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| Image Source: Hindustan Times |
Today, we are witnessing a seismic shift in Indian cricket as the BCCI selection committee makes bold calls for the future.
From the drama surrounding the T20 World Cup 2026 squad to the legends returning to domestic roots, and a historic captaincy change in New Zealand, the cricketing world is buzzing.
In this edition, we dissect why Ajit Agarkar is facing heat over the Shubman Gill vice-captaincy saga, the rise of Axar Patel, and the high-octane ILT20 2025 playoffs action. Let’s dive into the snippets that matter.
1. Selection Storm: Why Was Shubman Gill Dropped?
The Indian cricketing fraternity is in a state of shock following the official announcement of the India T20 World Cup 2026 team list. In a move that few saw coming, the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, has omitted Shubman Gill not just from the leadership group but from the 15-member squad entirely.
The Axar Patel Vice-Captain T20I Promotion
With Gill out, the spotlight has shifted to Axar Patel, who has been officially named the vice-captain for the mega event. While Axar's consistency with both bat and ball is unquestionable, the sudden "U-turn" by the selectors has raised eyebrows.
Key Highlights:
- Mohammad Kaif on Ajit Agarkar: Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif didn't hold back, slamming the committee for "zero planning." Kaif argued that the "Shubman Gill flip-flop" has wasted precious time that could have been used to groom Axar's leadership.
- The "Why": According to Agarkar, the decision was driven by Gill's lack of runs in the shortest format, having failed to score a half-century in his last 15 T20I innings.
- The Replacements: The return of Ishan Kishan and the inclusion of Abhishek Sharma at the top have solidified a more aggressive batting blueprint for captain Suryakumar Yadav.
2. Pooran’s Blitz: MI Emirates Seal Playoff Berth
Moving to the desert, the International League T20 (ILT20) is reaching its boiling point. Nicholas Pooran has once again proven why he is one of the most feared strikers in world cricket, leading MI Emirates into the ILT20 2025 playoffs.
Nicholas Pooran: The Master of the Chase
In a crucial encounter against the Gulf Giants, Pooran’s unbeaten 58 off 37 balls ensured a dominant eight-wicket victory. Alongside Mohammad Waseem, Pooran orchestrated a 140-run partnership that made a target of 142 look like a walk in the park.
- ILT20 Points Table 2025: MI Emirates have now secured a top-two finish, giving them two cracks at reaching the final.
- The Pollard Factor: Under the mentorship of Kieron Pollard, the Emirates squad looks like the team to beat this season.
- Retirement Rumors: Despite the "Nicholas Pooran retirement news" occasionally surfacing in social media circles, his current form suggests he is nowhere near finished.
3. Domestic Royalty: Rohit and Kohli Return to Vijay Hazare
In a rare treat for domestic fans, the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025 has become the center of the cricketing universe. For the first time in years, the "Big Two" of Indian cricket are back in action for their respective states.
Mumbai vs Sikkim & Delhi vs Andhra
The Mumbai vs Sikkim scorecard was secondary to the spectacle of Rohit Sharma returning to Mumbai colors after seven years. Meanwhile, in Group C, all eyes were on the Delhi vs Andhra clash as Virat Kohli made a historic return to the tournament after a 15-year hiatus.
Tournament Snippets:
- BCCI Domestic Cricket Rules for Seniors: The board’s recent mandate for fit senior players to participate in domestic windows is already paying dividends in terms of viewership and quality.
- Delhi Cricket Team Squad 2025: Led by the energy of Kohli, Delhi is looking to overturn a rocky start in the points table.
- Live Updates: Fans are glued to the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025 live score apps, as these matches serve as vital preparation for the upcoming international white-ball season.
4. Kiwi Shake-up: Michael Bracewell to Lead in India
New Zealand has announced its squads for the highly anticipated IND vs NZ 2026 series schedule, and there are some massive surprises in the leadership roles.
Michael Bracewell Captain: The New ODI Boss
With Kane Williamson opting out of the ODI leg due to SA20 commitments, Michael Bracewell has been handed the captaincy for the three-match series starting January 11.
- Why is Kane Williamson not playing? The legendary batter is prioritizing T20 franchise cricket during the ODI window but will remain a pillar for the T20I squad.
- Mitchell Santner T20I Leadership: Santner continues to lead the T20I side, which will serve as a final dress rehearsal before the World Cup.
- Injury Updates: While Michael Bracewell makes a successful return from injury to lead, players like Mark Chapman and Matt Henry are also back in the mix for the T20s.
5. India Women: Focus on "Soft Hands" and Hard Work
As the Women's T20 World Cup approaches, the India Women team is leaving no stone unturned in their preparation. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur has identified a specific area of concern: the team’s fielding.
The Fielding Revolution
Following recent heartbreaks against Australia, the BCCI Women’s selection and coaching staff have introduced specialized "soft hands" drills. These exercises are designed to reduce dropped catches in high-pressure situations, an area where India has struggled in previous ICC events.
- Harmanpreet Kaur Captaincy News: Despite the pressure, Harmanpreet remains the undisputed leader, recently celebrating the "World Champion" tag following India's historic win in Navi Mumbai.
- India vs Australia Women’s T20: The rivalry continues to be the benchmark for the Indian side as they look to dethrone the world leaders in the upcoming tournament.
