Team India will fly to Dubai for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy-2025">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> following the conclusion of their ODI series against England (February 12). Placed in Group A, alongside host and arch-rivals Pakistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand, India will open their account on the next day of the tournament opener (February 19). However, they will play just one warm-up game ahead of it, the opponent of which is all but confirmed; however, not the date.
As per a report in the Dainik Jagran, India will face Bangladesh in their lone practice match ahead of the eight-team tournament. To get acclimatised to the playing conditions at the Dubai International Stadium, India will play a warm-up tie, with the source close to the information confirming that ICC is working on finalising the date.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jasprit-bumrah-attends-coldplay-concert-in-ahmedabad-lead-singer-chris-martin-dedicates-song-watch-8656865" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah attends Coldplay concert, lead singer Chris Martin dedicates song &ndash; Watch</a>
"An ICC official said that the Indian team will play all its matches in Dubai, so talks are going on about a practice match for the Indian team to acclimatise to the conditions there," a report in the Dainik Jagran read.&nbsp;
However, the catch remains that if no consensus between India and Bangladesh is reached, India could play UAE in their sole warm-up match. Though UAE is not among the eight participating teams in the tournament, they will be available to play the Men in Blue in the much-needed practice game.
<h2>India readies for ODI spree</h2>
Team India is playing the five-match T20Is against England, with three ODIs scheduled to begin after this. The BCCI selectors named a 15-man squad for both the series, with the only exception being the addition of seamer Harshit Rana as Jasprit Bumrah&rsquo;s cover for the first two ODIs.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/travis-head-confirms-role-flexibility-talks-within-camp-as-australia-prepare-for-galle-test-against-sri-lanka-8657523" rel="dofollow">Travis Head confirms &lsquo;role flexibility&rsquo; talks within camp ahead of SL Tests</a>
The selection committee has picked Bumrah in the final 15 despite them sweating over his fitness. Per the latest reports, only a miracle can see Bumrah attain full fitness in time for the first showpiece event of the year, with the BCCI working on zeroing in on his replacement.
Should Bumrah fail to get clearance from the medical staff for the upcoming two series, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jasprit-bumrah-highly-unlikely-to-play-champions-trophy-2025-bcci-to-prepare-backups-report-8657008" rel="dofollow">Harshit Rana and Mohammed Siraj are the two potential options</a>.
<h3>India&rsquo;s Champions Trophy squad &ndash;</h3>
Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Placed in Group A, alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand, India will open their account on the next day of the tournament opener (Feb 19). 

Team India will fly to Dubai for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 following the conclusion of their ODI series against England (February 12). Placed in Group A, alongside host and arch-rivals Pakistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand, India will open their account on the next day of the tournament opener (February 19). However, they will play just one warm-up game ahead of it, the opponent of which is all but confirmed; however, not the date. As per a report in the Dainik Jagran, India will face Bangladesh in their lone practice match ahead of the eight-team tournament. To get acclimatised to the playing conditions at the Dubai International Stadium, India will play a warm-up tie, with the source close to the information confirming that ICC is working on finalising the date. Also read | Jasprit Bumrah attends Coldplay concert, lead singer Chris Martin dedicates song – Watch "An ICC official said that the Indian team will play all its matches in Dubai, so talks are going on about a practice match for the Indian team to acclimatise to the conditions there," a report in the Dainik Jagran read. However, the catch remains that if no consensus between India and Bangladesh is reached, India could play UAE in their sole warm-up match. Though UAE is not among the eight participating teams in the tournament, they will be available to play the Men in Blue in the much-needed practice game. India readies for ODI spree Team India is playing the five-match T20Is against England, with three ODIs scheduled to begin after this. The BCCI selectors named a 15-man squad for both the series, with the only exception being the addition of seamer Harshit Rana as Jasprit Bumrah’s cover for the first two ODIs. Also read | Travis Head confirms ‘role flexibility’ talks within camp ahead of SL Tests The selection committee has picked Bumrah in the final 15 despite them sweating over his fitness. Per the latest reports, only a miracle can see Bumrah attain full fitness in time for the first showpiece event of the year, with the BCCI working on zeroing in on his replacement. Should Bumrah fail to get clearance from the medical staff for the upcoming two series, Harshit Rana and Mohammed Siraj are the two potential options. India’s Champions Trophy squad – Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: India’s warm-up game opponent named, date not finalised – Report

The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) has issued a ten-point guidelines document to the senior men&rsquo;s team players, promoting discipline, unity and a positive team environment. The document named &lsquo;Policy Document for Team India&rsquo; was shared with all India players on Thursday and was prepared by the BCCI in the wake of India&rsquo;s horror show in the past four months, where they lost six out of eight Test matches, conceding the lead on the current WTC cycle points table.
Following the review meeting (in Mumbai), which included the board members, the chief selector Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir and Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma, the board listed these suggestions.
Among all the mandates mentioned in that document (reported earlier), all centrally contracted players, not picked for the national team for any series, not injured and available for selection, barring those unavailable for unavoidable reasons, are complied to play all domestic matches. Those not abiding by it would face consequences beyond disciplinary actions.
<h2>&lsquo;Play domestic cricket&rsquo;</h2>
The BCCI has sent out a clear message, informing every player to make themselves available for selection for domestic matches, something even the former BCCI secretary Jay Shah called the cornerstone of Indian cricket.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-champions-trophy-squad-england-odi-announcement-date-live-updates-rohit-gill-kohli-rahul-iyer-pandya-shami-bumrah-axar-jadeja-kuldeep-karun-liveblog-8627125" rel="dofollow">India Champions Trophy Squad Announcement Highlights for January 16</a>
Following two straight Test series losses, the board and the decision-makers returned to the drawing board, making changes to the Indian cricket setup. By asking everyone to play domestic matches, the BCCI wants the players to stay connected to the domestic cricket ecosystem, maintain match fitness and strengthen the overall domestic structure.&nbsp;
Participation in Domestic Matches is mandatory for players to remain eligible for selection in the national team and for central contracts, as per BCCI guidelines.
&ldquo;This policy ensures that players remain connected to the domestic cricket ecosystem, fostering talent development, maintaining match fitness, and strengthening the overall domestic structure. It also inspires emerging players by providing them opportunities to compete alongside top cricketers, ensuring continuity in talent progression,&rdquo; the BCCI guideline read.
<h3>What are the repercussions?</h3>
Though the BCCI would not entertain any exceptions, barring those under &lsquo;extraordinary circumstances&rsquo;, needing the selection panel&rsquo;s approval, the board has listed the repercussions anyone not abiding by these guidelines would face.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/no-wags-travelling-together-in-team-bus-among-several-updates-in-bccis-new-mandate-8621027" rel="dofollow">No WAGs, travelling together among several updates in BCCI&rsquo;s mandate</a>
"The BCCI reserves the right to take disciplinary action against a player which may include sanction against the concerned player for participating in all BCCI conducted tournaments including the Indian Premier League and deduction from retainer amount/match fees under BCCI Player contract,&rdquo; the statement further read.
Meanwhile, the other guidelines read, "The players cannot travel separately for tours, matches and training while the families (partners and children) can say up to just two weeks on long tours."
The players&rsquo; staff on the series and tours are restricted, with no player being allowed personal shoots or endorsements during a series/tour while ensuring availability for BCCI shoots/functions.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: The document - ‘Policy Document for Team India’ was shared with all Indian players and was prepared by the BCCI in the wake of India’s horror show in Tests lately.

The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) has issued a ten-point guidelines document to the senior men’s team players, promoting discipline, unity and a positive team environment. The document named ‘Policy Document for Team India’ was shared with all India players on Thursday and was prepared by the BCCI in the wake of India’s horror show in the past four months, where they lost six out of eight Test matches, conceding the lead on the current WTC cycle points table. Following the review meeting (in Mumbai), which included the board members, the chief selector Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir and Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma, the board listed these suggestions. Among all the mandates mentioned in that document (reported earlier), all centrally contracted players, not picked for the national team for any series, not injured and available for selection, barring those unavailable for unavoidable reasons, are complied to play all domestic matches. Those not abiding by it would face consequences beyond disciplinary actions. ‘Play domestic cricket’ The BCCI has sent out a clear message, informing every player to make themselves available for selection for domestic matches, something even the former BCCI secretary Jay Shah called the cornerstone of Indian cricket. Also read | India Champions Trophy Squad Announcement Highlights for January 16 Following two straight Test series losses, the board and the decision-makers returned to the drawing board, making changes to the Indian cricket setup. By asking everyone to play domestic matches, the BCCI wants the players to stay connected to the domestic cricket ecosystem, maintain match fitness and strengthen the overall domestic structure. Participation in Domestic Matches is mandatory for players to remain eligible for selection in the national team and for central contracts, as per BCCI guidelines. “This policy ensures that players remain connected to the domestic cricket ecosystem, fostering talent development, maintaining match fitness, and strengthening the overall domestic structure. It also inspires emerging players by providing them opportunities to compete alongside top cricketers, ensuring continuity in talent progression,” the BCCI guideline read. What are the repercussions? Though the BCCI would not entertain any exceptions, barring those under ‘extraordinary circumstances’, needing the selection panel’s approval, the board has listed the repercussions anyone not abiding by these guidelines would face. Also read | No WAGs, travelling together among several updates in BCCI’s mandate "The BCCI reserves the right to take disciplinary action against a player which may include sanction against the concerned player for participating in all BCCI conducted tournaments including the Indian Premier League and deduction from retainer amount/match fees under BCCI Player contract,” the statement further read. Meanwhile, the other guidelines read, "The players cannot travel separately for tours, matches and training while the families (partners and children) can say up to just two weeks on long tours." The players’ staff on the series and tours are restricted, with no player being allowed personal shoots or endorsements during a series/tour while ensuring availability for BCCI shoots/functions. (With inputs from agencies)

Domestic cricket participation 'mandatory' for India selection: BCCI

The Indian Cricket Board wants its players to be held accountable for their poor outings during a series, for which they (the BCCI) have discussed launching a new performance-based variable pay, which will see players receiving a pay cut should they fail to deliver.
Per the latest reports, this idea was floated during the recently concluded BCCI review meeting in Mumbai attended by Ajit Agarkar (the chief selector), Rohit Sharma (Test captain), Gautam Gambhir (the head coach) and the board members.
Per an Indian Express report, this new pay structure is based on a corporate-style appraisal system, resulting in rewarding and punishing all based on their performances during a series.&nbsp;
&ldquo;It was one of the suggestions given that players should be held accountable and if their performance is deemed not fit as per expectations, they should face variable pay-cuts,&rdquo; a source close to the information was quoted as saying by the Indian Express.
<h2>&lsquo;Players lacking intent&rsquo;</h2>
Besides discussing ways to hold the players more accountable for their bad performances, there was a discussion on certain players&rsquo; intent towards playing Test cricket, something the board refuses to compromise on. Per the report, the board members discussed this idea to ensure the upcoming generation of cricketers must value Tests.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-test-captain-rohit-sharma-to-feature-for-mumbai-in-ranji-trophy-second-leg-report-8619848" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma likely to play Ranji Trophy second leg opener for Mumbai</a>
&ldquo;There was discussion whether the current players were a bit indifferent when India loses a Test match. The team management understands the value of Test cricket, but many players don&rsquo;t give too much importance to it,&rdquo; the source added.
All these discussions were held in the wake of India&rsquo;s lowest point in Test cricket in over a decade, where they lost six out of the last eight Test matches at home and away. While New Zealand whitewashed India across three matches in India (for the first time), the touring Indian Team surrendered the coveted BGT Down Under by losing 1-3 to Australia.
<h3>&lsquo;Incentives&rsquo;</h3>
Early last year, the Indian board brought in an incentive-based system to lure in more players to feature in red-ball cricket amid a surge in inclination towards the shortest format with the growing culture of franchise-based T20 Leagues.&nbsp;
Per the BCCI incentive system, if a player features in more than 50 per cent of the scheduled Test matches in a season starting 2022/23, he would receive an incentive of INR 30 lakhs up and above the match salary, which further increases to INR 45 lakhs should the percentage rise to 75.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: This new pay structure is based on a corporate-style appraisal system, resulting in rewarding and punishing all based on their performances during a series.

The Indian Cricket Board wants its players to be held accountable for their poor outings during a series, for which they (the BCCI) have discussed launching a new performance-based variable pay, which will see players receiving a pay cut should they fail to deliver. Per the latest reports, this idea was floated during the recently concluded BCCI review meeting in Mumbai attended by Ajit Agarkar (the chief selector), Rohit Sharma (Test captain), Gautam Gambhir (the head coach) and the board members. Per an Indian Express report, this new pay structure is based on a corporate-style appraisal system, resulting in rewarding and punishing all based on their performances during a series. “It was one of the suggestions given that players should be held accountable and if their performance is deemed not fit as per expectations, they should face variable pay-cuts,” a source close to the information was quoted as saying by the Indian Express. ‘Players lacking intent’ Besides discussing ways to hold the players more accountable for their bad performances, there was a discussion on certain players’ intent towards playing Test cricket, something the board refuses to compromise on. Per the report, the board members discussed this idea to ensure the upcoming generation of cricketers must value Tests. Also read | Rohit Sharma likely to play Ranji Trophy second leg opener for Mumbai “There was discussion whether the current players were a bit indifferent when India loses a Test match. The team management understands the value of Test cricket, but many players don’t give too much importance to it,” the source added. All these discussions were held in the wake of India’s lowest point in Test cricket in over a decade, where they lost six out of the last eight Test matches at home and away. While New Zealand whitewashed India across three matches in India (for the first time), the touring Indian Team surrendered the coveted BGT Down Under by losing 1-3 to Australia. ‘Incentives’ Early last year, the Indian board brought in an incentive-based system to lure in more players to feature in red-ball cricket amid a surge in inclination towards the shortest format with the growing culture of franchise-based T20 Leagues. Per the BCCI incentive system, if a player features in more than 50 per cent of the scheduled Test matches in a season starting 2022/23, he would receive an incentive of INR 30 lakhs up and above the match salary, which further increases to INR 45 lakhs should the percentage rise to 75. (With inputs from agencies)

Players to be held accountable under BCCI’s new incentive initiative

India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is not an automatic choice in the One-Day team, an unnamed BCCI source has hinted ahead of the squad announcement for the England series and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite his long-standing reputation as the best spin-bowling all-rounder in the country for over a decade, the decision-makers are contemplating moving on from him, with all eyes on the 2027 ODI World Cup build-up.
Jadeja, 36, played three Tests Down Under, scoring 135 runs and picking four wickets &ndash; an underwhelming performance from the first-choice player. Although he scored a fifty in the second innings at the Gabba, helping India avoid the follow-on and eventually save the match, he never looked in his element during his brief stays at the crease in the last two Tests.
Meanwhile, as per a Times of India (TOI) report, Jadeja&rsquo;s place in the ODI side is in jeopardy, with the selectors keen on keeping a tab on his international performance in the upcoming tournaments, should he get picked.&nbsp;
&ldquo;It's all about when the selectors decide the transition needs to kick in. They will discuss if they want to go with a safe option in (Ravindra) Jadeja or move on right now,&rdquo; the source said as quoted by TOI.
The source continued saying there is an urge within the selection committee to move on from Jadeja in the ODIs, suggesting the selectors could have a tough time in zeroing in on the final squad for England ODIs and Champions Trophy 2025.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/kl-rahul-to-skip-england-series-but-remains-available-for-champions-trophy-2025-bcci-8608133" rel="dofollow">KL Rahul takes break from cricket following draining tour Down Under</a>
&ldquo;Even in Test cricket, he has struggled to get going, though his bowling has been steady,&rdquo; the source added. &ldquo;There is an urge to move on from him, especially in the ODI format. It will be a tough call in the coming days.&rdquo;
The all-rounder, however, is expected to retain his place in the Test side, with the away England Tests scheduled for the June-August window later this year.
&ldquo;When it comes to Test cricket, Jadeja is still fairly in contention for the England tour due to lack of experience in the middle order,&rdquo; the BCCI source added.
<h2>Squad announcement soon</h2>
While KL Rahul has asked the selection committee to exempt him for the home series against England, consisting of five T20Is and three ODIs, the selectors would take a call on the pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, who are nursing injuries.&nbsp;
With the England series squad announcement just around the corner, the selectors are also working on finalising the team for the eight-team tournament in Pakistan and the UAE beginning February 19.&nbsp;
Given India is playing all its matches in Dubai, including the knockouts, should they qualify, the selectors will consider the playing conditions, pitch nature and the players' past performances before releasing the squad, the announcement of which nears.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: Per the source, there is an urge within the selection committee to move on from Jadeja in the ODIs, suggesting a tough time for selectors in naming squads.

