Friday, July 10
Rohit Sharma's decision to skip the Sydney Test earlier this year, despite Ravi Shastri's strong disagreement, has resurfaced. Shastri revealed he would have insisted Sharma play, believing his potential match-winning innings, even a small one, could have altered the series outcome. Earlier in June 2024, Rohit had also called time on his T20I career after leading India to a seven-run victory over South Africa in the final of the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup.
With the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) set to resume on Saturday, TimesofIndia.com delves deep into the lives of the individuals who manage everything from booking flights, hotels, and cabs to ensuring the safety and comfort of players and their travelling families, especially in extraordinary situations like the one that unfolded on May 8 in Dharamsala.
The Bhartiya Janata Party's official X account posted a video comparing India's victory in a 2007 T20 World Cup bowl-off against Pakistan to Operation Sindoor, India's response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack. The post sarcastically mocked Pakistan's failure in the bowl-off, drawing parallels to the military operation targeting terrorist elements in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Jadeja, at 36 years of age, will be one of India's most experienced players going into the England series. Will the CSK man be named captain or not is a question yet to be answered. However, his message of gratitude on Instagram has sparked discussion and debate on whether the record-holder in tests deserves control of the team.
Mayank Agarwal faced disappointment after going unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, prompting him to revamp his game and mindset. He focused on finishing matches, incorporated new shots, and enhanced his fitness. He was eventually brought in as an injury replacement for Devdutt Padikkal. Mayank had last represented RCB 12 years ago.
Sam Billings ignited a playful rivalry with Babar Azam by sharing a post highlighting their contrasting PSL 2025 records. Billings celebrated his blistering 19-ball fifty, the fastest this season, while subtly mocking Babar's slow 47-ball half-century. As the PSL 2025 is set to resume on May 17, all eyes are on how both players respond on the field.
Rajat Patidar's recovery from a finger injury has boosted Royal Challengers Bengaluru ahead of their match against Kolkata Knight Riders. Patidar showcased his improved fitness during a training session, watched by Dinesh Karthik, increasing his chances for an India A squad call-up.
Shashi Tharoor expressed his sadness over Virat Kohli's unexpected retirement from Test cricket, calling him "immortal in whites." Tharoor reminisced about their meeting and admired Kohli's Test performances, lamenting the absence of a farewell match. Kohli's exit at 36 marks the end of an era, leaving a void as India prepares for the next World Test Championship cycle.
Ravi Shastri disclosed his discussion with Virat Kohli before Kohli's unexpected Test retirement. Kohli, India's fourth-highest Test run-scorer, retired despite an upcoming series against England. Shastri and Kohli discussed the decision a week prior. Shastri acknowledged Kohli's intense approach and global impact. He emphasized Kohli's achievements, stating Kohli had nothing left to achieve in his career.
IPL franchises face disruption as international cricket schedules clash with the league's resumption. South Africa's directive to recall players for the WTC final by May 26th creates challenges, impacting teams like Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings. England's ODI series against West Indies further complicates matters, potentially affecting teams like Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
