Rana The Right 'Like-For-Like' Concussion Sub For Dube? ICC Rule Says...

India registered a thrilling victory over England in the fourth T20I match on Friday in Pune. Asked to bat first, India struggle a bit but managed to post 181/9 in 20 overs with Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube hitting half-centuries. Later, England got a terrific start but eventually fumbled against India's bowling lineup and got bundled out for 166. With this 15-run victory, India gained an unassailable 3-1 lead over England in the five-match series. Despite this win, India also sparked a small controversy during the match.

After the first innings, Shivam Dube did not take the field as he got hit by a short delivery from Jamie Overton while batting. In his place, pacer Harshit Rana came as a concussion substitute and made his T20I debut.

Rana made immediate impact in the game and walked away with the figures of 3/33. However, Rana coming-in as the replacement of Dube left many former cricketers, including England skipper Jos Buttler unhappy.

Former England skipper Michael Vaughan took to X (formerly Twitter) and pointed out that pacer Rana cannot be a 'like-for-like' replacement of all-rounder Dube.

"How can an out & out bowler replace a batter who bowls part time !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!," Vaughan posted on X.

How can an out & out bowler replace a batter who bowls part time !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! #INDvsENG

— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) January 31, 2025

What does the rulebook says?

Rule 1.2.7.3 of the ICC playing conditions for concussion substitution states: "The ICC Match Referee should ordinarily approve a Concussion Replacement Request if the replacement is a like-for-like player whose inclusion will not excessively advantage his team for the remainder of the match."

Rule 1.2.7.7 states: "The decision of the ICC Match Referee in relation to any Concussion Replacement Request shall be final and neither team shall have any right of appeal."

This was not the first time that such a scenario took place for India. Back in 2020, spinner Yuzvendra Chahal came as a concussion sub for all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja in a T20I match against Australia and bagged the Player of the Match award with three wickets.

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"Cheating...": Concussion Substitution Sees Rana's Entry, Internet Reacts

Talented pacer Harshit Rana, who has played two Tests, quite surprisingly made a surprise entry into the India playing XI in the fourth T20I against England in Pune on Friday. Though initially not named in the XI, Rana was called upon to replace allrounder Shivam Dube as a 'like-for-like' concussion substitute after the latter was struck on the helmet in the final over of India's innings. Dube, who scored 53, was hit on the helmet in the penultimate ball of the Indian innings by a Jamie Overton delivery.

Following the mandatory concussion test, Dube was cleared to play. However, he was run out on the final delivery of the innings. Dube is a pace allrounder, while Rana has so far played the role of  specialist fast bowler in the Indian cricket team.

Rana, who had recently played in the opening Test against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, came in to bowl in the 12th over and made an immediate impact, dismissing Liam Livingstone for 9. Rana finished with three wickets. 

England skipper Jos Buttler appeared unhappy with the decision and was seen having a discussion with the umpires on the field. According to ICC's rules, teams are only allowed to name like-for-like replacements if a batsman is ruled out due to a concussion.

The decision to use Rana as a replacement of Dube did not go down well with many social media users, with some calling it cheating. 

How Harshit Rana is a like to like replacement for Shivam Dube?

Is match refree dumb? Does he know anything about cricket?

This is proper cheating from BCCI. Shivam Dube is a part timer & is useless bowler in T20I who doesn't bowl in IPL as well for India much.

Shameful!!

— Rajiv (@Rajiv1841) January 31, 2025

Harshit Rana is like-for-like for Shivam Dube?

No wonder IND thought Reddy was a 4th fast bowler in AUS.

— cricketingview (@cricketingview) January 31, 2025

Rather than concussion sub the right word used should be Impact Sub. https://t.co/F2SO8gAV3f

— Prasanna (@prasannalara) January 31, 2025

It's outrageous to have Harshit Rana as a concussion sub for Shivam Dube (two completely different player types). India are literally playing with 12 players here.

— Alagappan Vijayakumar (@IndianMourinho) January 31, 2025

India had posted 181/9 after being sent in to bat. The hosts won the match by 15 runs to take an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series. The final T20I will be played in Mumbai on Sunday.

With PTI inputs 

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PCB To Miss Champions Trophy Stadiums Deadline, Report Says Handover On...

Amid rising concerns over the readiness of Champions Trophy venues in the country, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has said that the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore would be handed over to the ICC on February 11, a little over a week before the start of the ODI showpiece. The PCB posted a video of the new-look stadium on 'X' and wrote, "Under the lights, it's a sight to behold!...We can't wait to welcome fans, officials and teams for the tri-nation series and Champions Trophy." The mega-event begins on February 19. A Board source told PTI that the stadium will be handed over to the International Cricket Council (ICC), "for branding and other stuff on February 11" after Pakistan's tri-series against New Zealand and South Africa.

The ICC had set January 31 as the deadline for the handover of all three stadiums -- Gaddafi Stadium (Lahore), National Stadium (Karachi) and the Rawalpindi Stadium -- which will host the global event in Pakistan.

The source added that "final touches" were being given to the Gaddafi Stadium.

"...this has been a construction site and there will be some rubble, which will be removed shortly. This stadium has taken shape after six months of work," said the source.

The eight-team Champions Trophy is being held in Pakistan but India will play all its matches in Dubai owing to security concerns.

Pakistan's leading english daily 'Dawn' had recently carried a story which stated that "it seems absolutely impossible to contemplate the renovation work being completed within the deadline, but the personnel handed the responsibility are beaming with confidence." The PCB has also insisted that the National Stadium in Karachi will be ready in time as well. The venue will host the opening match of event between Pakistan and New Zealand on February 19.

The PCB has spent around PKR 12 billion on renovation, construction and installation of equipment at all three venues. Tickets have already gone on sale but until the PCB announces they have possession of the new-look stadiums, concerns will remain.

On Tuesday, ICC CEO Geoff Allardice resigned after the governing body's board expressed dissatisfaction with his failure to give a clear picture of Pakistan's preparedness for the event.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"How Do We Maintain Composure...": Rival Captain On Kohli Mania In Ranji

With his aura and intensity, Virat Kohli could bend anything to his will. But, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Thursday, his mere presence was enough to "inspire" and "overwhelm" his teammates and opponents alike in one of the most keenly followed matches in the history of Ranji Trophy. When he saw the long queue of spectators jostling to enter the stadium much before the first ball was delivered in Kohli's comeback game in domestic red-ball cricket, his Delhi teammate Navdeep Saini was convinced that this was not going to be just another first-class match.

Saini said that for most of the team's young players who have grown up idolising Kohli and watching his exploits on TV, sharing the space with the maestro was a "different thing" altogether.

"His energy is so high, automatically our energy level also goes up with him around. Then his effort, whenever he is batting, fielding or in gym, his intensity, it is always 110 percent," Saini said at the end of first day's play between Delhi and Railways.

"As we were coming in the morning we saw the long line and realised that this is going to be different...The fans would just pour in," the pacer, who has also played for India and Royal Challengers Bengaluru with Kohli, added.

Upendra Yadav negated Delhi's early advantage with a resolute 95 to steer Railways to 241 on day one of their tie dominated by Kohli's grand return to domestic cricket after 13 years.

"It's a matter of great pride, sharing the dressing room, standing in the slips near him, standing in the ground, the bowlers looking to seek his guidance... it's a great learning experience," Saini said.

Such was the excitement around his return that the DDCA officials were forced to open extra stands due to a crowd of over 10,000, which is not heard of for a Ranji Trophy game.

Delhi Police also had resorted to a lathi charge to control the crowd at the stadium. "Generally when we play Ranji Trophy match we don't see this kind of crowd, so it feels pretty good when a big player comes and plays with you. It was overwhelming. The kind of crowd that you get to see in IPL, the atmosphere was similar today," admitted Upendra Yadav.

The pace trio of Navdeep Saini, Siddhant Sharma and Money Grewal exploited the early morning conditions to reduce Railways to 66 for five in the first session before Upendra and veteran spinner Karn Sharma (50 off 105) forged a 104-run stand for the sixth wicket.

Asked if they were under pressure seeing such a huge crowd for a first-class match, Upendra said, "We were not under pressure because of the big crowd, we did not throw away our wickets, the credit must go to Delhi bowlers.

"But the intensity was very high today as compared to any other Ranji Trophy match. The crowd too played a big part. We are all entertainers and good crowd also makes us feel good," he added.

The number of spectators is expected to swell on the second day when Kohli comes out to bat.

"So how do we maintain composure when Virat bhaiya comes out to bat, we had our bowlers' meeting and we have made our plans, but I will obviously not share with you guys.

