Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa is currently facing serious legal issues, including an arrest warrant for alleged fraud linked to the provident fund contributions of employees at his clothing company, Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Private Limited. This controversy has cast a shadow over his cricketing legacy, which includes being an integral part of India’s triumph at the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup in 2007.

Uthappa made his international debut in 2006 and has represented India across all formats of the game. His journey through the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been marked by ??significant achievements and substantial earnings, making him ??a notable figure in both cricket and business.

Robin Uthappa’s cricketing journey

Uthappa’s cricketing career began with great promise. He quickly established himself as a dynamic batter known for his aggressive style and ability to perform under pressure. His standout performances in domestic cricket led to his selection for the national team, where he showcased his talent on the international stage. Uthappa’s contributions were particularly vital during the 2007 T20 World Cup, where he played a key role in helping India secure the championship.

In the IPL, Uthappa donned jerseys of several franchises, including Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Pune Warriors India, Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings. His journey through these teams reflects not only his skills a??s a player but also his adaptability and resilience in a highly competitive environment.

Also READ: Breakdown of Josh Hazlewood’s IPL salary since debut

Financial breakdown: Uthappa’s IPL salaries over the years

Uthappa’s financial success in the IPL is evident through his salary history, which showcases fluctuations based on performance and team dynamics. Below is a detailed breakdown of his IPL salaries by year:

• 2008 – Mumbai Indians: Uthappa started his IPL career with the Mumbai Indians, earning INR 3 crore 2 lakhs. This marked the beginning of a lucrative journey in franchise cricket.
• 2009 – Royal Challengers Bengaluru: He was transferred to RCB for the same salary of INR 3 crore 2 lakhs, where he continued to develop his skills.
• 2010 – Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Again earning INR 3 crore 2 lakhs, Uthappa maintained consistency in his earnings during this period.
• 2011 – Pune Warriors India: His salary saw a significant increase to INR 9 crore 66 lakhs as he joined Pune Warriors India, reflecting his growing stature in the league.
• 2012 – Pune Warriors India: Uthappa’s value peaked at INR 10 crore 57 lakhs, showcasing his importance to the team as he became one of the highest-paid players in IPL history.
• 2013 – Pune Warriors India: His salary remained high at INR 9 crore 66 lakhs lakhs despite the team’s struggles.
• 2014 – Kolkata Knight Riders: Transitioning to KKR, Uthappa’s salary was set at INR 50 lakhs, marking a shift as he joined a franchise with a strong competitive spirit.
• 2015 – Kolkata Knight Riders: He retained the same salary of INR 50 lakhs, contributing significantly to KKR’s success during this period.
• 2016 – Kolkata Knight Riders: Continuing with KKR, Uthappa again earned INR 50 lakhs as he became instrumental in their batting line-up.
• 2017 – Kolkata Knight Riders: His performance warranted another INR 50 lakhs contract as he solidified his role within the team.
• 2018 – Kolkata Knight Riders: Uthappa’s salary increased to INR 64 lakhs as he continued to be a key player for KKR.
• 2019 (Retain) – Kolkata Knight Riders: He retained this salary of INR 64 lakhs, further emphasizing his value to KKR.
• 2020 – Rajasthan Royals: Moving to Rajasthan Royals, he earned INR 30 lakhs, reflecting a decrease as he adjusted to a new team environment.
• 2021 – Chennai Super Kings: Joining CSK brought him a salary of INR 30 lakhs, where he contributed to one of IPL’s most successful franchises.
• 2022 – Chennai Super Kings: His earnings dipped further to INR 20 lakhs as CSK underwent transitions within their squad.

Uthappa’s net worth is estimated at approximately around INR 106 crore, primarily derived from cricket earnings and brand endorsements. Despite facing legal challenges that may impact his reputation and future endeavours, Uthappa’s cricketing legacy remains significant. His journey from a promising young talent to an IPL veteran serves as an inspiration for many aspiring cricketers. As he navigates this tumultuous phase, fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how this chapter unfolds for him both on and off the field.

Also READ: Breakdown of Tim Southee’s IPL salary since debut

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Yuvraj Singh, the name synonymous with power-hitting sixes and audacious celebrations, continues to inspire fans even after his retirement. The flamboyant southpaw’s legacy continues to inspire fans across India. This devotion isn’t just expressed through cheers at the stadium.

