Indian star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant etched his name into the history books during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, becoming the first Indian cricketer to smash 100 sixes in Test cricket.


Rishabh Pant first Indian to hit 100 sixes in Test cricket

<p>Indian cricket team is currently going through a spate of injuries with the latest one being Jasprit Bumrah, who recently withdrew from upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. Before him, Washington Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy had suffered injuries with B Sai Sudharsan in the squad subject to fitness. In the recent times, it has been observed that players are suffering from injuries more often despite the fitness being focused upon more than ever. The BCCI is also planning to bring more fitness standards to ensure the players remain injury free but the question remains - what is causing the injuries?</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/women-s-asia-cup-2026-schedule-announced-india-vs-pakistan-on-sep-5-1786030626541">Women's Asia Cup 2026 schedule announced, India vs Pakistan on Sep 5</a></p><p>WION spoke to sports strength and conditioning coach Jivesh Bali, who also played cricket for Punjab, about the injuries plaguing the Indian cricket and he pointed out less recovery time as the main reason for the injuries. Jivesh has experience working with athletes in events like Nepal Premier League, World Legends Pro T20 League, and is a certified cricket strength and conditioning training specialist.</p><p>“If we talk about the injuries, there's nothing to talk about the fitness levels rather than it's about the recovery management. In India, the athletes are suffering from this work overload. The athletes nowadays are being over-trained by the coaches you can say or by the management or by the federation so the recovery is one thing that is the main issue in re-occurring those injuries which athletes are going through.”</p><p>Bali also spoke about Jasprit Bumrah's case in particular to explain the workload being experienced by the players and said: "Bumrah was continuously playing all three formats, i.e., Test match, ODIs, T20Is before his first injury happened. And because of his packed schedule, there is no time between all those high intensity cricket formats, leaving him no time for the recovery.</p><p>"A single player being pushed to all the three formats leaves little time for recovery and there is so much load on the muscles, joints, complete body that it needs time to recover. And, there is no time for that hence athletes are going through the injuries.</p><p>"There is not a question about their fitness levels or the sports science because India has the world's top notch sports science setups now. The question is the recovery management - 'Are you giving them the proper duration to recover themselves from the high intensity cricket?' Whether it is 5-day, red ball cricket or the white ball cricket."</p><h2>The BCCI is planning to include the 2K test and they already have the Bronco test. What is the difference if you could talk us about it?</h2><p>If we talk about Bronco test, there was a drill earlier athletes used to do that was the shuttle run in which there is the distance between 40 meters and 80 meters and then you have to basically run high intensity. The athletes then change direction and have to run back to the cones and then again to the another level so basically this mimics the movements in cricket, such as running between the wicket.</p><p>The same is being mimicked in the Bronco test in which one has to run between the wickets to and fro. You have to be agile enough to quickly change the direction and then come forward, come back to that position. Basically Bronco test is targeting the high intensity aerobic thing. As for 2K, it is for enhancing cardiovascular conditioning. It helps to get a better resting heart rate, which helps during the match.</p><p>Bronco test is always a little bit a step higher than the 2k test for pacers, batters, fielders and for the spinners. I'll say both the tests, Bronco and 2K, are more or less equal.</p><h2>You think that BCCI introducing these standardized Bronco test and 2K fitness test will help reduce the injuries?</h2><p>These tests are working on the certain physical parameter that is the aerobic endurance and the high intensity. So to work on the injuries, they need to work on many other things like - a specific reason of why the athletes are getting injuries much more often.</p><p>I was doing that research and realized that athletes are not working on their biomechanics - Just giving you an example, in case of an injury, the athlete goes to the physiotherapist, or to the doctor to get the injury treated.</p><p>The other perspective which the athletes should be working on is - the prehab part. You know the rehab part, once the injury is done, then there is a rehab. The second perspective which is now booming nowadays is the prehab part to avoid the further more injury happening.</p><p>For prehab - first is the regular testing of the athletes which includes workload monitoring of the athletes so the management is aware of any potential injuries in future.</p><p>As for poor biomechanics, if a bowler is getting a recurring knee injuries if could be because of the wrong way of landing the front leg, hip rotation timing, or front foot striking.</p><p>These all issues need to be monitored on a regular basis to prevent, for example, the knee injury I've talked about. That's the one part you can prevent the knee injuries. Plus, the calendar, the schedule of the BCCI is very much hectic for the athletes.</p><p>If a single player is playing all the three formats and you are presenting your country at an international level, so it's always high intensity cricket. Then there is domestic cricket as well, then there is IPL as well which leaves no time of recovering.</p><p>They should be getting the pool of athletes, pool of players who are specialized in the different formats. Whether it is five-day cricket or white-ball, they should be have a different 15 altogether, different 15 for the test cricket, for T20 different 15 and for the ODI cricket different 15.</p><p>And plus one more thing, the body is not adapting to the like weather changes. The Indian team travels a lot whether it is in India or outside India as well. The body is not acclimatizing to the weather or the nutrition outside. It has to be taken in care of like the nutrition, the recovery management, the neuromuscular fatigue as well - Athletes need to be focusing on that as well and the sports science professionals also.</p><p>The BCCI has to think about this thing first that they need not to force any player or should not involve every player to play all the three formats. This is one thing which can solve the injury part to some extent.</p><h2>Also, you have worked with players across the globe of all age groups. How do foreign players or foreign cricket nations assess their players' fitness and what lessons do you think BCCI can take from them?</h2><p>The athletes in the foreign countries know what they are training for, the purpose for their training. In India, we can say the athletes are just in sport specific training, they are mimicking the movements, but the actual science says if you want to do the sport specific thing, you can only train the physical parameters. One has to work on the physical parameters.</p><p>If you are doing drills like mimicking the movements of the sport then it is just a waste of time. Instead of that, you should be focusing on the force development, energy transfer from lower body to upper body, your rotational skills, and your anti-rotational stability.</p><p>All these efforts need to be trained not just the movements. You have to train the physical parameters, agility, reflexes, force development, energy transfers, speed, and power. These are the physical parameters which I like feel like the players in the different countries are working on rather than focusing on any of the other fancy drills.</p><p>Also, their (foreign countries) recovery prospect is top notch. The performance is basically hard work minus your fatigue. In India, the places I have worked, I have worked with seven different including wrestlers, boxers, cyclists, track and field athletes, the cricketers as well, most of the athletes are over-training at their age.</p><p>And, the injuries are also reoccurring because the competition in India is that much high that a single player wants to play as soon as possible or as soon as he completes his fitness test. Once the fitness test is cleared, you have the green signal, but those tissues need proper recovery as well and joints, tissues need to be progressively overloaded.</p><p>It's not that you have gone through the injury, you have done the rehab part, you are back to sport and you are ready to play high intensity cricket. It takes time for these things.</p>

In the recent times, it has been observed that players are suffering from injuries more often despite the fitness being focused open more than ever. The BCCI is also planning to bring more fitness standards to ensure the players remain injury free but the question remains - what is causing the injuries?

Indian cricket team is currently going through a spate of injuries with the latest one being Jasprit Bumrah, who recently withdrew from upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. Before him, Washington Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy had suffered injuries with B Sai Sudharsan in the squad subject to fitness. In the recent times, it has been observed that players are suffering from injuries more often despite the fitness being focused upon more than ever. The BCCI is also planning to bring more fitness standards to ensure the players remain injury free but the question remains - what is causing the injuries? Also Read - Women's Asia Cup 2026 schedule announced, India vs Pakistan on Sep 5 WION spoke to sports strength and conditioning coach Jivesh Bali, who also played cricket for Punjab, about the injuries plaguing the Indian cricket and he pointed out less recovery time as the main reason for the injuries. Jivesh has experience working with athletes in events like Nepal Premier League, World Legends Pro T20 League, and is a certified cricket strength and conditioning training specialist. “If we talk about the injuries, there's nothing to talk about the fitness levels rather than it's about the recovery management. In India, the athletes are suffering from this work overload. The athletes nowadays are being over-trained by the coaches you can say or by the management or by the federation so the recovery is one thing that is the main issue in re-occurring those injuries which athletes are going through.” Bali also spoke about Jasprit Bumrah's case in particular to explain the workload being experienced by the players and said: "Bumrah was continuously playing all three formats, i.e., Test match, ODIs, T20Is before his first injury happened. And because of his packed schedule, there is no time between all those high intensity cricket formats, leaving him no time for the recovery. "A single player being pushed to all the three formats leaves little time for recovery and there is so much load on the muscles, joints, complete body that it needs time to recover. And, there is no time for that hence athletes are going through the injuries. "There is not a question about their fitness levels or the sports science because India has the world's top notch sports science setups now. The question is the recovery management - 'Are you giving them the proper duration to recover themselves from the high intensity cricket?' Whether it is 5-day, red ball cricket or the white ball cricket." The BCCI is planning to include the 2K test and they already have the Bronco test. What is the difference if you could talk us about it? If we talk about Bronco test, there was a drill earlier athletes used to do that was the shuttle run in which there is the distance between 40 meters and 80 meters and then you have to basically run high intensity. The athletes then change direction and have to run back to the cones and then again to the another level so basically this mimics the movements in cricket, such as running between the wicket. The same is being mimicked in the Bronco test in which one has to run between the wickets to and fro. You have to be agile enough to quickly change the direction and then come forward, come back to that position. Basically Bronco test is targeting the high intensity aerobic thing. As for 2K, it is for enhancing cardiovascular conditioning. It helps to get a better resting heart rate, which helps during the match. Bronco test is always a little bit a step higher than the 2k test for pacers, batters, fielders and for the spinners. I'll say both the tests, Bronco and 2K, are more or less equal. You think that BCCI introducing these standardized Bronco test and 2K fitness test will help reduce the injuries? These tests are working on the certain physical parameter that is the aerobic endurance and the high intensity. So to work on the injuries, they need to work on many other things like - a specific reason of why the athletes are getting injuries much more often. I was doing that research and realized that athletes are not working on their biomechanics - Just giving you an example, in case of an injury, the athlete goes to the physiotherapist, or to the doctor to get the injury treated. The other perspective which the athletes should be working on is - the prehab part. You know the rehab part, once the injury is done, then there is a rehab. The second perspective which is now booming nowadays is the prehab part to avoid the further more injury happening. For prehab - first is the regular testing of the athletes which includes workload monitoring of the athletes so the management is aware of any potential injuries in future. As for poor biomechanics, if a bowler is getting a recurring knee injuries if could be because of the wrong way of landing the front leg, hip rotation timing, or front foot striking. These all issues need to be monitored on a regular basis to prevent, for example, the knee injury I've talked about. That's the one part you can prevent the knee injuries. Plus, the calendar, the schedule of the BCCI is very much hectic for the athletes. If a single player is playing all the three formats and you are presenting your country at an international level, so it's always high intensity cricket. Then there is domestic cricket as well, then there is IPL as well which leaves no time of recovering. They should be getting the pool of athletes, pool of players who are specialized in the different formats. Whether it is five-day cricket or white-ball, they should be have a different 15 altogether, different 15 for the test cricket, for T20 different 15 and for the ODI cricket different 15. And plus one more thing, the body is not adapting to the like weather changes. The Indian team travels a lot whether it is in India or outside India as well. The body is not acclimatizing to the weather or the nutrition outside. It has to be taken in care of like the nutrition, the recovery management, the neuromuscular fatigue as well - Athletes need to be focusing on that as well and the sports science professionals also. The BCCI has to think about this thing first that they need not to force any player or should not involve every player to play all the three formats. This is one thing which can solve the injury part to some extent. Also, you have worked with players across the globe of all age groups. How do foreign players or foreign cricket nations assess their players' fitness and what lessons do you think BCCI can take from them? The athletes in the foreign countries know what they are training for, the purpose for their training. In India, we can say the athletes are just in sport specific training, they are mimicking the movements, but the actual science says if you want to do the sport specific thing, you can only train the physical parameters. One has to work on the physical parameters. If you are doing drills like mimicking the movements of the sport then it is just a waste of time. Instead of that, you should be focusing on the force development, energy transfer from lower body to upper body, your rotational skills, and your anti-rotational stability. All these efforts need to be trained not just the movements. You have to train the physical parameters, agility, reflexes, force development, energy transfers, speed, and power. These are the physical parameters which I like feel like the players in the different countries are working on rather than focusing on any of the other fancy drills. Also, their (foreign countries) recovery prospect is top notch. The performance is basically hard work minus your fatigue. In India, the places I have worked, I have worked with seven different including wrestlers, boxers, cyclists, track and field athletes, the cricketers as well, most of the athletes are over-training at their age. And, the injuries are also reoccurring because the competition in India is that much high that a single player wants to play as soon as possible or as soon as he completes his fitness test. Once the fitness test is cleared, you have the green signal, but those tissues need proper recovery as well and joints, tissues need to be progressively overloaded. It's not that you have gone through the injury, you have done the rehab part, you are back to sport and you are ready to play high intensity cricket. It takes time for these things.

