Mohammed Shami has been out of the Indian team for over a year despite good performances in domestic cricket. He last played for India on March 9, 2025, and has since been a notable performer in the 2025-26 domestic season, picking up 67 wickets across various tournaments.

Despite his fitness and impressive statistics, Shami has not been selected for the national team. This decision has raised questions among fans and analysts alike, as the reasons for his exclusion remain unclear. Observers are left wondering if he will be recalled to the Indian squad in the future.

Currently, Shami is representing the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL 2026 season. He was previously bought by Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹10 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction. However, his performance in the previous IPL season was less than stellar, managing only six wickets in nine matches.

Shami, a Purple Cap winner in 2023, has expressed his commitment to the sport, stating, “When I get tired, I will call it a day. But I am not even thinking of retirement right now because such thoughts pull you down.” He further emphasized, “I’ll leave cricket the day I wake up and decide to get bored.”

In light of his recent performances, Shami remains optimistic about his contributions to the game. He stated, “As a bowler, I will give my 100 per cent. I’ll perform my responsibilities and try to meet the expectations set for me.” He also mentioned, “I am enjoying. Results are good and positive.”

As the cricketing community watches closely, the future of Mohammed Shami in international cricket hangs in the balance. Details remain unconfirmed regarding his potential return to the Indian team, leaving fans eager for updates on his career trajectory.

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Bhuvneshwar Kumar, a seasoned cricketer, began his IPL career with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 2009-10 season. After a brief stint with Pune Warriors India from 2011 to 2013, he joined Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2014, where he played until 2023. In 2024, he made a return to RCB, marking a significant chapter in his career.

As of March 2026, Bhuvneshwar Kumar has taken 198 wickets in 190 IPL matches. He is on the verge of becoming the first fast bowler in IPL history to reach the milestone of 200 wickets. This achievement would not only highlight his skill and consistency but also solidify his legacy within the league.

Throughout his career, Bhuvneshwar has demonstrated remarkable performance, including an impressive bowling average of 27.33 and an economy rate of 7.69 in the IPL. He has also delivered 14 maiden overs, showcasing his ability to control the game during crucial moments.

In addition to his IPL achievements, Bhuvneshwar Kumar has made significant contributions to the Indian national team. He won the ICC People’s Choice Award in 2014 and was named in the ICC’s Team of the Tournament in 2013 after India’s Champions Trophy victory. Notably, he is the only Indian No. 9 batter to score three Test fifties in England and the first Indian bowler to take a 5-wicket haul in each of the three formats.

As he approaches this historic milestone, reactions from fans and cricket analysts have been overwhelmingly positive. Many are eager to see him achieve this feat, which would further enhance his reputation as one of the premier fast bowlers in the IPL.

Observers suggest that if Bhuvneshwar continues his current form, he will likely reach the 200-wicket mark in the upcoming matches. His experience and skill will be crucial for RCB as they aim for success in the ongoing season.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact timing of this milestone, but the cricketing community is abuzz with anticipation as Bhuvneshwar Kumar continues to make his mark in the IPL.

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Mangesh Yadav’s recent signing with Royal Challengers Bengaluru for a contract worth Rs 5.2 crore marks a significant milestone in his cricket career. This achievement not only highlights his talent but also underscores the impact of his challenging upbringing and the unwavering support from his family.

Growing up in Borgaon, a small village in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, Mangesh faced numerous obstacles on his journey to professional cricket. His father, Ramavadh Yadav, worked as a truck driver and made considerable sacrifices to support Mangesh’s passion for the sport. Despite financial hardships, Ramavadh provided Rs 24,000 for Mangesh’s training in Delhi, demonstrating his commitment to his son’s dreams.

Mangesh’s cricket journey began in the confines of his home, where he played in a small courtyard. His potential was first recognized by his uncle during local tennis-ball tournaments, which led him to pursue cricket more seriously. To hone his skills, Mangesh moved to Delhi, where he trained under coach Phool Chand Sharma. Mangesh credits Sharma for his development, stating, “If I am playing cricket today, it is because of Phool Chand sir.”

