Abhishek Sharma Earns Maiden Call-Up in New Format Following Stellar T20I Performances
India opener Abhishek Sharma has been in outstanding form in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025. Abhishek Sharma Eyeing ODI Debut After Stellar Asia Cup 2025 Abhishek Sharma is enjoying an incredible Asia Cup 2025, and his impressive T20I performances could earn him opportunities in other formats. According to the Times of India, Abhishek may receive his first ODI call-up for India’s three-match series against Australia in October. The ODI series begins on October 19, followed by a five-match T20I series starting October 29. Abhishek has been in excellent form in the ongoing Asia Cup, scoring 248 runs in five matches and registering more than 30 runs in each game. His performances have reportedly impressed the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee, boosting his chances for the Australia series. The ICC’s No. 1-ranked T20I batter has also amassed over 2,000 runs in List A cricket at nearly a run-a-ball strike rate. With India’s ODI opening slots largely occupied by captain Rohit Sharma and vice-captain Shubman Gill for nearly four years, Abhishek’s inclusion could raise questions about who might be dropped. Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has played only one ODI so far, may now see his place in jeopardy. Rohit Sharma’s Future Uncertain as Abhishek Eyes Succession Captain Rohit Sharma’s long-term spot in India’s playing XI is not guaranteed. With Rohit set to turn 40 by the 2027 Cricket World Cup, India is focusing on identifying a successor in due course. Abhishek’s devastating T20I form suggests he could be that man, potentially overtaking Jaiswal in the pecking order. On Wednesday, Abhishek showcased his swashbuckling skills again, scoring 75 runs off just 37 balls against Bangladesh in the Asia Cup Super Four before being run out. Sign Up Fast For E2Bet And Enjoy A Free Bonus On Your First Registration!
IND vs WI: Real Reason Behind Sarfaraz Khan’s Omission from India’s Test Squad Revealed
Sarfaraz Khan last featured for India during the home Test series against New Zealand in 2024. On Thursday (25th September), the Indian squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against the West Indies—scheduled from October 2 to 14—was announced in Dubai, with Chairman of Selectors Ajit Agarkar addressing the media. Although the squad looked well-balanced, a few notable exclusions stood out. Among them was Sarfaraz Khan, who had made his Test debut earlier in 2024 against England under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy. Following his debut, Sarfaraz remained part of the Indian setup and even travelled to Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024–25, though he didn’t get a chance to play. Later, he was dropped for the England Tests. Reports suggested that the BCCI had advised Sarfaraz Khan to work on his fitness. The batter responded impressively, shedding nearly 17 kilos and marking his return to domestic cricket with a century in the Buchi Babu Tournament. Given this turnaround, many expected him to earn a recall for the West Indies Tests. However, his omission from the squad has raised questions and criticism directed at the BCCI’s decision-making. Sarfaraz Khan Ruled Out Due to Injury – Ajit Agarkar When asked about Sarfaraz Khan’s selection, Ajit Agarkar clarified that the batter is currently unavailable, stating simply: “Sarfaraz is injured.” The right-hander is recovering from a quadriceps injury at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE). However, reports suggest he may regain full fitness by September 29. The development comes as a surprise, considering Sarfaraz Khan is among the most consistent performers in India’s domestic circuit. Notably, the 27-year-old was also left out of the Rest of India squad for the Irani Cup 2025-26. In his Test career so far, Sarfaraz Khan has amassed 371 runs at an average of 37.1, including one century and three half-centuries. Sign Up Fast For E2bet And Enjoy A Free Bonus On Your First Registration
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!