<p>In the recent times, it has been observed that players are suffering from injuries more often despite the fitness being focused open more than ever. The BCCI is also planning to bring more fitness standards to ensure the players remain injury free but the question remains - what is causing the injuries?</p>

'Recovery management and no prehab': Strength and conditioning expert shares reason behind injuries in Indian cricket

Indian cricket veteran Ajinkya Rahane has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, bringing an end to a remarkable career spanning more than a decade. Rahane will forever be remembered for leading India to one of its greatest-ever Test triumphs during the historic 2020–21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Under his captaincy, India scripted the unforgettable Gabba victory after overcoming injuries and adversity to seal a memorable series win.

Ajinkya Rahane Announces Retirement From Cricket | Wion Sports 

Shafali Verma’s comeback story in the 2025 Women’s World Cup final is truly inspirational. Dropped from the Indian squad earlier in the year due to inconsistent performances and personal challenges, including her father's health issues, Shafali was surprisingly recalled as an injury replacement for the semifinals. Seizing the opportunity, she delivered a career-best 87 runs off 78 balls against South Africa, igniting India’s innings with fearless aggression and smart strike rotation.

Shafali Verma's Incredible Comeback: Dropped From Squad, Now a Game-Changer

Former India captain Rohit Sharma recently shared a picture captioned "One last time, signing off from Sydney." The post has sent social media into a frenzy, sparking speculation about the 38-year-old’s future with the Indian ODI team.

Rohit Sharma's 'One Last Time' Post Puts Social Media On Overdrive

Sydney’s iconic cricket ground turned into a celebration of Indian cricket, honoring the rich legacy, unforgettable matches, and passionate fans who have made the venue historic.


Sydney’s Iconic Cricket Ground Pays Tribute to Indian Cricket Legacy

<p>Cricket broadcaster Sanjay Manjrekar is known for making bold statements, and this time was no different. Lately, he has made some remarks on why Jasprit Bumrah should not be Team India’s frontline seamer, also suggesting how he, and not Indian cricket, must be the one adjusting. Meanwhile, Bumrah was part of the recently concluded England Tests, featuring in just three of the five matches, as also earlier suggested by the NCA and team doctors, considering his persistent back injuries over the years. While India did not win any match that he featured in, the pace attack fared well in his absence, helping India come from behind and square the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy (2-2).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Manjrekar, who called out the games from the commentary box, shared his opinion in his column for Hindustan Times (HT), suggesting that the selectors must now take some harsh calls to safeguard players’ careers and, more importantly, Indian cricket.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-t20i-captain-suryakumar-yadav-clears-fitness-test-ahead-of-asia-cup-squad-selection-1755358373766"><strong>India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav clears fitness test ahead of Asia Cup squad selection</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>"The game will always show us the mirror, however much we try and gloss over things. It was poetic justice that the two Tests India won were two matches Bumrah did not play,” Manjrekar wrote. "This should embolden the Indian selectors to make some hard choices when it comes to big-name players. This series has been a great lesson to them and to us too, the two Test victories India achieved did not feature Virat (Kohli), (Cheteshwar) Pujara, Rohit (Sharma), (Mohammed) Shami and Bumrah too! It reminded us of the eternal truth of sport and life, no one, however great, is indispensable. And this is how India must handle Bumrah," he added in his column for HT.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The former India and Mumbai batter also wrote that if Bumrah cannot play two games in a row or even more on the upcoming tours, he must not be leading the pace attack.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"If he cannot play more than two matches in a row or sometimes even more than one, he must not be your frontline pick. Players who are match fit, eager, keen to play and perform should be picked any day for me over a highly skilled player. It will motivate such enthusiastic players even more. This is not an idealistic position to take, but it’s the right one for the long-term health of a team sport," Manjrekar continued.</p><h3>‘He must adjust to Indian Cricket’<br>&nbsp;</h3><p>However, he dropped his boldest remark on Bumrah, saying no one is bigger than the game, and that he should be the one adjusting to how Indian Cricket operates and not the other way around. He also suggested that longevity and durability are imperative for Jasprit, and given his status, he must be 100% fit and ready to deliver for his team whenever they need him.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"As for Bumrah, of whom I am a fan, if he really wants to serve Indian Test cricket, longevity and durability is an imperative for him, it’s after all, the true test of a great athlete is to still turn up when not 100% fit and deliver."<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"Indian cricket must not adjust for Bumrah, Bumrah must. That is, if he wants to. By making some tough choices or working even harder on his fitness, this fitness bar can be raised to whatever levels one wants, like all fast bowling greats have done before him," Manjrekar added.</p>

Manjrekar suggests that the selectors must now take some harsh calls to safeguard players’ careers and, more importantly, Indian cricket.

Cricket broadcaster Sanjay Manjrekar is known for making bold statements, and this time was no different. Lately, he has made some remarks on why Jasprit Bumrah should not be Team India’s frontline seamer, also suggesting how he, and not Indian cricket, must be the one adjusting. Meanwhile, Bumrah was part of the recently concluded England Tests, featuring in just three of the five matches, as also earlier suggested by the NCA and team doctors, considering his persistent back injuries over the years. While India did not win any match that he featured in, the pace attack fared well in his absence, helping India come from behind and square the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy (2-2). Manjrekar, who called out the games from the commentary box, shared his opinion in his column for Hindustan Times (HT), suggesting that the selectors must now take some harsh calls to safeguard players’ careers and, more importantly, Indian cricket. Also read | India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav clears fitness test ahead of Asia Cup squad selection "The game will always show us the mirror, however much we try and gloss over things. It was poetic justice that the two Tests India won were two matches Bumrah did not play,” Manjrekar wrote. "This should embolden the Indian selectors to make some hard choices when it comes to big-name players. This series has been a great lesson to them and to us too, the two Test victories India achieved did not feature Virat (Kohli), (Cheteshwar) Pujara, Rohit (Sharma), (Mohammed) Shami and Bumrah too! It reminded us of the eternal truth of sport and life, no one, however great, is indispensable. And this is how India must handle Bumrah," he added in his column for HT. The former India and Mumbai batter also wrote that if Bumrah cannot play two games in a row or even more on the upcoming tours, he must not be leading the pace attack. "If he cannot play more than two matches in a row or sometimes even more than one, he must not be your frontline pick. Players who are match fit, eager, keen to play and perform should be picked any day for me over a highly skilled player. It will motivate such enthusiastic players even more. This is not an idealistic position to take, but it’s the right one for the long-term health of a team sport," Manjrekar continued. ‘He must adjust to Indian Cricket’ However, he dropped his boldest remark on Bumrah, saying no one is bigger than the game, and that he should be the one adjusting to how Indian Cricket operates and not the other way around. He also suggested that longevity and durability are imperative for Jasprit, and given his status, he must be 100% fit and ready to deliver for his team whenever they need him. "As for Bumrah, of whom I am a fan, if he really wants to serve Indian Test cricket, longevity and durability is an imperative for him, it’s after all, the true test of a great athlete is to still turn up when not 100% fit and deliver." "Indian cricket must not adjust for Bumrah, Bumrah must. That is, if he wants to. By making some tough choices or working even harder on his fitness, this fitness bar can be raised to whatever levels one wants, like all fast bowling greats have done before him," Manjrekar added.

<p>Manjrekar suggests that the selectors must now take some harsh calls to safeguard players’ careers and, more importantly, Indian cricket.</p>

‘Indian cricket must not adjust for Bumrah…’ Sanjay Manjrekar’s BOLD claim on Team India’s frontline quick

<p>Dubai and the Indian Cricket Team are the two focal points of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a>. Even though Pakistan is the designated host of the eight-tournament, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-new-zealand-set-up-summit-clash-with-india-after-beating-south-africa-8808040" rel="dofollow">Dubai will stage the mega final between India and New Zealand</a> this Sunday; fans worldwide, barring from India, are going all out against it, 'hate-watching' Indian cricket.</p>
<h2>So, how did Dubai come into Champions Trophy picture?&nbsp;</h2>
<p>After the ICC finalised Pakistan as the host for the first showpiece event of the year, the Indian cricket body BCCI refused to send its team across the border due to security concerns.</p>
<p>The BCCI formally informed the apex body about its decision late last year, later persuading them to convince the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to accept the hybrid model for India to play, which they were already familiar with, having co-hosted the 2023 Asia Cup along with Sri Lanka.</p>
<p>The PCB sternly rejected this offer initially, urging the ICC to convince India to travel to Pakistan like every other participating nation. After receiving a firm no from its counterpart, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pakistan-agree-to-hybrid-model-but-place-few-conditions-report-780604" rel="dofollow">PCB eventually accepted the hybrid model</a>, and India confirmed its participation. The ICC and the PCB zeroed in on Dubai as the neutral venue to host all India matches.</p>
<p>Soon, the tournament itinerary was out, and India, placed in Group A, was scheduled to play all its matches in Dubai, including the knockouts.</p>
<p>The ICC formulated the schedule in such a way that, should India qualify for the semis, regardless of where they finish on the points table, they will face their opponents in Dubai on a fixed date. This was seen by some critics as a mockery of the regular system that used to determine who faces who in the last four of an ICC event.</p>
<h3>Where did the problem begin?</h3>
<p>Unaware of the upcoming logistical challenges, all participating teams kept quiet about the schedule earlier. But trouble began once the tournament began and every team in India&rsquo;s group, including the host Pakistan, started to travel back and forth to Dubai.</p>
<p>While every other team had to change hotels, venues and training grounds regularly, India had the privilege of staying put at the same hotel in Dubai, practice at the same training ground and, importantly, play all their matches at the same venue, requiring less effort to acclimatise to the conditions compared to others.<br><br>Going by the results of their contested matches thus far, India simply played better cricket and looked more composed across both innings, which helped them stay at the top.&nbsp;</p>
<p>However, fans from other countries, mainly Pakistan, flooded social media with counterarguments, showing displeasure over the host nation not getting a chance to stage the tournament finale.</p>
<h3>Who said what?</h3>
<p>Many journalists, analysts, former and current cricketers, and countless fans, began slamming the ICC, accusing them of favouring India in this tournament, with the others bearing the brunt.&nbsp;</p>
<p>While Pat Cummins denied making any remarks on India playing at one venue benefiting them, CODE Cricket &ndash; an Australian outlet, posted comments made by former England cricketer-turned-broadcaster Jonathan Agnew.</p>
<p>"I feel very uncomfortable about the way that India is being treated at the moment," he said in a chat with ABC Sport. "This is wrong; if you're going to play international tournaments, you can't pick and choose where you play and where you're not going to play. I don't see how long this can carry on for. It makes a farce of these tournaments.&rdquo;</p>
<p>Former England captains Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain also joined in. &ldquo;What about the advantage India have in playing in Dubai, only in Dubai? Which seems to me to be a hard-to-quantify advantage, but an undeniable advantage,&rdquo; Atherton said.&nbsp;</p>
<p>His long-time teammate and friend Hussain added, &ldquo;It is an advantage. So, the best team in the tournament have that advantage. And I saw a tweet the other day saying, &lsquo;Pakistan host nation, India home advantage.&rsquo; It sums it up really.&rdquo;</p>
<p>&ldquo;They are at one place, one hotel, they don&rsquo;t have to travel. They have one dressing room. They know the pitch, they have picked for that pitch.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;They were very smart in their selection. They probably knew what Dubai is going to be like. They picked all their spinners. There was a bit of debate with Indian media saying why don&rsquo;t you have gone for an extra seamer? Why all these spinners? Now we can see why,&rdquo; he continued.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sourav-gangulys-befitting-reply-to-england-broadcasters-over-india-enjoying-one-venue-advantage-in-champions-trophy-8773594" rel="dofollow">Ganguly&rsquo;s befitting reply to England broadcasters over India enjoying &lsquo;one venue&rsquo; advantage</a></strong></p>
<p>Though Pakistan head coach Aaqib Javed and Proteas batter David Miller also pointed out the same, ace India quick Mohammed Shami agreed somewhat, saying, "It is certainly helping us. We know the conditions and the behaviour of the pitch.&rdquo;</p>
<p>India, having reached the final, will face New Zealand for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 title in Dubai on Sunday (Mar 9).&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: After India emerged victorious against Australia in the Champions Trophy 2025 semis, Dubai, not Lahore became eligible to host the summit clash.

