Cheteshwar Pujara bids adieu to international cricket, rather all forms of it, on Sunday (Aug 24) and this game and its countless fans shall be indebted to him for his contribution to it. He was one of a kind, perhaps the last of his kind, and Team India was blessed to have him as its batting mainstay, mainly in Tests, for 14 years. Cricket, like life, has always had someone to replace someone – like it did in Sachin Tendulkar’s case, it brought in Virat Kohli, and this modern-day great did do justice to it. However, finding Pujara’s replacement, let alone for Indian cricket, could take a long time, perhaps never!&nbsp;Pujara was a proper Test cricketer, something that, with the passing time, has now become a rarity in international cricket. But no one is to be blamed. It’s the game’s evolution that led to the demise of a certain breed while unearthing another. Although it’s hard to find proper Test match batters nowadays, precisely the number threes in the game, something that quietly vanished from cricket’s face, to be able to get another one like him would be this game's win, big time.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cheteshwar-pujara-retirement-sachin-tendulkar-wonderful-career-credits-him-for-india-2018-down-under-australia-success-1756031880307">Sachin Tendulkar lauds Cheteshwar Pujara on ‘wonderful career’; credits him for India’s 2018 Down Under success</a> &nbsp;Pujara was never in a hurry, never. He looked composed, a man always in form, always concentrating, and always looking to score runs. His best trait, however, was to tire out oppositions to an extent that they wished he had not played cricket at all.&nbsp; &nbsp;You don’t believe it? Ask Australia’s Josh Hazlewood, who thanked God for Pujara’s absence during India’s last tour Down Under.<h2>Stubborn, solid and sassy</h2>Pujara was old school in a lot of ways; used to bat like a Test cricketer, walk like one, speak like one, all in all, was like one. There were no ifs and buts about it, and each captain was as happy to have him in the line-up as anyone. Although some did complain about him being slow, probably killing the momentum, or not being able to play as per the situation, everyone forgot, in that moment, that he was always like this – stubborn, solid and sassy at the crease. &nbsp;Test cricket enthusiasts loved him, so did the writers, the journalists, the age-old broadcasters, and above all, this game. Sometimes even the bowlers, the fielders, the umpires, the fans - everyone! &nbsp;He could bat for hours and hours together, or days, or even on all days of a Test, as record books suggest, but then so could everyone; however, not everyone could take blows as he did.&nbsp; &nbsp;On his last tour Down Under, in the fourth Test at the Gabba, which India famously won and broke Australia’s long-standing streak, Pujara took blows as if he was supposed to. His bruised body was a testament to his will and determination to do it for his team, and not surprisingly, he did, helping his team win the match and clinch a historic series win.<h3>Dream over money</h3>Pujara never complained. Sure, he must have had desires to fill his pockets with T20 cricket money, like everyone did and still does to date, but he knew his game, his strengths and backed them, and he succeeded. &nbsp; &nbsp;He was sweet yet dangerous and like none the game has seen.&nbsp; &nbsp;Thank you, Pujara, cricket loves you, cricketers love you, and so do we!

Pujara was like Dravid after Dravid; not the second best after anyone, but the absolute best India has had!

Cheteshwar Pujara bids adieu to international cricket, rather all forms of it, on Sunday (Aug 24) and this game and its countless fans shall be indebted to him for his contribution to it. He was one of a kind, perhaps the last of his kind, and Team India was blessed to have him as its batting mainstay, mainly in Tests, for 14 years. Cricket, like life, has always had someone to replace someone – like it did in Sachin Tendulkar’s case, it brought in Virat Kohli, and this modern-day great did do justice to it. However, finding Pujara’s replacement, let alone for Indian cricket, could take a long time, perhaps never! Pujara was a proper Test cricketer, something that, with the passing time, has now become a rarity in international cricket. But no one is to be blamed. It’s the game’s evolution that led to the demise of a certain breed while unearthing another. Although it’s hard to find proper Test match batters nowadays, precisely the number threes in the game, something that quietly vanished from cricket’s face, to be able to get another one like him would be this game's win, big time. Also read | Sachin Tendulkar lauds Cheteshwar Pujara on ‘wonderful career’; credits him for India’s 2018 Down Under success Pujara was never in a hurry, never. He looked composed, a man always in form, always concentrating, and always looking to score runs. His best trait, however, was to tire out oppositions to an extent that they wished he had not played cricket at all. You don’t believe it? Ask Australia’s Josh Hazlewood, who thanked God for Pujara’s absence during India’s last tour Down Under. Stubborn, solid and sassy Pujara was old school in a lot of ways; used to bat like a Test cricketer, walk like one, speak like one, all in all, was like one. There were no ifs and buts about it, and each captain was as happy to have him in the line-up as anyone. Although some did complain about him being slow, probably killing the momentum, or not being able to play as per the situation, everyone forgot, in that moment, that he was always like this – stubborn, solid and sassy at the crease. Test cricket enthusiasts loved him, so did the writers, the journalists, the age-old broadcasters, and above all, this game. Sometimes even the bowlers, the fielders, the umpires, the fans - everyone! He could bat for hours and hours together, or days, or even on all days of a Test, as record books suggest, but then so could everyone; however, not everyone could take blows as he did. On his last tour Down Under, in the fourth Test at the Gabba, which India famously won and broke Australia’s long-standing streak, Pujara took blows as if he was supposed to. His bruised body was a testament to his will and determination to do it for his team, and not surprisingly, he did, helping his team win the match and clinch a historic series win. Dream over money Pujara never complained. Sure, he must have had desires to fill his pockets with T20 cricket money, like everyone did and still does to date, but he knew his game, his strengths and backed them, and he succeeded. He was sweet yet dangerous and like none the game has seen. Thank you, Pujara, cricket loves you, cricketers love you, and so do we!

Pujara was like Dravid after Dravid; not the second best after anyone, but the absolute best India has had!

India will get another Sachin, Kohli but not a Pujara! He was truly last of his kind

BCCI is preparing significant changes to the men’s selectors committee ahead of its September AGM. According to a report, the BCCI will replace two current members of the committee following scrutiny over team selections. This decision follows BCCI’s extension of Ajit Agarkar’s contract as chief selector, who played a key role in selections for the 2024 T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy 2025.<h2>BCCI set for major selectors overhaul</h2>The BCCI is thinking of overhauling the selectors panel with current members comprising Ajit Agarkar, SS Das, Subroto Banerjee, Ajay Ratra, and S Sharath. According to reports, S Sharath is likely to be replaced by Pragyan Ojha, who is in the frame for the selectors' job. In turn, Sharath will be promoted as the head of the junior men's selection committee. While the name of the other member is yet to be confirmed, the BCCI is set to put out a notification for the same in the coming days.<h2>Who is eligible for national selector positions?</h2>To be eligible as a national selector, a candidate must be a retired cricketer with first-class experience: either a minimum of 7 Test matches, 30 First-Class matches, or 10 ODIs and 20 First-Class matches. Candidates must have retired at least 5 years ago and not have served on any BCCI Cricket Committee for a total of 5 years.A minimum of 7 Test matchesOr 30 First-Class matches;Or 10 ODIs and 20 First-Class matches.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a><h2>Additional eligibility requirements</h2>Must have retired from the game at least 5 years prior.Must not have been a member of any BCCI Cricket Committee for a cumulative period of 5 years.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-asia-cup-2025-india-s-probable-playing-xi-shubman-gill-to-open-sanju-samson-at-no-3-tilak-varma-to-miss-out-1755663441686">Asia Cup 2025, India's Probable Playing XI: Shubman Gill to open, Sanju Samson at No.3; Tilak Varma to miss out</a><h2>Agarkar to extend contract</h2>Ahead of the upcoming AGM in September, the BCCI is all set to extend Agarkar’s contract with personal terms already agreed. The former India all-rounder has been pivotal in India’s success in the Champions Trophy 2025 and the T20 World Cup in 2024. His bold selection calls have often come under scrutiny, but that has not stopped India from rising in big competitions.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-asia-cup-2025-full-squads-complete-fixtures-date-time-venue-and-live-streaming-details-check-all-details-1755585771834">Asia Cup 2025: All you need to know - full squads, complete fixtures, date, time, venue and other key details</a>&nbsp;The latest test came when the panel announced the 15-man squad for the Asia Cup 2025 with Suryakumar Yadav in charge. Dropping Shreyas Iyer, Prasidh Krishna and Yashasvi Jaiswal has been a big topic of debate, but India is still considered to win the tournament, which kicks starts on September 9 in the UAE.

Ahead of the upcoming AGM in September, the BCCI is all set to extend Agarkar’s contract with personal terms already agreed. The former India all-rounder has been pivotal in India’s success in the Champions Trophy 2025 and the T20 World Cup in 2024.

BCCI is preparing significant changes to the men’s selectors committee ahead of its September AGM. According to a report, the BCCI will replace two current members of the committee following scrutiny over team selections. This decision follows BCCI’s extension of Ajit Agarkar’s contract as chief selector, who played a key role in selections for the 2024 T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy 2025. BCCI set for major selectors overhaul The BCCI is thinking of overhauling the selectors panel with current members comprising Ajit Agarkar, SS Das, Subroto Banerjee, Ajay Ratra, and S Sharath. According to reports, S Sharath is likely to be replaced by Pragyan Ojha, who is in the frame for the selectors' job. In turn, Sharath will be promoted as the head of the junior men's selection committee. While the name of the other member is yet to be confirmed, the BCCI is set to put out a notification for the same in the coming days. Who is eligible for national selector positions? To be eligible as a national selector, a candidate must be a retired cricketer with first-class experience: either a minimum of 7 Test matches, 30 First-Class matches, or 10 ODIs and 20 First-Class matches. Candidates must have retired at least 5 years ago and not have served on any BCCI Cricket Committee for a total of 5 years. A minimum of 7 Test matches Or 30 First-Class matches; Or 10 ODIs and 20 First-Class matches. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) Additional eligibility requirements Must have retired from the game at least 5 years prior. Must not have been a member of any BCCI Cricket Committee for a cumulative period of 5 years. ALSO READ | Asia Cup 2025, India's Probable Playing XI: Shubman Gill to open, Sanju Samson at No.3; Tilak Varma to miss out Agarkar to extend contract Ahead of the upcoming AGM in September, the BCCI is all set to extend Agarkar’s contract with personal terms already agreed. The former India all-rounder has been pivotal in India’s success in the Champions Trophy 2025 and the T20 World Cup in 2024. His bold selection calls have often come under scrutiny, but that has not stopped India from rising in big competitions. ALSO READ | Asia Cup 2025: All you need to know - full squads, complete fixtures, date, time, venue and other key details The latest test came when the panel announced the 15-man squad for the Asia Cup 2025 with Suryakumar Yadav in charge. Dropping Shreyas Iyer, Prasidh Krishna and Yashasvi Jaiswal has been a big topic of debate, but India is still considered to win the tournament, which kicks starts on September 9 in the UAE.

Ahead of the upcoming AGM in September, the BCCI is all set to extend Agarkar’s contract with personal terms already agreed. The former India all-rounder has been pivotal in India’s success in the Champions Trophy 2025 and the T20 World Cup in 2024.

BCCI to replace two men's national team selectors, day after Ajit Agarkar's contract extension - Report

Team India, under the captaincy of Shubman Gill, will once again face Ben Stokes-led England in the fourth Test of the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series. The match will take place at Old Trafford in Manchester on Wednesday (Jul 23). In the third Test match, England beat India by 22 runs in an exciting close-encounter game. It will be interesting to see how Team India will bounce back after losing the third Test match and will India be able to level the series.&nbsp;Live streaming details&nbsp;When and where will India vs England 4th Test match take place? &nbsp;The fourth Test match between India and England will be played at Old Trafford in Manchester from July 23, the match will start at 3:30 PM IST.&nbsp;When will toss take place in India vs England 4th Test match? The toss for the India vs England 4th Test match has been scheduled for 3:00 PM IST.&nbsp;Where to watch India vs England 4th Test live streaming on mobile in India? The India vs England 4th Test will be streamed live on the JioHotstar app and website.&nbsp;Where to watch India vs England 4th Test live telecast on TV in India? The India vs England 4th Test will be live telecast on the Sony Sports Network on TV.&nbsp;Pitch report&nbsp;Manchester ground has always been known for its high pace and extra bounce pitches. But over the time Old Trafford pitches has lost its edge and becomes slower in the recent years.&nbsp;As there are some chances of rain, pitch can once again favor the pacers by providing extra pace and bounce.&nbsp;Predicted playing XIs&nbsp;India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (captain), Rishabh Pant (vice-captain &amp; wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Anshul Kamboj.&nbsp;England (confirmed XI): Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (VC), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (C), Jamie Smith (WK), Liam Dawson, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse and Jofra Archer.&nbsp;​IND vs ENG 4th Test Squad:&nbsp;​India Squad: Shubman Gill (C), Rishabh Pant (VC &amp; WK), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Karun Nair, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav and Anshul Kamboj.&nbsp;England Squad: Ben Stokes (c), Jofra Archer, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wk), Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson and Jacob Bethell.&nbsp;Schedule and Results:<ul><li>1st Test: Leeds, June 20-24 (England beat India by five wickets)</li><li>2nd Test: Birmingham, July 2-5 (India beat England by 336 runs)</li><li>3rd Test: London, July 10-14 (England beat India by 22 runs)</li><li>4th Test: Manchester, July 23-27</li><li>5th Test: London, July 31-August 4</li></ul>

In the third Test match, England beat India by 23 runs in an exciting close-encounter game. It will be interesting to see how Team India will bounce back after losing the third Test match.

Team India, under the captaincy of Shubman Gill, will once again face Ben Stokes-led England in the fourth Test of the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series. The match will take place at Old Trafford in Manchester on Wednesday (Jul 23). In the third Test match, England beat India by 22 runs in an exciting close-encounter game. It will be interesting to see how Team India will bounce back after losing the third Test match and will India be able to level the series. Live streaming details When and where will India vs England 4th Test match take place? The fourth Test match between India and England will be played at Old Trafford in Manchester from July 23, the match will start at 3:30 PM IST. When will toss take place in India vs England 4th Test match? The toss for the India vs England 4th Test match has been scheduled for 3:00 PM IST. Where to watch India vs England 4th Test live streaming on mobile in India? The India vs England 4th Test will be streamed live on the JioHotstar app and website. Where to watch India vs England 4th Test live telecast on TV in India? The India vs England 4th Test will be live telecast on the Sony Sports Network on TV. Pitch report Manchester ground has always been known for its high pace and extra bounce pitches. But over the time Old Trafford pitches has lost its edge and becomes slower in the recent years. As there are some chances of rain, pitch can once again favor the pacers by providing extra pace and bounce. Predicted playing XIs India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (captain), Rishabh Pant (vice-captain & wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Anshul Kamboj. England (confirmed XI): Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (VC), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (C), Jamie Smith (WK), Liam Dawson, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse and Jofra Archer. IND vs ENG 4th Test Squad: India Squad: Shubman Gill (C), Rishabh Pant (VC & WK), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Karun Nair, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav and Anshul Kamboj. England Squad: Ben Stokes (c), Jofra Archer, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wk), Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson and Jacob Bethell. Schedule and Results: 1st Test: Leeds, June 20-24 (England beat India by five wickets) 2nd Test: Birmingham, July 2-5 (India beat England by 336 runs) 3rd Test: London, July 10-14 (England beat India by 22 runs) 4th Test: Manchester, July 23-27 5th Test: London, July 31-August 4

In the third Test match, England beat India by 23 runs in an exciting close-encounter game. It will be interesting to see how Team India will bounce back after losing the third Test match.