"We don't need to get carried away by the atmosphere. We just have to bowl in the good length area. We were inspired, but we are not under pressure. When a cricketer of this stature plays with you, then obviously you get excited," Upendra said.

Earlier, preparations were also made to telecast this game and more stands than usual were readied for the fans, as Kohli geared up to play in his first Ranji Trophy match since 2012.

'Intensity rubbed off on others'

Saini said the star batter's intensity has rubbed off on others after the team endured a rather unimpressive campaign.

"Ever since bhaiya joined our side, there has been a huge change in the team because he is a legend of the game, so to share a dressing room with him is a moment of pride for the boys in the team," said the pacer.

"So we all get inspired by seeing his intensity that remains so high. Seeing him has got intensity high too, which is a big plus point for us," Saini, who took three wickets on day one, told PTI Videos.

Money Grewal, another Delhi pacer, who enjoyed some success against Kohli in the nets, said that he was told by the batting maestro to target the corridor of uncertainty where he has been found wanting in recent times.

"My plan was simple to pitch the ball in the fourth and fifth stump, move the ball and swing it and bowl in good areas, and even during the net session I had a lot of chat with him so he was explaining to me where I should be bowling," Grewal said.

"He was telling me what corridor I should bowl at, particularly fourth and fifth stump so the chat was mainly regarding that.

"My area of focus against him was no different, it was just to bowl him as much as I could in the fourth and fifth stump line as long as the batter is playing the ball then only a chance for a wicket can arise," he added. 

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Virat Kohli's All-Time Test Record Broken, Steve Smith Takes No. 1 Spot

After failing to do so in the 5th and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Sydney, Australia stand-in skipper Steve Smith finally breached the 10,000-run milestone in Tests, on Day 1 of the first match against Sri Lanka. After completing 10k runs in the longest format of the game, Smith also brought up his 35th Test ton, 17 of which have come away from home. In doing so, Smith managed to surpass India great Virat Kohli in the list of batters with the most away centuries in Test cricket.

Kohli held the No. 1 spot, with 16 away tons to his name in Tests but lost the spot to Smith on Wednesday. 

Missing the chance to reach the mark in his home city of Sydney during the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, Smith brought up the five-figure milestone in Australia's first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, playing his signature flick toward mid-on, setting off for one before raising his bat to acknowledge the applause.

The moment was marked by an ovation from the Australian group.

Smith moved the score to 137/2 with the run, continuing Australia's strong start after the tourists won the toss and elected to bat.

The 35-year-old has compiled his runs at an average of over 55, with Kumar Sangakkara the only batter beyond the 10,000 figure with a better return (57.40). He became the fifth fastest batter by innings to reach 10,000 Test runs.

The batter joins Allan Border, Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting as the fourth Australian to reach the mark.

After Smith, a famed member of the 'Fab Four,' added another feat to his name, Ponting feels the flamboyant batter he deserves to be considered the best player of his generation.

For Ponting, Smith's numbers put a strong case for him being the best player of his generation ahead of Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson and Joe Root.

"Is he the best player of his generation? It's hard to argue against it. Joe Root is the other one now, and [Kane] Williamson's record is outstanding as well. Joe's last couple of years have elevated him right back up there, I think," Seven commentator Ponting said as quoted from The Sydney Morning Herald.

"Five or six years ago, when this big four emerged, with [Virat] Kohli being one of those as well, Joe was probably down near the bottom part of that because he hadn't made the hundreds the other guys had made, but he's made 19 hundreds in the past four years," he added.

With ANI Inputs

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"Not Looking At It In Negative Way": India Great's Big Take On Hardik

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has had a curious journey of late. In and out of the national team over his injury issues, Hardik 'the all-rounder' has become a more reliable player for the team ever since he took up his role as a bowler more seriously. Especially in the T20 format, Hardik has been bowling a lot more consistently of late, hence becoming indispensable to the team's balance. Indian pace great Zaheer Khan, highlighting Hardik's importance as a seamer, feels that the all-rounder himself has also understood how important his role as a bowler is.

Hardik is also a part of India's ICC Champions Trophy squad where his role as an all-rounder will be crucial to the team's ambition of lifting the title. While it isn't yet known if Hardik can bowl 10 overs in a match, Zaheer is just happy to see the all-rounder enjoying his role as a pacer more than before.

"That's what we've been saying... that if Hardik the bowler comes to the party, then the whole balance of the side changes. Over time, he has been a reluctant bowler, hasn't he? He's been fighting his own battles - injuries, back issues - forcing him to be apprehensive about looking at a bigger role with the ball. But slowly and surely, he's understood over a period of time that it's very important for him to take up that responsibility for the team. And that's very important," Zaheer said in a chat on Cricbuzz.

"The numbers are backing that and I'm sure that with time, he's also realised the importance of Hardik the bowler. And it clearly shows now when he's preparing for a series. He is not looking at it in a negative way. That's a great sign. You look at them having 3 spinners, or 4 spinners in the side. They know and trust Hardik enough to do the job," added Zaheer.

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Kohli's Ranji Return Leads To Unusual Buzz, Shocked Delhi Cop: "Need..."

Virat Kohli, former Indian cricket team captain, trained at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi on Tuesday ahead of Delhi's Ranji Trophy game against Railways starting Friday. The match marks Kohli's return to Ranji Trophy for the first time since 2012, after BCCI's diktat made it mandatory for all India stars to play domestic cricket. While domestic cricket matches rarely see much fan interest, the return of Kohli for this particular game saw a greater number of media-persons turn up at the Feroz Shah Kotla ground.

According to a report in The Indian Express, seeing the presence of many journalists and camerapersons outside the Virender Sehwag gate at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, a 'shocked' Delhi police sub-inspector Pradeep Rana alerted his superior: "Sir do log hi hai jyada security lag sakti hai, kuch aur log bhej do (We'll need more security for today, please send more force)."

Just like Rishabh Pant did in the last game against Saurashtra, legendary Virat Kohli has politely declined to captain Delhi in their last Ranji Trophy home game against Railways as he wanted Ayush Badoni to continue leading the side.

"Virat was asked if he would like to captain but he has also said that he would like Ayush to continue leading the side," a DDCA official told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

Meanwhile, the BCCI and domestic broadcasters JioCinema have decided to live-stream the match, given the immense fan interest sparked by Kohli's presence.

The general norm is BCCI has one premier match which is aired both on TV and streaming app and for this round it is Karnataka versus Haryana as the star attraction of that game is KL Rahul.

The other two games that were supposed to be only live streamed were Punjab vs Bengal at the Eden Gardens and Baroda vs Jammu and Kashmir in Baroda.

The roster was decided well in advance and had this match not involved Kohli, there was no chance of any deviation from it.

But there was a furore in social media about the most high profile match being ignored by the broadcasters.

"A decision has been taken and JioCinema will live stream the game. So all the Virat Kohli fans who are not in Delhi, need not worry. They can watch their favourite player live," a BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

With PTI inputs 

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Champions Trophy Stadiums In A Mess In Pakistan, ICC CEO Steps Down

International Cricket Council CEO Geoff Allardice has decided to step down just weeks before the Champions Trophy with a board member indicating that his failure to present a "clear picture" of host Pakistan's lack of preparedness is one of the multiple reasons behind the move. The 57-year-old joined the ICC in 2012 as General Manager of Cricket, coming from Cricket Australia, where he served as Cricket Operations Manager. He was appointed CEO of the ICC in November 2021, after having served as acting CEO for eight months.

"It has been a privilege to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the International Cricket Council and I am incredibly proud of the results we have achieved, from enhancing the global reach of cricket to the commercial foundation put in place for ICC Members," Allardice said in a statement.

"I believe this is the right time for me to step down and pursue new challenges," he added.

The official ICC statement made no mention of the exact reasons for Allardice's departure but a top source said the development has been building up for a while.

"The ICC T20 World Cup in the US was big a flop in terms of playing conditions and also it exceeded budget, the auditing is still being done," the board member told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

"What broke the camel's back was Champions Trophy where as CEO, he was supposed to give a clear picture about readiness of Pakistan to host a tourney of such magnitude," he added.

The Champions Trophy is due to start on February 19 with India playing its share of matches in Dubai owing to security concerns in Pakistan.

The bigger concern for ICC is, however, the fact that tournament venues in Karachi and Rawalpindi are still partially under construction or renovation and the images that have trickled in from there do not paint a very positive picture.

It remains to be seen whether Pakistan would be ready in time for the marquee event, which features the world's top eight teams and is being held for the first time after 2017.

However, ICC Chair Jay Shah praised Allardice for his contribution to the game.

"On behalf of the ICC Board, I want to sincerely thank Geoff for his leadership and commitment during his tenure as Chief Executive. His efforts have played a key role in advancing cricket globally.