Dubai and the Indian Cricket Team are the two focal points of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Even though Pakistan is the designated host of the eight-tournament, Dubai will stage the mega final between India and New Zealand this Sunday; fans worldwide, barring from India, are going all out against it, 'hate-watching' Indian cricket. So, how did Dubai come into Champions Trophy picture? After the ICC finalised Pakistan as the host for the first showpiece event of the year, the Indian cricket body BCCI refused to send its team across the border due to security concerns. The BCCI formally informed the apex body about its decision late last year, later persuading them to convince the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to accept the hybrid model for India to play, which they were already familiar with, having co-hosted the 2023 Asia Cup along with Sri Lanka. The PCB sternly rejected this offer initially, urging the ICC to convince India to travel to Pakistan like every other participating nation. After receiving a firm no from its counterpart, the PCB eventually accepted the hybrid model, and India confirmed its participation. The ICC and the PCB zeroed in on Dubai as the neutral venue to host all India matches. Soon, the tournament itinerary was out, and India, placed in Group A, was scheduled to play all its matches in Dubai, including the knockouts. The ICC formulated the schedule in such a way that, should India qualify for the semis, regardless of where they finish on the points table, they will face their opponents in Dubai on a fixed date. This was seen by some critics as a mockery of the regular system that used to determine who faces who in the last four of an ICC event. Where did the problem begin? Unaware of the upcoming logistical challenges, all participating teams kept quiet about the schedule earlier. But trouble began once the tournament began and every team in India’s group, including the host Pakistan, started to travel back and forth to Dubai. While every other team had to change hotels, venues and training grounds regularly, India had the privilege of staying put at the same hotel in Dubai, practice at the same training ground and, importantly, play all their matches at the same venue, requiring less effort to acclimatise to the conditions compared to others. Going by the results of their contested matches thus far, India simply played better cricket and looked more composed across both innings, which helped them stay at the top. However, fans from other countries, mainly Pakistan, flooded social media with counterarguments, showing displeasure over the host nation not getting a chance to stage the tournament finale. Who said what? Many journalists, analysts, former and current cricketers, and countless fans, began slamming the ICC, accusing them of favouring India in this tournament, with the others bearing the brunt. While Pat Cummins denied making any remarks on India playing at one venue benefiting them, CODE Cricket – an Australian outlet, posted comments made by former England cricketer-turned-broadcaster Jonathan Agnew. "I feel very uncomfortable about the way that India is being treated at the moment," he said in a chat with ABC Sport. "This is wrong; if you're going to play international tournaments, you can't pick and choose where you play and where you're not going to play. I don't see how long this can carry on for. It makes a farce of these tournaments.” Former England captains Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain also joined in. “What about the advantage India have in playing in Dubai, only in Dubai? Which seems to me to be a hard-to-quantify advantage, but an undeniable advantage,” Atherton said. His long-time teammate and friend Hussain added, “It is an advantage. So, the best team in the tournament have that advantage. And I saw a tweet the other day saying, ‘Pakistan host nation, India home advantage.’ It sums it up really.” “They are at one place, one hotel, they don’t have to travel. They have one dressing room. They know the pitch, they have picked for that pitch. “They were very smart in their selection. They probably knew what Dubai is going to be like. They picked all their spinners. There was a bit of debate with Indian media saying why don’t you have gone for an extra seamer? Why all these spinners? Now we can see why,” he continued. Also read | Ganguly’s befitting reply to England broadcasters over India enjoying ‘one venue’ advantage Though Pakistan head coach Aaqib Javed and Proteas batter David Miller also pointed out the same, ace India quick Mohammed Shami agreed somewhat, saying, "It is certainly helping us. We know the conditions and the behaviour of the pitch.” India, having reached the final, will face New Zealand for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 title in Dubai on Sunday (Mar 9). (With inputs from agencies)

IND vs NZ Champions Trophy Final | Why are fans 'hate-watching' Indian cricket?

<p>Pakistan cricket team's vice-captain, Salman Ali Agha, has emphasised that clinching the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> holds greater significance than merely defeating arch-rival India in a single match. In a recent interview on the PCB Podcast, Salman expressed his excitement about Pakistan hosting the prestigious tournament and the prospect of lifting the trophy in his hometown, Lahore.</p>
<p>"I am excited for the Champions Trophy as Pakistan hosting an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc">ICC</a> event is special. Being from Lahore, lifting the trophy in my hometown would be a dream come true for me. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pakistan-cricket">Pakistan</a> team has the potential to win it," Salman stated.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-additional-tickets-to-go-on-sale-from-today-how-and-where-to-buy-tickets-8725455" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Additional tickets to go on sale from today- How and where to buy tickets</a></strong></p>
<p>Addressing the much-anticipated clash against India, scheduled for February 23 in Dubai, Salman acknowledged the unique atmosphere of the rivalry but stressed the importance of focusing on the ultimate goal&mdash;winning the tournament.</p>
<h2>'We want to win the match against India'</h2>
<p>"The atmosphere during the India-Pakistan match remains very different. As they say, it is the biggest game in the world. But the thing is, that is just one game; winning the Champions Trophy is more important than winning that one game," he remarked.</p>
<p>Salman further elaborated, "If we beat India but don't win the Champions Trophy, there's no benefit. Even if, God forbid, we lose that match but go on to win the Champions Trophy, that would be the biggest achievement for me."</p>
<p>While emphasising the team's broader objectives, Salman also expressed a strong desire to perform well against India. "We all want to win the India match, and we will try our best to achieve that. I will also strive to give my best performance against them," he added.</p>
<p>As the tournament approaches, Salman's focus underscores Pakistan's commitment to prioritising the championship title over individual match victories.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Pakistan's vice-captain acknowledged the unique atmosphere of the rivalry but stressed the importance of focusing on the ultimate goal—winning the tournament

Pakistan cricket team's vice-captain, Salman Ali Agha, has emphasised that clinching the ICC Champions Trophy holds greater significance than merely defeating arch-rival India in a single match. In a recent interview on the PCB Podcast, Salman expressed his excitement about Pakistan hosting the prestigious tournament and the prospect of lifting the trophy in his hometown, Lahore. "I am excited for the Champions Trophy as Pakistan hosting an ICC event is special. Being from Lahore, lifting the trophy in my hometown would be a dream come true for me. The Pakistan team has the potential to win it," Salman stated. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Additional tickets to go on sale from today- How and where to buy tickets Addressing the much-anticipated clash against India, scheduled for February 23 in Dubai, Salman acknowledged the unique atmosphere of the rivalry but stressed the importance of focusing on the ultimate goal—winning the tournament. 'We want to win the match against India' "The atmosphere during the India-Pakistan match remains very different. As they say, it is the biggest game in the world. But the thing is, that is just one game; winning the Champions Trophy is more important than winning that one game," he remarked. Salman further elaborated, "If we beat India but don't win the Champions Trophy, there's no benefit. Even if, God forbid, we lose that match but go on to win the Champions Trophy, that would be the biggest achievement for me." While emphasising the team's broader objectives, Salman also expressed a strong desire to perform well against India. "We all want to win the India match, and we will try our best to achieve that. I will also strive to give my best performance against them," he added. As the tournament approaches, Salman's focus underscores Pakistan's commitment to prioritising the championship title over individual match victories. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: 'Defending title is more important than beating...', says Pak vice-captain Salman

<p>MS Dhoni and Harbhajan Singh were part of the Indian team dressing room for major part of 2000-2015. The latter also played under Dhoni in Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from IPL 2018-2020. Both the cricketers were part of India's victorious runs in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup, where the Men in Blue won under Dhoni's captaincy.&nbsp;Bhajji and Dhoni have remained cordial off the field. Recently, the former Indian spinner revealed his equation with the ex-India skipper. Harbhajan admitted that he hasn't spoken to Dhoni for '10 years and more'.</p>

<h2><strong>'He did not come to my room, nor did I go to his'</strong></h2>

<p>Talking to News18, Bhajji -- who ended with third-most international wickets (707) for India&nbsp; said, "No, I don't speak to Dhoni. When I was playing at CSK, that's when we spoke, but otherwise, we haven't spoken. It's been 10 years and more. I have no reason; perhaps he does. I don't know what the reasons are. When we were playing in the IPL at CSK, that's when we used to talk, and that, too, was restricted to the ground. After that, he did not come to my room, nor did I go to his."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pcb-open-to-hybrid-model-urges-same-for-events-in-india-781329">Champions Trophy 2025: PCB open to hybrid model, urges same for events in India</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'A relationship is always about give and take'</strong></h2>

<p>Harbhajan added, "I don't have anything against him. If he has something to say, he can tell me. But if he did, he would have told me by now. I never tried to call him because I have a lot of passion. I only ring up those who pick up my calls. I don't have the time otherwise. I stay in touch with the ones I am friends with. A relationship is always about give and take. If I respect you, I hope you will respect me back. Or you respond to me. But if I call you once or twice but don't get a response, I will probably only meet you as much as I am needed to."</p>

<p>Notably, Dhoni has never responded to the rift rumours with Bhajji. There have been several reports of his weak equation with Yuvraj Singh and Gautam Gambhir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni and Harbhajan played together for India for a long time before they reunited at the CSK camp from 2018-2020. While the former remains active in the IPL, where he has played for CSK and now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS), he retired from internationals in mid-2020. Bhajji, on the other hand, debuted for India in 1998 and played his last in 2015. He represented CSK, after his long stint with Mumbai Indians (MI), in the IPL before moving to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a year. He announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in late 2021.</p>


MS Dhoni and Harbhajan Singh were part of the Indian team dressing room for major part of 2000-2015. The latter also played under Dhoni in Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from IPL 2018-2020.

MS Dhoni and Harbhajan Singh were part of the Indian team dressing room for major part of 2000-2015. The latter also played under Dhoni in Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from IPL 2018-2020. Both the cricketers were part of India's victorious runs in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup, where the Men in Blue won under Dhoni's captaincy. Bhajji and Dhoni have remained cordial off the field. Recently, the former Indian spinner revealed his equation with the ex-India skipper. Harbhajan admitted that he hasn't spoken to Dhoni for '10 years and more'. 'He did not come to my room, nor did I go to his' Talking to News18, Bhajji -- who ended with third-most international wickets (707) for India said, "No, I don't speak to Dhoni. When I was playing at CSK, that's when we spoke, but otherwise, we haven't spoken. It's been 10 years and more. I have no reason; perhaps he does. I don't know what the reasons are. When we were playing in the IPL at CSK, that's when we used to talk, and that, too, was restricted to the ground. After that, he did not come to my room, nor did I go to his." Also read: Champions Trophy 2025: PCB open to hybrid model, urges same for events in India 'A relationship is always about give and take' Harbhajan added, "I don't have anything against him. If he has something to say, he can tell me. But if he did, he would have told me by now. I never tried to call him because I have a lot of passion. I only ring up those who pick up my calls. I don't have the time otherwise. I stay in touch with the ones I am friends with. A relationship is always about give and take. If I respect you, I hope you will respect me back. Or you respond to me. But if I call you once or twice but don't get a response, I will probably only meet you as much as I am needed to." Notably, Dhoni has never responded to the rift rumours with Bhajji. There have been several reports of his weak equation with Yuvraj Singh and Gautam Gambhir. Dhoni and Harbhajan played together for India for a long time before they reunited at the CSK camp from 2018-2020. While the former remains active in the IPL, where he has played for CSK and now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS), he retired from internationals in mid-2020. Bhajji, on the other hand, debuted for India in 1998 and played his last in 2015. He represented CSK, after his long stint with Mumbai Indians (MI), in the IPL before moving to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a year. He announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in late 2021.