Yuvraj Singh: An inspiration etched in skin

A recent ??example is a die-hard fan who took his love for Yuvraj a step furthe??r �?by getting a tattoo that declares his admiration.

On his chest, a fan now carries a permanent message that reads, “Love you and miss you, Yuvi.” This act of devotion highlights the global impact Yuvraj has had on the sport. He isn’t just a celebrated cricketer in India; his talent and fighting spirit have garnered him a legion of fans worldwide.

Yuvraj, elated with the fan’s adoration and crazy move, posted an Instagra?m story of Mohan.

Yuvraj Singh: A cricketing legacy

Yuvraj Singh’s career is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and the unwavering support of his fans. He burst onto the scene in the early 2000s, his left-handed flair captivating audiences. Singh’s batting prowess was a blend of elegance and aggression. He could manipulate the field with ease, finding gaps with flicks and drives, while also possessing the ability to unleash brutal sixes with effortless power.

Yuvraj’s contributions to Team India are undeniable. He was a pivotal member of the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 World Cup winning squads. The 2007 tournament saw Yuvraj etch his name in cricketing folklore. His six sixes in an over against England’s Stuart Broad stand as a testament to his fearlessness and ability to perform under pressure. In the 2011 World Cup final, his all-round performance �?a crucial half-century and 15 wickets in the tournament �?was instrumental in India’s historic victory, making him Man of the Tournament.

Also READ: Yuvraj Singh unveils his all-time XI; picks Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma among others

Yuvraj Singh: More than a cricketer

Yuvraj Singh’s career is an inspiration that transcends the boundaries of cricket. He is a symbol of hope, perseverance, and the unwavering human spirit. The tattoo etched on a fan’s chest is a mere representation of the countless fans worldwide who continue to adore Yuvi. He is a reminder that even after retirement, the legacy of a true champion lives on, not just in the record books but also in the hearts of millions.

Also READ: WATCH: Yuvraj Singh rewinds clock with his blazing fifty to power India Champions into WCL 2024 final

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The Indian cricket team‘s historic T20 World Cup 2024 triumph has been met with a generous cash reward from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The board has set aside a staggering INR 125 crore for the victorious contingent led by Rohit Sharma.

The BCCI’s gesture is a testament to the team’s hard-fought victory against South Africa in the final, ending an 11-year drought for an ICC title since the 2013 Champions Trophy win under MS Dhoni‘s captaincy.

Comparing BCCI’s rewards for previous ICC titles

To put things into perspective, let’s take a look at the prize money offered by the BCCI for the Indian team’s previous ICC title wins under Dhoni’s leadership:

2007 ICC World T20

The entire team was rewarded a cumulative sum of INR 12 crore after the triumph of the first edition of T20 World Cup, winning a clutch game against Pakistan in the finals, ??with a very young team representing Ind??ia.

2011 ODI World Cup

After being the first home team to be crowned the champion??s in the 2011 ODI World Cup, BCCI initially announced a prize money of ??INR 1 crore for each player, which was later revised to INR 2 crore. The support staff were paid INR 50 lakh, while selectors were handed rewards of INR 25 lakh each.

2013 Champions Trophy

Indian team winning their second ICC title on t??he English soil, Team India were awarded a prize money of INR 1 crore for each player by the BCCI, while the support staff too earned INR ??30 lakh each.

Distribution of T20 World Cup 2024 prize money

The BCCI’s reward for the T20 World Cup 2024 triumph is significantly higher compared to previous ICC titles. According to reports, the distribution of the INR 125 crore prize money is as follows:

• Each of the 15 players in the squad, including those who didn’t play a single game, will receive INR 5 crore.
• The 4 reserves will be given INR 1 crore each.
• Head coach Rahul Dravid will receive a cash reward of INR 2.5 crore, along with his coaching staff, who will get the same amount.
• The backroom staff, including physios and throwdown specialists, will earn INR 2 crore each.
• The selectors will be awarded INR 1 crore each.