IND vs ENG, 4th Test: All you need to know about live streaming details, pitch report and more

The Indian men's cricket team is currently in Manchester preparing for the fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, which will commence from Wednesday (Jul 23) to Sunday (Jul 27) at the Old Trafford cricket stadium. Before the do-or-die clash, Indian players met and interacted with some of the stars of the Manchester United Football Club. In a series of photos shared by Adidas on Instagram, cricket stars like Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant were spotted playing football with Manchester United players. Meanwhile, fast bowler Mohammed Siraj was seen bowling to Harry Maguire, the former captain and famous defender of the Red Devils.&nbsp;The Manchester United squad is back for their preseason training and this meet-up provided a perfect chance for the footballers and cricketers to bond. It wasn’t just about football; the Indian players were also seen sharing light moments off the field.&nbsp;&nbsp;In one of the pictures shared on social media, Gill posed for a photo with Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes, while Siraj took a snap with Amad Diallo. Jasprit Bumrah was seen chatting with Maguire and Mason Mount.&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-are-the-three-indian-captains-apart-from-kohli-dhoni-and-rohit-to-lead-in-all-three-formats-1753009558850">Who are three Indian captains apart from Kohli, Dhoni and Rohit to lead in all three formats?</a>

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Even Team India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, posed for a photo with the manager of Manchester United, Ruben Amorim. It was a great mix of cricket and football stars, sharing their passion for sports.&nbsp;This meeting between the two sports teams shows how athletes from different disciplines can come together and support each other. It also allowed the Indian cricketers to enjoy a relaxed day before they take the field on Wednesday (Jul 16).&nbsp;As for India, they will look to bounce back and win the Manchester Test to level the series 2-2. However, the task is not a walk in the park for Shubman Gill's side at Old Trafford.&nbsp;&nbsp;The visitors are yet to win a Test match here. In nine outings, India has four losses and five draws. However, Indian cricket has seen some of its best moments here with Sachin Tendulkar scoring his maiden Test century in Manchester. Back in 1990, Tendulkar had smashed an unbeaten 119 of 189 balls and was also rewarded the ‘Player of the Match’.

 Before the do-or-die clash, Indian players met and interacted with some of the stars of the Manchester United Football Club. In a series of photos shared by Adidas on Instagram, cricket stars like Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant were spotted playing football with Manchester United players.

The Indian men's cricket team is currently in Manchester preparing for the fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, which will commence from Wednesday (Jul 23) to Sunday (Jul 27) at the Old Trafford cricket stadium. Before the do-or-die clash, Indian players met and interacted with some of the stars of the Manchester United Football Club. In a series of photos shared by Adidas on Instagram, cricket stars like Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant were spotted playing football with Manchester United players. Meanwhile, fast bowler Mohammed Siraj was seen bowling to Harry Maguire, the former captain and famous defender of the Red Devils. The Manchester United squad is back for their preseason training and this meet-up provided a perfect chance for the footballers and cricketers to bond. It wasn’t just about football; the Indian players were also seen sharing light moments off the field. In one of the pictures shared on social media, Gill posed for a photo with Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes, while Siraj took a snap with Amad Diallo. Jasprit Bumrah was seen chatting with Maguire and Mason Mount. Also Read | Who are three Indian captains apart from Kohli, Dhoni and Rohit to lead in all three formats?

Before the do-or-die clash, Indian players met and interacted with some of the stars of the Manchester United Football Club. In a series of photos shared by Adidas on Instagram, cricket stars like Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant were spotted playing football with Manchester United players.

IND vs ENG 2025: Football and cricket unite in Manchester. Details inside

From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most runs in away Tests (since 2020). This list also includes Rishabh Pant,  KL Rahul and Cheteshwar Pujara.

From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with most runs in away Tests (since 2020). This list also includes Rishabh Pant, &nbsp;KL Rahul and Cheteshwar Pujara.

From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill: 5 Indian batters with most runs in away Tests (since 2020)

Former India coach Gary Kirsten has recently revealed that the BCCI selectors had a tough time in deciding whether to include Yuvraj Singh in the 2011 ODI WC squad or not. He said it was a very close call at that time but it was him and captain MS Dhoni who strongly supported Yuvraj Singh selection in the team. It was very clear that in the end their opinion regarding the selection of Yuvraj Singh in the team won. Yuvraj went on to become the Player of the Tournament and helped India to win their second ICC ODI World Cup after 28 years.&nbsp;During the 2011 ODI World Cup the left-handed batter from the Punjab scored 362 runs in eight matches at an impressive average of over 90.50. He also took 15 wickets with his part-time spin and maintained a good economy rate of just five runs per over (5.02).&nbsp;Also Check - <a href="5 Indian batters with most fifty-plus scores vs England in Tests">5 Indian batters with most fifty-plus scores vs England in Tests</a>&nbsp;His important 2011 ODI World Cup performances included three back-to-back fifties in the group stage, an important half-century in the quarter-finals against Australia and a century against the West Indies. Surprisingly, he achieved all of these innings while battling with the cancer.&nbsp;“Thank goodness we picked him because it was flipping close, he was. It was not a slam-dunk selection. The selectors kind of debated around the 15 players. I was very keen to have him in the team, as was Dhoni, because of the experience that he brought to the group. And look at the World Cup he ended up having,” Kirsten told Rediff.com. &nbsp;"I was always very fond of Yuvraj. We had this kind of great relationship where like, he used to frustrate the hell out of me sometimes, but I just loved him. He was good. I just want him to be scoring runs all the time because when I watch him bat, it’s just like amazing to watch. But there was a journey he had to walk, and credit to Paddy," added Kirsten. “Paddy did a lot of work with Yuvi to get him ready for that World Cup. Yuvi himself made some key decisions around getting himself prepared and ready for the World Cup," Kirsten added.&nbsp;Yuvi was at the non-striker’s end when his captain MS Dhoni added the finishing touch with a huge six in the final against Sri Lanka in Mumbai.

During the 2011 ODI World Cup the left-handed batter from the Punjab scored 362 runs in eight matches at an impressive average of over 90.50. He also took 15 wickets with his part-time spin and maintained a good economy rate of just five runs per over (5.02).

Former India coach Gary Kirsten has recently revealed that the BCCI selectors had a tough time in deciding whether to include Yuvraj Singh in the 2011 ODI WC squad or not. He said it was a very close call at that time but it was him and captain MS Dhoni who strongly supported Yuvraj Singh selection in the team. It was very clear that in the end their opinion regarding the selection of Yuvraj Singh in the team won. Yuvraj went on to become the Player of the Tournament and helped India to win their second ICC ODI World Cup after 28 years. During the 2011 ODI World Cup the left-handed batter from the Punjab scored 362 runs in eight matches at an impressive average of over 90.50. He also took 15 wickets with his part-time spin and maintained a good economy rate of just five runs per over (5.02). Also Check - 5 Indian batters with most fifty-plus scores vs England in Tests His important 2011 ODI World Cup performances included three back-to-back fifties in the group stage, an important half-century in the quarter-finals against Australia and a century against the West Indies. Surprisingly, he achieved all of these innings while battling with the cancer. “Thank goodness we picked him because it was flipping close, he was. It was not a slam-dunk selection. The selectors kind of debated around the 15 players. I was very keen to have him in the team, as was Dhoni, because of the experience that he brought to the group. And look at the World Cup he ended up having,” Kirsten told Rediff.com. "I was always very fond of Yuvraj. We had this kind of great relationship where like, he used to frustrate the hell out of me sometimes, but I just loved him. He was good. I just want him to be scoring runs all the time because when I watch him bat, it’s just like amazing to watch. But there was a journey he had to walk, and credit to Paddy," added Kirsten. “Paddy did a lot of work with Yuvi to get him ready for that World Cup. Yuvi himself made some key decisions around getting himself prepared and ready for the World Cup," Kirsten added. Yuvi was at the non-striker’s end when his captain MS Dhoni added the finishing touch with a huge six in the final against Sri Lanka in Mumbai.

During the 2011 ODI World Cup the left-handed batter from the Punjab scored 362 runs in eight matches at an impressive average of over 90.50. He also took 15 wickets with his part-time spin and maintained a good economy rate of just five runs per over (5.02).

'Thank goodness we picked him...': 2011 ODI WC winning coach Kirsten's shocking revelation on Yuvraj selection

From Sunil Gavaskar to Sachin Tendulkar, here's a look at top six best Indian Test batters of all time. Also check where does star batter Virat Kohli stand on this list.

From Sunil Gavaskar to Sachin Tendulkar, here's a look at top six best Indian Test batters of all time. Also check where does star batter Virat Kohli stand on this list.

From Sunil Gavaskar to Sachin Tendulkar: Top 6 best Indian Test batters of all-time, check where Virat stands

Here's a look at the top five Indian players with most ducks in the international cricket. Surprisingly, India's batting stalwart Virat Kohli is also on this unwanted list.

Here's a look at the top five Indian players with most ducks in the international cricket. Surprisingly, India's batting stalwart Virat Kohli is also on this unwanted list.

Virat Kohli is only batter in top 5 of this unwanted list, check other Indian players

Sunil Gavaskar, also known as the ‘Little Master’ and ‘King of Test Cricket’ is one of India's most respected cricketers. He is also one of the greatest batsmen India have ever produced. The former captain of India's national team has earned lot of money through matches, brand endorsements and other investments. Lets have a look at his net worth, important assets, brand deals and Career journey.&nbsp;Net worth&nbsp;Sunil Gavaskar’s total net worth is estimated to be around ₹262 crores ($32 million). According to reports, he earns about $4.75 million (Rs 35.92 crore) from cricket commentary and other $2.5 million (Rs 18.9 crore) from his involvement in the IPL. Commentary Career&nbsp;Gavaskar is among the highest paid commentators in cricket. In the IPL 2025 season, he earned around Rs 4.17 crore.&nbsp;&nbsp;He also works as a commentator for international matches. According to reports, he is paid around Rs 2.14 lakh per match and Rs 47.24 lakh per series.&nbsp;Also Read - Sourav Ganguly net worth, important assets and endorsement deals: Check how rich the prince of Kolkata is&nbsp;Brand endorsements&nbsp;Even though he retired from international cricket years ago, Gavaskar's remains a top choice for many brands. He currently promotes several well-known brands. These include:<ul><li>Indian Oil</li><li>Danube</li><li>Deutsche Bank</li></ul>Assets and properties<ul><li>Home - Gavaskar owns three homes in Mumbai, two in Worli and one in Panvel.</li><li>Real Estate - He owns a luxurious Villa in Assagao in North Goa, which he bought in 2017 for Rs 20 crore. This 5,000 sq. ft. vacation home has four bedrooms, elegant European interiors and is surrounded by greenery.</li><li>Business investments - Gavaskar owns shares in the board game company Binca Games and in Samco Ventures. In 2019, he bought property in Dubai and partnered with The First Group (Dubai based real estate company). He also invested in The One, a luxury hotel project in Dubai’s Jumeirah Village Triangle.</li><li>Cars - He owns a BMW 5-Series (E60 model) luxury car.</li></ul>Career&nbsp;&nbsp;Sunil Gavaskar made his Test cricket debut in 1971 against West Indies. Famous for playing without a helmet, he scored 10,122 runs in 125 Test matches. Gavaskar was also part of the Indian team that won the 1983 World Cup.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The former captain of India's national team has earned lot of money through matches, brand endorsements and other investments. Lets have a look at his net worth, important assets, brand deals and Career journey.

Sunil Gavaskar, also known as the ‘Little Master’ and ‘King of Test Cricket’ is one of India's most respected cricketers. He is also one of the greatest batsmen India have ever produced. The former captain of India's national team has earned lot of money through matches, brand endorsements and other investments. Lets have a look at his net worth, important assets, brand deals and Career journey. Net worth Sunil Gavaskar’s total net worth is estimated to be around ₹262 crores ($32 million). According to reports, he earns about $4.75 million (Rs 35.92 crore) from cricket commentary and other $2.5 million (Rs 18.9 crore) from his involvement in the IPL. Commentary Career Gavaskar is among the highest paid commentators in cricket. In the IPL 2025 season, he earned around Rs 4.17 crore. He also works as a commentator for international matches. According to reports, he is paid around Rs 2.14 lakh per match and Rs 47.24 lakh per series. Also Read - Sourav Ganguly net worth, important assets and endorsement deals: Check how rich the prince of Kolkata is Brand endorsements Even though he retired from international cricket years ago, Gavaskar's remains a top choice for many brands. He currently promotes several well-known brands. These include: Indian Oil Danube Deutsche Bank Assets and properties Home - Gavaskar owns three homes in Mumbai, two in Worli and one in Panvel. Real Estate - He owns a luxurious Villa in Assagao in North Goa, which he bought in 2017 for Rs 20 crore. This 5,000 sq. ft. vacation home has four bedrooms, elegant European interiors and is surrounded by greenery. Business investments - Gavaskar owns shares in the board game company Binca Games and in Samco Ventures. In 2019, he bought property in Dubai and partnered with The First Group (Dubai based real estate company). He also invested in The One, a luxury hotel project in Dubai’s Jumeirah Village Triangle. Cars - He owns a BMW 5-Series (E60 model) luxury car. Career Sunil Gavaskar made his Test cricket debut in 1971 against West Indies. Famous for playing without a helmet, he scored 10,122 runs in 125 Test matches. Gavaskar was also part of the Indian team that won the 1983 World Cup.

The former captain of India's national team has earned lot of money through matches, brand endorsements and other investments. Lets have a look at his net worth, important assets, brand deals and Career journey.

Sunil Gavaskar net worth, important assets, investments and brand deals: Check how rich the king of Test cricket is

While MS Dhoni is best known for his calm leadership on the cricket field, his off-field passion for fast cars and rugged machines has always intrigued fans. As he celebrates another year, we take a look at five luxury cars that truly make his garage one of a kind.

While MS Dhoni is best known for his calm leadership on the cricket field, his off-field passion for fast cars and rugged machines has always intrigued fans. As he celebrates another year, we take a look at five luxury cars that truly make his garage one of a kind.

MS Dhoni’s Birthday: 5 luxury cars that make 'Captain Cool’s' garage a dream collection

Team India, under the captaincy of Shubman Gill will once again face Ben Stokes-led England in the second Test of the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series. The match will take place at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Wednesday (July 2). In the first Test match, England beat India by five wickets in an exciting high scoring game in which four Indian batters together hit five centuries. It will be interesting to see how Team India will bounce back after losing the first Test match.&nbsp;Match and Live streaming details&nbsp;<ul><li>When and where will India vs England 2nd Test match take place? &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</li></ul>The second Test match between India and England will be played at Edgbaston in Birmingham from July 2, the match will start at 3:30 PM IST.&nbsp;<ul><li>When will toss take place in India vs England 2nd Test match? &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>The toss for the India vs England 2nd Test match has been scheduled for 3:00 PM IST.&nbsp;<ul><li>Where to watch India vs England 2nd Test live streaming in India? &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</li></ul>The India vs England 2nd Test will be streamed live on the JioHotstar app and website.&nbsp;<ul><li>Where to watch India vs England 2nd Test live telecast in India? &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</li></ul>The India vs England 2nd Test will be live telecast on the Sony Sports Network.&nbsp;Pitch ReportThe Edgbaston pitch usually helps fast bowlers early in the match, especially if the weather is cloudy but by the second and third day the pitch becomes better for batting.&nbsp;Also Check - From Virat Kohli to Smriti Mandhana: 6 Indian players to hit a century in all three format&nbsp;Predicted Playing XIs&nbsp;India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (captain), Karun Nair, Rishabh Pant (vice-captain &amp; wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna.&nbsp;England (confirmed XI): Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue and Shoaib Bashir.

In the first Test match, England beat India by five wickets in an exciting high scoring game in which four Indian batters together hit five centuries. It will be interesting to see how team India will bounce back after losing the first Test match.

Team India, under the captaincy of Shubman Gill will once again face Ben Stokes-led England in the second Test of the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series. The match will take place at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Wednesday (July 2). In the first Test match, England beat India by five wickets in an exciting high scoring game in which four Indian batters together hit five centuries. It will be interesting to see how Team India will bounce back after losing the first Test match. Match and Live streaming details When and where will India vs England 2nd Test match take place? The second Test match between India and England will be played at Edgbaston in Birmingham from July 2, the match will start at 3:30 PM IST. When will toss take place in India vs England 2nd Test match? The toss for the India vs England 2nd Test match has been scheduled for 3:00 PM IST. Where to watch India vs England 2nd Test live streaming in India? The India vs England 2nd Test will be streamed live on the JioHotstar app and website. Where to watch India vs England 2nd Test live telecast in India? The India vs England 2nd Test will be live telecast on the Sony Sports Network. Pitch Report The Edgbaston pitch usually helps fast bowlers early in the match, especially if the weather is cloudy but by the second and third day the pitch becomes better for batting. Also Check - From Virat Kohli to Smriti Mandhana: 6 Indian players to hit a century in all three format Predicted Playing XIs India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (captain), Karun Nair, Rishabh Pant (vice-captain & wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna. England (confirmed XI): Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue and Shoaib Bashir.

In the first Test match, England beat India by five wickets in an exciting high scoring game in which four Indian batters together hit five centuries. It will be interesting to see how team India will bounce back after losing the first Test match.

IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: All you need to know about live streaming details, predicted XIs and more

The Indian cricket team is supposed to tour Bangladesh in August for ODIs (One Day International) and T20I series. However, with the tour just over a month away it is still unclear from Indian side whether it will actually happen or not. On Monday (Jun 30), Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Aminul Islam said that they are still waiting for a confirmation from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). India is expected to play three ODIs and three T20Is against Bangladesh starting from August 17 with matches are scheduled to be held in Mirpur and Chattogram.&nbsp;Despite the schedule the BCB has not yet received a final call from the BCCI.&nbsp;"I have already spoken to the BCCI. Discussions have been positive," Aminul said at a press conference (according to ESPNCricinfo) in Dhaka following a six hour meeting of the BCB's board of directors. "We remain hopeful. It is scheduled [next month] but they are waiting for some decisions from the government."&nbsp;Also Check - From Virat Kohli to Smriti Mandhana: 6 Indian players to hit a century in all three formatsHe also added that if the series doesn’t happen in August then the BCCI has promised to look for the next possible time to reschedule the matches. So far, no official reason has been given for the delay or possible cancellation.&nbsp;"The discussions are ongoing. If for some reason they can't come [in August], they will come at the next available window. We are hopeful of playing in this window. I can't say much apart from the fact that they are very professional and cooperative", he further added.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Indian team is currently at England tour for a five-match Test series. In the first Test match, England beat India by five wickets in an exciting high scoring game in which four Indian batters together hit five centuries.&nbsp;Furthermore, The second Test is scheduled to begin on July 2 at Edgbaston, Birmingham. It will be interesting to see how Shubman Gill and his team respond after the first match loss.&nbsp;

India is expected to play three ODIs and three T20Is against Bangladesh starting from August 17 with matches are scheduled to be held in Mirpur and Chattogram.

The Indian cricket team is supposed to tour Bangladesh in August for ODIs (One Day International) and T20I series. However, with the tour just over a month away it is still unclear from Indian side whether it will actually happen or not. On Monday (Jun 30), Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Aminul Islam said that they are still waiting for a confirmation from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). India is expected to play three ODIs and three T20Is against Bangladesh starting from August 17 with matches are scheduled to be held in Mirpur and Chattogram. Despite the schedule the BCB has not yet received a final call from the BCCI. "I have already spoken to the BCCI. Discussions have been positive," Aminul said at a press conference (according to ESPNCricinfo) in Dhaka following a six hour meeting of the BCB's board of directors. "We remain hopeful. It is scheduled [next month] but they are waiting for some decisions from the government." Also Check - From Virat Kohli to Smriti Mandhana: 6 Indian players to hit a century in all three formats He also added that if the series doesn’t happen in August then the BCCI has promised to look for the next possible time to reschedule the matches. So far, no official reason has been given for the delay or possible cancellation. "The discussions are ongoing. If for some reason they can't come [in August], they will come at the next available window. We are hopeful of playing in this window. I can't say much apart from the fact that they are very professional and cooperative", he further added. Meanwhile, the Indian team is currently at England tour for a five-match Test series. In the first Test match, England beat India by five wickets in an exciting high scoring game in which four Indian batters together hit five centuries. Furthermore, The second Test is scheduled to begin on July 2 at Edgbaston, Birmingham. It will be interesting to see how Shubman Gill and his team respond after the first match loss.

&nbsp;India is expected to play three ODIs and three T20Is against Bangladesh starting from August 17 with matches are scheduled to be held in Mirpur and Chattogram.

'We remain hopeful' says BCB president amid uncertainty over upcoming India white-ball tour

Smriti Mandhana scripted history vs England in Trent Bridge on July 28 by becoming the first Indian woman and overall sixth player from her country to hit a century across all three formats(Test+ODI+T20). Here's a look at the six Indian players who have hit centuries in all three formats:

Smriti Mandhana scripted history vs England in Trent Bridge on July 28 by becoming the first Indian woman and overall sixth player from the country to hit a century across all three formats(Test+ODI+T20). Here's a look at the six Indian players who have hit centuries in all three formats:

From Virat Kohli to Smriti Mandhana: 6 Indian players to hit a century in all three formats

In a big update for India's T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav, the star batter has successfully undergone surgery for a sports hernia in Germany. The 34-year-old shared the news with fans on Instagram, saying he had surgery on the lower right side of his abdomen and is now recovering well. He had recently travelled to the UK to meet a specialist who recommended the operation. Sharing a post on Instagram, Suryakumar wrote: 'Life Update: Underwent surgery for a sports hernia in the lower right abdomen. Grateful to share that after a smooth surgery, I’m already on the road to recovery. Can’t wait to be back.'&nbsp;With Surya starting his recovery, fans are now curious about when he might return to play for India. At the moment, the Indian team is playing a five-match Test series against England, with the hosts winning the first match in Leeds by five wickets. England opener Ben Duckett scored a hundred (149) while Joe Root scored an unbeaten 53 in the fourth innings as England completed their second-highest and third overall successful chase at home.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Check - <a href="Players to play most T20 matches in cricket history">Players to play most T20 matches in cricket history</a>&nbsp;After the England series, India will play Bangladesh in three ODIs and three T20Is, starting from August 17. Although Suryakumar has said he is healing well, there is no exact date for his comeback.&nbsp;About his cricket journey, Suryakumar Yadav has made a big name for himself in T20 cricket. He is currently the captain of India’s T20I team and is likely to lead the side in the T20 World Cup in 2026.&nbsp;&nbsp;Thus far, Suryakumar has played 121 international matches across all formats and has scored 3,379 runs, and is known for his explosive batting in the shortest format; he remains a key player for India’s future campaigns.&nbsp;

After the Test series against England, India will play Bangladesh in three ODIs and three T20Is, starting from August 17, 2025.

In a big update for India's T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav, the star batter has successfully undergone surgery for a sports hernia in Germany. The 34-year-old shared the news with fans on Instagram, saying he had surgery on the lower right side of his abdomen and is now recovering well. He had recently travelled to the UK to meet a specialist who recommended the operation. Sharing a post on Instagram, Suryakumar wrote: 'Life Update: Underwent surgery for a sports hernia in the lower right abdomen. Grateful to share that after a smooth surgery, I’m already on the road to recovery. Can’t wait to be back.' With Surya starting his recovery, fans are now curious about when he might return to play for India. At the moment, the Indian team is playing a five-match Test series against England, with the hosts winning the first match in Leeds by five wickets. England opener Ben Duckett scored a hundred (149) while Joe Root scored an unbeaten 53 in the fourth innings as England completed their second-highest and third overall successful chase at home. Also Check - Players to play most T20 matches in cricket history After the England series, India will play Bangladesh in three ODIs and three T20Is, starting from August 17. Although Suryakumar has said he is healing well, there is no exact date for his comeback. About his cricket journey, Suryakumar Yadav has made a big name for himself in T20 cricket. He is currently the captain of India’s T20I team and is likely to lead the side in the T20 World Cup in 2026. Thus far, Suryakumar has played 121 international matches across all formats and has scored 3,379 runs, and is known for his explosive batting in the shortest format; he remains a key player for India’s future campaigns.

After the Test series against England, India will play Bangladesh in three ODIs and three T20Is, starting from August 17, 2025.

Suryakumar Yadav drops MAJOR life update, says ‘can’t wait to be back’

Prithvi Shaw vanished from the cricket scene like he never existed. Once touted to be the next big thing in Indian cricket, Shaw, who was making headlines much before he led India to the Under-19 World Cup title in 2018, reflects on his downfall. The right-handed opener was all over the news and internet for his dashing Test debut hundred against West Indies in Rajkot; however, he still maintains that popularity across both platforms, but for all the wrong reasons now. Although the then India coach Ravi Shastri called him a fusion of Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, and Brian Lara, Shaw is nowhere close to what those cricket giants achieved by his age now.&nbsp;Shaw, however, admitted to being distracted during his steep rise early in his cricket journey, which saw him make 'wrong friends' and decisions, triggering his career collapse. Once a promising opening batter, Shaw also revealed that cutting down on cricket practice from eight hours to four hours a day also aided his downfall.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2025-2nd-test-birmingham-added-to-india-squad-ahead-of-leeds-test-kkr-quick-harshit-rana-sent-home-report-gautam-gambhir-1750917949790">IND vs ENG: Added to India squad just ahead of Leeds Test, KKR seamer Harshit Rana sent home – Report</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, Shaw endured a tough time both on and off the field last season. Barring the off-field controversies that put his name in a bad light, Shaw suffered blows related to cricket as well. After Mumbai dropped him from the playing XI in the Ranji Trophy over poor form, fitness and disciplinary issues, Shaw found no place in their Vijay Hazare Trophy squad as well.&nbsp; &nbsp;To make things worse, none of the 10 IPL teams bid for him at the last mega auction in November 2024. Besides, Delhi Capitals (DC), Shaw's previous IPL franchise, also decided against retaining him ahead of the mega auction. &nbsp;“There are a lot of things. It is different for people to see. Because I know what has happened. I can understand it. I have taken a lot of wrong decisions in life. I started giving less time to cricket. I used to practice a lot. For example, I used to bat for 3-4 hours in nets. I never got tired of batting. I used to go to the ground for half a day. I admit that there was a distraction,” Shaw said in a chat with News24. &nbsp;“After that, I started considering what was not necessary as necessary. I made some wrong friends. Because I was at the top at that time. Friendship is also formed. Then they took me here and there. All those things. Then I got away from the track. I used to give 8 hours of practice on the ground. Now it is 4 hours,” he continued.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, Prithvi Shaw’s international career includes five Tests, six ODIs, and one T20I for India. He will now represent another state team in the Ranji Trophy after receiving the required No-Objection Certificate (NoC) to leave Mumbai cricket.

Although former India coach Ravi Shastri once called him a fusion of Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, and Brian Lara, Shaw is nowhere close to what those cricket giants achieved by his age now.

Prithvi Shaw vanished from the cricket scene like he never existed. Once touted to be the next big thing in Indian cricket, Shaw, who was making headlines much before he led India to the Under-19 World Cup title in 2018, reflects on his downfall. The right-handed opener was all over the news and internet for his dashing Test debut hundred against West Indies in Rajkot; however, he still maintains that popularity across both platforms, but for all the wrong reasons now. Although the then India coach Ravi Shastri called him a fusion of Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, and Brian Lara, Shaw is nowhere close to what those cricket giants achieved by his age now. Shaw, however, admitted to being distracted during his steep rise early in his cricket journey, which saw him make 'wrong friends' and decisions, triggering his career collapse. Once a promising opening batter, Shaw also revealed that cutting down on cricket practice from eight hours to four hours a day also aided his downfall. Also read | IND vs ENG: Added to India squad just ahead of Leeds Test, KKR seamer Harshit Rana sent home – Report Meanwhile, Shaw endured a tough time both on and off the field last season. Barring the off-field controversies that put his name in a bad light, Shaw suffered blows related to cricket as well. After Mumbai dropped him from the playing XI in the Ranji Trophy over poor form, fitness and disciplinary issues, Shaw found no place in their Vijay Hazare Trophy squad as well. To make things worse, none of the 10 IPL teams bid for him at the last mega auction in November 2024. Besides, Delhi Capitals (DC), Shaw's previous IPL franchise, also decided against retaining him ahead of the mega auction. “There are a lot of things. It is different for people to see. Because I know what has happened. I can understand it. I have taken a lot of wrong decisions in life. I started giving less time to cricket. I used to practice a lot. For example, I used to bat for 3-4 hours in nets. I never got tired of batting. I used to go to the ground for half a day. I admit that there was a distraction,” Shaw said in a chat with News24. “After that, I started considering what was not necessary as necessary. I made some wrong friends. Because I was at the top at that time. Friendship is also formed. Then they took me here and there. All those things. Then I got away from the track. I used to give 8 hours of practice on the ground. Now it is 4 hours,” he continued. Meanwhile, Prithvi Shaw’s international career includes five Tests, six ODIs, and one T20I for India. He will now represent another state team in the Ranji Trophy after receiving the required No-Objection Certificate (NoC) to leave Mumbai cricket.

Although former India coach Ravi Shastri once called him a fusion of Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, and Brian Lara, Shaw is nowhere close to what those cricket giants achieved by his age now.

'Made wrong friends, devoted less time to practice': Prithvi Shaw reflects on his downfall

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly made a shocking revelation on Sunday (June 22) after he recounted a famous incident from his playing days. One of the legendary players, Ganguly shared the dressing room with some of the greats of the game including Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman. However, drawing back Ganguly shared an interesting story that made headlines in the Indian dressing room in 2003 when Laxman did not speak to him for three months. So what was the incident and what caused the friction between Ganguly and Laxman?<h2>Ganguly recalls infamous VVS Laxman moment</h2>"It has happened many times when we rested players. They were unhappy. Laxman being left out of the World Cup...he never spoke to me for three months. Then I made up with him. Anybody would get upset...for a World Cup. Especially a player of Laxman's calibre. Quite natural that he would get upset," Ganguly told PTI while recalling the moment when Laxman was dropped in 2003 World Cup squad.&nbsp;Laxman who played 86 ODIs and scored over 2,338 runs at an average of 30.8, was dropped for the 2003 ODI World Cup by the Indian selectors in favour of Dinesh Mongia. Kiran More, who was part of the selection panel during the 2003 World Cup also opened up on the selection call while in conversation with former Pakistan player Rashid Latif.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Before the 2003 ODI World Cup selection meeting, we had a huge argument when the Indian team was playing in New Zealand. As per the inputs received from the captain and the coach, we selected a 14-member squad and asked them what they thought of it. Over the conference call, Ganguly had a different opinion. We had selected VVS Laxman as our middle-order batter. Ganguly was very smart. He was a brilliant captain, a person with a great cricketing brain. He said ‘we need an all-rounder,” More had told on former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif’s YouTube channel.&nbsp;Also Check - From Shubman Gill to Rishabh Pant: 5 Indian batters with most centuries in WTC history&nbsp;Ganguly recently spoke about how sad Laxman was when he was dropped from the squad. The two didn’t speak for months, but they eventually patched things up after the World Cup.&nbsp;The former middle-order batter made a strong comeback to the ODI set-up smashing three tons in the tri-series in Australia in January-February 2004. &nbsp;

Although VVS Laxman has played 86 ODIs for India and scored over 2,338 runs at an average of 30.8, he never got a chance to play in a World Cup match.

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly made a shocking revelation on Sunday (June 22) after he recounted a famous incident from his playing days. One of the legendary players, Ganguly shared the dressing room with some of the greats of the game including Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman. However, drawing back Ganguly shared an interesting story that made headlines in the Indian dressing room in 2003 when Laxman did not speak to him for three months. So what was the incident and what caused the friction between Ganguly and Laxman? Ganguly recalls infamous VVS Laxman moment "It has happened many times when we rested players. They were unhappy. Laxman being left out of the World Cup...he never spoke to me for three months. Then I made up with him. Anybody would get upset...for a World Cup. Especially a player of Laxman's calibre. Quite natural that he would get upset," Ganguly told PTI while recalling the moment when Laxman was dropped in 2003 World Cup squad. Laxman who played 86 ODIs and scored over 2,338 runs at an average of 30.8, was dropped for the 2003 ODI World Cup by the Indian selectors in favour of Dinesh Mongia. Kiran More, who was part of the selection panel during the 2003 World Cup also opened up on the selection call while in conversation with former Pakistan player Rashid Latif. “Before the 2003 ODI World Cup selection meeting, we had a huge argument when the Indian team was playing in New Zealand. As per the inputs received from the captain and the coach, we selected a 14-member squad and asked them what they thought of it. Over the conference call, Ganguly had a different opinion. We had selected VVS Laxman as our middle-order batter. Ganguly was very smart. He was a brilliant captain, a person with a great cricketing brain. He said ‘we need an all-rounder,” More had told on former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif’s YouTube channel. Also Check - From Shubman Gill to Rishabh Pant: 5 Indian batters with most centuries in WTC history Ganguly recently spoke about how sad Laxman was when he was dropped from the squad. The two didn’t speak for months, but they eventually patched things up after the World Cup. The former middle-order batter made a strong comeback to the ODI set-up smashing three tons in the tri-series in Australia in January-February 2004.

