Cricket

Former CSK and GT pacer announces retirement from all form of cricket

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 18:40:43 GMT

India pacer Mohit Sharma has announced his retirement from all formats of cricket, ending a career that lasted nearly 14 years. Mohit made his international debut in 2013 and played 26 ODIs and eight T20Is for India, taking a total of 37 wickets. He was also part of India’s squad that reached the semifinals of the 2015 Men’s ODI World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Mohit also had a strong domestic career for Haryana. Sharing his retirement note on Instagram, he wrote, “Today, with a full heart, I announce my retirement from all formats of cricket. From representing Haryana to wearing the India jersey and playing in the IPL, this journey has been nothing short of a blessing.” He thanked the Haryana Cricket Association for being the backbone of his career.

He added, “A very special thank you to the Haryana Cricket Association for being the backbone of my career. And my deepest gratitude to Anirudh Sir, whose constant guidance and belief in me shaped my path in ways words cannot express. Thank you to the BCCI, my coaches, my teammates, IPL franchises, support staff, and all my friends for their love and support.”

Mohit Sharma’s IPL Journey and Emotional Goodbye

Mohit was well known for his accurate bowling with the new ball and for using cutters, slower balls, and slow bouncers effectively in the death overs. In the IPL, he played 120 matches and took 134 wickets, representing Chennai Super Kings, Punjab Kings, Gujarat Titans, and Delhi Capitals. He was one of CSK's leading bowlers in his early years, bagging 20 wickets in IPL 2013 and emerging as the Purple Cap winner in 2014 with 23 wickets.

After struggling with form, Mohit joined Gujarat Titans as a net bowler in IPL 2022 and made a strong comeback in 2023, becoming the second-highest wicket-taker with 27 wickets. He was also GT’s highest wicket-taker in IPL 2024. In his farewell message, he wrote, “Special thanks to my wife, who always handled my mood swings and anger and supported me through everything. I look forward to serving the game in fresh ways. Thank you so much. Innings over, gratitude forever.”

'Hard to Digest' - Jonty Rhodes expresses concern over Delhi’s worsening pollution crisis

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 13:14:00 GMT

Legendary South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes has expressed concern over the poor air quality in Delhi, which has once again reached dangerous levels. As the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city dropped into the ‘severe’ category, Rhodes joined several citizens and public figures who are worried about the pollution problem. He compared Delhi’s smog-filled skies to the clean and fresh air of Goa, where he currently lives, pointing out how serious the situation has become.

Heavy pollution caused by incidents of stubble burning, smoke emanating from moving vehicles, and the prevailing still weather conditions marks every winter in Delhi. This year, the air quality in large parts of the city crossed 400 AQI, which falls within the extremely unhealthy category. The thick layer of smog has made it difficult for people to step outside and has raised major health concerns. Many residents are once again calling for long-term environmental action from the government.

Sharing his concern on social media, Rhodes wrote on X, “Passing through Delhi en route to Ranchi this evening, and as always, it’s hard to digest the low levels of air quality here. Am grateful to be living in a small fishing village in South Goa.” His post drew attention from thousands of fans, many of whom agreed with his observation and shared their own experiences of Delhi’s worsening pollution.

Jonty Rhodes Compares Delhi Smog to Goa’s Fresh Air

In another post, Rhodes shared a picture of his children playing football in Goa, writing, “This is what my ‘home’ sunsets look like, and yes, those are my kids playing football! In Delhi they suggest staying indoors.” His message highlighted how the difference in air quality affects daily life. Having spent many years in India, Rhodes said he worries about how pollution impacts families, children, and outdoor living.

Passing through Delhi en route to Ranchi this evening, and as always, it’s hard to digest the low levels of air quality here. Am grateful to be living in a small fishing village in South Goa ##AQI #whats2Bdone pic.twitter.com/3ctZELJmRN
— Jonty Rhodes (@JontyRhodes8) November 9, 2025

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s AQI was 354 on Monday morning, rated as “very poor.” Areas like Anand Vihar, ITO, and Chandni Chowk reported AQI readings close to 370. Although there was a slight improvement on Sunday evening, experts from the IMD and IITM warned that pollution will likely stay in the “very poor” category. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) said that Stage 3 restrictions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) are not being enforced yet as there are some signs of improvement.

