Sunday, May 10
Karnataka middle-order batter Smaran Ravichandran is going through a purple patch. After a steady 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season with 516 runs in seven matches, the southpaw has already amassed 595 runs in five matches in the 2025-26 season. In his brief 13-match career, the Bengaluru boy has already smashed three double centuries, was the hero of Karnataka’s Vijay Hazare title triumph, and is now knocking on the selectors’ door with his consistent performances across formats.
Former captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth has launched a scathing attack on head coach Gautam Gambhir, criticizing India's selection policy after their struggles in the second Test against South Africa. Srikkanth questioned player omissions and the team's 'trial and error' approach, highlighting the contrast between India's batting collapse and South Africa's effective exploitation of the pitch.
The Women's Premier League (WPL) is set for its inaugural mega auction, with 277 players vying for 73 slots. Indian stars like Deepti Sharma and overseas sensations such as Laura Wolvaardt and Meg Lanning are expected to be hot property. Franchises will engage in fierce bidding wars to build their squads for the 2026 season.
Stand-in captain Rishabh Pant's leadership and batting form are under intense scrutiny during the second Test against South Africa. His aggressive approach, even in difficult situations, has drawn criticism, with former spinner Ravichandran Ashwin noting a lack of positive body language. Pant's first Test captaincy outing highlights challenges in balancing risk-taking with match awareness, impacting his guidance of younger players.
Australia's Test cricket team is exploring a tactical shift, potentially using different openers based on pitch conditions and match situations. This move, inspired by limited-overs strategies and Travis Head's recent century, signals a departure from fixed opening pairs. Captain Pat Cummins also supports flexible batting orders, prioritizing adaptability over traditional roles.