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly made a shocking revelation on Sunday (June 22) after he recounted a famous incident from his playing days.&nbsp;

Sourav Ganguly reveals VVS Laxman didn't speak to him for 3 months, was replaced by THIS player

Virat Kohli, the heart of Indian cricket, chooses to lay low and lead a quiet life with his family in London, England. Since announcing his Test retirement last month, Kohli, who later won his maiden IPL title with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2025, moved to the UK to spend the English summer with his wife and Bollywood actress, Anushka Sharma, and two kids. Choosing to spend time in peace and away from the chaos and media attention, Kohli remains in the vicinity of the Indian Team despite not being part of the Test squad for the ongoing five-match Test series against England.&nbsp;Even as India will play two Test matches in London, including the third one at the Lord’s starting July 10, Kohli chooses to remain private and deliberately distanced from the sport, per a Telegraph report that sheds some light on Kohli’s London life.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-june-20-the-luckiest-day-for-indian-test-cricket-history-and-numbers-suggest-so-sourav-ganguly-rahul-dravid-virat-kohli-1750410114862">Is June 20 the luckiest date for Indian Test Cricket? History and numbers suggest so!</a> &nbsp;Unlike his batting hero and cricket great Sachin Tendulkar, who was at Lord’s recently, Kohli skipped the recently-concluded WTC Final between Australia and South Africa and MCC’s ‘World Cricket Connects’ symposium despite staying close to the venue. &nbsp;Meanwhile, contrary to his life in India, where he is no less than a mega superstar, which also comes with its set of restrictions, Kohli walks like a free man in London - a city that offered him the refuge he longed for while staying in India. In the UK, he goes to restaurants with his family and even rides a tube (metro), something he can only imagine doing in his country.&nbsp; &nbsp;Moreover, he and Anushka are believed to be staying in Notting Hill.<h2>Team India in the UK &nbsp;</h2>After playing the intra-squad game against India-A in Beckenham, the senior men’s team was sent out to bat first on day one of the Leeds Test against England on Friday (Jun 20).&nbsp; &nbsp;While India handed a debut cap to Sai Sudharsan – the new number three- they recalled domestic giant Karun Nair to the Test line-up for the first time in eight years. &nbsp;In the bowling department, Jasprit Bumrah will lead the pace attack, and Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna will share the new ball with him. All-rounder Shardul Thakur was picked ahead of Nitish Kumar Reddy, while Ravindra Jadeja retained his place as the lone spinner.&nbsp;

Heart of Indian Cricket, Kohli chooses to lead quiet life in England – Report

Virat Kohli, the heart of Indian cricket, chooses to lay low and lead a quiet life with his family in London, England. Since announcing his Test retirement last month, Kohli, who later won his maiden IPL title with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2025, moved to the UK to spend the English summer with his wife and Bollywood actress, Anushka Sharma, and two kids. Choosing to spend time in peace and away from the chaos and media attention, Kohli remains in the vicinity of the Indian Team despite not being part of the Test squad for the ongoing five-match Test series against England. Even as India will play two Test matches in London, including the third one at the Lord’s starting July 10, Kohli chooses to remain private and deliberately distanced from the sport, per a Telegraph report that sheds some light on Kohli’s London life. Also read | Is June 20 the luckiest date for Indian Test Cricket? History and numbers suggest so! Unlike his batting hero and cricket great Sachin Tendulkar, who was at Lord’s recently, Kohli skipped the recently-concluded WTC Final between Australia and South Africa and MCC’s ‘World Cricket Connects’ symposium despite staying close to the venue. Meanwhile, contrary to his life in India, where he is no less than a mega superstar, which also comes with its set of restrictions, Kohli walks like a free man in London - a city that offered him the refuge he longed for while staying in India. In the UK, he goes to restaurants with his family and even rides a tube (metro), something he can only imagine doing in his country. Moreover, he and Anushka are believed to be staying in Notting Hill. Team India in the UK After playing the intra-squad game against India-A in Beckenham, the senior men’s team was sent out to bat first on day one of the Leeds Test against England on Friday (Jun 20). While India handed a debut cap to Sai Sudharsan – the new number three- they recalled domestic giant Karun Nair to the Test line-up for the first time in eight years. In the bowling department, Jasprit Bumrah will lead the pace attack, and Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna will share the new ball with him. All-rounder Shardul Thakur was picked ahead of Nitish Kumar Reddy, while Ravindra Jadeja retained his place as the lone spinner.

Even as India will play two Test matches in London, including the third one at the Lord’s starting July 10, Kohli chooses to remain private and deliberately distanced from the sport.

Heart of Indian Cricket, Kohli chooses to lead quiet life in England with family – Report

June is lucky for Indian cricket. But is there one luckiest date of them all? Those from the bygone years might argue that June 25 is the luckiest date – why? India lifted its first ICC title – an ODI World Cup on that date in 1983, beating the defending champions West Indies in a famous Lord's final. Fast forward almost 40 years, the Men in Blue won its second T20 World Cup title on June 29, 2024, in the Americas. But is there a date that holds more significance to Indian Test cricket, specifically? History and numbers suggest that it’s June 20.&nbsp;June 20 and Indian Test cricket have plenty to do with each other. Has India won anything major on this day? Perhaps not! Then what makes it special than other dates on the calendar?&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-end-1st-test-headingley-leeds-preview-shubman-gill-era-begins-as-team-india-launches-quest-for-history-in-uk-1750398005312">IND vs ENG 1st Test, Preview: Shubman Gill era begins as Team India launches quest for history in UK</a> &nbsp;Of all the greatest Test cricketers the country has produced over the years, the three most significant ones made their respective Test debuts on June 20. Those three players were Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid and Virat Kohli.&nbsp; &nbsp;Known for shaping Indian cricket their way, each contributed massively both on and off the field. Besides being among the country’s biggest match winners, all three were fabulous captains and led India to scale massive heights at home and abroad, creating history almost everywhere. &nbsp;While Ganguly and Dravid were introduced to the Test scene on this day in 1996 during India’s Test against England at the Lord’s, Virat emerged on the Test side on June 20, 2011, debuting alongside opener Abhinav Mukund and seamer Praveen Kumar, against the West Indies.<h2>From 1996 till eternity &nbsp;</h2>Picked to play alongside the superstar Sachin Tendulkar, with whom this pair etched their name in history books countless times later on, Ganguly and Dravid enjoyed their maiden outings on English soil as Indian batters. While history remains kinder to Ganguly, who scored a hundred on debut, hitting a brilliant 131 batting at number three, it somewhere forgot to honour Dravid that much, who missed the same feat by just five runs in his debut outing, as he got out on 95 in the same innings. &nbsp;Years later, they finished their Test careers as one of the best in the game. While both played over 100 Tests for India, Dravid led the race for most runs scored between them; Ganguly, however, did more as a Test captain and was famous for saving Indian cricket following match-fixing scandals in the early 2000s. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Kohli’s emergence on the Test scene in 2011 changed Indian Cricket forever. Let alone being applauded for his run-scoring spree throughout his career, Kohli’s run as India’s Test captain has the world talking about it to date. Of his massive achievements as both batter and skipper, Kohli leading India to a Test series win Down Under (against Australia) made him the best-ever. &nbsp;However, all three are now retired, with Kohli being the latest to hang up his Test boots.&nbsp;Besides, another name is added to the list. On June 20, 2025, Tamil Nadu batter Sai Sudharsan made his Test debut ahead of day one of the first Test against England at Headingley in Leeds.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Test Cap number 3⃣1⃣7⃣ Congratulations to Sai Sudharsan, who is all set to make his Test Debut 🙌 Updates ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/CuzAEnBkyu">https://t.co/CuzAEnBkyu</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/wn8kaXdln6">pic.twitter.com/wn8kaXdln6</a>&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1935992504836669748?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

India won its maiden ODI World Cup on June 25, 1983, and their second T20 World Cup title on June 29, 2024. But why is June 20 more famous?

June is lucky for Indian cricket. But is there one luckiest date of them all? Those from the bygone years might argue that June 25 is the luckiest date – why? India lifted its first ICC title – an ODI World Cup on that date in 1983, beating the defending champions West Indies in a famous Lord's final. Fast forward almost 40 years, the Men in Blue won its second T20 World Cup title on June 29, 2024, in the Americas. But is there a date that holds more significance to Indian Test cricket, specifically? History and numbers suggest that it’s June 20. June 20 and Indian Test cricket have plenty to do with each other. Has India won anything major on this day? Perhaps not! Then what makes it special than other dates on the calendar? Also read | IND vs ENG 1st Test, Preview: Shubman Gill era begins as Team India launches quest for history in UK Of all the greatest Test cricketers the country has produced over the years, the three most significant ones made their respective Test debuts on June 20. Those three players were Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid and Virat Kohli. Known for shaping Indian cricket their way, each contributed massively both on and off the field. Besides being among the country’s biggest match winners, all three were fabulous captains and led India to scale massive heights at home and abroad, creating history almost everywhere. While Ganguly and Dravid were introduced to the Test scene on this day in 1996 during India’s Test against England at the Lord’s, Virat emerged on the Test side on June 20, 2011, debuting alongside opener Abhinav Mukund and seamer Praveen Kumar, against the West Indies. From 1996 till eternity Picked to play alongside the superstar Sachin Tendulkar, with whom this pair etched their name in history books countless times later on, Ganguly and Dravid enjoyed their maiden outings on English soil as Indian batters. While history remains kinder to Ganguly, who scored a hundred on debut, hitting a brilliant 131 batting at number three, it somewhere forgot to honour Dravid that much, who missed the same feat by just five runs in his debut outing, as he got out on 95 in the same innings. Years later, they finished their Test careers as one of the best in the game. While both played over 100 Tests for India, Dravid led the race for most runs scored between them; Ganguly, however, did more as a Test captain and was famous for saving Indian cricket following match-fixing scandals in the early 2000s. Meanwhile, Kohli’s emergence on the Test scene in 2011 changed Indian Cricket forever. Let alone being applauded for his run-scoring spree throughout his career, Kohli’s run as India’s Test captain has the world talking about it to date. Of his massive achievements as both batter and skipper, Kohli leading India to a Test series win Down Under (against Australia) made him the best-ever. However, all three are now retired, with Kohli being the latest to hang up his Test boots. Besides, another name is added to the list. On June 20, 2025, Tamil Nadu batter Sai Sudharsan made his Test debut ahead of day one of the first Test against England at Headingley in Leeds.

India won its maiden ODI World Cup on June 25, 1983, and their second T20 World Cup title on June 29, 2024. But why is June 20 more famous?

Is June 20 the luckiest date for Indian Test Cricket? History and numbers suggest so!

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir delivered a loud and clear message to Indian players, urging them to skip the survival stage mode and play each ball ‘with purpose’ on the upcoming England tour, starting with the first Test in Leeds.&nbsp;With three senior players, Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin and Rohit Sharma, all absent due to respective Test retirements, this new-look Indian Team has a chance to pull off what no touring Indian side could do on English soil since 2007 - is to beat them away from home.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-2025-india-bowling-coach-morkel-blown-away-by-jasprit-bumrah-preparation-for-england-tests-1749708794854">‘He knows how to get himself ready’: Bowling coach Morkel ‘blown away’ by Bumrah’s preparation for ENG Tests</a> &nbsp;As Team India continues to prepare for the marquee five-match Test series, head coach Gambhir and newly-appointed Test captain Shubman Gill addressed the team during a huddle, outlining the need to ensure they stay at the top throughout the series, which gets underway June 20. Gautam, surrounded by newcomers Arshdeep Singh and Sai Sudharsan, gave a pep talk to his players. &nbsp;Gambhir said there are different ways to look at this series, and amidst all the hard work and talent at their disposal, they must stick together and make sacrifices, come out of their comfort zone and play each session, hour and ball with a purpose.&nbsp; &nbsp;“All I want to say is that there’s two ways of looking to this tour. One is, we are without our three most experienced players, or we got this phenomenal opportunity to do something special for the country. When I look around in this group, I think the hunger, the passion, the commitment to do something special. I think if we make sacrifices, if we come out of our comfort zone, if we start fighting, not every day but every session, every hour and every ball, I think we can have a memorable tour,” Gambhir said in a video posted by BCCI’s social media handle on Thursday (June 12).&nbsp; &nbsp;Gill, who stood beside Gambhir, also echoed the same feelings but with a twist. The team skipper urged the players to take little pressure while preparing for the Test series, only to learn the art of absorbing it while being in that situation during the game.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Let’s make each and every net session meaningful, and let’s prepare like that. And let’s put ourselves under a little bit of pressure when we are going out there. It’s not about going out there and surviving; let’s try to find out our game, how we are going to play when we are put under pressure. Be it our bowlers or batters. Let’s play every ball with a purpose,” Gill said. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the senior men's team will face India-A in a closed-door intra-squad match starting June 13.&nbsp;

Gautam Gambhir urges Indian players to skip survival stage and play with purpose on England tour

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir delivered a loud and clear message to Indian players, urging them to skip the survival stage mode and play each ball ‘with purpose’ on the upcoming England tour, starting with the first Test in Leeds. With three senior players, Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin and Rohit Sharma, all absent due to respective Test retirements, this new-look Indian Team has a chance to pull off what no touring Indian side could do on English soil since 2007 - is to beat them away from home. Also read | ‘He knows how to get himself ready’: Bowling coach Morkel ‘blown away’ by Bumrah’s preparation for ENG Tests As Team India continues to prepare for the marquee five-match Test series, head coach Gambhir and newly-appointed Test captain Shubman Gill addressed the team during a huddle, outlining the need to ensure they stay at the top throughout the series, which gets underway June 20. Gautam, surrounded by newcomers Arshdeep Singh and Sai Sudharsan, gave a pep talk to his players. Gambhir said there are different ways to look at this series, and amidst all the hard work and talent at their disposal, they must stick together and make sacrifices, come out of their comfort zone and play each session, hour and ball with a purpose. “All I want to say is that there’s two ways of looking to this tour. One is, we are without our three most experienced players, or we got this phenomenal opportunity to do something special for the country. When I look around in this group, I think the hunger, the passion, the commitment to do something special. I think if we make sacrifices, if we come out of our comfort zone, if we start fighting, not every day but every session, every hour and every ball, I think we can have a memorable tour,” Gambhir said in a video posted by BCCI’s social media handle on Thursday (June 12). Gill, who stood beside Gambhir, also echoed the same feelings but with a twist. The team skipper urged the players to take little pressure while preparing for the Test series, only to learn the art of absorbing it while being in that situation during the game. “Let’s make each and every net session meaningful, and let’s prepare like that. And let’s put ourselves under a little bit of pressure when we are going out there. It’s not about going out there and surviving; let’s try to find out our game, how we are going to play when we are put under pressure. Be it our bowlers or batters. Let’s play every ball with a purpose,” Gill said. Meanwhile, the senior men's team will face India-A in a closed-door intra-squad match starting June 13.

With three senior players, Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin and Rohit Sharma, all absent due to respective Test retirements, this new-look Indian Team has a chance to pull off what no touring Indian side could do on English soil since 2007 - is to beat them away from home.

