Cricket

The Indian cricket team, led by Shubman Gill, is embarking on a five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, commencing on July 6 in Harare. This series marks a significant opportunity for young talents to showcase their abilities and establish themselves in the national team.The squad, overseen by National Cricket Academy head VVS Laxman, features a blend of experienced players and promising newcomers. Among the fresh faces are Riyan Parag and Abhishek Sharma, who have impressed with their performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL).Shubman Gill, who was previously the reserve opener for the T20 World Cup, will join the team directly from the United States. The BCCI has shared images of the squad boarding their flight on social media.However, five key players—Shivam Dube, Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh, and Khaleel Ahmed—are currently stranded in Barbados due to Hurricane Beryl. These players, who were part of the T20 World Cup-winning team or traveling reserves, will join the team in Zimbabwe once the weather improves.The recent retirements of senior players Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja from the T20 format have created opportunities for younger players. This series against Zimbabwe presents a crucial chance for these emerging talents to solidify their positions in the national team for future engagements.India's squad for the T20I series against Zimbabwe:* Shubman Gill (captain)* Yashasvi Jaiswal* Ruturaj Gaikwad* Abhishek Sharma* Rinku Singh* Sanju Samson (wk)* Dhruv Jurel (wk)* Shivam Dube* Riyan Parag* Washington Sundar* Ravi Bishnoi* Avesh Khan* Khaleel Ahmed* Mukesh Kumar* Tushar Deshpande

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is preparing to send a young Indian team to Zimbabwe for a five-match T20I series in July, while the senior players rest ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024.Shubman Gill is expected to lead the team in the absence of Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, and Suryakumar Yadav. The squad will likely include promising IPL stars like Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Tushar Deshpande, and Harshit Rana.Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Rinku Singh, who are currently with the Indian team in the USA and West Indies for the T20 World Cup, will also join the Zimbabwe-bound squad.With Gautam Gambhir's appointment as India's new head coach still pending, National Cricket Academy head VVS Laxman is likely to accompany the team to Zimbabwe along with other coaches. Gambhir is expected to take over for the subsequent tour of Sri Lanka in late July.

The Indian cricket team's coaching position has attracted significant attention, with the application deadline recently passing. Several prominent names, including Gautam Gambhir, Stephen Fleming, Ricky Ponting, and Justin Langer, were initially linked to the role. However, most foreign candidates have publicly declined to apply.BCCI secretary Jay Shah has emphasized the importance of appointing a coach familiar with the domestic structure. This has led to speculation that an Indian coach will be selected. VVS Laxman and Gautam Gambhir have emerged as the frontrunners.According to Cricbuzz, Jay Shah and Gautam Gambhir have had discussions centered around the idea of "doing it for the country." Gambhir is known for his patriotic sentiments and is reportedly considering the BCCI's approach.KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan is aware of the development. Earlier, it was reported that Khan desired Gambhir's long-term association with the IPL franchise. According to Dainik Jagran, Khan offered Gambhir a blank cheque last year to remain with KKR for 10 years.While there is no official confirmation of Gambhir's application, the buzz within the coach selection circle suggests that he is a strong candidate. The BCCI is expected to make an announcement soon.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is actively seeking a new head coach for the men's national team, and several prominent former cricketers have emerged as potential candidates. Among the top Indian contenders are VVS Laxman and Gautam Gambhir, while international names like Ricky Ponting, Justin Langer, and Stephen Fleming have also been linked to the role.However, it is reported that Kolkata Knight Riders mentor Gautam Gambhir is the frontrunner for the position. According to Dainik Jagaran, Gambhir is eager to take up the job despite being in his first year as KKR mentor. However, he has one condition: he wants a "selection guarantee" before applying.Gambhir is reportedly unwilling to simply be an applicant for the post. He wants to be assured of his selection as Rahul Dravid's replacement before submitting his application. The deadline for applications is May 27, and it is unclear how many potential coaches have expressed interest.The BCCI has denied reaching out to Ponting and Langer, despite claims from the duo that they were approached but declined the offer. If Gambhir does apply and is selected, he will have to step down from his role as KKR mentor.Gambhir's impressive performance as KKR mentor has significantly boosted his chances of becoming India's head coach. Under his guidance, the franchise has shown remarkable resurgence in IPL 2023.

Indian cricket team head coach Rahul Dravid has shed light on the decision to include Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI for the second Test against England, despite the absence of all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Dravid explained that the team's focus on taking all 20 wickets prompted them to opt for a specialist spinner over an all-rounder."When I saw Axar batting at No. 6, I remember looking at Vikram (Rathour) and thinking, 'Jeez, VVS (Laxman) used to walk out at that position'," Dravid said. "With due respect to Axar, he is a lovely player, but that's the bottom line of what me and Rohit have always spoken about. That's what wins you Tests... being able to take 20 wickets as quickly as possible."Dravid praised the team's young talent for stepping up in the absence of senior players like Virat Kohli and KL Rahul. "It does make you feel really proud and happy for the way the team's evolved, the team's grown and just happy for the boys," he said.Despite losing the first Test, India bounced back to clinch the series 4-1, showcasing the depth and resilience of the team. Dravid's decision to prioritize wicket-taking over all-round balance proved to be a winning formula, as Kuldeep Yadav played a crucial role in the team's success.The inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI highlights the team's commitment to attacking bowling and their belief in the importance of taking wickets. Dravid's decision to prioritize wicket-taking over all-round balance has paid off, as India has emerged victorious in the Test series against England.