Amlan Chakraborty

The old adage that sports and politics do not mix will ring hollow again when former champions India and Pakistan clash in a geopolitically charged World Cup match months after being on the verge of war. Tensions run high in any sporting contest featuring the nuclear-armed neighbours who have fought two of their three wars since independence over Kashmir, which both claim in full but rule in part. … [Read more...] about Sports and politics to mix again in Pakistan, India match-up

NEW DELHI: A ball-tampering scandal that devastated Australia cast a dark cloud over a dramatic cricketing year during which England soared, master Indian batsman Virat Kohli shone and two new test-playing countries underwent a baptism of fire. Even if Cameron Bancroft’s career survives ‘Sandpapergate’, the 26-year-old will remain the face of the worst scandal in Australian cricket since Trevor … [Read more...] about ‘Sandpapergate’ scandal dominates cricketing year

Pakistan have long been regarded as one of cricket’s most unpredictable sides, but now their long-suffering army of fans can finally enjoy the benefits of a new level of dependability, at least in the shortest format of the sport. Consistency has never been a strong point for Pakistan, who, over the years, have built a formidable reputation as a side with a legendary ability to self-destruct. … [Read more...] about Pakistan show rare consistency to scale T20 summit

NEW DELHI: Steve Smith helmed Australia’s successful Ashes mission and India proved impregnable at home but it was cricket exiles Pakistan who had the most memorable year in 2017. Top teams have shunned the South Asian country since gunmen in Lahore attacked a bus carrying the visiting Sri Lankan side in 2009, killing eight locals and wounding six players and a British coach. Eight years on from … [Read more...] about Pakistan warm hearts, India and Australia shine at home