Cricket continued to attract eyebrows on July 10 as there were quite a few games that took place yesterday. While India went 2-1 up in their 5-match rubber against Zimbabwe, we also ushered in the retirement Test match for the legendary James Anderson. In league matches, it was a double-header in the Lankan Premier League (LPL), where Rilee Rossouw slammed a splendid century in just 44 balls. Regardless, there were a few striking news that gained all the attention. Is Ruturaj Gaikwad bigger than the likes of Rohit Sharma & Virat Kohli? Or is Gautam Gambhir contemplating on choosing Abhishek Nayar as his assistance coach for India? Catch all the updates below.
Ruturaj Gaikwad bigger than Rohit-Kohli?
As per the latest ICC rankings, Ruturaj Gaikwad is one of the highest rated India T20I player, a list that was previously owned by the likes of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Gaikwad’s strong showing against Zimbabwe saw him jump 13 spots in the ICC T20I rankings, landing him at number 7. Scores of 77 and 49 did the trick, boosting his rating to 662. Less fortunate are Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The World Cup heroes find themselves ranked much lower at 37 and 43 respectively following their retirement.
KKR duo now Team India duo?
Gambhir’s coaching staff for Team India is taking shape. Reports suggest Abhishek Nayar, KKR’s assistant coach who worked alongside Gambhir in their IPL triumph, is likely to become India’s assistant coach. Nayar’s strong work ethic and impact on young players at KKR reportedly impressed Gambhir. With the contracts of Dravid’s staff expiring, this move signals the formation of a new coaching team under Gambhir’s leadership.
IND 2 ZIM 1
India dominated Zimbabwe in the third T20I, clinching a commanding 23-run victory and a 2-1 series lead. After skipper Shubman Gill came up with a captain’s knock of 66, Gaikwad continued his rich vein of form, contributing a quick-fire 49. India finished with a strong total of 182. Zimbabwe’s chase faltered early as Avesh Khan and Khaleel Ahmed picked up early wickets. Despite a valiant effort from Dion Myers (65*), they were restricted to 159 for 6, falling short of the target. Washington Sundar was the pick of the Indian bowlers, claiming 3 wickets for just 15 runs.
Gus Atkinson overshadows James Anderson in his final Test!
England debutant Gus Atkinson stole the show in James Anderson’s farewell Test! The young pacer ripped through the Windies batting order, taking a stunning 7/45 in just 12 overs. His three-wicket over dismantled their middle order and left them reeling at 88/6. Atkinson now boasts the third-best bowling figures for an England debutant pacer. West Indies were bundled out for a mere 121 with Stokes, Woakes, and Anderson chipping in with wickets.
Argentina secure Copa America finals spot!
Lionel Messi and Argentina have yet again secured their spot in the finals of Copa America 2024. And most importantly, Lionel Messi has finally grabbed a goal in the tournament. Julian Alvarez opened the scoring for his side. And in the second half, it was Messi who doubled the tally for his side to help Argentina reach the Copa America finals consecutively.
England reach finals of Euro Cup!
The stage is set for a thrilling Spain vs England encounter in the finals of UEFA Euro 2024. The Three Lions staged a remarkable comeback to secure a win in the dying minutes of the game. Xavi Simons opened the scoring for Dutch in the 7th minute of the game. Harry Kane stepped up from the stop while a late goal in the dying minutes from Ollie Watkins sealed the tie for Gareth Southgate and Co.