A freak injury to New Zealand’s star all-rounder Rachin Ravindra during an ODI match against Pakistan at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore has triggered heated discussions ahead of the much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy. The incident, which saw Ravindra suffer a serious injury after misjudging a catch due to the glare from the floodlights, has raised questions about the lighting setup at the historic venue.
The left-handed batter, who has been a pivotal part of New Zealand’s limited-overs setup, was fielding at deep square leg when he lost sight of the ball under the floodlights, resulting in an ugly collision with the ground. The impact left him bloodied and forced him off the field, casting doubts over his participation in the upcoming ICC event.
While concerns over the lighting infrastructure have surfaced, the response from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and some former cricketers has been dismissive. While some experts have acknowledged potential issues with the stadium’s LED floodlights, others have shifted the blame onto Ravindra, claiming that the error was purely on his part.
The Floodlight Controversy: Divided Opinions
Salman Butt Defends PCB
Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt was one of the strongest voices defending the floodlight arrangement at Gaddafi Stadium. Speaking on a local television channel, he criticized the claims that the PCB should be held accountable for Ravindra’s injury and dismissed any notion of relocating the Champions Trophy to another country.
“There’s no point trying to make people understand when they don’t want to. It’s irrelevant. These are some of the latest LED lights that have been installed, so these are fine. When New Zealand players hit sixes off deliveries bowled at close to 150 kph, were the lights not working then?” Butt questioned, indirectly blaming Ravindra for his misjudgment.
Butt further suggested that the all-rounder’s injury might have been due to his own mistake rather than a fault in the lighting system. “A player who was standing 70 meters away failed to take the catch because of his misjudgment. He is a fine fielder, but perhaps his leg slipped, and he got hurt.”
Pakistani News Anchor Compares Lahore to Barabati Stadium
Adding to the debate, a Pakistani news anchor highlighted a similar issue during a match at India’s Barabati Stadium, where a floodlight failure briefly halted play during the recent ODI between India and England.
“Like some of the prior campaigns that stated Pakistan cannot host a tournament as big as the Champions Trophy because the stadiums are not ready, I want to ask the same people, ‘What do you have to say about what happened in Barabati Stadium? That is an established stadium.’ So, I want to say that these things happen. These are not big issues. Just because Rachin was hit in the face doesn’t mean that PCB is to be blamed for it.”
However, such arguments do little to address the specific concerns raised regarding the placement and intensity of the floodlights at Gaddafi Stadium.
A Persistent Issue? Some Experts Disagree
Despite some dismissing the concerns, there are experts who believe that Pakistan’s infrastructure may not be up to the standards required for a major ICC event like the Champions Trophy.
Former Pakistan cricketer Tanvir Ahmed raised an important point about Pakistan’s financial constraints in maintaining international-standard stadiums.
“We don’t even have the money. Whatever is done to maintain the stadiums comes from state associations,” Tanvir Ahmed admitted, pointing toward PCB’s financial struggles in ensuring top-notch infrastructure for high-profile tournaments.
Shoaib Hanif and Daryl Mitchell’s Observations
The son of Pakistan’s legendary cricketer Hanif Mohammad, Shoaib Hanif, made a crucial observation regarding the positioning of the floodlights. He pointed out that New Zealand all-rounder Daryl Mitchell had already hinted at visibility issues before Ravindra’s injury.
“Most definitely. In fact, before the whole Rachin Ravindra incident, I noticed that even Daryl Mitchell had some trouble spotting the ball when he was fielding. The moment he took the catch, at a normal height, I noticed that his expressions indicated that he couldn’t quite see the ball properly,” Shoaib said.
This observation suggests that Ravindra’s injury may not have been an isolated case, and there could indeed be issues with the LED lighting at the stadium.
“So if he too faced the same problem, something is wrong. The placement of the floodlights is a technical aspect. Rachin was standing at deep square leg, and the light was right before him. Now, that is not usually where floodlights are erected in a stadium. There is some glare due to which the ball is getting lost in the players’ vision.”