Also READ: Prize breakup of INR 125 cr awarded to Team India after their T20 World Cup 2024 triumph

Significance of the reward

The BCCI’s generous prize money for the T20 World Cup 2024 champions is a clear indication of the board’s appreciation for the team’s outstanding performance. It also highlights the importance the BCCI places on winning ICC tournaments, especially after the team’s long wait since the 2013 Champions Trophy victory.

The reward will undoubtedly boost the morale of the players and support staff, motivating them to continue their winning streak and bring more laurels to the country. It also showcases the BCCI’s commitment to rewarding excellence and ensuring that the players are well compensated for their efforts.

The BCCI’s prize money for the T20 World Cup 2024 champions is a clear statement of their appreciation for the team’s hard work and dedication. The INR 125 crore reward is a significant increase compared to the previous ICC title wins under Dhoni’s leadership, reflecting the BCCI’s commitment to rewarding excellence and ensuring that the players are well-compensated for their efforts.

Also READ: Jasprit Bumrah gets heroic welcome after T20 World Cup champion retu????rns home in Ahmedabad

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On Thursday, the triumphant Indian cricket team returned home to a rapturous welcome after winning the 2024 T20I World Cup. The team was greeted by thousands of ecstatic fans as they paraded through the streets of Mumbai on an open-top bus. Rohit Sharma, the captain who led ??India to ??glory, is the only player to have been part of both the 2007 and 2024 T20I World Cup-winning squads.

Rohit Sharma speaks his heart out

In a video released by the BCCI, Rohit reflected on the two historic victories, revealing that the recent triumph holds a more special place for him. “2007 was a different feeling; we started off in the afternoon. This is in the evening. I cannot forget 2007, as it was my first World Cup,” Rohit said.

When the nation jumped with joy and celebrated with their heroes 🇮🇳❤️#TeamIndia Captain @ImRo45 shares his feeling of being part of the majestic victory parade 🥳#T20WorldCup | #Champions pic.twitter.com/wVmU9nhT9f

— BCCI (@BCCI) July 5, 2024

Indian skipper adding to speech in the video also revealed that the 2024 World Cup was somewhat a little bit closer to his heart, as he was captaining the national side at the world stage, “This is a little more special because I was leading the team. It’s a very proud moment for me.”

The 2007 victory, under the captaincy of MS Dhoni, marked India’s first-ever ICC title triumph. However, the 2024 win, led by Rohit, ended an 11-year drought for the national team in global tournaments. Rohit added that he as a player is just really glad to achieve something for the country, and what it means to all the cricket fanatics of  Indian cricket, “This is going to be mad, and it shows how much it means not just to us but also to the entire nation. It means a lot. So, I am very happy that we could achieve something like this for them as well.”

Also READ: Rohit Sharma’s mother hugs and kisses son in heartwarming moment; skips doctor’s appointment to attend Wankhede ceremony

Spectacle at the Wankhede Stadium

The victorious squad was felicitated at a packed Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, where the players were seen singing and dancing in celebration. Meanwhile Rohit along with veteran stars Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja announced their retirement from T20 internationals following the final. The??y will now focus on representing India in ODIs an??d Test matches.

The 2024 T20I World Cup triumph is India’s second overall, making them only the third team after England and the West Indies to achieve this feat. The win also solidified India’s status as an elite force in the shortest format of the game.

Rohit’s leadership and the team’s performance have undoubtedly etched a special place in the hearts of Indian cricket fans, who turned out in huge numbers to welcome their heroes home. The 2024 T20 World Cup victory will be remembered as a watershed moment in Indian cricket history.

Also READ: Jasprit Bumrah receives a warm homage from Wankhede crowd

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Indian cricketing legend Yuvraj Singh has dropped a bombshell that caught many by surprise. The veteran all-rounder openly admitted that he and former Indian cricket team captain MS Dhoni were not c?lose friends. This revelation sent shockwaves through the cricketing community, leaving fans both bewildered and curious.

The glorious cricketing journey Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni share

Yuvraj and Dhoni’s cricketing journey is one that many fans hold dear to their hearts. They shared memorable moments on the field, playing pivotal roles in India’s victories during the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup. While Dhoni led the team with calm composure on both the occasions, Yuvraj contributed with brilliant all-round performances. Yuvraj even won the title of Player of the Tournament in the 2011 edition of the ODI World Cup.

