Ahead of the Afghanistan Test, coach Gautam Gambhir stressed the importance of this match for the World Test Championship roadmap. He highlighted the need to identify a fourth spinner for the Sri Lanka tour and expressed confidence in Sai Sudharsan's potential at number three, emphasizing a long-term approach to player development.
Former England captain Nasser Hussain believes India should fast-track Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's international debut. The young batter's record-breaking IPL 2026 season has impressed many. Hussain feels Sooryavanshi's extraordinary performances make him impossible to ignore for the national team. His talent is undeniable and he is set for further challenges.
Former India batter Mohammad Kaif strongly backs Shreyas Iyer for the T20I captaincy, citing his IPL success with Gautam Gambhir and leading franchises to finals. Kaif believes Iyer's leadership and batting prowess make him the top choice, ahead of others like Jasprit Bumrah. He also suggested the team has moved past Hardik Pandya and Shubman Gill for the role.
Kevin Pietersen has backed players prioritizing IPL commitments over early returns for international duty, defending Jofra Archer's absence from England's Test. Pietersen argued that former cricketers who didn't experience the IPL lack perspective on modern players' choices. Captain Ben Stokes also defended Archer, highlighting the evolving cricketing landscape and new opportunities.
Marta Kostyuk again refused to shake hands with Russian player Mirra Andreeva after their French Open semifinal, continuing a stance she has maintained since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The Ukrainian views the gesture as a show of solidarity with her country. Kostyuk has also used her platform to highlight the war's humanitarian impact and support for Ukrainians.
In an exclusive conversation with TimesofIndia.com following his retirement announcement, former India allrounder Vijay Shankar reflected on the emotional decision to step away, the injuries that altered his career, handling public criticism, his love for all-round cricket and why he still wants to continue playing overseas leagues.
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar urges patience for young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, despite his record-shattering IPL 2026 season. Tendulkar advises the 15-year-old to embrace his natural game and develop organically, emphasizing that challenges are part of any career. He believes selectors should manage his progression, encouraging fans to enjoy his talent without undue pressure.
A pre-World Cup friendly between DR Congo and Chile in Spain was cancelled due to health concerns over the Ebola outbreak. Local authorities intervened after health experts warned of potential risks. DR Congo has already altered its training plans due to the epidemic.
Gujarat Titans' Jos Buttler described a frightening safety scare after their IPL final loss. The team bus caught fire due to a short circuit, forcing players and staff to evacuate. This incident compounded their disappointment after falling short against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, adding a bizarre end to their campaign.
Young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's IPL heroics have ignited a debate on his national team prospects. While some advocate for a fast-track, former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar urges caution, emphasizing the difference between T20 success and red-ball cricket. Manjrekar believes Sooryavanshi should chart his own career path, free from undue pressure and public speculation.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured their second consecutive IPL title, defeating Gujarat Titans in the 2026 final. England captain Harry Kane congratulated Virat Kohli and RCB on their historic back-to-back championship wins. Skipper Rajat Patidar also joined an elite list of captains to achieve this feat, crediting Kohli for his support.