Indian fast bowler Ishant Sharma celebrates his 36th birthday on Monday (September 2). Known for his formidable presence in Test cricket, Ishant first captured the cricketing world’s attention during the 2007-08 Test series in Australia. Since then, he has firmly established himself as a red-ball specialist, representing Indi?a in over 100 Test matches.

His success isn’t limited to Tests alone; Ishant also contributed significantly to India’s limited-overs successes, including their Champions Trophy 2013 victory. In recognition of his outstanding contributi??ons to cricket, Ishant was awarded the prestigious Arjuna Award in 2020.

Ishant Sharma’s top pick for a final bowling showdown

On this special day, Star Sports India shared an engaging video featuring Ishant and fellow cricketer Harbhajan Singh. In the video, the two cricketing stars engaged in a lively conversation with host Sahiba Bali. When asked whom he would choose to bowl to if given one final chance against an Australian batter, Ishant didn’t hesitate to name former Australian captain Steve Smith.

Despite the challenges, Ishant managed to dismiss Smit?h only once in eight Test encounters, during which Smith s?cored an impressive 176 runs off 364 balls against him, maintaining an average of 176. In limited-overs cricket, Ishant had more success, dismissing Smith twice in seven games.

Happy Birthday to the Indian speedster! 🥳

Watch #HarbhajanSingh, @ImIshant, and #SahibaBali share a funny story from a classic Ishant vs. #SteveSmith encounter. 🎂 pic.twitter.com/1CGtvMcHf3

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) September 2, 2024

A memorable incident during the Border Gavaskar Trophy

Harbhajan reminded Ishant of a memorable and humorous incident from their fierce Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test series against Australia. During the second Test of the 2017 series at Bengaluru, Ishant was seen making comical faces at Smith, a gesture aimed at imitating Smith’s distinctive batting mannerisms. This playful banter occurred at a crucial moment, with India having lost the first Test at Pune. The Bengaluru Test was pivotal, and Ishant’s antics, which included making faces that amused even captain Virat Kohli, became a highlight. India went on to win the Bengaluru?? Test by 75 runs, contributing to their series w??in.

Also READ: Meet Ishant Sharma’s wife �?Pratima Singh:?? A talented athlete and loving partne?r

Ishant’s international career and recent performances

Although Ishant hasn’t played for the Indian national team since the home Test series against New Zealand in 2021, he remains an influential figure in domestic cricket. He is India’s jo??int-fifth highest wicket-taker in Tests, with 311 wickets at an average of 32.40 from 105 matches. Additionally, Ishant has accumulated 123 wickets across 80 ODIs and 14 T20Is. His last appearance in white-ball cricket was in 2016 during an ODI series in Australia.

Impactful performances in the IPL

Despite his absence from international cricket, Ishant continued to make an impact in the Indian Premier League (IPL). In the 2024 season, representing the Delhi Capitals (DC), Ishant showcased his skill by taking 10 wickets at an average of 26.50 in nine matches. His performances were pivotal in DC’s resurgence during the latter half of the season. Ishant also had a commendable performance in IPL 2023, picking up 10 wickets in eight games. Though DC missed the playoffs for a third consecutive season, Ishant’s new-ball spells were a key factor in their improved performances.

As the IPL Mega Auction approaches later this year, it remains to be seen whether Isha??nt will continue with DC or find a new home with another franchise. His ability to deliver impactful performances, even at this stage of his career, makes him a valuable player in the T20 league.

Also READ: IPL 2025 Auction: 4 players DC can retain as per the current �?+??1�?ru??le

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Delhi Capitals (DC) are locking horns with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Match 35 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. The match is taking place at the iconic Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, marking the first game at this venue in the current 17th season of the lucrative league. Noteworthy changes have been made to Delhi’s starting lineup for this game, with the notable absence of veteran fast bowler Ishant Sharma.

Reason behind Ishant Sharma’s absence

Delhi captain Rishabh Pant won the toss and opted to field first. He explained the rationale behind excluding Ishant from their ultimate playing XI. Pant disclosed that Ishant had experienced a back spasm, which accounted for the tall pacer’s absence from the lineup.

South African star returns

Additionally, Pant revealed that South African fast bowler Anrich Nortje had been selected in the final XI. It’s worth mentioning that Nortje endured a tough beginning to the IPL 2024 season, as he was heavily targeted in the initial matches before Delhi decided to bench him.

“We’re going to bowl first. Wicket looks pretty good, we would like to chase because we are playing more as a batting unit. We have more batters. Maybe there will be dew. Ground doesn’t matter, end of the day you have to play good cricket. We’re looking to improve each and every match. Instead of Sumit, Lalit comes in. Instead of Ishant, who had a back spasm just 5 minutes back, Nortje comes in,” said Pant at the toss.