No, I don't speak to MS Dhoni: Harbhajan Singh reveals his equation with former India captain

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India lost the first Test to New Zealand by eight wickets on Day 5 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20). Ahead of the second Test, in Pune starting Oct 24, the Indian team management would consider changing the playing XI. In the first Test, the hosts went ahead with three spinners and two pacers, however, Mohammed Siraj didn't look in his elements. He returned with match figures of 2 for 100 and seemed off colour, despite conditions being favourable for pacers. Thus, former Indian stumper Saba Karim feels India can bring in Akash Deep instead of Siraj for the Pune Test, starting on Oct 24.</p>

<p>Talking on Jio Cinema, Karim said, "I reckon that Mohammed Siraj may be under some kind of pressure and I'm sure they will have a discussion before they pick the XI for the next Test match. Because as a front-line seam bowler in a Test match, you are expected to pick wickets with the new ball and also come back and bowl well with the second new ball. To that extent, I don't think that Siraj has delivered."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-2024-new-zealand-win-in-bengaluru-bags-first-test-victory-in-india-in-36-years-769134">IND v NZ 2024: New Zealand win in Bengaluru, bags first Test victory in India in 36 years</a></strong></p>

<p>Karim added, "Akash has got enough experience of bowling on such tracks in Indian conditions because he's been around for a number of years for Bengal. So you would look to have somebody on your side who has the experience of bowling on such tracks, even though the tracks have been lifeless."</p>

<p>Akash made his Test debut early this year, during India's home games versus England. In three Tests, he has accounted for eight scalps and looked in good rhythm, with his pace, action and control. Siraj, on the other hand, has been ordinary in India's home Tests this year. Hence, it will be interesting to see if the Indian team management drops him for the penultimate Test to allow him to rejuvenate and comeback stronger.</p>

<p>India lost the Bengaluru Test despite a solid comeback after being all-out for 46, their lowest-total in home Tests, on Day 1 (after opting to bat first), courtesy of Matt Henry's 5 for 15. In reply, the Kiwis rode on Rachin Ravindra's 134 to take a solid 356-run lead. Later India rode on Sarfaraz Khan's 150 and Rishabh Pant's 99 to go past the 400-run mark in their second essay but eventually got dismissed for 462; setting a paltry 107-run target which the visitors achieved on the final day on Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>India squad: </strong>Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Washington Sundar</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India lost the first Test to New Zealand by eight wickets on Day 5 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20). Ahead of the second Test, in Pune starting Oct 24, the Indian team management would consider changing the playing XI.

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the first Test to New Zealand by eight wickets on Day 5 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20). Ahead of the second Test, in Pune starting Oct 24, the Indian team management would consider changing the playing XI. In the first Test, the hosts went ahead with three spinners and two pacers, however, Mohammed Siraj didn't look in his elements. He returned with match figures of 2 for 100 and seemed off colour, despite conditions being favourable for pacers. Thus, former Indian stumper Saba Karim feels India can bring in Akash Deep instead of Siraj for the Pune Test, starting on Oct 24. Talking on Jio Cinema, Karim said, "I reckon that Mohammed Siraj may be under some kind of pressure and I'm sure they will have a discussion before they pick the XI for the next Test match. Because as a front-line seam bowler in a Test match, you are expected to pick wickets with the new ball and also come back and bowl well with the second new ball. To that extent, I don't think that Siraj has delivered." Also read: IND v NZ 2024: New Zealand win in Bengaluru, bags first Test victory in India in 36 years Karim added, "Akash has got enough experience of bowling on such tracks in Indian conditions because he's been around for a number of years for Bengal. So you would look to have somebody on your side who has the experience of bowling on such tracks, even though the tracks have been lifeless." Akash made his Test debut early this year, during India's home games versus England. In three Tests, he has accounted for eight scalps and looked in good rhythm, with his pace, action and control. Siraj, on the other hand, has been ordinary in India's home Tests this year. Hence, it will be interesting to see if the Indian team management drops him for the penultimate Test to allow him to rejuvenate and comeback stronger. India lost the Bengaluru Test despite a solid comeback after being all-out for 46, their lowest-total in home Tests, on Day 1 (after opting to bat first), courtesy of Matt Henry's 5 for 15. In reply, the Kiwis rode on Rachin Ravindra's 134 to take a solid 356-run lead. Later India rode on Sarfaraz Khan's 150 and Rishabh Pant's 99 to go past the 400-run mark in their second essay but eventually got dismissed for 462; setting a paltry 107-run target which the visitors achieved on the final day on Sunday. India squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Washington Sundar

Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test: Should India replace Mohammed Siraj with Akash Deep? Former Indian stumper opines

<p>The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin in a money laundering case linked to the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA). HCA’s former president, Azhar, is accused of misappropriating funds from 2019 to 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cricketer-turned-politician Azharuddin was required to appear before the ED on Thursday (Oct 4), but he didn’t and sought more time.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jos-buttler-returns-as-ecb-name-14-man-squad-for-white-ball-tour-of-wi-three-uncapped-players-added-764073">Jos Buttler returns as ECB name 14-man squad for white-ball tour of WI, three uncapped players added</a></strong></p>

<p>The case is related to Azhar allegedly misspending INR 20 crore allocated for the procurement of diesel generators, fire fighting systems, and canopies for the Rajiv Gandhi Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad. However, this is the first time ED has summoned Azhar, with clear directives for him to appear before the probe agency to clarify his name in this money laundering case.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the ED began an investigation based on three FIRs registered by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Hyderabad, with the corresponding charge sheets filed by the ACB pointing towards criminal misspending of the HCA funds.</p>

<p>The charge sheet also revealed that HCA office bearers, including its then secretary, president, vice-president and others, in fusion with private parties, arbitrarily got various tenders allotted to preferred contractors at higher market rates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It further stated that those involved went ahead without following proper tender processes, while the advance payments were also made to many without the work being done.</p>

<h2>Azhar’s dark history</h2>

<p>The BCCI banned Mohammad Azharuddin for life for his involvement in a match-fixing scandal during the dawn of the new millennium that rocked Indian cricket. In November 2000, Azhar - the then-Indian captain, admitted his involvement in the wrongdoings, emerging as a ‘key man in the group of Test captains’ who were being investigated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alongside him, the BCCI punished several others, including star all-rounder Ajay Jadeja and seamer Manoj Prabhakar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although he remained out of Indian cricket since the HCA appointed him as the president in 2019. That year, the BCCI also offered him a chance to be part of the former cricketers honoured with a lap around the ground during the pink-ball Test against Bangladesh in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Hyderabad Cricket Stadium also has a stand named after him.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin in a money laundering case linked to the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA).

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin in a money laundering case linked to the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA). HCA’s former president, Azhar, is accused of misappropriating funds from 2019 to 2022. The cricketer-turned-politician Azharuddin was required to appear before the ED on Thursday (Oct 4), but he didn’t and sought more time. ALSO READ: Jos Buttler returns as ECB name 14-man squad for white-ball tour of WI, three uncapped players added The case is related to Azhar allegedly misspending INR 20 crore allocated for the procurement of diesel generators, fire fighting systems, and canopies for the Rajiv Gandhi Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad. However, this is the first time ED has summoned Azhar, with clear directives for him to appear before the probe agency to clarify his name in this money laundering case. Meanwhile, the ED began an investigation based on three FIRs registered by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Hyderabad, with the corresponding charge sheets filed by the ACB pointing towards criminal misspending of the HCA funds. The charge sheet also revealed that HCA office bearers, including its then secretary, president, vice-president and others, in fusion with private parties, arbitrarily got various tenders allotted to preferred contractors at higher market rates. It further stated that those involved went ahead without following proper tender processes, while the advance payments were also made to many without the work being done. Azhar’s dark history The BCCI banned Mohammad Azharuddin for life for his involvement in a match-fixing scandal during the dawn of the new millennium that rocked Indian cricket. In November 2000, Azhar - the then-Indian captain, admitted his involvement in the wrongdoings, emerging as a ‘key man in the group of Test captains’ who were being investigated. Alongside him, the BCCI punished several others, including star all-rounder Ajay Jadeja and seamer Manoj Prabhakar. Although he remained out of Indian cricket since the HCA appointed him as the president in 2019. That year, the BCCI also offered him a chance to be part of the former cricketers honoured with a lap around the ground during the pink-ball Test against Bangladesh in 2019. The Hyderabad Cricket Stadium also has a stand named after him. (With inputs from agencies)

ED summons former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin in money laundering case

<p>India head coach Gautam Gambhir lavished huge praise on bowlers such as&nbsp;R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja for shifting the nation's focus from its long-standing obsession with batting. Ahead of the Bangladesh Test series, at home, Gambhir feels Bumrah, Ashwin, and Jadeja are&nbsp;Mohammed Shamin turning the country into a bowling-obsessed one with their performances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a pre-series press conference, Gambhir said, "You've got to give credit to (Jasprit) Bumrah, (Mohammed) Shami, (Mohammed) Siraj, (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja. They're turning this nation into a bowling-obsessed one. Bumrah is the best bowler in the world. It's not just his performance. It's his hunger as well. And the best part is that he wants to play as much Test cricket as he can. It is not even a luxury. He can make a difference at any stage of the game. So yes, hopefully, he can do the same in this series and going forward as well."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/will-we-see-him-again-yash-dayal-recalls-feeling-bad-for-dismissing-ms-dhoni-in-rcb-vs-csk-ipl-2024-tie-759749">Will we see him again? Yash Dayal recalls 'feeling bad' for dismissing MS Dhoni in RCB vs CSK IPL 2024 tie</a></strong></p>

<p>Gambhir opined, "They can pick up wickets on any day, whether it's Day 1 or Day 5 of a match. They offer both attacking and defensive options. We have an attack that can take 20 wickets consistently, and those two guys will create a massive impact, especially on Indian pitches. He added, "We may not have a pace-bowling all-rounder like Kapil Dev, but we have quality spin all-rounders in Ashwin and Jadeja. India's first-class structure is strong, and we may see one emerge soon. But for now, we shouldn't be too obsessed with it."</p>

<p>The trio of Ashwin, Jadeja and Bumrah are part of India's squad for the first Test versus Bangladesh, which gets underway on September&nbsp;19 (Thursday) in Chennai. Meanwhile, Shami – who was last seen on the cricket field during the 2023 ODI World Cup where he ended with most wickets (24) – is on the road to recovery following his ankle injury.</p>

<p><strong>India&nbsp;Squad:</strong>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.</p>

<p>India will host Bangladesh in two Tests before hosting New Zealand in a three-match Test series. After that, India will travel to Australia for a five-match Test series, starting on November 22.</p>


India head coach Gautam Gambhir lavished huge praise on bowlers such as R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja for shifting the nation's focus from its long-standing obsession with batting.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir lavished huge praise on bowlers such as R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja for shifting the nation's focus from its long-standing obsession with batting. Ahead of the Bangladesh Test series, at home, Gambhir feels Bumrah, Ashwin, and Jadeja are Mohammed Shamin turning the country into a bowling-obsessed one with their performances. In a pre-series press conference, Gambhir said, "You've got to give credit to (Jasprit) Bumrah, (Mohammed) Shami, (Mohammed) Siraj, (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja. They're turning this nation into a bowling-obsessed one. Bumrah is the best bowler in the world. It's not just his performance. It's his hunger as well. And the best part is that he wants to play as much Test cricket as he can. It is not even a luxury. He can make a difference at any stage of the game. So yes, hopefully, he can do the same in this series and going forward as well." Also read: Will we see him again? Yash Dayal recalls 'feeling bad' for dismissing MS Dhoni in RCB vs CSK IPL 2024 tie Gambhir opined, "They can pick up wickets on any day, whether it's Day 1 or Day 5 of a match. They offer both attacking and defensive options. We have an attack that can take 20 wickets consistently, and those two guys will create a massive impact, especially on Indian pitches. He added, "We may not have a pace-bowling all-rounder like Kapil Dev, but we have quality spin all-rounders in Ashwin and Jadeja. India's first-class structure is strong, and we may see one emerge soon. But for now, we shouldn't be too obsessed with it." The trio of Ashwin, Jadeja and Bumrah are part of India's squad for the first Test versus Bangladesh, which gets underway on September 19 (Thursday) in Chennai. Meanwhile, Shami – who was last seen on the cricket field during the 2023 ODI World Cup where he ended with most wickets (24) – is on the road to recovery following his ankle injury. India Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal. India will host Bangladesh in two Tests before hosting New Zealand in a three-match Test series. After that, India will travel to Australia for a five-match Test series, starting on November 22.

