Gautam Gambhir Faces Backlash for ‘Illogical’ U-Turn on Sanju Samson in Bangladesh Match
Team management’s failure to accommodate Sanju Samson was evident, as he couldn’t be slotted into the top seven. Gautam Gambhir Faces Criticism for Samson’s Batting Position India head coach Gautam Gambhir came under criticism on Wednesday during their second Super Four match in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 against Bangladesh for holding Sanju Samson at the No. 8 spot in the batting order. The decision followed assurances from India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate the previous day that Samson was backed as a No. 5 option. Samson was not selected as India’s designated opener for the Asia Cup, despite having opened in all 12 innings since the T20 World Cup last year, including three centuries. He batted at No. 3 against Oman, scoring a patient fifty, before being sent in at No. 5. Samson Confirmed as India’s No. 5, But Line-up Shuffle Sparks Backlash On Tuesday, speaking at the pre-match presser, Ten Doeschate confirmed that Sanju Samson will be backed as India’s No. 5 in T20I cricket, calling him the best fit for the role. “Sanju has had two decent chances and he’s still figuring out how to play that role (at No. 5). The surface got a little bit tired in the Pakistan game. We’re really looking for a No. 5. We believe Sanju is the best man for that job, and we’ve got no doubt he’ll figure out how to play that role in the future,” he said. However, during the match against Bangladesh, India shuffled the batting order, sending Shivam Dube at No. 3—a move that failed—before picking Hardik Pandya at No. 5. Samson did not bat, as Tilak Varma and Axar Patel came ahead, with India finishing 168 for six in 20 overs. Furious at the move, former Indian cricketer Dodda Ganesh criticized the decision, tweeting: “Sanju Samson at No. 8 defies any cricketing logic. It’s simply unacceptable.” Sanju Samson at no 8 defies any cricketing logic. It’s simply unacceptable #AsiaCup — Dodda Ganesh | ದೊಡ್ಡ ಗಣೇಶ್ (@doddaganesha) September 24, 2025 Abhishek Sharma once again demonstrated why he holds the No. 1 T20I batting ranking, scoring a brilliant 75 off 37 balls. He shared a 77-run opening stand with Shubman Gill in just 38 balls, with 72 runs coming in the powerplay—their best display of the tournament so far. However, India’s middle and lower order failed to capitalize. Whether it was Gill, Tilak Varma, or captain Suryakumar Yadav, who was brilliantly caught down the leg-side by stand-in captain and keeper Jaker Ali, the rest of the line-up struggled to make an impact, leaving India with a par total of 168 for six. Sign Up Fast For E2Bet And Enjoy A Free Bonus On Your First Registration!
England Announce Ashes Squad: Harry Brook Named Vice-Captain, Mark Wood Makes Comeback
England have revealed their squad for the upcoming Ashes series, with Harry Brook replacing Ollie Pope as vice-captain. Harry Brook Named England’s Vice-Captain for Upcoming Ashes Harry Brook has been appointed England’s vice-captain for the Ashes, starting November 21 at Perth’s Optus Stadium. Brook will replace Ollie Pope as Ben Stokes’ deputy in the high-profile five-Test series against Australia. The 16-member squad also sees pacer Mark Wood return following recovery from a left knee injury. Captain Ben Stokes is recovering from a shoulder injury that ruled him out of the final Test against India at the Kia Oval. He remains on track to lead England in Australia. Somerset spinner Shoaib Bashir, sidelined with a finger injury in the third Test at Lord’s, has recovered and is included as the frontline spinner. Durham seamer Matthew Potts and Surrey all-rounder Will Jacks also join the squad, having missed England’s recent India series. Potts last played a Test in December 2024, while Jacks’ previous appearance was in December 2022. Jacks, who will miss the upcoming white-ball tour of New Zealand due to a broken finger, is expected to be fit for the Ashes. England chase history England last won the Ashes in 2015 and has been chasing the coveted urn ever since. Their most recent victory in Australia came in 2010–11 under Andrew Strauss, while the last tour ended in a heavy 4-0 defeat under Joe Root. The 2023 Ashes, played in England, concluded in a 2-2 draw. To reclaim the urn, England must defeat Pat Cummins-led Australia, as a drawn series would not suffice. Australia’s squad for the upcoming five-Test series is yet to be announced. England Ashes Squad: Ben Stokes (captain), Jofra Archer, Harry Brook (vice-captain), Mark Wood, Joe Root, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue. Sign Up Fast For E2Bet And Enjoy A Free Bonus On Your First Registration!
