Tuesday, June 23
Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty advanced to the China Open quarterfinals. They defeated Indonesian pair Leo Rolly Carnando and Bagas Maulana. The Indian duo won in straight games in a closely contested match. HS Prannoy lost to Chou Tien Chen in the men's singles second round. Chirag expressed satisfaction with their performance, but mentioned areas for improvement.
Shikhar Dhawan credits MS Dhoni for his early international success, emphasizing Dhoni's unwavering trust and support during his formative years. Speaking at a London charity event, Dhawan highlighted how Dhoni's belief significantly boosted his confidence. While acknowledging later support from Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Dhawan stressed how Dhoni's initial mentorship was particularly special.
Vice-captain Rishabh Pant's injury on Day 1 of the fourth Test is a major setback for India, potentially jeopardizing their chances of leveling the series against England. Pant's absence, after being hurt attempting a reverse sweep, removes a key batter and wicketkeeper, significantly impacting India's batting depth and overall strategy.
Team India faces a significant setback in the crucial fourth Test against England as Rishabh Pant is likely out due to a foot injury sustained on Day 1. Scans revealed a possible fracture after he was struck by a Chris Woakes delivery. Ishan Kishan is a potential replacement. Pant's injury compounds India's worries, especially after his recent finger issue.
India's opening pair, Rahul and Jaiswal, initially dominated against England, reaching 78-0 at lunch. However, their momentum faltered post-lunch, with Rahul falling for 46 and Jaiswal dismissed after reaching his 1,000th run against England. Manjrekar questioned their mental fortitude, suggesting fatigue might have hindered them from converting starts into significant scores.
Former Indian cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu has criticised the team management's decision to include Shardul Thakur in the fourth Test against England. Sidhu questioned the reliance on 'bits-and-pieces' players in Test cricket, emphasising the need for specialists. He argued that Thakur is not utilised effectively as a bowler and expressed concerns about compromising bowling strength for batting depth.
India’s 19-year-old chess prodigy Divya Deshmukh created history by becoming the first Indian to reach the FIDE Women’s World Cup final. In a five-hour battle, she defeated third seed Tan Zhongyi, securing her first GM norm, a spot in the 2026 Candidates Tournament, and $35,000. “I just need sleep,” she said.
Sai Sudharsan credited Shubman Gill's guidance for his crucial 61 in the fourth Test against England, acknowledging Gill's mentorship since the IPL. Sudharsan highlighted the challenging pitch conditions and his focus on contributing to the team. Rishabh Pant's injury after a quickfire 37 has emerged as a concern for India, who ended Day 1 at 264/4.
