It is only a days gap between the first and second T20 internationals between South Africa and India. However, as many as two bilateral series began, with Sri Lanka hosting New Zealand and West Indies starting their five-match series against England. Moreover, Afghanistan and Bangladesh also fought for the second ODI, with the latter winning the game comprehensively. We had a major update regarding the ICC Champions Trophy, with India’s push for a hybrid model almost confirmed now. India A lost their second match against Australia A but Dhruv Jurel inspired again. Apart from this, BCCI is perhaps mulling over split coaching decision, mounting huge pressure on Gautam Gambhir. On that note, here are the top six headline-worthy stories from November 09, Saturday.
India not to play Champions Trophy in Pakistan
According to ESPNcricinfo, India has pulled out of the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan due to government security concerns. The PCB is reluctant to accept a hybrid model, which will nothing but help in delaying the tournament’s schedule. The ICC is exploring options, including shifting matches to a neutral venue like the UAE or Sri Lanka. India last visited Pakistan back in 2008 and it looks like they won’t go again any time soon.
VVS Laxman to join Gautam Gambhir as head coach?
Gautam Gambhir’s tenure as India’s all-format head coach may be cut short if the team loses the Test series against Australia. The BCCI is considering a split coaching approach, with separate coaches for red-ball and white-ball formats. Reports suggest VVS Laxman, National Cricket Academy (NCA) head, may become Test coach, while Gambhir could continue as white-ball coach. This development depends on India’s performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. A poor loss to Australia could seal Gambhir’s fate. Laxman is currently with the team for the IND vs SA T20Is too.
Dhruv Jurel in place of KL Rahul/Sarfaraz Khan?
Dhruv Jurel’s impressive performances in the India A vs Australia A series have strengthened his case for a spot in India’s Test XI for the upcoming series in Australia. His ability to score runs in challenging conditions, especially under pressure, makes him an exciting prospect for that number six role. The 23-year-old’s technique and temperament Down Under suggest he is ready for the rigors of Test cricket. Jurel made 68 in the second innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and 80 in the first.
Virat Kohli to turn it around at BGT?
Virat Kohli’s recent red-ball form has been a cause for concern, especially his struggles against spin. His last 14 Test matches have yielded just two centuries and three fifties since February 2022. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has acknowledged Kohli’s dip in form but expressed optimism about a potential turnaround, particularly against Australia. He highlighted Kohli’s strong record against Australia and believes that the upcoming series could be a turning point for the Indian batting stalwart, who desperately need some runs under his belt. Kohli is enduring his career-worst international year thus far.
426 and still counting!
Yashvardhan Dalal scripted history by smashing a quadruple century in the CK Nayudu Trophy, breaking Sameer Rizvi’s nine-month-old triple-century record. Dalal’s unbeaten 426 runs for Haryana against Mumbai brought him eyeballs and made him a part of Indian domestic history. Dalal ended Day 2 with an unbeaten score of 426 runs, with his team’s score at 732/8. He hit 46 fours and a total of 12 sixes.
Prithvi Shaw returns for Mumbai?
Prithvi Shaw has been named in Mumbai’s 28-man probable squad for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, marking his return after being dropped for being “overweight.” Shaw’s body fat percentage was previously 35%, above the permissible limit. He’ll aim to impress ahead of the IPL 2025 auction, where he’ll be up for grabs after Delhi Capitals (DC) released him. Shreyas Iyer and Shardul Thakur, also released by their franchises, are also part of the squad. The tournament, starting November 23, provides a perfect platform for every domestic talent to showcase their skills before the auction on November 24-25 in Jeddah.
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