October 6 was jam-packed with cricketing action. Both men’s and women’s teams stepped onto the field, winning their respective games. While the Women in Blue upstaged fierce rivals Pakistan in a slow run-chase, Suryakumar Yadav’s new Indian team demolished Bangladesh in the opening T20I. Mayank Yadav was handed his debut, and the speedster impressed with his change of pace. Apart from this, the IPL 2025 rumour mill didn’t stop as AB de Villiers had something to say regarding Rohit Sharma’s possible move to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
Rohit Sharma to RCB – no?
Former RCB superstar Ab de Villiers has dismissed speculation by Mohammad Kaif that Rohit Sharma could lead RCB in IPL 2025. In a video, De Villiers laughed off the suggestion, calling it “the biggest story of the IPL.” He compared it to the surprising move of Hardik Pandya rejoining the Mumbai Indians from GT. De Villiers firmly stated that there was a “zero” per cent chance of Rohit joining “rivals” RCB.
Mayank Yadav!!
Nitish Kumar Reddy and Mayank Yadav made their India debuts against Bangladesh. Mayank stole the show with his exceptional pace and skill. His maiden over was followed by a wicket in his second over. Despite conceding 15 runs in his third over, Mayank’s ability to vary his pace was absolutely impressive. Although he didn’t surpass the 150 kmph mark, Mayank’s 149.9 kmph delivery showed his raw pace. His return to competitive cricket after a long absence was a resounding success, finishing with figures of 1/21 in his four overs.
Trouble for IND W despite beating PAK W
India edged past Pakistan by 6 wickets in the T20 World Cup, their first win. However, despite the victory, concerns linger about their low run rate, which is crucial for qualification. Chasing a modest target, India’s cautious batting meant they missed a chance to improve their position significantly. Adding to the worry, captain Harmanpreet Kaur left the field with a neck injury during the chase. India hopes for a better start with the bat and a speedy recovery for its captain before their next game against Sri Lanka on October 9.
Key matches for Sanju Samson ahead
Sanju Samson made a decent statement while opening the innings for India against Bangladesh. Batting at the top of the order, he smashed 29 runs off 19 balls, contributing to India’s seven-wicket victory. This was a crucial opportunity for Samson, who aims to solidify his position in the Indian T20I team after the retirement of Rohit and Kohli. With the likes of Jaiswal and Gill are resting from the T20Is vs Bangladesh, the next two games become ever so crucial for Samson to stake his claim in the top of the order.
Take a bow, Varun Chakravarthy
Omission after the 2021 T20 World Cup was naturally a setback for Varun Chakravarthy. After a three-year hiatus, his performance against Bangladesh, claiming a three-wicket haul and the ‘Player of the Match’ award, marked a triumphant return. Chakaravarthy expressed his emotions, calling it a “rebirth.” He credited working with Ravichandran Ashwin, who played a crucial role in his preparation during this year’s Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL).
Shaheen Afridi returns!
Pakistan announced their playing XI for the first Multan Test against England and they have made changes to the bowling lineup. Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Aamir Jamal are returning to the team after missing out from previous matches against Bangladesh. The trio’s inclusion aims to address the team’s recent struggles in red-ball cricket. Pakistan’s top seven remains unchanged, while England will be without their captain, Ben Stokes.
