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Will India drop a star player against Bangladesh? Gambhir’s hug with Jadeja raises speculation

Ahead of India’s Champions Trophy opener against Bangladesh, Gautam Gambhir’s hug with Ravindra Jadeja has sparked speculation over the star all-rounder’s place in the playing XI.

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Gautam Gambhir hugging Ravindra Jadeja during India's practice session

The Champions Trophy 2025 is set to be a crucial tournament for Team India, especially for head coach Gautam Gambhir and skipper Rohit Sharma. Following India’s T20 World Cup 2024 triumph, the team has faced a rough patch, suffering a series of defeats, including an ODI series loss to Sri Lanka, a 3-0 Test series whitewash at home by New Zealand, and a 3-1 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.

The upcoming match against Bangladesh in Dubai will mark India’s attempt to bounce back and reclaim dominance in the white-ball format. However, a major selection dilemma is brewing in the camp, with speculations surrounding the exclusion of veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.

Gambhir’s hug sparks speculation

During India’s final practice session before the opening game, head coach Gautam Gambhir was seen engaged in a deep conversation with Ravindra Jadeja before embracing him. The moment, captured by the official broadcaster, led to immediate speculation regarding Jadeja’s spot in the playing XI.

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar weighed in on the situation, stating that while dropping Jadeja would be a tough decision, India might opt for three pacers, leaving room for just two specialist spinners. In such a scenario, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav could be preferred over Jadeja.

Shami and Kuldeep return to bolster India’s bowling

Rohit Sharma, in the pre-match press conference, confirmed that Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav are fully fit and ready for the tournament. Shami, who has been out for over a year due to injury, will bring much-needed experience to the pace attack, especially in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who is sidelined due to a lower back injury.

Kuldeep Yadav, who last played during the Test series against New Zealand, has also recovered after undergoing treatment for a chronic groin issue. His inclusion in the squad strengthens India’s spin options.

“Shami looks in great shape, and we hope he finds his rhythm in this tournament. Kuldeep has returned after a hernia operation and is confident. If both perform well, it will be a huge boost for us,” said Rohit Sharma.

India’s possible XI for the Bangladesh clash

With fitness concerns easing for Shami and Kuldeep, India’s final XI will be a key talking point. If the team decides to play three pacers, one of the all-rounders—either Jadeja or Axar Patel—might be left out.

Probable XI vs Bangladesh:

  1. Rohit Sharma (C)
  2. Shubman Gill
  3. Virat Kohli
  4. KL Rahul (WK)
  5. Suryakumar Yadav
  6. Hardik Pandya
  7. Axar Patel/Ravindra Jadeja
  8. Kuldeep Yadav
  9. Mohammed Shami
  10. Mohammed Siraj
  11. Jasprit Bumrah (out, replacement TBD)

As India embarks on its Champions Trophy journey, the selection choices will play a crucial role in shaping the team’s campaign. The match against Bangladesh could set the tone for what lies ahead in this redemption-seeking tournament for the Men in Blue.

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Who is Sahil Parakh? Teenager makes IPL debut for Delhi Capitals vs RCB

Sahil Parakh, an 18-year-old batter from Maharashtra, made his IPL debut for Delhi Capitals against RCB in IPL 2026.

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Sahil Parakh, an emerging batter from Maharashtra, made his Indian Premier League debut for Delhi Capitals during their 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

The 18-year-old was handed his maiden cap as the franchise made changes to its playing XI, looking to test fresh talent in a crucial stage of the tournament.

Opens innings alongside KL Rahul

Parakh was included as an opening batter and partnered experienced wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul at the top. The move reflected Delhi Capitals’ intent to experiment with their batting combination and give exposure to young players in high-pressure games.

Short stay at the crease

The debut outing did not last long for the youngster, as he was dismissed early in the innings. Despite the brief appearance, the opportunity marked an important milestone in his career.

Promising name from domestic circuit

Parakh is a left-handed batter who has impressed in age-group and domestic cricket, earning attention for his performances at the state level. His selection in the Delhi Capitals squad for IPL 2026 underlines the franchise’s focus on nurturing young talent for the future.

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Who is Praful Hinge? Young pacer who made instant impact with match-turning IPL debut spell

Praful Hinge grabbed attention with a three-wicket over on his IPL debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad.

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Praful Hinge bowling for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL

Praful Hinge is an emerging Indian fast bowler who grabbed attention after a remarkable debut in the Indian Premier League. Representing Sunrisers Hyderabad, the young pacer made headlines by taking three wickets in a single over, a rare and impactful feat in T20 cricket.

His performance came against Rajasthan Royals, where he turned the game with a decisive spell, announcing his arrival on the big stage.

Domestic cricket background

Hinge hails from Nagpur and has been associated with the Vidarbha cricket team in domestic cricket. Like many cricketers rising through India’s competitive system, his progress at the domestic level paved the way for his IPL opportunity.

While detailed statistics from his domestic career remain limited in public reports, his selection in the IPL reflects recognition of his potential and performances.

Bowling style and strengths

Praful Hinge is a right-arm fast bowler known for:

  • Maintaining a disciplined line and length
  • Ability to generate movement off the pitch
  • Effectiveness in short, impactful spells

His debut spell highlighted composure under pressure, especially in a high-intensity league like the IPL.

Breakthrough IPL moment

Making an immediate impact in the IPL is never easy, but Hinge’s three-wicket over on debut stands out as a defining moment. Performances like these often play a key role in shaping a young cricketer’s early career and gaining attention from teams and selectors.

A promising start

Praful Hinge’s debut has positioned him as a young fast bowler to watch. While it is still early in his career, such impactful performances suggest potential for further opportunities in domestic and franchise cricket.

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At 15, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi eyes India debut, could surpass Sachin Tendulkar’s record

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi may soon make his India debut after a standout IPL 2026 season with Rajasthan Royals.

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Rising cricket prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is reportedly on the verge of earning his first senior India call-up following an impressive run in IPL 2026. The 15-year-old batter has been shortlisted for the upcoming India tour of Ireland, according to multiple reports.

The young Rajasthan Royals player has quickly emerged as one of the most talked-about talents this season, delivering impactful performances that have caught the attention of selectors.

Strong performances boost selection chances

Sooryavanshi’s explosive batting in IPL 2026 has played a key role in pushing his case for national selection. Representing Rajasthan Royals, the teenager has consistently taken on top bowlers with confidence, showcasing both aggressive stroke play and maturity beyond his age.

Reports suggest he is among several young players being monitored for India’s Ireland tour, with selectors looking to test emerging talent in a relatively shorter series.

Could become youngest India debutant

If selected and given an opportunity, Sooryavanshi could script history by becoming one of the youngest players to represent India at the international level. At just 15, he would surpass long-standing age records set by former greats like Sachin Tendulkar, who debuted at 16.

The potential milestone has added further excitement around the youngster, whose rapid rise through domestic and franchise cricket has been closely followed by fans and experts alike.

Future tours also on radar

Apart from the Ireland series, reports indicate that Sooryavanshi could also be considered for other upcoming assignments later in 2026, including a possible tour of Zimbabwe. His consistent performances and fearless approach have made him a strong contender for continued inclusion in India’s plans.

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