India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is not an automatic choice in the One-Day team, an unnamed BCCI source has hinted ahead of the squad announcement for the England series and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite his long-standing reputation as the best spin-bowling all-rounder in the country for over a decade, the decision-makers are contemplating moving on from him, with all eyes on the 2027 ODI World Cup build-up. Jadeja, 36, played three Tests Down Under, scoring 135 runs and picking four wickets – an underwhelming performance from the first-choice player. Although he scored a fifty in the second innings at the Gabba, helping India avoid the follow-on and eventually save the match, he never looked in his element during his brief stays at the crease in the last two Tests. Meanwhile, as per a Times of India (TOI) report, Jadeja’s place in the ODI side is in jeopardy, with the selectors keen on keeping a tab on his international performance in the upcoming tournaments, should he get picked. “It's all about when the selectors decide the transition needs to kick in. They will discuss if they want to go with a safe option in (Ravindra) Jadeja or move on right now,” the source said as quoted by TOI. The source continued saying there is an urge within the selection committee to move on from Jadeja in the ODIs, suggesting the selectors could have a tough time in zeroing in on the final squad for England ODIs and Champions Trophy 2025. Also read | KL Rahul takes break from cricket following draining tour Down Under “Even in Test cricket, he has struggled to get going, though his bowling has been steady,” the source added. “There is an urge to move on from him, especially in the ODI format. It will be a tough call in the coming days.” The all-rounder, however, is expected to retain his place in the Test side, with the away England Tests scheduled for the June-August window later this year. “When it comes to Test cricket, Jadeja is still fairly in contention for the England tour due to lack of experience in the middle order,” the BCCI source added. Squad announcement soon While KL Rahul has asked the selection committee to exempt him for the home series against England, consisting of five T20Is and three ODIs, the selectors would take a call on the pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, who are nursing injuries. With the England series squad announcement just around the corner, the selectors are also working on finalising the team for the eight-team tournament in Pakistan and the UAE beginning February 19. Given India is playing all its matches in Dubai, including the knockouts, should they qualify, the selectors will consider the playing conditions, pitch nature and the players' past performances before releasing the squad, the announcement of which nears. (With inputs from agencies)

BCCI selectors keen to ‘move on’ from Ravindra Jadeja in ODIs – Report

Gautam Gambhir&rsquo;s ex-teammate at the Indian Team and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL, Manoj Tiwary, has come down hard on the Indian coach, saying he is a hypocrite as he doesn&rsquo;t walk the talk. After India lost six of their last eight Tests, leading to their failure in qualifying for the WTC Final 2025, Tiwary bashed &lsquo;favouritism&rsquo; inside the dressing room, adding Gambhir made BCCI hire his yes men.
Gautam rejoined KKR as the team mentor ahead of IPL 2024, playing a handy role in helping them win their third league title last year. Though Chandrakant Pandit was the team coach that beat SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the one-sided final, Gambhir got all the limelight, leading to him entering the race for Team India&rsquo;s head coach role.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/travis-head-sam-konstas-fight-for-opening-slot-in-sri-lanka-tests-cricket-australia-chief-selector-george-bailey-8605068" rel="dofollow">Australia handpick two names as potential openers for Sri Lanka Tests</a>
Taking jibes at his former IPL captain, Tiwary called Gautam a hypocrite, adding his choices for the backroom staff, for which he remained adamant ahead of taking up the job, led to calamity in Indian cricket.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Gautam Gambhir is a hypocrite. He doesn&rsquo;t do what he says. Where is the captain (Rohit) from? Mumbai. Where is Abhishek Nayar from? Mumbai. They got a chance to put a Mumbai player in the forefront. There is no one to speak for Jalaj Saxena. He performs well but keeps quiet,&rdquo; Tiwary said in a chat with News18 Bangla.
&ldquo;Morne Morkel came from Lucknow Super Giants. Abhishek Nayar was at Kolkata Knight Riders with Gambhir, and the Indian head coach has a comfort zone with him. They have to be yes men to the coach. That&rsquo;s why they were brought,&rdquo; Manoj added.
<h2>&lsquo;He didn&rsquo;t do it alone&rsquo;</h2>
What goes around comes around.
All this time since playing the match-winning knock against Sri Lanka in the 2011 World Cup Final, Gautam Gambhir kept bashing the Indian fans and the media for crediting MS Dhoni, who remained unbeaten on 91 and hit the winning runs, for India lifting the trophy, and that seems to return to haunt the current team coach.
Tiwary said Gautam&rsquo;s PR helped him get all the credit for KKR&rsquo;s win in IPL 2024, which was not the case, as everyone helped the team get through.
&ldquo;Gambhir didn&rsquo;t guide KKR to the title single-handedly, as we all performed as a unit. Jacques Kallis, Sunil Narine and I - all contributed to the cause. But who took the credit? There is an environment and PR that allows him to take all the credit,&rdquo; Tiwary noted.
Meanwhile, Gambhir has come under pressure following India&rsquo;s loss Down Under. While his tenure thus far has been about more lows than hits, Gautam&rsquo;s next assignment is England&rsquo;s white-ball series against India and the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in the UAE.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: Tiwary said Gautam’s PR helped him get all the credit for KKR’s win in IPL 2024, which was not the case, as everyone helped the team get through.

Gautam Gambhir’s ex-teammate at the Indian Team and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL, Manoj Tiwary, has come down hard on the Indian coach, saying he is a hypocrite as he doesn’t walk the talk. After India lost six of their last eight Tests, leading to their failure in qualifying for the WTC Final 2025, Tiwary bashed ‘favouritism’ inside the dressing room, adding Gambhir made BCCI hire his yes men. Gautam rejoined KKR as the team mentor ahead of IPL 2024, playing a handy role in helping them win their third league title last year. Though Chandrakant Pandit was the team coach that beat SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the one-sided final, Gambhir got all the limelight, leading to him entering the race for Team India’s head coach role. Also read | Australia handpick two names as potential openers for Sri Lanka Tests Taking jibes at his former IPL captain, Tiwary called Gautam a hypocrite, adding his choices for the backroom staff, for which he remained adamant ahead of taking up the job, led to calamity in Indian cricket. “Gautam Gambhir is a hypocrite. He doesn’t do what he says. Where is the captain (Rohit) from? Mumbai. Where is Abhishek Nayar from? Mumbai. They got a chance to put a Mumbai player in the forefront. There is no one to speak for Jalaj Saxena. He performs well but keeps quiet,” Tiwary said in a chat with News18 Bangla. “Morne Morkel came from Lucknow Super Giants. Abhishek Nayar was at Kolkata Knight Riders with Gambhir, and the Indian head coach has a comfort zone with him. They have to be yes men to the coach. That’s why they were brought,” Manoj added. ‘He didn’t do it alone’ What goes around comes around. All this time since playing the match-winning knock against Sri Lanka in the 2011 World Cup Final, Gautam Gambhir kept bashing the Indian fans and the media for crediting MS Dhoni, who remained unbeaten on 91 and hit the winning runs, for India lifting the trophy, and that seems to return to haunt the current team coach. Tiwary said Gautam’s PR helped him get all the credit for KKR’s win in IPL 2024, which was not the case, as everyone helped the team get through. “Gambhir didn’t guide KKR to the title single-handedly, as we all performed as a unit. Jacques Kallis, Sunil Narine and I - all contributed to the cause. But who took the credit? There is an environment and PR that allows him to take all the credit,” Tiwary noted. Meanwhile, Gambhir has come under pressure following India’s loss Down Under. While his tenure thus far has been about more lows than hits, Gautam’s next assignment is England’s white-ball series against India and the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in the UAE. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Gambhir is a hypocrite, he doesn’t do what he says’: Manoj Tiwary

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=+Indian+cricket+team+" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indian men&rsquo;s cricket team</a> did not have a great start to 2025 as they lost to Australia at Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in process losing the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Border-Gavaskar+Trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a> 1-3 on Sunday (Jan 5). With a congested calendar year, India will be challenged in all three formats, but the big occasions will include the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Champions+Trophy+2025" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025</a> and the England tour which takes place in the middle of the year. Having rolled the carpet for the new calendar year, we take a look at India&rsquo;s fixtures in 2025 where the Men in Blue will look to add another feather to its already impressive hat.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">India&rsquo;s big challenges in 2025<o:p></o:p></h2>
India&rsquo;s first big challenge will come in the Champions Trophy 2025 where the Men in Blue will play their matches in the United Arab Emirates. India will be part of the hybrid model with their matches taking place in the UAE while the rest of the teams compete in Pakistan. India have reached the Champions Trophy final on the last two occasions when the competition took place in 2013 and 2017.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
India&rsquo;s second biggest challenge will be the England tour starting in June with senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli likely to bid farewell to the side.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">India men's cricket schedule 2025<o:p></o:p></h2>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">England tour of India 2025</h2>
India vs England - 1st T20I, January 22, Kolkata<o:p></o:p>
India vs England - 2nd T20I, January 25, Chennai<o:p></o:p>
India vs England - 3rd T20I, January 28, Rajkot<o:p></o:p>
India vs England - 4th T20I, January 31, Pune <o:p></o:p>
India vs England - 5th T20I, February 2, Mumbai<o:p></o:p>
India vs England - 1st ODI, February 6, Nagpur<o:p></o:p>
India vs England - 2nd ODI, February 9, Cuttack<o:p></o:p>
India vs England - 3rd ODI, February 12, Ahmedabad<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Champions Trophy 2025</h2>
India vs Bangladesh (CT), February 20, Dubai<o:p></o:p>
India vs Pakistan (CT), February 23, Dubai<o:p></o:p>
India vs New Zealand (CT), March 2, Dubai<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Indian Premier League 2025, March 14 - May 25</h2>
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/michael-clarke-in-awe-of-jasprit-bumrah-after-stellar-bgt-terms-best-fast-bowler-ever-8600845" aria-label="Michael Clarke in awe of Jasprit Bumrah after stellar BGT, terms 'best fast bowler ever'" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Michael Clarke in awe of Jasprit Bumrah after stellar BGT, terms 'best fast bowler ever'</a>
<h2>India tour of England 2025</h2>
England vs India - 1st Test, June 20 &ndash; 24, Leeds<o:p></o:p>
England vs India - 2nd Test, July 2 &ndash; 6, Birmingham<o:p></o:p>
England vs India - 3rd Test, July 10 -14, Lord's, London<o:p></o:p>
England vs India - 4th Test, July 23 &ndash; 27, Manchester<o:p></o:p>
England vs India - 5th Test, July 31 - August 4 , The Oval, London<o:p></o:p>
India tour of Bangladesh, August (TBD), TBD<o:p></o:p>
West Indies tour of India, October (TBD), TBD<o:p></o:p>
South Africa tour of India, November-December (TBD), TBD<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: India will be challenged in all three formats, but the big occasions will include the Champions Trophy 2025 and the England tour in June. 

The Indian men’s cricket team did not have a great start to 2025 as they lost to Australia at Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in process losing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 1-3 on Sunday (Jan 5). With a congested calendar year, India will be challenged in all three formats, but the big occasions will include the Champions Trophy 2025 and the England tour which takes place in the middle of the year. Having rolled the carpet for the new calendar year, we take a look at India’s fixtures in 2025 where the Men in Blue will look to add another feather to its already impressive hat. India’s big challenges in 2025 India’s first big challenge will come in the Champions Trophy 2025 where the Men in Blue will play their matches in the United Arab Emirates. India will be part of the hybrid model with their matches taking place in the UAE while the rest of the teams compete in Pakistan. India have reached the Champions Trophy final on the last two occasions when the competition took place in 2013 and 2017. India’s second biggest challenge will be the England tour starting in June with senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli likely to bid farewell to the side. India men's cricket schedule 2025 England tour of India 2025 India vs England - 1st T20I, January 22, Kolkata India vs England - 2nd T20I, January 25, Chennai India vs England - 3rd T20I, January 28, Rajkot India vs England - 4th T20I, January 31, Pune India vs England - 5th T20I, February 2, Mumbai India vs England - 1st ODI, February 6, Nagpur India vs England - 2nd ODI, February 9, Cuttack India vs England - 3rd ODI, February 12, Ahmedabad Champions Trophy 2025 India vs Bangladesh (CT), February 20, Dubai India vs Pakistan (CT), February 23, Dubai India vs New Zealand (CT), March 2, Dubai Indian Premier League 2025, March 14 - May 25 ALSO READ | Michael Clarke in awe of Jasprit Bumrah after stellar BGT, terms 'best fast bowler ever' India tour of England 2025 England vs India - 1st Test, June 20 – 24, Leeds England vs India - 2nd Test, July 2 – 6, Birmingham England vs India - 3rd Test, July 10 -14, Lord's, London England vs India - 4th Test, July 23 – 27, Manchester England vs India - 5th Test, July 31 - August 4 , The Oval, London India tour of Bangladesh, August (TBD), TBD West Indies tour of India, October (TBD), TBD South Africa tour of India, November-December (TBD), TBD

Here's all you need to know about Indian men's cricket team schedule for 2025

A tour Down Under makes or breaks a player&rsquo;s career. Though plenty benefited from regular outings in this ongoing five-match series, a few faced the wrath of poor form, including the Indian captain Rohit Sharma. The veteran batter is said to have &lsquo;opted out&rsquo; from the fifth and final Test in Sydney, but what baffled everyone was his name missing from the official team sheet for the series decider.
Even though the names of the reserve players were mentioned on the team sheet, Rohit&rsquo;s was missing, raising speculations of him cutting ties with the longest format.
Ahead of the fifth Test at the iconic SCG, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and not Rohit, attended the pre-game presser.
Upon being asked about Rohit&rsquo;s chances of retaining his place despite horrible form, Gambhir remained tight-lipped.
Instead, he gave an unconvincing reply, saying the final XI would be decided after looking at the pitch.
That fuelled speculations of Rohit not making it to the XI for the series decider, which, with the stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah walking out with the captain&rsquo;s blazer on during the coin toss, became a reality.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-the-captain-of-a-country-does-not-opt-out-hes-dropped-mark-taylor-on-rohit-sharmas-absence-from-scg-test-8587288" rel="dofollow">BGT - 'He's dropped but...,' Taylor on Rohit&rsquo;s absence from SCG Test</a>
Bumrah revealed Rohit &lsquo;opted out&rsquo; of the fifth Test considering his form, for which he called him a &lsquo;true leader&rsquo;.
"Obviously, our captain [Rohit Sharma] has shown his leadership as well. He's opted to rest in this game. So, that shows that there's a lot of unity in our team. There's no selfishness. Whatever is in the team's best interest, we're looking to do that," Bumrah said at the toss.
<h2>&lsquo;No Rohit on team sheet&rsquo;</h2>
Never before in Indian cricket did a serving captain bench himself.
A captain&rsquo;s name missing from the team sheet never happened either, though seamer Akash Deep&rsquo;s name was also not there (he's out of the SCG tie with an injury).
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5gewpo6-uzs61f0w-upkkkto8">
Rohit Sharma hasn&rsquo;t stepped out with the rest of the squad &amp; his name no longer appears in the squad list either. A different meaning to &ldquo;opted to rest&rdquo; perhaps <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusvInd?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusvInd</a> <a href="https://t.co/yRb203Rmni">pic.twitter.com/yRb203Rmni</a>
&mdash; Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) <a href="https://twitter.com/beastieboy07/status/1874960422065119303?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2025</a></blockquote>
Should Rohit decide to call time on his Test career, he would become the second Indian player after ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin to retire from Tests during the BGT 2024-25.&nbsp; Ashwin announced his shock decision to step aside after the third Test at the Gabba, which ended in a draw.
<h2>India is in shambles, again</h2>
The Indian Team failed to live up to the hype, getting out under 200 for the nth time in this series. Batting first after winning the toss, India got all out on 185, with Rishabh Pant being the highest scorer (40).&nbsp;
Scott Boland picked four wickets for Australia, including Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Pant and Nitish Reddy.&nbsp;
At stumps on day one, the hosts lost opener Usman Khawaja, with their scorecard reading 9/1 in three overs.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

BGT | Rohit Sharma retirment talk | Should Rohit decide to call time on his Test career, he would become the second Indian player after ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin to retire from Tests during the BGT 2024-25.