"We are truly grateful for his service and wish him all the very best in his future endeavors," he said.

The ICC Board will now begin the process to identify Allardice's successor.

His departure continues the exodus of former chair Greg Barclay's team from the ICC.

Earlier, Chris Tetley (head of events), Alex Marshall (head of Anti-Corruption Unit) and Claire Furlong (head of marketing and media) had quit their positions on personal grounds. 

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"You Were Supposed To Ensure Transition": Gambhir Gets '1-Year Warning'

The performances of several veteran Indian cricketers, including the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Mohamed Siraj, etc. have come under the spotlight over recent poor performances. While Rohit and Virat are even being pushed to quit Test cricket, no such verdict exists at present for head coach Gautam Gambhir. With the Champions Trophy being India's next big assignment, there are some who feel the team's poor show in the ICC event could lead to Gambhir's exit. However, former India opener Aakash Chopra feels the Test tour of England will define whether the head coach will stay or not.

Gambhir was brought in as India's head coach after Rahul Dravid's exit, following the team's ICC T20 World Cup triumph last year. As Gambhir nears completion of one year at the job, Chopra feels the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is bound to review his performances as well.

"I feel one more England tour. I don't think the BCCI will say anything to him until then. After the England tour, it will be a year since he took over the reins. You were supposed to ensure transition within one year. So how he did there, which players he prepared, and whether the team's performances have improved, a review can be done for him," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

If India don't succeed in the upcoming Champions Trophy and then the England tour, Chopra feels BCCI could seriously ponder moving on from the head coach.

"However, at least one year at the job is absolutely important to review someone's performance. You need 12 months. So I feel not the Champions Trophy, but the England tour. That might just be a critical barometer or parameter based on which Gautam Gambhir's performance might be reviewed. It won't be a bad thing. You review the performances of batters and bowlers, so do it for the coach as well," Chopra asserted.

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'Recovery Takes A Team': Kuldeep Yadav Grateful For His Injury Recovery

India spinner Kuldeep Yadav expressed gratitude to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) team for his recovery after groin surgery. Kuldeep took to social media to post an emotional message ahead of his return to competitive cricket. "Recovery takes a team. Grateful to the NCA and its team for all the work behind the scenes," he wrote on X. The left-arm spinner has been named in India's squad for the three-match ODI series against England and next month's ICC Champions Trophy. He last played for India in the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru.

Kuldeep recently posted a video of his bowling in the nets at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, promising his much-awaited return to the white-ball format. The 30-year-old is gearing up to lead the spin attack in the upcoming ODIs against England and the eight-team marquee tournament. He will be supported by all-rounders Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja.

Kuldeep, a left-arm unorthodox spinner who plays for Uttar Pradesh in domestic cricket and Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League, played a huge role in India's T20 World Cup-winning campaign and also their runners-up finish in the home ODI World Cup in 2023.

In 103 ODIs for the Men in Blue, Kuldeep Yadav has claimed 168 wickets with two five-fers. His best bowling effort in ODIs is 6-25. He has been part of the Indian team that won the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup in the USA and Caribbean and also of the squads that won the ACC Asia Cup in 2018 and 2023.

With India set to play their Champions Trophy matches in Dubai, he will be crucial in India's hopes of winning the trophy again after 2013. India are set to play three ODIs against England in Nagpur, Cuttack, and Ahmedabad on February 6, 9 and 12, respectively.

In the Champions Trophy, India will begin their Group A campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 before taking on arch-rivals Pakistan on February 23.

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India Star Gets Blockbuster Dhoni Praise From Manjrekar: "Being The Man..."

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has showered big praise on youngster Tilak Varma, comaring his match-winning abilities to that of legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni. Manjrekar's remarks came after Tilak single-handedly took India to a win over England in the second T20I on Saturday, despite wickets falling at the other end. Manjrekar highlighted how Tilak managed to keep his composure till the end, something which Dhoni used to during his playing days. Needing 166 to win, Tilak's 55-ball 72 steered India home with four balls to spare.

"Absolutely. The confidence he has that he will be able to see India through the very end and even in this run chase, there was no panic around the 18th over. Even in the 19th over, you could see that India wasn't getting the boundary that could take the pressure off. But he was quite happy to virtually be there till the end. It seems the guy who is confident and being the man who can take his team through, just like we had a legend in the past in the name of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who had the same confidence. So, when you have a player like him, batting at No.3, he might be taking on that role, which is not such a bad thing," Manjrekar said on ESPNcricinfo.

Since his debut in August 2023, Tilak has been one of the best young performers for India in the format, especially in the last few months. His elevation to number three on the tour of South Africa was an instant success through his back-to-back centuries.

After the match, Tilak reflected on the pressure-filled final overs of the chase, saying he always had it in his mind to play till the end.

"Gautam sir told me in the last innings that when you need 10 runs in an over, you can do that too. When you need 7-8 runs, your role is very crucial. So, you need to stay till the end. No matter how you play, let the non-striker score. Your job is to get one or two boundaries in an over and take singles."

"If you stay till the end, we win the game. He told me this in the last match as well. And even today, during the drinks break, he told me, no matter what happens, you need to play till the end. So, I had it in my mind that I would play till the end. And I believed that I would win the match," Tilak told the broadcaster's after the match.

(With IANS Inputs)

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Gambhir's Stare On Arshdeep's Dismissal That Almost Cost 2nd T20I Viral

Tilak Varma on Saturday gave a brilliant example of his growing prowess in the Indian T20I team as he played a mature knock of 72* to rescue his side to a second successive win against England in Chennai. He stitched crucial partnerships with the lower order to take India to victory. Among the lower order batters, Washington Sundar scored 26 while Ravi Bishnoi scored crucial nine runs off five balls. Arshdeep Singh also looked like making a significant contribution with the bat before perishing while attempting to go after Adil Rashid. After the dismissal the camera turned towards India coach Gambhir and his ice cold reaction went viral. There was a mild hint of smirk too.

India were eight down after that and the match could have England's way from there. However, Tilak and Ravi Bishnoi saved the day.

Gambhir Face pic.twitter.com/40mYmfGhcG

— Nikita. (@bae_stvrrie) January 25, 2025

Arshdeep getting out, trying hitting six, we have seen this before
Arshdeep singh dhoni #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/xvSWxhLOjS

— Harry45 (@Harrykamad45) January 25, 2025

Gambhir reaction after Arshdeep's wicket #INDvsENG #TilakVarma pic.twitter.com/oL9BOQtu6L

— AARYAN (@AARYAN0791) January 25, 2025

India beat England by two wickets in the second T20I to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series on Saturday. India came up with a tidy bowling display to restrict England to 165 for 9, with Axar Patel grabbing the crucial wickets of skipper Jos Buttler (45) and Liam Livingstone (13). In reply, India completed the chase in 19.2 overs with Tilak Varma making an unbeaten 72 off 55 balls. All-rounder Washington Sundar chipped in with 26 off 19 balls as the others failed to deliver with the bat.

Varun Chakravarthy (2/38), Washington Sundar (1/9) and Abhishek Sharma (1/12) bowled tidy spells as England couldn't get going after they were reduced to 26/2 in the fourth over.

England late-order batter Brydon Carse gave a fillip to the team's score with a quick-fire 31 off 17 deliveries.

Carse was also impressive with the ball for England, finishing with excellent figures of 3/29 in four overs.

Brief Scores: England: 165 for 9 in 20 overs (Jos Buttler 45, Brydon Carse 31; Axar Patel 2/32, Washington Sundar 1/9, Varun Chakravarthy 2/38) India: 166 for 8 in 19.2 overs (Tilak Varma 72 not out; Brydon Carse 3/29).

With ANI inputs 

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"Rohit, Virat Forced To Play Domestic Cricket": BCCI Sent Warning From Pak

Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif claimed that Indian senior duo Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are being targeted for their red-ball form and are forced to play domestic cricket ahead of the crucial white-ball assignments. India Test and ODI captain Rohit turned up for Mumbai in their ongoing Ranji Trophy match against Jammu & Kashmir. He scored three and 28 runs in the match. On the other hand, Kohli will join Delhi's squad for the match against Railways at Arun Jaitley Stadium from January 30.

Other than the star duo, members of the Test squad that faced a 1-3 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia are also featuring for their respective state sides for the latest round of Ranji Trophy matches. The other notable players include Yashasvi Jaiswal (Mumbai), Rishabh Pant (Delhi), Ravindra Jadeja (Saurashtra) and Shubman Gill (Punjab).

According to former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter, Rohit and Kohli should focus on their upcoming white-ball assignments against England and next month's Champions Trophy in Dubai.

