Saturday, May 09
Former India coach Ravi Shastri expressed deep disappointment over the team's recent Test cricket decline, urging both players and management to accept responsibility. He highlighted a dramatic collapse in the Guwahati Test as an example of the team's underperformance, stating that such results are unacceptable given the talent available in the country.
The IPL 2026 Auction is set for December 16, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, featuring over 1,300 players, including 212 capped internationals and a star-studded overseas contingent. Franchises collectively hold Rs 237.55 crore, with KKR possessing the largest purse, ready for a dynamic bidding war.
India commenced their Junior Women's Hockey World Cup campaign with a dominant 13-0 victory over Namibia. Hina Bano and Kanika Siwach both netted hat-tricks in the one-sided match, securing India's biggest-ever win in the event and placing them at the top of their group standings.
Ravichandran Ashwin credits Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid for India's aggressive batting transformation in white-ball cricket, emphasizing their proactive approach post-disappointing ICC results. Ashwin urged fans to cherish the remaining time watching Rohit and Virat Kohli, highlighting the fleeting nature of careers and the importance of enjoying their present performances.
Desert Vipers captain Lockie Ferguson believes the global rise of T20 leagues will not harm international cricket, saying both can coexist and help young players grow faster. Ahead of ILT20 Season 4, CEO David White welcomed the inclusion of Indian, Saudi and Kuwaiti players. White expects higher-quality cricket and strong crowds as the league expands across the Gulf region.
India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak firmly dismissed speculation surrounding Virat Kohli's ODI future, emphasising his current form, fitness, and crucial contributions. Kotak stated that discussions about the 2027 World Cup are premature, as the team focuses on present performance. He highlighted Kohli's recent century as proof of his continued value, assuring that the veteran remains central to India's plans.
Shubman Gill is set to begin his rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru from December 1. The 26-year-old, who missed the Test and ODI series against South Africa due to a neck injury, is recovering well and will start training soon. His participation in the upcoming T20I series depends on his full recovery and readiness.
Former England all-rounder Moeen Ali has opted to play in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026, foregoing the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. This decision follows a similar move by Faf du Plessis, who also withdrew from the IPL auction. Both players have expressed excitement for new challenges in the PSL.
Virat Kohli's magnificent 135 guided India to a 17-run victory over South Africa in the first ODI. Teammates lauded the former captain's stellar performance, with Kuldeep Yadav noting it evoked memories of his peak years. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate highlighted the importance of the strong first-innings total.
Virat Kohli's magnificent 135 against South Africa not only secured India's victory but also revealed his current mental clarity. He emphasised 'awareness' of situations and his own emotions as the driving force behind his sustained success. This balanced mindset, cultivated over years, allows him to perform consistently at the highest level.