BCB vice-president Faruque Ahmed hospitalized after suffering cardiac arrest in Dhaka

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:49:35 GMT

Former Bangladesh cricketer and current Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) vice-president Faruque Ahmed was hospitalized in Dhaka after suffering a cardiac arrest on Sunday, November 9. The former player, who later became a key cricket administrator, is currently under medical care in the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) after undergoing an emergency heart procedure.

According to a Cricbuzz report, Faruque complained of severe chest pain around noon on Sunday and was immediately rushed to a local hospital. After an angiogram, doctors found a blockage in one of his arteries, and a stent was successfully inserted in the evening to restore blood flow. Medical staff have confirmed that his condition is now stable, though he will remain under close observation for several days as a precaution.

A BCB official told Daily Sun, “He was feeling unwell since last night. This afternoon, he was taken to hospital. After an angiogram, a blockage was found in his heart, and doctors inserted a ring in the evening. Now he is in the CCU.” The board and cricket fraternity have expressed their support and well-wishes for Faruque’s recovery.

Faruque Ahmed’s Journey in Bangladesh Cricket

Faruque Ahmed has played an important role in Bangladesh cricket both as a player and an administrator. He played internationally for the country from 1984 to 1999, and was part of the first generation of players who helped Bangladesh develop in international cricket. In his playing career, he featured in ODIs and scored 105 runs, with a best score of 57.

After retiring, Faruque stayed connected to the game by serving twice as a national selector, helping discover and support new young players. In August 2024, he became the interim president of the BCB after Nazmul Hassan’s resignation and served for nine months before Aminul Islam Bulbul took over. Later, in the October 2024 BCB elections, Faruque was elected under the club category and became one of the board’s vice-presidents under Aminul’s leadership.

Supreme Court issues notice to Mohammed Shami in Hasin Jahan’s alimony case

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 15:11:51 GMT

The Supreme Court of India has issued a notice to Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami and the Government of West Bengal after his estranged wife, Hasin Jahan, filed a petition seeking an increase in alimony. Jahan approached the top court, asking for a higher monthly allowance for herself and their daughter, claiming that the amount decided earlier by the Calcutta High Court was not enough.

The Calcutta High Court had earlier ordered Shami to pay INR 1.5 lakh per month to Hasin Jahan and INR 2.5 lakh for their daughter’s care. However, Jahan said the amount does not meet their living and educational needs. The Supreme Court has now asked both Shami and the West Bengal government to respond within four weeks. After receiving their replies, the matter will be heard again.

This case adds another chapter to the long-running legal fight between Shami and Jahan, which began in 2018. The dispute has included allegations of domestic violence, dowry harassment, and maintenance-related issues. Over the years, their conflict has received huge media attention and continues to draw public interest.

Mohammed Shami Reacts to the Ongoing Controversy

Despite the legal troubles, Mohammed Shami has continued to focus on his cricket career. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had previously cleared him of all match-fixing charges, allowing him to represent India without interruption. Still, his personal issues have often made headlines and invited public scrutiny.

In a recent interview, Shami was asked about his relationship with Hasin Jahan and other similar controversies involving cricketers. The 35-year-old pacer replied calmly, saying he had no regrets about the past and preferred to focus on his game. “Leave that. I never regret the past. What's gone is gone. I don't want to blame anyone, including myself. I want to focus on my cricket. I don't need these controversies. That's your job to investigate. Why do you want to hang us to death? Look at the other side as well. I focus on cricket, not controversies,” said Shami.

The Supreme Court will take up the case again after four weeks, and its next hearing will decide the future course of this ongoing dispute.

'I’m Nothing Like Yograj Singh' - Yuvraj Singh on comparisons with his father’s coaching style

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 18:23:40 GMT

One of the most famous cricket stars for India, Yuvraj Singh, has found a caring and understanding way to guide the next generation of cricketers. The former India all-rounder recently came out to state that his coaching is completely different from his father Yograj Singh's strict and demanding methods.

Since retiring from international cricket in 2011, Yuvraj has taken on the role of a mentor and has helped shape the careers of young players like Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill. In a recent interview with PTI, Yuvraj said his approach is based on empathy and support rather than pressure or punishment. His focus is on understanding young players’ emotions and helping them grow with confidence.

“I am definitely nothing like Yograj Singh. I am a very different person and a very different personality. My style of coaching is very different. I believe when you are coaching or mentoring someone, you need to be in their shoes and understand their mindset, what they are going through, rather than telling them what to do,” Yuvraj said. “It has to be like a push and pull, you take some and you give some. It is important to understand how to be in the head of a 19-year-old,” he added.