These technical concerns, if validated further, could pose a major challenge for Pakistan’s preparation for the Champions Trophy, given that floodlights play a crucial role in night games.
The Champions Trophy in Jeopardy?
With the ICC Champions Trophy set to be hosted by Pakistan, the debate over whether the country is ready to stage a global tournament has reignited. The political and security challenges surrounding the tournament were already a point of contention, and the latest concerns regarding stadium infrastructure could add to Pakistan’s woes.
This is not the first time that Pakistan’s stadiums have been questioned for their readiness. During previous ICC events, concerns over pitch conditions, security, and crowd management have been raised, leading to some cricketing nations hesitating to tour Pakistan.
Some critics have even suggested that the Champions Trophy could be moved to the UAE as a backup option if Pakistan fails to address these logistical concerns.
What Needs to Be Done?
As the debate rages on, immediate corrective measures need to be taken to prevent further incidents like Ravindra’s. Here’s what PCB could consider:
1. Floodlight Adjustment and Testing
- Conduct extensive tests under match conditions to analyze the glare factor.
- Adjust the angle and intensity of the LED lights to reduce blind spots on the field.
2. Player Safety Protocols
- Ensure that players are aware of visibility issues in certain areas of the field.
- Implement extra precautionary measures like clear communication between fielders.
3. ICC Inspection Ahead of Champions Trophy
- The International Cricket Council (ICC) must inspect the stadium’s lighting infrastructure to ensure it meets global standards.
- If found faulty, immediate corrections must be made before the Champions Trophy.
The injury to Rachin Ravindra has not only sparked debates about player safety but also about Pakistan’s preparedness to host a major ICC tournament. While some former cricketers and PCB officials have dismissed concerns, others have pointed out real issues with the floodlight setup at Gaddafi Stadium.
As the ICC prepares for the Champions Trophy, all eyes will be on how Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) handles these concerns. Whether it’s an isolated incident or a larger problem that could impact future matches, a solution needs to be found quickly to avoid further controversies.
For now, the cricketing world hopes for Rachin Ravindra’s quick recovery while keeping a close watch on Pakistan’s ability to deliver a world-class tournament.
Sheldon Jackson Retires from Professional Cricket
One of Saurashtra’s most consistent and decorated cricketers, Sheldon Jackson, has announced his retirement from professional cricket after a stellar 15-year career. The 38-year-old batter made the decision following Saurashtra’s Ranji Trophy quarterfinal loss to Gujarat, bringing down the curtains on a career marked by resilience, consistency, and significant contributions to domestic cricket.
With 7,200+ first-class runs in 105 matches, 21 centuries, 39 half-centuries, and an average of over 45, Jackson leaves behind an inspiring legacy in Indian domestic cricket. His highest first-class score of 186 exemplifies his ability to play long and impactful innings, and his success in the red-ball format cemented his reputation as one of Saurashtra’s finest batters.
A Career Marked by Consistency and Determination
Jackson’s career began in December 2011, when he made his Ranji Trophy debut for Saurashtra after being on the fringes of selection for three years. The breakthrough came during the 2012-13 season, where he was a pivotal force in Saurashtra’s charge towards their first-ever Ranji Trophy final. He scored four fifties and three hundreds, including back-to-back centuries in the quarterfinal and semifinal against Karnataka and Punjab, respectively.
His performances that season earned him a well-deserved call-up to the India A squad for a home series against West Indies A, a testament to his batting prowess. While he never made it to the national team, Jackson remained one of the most dependable batters in domestic cricket, playing a key role in Saurashtra’s Ranji Trophy-winning campaign in 2019-20 and their second run to the final in 2015-16.
Even in his final Ranji Trophy match against Gujarat, he fought hard with scores of 14 and 27, but Saurashtra ultimately succumbed to a defeat by an innings and 98 runs.
