Wednesday, May 13
Pakistani cricket legend Wasim Akram emphasizes that the Asia Cup 2025 should proceed regardless of India's participation against Pakistan. Scheduled in Dubai and Abu Dhabi from September 9-28, the tournament features eight teams. Akram voices optimism for a future India-Pakistan Test series, advocating for focusing on sporting achievements and avoiding political tensions.
Pakistan and Oman have withdrawn from the Hockey Asia Cup 2025 in India, citing security concerns, a claim dismissed by Indian officials. The tournament, crucial for 2026 World Cup qualification, will proceed with eight teams. India's hockey officials emphasize that security arrangements are robust and are focused on hosting a successful event despite the withdrawals.
R Ashwin expressed surprise at the exclusion of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shreyas Iyer from India's Asia Cup squad, led by Suryakumar Yadav. While acknowledging Shubman Gill's selection due to his IPL performance and Test series success, Ashwin voiced concern for Jaiswal and Iyer, hoping they received explanations for their omission, especially with the T20 World Cup on the horizon.
Alexander Isak has publicly expressed his desire to leave Newcastle amidst Liverpool's interest, citing broken promises and lost trust. Despite a rejected £110 million bid, Isak believes a change is in everyone's best interest. Newcastle responded, stating Isak remains under contract and denying any agreement for his departure, while Liverpool seeks attacking reinforcements after key player exits.
The selection of India's Asia Cup squad has sparked controversy, particularly regarding Harshit Rana's inclusion. Aakash Chopra questions Rana's place, citing his underwhelming IPL 2025 performance and suggesting that Prasidh Krishna, the IPL 2025 Purple Cap winner, and Mohammed Siraj, with his recent form in England, were more deserving choices.
While Shubman Gill is being groomed as a future leader, Ambati Rayudu believes Shreyas Iyer should be India's next ODI captain. Rayudu cites Iyer's calmness and success leading KKR to an IPL title, along with his ability to guide underdog teams. Iyer's consistent ODI performance, including a strong Champions Trophy and World Cup, further strengthens Rayudu's argument.
Harbhajan Singh has criticized Ajit Agarkar's selection choices for India's Asia Cup squad, questioning the exclusion of Mohammed Siraj and Shreyas Iyer. Singh believes Siraj's 'X-factor' and Iyer's good form could have strengthened the team. The Asia Cup is set to begin on September 9, with India facing the United Arab Emirates.
Shreyas Iyer's exclusion from both the Asia Cup squad and standby list has sparked controversy, despite his impressive IPL 2025 performance. Former assistant coach Abhishek Nayar questioned the decision, emphasizing Iyer's strong contention. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, citing limited squad space.
The 2025 Asia Cup, amidst geopolitical tensions, will be held in the UAE from September 9-28. India and Pakistan have announced their squads, but past withdrawals due to political strife cast a shadow. Pakistan pulled out in 1990-91, and India in 1986. This year, India is in Group A with Pakistan, UAE, and Oman.
Mohammad Kaif has endorsed Shubman Gill as Rohit Sharma's successor in ODIs, anticipating Rohit's retirement after the 2027 World Cup. Kaif highlighted Gill's impressive run-scoring record and leadership qualities, noting his Test captaincy and T20I vice-captaincy. Gill's maturity and form, particularly during the England series, have solidified his position as a future leader, according to chief selector Ajit Agarkar.