‘Kohli, Kohli’: Haris Rauf Struggles to Ignore Fans Reminding Him of His Toughest Memory – Watch
Indian fans chant Virat Kohli’s name as Haris Rauf fields near the fence, but he stays unfazed. High Tensions and Fierce Batting Ignite India-Pakistan Super Four Clash The flames of rivalry were ablaze as India and Pakistan faced off in the ongoing Super Four match. Pakistan batted first, posting a competitive total of 171 runs. A strong start was tempered by a loss of momentum, leaving them 15–20 runs short of what might have been a match-winning score. India’s response, however, was dominant from the outset. Abhishek Sharma launched the chase with a first-ball six and maintained fluent stroke play, while Shubman Gill showcased unparalleled class and composure. The Indian openers’ attack unsettled the Pakistani bowlers, who tried to regain control with verbal jabs. Shaheen Afridi initiated the antics, soon joined by Haris Rauf, leading to heated exchanges and finger-pointing on the field. Despite the tension, the Indian duo remained poised, handling the aggression with supreme grace and focus. Crowd rubs salt to Haris Rauf’s injury Indian fans cheering Kohli , Kohli to Haris Rauf !#INDvPAK #AsiaCup2025pic.twitter.com/wlWDmpRmTo — Surbhi (@SurrbhiM) September 21, 2025 The Indian crowd made their presence felt when Haris Rauf came to field near a section dominated by Indian supporters. Spectators erupted, chanting Virat Kohli’s name—a reminder of the legendary shot Kohli played against Rauf during the 2022 T20 World Cup clash in Melbourne. Back then, Kohli had hit a back-foot maximum over mid-off off a back-of-length delivery, followed by another six, turning the game and etching the innings as one of the greatest T20I performances ever. Rauf tried to respond with a gesture, brushing his ear as if dismissing the chants, but the Indian openers’ continued dominance only added insult to injury. Despite the verbal jabs and crowd energy, Rauf struck back with the crucial wicket of Suryakumar Yadav, temporarily halting India’s momentum. Sign Up Fast For E2Bet And Enjoy A Free Bonus On Your First Registration!
