Former India captain Rohit Sharma is set to make his entertainment debut with a new show on Sony Entertainment Television and SonyLIV, taking his popularity beyond the cricket field.

The announcement has already caught the attention of fans, with Sony using one of Sharma's most recognisable viral stump-mic remarks — “Koi bhi garden mein nahi ghumega” — as the central theme of its promotional teaser.

However, the network has not yet revealed several key details about the project, including its exact format, episode structure and premiere date.

Viral Cricket Moment Gets New Twist

The teaser builds on a remark that became a social media favourite after Sharma was heard making the comment during a Test match.

What was originally an on-field instruction quickly turned into a meme and recurring internet joke. Fans repeatedly shared the clip and used the line in different contexts, eventually turning it into one of Sharma's most recognisable off-field catchphrases.

Sony has now used that same moment to introduce his upcoming entertainment project.

In the teaser, Sharma is shown in a setting away from the cricket ground, interacting with a production crew and directing the cameraman before a shoot. Fans then approach him and repeatedly ask him to say his famous line.

The sequence uses the familiar remark as the main comic element while introducing Sharma in a completely different role.

What Is Rohit’s New Show About?

At present, Sony has not officially disclosed the complete concept of the programme.

The promotional material appears designed primarily as an announcement rather than a detailed trailer. It establishes Sharma as the central face of the project but does not explain whether the programme will be a talk show, reality format, game show or another form of entertainment.

The teaser does, however, suggest that humour and Sharma's interaction with fans will be important elements.

The decision to build the announcement around his viral cricket remark also indicates that the show could make use of the former India captain's familiar personality and his popularity among cricket followers.

When Will the Show Premiere?

There is currently no confirmed premiere date.

Sony's promotional material only states that the programme is “coming soon”. The broadcaster has confirmed its association with both Sony Entertainment Television and SonyLIV, but details regarding the launch date and timing have not been announced.

This means viewers will have to wait for the network's next announcement for information about the first episode.

Rohit Moves Beyond Cricket

The project marks a new phase in Sharma's public career.

The veteran opener has already built a strong identity beyond his batting, particularly through his candid comments during matches and interactions with teammates and journalists. His stump-mic moments have frequently become viral clips, giving him a significant presence on social media.

His move into entertainment therefore comes with an established fan base that extends well beyond traditional cricket audiences.

Unlike a routine celebrity appearance or guest role, the Sony project appears to position Sharma as the primary face of the programme.

What Fans Are Waiting For

For now, the viral “garden” reference is the main clue Sony has provided.

The network has kept the programme's format, participating personalities and episode details under wraps. Whether Sharma will host the show, participate in a competition, interact with celebrities or take on another entertainment role remains unclear.

What is certain is that his first major television entertainment project will give fans an opportunity to see a different side of the former India captain.

With the teaser already generating interest, the next major announcement from Sony is expected to reveal the show's format and premiere date.

Former Netherlands all-rounder Ryan ten Doeschate has returned to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) setup after concluding his stint with the Indian men's cricket team. The franchise has appointed him as its Head of Cricket Strategy, where he will oversee long-term planning, player recruitment and talent development across KKR's global teams.

His appointment comes after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided not to extend the tenure of assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate and fielding coach T Dilip, bringing their association with the Indian team to an end.

New Strategic Role Across Global Franchises

In his new position, ten Doeschate will lead KKR's cricket strategy across its international franchise network. His responsibilities will include scouting, talent identification, player recruitment, squad planning and performance evaluation.

He will also work closely with coaching and analytics teams to establish a consistent cricket philosophy across all Knight Riders franchises.

Apart from his strategic responsibilities, ten Doeschate will serve as assistant coach for:

• Trinbago Knight Riders (Caribbean Premier League)

• Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ILT20)

• Los Angeles Knight Riders (Major League Cricket)

"Unique Opportunity": Ten Doeschate

Reacting to his appointment, ten Doeschate described the role as an exciting opportunity to contribute to the long-term growth of the Knight Riders group.

He said the position would allow him to strengthen scouting and player development systems while helping build a sustainable cricket strategy across multiple leagues and franchises.

Strong Association With KKR

Ryan ten Doeschate has enjoyed a long relationship with the Kolkata Knight Riders.

As a player, he was part of KKR's Indian Premier League title-winning squads in 2012 and 2014. He later returned as a member of the coaching staff and was part of the support team when Kolkata lifted their third IPL trophy in 2024.

