Is there racism in the Indian team? Well, a former national player has called out for it! He asserted that had Shubman Gill hail from Tamil Nadu, he would’ve not gotten a longer run in the Indian Test team despite regular failures. Apart from this, January 6 was a rather sedate one for the Indian fans, who got a reality check after getting a 3-1 thrashing at the hands of Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). We got a report discussing the possible squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are likely to play the 3 IND vs ENG ODIs before that as well. Meanwhile, MS Dhoni was spotted during an ad shoot for the Champions Trophy. On that note, let us look at the top eye-catching stories from Monday, January 06.
MS Dhoni at ICC Champions Trophy?
MS Dhoni is back in the iconic blue jersey, this time for a Champions Trophy 2025. But not as a player. The CSK icon was seen during an ad shoot for the mega event! His photos in the India kit went gone viral on the social media. Dhoni’s presence, even off the field, reminds fans of his legendary moments—like the 2013 Champions Trophy win under his leadership.
Racism in Team India?
Former Indian cricketer Subramaniam Badrinath has alleged that the BCCI has a bias towards North Indian players, citing Shubman Gill’s continued selection despite underperforming. Badrinath claims that if Gill were from a southern state, he would have been dropped by now. He also criticised Gill’s lack of intent and aggression, suggesting he should focus on tiring out bowlers, something like Cheteshwar Pujara excelled in.
Jasprit Bumrah to take much-needed rest!
Jasprit Bumrah will be rested for the India vs England ODI series, starting on February 6, to ensure his fitness for the ICC Champions Trophy, which begins on February 19. The BCCI wants to manage Bumrah’s workload carefully, given his long tour and upcoming IPL commitments. The squads for the England series and ICC Champions Trophy are expected to be announced together by January 12.
Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli set to return!
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are expected to feature in the upcoming India vs England ODI series and the ICC Champions Trophy. Despite a poor show in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the senior pros are likely to be included in the squad. They need to regain form before the ICC Champions Trophy, and the 50-over setup against England provides an ideal opportunity. Shreyas Iyer and Hardik Pandya are also expected to be part of the squad.
Jasprit Bumrah to be India’s vice-captain!
Jasprit Bumrah is likely to be named India’s vice-captain for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, provided he is fit. Bumrah, who led India in two Tests against Australia, is the frontrunner to become Rohit Sharma’s deputy. The decision would see Bumrah replace Shubman Gill, who was earlier named vice captain during the Sri Lanka tour in 2024. The BCCI is expected to make an official announcement soon.
Divisions in Test cricket?
Discussions are underway for a two-tiered Test cricket system, involving Australia, India, England, and the ICC. The goal is to increase matches between top teams. A proposed system would divide nations into two tiers based on rankings. The top tier would feature 7 teams, including Australia, India, and England, while the second tier would have 5 teams (Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, Ireland, and Afghanistan). This system would allow for more frequent matches between top teams, starting in 2027.
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