aikidogs.com – Local Reports & Special Coverage

As the Asia Cup 2025 approaches, debate intensifies over India's wicketkeeper. Aakash Chopra favors Sanju Samson, citing his impressive top-order T20 record with over 6,000 runs at a 140 strike rate. Samson's recent explosive form, including centuries against Bangladesh and South Africa, strengthens his case.

Wasim Akram hailed Jasprit Bumrah as a “modern-day great,” praising India for expertly managing his workload. While refusing to compare eras, Akram highlighted the increased challenges bowlers face in modern cricket due to aggressive batting. He also opposed the two-tier WTC system, stressing the need for quality teams and stronger domestic structures before introducing more nations to Test cricket.

Rohit Sharma, after completing fitness tests with Jasprit Bumrah and Shubman Gill, engaged in playful banter with Mumbai airport paparazzi. Sharma last played competitive cricket in the IPL 2025 Qualifier 2, having since retired from Test cricket. He's gearing up for the limited-overs tour of Australia, while Gill and Bumrah prepare for the Asia Cup 2025.

Rinku Singh showcased his exceptional form in the UP T20 League, further solidifying his reputation as a reliable finisher. He smashed an unbeaten 78 off 48 balls, leading Meerut Mavericks to a seven-wicket victory. His recent performances, including a century against Gorakhpur Lions, highlight his readiness for the Asia Cup, where his middle-order prowess could be crucial for India.

As India gears up for the 2026 T20 World Cup, Suresh Raina suggests a bold opening pair. With Kohli and Sharma potentially out, Raina backs youngsters like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Abhishek Sharma to lead the charge. He also mentioned Priyansh Arya, who impressed in his debut IPL season, could be a surprise package.

Arshdeep Singh showcased his all-round abilities in the Duleep Trophy quarter-final, smashing two sixes in a cameo and later impressing with the ball. Aquib Nabi's hat-trick helped North Zone dominate East Zone, securing a substantial first-innings lead. Arshdeep's performance, after recovering from a thumb injury, will boost India's confidence ahead of the Asia Cup 2025.

Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi has released the long-hidden clip of Harbhajan Singh slapping Sreesanth during an IPL match in 2008. The footage has gone viral ever since it played on Michael Clarke's podcast.

Former India opener Virendra Sehwag has picked his three game-changers for India in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. He has picked left-hander Abhishek Sharma, pacer Jasprit Bumrah and mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy for the same.

Aakash Chopra suggests Gautam Gambhir's preference for bowlers who can bat might be limiting Kuldeep Yadav's opportunities, despite his improved red-ball form. Kuldeep didn't feature in the England Test series, raising questions about his role under Gambhir's coaching approach. While he's in the Asia Cup squad, a significant role may have to wait for home conditions.

Manoj Tiwary has accused MS Dhoni of favoritism, claiming he wasn't backed despite strong performances, including a century. Tiwary suggests Dhoni's preferences influenced team selection, preventing him from securing a consistent place in the playing XI. He expressed his confusion and disappointment, highlighting a perceived lack of support during Dhoni's captaincy.

Sachin Tendulkar recently reminisced about his epic battles with Australian legends Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne, recalling a strategic assault on McGrath in a 2000 match. He also humorously addressed controversial umpiring decisions by Steve Bucknor. Tendulkar dominated Warne, scoring 123 runs without being dismissed.

South African batting legend AB de Villiers has labelled Shreyas Iyer's omission from India's Asia Cup squad as "weird", hinting that the decision may have been shaped by considerations beyond just on-field form and performance.

Sanjay Manjrekar has criticised the Indian selection committee's approach of rewarding players for Test performances with T20I spots, deeming it illogical. He questioned Shubman Gill's inclusion in the Asia Cup squad while expressing shock over Shreyas Iyer's exclusion despite his outstanding IPL form and recent displays of maturity in other formats.

Asia Cup 2025: Shreyas Iyer's father, Santosh, has urged the selectors to give his son an opportunity in the T20I format. He revealed that Shreyas was gutted after missing out on a place in the Asia Cup squad.

Mohammed Kaif has strongly supported Jasprit Bumrah's T20I return, dismissing fitness concerns raised during the England Test series. Kaif highlighted Bumrah's match-winning ability across formats and suggested white-ball cricket suits him better due to a manageable workload. He also expressed disappointment over Mohammed Siraj's Asia Cup exclusion, praising his form and wicket-taking ability.

Mohammad Kaif has endorsed Shubman Gill as Rohit Sharma's successor in ODIs, anticipating Rohit's retirement after the 2027 World Cup. Kaif highlighted Gill's impressive run-scoring record and leadership qualities, noting his Test captaincy and T20I vice-captaincy. Gill's maturity and form, particularly during the England series, have solidified his position as a future leader, according to chief selector Ajit Agarkar.

The 2025 Asia Cup, amidst geopolitical tensions, will be held in the UAE from September 9-28. India and Pakistan have announced their squads, but past withdrawals due to political strife cast a shadow. Pakistan pulled out in 1990-91, and India in 1986. This year, India is in Group A with Pakistan, UAE, and Oman.

Former India captain Kris Srikkanth has criticised selection committee chief Ajit Agarkar over Shreyas Iyer's omission from the Asia Cup squad. Iyer was among the notable omissions in the 15-man squad, led by Suryakumar Yadav. 

India faces a daunting challenge at Edgbaston, a venue where they've never won a Test match. After a painful defeat at Headingley, where England chased down a substantial target, India is under pressure to avoid a series loss. Breaking the Edgbaston jinx, dating back to 1967, requires an extraordinary effort against a confident England team.

The new World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle has commenced with Australia and England leading with a perfect PCT of 100. Sri Lanka follows after their series against Bangladesh. India, despite Shubman Gill's team's impressive fight and five centurions, suffered a loss to England in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy due to a middle-order collapse.