Wriddhaayan Bhattacharyya

Indian cricketers are adopting the rugby-centric Bronco fitness test, suggested by coach Adrian Le Roux, to enhance their aerobic endurance and reduce injuries. The intense test covers 1.2km in six minutes, proven beneficial for fast bowlers. Fitness expert Ramji Srinivasan emphasizes its effectiveness over the Yo-Yo test and highlights its benefits for pacers. The test mimics match-day demands and can boost confidence and skill levels among players, with potential risks for unfit individuals.

Australian cricket star Steven Smith eyes a comeback in T20s for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after missing out on the World Cup. Despite being underrated in the format, his prowess with the bat and exceptional catching skills make him a valuable asset. Coach Trent Woodhill believes Smith's problem-solving abilities and power hitting could prove crucial in T20Is. The future of cricket is seen to be in shorter formats like The Hundred, rather than traditional T20s.

Emerging from Vizag, all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy is making a name for himself in Indian cricket. Despite a knee injury, he has shown his potential in Test cricket and is seen as a promising all-rounder. With guidance and discipline, he could become a key player for India across formats.

Sri Lanka, under head coach Sanath Jayasuriya, is gearing up for a strong showing at the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Former player, Champaka Ramanayake, calls for adding youngsters like Nuwanidu Fernando and Pavan Rathnayake to strengthen the middle-order. Experienced players like Dinesh Chandimal and Angelo Mathews can provide leadership. Bowling coach, Ramanayake, feels Matheesha Pathirana needs to improve with the new ball.

The Indian cricket team, under the leadership of Shubman Gill, drew a high-profile Test series in England 2-2, boosting his chances for a T20I return at the upcoming Asia Cup. Former spinner Pragyan Ojha praised Gill's leadership and potential, while questioning the future of experienced player Karun Nair and highlighting the necessity of wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI. Additionally, Gill could potentially lead the T20I side if regular captain Suryakumar Yadav is unavailable.

Indian cricketer Mohammed Siraj, known for his intense bowling style, has been making his mark in Test cricket. Former fast bowler Salil Ankola believes he is on track for future success with his work ethic and improvement in all aspects of the game. As India prepares for upcoming Tests, Siraj's performance will be crucial in enhancing his home record.

India's fast bowling prospects have been hit by injuries and inconsistency. Former pacer T.A. Sekhar emphasizes the importance of technique and fitness for speedsters, highlighting specific areas of improvement for Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, and Anshul Kamboj. The future of Indian pace attack relies on mentoring and technical adjustments.

In a thrilling final hour of play at Manchester, India's Jadeja and Sundar scored match-saving centuries against England, refusing to shake hands prematurely. Former India player Nayan Mongia praised their efforts and emphasized the psychological edge India now holds in the series. With the final Test at The Oval looming, India looks to level the series at 2-2, relying on their current form and fighting spirit.

England has bolstered its batting with Liam Dawson in the fourth Test against India. The Hampshire legend has strong batting credentials and has been on an upward trajectory, impressing with both bat and ball. His resurgence in form could see him being selected for The Ashes tour.

Kuldeep Yadav, the Indian wrist-arm spinner, has been overlooked in the ongoing series against England despite his stellar record. His coach believes he deserves a chance to showcase his talent and skills as a bowler, urging patience and reminding everyone of Yadav's past successes.

Indian Test captain Shubman Gill showed aggression during England vs India Test at Lord's but failed with the bat, raising concerns. Former player Manoj Tiwary advised against unnecessary aggression, urging Gill to find a balance and lead by example on the field to win matches, not just verbally.

Washington Sundar, a rising Indian all-rounder, has shown his worth with both bat and ball in Test cricket against England. Inheriting a warrior spirit from his late army officer namesake, his utility player skills and potential for greatness have been recognized by former cricketers and coaches. Comparisons with the legendary Ashwin are considered unfair, as Washington aims to carve his own path in the cricket world.

Former Australia all-rounder Tom Moody, Director of Cricket at Desert Vipers, believes the availability of recently-retired Indian cricketers could boost the ILT20 in UAE. Moody highlights the impact of Indian players on the league's popularity and recruitment strategies while offering insights on player development and new signings in the league. Additionally, Moody praises Shubman Gill's impressive performance in Test cricket.

Jofra Archer returns to England's red-ball squad for the second Test against India at Edgbaston in July. Strong performances from Tongue and Carse may delay his inclusion. Former English seamer Jack Brooks anticipates changes in the squad from the third Test. Karun Nair's return to Test cricket for India after eight years also discussed. Keep reading for further insights.

The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy may introduce new seam-bowling stars in the absence of key players. Renowned coach Steffan Jones predicts seamers will excel, praising England's skill despite inexperience. He highlights Prasidh Krishna as a potential Indian standout. Injuries to pacers are blamed on inadequate training and workload management.

Former South African cricket captain and veteran administrator Dr Ali Bacher played a crucial role in post-apartheid cricket. Following South Africa's ICC World Test Championship victory, he called for more Test matches for South Africa to ensure the game's growth beyond a few major countries. Bacher praised current players like Temba Bavuma and Aiden Markram for their contributions, highlighting the importance of red-ball cricket for the nation's future success.