Also READ: IPL 2024 – BCCI takes action against Mumbai Indians for giving DRS signals to Suryakumar Yadav from the dugout

Playing XIs of both teams

• Delhi Capitals: David Warner, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Abishek Porel, Rishabh Pant(w/c), Tristan Stubbs, Axar Patel, Lalit Yadav, Kuldeep Yadav, Anrich Nortje, Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Kumar
• Subs: Prithvi Shaw, Shai Hope, Praveen Dubey, Rasikh Dar Salam, Sumit Kumar
• Sunrisers Hyderabad: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Abdul Samad, Nitish Reddy, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pat Cummins(c), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mayank Markande, T Natarajan
• Subs: Umran Malik, Anmolpreet Singh, Akash Maharaj Singh, Glenn Phillips, Washington Sundar

Also WATCH: Virat Kohli’s cheeky �?�your wife�?comment? to Dinesh Karthik draws laughter

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The 16th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 showcased an enthralling encounter between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. The clash witnessed a spectacle of explosive batting, predominantly from the Knight Riders, who eventually secured a resounding victory by posting the second-highest total in IPL history.

Sunil Narine’s spectacular power-hitting

Sunil Narine spearheaded KKR’s batting assault with a sensational display of power-hitting, hammering an electrifying 85 runs. His innings, adorned with seven fours and an equal number of sixes, provided the impetus for KKR’s imposing total. Joining forces with the young Angkrish Raghuvanshi, who marked his IPL batting debut with a blazing fifty, Narine orchestrated a scintillating 104-run partn??ership off just 48 balls.

Andre Russell’s contribution and Ishant Sharma’s yorker

Andre Russell, known for his explosive batting prowess, added further impetus to KKR’s innings with a quickfire 41 off 19 balls. However, his innings was cut short in the final over by a mesmerizing delivery from Ishant Sharma. The experienced campa??igner unleashed a toe-crushing yorker that completely deceived?? Russell, crashing into the stumps and leaving the explosive batter stunned.

Russell appreciates Ishant’s toe-crusher

The video of Russell’s dismissal quickly went viral on social media platforms, captivating cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Despite being dismissed, Russell’s appreciation for the sheer brilliance of Ishant’s delivery was evident as he applauded while making his way back to the dugout. The moment encapsulated the spirit of sportsmanship amidst the fierce competition of IPL.

Also WATCH: IPL 2024 – Rishabh Pant’s exceptional no-look six prompts Shah Rukh Khan to give a standing ovation during DC vs KKR clash

Here is the video:

YORKED! 🎯

Ishant Sharma with a beaut of a delivery to? dismiss the dangerous R??ussell!

Head to @JioCinema and @StarSportsIndia to watch the match LIVE#TATAIPL | #DCvKKR | @ImIshant pic.twitter.com/6TjrXjgA6R

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 3, 2024

KKR’s commanding victory

KKR’s imposing total of 272/7 proved insurmountable for DC as they succumbed to a defeat by a massive margin of 106 runs, getting bundled out for 166 in 17.2 overs. Vaibhav Arora (3/27) and Varun Chakaravarthy (3/33) ??bagged three wickets each for the Knight R??iders.

Also READ: Twitter reactions – Sunil Narine, Angkrish Raghuvanshi shine as clinical KKR registers a dominant win over DC in IPL 2024

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In recent months, several Indian cricketers have embraced the joy of parenthood. Jasprit Bumrah and his wife Sanjana Ganesan joyfully welcomed a baby boy in September, marking a momentous occasion in their lives. The all-rounder for Gujarat Titans (GT), Rahul Tewatia, and his wife Ridhi Punnu were also blessed with a baby girl a day later.

Ishant Sharma and Pratima Singh become parents of a baby girl

Following this joyous occasion, now it is India’s fast bowler Ishant Sharma and his wife, Pratima Singh, who have reason to celebrate as they welcomed their baby girl on Friday evening. They took to Instagram to share the delightful news, affectionately referring to their newborn as the “wonder of hope” and expressing their immense joy as they introduced the newest member of their family to the world.

“A new baby girl, a world of wonder, hope, and dreams all wrapped in pink. We’re overjoyed to introduce the newest member of our family,” the post read.

The news garnered warm wishes and congratulations. Bollywood actress and wife of Indian superstar cricketer Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma exte??nded wish to Ishant and Pratima on the merry occasion.

“Oh my goddd!! Huge congratulations to you mommy and daddy and love to the little munchkin,” wrote Anushka Sharma. 

Also READ: Twitter reactions: Mohammad Nabi, batters sizzle in Afghanistan’s big win over the Netherlands �?ODI W?orld Cup 2023

Love and marriage

Pratima is a well-known basketball player, representing the India women’s national basketball team. Ishant and Pratima’s love story is a tale of shared interests and camaraderie, with their mutual passion for sports and unwavering commitment to their respective fields bringing them together. Their journey led to a private wedding ceremony in December 2016, attended by close friends and family.

