India's Test team suffered a significant defeat, losing 0-2 to South Africa in their home series. Vice-captain Rishabh Pant, leading in Shubman Gill's absence, apologized to fans for the team's performance. This series marked South Africa's first Test series victory in India in 25 years, extending India's poor home record.
India's Women's World Cup hero Jemimah Rodrigues has withdrawn from the remainder of the WBBL season to support teammate Smriti Mandhana. Mandhana's wedding was postponed due to her father's health issue, prompting Rodrigues to stay in India. The Brisbane Heat franchise fully supported her decision, wishing the family well during this challenging time.
India's Women's World Cup hero Jemimah Rodrigues has withdrawn from the remainder of the WBBL season to support teammate Smriti Mandhana. Mandhana's wedding was postponed due to her father's health issue, prompting Rodrigues to stay in India. The Brisbane Heat franchise fully supported her decision, wishing the family well during this challenging time.
Following India's Test series loss to South Africa, coach Gautam Gambhir faces criticism. However, former captain Sunil Gavaskar defended Gambhir, arguing that accountability shouldn't solely rest on the coach, especially when past victories under him are overlooked. Gavaskar questioned the selective criticism, highlighting that coaches cannot solely dictate on-field performance.
R Ashwin defended head coach Gautam Gambhir following India's Test series loss to South Africa, cautioning against a rush to blame. Ashwin emphasised that players must also take responsibility for performances, stating that individual attacks on the coach are unwarranted. He highlighted that managing a team is complex and mistakes are inevitable.
India's 2027 World Test Championship final aspirations have suffered a significant blow following a 2-0 home series defeat to South Africa. Now fifth in the WTC standings, Shubman Gill's team must achieve near-perfect results in their remaining nine Tests to have a realistic chance at qualifying for the championship decider.
Cricket legend Ian Botham has fiercely criticised England's senior players following their Ashes defeat, urging them to abandon their aggressive batting style. He warned that sticking to 'Bazball' without adaptation could lead to a complete series loss. Botham emphasised the need for pride and a more patient approach, especially with Australia poised to intensify their attack.
Former Indian wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel strongly condemned South Africa coach Shukri Conrad's use of the word "grovel" to describe their strategy against India. Patel believes Conrad intentionally used the loaded term, which has historical significance in cricket, and called for an apology, stating such disrespectful comments have no place on the field.