Pakistan suffered another top-order collapse in the third and final Test against England at Edgbaston on Wednesday, September 9, with the visitors reduced to 56/5 after 15.3 overs.

England won the toss and elected to bowl first, and their pace attack quickly exposed Pakistan's fragile batting order. Josh Tongue dismissed captain Babar Azam for 7, adding to wickets from Ollie Robinson and Jofra Archer as England seized control early in the innings. 

The five-day Test is already a dead rubber in terms of the series result, with England holding an unassailable 2-0 leadafter convincing victories at Headingley and Lord's. 

England Strike Early

England's decision to bowl first immediately paid dividends under overcast conditions at Edgbaston.

Ollie Robinson made the first major breakthrough, dismissing Saim Ayub for a duck. The wicket was also significant for Robinson, who reached 100 Test wickets with the dismissal and became the first England bowler since Ian Botham to achieve the milestone while maintaining a bowling average below 20. 

Jofra Archer then added to Pakistan's problems by removing Shan Masood, who made 5, leaving the visitors struggling at 26/4.

Babar Azam Falls for 7

With Pakistan already four wickets down, Babar Azam came under pressure to stabilise the innings alongside Saud Shakeel.

The Pakistan captain managed only seven runs before Josh Tongue produced a delivery that beat Babar's attempted defensive stroke and crashed into the top of off stump.

Babar's dismissal left Pakistan at 48/5 after 15 overs, deepening the team's early crisis.

The wicket came after Babar had been expected to provide experience to a dramatically reshuffled Pakistan side. He had earlier acknowledged the unusual circumstances surrounding the tour and urged his team to play with greater freedom in the final Test. 

Saud Shakeel Offers Resistance

Amid Pakistan's collapse, Saud Shakeel provided some resistance with a series of attacking strokes through the off side.

Shakeel survived a difficult moment when Ben Duckett dropped a catch at first slip. It was Duckett's second dropped opportunity of the innings, although England continued to maintain pressure with the ball.

The pitch itself appeared capable of supporting stroke-making, making Pakistan's rapid loss of wickets even more damaging.

Pakistan Make Four Changes

Pakistan entered the third Test after a turbulent build-up and made four changes to the XI that played at Lord's.

Three players — Ghazi Ghori, Imran Randhawa and Razaullah — made their Test debuts, while Saim Ayub returned to the red-ball side. The changes came after the Pakistan Cricket Board sent seven players home during the tour and launched an internal inquiry into reported discipline and conduct issues. 

The reshuffle has added to the uncertainty surrounding Pakistan's campaign in England, with the visitors already having lost the series.

England Eye a 3-0 Sweep

England entered the Edgbaston Test with the series already secured following an innings-and-103-run victory at Headingley and a 194-run win at Lord's. 

Joe Root's side remained unchanged for the final Test, with England looking to complete a clean sweep.

Pakistan, meanwhile, are attempting to salvage something from a difficult tour. Babar had urged his players to treat the final match as an opportunity to play without the pressure of the series result.

However, the early collapse at Edgbaston has put Pakistan on the back foot once again, with the lower order facing the task of rebuilding the first innings against an England attack that has dominated the series.

India opened their World Test Championship campaign with a commanding 165-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test at the Galle International Stadium on Wednesday, August 19. Young left-arm spinner Manav Suthar was the standout performer, claiming a 10-wicket match haul as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 206 while chasing 372. 

The victory gives India a 1-0 lead in the two-Test series and marks a strong start to the side's latest WTC assignment.

Suthar Delivers Match-Winning Spell

Playing only his second Test, Suthar produced a decisive performance with the ball. He took 6/55 in Sri Lanka's second innings, completing a 10-wicket match haul and repeatedly troubling the home batters on the Galle surface. 

His final-innings spell effectively ended Sri Lanka's hopes of completing what would have been a record chase. The hosts were eventually dismissed for 206 in 77.4 overs. 

India Set 372-Run Target

India had established control of the Test with a strong first-innings total of 462, led by Devdutt Padikkal's outstanding 167. KL Rahul also contributed 82, while Sri Lanka's bowlers managed to fight back during the latter stages of the innings. 