Suryakumar Yadav Avoids Mentioning Pakistan Despite Six Questions About Asia Cup Super Four Clash
During a pre-match press conference, India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav deftly sidestepped mentioning Pakistan while answering questions about the rivalry. Suryakumar Yadav Sidesteps Controversy Ahead of Asia Cup Clash In the lead-up to one of the most anticipated matches of the Asia Cup 2025, India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav faced a barrage of media questions—many centered around one topic: Pakistan. Displaying calm composure and media savvy, Yadav managed to field all six references to the arch-rivals without mentioning “Pakistan” even once. The pre-match press conference, held ahead of India’s clash with their traditional rivals, was expected to touch upon the group-stage handshake controversy, which had attracted global attention. Yet, Suryakumar skillfully steered clear of any direct reference. Asked about the high-octane rivalry, he said, “I don’t know what rivalry you guys are talking about. I just see the packed crowd and tell my team that it’s time to entertain them. If so many people show up, it’s our job to give them good cricket.” When reporters attempted to probe further, hinting at the handshake incident, Suryakumar responded with poise. “By other things, you mean we bowled well, isn’t it?” he quipped, maintaining his focus on the game rather than the controversy. Suryakumar Yadav: Focused Leadership Amid India-Pakistan Hype A veteran of over a hundred press conferences, Suryakumar Yadav skillfully navigated probing questions about India’s previous win against Pakistan and its supposed impact on the upcoming clash. “It doesn’t give us an edge that we have played them once and had a good game. We will have to start well from scratch,” he said, keeping the focus firmly on his team’s preparation. When asked about team dynamics, emotional responses, or the perceived lopsided nature of India-Pakistan contests, Yadav maintained a consistent approach: emphasize cricket, block distractions, and stay grounded. Offering practical advice, he told teammates, “Close your room, switch off your phone and sleep… take what is good for you.” On the charged atmosphere of packed stadiums, he added, “It’s time for entertainment… let’s play some good brand of cricket.” Throughout the nearly 13-minute interaction, the India captain avoided mentioning Pakistan by name or commenting on political and emotional angles. Even when reflecting on his personal journey, he prioritized pride in representing India over singling out any particular match: “The best match for me was when I played the first game for India. After that, every time I take the field wearing that jersey, it’s a proud moment.” Sign Up Fast For E2Bet And Enjoy A Free Bonus On Your First Registration!
Suryakumar Yadav Shows Sportsmanship to Oman, Silencing Critics Ahead of Pakistan Clash
After India’s latest Asia Cup 2025 clash against Oman, captain Suryakumar Yadav was seen interacting with the Omani players, offering guidance and sharing insights. Suryakumar Yadav Wins Hearts Despite Narrow Win Over Oman India survived a nervy encounter against Oman, edging out the match by 21 runs. The victory keeps them unbeaten as they move into the Super Four stage, aiming to build on their momentum and pursue the tournament trophy. Off the field, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav impressed fans with a thoughtful gesture. After the match, he was seen interacting with the Oman players, offering tips and sharing insights. Oman skipper Jatinder Singh reflected on the moment during the post-match presentation: “Surya spoke about the game and praised us, which means a lot. Our boys had questions on how to play in different phases of a T20 game. It was really nice to have a chat with him.” This is what sportsmanship looks like! 👏 – Suryakumar Yadav taking time to connect with and encourage the Oman players. – A captain with a big heart. 🇮🇳#TheyCallHimOG #indvsoman #AsiaCup2025 pic.twitter.com/6Ms3pDBhno — Cricket With RS (@badkebhai) September 19, 2025 Ahead of the game, Oman skipper Jatinder Singh mentioned how the team was excited to share the field with some of their cricketing idols. Suryakumar Yadav’s gesture of offering tips reflected the ‘Men in Blue’s willingness to pass on their experience and knowledge. In the post-match scenes, Indian and Omani players were seen taking pictures together, showcasing the camaraderie and goodwill with which the match was played. India hold their nerve to go unbeaten in the league stage India won the toss and chose to bat first against Oman. Early loss of Shubman Gill didn’t deter the team from their aggressive brand of cricket. Batting at number three, Sanju Samson took time to settle, while Abhishek Sharma kept the momentum alive with a blistering 38 off 15 balls. Despite wickets falling from the other end, the Indian batters continued their attacking approach endorsed by the head coach. India finished with 188/8 in 20 overs, with captain Suryakumar Yadav not required to bat. Oman began their chase strongly, with openers Jatinder Singh and Aamir Kaleem putting together a 56-run partnership. Hammad Mirza joined in at number three after Singh’s dismissal, and both Mirza and Kaleem scored half-centuries, stabilizing the innings and threatening a major upset. However, Hardik Pandya turned the game around with crucial wickets in the death overs—first dismissing Kaleem (64 off 46) and then Mirza (51 off 33)—restricting Oman to 167/4. With the victory, India remain unbeaten and advance to the Super Four stage, where they will face their arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday, September 15, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Sign Up Fast For E2Bet And Enjoy A Free Bonus On Your First Registration!
