Wednesday, May 13
Sarfaraz Khan, aiming for a national team recall, showcased his batting prowess by scoring a rapid 138 for Mumbai in the Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament. His innings, featuring 10 fours and six sixes, included significant partnerships, further solidifying his claim for selection in India's upcoming home series against the West Indies and South Africa.
Former BCCI chairman Chetan Sharma has defended Jasprit Bumrah's decision to play only three Tests against England, citing workload management based on medical advice. Sharma expressed confidence in India's chances at the upcoming Asia Cup, emphasising the team's strong performance and the advantage of hosting the T20 World Cup in 2026.
Rinku Singh showcased his versatility in the UP T20 League 2025 opener, stunning Kanpur Superstars with a first-ball wicket. Meerut Mavericks, powered by Madhav Kaushik's explosive 95, posted a massive 225/2. Kanpur faltered in response, managing only 139/9 as Meerut secured a dominant 86-run victory, with Rinku's all-round effort drawing attention to his potential inclusion in the Asia Cup squad.
With the Asia Cup 2025 squad set to be announced, Harbhajan Singh has backed Shubman Gill for inclusion despite stiff competition from India’s power-hitters. Bhajji insisted Gill’s solid basics and adaptability make him a potential T20 dominator. Calling this a “new era” without Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Harbhajan praised the youngsters for carrying forward Indian cricket’s legacy.
England's Shoaib Bashir cherishes dismissing Mohammed Siraj to secure the Lord's Test victory, a moment he will remember forever. Inspired by Moeen Ali, Bashir used the carrom ball, the same delivery he used to dismiss Siraj in the second Test at Edgbaston, to achieve the decisive breakthrough. Despite a finger injury, Bashir contributed with the bat, adding crucial runs.
India are set to back Suryakumar Yadav as T20I captain for Asia Cup 2025, with Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer likely to miss out despite stellar form. Samson, Abhishek Sharma, and Tilak Varma remain first-choice batters, while Jasprit Bumrah returns to lead the attack. Mohammed Siraj is expected to be rested, with Prasidh Krishna and Washington Sundar among likely inclusions.
Ahead of their ODI series, Australian and South African captains Mitchell Marsh and Temba Bavuma unexpectedly recreated Shah Rukh Khan's iconic pose during a photoshoot, captivating fans online. While the moment provided light-hearted amusement, both teams are focused on the upcoming series. Bavuma returns from injury to lead a strengthened South African squad against Marsh's Australia.
Heinrich Klaasen revealed amusing dressing-room banter of Sunrisers Hyderabad, playfully teasing teammates. Ishan Kishan, known for his obsession with looking good, was singled out for being the mirror magnet and his acting skills. Adam Zampa's ever-changing hairstyles also drew humorous attention, while captain Pat Cummins received a light-hearted jab about his acting abilities, showcasing the team's camaraderie.