Sri Lanka responded with 284, leaving India with a substantial first-innings advantage.

India then declared their second innings at 193, with Rishabh Pant contributing a brisk 66, setting the hosts a daunting 372-run target. 

Sri Lanka Lose Momentum

Sri Lanka's chase began with the required run rate looking demanding, and India's bowlers gradually tightened the pressure. After reaching 84/4 at the end of the fourth day's play, the hosts needed another 288 runs with six wickets remaining. 

The final day belonged largely to India's bowling attack. Suthar's ability to extract control and create pressure proved crucial as Sri Lanka's lower order failed to sustain the chase.

Padikkal Named Player of Match

While Suthar's bowling dominated the final day, Devdutt Padikkal played a major role in setting up India's victory. His 167 in the first innings was his maiden Test century and provided India with the platform for a substantial total. He was subsequently named Player of the Match. 

Padikkal's contribution was particularly important after he came into the No. 3 position during the match.

Gill Starts WTC Campaign Strongly

The result also provides a boost to Shubman Gill's Test captaincy as India began this phase of their WTC campaign with a win away from home.

Gill later praised Suthar's performance, describing the young spinner as a promising player who could serve Indian cricket for a long time. 

The victory puts India ahead in the series and gives the team valuable momentum before the second Test.

India Take 1-0 Lead

With Sri Lanka bowled out for 206, India completed a 165-run victory with a session to spare. The result was built on a combination of Padikkal's first-innings century, contributions from India's batting unit and Suthar's match-winning 10 wickets. 

The second Test will now offer Sri Lanka an opportunity to level the series, while India will look to seal a series victory after an impressive opening performance in Galle.

England white-ball head coach Brendon McCullum has thrown his full support behind Joe Root's return as England's Test captain, calling him the ideal leader to guide the team through its transition period. At the same time, McCullum revealed that Harry Brook is being developed as England's long-term captain for the red-ball format.

McCullum backs Root's leadership

McCullum praised the England and Wales Cricket Board's (ECB) decision to hand the Test captaincy back to Root following Ben Stokes' retirement. He believes Root's experience, leadership qualities, and understanding of the game make him the perfect choice to lead England during a rebuilding phase. 

Harry Brook seen as future captain

While backing Root for the present, McCullum made it clear that Harry Brook is a key part of England's long-term leadership plans. He said the young batter will be mentored and developed to eventually take over the Test captaincy in the future. 

Stephen Fleming's arrival welcomed

McCullum also praised the appointment of Stephen Fleming as England's new Test head coach, saying his vast coaching experience will strengthen the red-ball side and help shape the team's future

England enters rebuilding phase

With Root back as captain, Fleming taking charge of the Test team, and Brook being groomed for leadership, England appears to be focused on building a stable long-term structure after a period of transition. The changes are aimed at restoring consistency and strengthening England's position in Test cricket.

Team India has stepped up its preparations for the opening Test against Sri Lanka by recreating Galle-like conditions during practice in Colombo. Ahead of the first Test, starting on August 15 in Galle, head coach Gautam Gambhir ensured the batters trained on a specially prepared cracked pitch designed to simulate Sri Lanka's challenging spin-friendly conditions.

According to media reports, the Indian team arrived in Sri Lanka 11 days before the first Test and has already completed two intensive three-hour training sessions at the Nondescripts Cricket Club (NCC) in Colombo. The team will also play a three-day warm-up match against the SLC XI starting Friday to further adapt to local conditions.

Gambhir Confident of India's Preparation

Speaking during the training session, Gambhir expressed confidence in the team's readiness.

"Whether we bat first or bowl first on the morning of August 15, we will have answers to every challenge that comes our way," he said.

Special Practice Pitch Replicates Galle Conditions

To prepare the batters for the sharp turn and uneven bounce expected in Galle, Gambhir and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak supervised the creation of a special 22-yard uncurated practice wicket at the NCC ground.

The surface was deliberately left with cracks, loose soil, and patches of grass to mimic the conditions typically seen during the fourth and fifth days of a Test match in Galle.

