The caravan of the much-enjoyed Duleep Trophy continued on Day 2 as the four teams competed in an enthralling fashion. Musheer Khan continued his magic as he smashed 181 to take IND A over the 300-run mark. In the second game, it was Manav Suthar who wreaked havoc with his superb five-wicket haul. Despite this, India D hold an advantage, courtesy of their 202-run lead. Apart from this, we even saw the addition of Sanju Samson in Duleep Trophy, but read below to know more about it!
Sanju Samson in Duleep Trophy?
Kerala sensation Sanju Samson has arrived in Anantapur to potentially replace injured Ishan Kishan in India D’s Duleep Trophy squad. Though Samson is not a world-beating player in first-class cricket, his inclusion could bolster India D’s batting lineup. He was initially overlooked for the tournament but the injury to Kishan opened the door for his possible inclusion. Albeit Kishan is not officially out of the tournament. Samson’s presence in the dugout during India D’s match against Team C hints at his potential inclusion in the playing XI for the remaining games.
Shubman Gill’s offstump goes flying!
In the match against India B, Shubman Gill’s innings in the Duleep Trophy was cut short in a peculiar manner. While facing Navdeep Saini, Gill, who was not in good form prior to the Duleep Trophy, decided to leave a delivery outside off stump. However, the ball unexpectedly swung back sharply and crashed into his stumps, leaving him bewildered. It was a bizarre way to get out. But it wasn’t the first as the talented dasher was previously dismissed in a similar fashion in 2023 WTC final against Scott Boland.
Rahul Dravid rejoins RR!
Rahul Dravid, a former Rajasthan Royals captain and mentor, has returned to the franchise as their head coach. The announcement comes after days of speculation and anticipation. Dravid, who led India to the T20 World Cup 2022 title as head coach, has a strong connection with RR, having captained and mentored the team in previous seasons. His return is expected to bolster RR’s coaching staff and bring a wealth of experience to the team. Moreover, he will work with Kumar Sangakkara, who is not expected to leave the role of Director of Cricket.
Another GOLD for India!
Praveen Kumar, a high jumper from Uttar Pradesh, won India’s 26th gold medal at the Paris Paralympics. He clinched the top spot in the Men’s High Jump T64 event with a best jump of 2.08m, breaking the Asian record. This is his second Paralympic medal, having won silver in Tokyo 2020. His victory follows Mariyappan Thangavelu’s gold medal win in Paralympic high jump, making him the second Indian to achieve this feat.
No 3rd umpire in Australia matches?
The Scotland vs Australia T20I series is being played without a third umpire, leaving everyone disappointed and startled. This oversight is particularly glaring considering Australia is playing this series. The second T20I, Josh Inglis’ century powered Australia to a 196-run total. Marcus Stoinis’ four-wicket haul helped restrict Scotland to 126, securing a comfortable victory for the visitors.
Fitness priority for Rohit Sharma!
Rohit Sharma, India’s captain and senior-most player, is prioritizing fitness to extend his career. His former teammate, Pragyan Ojha, believes that Rohit is training intensely to stay in peak condition. This focus on fitness is crucial for India’s success, as Rohit’s form and leadership are vital to the team’s performance, leading the team to a historic T20 World Cup 2024 win. With upcoming Test series ahead, Rohit’s preparation will be key to India’s chances en route to WTC final and beyond. Pragyan Ojha spoke exclusively to Insidesport.
