Stadium ensure a thrilling contest every time.

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Hambantota Cricket Stadium Boundary Length

Hambantota

The Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, popularly known as Hambantota Cricket Stadium, is one of Sri Lanka’s newest and most picturesque international cricket venues. Nestled in the southern coastal district of Hambantota, the stadium boasts not just modern amenities but also unique architectural elements and generously sized boundary dimensions, making it a challenging yet rewarding venue for both bowlers and batsmen.

A Brief Overview of the Stadium

Opened in 2011, the Hambantota Stadium was developed as part of Sri Lanka’s initiative to diversify sports infrastructure beyond the capital, Colombo. With a seating capacity of 35,000, the stadium has hosted several ODIs and T20 Internationals, most notably during the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup and various bilateral series.

Its location near the Indian Ocean gives it a scenic backdrop, but the strong coastal winds can influence match dynamics significantly — a factor players must consider while judging high catches or attempting big shots.

Boundary Dimensions: A Bowler’s Haven?

Unlike some modern cricket grounds that favor batsmen with short square boundaries, Hambantota’s boundary lengths are relatively long, especially straight down the ground. This makes clearing the rope a tougher task, particularly for those relying on power rather than timing.

Here’s a breakdown of the approximate boundary lengths at Hambantota Cricket Stadium:

Boundary DirectionApprox. Length (Meters)Remarks
Straight (Long-On/Long-Off)78 – 82Among the longest in Sri Lanka
Square (Leg-side/Off-side)65 – 70Varies slightly by pitch position
Fine Leg/Third Man60 – 65Moderate, wind plays a role
Deep Midwicket/Deep Cover68 – 72Slightly longer on one side

These dimensions are subject to minor changes depending on pitch positioning and ICC regulations for different match formats. Nevertheless, the stadium is widely regarded as a bowler-friendly venue due to its expansive field size.

Impact on Gameplay

1. Batsmen’s Perspective

For a batsman, Hambantota offers a mixed bag. The longer straight boundaries demand precise timing and excellent elevation, while the square boundaries—though slightly shorter—are still far from easy to clear.

Power-hitters might struggle here compared to more compact venues like Wankhede Stadium (India) or Sharjah (UAE). However, well-placed ground strokes and quick running between the wickets become more important, adding a strategic element to batting.

2. Bowlers’ Advantage

Fast bowlers can bowl full and straight with more confidence, knowing the long boundaries are protective. Spinners, on the other hand, benefit from the wind and longer midwicket areas, allowing them to flight the ball more bravely without the fear of being constantly cleared over the ropes.

Comparative Analysis with Other Grounds

To appreciate Hambantota’s boundary dimensions, here’s a comparison with other major Sri Lankan stadiums:

StadiumStraight Boundary (m)Square Boundary (m)
Hambantota78 – 8265 – 70
R. Premadasa (Colombo)72 – 7663 – 67
Pallekele International Stadium74 – 7864 – 68
Galle International Stadium70 – 7560 – 65

As seen in the table, Hambantota typically has the longest straight boundaries, making it one of the most spacious stadiums in Sri Lanka. This contributes to lower scoring averages compared to more compact venues.

Strategic Importance for Teams

Teams that adapt their game plans to suit Hambantota’s unique features tend to perform better. Captains often choose to field first here, given the challenges of setting a big target in windy and spacious conditions.

Moreover, fielding becomes crucial, as the large outfield demands swift, agile fielders to cut off boundaries and convert singles into dot balls.

The Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium in Hambantota stands out not just for its scenic location and modern infrastructure but also for its cricketing character. With long boundaries, ocean-side winds, and a large playing area, it offers a unique test of skill for international cricketers.

In an era where flat pitches and small grounds often dominate, Hambantota brings balance to the game — favoring skill over sheer power, and strategy over brute force. It’s a venue where cricket feels a touch more classical, and every boundary scored or wicket taken is truly earned.

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ENG vs IND 2025: Big setback for India, Karun Nair injured before Headingley Test

Karun Nair

Indian batsman Karun Nair is going to return to Test cricket after almost eight years

Indian batsman Karun Nair is going to return to Test cricket after almost eight years. He will be seen playing in the series against England. He is expected to play in the first Test starting at Headingley. However, bad news has come about him. He got injured during practice at Headingley, Leeds on Wednesday. But his injury is not serious.

In fact, Nair, who is hoping to play his first Test match since 2017, was hit on his ribs by a fast ball from fast bowler Prasidh Krishna during the net session. He looked in a little pain due to this injury. But he started batting again soon. Later after the batting session, he showed the support staff and team members the place where the ball hit him.

There was a time when Karun Nair was considered the star of the future. He became the second Indian player to score a triple century in Tests, but despite his brilliant performance, he was dropped from the team. However, he performed solidly in the 2024-25 domestic season. Recently, Nair scored a double century in the India A vs England Lions series.

