The nation woke up to the worst news possible. The dream of watching Vinesh Phogat clinch that ‘certain’ medal was shattered when the ‘fighter of India’ was disqualified for being just a few grams overweight from her 50kg category. The entire country felt disheartened, but none more than Phogat herself. Apart from this, the Indian cricket team also failed to salvage their ODI series against Sri Lanka, losing the rubber 2-0. While it was a reality check for Gautam Gambhir, India may found a positive in Riyan Parag!
Riyan Parag the only positive?
Riyan Parag, who got his ODI debut cap from his idol Virat Kohli, made superb contribution in his maiden One-day international. On a tricky Colombo wicket, Parag utilized his spin variations masterfully (maybe taking inspiration from his RR teammate Ravichandran Ashwin). Although Parag was hit for some runs while bowling the 48th over, the Assam-born all-rounder finished his maiden ODI figures at 3/56 in nine overs, making himself only the 7th Indian spinner to take three wickets in men’s ODI debut.
Vinesh Phogat’s dream shattered!
In a shocking turn of events, India’s Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the Paris Olympics wrestling final. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) announced she was 100 grams overweight for the 50kg category. The team expressed regret and requested privacy for Phogat, who was afterwards seen on hospital bed.
Reality Check for Gautam Gambhir?
India are now scheduled to have just three more ODIs before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. With this humiliating 2-0 loss against Sri Lanka, newly made head coach Gautam Gambhir would be under the pump. Despite all the main players featuring, barring Bumrah and Pandya, the team showed lacklustre performance. The challenge will now be on Gambhir to find solutions and aim for better team combination and execution.
Witty Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma, known for his witty banter, surprised everyone during the India-Sri Lanka ODI. While fielding at first slip, he encouraged Axar Patel in fluent ‘Sinhalese’, much to the astonishment of teammate Rishabh Pant. “Anna hari, mēka hari,” Rohit repeated, which translates to “that’s right, that’s right” in English. This unexpected linguistic display from the Indian captain added a humorous twist to the match.
Impact Player rule not in IPL 2025?
The controversial Impact Player rule was again under scrutiny. The BCCI delayed a decision on its inclusion in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, hinting at its potential absence from the next IPL. A letter to state associations indicated a forthcoming announcement on playing conditions, including the Impact Player rule. Match fees for potential Impact Players were outlined, with full payment equivalent to the playing XI for the 12th man.
Hero’s welcome for Manu Bhaker!
Manu Bhaker, the Paris Olympics bronze medalist (two times), received a tumultuous welcome upon her arrival at Delhi Airport. She and coach Jaspal Rana were showered with garlands after her historic performance. Bhaker clinched two bronze medals in the 10m Air Pistol event. A massive crowd awaited her at Indira Gandhi Airport, creating a frenzy. India celebrated their new hero, the first Indian athlete to win two Olympic medals in a single edition. She secured bronze in the women’s and mixed 10m Air Pistol events.
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