Throughout their time together, rumours about Yuvraj and Dhoni’s friendship swirled, but both players refrained from discussing it openly and were often seen sharing a laugh despite the speculations. However, Yuvraj’s recent admission has added a new layer of complexity to their relationship.

‘We were only friends because of cricket’: Yuvraj’s startling revelation

In his recent candid interview on Ranveer Allahbadia‘s TRS podcast, Yuvraj revealed that his friendship with Dhoni was primarily based on their shared love for cricket, and they weren’t friends off the field. Nevertheless, he went on to emphasize that they both had an unwavering commitment for their nation whenever they stepped onto the cricket field despite their off-field differences.

“Me and Mahi are not close friends. We were friends because of cricket, we played together. Mahi’s lifestyle was very different from me, so we were never close friends, we were only friends because of cricket. When me and Mahi went on the ground, we gave more than 100% to our country. In that, he was captain, I was vice-captain. When I came into the team, I was 4 years junior. When you are captain and vice-captain, there will be decision differences,” said Yuvraj.

Also READ: Anushka Sharma wins hearts with her ‘EXCEPTIONAL�?birthday message for Virat Ko?hli

Yuvraj acknowledges Dhoni for showing him the true picture

Yuvraj also revealed a crucial moment in his career where he turned to Dhoni for advi??ce. This happened just before the 2019 World Cup, as he sought guidance about his future in the sport. Being the forthright person, Dhoni provided Yuvraj with the harsh reality that the selection committee wa?s not considering him for the tournament. Yuvraj appreciated this honesty, acknowledging that it helped him understand his position in the team at that time.

“Sometimes he made decisions I didn’t like, sometimes I made decisions he didn’t like. That happens in every team. When I was at the end of my career, when I wasn’t getting the right picture about my career, I asked him for advice. He was the guy who told me that the selection committee is not looking you right now. I was like, at least I got to know the real picture. This is just before 2019 World Cup. That is the reality,” revealed the 41-year-old.

Also READ: Top 6 Indian actresses who admire Vir??at Kohli, t??he swagger

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Cricket fans around the world recently got a delightful surprise as the legendary MS Dhoni unveiled a new look that sent waves of nostalgia through their hearts. Known for his penchant for experimenting with his appearance, Dhoni chose a hairstyle reminiscent of the Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan‘s iconic ponytail look. The move instantly transported fans back to 2007 when Dhoni’s long hair captivated the nation, coinciding with India’s historic inaugural T20 World Cup win.

MS Dhoni’s ever-evolving hairstyles

It is worth mentioning that Dhoni has kept fans intrigued not just with his cricketing skills but also with his hairstyle transformations over the years. From the long hair of 2007 to the sleek and stylish looks he sported during his captaincy, Dhoni has always been a trendsetter, and his sense of style has inspired countless fans to experiment with th??eir own hair.

Dhoni’s iconic long hair look of 2007

Dhoni’s journey in the world of cricket has been nothing short of extraordinary, and his hairstyles have often been a talking point. However, one particular look that stands out as a classic is his long hair from the 2007 T20 World Cup era. This style wasn’t just about fashion, as it became a symbol of Dhoni’s charisma and leadership. Fans were smitten by his long hair back then, and it soon became a trendsetter.

Also READ: Virat? Kohli and Anushka Sharma give fans an ‘aww�?moment with thei??r playful social media banter

Dhoni’s new Shah Rukh Khan-like ponytail look and nostalgia among fans

Recently, Dhoni surprised everyone by revisiting a hairstyle reminiscent of Shah Rukh’s iconic ponytail look. As images and videos of Dhoni with his new ponytail circulated on social media, fans were instantly transported back to the days of 2007. The nostalgia was palpable, and social media was abuzz with fans sharing their excitement.

Many fans took to Twitter and other social platforms to express their delight. “One last time, rewind the young 2007 memories. This time in Yellow,” wrote one enthusiastic fan. Another fan said, “My man is gonna bid adieu the same way he announced himself to the world.”