His familiarity with the franchise and its working culture played a significant role in his latest appointment.

KKR CEO Welcomes Appointment

Knight Riders Sports CEO Venky Mysore welcomed ten Doeschate's return, stating that his deep understanding of the franchise's philosophy and extensive experience in both international and franchise cricket make him an ideal choice for the newly created strategic role.

The appointment reflects KKR's continued focus on strengthening its global cricket operations and ensuring a unified approach across its expanding portfolio of teams.

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.

Widely regarded as the greatest all-rounder the game has ever produced, Sobers redefined cricket with his remarkable versatility. He excelled as a left-handed batter, could bowl fast-medium pace as well as both orthodox and wrist spin, and was considered one of the finest fielders of his generation. His ability to influence matches in every department made him a benchmark for generations of all-rounders who followed.

Born in Bridgetown, Barbados, on July 28, 1936, Sobers made his Test debut for the West Indies at just 17 years of age in 1954. Over a career spanning two decades, he represented the Caribbean side in 93 Test matches, scoring 8,032 runs at an outstanding average of 57.78, including 26 centuries, while also claiming 235 wickets. His all-round statistics remain among the finest in the history of international cricket.

One of the defining moments of his career came in 1958, when he scored an unbeaten 365 against Pakistan in Kingston. The innings established a new world record for the highest individual Test score, a mark that stood for 36 years until fellow West Indies great Brian Lara surpassed it in 1994.

Sobers also etched his name into cricket folklore in 1968 when he became the first player to hit six consecutive sixes in a single over in first-class cricket. The feat, achieved while playing county cricket for Nottinghamshire, remains one of the sport's most celebrated milestones.

Beyond individual records, Sobers played a pivotal role in shaping the rise of West Indies cricket during an era that laid the foundation for the team's dominance in the decades that followed. He captained the West Indies in 39 Test matches and earned admiration not only for his talent but also for his fearless style of leadership.

The cricketing world responded swiftly following the announcement of his death. Cricket West Indies described Sobers as a symbol of Caribbean excellence, while ICC Chairman Jay Shah paid tribute to him as the greatest all-rounder in cricket history and one of the sport's finest ambassadors. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also honoured the legendary cricketer, calling him "a true icon of the game."

Barbados declared a national day of mourning in honour of its most celebrated sporting hero. Authorities also announced that Sobers would be accorded a state funeral, recognising his immense contribution to both Barbadian society and world cricket. Knighted in 1975 for his services to the sport, he remained one of the Caribbean's most respected public figures long after his retirement.

Sobers' influence extended far beyond statistics. His name continues to live on through the prestigious Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy, awarded annually by the ICC to the men's Cricketer of the Year. For generations of aspiring cricketers, he represented the complete package—an elegant batter, a multi-dimensional bowler and an exceptional fielder capable of changing a match single-handedly.

His passing marks the end of an era for world cricket, but his legacy is expected to remain an enduring part of the game's history. From record-breaking innings to unforgettable all-round performances, Sir Garfield Sobers leaves behind a career that many still regard as the gold standard of cricketing greatness.

 India will look to clinch the three-match One-Day International (ODI) series as they take on England in the second ODI at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, on Thursday. The visitors head into the contest with a 1-0 lead after registering a convincing six-wicket victory in the opening match of the series.

The second ODI is expected to play a crucial role in deciding the outcome of the bilateral series. A win for India would hand them an unassailable 2-0 lead and secure the series with one match still to be played. England, meanwhile, will be aiming to bounce back and level the series to force a decider.

India Carry Winning Momentum

India produced a disciplined all-round performance in the first ODI at Edgbaston. The bowling attack restricted England before the batting unit completed the chase with confidence. The victory reflected India's balanced approach with both bat and ball and provided the team with early momentum in the series.

The Indian camp will be hoping to continue the same form in Cardiff, where another strong performance could help them extend their dominance in the 50-over format.

England Eye Strong Comeback

England face a must-win situation after suffering defeat in the series opener. The hosts are expected to make tactical adjustments as they seek to overcome India's bowling attack and improve their batting consistency.

Playing at home, England will rely on familiar conditions and home support to challenge the visitors. A victory would keep the series alive and set up an exciting final ODI.

Focus on Key Performers

The match is likely to witness another battle between India's in-form batting line-up and England's pace attack. The performance of the top-order batters, middle-order finishers and bowling units from both teams could prove decisive.