During his time in Delhi, Mangesh faced significant challenges, including financial struggles that sometimes left him without enough to eat. Phool Chand Sharma recalled, “Mangesh was staying with someone in Delhi. I saw that he was a good bowler, but he didn’t even have enough to eat.” Despite these hardships, Mangesh’s determination never wavered, and he continued to work hard to improve his game.

His efforts paid off during the Madhya Pradesh T20 League, where he took 14 wickets in just six matches, averaging 12.00 wickets per match. This impressive performance caught the attention of scouts and ultimately led to his signing with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Mangesh’s success is seen as an inspiration, particularly for young athletes from similar backgrounds.

Ramavadh Yadav expressed pride in his son’s achievements, reflecting on the sacrifices made along the way. He shared, “I had to struggle a lot for money. Sometimes I couldn’t sleep at night, thinking about how I would raise money for him.” Mangesh acknowledges the societal skepticism he faced, stating, “When my father supported me in cricket, my extended family and society thought he was a fool, that I would be ruined.” Yet, the support from his family proved crucial in overcoming these doubts.

Mangesh Yadav’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and family support in achieving one’s dreams. As he embarks on this new chapter with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, many are eager to see how he will perform at the professional level. Details remain unconfirmed regarding his debut match, but expectations are high for this rising star in Indian cricket.

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Ravichandran Ashwin has raised concerns about a new “disease” affecting Indian cricket, highlighting the impact of fan armies on player narratives. Speaking at a RevSportz event, Ashwin pointed out that these fan groups are inserting their own interpretations of players’ opinions, which he believes is detrimental to the sport.

During India’s recent tour of Australia in 2024, Ashwin lost his place in the Test XI to Washington Sundar, a moment he described as a turning point in his career. “At Perth, I was the senior bowler. Washi (Washington Sundar) played that Test, and I realised that my time was up,” Ashwin stated, indicating his awareness of the changing dynamics within the team.

Following this shift, Ashwin announced his decision to retire from Test cricket at the end of the series in Australia. He concluded his illustrious career with over 500 wickets, marking a significant milestone in Indian cricket history.

Ashwin expressed admiration for Gautam Gambhir, noting his commitment to prioritizing the team over individual accolades. “I like Gautam, and many people may have different opinions about him, but he is someone who always puts the team ahead of individuals,” he remarked.

As he reflected on the current state of the Indian cricket team, Ashwin acknowledged the challenges they face in both batting and bowling. He emphasized that the team is in transition and that there is more to Indian cricket than just a couple of players. “Bowling is not as effective as batting, and that’s where the concern lies,” he added.

Despite the challenges, Ashwin praised the camaraderie within the team, stating, “The best part about us was that none of us blamed each other. We all wanted India to win and make the country proud.” His comments underscore the importance of unity and teamwork in overcoming obstacles.

As Indian cricket navigates this transitional phase, the implications of Ashwin’s retirement and the evolving team dynamics remain to be seen. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the future direction of the team and potential replacements for Ashwin’s role.

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Shubman Gill has been groomed as a deputy and led the Indian side during the tour of Zimbabwe, but Rohit Sharma was the undisputed captain throughout the 2025 Champions Trophy campaign. This context is crucial to understanding the recent controversy that erupted during the BCCI Naman Awards 2026, where a significant error occurred.

During the awards ceremony, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) mistakenly credited Shubman Gill as the captain of the Indian team for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. This misrepresentation is particularly striking given that Rohit Sharma was the actual captain who led the team to victory against New Zealand in the tournament. The BCCI’s error has not only raised eyebrows but has also triggered a wave of backlash from fans of Rohit Sharma.

The incident quickly gained traction on social media, with the hashtag #DontRewriteHistory trending as fans expressed their discontent. Many took to platforms like Twitter to voice their frustrations, with comments such as, “Ye kya Bhai bcci walo kuch to Sharam kar liya Karo gill kab captain tha champion trophy mein winning captain dikha raho champion trophy ka .. wo bol aisa rha hai jaise wahi captain tha…” from user Sudhanshu Rao Chandel Rajput, highlighting the sentiment among cricket enthusiasts.

