Shubman Gill, back at the Gabba where he shone in India's 2021 series win, exudes confidence ahead of the third Test. The series is tied 1-1, and India aims for a big first-innings total with the red ball after two sub-par batting performances in Adelaide. Captain Rohit Sharma, returning after missing the first Test, skipped Friday's optional training.
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Workload management is crucial for modern cricketers to stay fresh and injury-free. Jasprit Bumrah's heavy bowling schedule during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series raised concerns, especially after he suffered a back spasm. Despite bowling 151.2 overs, his teammates and Aussie bowlers bowled more, highlighting the need for careful workload management. Historical comparisons show varying workloads of Indian bowlers in past series.
The ICC announced a neutral venue policy for India-Pakistan clashes in upcoming tournaments. This applies to the 2025 Champions Trophy, 2025 Women's World Cup, and 2026 T20 World Cup. Pakistan will host the Champions Trophy and defend its 2017 title. The Women's T20 World Cup 2028 will be in Pakistan. Australia will host a women's event between 2029 and 2031.
Harbhajan Singh argues India will likely have an edge over Pakistan in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy by being more familiar with Dubai pitches. He highlights opportunities for players like Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh in Jasprit Bumrah's absence and supports Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to prove their worth despite recent criticism.
Virat Kohli arrived an hour before the team for extra practice to address his poor form ahead of India's crucial Champions Trophy match against Pakistan. Michael Clarke praised Kohli's dedication, predicting he could excel under pressure, while Sanjay Manjrekar warned that Kohli might be overexerting himself.
Guwahati is set to host its first Test match and matches for the ICC Women's ODI World Cup, marking its rise as a cricket hub. The city's ACA Stadium will see international cricket events, thanks to the efforts of the Assam Cricket Association, ICC Chairman Jay Shah, and the Chief Minister of Assam.
Krunal Pandya, Baroda captain and Royal Challengers Bangalore's newest recruit, showcased his resurgent form with a blistering 80-run knock and a controlled bowling performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. RCB secured Pandya for Rs 5.75 crore after a bidding war with Rajasthan Royals.
Australia's Big Bash League may introduce 'double play run-outs' and 'designated hitters' to attract elite players and spectators. High-level discussions are underway to implement these innovations in BBL15, aiming to speed up matches and reduce players' workload. The Playing Conditions Advisory Committee will review these potential changes, inspired by baseball and England's 'The Hundred' tournament.
Australian pacer Scott Boland excelled in the Test series against India, taking 21 wickets in three matches at an average of 13.19, including a ten-wicket haul in the final Test. Boland's performance, highlighted by dismissing Virat Kohli four times, secured him the best bowling average in men's Test cricket since WWI.
Virat Kohli has been ruled out of Delhi's Ranji Trophy matches against Saurashtra and Railways due to a persistent neck sprain. The Senior Men's Selection Committee announced a 21-member squad led by Ayush Badoni, with Rishabh Pant as the designated wicketkeeper. Kohli's recent struggles with form in the ongoing Test season were also noted.
Babar Azam, once Pakistan's premier batter, has seen a steady decline in performances in recent years, particularly in major tournaments. Despite his impressive record, he struggles with technical issues against spinners, leading to severe criticism from former players and fans. Cricket legends suggest technical improvements for a comeback.