Ruturaj Gaikwad vs Rohit Sharma, MI’s new coaches & PCB reveals motive to drop Babar Azam

It was again a matter of too close yet too far for the Indian women’s side, who lost by 9 runs in Sharjah against a high-quality Australian unit. Harmanpreet Kaur did her best, smashing a hard-fought 54 but lacked support from the top order. Now, it is up to Pakistan’s women’s side, who, if beat New Zealand, will allow the Women in Blue to reach the semi-final of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. In other news, we got an update on the BGT, where Ruturaj Gaikwad is likely to lead India ‘A’. However, the most shocking news came when PCB confirmed to drop Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah for their second and third Tests against England. On that note, here are the six most headline-worthy stories from October 13.

Ruturaj Gaikwad vs Rohit Sharma?

Ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series later this year, India will play a practice match against their own ‘A’ team. Led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, India ‘A’ will have already played two matches against Australia ‘A’. The internal contest aims to provide valuable match practice in Australian conditions. This unique strategy, a first in recent times, could see Ruturaj Gaikwad take on the senior team, led by Rohit Sharma himself.

Babar Azam dropped? But why?

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made a bold decision to drop Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Naseem Shah from the Test team following their embarrassing loss to England in Multan. This move comes as a shock to many, as the trio has been instrumental in Pakistan’s success in recent years. The PCB cited current form and fitness as reasons for the decision. “Babar Azam is the best batsman of his generation and the PCB wants a mentally refreshed Babar to represent the Pakistan side in future,” PCB said in a statement.

Jayawardene returns as new MI coach

Former Sri Lankan legend Mahela Jayawardene is set to reclaim the head coach role at Mumbai Indians (MI). He will replace Mark Boucher, who led the team to the bottom of the table last season. Jayawardene’s return coincides with the comeback of Paras Mhambrey, who was previously associated with the franchise. Jayawardene claimed three IPL titles for MI – in 2017, 2019 and 2020.

IPL 2025 auction in Singapore?

The BCCI is considering Singapore as a potential venue for the IPL 2025 mega auction. Due to logistical challenges in India, hosting a high-profile event in a foreign country might be a more feasible option. The decision will impact franchise planning and visa arrangements. The auction is scheduled for late November or December.

Sanju Samson credits SKY & Gambhir

Sanju Samson’s maiden T20I century in India’s win over Bangladesh in Hyderabad was a highlight of the series. The Kerala batter attributed his success to the positive team atmosphere created by captain Suryakumar Yadav and coach Gautam Gambhir. Their encouragement to play aggressively and humbly helped Samson reach his century, and showcasing the world how lethal he could be when on song. “The team atmosphere that we have created for these many weeks since Sri Lanka, the only message is ‘jao bhai, aggressive khelo’. Aggressive and humble are the two words that the captain and coach keep reminding us. It suits my nature,” Samson said.

Harmanpreet the costliest in HIL Auction

The Hockey India League Auction began in New Delhi, featuring over 550 players. The auction will continue tomorrow, October 14. Harmanpreet Singh, the Indian hockey team skipper, was the highest-paid player on the first day, going for 78 lakh to the Soorma Hockey Club. Over 400 Indian and 150 international male hockey players will be auctioned off on the second day. The three-day auction will include intense bidding for top talent, with the women’s auction taking place on the third day.