Another user, Atharva Pulujkar, remarked, “This fraud was not the winning captain,” further emphasizing the confusion and anger surrounding the BCCI’s portrayal of the events. The sentiment was echoed by others, with comments like, “How can you mention him as winning captain? Rohit was captain right?” from RK, and “Winning captain Rohit Sharma…. Right?” from Balaji, showcasing the widespread agreement on the matter.

Despite the backlash, the BCCI has not issued an official apology for the error. The graphic mistake was reportedly edited out of the delayed broadcast of the Naman Awards, but the damage had already been done. Fans and observers are left questioning the credibility of the BCCI and its ability to accurately represent the achievements of its players.

At the Naman Awards, Shubman Gill was honored as the Best International Cricketer, which adds another layer of complexity to the situation. While his achievements are commendable, the context of the award amidst the captaincy error has overshadowed the recognition he received. The event celebrated a historic year for Indian cricket, honoring five recent ICC trophy-winning squads, making the BCCI’s mistake even more pronounced.

As the dust settles, it remains to be seen how the BCCI will address this incident moving forward. Observers are keenly watching for any official statements or actions that may be taken to rectify the situation and restore faith among fans. The ongoing discussions around this error highlight the importance of accurate representation in sports and the potential repercussions of miscommunication.

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The Naman Awards 2026, held on March 15 in New Delhi, marked a significant celebration of cricketing excellence, with Shubman Gill and Smriti Mandhana emerging as the standout winners. Gill was honored with the Polly Umrigar Award for Best International Cricketer in men’s cricket, while Mandhana took home the award for Best International Cricketer in women’s cricket. This recognition underscores the remarkable performances both players delivered over the past year.

Shubman Gill finished the year 2025 as the leading run-scorer in Test cricket, amassing an impressive total of 983 runs. His top score of 269 runs against England at Edgbaston was a highlight of his season, showcasing his skill and consistency. This award marks Gill’s second Cricketer of the Year title, having previously won in 2023, further solidifying his position as one of the premier talents in international cricket.

On the women’s side, Smriti Mandhana’s achievements were equally commendable. She was India’s highest run-scorer during the Women’s World Cup, accumulating 571 runs at an average of 54.25. This victory at the Naman Awards represents her fifth win of the women’s cricketer award, reflecting her sustained excellence and impact on the game.

The ceremony also recognized the contributions of cricket legends with Lifetime Achievement Awards presented to Roger Binny, Rahul Dravid, and Mithali Raj. Their accolades serve as a testament to their enduring legacy in Indian cricket, inspiring future generations of players.

The Naman Awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also highlight the collective success of the Indian cricket team. In 2025, India secured six ICC trophies, a historic feat that underscores the team’s dominance on the international stage. Gill remarked, “What we as an Indian cricket group were able to achieve last year was truly tremendous — five ICC trophies, something I don’t think has ever happened before.”

The awards ceremony was broadcast on the Star Sports Network and streamed on Jio Hotstar, allowing fans to engage with the event and celebrate the achievements of their favorite players. Mandhana expressed her gratitude, stating, “It has truly been a brilliant year. So, thank you — and thank you to the BCCI for supporting women’s cricket the way you have.”

As the cricketing community celebrates these achievements, the players are expected to link up with their respective camps ahead of the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which is set to commence on March 28. This transition marks a new chapter for these athletes as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further developments or additional awards that may be announced in the coming weeks. However, the Naman Awards 2026 have undoubtedly set a high standard for recognizing excellence in the sport.

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Jitesh Sharma, aged 32, was notably omitted from the T20 World Cup 2026 squad, a decision that came just as he was grappling with the recent passing of his father, Mohan Sharma, on February 1, 2026. This dual burden has profoundly affected the young cricketer, who had been India’s first-choice wicketkeeper-batter in T20 internationals prior to the World Cup.