A Multi-Talented Cricketer
Jackson was more than just a batsman. He was a highly skilled wicketkeeper, often taking up the gloves in limited-overs cricket for Saurashtra. In first-class cricket, however, he played primarily as a specialist batter due to the presence of Sagar Jogiyani, who handled the wicketkeeping responsibilities.
Additionally, Jackson was an excellent fielder, known for his sharp reflexes and safe hands in the slip cordon. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game made him an invaluable member of the Saurashtra team for over a decade.
Success in Limited-Overs Cricket
While Jackson was primarily known for his first-class exploits, he also had a solid career in white-ball cricket. Just last month, he announced his retirement from limited-overs cricket, having amassed 2,792 runs in 84 innings. His highest score in List A cricket was an unbeaten 133, which he struck during the Vijay Hazare Trophy in 2022.
Over his List A career, he registered nine centuries and 14 half-centuries, further proving his adaptability across formats. His ability to switch gears and accelerate when needed made him an asset in the shorter formats, even though his greatest impact remained in red-ball cricket.
A Stint in the IPL
Jackson’s talent did not go unnoticed at the IPL level. He was picked by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) after being spotted by former Bengal cricketer Joydeep Mukherjee. Although he did not get many opportunities to showcase his abilities in the IPL, his selection reflected the impact he had made in domestic cricket.
Despite limited IPL success, Jackson continued to dominate domestic cricket, consistently piling on runs for Saurashtra year after year.
Legacy and Impact on Saurashtra Cricket
Jackson’s dedication to Saurashtra cricket played a major role in elevating the team’s status in India’s domestic circuit. He was a crucial figure in Saurashtra’s rise as a formidable team, particularly in their Ranji Trophy triumph in 2019-20, when they clinched their maiden title.
His performances in knockout matches were particularly noteworthy. Whether it was the 2012-13 season, where he carried Saurashtra to their first final, or the 2019-20 triumph, Jackson remained one of the biggest match-winners for his team.
Retirement and Future Plans
As Jackson bids farewell to professional cricket, he leaves with no regrets, having achieved remarkable consistency over his 15-year career. His contributions have been lauded by teammates, cricket analysts, and former cricketers who recognize his impact on Saurashtra cricket.
Though Jackson has not yet revealed his post-retirement plans, there is speculation that he could take up coaching or commentary, given his vast experience and knowledge of the game. His insight into batting techniques, mental resilience, and adaptability could make him an asset in a mentorship role for young cricketers.
A Farewell to a Domestic Cricket Stalwart
In an era where international recognition often overshadows domestic achievements, Sheldon Jackson’s career stands as a reminder of the rich talent pool in Indian cricket beyond the national team. His consistency, versatility, and match-winning ability made him one of the finest batters to have played in the Ranji Trophy.
Though he may not have donned the India jersey, Jackson’s contributions to Saurashtra cricket remain undeniable. He walks away from the game as a true servant of Indian domestic cricket, having played his heart out every time he stepped onto the field.
As he moves on to the next phase of his life, Indian cricket bids farewell to one of its most prolific domestic run-scorers, whose legacy will continue to inspire upcoming generations of cricketers.
Gujarat Titans Set for New Owners as Torrent Group Eyes Majority Stake
Former Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Gujarat Titans (GT) are set for a significant ownership shift as Torrent Group, one of India’s leading business conglomerates, is in advanced talks to acquire a 67 per cent stake in the franchise from CVC Capital Partners (Irelia Company Pvt Ltd). The deal, awaiting final approval from the IPL Governing Council, could be finalized before the 2025 IPL season, with the upcoming 2024 edition beginning on March 21.
An IPL source, speaking to PTI under the condition of anonymity, confirmed the development, stating that discussions between CVC and Torrent Group have reached an advanced stage.
“The talks of Torrent Group taking two-thirds ownership (67 per cent) is at an advanced stage. The lock-in period for CVC group as sole owners ends in February 2025, after which they are free to sell the stakes,” the source revealed.
If approved, Torrent Group will assume control of the Ahmedabad-based franchise, which made a remarkable entry into the IPL by winning the 2022 title in its debut season.
