Cricket

Hardik Pandya's Test return prospects have been downplayed by former India coach Ravi Shastri, despite the all-rounder's recent social media post showcasing his bowling practice. Pandya was removed as Team India's vice-captain in white-ball cricket after Gautam Gambhir's appointment as head coach, and his Test comeback has been a subject of speculation.Shastri, who coached Pandya during his tenure with the Indian team, believes that Pandya's return to the Test setup depends on his physical and mental readiness. "If he feels he is strong enough to take the load, then why not? Don't want it to be a case where he comes in too early, plays and gets injured and then you miss him for the white-ball as well," Shastri said during commentary of the India-Bangladesh first Test.Shastri emphasized that Pandya's mindset and approach to the situation will be crucial. "Depends on how his mindset is. That would be ideal from India's point of view. I think he is someone who knows his body better than anyone," Shastri added.However, Shastri also suggested that Pandya may need to prioritize certain formats if he is not confident about his fitness and workload. "Got to see where he is most suited, in which format of the game. And stick to that," he said.Pandya played a pivotal role in India's T20 World Cup 2024 triumph as vice-captain, contributing with both bat and ball. However, he was replaced by Shubman Gill as India's vice-captain in T20Is and ODIs after Gambhir's appointment.Pandya's Test chances appear slim, as he did not participate in the Duleep Trophy 2024. The all-rounder's last Test appearance was in 2018, and his return to the Test setup remains uncertain.

Indian spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin has etched his name in the annals of Test cricket history by surpassing legendary Anil Kumble to become the highest wicket-taker for India in the fourth innings of a Test match. Ashwin achieved this remarkable feat during the first Test against Bangladesh at Chennai on Saturday.After going wicketless in the first innings, Ashwin turned the tide in the final innings while defending a mammoth total of 515 runs. By the end of day three, he had claimed three wickets for 63 runs in 15 overs, with an economy rate of 4.20.With this performance, Ashwin has now taken 96 wickets in the fourth innings of a Test in just 35 innings, at an astonishing average of 19.4 and a strike rate of over 45. His best bowling figures in the fourth innings stand at an impressive 7/59. He has also registered six five-wicket hauls in the fourth innings of a Test match.Ashwin's remarkable achievement has not only placed him above Kumble, who had 94 fourth innings wickets, but also tied him with West Indies legend Courtney Walsh as the eighth-highest wicket-taker in Tests. In 101 Tests, Ashwin has amassed 519 wickets at an average of 23.78, with best figures of 7/59 and a total of 36 five-wicket hauls. Walsh, on the other hand, took 519 wickets in 132 Tests between 1984-2001.In the ongoing Test match, Bangladesh won the toss and elected to field first. India's top-order collapsed, leaving them at a precarious 34/3. However, opener Yashasvi Jaiswal (56) and Rishabh Pant (39) stitched a crucial 62-run partnership for the fourth wicket, bringing India back into the game.After India was reduced to 144/6, Ashwin (113) and Ravindra Jadeja (86*) forged a magnificent 199-run partnership, helping India reach a respectable 376 in 91.2 overs. Hasan Mahmud (5/83) was the standout bowler for Bangladesh, while Taskin Ahmed also chipped in with three wickets.In their first innings, Bangladesh struggled to keep up with India's pace attack. Shakib Al Hasan (32), Litton Das (22), and Mehidy Hasan Miraz (27*) offered some resistance, but Jasprit Bumrah (4/50) and Akash Deep (2/19) proved too strong, dismissing Bangladesh for 149 runs and leaving them trailing by 227 runs.In their second innings, India once again lost their top-order quickly, but centuries from Shubman Gill (119*) and Rishabh Pant (109) helped them reach 287/4 before declaring their innings. Bangladesh was set a daunting target of 515 to win.Bangladesh started their run-chase positively, with openers Zakir Hasan (33) and Shadman Islam (35) putting up a 62-run opening stand. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto (51*) held the innings together as Ashwin (3/63) and Bumrah (1/18) picked up wickets. At the end of day three, Bangladesh was 158/4, with Shanto and Shakib Al Hasan (5*) unbeaten.

