Monday, June 22
Karun Nair's highly anticipated Test comeback was cut short after a series of poor performances, leading to his exclusion from the fourth Test. He managed only 131 runs in six innings, prompting his replacement by B Sai Sudharsan. Mohammad Kaif criticised captain Shubman Gill's decision, arguing that Nair deserved another opportunity to prove himself.
Sunil Gavaskar has criticised the ICC's concussion substitute policy, deeming it inconsistent and unfair. He argues that if concussion substitutes are allowed, similar provisions should exist for clear injuries like Rishabh Pant's fractured foot. Michael Vaughan supports Gavaskar, advocating for rule changes to allow like-for-like injury replacements to maintain the game's quality.
Tilak Varma solidified his burgeoning reputation with a brilliant century for Hampshire against Nottinghamshire in the County Championship. His composed 112-run innings, featuring elegant drives and fluent strokeplay, helped Hampshire take closer to avoiding a follow-on. Varma's consistent performance in English conditions, averaging just under 79, is making a strong case for his inclusion in India's Test squad.
Karun Nair's comeback to Test cricket after eight years was cut short as he was dropped for the fourth Test following underwhelming performances, managing only 131 runs in six innings. A viral photo captured an emotional Nair being consoled by KL Rahul.
England dominated Day 2 against India in the fourth Test at Manchester, closing at 225 for two. Ben Duckett's aggressive 94 and Zak Crawley's 84 powered England after India posted 358, highlighted by Rishabh Pant's courageous 54 with a broken foot. Duckett and Crawley's 166-run opening partnership neutralized India's bowling.
Rishabh Pant's courageous 54, battling a fractured toe, highlighted Day 2 of the 4th Test against England. His defiance helped India reach 358, following useful contributions from Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar. England responded strongly, with openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett forging a 166-run partnership. Duckett fell just 6 runs short of a century.
India's bowling coach, Morne Morkel, voiced concerns over the team's pacers showing a sharp drop in pace in the 4th Test's third day. Bumrah's deliveries over 140 kmph drastically decreased compared to previous matches. Despite England's strong batting performance, Morkel highlighted improved discipline from the Indian bowlers. England ended day 3 of the 4th Test with 544 runs at the loss of 7 wickets.
Ollie Pope lauded Joe Root's magnificent innings of 150, which propelled him past Ricky Ponting in Test runs, leaving only Sachin Tendulkar ahead. Pope also praised Ben Stokes' resilience despite suffering from cramps. England ended Day 3 in a strong position, leading India by 186 runs, with Root and Stokes leading the charge.
Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba were suspended for one Major League Soccer match for skipping Wednesday's All-Star game, sidelining them for the contest against FC Cincinnati. MLS enforces its policy requiring participation unless valid reasons exist. Commissioner Don Garber, while acknowledging Messi's impact and Miami's demanding schedule, emphasised the need to uphold league rules.