A tour Down Under makes or breaks a player’s career. Though plenty benefited from regular outings in this ongoing five-match series, a few faced the wrath of poor form, including the Indian captain Rohit Sharma. The veteran batter is said to have ‘opted out’ from the fifth and final Test in Sydney, but what baffled everyone was his name missing from the official team sheet for the series decider. Even though the names of the reserve players were mentioned on the team sheet, Rohit’s was missing, raising speculations of him cutting ties with the longest format. Ahead of the fifth Test at the iconic SCG, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and not Rohit, attended the pre-game presser. Upon being asked about Rohit’s chances of retaining his place despite horrible form, Gambhir remained tight-lipped. Instead, he gave an unconvincing reply, saying the final XI would be decided after looking at the pitch. That fuelled speculations of Rohit not making it to the XI for the series decider, which, with the stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah walking out with the captain’s blazer on during the coin toss, became a reality. Also read | BGT - 'He's dropped but...,' Taylor on Rohit’s absence from SCG Test Bumrah revealed Rohit ‘opted out’ of the fifth Test considering his form, for which he called him a ‘true leader’. "Obviously, our captain [Rohit Sharma] has shown his leadership as well. He's opted to rest in this game. So, that shows that there's a lot of unity in our team. There's no selfishness. Whatever is in the team's best interest, we're looking to do that," Bumrah said at the toss. ‘No Rohit on team sheet’ Never before in Indian cricket did a serving captain bench himself. A captain’s name missing from the team sheet never happened either, though seamer Akash Deep’s name was also not there (he's out of the SCG tie with an injury). Rohit Sharma hasn’t stepped out with the rest of the squad & his name no longer appears in the squad list either. A different meaning to “opted to rest” perhaps #AusvInd pic.twitter.com/yRb203Rmni — Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) January 2, 2025 Should Rohit decide to call time on his Test career, he would become the second Indian player after ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin to retire from Tests during the BGT 2024-25. Ashwin announced his shock decision to step aside after the third Test at the Gabba, which ended in a draw. India is in shambles, again The Indian Team failed to live up to the hype, getting out under 200 for the nth time in this series. Batting first after winning the toss, India got all out on 185, with Rishabh Pant being the highest scorer (40). Scott Boland picked four wickets for Australia, including Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Pant and Nitish Reddy. At stumps on day one, the hosts lost opener Usman Khawaja, with their scorecard reading 9/1 in three overs. (With inputs from agencies)

SHOCKING! Rohit Sharma’s name missing from official team sheet for SCG Test

New Delhi, India 
R Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement during Day 5 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia, in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Dec 18. Ashwin ended a stellar run at the international level with 765 scalps -- second-most among Indians. In Tests, he accounted for 537 scalps whereas the wily spinner claimed 228 wickets in white-ball formats. After his retirement, Ashwin opened up on his career and not being able to captain India once.
On not captaining India, Ashwin said during a Sky Sports Podcast, "It's interesting. I am smart enough to know what works for me and what doesn't for another person. When I started my career, I got first-class captaincy very early. I have won a few tournaments for my team. I believe I had it in me. But I did not have any regret that I didn't go on to lead my country because these are not things that I can control."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rohit-backs-modern-day-great-kohli-to-come-good-vs-outside-off-stump-deliveries-in-boxing-day-test-786380">BGT: Rohit backs 'modern-day great' Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in Boxing Day Test</a>
The wily spinner opined, "I have realised somebody needs to feel that I am good enough to lead the team, I need to get another 15-20 people to come along with me for me to be able to lead the team. It wasn't meant for me in this particular chapter of my life."
"I don't think this office or corporate felt I was good enough to lead the team. That doesn't mean I am not good enough for leadership. Leadership, you don't need a title to do that because, within me, I was a great leader in that group to be able to contribute to other people's success. I looked out for zones of contribution. I did it to the best of my ability. I do not have regrets, but I do think it would have been something I would have enjoyed," Ashwin added.
Ashwin made his debut under MS Dhoni in 2010. He played under numerous captains, such as Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir, KL Rahul, etc. While he didn't lead India, he has had enough leadership exposure at the domestic level.
The 38-year-old Ashwin is known to be an astute reader of the game and will make his presence felt in the domestic tournaments.

Former Indian spinner R Ashwin opened up on not leading the national side after hanging his boots from international cricket last week. 



New Delhi, India R Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement during Day 5 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia, in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Dec 18. Ashwin ended a stellar run at the international level with 765 scalps -- second-most among Indians. In Tests, he accounted for 537 scalps whereas the wily spinner claimed 228 wickets in white-ball formats. After his retirement, Ashwin opened up on his career and not being able to captain India once. On not captaining India, Ashwin said during a Sky Sports Podcast, "It's interesting. I am smart enough to know what works for me and what doesn't for another person. When I started my career, I got first-class captaincy very early. I have won a few tournaments for my team. I believe I had it in me. But I did not have any regret that I didn't go on to lead my country because these are not things that I can control." Also read: BGT: Rohit backs 'modern-day great' Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in Boxing Day Test The wily spinner opined, "I have realised somebody needs to feel that I am good enough to lead the team, I need to get another 15-20 people to come along with me for me to be able to lead the team. It wasn't meant for me in this particular chapter of my life." "I don't think this office or corporate felt I was good enough to lead the team. That doesn't mean I am not good enough for leadership. Leadership, you don't need a title to do that because, within me, I was a great leader in that group to be able to contribute to other people's success. I looked out for zones of contribution. I did it to the best of my ability. I do not have regrets, but I do think it would have been something I would have enjoyed," Ashwin added. Ashwin made his debut under MS Dhoni in 2010. He played under numerous captains, such as Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir, KL Rahul, etc. While he didn't lead India, he has had enough leadership exposure at the domestic level. The 38-year-old Ashwin is known to be an astute reader of the game and will make his presence felt in the domestic tournaments.

'No regrets about not captaining India, but...': R Ashwin on not leading national side

R Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement during Day 5 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia, in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Dec 18. Ashwin ended a stellar run at the international level with 765 scalps -- second-most among Indians. In Tests, he accounted for 537 scalps whereas the wily spinner claimed 228 wickets in white-ball formats. After his retirement, Ashwin opened up on his career and not being able to captain India once.

On not captaining India, Ashwin said during a&nbsp;Sky Sports Podcast, "It's interesting. I am smart enough to know what works for me and what doesn't for another person. When I started my career, I got first-class captaincy very early. I have won a few tournaments for my team. I believe I had it in me. But I did not have any regret that I didn't go on to lead my country because these are not things that I can control."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rohit-backs-modern-day-great-kohli-to-come-good-vs-outside-off-stump-deliveries-in-boxing-day-test-786380">BGT: Rohit backs 'modern-day great' Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in Boxing Day Test</a>

The wily spinner opined, "I have realised somebody needs to feel that I am good enough to lead the team, I need to get another 15-20 people to come along with me for me to be able to lead the team. It wasn't meant for me in this particular chapter of my life."

"I don't think this office or corporate felt I was good enough to lead the team. That doesn't mean I am not good enough for leadership. Leadership, you don't need a title to do that because, within me, I was a great leader in that group to be able to contribute to other people's success. I looked out for zones of contribution. I did it to the best of my ability. I do not have regrets, but I do think it would have been something I would have enjoyed," Ashwin added.

Ashwin made his debut under MS Dhoni in 2010. He played under numerous captains, such as Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane,&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir, KL Rahul, etc. While he didn't lead India, he has had enough leadership exposure at the domestic level.

The 38-year-old Ashwin is known to be an astute reader of the game and will make his presence felt in the domestic tournaments.

R Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement during Day 5 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia, in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Dec 18.

R Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement during Day 5 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia, in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Dec 18. Ashwin ended a stellar run at the international level with 765 scalps -- second-most among Indians. In Tests, he accounted for 537 scalps whereas the wily spinner claimed 228 wickets in white-ball formats. After his retirement, Ashwin opened up on his career and not being able to captain India once. On not captaining India, Ashwin said during a Sky Sports Podcast, "It's interesting. I am smart enough to know what works for me and what doesn't for another person. When I started my career, I got first-class captaincy very early. I have won a few tournaments for my team. I believe I had it in me. But I did not have any regret that I didn't go on to lead my country because these are not things that I can control." Also read: BGT: Rohit backs 'modern-day great' Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in Boxing Day Test The wily spinner opined, "I have realised somebody needs to feel that I am good enough to lead the team, I need to get another 15-20 people to come along with me for me to be able to lead the team. It wasn't meant for me in this particular chapter of my life." "I don't think this office or corporate felt I was good enough to lead the team. That doesn't mean I am not good enough for leadership. Leadership, you don't need a title to do that because, within me, I was a great leader in that group to be able to contribute to other people's success. I looked out for zones of contribution. I did it to the best of my ability. I do not have regrets, but I do think it would have been something I would have enjoyed," Ashwin added. Ashwin made his debut under MS Dhoni in 2010. He played under numerous captains, such as Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir, KL Rahul, etc. While he didn't lead India, he has had enough leadership exposure at the domestic level. The 38-year-old Ashwin is known to be an astute reader of the game and will make his presence felt in the domestic tournaments.

New Delhi, India 
Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma lauded his protégé and claimed that the star batter will not retire anytime soon and will feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, in South Africa. Kohli is currently part of the Rohit Sharma-led India Test squad for the ongoing 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) versus Australia, in Australia.
Kohli started the BGT with a ton in Perth but failed in the next two Tests. Rajkumar is, however, not concerned with the batter's form and predicted two more centuries from his blade in the last two Tests. Further, he made a big claim on the 36-year-old's internatonal future.
Rajkumar told Dainik Jagran, "Virat Kohli is playing the best cricket of his career. He also scored a century against Australia in the first Test. I believe two more centuries will come from his bat in the next two matches. This is a player who has always enjoyed his game. When a player enjoys his game, he gives his best. Virat's form is not a matter of concern. This player knows how to bat in difficult situations and make the team win."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohli-to-settle-in-london-with-family-confirms-childhood-coach-rajkumar-sharma-785548">Virat Kohli to settle in London with family, confirms childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma</a>
<h2>'Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup'</h2>
Sharma further added, "Virat is still very fit and not too old to retire. I believe that Virat will play cricket for five more years. Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup. The rapport between Virat and me is very good. I have known him well since Virat was not even 10 years old. I have been with him for more than 26 years. That is why I can say that Virat still has a lot of cricket left in him."
Kohli's record in ODI World Cups is exceptional. He was the top run-getter in the 2023 edition, held in India, with 765 runs -- most by any batter in an ODI WC. Despite his glorious run, Rohit-led India failed in the final hurdle to end as runners-up. Thus, Kohli will be eager to end his career with another ODI WC trophy.

Virat Kohli's childhood coach has backed Virat Kohli to play the 2027 ODI World Cup, in South Africa. Here is what he said - 



New Delhi, India Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma lauded his protégé and claimed that the star batter will not retire anytime soon and will feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, in South Africa. Kohli is currently part of the Rohit Sharma-led India Test squad for the ongoing 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) versus Australia, in Australia. Kohli started the BGT with a ton in Perth but failed in the next two Tests. Rajkumar is, however, not concerned with the batter's form and predicted two more centuries from his blade in the last two Tests. Further, he made a big claim on the 36-year-old's internatonal future. Rajkumar told Dainik Jagran, "Virat Kohli is playing the best cricket of his career. He also scored a century against Australia in the first Test. I believe two more centuries will come from his bat in the next two matches. This is a player who has always enjoyed his game. When a player enjoys his game, he gives his best. Virat's form is not a matter of concern. This player knows how to bat in difficult situations and make the team win." Also read: Virat Kohli to settle in London with family, confirms childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma 'Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup' Sharma further added, "Virat is still very fit and not too old to retire. I believe that Virat will play cricket for five more years. Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup. The rapport between Virat and me is very good. I have known him well since Virat was not even 10 years old. I have been with him for more than 26 years. That is why I can say that Virat still has a lot of cricket left in him." Kohli's record in ODI World Cups is exceptional. He was the top run-getter in the 2023 edition, held in India, with 765 runs -- most by any batter in an ODI WC. Despite his glorious run, Rohit-led India failed in the final hurdle to end as runners-up. Thus, Kohli will be eager to end his career with another ODI WC trophy.

Virat Kohli is 'not too old' to retire, will play 2027 ODI World Cup - Childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma

Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma lauded his protégé and claimed that the star batter will not retire anytime soon and will feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, in South Africa. Kohli is currently part of the Rohit Sharma-led India Test squad for the ongoing 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) versus Australia, in Australia.

Kohli started the BGT with a ton in Perth but failed in the next two Tests. Rajkumar is, however, not concerned with the batter's form and predicted two more centuries from his blade in the last two Tests. Further, he made a big claim on the 36-year-old's internatonal future.

Rajkumar told Dainik Jagran, "Virat Kohli is playing the best cricket of his career. He also scored a century against Australia in the first Test. I believe two more centuries will come from his bat in the next two matches. This is a player who has always enjoyed his game. When a player enjoys his game, he gives his best. Virat's form is not a matter of concern. This player knows how to bat in difficult situations and make the team win."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohli-to-settle-in-london-with-family-confirms-childhood-coach-rajkumar-sharma-785548">Virat Kohli to settle in London with family, confirms childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma</a>

<h2>'Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup'</h2>

Sharma further added, "Virat is still very fit and not too old to retire. I believe that Virat will play cricket for five more years. Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup. The rapport between Virat and me is very good. I have known him well since Virat was not even 10 years old. I have been with him for more than 26 years. That is why I can say that Virat still has a lot of cricket left in him."

Kohli's record in ODI World Cups is exceptional. He was the top run-getter in the 2023 edition, held in India, with 765 runs -- most by any batter in an ODI WC. Despite his glorious run, Rohit-led India failed in the final hurdle to end as runners-up. Thus, Kohli will be eager to end his career with another ODI WC trophy.

Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma lauded his protégé and claimed that the star batter will not retire anytime soon and will feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, in South Africa.

Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma lauded his protégé and claimed that the star batter will not retire anytime soon and will feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, in South Africa. Kohli is currently part of the Rohit Sharma-led India Test squad for the ongoing 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) versus Australia, in Australia. Kohli started the BGT with a ton in Perth but failed in the next two Tests. Rajkumar is, however, not concerned with the batter's form and predicted two more centuries from his blade in the last two Tests. Further, he made a big claim on the 36-year-old's internatonal future. Rajkumar told Dainik Jagran, "Virat Kohli is playing the best cricket of his career. He also scored a century against Australia in the first Test. I believe two more centuries will come from his bat in the next two matches. This is a player who has always enjoyed his game. When a player enjoys his game, he gives his best. Virat's form is not a matter of concern. This player knows how to bat in difficult situations and make the team win." Also read: Virat Kohli to settle in London with family, confirms childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma 'Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup' Sharma further added, "Virat is still very fit and not too old to retire. I believe that Virat will play cricket for five more years. Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup. The rapport between Virat and me is very good. I have known him well since Virat was not even 10 years old. I have been with him for more than 26 years. That is why I can say that Virat still has a lot of cricket left in him." Kohli's record in ODI World Cups is exceptional. He was the top run-getter in the 2023 edition, held in India, with 765 runs -- most by any batter in an ODI WC. Despite his glorious run, Rohit-led India failed in the final hurdle to end as runners-up. Thus, Kohli will be eager to end his career with another ODI WC trophy.

New Delhi, India 
Former Indian captain Kapil Dev expressed his disappointment with R Ashwin not getting a proper farewell post his decision to retire from international cricket on Wednesday (Dec 18). After the India-Australia third Test at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw, Ashwin announced his international retirement and flew back to India on Thursday (Dec 19). However, Kapil feels he should have received a proper farewell.
<h2>'I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that'</h2>
"The next generation has to be better than us. If not, the world is not going ahead. We never imagined that somebody would come close to Sachin Tendulkar or Sunil Gavaskar...Ashwin has gone. I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that. I would have sent him with a lot of respect and happiness," Kapil said, as quoted by ANI.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/i-have-zero-regrets-want-to-play-for-csk-as-long-as-possible-says-r-ashwin-post-his-international-retirement-785224">I have zero regrets, want to play for CSK as long as possible, says R Ashwin post his international retirement</a>
Ashwin signed off from international cricket with 765 wickets, second highest overall among Indians. In Tests, he represented India in 106 games and claimed 537 scalps, second-most by an Indian and seventh-overall, whereas he accounted for 228 wickets in white-ball formats overall. The 38-year-old wily off-spinner was part of India's memorable wins in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. Ashwin also played a huge role in India's unbeaten run in home Tests, spanning from 2013-2024 (which ended in October).
Ashwin played only a solitary Test in the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between India and Australia Down Under. With the Rohit Sharma-led team management preferring Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja over him, it reportedly prompted him to take the big call on his career.

Former Indian captain Kapil Dev is disappointed with R Ashwin's retirement and stated that he wouldn't have let him bow out like this.



New Delhi, India Former Indian captain Kapil Dev expressed his disappointment with R Ashwin not getting a proper farewell post his decision to retire from international cricket on Wednesday (Dec 18). After the India-Australia third Test at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw, Ashwin announced his international retirement and flew back to India on Thursday (Dec 19). However, Kapil feels he should have received a proper farewell. 'I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that' "The next generation has to be better than us. If not, the world is not going ahead. We never imagined that somebody would come close to Sachin Tendulkar or Sunil Gavaskar...Ashwin has gone. I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that. I would have sent him with a lot of respect and happiness," Kapil said, as quoted by ANI. Also read: I have zero regrets, want to play for CSK as long as possible, says R Ashwin post his international retirement Ashwin signed off from international cricket with 765 wickets, second highest overall among Indians. In Tests, he represented India in 106 games and claimed 537 scalps, second-most by an Indian and seventh-overall, whereas he accounted for 228 wickets in white-ball formats overall. The 38-year-old wily off-spinner was part of India's memorable wins in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. Ashwin also played a huge role in India's unbeaten run in home Tests, spanning from 2013-2024 (which ended in October). Ashwin played only a solitary Test in the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between India and Australia Down Under. With the Rohit Sharma-led team management preferring Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja over him, it reportedly prompted him to take the big call on his career.

