Tributes continue for Ben Stokes after his international cricket retirement during the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan, New Zealand captain Tom Latham, and teammate Joe Root praised the England all-rounder's remarkable career, despite England's series loss.
Shreyas Iyer achieved a significant ODI milestone, becoming the joint second-fastest Indian to reach 3,000 runs in his 72nd innings. He also ranks third fastest by balls faced. This occurred during India's second ODI against Afghanistan in Lucknow.
Pacer Gurnoor Brar, known for his pace and bounce, has been selected for India's Test and ODI squads for the series against Afghanistan. The 25-year-old's journey involved support from Shubman Gill and Shikhar Dhawan.
Punjab pacer Gurnoor Brar, inspired by Dale Steyn, has earned his maiden India call-up. Standing 6'5", Brar's pace impressed Shubman Gill early on, leading to his district team selection. After an IPL debut and injury, he received support from Gill and mentorship from Ashish Nehra at Gujarat Titans.
Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan has backed teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, stating that performances at the highest level should matter more than age. Dhawan praised the Rajasthan Royals batsman for his fearless approach, particularly against top-quality bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh. Sooryavanshi has scored 400 runs at a strike rate of 238.10 with 37 sixes in IPL 2026, the most by any batter.
Shikhar Dhawan believes Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will adapt to reduced ODI frequency ahead of the 2027 World Cup due to their experience and professionalism. He noted that while less match exposure can disrupt rhythm, these seasoned players know how to manage it. Dhawan also highlighted that upcoming scheduling will provide sufficient ODI games for them to find form.
Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan has backed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to handle the reduced frequency of ODI cricket ahead of the 2027 World Cup, citing their experience and professionalism. Dhawan, who himself became a one-format player later in his career, acknowledged that limited match exposure can disrupt rhythm but emphasized that seasoned players like Rohit and Kohli are well-equipped to convert the challenge into an opportunity. He highlighted Rohit's fitness transformation and noted that the scheduling leading up to the 2027 World Cup will provide them ample match time.
