The BCCI has introduced a new rule for junior cricketers in the Under-16 category, allowing a second bone test if the ‘+1 factor’ makes them ineligible. This aims to ensure accurate age determination, preventing players from missing a season due to arithmetical calculations rather than scientific assessment.
Gautam Gambhir, India’s head coach, is set to rejoin the national squad on June 17 in England, just before the first Test against England. He had returned to India on June 12 due to his mother’s heart attack. In his absence, assistant coaches managed the team’s preparations, including an intra-squad match.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a 14-year-old, debuts in the Indian Premier League for Rajasthan Royals. He scores 34 runs in his first match. Later, he hits a century in just 38 balls against Gujarat Titans. Suryavanshi’s journey began at age four. He represented Bihar’s U-19 squad at 12. He is now with the India U-19 team in England.
England’s legendary bowler James Anderson reflected on his battles with modern cricket’s finest. Anderson named Virat Kohli as the toughest batter he faced, even more so than Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli retired from Test cricket in May 2025 with 9230 runs. Anderson’s praise highlights Kohli’s technical skill and resilience. Their rivalry was marked by respect and strategic adjustments.
Ahead of the Test series against England, Shubman Gill reflected on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s captaincy styles. Gill praised Rohit’s aggressive tactics and clear communication, highlighting his ability to be firm yet approachable. He admired Kohli’s proactive thinking and adaptability on the field.
Sakshi Malik, India’s pioneering female Olympic wrestler, inaugurates the ‘Game On’ podcast, sharing her candid experiences as an athlete, mother, and wife. She reveals her postpartum struggles after her daughter Yoshiidaa’s birth and acknowledges her husband’s unwavering support. Sakshi also recounts her journey to Olympic success, fueled by visualisation techniques and Satyawart’s encouragement, highlighting the importance of family and dreams.
India’s young chess stars dazzled at the Delhi International Open GM tournament, showcasing their dominance in a new global chess order. Veterans hailed India’s rise, with Kasparov’s prediction about Vishy Anand’s protégés ringing truer than ever.
Kuldeep Yadav revealed he now occupies Rohit Sharma’s seat on the team bus, choosing to sit with Ravindra Jadeja following Sharma’s Test retirement and Shubman Gill’s captaincy appointment. Kuldeep emphasized his desire to learn from Jadeja, especially with Ashwin’s absence.
The 2021 India-England Test series saw intense battles and a rare disruption, with the final Test delayed by a year due to COVID-19. It resumed in 2022, ending 2-2, and remains a symbol of resilience amid global uncertainty.
Sarfaraz Khan, after being controversially dropped from India’s Test squad, responded emphatically with a rapid 76-ball century in a warm-up match against India A. This follows a recent 92 against the England Lions, showcasing his consistent form in English conditions.