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The Narendra Modi cricket Stadium, the largest cricket ground in the world

Cricket Grounds in India: From the Biggest to the Oldest

India, passionate about cricket, boasts 53 stadiums, surpassing others by a large margin. Cricket isn't just a game; it's a way of life, with professional stadiums serving as dreams' birthplaces. ZAP explores India's cricket ground history, spotlighting iconic venues like Kolkata's Eden Gardens and Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. From historical matches to IPL team homes, each ground holds unique significance. The Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad reigns as India's largest, while the Eden Gardens stands as the oldest, dating back to 1864.

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Yuvraj Singh celebrates with a roar after knocking Australia out of the 2011 World Cup

Yuvraj Singh: The Hero of the Indian Cricket Team

Yuvraj Singh, an iconic Indian cricketer, epitomizes the spirit of sports by overcoming both on-field challenges and a battle with cancer. From his early days shaped by his father, former cricketer Yograj Singh, to achieving milestones in international cricket, Yuvraj's journey is marked by resilience. Notably, his stellar performances in the 2007 T20 World Cup, where he hit six consecutive sixes, and the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, where he battled health issues to help India win, showcase his indomitable spirit. Beyond cricket, Yuvraj's autobiography, "The Test of My Life," delves into his triumphs and the emotional fight against cancer. His impact in the IPL, fielding prowess, and numerous records, including being the first to hit six sixes in a T20I over, further solidify his cricket legacy.

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Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli

Who is the New King of Cricket: Shubman Gill vs Babar Azam?

Virat Kohli, the Modern King of Cricket, is defined by aura, dedication, and excellence. The article explores potential successors, focusing on Shubman Gill and Babar Azam. Gill, a rising Indian star, displays exceptional talent but lacks Kohli's leadership and energy. Babar Azam, Pakistan's batting gem, competes with Kohli but falls short in influence and captaincy. The conclusion firmly crowns Virat Kohli as the current King of Cricket, emphasizing his unparalleled legacy and impact on the sport.

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The Rajasthan Royals Team players pose for the IPL Team photo

Rajasthan Royals Cricket Team: IPL's Best Underdog Story

The Rajasthan Royals Cricket Team, led by Shane Warne, achieved a remarkable underdog victory in the inaugural 2008 IPL. Despite ownership challenges and a 2-year ban in 2016-2017, their IPL journey has seen highs and lows. Notable players include Sanju Samson and Shane Warne. The team's home ground is Sawai Mansingh Stadium, and their iconic slogan is "Halla Bol." The Royals have a historic rivalry with Punjab Kings. Key records include Sanju Samson's 3,211 runs and the highest team score of 226/6. Despite inconsistency, optimism persists with young talents, guided by experienced players like Yuzvendra Chahal and Jos Buttler.

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The Indian Cricket Team players MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and Axar Patel take Yo Yo Test

Yo-Yo Test in Cricket: The Ultimate Fitness Challenge

In modern cricket, fitness is crucial for players to excel in diverse formats. The Yo-Yo test, a running aerobic challenge, assesses athletes' endurance and is embraced by cricket teams globally. The Indian Cricket Team, led by Virat Kohli, adopted it as a fitness benchmark. The test involves shuttle runs at increasing speeds, with failure after three missed shuttles. Different teams have varying benchmarks; India's is 17.1. Notable players like Alastair Cook and Shubman Gill have high scores. The debate on its necessity persists, but for many, clearing the Yo-Yo test remains a prerequisite for team selection.

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Rahul Tewatia Does a parachute Running drill for fast bowling. Credits: Red Bull

Fast Bowling Gym Workouts and Exercises

Fast bowling is a sport that demands agility, stamina, and explosiveness. It requires a strong body to endure prolonged periods without discomfort. Fast bowlers typically bowl for 8-10 bowlers on the trot, requiring a strong body to bowl overs without sweating. To develop endurance and speed, fast bowlers run large distances and sprint, with 90% of their training involving running. Plyometrics focus on explosive movements, improving power, strength, and athletic performance. Drills like Box Jumps and Alternate Jump Lunges build leg strength and conditioning. Soft landings help increase strength and protect joints, ensuring joint health. The introduction of elastic components in jumping exercises can enhance muscle flexibility, but mastering earlier phases is crucial to reduce injury risk. Fast bowling gym workouts include squats, lunges, box jumps, calves raises, leg press, dumbbell overhead press, lateral raises, landmine presses, and core workouts.

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Kapil Dev plays a flick shot while batting

Ranking the Best All Rounders in Cricket History

Cricket's essence lies in all-rounders, players excelling in batting, bowling, and fielding. Legends like Sir Garfield Sobers, Jacques Kallis, and Kapil Dev epitomize this versatility. Sobers, praised by Don Bradman, stands as the greatest all-rounder. Kallis, a force for South Africa, showcased unmatched stats and composure. Kapil Dev's 1983 World Cup heroics underline his Indian cricket legacy. Imran Khan, Ian Botham, Shaun Pollock, Andrew Flintoff, Sanath Jayasuriya, Shahid Afridi, and Ben Stokes also left indelible marks. T20 cricket spotlights all-rounders like Shane Watson, Shakib Al Hasan, Ravindra Jadeja, Glenn Maxwell, and Dwayne Bravo, each bringing unique skills. Cricket's rich history boasts diverse talents, each contributing uniquely to the sport's allure.

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Glenn Maxwell batting in the Melbourne Stars vs Melbourne Renegades match

The Big Bash League (BBL): Australia's T20 Extravaganza

Australia's rich cricket tradition includes the dominant Australian Cricket Team and the electrifying Big Bash League (BBL). BBL, similar to India's IPL, features 8 teams playing T20 cricket in large Australian stadiums. The league's format, iconic rivalries, and past winners contribute to its charm. Melbourne Derby and Sydney Derby showcase fierce competition, while Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers emerge as the standout teams. BBL's unique features include a 'bat flip,' Finals at the points leader's home ground, and player insights through camera and mic systems. The league's international appeal includes players like Rashid Khan and Dwayne Bravo, but Indian male players are restricted due to BCCI contracts. While expansion is considered, the focus remains on maintaining competitiveness and inclusivity.

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James Anderson raises a cricket ball to celebrate a fifer

James "Jimmy" Anderson: The Swing Bowling Maestro

James Anderson, at 41, defies cricket norms, remaining a top Test bowler. From Lancashire beginnings, he evolved into a swing maestro, boasting records like 600 Test wickets and top ICC ranking at 40. His refined bowling style, versatile swing, and numerous achievements mark him as cricket's GOAT fast bowler.

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