India head coach Gambhir urges players to skip survival stage and play ‘with purpose’ on England tour

With two cricketing giants in India and Australia preparing for their respective series/match in the UK, reports of one facing the rejection of training at a venue at the ‘other’s expense’ have surfaced lately. Australia, the 2025 WTC finalist, was reportedly denied permission to train at the Lord’s Cricket Stadium this past Saturday (June 7), three days before the final at the very venue against South Africa, only because the Indian Team had occupied the training facility, leaving their captain Pat Cummins fuming over it.&nbsp; &nbsp;Per several reports emerging from Down Under, the Indian Team trained at the venue upon landing in England for their marquee five-match Test series starting June 20 in Leeds, while the Aussies, who were earlier training in Beckenham, were denied permission to resume practice at the venue where they are playing the final at.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bcci-changes-venues-for-2025-international-home-season-over-concerns-around-post-diwali-aqi-indian-cricket-team-south-africa-delhi-kolkata-1749455542851">BCCI changes venues for 2025 home season over concerns around post-Diwali AQI</a> &nbsp;As reported by Code Sports, the Shubman Gill-led Indian Test team trained on the day (Saturday) at Lord’s, while the authorities there informed WTC finalists that the training facility remains ‘unavailable’ for them, forcing them to make a three-hour trip to find an appropriate training venue. &nbsp;Even though the newly-named Tendulkar-Anderson series will not get underway even five days after the final day of the 2025 WTC Final, and India and England face off at the venue (in the third Test) on July 20, the Australians were asked to look out for options elsewhere. &nbsp;Meanwhile, on Sunday (June 8), the BCCI uploaded a video on its social media handles showing Gill-led India beginning indoor training before moving outdoors and doing run-ups and playing football. The squad gelled well together in the training before hitting the nets.<h2>Cummins taunts Lord’s crowd &nbsp;</h2>Considering what unfolded the last time when Australia played a Test at Lord’s (between Alex Carey and Jonny Bairstow), Cummins taunted the crowd here, saying,&nbsp; &nbsp;“I think this is the best version of the stadium this morning. There’s no one around, which is great. I’m sure it will be much more civil this time around. Things got pretty heated in the middle of that Ashes series, but I think a lot of them will have learned their lesson, and I’m sure they’ll be very polite." &nbsp;Australia and South Africa will face off in the third WTC Final at the mecca of cricket at Lord’s. While the Proteas have entered their first WTC Final, the Aussies are the defending champions, having beaten India last time.&nbsp;

Australia captain Cummins fumes as India preferred over WTC finalists to train at Lord’s – Report

With two cricketing giants in India and Australia preparing for their respective series/match in the UK, reports of one facing the rejection of training at a venue at the ‘other’s expense’ have surfaced lately. Australia, the 2025 WTC finalist, was reportedly denied permission to train at the Lord’s Cricket Stadium this past Saturday (June 7), three days before the final at the very venue against South Africa, only because the Indian Team had occupied the training facility, leaving their captain Pat Cummins fuming over it. Per several reports emerging from Down Under, the Indian Team trained at the venue upon landing in England for their marquee five-match Test series starting June 20 in Leeds, while the Aussies, who were earlier training in Beckenham, were denied permission to resume practice at the venue where they are playing the final at. Also read | BCCI changes venues for 2025 home season over concerns around post-Diwali AQI As reported by Code Sports, the Shubman Gill-led Indian Test team trained on the day (Saturday) at Lord’s, while the authorities there informed WTC finalists that the training facility remains ‘unavailable’ for them, forcing them to make a three-hour trip to find an appropriate training venue. Even though the newly-named Tendulkar-Anderson series will not get underway even five days after the final day of the 2025 WTC Final, and India and England face off at the venue (in the third Test) on July 20, the Australians were asked to look out for options elsewhere. Meanwhile, on Sunday (June 8), the BCCI uploaded a video on its social media handles showing Gill-led India beginning indoor training before moving outdoors and doing run-ups and playing football. The squad gelled well together in the training before hitting the nets. Cummins taunts Lord’s crowd Considering what unfolded the last time when Australia played a Test at Lord’s (between Alex Carey and Jonny Bairstow), Cummins taunted the crowd here, saying, “I think this is the best version of the stadium this morning. There’s no one around, which is great. I’m sure it will be much more civil this time around. Things got pretty heated in the middle of that Ashes series, but I think a lot of them will have learned their lesson, and I’m sure they’ll be very polite." Australia and South Africa will face off in the third WTC Final at the mecca of cricket at Lord’s. While the Proteas have entered their first WTC Final, the Aussies are the defending champions, having beaten India last time.

Australia, the 2025 WTC finalist, was reportedly denied permission to train at the Lord’s Cricket Stadium this past Saturday (June 7), three days before the final at the very venue against South Africa.&nbsp;

India&rsquo;s senior men&rsquo;s team is set to tour Bangladesh in August 2025 for a six-match white-ball series featuring three ODIs and three T20Is.
The bilateral series will kick off with the ODI leg, starting August 17 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium (SBNCS) in Mirpur. The second ODI will be played on August 20 at the same venue, before the teams move to Chattogram for the third and final ODI on August 23.
Also Read -&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-the-shots-came-but-not-the-strike-pants-knock-against-csk-raises-questions-8963939" aria-label="IPL 2025 | 'The shots came, but not the strike' &mdash; Pant's knock against CSK raises questions">IPL 2025 | 'The shots came, but not the strike' &mdash; Pant's knock against CSK raises questions</a>
After the 50-over battles, both sides will shift focus to the shortest format of the game. The T20I series will begin on August 26 at the BSSFLMRCS ground in Chattogram. The final two T20Is will be played back in Mirpur on August 29 and 31.
This will be India&rsquo;s first white-ball assignment in Bangladesh since 2022 when they toured for a similar three-match ODI series. Bangladesh had won that series 2-1 and the hosts will be keen to repeat that success on home soil.
For India, this tour offers a good opportunity to test bench strength and combinations ahead of a packed international calendar. With the 2026 T20 World Cup on the line, performances in Bangladesh will hold significant weight in selection discussions.
The BCCI is expected to announce the squads in the coming weeks, with team management might be giving extended chances to young talents. Rohit Sharma will be expected to lead the 50-over side, whereas Suryakumar Yadav should be the T20I captain. On the other hand, Bangladesh, too, may look to build squad depth, especially in the T20I setup.
<h2>Here&rsquo;s the full schedule India's white-ball tour of Bangladesh:&nbsp;</h2>
<ul>
<li>1st ODI: August 17 (Sunday), SBNCS, Mirpur</li>
<li>2nd ODI: August 20 (Wednesday), SBNCS, Mirpur &nbsp;</li>
<li>3rd ODI: August 23 (Saturday), BSSFLMRCS, Chattogram &nbsp;</li>
<li>1st T20I: August 26 (Tuesday), BSSFLMRCS, Chattogram &nbsp;</li>
<li>2nd T20I August 29 (Friday), SBNCS, Mirpur &nbsp;</li>
<li>3rd T20I August 31 (Sunday), SBNCS, Mirpur</li>
</ul>

This will be India’s first white-ball assignment in Bangladesh since 2022 when they toured for a similar three-match ODI series. Bangladesh had won that series 2-1. cricket sports

India’s senior men’s team is set to tour Bangladesh in August 2025 for a six-match white-ball series featuring three ODIs and three T20Is. The bilateral series will kick off with the ODI leg, starting August 17 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium (SBNCS) in Mirpur. The second ODI will be played on August 20 at the same venue, before the teams move to Chattogram for the third and final ODI on August 23. Also Read - IPL 2025 | 'The shots came, but not the strike' — Pant's knock against CSK raises questions After the 50-over battles, both sides will shift focus to the shortest format of the game. The T20I series will begin on August 26 at the BSSFLMRCS ground in Chattogram. The final two T20Is will be played back in Mirpur on August 29 and 31. This will be India’s first white-ball assignment in Bangladesh since 2022 when they toured for a similar three-match ODI series. Bangladesh had won that series 2-1 and the hosts will be keen to repeat that success on home soil. For India, this tour offers a good opportunity to test bench strength and combinations ahead of a packed international calendar. With the 2026 T20 World Cup on the line, performances in Bangladesh will hold significant weight in selection discussions. The BCCI is expected to announce the squads in the coming weeks, with team management might be giving extended chances to young talents. Rohit Sharma will be expected to lead the 50-over side, whereas Suryakumar Yadav should be the T20I captain. On the other hand, Bangladesh, too, may look to build squad depth, especially in the T20I setup. Here’s the full schedule India's white-ball tour of Bangladesh: 1st ODI: August 17 (Sunday), SBNCS, Mirpur 2nd ODI: August 20 (Wednesday), SBNCS, Mirpur 3rd ODI: August 23 (Saturday), BSSFLMRCS, Chattogram 1st T20I: August 26 (Tuesday), BSSFLMRCS, Chattogram 2nd T20I August 29 (Friday), SBNCS, Mirpur 3rd T20I August 31 (Sunday), SBNCS, Mirpur

India set to tour Bangladesh in August for six white-ball games - Schedule Inside

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday (April 2) announced the schedule for India&rsquo;s home series as South Africa and West Indies will be touring the sub-continent. The announcement comes as part of BCCI&rsquo;s 2025-26 home season as India also bid to defend their T20 World Cup title at the start of 2026. West Indies will play a two-match Test series while South Africa will play in an all-format series.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">India set for South Africa, West Indies home series<o:p></o:p></h2>
With the Australia tour coming at the start of 2026 and the T20 World Cup defence looming, the Indian cricket team will play South Africa and West Indies as the home season begins on October 2. India will play four Test matches, two against West Indies followed by two against South Africa. There will be no day-night Test match in either series. <o:p></o:p>
Compared to last year, the 2025-26 home season will have a delayed start as India will be away in England for a five-match Test series followed by the Asia Cup in September. India will be in England until August with the tour starting on June 20. <o:p></o:p>
The South Africa series will start on 14 November with the first Test in New Delhi while the three-match ODI series begins on Dec 6. India will then start preparations for the T20 World Cup as they face the Proteas in a five-match T20I series starting on Dec 9. <o:p></o:p>
Ahmedabad, Kolkata, New Delhi and Guwahati will be designated venues for the Test series while Ranchi, Raipur, Vizag and Cuttack are some venues used for the white-ball series.
<h2>West Indies Tour of India</h2>
1st Test &ndash; Thu, 02-Oct-25 to Mon, 06-Oct-25 | 9:30 AM | Ahmedabad
2nd Test &ndash; Fri, 10-Oct-25 to Tue, 14-Oct-25 | 9:30 AM | Kolkata
<h2>South Africa Tour of India</h2>
1st Test &ndash; Fri, 14-Nov-25 to Tue, 18-Nov-25 | 9:30 AM | New Delhi
2nd Test &ndash; Sat, 22-Nov-25 to Wed, 26-Nov-25 | 9:30 AM | Guwahati
1st ODI &ndash; Sun, 30-Nov-25 | 1:30 PM | Ranchi
2nd ODI &ndash; Wed, 03-Dec-25 | 1:30 PM | Raipur
3rd ODI &ndash; Sat, 06-Dec-25 | 1:30 PM | Vizag
1st T20I &ndash; Tue, 09-Dec-25 | 7:00 PM | Cuttack
2nd T20I &ndash; Thu, 11-Dec-25 | 7:00 PM | New Chandigarh
3rd T20I &ndash; Sun, 14-Dec-25 | 7:00 PM | Dharamsala
4th T20I &ndash; Wed, 17-Dec-25 | 7:00 PM | Lucknow
5th T20I &ndash; Fri, 19-Dec-25 | 7:00 PM | Ahmedabad

Sports, Cricket: The BCCI on Wednesday (April 2) announced the schedule for India’s home series as South Africa and West Indies will be touring the sub-continent.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday (April 2) announced the schedule for India’s home series as South Africa and West Indies will be touring the sub-continent. The announcement comes as part of BCCI’s 2025-26 home season as India also bid to defend their T20 World Cup title at the start of 2026. West Indies will play a two-match Test series while South Africa will play in an all-format series. India set for South Africa, West Indies home series With the Australia tour coming at the start of 2026 and the T20 World Cup defence looming, the Indian cricket team will play South Africa and West Indies as the home season begins on October 2. India will play four Test matches, two against West Indies followed by two against South Africa. There will be no day-night Test match in either series. Compared to last year, the 2025-26 home season will have a delayed start as India will be away in England for a five-match Test series followed by the Asia Cup in September. India will be in England until August with the tour starting on June 20. The South Africa series will start on 14 November with the first Test in New Delhi while the three-match ODI series begins on Dec 6. India will then start preparations for the T20 World Cup as they face the Proteas in a five-match T20I series starting on Dec 9. Ahmedabad, Kolkata, New Delhi and Guwahati will be designated venues for the Test series while Ranchi, Raipur, Vizag and Cuttack are some venues used for the white-ball series. West Indies Tour of India 1st Test – Thu, 02-Oct-25 to Mon, 06-Oct-25 | 9:30 AM | Ahmedabad 2nd Test – Fri, 10-Oct-25 to Tue, 14-Oct-25 | 9:30 AM | Kolkata South Africa Tour of India 1st Test – Fri, 14-Nov-25 to Tue, 18-Nov-25 | 9:30 AM | New Delhi 2nd Test – Sat, 22-Nov-25 to Wed, 26-Nov-25 | 9:30 AM | Guwahati 1st ODI – Sun, 30-Nov-25 | 1:30 PM | Ranchi 2nd ODI – Wed, 03-Dec-25 | 1:30 PM | Raipur 3rd ODI – Sat, 06-Dec-25 | 1:30 PM | Vizag 1st T20I – Tue, 09-Dec-25 | 7:00 PM | Cuttack 2nd T20I – Thu, 11-Dec-25 | 7:00 PM | New Chandigarh 3rd T20I – Sun, 14-Dec-25 | 7:00 PM | Dharamsala 4th T20I – Wed, 17-Dec-25 | 7:00 PM | Lucknow 5th T20I – Fri, 19-Dec-25 | 7:00 PM | Ahmedabad

BCCI announces home schedule for 2025-26 season, South Africa and West Indies to tour India

After <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravindra-jadeja" rel="dofollow">Ravindra Jadeja</a> hit the winning runs against New Zealand in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> final on Sunday, the Indian dressing room and thousands of fans at the Dubai International Stadium jumped out of their seats to celebrate their historic feat. The jubilation was heard loudly outside the stadium in countless Indian cities as fans went gaga over India&rsquo;s massive win.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/how-rohits-indian-team-became-almost-invincible-like-arsenal-of-0304-in-champions-trophy-triumph-8839944" rel="dofollow">How Rohit's Indian Team became almost &lsquo;Invincible like Arsenal of 03/04' in Champions Trophy triumph</a>
However, unlike last year, when an open bus parade was arranged for India&rsquo;s 2024 T20 World Cup winning contingent, driving them across the Marine Drive (in Mumbai) covered with a sea of fans, there will not be a bus parade this time, per the latest reports.
The CT-bound cricketers will fly to different cities from Dubai following this successful campaign, ruling out any possibility of an open-bus parade. With the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) about to get underway in under a fortnight, the players will take a short break before joining their respective IPL teams.
Even though India finally ended their 50-over ICC trophy drought after 12 years, winning the same competition they last won in 2013, the lack of time between this and the IPL 2025, also considering the workload management, led to the BCCI deciding against celebrating it similarly to how they did the last year.
While several IPL teams have already begun their pre-season training camps, others are yet to get the practice underway. Among those who have already started training are the former five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), alongside last year&rsquo;s finalists SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), who kicked off the pre-season earlier in March.
<h2>India&rsquo;s CT win</h2>
Indian captain Rohit Sharma lost the toss in the finale, his 12th consecutive in international cricket, equalling Brian Lara&rsquo;s record. That, however, turned out to be a blessing in disguise for his team, as they continued with their winning template in the summit clash.&nbsp;
New Zealand batted first, scoring a fighting 251 for seven in 50 overs, with Daryl Mitchell (63) and Michael Bracewell (53*) being their top scorers. For India, spinners took five of the seven fallen wickets, with Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav picking two each.
India&rsquo;s run chase began smoothly as the opening pair added over 100 runs for the first wicket stand. Captain Rohit Sharma scored his maiden ICC Finals fifty, scoring 76, but Virat Kohli&rsquo;s another failure (1) dented their confidence.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-dismisses-retirement-rumours-after-dubais-champions-trophy-showdown-8837705" rel="dofollow">Rohit dismisses retirement rumours after Dubai&rsquo;s Champions Trophy showdown</a>
Shreyas Iyer again hogged all the limelight with his match-winning performance, as despite little hiccups during the chase, India won the match with four wickets remaining.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Last year, after India won the T20 World Cup, the BCCI arranged an open-bus parade that carried the winning contingent from the Marine Drive to the Wankhede.