Captains of both sides will also have to manage bowling changes carefully, especially if weather conditions influence play during the day.

Series at Stake

With the ICC calendar featuring several major tournaments in the coming months, the series provides both teams with an opportunity to test combinations and assess player form. Consistent performances in the remaining matches could strengthen selection prospects ahead of future international assignments.

Cricket fans across the world are expected to closely follow the Cardiff encounter as two of the sport's strongest ODI sides battle for supremacy.

The match is scheduled to begin at 5:30 PM IST (1:00 PM local time) at Sophia Gardens.

Photos from the stadium began circulating online after Kabir Bahia shared glimpses of the outing on his Instagram account. The pictures featured Kriti, Kabir and a friend enjoying the match from the stands, while television cameras also captured the actress during the game. Within minutes, the images had gone viral, reigniting speculation surrounding their relationship.

Kriti kept her appearance casual, wearing a green top paired with white trousers, while Kabir opted for a relaxed look as the pair watched the contest alongside thousands of cricket fans. The actress also shared a few moments from the stadium on her Instagram Stories, although she did not comment on the attention surrounding the outing.

Neither Kriti nor Kabir has publicly confirmed their relationship despite being spotted together on multiple occasions over the past year. The duo has often made headlines after being seen at family gatherings, holidays and public events, but both have continued to maintain silence regarding the dating rumours.

The latest appearance comes amid growing interest in Kriti's personal life, with reports in recent weeks linking the actress to possible wedding plans. However, neither the actor nor Kabir has responded to the speculation, choosing instead to keep their private lives away from public discussion.

Their presence at Edgbaston added a touch of Bollywood glamour to the cricket fixture, which also attracted several high-profile personalities. Former India captain MS Dhoni was among the notable faces spotted in the stands, with cameras frequently panning towards celebrity guests during England's innings.

Away from the buzz surrounding her personal life, Kriti continues to enjoy a successful phase professionally. The actress has been occupied with new film projects and promotional commitments, remaining one of Bollywood's busiest leading stars. Her appearance in Birmingham came during a short break from work and coincided with India's overseas cricket tour.

While the viral photographs have once again fuelled conversations among fans, the actress has remained consistent in keeping her relationship status private. For now, the images from Edgbaston have become the latest addition to a series of public appearances that continue to draw attention whenever Kriti Sanon and Kabir Bahia are seen together.

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has expressed his desire to mentor young batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, saying he sees the teenager as the next stage in the evolution of Indian cricket after helping shape the career of Abhishek Sharma.

Speaking to JioStar, Yuvraj praised the youngster's talent and maturity while indicating that he would like to spend time working with him, just as he has done with Abhishek over the years.

"I have spent a lot of time training Abhishek, and I would love to spend time with Vaibhav as well. He has a great career ahead of him. He is a serious player in the making, and I believe he will get there," Yuvraj said.

Yuvraj Sees New Generation Emerging

Drawing comparisons across generations, Yuvraj described Indian cricket's progression through successive batches of talented players.

"I always call myself a Terminator. Now there is Terminator 4, Abhishek Sharma, who is four times better than me. And after him comes Terminator 6, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who has evolved even more," he said.

According to the former World Cup-winning cricketer, each generation is raising the standard of the sport.

"I did my part in my time, Abhishek elevated it, and now Vaibhav is setting new standards. This is the third phase of the same journey," he added.

Inspired by Modern Sport

Yuvraj also pointed to the changing landscape of global sport, saying the rapid evolution witnessed in tennis is similar to what he sees in cricket.

Referring to world tennis stars Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, he said their performances reflect how elite sport continues to evolve, adding that he notices the same transformation in players like Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

Vaibhav Calls Meeting 'Special'

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi described his first interaction with Yuvraj Singh as a memorable experience, revealing that the former India star has long been one of his biggest inspirations.

"Yuvi Paaji is my idol too. Meeting him for the first time was a special moment," Vaibhav said.

The young batter explained that Yuvraj spoke extensively about the mental aspects of cricket, including handling pressure, maintaining self-belief and preparing for high-level competition.

"He shared a lot of insights about the game. He spoke about the mental side of the game, how to handle pressure, and the importance of believing in yourself. It feels great to have so much to learn from someone like him. I am sure it will help me a lot in my career going forward," he added.

Abhishek Reflects on His Own Journey

India batter Abhishek Sharma, who has trained under Yuvraj Singh for several years, said he could relate to Vaibhav's excitement after meeting his idol.

