In a candid conversation on the Game On podcast, Manika Batra shared her emotional journey as a table tennis player, highlighting the pressures and vulnerabilities faced by athletes in India. She reflected on her Olympic heartbreak and the determination to bounce back, emphasizing the importance of mindset and resilience in overcoming defeat.
Ahead of the crucial second Test at Edgbaston, England captain Ben Stokes has identified Rishabh Pant as a major threat, praising his explosive batting style. Despite holding a 1-0 lead, England remain grounded, naming an unchanged XI. India, meanwhile, aim to rebound after their Leeds defeat, with potential changes in their lineup, setting the stage for a high-stakes encounter.
Neeraj Chopra, during a Bengaluru stroll, shared a heartwarming moment with an admirer who expressed immense respect for his achievements. The interaction, captured in a reel, highlighted Chopra’s humility. The Neeraj Chopra Classic, India’s first international javelin competition, is set for July 5th at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium.
Andrew Flintoff, the former England captain, has dismissed any ambition to succeed Brendon McCullum as England’s head coach, despite his successful stint with the England Lions. Flintoff expressed his admiration for McCullum, drawing parallels between his influence and Gareth Southgate’s impact on the England football team.
India fac a selection dilemma for the second Test against England at Edgbaston after their Leeds defeat. With Bumrah likely rested, Siraj, Akash Deep, and Krishna are likely to lead the pace attack. India are expected to include two spinners, with Jadeja a certainty and Washington Sundar favoured for his attacking edge. Nitish Reddy may replace Thakur for batting stability.
Indian Chess grandmaster Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa expressed his thoughts as he became the country’s highest-ranked player, saying that he doesn’t pay too much attention towards one or two ratings points as they can be changed at any time.
Smriti Mandhana has climbed to third position in the ICC’s T20I batter rankings, propelled by her recent century against England. Her score of 112 off 62 balls in the first T20I match significantly contributed to India’s victory. England’s Lauren Bell advanced to fourth in the bowler rankings after taking three wickets in the same match.
India’s Edgbaston Test selection hinges on Bumrah’s fitness and the spin combination. Dry conditions favour two spinners, with Sundar, Jadeja, and Kuldeep vying for spots. Kuldeep’s X-factor could be crucial if Bumrah is rested. The team faces a tricky balance between batting depth and wicket-taking potency.
Indian cricketer Mohammed Siraj has launched his first restaurant, Joharfa, in Hyderabad, offering a diverse menu of Mughlai, Persian, Arabian, and Chinese dishes. Siraj expressed that Joharfa is close to his heart, aiming to provide a place for people to enjoy flavours that feel like home.
Harry Brook, England’s vice-captain, expressed his regret at missing the Indian Premier League. He aims to participate in the tournament later. Brook prioritizes performing well for England across all formats. He praised Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, acknowledging his game-changing abilities. Brook anticipates the Birmingham pitch to favor spinners later in the upcoming Test match.