Latif said that due to the busy international calendar, players don't get much time to play domestic cricket. He went on to say that the star duo played two World Cup finals in the last two years without playing domestic cricket.

"There is no time for players to play domestic cricket due to the packed international calendar. If needed they should play domestic cricket but due to the targeting of Rohit (Sharma) and Virat (Kohli), they're forcing everyone to play domestic cricket. In the past, barring Sachin Tendulkar, others have not played much domestic cricket... Rohit and Virat have won the T20 World Cup and reached the final of the ODI World Cup without playing domestic cricket. They will next play the ODI series against England so they should prepare for it as white-ball is a totally different game," Latif told IANS.

Rohit and Kohli will be seen in the three-match ODI series against England starting on February 6. Both teams are currently playing the five-match T20I series, India started with an emphatic win at Eden Gardens in Kolkata in the first T20I.

--IANS

ab/

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Bizarre Scenes As Rahane Called Back From Dressing Room. Shardul Told To...

In what was a rare sight, Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane was called back by the on-field umpires almost five minutes after he entered the dressing room, following his dismissal. Rahane was recalled from the dressing room as the third umpire revealed that the bowler had overstepped. The incident happened on Friday, the 25th over of Mumbai's second innings on day 2 at the Bandra Kurla Complex Cricket Ground. J&K pacer Umar Nazir bowled a short-pitched delivery to Rahane, who managed to glove it to the keeper Kanhaiya Wadhawan.

While Rahane had walked back to the dressing room after the dismissal, the umpires, to everyone's surprise, recalled the former India captain minutes later, after coming to a conclusion that Nazir had indeed overstepped

As soon as the no-ball was confirmed, umpires recalled Rahane and asked Shardul Thakur to go back to the dressing room. As the Mumbai captain returned to the middle, the on-umpire told him that he had asked him to wait for the no-ball check, but Rahane could not hear.

Ajinkya Rahane was given Out and he left ground and umpires called him back from dug out and Shardul was in the ground and sent back to the dressing room. Have you ever seen that a player called from dug out after he left field. #RanjiTrophy #AjinkyaRahane @BCCIdomestic @BCCI pic.twitter.com/LH3a8vtilo

— Manoj Yadav (@csmanoj21) January 24, 2025

Here's what the rule says:

As per the laws of the game, "An umpire shall intervene if satisfied that a batter, not having been given out, has left the wicket under a misapprehension of being out. The umpire intervening shall call and signal Dead ball to prevent any further action by the fielding side and shall recall the batter.

"A batter may be recalled at any time up to the instant when the ball comes into play for the next delivery, unless it is the final wicket of the innings, in which case it should be up to the instant when the umpires leave the field."

The umpiring standards in the game between Mumbai and J&K has been a huge topic of discussion on social media. Earlier, Mumbai batter Shreyas Iyer had survived a caught behind appeal, despite the replays suggesting that there was a huge sound as the ball was passing close to the bat.

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"4 Spinners Not Viable...": Big Doubts Over BCCI's CT India Squad Raised

Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan has backed India's move to delay Mohammed Shami's much-anticipated international return following a prolonged injury lay-off, saying the team think tank and the veteran pacer will make the "right call at the right time". Shami, who has proved his fitness in practice sessions and domestic cricket for Bengal, was not included in India's playing XI for the first T20I against England here on Wednesday. All eyes were on Shami's return after a 14-month injury lay-off, but India opted for three spinners instead, a decision that paid off as they bowled out England for a meagre 132 before cruising to the target in 12.5 overs with seven wickets in hand.

Irfan said Shami is experienced enough to take an honest assessment of his body.

"When you've been such a seasoned campaigner and are among India's top 10 bowlers, you understand your body's limits well," said Irfan at a promotional event here.

"Shami always provides honest feedback to the team management, and decisions are made through mutual communication. Recovery at the highest level takes time, especially after playing consistently. I believe he and the team management will make the right call at the right time."

Having undergone surgery and rehab following an ankle injury sustained during the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he finished as India's top wicket-taker, Shami had made an impressive return in domestic cricket, representing Bengal across all three formats.

Shami has been chosen in India's white-ball rubber squad against England consisting five T20Is and three ODIs which will act as a build up to the Champions Trophy next month, where the team's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah's inclusion is subject to fitness.

Bumrah suffered a back niggle in the gruelling five-match Test series in Australia and could not bowl in the second innings of the fifth Test in Sydney, and in this context Shami's availability for the Champions Trophy is crucial to India's prospects.

Irfan also expressed concerns over the lack of a pace-bowling backup in the Champions Trophy-bound squad, suggesting that Mohammed Siraj could have been included given Bumrah's uncertain fitness.

"You need a backup pacer. Siraj could have been a good option. In Dubai, playing four spinners isn't viable. With Bumrah and Shami returning from injuries, it won't be easy for them straight away," he observed.

"A pacer like Siraj would have filled that gap. That said, we hope the selectors' choices perform well, and we should back them," he added.

Irfan also addressed the poor form of senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli during India's 1-3 series defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy -- India's first series loss in a decade.

He advised fans not to conflate the celebrated duo's Test struggles with their prospects in white-ball cricket.

"They'll start scoring runs in white-ball cricket; there's no doubt about that," Irfan said.

"Test cricket is a different ball game altogether. Adjustments are needed, whether it's Virat managing deliveries outside the off-stump or Rohit finding his rhythm. ODI is their favourite format, and they'll bounce back strongly."

Recalling India's resilience during the 2003-04 Australia tour, Irfan further shared a motivational anecdote.

"Back then, Dean Jones visited our dressing room and mentioned how outsiders thought our team environment was broken. But we showed unity on the field and drew the series 1-1. Indian cricket is always above individual concerns," he asserted.

Irfan also stressed the importance of domestic cricket, urging players to participate regularly.

"It's about playing domestic cricket but do not play a couple of matches just for the sake of it and show that you've played.

"Playing regularly benefits both players and Indian cricket. For young players, competing against the likes of Kohli or Rohit at the domestic level can be a tremendous confidence boost as they would also raise their levels to bowl to them. Ultimately, Indian cricket gains from this," he added.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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KKR Star Returns To Bat After Ankle Injury. Internet Says "Fighter Hai..."

Madhya Pradesh (MP) all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer fought an injury on Thursday to return to bat for his side on Day 1 of the Ranji Trophy game against Kerala at Thiruvananthapuram. India all-rounder Iyer, who was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for a massive sum of Rs 23.75 crore at IPL 2025 auction in December last year, first came out to bat when MP were reeling at 49 for 4. Playing just three balls into his innings, he twisted his ankle and fell on the ground. The pain he was going through was quite visible and such serious was the injury that the batter had to be carried off the field.

The match continued with MP eventually being reduced to dire straits, and Iyer came back to bat again and ended up scoring crucial 42 for his side.

Iyer's courageous act was praised by fans on social media with his IPL franchise KKR even putting up a post for him.

Fighter hai apna Iyer

Venkatesh Iyer | #TeamMan | #AmiKKR | #RanjiTrophy pic.twitter.com/IMdYL8ZmbR

— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) January 23, 2025

Pacer MD Nidheesh's 5 for 44 helped Kerala bundle out Madhya Pradesh for 160 and then reached 54 for no loss to gain massive strides in the match by the end of play on Day 1.

For MP, skipper Shubham Sharma top-scored with a 134-ball 54.

KKR bought 15 players at IPL 2025 auction and their most debatable purchase was Venkatesh Iyer at a whopping Rs 23.75 crore.

The team benefitted from his ultra aggressive approach with the bat last season when it captured its third title. He scored 370 runs across 14 matches at an average of 46.25 and a strike rate of 158.80.

KKR retained majority of the performers last season but will be interesting to see who captains the side following Iyer's improbable exit. Venkatesh could be a potential captain if KKR decide to name an Indian leader. Ajinkya Rahane is also in the fray.

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"Stress On Kohli, For Wife...": Amid BCCI's Diktat, 'Off-Field Drama' Exposed

Former Australian cricketer Brad Hogg said that star India batter Virat Kohli's poor performance in recent times could be because of "drama off the field" more than things happening on the field and added that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s new policy on families during international tours could put more stress on the veteran batter. Virat, who could just make 190 runs in 10 innings during the recently-concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy, was among players who came under scrutiny after the 1-3 series loss to Australia. Virat ended the last year with just 655 international runs in 23 matches and 32 innings, averaging 21.83, with a century and two fifties to his name. His best score was 100*.