Speaking to JioStar, Abhishek recalled the emotions of meeting Yuvraj for the first time and said the recent opportunity to watch the Wimbledon 2026 final alongside Yuvraj and Vaibhav made the occasion even more memorable.

"I can feel what Vaibhav is feeling right now because Yuvi Paaji is my idol as well. I remember when I first met him, it was kind of the same feeling. Watching my first Wimbledon final with Yuvi Paaji and Vaibhav was a special day for me," he said.

Focus on Long-Term Development

Yuvraj Singh has earned widespread recognition in recent years for mentoring several young Indian cricketers, with Abhishek Sharma emerging as one of the most successful examples of his guidance.

His latest remarks suggest that Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could become the next young talent to benefit from the former all-rounder's experience as Indian cricket continues to prepare its next generation of international stars.

Gujarat Titans players and support staff escape safety scare as team bus suffers short circuit on way back to hotel

Sunday night went from bad to worse for the Gujarat Titans. Hours after suffering a disappointing five-wicket defeat in the IPL 2026 final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the Gujarat squad endured an alarming ordeal on their way back to the team hotel in Ahmedabad.

According to reports from news agency PTI, the team bus carrying the Gujarat players and the support staff suffered a breakdown mid-road. A short circuit triggered a blaze, causing smoke to spread rapidly inside the vehicle.

Fortunately, all players and support staff were successfully evacuated on time, resulting in no major harm or injuries. However, the unexpected breakdown left the entire squad stranded on the roadside for nearly an hour late Sunday night before alternative logistics could be arranged.

Midnight Scare For Finalists

The incident occurred as the luxury coach was ferrying the team back from the Narendra Modi Stadium. Ground-level cues indicate that panic briefly ensued when thick smoke began filling the cabin. The team's logistics manager acted swiftly, halting the vehicle and ordering an immediate evacuation.

Local authorities confirmed that the situation was brought under control quickly, preventing what could have been a far more serious hazard. Photos and videos circulating on social media showed disgruntled players waiting on the pavement as technicians inspected the smoking rear portion of the bus.

Stranded On The Highway

Initial reports indicate that the franchise had to wait for nearly an hour in the humid Ahmedabad night before a replacement vehicle arrived. The team members, visibly exhausted from the high-octane summit clash, finally reached their hotel rooms well past midnight.

"The squad remained safe and unhurt despite the smoke spreading inside the bus," a source familiar with the matter said. "The logistics team quickly coordinated with local vendors to arrange an alternate bus to ferry them to their destination safely."

Compounding On-Field Plight

The alarming vehicle breakdown capped off a thoroughly taxing night for Shubman Gill's men. Earlier in the evening, the 2022 champions failed to defend their runner-up pride on the field, putting up a flop show with the bat against a disciplined RCB bowling unit.

GT’s star-studded top order fell like a pack of cards, with Gill, Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler all departing without crossing the 20-run mark. A mature, fighting half-century from Washington Sundar ($50^$ off 37 balls) eventually pushed the team to a modest $155/8$.

In response, RCB's chase maestro Virat Kohli anchored the innings with a masterclass $75^$ off 42 balls, wrapping up the game in the 18th over and sealing back-to-back crowns for the Bengaluru franchise.

Straining Travel Itinerary

The mechanical fault in the team bus highlighted a challenging 24-hour window for the franchise. Even before taking the field for the finale, the Titans were grappling with an exhausting playoff travel schedule, worsened by turbulent weather across north-western India.

After their Qualifier 1 loss, the team travelled from Dharamshala to Mullanpur on May 27, where they defeated Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 2 on Friday night. However, their scheduled chartered flight to Ahmedabad on Saturday was delayed by over three hours due to heavy rain in Chandigarh, forcing a late evening arrival.

No Excuses From Management

The logistical setbacks even forced the postponement of the official captains' pre-match photoshoot. Despite the visible exhaustion and the subsequent GT bus fire scare, the team management refused to point fingers at external factors.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Gujarat’s Director of Cricket Vikram Solanki downplayed the role of fatigue in their final defeat.

 "The number of games in a short period of time is challenging. Of course it is, at the end of a campaign, but I'm not going to lean on that at all," Solanki stated. "The fact is that RCB have beaten us today... I don't want to take away from that by simply stating we're fatigued. That's not really what we're about."