Ind vs Ban: India is a batting-obsessed nation but Bumrah, Ashwin changing trend, says coach Gautam Gambhir

<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma says that he's not going to step down anytime soon and he looks forward to achieving more in the future. Rohit made the remarks at the recently concluded CEAT awards.</p>

<p>"There is a reason I have won five IPL trophies as well. I am not going to stop because when you get the taste of winning games, winning cups, you don't want to stop," said Rohit in a video clip shared by Star Sports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wtc-202325-final-to-be-held-at-lords-from-june-11-15-confirms-icc-755507">WTC 2023/25 final to be held at Lord's from June 11-15, confirms ICC</a></p>

<p>"We'll keep pushing as a team. We'll keep striving in the future. We've got a couple of solid tours coming up as well, very challenging ones. So for us, it never stops. Once you achieve something, you look forward to achieving more, and that is what I would be doing as well. I am pretty sure my teammates will also be thinking on the same lines," he added.</p>

<p>Rohit also believes that the upcoming time is exciting for Indian cricket.</p>

<p>"It's an exciting time for Indian cricket moving forward. Honestly, what I have seen in the last two years in Indian cricket, there's some real excitement, good cricket being played as well. But like I said, the next couple of years are exciting ones as well. So hopefully we can go out there and enjoy the game at the same time and then try and make the most of what opportunity lies ahead for us," added the Indian captain.</p>

<p>India's next assignment is a two-Test home series against Bangladesh before taking on New Zealand in a three-Test series, also at home. India will then travel to Australia for a five-Test series, aiming for their third consecutive series win down under.</p>

<p>India recently won the T20 World Cup 2024 under Rohit's captaincy - their second title in the shortest format after winning the inaugural edition in 2007.</p>


India skipper Rohit Sharma says that he's not going to step down anytime soon and he looks forward to achieving more in the future. Rohit made the remarks at the recently concluded CEAT awards.

India skipper Rohit Sharma says that he's not going to step down anytime soon and he looks forward to achieving more in the future. Rohit made the remarks at the recently concluded CEAT awards. "There is a reason I have won five IPL trophies as well. I am not going to stop because when you get the taste of winning games, winning cups, you don't want to stop," said Rohit in a video clip shared by Star Sports. Also Read: WTC 2023/25 final to be held at Lord's from June 11-15, confirms ICC "We'll keep pushing as a team. We'll keep striving in the future. We've got a couple of solid tours coming up as well, very challenging ones. So for us, it never stops. Once you achieve something, you look forward to achieving more, and that is what I would be doing as well. I am pretty sure my teammates will also be thinking on the same lines," he added. Rohit also believes that the upcoming time is exciting for Indian cricket. "It's an exciting time for Indian cricket moving forward. Honestly, what I have seen in the last two years in Indian cricket, there's some real excitement, good cricket being played as well. But like I said, the next couple of years are exciting ones as well. So hopefully we can go out there and enjoy the game at the same time and then try and make the most of what opportunity lies ahead for us," added the Indian captain. India's next assignment is a two-Test home series against Bangladesh before taking on New Zealand in a three-Test series, also at home. India will then travel to Australia for a five-Test series, aiming for their third consecutive series win down under. India recently won the T20 World Cup 2024 under Rohit's captaincy - their second title in the shortest format after winning the inaugural edition in 2007.

'Going to stop...,' India skipper Rohit Sharma offers update on retirement

<p>Indian umpire Anil Chaudhary says that India skipper Rohit Sharma may seem casual on the field but he's a very smart player. Rohit is known for his antics on the field including a somewhat casual outlook as well in comparison with highly intense Virat Kohli.</p>

<p>"Rohit may seem casual, but he's a very smart player, don't get fooled thinking otherwise; his game sense is very good," said Chaudhary while talking on Unplugged YouTube podcast.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-security-is-guaranteed-harbhajan-singh-on-india-traveling-to-pakistan-755046">Champions Trophy 2025: 'Security is guaranteed...,' Harbhajan Singh on India traveling to Pakistan</a></p>

<p>"You can't guess his sharp mind from his batting. When he's batting, it seems someone is bowling at 120 kmph, but when someone else is batting, the speed seems like 160 kmph. He gets involved in a lot of appeals and then says 'let it be.' He may seem casual, but he's not casual at all," added Chaudhary.</p>

<p>The Indian umpire also added that Rohit plays without any confusion which makes it easy to umpire for him.</p>

<p>"Umpiring for a player like Rohit is very easy; he's either out or not out, it's straightforward with him. He doesn't play confusingly," said Chaudhary.</p>

<p>Under Rohit Sharma, India reached the final of ODI World Cup 2023 and World Test Championship 2021-23 cycle. They, however, lost both the finals to Australia.</p>

<p>In 2024, Rohit-led India went on to win the T20 World Cup, their second in the shortest format after winning the inaugural edition in 2007.</p>

<p>After the final, Rohit announced his retirement from the T20s and so did Virat Kohli &amp; Ravindra Jadeja. Suryakumar Yadav was named India's T20I skipper while Rohit remains the captain of Test and ODI side.</p>

<p>India's next assignment is a two-Test home series against Bangladesh and a three-match Test series against New Zealand after that.</p>

<p>The major series will start in November later this year when India travels to Australia for five-Test Border-Gavaskar series.</p>


Indian umpire Anil Chaudhary says that India skipper Rohit Sharma may seem casual on the field but he's a very smart player. Rohit is known for his antics on the field including a somewhat casual outlook as well in comparison with highly intense Virat Kohli.

Indian umpire Anil Chaudhary says that India skipper Rohit Sharma may seem casual on the field but he's a very smart player. Rohit is known for his antics on the field including a somewhat casual outlook as well in comparison with highly intense Virat Kohli. "Rohit may seem casual, but he's a very smart player, don't get fooled thinking otherwise; his game sense is very good," said Chaudhary while talking on Unplugged YouTube podcast. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: 'Security is guaranteed...,' Harbhajan Singh on India traveling to Pakistan "You can't guess his sharp mind from his batting. When he's batting, it seems someone is bowling at 120 kmph, but when someone else is batting, the speed seems like 160 kmph. He gets involved in a lot of appeals and then says 'let it be.' He may seem casual, but he's not casual at all," added Chaudhary. The Indian umpire also added that Rohit plays without any confusion which makes it easy to umpire for him. "Umpiring for a player like Rohit is very easy; he's either out or not out, it's straightforward with him. He doesn't play confusingly," said Chaudhary. Under Rohit Sharma, India reached the final of ODI World Cup 2023 and World Test Championship 2021-23 cycle. They, however, lost both the finals to Australia. In 2024, Rohit-led India went on to win the T20 World Cup, their second in the shortest format after winning the inaugural edition in 2007. After the final, Rohit announced his retirement from the T20s and so did Virat Kohli & Ravindra Jadeja. Suryakumar Yadav was named India's T20I skipper while Rohit remains the captain of Test and ODI side. India's next assignment is a two-Test home series against Bangladesh and a three-match Test series against New Zealand after that. The major series will start in November later this year when India travels to Australia for five-Test Border-Gavaskar series.

'Gets involved in...,' Umpire Anil Chaudhary on India skipper Rohit Sharma's attitude on field

<p>On Wednesday (Jul&nbsp;31), former Indian cricketer and coach Anshuman Gaekwad passed away at the age of 71 after a prolonged battle with blood cancer. Gaekwad played for India for a period of 12 years, from 1975 to 1987, where the former opening batter&nbsp;represented the national side in 40 Tests and 15 ODIs. He also served as the men's team head coach in two stints (during which India ended as runners-up in the 2000 Champions Trophy). In addition, he&nbsp;served as a national selector in the 1990s and the president of the Indian Cricketers' Association.</p>

<p>Post his demise, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah reacted to the news on X, formerly Twitter, and wrote, "My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr Aunshuman Gaekwad. Heartbreaking for the entire cricket fraternity. May his soul rest in peace."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr Aunshuman Gaekwad. Heartbreaking for the entire cricket fraternity. May his soul rest in peace🙏</p>
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah/status/1818709060855964135?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/dravid-left-business-class-rohit-was-scolding-titbits-from-indias-barbados-delhi-flight-post-t20-wc-win-745981">Dravid left business class, Rohit was scolding...: Titbits from India's Barbados-Delhi flight post T20 WC win</a></strong></p>

<p>Former Indian captain and BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly also reacted on X&nbsp;calling it 'terrible' news.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">RIP Anshu bhai .. terrible terrible news <a href="https://t.co/cdR7FvJDf4">pic.twitter.com/cdR7FvJDf4</a></p>
— Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99/status/1818710901702209600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>PM Narendra Modi also wrote on X&nbsp;saying, "Shri Anshuman Gaekwad Ji will be remembered for his contribution to cricket. He was a gifted player and an outstanding coach. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shri Anshuman Gaekwad Ji will be remembered for his contribution to cricket. He was a gifted player and an outstanding coach. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1818712447731261751?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Gaekwad was battling blood cancer for quite some time and struggling financially. Recently, the BCCI Secretary pledged INR 10 million (INR 1 crore) for his treatment after Gaekwad revealed his financial struggles to former cricketer Sandeep Patil. Along with Patil, Kapil Dev and other former cricketers&nbsp;such as Mohinder Amarnath, Sunil Gavaskar, Dilip Vengsarkar, Madan Lal, Ravi Shastri, and Kirti Azad, worked towards raising funds to support Gaekwad.</p>

<p>Despite all the help and the brave battle shown against cancer, Gaekwad passed away at 71, leaving a huge void in Indian cricket.</p>


On Wednesday (Jul 31), former Indian cricketer and coach Anshuman Gaekwad passed away at the age of 71 after a prolonged battle with blood cancer. Gaekwad played for India for a period of 12 years, from 1975 to 1987, where the former opening batter represented the national side in 40 Tests and 15 ODIs.

On Wednesday (Jul 31), former Indian cricketer and coach Anshuman Gaekwad passed away at the age of 71 after a prolonged battle with blood cancer. Gaekwad played for India for a period of 12 years, from 1975 to 1987, where the former opening batter represented the national side in 40 Tests and 15 ODIs. He also served as the men's team head coach in two stints (during which India ended as runners-up in the 2000 Champions Trophy). In addition, he served as a national selector in the 1990s and the president of the Indian Cricketers' Association. Post his demise, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah reacted to the news on X, formerly Twitter, and wrote, "My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr Aunshuman Gaekwad. Heartbreaking for the entire cricket fraternity. May his soul rest in peace." My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr Aunshuman Gaekwad. Heartbreaking for the entire cricket fraternity. May his soul rest in peace🙏 — Jay Shah (@JayShah) July 31, 2024 × Also read: Dravid left business class, Rohit was scolding...: Titbits from India's Barbados-Delhi flight post T20 WC win Former Indian captain and BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly also reacted on X calling it 'terrible' news. RIP Anshu bhai .. terrible terrible news pic.twitter.com/cdR7FvJDf4 — Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) July 31, 2024 × PM Narendra Modi also wrote on X saying, "Shri Anshuman Gaekwad Ji will be remembered for his contribution to cricket. He was a gifted player and an outstanding coach. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti." Shri Anshuman Gaekwad Ji will be remembered for his contribution to cricket. He was a gifted player and an outstanding coach. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 31, 2024 × Gaekwad was battling blood cancer for quite some time and struggling financially. Recently, the BCCI Secretary pledged INR 10 million (INR 1 crore) for his treatment after Gaekwad revealed his financial struggles to former cricketer Sandeep Patil. Along with Patil, Kapil Dev and other former cricketers such as Mohinder Amarnath, Sunil Gavaskar, Dilip Vengsarkar, Madan Lal, Ravi Shastri, and Kirti Azad, worked towards raising funds to support Gaekwad. Despite all the help and the brave battle shown against cancer, Gaekwad passed away at 71, leaving a huge void in Indian cricket.

