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October 21, 2024
The first day of the highly anticipated Test match in Bengaluru was washed out due to persistent rain, continuing New Zealand’s streak of six consecutive days without play in India. Following the earlier disappointment in Greater Noida against Afghanistan, the ground conditions were understandable. Despite initial optimism as the city was spared from heavy downpours, light drizzle persisted throughout the day, ultimately culminating in a significant shower at 2:30 PM that dashed all hopes of a toss.
With this Test now set to last four days or fewer, the rules regarding the follow-on have changed. To enforce a follow-on, a team will now need to establish a lead of 150 runs instead of the usual 200. This adjustment adds an intriguing strategic element to the match when play eventually resumes.
Given the heavy rainfall leading up to the Test, the only source of optimism for play at M Chinnaswamy Stadium was its sub-air drainage system, which is capable of draining up to 10,000 liters of water per minute. Unfortunately, an additional hurdle arose when the rain the day before the match prevented the Hawk-Eye formatting from being completed, a process that takes about an hour and a half. However, the situation became moot when heavy rain resumed at 2:30 PM, leading to the cancellation of play. Officials are hoping to complete the Hawk-Eye setup before the second day, although forecasts suggest that rain may again disrupt proceedings.
To maximize playing time in the remaining days, play will commence 15 minutes earlier and conclude 15 minutes later, allowing for a target of 98 overs each day. Furthermore, an extra half hour can be allocated if slow over-rates occur, ensuring that the teams have a fair opportunity to make up for lost time.
Read More: Bangladesh Announces Squad for First Test Against South Africa: Shakib’s Farewell Match Approaches
Former India seamer Paras Mhambrey has been appointed as the bowling coach for the Mumbai Indians (MI) ahead of IPL 2025. Mhambrey, who previously served as MI’s assistant coach, will collaborate with current bowling coach Lasith Malinga under the guidance of newly appointed head coach Mahela Jayawardene. This dynamic coaching trio aims to strengthen the team’s bowling lineup as they prepare for the upcoming season.
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Mhambrey brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having served as India’s bowling coach from 2021 until August of this year under Rahul Dravid. Notably, he was part of the T20 World Cup-winning team in the Caribbean. His history with MI includes contributions to their successful campaigns, including the IPL victory in 2013 and the Champions League T20 titles in 2011 and 2013. In addition to his coaching credentials, Mhambrey played two Tests and three ODIs for India between 1996 and 1998, and he excelled in domestic cricket, taking 284 wickets in 91 first-class matches.
On Sunday, MI announced the return of former Sri Lankan captain Jayawardene as their head coach for the upcoming season. The new coaching staff’s immediate task will be to finalize the team’s retentions before the October 31 deadline. MI finished at the bottom of the IPL 2024 table, securing only four wins in 14 matches under the leadership of new captain Hardik Pandya. With this refreshed coaching lineup, MI will be eager to bounce back in the next season.
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