Local School Spinners Join the Practice

Initially, India's net bowlers bowled to the batters before local schoolchildren and young spinners were invited to bowl on the challenging surface.

The unpredictable wicket produced deliveries that either turned sharply or stayed unusually low, allowing India's top-order batters to spend extended periods practicing against difficult spin conditions.

Gill Recovers; Rahul and Padikkal Train Against Spin

Captain Shubman Gill, who injured his thumb during Wednesday's practice session, returned fully fit on Thursday and batted comfortably in the nets.

KL Rahul and Devdutt Padikkal also underwent lengthy batting sessions against India's frontline spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav.

Crucial Series in World Test Championship Race

The two-Test series is significant for India's campaign in the current World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. Strong performances against Sri Lanka will be vital to keeping India's hopes of reaching the WTC Final alive.

India drew the Test series 2-2 in England earlier this year but suffered a 0-2 defeat in South Africa, making this series even more important.

Bumrah, Washington Sundar Unavailable

India will be without Jasprit Bumrah and Washington Sundar for the opening Test due to fitness concerns. Meanwhile, Sai Sudharsan is still awaiting clearance from the Centre of Excellence (CoE).

To assist the batters during practice, Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian, Vipraj Nigam, and Shivang Kumar have joined the squad as net bowlers.

Players Prepared Individually Before Departure

Several players completed individual training before leaving for Sri Lanka.

• KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal trained at indoor facilities in Mumbai.

• Shubman Gill practiced with the red ball in Chandigarh.

• Rishabh Pant focused on batting and fitness in Ranchi.

Tight Security During Practice

Security remained extremely strict throughout India's training sessions at the NCC ground in Colombo. Media personnel were allowed entry only after thorough security checks, while armed security personnel guarded the venue.

India's Dominance Over Sri Lanka

India has dominated the rivalry in recent years. Of the 17 Test series played between the two nations, India has won 10, Sri Lanka has won 3, while 4 have ended in draws.

Sri Lanka has not beaten India in a Test series since 2008, meaning they have gone nearly 18 years without a series victory against their neighbours.

Shubman Gill will continue to lead the side, while KL Rahul has been named vice-captain. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant retains his place in the playing group alongside Dhruv Jurel, who has been selected as the second wicketkeeping option.

The biggest talking point from the squad announcement is the inclusion of Saransh Jain, whose consistent domestic performances and impressive showing for India A on the recent Sri Lanka tour earned him his first opportunity at the highest level. The 33-year-old all-rounder strengthened his case by scoring an unbeaten 70 and claiming six wickets during the unofficial four-day series, convincing the selectors that he could add balance to India's spin attack.

Jadeja also returns to the Test setup after missing recent international assignments because of a tennis elbow injury. His comeback provides India with an experienced left-arm spin option and additional batting depth in conditions expected to favour slow bowlers.

However, not every selection has been confirmed without conditions. Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah and batter Sai Sudharsan have both been included in the squad, but their participation remains subject to receiving fitness clearance from the BCCI Centre of Excellence before the series begins. Bumrah is recovering from a knee issue sustained during the ODI series against England, while Sudharsan is also undergoing rehabilitation.

India have also been forced into changes because of injuries. All-rounder Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the first Test due to a hamstring injury, while Nitish Kumar Reddy has not been considered after failing to recover fully from a quadriceps injury. Their absence created an opportunity for Saransh Jain to enter the national squad.

The batting order is expected to retain its familiar structure, with KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal likely to open the innings. Captain Shubman Gill is set to continue at No. 4, while Pant remains India's first-choice wicketkeeper. Devdutt Padikkal has also retained his place in the squad as an additional batting option.

India's spin department appears particularly strong for Sri Lankan conditions. Alongside Jadeja, the selectors have backed Kuldeep Yadav and Manav Suthar, while Saransh Jain offers another off-spin option capable of contributing with the bat lower down the order. The combination gives India multiple tactical options depending on pitch conditions and player availability.

The pace attack will be led by Bumrah if declared fit, with Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna expected to shoulder the primary fast-bowling responsibilities. Gurnoor Brar, who impressed during recent India A assignments, has also been retained in the squad as additional seam-bowling cover.

