The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed the Rest of India (ROI) squad for the Irani Cup clash on September 24. Ruturaj Gaikwad will captain the team against Ranji Trophy winners Mumbai while Abhimanyu Easwaran will be his deputy. However, there was no place for Sanju Samson as BCCI went ahead with Ishan Kishan. Apart from this, we had an update on the possible security danger hovering over the second Test between India and Bangladesh in Kanpur. On that note, here are the six headline-making stories from September 24.
No Sanju Samson in Irani Cup squad
The long-awaited announcement of the Rest of India (ROI) squad for the Irani Cup against Mumbai is finally here. Ruturaj Gaikwad, fresh from leading India C to victory in the Duleep Trophy, will captain the ROI, with Abhimanyu Easwaran as his deputy. In a battle for the wicket-keeper’s spot, Ishan Kishan has edged out Sanju Samson, despite both players scoring impressive centuries in the Duleep Trophy. Another notable inclusion is Dhruv Jurel, who is currently part of the Indian Test squad. However, if he fails to secure a place in the second Test against Bangladesh, he will join the ROI squad for the Irani Cup just like Yash Dayal.
Security threat in IND vs BAN
Amidst threats of protests in Kanpur and Gwalior, the Bangladesh cricket team is facing unprecedented hostility in India. To ensure their safety, BCCI has promised enhanced security measures. Kanpur, the venue for the second Test, has been transformed into a fortress, with increased police presence, sniper deployment, and intelligence agency coordination. The city’s Additional Commissioner of Police has assured that every effort will be made to guarantee the team’s security.
Ashwin reveals difference b/w Gambhir & Dravid
Ravichandran Ashwin has praised India head coach Gautam Gambhir’s relaxed approach, contrasting it with Rahul Dravid’s more structured style. After India’s 280-run win over Bangladesh, Ashwin called Gambhir “relaxed Rancho” on his YouTube channel. He noted Gambhir’s casual team huddles, saying, “Join if you want to.” In contrast, Dravid was “very regimented” and wanted everything in order. Ashwin believes Gambhir’s laid-back demeanor will win over fans and players alike.
Costly WTC Final tickets
Team India’s massive fan following has led to a significant increase in ticket prices for their upcoming matches at Lord’s Cricket Ground. The stadium has hiked prices for both the World Test Championship final and the India vs England Test series in 2025. The most expensive tickets for the India vs England Test series will cost around INR 19,000 per day, while the cheapest adult tickets for the WTC final will start at INR 7,000.
Asghar Afghan Exclusive
The Australian cricket team has avoided playing Afghanistan due to their human rights record for women. However, Afghanistan sees this as Australia’s fear of losing to them. Former captain Asghar Afghan believes that Australia now feels pressure when playing against Afghanistan, unlike in the past when they played against weaker teams. Afghan had an exclusive chat with Insidesport.
Harmanpreet Kaur-led side is READY!
India’s women’s cricket team has a history of strong performances in the T20 World Cup but has yet to clinch the coveted title. Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, they have a golden opportunity to change that in the upcoming tournament in the UAE. The team’s recent history includes a runner-up finish in 2020 and a semifinal exit in 2023, showcasing their potential. Skipper Harmanpreet has expressed all the confidence in her team, stating, “It is our team’s dream to win this trophy, and I feel, as a team, we have what it takes.” She had a press conference alongside head coach Amol Muzumdar on Tuesday before leaving for the UAE.