Wouldn't have let Ashwin retire like this: Kapil Dev disappointed, says spinner deserves 'respect'

Ravichandran Ashwin has said goodbye to international cricket. Following the conclusion of the third BGT Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18), Ashwin called it quits at the top level, though he continues to play domestic cricket and IPL. Soon after he announced his decision to retire at the post-match presser, Ashwin rushed to the airport to fly back to India.

Because of the time constraint and the flight timings, a full-fledged get-together and dinner wasn't possible; however, his team members showered praises on his send-off.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ashwin-retires-no-decision-made-till-he-landed-in-perth-contemplated-hanging-boots-following-bgt-report-785075">Ashwin retires: No decision made till he landed in Perth; contemplated hanging boots following BGT - Report</a>

"Everyone said nice words to him, about him and gave him a very nice and emotional send-off. Yes, he is flying out of Brisbane tonight only and due to lack of enough time, a proper gathering wasn't possible at the team hotel," a source close to the information said, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI).&nbsp;

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A Legend Bids Adieu to International Cricket 👏👏 
 
Hear what R Ashwin’s parting words were to the Indian dressing room 🎥🔽<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> <a href="https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX">https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1869336242829373740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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After quickly wrapping up the retirement announcement while sitting alongside team skipper Rohit Sharma, Ashwin gave a warm speech inside the dressing room, leaving everyone teary-eyed.&nbsp;

"The international cricketer in me might have come to an end, but the cricket nut in me will never come to an end. I will be looking forward to each one of your performances, and all the very best," Ashwin said during an emotional signoff to his team.&nbsp;

Besides, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins and ace spinner Nathan Lyon presented Ashwin with a special jersey. Upon leaving the arena after dropping a retirement bombshell, Ashwin was greeted with countless handshakes and hugs.

<h2>What happened at the Gabba?</h2>

Rain interruptions led to a draw in Brisbane, with the series scorecard reading 1-1 heading into the Boxing Day Test at the MCG starting December 26.&nbsp;

Australia batted first at the Gabba, with only 13.2 overs possible on day one. Day two was all about Travis Head and his love affair with scoring runs against India as he slammed his second straight ton in the whites. Australia scored a whopping 445 in the first innings.

In reply, India scored 260 all out, with KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and the tailenders contributing with the bat.&nbsp;

Australia suffered a mini-collapse in their second innings, getting reduced to 33 for five at one stage, with Pat Cummins declaring on 89 for seven, setting India 275 runs to win.

The visitors came out for a mere formality as the final rain interruption forced the umpires to call off the game, leading to no result.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ravichandran Ashwin has said goodbye to international cricket. Following the conclusion of the third BGT Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18), Ashwin called it quits at the top level, though he continues to play domestic cricket and IPL.

Ravichandran Ashwin has said goodbye to international cricket. Following the conclusion of the third BGT Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18), Ashwin called it quits at the top level, though he continues to play domestic cricket and IPL. Soon after he announced his decision to retire at the post-match presser, Ashwin rushed to the airport to fly back to India. Because of the time constraint and the flight timings, a full-fledged get-together and dinner wasn't possible; however, his team members showered praises on his send-off. ALSO READ: Ashwin retires: No decision made till he landed in Perth; contemplated hanging boots following BGT - Report "Everyone said nice words to him, about him and gave him a very nice and emotional send-off. Yes, he is flying out of Brisbane tonight only and due to lack of enough time, a proper gathering wasn't possible at the team hotel," a source close to the information said, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI). A Legend Bids Adieu to International Cricket 👏👏 Hear what R Ashwin’s parting words were to the Indian dressing room 🎥🔽#TeamIndia | @ashwinravi99 https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX — BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024 × After quickly wrapping up the retirement announcement while sitting alongside team skipper Rohit Sharma, Ashwin gave a warm speech inside the dressing room, leaving everyone teary-eyed. "The international cricketer in me might have come to an end, but the cricket nut in me will never come to an end. I will be looking forward to each one of your performances, and all the very best," Ashwin said during an emotional signoff to his team. Besides, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins and ace spinner Nathan Lyon presented Ashwin with a special jersey. Upon leaving the arena after dropping a retirement bombshell, Ashwin was greeted with countless handshakes and hugs. What happened at the Gabba? Rain interruptions led to a draw in Brisbane, with the series scorecard reading 1-1 heading into the Boxing Day Test at the MCG starting December 26. Australia batted first at the Gabba, with only 13.2 overs possible on day one. Day two was all about Travis Head and his love affair with scoring runs against India as he slammed his second straight ton in the whites. Australia scored a whopping 445 in the first innings. In reply, India scored 260 all out, with KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and the tailenders contributing with the bat. Australia suffered a mini-collapse in their second innings, getting reduced to 33 for five at one stage, with Pat Cummins declaring on 89 for seven, setting India 275 runs to win. The visitors came out for a mere formality as the final rain interruption forced the umpires to call off the game, leading to no result. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Hugs, emotional sendoffs and whatnot – Ravi Ashwin’s final moments as Indian cricketer

Former Indian captain Kapil Dev expressed his disappointment with R Ashwin not getting a proper farewell post his decision to retire from international cricket on Wednesday (Dec 18). After the India-Australia third Test&nbsp;at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw, Ashwin announced his international retirement and flew back to India on Thursday (Dec 19). However, Kapil feels he should have received&nbsp;a proper farewell.

<h2>'I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that'</h2>

"The next generation has to be better than us. If not, the world is not going ahead. We never imagined that somebody would come close to Sachin Tendulkar or Sunil Gavaskar...Ashwin has gone. I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that. I would have sent him with a lot of respect and happiness," Kapil said, as quoted by ANI.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/i-have-zero-regrets-want-to-play-for-csk-as-long-as-possible-says-r-ashwin-post-his-international-retirement-785224">I have zero regrets, want to play for CSK as long as possible, says R Ashwin post his international retirement</a>

Ashwin signed off from international cricket with 765 wickets, second highest overall among Indians. In Tests, he represented India in 106 games and claimed 537 scalps, second-most by an Indian and seventh-overall, whereas he accounted for 228 wickets in white-ball formats overall. The 38-year-old wily off-spinner was part of India's memorable wins in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. Ashwin also played a huge role in India's unbeaten run in home Tests, spanning from 2013-2024 (which ended in October).

Ashwin played only a solitary Test in the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between India and Australia Down Under. With the Rohit Sharma-led team management preferring Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja over him, it reportedly prompted him to take the big call on his career.

Former Indian captain Kapil Dev expressed his disappointment with R Ashwin not getting a proper farewell post his decision to retire from international cricket on Wednesday (Dec 18).

Former Indian captain Kapil Dev expressed his disappointment with R Ashwin not getting a proper farewell post his decision to retire from international cricket on Wednesday (Dec 18). After the India-Australia third Test at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw, Ashwin announced his international retirement and flew back to India on Thursday (Dec 19). However, Kapil feels he should have received a proper farewell. 'I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that' "The next generation has to be better than us. If not, the world is not going ahead. We never imagined that somebody would come close to Sachin Tendulkar or Sunil Gavaskar...Ashwin has gone. I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that. I would have sent him with a lot of respect and happiness," Kapil said, as quoted by ANI. Also read: I have zero regrets, want to play for CSK as long as possible, says R Ashwin post his international retirement Ashwin signed off from international cricket with 765 wickets, second highest overall among Indians. In Tests, he represented India in 106 games and claimed 537 scalps, second-most by an Indian and seventh-overall, whereas he accounted for 228 wickets in white-ball formats overall. The 38-year-old wily off-spinner was part of India's memorable wins in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. Ashwin also played a huge role in India's unbeaten run in home Tests, spanning from 2013-2024 (which ended in October). Ashwin played only a solitary Test in the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between India and Australia Down Under. With the Rohit Sharma-led team management preferring Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja over him, it reportedly prompted him to take the big call on his career.

Gabba, Brisbane
Ravichandran Ashwin has said goodbye to international cricket. Following the conclusion of the third BGT Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18), Ashwin called it quits at the top level, though he continues to play domestic cricket and IPL. Soon after he announced his decision to retire at the post-match presser, Ashwin rushed to the airport to fly back to India.
Because of the time constraint and the flight timings, a full-fledged get-together and dinner wasn't possible; however, his team members showered praises on his send-off.
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ashwin-retires-no-decision-made-till-he-landed-in-perth-contemplated-hanging-boots-following-bgt-report-785075">Ashwin retires: No decision made till he landed in Perth; contemplated hanging boots following BGT - Report</a>
"Everyone said nice words to him, about him and gave him a very nice and emotional send-off. Yes, he is flying out of Brisbane tonight only and due to lack of enough time, a proper gathering wasn't possible at the team hotel," a source close to the information said, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI). 
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A Legend Bids Adieu to International Cricket ??
Hear what R Ashwin’s parting words were to the Indian dressing room ??<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> <a href="https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX">https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1869336242829373740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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After quickly wrapping up the retirement announcement while sitting alongside team skipper Rohit Sharma, Ashwin gave a warm speech inside the dressing room, leaving everyone teary-eyed. 
"The international cricketer in me might have come to an end, but the cricket nut in me will never come to an end. I will be looking forward to each one of your performances, and all the very best," Ashwin said during an emotional signoff to his team. 
Besides, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins and ace spinner Nathan Lyon presented Ashwin with a special jersey. Upon leaving the arena after dropping a retirement bombshell, Ashwin was greeted with countless handshakes and hugs.
<h2>What happened at the Gabba?</h2>
Rain interruptions led to a draw in Brisbane, with the series scorecard reading 1-1 heading into the Boxing Day Test at the MCG starting December 26. 
Australia batted first at the Gabba, with only 13.2 overs possible on day one. Day two was all about Travis Head and his love affair with scoring runs against India as he slammed his second straight ton in the whites. Australia scored a whopping 445 in the first innings.
In reply, India scored 260 all out, with KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and the tailenders contributing with the bat. 
Australia suffered a mini-collapse in their second innings, getting reduced to 33 for five at one stage, with Pat Cummins declaring on 89 for seven, setting India 275 runs to win.
The visitors came out for a mere formality as the final rain interruption forced the umpires to call off the game, leading to no result. 
(With inputs from agencies)

Because of the time constraint and the flight timings, a full-fledged get-together and dinner wasn't possible; however, his team members showered praises on his send-off.



Gabba, Brisbane Ravichandran Ashwin has said goodbye to international cricket. Following the conclusion of the third BGT Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18), Ashwin called it quits at the top level, though he continues to play domestic cricket and IPL. Soon after he announced his decision to retire at the post-match presser, Ashwin rushed to the airport to fly back to India. Because of the time constraint and the flight timings, a full-fledged get-together and dinner wasn't possible; however, his team members showered praises on his send-off. ALSO READ: Ashwin retires: No decision made till he landed in Perth; contemplated hanging boots following BGT - Report "Everyone said nice words to him, about him and gave him a very nice and emotional send-off. Yes, he is flying out of Brisbane tonight only and due to lack of enough time, a proper gathering wasn't possible at the team hotel," a source close to the information said, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI). A Legend Bids Adieu to International Cricket ?? Hear what R Ashwin’s parting words were to the Indian dressing room ??#TeamIndia | @ashwinravi99 https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX — BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024 × After quickly wrapping up the retirement announcement while sitting alongside team skipper Rohit Sharma, Ashwin gave a warm speech inside the dressing room, leaving everyone teary-eyed. "The international cricketer in me might have come to an end, but the cricket nut in me will never come to an end. I will be looking forward to each one of your performances, and all the very best," Ashwin said during an emotional signoff to his team. Besides, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins and ace spinner Nathan Lyon presented Ashwin with a special jersey. Upon leaving the arena after dropping a retirement bombshell, Ashwin was greeted with countless handshakes and hugs. What happened at the Gabba? Rain interruptions led to a draw in Brisbane, with the series scorecard reading 1-1 heading into the Boxing Day Test at the MCG starting December 26. Australia batted first at the Gabba, with only 13.2 overs possible on day one. Day two was all about Travis Head and his love affair with scoring runs against India as he slammed his second straight ton in the whites. Australia scored a whopping 445 in the first innings. In reply, India scored 260 all out, with KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and the tailenders contributing with the bat. Australia suffered a mini-collapse in their second innings, getting reduced to 33 for five at one stage, with Pat Cummins declaring on 89 for seven, setting India 275 runs to win. The visitors came out for a mere formality as the final rain interruption forced the umpires to call off the game, leading to no result. (With inputs from agencies)

Gabba, Brisbane
Mohammed Shami has resumed bowling but remains uncertain of a Test call-up for the remainder of the BGT Down Under. Following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, which ended in a draw, all thanks to countless and continuous rain interruptions throughout, India captain Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Shami’s potential return to the side for the remaining two matches at the MCG and SCG, respectively.
Rohit said the ball is in the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, formerly the National Cricket Academy (NCA) court, to clarify his fitness concerns. Although Shami returned last month for Bengal playing the Ranji Trophy and has since played several games across formats, including in SMAT, Rohit said there were complaints about his knee causing concerns, which restricts him from considering his India call-up.
The right-arm seamer is also picked in the Bengal squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy starting December 21.
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/he-could-have-said-i-am-sunil-gavaskar-critical-of-r-ashwins-sudden-international-retirement-784947">He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement</a>
"About Shami, I think it's high time somebody from NCA talks about him, where he is rehabbing. Those guys are the ones who need to come up and give us some kind of update,” Rohit said at the post-match presser in Brisbane. 
<h2>Fit Shami better than risking his return</h2>
The Indian skipper said he knows that Shami has returned to playing domestic cricket back home following an extended hiatus but remains cautious of a possible recurrence of an injury, which remains a bigger concern to Shami’s future than he re-linking with the Indian Team in Australia and help them complete the three-peat. 
"I understand he's playing a lot of cricket back home, but there have been some complaints about his knee as well. So, look, the last thing you want is the player coming here and then pulling out in the middle of the game. You know what happens when that kind of thing happens."
"So, there is no way we want to take that chance unless we are like, not 100%, 200% sure, we're not going to take any risk. But yeah, like I said in the last press conference, the door is open if those guys at the NCA feel that he is okay to go and recover and play, we'll be happy to have him,” Rohit continued.
Meanwhile, as things stand, the BCCI’s medical team is yet to clear Shami of any discomfort, something even Rohit picked upon following the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide.
Though Shami’s comeback looks unlikely given three Tests against Australia are already over, he could be handy for the ODI side in the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled for the February-March window. 
(With inputs from agencies)

The right-arm seamer is also picked in the Bengal squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy starting December 21.



Gabba, Brisbane Mohammed Shami has resumed bowling but remains uncertain of a Test call-up for the remainder of the BGT Down Under. Following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, which ended in a draw, all thanks to countless and continuous rain interruptions throughout, India captain Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Shami’s potential return to the side for the remaining two matches at the MCG and SCG, respectively. Rohit said the ball is in the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, formerly the National Cricket Academy (NCA) court, to clarify his fitness concerns. Although Shami returned last month for Bengal playing the Ranji Trophy and has since played several games across formats, including in SMAT, Rohit said there were complaints about his knee causing concerns, which restricts him from considering his India call-up. The right-arm seamer is also picked in the Bengal squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy starting December 21. ALSO READ: He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement "About Shami, I think it's high time somebody from NCA talks about him, where he is rehabbing. Those guys are the ones who need to come up and give us some kind of update,” Rohit said at the post-match presser in Brisbane. Fit Shami better than risking his return The Indian skipper said he knows that Shami has returned to playing domestic cricket back home following an extended hiatus but remains cautious of a possible recurrence of an injury, which remains a bigger concern to Shami’s future than he re-linking with the Indian Team in Australia and help them complete the three-peat. "I understand he's playing a lot of cricket back home, but there have been some complaints about his knee as well. So, look, the last thing you want is the player coming here and then pulling out in the middle of the game. You know what happens when that kind of thing happens." "So, there is no way we want to take that chance unless we are like, not 100%, 200% sure, we're not going to take any risk. But yeah, like I said in the last press conference, the door is open if those guys at the NCA feel that he is okay to go and recover and play, we'll be happy to have him,” Rohit continued. Meanwhile, as things stand, the BCCI’s medical team is yet to clear Shami of any discomfort, something even Rohit picked upon following the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide. Though Shami’s comeback looks unlikely given three Tests against Australia are already over, he could be handy for the ODI side in the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled for the February-March window. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns

Mohammed Shami has resumed bowling but remains uncertain of a Test call-up for the remainder of the BGT Down Under. Following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, which ended in a draw, all thanks to countless and continuous rain interruptions throughout, India captain Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Shami’s potential return to the side for the remaining two matches at the MCG and SCG, respectively.