Torrent Group’s Expansion into Cricket
Torrent Group, valued at approximately ₹41,000 crore, is one of India’s most well-established conglomerates, with strongholds in pharmaceuticals, power, and infrastructure. The group has long been interested in the IPL ecosystem, having previously bid for the Ahmedabad and Lucknow franchises during the 2021 IPL expansion auction. Their ₹4,653 crore bid for the Ahmedabad team and ₹4,356 crore bid for the Lucknow team fell short, with CVC Capital securing the Titans and RPSG Group (Sanjeev Goenka) acquiring Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
Torrent Group also attempted to expand into women’s cricket by bidding for a franchise in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) but was unsuccessful in securing a team.
This acquisition would mark Torrent Group’s first official entry into IPL ownership, adding another major Indian corporate player to the league’s roster of franchise owners.
CVC Capital’s Exit and Gujarat Titans’ Journey
CVC Capital Partners, a global private equity firm, purchased Gujarat Titans for ₹5,625 crore in 2021. Despite initial scrutiny regarding their investments in sports betting companies, they received BCCI approval to own the franchise.
Under the leadership of Hardik Pandya, the Titans won the IPL title in 2022, making history as the only team to win the tournament in its debut season since Rajasthan Royals in 2008. They followed up their stellar debut with a runner-up finish in 2023, narrowly losing the final to Chennai Super Kings.
However, the 2024 season proved challenging for the franchise. With Shubman Gill taking over the captaincy after Hardik Pandya’s return to Mumbai Indians, the team struggled, finishing in eighth place on the points table.
Despite the disappointing season, Gujarat Titans remain a strong squad with key international and domestic players. The team boasts Afghanistan’s spin wizard Rashid Khan, England white-ball captain Jos Buttler, and India’s pace spearhead Mohammed Siraj, among others.
With Torrent Group potentially taking over, the new ownership will be tasked with rejuvenating the team’s performance and reinforcing its status as a top IPL franchise.
Approval from IPL Governing Council and Valuation of the Deal
The deal is still pending approval from the IPL Governing Council, as any ownership change requires the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to review and authorize the transaction.
“Obviously, any change in ownership pattern requires approval from BCCI, which is expected to be given in the coming days,” the IPL source added.
While the exact valuation of the 67 per cent stake being sold by CVC Capital is not publicly disclosed, it is expected to be a multi-thousand crore deal, considering CVC’s original investment in the franchise.
With IPL team valuations soaring in recent years—Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, and Kolkata Knight Riders being valued at over ₹8,000 crore each—the deal is expected to place Gujarat Titans in a premium bracket within IPL franchises.
What This Means for Gujarat Titans
New Strategic Direction
Torrent Group’s entry into IPL ownership could bring fresh investments, new management strategies, and a revamped approach to team building and branding.
The conglomerate’s deep financial resources may lead to upgraded infrastructure, support staff enhancements, and a larger focus on grassroots development.
Retaining Core Players and Strengthening Squad
Gujarat Titans have a solid squad, but they struggled in 2024.
The new ownership might look to strengthen weak areas, bring in fresh coaching staff, and reassess team dynamics ahead of the 2025 season.
Expanding Gujarat Titans’ Brand and Commercial Reach
Torrent Group’s involvement could boost commercial deals, sponsorships, and marketing reach for Gujarat Titans.
With Gujarat’s massive cricket-loving fanbase, the team has the potential to become a long-term IPL powerhouse.
Final Approval and the Road Ahead
If BCCI approves the sale, the Gujarat Titans will become the latest IPL team to undergo a major ownership change. With the 2024 season set to kick off on March 21, the transaction will likely be finalized after the tournament, ensuring a smooth transition of control before IPL 2025.
Torrent Group’s arrival heralds a new chapter for Gujarat Titans, and fans will be eager to see how the franchise rebuilds and strategizes under its new owners.
For now, Gujarat Titans will focus on the upcoming IPL season, but the long-term vision will likely shift once Torrent Group officially takes charge.