Before the Test series begins, India will play a four-day practice match in Colombo starting August 7 to help the squad acclimatise to Sri Lankan conditions. The opening Test will be played in Galle from August 15, while the second and final Test is scheduled to begin in Colombo on August 23. Both matches carry valuable World Test Championship points as India look to improve their position early in the current cycle.

With experienced names returning, fresh faces earning opportunities and several fitness updates still to come, India's squad reflects a blend of continuity and transition as the team prepares for another crucial overseas challenge in Test cricket.

The search for a new red-ball coach gained momentum after England's recent home Test series defeat to New Zealand, which prompted a review of the team's performance and coaching structure. While the ECB has not officially announced a successor, Langer is understood to be among the strongest contenders currently under consideration.

The development comes amid speculation surrounding several high-profile names from international cricket. However, former India head coaches Rahul Dravid and Ravi Shastri are reportedly not part of the race, despite their extensive experience at the highest level.

Former England coach Andy Flower, another respected figure who was linked with the position, has also stepped away from contention. His decision has further narrowed the field and strengthened Langer's position as a leading candidate.

Langer's coaching résumé remains one of the strongest in world cricket. He took charge of the Australian men's team in 2018 following one of the most turbulent periods in the country's cricketing history. Under his leadership, Australia rebuilt its image and returned to the top level of international competition.

During his tenure, Australia won the ICC T20 World Cup in 2021 and retained the Ashes against England. Langer was widely credited for restoring discipline and creating a stronger team culture after the fallout from the ball-tampering scandal that had shaken Australian cricket.

His potential appointment would represent a significant move by England as the team looks to regroup after recent setbacks in the longest format.

The ECB is believed to be searching for a coach capable of maintaining England's aggressive style of Test cricket while improving consistency against top-ranked opponents. England's defeat to New Zealand exposed several weaknesses in the squad, leading to increased scrutiny of the team's long-term direction.

One factor likely to influence discussions is Langer's current role in franchise cricket.

The former Australian coach is presently associated with Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League. If he accepts the England Test coaching position, scheduling demands and workload considerations could make it difficult for him to continue his IPL commitments.

Although no decision has been announced regarding his franchise future, a move to England would almost certainly require adjustments to his coaching calendar.

The coaching vacancy has attracted widespread attention because England remains one of the most prominent teams in world cricket. The new coach will be expected to prepare the side for a demanding international schedule that includes major bilateral series and future World Test Championship campaigns.

For England, securing the right appointment is viewed as crucial to rebuilding momentum in red-ball cricket.

Neither Langer nor the ECB has publicly commented on the reports, and the board has yet to confirm a final shortlist. Sources close to the process indicate that discussions remain ongoing and that a formal announcement could still take some time.

While uncertainty remains over the final decision, Justin Langer's name continues to dominate the conversation. If selected, he would become one of the most high-profile overseas coaches to lead England's Test side and take charge of a team eager to return to winning ways after a difficult series against New Zealand.

The decisions were taken during the ICC's Annual General Meeting, where member boards endorsed a revised schedule aimed at increasing competitive opportunities while maintaining the global appeal of ICC events. The governing body said the updated structure is designed to provide greater balance between bilateral cricket and major international tournaments.

One of the biggest changes is the expansion of the Men's ODI World Cup from 10 teams to 14 teams. The tournament will feature a revised format in which participating nations will be divided into two groups. Teams will compete in the group stage before progressing to the Super Six phase, followed by the semi-finals and final. The move is expected to provide more Associate and emerging Full Member nations with the opportunity to compete on cricket's biggest stage.

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup will continue with 20 participating teams, reflecting the format introduced in recent editions. ICC officials believe the larger field has helped expand the game's global reach by allowing more developing cricket nations to participate in major tournaments.

Another major announcement is the introduction of the ICC Super Series, a new annual event featuring leading international teams across formats. The tournament is expected to replace some bilateral commitments and provide fans with more high-profile contests involving the world's strongest cricketing nations. The ICC believes the competition will enhance the international calendar while creating additional commercial opportunities for member boards.