Karun Nair: England announces playing XI

At the same time, England have announced their playing XI for the first Test match against India at Headingley from Friday. All-rounder Chris Woakes is returning to the team for the first time since December. At the same time, fast bowler Brydon Carse will play his first Test on home soil.

England’s playing XI for the first Test against India

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir

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England vs India, 1st Test: Match Preview – Pitch Report, Head to Head and other information related to the match

England vs India

England vs India: The first Test match of the series is to be played at Headingley from June 20.

England vs India: The five-match Test series between India and England is going to start from June 20. With this series, the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle will also start for both the teams. The first Test match of the series is to be played at Headingley from June 20.

England vs India: In the last WTC cycle, England finished fifth with 11 wins in 22 Tests. On the other hand, India finished third. India suffered a historic 3-0 series defeat to New Zealand at home. After this, Australia defeated Team India 3-1 in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, due to which India could not make it to the final.

The Indian team will play in the absence of veterans like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin. Shubman Gill will lead the team, while Rishabh Pant has been made the vice-captain. Karun Nair is also making a comeback after a long time. Apart from this, Sai Sudarshan is expected to make his Test debut. The team has included Harshit Rana from India ‘A’ team for the Leeds Test.

On the other hand, Ben Stokes-led England announced their playing XI on Wednesday. Chris Woakes, Josh Tongue and Brydon Cars will handle the fast bowling, while Shoaib Bashir has been included as the only spinner. Jack Crowley and Ben Duckett will open. At the same time, Joe Root and Ollie Pope will play in the top four. The special thing is that four English players Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, Cars and Tongue will play against India for the first time.

Pitch Report

A good contest between bat and ball is expected in Leeds. The pitch is expected to have seam and bounce. However, chief curator Richard Robinson has prepared a wicket that could get flatter as the match progresses. A full five-day game could be expected. The average first innings score will be around 300.

Match details

Match- England vs India, 1st Test

Venue- Headingley, Leeds

Date & Time- 20-24 June 3:30 PM (IST)

Live Broadcast & Streaming – Sony Sports Network & Jio Hotstar (app & website)

England vs India, Head-to-Head Record in Tests

Matches played- 136

England wins- 51

India wins- 35

Draws- 50

First played- 25 to 28 June, 1932

Last played- 7 to 9 March, 2024

England’s playing XI

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir

India’s probable playing XI

Yashashvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudarshan, Shubman Gill (captain), Karun Nair, Rishabh Pant (vice-captain and wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna.

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ENG vs IND Dream11 Prediction, 1st Test: Predicted playing 11 of England vs India, Dream11 team and match details

ENG vs IND

ENG vs INDThis match between the two teams will be played at Headingley, Leeds.

England vs India 1st Test Dream11 Prediction, 20 June: The Indian team’s tour of England is starting from June 20. The first Test match will be played at Headingley ground in Leeds. Both the teams have completed their preparations for this match. For the first time, Team India, led by Shubman Gill, is ready to play a match against Stokes and Co. Well, let’s know the best Dream 11 team for this match and who to make the captain?

England vs India Head to Head Record in Test: (England vs India Head to Head Test Record)

A total of 136 matches have been played between England and India in the biggest format of the game. In these matches, England has won 51 and India 35 matches. Apart from this, a total of 50 Test matches have been drawn between the two teams.

England vs India, 1st Test Match Details

Match- England (ENG) vs India (IND) 1st Test, India tour of England, 2025

Venue- Hendigley, Leeds

Date and Time- Friday, June 20, 3:30 pm IST

Live Broadcast and Streaming Details- Star Sports, Disney+ Hotstar

ENG vs IND Dream11 Team (ENG vs IND Dream11 Prediction 1st Test)

Wicketkeeper– Rishabh Pant

Batsmen- Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Harry Brook

All-rounders- Ben Stokes, Ravindra Jadeja

Bowlers- Chris Woakes, Jasprit Bumrah, Brydon Carse

Who to choose as the captain and vice-captain (first choice) of ENG vs IND Dream11 team?

Captain- Jasprit Bumrah

Vice-Captain- Joe Root

Who to choose as Captain and Vice-Captain (2nd choice) of ENG vs IND Dream11 team?

Captain- Ravindra Jadeja

Vice-Captain- Shubman Gill

ENG vs IND Predicted Playing 11 for 1st Test

England (ENG)

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (Captain), Jamie Smith (Wicketkeeper), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir

India (IND)

Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudarshan, Shubman Gill (Captain), Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav.

Disclaimer: This prediction is based on the author’s understanding, analysis and intuition. While making your prediction, consider the mentioned points and take your own decision.

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