After Ravindra Jadeja hit the winning runs against New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final on Sunday, the Indian dressing room and thousands of fans at the Dubai International Stadium jumped out of their seats to celebrate their historic feat. The jubilation was heard loudly outside the stadium in countless Indian cities as fans went gaga over India’s massive win. Also read | How Rohit's Indian Team became almost ‘Invincible like Arsenal of 03/04' in Champions Trophy triumph However, unlike last year, when an open bus parade was arranged for India’s 2024 T20 World Cup winning contingent, driving them across the Marine Drive (in Mumbai) covered with a sea of fans, there will not be a bus parade this time, per the latest reports. The CT-bound cricketers will fly to different cities from Dubai following this successful campaign, ruling out any possibility of an open-bus parade. With the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) about to get underway in under a fortnight, the players will take a short break before joining their respective IPL teams. Even though India finally ended their 50-over ICC trophy drought after 12 years, winning the same competition they last won in 2013, the lack of time between this and the IPL 2025, also considering the workload management, led to the BCCI deciding against celebrating it similarly to how they did the last year. While several IPL teams have already begun their pre-season training camps, others are yet to get the practice underway. Among those who have already started training are the former five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), alongside last year’s finalists SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), who kicked off the pre-season earlier in March. India’s CT win Indian captain Rohit Sharma lost the toss in the finale, his 12th consecutive in international cricket, equalling Brian Lara’s record. That, however, turned out to be a blessing in disguise for his team, as they continued with their winning template in the summit clash. New Zealand batted first, scoring a fighting 251 for seven in 50 overs, with Daryl Mitchell (63) and Michael Bracewell (53*) being their top scorers. For India, spinners took five of the seven fallen wickets, with Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav picking two each. India’s run chase began smoothly as the opening pair added over 100 runs for the first wicket stand. Captain Rohit Sharma scored his maiden ICC Finals fifty, scoring 76, but Virat Kohli’s another failure (1) dented their confidence. Also read | Rohit dismisses retirement rumours after Dubai’s Champions Trophy showdown Shreyas Iyer again hogged all the limelight with his match-winning performance, as despite little hiccups during the chase, India won the match with four wickets remaining. (With inputs from agencies)

No bus parade for Indian Team after Champions Trophy 2025 win, know why

The Indian Cricket Team won all its matches during the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">2025 Champions Trophy</a>; however, should the 2023 home ODI World Cup result be considered, India remained unbeaten till the final day, where Australia thrashed them by six wickets, making it 22 wins in 23 contested matches for them in the last three ICC tournaments. Does it remind everyone of Arsenal&rsquo;s famous &lsquo;invincible&rsquo; season (2003/04)?
Although there are different levels to this comparison, as Arsenal achieved this feat in one season, remaining unbeaten across 38 Premier League matches, Team India&rsquo;s unbeaten run across two events in two years and as many formats put them on a pedestal in this sport.
No team looked like beating India in the first showpiece event of the year. Even a few heavyweights like Australia, New Zealand and the host Pakistan came closer to taking advantage, but all failed, with the Kiwis failing to do it twice, once in the group stage and then in the summit clash.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/a-hug-and-stump-dandiya-watch-how-rohit-and-virat-celebrated-indias-champions-trophy-win-8838861" rel="dofollow">'A hug and stump-dandiya': WATCH | How Rohit and Virat celebrated India's Champions Trophy win</a>
From top to bottom, this Indian Team had match winners in the playing XI that lived up to over a billion expectations during the eight-team tournament.&nbsp;
<h2>Match winners</h2>
While seamer Mohammed Shami and the vice-captain Shubman Gill made headlines for their star performances in India&rsquo;s curtain raiser against Bangladesh, ace batter Virat Kohli roared back to form against perhaps his favourite opponent Pakistan, scoring his 51st ODI hundred in the run chase.
Against New Zealand in India&rsquo;s last league game, mystery spinner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/varun-chakaravarthy" rel="dofollow">Varun Chakaravarthy</a> returned with five wickets in only his second ODI, becoming the quickest from his country to achieve this.
India topped Group A after winning all three matches; besides, due to CT scheduling that saw India play all its matches in Dubai, including the semis, on a fixed date, they played Australia in the first semi-final. Despite Australia missing six of their first-team players, they put up a fight but failed to prevail in the end, losing the knockout game by four wickets.
India reached the final of another ICC event, their fourth in the past three years - all under captain Rohit Sharma. The Indian skipper was the only one left on the team sheet who didn&rsquo;t leave an impression yet, and he quashed any concerns around it when it mattered the most.&nbsp;
Against New Zealand in the final, Rohit hit his first fifty of this tournament, also his maiden one in 11 ICC finals he played to date. The right-hander scored a whopping 76 on a dicey Dubai pitch, putting India in the driver&rsquo;s seat early on, as they completed the chase with six balls and four wickets remaining.
Besides him, Kuldeep Yadav was another name who didn&rsquo;t make enough noise with his performances this time; he emerged onto the scene in the grand final. His first spell broke New Zealand&rsquo;s back, removing Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson.&nbsp;
<h3>The underrated ones!</h3>
Outside of those mentioned above, the remaining players that deserve all recognition are the three all-rounders &ndash; Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, alongside India&rsquo;s highest run-scorer Shreyas Iyer.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/from-missing-out-in-2017-to-2023-heartbreak-indian-players-reflect-on-champions-trophy-2025-win-8838563" rel="dofollow">From missing out in CT 2017 to 2023 ODI WC heartbreak: Indian players reflect on Champions Trophy 2025 win</a>
Iyer&rsquo;s contribution was as good as Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira&rsquo;s during their Invincible season. Though those at the forefront garnered more attention, both were like backbones for their respective teams during their runs.&nbsp;
Iyer played handy roles in all matches, stitching partnerships in some alongside Kohli and sometimes with Patel, helping India come out of the mud every time.&nbsp;
On the other hand, Axar Patel was perhaps the unsung hero of India&rsquo;s CT triumph campaign. Nowhere found on the runs or wickets tally sheets, his contribution with both bat and ball had India&rsquo;s nose in front every time. Even in the finale, he absorbed pressure (like none other), bailing India out after three quick wickets.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Jadeja and Pandya were, as always, the most vital cogs in the wheel of this white-ball side. Delivering every time and on every occasion, including in the final, both helped India remain unbeaten in this competition.
<h3>KL, the superstar!</h3>
Last but not least, KL Rahul.&nbsp;
India's gloveman was like a man of steel during the tournament. Mostly going unnoticed due to everyone&rsquo;s heroics around him, KL held nerves to help India cross the winning line; so much so that even Rohit called him a solid player with an unbelievable temperament.&nbsp;
Even with Axar playing ahead of him, KL had his role clear and executed accordingly in all matches, getting out in just one game. Owing to that, he averaged a whopping 140 in five matches, walking out as a perfect match-winner of the team.&nbsp;

Sports, Cricket: While football fans had the honour of watching Arsenal stay unbeaten in one PL season, cricket fans had theirs of watching India doing the same.

The Indian Cricket Team won all its matches during the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas and the 2025 Champions Trophy; however, should the 2023 home ODI World Cup result be considered, India remained unbeaten till the final day, where Australia thrashed them by six wickets, making it 22 wins in 23 contested matches for them in the last three ICC tournaments. Does it remind everyone of Arsenal’s famous ‘invincible’ season (2003/04)? Although there are different levels to this comparison, as Arsenal achieved this feat in one season, remaining unbeaten across 38 Premier League matches, Team India’s unbeaten run across two events in two years and as many formats put them on a pedestal in this sport. No team looked like beating India in the first showpiece event of the year. Even a few heavyweights like Australia, New Zealand and the host Pakistan came closer to taking advantage, but all failed, with the Kiwis failing to do it twice, once in the group stage and then in the summit clash. Also read | 'A hug and stump-dandiya': WATCH | How Rohit and Virat celebrated India's Champions Trophy win From top to bottom, this Indian Team had match winners in the playing XI that lived up to over a billion expectations during the eight-team tournament. Match winners While seamer Mohammed Shami and the vice-captain Shubman Gill made headlines for their star performances in India’s curtain raiser against Bangladesh, ace batter Virat Kohli roared back to form against perhaps his favourite opponent Pakistan, scoring his 51st ODI hundred in the run chase. Against New Zealand in India’s last league game, mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy returned with five wickets in only his second ODI, becoming the quickest from his country to achieve this. India topped Group A after winning all three matches; besides, due to CT scheduling that saw India play all its matches in Dubai, including the semis, on a fixed date, they played Australia in the first semi-final. Despite Australia missing six of their first-team players, they put up a fight but failed to prevail in the end, losing the knockout game by four wickets. India reached the final of another ICC event, their fourth in the past three years - all under captain Rohit Sharma. The Indian skipper was the only one left on the team sheet who didn’t leave an impression yet, and he quashed any concerns around it when it mattered the most. Against New Zealand in the final, Rohit hit his first fifty of this tournament, also his maiden one in 11 ICC finals he played to date. The right-hander scored a whopping 76 on a dicey Dubai pitch, putting India in the driver’s seat early on, as they completed the chase with six balls and four wickets remaining. Besides him, Kuldeep Yadav was another name who didn’t make enough noise with his performances this time; he emerged onto the scene in the grand final. His first spell broke New Zealand’s back, removing Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson. The underrated ones! Outside of those mentioned above, the remaining players that deserve all recognition are the three all-rounders – Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, alongside India’s highest run-scorer Shreyas Iyer. Also read | From missing out in CT 2017 to 2023 ODI WC heartbreak: Indian players reflect on Champions Trophy 2025 win Iyer’s contribution was as good as Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira’s during their Invincible season. Though those at the forefront garnered more attention, both were like backbones for their respective teams during their runs. Iyer played handy roles in all matches, stitching partnerships in some alongside Kohli and sometimes with Patel, helping India come out of the mud every time. On the other hand, Axar Patel was perhaps the unsung hero of India’s CT triumph campaign. Nowhere found on the runs or wickets tally sheets, his contribution with both bat and ball had India’s nose in front every time. Even in the finale, he absorbed pressure (like none other), bailing India out after three quick wickets. Meanwhile, Jadeja and Pandya were, as always, the most vital cogs in the wheel of this white-ball side. Delivering every time and on every occasion, including in the final, both helped India remain unbeaten in this competition. KL, the superstar! Last but not least, KL Rahul. India's gloveman was like a man of steel during the tournament. Mostly going unnoticed due to everyone’s heroics around him, KL held nerves to help India cross the winning line; so much so that even Rohit called him a solid player with an unbelievable temperament. Even with Axar playing ahead of him, KL had his role clear and executed accordingly in all matches, getting out in just one game. Owing to that, he averaged a whopping 140 in five matches, walking out as a perfect match-winner of the team.

How Rohit's Indian Team became almost ‘Invincible like Arsenal of 03/04' in Champions Trophy triumph

Ace India batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> is proud of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a> winning unit. Acknowledging Team India&rsquo;s depth that saw them <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-live-score-today-final-match-updates-live-streaming-champions-trophy-2025-ball-by-ball-commentary-full-scorecard-india-vs-new-zealand-dubai-stadium-9-march-8835543" rel="dofollow">clinch their third CT title</a> and become the most successful team in this competition, Kohli said India has a squad that can conquer the world across formats for the next eight years, leaving behind a lasting legacy. On Sunday in Dubai, India beat New Zealand to win the first showpiece event of the year by four wickets, their second in two consecutive years.
Despite not having their premier seamer Jasprit Bumrah due to a back injury and also not having a few emerging names in the final 15, India won the eight-team tournament, remaining unbeaten throughout.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/fans-made-dubai-a-home-ground-for-us-rohit-sharma-on-indias-champions-trophy-win-8837639" rel="dofollow">Fans made Dubai a home ground for us: Rohit Sharma on India&rsquo;s Champions Trophy win</a>
"When you leave, you want to leave the team in a better place, I feel we have a squad that's ready to take on the world for the next eight years," Kohli said of India&rsquo;s bench strength.&nbsp;
"There's so much talent in the dressing room. They're trying to take their game further, and we're [seniors] just happy to be of help, sharing our experience, and that's what makes this Indian team so strong,&rdquo; he added.
Kohli also lauded vice-captain Gill and the middle order batters Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul for applying themselves better and helping India win crucial matches in this tournament.
"Shubman [Gill] has been outstanding, Shreyas [Iyer] beautiful, KL [Rahul] has finished games, and Hardik [Pandya] has been superb with the bat,&rdquo; Kohli added.
Besides, he appreciated the whole team for streamlining their performances, acclimatising to the playing conditions, and absorbing pressure like none other. Regarding the motivation behind chasing ICC titles, Kohli said, "These are the things you want to play (for titles), playing under pressure and putting your hand up. The whole team, everyone has put their hands up sometimes or other during the course of the tournament."&nbsp;
"Everyone has put up impactful performances, we've been part of an amazing team, and the amount of work we've done in the practice sessions, it feels great,&rdquo; he continued.&nbsp;
<h2>Kohli lauds Kiwis</h2>
India and New Zealand are not bitter rivals but have faced off quite a bit in ICC knockouts lately, with both teams winning almost equally. Having last beaten them in the CWC 2023 semis in Mumbai, Kohli showered only praises for India&rsquo;s opponents, saying they always come up with a plan and are a tough team to go past.
"Amazing, we've always been in awe with what they can do with the limited number of players they've had over the years, and just maximise their talent. Every time we played against them in big games, we knew they were going to come with a set plan. No team in world cricket executes plans as well as they do,&rdquo; Kohli said of New Zealand.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Despite missing Bumrah due to a back injury and also not having a few emerging names in the final 15, India won the eight-team tournament.

Ace India batter Virat Kohli is proud of the Champions Trophy 2025 winning unit. Acknowledging Team India’s depth that saw them clinch their third CT title and become the most successful team in this competition, Kohli said India has a squad that can conquer the world across formats for the next eight years, leaving behind a lasting legacy. On Sunday in Dubai, India beat New Zealand to win the first showpiece event of the year by four wickets, their second in two consecutive years. Despite not having their premier seamer Jasprit Bumrah due to a back injury and also not having a few emerging names in the final 15, India won the eight-team tournament, remaining unbeaten throughout. Also read | Fans made Dubai a home ground for us: Rohit Sharma on India’s Champions Trophy win "When you leave, you want to leave the team in a better place, I feel we have a squad that's ready to take on the world for the next eight years," Kohli said of India’s bench strength. "There's so much talent in the dressing room. They're trying to take their game further, and we're [seniors] just happy to be of help, sharing our experience, and that's what makes this Indian team so strong,” he added. Kohli also lauded vice-captain Gill and the middle order batters Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul for applying themselves better and helping India win crucial matches in this tournament. "Shubman [Gill] has been outstanding, Shreyas [Iyer] beautiful, KL [Rahul] has finished games, and Hardik [Pandya] has been superb with the bat,” Kohli added. Besides, he appreciated the whole team for streamlining their performances, acclimatising to the playing conditions, and absorbing pressure like none other. Regarding the motivation behind chasing ICC titles, Kohli said, "These are the things you want to play (for titles), playing under pressure and putting your hand up. The whole team, everyone has put their hands up sometimes or other during the course of the tournament." "Everyone has put up impactful performances, we've been part of an amazing team, and the amount of work we've done in the practice sessions, it feels great,” he continued. Kohli lauds Kiwis India and New Zealand are not bitter rivals but have faced off quite a bit in ICC knockouts lately, with both teams winning almost equally. Having last beaten them in the CWC 2023 semis in Mumbai, Kohli showered only praises for India’s opponents, saying they always come up with a plan and are a tough team to go past. "Amazing, we've always been in awe with what they can do with the limited number of players they've had over the years, and just maximise their talent. Every time we played against them in big games, we knew they were going to come with a set plan. No team in world cricket executes plans as well as they do,” Kohli said of New Zealand. (With inputs from agencies)

Kohli on India’s depth after Champions Trophy hurray: ‘They are ready to conquer world for next eight years’

