Today (October 10) will be a jam-packed day! First of all the Indian men’s team will look to wrap up the series against Bangladesh in New Delhi. Meanwhile, the women’s team will be eyeing a winning spree when they take on Asia Cup Final opponents in Sri Lanka. South Africa vs Scotland will be the afternoon encounter in the Women’s T20 World Cup. Apart from this, October 9 also saw a bunch of cricketing updates. While the news came regarding the much-awaited ICC Champions Trophy, Insideport revealed that BCCI is about to make an official announcement for the Test squad against New Zealand.
IND squad soon, Mohammed Shami under scanner
India’s recent 2-0 sweep over Bangladesh sets them up for the crucial New Zealand Test series, a final warm-up before the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The series will not only test India’s preparation but also determine their spot in the 2025 WTC Final. All eyes are on Mohammed Shami, who will be making a comeback after a long injury layoff. While his return is uncertain, India’s selectors are cautiously optimistic about his availability for the NZ series or the upcoming T20 series against South Africa. The BCCI will soon announce the squad for the New Zealand Tests, starting from October 16.
ICC Champions Trophy – where?
The fate of the Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan remains uncertain, primarily due to India’s reluctance to tour the country due to geopolitical reasons. While the BCCI has cited government clearance as a prerequisite, recent reports suggest that even if India qualifies for the final, the match will be moved to Dubai. Alternative venues like Sharjah and Abu Dhabi are also being considered to accommodate India’s potential participation. With less than two months to go before the tournament, the decision on the final’s location will likely be made closer to the event.
No Sarfaraz Khan in Ranji Trophy
Indian star Sarfaraz Khan will miss Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy initial matches. He’ll be at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), potentially preparing for an Indian call-up. Mumbai, the defending champions, will face Baroda and Maharashtra in their first two matches. Sarfaraz, a recent Irani Cup hero (222*), is likely to retain his spot in the Indian squad for the Tests vs New Zealand
Sanju Samson to be dropped?
Indian wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson is aiming to solidify his place in the T20I team, especially in the absence of Jaiswal and Gill in the T20I series against Bangladesh. With the retirements of Kohli and Rohit, he has been given a chance to open the innings under Gautam Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav. However, a modest 29-run knock in the first T20I against Bangladesh has raised questions once again. Former opener Aakash Chopra has emphasized the need for Samson to score more runs to secure a permanent spot in the side. “He should score a few more runs because, otherwise, they would drop him,” said Chopra.
Arshdeep Singh in Tests?
Despite being one of the premier T20 bowlers in the country, Arshdeep Singh remains determined to make his Test debut. The left-arm pacer impressed in the Duleep Trophy, claiming career-best figures of 90/9. With nine Tests upcoming (3 vs NZ and 5 vs AUS), Arshdeep aims to break into the Indian Test squad, which includes Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, and Yash Dayal.
From Multan to Marriage ft. Olly Stone
English pacer Olly Stone has opted to marry during England’s tour of Pakistan. His wedding will take place this weekend, allowing him to fly back home earlier than planned. Given the tight schedule between his wedding and the second Test, Stone is unlikely to feature in the match. His absence might not significantly impact England’s bowling attack, as they have other talented options like Matthew Potts.