The Stylish walk and the Super Cool Hairstyle of Thala Dhoni !! 🔥🤌#MSDhoni | #WhistlePodu | #Dhoni
📹 via Mohammed pic.twitter.com/gkkVwXCrUB

— Saravanan Hari 💛🦁🏏 �?(@CricSuperFan) September 30, 2023

The anticipation of IPL 2024

It is to be noted that earlier this year, Dhoni led the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to their record fifth IPL title. However, he announced tha??t he would be returning to action in 2024. The decision f??rom Dhoni sent a wave of happiness among fans as they were eager to see their beloved captain back on the field.

With Dhoni’s return to the long hair look, fans are now even more excited about his comeback. They see it as a special gift from Dhoni to his admirers.

Also READ: Shane Watson predic?ts the four semi-finalists of the ODI Wor??ld Cup 2023

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The prolific Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma has etched his name in the annals of cricketing history with numerous remarkable performances throughout his career. The 36-year-old opener made his India debut on June 23, 2007 and has only soared higher since then. He emerged as one of India’s most successful cricketers, with nearly 10,000 runs in his cricketing career, and his journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.

As a master of the game, Rohit has proven his mettle across all formats of cricket and stands tall as the fifth-leading run-scorer of India in international cricket. The Mumbai batter has accumulat??ed 3677 runs in 52 Test matche?s, while his tally in T20Is boasts an impressive 3853 runs in 148 games. Meanwhile, he registered staggering 9,837 runs in 244 ODI matches.

Rohit’s association with the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has also been one of the most significant highlights of?? his illustrious career. He led the team to victory on multiple occasions, lifting the IPL trophy a record five times as their captain. Despite these outstanding achievements, when asked about the best moments?? of his career during a media interaction in USA, Rohit humbly chose all his performances in the Indian national team.

Also READ: Mitchell Marsh, Pat Cummins to lead Australia’s T20I and ODI squads in South Africa tour

Rohit Sharma picks five best and unforgettable moments of his career:

1) ICC T20 World Cup 2007 triumph

The first moment that stands out in Rohit’s memory is India’s historic victory in the ICC T20 World Cup 2007. The inaugural edition of the tournament saw India emerging victorious under the captaincy of MS Dhoni. Rohit played a crucial role in the team’s success in the event.

2) Century on Test debut against West Indies

Another unforgettable moment for Rohit was his scintillating century (177) against the West Indies on his Test debut a?t Kolkata. This innings showcased his ability to adapt to the longer format of the game and marked the?? beginning of a stellar Test career.

3) Partnership with legendary Sachin Tendulkar in Commonwealth Bank tri-series against Australia

The third-best moment picked by Rohit was one of the most iconic partnerships that was forged between him and the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. The pair we??bbed a 123-run stand in the final of the Commonwealth Bank tri-series against Australia in 2008.

4) Historic win against Australia at Gabba

Indian cricket team’s historic win over Australia at the Gabba in January 2021 was chosen by Rohit as the fourth best part of his career. The triumph was a testament to the team’s resilience and character. Rohit’s inclusion in the Test squad after an injury adds more to the significance of the victory, making it an unforgettable moment in his career.

5) First ODI double century at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata

The fifth moment Rohit picked is one of the most remarkable achievements of his cricketing journey. He added his record 264 runs against Sri Lanka in a 50-over game at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens in 2014 into the most cherished moments of his career’s list.

It is worth mentioning that Rohit is the only cricketer in world cricket to register ??three double hundred in the ODI format, and no other player in the history of cricket has achieved this milestone so far??.

Also READ: Top 5 bowling performances of Venkatesh Prasad

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The date September 14, 2007 marks one of the most iconic games between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in a brand new format of cricket.

Before the Super over was introduced, the tied contests in a T20 game were decided by a penalty shootout-like event, known as the ‘bowl-out�?

Instead of footballers trumping past goal-keepers, bowlers had to strike the wickets. In the best of five trials, the team with the most number of hits were adjudged as winners.

The group stage encounter between India and Pakistan at the inaugural 2007 T20 World Cup in Durb??an, wasn’t decide?d even after forty overs of the game.

Both Pakistan and India scored the same amount of runs which led to the game being decided by a bowl-??out.

The MS Dhoni-led Indian team practised the bowl-out drills to prepare themselves if and when the situation arose duri?ng the tournament??.