Former Indian cricketer Anshuman Gaekwad passes away after prolonged battle with blood cancer

<p>Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri opened up on Hardik Pandya's injury concerns. Hardik served as India's white-ball vice-captain since early 2023. Post Rohit Sharma's T20I retirement, after India's 2024 T20 World Cup win, it was expected that he would take over as T20I skipper. Nonetheless, new head coach Gautam Gambhir -- who took over from&nbsp; Rahul Dravid -- and BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar named Suryakumar Yadav as the new T20I captain. Moreover, Hardik isn't part of India's three ODIs versus hosts Sri Lanka and will leave the tour midway, after the ongoing three-match T20I series in the Island nation (citing personal reasons). Shastri, thus, opined on Hardik's ODI future, saying that he will have to prove his fitness by bowling more overs consistently else it will be tough for him to retain his place.</p>

<p>Talking to host Sanjana Ganesan in a recent show, Shastri said, "I think (it's) very important that he continues to play. I believe match fitness is very important. So whatever T20I cricket there is, he should play as much as he can. And if he feels strong and fit, then obviously he comes into the side for the one-day game as well."</p>

<p>He further opined, "But then again, the bowling becomes important. If you have someone coming and bowling just three overs in where you have to bowl 10 in a one-day game, then the balance of the side takes a hit. If you can bowl consistently eight to 10 overs every game and then bat the way he does, I think he'll play in one-day cricket as well."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-beat-sri-lanka-in-rain-curtailed-second-t20i-to-take-unassailable-lead-in-series-745063">India beat Sri Lanka in rain-curtailed second T20I to take unassailable lead in series</a></strong></p>

<p>Shastri added, "So I think it's up to him really, more than anything else. He understands his body better than anyone. And I'm sure, this will inspire him, especially with the way he did in the World Cup, the way he performed at the right times for India and the World Cup, so that should really get him going. He shouldn't need any motivation to get his fitness right at the top there."</p>

<p>Hardik was last seen in action in ODIs during the home World Cup, last year. He got injured during India's fourth encounter, versus Bangladesh in Pune. Before his injury, the all-rounder was bowling regularly, up to 7-8 overs, if not his full quota. Given that there is so much said and written about his fitness at present, the 30-year-old will be desperate to play both the white-ball formats and silence his critics by bowling maximum overs (especially in ODIs).</p>

<p>Currently, Hardik is involved in the three T20Is between India and Sri Lanka in Pallekele, with Surya-led Men in Blue having an unassailable 2-0 lead after a seven-wicket win in the second encounter on Sunday (July 28).</p>


Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri opened up on Hardik Pandya's injury concerns. Hardik served as India's white-ball vice-captain since early 2023. Post Rohit Sharma's T20I retirement, after India's 2024 T20 World Cup win, it was expected that he would take over as T20I skipper.

Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri opened up on Hardik Pandya's injury concerns. Hardik served as India's white-ball vice-captain since early 2023. Post Rohit Sharma's T20I retirement, after India's 2024 T20 World Cup win, it was expected that he would take over as T20I skipper. Nonetheless, new head coach Gautam Gambhir -- who took over from Rahul Dravid -- and BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar named Suryakumar Yadav as the new T20I captain. Moreover, Hardik isn't part of India's three ODIs versus hosts Sri Lanka and will leave the tour midway, after the ongoing three-match T20I series in the Island nation (citing personal reasons). Shastri, thus, opined on Hardik's ODI future, saying that he will have to prove his fitness by bowling more overs consistently else it will be tough for him to retain his place. Talking to host Sanjana Ganesan in a recent show, Shastri said, "I think (it's) very important that he continues to play. I believe match fitness is very important. So whatever T20I cricket there is, he should play as much as he can. And if he feels strong and fit, then obviously he comes into the side for the one-day game as well." He further opined, "But then again, the bowling becomes important. If you have someone coming and bowling just three overs in where you have to bowl 10 in a one-day game, then the balance of the side takes a hit. If you can bowl consistently eight to 10 overs every game and then bat the way he does, I think he'll play in one-day cricket as well." Also read: India beat Sri Lanka in rain-curtailed second T20I to take unassailable lead in series Shastri added, "So I think it's up to him really, more than anything else. He understands his body better than anyone. And I'm sure, this will inspire him, especially with the way he did in the World Cup, the way he performed at the right times for India and the World Cup, so that should really get him going. He shouldn't need any motivation to get his fitness right at the top there." Hardik was last seen in action in ODIs during the home World Cup, last year. He got injured during India's fourth encounter, versus Bangladesh in Pune. Before his injury, the all-rounder was bowling regularly, up to 7-8 overs, if not his full quota. Given that there is so much said and written about his fitness at present, the 30-year-old will be desperate to play both the white-ball formats and silence his critics by bowling maximum overs (especially in ODIs). Currently, Hardik is involved in the three T20Is between India and Sri Lanka in Pallekele, with Surya-led Men in Blue having an unassailable 2-0 lead after a seven-wicket win in the second encounter on Sunday (July 28).

'If you're bowling just...': Ravi Shastri shares take on injury-prone Hardik Pandya's ODI future

<p>Will India's cricket body BCCI take over the running of eductech firm Byju's? The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) on Tuesday (July 16) admitted a plea from the Board of Control for Cricket in India seeking insolvency proceedings against Byju's. If the insolvency comes through, at least in theory BCCI, can take control of the company along with other creditors, which if it happens will be a rare occurrence.</p>

<h2><strong>What did the NCLT say?</strong></h2>

<p>The NCLT in Bengaluru ruled that Byju's had defaulted on a debt to BCCI over the Indian cricket team's jersey sponsorship deals. The debt works out to around 1.58 billion rupees ($18.9 million).&nbsp;Byju's had sought arbitration on the issue, which NCLT rejected.</p>

<h2><strong>What is BCCI's connection to Byju's?</strong></h2>

<p>BCCI and Byju's entered into a jersey sponsorship deal in 2019. Earlier the jersey sponsorship was with Chinese mobile phone firm Oppo.</p>

<p>The contract with Byju's was till 2022 and then renewed for 2023.</p>

<p>Amid a worsening financial turmoil, Byju's said in January 2023 that it would not extend sponsorship deals with BCCI, International Cricket Council (ICC) and Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).</p>

<p>BCCI filed an insolvency petition against Byju's in the same year with NCLT, which sought a response from the edutech firm in November 2023.</p>

<h2><strong>What was Byju's argument against insolvency proceedings?</strong></h2>

<p>Byju's lawyers insisted that BCCI could not be considered an 'operational creditor' as their deal was not for services, but for the transfer of some rights.</p>

<p>Byju's also claimed that BCCI could not prove a debt default, and cited other disputes with the cricket body that could prevent the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process or CIRP, a recovery mechanism for corporates, from taking place.</p>

<h2><strong>What did NCLT rule on Byju's debt to BCCI?</strong></h2>

<p>In its order on Tuesday, the NCLT rejected the pleas by Byju's,&nbsp;citing email communication between the parties that established that Byju's owed money to BCCI.</p>

<p>"The Respondent herein has time and again acknowledged and duly planned a repayment schedule for the outstanding dues by sending the above mentioned emails," NCLT said in its order. "The condition of there being a ‘debt’ and a ‘default’ for the purposes of Section 9 of the IBC is held to be satisfied," the NCLT said, referring to the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) of 2016.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjGkqrnyauHAxXvcPUHHXJPAC0QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-from-celebrated-hero-to-despised-villain-of-byjus-the-story-of-byju-raveendran-687275" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-from-celebrated-hero-to-despised-villain-of-byjus-the-story-of-byju-raveendran-687275&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjGkqrnyauHAxXvcPUHHXJPAC0QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Explained | From BYJU’S celebrated hero to despised villain, the story of Byju Raveendran</a></strong></p>

<p>BCCI had filed the petition under IBC, by which&nbsp;creditors can take control of a company from its current management.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There is no reason to deny the petition filed...by the Operational Creditor to initiate CIRP against the Corporate Debtor, since the existence of a debt and a default in the payment of debt is clearly established," NCLT said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Therefore, the instant Company Petition...is admitted against the Corporate Debtor."</p>

<h2><strong>What happened to Byju's? The fall of an edutech giant</strong></h2>

<p>Byju's was the darling of investors as the top edutech company during the startup boom era.</p>

<p>Launched by Byju Raveendran, the company faced trouble as massive malpractices were exposed, including predatory marketing, selling courses to parents of children who didn't need them, and forcing many families into debt.</p>

<p>Once considered a billionaire, Raveendran's net worth fell to zero.</p>

<p>The bad press, public pressure and regulator scrutiny led to several investors exiting Byjus.</p>

<p>This led to a funding crisis for the company as top brass - both corporate and board - left the firm.&nbsp;Salaries could not be paid for months.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Byju's employees demand salary payment</strong></p>

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<p>Those who left in the past year include chief financial officer Ajay Goel and India chief executive Arjun Mohoan, while&nbsp;advisors Rajnish Kumar and TV Mohandas Pai left this month.</p>

<p>In June, Prosus wrote off the value of its 9.6 per cent&nbsp;stake in the company. The investment company had put in a total of around $500 million in Byju’s.</p>

<p>At its peak, Byju's was valued at around $22 billion. This year, it raised&nbsp;$200 million through a rights issue. For this, the company was given a valuation of $225 million, which works out to around one&nbsp;per cent of its peak valuation.</p>

<h2><strong>What will happen to Byuj's now?</strong></h2>

<p>Pankaj Srivastava, who was appointed by NCLT in its order on Tuesday as the interim resolution professional, will run Byju’s till the lenders form a committee of creditors.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Will India's cricket body BCCI take over the running of eductech firm Byju's? The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) on Tuesday (July 16) admitted a plea from the Board of Control for Cricket in India seeking insolvency proceedings against Byju's.

Will India's cricket body BCCI take over the running of eductech firm Byju's? The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) on Tuesday (July 16) admitted a plea from the Board of Control for Cricket in India seeking insolvency proceedings against Byju's. If the insolvency comes through, at least in theory BCCI, can take control of the company along with other creditors, which if it happens will be a rare occurrence. What did the NCLT say? The NCLT in Bengaluru ruled that Byju's had defaulted on a debt to BCCI over the Indian cricket team's jersey sponsorship deals. The debt works out to around 1.58 billion rupees ($18.9 million). Byju's had sought arbitration on the issue, which NCLT rejected. What is BCCI's connection to Byju's? BCCI and Byju's entered into a jersey sponsorship deal in 2019. Earlier the jersey sponsorship was with Chinese mobile phone firm Oppo. The contract with Byju's was till 2022 and then renewed for 2023. Amid a worsening financial turmoil, Byju's said in January 2023 that it would not extend sponsorship deals with BCCI, International Cricket Council (ICC) and Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA). BCCI filed an insolvency petition against Byju's in the same year with NCLT, which sought a response from the edutech firm in November 2023. What was Byju's argument against insolvency proceedings? Byju's lawyers insisted that BCCI could not be considered an 'operational creditor' as their deal was not for services, but for the transfer of some rights. Byju's also claimed that BCCI could not prove a debt default, and cited other disputes with the cricket body that could prevent the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process or CIRP, a recovery mechanism for corporates, from taking place. What did NCLT rule on Byju's debt to BCCI? In its order on Tuesday, the NCLT rejected the pleas by Byju's, citing email communication between the parties that established that Byju's owed money to BCCI. "The Respondent herein has time and again acknowledged and duly planned a repayment schedule for the outstanding dues by sending the above mentioned emails," NCLT said in its order. "The condition of there being a ‘debt’ and a ‘default’ for the purposes of Section 9 of the IBC is held to be satisfied," the NCLT said, referring to the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) of 2016. Also read: Explained | From BYJU’S celebrated hero to despised villain, the story of Byju Raveendran BCCI had filed the petition under IBC, by which creditors can take control of a company from its current management. "There is no reason to deny the petition filed...by the Operational Creditor to initiate CIRP against the Corporate Debtor, since the existence of a debt and a default in the payment of debt is clearly established," NCLT said. "Therefore, the instant Company Petition...is admitted against the Corporate Debtor." What happened to Byju's? The fall of an edutech giant Byju's was the darling of investors as the top edutech company during the startup boom era. Launched by Byju Raveendran, the company faced trouble as massive malpractices were exposed, including predatory marketing, selling courses to parents of children who didn't need them, and forcing many families into debt. Once considered a billionaire, Raveendran's net worth fell to zero. The bad press, public pressure and regulator scrutiny led to several investors exiting Byjus. This led to a funding crisis for the company as top brass - both corporate and board - left the firm. Salaries could not be paid for months. Watch: Byju's employees demand salary payment × Those who left in the past year include chief financial officer Ajay Goel and India chief executive Arjun Mohoan, while advisors Rajnish Kumar and TV Mohandas Pai left this month. In June, Prosus wrote off the value of its 9.6 per cent stake in the company. The investment company had put in a total of around $500 million in Byju’s. At its peak, Byju's was valued at around $22 billion. This year, it raised $200 million through a rights issue. For this, the company was given a valuation of $225 million, which works out to around one per cent of its peak valuation. What will happen to Byuj's now? Pankaj Srivastava, who was appointed by NCLT in its order on Tuesday as the interim resolution professional, will run Byju’s till the lenders form a committee of creditors. (With inputs from agencies)