Rohit said the ball is in the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, formerly the National Cricket Academy (NCA) court, to clarify his fitness concerns. Although Shami returned last month for Bengal playing the Ranji Trophy and has since played several games across formats, including in SMAT, Rohit said there were complaints about his knee causing concerns, which restricts him from considering his India call-up.

The right-arm seamer is also picked in the Bengal squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy starting December 21.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/he-could-have-said-i-am-sunil-gavaskar-critical-of-r-ashwins-sudden-international-retirement-784947">He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement</a>

"About Shami, I think it's high time somebody from NCA talks about him, where he is rehabbing. Those guys are the ones who need to come up and give us some kind of update,” Rohit said at the post-match presser in Brisbane.&nbsp;

<h2>Fit Shami better than risking his return</h2>

The Indian skipper said he knows that Shami has returned to playing domestic cricket back home following an extended hiatus but remains cautious of a possible recurrence of an injury, which remains a bigger concern to Shami’s future than he re-linking with the Indian Team in Australia and help them complete the three-peat.&nbsp;

"I understand he's playing a lot of cricket back home, but there have been some complaints about his knee as well. So, look, the last thing you want is the player coming here and then pulling out in the middle of the game. You know what happens when that kind of thing happens."

"So, there is no way we want to take that chance unless we are like, not 100%, 200% sure, we're not going to take any risk. But yeah, like I said in the last press conference, the door is open if those guys at the NCA feel that he is okay to go and recover and play, we'll be happy to have him,” Rohit continued.

Meanwhile, as things stand, the BCCI’s medical team is yet to clear Shami of any discomfort, something even Rohit picked upon following the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide.

Though Shami’s comeback looks unlikely given three Tests against Australia are already over, he could be handy for the ODI side in the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled for the February-March window.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Mohammed Shami has resumed bowling but remains uncertain of a Test call-up for the remainder of the BGT Down Under. Following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, which ended in a draw, all thanks to countless and continuous rain interruptions throughout, India captain Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Shami’s potential return to the side for the remaining two matches at the MCG and SCG, respectively.

Mohammed Shami has resumed bowling but remains uncertain of a Test call-up for the remainder of the BGT Down Under. Following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, which ended in a draw, all thanks to countless and continuous rain interruptions throughout, India captain Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Shami’s potential return to the side for the remaining two matches at the MCG and SCG, respectively. Rohit said the ball is in the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, formerly the National Cricket Academy (NCA) court, to clarify his fitness concerns. Although Shami returned last month for Bengal playing the Ranji Trophy and has since played several games across formats, including in SMAT, Rohit said there were complaints about his knee causing concerns, which restricts him from considering his India call-up. The right-arm seamer is also picked in the Bengal squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy starting December 21. ALSO READ: He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement "About Shami, I think it's high time somebody from NCA talks about him, where he is rehabbing. Those guys are the ones who need to come up and give us some kind of update,” Rohit said at the post-match presser in Brisbane. Fit Shami better than risking his return The Indian skipper said he knows that Shami has returned to playing domestic cricket back home following an extended hiatus but remains cautious of a possible recurrence of an injury, which remains a bigger concern to Shami’s future than he re-linking with the Indian Team in Australia and help them complete the three-peat. "I understand he's playing a lot of cricket back home, but there have been some complaints about his knee as well. So, look, the last thing you want is the player coming here and then pulling out in the middle of the game. You know what happens when that kind of thing happens." "So, there is no way we want to take that chance unless we are like, not 100%, 200% sure, we're not going to take any risk. But yeah, like I said in the last press conference, the door is open if those guys at the NCA feel that he is okay to go and recover and play, we'll be happy to have him,” Rohit continued. Meanwhile, as things stand, the BCCI’s medical team is yet to clear Shami of any discomfort, something even Rohit picked upon following the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide. Though Shami’s comeback looks unlikely given three Tests against Australia are already over, he could be handy for the ODI side in the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled for the February-March window. (With inputs from agencies)

Vinod Kambli and Sachin Tendulkar reunited during the memorial event for their late childhood coach&nbsp;Ramakant Achrekar recently. At the event, Kambli's health conditions made heads turn as he looked reasonably weak. His health became a huge talking point in the Indian cricket fraternity. In a recent interview, Kambli opened up on his health issues and backtracked from his previous claims of Tendulkar -- his childhood friend -- not helping him in troubled times. The former cricketer explained why he accused Tendulkar, in an interview in 2009, and credited Master Blaster for always being on his side, even paying for his surgeries.&nbsp;

In a recent interaction, Kambli revealed that he is battling a severe urinary infection and is determined to overcome his struggles. He lauded his family for their constant support and is 'grateful' for having a friend like Tendulkar. On the Vicky Lalwani Show, he said, "In that moment (recalling his 2009 remark of criticising Tendulkar), I felt Sachin wasn’t helping. I was deeply frustrated. But in reality, Sachin has done everything for me, including covering the costs of my two surgeries in 2013. We’ve reconciled, and our childhood bond has prevailed."

He further mentioned, "Sachin taught me the game. I have made nine comebacks in my career. As athletes, we face injuries and setbacks, but we understand the game’s reality. When we face a setback, it hurts just as much."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-boy-who-would-be-king-anand-shares-throwback-pic-of-d-gukesh-after-his-world-chess-championship-win-783655">The boy who would be King: Anand shares throwback pic of D Gukesh after his World Chess Championship win</a>

Kambli concluded, "My journey wasn't perfect, but I gave it my all. I'm grateful for the support of my family and friends like Sachin."

Kambli represented India in 17 Tests and 104 ODIs, spanning from 1991-2004. He ended with 1,084 runs in Tests and 2,477 ODI runs. While he had a dream start to his career, inconsistencies, controversies both on and off the field derailed his journey. Tendulkar, on the other hand, kept rising up the ladder and played for India from 1989-2013, ending with over 34,000 international runs and 100 hundreds overall.

Vinod Kambli and Sachin Tendulkar reunited during the memorial event for their late childhood coach Ramakant Achrekar recently. At the event, Kambli's health conditions made heads turn as he looked reasonably weak.

Vinod Kambli and Sachin Tendulkar reunited during the memorial event for their late childhood coach Ramakant Achrekar recently. At the event, Kambli's health conditions made heads turn as he looked reasonably weak. His health became a huge talking point in the Indian cricket fraternity. In a recent interview, Kambli opened up on his health issues and backtracked from his previous claims of Tendulkar -- his childhood friend -- not helping him in troubled times. The former cricketer explained why he accused Tendulkar, in an interview in 2009, and credited Master Blaster for always being on his side, even paying for his surgeries. In a recent interaction, Kambli revealed that he is battling a severe urinary infection and is determined to overcome his struggles. He lauded his family for their constant support and is 'grateful' for having a friend like Tendulkar. On the Vicky Lalwani Show, he said, "In that moment (recalling his 2009 remark of criticising Tendulkar), I felt Sachin wasn’t helping. I was deeply frustrated. But in reality, Sachin has done everything for me, including covering the costs of my two surgeries in 2013. We’ve reconciled, and our childhood bond has prevailed." He further mentioned, "Sachin taught me the game. I have made nine comebacks in my career. As athletes, we face injuries and setbacks, but we understand the game’s reality. When we face a setback, it hurts just as much." Also read: The boy who would be King: Anand shares throwback pic of D Gukesh after his World Chess Championship win Kambli concluded, "My journey wasn't perfect, but I gave it my all. I'm grateful for the support of my family and friends like Sachin." Kambli represented India in 17 Tests and 104 ODIs, spanning from 1991-2004. He ended with 1,084 runs in Tests and 2,477 ODI runs. While he had a dream start to his career, inconsistencies, controversies both on and off the field derailed his journey. Tendulkar, on the other hand, kept rising up the ladder and played for India from 1989-2013, ending with over 34,000 international runs and 100 hundreds overall.

Sachin paid for my surgeries: Kambli backtracks from previous claims, credits Tendulkar for helping him

Glenn McGrath is a generational great, and so is Jasprit Bumrah. Two bowlers, perhaps the best of their respective eras, have traumatised batters across formats with their unparalleled skills. While McGrath owned veterans with his tight line and length, Bumrah did the same, adding pace and searing yorkers.

After Bumrah's masterclass in Perth, both as a leader and bowler, wherein he picked eight wickets across two innings and guided India to a famous win at the Optus Stadium. In Adelaide, despite the result, McGrath talked highly of Bumrah’s unique bowling action and what makes it special.

Although Bumrah received uncalled-for flak over his action Down Under, McGrath shut&nbsp;the critics, explaining how his run-up, the jump, the body alignment and the bowling arm, clubbed together, created a monster like Bumrah.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-josh-hazlewood-sets-deadline-before-committing-to-gabba-test-availability-782596">BGT – Josh Hazlewood sets deadline before committing to Gabba Test availability</a>

“He’s just so unique. Isn’t he in his action the way he runs up,” McGrath said while doing commentary for ABC Sports during the Adelaide Test. “It’s not something you teach young bowlers to do, but he’s found a way. He ambles in, and then the last two steps just powers through the crease while such great areas.

“He’s quite hyper-mobile in his joints and sort of got a great wrist and very good control. Ball moves both ways, so, he’s full package,” McGrath continued.

<h2>What McGrath advised Bumrah?</h2>

McGrath recalled the first time he watched Bumrah and his interaction with the Indian pacer. While complimenting how well Bumrah transformed into the best bowler, Glenn revealed what he told him, although he ran away from taking credit for that.

“Well, you’ve got a whatever their natural ability is, and I saw Jasprit when he was younger, he had a good pace, but his action was completely different,” McGrath recollected.

“It was a short run-up; he was bowling quick, but he had a massive jump (away from the stumps), and then he’d bowl.”

“He had good pace and angled in and everything, and I sort of suggested it’d be better if he went straight through the crease, but he couldn’t do it, and so he played like that,” McGrath noted.

Getting into the nitty-gritty of Bumrah’s action and how it worked out for him without troubling him enough, barring a knee and back injury lately, McGrath said,&nbsp;

“I think then he had a problem with his knee, he sort of blew his knee out whatever damage he did to it, and when he came back, I think he had to train himself to go straight through the crease.”

“So, first let me say I’m not taking any credit whatsoever for that, but he had to retrain himself, which is tough, and now he goes straight through the crease that arm right behind the ball and with that pace and skidding it into the stumps, he’s definitely a handful,” he added.

Meanwhile, India and Australia will face off in the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14.&nbsp;

The series is tied at 1-1 after Australia completed a stunning comeback in Adelaide after a Perth shocker.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Glenn McGrath is a generational great, and so is Jasprit Bumrah. Two bowlers, perhaps the best of their respective eras, have traumatised batters across formats with their unparalleled skills.

Glenn McGrath is a generational great, and so is Jasprit Bumrah. Two bowlers, perhaps the best of their respective eras, have traumatised batters across formats with their unparalleled skills. While McGrath owned veterans with his tight line and length, Bumrah did the same, adding pace and searing yorkers. After Bumrah's masterclass in Perth, both as a leader and bowler, wherein he picked eight wickets across two innings and guided India to a famous win at the Optus Stadium. In Adelaide, despite the result, McGrath talked highly of Bumrah’s unique bowling action and what makes it special. Although Bumrah received uncalled-for flak over his action Down Under, McGrath shut the critics, explaining how his run-up, the jump, the body alignment and the bowling arm, clubbed together, created a monster like Bumrah. ALSO READ: BGT – Josh Hazlewood sets deadline before committing to Gabba Test availability “He’s just so unique. Isn’t he in his action the way he runs up,” McGrath said while doing commentary for ABC Sports during the Adelaide Test. “It’s not something you teach young bowlers to do, but he’s found a way. He ambles in, and then the last two steps just powers through the crease while such great areas. “He’s quite hyper-mobile in his joints and sort of got a great wrist and very good control. Ball moves both ways, so, he’s full package,” McGrath continued. What McGrath advised Bumrah? McGrath recalled the first time he watched Bumrah and his interaction with the Indian pacer. While complimenting how well Bumrah transformed into the best bowler, Glenn revealed what he told him, although he ran away from taking credit for that. “Well, you’ve got a whatever their natural ability is, and I saw Jasprit when he was younger, he had a good pace, but his action was completely different,” McGrath recollected. “It was a short run-up; he was bowling quick, but he had a massive jump (away from the stumps), and then he’d bowl.” “He had good pace and angled in and everything, and I sort of suggested it’d be better if he went straight through the crease, but he couldn’t do it, and so he played like that,” McGrath noted. Getting into the nitty-gritty of Bumrah’s action and how it worked out for him without troubling him enough, barring a knee and back injury lately, McGrath said, “I think then he had a problem with his knee, he sort of blew his knee out whatever damage he did to it, and when he came back, I think he had to train himself to go straight through the crease.” “So, first let me say I’m not taking any credit whatsoever for that, but he had to retrain himself, which is tough, and now he goes straight through the crease that arm right behind the ball and with that pace and skidding it into the stumps, he’s definitely a handful,” he added. Meanwhile, India and Australia will face off in the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14. The series is tied at 1-1 after Australia completed a stunning comeback in Adelaide after a Perth shocker. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: How Glenn McGrath’s one advice helped Jasprit Bumrah become world-class

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

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

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

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

Prithvi Shaw,&nbsp;with a base price of INR 7.5 million (75 lakhs), went unsold in&nbsp;the recently held IPL 2025 mega auction&nbsp;in Saudi Arabia. The right-hander led India to a memorable U19 World Cup win in 2018 and was soon picked by the Delhi Daredevils (DD), now known as the Delhi Capitals (DC). He could, however,&nbsp;never cement his spot due to fitness and inconsistency. For India, Shaw made his debut in 2018, where he scored a hundred in his maiden Test, and last played in mid-2021. He has also been involved in many controversies, on and off the field, and faced a doping ban in 2020.&nbsp;Seeing Shaw's decline, post IPL 2025 auction, his childhood coach admitted that 'everything but his game rose'.

"He is just 25 years old. He still has age in his hand. He can bounce back with hard work if he wants to sustain in competitive cricket," Shaw's coach Santosh Pingutkar told ETV Bharat.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/lsg-owner-explains-why-he-broke-the-bank-for-rishabh-pant-hints-who-can-lead-franchise-in-ipl-2025-780832">LSG owner explains why he broke the bank for Rishabh Pant, hints who can lead franchise in IPL 2025</a>

Pingutkar added, "Other activities, everything but his game witnessed a rise. He was more involved in his groups outside cricket. But, no doubt he loves cricket. However, he wasn't able to convert his love for the game into his efforts. That's why he is witnessing such a lean phase. He should bounce back as soon as possible. Everyone's blessings are with him."

Left unsold in auction, Shaw&nbsp;continues to struggle, whereas his former colleagues Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Arshdeep Singh, etc., have gone far ahead. The 25-year-old will be eager to move past the IPL snub and revamp his career. The right-hander, who has been compared with legends of the game, will be desperate to keep himself away from outside noise and work on his fitness in order&nbsp;to stage a memorable comeback.

Prithvi Shaw, with a base price of INR 7.5 million (75 lakhs), went unsold in the recently held IPL 2025 mega auction in Saudi Arabia. The right-hander led India to a memorable U19 World Cup win in 2018 and was soon picked by the Delhi Daredevils (DD), now known as the Delhi Capitals (DC).

Prithvi Shaw, with a base price of INR 7.5 million (75 lakhs), went unsold in the recently held IPL 2025 mega auction in Saudi Arabia. The right-hander led India to a memorable U19 World Cup win in 2018 and was soon picked by the Delhi Daredevils (DD), now known as the Delhi Capitals (DC). He could, however, never cement his spot due to fitness and inconsistency. For India, Shaw made his debut in 2018, where he scored a hundred in his maiden Test, and last played in mid-2021. He has also been involved in many controversies, on and off the field, and faced a doping ban in 2020. Seeing Shaw's decline, post IPL 2025 auction, his childhood coach admitted that 'everything but his game rose'. "He is just 25 years old. He still has age in his hand. He can bounce back with hard work if he wants to sustain in competitive cricket," Shaw's coach Santosh Pingutkar told ETV Bharat. Also read: LSG owner explains why he broke the bank for Rishabh Pant, hints who can lead franchise in IPL 2025 Pingutkar added, "Other activities, everything but his game witnessed a rise. He was more involved in his groups outside cricket. But, no doubt he loves cricket. However, he wasn't able to convert his love for the game into his efforts. That's why he is witnessing such a lean phase. He should bounce back as soon as possible. Everyone's blessings are with him." Left unsold in auction, Shaw continues to struggle, whereas his former colleagues Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Arshdeep Singh, etc., have gone far ahead. The 25-year-old will be eager to move past the IPL snub and revamp his career. The right-hander, who has been compared with legends of the game, will be desperate to keep himself away from outside noise and work on his fitness in order to stage a memorable comeback.

