Tuesday, June 30
AB de Villiers has expressed his surprise at reports suggesting Jasprit Bumrah will be rested for some of the ongoing Test series against England. De Villiers questioned the decision, drawing parallels to how South Africa managed Dale Steyn's workload, prioritising his availability for crucial Test matches.
Gautam Gambhir, India's head coach, has finally revealed the reason behind his serious demeanour. On The Kapil Sharma Show, Gambhir explained that he remains serious so others can smile, emphasising his focus and commitment to results. He also addressed his on-field confrontations, stating they are always for the country, not himself.
Keshav Maharaj achieved a significant milestone, becoming South Africa's highest wicket-taking spinner in Test cricket during the ongoing match against Zimbabwe. He surpassed legends like Paul Adams and Hugh Tayfield, and breached the 200-wicket mark.
Jasprit Bumrah and Sanjana Ganesan humorously recounted their initial encounter during the 2019 World Cup, where Sanjana mistakenly believed Bumrah was avoiding her due to a presumed girlfriend or wife. Bumrah clarified that his shy nature led to the initial awkwardness. Eventually, they connected, married in 2021, and welcomed their son in 2023.
Following India's defeat in the first Test against England, former Australia captain Michael Clarke advocates for Kuldeep Yadav's inclusion in the second Test at Edgbaston. Clarke emphasizes Kuldeep's wicket-taking ability, suggesting India prioritizes bowlers who can secure 20 wickets. Echoing this sentiment, former England batter Nick Knight believes Kuldeep's variations could challenge England's aggressive batting.
Mitchell Owen’s stunning 5 for 17 ended San Francisco Unicorns’ unbeaten MLC 2025 run as Washington Freedom secured a 12-run win. Matthew Short’s 67 wasn’t enough after a middle-order collapse. Earlier, Glenn Phillips’ 58 lifted Freedom from 13 for 3 to 170. Both teams now have six wins each.
The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has intervened in the dispute between Vladimir Kramnik and David Navara. FIDE expresses concern over the impact of Kramnik's accusations. It supports Navara and asks Kramnik to withdraw his defamation lawsuit. Levon Aronian has also appealed to Kramnik for reconciliation. FIDE emphasizes fairness and unity within the chess community.
After struggling in the first two Major League Cricket (MLC) seasons, Unmukt Chand has finally found his feet in the US, where he moved to live his ultimate dream: “to play for the US national team.” The right-handed batter has scored 243 runs in seven innings and is sixth on the list of top run-getters in the ongoing MLC 2025.
England's women's cricket team has been fined a percentage of their match fee due to a slow over-rate during their first T20 International against India, where they suffered a significant 97-run defeat. The penalty issued by the ICC after the hosts were found to be two overs short of the required number.
During preparations for the second Test against England, the Indian cricket team enjoyed a heartwarming reunion at Edgbaston as familiar faces from home joined their net practice. Current and former teammates reminisced about their shared journey, strengthening bonds. Jasprit Bumrah's return to the nets raised hopes, while the team focused on improving lower-order batting.