Will BCCI take over Byju's? Company law panel admits plea for insolvency of edutech firm

<p>Gautam Gambhir shared a clear and bold message for Team India after his appointment as head coach. The former Indian opener stressed on&nbsp;the importance of playing all&nbsp;three formats with a focus on injury and workload management.&nbsp; He&nbsp;made it clear that&nbsp;players would need to do the right thing in the best interest of the team. On Tuesday (Jul&nbsp;9), BCCI named Gambhir as Rahul Dravid's successor, who signed off with India's T20 World Cup win last month.</p>

<h2><strong>'You should be playing all the three formats'</strong></h2>

<p>In a video posted by Star Sports, Gambhir said, "Injuries are part of sportsmen's life. And if you are playing all the three formats, you get&nbsp;injured, you go back and get recovered but you should be playing all the three formats. I am not a big believer to identify people that okay we are going to keep him for Test matches and we are going to keep him and we are going to manage his injury and workload and stuff."</p>

<p>He further opined, "Look professional cricketers, you got a very small span. When you are playing for your country you want to play as much as you can. When you are in very good form, go ahead and play all the three formats."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/great-gesture-vvs-laxman-reacts-to-rohit-sharma-and-virat-kohli-giving-t20-wc-trophy-to-rahul-dravid-740177">'Great gesture': VVS Laxman reacts to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli giving T20 WC trophy to Rahul Dravid</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'There's only one message to try and play with honesty'</strong></h2>

<p>Gambhir pointed out, "There's only one message to try and play with honesty. Try and be as honest as you can to a profession. All the results will follow. When I picked up the bat, I never thought of the results. I never thought that I'm going to. I want to score these many runs. I've always believed that I have to be as honest as I can to my profession. Live on certain principles, live on certain values, try and do the right things, and try and do things, even if you think the whole world is against you. But your heart believes that you're doing the right thing for the best interest of team."</p>

<p>He added, "Whether I've been aggressive on the cricket field, whether I've had confrontations with people, just because it was all in the best interest of the team. Try and do that because, ultimately, it's the team that matters, not an individual. So go out there and only think of one thing to try and make your team win whichever team you play for. Because that is what team sports demand. It is not an individual sport where you think about your own self. It is a team sport where it is the team that comes first, you're probably the last one that comes in the entire line up."</p>

<p>Gambhir will take over with the commencement of India's white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, starting on July 27. India will play three T20Is and ODIs each in the Island nation before they return home for their upcoming home season.</p>

<p>Under Gambhir, who has been appointed till 2027 ODI World Cup, India will look to add to their ICC titles. They are set to compete in, at least, two WTC finals and play both the World Cups once. In addition, the Champions Trophy is scheduled to be held, in Pakistan, early next year.</p>


Gautam Gambhir shared a clear and bold message for Team India after his appointment as head coach. The former Indian opener stressed on the importance of playing all three formats with a focus on injury and workload management.

Gautam Gambhir shared a clear and bold message for Team India after his appointment as head coach. The former Indian opener stressed on the importance of playing all three formats with a focus on injury and workload management. He made it clear that players would need to do the right thing in the best interest of the team. On Tuesday (Jul 9), BCCI named Gambhir as Rahul Dravid's successor, who signed off with India's T20 World Cup win last month. 'You should be playing all the three formats' In a video posted by Star Sports, Gambhir said, "Injuries are part of sportsmen's life. And if you are playing all the three formats, you get injured, you go back and get recovered but you should be playing all the three formats. I am not a big believer to identify people that okay we are going to keep him for Test matches and we are going to keep him and we are going to manage his injury and workload and stuff." He further opined, "Look professional cricketers, you got a very small span. When you are playing for your country you want to play as much as you can. When you are in very good form, go ahead and play all the three formats." Also read: 'Great gesture': VVS Laxman reacts to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli giving T20 WC trophy to Rahul Dravid 'There's only one message to try and play with honesty' Gambhir pointed out, "There's only one message to try and play with honesty. Try and be as honest as you can to a profession. All the results will follow. When I picked up the bat, I never thought of the results. I never thought that I'm going to. I want to score these many runs. I've always believed that I have to be as honest as I can to my profession. Live on certain principles, live on certain values, try and do the right things, and try and do things, even if you think the whole world is against you. But your heart believes that you're doing the right thing for the best interest of team." He added, "Whether I've been aggressive on the cricket field, whether I've had confrontations with people, just because it was all in the best interest of the team. Try and do that because, ultimately, it's the team that matters, not an individual. So go out there and only think of one thing to try and make your team win whichever team you play for. Because that is what team sports demand. It is not an individual sport where you think about your own self. It is a team sport where it is the team that comes first, you're probably the last one that comes in the entire line up." Gambhir will take over with the commencement of India's white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, starting on July 27. India will play three T20Is and ODIs each in the Island nation before they return home for their upcoming home season. Under Gambhir, who has been appointed till 2027 ODI World Cup, India will look to add to their ICC titles. They are set to compete in, at least, two WTC finals and play both the World Cups once. In addition, the Champions Trophy is scheduled to be held, in Pakistan, early next year.

If you're good...: Gambhir gives sneak peek into no-nonsense approach, shares first message as India coach

<p>Gautam Gambhir's first-ever assignment as Team India head coach will be the forthcoming India tour of Sri Lanka, starting later this month. The selection of the team will take place later this week as India will play 3 ODIs and T20Is each in the Island nation. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retired from the shortest format, it is likely that Hardik Pandya, if not rested, will be named the captain whereas KL Rahul can lead the ODI side.</p>

<p>As per a report in India Today, Gambhir's first meeting with the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee is scheduled for later this week. It is understood that Gambhir is keen to have two different captains for the two formats. For ODIs in the upcoming Lankan tour, Rahul is being considered to take charge. The wicketkeeper-batter, who has been consistent for India at No.5 in ODIs, has captaincy experience in the shorter format. He led India to an ODI series win in South Africa last year.</p>

<p>Hardik, on the other hand, is likely to lead the Indian T20I side. He has led India in T20Is during Rohit Sharma's break and served as Hitman's deputy in the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA.</p>

<p>"It is expected that in the absence of Rohit, Hardik and KL are the options to be given the responsibility of captain. Both have captained the team earlier," a top source in BCCI told India Today.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/gambhir-backs-former-kkr-teammate-as-indias-bowling-coach-bcci-keen-to-rope-in-this-wc-winner-report-739596">Gambhir backs former KKR teammate as India's bowling coach, BCCI keen to rope in THIS WC winner: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>"If Hardik is not available for the T20Is, you might see Suryakumar Yadav as captain in T20Is and Rahul in ODIs. But for now, it seems that Hardik and KL will lead the team," the source further added.</p>

<p>After India's T20 WC triumph, in the recently-held 20-nation mega event, Rohit, Kohli and even Jasprit Bumrah are expected to be rested for the entire SL tour. India's tour commences on July 27 and will conclude on August 7. The trio of Rohit, Bumrah and Kohli are likely to be back before the commencement of India's home season in September.</p>


Gautam Gambhir's first-ever assignment as Team India head coach will be the forthcoming India tour of Sri Lanka, starting later this month. The selection of the team will take place later this week as India will play 3 ODIs and T20Is each in the Island nation.

Gautam Gambhir's first-ever assignment as Team India head coach will be the forthcoming India tour of Sri Lanka, starting later this month. The selection of the team will take place later this week as India will play 3 ODIs and T20Is each in the Island nation. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retired from the shortest format, it is likely that Hardik Pandya, if not rested, will be named the captain whereas KL Rahul can lead the ODI side. As per a report in India Today, Gambhir's first meeting with the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee is scheduled for later this week. It is understood that Gambhir is keen to have two different captains for the two formats. For ODIs in the upcoming Lankan tour, Rahul is being considered to take charge. The wicketkeeper-batter, who has been consistent for India at No.5 in ODIs, has captaincy experience in the shorter format. He led India to an ODI series win in South Africa last year. Hardik, on the other hand, is likely to lead the Indian T20I side. He has led India in T20Is during Rohit Sharma's break and served as Hitman's deputy in the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA. "It is expected that in the absence of Rohit, Hardik and KL are the options to be given the responsibility of captain. Both have captained the team earlier," a top source in BCCI told India Today. Also read: Gambhir backs former KKR teammate as India's bowling coach, BCCI keen to rope in THIS WC winner: Report "If Hardik is not available for the T20Is, you might see Suryakumar Yadav as captain in T20Is and Rahul in ODIs. But for now, it seems that Hardik and KL will lead the team," the source further added. After India's T20 WC triumph, in the recently-held 20-nation mega event, Rohit, Kohli and even Jasprit Bumrah are expected to be rested for the entire SL tour. India's tour commences on July 27 and will conclude on August 7. The trio of Rohit, Bumrah and Kohli are likely to be back before the commencement of India's home season in September.

India tour of SL: KL Rahul to lead in ODIs, Hardik Pandya in T20Is as Gautam Gambhir era kicks off - Report

<p>On Tuesday (July 9), BCCI announced Gautam Gambhir as India's new head coach. Gambhir will take charge of the senior men's team from the upcoming white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, starting from July 27, and will serve until the 2027 ODI World Cup. Thus, Gambhir takes over from Rahul Dravid, under whom the Men in Blue ended their ICC title drought after an 11-year-gap with a win during the recently-held 20-nation T20 World Cup&nbsp;in the West Indies and the USA. Dravid's extended tenure ended with the T20 World Cup triumph. After taking over, Gambhir shared a special message for his predecessor.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'I would like to congratulate Rahul Dravid and his team for their exemplary run'</strong></h2>

<p>Gambhir said in a BCCI press release, "It is an absolute honour to serve my tricolour, my people, my country. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Rahul Dravid and his team of support staff for their exemplary run with the team. I am honoured and excited to take on the role of Head Coach for Team India."</p>

<p>The former Indian opener added, "I have always taken pride while donning the Indian jersey during my playing days and it is going to be no different when I take up this new role. Cricket has been my passion and I look forward to working closely with the BCCI, Head of Cricket – Mr VVS Laxman, the support staff, and, most importantly, the players, as we work towards achieving success in the upcoming tournaments."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rahul-dravid-declines-extra-bonus-wants-bcci-to-pay-all-coaches-equally-for-t20-wc-triumph-739511">Rahul Dravid DECLINES extra bonus, wants BCCI to pay all coaches EQUALLY for T20 WC triumph</a></strong></p>

<p>Gambhir represented India from 2004-2016, having made his international debut under Sourav Ganguly. He even played under Dravid's captaincy before serving as MS Dhoni's deputy for a long time. In his illustrious career, which ended in late 2018, Gambhir finished with 4,154 Test runs&nbsp;in 58 matches, and 5,238 ODI runs in 147 games. In addition, he played 37 T20Is, amassing 932 runs. He returned with 20 international centuries and was part of India's 2007 and 2011 ODI World Cup triumphs, ending as the highest run-getter in both&nbsp;finals.</p>

<p>Post retirement, Gambhir has served as the team mentor for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) from 2022-23 -- and helped them reach&nbsp;the playoffs on both occasions -- before returning to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) camp, where he won two IPL championships as captain, ahead of the 2024 season. Under his mentorship, the Shreyas Iyer-led KKR won their third title in this year's IPL.</p>


On Tuesday (July 9), BCCI announced Gautam Gambhir as India's new head coach. Gambhir will take charge of the senior men's team from the upcoming white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, starting from July 27, and will serve until the 2027 ODI World Cup.