The governing body also confirmed that the ICC World Test Championship will continue as the premier competition in Test cricket. The championship cycle will remain an integral part of the international schedule, ensuring that red-ball cricket retains its importance alongside the shorter formats.

Cricket administrators have argued that the revised structure strikes a balance between expanding global participation and maintaining the quality of competition. The inclusion of more teams in ICC events has long been a demand from Associate Members, many of whom have called for increased opportunities to compete against Full Member nations.

The expansion is also expected to benefit fans by introducing new rivalries and giving emerging cricketing nations greater exposure on the international stage. Countries that have performed consistently in ICC qualifying events are likely to have improved chances of reaching the World Cup under the revised qualification system.

The ICC said detailed qualification pathways, tournament schedules and hosting arrangements for future events will be announced separately. Member boards are expected to receive additional operational guidelines before the implementation of the new competition cycle.

The revised tournament structure represents one of the most significant changes to international cricket in recent years. With larger World Cups, a new annual Super Series and the continuation of the World Test Championship, the ICC aims to create a more competitive and commercially sustainable global calendar while broadening the game's international footprint.

The much-anticipated Test match between India and Afghanistan, beginning on June 6 in New Chandigarh, is being viewed as more than just another fixture in the international calendar. It brings together two teams at very different stages of their Test cricket journeys. While India continue their preparations for future World Test Championship campaigns, Afghanistan remain focused on building consistency and experience in the longest format of the game.

One of the most striking numbers ahead of the match involves Indian captain Shubman Gill. The right-handed batter has accumulated 2,843 runs in Test cricket, surpassing the combined tally of 2,388 runs scored by all current Afghanistan Test players in the squad. The statistic reflects the vast difference in exposure and experience between the two teams.

India enter the contest with a batting lineup packed with proven performers. KL Rahul remains the most experienced batter in the squad, having scored more than 4,000 runs in Test cricket. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has also established himself as a key player in the middle order with several match-winning performances. Gill, meanwhile, carries the responsibility of leading a new generation of Indian cricketers and is expected to play a central role both as captain and batter.

Experience Gap Evident

Afghanistan’s batting unit will largely depend on captain Hashmatullah Shahidi and senior batter Rahmat Shah. Both players have contributed significantly to Afghanistan’s Test journey, but beyond them, the squad lacks extensive red-ball experience.

Reports suggest that the absence of some of Afghanistan’s most recognized names has further reduced the team's experience level. As a result, younger players will have an opportunity to prove themselves against one of the strongest Test sides in world cricket.

The contrast becomes even more pronounced when bowling records are compared. Afghanistan’s current squad has collected only 13 Test wickets collectively, whereas Indian bowlers have accounted for 281 wickets.

India's Bowling Strength

Fast bowler Mohammed Siraj leads India's attack with 139 Test wickets, a figure that is more than ten times the total wickets taken by the current Afghanistan squad. Spinner Kuldeep Yadav has also emerged as a reliable wicket-taking option and provides India with variety in the bowling department.

According to team management indications, India may experiment with combinations involving two specialist fast bowlers, one frontline spinner, and multiple all-rounders. The move is believed to be part of long-term planning ahead of future overseas assignments and major ICC competitions.

Afghanistan, meanwhile, will view the match as an opportunity to test themselves against elite opposition. The team has shown steady progress since making its Test debut and continues to gain valuable experience with every international outing.

Officials and cricket analysts believe the fixture could provide important lessons for Afghanistan's developing red-ball structure while allowing India to assess new tactical options. The match is also expected to attract significant attention from fans eager to see how Afghanistan compete against one of the world's leading Test teams.

Looking ahead, the contest could serve as a benchmark for Afghanistan's future growth in Test cricket. For India, it represents another step in strengthening squad depth and identifying combinations that can succeed in upcoming international challenges.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is preparing to discuss a major expansion of the World Test Championship (WTC), with the number of participating teams likely to increase from nine to 12 in future cycles. The proposal has been recommended by an ICC working group led by former New Zealand cricketer Roger Twose. The move is aimed at providing more opportunities to emerging Test-playing nations including Afghanistan, Ireland and Zimbabwe.