'More involved in groups....', Prithvi Shaw's coach on his decline, says 'everything but his game rose'

Ace India seamer Mohammed Shami is back doing what he does best—picking wickets. On his competitive return to cricket for the first time in around a year, Shami bagged four wickets for Bengal against Madhya Pradesh in the ongoing Ranji Trophy tie on Thursday (Nov. 14). After going wicketless in his 10-over spell on day one, Shami picked four in his next on day two, dismissing MP on 167.

The right-arm seamer accounted for MP Captain Shubham Sharma and lower-order batters, including Saransh Jain and Kumar Kartikeya, helping Bengal maintain a 61-run lead.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/if-it-is-their-last-time-in-australia-it-will-be-retirement-clarke-on-rohit-kohli-backs-duo-for-bgt-202425-776080">If it is their last time in Australia, it will be retirement: Clarke on Rohit-Kohli, backs duo for BGT 2024/25</a>

Shami picked 4/54 in 19 overs at an economy rate of 2.80.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Excellent comeback 💥<a href="https://twitter.com/MdShami11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MdShami11</a> bowled an impressive spell of 4/54 on his comeback, playing for Bengal against Madhya Pradesh in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RanjiTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RanjiTrophy</a> match in Indore 👌👌 
 
Watch 📽️ highlights of his spell in the first innings 🔽<a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> 
 
Scorecard: <a href="https://t.co/54IeDz9fWu">https://t.co/54IeDz9fWu</a> <a href="https://t.co/sxKktrQJbL">pic.twitter.com/sxKktrQJbL</a>
— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCIdomestic/status/1856995269919088825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, a clip of Shami’s return to the field did the rounds on social media on day one, with the premier seamer going wayward in his line early on, though he bowled tight lines throughout.&nbsp;

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Mohammed Shami Bowling vs MP in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RanjiTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RanjiTrophy</a>. 
 
Video - <a href="https://twitter.com/mp_score_update?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mp_score_update</a> and Saurajit Chatterjee <a href="https://t.co/4kU1Rxlcj6">pic.twitter.com/4kU1Rxlcj6</a>
— CricDomestic (@CricDomestic_) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricDomestic_/status/1856763876315894158?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Despite Shami’s clinical performance in his return game, his participation in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy remains uncertain. At the time when the BCCI named the 18-man squad for the marquee Australia Tests, Shami, who in the lead-up to the announcement declared himself 100% match-fit, having bowled full throttle following the first two Tests against New Zealand, failed to make the cut due to fitness concerns.&nbsp;

Following the conclusion of the final Test in Mumbai, Rohit addressed Shami’s absence from the BGT squad, claiming everyone concerned took a collective call as they didn’t want to have an under-cooked Shami for five Tests Down Under.

Meanwhile, should Shami attain full match fitness in the two Ranji matches he is scheduled to play in, chances of him linking up with the India Test squad for the Australia series could rise; however, neither the board nor the management has hinted about it.&nbsp;

<h2>Shami’s rise and injury</h2>

Shami wasn’t India’s first-choice seamer for the opening few games in the home World Cup last year but got included in the playing XI following an injury to all-rounder Hardik Pandya in the Bangladesh tie.&nbsp;

The right-arm seamer played the New Zealand tie and wreaked havoc till the end, picking 24 wickets from seven contested matches, including a seven-wicket haul against the Kiwis in the semis in Mumbai. Though he removed David Warner on the second ball in the final, Shami failed to guide his team across the winning line.

That, however, was his last on-field appearance as an ankle injury ruled him out for the next 10-12 months.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ace India seamer Mohammed Shami is back doing what he does best—picking wickets. On his competitive return to cricket for the first time in around a year, Shami bagged four wickets for Bengal against Madhya Pradesh in the ongoing Ranji Trophy tie on Thursday (Nov.

Ace India seamer Mohammed Shami is back doing what he does best—picking wickets. On his competitive return to cricket for the first time in around a year, Shami bagged four wickets for Bengal against Madhya Pradesh in the ongoing Ranji Trophy tie on Thursday (Nov. 14). After going wicketless in his 10-over spell on day one, Shami picked four in his next on day two, dismissing MP on 167. The right-arm seamer accounted for MP Captain Shubham Sharma and lower-order batters, including Saransh Jain and Kumar Kartikeya, helping Bengal maintain a 61-run lead. ALSO READ: If it is their last time in Australia, it will be retirement: Clarke on Rohit-Kohli, backs duo for BGT 2024/25 Shami picked 4/54 in 19 overs at an economy rate of 2.80. Excellent comeback 💥@MdShami11 bowled an impressive spell of 4/54 on his comeback, playing for Bengal against Madhya Pradesh in the #RanjiTrophy match in Indore 👌👌 Watch 📽️ highlights of his spell in the first innings 🔽@IDFCFIRSTBank Scorecard: https://t.co/54IeDz9fWu pic.twitter.com/sxKktrQJbL — BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) November 14, 2024 × Meanwhile, a clip of Shami’s return to the field did the rounds on social media on day one, with the premier seamer going wayward in his line early on, though he bowled tight lines throughout. Mohammed Shami Bowling vs MP in the #RanjiTrophy. Video - @mp_score_update and Saurajit Chatterjee pic.twitter.com/4kU1Rxlcj6 — CricDomestic (@CricDomestic_) November 13, 2024 × Despite Shami’s clinical performance in his return game, his participation in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy remains uncertain. At the time when the BCCI named the 18-man squad for the marquee Australia Tests, Shami, who in the lead-up to the announcement declared himself 100% match-fit, having bowled full throttle following the first two Tests against New Zealand, failed to make the cut due to fitness concerns. Following the conclusion of the final Test in Mumbai, Rohit addressed Shami’s absence from the BGT squad, claiming everyone concerned took a collective call as they didn’t want to have an under-cooked Shami for five Tests Down Under. Meanwhile, should Shami attain full match fitness in the two Ranji matches he is scheduled to play in, chances of him linking up with the India Test squad for the Australia series could rise; however, neither the board nor the management has hinted about it. Shami’s rise and injury Shami wasn’t India’s first-choice seamer for the opening few games in the home World Cup last year but got included in the playing XI following an injury to all-rounder Hardik Pandya in the Bangladesh tie. The right-arm seamer played the New Zealand tie and wreaked havoc till the end, picking 24 wickets from seven contested matches, including a seven-wicket haul against the Kiwis in the semis in Mumbai. Though he removed David Warner on the second ball in the final, Shami failed to guide his team across the winning line. That, however, was his last on-field appearance as an ankle injury ruled him out for the next 10-12 months. (With inputs from agencies)

Mohammed Shami picks 4 wickets for Bengal in Ranji Trophy, announces return in style

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez says he is waiting for a strong and surprise response from the government and the PCB on Team India’s travel stance on Champions Trophy 2025. A day after the ICC informed Pakistan of BCCI’s final decision not to send their team across the border for the eight-team tournament, citing security concerns, Hafeez took to social media to share his thoughts.

Hafeez wrote on X that it was a daydream to think that India would travel to Pakistan for the coveted tournament, adding that Pakistan is a ‘safe’ country to visit and play cricket in.&nbsp;

Hafeez continued by saying despite Pakistan hosting every country since cricket resumed following a decade-long ban over a terrorist attack on the touring Sri Lankan Team in 2009, for a certain someone, the country remains unsafe.

“It was a day dream that India will come to Pakistan to play #ChampionsTrophy2025. Pakistan is safe &amp; ready to host the event. Pakistan hosting all cricket nations at home but somehow not *secure* for India 😇😇😇. Waiting for strong &amp; surprised response from government &amp; PCB,” Hafeez wrote on X.

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It was a day dream that India wil come to Pakistan to play <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy2025</a>. Pakistan is safe &amp; ready to host the event. Pakistan hosting all cricket nations at home but somehow not *secure* for India 😇😇😇. Waiting for strong &amp; surprised response from government &amp; PCB.
— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) <a href="https://twitter.com/MHafeez22/status/1855895640523362322?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the BCCI conveyed its final decision to the apex body, with the ICC formally writing to the PCB on Sunday (Nov 10), informing them of Team India’s stance. While the BCCI proposed bringing in a neutral venue for all India games, with Dubai and Sri Lanka leading the race, the PCB has outright denied accepting the hybrid model for this event scheduled in February-March next year.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/captain-only-for-toss-and-presentations-says-pak-skipper-mohammad-rizwan-after-odi-series-win-in-australia-775154">'Captain only for toss and presentations,' says Pak skipper Mohammad Rizwan after ODI series win in Australia</a>

Even last year, when Pakistan was supposed to host the Asia Cup 2023, the BCCI’s call not to send the Indian team for the six-team tournament forced the ACC to include Sri Lanka as the last-minute co-host. India played all their matches in the Island Nation, including the final, which they won by ten wickets.

<h2>Pakistan to boycott playing India</h2>

Shortly after the ICC wrote to the PCB via email, the Pakistan Cricket Board referred the matter to the Pakistan Government, seeking their advice on how to proceed further.&nbsp;

Reports from Pakistan suggest that Pakistan is mulling boycotting playing India across all levels worldwide.&nbsp;

Due to tense political relations between the neighbours, India and Pakistan haven’t featured in bilateral ties since 2013, and considering they only play in ICC-related events and Asia Cups, Pakistan has decided against playing India till they come and play cricket in Pakistan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez says he is waiting for a strong and surprise response from the government and the PCB on Team India’s travel stance on Champions Trophy 2025.

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez says he is waiting for a strong and surprise response from the government and the PCB on Team India’s travel stance on Champions Trophy 2025. A day after the ICC informed Pakistan of BCCI’s final decision not to send their team across the border for the eight-team tournament, citing security concerns, Hafeez took to social media to share his thoughts. Hafeez wrote on X that it was a daydream to think that India would travel to Pakistan for the coveted tournament, adding that Pakistan is a ‘safe’ country to visit and play cricket in. Hafeez continued by saying despite Pakistan hosting every country since cricket resumed following a decade-long ban over a terrorist attack on the touring Sri Lankan Team in 2009, for a certain someone, the country remains unsafe. “It was a day dream that India will come to Pakistan to play #ChampionsTrophy2025. Pakistan is safe & ready to host the event. Pakistan hosting all cricket nations at home but somehow not *secure* for India 😇😇😇. Waiting for strong & surprised response from government & PCB,” Hafeez wrote on X. It was a day dream that India wil come to Pakistan to play #ChampionsTrophy2025. Pakistan is safe & ready to host the event. Pakistan hosting all cricket nations at home but somehow not *secure* for India 😇😇😇. Waiting for strong & surprised response from government & PCB. — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) November 11, 2024 × Meanwhile, the BCCI conveyed its final decision to the apex body, with the ICC formally writing to the PCB on Sunday (Nov 10), informing them of Team India’s stance. While the BCCI proposed bringing in a neutral venue for all India games, with Dubai and Sri Lanka leading the race, the PCB has outright denied accepting the hybrid model for this event scheduled in February-March next year. ALSO READ: 'Captain only for toss and presentations,' says Pak skipper Mohammad Rizwan after ODI series win in Australia Even last year, when Pakistan was supposed to host the Asia Cup 2023, the BCCI’s call not to send the Indian team for the six-team tournament forced the ACC to include Sri Lanka as the last-minute co-host. India played all their matches in the Island Nation, including the final, which they won by ten wickets. Pakistan to boycott playing India Shortly after the ICC wrote to the PCB via email, the Pakistan Cricket Board referred the matter to the Pakistan Government, seeking their advice on how to proceed further. Reports from Pakistan suggest that Pakistan is mulling boycotting playing India across all levels worldwide. Due to tense political relations between the neighbours, India and Pakistan haven’t featured in bilateral ties since 2013, and considering they only play in ICC-related events and Asia Cups, Pakistan has decided against playing India till they come and play cricket in Pakistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Mohammad Hafeez wants Pakistan to give ‘strong response’ on India’s Champions Trophy no travel stance

Team India’s T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, said he is playing all red-ball domestic competitions back home to stay in line for a Test comeback. Having made just one appearance in the whites for India (during the home Border-Gavaskar Trophy last year), Surya admits thinking about returning to the Test side. Although his T20 stature has grown with time, a Test call-up has remained elusive, which he wishes to work on.&nbsp;

The right-handed batter played a game for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy this season and featured for India B in the Duleep Trophy, though without tasting success in both.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bgt-ian-chappell-explains-how-over-aggressive-approach-could-cost-india-down-under-774407">BGT: Ian Chappell explains how over-aggressive approach could cost India Down Under</a>

“When the time comes, I will make a Test comeback. I am playing all the domestic tournaments, be it red-ball or white-ball. I don't miss any game. If that [Test comeback] has to happen, it will happen,” Suryakumar said ahead of the Durban T20I.

Meanwhile, a close ally of India ODI and Test skipper Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar, backed the batting veteran to come good in the upcoming Test series Down Under. 
&nbsp; 
Currently on national duty in South Africa for the four-match T20Is beginning on November 8 in Durban, SKY, as fans call him, revealed taking a leaf out of ‘leader’ Rohit Sharma’s book.

"I know how he [Rohit] treats the players, what he wants from them. So that route I have also taken because he's been very successful recently," he said.

"When I am on the ground, I keep noticing how his body language is, how calm he is under pressure situations, how he talks to the bowlers, how he treats everyone on the field and off the field."

"Most importantly, from a leader, you expect how much time he is spending with you to have that comfort. I try to replicate that. When I am not on the ground, I try and spend time with my teammates, have a meal with them, travel together,” Suryakumar continued.&nbsp;

<h2>SKY – a different captain</h2>

SKY is perhaps India’s best batter in this format and among the top three in the world. His attacking form of play has helped him stay ahead of his contemporaries; however, Surya’s captaincy style is completely contrasting to his idea of batting in T20Is.

"You have to understand what's happening around, what's going on in their [the players'] minds, and it is very important to give them that comfort," he said. "Everyone has different skill set, and they also want to come out and express themselves. So that freedom is very important when they get onto the field, and that is what I try and give."

"Whatever is running in their mind, I listen to them carefully. Off the field, I try and spend a lot of time with them to understand their strengths, who can deliver for me in pressure and current situations, and that's how I am on the field."

"See, this format is such that if you keep playing, you keep learning, and it's so fast on the field. By the time you blink your eye, the game is over. So that freedom and clarity is very important when you play this format on the field."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Team India’s T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, said he is playing all red-ball domestic competitions back home to stay in line for a Test comeback. Having made just one appearance in the whites for India (during the home Border-Gavaskar Trophy last year), Surya admits thinking about returning to the Test side.

Team India’s T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, said he is playing all red-ball domestic competitions back home to stay in line for a Test comeback. Having made just one appearance in the whites for India (during the home Border-Gavaskar Trophy last year), Surya admits thinking about returning to the Test side. Although his T20 stature has grown with time, a Test call-up has remained elusive, which he wishes to work on. The right-handed batter played a game for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy this season and featured for India B in the Duleep Trophy, though without tasting success in both. ALSO READ: BGT: Ian Chappell explains how over-aggressive approach could cost India Down Under “When the time comes, I will make a Test comeback. I am playing all the domestic tournaments, be it red-ball or white-ball. I don't miss any game. If that [Test comeback] has to happen, it will happen,” Suryakumar said ahead of the Durban T20I. Meanwhile, a close ally of India ODI and Test skipper Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar, backed the batting veteran to come good in the upcoming Test series Down Under. Currently on national duty in South Africa for the four-match T20Is beginning on November 8 in Durban, SKY, as fans call him, revealed taking a leaf out of ‘leader’ Rohit Sharma’s book. "I know how he [Rohit] treats the players, what he wants from them. So that route I have also taken because he's been very successful recently," he said. "When I am on the ground, I keep noticing how his body language is, how calm he is under pressure situations, how he talks to the bowlers, how he treats everyone on the field and off the field." "Most importantly, from a leader, you expect how much time he is spending with you to have that comfort. I try to replicate that. When I am not on the ground, I try and spend time with my teammates, have a meal with them, travel together,” Suryakumar continued. SKY – a different captain SKY is perhaps India’s best batter in this format and among the top three in the world. His attacking form of play has helped him stay ahead of his contemporaries; however, Surya’s captaincy style is completely contrasting to his idea of batting in T20Is. "You have to understand what's happening around, what's going on in their [the players'] minds, and it is very important to give them that comfort," he said. "Everyone has different skill set, and they also want to come out and express themselves. So that freedom is very important when they get onto the field, and that is what I try and give." "Whatever is running in their mind, I listen to them carefully. Off the field, I try and spend a lot of time with them to understand their strengths, who can deliver for me in pressure and current situations, and that's how I am on the field." "See, this format is such that if you keep playing, you keep learning, and it's so fast on the field. By the time you blink your eye, the game is over. So that freedom and clarity is very important when you play this format on the field." (With inputs from agencies)

India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav hooked on Test comeback; reveals how ‘leader’ Rohit inspires him

Former Australia captain and India coach Greg Chappell contacted out-of-favour opener Prithvi Shaw over his career crashing due to fitness and disciplinary issues. Dropped from the Mumbai Ranji Trophy squad (after two rounds) for the ongoing season due to fitness concerns, Shaw, once tipped to be India’s next ‘big thing’, is nowhere to be found in this conversation for a long time.