Ishant’s cricketing journey

Ishant’s return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2023 with the Delhi Capitals (DC) was a noteworthy comeback. He showcased his skills by taking ten wickets in eight games, marking one of his most remarkable seasons since 2019. As the Sharma family embarks on this new chapter in their lives, their hearts are undoubtedly filled with hap?piness and anticipation for the journey ahead.

Also READ: Meet Ishant Sharma’s wife �?Pratima Singh: A tale?nted athlete and loving pa??rtner

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Cricket fans around the world are familiar with Ishant Sharma, the lanky Indian fast bowler known for his fiery spells and wicket-taking abilities. However, behind every successful cricketer, there’s often an inspiring life partner providing support and encouragement.

Let’s take a glimpse into Ishant’s wife, Pratima Singh, a talented athlete i?n her own right and ??a loving partner who has been a pillar of strength for the Indian fast bowler.

The Early Life of Pratima Singh:

Pratima was born on February 6, 1990, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. She hails from a family deeply rooted in sports, with all four of her sisters being accomplished basketball players. Pratima, along with her sisters, established themselves as pro?mising athletes early in life, earning recognition not only in their home state but also on the national stage.

A Stunning Basketball Career:

Pratima’s basketball journey is as impressive as it is inspiring. She played a pivotal role in the Indian women’s basketball team for many years, representing her country with pride. Her dedication and hard work on the court earned her a reputation as one of India’s finest female basketball players. Pratima’s commitment to her sport is a testament to her passion and talent. Pratima has also done India proud by winning a gold medal in the first 3×3 FIBA Asia Championship held in Qatar in 2013.

Also READ: Ishant Sharma sheds light on MS Dhoni’s crucial role in Virat Kohli’s captaincy triumph

Love and Marriage:

Pratima’s life took an exciting turn when she met Ishant. The couple’s love story is one of camaraderie and shared interests. Their common love for sports and dedication to their respective fields brought them together. After a period of courtship, the two decided to tie the knot in a private ceremony attended by close friends and family in December 2016.

Supportive Partner:

Since their marriag?e, Pratima has been a steadfast and supportive partner to Ishant. She understands the demands and pressures of professional sports and provides unwavering encouragement during both the highs and lows of his cricketing career. Her presence at cricket matches and her? enthusiastic support for her husband on social media have not gone unnoticed by fans.

A Power Couple:

Pratima’s journey from a talented basketball player to a loving and supportive wife serves as an inspiration to many. Together, Ishant and Pratima are a testament to the power of love, dedication, and shared dreams. Their relationship showcases the importance of having a supportive and understanding partner in the demanding world of professional sports. They often share glimpses of their life together on social media, giving fans a peek into their loving and adventurous relationship.

Also READ: Who is Yuzvendra Chahal’s wife? All you need to know about Dhanashree Verma

Soon To Be Parents:

Recently, the couple shared they are expecting their first child. They organized a baby shower where Pratima can be seen flaunting her baby bump. Additionally, Ishant and Pratima can be seen holding “mom to be” and “dad to be” placards respectively.

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Veteran bowler Ishant Sharma believes that former Indian cricket team captain MS Dhoni played a pivotal role in shaping the Virat Kohli’s leadership journey. Dhoni, who led the Indian white-ball teams from 2007 to 2017 and the Test side from 2008 to 2014, played a crucial part in providing opportunities to budding pacers like Mohammad Shami, Umesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah during his captaincy. Although Dhoni’s leadership didn’t yield as much success in overseas conditions, he played a vital role in nurturing the next generation of Indian fast bowlers.

Kohli succeeded Dhoni as captain and led the team exceptionally well, achieving significant success. Under Kohli’s guidance, India saw marked improvements, particularly in overseas Test matches. A key factor contributing to this success was the pace bowlers’ consistent ability to take 20 wickets in the longest format.

Also READ: Bangladesh batter Litton Das ruled out of Asia Cup 2023; replacement announced

Ishant acknowledges Dhoni for his exceptional communication skills

Speaking on Jio Cinema, Ishant expressed his deep appreciation for the Ranchi-born cricketer’s leadership. He credited Dhoni for his outstanding communication skills and emphasized that there was no one quite like him when it came to connecting with the players. Sharma highlighted that under Kohli, the Indian bowling unit became well-rounded, but during Dhoni’s leadership, the team was undergoing a transitional phase.

“He was the best. When Virat was captain, bowling was complete. When we were playing under Mahi bhai, we were in a transition phase. At that time, Shami and Umesh were new, and only I was there. Everyone else would rotate. Bhuvi was also new. There is no match for Mahi bhai as a communicator,” Ishant said. 

Ishant recognizes Dhoni’s role in cultivating emerging fast bowlers

The 34-year-old further emphasized that Dhoni’s role in nurturing young pacers and handing over a formidable pace battery to Kohli has left an enduring impact on Indian cricket.

“But, what he did was groom the bowlers and leave them with Virat. Shami and Umesh, over time, became different bowlers, and then, Jasprit came in. So, he got a complete package,�?/em> the Delhi-born cricketer concluded.