Asia Cup 2025: Suryakumar Yadav Explains Reasoning Behind ‘Failed Experiment’ of Promoting Shivam Dube to No. 3 vs Bangladesh
India Storm into Asia Cup 2025 Final Under Suryakumar Yadav’s Leadership. Suryakumar Yadav’s India became the first team to book a spot in the Asia Cup 2025 final after defeating Bangladesh in their second Super Four clash on Wednesday, September 24. Skipper Suryakumar credited his bowlers for the win, stating that if they can deliver 12–14 quality overs in a match, India would come out on top more often than not. Asia Cup: Opting to bat first with an unchanged XI, India got off to a strong start. Openers Abhishek Sharma (75) and Shubman Gill (29) stitched together a 77-run stand. However, the middle order faltered, with Shivam Dube surprisingly promoted to No. 3 and Sanju Samson not getting a chance to bat, which disrupted the flow of the innings. Hardik Pandya’s crucial 38-run knock lifted India to 168/6, a total that looked challenging for Bangladesh. In reply, opener Saif Hassan (69) fought valiantly with a fine half-century, but lacked support from the other end. Bangladesh eventually collapsed for 127, handing India a 41-run win. India’s bowlers were the stars of the night. Kuldeep Yadav shone with a three-wicket haul, while Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakravarthy claimed two wickets each. Axar Patel and Tilak Varma also chipped in with one apiece, sealing a comprehensive victory. Asia Cup: Suryakumar Yadav Praises Indian Bowlers After Win Over Bangladesh Following India’s victory against Bangladesh, Suryakumar Yadav hailed the bowling unit for their consistent performances. Speaking at the post-match presentation, he highlighted the importance of disciplined bowling spells. “If the outfield had been quicker, the total could have been around 180-185. But with the quality of our attack, if we deliver 12-14 good overs, we back ourselves to win most games,” Suryakumar said. Asia Cup: He also explained the reasoning behind promoting Shivam Dube to No. 3 in the batting order.“We hadn’t batted first much in this tournament—only against Oman. So, we wanted to test ourselves in the Super Fours. Considering their bowling attack, with a left-arm spinner and a leg spinner, Dube was the ideal option between overs 7-15. It didn’t work out, but that’s how the game goes,” he added. Meanwhile, Abhishek Sharma was named Player of the Match for his brilliant half-century. Looking ahead, India will take on Sri Lanka on September 26 in the Asia Cup 2025 Super Fours. They will also be watching the Bangladesh vs Pakistan clash on September 25 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, as the winner of that match will meet India in the final. 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!
Top 5 Highest Individual Scores in Asia Cup T20Is
Only two batsmen have managed to score centuries in the T20I Asia Cup. The Asia Cup, first held in 1984, is organised by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) every two years and brings together the cricketing powerhouses of the Asian subcontinent. The tournament alternates between ODI and T20 formats, with 2016 marking its debut in the T20 format. Over the years, numerous batsmen have produced memorable and dominant innings in Asia Cup history. Focusing on the highest individual scores in T20I Asia Cup history, just two players have reached the three-figure mark. Interestingly, among the top five highest innings, two belong to Indian batsmen. With that in mind, let’s explore the top five highest individual scores in T20I Asia Cup. Sabbir Rahman – 80 vs Sri Lanka, 2016 Bangladesh all-rounder Sabbir Rahman takes the fifth spot with a brilliant 80-run innings against Sri Lanka in the 2016 Asia Cup. His knock helped Bangladesh post 147/7 in the first innings. Bangladesh then restricted Sri Lanka to 124/8 in response, winning the match by 23 runs. Rahman was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance. Rohit Sharma – 83 vs Bangladesh, 2016 India’s opener Rohit Sharma scored 83 runs against Bangladesh during the 2016 Asia Cup. He struck three sixes and seven fours to propel India to 166/6 in the first innings. India later bowled Bangladesh out for 121/7, securing a 45-run victory. Rahmanullah Gurbaz – 84 vs Sri Lanka, 2022 Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz smashed 84 off 45 balls against Sri Lanka in the 2022 Asia Cup, hitting six sixes and four fours. Afghanistan posted 175/6 in the first innings, but Sri Lanka chased the target successfully, winning by four wickets. Babar Hayat – 122 vs Oman, 2016 Hong Kong batsman Babar Hayat played a sensational 122-run knock against Oman in the 2016 Asia Cup qualifiers. Facing 60 deliveries, he struck seven sixes and nine fours, nearly guiding his team to victory. However, Oman defended their total of 180/5, winning the match by five runs. Virat Kohli – 122 vs Afghanistan, 2022* India’s Virat Kohli tops the list with an unbeaten 122 against Afghanistan in the 2022 Asia Cup, marking his first T20I century. He smashed 122 runs off 61 balls, taking India to 212/2. Afghanistan could only manage 111/8 in response, handing India a commanding 101-run win. Sign Up Fast For E2bet And Enjoy A Free Bonus On Your First Registration