Per a report in the Times of India, Chappell wrote to Shaw, urging him to get over his recent setbacks on and off the field, offering him assistance to get back on the right path.&nbsp;

Chappell, who, during his time with the Indian Cricket Team, made headlines for all good, bad and ugly reasons, cited examples of the great Sir Don Bradman and himself, saying both revived their careers after being dropped at a certain point. &nbsp;

Shaw’s downfall began when Mumbai lost trust in him following his underwhelming performances in the first two rounds this season; however, they cited fitness and disciplinary issues as reasons behind his omission. Moreover, Shaw’s IPL franchise, Delhi Capitals, also decided against retaining him ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wi-vs-eng-daren-sammy-labels-alzarri-josephs-behaviour-unacceptable-after-dispute-with-captain-shai-hope-774291">WI vs ENG: Daren Sammy labels Alzarri Joseph's behaviour 'unacceptable' after dispute with captain Shai Hope</a>

"The past doesn't define you, Prithvi. It's what you do from here that matters. You're still in your prime, with so many years ahead to make your mark. Take this time to visualise the cricketer and person you want to become. Surround yourself with people who inspire you to improve," Chappell wrote in the letter, as quoted by the Times of India.

"Remember, setbacks are a part of every great athlete's story. Even legends like Don Bradman faced the disappointment of being dropped and had to fight their way back. What made them great was not avoiding challenges, but how they responded to them."

Chappell wrote asking Shaw to embark on a journey of self-reflection, which led Bradman and himself to find their right paths in professional cricket.

"That shift – from results-focused to process-focused – transformed my approach to both practice and matches. I encourage you to embark on a similar journey of self-reflection. It’s easy to blame circumstances, but ultimately, your response to these challenges will define your path. Elite athletes know that discipline and sacrifice are essential. It’s about honing not just your physical game, but your lifestyle – from diet to fitness – with the understanding that the pain of discipline is far less than the pain of regret," Chappell wrote.

Shaw made his India debut six years ago, scoring a Test hundred in his maiden outing against West Indies in Rajkot. Shaw played in five Tests for India, including his failed stint Down Under the last time. The right-handed batter, however, made a name for himself in the English County last year, scoring the bulk of runs, but failed to fight for a spot in the Indian Team across formats.

In the Ranji Trophy for Mumbai last season, Shaw played a handy role in helping his team clinch the domestic title, scoring 451 runs across nine innings, averaging 83.52 at a strike rate of 58.5. Even against the Rest of India (ROI), Shaw hit a vital fifty for Mumbai.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Take care of your body’</h2>

Chappell concluded by asking Shaw to take care of his body and build strength and focus to move out of this dark area.

"Take care of your body, get the right amount of rest, and build the strength and focus you need. The door back to the Indian team is open if you're willing to walk through it, but it requires a commitment to growth and change. Know that I – and many others – believe in you and are here to support your journey back to the top. If there's ever a way I can help or if you have questions, don't hesitate to reach out. You have everything within you to reach your full potential. Wishing you all the best on this journey. Regards, Greg," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Australia captain and India coach Greg Chappell contacted out-of-favour opener Prithvi Shaw over his career crashing due to fitness and disciplinary issues.

Former Australia captain and India coach Greg Chappell contacted out-of-favour opener Prithvi Shaw over his career crashing due to fitness and disciplinary issues. Dropped from the Mumbai Ranji Trophy squad (after two rounds) for the ongoing season due to fitness concerns, Shaw, once tipped to be India’s next ‘big thing’, is nowhere to be found in this conversation for a long time. Per a report in the Times of India, Chappell wrote to Shaw, urging him to get over his recent setbacks on and off the field, offering him assistance to get back on the right path. Chappell, who, during his time with the Indian Cricket Team, made headlines for all good, bad and ugly reasons, cited examples of the great Sir Don Bradman and himself, saying both revived their careers after being dropped at a certain point. Shaw’s downfall began when Mumbai lost trust in him following his underwhelming performances in the first two rounds this season; however, they cited fitness and disciplinary issues as reasons behind his omission. Moreover, Shaw’s IPL franchise, Delhi Capitals, also decided against retaining him ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. ALSO READ: WI vs ENG: Daren Sammy labels Alzarri Joseph's behaviour 'unacceptable' after dispute with captain Shai Hope "The past doesn't define you, Prithvi. It's what you do from here that matters. You're still in your prime, with so many years ahead to make your mark. Take this time to visualise the cricketer and person you want to become. Surround yourself with people who inspire you to improve," Chappell wrote in the letter, as quoted by the Times of India. "Remember, setbacks are a part of every great athlete's story. Even legends like Don Bradman faced the disappointment of being dropped and had to fight their way back. What made them great was not avoiding challenges, but how they responded to them." Chappell wrote asking Shaw to embark on a journey of self-reflection, which led Bradman and himself to find their right paths in professional cricket. "That shift – from results-focused to process-focused – transformed my approach to both practice and matches. I encourage you to embark on a similar journey of self-reflection. It’s easy to blame circumstances, but ultimately, your response to these challenges will define your path. Elite athletes know that discipline and sacrifice are essential. It’s about honing not just your physical game, but your lifestyle – from diet to fitness – with the understanding that the pain of discipline is far less than the pain of regret," Chappell wrote. Shaw made his India debut six years ago, scoring a Test hundred in his maiden outing against West Indies in Rajkot. Shaw played in five Tests for India, including his failed stint Down Under the last time. The right-handed batter, however, made a name for himself in the English County last year, scoring the bulk of runs, but failed to fight for a spot in the Indian Team across formats. In the Ranji Trophy for Mumbai last season, Shaw played a handy role in helping his team clinch the domestic title, scoring 451 runs across nine innings, averaging 83.52 at a strike rate of 58.5. Even against the Rest of India (ROI), Shaw hit a vital fifty for Mumbai. ‘Take care of your body’ Chappell concluded by asking Shaw to take care of his body and build strength and focus to move out of this dark area. "Take care of your body, get the right amount of rest, and build the strength and focus you need. The door back to the Indian team is open if you're willing to walk through it, but it requires a commitment to growth and change. Know that I – and many others – believe in you and are here to support your journey back to the top. If there's ever a way I can help or if you have questions, don't hesitate to reach out. You have everything within you to reach your full potential. Wishing you all the best on this journey. Regards, Greg," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Setbacks are part of every great athlete's story’ – Greg Chappell writes to Prithvi Shaw over crashing career

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar thrashed India coach Gautam Gambhir following Rohit Sharma-led side's being whitewashed by New Zealand in the just-concluded three Tests at home. Under Gambhir, who took over as the head coach in July, India lost an ODI series to Sri Lanka, after 27 years, before NZ became the first Test team&nbsp;to whitewash India 3-0 in India. Gavaskar also made a bold claim on Rohit and Virat Kohli's Test future as the duo struggled for runs versus the Kiwis.

Speaking to&nbsp;India Today, Gavaskar said, "The results speak for themselves. Even in Sri Lanka, India lost an ODI series after a long time. And now here, it's a loss, it's a terrible loss. So, I think the results speak for themselves."

"Well, I think every team has a think tank. Probably the captain, vice-captain and the coach -- these are the guys who take the decisions. If it doesn't work out, it looks bad. I think these decisions would have been taken by the think tank," Gavaskar further opined.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-wishes-virat-kohli-on-his-36th-birthday-netizens-join-in-to-pour-their-love-773362">BCCI wishes Virat Kohli on his 36th birthday, netizens join in to pour their love</a>

In the NZ series, captain Rohit ended with 91 runs, including a high score of 52. Meanwhile, Kohli amassed 93 runs with a best of 50. While Hitman averaged 15.16, Kohli ended with an average of 15.50. Many have questioned the duo for the lack of domestic cricket, spin woes and inability to trust their defensive game. Gavaskar also claimed that if they don't score in the forthcoming Australia tour, comprising five Tests, it could be the end of Kohli-Rohit in Tests.

Gavaskar added, "Definitely yes. If they (Rohit and Virat) don't score runs in Australia, there will be a clamour for a new-look Indian team to start from the tour of England."

India need a 4-0 win over Australia to qualify for next year's WTC final. If it does not happen, India will have to depend on other results to qualify.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar thrashed India coach Gautam Gambhir following Rohit Sharma-led side's being whitewashed by New Zealand in the just-concluded three Tests at home.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar thrashed India coach Gautam Gambhir following Rohit Sharma-led side's being whitewashed by New Zealand in the just-concluded three Tests at home. Under Gambhir, who took over as the head coach in July, India lost an ODI series to Sri Lanka, after 27 years, before NZ became the first Test team to whitewash India 3-0 in India. Gavaskar also made a bold claim on Rohit and Virat Kohli's Test future as the duo struggled for runs versus the Kiwis. Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar said, "The results speak for themselves. Even in Sri Lanka, India lost an ODI series after a long time. And now here, it's a loss, it's a terrible loss. So, I think the results speak for themselves." "Well, I think every team has a think tank. Probably the captain, vice-captain and the coach -- these are the guys who take the decisions. If it doesn't work out, it looks bad. I think these decisions would have been taken by the think tank," Gavaskar further opined. Also read: BCCI wishes Virat Kohli on his 36th birthday, netizens join in to pour their love In the NZ series, captain Rohit ended with 91 runs, including a high score of 52. Meanwhile, Kohli amassed 93 runs with a best of 50. While Hitman averaged 15.16, Kohli ended with an average of 15.50. Many have questioned the duo for the lack of domestic cricket, spin woes and inability to trust their defensive game. Gavaskar also claimed that if they don't score in the forthcoming Australia tour, comprising five Tests, it could be the end of Kohli-Rohit in Tests. Gavaskar added, "Definitely yes. If they (Rohit and Virat) don't score runs in Australia, there will be a clamour for a new-look Indian team to start from the tour of England." India need a 4-0 win over Australia to qualify for next year's WTC final. If it does not happen, India will have to depend on other results to qualify.

Sunil Gavaskar SLAMS Gautam Gambhir's stint as India coach, makes BOLD claim on Rohit, Kohli's Test future

New Zealand blanked India 3-0 in the recently concluded Test series, becoming the first team to clean-sweep India in their home conditions. That blow hit everyone - from players to analysts and fans to former legends, harder, with ex-India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar coming down hard on Rohit Sharma’s men over this result.

With India losing the home Test series 0-3, their chances of reaching the WTC Final 2025 suffered a serious beating; for them to now qualify for the summit clash for the third straight time, they must beat Australia 4-0, something Gavaskar feels is like a mountain to climb for the visitors.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-and-dhruv-jurel-to-feature-in-second-india-a-game-ahead-of-australia-tests-773195">KL Rahul and Dhruv Jurel to feature in second India-A game ahead of Australia Tests</a>

Gavaskar tore into BCCI’s ‘short-gain policy’ of preparing tracks for just spinners when their team has the best fast bowler in the world – Jasprit Bumrah, saying this cost India in this series, adding with this low morale, it’s hard to pull off a miracle Down Under.

“Australia looks like a huge mountain to climb after the Indian team stumbled terribly on a speed bump called New Zealand. Nobody, not even the Kiwis themselves, would have thought of a clean sweep against India, and that too in India.”&nbsp;

“It has happened thanks to the short-gain policy of preparing pitches for our spinners when just about everybody in the cricketing world agrees that we have the best new-ball bowler in the world across all formats," Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar.

<h2>Calling off intra-squad game upsets Gavaskar</h2>

The BCCI had earlier planned an intra-squad game between India and India-A at the WACA in Perth ahead of the first Test but scrapped this idea at the last minute, restricting India’s preparation for the marquee series to just training in the nets and batting on centre wicket.

Though most batters picked have toured Australia before, Gavaskar feels this decision could cost the newcomers like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sarfaraz Khan, who are crucial to the side’s success in Australia.

"We are now told that the warm-up game before the first Test has been called off. Wouldn’t it benefit youngsters like (Yashasvi) Jaiswal and Sarfaraz (Khan), who are playing on Australian pitches for the first time, to get some runs under their belt and get a feel of what the pitches will be like?&nbsp;

"And if they get out early, they can still get into the nets and practice against the throw-down specialist or the net bowlers. For bowlers like Akash Deep and Harshit Rana too, it’s essential to know the best length to bowl in Australia, as it’s different from India, and the best learning is in a proper match and not just net practice.&nbsp;

"Let’s just hope that good sense prevails, and even now, though it’s too late, some warm-up games can be arranged, even if it’s against the State A teams like Queensland A and Victoria A. These warm-up games will give the first-timers to Australia and youngsters good practice and a better chance to succeed," Gavaskar added.

Meanwhile, the Optus Stadium in Perth will host the first Test starting November 22.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand blanked India 3-0 in the recently concluded Test series, becoming the first team to clean-sweep India in their home conditions. That blow hit everyone - from players to analysts and fans to former legends, harder, with ex-India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar coming down hard on Rohit Sharma’s men over this result.

New Zealand blanked India 3-0 in the recently concluded Test series, becoming the first team to clean-sweep India in their home conditions. That blow hit everyone - from players to analysts and fans to former legends, harder, with ex-India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar coming down hard on Rohit Sharma’s men over this result. With India losing the home Test series 0-3, their chances of reaching the WTC Final 2025 suffered a serious beating; for them to now qualify for the summit clash for the third straight time, they must beat Australia 4-0, something Gavaskar feels is like a mountain to climb for the visitors. ALSO READ: KL Rahul and Dhruv Jurel to feature in second India-A game ahead of Australia Tests Gavaskar tore into BCCI’s ‘short-gain policy’ of preparing tracks for just spinners when their team has the best fast bowler in the world – Jasprit Bumrah, saying this cost India in this series, adding with this low morale, it’s hard to pull off a miracle Down Under. “Australia looks like a huge mountain to climb after the Indian team stumbled terribly on a speed bump called New Zealand. Nobody, not even the Kiwis themselves, would have thought of a clean sweep against India, and that too in India.” “It has happened thanks to the short-gain policy of preparing pitches for our spinners when just about everybody in the cricketing world agrees that we have the best new-ball bowler in the world across all formats," Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar. Calling off intra-squad game upsets Gavaskar The BCCI had earlier planned an intra-squad game between India and India-A at the WACA in Perth ahead of the first Test but scrapped this idea at the last minute, restricting India’s preparation for the marquee series to just training in the nets and batting on centre wicket. Though most batters picked have toured Australia before, Gavaskar feels this decision could cost the newcomers like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sarfaraz Khan, who are crucial to the side’s success in Australia. "We are now told that the warm-up game before the first Test has been called off. Wouldn’t it benefit youngsters like (Yashasvi) Jaiswal and Sarfaraz (Khan), who are playing on Australian pitches for the first time, to get some runs under their belt and get a feel of what the pitches will be like? "And if they get out early, they can still get into the nets and practice against the throw-down specialist or the net bowlers. For bowlers like Akash Deep and Harshit Rana too, it’s essential to know the best length to bowl in Australia, as it’s different from India, and the best learning is in a proper match and not just net practice. "Let’s just hope that good sense prevails, and even now, though it’s too late, some warm-up games can be arranged, even if it’s against the State A teams like Queensland A and Victoria A. These warm-up games will give the first-timers to Australia and youngsters good practice and a better chance to succeed," Gavaskar added. Meanwhile, the Optus Stadium in Perth will host the first Test starting November 22. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Cricketing world agrees…’ – India legend slams BCCI’s ‘short-gain policies’ after New Zealand whitewash

Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami’s return date to competitive cricket takes a back seat after the Bengal seamer failed to make the cut in the Ranji Trophy squad for Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh games. Shami declared himself 100% match-fit last month, giving hopes of breaking into the Test squad for the marquee Border-Gavaskar series; however, the selectors decided against picking him, with the Indian captain admitting that taking undercooked Shami Down Under would do no good to the travelling side.

"I had been bowling with half a run-up on and off since I can't put too much stress on my body. So, we decided that I would bowl properly, and I gave my 100%. "It felt great, and the results are good. Hopefully, I'll be back on track soon," Shami said during a promotional event last month.&nbsp;

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Shami had suffered an ankle injury during the home ODI World Cup last year, and was India’s top wicket-taker with 24 scalps in seven contested matches&nbsp;though he played with injury till the final. Picked for South Africa Tests later, Shami withdrew his name, with doctors not clearing him for on-field return.

