Monday, May 11
Manoj Tiwary has strongly criticized the team management, alleging a "manufactured transition narrative" pushed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli out of Test cricket despite their desire to continue. He also faulted coach Gautam Gambhir for blaming player technique after a batting collapse, stating the coach should focus on training and taking responsibility for poor results.
India's coach Gautam Gambhir is considering Sai Sudharsan for the No. 3 batting spot, potentially impacting Washington Sundar's role. Sundar impressed against spin in the first Test, but Sudharsan's front-foot technique against spinners is being honed. The team faces a dilemma in balancing batting and bowling contributions.
Stand-in Australian captain Steve Smith identified the England player who will be key to his side and that they will look to contain him in the Ashes opener. Smith emphasized the player's significant impact across formats and warned against provoking the aggressive all-rounder. Australia aims to manage the game's tempo, with debutants Jake Weatherald and Brendan Doggett also set to feature.
Sanju Samson embraces the vibrant yellow of Chennai Super Kings, bursting with elation following a high-profile trade that has set the cricket world abuzz. Leaving Rajasthan Royals behind, he welcomes an exciting new chapter, accompanied by the exit of renowned players Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran.
The former Australian men's cricket team captain chose fellow countryman Steve Smith over Miandad. He then picked Steve Smith over West Indies legend Brian Lara, and former South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis. Then put forward with a tough of choosing between Steve Smith and Virat Kohli, Ponting went with Smith. Then he also chose Smith over England batter Joe Root.
Indian cricket star Smriti Mandhana has officially announced her engagement to music composer Palash Muchhal through a fun Instagram reel with teammates. The World Cup winner showcased her ring, confirming weeks of speculation. Muchhal was also in attendance for the World Cup final against South Africa. This personal milestone follows Mandhana's stellar performance in India's historic World Cup victory.
Former India batter Robin Uthappa advocates for significant structural changes in the IPL, urging a move away from traditional auctions towards year-round trade windows and a draft system. He believes the league has outgrown its initial phase and needs to mature, suggesting a six-month league format with international fixtures interspersed.
India faced a 30-run defeat against South Africa in the opening Test. The Eden Gardens pitch drew criticism from fans and former cricketers. Coach Gautam Gambhir defended the surface. Former player AB de Villiers questioned India's home record and suggested visiting teams are better prepared. India aims to level the series in the second Test.
Following recent defeats, India's Test team faces scrutiny. Former player Robin Uthappa questions the squad's current quality and consistency for World Test Championship contention. He highlights challenges with overseas preparation, a lack of settled pace bowling depth beyond Bumrah and Siraj, and inconsistent home venue strategies. India needs a swift turnaround to stabilize their WTC campaign.
South Africa's bowling coach, Piet Botha, is uncertain about the grass on the Guwahati pitch for the second Test, but anticipates better batting conditions than Kolkata's unpredictable surface. He expects moisture to aid the new ball in the opening hour, with toss decisions hinging on the wicket's final appearance. South Africa is also monitoring Kagiso Rabada's fitness.