On Tuesday (July 9), BCCI announced Gautam Gambhir as India's new head coach. Gambhir will take charge of the senior men's team from the upcoming white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, starting from July 27, and will serve until the 2027 ODI World Cup. Thus, Gambhir takes over from Rahul Dravid, under whom the Men in Blue ended their ICC title drought after an 11-year-gap with a win during the recently-held 20-nation T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA. Dravid's extended tenure ended with the T20 World Cup triumph. After taking over, Gambhir shared a special message for his predecessor. 'I would like to congratulate Rahul Dravid and his team for their exemplary run' Gambhir said in a BCCI press release, "It is an absolute honour to serve my tricolour, my people, my country. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Rahul Dravid and his team of support staff for their exemplary run with the team. I am honoured and excited to take on the role of Head Coach for Team India." The former Indian opener added, "I have always taken pride while donning the Indian jersey during my playing days and it is going to be no different when I take up this new role. Cricket has been my passion and I look forward to working closely with the BCCI, Head of Cricket – Mr VVS Laxman, the support staff, and, most importantly, the players, as we work towards achieving success in the upcoming tournaments." Also read: Rahul Dravid DECLINES extra bonus, wants BCCI to pay all coaches EQUALLY for T20 WC triumph Gambhir represented India from 2004-2016, having made his international debut under Sourav Ganguly. He even played under Dravid's captaincy before serving as MS Dhoni's deputy for a long time. In his illustrious career, which ended in late 2018, Gambhir finished with 4,154 Test runs in 58 matches, and 5,238 ODI runs in 147 games. In addition, he played 37 T20Is, amassing 932 runs. He returned with 20 international centuries and was part of India's 2007 and 2011 ODI World Cup triumphs, ending as the highest run-getter in both finals. Post retirement, Gambhir has served as the team mentor for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) from 2022-23 -- and helped them reach the playoffs on both occasions -- before returning to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) camp, where he won two IPL championships as captain, ahead of the 2024 season. Under his mentorship, the Shreyas Iyer-led KKR won their third title in this year's IPL.

MUST-READ! Gautam Gambhir shares special message for predecessor Rahul Dravid after becoming India coach

<p>Rahul Dravid received a hero's welcome and a guard of honour from young kids at a local cricket academy in Bengaluru after India's historic T20 World Cup triumph. Under Dravid's coaching, Rohit Sharma-led India won the recently-concluded T20 WC 2024 edition, held in West Indies and the USA. It was Dravid's last assignment as India head coach, since taking over in late 2021. Following India's T20 WC run, where they were unbeaten in the 20-nation mega event, Dravid-led support staff and Rohit-led national side have been receiving roaring response from the countrymen. The clip of Dravid's recent welcome at a cricket academy went viral.</p>

<p><strong>Here is the viral video:</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/why-is-bcci-delaying-gautam-gambhirs-appointment-as-india-head-coach-full-details-out-739202">Why is BCCI delaying Gautam Gambhir's appointment as India head coach? Full details out</a></strong></p>

<p>Under Dravid, India had a good run from late 2021 to mid-2024. During his coaching tenure, India reached the 2022 T20 WC semifinals and the WTC 2023 and 2023 ODI World Cup finals as well. However, the Indian team ended their 11-year-long ICC title drought in this year's T20 WC and also ensured the end of Dravid's term on a high. In addition, the Men in Blue won the 2023 Asia Cup (ODIs) while also winning home Test series versus Australia and England.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While there were some ups and downs, Dravid has been hailed for nurturing India's younger lot and building a flexible and dynamic white-ball Indian team along with captain Rohit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is rumoured that Dravid will be succeeded by Gautam Gambhir. BCCI is expected to make the official announcement on India head coach later this month.</p>


Rahul Dravid received a hero's welcome and a guard of honour from young kids at a local cricket academy in Bengaluru after India's historic T20 World Cup triumph.

Rahul Dravid received a hero's welcome and a guard of honour from young kids at a local cricket academy in Bengaluru after India's historic T20 World Cup triumph. Under Dravid's coaching, Rohit Sharma-led India won the recently-concluded T20 WC 2024 edition, held in West Indies and the USA. It was Dravid's last assignment as India head coach, since taking over in late 2021. Following India's T20 WC run, where they were unbeaten in the 20-nation mega event, Dravid-led support staff and Rohit-led national side have been receiving roaring response from the countrymen. The clip of Dravid's recent welcome at a cricket academy went viral. Here is the viral video: View this post on Instagram A post shared by SIX Cricket Community (@six_cricket_community) × Also read: Why is BCCI delaying Gautam Gambhir's appointment as India head coach? Full details out Under Dravid, India had a good run from late 2021 to mid-2024. During his coaching tenure, India reached the 2022 T20 WC semifinals and the WTC 2023 and 2023 ODI World Cup finals as well. However, the Indian team ended their 11-year-long ICC title drought in this year's T20 WC and also ensured the end of Dravid's term on a high. In addition, the Men in Blue won the 2023 Asia Cup (ODIs) while also winning home Test series versus Australia and England. While there were some ups and downs, Dravid has been hailed for nurturing India's younger lot and building a flexible and dynamic white-ball Indian team along with captain Rohit. It is rumoured that Dravid will be succeeded by Gautam Gambhir. BCCI is expected to make the official announcement on India head coach later this month.

Watch: Rahul Dravid gets roaring welcome at Bengaluru academy, receives guard of honour from children

<p>India batter Suryakumar Yadav says the catch taken in the 2024 T20 World Cup final was clean. The catch by SKY off Hardik Pandya to dismiss SA batter David Miller almost sealed the game for eventual winners India.</p>

<p>"When I pushed the ball [up and inside the playing area] and took the catch, I knew I hadn't touched the rope," he said in a chat with news outlet the Indian Express.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/if-captain-is-selfish-former-indian-stumper-blasts-underfire-babar-azam-after-pakistans-t20-wc-debacle-737131">'If captain is SELFISH...': Former Indian stumper BLASTS underfire Babar Azam after Pakistan's T20 WC debacle</a></p>

<p>"The only thing I was cautious about was that when I pushed the ball back inside, my feet don't touch the rope. I knew it was a fair catch. In hindsight, anything could have happened. If the ball had gone for six, the equation would have been five balls, ten runs. We might have still won, but the margin would have been closer," he added.</p>

<p>Surya took the catch on the first ball of the final over with South Africa just 16 runs away from their maiden ICC title win.</p>

<p>Pandya, bowling the last over, bowled a low and wide full toss outside off which Miller connected well. The ball travelled to long off region where Surya caught the ball just inside the boundary line but was disbalanced. SKY then popped the ball in the air and crossed the boundary only to comeback inside and catch it again.</p>

<p>"In those four to five seconds, whatever happened, I can't explain," he said. "The amount of reaction I have been getting for that, people have been calling, messaging; there are more than 1000 unread WhatsApp messages on my phone. The catch is all over social media. I'm grateful that I was there in those five seconds of play."</p>

<p>Miller was the last recognised batter of SA and the next three batters could not get the needed runs off remaining Pandya over. India eventually won the match by seven runs to lift their second T20 World Cup.</p>


India batter Suryakumar Yadav says the catch taken in the 2024 T20 World Cup final was clean. The catch by SKY off Hardik Pandya to dismiss SA batter David Miller almost sealed the game for eventual winners India.

India batter Suryakumar Yadav says the catch taken in the 2024 T20 World Cup final was clean. The catch by SKY off Hardik Pandya to dismiss SA batter David Miller almost sealed the game for eventual winners India. "When I pushed the ball [up and inside the playing area] and took the catch, I knew I hadn't touched the rope," he said in a chat with news outlet the Indian Express. Also Read: 'If captain is SELFISH...': Former Indian stumper BLASTS underfire Babar Azam after Pakistan's T20 WC debacle "The only thing I was cautious about was that when I pushed the ball back inside, my feet don't touch the rope. I knew it was a fair catch. In hindsight, anything could have happened. If the ball had gone for six, the equation would have been five balls, ten runs. We might have still won, but the margin would have been closer," he added. Surya took the catch on the first ball of the final over with South Africa just 16 runs away from their maiden ICC title win. Pandya, bowling the last over, bowled a low and wide full toss outside off which Miller connected well. The ball travelled to long off region where Surya caught the ball just inside the boundary line but was disbalanced. SKY then popped the ball in the air and crossed the boundary only to comeback inside and catch it again. "In those four to five seconds, whatever happened, I can't explain," he said. "The amount of reaction I have been getting for that, people have been calling, messaging; there are more than 1000 unread WhatsApp messages on my phone. The catch is all over social media. I'm grateful that I was there in those five seconds of play." Miller was the last recognised batter of SA and the next three batters could not get the needed runs off remaining Pandya over. India eventually won the match by seven runs to lift their second T20 World Cup.

'We might have...,' India batter Suryakumar Yadav reacts to STUNNING catch in 2024 T20 World Cup final vs SA

<p>Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal has backed Gautam Gambhir to become India's next head coach. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to name the next Indian coach, with Rahul Dravid's tenure set to end post the ongoing T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA. On Tuesday (June 19), Gambhir was interviewed by the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) and is being considered as the ideal candidate to take over from Dravid. Amid all this, Kamran -- who had a verbal spat with Gambhir during their playing days -- lauded the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor and feels 'whatever Gambhir touches turns into gold'.</p>

<p>Talking to the Times of Indoa, Kamran said, "Whatever Gambhir touches turns into gold. The team he joins becomes successful. Team India doesn't need any foreign coaches. They have plenty of options and talent. After Dravid, no one can be the best and bigger than Gautam Gambhir. He was a big player and will become a great coach too. He is the best option India have right now."</p>

<p>He further opined, "Gambhir was with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and they did really well under him. He became a mentor of KKR and they became champions. He is an amazing planner and has a brilliant cricketing mind. I have played a lot of cricket with him. We have been together for a long time. We played, had food and had chats together. We are still good friends. We are still in touch. He should be the head coach and India can go for Ashish Nehra or Zaheer Khan as bowling coach."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/we-dont-need-personal-comments-former-indian-opener-on-pakistani-fan-abusing-haris-rauf-733163">'We don't need personal comments': Former Indian opener on Pakistani fan abusing Haris Rauf</a></strong></p>

<p>Kamran also heaped praise on current coach Dravid.</p>

<p>The former Pakistani stumper feels Dravid has 'given a lot to Indian cricket' with varied roles.</p>

<p>He added, "Rahul Dravid has given a lot to Indian cricket. Not just with his batting, he has given a lot to Indian cricket as a coach as well. He has been working with a different model with Team India. He is one of the greats. Just look at his graph. He is someone who believes in making the roots and foundation so strong. Team India are dominating at the moment but behind the scene credit goes to Rahul Dravid."</p>

<p>Under Dravid, India reached the 2022 T20 WC semifinals, ended as runners-up in the WTC 2023 and 2023 ODI WC.&nbsp;</p>


Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal has backed Gautam Gambhir to become India's next head coach. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to name the next Indian coach, with Rahul Dravid's tenure set to end post the ongoing T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA.

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal has backed Gautam Gambhir to become India's next head coach. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to name the next Indian coach, with Rahul Dravid's tenure set to end post the ongoing T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA. On Tuesday (June 19), Gambhir was interviewed by the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) and is being considered as the ideal candidate to take over from Dravid. Amid all this, Kamran -- who had a verbal spat with Gambhir during their playing days -- lauded the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor and feels 'whatever Gambhir touches turns into gold'. Talking to the Times of Indoa, Kamran said, "Whatever Gambhir touches turns into gold. The team he joins becomes successful. Team India doesn't need any foreign coaches. They have plenty of options and talent. After Dravid, no one can be the best and bigger than Gautam Gambhir. He was a big player and will become a great coach too. He is the best option India have right now." He further opined, "Gambhir was with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and they did really well under him. He became a mentor of KKR and they became champions. He is an amazing planner and has a brilliant cricketing mind. I have played a lot of cricket with him. We have been together for a long time. We played, had food and had chats together. We are still good friends. We are still in touch. He should be the head coach and India can go for Ashish Nehra or Zaheer Khan as bowling coach." Also read: 'We don't need personal comments': Former Indian opener on Pakistani fan abusing Haris Rauf Kamran also heaped praise on current coach Dravid. The former Pakistani stumper feels Dravid has 'given a lot to Indian cricket' with varied roles. He added, "Rahul Dravid has given a lot to Indian cricket. Not just with his batting, he has given a lot to Indian cricket as a coach as well. He has been working with a different model with Team India. He is one of the greats. Just look at his graph. He is someone who believes in making the roots and foundation so strong. Team India are dominating at the moment but behind the scene credit goes to Rahul Dravid." Under Dravid, India reached the 2022 T20 WC semifinals, ended as runners-up in the WTC 2023 and 2023 ODI WC.

'Whatever he touches...' - Kamran Akmal on prospects of Gautam Gambhir becoming India's next coach

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