With the season drawing to a dramatic close, the GT management is expected to conduct an internal review regarding both the on-field tactical failures and the off-field transport safety breach.

Former India captain visits Lal Tibba to enrol Ziva for summer camp; brief interaction with fans draws crowd

Mahendra Singh Dhoni arrived in Mussoorie late Saturday evening, driving a Land Rover Defender reportedly worth around ₹3 crore, and was briefly mobbed by well-wishers while enrolling his daughter Ziva in a boarding school summer camp, officials and local witnesses said.

Arrival at Lal Tibba
According to hotel staff and locals, Dhoni reached a hotel in the Lal Tibba area after travelling from Dehradun in the afternoon. Security was low-key and the visit appeared private, but word spread quickly and a small crowd gathered outside the property within an hour.

Fans converge quickly
Witnesses said several people recognised Dhoni and asked for photographs and handshakes. “He got out of the car himself and helped with Ziva’s luggage,” a local who declined to be named told reporters. When some onlookers mistakenly chanted another player’s name, Dhoni laughed and acknowledged the crowd, according to the witness. A child who called out “Dhoni‑Dhoni” received a warm smile in response.

Purpose of visit
Sources familiar with the matter said Dhoni’s primary reason for visiting Mussoorie was to enrol Ziva in a boarding school’s seasonal programme and to accompany her for the first day. School officials confirmed a late‑evening admission on Saturday but declined to share details, citing privacy norms.

Scene on the ground
The car, identified by locals as a Land Rover Defender, drew attention—both for its appearance and the celebrity occupant. Several people used their phones to take pictures from a distance. Hotel employees said Dhoni spent little time in public spaces and moved quickly to the admissions office before returning to the hotel.

Local reaction and security
Local police confirmed there was no formal bandobast arranged for Dhoni’s visit and described the gathering as spontaneous. “A few people congregated, but the situation remained peaceful. We ensured passage for the vehicle and maintained a discreet presence,” a police officer at the Mussoorie station said on condition of anonymity.

Background: Dhoni’s recent travel
Dhoni visited Mussoorie previously on March 11, 2025, and has kept a low public profile since retiring from international cricket. The former India captain has been seen occasionally at family events and private outings, prompting local interest whenever he appears in hill towns and tourist hubs.

Public interest and tourism effect
Tourists and residents said celebrity sightings like Saturday’s offer a short-term boost to local footfall, with cafes and souvenir shops seeing a small spike in visitors in the immediate hours after news spread. “People lingered longer on the Mall Road, hoping to catch a glimpse,” a shopkeeper in the Lal Tibba area said.

Privacy and family focus
Those close to Dhoni have repeatedly emphasised his preference for private family time. Saturday’s visit appeared to follow that pattern: quick, purposeful, and primarily focused on his daughter’s enrolment. There was no sign of an extended public appearance or media briefing.

What’s next
Officials at the school said the summer programme will run for several weeks; sources indicated Ziva is expected to stay for the residential camp. Mussoorie authorities said they had not received advance notice of any further public engagements by Dhoni in the coming days.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced its squads for the upcoming multi-format tour of India, making a notable omission by leaving out star leg-spinner Rashid Khan from the one-off Test match. While Rashid has been rested from the longest format to manage his workload and physical longevity, key players Azmatullah Omarzai, Sediqullah Atal, and veteran batsman Rahmat Shah have returned to the red-ball setup. The highly anticipated one-off Test match against India is scheduled to begin on June 6 at the newly constructed Maharaja Yadavindra Singh PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh.

Managing Rashid’s Workload

According to team sources, the decision to leave Rashid Khan out of the red-ball fixture came after direct consultations with head coach Richard Pybus. The team management is prioritizing Rashid’s long-term fitness, given his heavy workload across international cricket and global T20 leagues. Rashid, who last played a Test match in July 2025, will however return to captain the side for the subsequent limited-overs segment. In his absence from the Test arena, the spin bowling responsibilities will be spearheaded by Qais Ahmad, alongside Sharafuddin Ashraf and young Nangeyalia Kharote.

Key Names Rejoin Red-Ball Setup

Experienced middle-order batsman Rahmat Shah makes a welcome return to the Test side. Having featured in 11 of Afghanistan’s 12 historic Test matches, Shah’s experience will be crucial on a fresh subcontinental track in New Chandigarh. He missed the country’s last Test assignment against Zimbabwe but is expected to anchor the top order here. Alongside him, explosive all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai and top-order batter Sediqullah Atal have earned recalls to the 15-member squad led by regular skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi. Both Atal and Omarzai have played just a single Test match each so far, both coming during the 2024 series against Zimbabwe.