For India, Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh, and Robin Uthappa hit the bull’s eye. But, for Pakistan, the likes of Shahid Afridi, Umar Gul and Yasir Arafat missed the target. It led to India winning the bowl-out by 3-0.

Later, it was revealed tha?t it was Dhoni’s masterclass which helped India strike the wicket thrice.

IPL franchises celebrate India’s iconic victory

Now, 13 years hence, three Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises decided to commemorate the Indian victory with their respective tweets.

#OnThisDay, 2007 – Robin's day out 👇👀

First T20I innings ✔️
50 with the bat ✔️
THAT bowl-out celebration ✔️#RoyalsFamily | #HallaBol | @robbieuthappa pic.twitter.com/rJNv5mvn0G

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) September 14, 2020

Sehwag �?br />Harbhajan ?�?br />Uthappa �?a href="//twitter.com/hashtag/OnThisDay?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" data-wpel-link="exclude">#OnThisDay in 2007, 🇮🇳 won THAT famous bowl-out against 🇵🇰!#OrangeArmy #OTD #KeepRising pic.twitter.com/U6aT6940R1

— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) September 14, 2020

#OnThisDay in the 2️⃣0️⃣0️⃣7️⃣ T20 World Cup, India beat Pakistan 3️⃣-0️⃣ in a bowl out, after the match ended in a tie after 20 overs. 🤩#PlayBold #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/8RNA5U3Dak

— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) September 14, 2020

In the tournament, India managed victories over South Africa and England in the Super-Six stage, after facing defeat against New Zealand.

In the semi-finals, they trumped past the might of the Australian team. The ‘Men in Blue�?met Pakistan again in the final of the tournament at Johannesburg.

In the end, it was Dhoni’s men who held their nerves and went on to clinch the coveted trophy. It was India’s first major multilateral tournament win after the 1983 World Cup.

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When T20 format was in nascent stages, in the event of a tie, the winners were determined by a ‘bowl-out’.

A ‘bowl-out’ was analogous to the penalties of soccer. Only instead of goals, bowlers had to hit the wickets. The best out of five bowl-outs were deemed winners.

Super Over then replaced the rule, but ?not before it stimulated excitement in a high-octane India-Pakistan World Cu?p clash.

During the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007, India and Pakistan faced off in a group encounter in Durban. After the match was tied, the winners were determined by a blockbuster ‘bowl-out’.

Now, the then-bowling coach of the Indian team, Venkatesh Prasad has opened up to the preparations which took place for the ‘bowl-out’.

“We had gone through the rules and regulations of the World Cup. When there was a tied game, there was no Super Over back then, there was a bowl out. Obviously we always use to practice it,” Prasad told Ravichandran Ashwin on Youtube show ‘DRS with Ash’.

Even the squad mem?bers of the Indian team revealed about the training? drills which took place in the event of the match getting tied.

“We had this competition between batsmen and bowlers. Most of the batsmen wanted to bowl as well, like MS Dhoni, Sehwag, and Robin Uthappa. We had this competition in these nets,” Prasad continued.

The player with the maximum accuracy was then nominate??d for the bowl-out. Interestingly, th??e best from the competition were part-timers Virender Sehwag and Robin Uthappa.

“I was looking at what was happening from behind. So I knew who was hitting the wickets consistently. That’s when I saw Sehwag hitting, Uthappa hitting and Harbhajan hitting,” the former Indian pacer added.

“So we said okay fine. Nobody expected that our very first match will have a bowl-out. It was a tight game. It was a bowl-out. It was not hard for me to convince MS Dhoni, saying ‘these are the guys who are doing well’.

“We had to take our chances as well. We did take a bit of chance there, having Sehwag and Uthappa I had to back my instinct and make a decision. The slower bowlers are more in control of their bodies and delivery. They had a straight-arm action.”

In the end, the faith entrusted on the part-timers paid rich dividends ?for Dhoni and Co., as Sehwag, Uthappa and Harbhajan Singh were on target in the bowl-out.

Meanwhile, Shahid Afridi, Umar Gul and Yasir Arafat, all three regular bowlers, missed their targets and India ended up winning the thril??ler.

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