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> final between India and New Zealand in Dubai is scheduled for Sunday (Mar 9). While the Men in Blue entered the summit clash after beating former winners Australia in the first semi-final, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-new-zealand-set-up-summit-clash-with-india-after-beating-south-africa-8808040" rel="dofollow">New Zealand prevailed against tournament favourites South Africa</a> in the second in Lahore. However, with Sunday being the D-Day for the grand finale, let&rsquo;s take a look at India&rsquo;s record in ICC finals played on Sundays to check how lucky it is for them.
India and New Zealand have won the Champions Trophy title before, with the Kiwis winning it back in 2000 (beating India in the finale) and India doing it twice, first back in 2002 (sharing the title with Sri Lanka due to a washed-out finale) and later doing it 12 years ago in England, beating the hosts in a rain-hit clash.
Meanwhile, both teams have had their share of failures and successes in the ICC tournaments (across formats) since India won just one (2024 T20 World Cup) since winning their last ODI World Cup (in 2011), while the Black Caps were the winners of the inaugural WTC Final (in 2021), beating the Kohli-led Indian Team in the one-off finale.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-champions-trophy-final-why-dubai-hosting-india-games-making-everyone-hate-watching-indian-cricket-8827057" rel="dofollow">IND vs NZ Champions Trophy Final | Why are fans 'hate-watching' Indian cricket?</a>
Speaking of the Men in Blue, they suffered contrasting fates in their last two ICC finals (played) on &lsquo;Sundays&rsquo;. While Australia thrashed them mercilessly in the 2023 ODI World Cup final in Ahmedabad, winning by six wickets, the Men in Blue, under Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s captaincy, beat the Proteas for their second T20 World Cup title last year (in the Americas), ending their ICC trophy drought.
<h2>India's record in ICC Finals</h2>
The Indian men&rsquo;s cricket team has played ten finals across formats, winning five and losing as many.&nbsp;
Let&rsquo;s look at their record playing ICC finals on Sunday and on which day they won the most.
<h3>India&rsquo;s record in ICC Finals played on Sundays -</h3>
<ul>
<li>2014 T20 World Cup Final - Lost</li>
<li>2003 ODI World Cup Final - Lost</li>
<li>2000 Champions Trophy Final - Lost</li>
<li>2017 Champions Trophy Final &ndash; Lost</li>
<li>2013 Champions Trophy Final (Sunday/Monday) &ndash; Won</li>
</ul>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-champions-trophy-final-ravi-ashwin-handpicks-indias-trump-card-for-dubai-showdown-8834047" rel="dofollow">IND vs NZ Champions Trophy final: Ashwin handpicks India&rsquo;s trump card for Dubai showdown</a>
<h3>Luckiest Day for India</h3>
Of the ten finals, they won five, and three of them took place on Mondays and the remaining two on Saturdays.
<h3>ICC Finals played on Mondays -</h3>
<ul>
<li>2002 Champions Trophy Final - Won</li>
<li>2007 T20 World Cup Final &ndash; Won</li>
<li>2013 Champions Trophy Final (Sunday/Monday) &ndash; Won</li>
</ul>
<h3>ICC Finals played on Saturdays -</h3>
<ul>
<li>2011 ODI World Cup Final Saturday - Won</li>
<li>1983 ODI World Cup Final Saturday &ndash; Won</li>
</ul>
So, would India break the &lsquo;Sunday jinx&rsquo; against New Zealand, creating history in Dubai? Time will tell!
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: With Sunday being the D-Day for the grand finale, let’s take a look at India’s record in ICC finals played on Sundays to check how lucky it is for them.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final between India and New Zealand in Dubai is scheduled for Sunday (Mar 9). While the Men in Blue entered the summit clash after beating former winners Australia in the first semi-final, New Zealand prevailed against tournament favourites South Africa in the second in Lahore. However, with Sunday being the D-Day for the grand finale, let’s take a look at India’s record in ICC finals played on Sundays to check how lucky it is for them. India and New Zealand have won the Champions Trophy title before, with the Kiwis winning it back in 2000 (beating India in the finale) and India doing it twice, first back in 2002 (sharing the title with Sri Lanka due to a washed-out finale) and later doing it 12 years ago in England, beating the hosts in a rain-hit clash. Meanwhile, both teams have had their share of failures and successes in the ICC tournaments (across formats) since India won just one (2024 T20 World Cup) since winning their last ODI World Cup (in 2011), while the Black Caps were the winners of the inaugural WTC Final (in 2021), beating the Kohli-led Indian Team in the one-off finale. Also read | IND vs NZ Champions Trophy Final | Why are fans 'hate-watching' Indian cricket? Speaking of the Men in Blue, they suffered contrasting fates in their last two ICC finals (played) on ‘Sundays’. While Australia thrashed them mercilessly in the 2023 ODI World Cup final in Ahmedabad, winning by six wickets, the Men in Blue, under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy, beat the Proteas for their second T20 World Cup title last year (in the Americas), ending their ICC trophy drought. India's record in ICC Finals The Indian men’s cricket team has played ten finals across formats, winning five and losing as many. Let’s look at their record playing ICC finals on Sunday and on which day they won the most. India’s record in ICC Finals played on Sundays - 2014 T20 World Cup Final - Lost 2003 ODI World Cup Final - Lost 2000 Champions Trophy Final - Lost 2017 Champions Trophy Final – Lost 2013 Champions Trophy Final (Sunday/Monday) – Won Also read | IND vs NZ Champions Trophy final: Ashwin handpicks India’s trump card for Dubai showdown Luckiest Day for India Of the ten finals, they won five, and three of them took place on Mondays and the remaining two on Saturdays. ICC Finals played on Mondays - 2002 Champions Trophy Final - Won 2007 T20 World Cup Final – Won 2013 Champions Trophy Final (Sunday/Monday) – Won ICC Finals played on Saturdays - 2011 ODI World Cup Final Saturday - Won 1983 ODI World Cup Final Saturday – Won So, would India break the ‘Sunday jinx’ against New Zealand, creating history in Dubai? Time will tell! (With inputs from agencies)

India’s record in ICC finals played on ‘Sundays’; which day is luckiest for Men in Blue?

After PCB selector Aaqib Javed and former England broadcasters Nasser Hussain and Mike Atherton pointed fingers at India for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-have-undeniable-advantage-in-champions-trophy-2025-accuses-former-england-captain-8757258" rel="dofollow">enjoying the definite privilege of playing at just one venue</a> (Dubai), staying at the same hotel, and having to avoid the commute (for all), South African batter Rassie Van der Dussen joined the list, adding no one has to be a rocket scientist to know that the Men in Blue have this advantage in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a>.
India is to play all its matches in Dubai, including the semis and the final (should they qualify for it), instead of in Pakistan &ndash; the host country, for security reasons. While the remaining seven teams are to play their league matches at different venues and pitches, also considering the travel required, several, including Pat Cummins, have pointed out the disadvantages their teams have around it.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pat-cummins-alleges-icc-of-favouring-india-in-champions-trophy-says-they-have-a-huge-advantage-8753590" rel="dofollow">Cummins accuses ICC of favouring India in Champions Trophy, says &lsquo;they have a huge advantage&hellip;&rsquo;</a>
After the ICC finalised Pakistan as the venue for the first showpiece event of the year, the BCCI decided against sending its team across the border for security concerns. The Indian board then persuaded the apex body to convince the PCB to accept the hybrid model, which they denied initially. Following thorough internal discussions, the host board agreed to it later but with several conditions, which the BCCI had to agree to.
Meanwhile, speaking on the same lines ahead of his side&rsquo;s crucial game against England, Rassie said he seconds with all the pointers claiming India's advantage in this tournament, adding it&rsquo;s up to them to utilise it to their benefit.
"It's definitely an advantage. I saw that Pakistan was commenting about it, but it's definitely an advantage. If you can stay in one place, stay in one hotel, practice in the same facilities, play in the same stadium, on the same pitches every time, it's definitely an advantage," Rassie said from Karachi, where South Africa will play England.&nbsp;
"I don't think you have to be a rocket scientist to know that. The onus would be on them to use that advantage. In a sense, it puts more pressure on them because whoever is going to play them in the semi or potentially the final is going to go there, and the conditions are going to be foreign, but they [India] are going to be used to it. The pressure would be on them to get it right because they have all that knowledge,&rdquo; he continued.
<h2>Preferences</h2>
While India and New Zealand have qualified for the semis from Group A, the fight for the remaining two spots continues in Group B, where the Proteas and Australia are in the pole position to advance. Should South Africa beat winless England at the National Stadium, they will cruise ahead; but the question remains, whom and where would they play their semis clash against?
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prime-minister-will-personally-take-notice-pakistans-early-champions-trophy-exit-to-be-raised-in-parliament-8763012" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Prime minister will personally take notice&rsquo;: Pakistan&rsquo;s early Champions Trophy exit to be &lsquo;raised in parliament&rsquo;</a>
Depending upon their positions on the points table, South Africa would either play India in Dubai (on Tuesday) or New Zealand in Lahore (on Wednesday). Asked what his preferred venue is, Rassie said logistically it has to be in Pakistan.&nbsp;
"If it's a personal thing, I would say playing in Lahore because it's just good to bat there. The Dubai pitch is not as high-scoring as the Lahore but no, I don't think it really matters," he said.&nbsp;
"Probably, logistically it will be easier to play in Lahore. You don't have to go through an international flight and go to Dubai and literally go to another country to play. Lahore is not too far from where we are at the moment, so conditions are fairly similar. It's literally one of those things, we don't know what's going to happen until Saturday evening,&rdquo; he continued.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Rassie Van der Dussen says no one has to be a rocket scientist to know that the Men in Blue have this advantage in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

After PCB selector Aaqib Javed and former England broadcasters Nasser Hussain and Mike Atherton pointed fingers at India for enjoying the definite privilege of playing at just one venue (Dubai), staying at the same hotel, and having to avoid the commute (for all), South African batter Rassie Van der Dussen joined the list, adding no one has to be a rocket scientist to know that the Men in Blue have this advantage in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. India is to play all its matches in Dubai, including the semis and the final (should they qualify for it), instead of in Pakistan – the host country, for security reasons. While the remaining seven teams are to play their league matches at different venues and pitches, also considering the travel required, several, including Pat Cummins, have pointed out the disadvantages their teams have around it. Also read | Cummins accuses ICC of favouring India in Champions Trophy, says ‘they have a huge advantage…’ After the ICC finalised Pakistan as the venue for the first showpiece event of the year, the BCCI decided against sending its team across the border for security concerns. The Indian board then persuaded the apex body to convince the PCB to accept the hybrid model, which they denied initially. Following thorough internal discussions, the host board agreed to it later but with several conditions, which the BCCI had to agree to. Meanwhile, speaking on the same lines ahead of his side’s crucial game against England, Rassie said he seconds with all the pointers claiming India's advantage in this tournament, adding it’s up to them to utilise it to their benefit. "It's definitely an advantage. I saw that Pakistan was commenting about it, but it's definitely an advantage. If you can stay in one place, stay in one hotel, practice in the same facilities, play in the same stadium, on the same pitches every time, it's definitely an advantage," Rassie said from Karachi, where South Africa will play England. "I don't think you have to be a rocket scientist to know that. The onus would be on them to use that advantage. In a sense, it puts more pressure on them because whoever is going to play them in the semi or potentially the final is going to go there, and the conditions are going to be foreign, but they [India] are going to be used to it. The pressure would be on them to get it right because they have all that knowledge,” he continued. Preferences While India and New Zealand have qualified for the semis from Group A, the fight for the remaining two spots continues in Group B, where the Proteas and Australia are in the pole position to advance. Should South Africa beat winless England at the National Stadium, they will cruise ahead; but the question remains, whom and where would they play their semis clash against? Also read | ‘Prime minister will personally take notice’: Pakistan’s early Champions Trophy exit to be ‘raised in parliament’ Depending upon their positions on the points table, South Africa would either play India in Dubai (on Tuesday) or New Zealand in Lahore (on Wednesday). Asked what his preferred venue is, Rassie said logistically it has to be in Pakistan. "If it's a personal thing, I would say playing in Lahore because it's just good to bat there. The Dubai pitch is not as high-scoring as the Lahore but no, I don't think it really matters," he said. "Probably, logistically it will be easier to play in Lahore. You don't have to go through an international flight and go to Dubai and literally go to another country to play. Lahore is not too far from where we are at the moment, so conditions are fairly similar. It's literally one of those things, we don't know what's going to happen until Saturday evening,” he continued. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: Van der Dussen seconds India's 'schedule advantage' claim as semis loom

The 2024 T20 World Cup winner, India, is among the outright favourites for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy-2025" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> starting February 19 in Pakistan. The Men in Blue have already arrived in Dubai, a venue picked (for them) under the hybrid model, and will host all India matches, including the knockouts, should India qualify for the semis and final.
<h2>Here is the SWOT analysis of Team India at the Champions Trophy 2025 &ndash;</h2>
<h3>Strengths &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>India&rsquo;s strength remains in their batting and has always been. India perhaps has the most daunting top six among all teams, with everyone capable of winning the game on their own.&nbsp;</li>
<li>India&rsquo;s ability to adapt to the playing conditions and get acclimatised to the pitch will benefit them throughout the tournament.</li>
<li>Besides, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/axar-patel" rel="dofollow">Axar Patel</a>&rsquo;s new role as a floater boosts the team's morale, something they used to their advantage in the recently concluded England ODIs.</li>
<li>The spin powerhouse, including all kinds of spinners, will give the captain a cushion to pick from depending on the opposition and the wicket on offer.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h3>Weaknesses &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>India&rsquo;s dependence on the top order has cost them enough in the past decade, having lost the last edition (in 2017) and the 2019 World Cup because of that.&nbsp;</li>
<li><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya" rel="dofollow">Hardik Pandya</a>&rsquo;s form with the bat worries the team, while the same goes for the twin spin all-rounders &ndash; Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, who, on odd days, could fail to provide enough assistance with the bat.</li>
<li>Lack of depth in the pace attack &ndash; in the absence of ace seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah</a>, who got ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury, the onus would fall on Mohammed Shami, who continues to find his rhythm in the ODIs. The inexperienced duo of Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana could cost India at some point in the tournament.</li>
<li>Not enough batters and backups &ndash; India picked a bowlers-dominated squad with as many as eight specialist bowlers. Though the remaining seven batters are tough nuts to crack, chances of a collective failure on the day when it matters the most would haunt India till the end.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Opportunities &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>Low on confidence heading into the eight-team tournament, the Indian openers should put the grave memories behind them and aim for glory in the Champions Trophy&mdash;something similar to what they did during the home ODI World Cup&mdash;starting aggressively.</li>
<li>The newcomers in the seam attack&mdash;Harshit and Arshdeep&mdash;have an opportunity to make a name for themselves, coming out of the shadow of heavyweights like Shami and Bumrah.</li>
<li>Should India decide to play Varun Chakravarthy at any stage in the tournament, he can showcase his skill on the biggest stage and against the toughest opponents.</li>
<li>Having lost several ICC white-ball tournaments since last winning the Champions Trophy 12 years ago in England, Team India has an excellent opportunity to deliver and bring home the trophy.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Threats &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>India should avoid early collapses, mainly against teams having left-arm seamers, including Pakistan and Australia.</li>
<li>Unlike how they performed in the ODI World Cup Final (against Australia), scoring no boundaries in the middle overs, they could suffer the same fate should they deploy a submissive approach.&nbsp;</li>
<li>More often than not, Rohit has looked clueless when his bowlers are leaking runs, and with almost all teams trying to attack to win this time, Rohit could find himself in the same position.</li>
<li>Crumble under pressure: India does well and play fearless cricket until the day of the final, and if they wish to win another ICC trophy in two years, they must bury it and play aggressively in the knockouts.</li>
</ul>
India are placed in Group A, alongside the host and archrivals Pakistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh. While India play their tournament opener against Bangladesh, they take on Pakistan in a marquee clash next before facing the Blackcaps in their final league game.&nbsp;

Cricket, Sports: While India plays their tournament opener against Bangladesh, they take on Pakistan in a marquee clash next before facing the Blackcaps in their final group match.

The 2024 T20 World Cup winner, India, is among the outright favourites for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 starting February 19 in Pakistan. The Men in Blue have already arrived in Dubai, a venue picked (for them) under the hybrid model, and will host all India matches, including the knockouts, should India qualify for the semis and final. Here is the SWOT analysis of Team India at the Champions Trophy 2025 – Strengths – India’s strength remains in their batting and has always been. India perhaps has the most daunting top six among all teams, with everyone capable of winning the game on their own. India’s ability to adapt to the playing conditions and get acclimatised to the pitch will benefit them throughout the tournament. Besides, Axar Patel’s new role as a floater boosts the team's morale, something they used to their advantage in the recently concluded England ODIs. The spin powerhouse, including all kinds of spinners, will give the captain a cushion to pick from depending on the opposition and the wicket on offer. Weaknesses – India’s dependence on the top order has cost them enough in the past decade, having lost the last edition (in 2017) and the 2019 World Cup because of that. Hardik Pandya’s form with the bat worries the team, while the same goes for the twin spin all-rounders – Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, who, on odd days, could fail to provide enough assistance with the bat. Lack of depth in the pace attack – in the absence of ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah, who got ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury, the onus would fall on Mohammed Shami, who continues to find his rhythm in the ODIs. The inexperienced duo of Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana could cost India at some point in the tournament. Not enough batters and backups – India picked a bowlers-dominated squad with as many as eight specialist bowlers. Though the remaining seven batters are tough nuts to crack, chances of a collective failure on the day when it matters the most would haunt India till the end. Opportunities – Low on confidence heading into the eight-team tournament, the Indian openers should put the grave memories behind them and aim for glory in the Champions Trophy—something similar to what they did during the home ODI World Cup—starting aggressively. The newcomers in the seam attack—Harshit and Arshdeep—have an opportunity to make a name for themselves, coming out of the shadow of heavyweights like Shami and Bumrah. Should India decide to play Varun Chakravarthy at any stage in the tournament, he can showcase his skill on the biggest stage and against the toughest opponents. Having lost several ICC white-ball tournaments since last winning the Champions Trophy 12 years ago in England, Team India has an excellent opportunity to deliver and bring home the trophy. Threats – India should avoid early collapses, mainly against teams having left-arm seamers, including Pakistan and Australia. Unlike how they performed in the ODI World Cup Final (against Australia), scoring no boundaries in the middle overs, they could suffer the same fate should they deploy a submissive approach. More often than not, Rohit has looked clueless when his bowlers are leaking runs, and with almost all teams trying to attack to win this time, Rohit could find himself in the same position. Crumble under pressure: India does well and play fearless cricket until the day of the final, and if they wish to win another ICC trophy in two years, they must bury it and play aggressively in the knockouts. India are placed in Group A, alongside the host and archrivals Pakistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh. While India play their tournament opener against Bangladesh, they take on Pakistan in a marquee clash next before facing the Blackcaps in their final league game.