R Ashwin Poised for India Comeback Nine Months After Retirement — With a Surprising Twist
Ravichandran Ashwin bid farewell to international cricket last December, midway through India’s tour of Australia. Ravichandran Set for International Comeback at Hong Kong Sixes Former spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is poised to return to the Indian team, nine months after retiring from international cricket. The veteran will feature in the Hong Kong Sixes tournament, scheduled from November 7-9. Ravichandran had announced his international retirement last December during India’s tour of Australia but continued to play in the IPL for Chennai Super Kings earlier this year. Speculation about his trade from CSK grew, only for Ashwin to confirm his retirement from all forms of cricket last month. Despite stepping away, Ashwin indicated openness to participate in global leagues, attracting offers from the Big Bash League, The Hundred, and ILT20. On Thursday, Hong Kong Sixes organisers officially confirmed his participation in the upcoming edition. Ashwin Joins Team India for High-Octane Hong Kong Sixes The organisers announced, “Widely regarded as one of the finest spin bowlers in modern cricket, Ashwin’s inclusion adds immense depth, experience, and star power to Team India’s campaign in this fast-paced, action-packed global tournament.” Ravichandran Ashwin expressed his excitement, saying, “This format requires a different strategy and will prove to be high octane. I look forward to playing alongside my ex-teammates and competing against some quality players in the opposition teams—it will be a good challenge for us.” The Hong Kong Sixes, first held in 1992, is a six-a-side event featuring five six-ball overs per side (except for the final, which has five eight-ball overs). Each fielder bowls one over, except the wicketkeeper. The last edition in 2024 featured 24 teams, with Pakistan being the most successful side, winning five titles and finishing runner-up on five occasions. Sign Up Fast For E2Bet And Enjoy A Free Bonus On Your First Registration!
“Take it up with the Asia Cup organisers”: ICC Issues Blunt Six-Point Rebuttal to PCB
The ICC responded after the PCB submitted two formal requests to remove Andy Pycroft from the match referee panel at the ongoing Asia Cup. ICC Rejects PCB Allegations, Stands by Pycroft On Wednesday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) issued a six-point rebuttal, dismissing the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) claims that match referee Andy Pycroft was responsible for the no-handshake controversy during the India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash at Dubai International Stadium. The response followed two formal requests from the PCB seeking Pycroft’s removal from the tournament’s match referee panel. Pakistan alleged that Pycroft instructed captain Salman Agha not to shake hands with India’s Suryakumar Yadav and even prevented the exchange of team sheets. In their first letter sent Monday, the day after the India match, Pakistan threatened to pull out. When the International Cricket Council rejected the request, PCB persisted with a second letter. Amid the standoff, Pakistan players were reportedly instructed to remain in their hotel instead of heading to the stadium for their final Group A match against the UAE. Despite the protests, the International Cricket Council confirmed that Pycroft would continue officiating, including in the Pakistan-UAE fixture. The International Cricket Council clarified that Pycroft had adhered strictly to the rules and regulations and shifted the responsibility to the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and tournament organisers, stating that decisions regarding handshakes were made by the organisers, not the ICC or the match referee. This effectively directed the PCB to raise their concerns with the ACC, headed by PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi. Here’s ICC’s six-point rebuttal sent to PCB 1. The ICC based its investigation solely on the PCB’s report, noting that no supporting evidence or statements from team members were submitted. 2. Following the inquiry, the ICC found no misconduct by match referee Andy Pycroft; his actions were consistent with instructions from the ACC Venue Manager. 3. Pycroft acted to preserve the sanctity of the toss and avoid potential embarrassment, and was not at fault in any aspect of the incident. 4. The ICC clarified that regulating team- or tournament-specific protocols outside the area of play is the responsibility of tournament organizers and team management, not the match referee. 5. The PCB’s primary concern—handshakes not taking place—was a decision made by tournament organizers, and the ICC advised them to direct complaints accordingly. 6. Amid the Pakistan-UAE match delay, the PCB held a meeting with former chairpersons Ramiz Raja and Najam Sethi; chairman Mohsin Naqvi later confirmed the team would proceed to the stadium. Sign Up Fast For E2Bet And Enjoy A Free Bonus On Your First Registration!
