Monday, May 04
India and Royal Challengers Bengaluru pace-bowling all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar has been ruled out for at least two weeks of the ongoing Women's Premier League due to a hamstring injury. The 26-year-old, who last played a competitive game in the T20 World Cup in October 2024, was brought for Rs 85 lakh during the Women's Premier League auction in November last year.
Pakistan pacer Zaman Khan came under scrutiny in the Big Bash League after David Warner questioned his slingshot bowling action during a match. Warner raised concerns with umpires after scoring 82. Zaman struggled in his debut for Brisbane Heat, conceding 32 runs, though Heat won comfortably. The incident revived memories of Muhammad Hasnain’s past action controversy.
The 26-year-old was not picked for the T20 World Cup despite leading India in the longer formats. Gill has played 36 T20Is, scoring 869 runs at an average of 28.03 and a strike rate of 138.59. He was dropped from the T20 setup after managing 291 runs in his last 15 matches in the format at an average of 24.25.
A viral video shows Sanju Samson receiving batting tips from former India star Yuvraj Singh in the nets. This interaction fuels speculation about Yuvraj's growing influence as a mentor, following his past guidance for Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma. Samson is preparing for the upcoming T20 World Cup at home.
Olympic star Neeraj Chopra has ended his coaching partnership with javelin legend Jan Zelezny after a successful year. Chopra credited Zelezny for helping him surpass the 90-meter mark and expressed admiration for his idol. Both athletes highlighted their positive relationship and plan to stay in touch. Chopra now aims for greater control over his training as he targets future championships.
Wesley So clarified that he proposed the draw against R Praggnanandhaa after a dramatic time scramble at Tata Steel Chess India Rapid, a decision that sparked debate and criticism from arbiter Chris Bird. Amid the controversy, Nihal Sarin won the Rapid title, dedicating it to his late grandfather, while Kateryna Lagno claimed the women’s crown
Bangladesh Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto revealed the psychological strain on players due to uncertainty surrounding their T20 World Cup participation in India. He also condemned a BCB director's 'Indian agent' remark against former captain Tamim Iqbal, emphasizing the need for respect within the cricketing fraternity.