Working Group Recommendations

According to reports, the ICC had formed the working group last year to evaluate possible structural reforms for the World Test Championship. The panel has now suggested expanding participation and making the competition more inclusive for full-member nations currently outside the regular WTC structure. At present, only nine teams compete in the championship cycle.

More Teams May Get Opportunity

If approved, the revised structure could allow teams like Afghanistan, Ireland and Zimbabwe to compete regularly in the WTC for the first time. Cricket administrators believe the change could help strengthen Test cricket globally and encourage smaller nations to invest more in the longest format of the game. The proposal is also being viewed as an effort to balance the competitive gap between established and emerging cricket nations.

ICC Meetings Scheduled

The ICC Chief Executives Committee (CEC) is expected to discuss the proposal during a virtual meeting scheduled for May 21. Following that, the ICC Board will hold an in-person meeting in Ahmedabad on May 30 and 31 during the IPL final weekend. The discussions are expected to focus on the future structure of Test cricket, scheduling challenges and financial implications of expansion.

Final Decision Likely in July

A final decision on the proposed WTC expansion could be taken during the ICC Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Edinburgh, Scotland, in July. The AGM will take place after the conclusion of the Women’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in England from June 12 to July 5. Sources indicated that member boards are currently evaluating the long-term impact of increasing participation in the championship.

One-Test Series Proposal

The ICC working group has also recommended including one-match Test series in the WTC points system. Under the current format, a bilateral series must consist of at least two Test matches to be counted in the World Test Championship standings. If implemented, the proposed change could help smaller cricket boards host more meaningful Test matches without the financial burden of organising longer series.

Current WTC Cycle Unchanged

Despite the recommendations, reports suggest that the ongoing WTC structure is likely to remain unchanged until the 2027–29 cycle. The fourth cycle of the World Test Championship is currently underway, and major structural reforms may only be introduced afterward. Under the present format, the nine participating teams play six bilateral series over two years — three at home and three away.

England to Host 2027 Final

The current ICC Future Tours Programme (FTP) will conclude in March next year. The next World Test Championship final is scheduled to be played in England in June 2027. England has hosted all WTC finals so far, including the inaugural final won by New Zealand national cricket team.

Venue Shift for ICC Meetings

The ICC’s quarterly meetings were initially planned in Doha, Qatar. However, the venue was shifted to Ahmedabad due to regional security concerns and tensions in West Asia. The venue change has also drawn attention because of uncertainty surrounding the participation of Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

PCB Chairman’s Visit Uncertain

With political relations between India and Pakistan remaining sensitive, it is still unclear whether Mohsin Naqvi will travel to India for the ICC meetings or join virtually. The matter is being closely watched by cricket administrators as the meetings are expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of international Test cricket.

------------

In a decisive move following India's recent Test series struggles, captain Shubman Gill has proposed a significant shift in team preparation, requesting mandatory 15-day training camps before every red-ball assignment. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has responded positively, signaling a willingness to grant the young skipper a "bigger say" in future planning as the team looks to rebuild.

This development comes in the wake of a sobering 2-0 home whitewash at the hands of South Africa in November 2025—India's second such comprehensive home defeat in just over a year, after a similar loss to New Zealand in 2024. The defeat included a record 408-run loss in Guwahati, India's heaviest Test defeat by runs.

A Call for Structured Red-Ball Preparation

According to sources within the board, Gill was very clear that the team's packed schedule left insufficient time for adequate Test preparation. The series against South Africa began just four days after the conclusion of a five-match T20I series against Australia, leaving players little time to switch formats.

"Gill recommended to the Board that it would be ideal if there were 15-day red-ball camps before a Test series," a BCCI source was quoted as saying. The captain's push underscores a growing concern about the team's readiness for the longest format, especially following the high-profile retirements of stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin.

BCCI's New Approach: Empowering the Captain

The BCCI's readiness to involve Gill more deeply marks a shift in strategy. Following informal meetings with the team's leadership, the board recognizes the need for a strong, assertive captain to steer the Test team through a transition phase.