India Snub Post-Match Handshake with Pakistan, Walk Off While Salman Agha’s Team Awaits
India defeated Pakistan by seven wickets, chasing down 128 runs comfortably with 25 balls to spare. India Skips Post-Match Handshake After Dominant Win Over Pakistan Indian players did not participate in the customary post-match handshake with Pakistan following the Group A clash of the Asia Cup 2025. Captains Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube, who guided India past the finish line, headed straight to the dressing room after the game. India defeated Pakistan by seven wickets, chasing down 128 with 25 balls to spare. While handshakes are more a tradition than a rule, Suryakumar and Dube, who shared an unbeaten 34-run partnership to complete the chase in just 15.5 overs, walked off the field without engaging with the opposition. According to reports, none of the Indian squad emerged from the dugout to greet the Pakistan players, despite captain Salman Ali Agha and his teammates waiting outside. The incident reportedly left Pakistan white-ball head coach Mike Hesson visibly frustrated. No handshakes after the game.. Pakistan waited for team India to come for the handshake, but they never came. #Shame. #INDvPAK #Asiacup2025 pic.twitter.com/usRlEwk32X — Nibraz Ramzan (@nibraz88cricket) September 14, 2025 Earlier in the evening, both captains did not shake hands after Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first, also avoiding eye contact. After submitting their team sheets to match referee Andy Pycroft, they spoke briefly with TV commentator Ravi Shastri, who conducted the toss, before heading back to their respective directions. Although the incident drew immediate attention from the cricket fraternity, a BCCI source, speaking to PTI on condition of anonymity, clarified that Suryakumar Yadav’s actions were not specific to Pakistan. The source noted that he had also refrained from shaking hands with UAE captain Muhammad Waseem during India’s tournament opener on Wednesday at the same venue. “Every tournament has its own set of rules and regulations. There are tournaments where protocol demands a handshake at the toss. For the record, Suryakumar Yadav didn’t shake hands with the UAE skipper during the last match’s toss as well,” the source added. India beat Pakistan; remain top of Group A India displayed absolute dominance to secure a seven-wicket victory over Pakistan in a one-sided Asia Cup clash, with a comprehensive bowling performance leaving the Pakistan batters clueless. After winning the toss and electing to bat in Dubai, Pakistan suffered a nightmare start, losing their first two wickets within the opening eight deliveries. Hardik Pandya struck on the very first ball, followed by Jasprit Bumrah dismissing Mohammad Harris in the next over, reducing Pakistan to a fragile position. India’s spinners then took control in the middle overs, with Axar Patel (2/18 in 4 overs), Kuldeep Yadav (3/18 in 4 overs), and Varun Chakravarthy (1/24 in 4 overs) bowling immaculate lines. Pakistan was eventually bundled out for a mere 127/9, at least 50 runs below par. In reply, Abhishek Sharma started explosively against Shaheen Shah Afridi, scoring 31 runs off just 13 balls, while Suryakumar Yadav celebrated his 35th birthday with a classy 47 not out off 37 balls. India, who had beaten the UAE by nine wickets in their tournament opener, remain at the top of the table and are now one win away from securing a spot in the Super 4s. They will next face Oman on Friday at the same venue. Sign Up Fast For E2Bet And Enjoy A Free Bonus On Your First Registration!
