Sunday, May 10
Businessman Jeet Pabari, brother-in-law of cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara, was found dead at his Rajkot residence on Wednesday, reportedly by suicide. Family members stated he had been battling depression for two months. The incident occurred a year after a rape complaint was filed against him, for which he had secured anticipatory bail.
Ravichandran Ashwin highlights Gautam Gambhir's significant impact on India's white-ball cricket, crediting him for fostering a bolder, more proactive T20 approach. Gambhir's coaching, fueled by IPL talent like Abhishek Sharma, has led to recent successes and a redefined team identity, contrasting with Test struggles.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are set to return for the opening ODI against South Africa in Ranchi, sparking immense fan excitement. Their intense practice sessions, including a viral clip of Rohit's playful wink at Kohli, highlight their camaraderie and competitive spirit. This series is crucial for India to bounce back after their Test series loss.
Indian defending champions Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand advanced to the women's doubles final at the Syed Modi International Super 300 badminton tournament with a straight-game victory. This marks their second tournament since Gayatri's return from injury, showcasing strong tactical play. They will face Japanese eighth seeds in the final, aiming to defend their title.
Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh criticizes the pitches that Team India play on, and added that the side lacks a specialist right-arm off-spinner for Tests. He believes the reliance on turning tracks hinders player development and urges a shift to better quality surfaces to foster genuine skill contests in red-ball cricket.
Pakistan captain Babar Azam cherishes the historic 2021 World Cup victory against India in Dubai as his most treasured moment. He revealed seeking insights from top cricketers like Virat Kohli on preparation and mental discipline. Azam emphasized that this monumental win, Pakistan's first against India in a World Cup, remains unparalleled in his career.
Hardik Pandya is set to return to competitive cricket after a 42-day rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. He will play three matches for Baroda in the Syed Musthaq Ali Trophy, starting December 2nd. This stint aims to ease him back into action before the T20Is against South Africa, ensuring he's match-fit for next year's T20 World Cup.
England's Mark Wood is out of the second Ashes Test in Brisbane. His knee injury is a major blow to England's hopes of levelling the series. Wood had just returned after surgery. Josh Tongue is expected to replace him. England faces a tough challenge at the Gabba, a venue where they have struggled historically.
KL Rahul anticipates MS Dhoni's presence at the Ranchi ODI against South Africa. He will bat at number six. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli return to the ODI squad. Ravindra Jadeja is back. Ruturaj Gaikwad will get opportunities. Rishabh Pant's role is clarified. The team aims for a strong performance.
Mohammad Kaif attributes MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli's home Test success to their distinct leadership styles. Dhoni fostered player security and trust, while Kohli instilled a relentless pursuit of 20 wickets. Both captains expertly utilized their resources, building formidable teams that dominated on Indian soil, a stark contrast to recent home defeats.
