aikidogs.com – Local Reports & Special Coverage

Shardul Thakur voiced his support for Shreyas Iyer after his Asia Cup 2025 squad omission, emphasizing the selectors' decision and Iyer's resilience. Thakur expressed confidence in Iyer's ability to make a strong comeback in future matches. He also highlighted the Asia Cup's significance as a confidence booster ahead of the World Cup, particularly the high-stakes India-Pakistan match.

Pakistani legend Wasim Akram has urged both Indian and Pakistani players and fans to maintain discipline during their Asia Cup clashes. Akram acknowledged India's strong form, highlighting that the team which handles pressure best will emerge victorious. He also expressed his desire for the resumption of India-Pakistan Test series, emphasizing the global appeal and historic significance of such encounters.

Virender Sehwag praised Virat Kohli for revolutionizing fitness standards in cricket, highlighting Kohli's dedication as a benchmark. Sehwag emphasized that Kohli's influence has inspired a fitness culture among young cricketers, establishing him as the fittest player of his era. Kohli is expected to participate in India's ODI series in Australia this October.

Bangladesh women's cricket team faced a setback in their World Cup preparations, suffering consecutive defeats against the country's Under-15 boys in the Challenge Cup. The U-15 team dominated both fixtures, outclassing Women's Red by 87 runs and Women's Green by 41 runs. Captain Nigar Sultana acknowledged that more international exposure would have been beneficial leading up to the tournament.

Virat Kohli's training images from London have sparked excitement among fans as he prepares for the upcoming ODI series in Australia. Spotted at Lord's Cricket Ground, Kohli balanced practice with leisure, spending time with wife Anushka Sharma. Despite discussions about farewell matches, BCCI clarifies that Kohli and Rohit Sharma continue to be vital players in the ODI format.

Shubman Gill, India's Test captain, is likely to miss the Duleep Trophy due to illness. Appointed captain of the North Zone team, Gill is resting in Chandigarh after medical examinations. Ankit Kumar will now lead the side, with Shubham Rohilla replacing Gill.

BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla addressed concerns about farewell matches for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, clarifying that both are actively playing ODIs. He emphasised that retirement decisions rest with the players and the board doesn't interfere. Discussions about farewells are premature, given their current fitness and performance, with the BCCI ready to consider arrangements when the time comes.

Shubman Gill, after being named India's vice-captain for the T20 Asia Cup, shared vacation pictures on Instagram, showcasing a relaxing time on what appears to be a yacht. This follows his return to the T20I squad after a year, boosted by his captaincy in the Test series against England. Selectors, including Ajit Agarkar, highlighted Gill's leadership abilities, trusting him under Suryakumar Yadav.

As the Asia Cup 2025 approaches, the scheduled India-Pakistan cricket match in Dubai faces political opposition. Samajwadi Party leaders question the appropriateness of sporting ties given strained relations and recent terror attacks. They argue that playing against Pakistan, especially after the Pahalgam attack, is unacceptable and would disgrace the nation.

The Indian cricket team has reportedly incorporated the Bronco Test into its fitness evaluation, joining the Yo-Yo Test and 2-kilometre time trial. This new assessment aims to elevate fitness standards by focusing on aerobic endurance, and as explained by a former strength and conditioning coach, makes cheating and cutting corners more difficult.

Rishabh Pant, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter, has shared a massive update on his recovery from a fractured toe sustained during the fourth Test against England. He revealed the removal of the hard cast on his injured leg, expressing optimism and determination. Pant emphasized the importance of positivity and self-belief in overcoming setbacks, drawing on his past experiences with injury rehabilitation with a post on Instagram.

Heinrich Klaasen recently shared a fun glimpse into the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) team dynamics. In a lighthearted interaction, he playfully trolled Pat Cummins' acting skills while praising Ishan Kishan as the team's best actor, and also highlighted Kishan's careful grooming habits. Klaasen also humorously suggested Adam Zampa as a hairstyle competitor, revealing the team's off-field banter.

Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa has been reprimanded by the ICC for using inappropriate language during the first ODI against South Africa. Zampa admitted to the offense, which occurred after a misfield. He received one demerit point. South Africa won the match by 98 runs, with Keshav Maharaj taking five wickets.

Arjun Tendulkar is reportedly engaged to Saaniya Chandok, though the Tendulkar family has not officially confirmed the news. The intimate ceremony was family-oriented, connecting the Tendulkar and Chandok families. Arjun, who plays for Mumbai Indians and represents Goa in domestic cricket, balances his personal milestone with his developing cricketing career.

Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra supports the National Sports Governance Act, highlighting its potential to elevate Indian sports. Approved by both houses of Parliament and signed by the President, the act aims to revolutionize sports administration. Bindra emphasizes the act's athlete-centric approach, the establishment of a sports tribunal for dispute resolution, and the promotion of gender equality within sports bodies.