Arshdeep Singh’s Spot in Playing XI Uncertain: India vs Pakistan Predicted Lineups Revealed
Arshdeep Singh can realistically return to the XI only by replacing a spinner, though that scenario seems unlikely. India vs Pakistan: High-Stakes Asia Cup 2025 Clash Preview Arshdeep Singh: The stage is set for the biggest Group A clash in the Asia Cup 2025, as arch-rivals India and Pakistan prepare to face each other. Off the field, the match carries a tense undertone, with boycott calls from sections of Indian supporters overshadowing the pre-match build-up. Despite the external noise, the players remain focused on securing two crucial points in the multi-nation tournament. India began their campaign with a dominant performance against the UAE, showcasing a clinical all-round display in Dubai. Arshdeep Singh: India’s playing XI for the mega clash is likely to remain unchanged, particularly in the batting line-up. Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, fresh from their fiery start against the UAE, will aim to replicate that aggression. With Suryakumar Yadav batting at No.3 in the last game, Sanju Samson is expected to take the No.4 or No.5 spot. Shivam Dube has also cemented his place after an impressive bowling display against the UAE, where he claimed three wickets. Jasprit Bumrah is set to remain the frontline pacer, supported by all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Dube. Arshdeep Singh’s inclusion seems unlikely unless India decides to replace a spinner. Kuldeep Yadav impressed in the opener, Varun Chakaravarthy’s variations could trouble Pakistan’s batters, and Axar Patel remains a near-certain starter. Pakistan, despite a below-par batting display against Oman, are expected to retain their XI. Their focus will be on improving the batting performance, particularly against India’s strong bowling attack, which presents a far sterner challenge than their previous opponents. Check India vs Pakistan Predicted Playing XIs India: Shubman Gill (vc), Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy Pakistan: Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Mohammad Haris (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha (c), Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Abrar Ahmed. Sign Up Fast For E2Bet And Enjoy A Free Bonus On Your First Registration!
Team India Responds to Pakistan Clash Amid Boycott Calls: ‘Once BCCI Approves…’
India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak addressed the team’s approach to playing against Pakistan amid ongoing boycott calls. He emphasized that the squad is concentrating solely on preparing for the match and putting their performance on the field first, leaving external controversies aside. Kotak Emphasises Focus Amid India-Pakistan Asia Cup Controversy Team India’s assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak has reiterated that the squad’s focus remains on performing against Pakistan in the Group A match of the Men’s Asia Cup 2025 on Sunday at the Dubai International Stadium. He stressed that there is no room for distractions from outside noise within the camp. As the match approaches, calls for a boycott have intensified, with many fans in India expressing displeasure over the decision to play Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Social media is abuzz with criticism of the BCCI for agreeing to the fixture despite national sentiment. Before the tournament, the Indian government clarified its policy, permitting teams to face Pakistan in multilateral events. After the Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 tourists, India launched Operation Sindoor targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Many expected India to take a firm stand in multi-nation tournaments, but the Asia Cup schedule proved otherwise. India could potentially face Pakistan three times in this edition of the Asia Cup—first in the group stage on Sunday, then in the Super 4s, and possibly in the final. Kotak emphasised that the team must stay focused on the game rather than external controversies. “Once we are here to play, we are focused on playing cricket. I personally don’t think there is anything on my mind apart from playing cricket. That is what we are focusing on,” Kotak told reporters in Dubai on Friday. “I think for players and us, once the BCCI says and they are aligned with the government, we are here to prepare and play. It will be a competitive game. IND vs Pak is always competitive, so we would rather focus on that,” he added. The handshake saga Earlier this week, India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav faced trolling and criticism on social media after a video emerged showing him shaking hands with Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha during the official captain’s press conference. Suryakumar was also seen greeting Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi. Following India’s game against the UAE, he spoke about his team’s excitement to play Pakistan in the Asia Cup. Reports suggest that ticket sales for the upcoming India-Pakistan clash are underwhelming, with many seats still available. Several prominent social media handles in India have confirmed via X that they plan to boycott the match. With the current public mood, it remains uncertain whether television ratings will soar or see a decline during the highly anticipated contest. Sign Up Fast For E2Bet And Enjoy A Free Bonus On Your First Registration!