In the days leading up to his father’s death, Jitesh spent seven meaningful days by his side, a time he now cherishes. “I was able to spend seven days with him. That’s when I realized he needed me more than the World Cup,” Jitesh expressed, highlighting the emotional weight of his father’s final days. His commitment to family took precedence over his cricketing aspirations, a sentiment he openly shared.

Initially, Jitesh felt disappointment upon learning of his non-selection for the World Cup. “When I first heard I wasn’t selected, I felt disappointed. I’m only human, and it’s natural to feel sad. But with time, those feelings didn’t last long,” he reflected. This shift in perspective underscores the profound impact of his father’s illness and passing on his priorities.

As he navigates this challenging period, Jitesh has also acknowledged the stress of watching the World Cup from home. “Watching the World Cup from home was more stressful than playing,” he remarked, illustrating the emotional turmoil he faced as he balanced his grief with the pressures of being a public figure in the cricketing world.

Following his father’s death, Jitesh has embraced the responsibilities that come with being the eldest son. He stated, “I can never forget that moment, and I don’t want to because he’s no longer here.” This acceptance reflects a maturity that extends beyond his years, as he processes his loss while preparing for the upcoming IPL 2026 season.

Jitesh Sharma’s journey in cricket has been marked by highs and lows, including a poor IPL campaign that led to his omission from the World Cup squad. Despite this setback, he has no regrets about missing the tournament, emphasizing that family will always come first. “I’m not coping with anything. I’m just accepting that my dad is not there anymore,” he said, revealing the depth of his grief.

As he moves forward, Jitesh continues to honor his father’s memory while focusing on his cricketing career. He also mentioned his teammate Rinku Singh, who faced a similar loss during the World Cup, indicating a shared understanding of the emotional challenges that come with such personal tragedies. Jitesh’s resilience in the face of adversity serves as an inspiration to many, as he prepares to step back onto the field with renewed purpose.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding how Jitesh will balance his personal life and professional commitments in the coming months, but his dedication to both family and cricket remains unwavering.

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In a remarkable display of talent and determination, Ayush Mhatre has led the India U19 team to their sixth ICC U19 World Cup title. This victory, achieved on February 6, 2026, marks a significant milestone in the history of Indian cricket, as the team triumphed over England by 100 runs, the largest margin in an Under-19 World Cup final.

The final match was a thrilling encounter, with a total aggregate of 722 runs, setting a record for the highest runs scored in an Under-19 World Cup final. Mhatre’s performance was pivotal, as he contributed 53 runs in the final, showcasing his skills as a key player for the team.

Impressive Tournament Performance

Throughout the tournament, Mhatre demonstrated his all-round capabilities, scoring a total of 214 runs across seven matches at an average of 30.57 and a strike rate of 113.22. In addition to his batting prowess, he took seven wickets at an impressive average of 12.42, including a crucial three-wicket haul against Pakistan, further solidifying his status as a promising talent in the sport.

His outstanding performance did not go unnoticed, as he was awarded the Lala Amarnath Award for best limited-overs all-rounder, a testament to his hard work and dedication. At just 18 years old, Mhatre’s achievements have drawn comparisons to previous Indian captains who have led the U19 team to victory, including notable figures like Mohammed Kaif and Virat Kohli.

Family Pride and Support

In the wake of this historic win, Mhatre’s family expressed immense pride and joy. His mother stated, “I am very happy today that the world is seeing my son. He has the support and blessings of everyone. We are all very happy. Ayush has worked very hard since his childhood. The fruits of his hard work are visible and may Lord Ganpati keep blessing him.” His father echoed these sentiments, saying, “I cannot express my feelings in words. My son is bringing home the cup. Everyone is congratulating us. He had dreamt of something, and it came true. He was working hard for so many years, and today the result is in front of everyone. This is a lifetime achievement. We are very proud of him.”