Asia Cup 2025: Salman Agha Reacts to Fakhar Zaman’s Dismissal in IND vs PAK — “Ball Bounced Before Reaching the Keeper”
Pakistan captain Salman Agha suggested that umpires may have erred in ruling Fakhar Zaman out during the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash against India on Sunday, September 21. Salman Agha argued that the ball appeared to bounce before reaching wicketkeeper Sanju Samson. Batting first, Pakistan lost their opener early when Zaman edged Hardik Pandya’s delivery in the third over and was caught behind by Samson. The on-field umpires were uncertain whether the catch was clean and referred it to the third umpire, who eventually confirmed the dismissal. Zaman had shown promise with three boundaries but managed only 15 runs from nine balls. Following his exit, Sahibzada Farhan (58) and Saim Ayub (21) put together a vital 72-run partnership for the second wicket, ensuring Pakistan a solid platform. “To me, it bounced before reaching the keeper”: Salman Agha on Fakhar Zaman’s dismissal Pakistan captain Salman Agha hinted at a possible umpiring error regarding Fakhar Zaman’s dismissal during the post-match press conference. He suggested that the Men in Green might have posted a much bigger total had Zaman batted throughout the powerplay. “I don’t know about the decision. Obviously, it’s the umpire’s call. Umpires can make mistakes, and I have no problem with that. But it did look to me like it bounced before reaching the keeper,” Salman Agha said. He added, “I might be wrong, though. Judging by the way he was batting, if he had stayed through the powerplay, we probably could have scored around 190. But yes, it’s the umpire’s call, and they can make mistakes.” Salman Agha also reflected on Pakistan’s innings, admitting that the team should have posted a total exceeding 180 after a solid start. Pakistan reached 91/1 after 10 overs, but a brilliant spell from the Indian bowlers slowed the run-rate in the latter half, and the Men in Green finished at 171/5. “It wasn’t a disappointing total, but we should have added 10-15 more runs. After 10 overs, when the ball gets softer, scoring becomes difficult at this venue. But given our start, we should have easily crossed 180,” he said. India’s openers, Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, showcased outstanding batting during the 172-run chase, putting together a 105-run opening partnership. Gill fell just short of his half-century, scoring 47, while Abhishek smashed 74 off 39 balls to claim the Player of the Match award. India ultimately outclassed Pakistan by six wickets, marking their fourth consecutive victory in the tournament. The defending champions will next face Bangladesh on September 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. 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!
Asia Cup 2025: Adding to Pakistan’s woes! Andy Pycroft named match referee for IND vs PAK Super Four clash
Asia Cup: Andy Pycroft came under fire from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after being accused of advising Salman Agha not to shake hands with Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav. In the latest development, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has appointed Pycroft as the match referee for the upcoming India vs Pakistan Super Four clash in the Asia Cup 2025. The high-voltage encounter is scheduled to be played at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, September 21. Asia Cup: This appointment comes in the backdrop of a recent controversy involving both teams and Pycroft. During the league-stage clash, tensions flared when Indian players declined to exchange handshakes with their Pakistani counterparts before and after the match, citing the Pahalgam terror attack. Following the incident, the PCB lodged an official complaint against the Indian players as well as Pycroft, alleging that the match referee had instructed their captain not to shake hands with the Indian side. PCB Demanded ICC to Remove Andy Pycroft from Asia Cup 2025 The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) called for the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft from the Asia Cup 2025. They even threatened to boycott their fixture against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) if the ICC did not accept their demand. The controversy delayed the game by an hour, sparking widespread debate. However, the ICC backed Pycroft, who was later reported to have apologised to the PCB. Following discussions involving the ICC, PCB, and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), Pycroft retained his role and went on to officiate the Pakistan–UAE clash. Asia Cup: Looking ahead to the Super Four encounter between India and Pakistan, anticipation is sky-high. Their group-stage meeting ended in a one-sided affair as India bundled Pakistan out for 127 before chasing the target in just 16 overs with seven wickets to spare. With both sides entering the match on the back of victories, fans expect nothing short of an intense battle. India, notably, remain unbeaten in the tournament. Sign Up Fast For E2bet And Enjoy A Free Bonus On Your First Registration