Following the team's collective failure, BCCI introduced a new policy for players, touching on several aspects like luggage, family involvement in tours, playing domestic cricket etc. As per the new policy, the player's family time during away tours has been restricted to just 14 days.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Hogg, member of Australia's 2003 and 2007 Cricket World Cup sqiad, said that Virat has "too much on his plate" right now which has caused him to not play at his best.

"He has got a family now. He has other commitments off the field that he did not have when he was really dominating all three formats around the globe. So, it is not just about the cricket, it is what happening off the field as well," said Hogg.

"I think it is more the drama off-field than on-field for Virat. I just think he has just got too much on his plate that has probably caused him to not perform as well at this moment," he added.

Speaking further on BCCI's rules about families, Hogg said, "With the new rules that the BCCI have brought in in regards to families, that's even going to put more stress on Virat, for his wife and family as well because you got to have that balance. I think players should be able to have their families on tour as much as possible, especially with the amount of cricket and the amount of travel that India has at the present moment."

Hogg also said that India's problems during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy were not due to their families being around, but rather it was about the culture built by the new head coach Gautam Gambhir and support staff in the dressing room.

Virat has been facing a massive decline in his Test performances that dates back to the start of 2020. In 39 Test matches since the start of 2020, Virat has scored just 2,028 runs at an average of 30.72, with just three centuries and nine fifties to show. His best score is 186.

Virat ended the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle with 751 runs in 14 matches and 25 innings at an average of 32.65, with two centuries and three fifties. His best score was 121.

In 10 Tests last year, he scored just 417 runs at an average of 24.52 with just one century and fifty, to conclude a disappointing year.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Gambhir's Team Environment Highlighted Again. This Time By 24-Year-Old Star

The jury is still out on his coaching methodology as far as traditional formats are concerned but India's young T20 stars, including opener Abhishek Sharma gave a thumbs up to embattled Gautam Gambhir after the hosts blitzed past England by seven wickets in the opening match here on Wednesday. The 24-year-old struck 79 off just 34 balls to help India chase down a small target of 133 in just 12.5 overs at the Eden Gardens. "I wanted to express myself but special mention to captain (Suryakumar Yadav) and coach (Gambhir), the freedom they have given us as youngsters is tremendous," Abhishek said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

While there were talks about Gambhir not being on same page with senior players during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Abhishek swore by the dressing room atmosphere.

"Never seen an environment like this, express yourself, hit your shots, even from the first ball," Abhishek added.

Asked about his plan, he revealed that it was a simple one --playing like he does in the IPL.

"My plan was simple, play like I played in IPL," the left-handed batter, who plays for Sunrisers Hyderabad said.

He stayed deep inside the crease while using the pace of deliveries bowled by Jofra Archer and Mark Wood.

"I practiced my trigger movements before the match, I knew they (England bowlers) would bowl short and check my patience. I executed my plans very well." Talking about the Eden pitch, he said, "It was sticking a bit, double-paced, but the way our bowlers bowled was good, thought we'd chase 160-170." Abhishek and Sanju Samson have struck a good understanding.

"Sanju and I talk as partners. When he bats, I enjoy at the other end." India captain Suryakumar Yadav said the energy after India won the toss set the tome of the match.

"There's a lot of freedom given, we want to play a bit different. Bowlers had plans, executed, and the way we batted was icing on the cake. We did the same in South Africa.

"Hardik had responsibility to bowl new ball so cushion to play the extra spinner. Varun's preparations are on point, and Arshdeep is taking the extra responsibility." England captain Jos Buttler said his team "wants to be aggressive and watchable" under new coach Brendon McCullum, who had introduced ultra-aggressive "Bazball" style of batting in the Test format.

"We want to be aggressive and watchable, but venue to venue got to assess conditions. Enjoyment of the game is always there, I'm enjoying the environment, I'm a big McCullum fan, always have been. Enjoying working with him," he said.

"Some really good players in there, we'll be better for the run-out. Jof looked good, superstar, looked threatening, Mark Wood bowled fast, exciting." On the pitch, he said, "There was a little in the wicket early on, didn't expect that, but if you came through that phase it was a good pitch and a fast-scoring ground."

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Abhishek Sharma's Blazing Fifty Powers India To Emphatic Win vs England

Abhishek Sharma smashed a blistering 34-ball-79 in an exhibition of breathtaking power-hitting on the back of a disciplined bowling effort, as India outplayed England by seven wickets in the first T20I in Kolkata on Wednesday. India now lead the five-match series 1-0. On a day when Gautam Gambhir's coaching set-up made headlines by delaying Mohammed Shami's much-anticipated return to international cricket, India bundled out England for a paltry 132 at Eden Gardens, where the average first-innings score is around 195.

Mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy was at his devastating best, returning figures of 3/23, ably supporting left-arm quick Arshdeep Singh's record-breaking spell of 2/17.

Arshdeep not only rattled England with his precision but also etched his name in the record books, surpassing Yuzvendra Chahal (96 wickets) to become India's leading wicket-taker in T20Is with 97 scalps.

But Abhishek's clean hitting, including five fours and eight sixes, in a 20-ball half-century, took the game away from England as India cruised to the target in commanding fashion with 43 balls to spare.

He shared a third wicket partnership with Tilak Verma (19 not out) who showed fine maturity in the partnership of 84 that came at a strike rate of 200.

Abhishek showcased his full range of shots, flicking one over fine leg reminiscent of Yuvraj Singh, backing away to uppercut another for six over third man, and finishing the over with a straight-driven boundary.

The 18-run over eased the pressure on India and shifted the game decisively.

India's strategy against Archer's final over was cautious, as Abhishek and Tilak Varma played him out with maturity.

Abhishek was handed a lifeline on 29 when Adil Rashid spilled a sharp return catch.

Capitalising on the reprieve, the Indian opener unleashed his power, taking on Rashid with disdain.

He smashed the leg-spinner for a boundary and two towering sixes in consecutive deliveries, putting India firmly in control.

Abhishek brought up his half-century in spectacular fashion, hooking a 140.7 kph short ball from Jamie Overton over fine leg with supreme confidence.

By the halfway mark, India had surged to 100/2, turning the target into a mere formality.

Gambhir's decision was vindicated because perfect execution of plans by his spin troika of who snared 5 for 67 in 12 overs bowled between them.

Despite the dewy conditions, India went in with three spinners -- Ravi Bishnoi (0/23 in 4 overs), Axar Patel (2/22 in 4 overs), and Chakravarthy -- backing record-breaker Arshdeep Singh's fiery opening spell.

The left-arm quick set the tone by dismissing both openers, Phil Salt (0) and Ben Duckett (4), in successive overs en route to his 2/17 from four overs.

His first spell of 3-0-10-2 also saw him surpass Chahal's tally.

Stand-in skipper Suryakumar Yadav managed his bowlers astutely, ensuring timely changes and capitalising on their momentum after winning the toss. The pitch offered some grip, and the dew had minimal impact.

England's struggles were compounded as they failed to build partnerships, with only skipper Jos Buttler holding the innings together.

Buttler (68 from 44 balls) played a composed knock, reaching his fifty off 34 balls, mixing power and precision to keep England afloat amidst the wreckage.

Chakravarthy turned the game decisively in India's favour post-powerplay finding his mojo back at his IPL home venue.

Returning to his IPL home ground, the Kolkata Knight Riders spinner dismissed Harry Brook (17) and Liam Livingstone (0) in quick succession before eventually sending Buttler back, breaking England's resistance.

Ravi Bishnoi complemented the attack beautifully with a tight spell of 0/22 from his four overs, while Axar Patel recovered from a shaky start to finish with 2/22, including a maiden.

The spinners dominated the middle overs, conceding just 25 runs and picking up two crucial wickets between overs 10 and 15. The English batters weren't able to pick the wrist spinners from their hands.

England's misery was compounded by some reckless shot selection.

Youngster Jacob Bethell (7) escaped a close stumping chance off Chakravarthy but couldn't capitalise, mistiming a pull to deep midwicket to become Hardik Pandya's first victim.

Pandya was initially expensive smashed for 18 runs where Buttler smashed him for four boundaries but he was cleverly rotated by Suryakumar as he bowled tidily at death and finished with 2/42.

England were eventually bowled out in the final delivery when Mark Wood was run out for 1.

Despite the early counterattack from Brook and Buttler, England never truly recovered from Chakravarthy's twin strikes.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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BCCI Told To Avoid 'Western Way' As Murmurs Against Gambhir Increase

After India's disastrous Border Gavaskar Trophy, the murmurs surrounding the Indian dressing room has refused to die down. From allegations on discipline to 'leaks' to calls for a total transition, Indian cricket had a roller-coaster ride since the first week of this year. There were even reports that Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir's performance will be reviewed after the Champions Trophy 2025, starting next month. In the midst of this, came a suggestion that Indian cricket team can opt for two different coaches. 

