It was a quite day for Indian cricket on Thursday (30 August). Unfortunately, the opening day of the second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh was washed out without even a single ball bowled due to rain. The England-Sri Lanka 2nd Test, however, saw another century, this time from the bat of Gus Atkinson. Apart from this, Insidesport had an exclusive chat with a BCCI official that hinted that the Impact Player rule at the IPL might be in for a long haul. On that note, let us take six of the best stories on sports on August 30.
Impact Player rule for IPL 2025
The Impact Player rule, a controversial addition to the Indian Premier League (IPL), is set to remain in place for the upcoming season. Despite discussions about its effectiveness, BCCI is yet to announce any changes. The rule, which allows teams to substitute a player after the 14th over, was initially introduced as a trial in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. While the BCCI has sought feedback from franchises and players and it is likely to stay, a final decision on its future in IPL 2025 is expected to be made in the coming weeks.
Raina questions Rohit-Kohli decision
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, the two pillars of India cricket, were rested from the Duleep Trophy. This decision sparked debate, with many believing their absence was a missed opportunity for preparation. Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina argued that Kohli and Rohit should have participated to acclimatize to red-ball cricket and prepare for the upcoming red-ball season.
Wet outfield at Greater Noida
The Afghanistan cricket team faced a wet welcome upon their return to India. Despite the ground staff’s efforts, heavy rain has made it difficult to prepare the pitch for the upcoming one-off Test match against New Zealand. Pitch curator Amit Sharma expressed concern about the weather, stating, “I can control everything on the field, but the weather is not in my hands. You could also check on the internet that it would rain every day till September 8.”
Sai Sudharsan 100
Sai Sudharsan, the young Indian batter, made a significant impact during his recent stint with Surrey in County Championship. Despite a precarious situation, with Surrey at 308/4, Sudharsan’s partnership with Jordan Clark turned the tide. His aggressive batting propelled Surrey’s total beyond 500, culminating in a well-deserved century. Sudharsan’s innings showcased his potential and provided a valuable boost to his preparation for the upcoming Duleep Trophy.
Massive for Indian football
The Calcutta Football League (CFL) is set to become the first Indian league to implement goal-line technology. This groundbreaking move, known as Advanced Referring Technology (ART), aims to enhance refereeing accuracy and ensure fair play. Developed by the Indian Football Association (IFA) and Jadavpur University, ART will be used experimentally in the Premier Division Super Six.
GOLD FOR INDIA!
Avani Lekhara etched her name in Paralympic history by becoming the first Indian woman to win multiple gold medals at the Games. Despite undergoing gallbladder surgery just months before the Paris Paralympics, she clinched gold in the Women’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 Final. The Rajasthani shooter’s had immense support from this father.