Yuvraj’s Softer Approach Compared to Yograj’s Tough Training

Yograj Singh, known for his strict discipline and fiery nature, played a big role in Yuvraj’s early cricket journey. His training methods were very tough, it’s even said that he once threw away Yuvraj’s skating shoes so that he would focus only on cricket. While those methods helped create a champion, Yuvraj believes today’s generation needs a different kind of support.

“When I was 19, nobody understood the challenges I was facing. So when I see a 19 or 20-year-old now, I know what they are going through mentally. It’s about listening to them, understanding their mindset, and guiding them, not just giving orders,” he said.

The softer, understanding approach is already yielding results from Yuvraj. Players such as Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma, who have trained under him, have come to be known as India's brightest cricket stars. From beating cancer to mentoring future champions, Yuvraj inspires youngsters with nothing but kindness, patience, and understanding.

DDCA takes action against officials linked to Indian Heaven Premier League scandal

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 16:53:15 GMT

The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) is reportedly set to remove Ashu Dani following his alleged involvement in the tainted Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL) held in Jammu and Kashmir. On Monday, the DDCA issued a statement saying that “appropriate action shall be taken against the individual,” confirming their intent to investigate and act against those connected to the unauthorized tournament.

The IHPL, which featured international cricket stars like Chris Gayle and Martin Guptill, recently made headlines for all the wrong reasons after its organizers allegedly fled due to unpaid dues, leaving players and hotel staff stranded. Surinder Khanna and Ashu Dani, who were reportedly serving as mentor and president of the league respectively, are both associated with the DDCA. Khanna was a member of the Cricket Advisory Committee, while Dani served as chief junior selector. According to reports, the DDCA is preparing to release both from their official duties.

A top DDCA official told The Times of India, “There’s a criminal case filed against Dani. It is expected he will resign himself, although he claims he is innocent. Or else DDCA will have to think of another action. As for Khanna, his role had finished once the selection committees and coaches were appointed for the season. His job was to recommend names for these jobs. He is unlikely to be involved further in the season.”

DDCA’s Stand on Unauthorized Leagues

Following the controversy, Mehak Khanna, daughter of Surinder Khanna, denied the claims, saying the report was incorrect and her father had “absolutely no involvement” with the league. “Mr. Surender Khanna has no relation to the league whatsoever past, present or future and was invited as a guest. He is not, and has never been, connected to the League’s planning, financials, administration, arrangements, organisation or continuation in any capacity whatsoever,” she told OneCricket.

She further clarified, “To the best of our knowledge and belief, the League is solely owned and organized by YUVA Society. Neither Mr. Khanna is a member, caretaker or office bearer, nor is he connected in any way to the said society. All decisions regarding the creation, conduct and discontinuation of the league rest exclusively with YUVA Society and its organizers.”

Meanwhile, the DDCA had already issued a warning to all stakeholders, including players, coaches, and officials, instructing them to avoid involvement in unapproved or unauthorized tournaments. The statement read, “During their engagement with the DDCA, they are required to refrain from association with or participation in any unapproved, unauthorized, or unrecognized league, matches or tournaments, whether being held within the state or elsewhere.”

The DDCA also emphasized that any conflict of interest or violation would invite disciplinary measures. The statement further noted, “The players, coaches, support staff and match officials are expected to disclose any such relationship or possible conflict of interest immediately... appropriate action shall be taken against the individual.”

After 12 matches of the IHPL were played in Kashmir, the league collapsed when no players turned up for the 13th match between Uri Panthers and Gulmarg Royals on Sunday due to unpaid dues and unresolved financial issues.

'Please Help Me!' – Suryakumar Yadav’s special request to AB de Villiers on balancing T20I and ODI cricket

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 18:18:35 GMT

Indian T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav has made a heartfelt appeal to former South African star AB de Villiers for guidance on improving his batting balance between T20Is and ODIs. After leading India to victory at the 2025 Asia Cup, Suryakumar is currently involved in the T20I series against Australia but has admitted he has had difficulty making the transition from of his aggressive style across the two white-ball formats.

Speaking candidly about his batting challenges, Suryakumar shared his desire to connect with the Proteas legend to understand what worked for him during his career. “If I meet him soon, then I will like to ask him how he managed to balance his T20I and ODI game. I haven't been able to do so. I thought ODIs should be played like T20Is. I want to ask him what he did to be successful in both the formats,” said Suryakumar during an interview with journalist Vimal Kumar.