India at Champions Trophy 2025, SWOT Analysis – Does India have what it takes to win their second ICC trophy in 2 years

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow">BCCI</a> paid a gigantic amount (in lakhs) for an unnamed star cricketer&rsquo;s luggage worth 250 kg containing 27 bags on tour Down Under. Per reports, the Indian Board paid an undisclosed sum for that player&rsquo;s luggage, which wasn&rsquo;t even his entirely, including some belonging to his entourage (family members and assistants). Besides, what made headlines was that his luggage included 17 bats, indicating the player in question was a specialist batter.<o:p></o:p>
Moreover, per a report in Dainik Jagran, the board even paid for the player's travel expenses during the long tour, where he travelled from one city to another at the board's expense.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-might-never-play-tests-again-as-bcci-ready-to-look-beyond-veteran-batter-convinced-about-new-captain-report-8724767" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma might never play Tests again; BCCI convinced about new captain - Report</a>
India had a horrid tour Down Under, losing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/border-gavaskar-trophy" rel="dofollow">Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a> for the first time in ten years. While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah</a> was India&rsquo;s best bet on that tour, returning with 32 wickets across five Tests &ndash; the most among all bowlers this time, none of the star batters left an impact, even those with an abundance experience under their belts failing massively.<o:p></o:p>
Among the ones who shone with the bat were rookie opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who slammed his maiden Test hundred Down Under in the second innings of the series opener in Perth, and young and dynamic all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who hit his first Test ton in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Besides them, only KL Rahul had played some handy knocks, while veteran batter Virat Kohli registered a century, though he failed miserably in the remaining eight innings.<o:p></o:p>
Talking of the remaining star batters, including captain Rohit Sharma, gloveman Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill, all failed to leave any mark. While Rohit and Gill played a few games, failing in all, Pant had a quiet tour Down Under this time, scoring just a quick-fire fifty in the final Test at the SCG, which India lost inside three days, conceding the series, the BGT and the chance to qualify for the WTC Final 2025.<o:p></o:p>
Following their loss to Australia, which came on the back of suffering a home series whitewash (for the first time in history) against New Zealand earlier, the BCCI tightened the screws in the quest to put things back in place.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>The repercussions<o:p></o:p></h2>
The Indian Cricket Board released a ten-pointer mandate for all centrally contracted players, making it compulsory for everyone to abide by it, or else serious repercussions would follow. Among those pointers, several made headlines for their reasons, but what didn&rsquo;t was the restriction on luggage each player can carry on the away tours (long or short). <o:p></o:p>
Though the board might not have had a cap on the number of bags and their weight before this, the BCCI has now put one, urging everyone to not carry luggage over 250 kg on overseas tours. Should a player wish to bring more luggage than that, that player must bear the overhead expenses from his pocket.<o:p></o:p>
Meanwhile, India&rsquo;s next overseas assignment is the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, starting February 19, for which the first batch of players and the coaching staff has already departed for Dubai &ndash; India&rsquo;s venue for the eight-team tournament. <o:p></o:p>
India will open their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai. <o:p></o:p>
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: While Bumrah was India’s best bet on that tour, none of the star batters left an impact, those with an abundance experience under their belts failing massively.

The BCCI paid a gigantic amount (in lakhs) for an unnamed star cricketer’s luggage worth 250 kg containing 27 bags on tour Down Under. Per reports, the Indian Board paid an undisclosed sum for that player’s luggage, which wasn’t even his entirely, including some belonging to his entourage (family members and assistants). Besides, what made headlines was that his luggage included 17 bats, indicating the player in question was a specialist batter. Moreover, per a report in Dainik Jagran, the board even paid for the player's travel expenses during the long tour, where he travelled from one city to another at the board's expense. Also read | Rohit Sharma might never play Tests again; BCCI convinced about new captain - Report India had a horrid tour Down Under, losing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time in ten years. While Jasprit Bumrah was India’s best bet on that tour, returning with 32 wickets across five Tests – the most among all bowlers this time, none of the star batters left an impact, even those with an abundance experience under their belts failing massively. Among the ones who shone with the bat were rookie opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who slammed his maiden Test hundred Down Under in the second innings of the series opener in Perth, and young and dynamic all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who hit his first Test ton in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Besides them, only KL Rahul had played some handy knocks, while veteran batter Virat Kohli registered a century, though he failed miserably in the remaining eight innings. Talking of the remaining star batters, including captain Rohit Sharma, gloveman Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill, all failed to leave any mark. While Rohit and Gill played a few games, failing in all, Pant had a quiet tour Down Under this time, scoring just a quick-fire fifty in the final Test at the SCG, which India lost inside three days, conceding the series, the BGT and the chance to qualify for the WTC Final 2025. Following their loss to Australia, which came on the back of suffering a home series whitewash (for the first time in history) against New Zealand earlier, the BCCI tightened the screws in the quest to put things back in place. The repercussions The Indian Cricket Board released a ten-pointer mandate for all centrally contracted players, making it compulsory for everyone to abide by it, or else serious repercussions would follow. Among those pointers, several made headlines for their reasons, but what didn’t was the restriction on luggage each player can carry on the away tours (long or short). Though the board might not have had a cap on the number of bags and their weight before this, the BCCI has now put one, urging everyone to not carry luggage over 250 kg on overseas tours. Should a player wish to bring more luggage than that, that player must bear the overhead expenses from his pocket. Meanwhile, India’s next overseas assignment is the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, starting February 19, for which the first batch of players and the coaching staff has already departed for Dubai – India’s venue for the eight-team tournament. India will open their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai. (With inputs from agencies)

BCCI paid gigantic sum for ‘star cricketer’s’ 250 kg worth of luggage on tour Down Under – Report

In a shocking turn of events, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow">BCCI</a> selectors have decided to look beyond <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a> in Tests, per the latest reports. The veteran Indian opener suffered a horrid time with the bat Down Under, scoring just 31 runs from five outings. Though his form alone had less to do with India conceding the BGT for the first time in a decade since most batters also failed, how fans, analysts and even broadcasters reacted to his dismal show put pressure on the BCCI to take a stern call on his future.
Rohit currently leads India in the longer formats, with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy-2025" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> being the next significant assignment. Though he remains an integral part of the One-Day side, still among runs at the top, his performances in red-ball cricket have dipped significantly, worrying the selectors ahead of the away England Tests in June.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-paid-gigantic-sum-for-star-cricketers-150-kg-worth-of-luggage-containing-27-bags-on-tour-down-under-report-8724274" rel="dofollow">BCCI paid gigantic sum for &lsquo;star cricketer&rsquo;s&rsquo; 250 kg worth of luggage on tour Down Under &ndash; Report</a>
Considering Rohit sat out of the fifth and the final BGT Test (at the SCG) owing to a mediocre run with the bat (in that series) despite batting down the order, the selectors seem to have concluded to look beyond him from the next series onwards. For the transition to happen smoothly, they have even zeroed in on his successor as the Test captain, with ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah leading the race.
Per a PTI report, the BCCI selectors avoided risking picking Bumrah in the Champions Trophy squad despite receiving clearance from the NCA doctors regarding his ailing back, and the reason behind this was the aim to have him fit for the upcoming Test season, as the selectors wish to name him the new Test captain.
<h2>Bumrah to lead India in Tests&nbsp;</h2>
After the NCA medical team, headed by Nitin Patel, put the ball in Agarkar&rsquo;s court regarding taking a final call on Bumrah&rsquo;s selection, former India quick decided against risking him, knowing he hasn&rsquo;t bowled or practiced enough to find his rhythm as the tournament was just a week away.
"It is understood that the main bone of contention was that Bumrah is yet to start bowling full tilt, and those in the know of things said that it is very difficult to get match-fit in such a short time.
&ldquo;Rather, he can come back for Mumbai Indians in the IPL and then lead India in England as Rohit Sharma is unlikely to be picked for Tests again,&rdquo; a report in the PTI said.&nbsp;
Bumrah has led India in Tests three times, in Rohit&rsquo;s absence on all occasions. He first led against England in the fifth and final Test (in Birmingham) in 2022, while his next assignment was the series opener at the Optus Stadium in Perth (against Australia) this time. The last occasion, was the SCG Test, where Bumrah suffered a back spasm, leaving the game midway, with former captain Virat Kohli leading in his absence.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: The BCCI selectors avoided risking picking Bumrah in the Champions Trophy squad despite receiving clearance from the NCA doctors regarding his ailing back.

In a shocking turn of events, the BCCI selectors have decided to look beyond Rohit Sharma in Tests, per the latest reports. The veteran Indian opener suffered a horrid time with the bat Down Under, scoring just 31 runs from five outings. Though his form alone had less to do with India conceding the BGT for the first time in a decade since most batters also failed, how fans, analysts and even broadcasters reacted to his dismal show put pressure on the BCCI to take a stern call on his future. Rohit currently leads India in the longer formats, with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 being the next significant assignment. Though he remains an integral part of the One-Day side, still among runs at the top, his performances in red-ball cricket have dipped significantly, worrying the selectors ahead of the away England Tests in June. Also read | BCCI paid gigantic sum for ‘star cricketer’s’ 250 kg worth of luggage on tour Down Under – Report Considering Rohit sat out of the fifth and the final BGT Test (at the SCG) owing to a mediocre run with the bat (in that series) despite batting down the order, the selectors seem to have concluded to look beyond him from the next series onwards. For the transition to happen smoothly, they have even zeroed in on his successor as the Test captain, with ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah leading the race. Per a PTI report, the BCCI selectors avoided risking picking Bumrah in the Champions Trophy squad despite receiving clearance from the NCA doctors regarding his ailing back, and the reason behind this was the aim to have him fit for the upcoming Test season, as the selectors wish to name him the new Test captain. Bumrah to lead India in Tests After the NCA medical team, headed by Nitin Patel, put the ball in Agarkar’s court regarding taking a final call on Bumrah’s selection, former India quick decided against risking him, knowing he hasn’t bowled or practiced enough to find his rhythm as the tournament was just a week away. "It is understood that the main bone of contention was that Bumrah is yet to start bowling full tilt, and those in the know of things said that it is very difficult to get match-fit in such a short time. “Rather, he can come back for Mumbai Indians in the IPL and then lead India in England as Rohit Sharma is unlikely to be picked for Tests again,” a report in the PTI said. Bumrah has led India in Tests three times, in Rohit’s absence on all occasions. He first led against England in the fifth and final Test (in Birmingham) in 2022, while his next assignment was the series opener at the Optus Stadium in Perth (against Australia) this time. The last occasion, was the SCG Test, where Bumrah suffered a back spasm, leaving the game midway, with former captain Virat Kohli leading in his absence. (With inputs from agencies)

Rohit Sharma might never play Tests again; BCCI convinced about new captain - Report

Despite Indian captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a> getting caught off record claiming to speak with the new BCCI secretary over relaxing some pointers in the new mandate released by the BCCI in the wake of India&rsquo;s horrid run in Tests lately, the latest reports suggest that the board has cleared its stance over the same, saying these SOPs are &lsquo;non-negotiable&rsquo;.
Per Cricbuzz, the BCCI has formally and officially handed over the new SOPs &ndash; surrounding travel, nets, luggage allowances and travelling family members, including wives and partners, to all the players, informing all to abide by them.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/please-stop-calling-me-king-i-am-not-there-yet-pakistans-babar-azam-tells-media-and-fans-8718390" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Please stop calling me King, I am not there yet,&rsquo; Pakistan&rsquo;s Babar Azam tells fans</a>
After India lost the home Test series to New Zealand (for the first time in history) before conceding the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (for the first time in a decade), the BCCI came down hard on the centrally contracted Indian cricketers, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/domestic-cricket-participation-mandatory-for-india-selection-bcci-8628805" rel="dofollow">putting in several restrictions</a>. Though the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/no-wags-travelling-together-in-team-bus-among-several-updates-in-bccis-new-mandate-8621027" rel="dofollow">ten-pointer new policy</a> had several talking points, disallowing wives/girlfriends not to continue staying with their partners beyond two weeks (on long tours) and seven days (on short tours) made headlines.
Per the BCCI, the objective of this new SOP was &lsquo;to establish guidelines that promote discipline, unity, and a positive team environment while ensuring professional standards and operational efficiency during tours and series.&rsquo;&nbsp;
"There is no going back on this, and the players have made aware that the BCCI is very serious about the SOPs," a source close to the information revealed in a chat with Cricbuzz.
The source further revealed that most restrictions are around restricting personal staff during the ICC Champions Trophy.
"Personal staff (e.g., personal managers, chefs, assistants and security) are to be restricted on tours or series unless explicitly approved by the BCCI. This ensures that the focus remains on team operations and minimizes logistical challenges. - this has to be done away with."
"The players were known to have more than half a dozen staff in their personal entourages, including cooks, nannies and hairdressers, besides, the immediate family members. The BCCI is very strict about this rule," the source continued.&nbsp;
<h2>BCCI's new mandate</h2>
Per the earlier advisory issued by the board, all players must travel together in the team bus, with none allowed to travel separately to the training and matches; besides, another pointer stated that all players must stay in the same hotel.
"All players are expected to travel with the team to and from matches and practice sessions. Separate travel arrangements with families are discouraged to maintain discipline and team cohesion. Exceptions, if any, must be pre-approved by the head coach and Chairman of the Selection Committee," the advisory read.
"All players are required to stay for the entire duration of scheduled practice sessions and travel together to and from the venue. This rule ensures commitment and fosters a strong work ethic within the team,&rdquo; it further read.
Meanwhile, the Men in Blue will depart for Dubai for the eight-team tournament in two days (on February 15), with their first game scheduled for February 20 start against Bangladesh. India will face Pakistan in the marquee clash three days later on February 23, while against New Zealand a week later (March 2). &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: HCA secretary R Devraj will be Team India’s manager during the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy and has been asked by the BCCI to strictly enforce the rules.

Despite Indian captain Rohit Sharma getting caught off record claiming to speak with the new BCCI secretary over relaxing some pointers in the new mandate released by the BCCI in the wake of India’s horrid run in Tests lately, the latest reports suggest that the board has cleared its stance over the same, saying these SOPs are ‘non-negotiable’. Per Cricbuzz, the BCCI has formally and officially handed over the new SOPs – surrounding travel, nets, luggage allowances and travelling family members, including wives and partners, to all the players, informing all to abide by them. Also read | ‘Please stop calling me King, I am not there yet,’ Pakistan’s Babar Azam tells fans After India lost the home Test series to New Zealand (for the first time in history) before conceding the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (for the first time in a decade), the BCCI came down hard on the centrally contracted Indian cricketers, putting in several restrictions. Though the ten-pointer new policy had several talking points, disallowing wives/girlfriends not to continue staying with their partners beyond two weeks (on long tours) and seven days (on short tours) made headlines. Per the BCCI, the objective of this new SOP was ‘to establish guidelines that promote discipline, unity, and a positive team environment while ensuring professional standards and operational efficiency during tours and series.’ "There is no going back on this, and the players have made aware that the BCCI is very serious about the SOPs," a source close to the information revealed in a chat with Cricbuzz. The source further revealed that most restrictions are around restricting personal staff during the ICC Champions Trophy. "Personal staff (e.g., personal managers, chefs, assistants and security) are to be restricted on tours or series unless explicitly approved by the BCCI. This ensures that the focus remains on team operations and minimizes logistical challenges. - this has to be done away with." "The players were known to have more than half a dozen staff in their personal entourages, including cooks, nannies and hairdressers, besides, the immediate family members. The BCCI is very strict about this rule," the source continued. BCCI's new mandate Per the earlier advisory issued by the board, all players must travel together in the team bus, with none allowed to travel separately to the training and matches; besides, another pointer stated that all players must stay in the same hotel. "All players are expected to travel with the team to and from matches and practice sessions. Separate travel arrangements with families are discouraged to maintain discipline and team cohesion. Exceptions, if any, must be pre-approved by the head coach and Chairman of the Selection Committee," the advisory read. "All players are required to stay for the entire duration of scheduled practice sessions and travel together to and from the venue. This rule ensures commitment and fosters a strong work ethic within the team,” it further read. Meanwhile, the Men in Blue will depart for Dubai for the eight-team tournament in two days (on February 15), with their first game scheduled for February 20 start against Bangladesh. India will face Pakistan in the marquee clash three days later on February 23, while against New Zealand a week later (March 2). (With inputs from agencies)

‘Non-negotiable’ - No relief for Indian players as BCCI clears stance on new policy