"I think so. I think that's a good option," Monty Panesar, who has 167 wickets in Tests and 24 wickets in ODIs for England, told Times of India.

"I think maybe the workload is too much for Gambhir...He's just transitioned into a coach. Sometimes it can be difficult for some of the senior players who actually will be thinking, 'Well, I was his teammate a few years ago, now he's telling us how to play cricket'. It can be difficult, that transition, and also his record (as a batter) isn't great in Australia or in England."

But former BCCI chief selector Sunil Joshi has rejected any such idea. 

"I personally feel there shouldn't be any knee-jerk reactions after the BGT (result). I mean we have lost the BGT, accept it...They (Australia) played better cricket. Let's accept it," Joshi told Timesofindia.com.

"We should not be going the western way. We should be going our own way, what suits us, because the majority of our players are going to be there for all three formats. Very few exceptions are there who are going to feature (only) in Tests or T20s and ODIs. So it doesn't make any difference."

He also said that having two coaches opens up the possibility of having multiple judgements. "When you have two coaches, there'll be two different views on how to play cricket, although you might say they are all professionals and everything. But still, there is the 1% possibility of being judgmental," said Joshi.

"Prior to a particular series, the white-ball coach will come, then the other coach (for Tests). Then they'll start doing different sorts of training. There are completely different dynamics when you have multiple coaches for multiple teams. That's my view on that."

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On Rohit, Virat Taking Part In Ranji, India Great Gives Big 'Morale' Verdict

Former cricketer Madan Lal on Tuesday said that he is feeling "very happy" to see Indian men's cricketers Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli taking part in the second part of the Ranji Trophy. India captain Rohit Sharma will take part in the upcoming second phase of the Ranji Trophy for Mumbai. Kohli has also confirmed his availability for Delhi's Ranji Trophy match against Railways, according to sources in Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA). Virat's last appearance in the Ranji Trophy dates back to November 2012 against Uttar Pradesh, in which he was dismissed for 14 and 42 runs in both innings by pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Speaking to ANI, Madan Lal said that senior players like Rohit and Virat's presence in the first-class cricket will help other cricketers to grow.

"I'm so happy that all these players (Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli) are going to play first class. You need to play matches in the tournament which has made you the player. You should play domestic matches whenever you get a chance, because, the young players can learn from you. Maybe someday in the future, these players will become great players...," Madan Lal told ANI.

He added that If Kohli and Rishabh Pant play for Delhi, then it will help them to qualify for the knockouts in first-class cricket.

"The morale of the team also increases a lot when players like Kohli and Rohit play. If a team is struggling to qualify like Delhi. If Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant play, then they have a chance of winning. So this was a very important step...this rule was there before as well. But they used to avoid it. We never avoided first-class matches," he added.

Rohit's return to first-class cricket coincides with mounting discussions about his future in Test cricket. At 37, he remains determined to continue in the longest format, despite stepping aside for India's XI in the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Sydney earlier this month.

Rohit's recent performances in red-ball cricket have raised questions. During the Australia tour, he managed only 31 runs in five innings across three Tests. This followed a lean patch at home in the 2023-24 season, where he averaged just 13.30 in ten innings against Bangladesh and New Zealand. Under his leadership, India suffered 3-0 whitewash against New Zealand -- their first-ever at home in a series of three or more matches.

Things started to change after India received a 3-1 bashing at the hands of Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken a much harder stance regarding the participation of Indian international stars in domestic cricket.

Earlier on Thursday, BCCI released new policies for Team India, making it "mandatory" to participate in domestic matches to remain "eligible" for selection in the national team and for the central contracts.

In the policy, BCCI stated that taking part in domestic cricket will remain connected to the cricket ecosystem. The statement added that any exceptions to taking part in domestic cricket will be considered only under extraordinary circumstances.

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"Have To Take Harsh Decisions": New India Vice-Captain On Chat With Gambhir

India all-rounder Axar Patel has been given a new responsibility - being the vice-captain in T20I cricket. However, while T20I cricket is in a healthy state for the country, Test cricket has seen a tumultuous few months, culminating in a 1-3 loss for India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and questions being raised over Gautam Gambhir's support staff, with reports stating that assistant coaches Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate were under scrutiny from the BCCI. However, Axar has reiterated faith in the team management and also stated that he wasn't aware of team happenings in the Australia tour. Axar also stated that being vice-captain comes with the responsibility of having to take strong calls at times.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of India's five-match T20I series against England, Axar backed the support staff.

"Regarding support staff, I wasn't with the team for the last three months so I don't know what happened in Australia but here the support staff is the same and we have been discussing on what we want to do in matches," Axar said.

"Whatever inputs we want, we talk to the batting or bowling coach accordingly. In T20Is, it is a fast game, so we talk about important decisions quickly, so that's what we talk about, what my (or anyone's) role is," Axar added.

Axar Patel also talked about the responsibility that comes with a leadership role, and spoke about the discussions he had had with head coach Gautam Gambhir and T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav.

"Being vice-captain comes with added responsibility. Sometimes we have to take harsh decisions and give honest opinions and that has been the discussion with Suryakumar Yadav and Gautam Gambhir," Axar stated.

India will play five T20Is against England starting January 22, with the first game to be played at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

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"Will Be A Bit Nervous Because...": Ganguly On Shami's India Comeback

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly on Monday refused to read much into Virat Kohli's prolonged lean run and hailed the batting maestro as the "greatest white-ball player" and "once-in-a-lifetime cricketer". Kohli struck a second innings century in the opening Perth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but then managed only 85 runs in the next seven innings. With seniors such as Kohli and skipper Rohit Sharma failing to deliver, India lost the series Down Under 1-3. "Virat Kohli is a once-in-a-lifetime cricketer. To score 81 international centuries in a career is something unbelievable. For me, he's probably the greatest white-ball player the world has seen," Ganguly said during a Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) felicitation programme for the state's players.

Reflecting on Kohli's struggle after the Perth century, Ganguly said even he was surprised to see him not build on that hundred in the remainder of the series.

"I was really surprised the way he batted after getting a 100 in Perth. He struggled before that but I thought after the 100 in Perth, it'll be a big series for him.

"But I think it happens. Every player has his weakness and strength. You know, there's no player in the world, who will not have that. It's how you adapt to your weaknesses as you play great bowlers over a period of time." With Kohli's poor form being a topic of discussion, Ganguly expressed confidence and said he would be back at his best in the three-match ODI series against England and the ensuing Champions Trophy.

"He will score runs in this tournament in Indian conditions, and I still feel there's a lot of cricket left in Virat Kohli, the tour of England will be a big challenge for him.

"I'm not too worried about his form in the Champions Trophy, because as I said, he's probably the best white-ball player the world has seen for a long period of time."

Shami next best after Bumrah

Ganguly was also excited to see pacer Mohammed Shami back on his feet and fully fit after a long injury layoff.

"I'm happy to see Shami fit because I think he's probably the best bowler after (Jasprit) Bumrah in the country.

"I know he'll be a bit nervous because he's playing cricket after a long time, especially with a knee injury, but the good thing is that he bowled a lot for Bengal in the domestic cricket, which is going to help him in the games to come," he said.

Shami will return to international action in the series-opening T20I against England here on Wednesday.

Ganguly also supported the idea of Shami returning to Test cricket, stating, "He's as good as anybody in the world. Shami and Bumrah bowling at two ends is different than Bumrah bowling from one end. Both players are vital to each other's success in Test cricket."

There has been a lot of criticism of Team India following their loss to Australia and Ganguly stressed the importance of focusing on performance and maintaining a strong mindset amid all the noise.

"There's so much at stake with sport these days, and there will be negativity and opinions. As an athlete, you need to find a way to keep yourself out of it," he advised.

India are Champions Trophy contenders

Ganguly further said India would be one of the contenders in the Champions Trophy, especially after their runner-up finish in the 2023 ODI World Cup and the T20 World Cup title triumph last year.

"I know India did not have a great series in Australia, but if you look at the last two World Cups, the T20 World Cup India won it unbeaten, and the 50-over World Cup India lost their final.

"So if you look at India's performance in the last two World Cups, they've just lost one game, in almost about 20 of them. So, I think it's a phenomenal white ball team. For me, they will be the favourites in the Champions Trophy."

It will be a different Rohit come Champions Trpophy 

Ganguly also backed struggling Indian skipper Rohit Sharma to return to his best in the Champions Trophy.