The Indian skipper added a sincere plea: “AB, if you are listening to this, please get in touch with me quickly because there are important three-four years lying ahead for me. I’m very keen on playing ODI cricket also. Please help me! I couldn’t balance T20Is and ODIs.”

Suryakumar Eyes Comeback in ODI Cricket

As of November 4, Suryakumar Yadav has played one Test, 37 ODIs, and 93 T20Is for India. While getting a spot in the Test team looks difficult, he still hopes to make a comeback in ODI cricket. The 35-year-old last played an ODI in the 2023 World Cup final, where India ended as runners-up

In ODIs, he has an excellent strike rate of 105.02 but has only averaged 25.76, which isn't repeatable. With many talented players in India’s middle order, he will have to perform well in domestic matches to return to the national ODI team. His recent form has been mixed, he scored just 72 runs in six innings during the Asia Cup at a strike rate of 101.40. In the current T20I series against Australia, he started with a quick unbeaten 39, but managed only 25 runs in the next two games. The final two T20Is are scheduled for November 6 and 8, giving him another chance to rediscover his rhythm.

WATCH: Virat Kohli intense net session at Adelaide ahead of AUS vs IND 2nd ODI

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 14:07:56 GMT

Veteran Indian batsman Virat Kohli was seen practicing in an intense batting session ahead of the second ODI of the three-match series against Australia. The match is to be played on Thursday, October 23, at the Adelaide Oval in Adelaide. Kohli hopes to resurrect himself after a disappointing performance in the series' first match, when he got out for a duck off eight balls by Mitchell Starc in Perth on Sunday, October 19.

India suffered a disappointing day in the first ODI as they lost the game by seven wickets according to the DLS method. With the team looking to get back on track in the second ODI, Kohli was seen perfecting his game in the nets, displaying keenness to play a key role in the next match.

Even though the team suffered a recent loss, Kohli has a brilliant ODI record against Australia. He has scored 2,451 runs in 49 innings at an average of 53.28 and a strike rate of 93.40, including 15 fifties and eight centuries, making him one of India’s most reliable performers against the Aussies.

Ashwin on Rohit and Kohli’s Form

Both returning ace batters, Rohit Sharma (8) and Virat Kohli (0), struggled in India’s opening ODI against Australia. Legendary spinner Ravichandran Ashwin shared his thoughts on their form on his YouTube channel: "For their good, I think they can focus a bit more on preparation, especially in terms of playing games before going on tours, but that is not entirely in the hands of players, it needs to be planned by the team management. This is too early to talk about Virat and Rohit, because there are a few more games. My only worry for them is can they get more game time?"

Watch the video here

Virat Kohli in the nets at the Adelaide Oval. pic.twitter.com/RuilGIZUZ2
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) October 21, 2025

Ashwin added, "It is not going to be easy for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. I really hope they get some kind of flow, because they have not played any cricket recently. If you are going on an international tour, planning is necessary. We have often travelled overseas 10-15 days before the series begins, travelled in 2-3 batches, so that definitely can be done." Rohit and Kohli have retired from Tests and T20Is and now represent India only in ODIs at the international level.

'Tum No.1 Commentator Ho Aur...' – Navjot Sidhu’s birthday reply to Irfan Pathan

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 23:44:55 GMT

Former India player and commentator Navjot Singh Sidhu turned 62 on October 20, and wishes poured in from all corners of the cricketing world. Among them, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan sent a special post wishing Sidhu on social media, saying he had great admiration and love for the veteran. Sidhu, being himself, shot back with a tearful note that quickly went viral.

The two cricket commentators have been loved by fans for their entertaining commentary and friendly banter. Sidhu and Pathan have made audiences laugh, think, and appreciate cricket in a different way. No matter how controversial or critical of the crew they are, they impressed fans with their charm and deep understanding of the game.

Posting his birthday wish on X (formerly Twitter), Pathan said, "Subah Jalandhar sham ko Delhi Nahi. Shamko mere Ghar pe apka birthday sath me. @sherryontopp Paaji wishing you the best birthday. Have a great one."

Sidhu's Heartwarming Reply Wins Fans Over

Sidhu, a person with a poetic spirit and a positive vibe, responded with love, saying, "Zaroor Irfan, tum No.1 commentator ho aur No.1 insaan ho. Your wishes are my armour... truckloads of love." His emotional words reflected the deep mutual respect between the two. Pathan later replied, “Apka pyaar hamesha bana rahe,” showing the bond they share both on and off the field.

