Friday, May 08
Mohammed Shami's stellar domestic form, bagging 11 wickets in three matches, sparks debate over his national team exclusion. Former BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly questions the selectors' decision, citing Shami's immense skill. Despite injury setbacks post-World Cup, the veteran pacer's experience could bolster India's bowling attack, especially in ODIs, ensuring a smooth transition.
Jasprit Bumrah is on the verge of significant T20I milestones as India faces South Africa. He needs just one wicket to reach 100 T20I wickets, a feat that would also make him the first Indian to achieve a century of wickets in all international formats. Additionally, Bumrah is nearing 500 combined international wickets across formats.
Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana has officially called off her wedding with composer Palash Muchhal, requesting privacy for both families. While the exact reasons remain undisclosed, Mandhana emphasised her commitment to representing India. This follows an earlier postponement due to a family health emergency. She seeks to focus on her career.
With only 5 wins in 14 matches and a win percentage of 41.7, the 2024 season was a disaster for the Gujarat Titans as they finished 8th in the point table. However, GT had a good season last year after the mega auction and qualified for the playoffs, but were defeated in the Eliminator by the Mumbai Indians (MI).
Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi triumphed over Magnus Carlsen in the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Finals. While Javokhir Sindarov leads the standings, Erigaisi secured third place, earning a knockout stage match against Vincent Keymer. The finals, the fifth event in the year-long tour, will determine the 2025 Freestyle Chess Champion, with Carlsen aiming to clinch the overall tour victory.
With the IPL 2026 auction approaching, franchises are gearing up for intense bidding wars for top talent. The event in Abu Dhabi will see 350 shortlisted players compete for 77 available slots. This year's auction follows a trend of escalating player values, with Rishabh Pant holding the record as the most expensive player.