Transition in the Pace Battery

For the three-match ODI series starting on June 14, left-arm fast bowler Fareed Malik has earned a recall to the white-ball squad. Malik, who last played an ODI in 2024, adds variation and raw pace to a bowling line-up that relies heavily on its spinners. The rest of the ODI squad remains largely identical to the combination that secured a comprehensive series clean-sweep over Bangladesh late last year, signaling that selectors are looking for structural stability ahead of upcoming multi-nation ICC tournaments.

New Venue to Make Test Debut

The one-off Test will mark a historical milestone for Punjab cricket, as the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh prepares to host its first-ever five-day international match from June 6 to June 10. Local authorities have confirmed that pitch preparations are underway to ensure a balanced contest between bat and ball. Following the Test match, the tour moves to the picturesque Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala for the first ODI, before traveling to Lucknow and Chennai for the final two games.

Fresh Faces in the Indian Roster

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had previously announced its squad, naming young batsman Shubman Gill as the captain for both formats, while veteran stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli feature exclusively in the ODI team. The selectors have rested frontline speedster Jasprit Bumrah and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja to manage their workloads. Interestingly, dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan has earned an ODI recall after nearly three years out of the format. The Indian squads also boast several uncapped domestic standouts, including Prince Yadav in the ODI team, spinner Manav Suthar in the Test squad, and all-rounders Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey across both formats.

Touring Squads for the Series

Afghanistan Test Squad: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Abdul Malik, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rahmanullah Zadran, Afsar Zazai, Ikram Alikhil, Azmatullah Omarzai, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Nangeyalia Kharote, Qais Ahmad, Bilal Sami, Zia Sharifi, Saleem Safi.

Afghanistan ODI Squad: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Rahmat Shah, Ikram Alikhil, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, Nangeyalia Kharote, Allah Ghazanfar, Zia Ur Rahman, Fareed Malik, Bilal Sami.

India Test Squad: Shubman Gill (c), KL Rahul (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan, Rishabh Pant, Devdutt Padikkal, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Manav Suthar, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey, Dhruv Jurel.

India ODI Squad: Shubman Gill (c), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vc), KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey.

During a promotional stop for his upcoming film Peddi in Bhopal, the Telugu superstar mistakenly praised pacer Jasprit Bumrah for taking Indian football to new heights

Telugu superstar Ram Charan issued a public apology to Indian premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah late Saturday night following an on-stage mix-up during a promotional event in Madhya Pradesh. The actor, who was in Bhopal for the grand music launch of his highly anticipated pan-India film Peddi, accidentally credited the cricket icon with elevating Indian football, sparking a massive wave of reactions and memes across social media platforms.

The incident occurred during a crowded public interaction at the launch of the film’s song "Hellallallo." Ram Charan was joined on stage by co-star Janhvi Kapoor, Oscar-winning music composer AR Rahman, and actor Divyenndu. During a rapid-fire segment, the host asked the RRR star to describe prominent Indian cricketers in a few words, leading to a series of quick takes that went smoothly until Bumrah's name was brought up.

Confusion over sporting legends

Before the slip-up, Ram Charan widely praised other Indian cricket stalwarts. He described Sachin Tendulkar's career as a "long, legendary run," called former captain MS Dhoni "calm and cool," and referred to current skipper Rohit Sharma as "everybody's man." When asked about batting maestro Virat Kohli, the actor raised a clenched fist and simply said, "Fire."

However, the momentum shifted when the host asked for his thoughts on Jasprit Bumrah. Taking a brief beat, Ram Charan confidently stated into the microphone: "Jasprit Bumrah ji, I am your biggest fan. I love football, and you are taking football so ahead. Love you, sir."

The crowd, while enthusiastic, immediately noticed the sporting mix-up, and clips of the moment flooded platforms like X (formerly Twitter) within minutes. Netizens quickly pointed out that the star pacer—currently spearheading Mumbai Indians' attack in IPL 2026—had just been turned into a football icon.

Double slip-up in Bhopal

The sporting confusion wasn't the only awkward moment of the evening for the actor. While addressing the massive gathering from the stage, Ram Charan briefly lost track of his location, mistakenly addressing the local crowd as residents of Bihar.