Star India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has made a resounding statement in the ongoing 1st Test against Bangladesh in Chennai. In his first Test appearance since December 2022, Pant smashed his 6th Test century, scoring 109 runs in the second innings.Pant's performance has come amidst speculation about his future at Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, it has now been reported that the 26-year-old is set to be retained by the franchise ahead of the IPL mega auction.According to Cricbuzz, Pant met with DC co-owner Parth Jindal in Mumbai before the 1st Test to finalize his contract talks. The report suggests that Pant may receive an improved contract, having been retained by DC for Rs 16 crore in the 2022 mega auction."Pant's current IPL salary is INR 16 crore, but this figure is expected to go up based on the total player purse allowed to a franchise and the retention fee guidelines set by the BCCI," the report states.DC's co-owners, the GMR and JSW Groups, have reportedly finalized other retention decisions as well. If the BCCI allows more than five player retentions, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav are expected to be kept, along with overseas players Jake Fraser-McGurk and Tristan Stubbs. Additionally, 21-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman Abhishek Porel may be retained as an uncapped player.Pant made his return to competitive cricket in the IPL earlier this year, leading DC to a sixth-placed finish. The IPL 2025 mega auction is expected to be a two-day affair held overseas in November or December this year.The BCCI is yet to announce the official retention rules, but it is anticipated that the announcement will be made soon.

Shubman Gill's masterful display of old-school cricket skills against Bangladesh's spinners on a challenging pitch at Chepauk in Chennai has showcased his growth and adaptability as a batsman. Gill's unbeaten 119, which propelled India to a commanding lead of 514 on the third day of the first Test, was a testament to his careful strategy and unwavering focus.Gill's approach was evident from the outset, as he stepped out to hit off-spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz for a six and attacked Shakib Al-Hasan's flighted delivery for a boundary. This aggressive footwork against spinners is a result of years of training, which Gill began at a young age due to his height."It's something that I started practicing when I was very young because I was always a tall guy," Gill explained. "So, it was easier for me to use my feet and play along the ground. Playing in the air and hitting sixes actually came a bit later when I got a little bit more power in my body."Gill's confidence has soared after his impressive series against England earlier this year, where he amassed nearly 500 runs. "I think the series that I had against England gave me a lot of confidence," he said. "I felt it was a long time coming for me, especially batting at that position (No. 3)."Gill's efforts were complemented by Rishabh Pant, who scored a century of his own. Gill expressed his happiness for Pant's remarkable comeback after his life-threatening car accident in 2022. "I have spent a lot of time with him on and off the field and watching him score his first 50 and first 100 after his comeback gives me so much pleasure," Gill said.The duo's quirky celebration routine, which involves two taps of gloves followed by a tap of the bats, has become a signature moment in their partnership. "I was telling him not to (hit bat twice) because I'm playing with a bat that I played against England," Gill said with a laugh. "My bat is quite old. He was hitting my bat so hard. I was telling him that I'm trying to save my bat."Gill's focused and calculated efforts against the spinners highlight his growth and adaptability, promising more stellar performances in future matches. His ability to counter challenging conditions and unsettle bowlers with his old-school skills makes him a valuable asset to the Indian team.

Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant's Lighthearted Sunglasses Swap Steals the Show in India vs. Bangladesh TestIn a moment of camaraderie and lightheartedness, Indian cricket stars Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant engaged in a memorable sunglasses exchange during the third day of the first Test between India and Bangladesh in Chennai.As the second innings of Bangladesh's batting unfolded, Kohli removed his sunglasses and handed them directly to Pant. Without hesitation, Pant removed his own pair and donned Kohli's. In a reciprocal gesture, Pant then offered his sunglasses to Kohli, who accepted and put them on.The exchange, captured by cameras, highlighted the strong bond between the two teammates. It also provided a brief moment of levity amidst the intense competition on the field.Meanwhile, the match itself saw Bangladesh facing an uphill battle at stumps on the third day. Chasing an imposing target of 515, they had lost four wickets for 158 runs. India had earlier declared their second innings at 287/4, thanks to centuries from Pant (109) and Shubman Gill (119).Bangladesh's hopes of a comeback were further dented by the impressive bowling of Ravichandran Ashwin, who claimed three wickets for 63 runs. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto remained unbeaten on 51 at the close of play, providing a glimmer of hope for the visitors.

Shubman Gill's Century Powers India to Dominant Position in Chennai TestIndia's young batting prodigy Shubman Gill showcased his exceptional talent on Day 3 of the first Test against Bangladesh at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. After a disappointing first innings dismissal for a duck, Gill bounced back with a magnificent century in the second innings, helping India set a daunting target of 515 runs for the visitors.Gill's 119 not out from 176 deliveries was a masterclass in batting. He reached his century with a single off Mehidy Hasan Miraz, becoming only the second Indian No.3 batter after Rahul Dravid to achieve this feat at this stadium in 35 matches. Gill's innings was adorned with 10 fours and 4 sixes, showcasing his aggressive yet elegant strokeplay.The 23-year-old formed a crucial 167-run partnership with wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, who also scored a century in his return to Test cricket after nearly two years. Pant's century equaled MS Dhoni's record for the most Test centuries by an Indian keeper-batter.Gill's century was not just a personal milestone but also a significant contribution to India's strong position in the match. He became the first batter to score a second-innings century against Bangladesh after being dismissed for a duck in the first innings. This achievement places him in an elite group of Indian No.3 batters, joining Rahul Dravid as the only players to accomplish this feat at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.With India in a commanding position, Gill's performance could prove to be pivotal in securing a victory for the team. His century has not only boosted India's confidence but also put Bangladesh under immense pressure. The visitors will need a monumental effort to chase down the target and avoid a defeat in the series opener.

Veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has etched his name in Bangladesh cricket history by becoming the oldest player from his nation to feature in a Test match. At 37 years and 181 days, Shakib took the field on Day 3 of Bangladesh's first Test against India in Chennai, surpassing the previous record held by left-arm spinner Mohammad Rafique, who was 37 years and 180 days when he last played a Test in 2008.Shakib, a central figure in Bangladesh cricket for more than a decade, continues to add to his illustrious career with this latest milestone. Widely regarded as one of the game's premier all-rounders, his longevity and contribution to the team have been instrumental.While Shakib's achievement is significant, the world record for the oldest Test cricketer remains with England's Wilfred Rhodes, who played his final Test at 52 years and 165 days in 1930. Rhodes' record, as well as his remarkable 30-year Test career, stands as one of cricket's longest-lasting feats.On the field, however, Bangladesh found themselves in a tough position against a dominant Indian side. Shubman Gill led the charge on Day 3 with his seventh Test fifty, and Rishabh Pant was inching toward his 12th fifty as India surged to 141 for 3 after 40 overs, extending their lead to over 350 runs.Earlier on Day 2, India pacer Jasprit Bumrah wreaked havoc on Bangladesh's batting lineup, claiming 4 for 50 as the visitors were bundled out for a mere 149 in their first innings. Despite efforts from experienced players like Shakib (32) and wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das (22), Bangladesh struggled to mount a meaningful response to India's solid first-innings total.Shakib's inclusion in the Test team is a testament to his enduring quality and the value he brings to the side. His experience, skill, and leadership will be crucial as Bangladesh looks to navigate the challenges of the series against India.

Rishabh Pant's remarkable return to Test cricket was marked by a record-equalling century, etching his name alongside former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the annals of Indian wicketkeeper-batsmen.After a 635-day hiatus from the longest format, Pant resumed his innings on Saturday with an unbeaten 12. With a couple off Shakib Al Hasan, he reached his sixth Test century, matching Dhoni's tally and becoming the joint record holder for most centuries by an Indian wicketkeeper-batsman.Pant's century came in 124 balls, adorned with 13 fours and 4 sixes. His partnership with Shubman Gill, who was batting on 88 when Pant departed, stretched India's lead to a commanding 461 runs.The left-handed Pant, who miraculously survived a horrific car accident in December 2022, displayed his trademark aggression and shot-making prowess. His century was a testament to his resilience and determination to return to the highest level of cricket.India's first innings total of 376 was bolstered by Ravichandran Ashwin's 113 and Ravindra Jadeja's 86. Bangladesh, in response, were dismissed for 149, with Jasprit Bumrah claiming four wickets.Pant's century and India's dominant performance have put them in a commanding position in the ongoing Test match. The visitors will be looking to press their advantage and secure a series victory.

Rishabh Pant, the charismatic Indian wicketkeeper-batsman, brought a touch of levity to the opening Test against Bangladesh in Chennai on Saturday. Known for his infectious enthusiasm, Pant couldn't resist offering some tactical advice to the opposition.As play commenced on the third morning, Pant noticed some indecision among the Bangladesh fielders. With a mischievous grin, he couldn't help but chime in, "Arre idhar aayega ek...bhai, ek idhar, one fielder here, mid-wicket."To the amusement of the commentators and viewers, Shanto and the bowler promptly heeded Pant's suggestion, repositioning a fielder to mid-wicket. Pant's lighthearted intervention not only drew laughter but also highlighted his keen eye for the game.This Test match marks Pant's return to the international arena after a horrific car accident in December 2022. His recovery has been nothing short of remarkable, and his presence on the field has brought a renewed sense of energy to the Indian team.In the first innings, Pant contributed a valuable 39 runs. Resuming his knock in India's second innings, he looked determined to make a significant impact. Alongside Shubman Gill, who was batting on 33, Pant aimed to extend India's lead and put Bangladesh under further pressure.India, who posted a formidable 376 in their first innings, opted not to enforce the follow-on after dismissing Bangladesh for a paltry 149. The hosts resumed their second innings with a commanding lead of 308 runs.Pant's jovial nature and quick wit have made him a fan favorite. His ability to find humor in even the most intense situations is a testament to his resilience and positive outlook. As India continues its quest for victory in Chennai, Pant's infectious spirit is sure to inspire his teammates and entertain cricket enthusiasts worldwide.