"Rohit Sharma in white-ball cricket is phenomenal, and you will see a different Rohit Sharma once the Champions Trophy starts. And as I said, they (India) will be one of the contenders in the tournament." Ganguly, however, said India need to work on their Test cricket with their next series being in England in the coming summer.

"Come England in July, they'll have to really work hard to play well there because the conditions are different. The red ball and the seaming, swinging pitches, they'll have to bat a bit better than what they have done," Ganguly said.

"I've always said that if you score 350 to 400 runs in first innings of Test matches away from home, you get yourself in a position to win Test matches."

"Now if you're getting out for less than 200, then you're always fighting from behind. And the reason they won in Perth is because they got 400-500 runs on the board in second innings."

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BCCI's New Guideline Implemented Ahead Of England T20Is. Restrictions On...

The implementation of the 10-point policy guidelines for the Indian cricket team has begun with the BCCI communicating to the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) that no separate vehicle should be arranged for any player as all are required to travel by the team bus. The Indian team is in Kolkata for the T20I series-opener against England at the Eden Gardens on January 22. After the Australia series debacle, the BCCI has come out with a 10-point SOP.

As per the SOP, "all players are required to stay for the entire duration of scheduled practice sessions and travel together to and from the venue. This rule ensures commitment and fosters a strong work ethic within the team." India skipper Rohit Sharma has already expressed his reservations on certain clauses but it is understood that BCCI has already put at least one of the 10 clauses in force.

The 10-point 'policy document' outlining the new guidelines was shared with all state cricket boards, hosting the India-England matches, including the CAB.

CAB president Snehasish Ganguly confirmed the arrangements and expressed the association's commitment to adhering to the policies.

"In keeping with the BCCI's 10-point guidelines for players, the Cricket Association of Bengal has not arranged any separate means of conveyance,” Snehasish told PTI.

"Only a team bus has been arranged for the Indian team. There won't be any personal vehicles for the cricketers. We have to follow the guidelines, which clearly state that all players are expected to travel with the team to and from matches and practice sessions," the former Bengal cricketer and elder brother of Sourav Ganguly said.

In the past some of the senior cricketers have travelled to and fro from stadiums in personal vehicles, which BCCI's operation team would arrange with the help of state units.

Even during Australian tours, two superstars travelled separately with their families.

For the first time after the new regulations were put to practice, the Indian contingent arrived at the Eden Gardens in the team bus, marking a departure from previous instances where some of the players or support staff would occasionally travel in personal vehicles. Head coach Gautam Gambhir was the first to alight from the bus, followed by his support staff and players, including skipper Suryakumar Yadav and star all-rounder Hardik Pandya.

PA of one of main support staff lodged in separate hotel

There has been a lot of criticism about one of the main support staff's personal manager being allowed access to the team hotel as well as in the hospitality box, earmarked for the national selectors.

The person in question had also travelled in a selectors' car in Australia.

The BCCI has now barred personal managers or assistants associated with players and support staff members from staying in the team hotel.

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"India's Loss": Gambhir's Old Remark On Samson Resurfaces After CT 2025 Snub

India's squad for the upcoming ODIs against England and the Champions Trophy 2025 were announced on Saturday and some of the selections left everyone shocked. Batter Shubman Gill was named as skipper Rohit Sharma's deputy in the series over all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Apart from this, another big shock came in the form of Sanju Samson's exclusion from the squad. Despite giving breakthrough performances in both ODI and T20I cricket in 2024, Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul were chosen over Samson as India's wicketkeeping options for the tournament.

Samson hammered three centuries in five T20Is he played in 2024. In his last ODI appearance for India, which came against South Africa in December 2023, he scored 108 runs. 

Despite these stats, he has been snubbed from India's ODI squads while he has found a spot in the five-match T20I series against England.

Samson's position in the Indian team has always been an inconsistent one. However, the wicketkeeper-batter has always found support from India's head coach Gautam Gambhir. Amid his exclusion from the ODIs, Gambhir's old remark on Samson resurfaced on the internet. 

In an old interaction with ESPNCricinfo in 2020, Gambhir backed Samson for a position in the Indian team.  “You know what, if Sanju Samson is not going to play for India, it's not Sanju Samson's loss. It is actually India's loss, and I hope Sanju Samson is backed the same way Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been backed. You are losing out on a talent which probably be the No.1 batter in the future,” Gambhir had told ESPNCricinfo.

Gautam Gambhir was criticising selectors, Coach, Captain etc before for not selecting Sanju Samson

He is Head coach now but still Sanju is not selected. Does he speak about it now!? #ChampionsTrophy

pic.twitter.com/Ox32wjWkZt

— Veena Jain (@DrJain21) January 18, 2025

“Unfortunately, we haven't backed him till now. People sitting in those big rooms, the selection committee should be scratching their hair 'Why wasn't Sanju Samson part of the T20 team or the last World Cup?',” he added.

According to a report by Dainik Jagran, Gambhir once again backed Samson for a spot in the ODIs and the Champions Trophy but Rohit and chief selector Ajit Agarkar opted for Pant and Rahul. 

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Want To Bring CT To Wankhede For Another Round Of Celebrations: Rohit

India captain Rohit Sharma on Sunday said that magnitude of T20 World Cup victory dawned on him only after witnessing a sea of blue ready to welcome him and his band of men at the Wankhede Stadium last July. At the twilight of his international career, the Indian captain wouldn't mind getting immersed in a deluge of fans one last time if he can regain the Champions Trophy that he won in 2013. On Sunday, as Mumbai Cricket Association's grand celebrations concluded for the completion of Wankhede Stadium's 50 years, Rohit said sharing the joy of another such victory with the crowd here would be his wish.

"When I woke up the next day after the celebration here that's when we realised," Rohit said when asked at what point he truly realised India had won the World Cup.

"Because looking at what happened the previous day, when we did the parade with so many people on the roads watching the team, the next day I realised what we did was very, very special." "Winning the World Cup and celebrating it with your people is a different thing; you celebrate anyway with your players and teams but celebrating it with your people is a different feeling and I knew that will happen only once we are back in Mumbai," he said.

Rohit said the Indian team will soon be embarking on the Champions Trophy campaign and will try to bring another trophy to the iconic stadium here.

"We will embark on another tournament. I am sure when we reach Dubai (the wishes) of 140 crore people will be behind us, we know that. We will try and do everything we can to bring this trophy (ICC Champions Trophy) back here at the Wankhede," he said.

The Indian captain said he always wanted to bring another World Cup trophy to Wankhede after witnessing similar celebrations of 2007 T20 World Cup win here.

"When we returned from South Africa after winning the (T20) World Cup, I dreamt about winning another World Cup and bringing it here," he said.

"I remember, we were still in Barbados after winning the (T20) World Cup and we were stuck there due to a storm but planning was in process as to what we would do once we are back in India. It was planned that we would go to (New) Delhi (to meet the PM) but what after that?" "No one knew what to do after that but I wanted that World Cup (trophy) should come here at Wankhede. Each of the recent World Cups which we have won in 2007 and 2011 have been celebrated at Wankhede and bringing (the trophy) of 2024 was also very important for us," he said.

Legendary Sunil Gavaskar said he still gets the feeling of "coming to home ground" when he visits the stadium.

"When the Wankhede Stadium was built in 1974, our dressing room was downstairs. When we stepped into the ground for the first time for a practice session, it was love at first sight," he said.

"Prior to that, we were playing at the Brabourne Stadium, which belonged to a club (Cricket Club of India). But coming here, it felt like the home ground of Mumbai cricket. The feeling is always different when you have a home ground. I still get that feeling whenever I come for commentary. My chest swells with pride," he added.

Sachin Tendulkar said he experienced the same emotions of playing his last Test here back in 2013 against West Indies.

"When the schedule for the series against West Indies was announced, I called up Mr N Srinivasan and requested whether the second and last match of the series could be played at Wankhede because I want my mother to watch me play my last match," he said.

"In 30 years, she had never watched me play live and at that time, her health was not such that she could not travel to any other venue except Wankhede. The BCCI, very graciously, accepted that request and my mother and entire family could be at the Wankhede on that day. Today, when I stepped into the Wankhede, I am experiencing the same emotions," he said.

Tendulkar remarked India, despite having reached the ODI World Cup final in 2003, crossed the hurdle only in 2011 here at this venue.

"It was without any doubt the best moment of my life," he said while talking about a picture from World Cup winning night when Tendulkar was hoisted on their shoulders by his teammates.

"Their (referring to Gavaskar) 1983 victory inspired me that even I should have a trophy in my hand. We came close to winning the World Cup in 1996 in India and in South Africa in 2003. However, we crossed the final hurdle at the Wankhede Stadium at my home ground. Till that point, no host nation had won the World Cup," he added.