"Our people of Bihar, people of Bihar, are you with me?" he asked the audience, before the event’s host stepped in to quietly correct him that he was, in fact, standing in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.

A genuine human error

As the videos gained traction online, Ram Charan took to his official X account to clear the air and personally tag the Indian speedster. Acknowledging his notorious reputation for being forgetful with names—a trait his former co-stars have previously joked about—the actor chalked up the blunders to the sheer energy of the venue.

"Uff I'm genuinely so forgetful with names sometimes. Apologies to @Jaspritbumrah93 Ji for the mix-up - it was a genuine human error in the middle of all the excitement and the crowd," the actor posted. He further added, "I truly respect you and I am a huge fan of your game. You make every Indian feel proud when you consistently put batsmen on back foot."

Fans online largely rallied behind the actor, with many praising his quick humbleness. "Bro made Bumrah the legend of Indian football, but I loved how confidently he delivered it," one user commented. Others joked that the actor might have temporarily confused Bumrah with Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri amidst the noise. Bumrah, who has been managing a minor physical niggle during the ongoing T20 season, has not yet publicly responded to the post.

High stakes for Peddi

The promotional stop in Madhya Pradesh underscores the growing market for Ram Charan's films in central and northern India following the global success of RRR. Directed by Buchi Babu Sana, Peddi is a sports drama exploring a man's search for identity through athletic grit.

Interestingly, the film’s recently released trailer shows Ram Charan essaying the role of a multi-sport crossover athlete, featuring sequences where he participates in cricket, traditional wrestling, and track sprinting. Produced by Vriddhi Cinemas and presented by Mythri Movie Makers, Peddi features an ensemble cast including Kannada superstar Shivarajkumar and Jagapathi Babu. Following the heavy promotional push across multiple states, the film is slated for a theatrical release on June 4.

Teenage Sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi Smashes Historic IPL Sixes Record

Rajasthan Royals opener becomes the first Indian to hit 50 sixes in a single season after a blistering 93-run knock against Lucknow Super Giants.

A Record Breaking Tuesday

The Sawai Mansingh Stadium witnessed history on Tuesday evening as 15-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi dismantled the Lucknow Super Giants bowling attack, becoming the first Indian cricketer to hit 50 sixes in a single Indian Premier League season. Chasing a massive target of 220 runs in a crucial match, the young opener single-handedly shifted the momentum in favour of Rajasthan Royals with a devastating display of power hitting.

Suryavanshi started the match with 43 sixes to his name this season. By the time he walked back to the dugout after scoring 93 off just 38 deliveries, he had taken his tally to 53. The historic 50th maximum came off pace spearhead Mayank Yadav in the 11th over of the chase, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.

Chasing Down True Greatness

The young left-hander's explosive innings included 7 boundaries and 10 massive sixes, bringing him within striking distance of Chris Gayle's long-standing all-time record. The West Indian legend had smashed 59 sixes for Royal Challengers Bengaluru during the 2012 edition. Prior to Suryavanshi’s feat on Tuesday, Andre Russell was the only other player to cross the 50-sixes mark in a single season, clearing the ropes 52 times in 2016.

"We just told him to play his natural game," a source close to the team management said after the match. "At his age, you don't want to burden him with numbers, but what he is doing out there is pure instinct and brilliant hand-eye coordination."

Rewriting T20 Cricket History

This is not the first time the teenage prodigy has rewritten the record books in the ongoing IPL 2026 tournament. Earlier this season, Suryavanshi smashed 12 sixes against Sunrisers Hyderabad during an unforgettable 103-run knock off 37 balls, setting the record for the most sixes by an Indian in a single IPL match.

Local coaches who have watched his transition from age-group cricket to the biggest T20 league in the world point out that his back-foot punch and clean swing are unusually mature for a 15-year-old. He currently holds the Orange Cap with 579 runs across 13 matches, anchoring the Rajasthan Royals batting lineup.

Chipping Away at Gayle's Milestone

With Rajasthan Royals securing a vital win and keeping their playoff hopes alive, Suryavanshi will have at least one more league match, and potentially the knockout stages, to overtake Gayle's milestone of 59 sixes. The milestone hit against LSG came immediately after he had dispatched Yadav over long-off, following it up with a monstrous hit over midwicket to complete his half-century of maximums.

Initial reports from the ground suggest that national selectors are keeping a very close eye on his development, though the immediate focus remains on letting the youngster enjoy his historic run in domestic franchise cricket.