Ahead of the second Test against England in Birmingham, the Indian cricket team faced a security alert upon returning to their hotel after an optional practice session at Edgbaston Cricket Ground. The security unit instructed the team to stay indoors briefly, but normalcy was soon restored, allowing them to resume their activities.
Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Prasidh Krishna, urging the Indian team to give him more opportunities despite his struggles in the first Test against England. Ashwin believes Krishna can be a key player in the future, especially with Jasprit Bumrah’s workload management.
Andrew Flintoff, the former England cricket star, almost traded his bat for a wrestling ring. He engaged in serious discussions with WWE, even reaching the point of training and considering a match against The Undertaker. Ultimately, Flintoff turned down a lucrative three-year contract, prioritising his family’s desire to return to the UK and choosing a career in boxing instead.
With Jasprit Bumrah’s participation in the second Test uncertain, Irfan Pathan has endorsed a 28-year-old as his replacement, highlighting his seam and swing bowling style as potentially effective in English conditions.
Arshdeep Singh, part of India’s Test squad in England, responded to a fan criticizing his focus with a sharp response on social media. Despite not playing in the first Test, won by England, Arshdeep was seen playfully wrestling with the bowling coach.
Ahead of the crucial second Test against England at Edgbaston, India grapple with key selection dilemmas. Jasprit Bumrah’s potential inclusion remains uncertain, while captain Shubman Gill hints at strategic changes following their Leeds defeat. The team is considering bolstering their spin attack, possibly including Washington Sundar or Kuldeep Yadav alongside Ravindra Jadeja.
Shikhar Dhawan has announced his autobiography, “The One,” promising an intimate look into his life beyond cricket. The book will explore his journey from Delhi’s cricket scene to international fame, focusing on personal challenges like self-doubt and injuries.
The Central Administrative Tribunal has held RCB “prima facie responsible” for the tragic stampede outside Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, which resulted in 11 fatalities. The incident occurred during the team’s IPL 2025 title celebration parade, drawing a massive crowd.
Chennai Super Kings have shown strong interest in acquiring Rajasthan Royals’ captain Sanju Samson for the upcoming IPL 2026 season. While CSK is yet to formally approach Rajasthan, they view Samson as a valuable Indian batter, keeper, and opener. However, trade logistics are complicated, especially considering Ruturaj Gaikwad’s recent appointment as CSK’s captain.
The pitch at Edgbaston typically favors seamers initially, but spinners could become influential later in the match as the surface deteriorates. England’s strong record at the venue adds to the pressure, with weather conditions potentially impacting the seam bowlers early on.