Aakash Chopra suggests Gautam Gambhir's preference for bowlers who can bat might be limiting Kuldeep Yadav's opportunities, despite his improved red-ball form. Kuldeep didn't feature in the England Test series, raising questions about his role under Gambhir's coaching approach. While he's in the Asia Cup squad, a significant role may have to wait for home conditions.
Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary has strongly criticized head coach Gautam Gambhir, labeling him a "hypocrite" for India's upcoming Asia Cup match against Pakistan. Tiwary highlighted Gambhir's previous stance against playing Pakistan, questioning his current role as coach.
Manoj Tiwary has accused MS Dhoni of favoritism, claiming he wasn't backed despite strong performances, including a century. Tiwary suggests Dhoni's preferences influenced team selection, preventing him from securing a consistent place in the playing XI. He expressed his confusion and disappointment, highlighting a perceived lack of support during Dhoni's captaincy.
Anil Kumble and other prominent cricket figures lauded Cheteshwar Pujara as he retired from all formats of Indian cricket. Pujara concluded his career after 103 Tests, amassing 7,195 runs. Celebrated for his grit and patience, Pujara's contributions were widely acknowledged by teammates and rivals alike, who wished him well for his future endeavors.
Ravichandran Ashwin has cautioned Gautam Gambhir's new support staff against abrupt changes to the Indian team's fitness regimes. He highlighted potential harm to players due to frequent alterations in training methods and testing parameters, referencing his own past struggles.
Sadagoppan Ramesh has ignited controversy by alleging that Gautam Gambhir didn't support Shreyas Iyer's Asia Cup inclusion, despite Iyer's stellar form, including a strong IPL and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy performance. Ramesh also questioned the praise surrounding India's drawn Test series in England and highlighted Iyer's pivotal role in the Champions Trophy victory, where he was India's top scorer.
Sanju Samson has scored most of his IPL runs at No. 3, second only to Suresh Raina in terms of overall runs at that position. His record at No. 3 is strong, with an average of 38 and a strike rate of 143 in the IPL. But fitting him in there would mean dropping Tilak Varma, which would also break the left-hand/right-hand balance India have carefully built in their middle order.
India contemplate a two-spinner strategy for the crucial second Test against England, with Washington Sundar's all-round abilities potentially securing his place. Jasprit Bumrah's participation remains uncertain due to workload management, while young Nitish Kumar Reddy is nearing his debut. England, buoyed by their Leeds victory, have named an unchanged XI for the Edgbaston encounter.
Following a defeat at Headingley, India contemplates whether to field Jasprit Bumrah for the second Test, despite workload management plans limiting his appearances. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirms Bumrah's availability, but the decision hinges on long-term strategy. Nitish Kumar Reddy might debut, offering balance if Bumrah rests, highlighting India's focus on sustained success.
09:01 10/08/2025
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.
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.
Jasprit Bumrah displayed intense focus during practice at Edgbaston, bowling with pace and accuracy alongside Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna. Kuldeep Yadav is also working diligently on both his bowling and batting, potentially becoming a key option for the second Test given Birmingham's dry conditions. The team will now take a break before regrouping, with Bumrah's availability remaining uncertain.
Jasprit Bumrah's return to training has boosted India's bowling preparations for the Edgbaston Test after their Headingley defeat. Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, and Mohammed Siraj bowled in the nets, injecting intensity into the team's practice. While Bumrah's inclusion remains uncertain due to workload management, his presence offers hope as Team India aims to level the series.