"Gill is showing assertive qualities now," a source stated. "He is presenting his vision to the selectors and BCCI with a lot more clarity. It augurs well for Indian cricket... It is important for him to have a bigger say".

Key Elements of the Proposed Plan:

Mandatory 15-Day Camps: Dedicated red-ball camps preceding all Test series.

Utilizing the Centre of Excellence (CoE): With head coach Gautam Gambhir potentially occupied with white-ball duties, the BCCI may leverage CoE cricket head VVS Laxman to organize and run these preparatory camps.

Long-Term WTC Focus: With India's chances for the 2025 WTC final nearly extinguished, the planning is squarely aimed at constructing a robust team for the 2027 cycle.

Navigating a Packed Calendar

The primary challenge to implementing Gill's proposal is India's congested international schedule. Balancing bilateral commitments, the IPL, and ICC events makes blocking off consistent 15-day windows complex. The solution may require more strategic calendar management and the use of shadow squads or A-teams to maintain red-ball readiness when front-line players are engaged in white-ball cricket.

What's Next for Team India?

The Indian Test team does not have another match scheduled until a two-match series in Sri Lanka, likely in July 2026. This gap provides the BCCI and Gill's leadership group with a critical window to formalize this new preparation blueprint. Subsequent challenges include tough away tours to New Zealand and a home series against Australia in the ongoing WTC cycle.

Gill's proactive stance, backed by the board, signals a clear intent to revive India's fortunes in Test cricket. By prioritizing specialized preparation, the new leadership hopes to restore the team's once-formidable home reputation and build a side capable of competing consistently worldwide.

Temba Bavuma Opens Up On ‘Bauna’ Remark

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma has revealed that Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant personally apologised to him for calling him “Bauna” during the Kolkata Test against India in November. The Hindi word “Bauna”, meaning dwarf or short-heighted person, was picked up on the stump mic when the Indian players were discussing an LBW review on Day 1.

The clip quickly went viral on social media, sparking a debate on sledging, on-field banter and respect between teams in high-pressure Test cricket. Bavuma has now broken his silence in his column, giving his side of the story and how he processed the incident.

Bumrah, Pant Came And Said Sorry

In his column, Bavuma wrote that two senior Indian players, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, came to him at the end of the day’s play to apologise. He admitted he initially did not even know what they were apologising for and later checked with South Africa’s media manager to understand the full context.

Bavuma stressed that while apologies were made, words spoken on the field are not easily forgotten. He said that such episodes can become inner motivation for a player but insisted that he is not holding a grudge against the Indian cricketers.

‘You Don’t Forget What Is Said’

Reflecting on the incident, Bavuma underlined the thin line between competitive sledging and personal comments. He said what happens on the field often stays there, but players remember what is said and can use it as fuel to perform better.

The timing of his revelation is significant, coming soon after South Africa’s stunning 2-0 Test series win in India, their first since 2000. In that context, Bavuma’s mental resilience and leadership under fire, including dealing with such remarks, becomes an important part of the broader series narrative.

Conrad’s ‘Grovel’ Comment And Whitewash Context

The series also saw South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad land in controversy for saying he wanted India to “grovel” by making them spend long hours on the field during the Guwahati Test. He later admitted he could have chosen a better word, even as his team went on to complete a dominant 408-run win in the second Test.

South Africa won the Kolkata Test by 30 runs and followed it up with the record margin in Guwahati to seal a 2-0 whitewash, their first Test series win in India in 25 years. The result also extended Bavuma’s unbeaten run as Test captain, with 11 wins in 12 matches and a World Test Championship title already to his name.

Why The ‘Bauna’ Episode Matters Now

In today’s social media-driven cricket culture, stump-mic chatter and sledging are instantly amplified, forcing teams to balance aggression with responsibility. The Temba Bavuma Bauna remark episode shows how quickly on-field comments can turn into public controversies and how important it is for players to own up and correct themselves.

For Bavuma, the incident has become part of a larger story of mental strength, dignity and leadership during a landmark tour where South Africa rewrote history in Indian conditions. For fans, it is a reminder that while sledging may be part of the game, respect and timely apologies still matter in modern cricket.