Future Prospects

As Mhatre celebrates this significant achievement, he is also looking ahead to his future in cricket. He has been retained by the Chennai Super Kings for IPL 2026, following a successful IPL 2025 season where he scored 240 runs in seven matches. His performance in both the U19 World Cup and the IPL has positioned him as a promising candidate for future national team selection.

With the cricketing world watching closely, Mhatre’s journey is just beginning. Observers and officials believe that his talent and hard work could lead to further opportunities in the sport, potentially paving the way for a successful career in international cricket.

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Kirti Azad’s recent comments regarding the Indian cricket team’s celebration of their T20 World Cup victory have ignited a significant debate about religious representation in sports. After the team took the trophy to a Hanuman Temple in Ahmedabad, Azad stated, “The Trophy Belongs to 1.4 BILLION Indians of EVERY Faith — NOT ONE RELIGION’S VICTORY LAP!” This statement underscores his belief that the trophy symbolizes a collective achievement rather than a victory for a single religion.

Azad’s remarks come in the context of India’s diverse population, which includes individuals from various faiths such as Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, and Christianity. He pointed out that the Indian cricket team itself reflects this diversity, invoking the 1983 World Cup-winning squad as an example of unity among different religions.

His criticism has drawn responses from fellow cricketers. Harbhajan Singh expressed disappointment, stating, “It is unfortunate to hear these things from fellow cricketers. Maybe they are preferring politics over the sport.” This highlights the tension between sports and the political implications of religious representation.

In contrast, Ishan Kishan, when asked about Azad’s comments, deflected the questions, emphasizing the team’s achievement instead. He remarked, “Please ask better questions. What can I say about what Kirti Azad said?” This response indicates a desire to focus on the success of the team rather than engage in a debate over religious symbolism.

The incident has sparked a broader discussion on social media regarding the role of religion in sports, with many weighing in on the appropriateness of taking the trophy to a temple. Azad’s comments have resonated with those who advocate for a more inclusive representation of faith in public celebrations.

As the conversation continues, the implications of Azad’s statements and the reactions from other players may influence future discussions about the intersection of sports and religion in India. The debate raises questions about how achievements in sports are celebrated and who gets to claim ownership of those victories.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any official responses from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) or other cricketing authorities on this matter. The ongoing discourse reflects the complexities of identity and representation in a nation as diverse as India.

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Sanju Samson’s remarkable performance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has not only earned him accolades but also significant financial rewards. He was awarded ₹21 lakh for being named the Player of the Tournament, a recognition of his exceptional contribution to India’s success in the tournament.

India’s triumph over New Zealand in the final, held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, marked a historic moment as the team became the first to win the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup three times. Following this victory, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a substantial cash reward of ₹131 crore for the Indian cricket team, further emphasizing the significance of this achievement.

During the tournament, Sanju Samson showcased his batting prowess by scoring 321 runs in five innings, which included three half-centuries. His performance was pivotal in leading India to defend their title successfully, and it has raised his profile significantly within the cricketing community.

The BCCI’s announcement of the cash reward is noteworthy, as it is ₹6 crore higher than the prize money awarded after India’s previous T20 World Cup win in 2024. This increase reflects the growing recognition of the team’s accomplishments on the international stage.

In addition to the prize money from the T20 World Cup, Sanju Samson’s financial success is bolstered by his earnings from the Indian Premier League (IPL). His auction price rose to ₹18 crore in both 2025 and 2026, and he has accumulated ₹110 crore from IPL salaries over his career. Furthermore, he holds a BCCI Grade C contract valued at ₹1 crore per year, along with earnings of ₹3 lakh per T20I and ₹6 lakh per ODI for representing India.

India’s victory also brought in ₹27.5 crore as prize money from the ICC, while the runners-up, New Zealand, received ₹10.75 crore. These figures highlight the financial stakes involved in international cricket and the rewards that come with success.

As the cricketing world celebrates this achievement, uncertainties remain regarding the distribution of the prize money among individual players, including Sanju Samson. Details remain unconfirmed, leaving fans and players alike eager for further announcements from the BCCI.

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