Zaroor Irfan , tum no 1 commentator ho aur no 1 insaan ho …. Your wishes are my armour … truckloads of love 🥰
— Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) October 20, 2025

Navjot Singh Sidhu played for India between 1983 and 1999, appearing in 51 Tests and 156 ODIs and scoring 3202 and 4413 runs, respectively. Irfan Pathan, however, appeared in 29 Tests, 120 ODIs, and 24 T20Is and scored 2821 runs and took 301 wickets overall. Despite being from different eras of cricket, their friendship as Indian Premier League as well as international cricket commentary is still making fans around the world happy.

Cricket to make its historic debut at the 2026 South American Games in Argentina

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 12:20:47 GMT

Cricket is all set to make its first-ever appearance at the 2026 South American Games, marking a major milestone in the sport’s global expansion. According to sources with direct knowledge of the development, the sport will feature as part of the 13th edition of the Games, to be held from September 12 to 26, 2026, across the Argentinian cities of Rosario, Santa Fe, and Rafaela.

This inclusion follows the announcement earlier this year confirming cricket’s entry into the 2027 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru. Together, these moves represent a strategic step in strengthening cricket’s presence across the Americas.

Cricket’s Growing Footprint in the Americas

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has been working steadily to grow the game beyond its traditional strongholds. William Glenwright, ICC’s Head of Global Development, had earlier outlined the vision to increase cricket’s legitimacy by featuring in more continental multi-sport events.

Cricket West Indies, the only Full Member in the region, has been proactive in supporting this growth. The board has expressed its intent to form La Federación de Críquet de las Américas (FECA), a proposed regional body aimed at uniting and coordinating cricket development efforts across North, Central, and South America.

About the South American Games

The South American Games began in 1978 as an eight-nation event in La Paz, Bolivia. Since then, it has expanded to include 15 countries from across the continent.

Participating Nations
Argentina
Aruba
Bolivia
Brazil
Chile
Colombia
Curaçao
Ecuador
Guyana
Panama
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela

Over the decades, major sports such as football, baseball, basketball, and tennis have remained core parts of the Games. More recently, field hockey and rugby sevens joined the program in 2006 and 2014 respectively. Cricket’s inclusion marks another significant evolution for the event and underlines the sport’s growing appeal across Latin America.

ALSO SEE: [WATCH] Shahid Afridi reacts to Afghanistan’s decision to boycott tri-series against Pakistan post cross-border tension

Venue and Format

While official details about the format, number of teams, and venues are yet to be confirmed, Argentina, one of the region’s oldest cricketing nations, is expected to play a central role in hosting. Buenos Aires already has a few established cricket grounds, and reports suggest that existing facilities may be renovated or new ovals built in Rosario, Santa Fe, and Rafaela.

Host Cities	Possible Venues	Notes
Rosario	TBD (new facility likely)	Expected main host city
Santa Fe	TBD	Support matches possible
Rafaela	TBD	Backup venue

A Return to Argentina’s Cricketing Legacy

Cricket’s arrival at the 2026 Games also brings attention to Argentina’s rich but often forgotten cricketing history. The nation was once among the strongest non-Test-playing teams in the early 1900s. In 1912, Argentina famously defeated the visiting Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), showcasing their early promise in the sport.

The 2026 event, therefore, represents not just a modern sporting milestone, but also a symbolic return to cricket’s historic roots in South America.

Looking Ahead to Lima 2027 and LA 2028

Cricket’s appearance at the South American Games is part of a larger trajectory leading up to two major events, the 2027 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru, and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, where cricket will make its Olympic debut.

Upcoming Multi-Sport Events Featuring Cricket	Year	Host Country
South American Games	2026	Argentina
Pan American Games	2027	Peru
Olympic Games	2028	United States

With these inclusions, cricket will now feature across almost all major continental Games, a clear indicator of its global resurgence.

A Growing Global Movement

The ICC’s commitment, along with support from regional boards like Cricket West Indies and national associations in Argentina, Brazil, and Chile, is paving the way for a new cricketing landscape in the Americas.

From grassroots initiatives to continental events, the sport is set to gain unprecedented visibility and participation. As preparations for the 2026 South American Games progress, the excitement among fans and federations continues to grow.

Cricket’s journey from traditional Commonwealth strongholds to new territories in Latin America marks one of the most exciting chapters in the sport’s global story. Cricket will officially make its debut at the 2026 South American Games in Argentina, a landmark step toward truly global recognition.