The right-arm seamer underwent ankle surgery earlier this year in London and has been recovering and training at the NCA in Bengaluru since. Having missed all cricket action since November last year, Shami was in line for a comeback ahead of the Australia series. But before the selectors could rope him into the Test squad for New Zealand Tests, he suffered a setback in his recovery, delaying his return to competitive cricket.&nbsp;

The selectors, team management and even the fans kept their fingers crossed over Shami’s fitness; however, upon reviewing his recovery pace, the selectors decided against naming him in the 18-man squad for the BGT.

<h2>No Shami for Bengal</h2>

Shami was expected to start for Bengal in their next two Ranji Trophy fixtures, against Karnataka on November 6 and Madhya Pradesh on November 13. But his absence from the squad indicates that the India bowler hasn’t completely recovered from his injury and might take longer to get back onto the field.

Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah will lead India's pace attack in his absence, &nbsp;which consists of Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep and Harshit Rana, with Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini and Khaleel Ahmed picked as reserves.

<h3>Bengal Ranji squad against Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh –</h3>

Anustup Majumdar (captain), Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Sudip Chatterjee, Sudip Gharami, Shahbaz Ahmed, Writtick Chatterjee, Avilin Ghosh, Shuvam Dey, Shakir Habib Gandhi, Pradipta Pramanik, Aamir Gani, Ishan Porel, Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal, Mohammed Kaif, Rohit Kumar and Rishav Vivek

(With inputs from agencies)

Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami’s return date to competitive cricket takes a back seat after the Bengal seamer failed to make the cut in the Ranji Trophy squad for Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh games.

Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami’s return date to competitive cricket takes a back seat after the Bengal seamer failed to make the cut in the Ranji Trophy squad for Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh games. Shami declared himself 100% match-fit last month, giving hopes of breaking into the Test squad for the marquee Border-Gavaskar series; however, the selectors decided against picking him, with the Indian captain admitting that taking undercooked Shami Down Under would do no good to the travelling side. "I had been bowling with half a run-up on and off since I can't put too much stress on my body. So, we decided that I would bowl properly, and I gave my 100%. "It felt great, and the results are good. Hopefully, I'll be back on track soon," Shami said during a promotional event last month. ALSO READ: Pakistan can beat India in Tests on turning tracks, reckons Wasim Akram Shami had suffered an ankle injury during the home ODI World Cup last year, and was India’s top wicket-taker with 24 scalps in seven contested matches though he played with injury till the final. Picked for South Africa Tests later, Shami withdrew his name, with doctors not clearing him for on-field return. The right-arm seamer underwent ankle surgery earlier this year in London and has been recovering and training at the NCA in Bengaluru since. Having missed all cricket action since November last year, Shami was in line for a comeback ahead of the Australia series. But before the selectors could rope him into the Test squad for New Zealand Tests, he suffered a setback in his recovery, delaying his return to competitive cricket. The selectors, team management and even the fans kept their fingers crossed over Shami’s fitness; however, upon reviewing his recovery pace, the selectors decided against naming him in the 18-man squad for the BGT. No Shami for Bengal Shami was expected to start for Bengal in their next two Ranji Trophy fixtures, against Karnataka on November 6 and Madhya Pradesh on November 13. But his absence from the squad indicates that the India bowler hasn’t completely recovered from his injury and might take longer to get back onto the field. Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah will lead India's pace attack in his absence, which consists of Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep and Harshit Rana, with Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini and Khaleel Ahmed picked as reserves. Bengal Ranji squad against Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh – Anustup Majumdar (captain), Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Sudip Chatterjee, Sudip Gharami, Shahbaz Ahmed, Writtick Chatterjee, Avilin Ghosh, Shuvam Dey, Shakir Habib Gandhi, Pradipta Pramanik, Aamir Gani, Ishan Porel, Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal, Mohammed Kaif, Rohit Kumar and Rishav Vivek (With inputs from agencies)

Mohammed Shami to wait longer for cricket comeback after Bengal Ranji Trophy squad snub

The BGT-bound Indian Test team was scheduled to play a three-day intra-squad match with India-A (from November 15-17) at the WACA ahead of the first Test against Australia in Perth starting November 22; but, with BCCI scraping this idea, the Rohit Sharma-led side will not play any warm-up game in the lead-up to the five-match Test series. Instead, the board has decided that the team will train during that window, including net sessions at the venue.

India vs India-A was supposed to be a closed-door warm-up game per BCCI's request, but with the Indian Cricket Board changing plans at the last moment, the team will continue training as they eye record a third successive Test series win Down Under.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/i-have-retired-rohit-sharma-acknowledges-being-mis-fourth-retention-ahead-of-ipl-2025-auction-772480">I have retired: Rohit Sharma acknowledges being MI's fourth retention ahead of IPL 2025 auction</a>

On the other hand, Australia will train at the venue after India’s stint in an important preparatory camp for some players who haven’t played red-ball cricket lately.&nbsp;

Australia batting great Steve Smith also noted how crucial this training session would be at the centre wicket at WACA, which will have conditions similar to the ones at the Optus Stadium, the venue for the first match.

"Going to be some good centre wickets with our boys bowling in Perth, in similar conditions to what you're going to get at Optus Stadium. [It's] probably going to be enough," Steven Smith recently said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the BCCI had earlier decided that India would play an intra-squad match instead of playing a practice match against one of Australia’s domestic sides.&nbsp;While the touring Indian Test team played a three-day tie against Australia-A ahead of their previous tour in 2020/21, they played a four-day game against Cricket Australia XI ahead of the 2018/19 series.

<h2>Indian Team to fly Down Under</h2>

Per the latest reports, the Indian Test squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will depart shortly after the conclusion of the ongoing third Test against New Zealand on November 5.&nbsp;

<h3>Here’s India's 18-man squad for Australia Tests –</h3>

Rohit Sharma (captain), Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (wk), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar

Reserves: Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed

(With inputs from agencies)

The BGT-bound Indian Test team was scheduled to play a three-day intra-squad match with India-A (from November 15-17) at the WACA ahead of the first Test against Australia in Perth starting November 22; but, with BCCI scraping this idea, the Rohit Sharma-led side will not play any warm-up game in the lead-up to the five-match Test series.

The BGT-bound Indian Test team was scheduled to play a three-day intra-squad match with India-A (from November 15-17) at the WACA ahead of the first Test against Australia in Perth starting November 22; but, with BCCI scraping this idea, the Rohit Sharma-led side will not play any warm-up game in the lead-up to the five-match Test series. Instead, the board has decided that the team will train during that window, including net sessions at the venue. India vs India-A was supposed to be a closed-door warm-up game per BCCI's request, but with the Indian Cricket Board changing plans at the last moment, the team will continue training as they eye record a third successive Test series win Down Under. ALSO READ: I have retired: Rohit Sharma acknowledges being MI's fourth retention ahead of IPL 2025 auction On the other hand, Australia will train at the venue after India’s stint in an important preparatory camp for some players who haven’t played red-ball cricket lately. Australia batting great Steve Smith also noted how crucial this training session would be at the centre wicket at WACA, which will have conditions similar to the ones at the Optus Stadium, the venue for the first match. "Going to be some good centre wickets with our boys bowling in Perth, in similar conditions to what you're going to get at Optus Stadium. [It's] probably going to be enough," Steven Smith recently said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. Meanwhile, the BCCI had earlier decided that India would play an intra-squad match instead of playing a practice match against one of Australia’s domestic sides. While the touring Indian Test team played a three-day tie against Australia-A ahead of their previous tour in 2020/21, they played a four-day game against Cricket Australia XI ahead of the 2018/19 series. Indian Team to fly Down Under Per the latest reports, the Indian Test squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will depart shortly after the conclusion of the ongoing third Test against New Zealand on November 5. Here’s India's 18-man squad for Australia Tests – Rohit Sharma (captain), Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (wk), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar Reserves: Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: No practice game for India ahead of Perth Test as BCCI scraps intra-squad match at WACA

Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami missed out on making the 18-man squad for the Border-Gavaskar series against Australia starting November 22 in Perth. The BCCI selectors named a star-studded pace attack, with Jasprit Bumrah leading the bunch. Though Shami declared himself 100% match-fit during a promotional event in Gurugram the past week, the selectors decided against rushing him into playing Test cricket.

However, the latest reports suggest that all is not over for India quick, as he may link up with the BGT-bound Test squad midway into the Australia series after proving match fitness.&nbsp;

The right-arm seamer began bowling in the nets following the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru; after the second game ended in Pune, he resumed training, bowling to India batter Shubman Gill at full throttle.

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The report also suggested that Shami aims to play two Ranji Trophy matches for Bengal against Karnataka in Bengaluru on November 6 and against Madhya Pradesh in Indore, commencing on November 13. Should he clear the match fitness criteria, the Indian pacer will link up with the Test team ahead of the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14.

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Meanwhile, Shami is currently back at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, training for his return to competitive cricket.

“Yes, we have heard that Shami may join the Bengal team for the Ranji Trophy match against Karnataka, as the side will be coming to Bengaluru, where he’s already training, preparing to his absolute best and doing his bowling practice at the NCA. Everyone around him has been working hard to ensure he hopefully gets to play the game against Karnataka from November 6.”

“The parameters NCA people could observe for him would be around the number of overs he bowls, and how his recovery process is after being out on the field for a day or even after featuring in all four days of the Ranji Trophy games. If all of the processes with regards to him go well, then one probably may see him be with the Indian team from the Brisbane Test happening from December 14-18,” a source close to the information said, as quoted by News18.

<h2>Shami’s run to the top</h2>

The Indian fast bowler wreaked havoc during the home World Cup last year, picking 24 wickets in just seven games, averaging 10.71. He bagged his career-best figures of 7/59 against New Zealand in Mumbai in the semis but failed to guide his team home against Australia in the summit clash.

Meanwhile, alongside Bumrah, Shami remains India’s top bowler across formats, with Test being his standout one. In 64 matches played thus far, Shami has picked 229 wickets, averaging close to 28.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami missed out on making the 18-man squad for the Border-Gavaskar series against Australia starting November 22 in Perth. The BCCI selectors named a star-studded pace attack, with Jasprit Bumrah leading the bunch.

Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami missed out on making the 18-man squad for the Border-Gavaskar series against Australia starting November 22 in Perth. The BCCI selectors named a star-studded pace attack, with Jasprit Bumrah leading the bunch. Though Shami declared himself 100% match-fit during a promotional event in Gurugram the past week, the selectors decided against rushing him into playing Test cricket. However, the latest reports suggest that all is not over for India quick, as he may link up with the BGT-bound Test squad midway into the Australia series after proving match fitness. The right-arm seamer began bowling in the nets following the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru; after the second game ended in Pune, he resumed training, bowling to India batter Shubman Gill at full throttle. pic.twitter.com/nNHEPjlcF1 — 𝕸𝖔𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖒𝖆𝖉 𝖘𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖎 (@MdShami11) October 25, 2024 × The report also suggested that Shami aims to play two Ranji Trophy matches for Bengal against Karnataka in Bengaluru on November 6 and against Madhya Pradesh in Indore, commencing on November 13. Should he clear the match fitness criteria, the Indian pacer will link up with the Test team ahead of the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14. ALSO READ: Squad announcement - Australia rest Test stars Pakistan T20Is; Glenn Maxwell in mix to lead Oz Meanwhile, Shami is currently back at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, training for his return to competitive cricket. “Yes, we have heard that Shami may join the Bengal team for the Ranji Trophy match against Karnataka, as the side will be coming to Bengaluru, where he’s already training, preparing to his absolute best and doing his bowling practice at the NCA. Everyone around him has been working hard to ensure he hopefully gets to play the game against Karnataka from November 6.” “The parameters NCA people could observe for him would be around the number of overs he bowls, and how his recovery process is after being out on the field for a day or even after featuring in all four days of the Ranji Trophy games. If all of the processes with regards to him go well, then one probably may see him be with the Indian team from the Brisbane Test happening from December 14-18,” a source close to the information said, as quoted by News18. Shami’s run to the top The Indian fast bowler wreaked havoc during the home World Cup last year, picking 24 wickets in just seven games, averaging 10.71. He bagged his career-best figures of 7/59 against New Zealand in Mumbai in the semis but failed to guide his team home against Australia in the summit clash. Meanwhile, alongside Bumrah, Shami remains India’s top bowler across formats, with Test being his standout one. In 64 matches played thus far, Shami has picked 229 wickets, averaging close to 28. (With inputs from agencies)

All not over for Mohammed Shami as India quick may link up with squad midway into Australian tour – Reports

The Indian team management has made it mandatory for all squad players to attend the two-day training session (on Oct&nbsp;30 and 31) ahead of the third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai starting November 1. Per the latest reports, these two sessions are not optional, and players cannot skip them. This development came after India lost the second match in Pune by 113 runs, surrendering the Test series at home for the first time in 12 years.

“The team management has asked the players to be present for two days of practice on October 30 and 31. It’s compulsory, and no one can skip it,” a source close to the information confirmed, as quoted by The Indian Express.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-captain-rohit-sharma-vows-to-have-quiet-chat-with-certain-individuals-after-new-zealand-series-loss-771064">India captain Rohit Sharma vows to have quiet chat with ‘certain individuals’ after New Zealand series loss</a>

Earlier, the team management used to allow players to skip training sessions ahead of a Test to ensure they were fresh and ready for the next five days. However, the Test series loss at home to New Zealand made the management take stricter actions.

Typically, the fast bowlers and the high-profile players used to skip these training sessions or, at best, have light ones compared to the newcomers or emerging players in the line-up. It’s been a general practice for some time now, given how tight Indian cricket’s schedule is during the home season, and also because players can buy time to rest, recover and be ready for the next game.

Now that India lost two home matches on a trot, chances of directly qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final are under dark clouds. India needs to win four out of the six remaining Tests, five of which are against Australia Down Under, to ensure a smooth ride to the finals.

Should India lose the next game in Mumbai, their chances of reaching the summit clash (scheduled in June next year at the Lord's) would suffer a beating. The remaining contenders, including the Kiwis, Sri Lanka and South Africa, are also chasing this dream.

<h2>Players reach Mumbai for final Test</h2>

The Indian Express also reported that stalwarts Rohit and Virat, alongside KL Rahul, drove to Mumbai with their families, while others will reach the city on Sunday (Oct 27). The players will rest for two days before beginning training for the final Test.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel created history the last time India played the Kiwis at the Wankhede three years ago, becoming only the third bowler after England’s Jim Laker and India’s Anil Kumble to pick ten wickets in an innings, though New Zealand lost that Test by 372 runs.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian team management has made it mandatory for all squad players to attend the two-day training session (on Oct 30 and 31) ahead of the third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai starting November 1.

The Indian team management has made it mandatory for all squad players to attend the two-day training session (on Oct 30 and 31) ahead of the third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai starting November 1. Per the latest reports, these two sessions are not optional, and players cannot skip them. This development came after India lost the second match in Pune by 113 runs, surrendering the Test series at home for the first time in 12 years. “The team management has asked the players to be present for two days of practice on October 30 and 31. It’s compulsory, and no one can skip it,” a source close to the information confirmed, as quoted by The Indian Express. ALSO READ: India captain Rohit Sharma vows to have quiet chat with ‘certain individuals’ after New Zealand series loss Earlier, the team management used to allow players to skip training sessions ahead of a Test to ensure they were fresh and ready for the next five days. However, the Test series loss at home to New Zealand made the management take stricter actions. Typically, the fast bowlers and the high-profile players used to skip these training sessions or, at best, have light ones compared to the newcomers or emerging players in the line-up. It’s been a general practice for some time now, given how tight Indian cricket’s schedule is during the home season, and also because players can buy time to rest, recover and be ready for the next game. Now that India lost two home matches on a trot, chances of directly qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final are under dark clouds. India needs to win four out of the six remaining Tests, five of which are against Australia Down Under, to ensure a smooth ride to the finals. Should India lose the next game in Mumbai, their chances of reaching the summit clash (scheduled in June next year at the Lord's) would suffer a beating. The remaining contenders, including the Kiwis, Sri Lanka and South Africa, are also chasing this dream. Players reach Mumbai for final Test The Indian Express also reported that stalwarts Rohit and Virat, alongside KL Rahul, drove to Mumbai with their families, while others will reach the city on Sunday (Oct 27). The players will rest for two days before beginning training for the final Test. Meanwhile, New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel created history the last time India played the Kiwis at the Wankhede three years ago, becoming only the third bowler after England’s Jim Laker and India’s Anil Kumble to pick ten wickets in an innings, though New Zealand lost that Test by 372 runs. (With inputs from agencies)

Team management makes it ‘mandatory’ for Indian players to attend training sessions ahead of Mumbai Test