Monday, May 11
India's women's cricket series against Bangladesh, slated for next month, has been postponed by the BCCI. The board is actively seeking an alternative opponent for December. This development follows diplomatic tensions between the two nations, though not officially confirmed as the reason for the postponement. The team awaits a new schedule before the WPL and a subsequent tour of Australia.
World number one Carlos Alcaraz has withdrawn from the Davis Cup Finals in Italy due to a hamstring injury, an edema in his right hamstring. Medical advice recommended he not compete, disappointing the star who was eager to lead Spain. Spain now faces a tough challenge against the Czech Republic without their top player.
Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh came down heavily on the pitch curator during his YouTube show, expressing concerns over the direction in which Test cricket is heading in the country. India suffered a 30-run defeat in the first Test against South Africa at the Eden Garden in Kolkata, exposing their struggles against quality spin. Chasing a modest target of 124, the Indian batting lineup folded for just 93 runs.
Pakistan captain Babar Azam faced a penalty from the ICC, receiving a 10% match fee fine for a Code of Conduct breach. The incident involved him striking the stumps with his bat after being dismissed in the third ODI against Sri Lanka. This marks his first offense in two years, resulting in a demerit point.
KL Rahul humorously expressed concern about facing Jasprit Bumrah in nets after learning of his strong IPL record against the pacer. Rahul highlighted Bumrah's intensity and difficulty to score against, even for familiar teammates. He revealed his strategy of reminding Bumrah they are on the same team to calm him during practice.
Leg-spinner Vijayakanth Viyaskanth has been included in Sri Lanka's T20I squad for the tri-series in Pakistan, replacing the injured Wanindu Hasaranga. Viyaskanth will join the team directly from Qatar, where he is participating in the ACC Men's Asia Cup Rising Stars. The tournament serves as preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
Guwahati's Barsapara Stadium is gearing up for an exciting Test match, with its red soil pitch poised to provide superb bounce and carry. The Indian team management is advocating for spin-friendly conditions against South Africa, and the expertise of BCCI head curator Ashish Bhowmick promises a pitch that delivers.
Indian batters Sai Sudharsan and Dhruv Jurel experimented with batting without a front pad during optional practice, a technique aimed at improving front-foot play against spin. This traditional drill encourages batters to rely on their bat for defense, addressing a tendency to play on the back foot. The move comes as Shubman Gill's participation in the upcoming Test remains uncertain.
Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja lauded Babar Azam for his resilience against relentless criticism. Raja revealed Babar confided his struggles with personal attacks. Raja advised patience and focus on performance, expressing relief at Babar's recent century against Sri Lanka. He urged Babar to disregard strike rate debates and focus on batting longer, highlighting his elegant style.
After their triumphant performance at the Asian Championship, India's archery team found themselves in dire straits in Dhaka. A sudden flight cancellation, fueled by escalating unrest in the city, left them stranded in an inadequate shelter for the night, void of security. The turmoil resulted in missed flights and unexpected expenses, casting a shadow over their exceptional victory.