Ravi Shastri recalled hitting his six sixes off Baroda bowler Tilak Raj by describing it as if he was commentating, while the ceremony also featured a glittering laser show and musical performances.

A coffee table book and a postal stamp were also released.

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Rinku, Samajwadi MP Priya Saroj Set To Marry? Woman's Father Spills Beans

Amidst rumours of Team India batter Rinku Singh and Priya Saroj getting, the bride's father Tufani Saroj cleared the air and said that both of them have expressed their desire to get married but the engagement hasn't taken place yet. There had been several reports roaming on the internet claiming that Samajwadi Party MP Priya Saroj was engaged to Rinku Singh. To clear the air, Tufani Saroj, father of Priya, who's also a sitting MLA from the Samajwadi Party, spoke to ANI and said that both Rinku Singh and Priya Saroj sought their parent's permission. He also confirmed that the engagement has not taken place yet and only the initial talks have taken place.

"Both the children have expressed their desire to get married and have sought our permission for the same. The engagement has not taken place yet. Initial talks have taken place in this regard," Tufani Saroj told ANI.

Since the conclusion of the T20 World Cup, Rinku has become a regular in the format but is still to earn a spot in the ODI format.

Rinku has featured in two ODIs for India and holds pretty impressive List-A numbers. The southpaw has garnered 1,899 runs in 52 innings, averaging 48.69 while striking at 94.8. His excellent numbers include one hundred and 17 half-centuries.

In 30 T20I matches and 22 innings, Rinku has scored 507 runs at an average of 46.09 and a strike rate of 165.14, with three half-centuries. He's yet to smash his maiden T20I century. The 27-year-old made his T20I debut against Ireland in 2023.

Rinku has been one of the main players for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He has played 46 matches in the T20 tournament and scored 893 runs at a strike rate of 143.33. He slammed four half-centuries in the cash-rich tournament.

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Ex-RCB Star Calls Out BCCI's Champions Trophy Squad, Says "Own Rule..."

Team India announced their 15-man squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on Saturday, choosing to ignore Karun Nair despite his red-hot form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Nair has slammed 752 runs in seven innings in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and made a serious case to be a late inclusion. However, the selection committee headed by Ajit Agarkar did not pick Nair even for the ODI series against England, instead maintaining continuity. This decision came under tremendous flak from one of Virat Kohli's former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) teammates.

Shreevats Goswami, who played at RCB with Kohli from 2008 to 2010, and also played under Gautam Gambhir at Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2011, was livid with the decision to leave Nair out.

Karun nair not getting picked is like going against your own rule of making domestic cricket mandatory.  for him! #ChampionsTrophy2025

— Shreevats goswami (@shreevats1) January 18, 2025

Goswami implied hypocrisy on part of the BCCI making domestic cricket mandatory in their 10-point guideline but then leaving out Nair.

"Karun Nair not getting picked is like going against your own rule of making domestic cricket mandatory," Goswami wrote on X.

Goswami reasoned that Karun Nair could've at least been taken as a travelling reserve with Team India.

"Why not make an exception for someone who has scored 752 runs in seven games, I mean use his form! Take an extra player and go. India did take 4 reserves including Gill for the recent T20 World Cup in the Caribbean. 2015 World Cup too Dhawal Kulkarni was a part of WC as travelling reserve. Jaiswal as an extra opener? Just add him as the 16th!," Goswami stated.

Why not make exception for someone who has scored 752 runs in 7 games , I mean use his form! Take a extra player and go. India did take 4 reserve including gill for recent t20 wc in the Caribbean .2015 wc too Dhawal kulkarni was a part of WC as travelling reserve. Jaiswal as...

— Shreevats goswami (@shreevats1) January 18, 2025

Goswami reasoned that India do not have a middle order back-up, which is why Karun Nair should've been picked.

Meanwhile, Agarkar defended not picking Karun Nair.

"Karun Nair is playing well but it was difficult for him to get a place in this team," Agarkar said in the press conference for the team announcement.

"It was difficult to find a place and all those who have been picked have averaged in mid 40s," Agarkar says, defending the choice of batters in the 15-man squad.

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Karnataka Beat Vidarbha In Final To Clinch Fifth Vijay Hazare Trophy Title

Dhruv Shorey's third consecutive hundred went in vain as Karnataka rode on unfancied Smaran Ravichandran's stylish ton to win their fifth Vijay Hazare Trophy title, defeating Vidarbha by 36 runs in a high-scoring final in Vadodara on Saturday. Karnataka has an unprecedented record of reaching five finals and winning all of them. Left-handed Smaran smashed 101 off just 92 deliveries, while the unheralded keeper-batter Krishnan Srijith chipped in with a plucky 78 off 74 balls. T20 star Abhinav Manohar provided the final flourish with a blistering 79 off 42 deliveries, propelling the Karnataka to a commanding total of 348 for 6 in 50 overs In reply, Vidarbha, which had reached the final without losing a single game in the group stage, paid the price for most of their batters outside the top three failing to get significant time at the crease.

However, all-rounder Harsh Dubey's explosive 63 off 30 balls, which included five sixes and as many fours, gave the winners a scare before Vidarbha were all out for 312 in 48.2 overs.

Shorey, who scored a century in both the quarter and semi-final, looked classy en route his 110 but there was no support at the end once 'Player of the Tournament' Karun Nair (27) had a rare failure as he got a sharp off-cutter from Prasidh Krishna which also seemed to keep a tad low knocking the off-stump back.

Karun, whose name came up for discussion during Indian team's selection meeting in Mumbai, finished the tournament with 779 runs and a whopping average of 389.5.

At the other end, Shorey, a former Delhi opener, looked regal as he drove and played some great horizontal bat shots on the flattest of surfaces. He added 56 with Nair and another 62 with the seasoned Jitesh Sharma (34) but the boundaries dried up during the middle overs.

Much of the credit should go to military medium pace bowler Vasuki Koushik (3/47 in 10 overs), who did well to bowl within his limitations, pitching it up and keeping everything in line of stumps. He hardly gave away loose deliveries and all those batters, who didn't have much game time unlike Shorey, Nair and Yash Rathod, struggled to keep up the momentum.

The other Karnataka bowlers, including Prasidh (3/84 in 10 overs) and left-arm Abhilash Shetty (3/58 in 9.2 overs), bowled numerous short deliveries, which Shorey easily dispatched by rocking back. He struck eight fours and two sixes, with the second six off Prasidh, hit down the ground, bringing up his hundred. Once Shetty got him holed trying to pull, it was curtains for Vidarbha even as Dubey used the long handle to good effect towards the end.

Earlier, left-handed Smaran did well with his strong off-side play but it was Manohar, whose lusty hits including four sixes, took Karnataka to a match-winning total close to 350.

Smaran-Srijith added 140 off 122 balls and another century plus stand with Manohar where the latter was the dominant partner.

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"First Time In India...": Gambhir Urged To Stop "Blame Game" Amid Leak Saga

Reports surrounding the Indian dressing room and Gautam Gambhir have been at an all-time high, with some claiming recently that India batter Sarfaraz Khan was pointed at by the head coach for causing the 'leaks'. In a BCCI meeting between Gambhir, captain Rohit Sharma, chief selector Ajit Agarkar and other officials, Gambhir apparently put the blame on Sarfaraz for causing the dressing room leaks, as per a video report by News 24. While there has been no confirmation or proof regarding this, former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has explosively stated that such reports are not good for the team.

"The media is strong everywhere in Asia, be it Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Pakistan or India, you get news. But this is the first time I'm hearing such news (of team division and grouping) from the Indian camp," said Basit Ali, speaking on his YouTube channel.

Ali urged Gambhir to stop the "blame game" if any of the allegations are indeed true.

"There are talks that Sarfaraz (Khan) leaked the dressing room talks and the board meeting conversations were leaked. This is not a good sign; it affects the team unity. The faster it ends, the better," Ali said.

"There shouldn't be any blame game and Gautam Gambhir needs to play a role here. Was Sarfaraz there in the (BCCI review) meeting?" Ali stated further.

While news of the apparent leak hasn't been addressed by Gambhir, Sarfaraz or any member of the team, the BCCI have implemented a 10-point guideline for the players, with increased domestic cricket and reduced time with family members on tour some of the major points.

Basit Ali stated that it is important for the players, selectors and coaches to be on the same page, in order to maintain team harmony.

"There are four pillars - chairman, selectors, captain and players. They need to be together to form a good team. They should have the same mindset. All these four pillars should be on the same page. Such news is spread to affect the team environment and the media plays a key role. Whether it's targeted towards Virat, Rohit or another group at Gambhir," Basit Ali remarked.

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