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Birmingham Test Prep: Bumrah's Fitness in Doubt as India Weighs Seam Options

After their heartbreaking five-wicket loss in Leeds, the Shubman Gill-led Indian team hit the nets ahead of the second Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, starting on July 2 at Edgbaston. TimesofIndia.com brings you all the talking points from India’s first net session in Birmingham.

Jon Lewis Steps Down as UP Warriorz Coach After Three Seasons

UPW finished third in the first season, which was followed by two poor finishes in 2024 (fourth) and 2025 (fifth)

Samarawickrama, Madushanka Return to Sri Lanka ODI Squad for Bangladesh Series; Rathnayake's Inclusion Hinges on Fitness

Sri Lanka have announced a 16-member squad for three-match ODI series against Bangladesh

Pant's "Madness" Decoded: Vaughan Leads Cricket World's Praise for India Star's Headingley Heroics

Rishabh Pant's spectacular twin centuries at Headingley, though insufficient to secure an Indian victory, have garnered widespread acclaim, with Michael Vaughan highlighting his "game-changer" status and deep cricketing intelligence. Despite Pant's heroics, India's fragile lower order and inconsistent bowling led to a five-wicket defeat for India.

England Test Defeat: Siraj's Bowling Under Scrutiny as Kaif Urges Strategic Approach

Mohammad Kaif has criticised Mohammed Siraj's bowling performance in the first Test against England, where India suffered a five-wicket defeat. Kaif emphasized the need for Siraj to bowl with his mind and focus on line and length to take wickets. He also highlighted how England strategically attacked the other bowlers, while playing defensively against Bumrah, ultimately leading to their victory.

D Gukesh Out of Las Vegas Freestyle Chess Match Against Carlsen Due to Exhaustion

World Champion D Gukesh will not be playing in the Las Vegas leg of the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam, citing exhaustion after Norway Chess. Vidit Gujrathi will replace him, donning Gukesh’s red jacket. The $750,000 event runs July 16–20 at Wynn Las Vegas. Meanwhile, the India leg in September is cancelled, and Jan Henric Buettner will step down as CEO on July 1.

Pant Aims to Join Elite Club: India Star Eyes Historic Feat in Edgbaston Test

Rishabh Pant stands on the verge of joining cricket legends like Don Bradman and Rahul Dravid. As Team India prepares for the Edgbaston Test, Pant aims to achieve a rare feat: scoring centuries in three consecutive Tests in England. His previous Edgbaston innings of 146 in 2022 showcased his brilliance.

India Begins Preparations for Second Test; Bumrah's Absence from Net Session Raises Questions

Following their Headingley defeat, the Indian cricket team has commenced preparations for the second Test against England in Birmingham. Despite Jasprit Bumrah's presence, he refrained from on-field activities, while Prasidh Krishna was also absent from bowling drills. Coach Gautam Gambhir engaged in discussions with pacers, and players participated in net sessions.

Rahane Urges Gill to Maximize Shardul Thakur's Potential in Second Test After India's Defeat

Former India player Ajinkya Rahane has suggested that captain Shubman Gill should utilise Shardul Thakur's bowling skills more effectively. Rahane believes Thakur, an experienced all-rounder, can be a valuable asset if given more opportunities. He proposed specific strategies to maximise Thakur's impact, including using him as a first-change bowler.

Jayden Seales Fined by ICC for Provocative Gesture During West Indies-Australia Test

West Indies bowler Jayden Seales has been fined 15% of his match fee for breaching the ICC's Code of Conduct during the first Test against Australia in Barbados. The incident occurred after he gestured towards the Australian dressing room following Pat Cummins' dismissal. Seales received a demerit point, his second in 24 months.

Ricky Ponting Serves as Waterboy for Son Fletcher During Intense MLC Practice Session; Maxwell Impressed – Watch Now

Ricky Ponting's son, Fletcher, showcased impressive batting skills during a net session with Washington Freedom, drawing comparisons to his father's legendary style. The youngster displayed elegant pull shots and drives, impressing onlookers like Glenn Maxwell. Meanwhile, Washington Freedom secured a thrilling victory against the Los Angeles Knight Riders, strengthening their position in the MLC playoffs race.

Indian Badminton's Descent: From Saina, Sindhu Era to Current Slump

Indian badminton, once a promising sport, faces a concerning decline after a decade of success. The current state reveals poor results and a lack of successors to iconic players like Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu.

Sanjana Ganesan's Sharp Quip Leaves Jasprit Bumrah Stumped on Talk Show; Bumrah's Test Future Uncertain

Despite Jasprit Bumrah's five-wicket haul in the first innings, India faced a five-wicket defeat against England in the first Test at Headingley. Off-field, a pre-marriage anecdote shared by his wife, Sanjana Ganesan, on 'Who's The Boss' added a light-hearted touch.

MLC 2025: Washington Freedom Snatch Last-Ball Win, Surging Towards Playoff Berth

Washington Freedom clinched a nail-biting five-wicket victory against LA Knight Riders in a high-scoring match in Dallas. Chasing 214, Freedom's Glenn Phillips and Obus Pienaar secured the win on the final ball after Holder dropped a crucial catch. Andre Fletcher's century for Knight Riders went in vain as Freedom strengthened their playoff hopes in MLC 2025.

Shubman Gill's Captaincy Debut: Century in England Hides Leadership Challenges

Shubman Gill aimed to be the series' top scorer and scored a century on his captaincy debut. However, India lost the first Test against England. While his batting wasn't affected, his leadership is developing. Coach Gautam Gambhir supports Gill. Ravichandran Ashwin suggested using Shardul Thakur earlier. Gill remained composed, but his field placements faced criticism.

West Indies Pace Attack, Contentious Umpiring Decisions Rock Australia in Barbados Test

West Indies' pace bowlers rattled Australia's top order, leaving them at 92 for four after being dismissed for 190. Controversial third-umpire decisions marred the day, frustrating the West Indies camp. Australia leads by 82 runs, setting up a tense Day 3 with Travis Head and Beau Webster at the crease.

Controversial Umpiring Decisions Ignite Debate in West Indies vs. Australia Test

The first Test between West Indies and Australia is marred by controversial third-umpire decisions. Several contentious calls by third umpire Adrian Holdstock have significantly impacted both teams, leading to widespread debate.

Umpiring Errors Fuel West Indies Coach's Concerns in Australia Test; Social Media Erupts

Daren Sammy, West Indies cricket coach, expressed worry regarding TV umpire Adrian Holdstock's choices during the Test match against Australia. Sammy met Javagal Srinath, the match referee, to discuss his concerns. The West Indies team was troubled by Roston Chase and Shai Hope's dismissals. Sammy wants consistency in decision-making.

Ashwin Criticizes Siraj's Run-Leaking Performance, Urges Focus on Economy Over Wickets

Ravichandran Ashwin has voiced concerns over Mohammed Siraj's performance in the recent Test match against England, urging him to prioritize controlling the run flow over solely focusing on taking wickets. Jasprit Bumrah stood out as India's best bowler in England’s first innings, claiming a five-wicket haul. Prasidh Krishna also picked up three wickets but was expensive, conceding runs at an economy of 6.40.

From Spider-Man Quote to Cricket Stardom: India U-19's Harvansh Singh's Inspiring Journey

India U-19 wicketkeeper-batter Harvansh Singh Pangalia shared how he was struggling at 13 off 23 balls before something clicked — and went on to score a blistering 103 off 52 deliveries against England U-19 in a warm-up match. The 18-year-old is a Marvel fan, and his life motto revolves around a famous dialogue from Tobey Maguire's Spider-Man movie.