Cricket news

Rishabh Pant breaks silence on Rohit Sharma’s decision to drop himself for the fifth Test

Published

1 year ago

January 3, 2025

Rishabh Pant explains Rohit Sharma's decision to drop himself for the fifth Test match against Australia

Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant has shed light on the emotional and selfless decision made by skipper Rohit Sharma to exclude himself from the playing XI for the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney. Pant spoke about the significance of the decision, highlighting Rohit’s leadership qualities and the respect the team has for him.

Rohit Sharma’s form had been under scrutiny during the ongoing Test series, managing just 31 runs across three matches. Facing mounting criticism from fans and experts alike, the Indian skipper made the tough call to sit out the final Test match. Pant, who has often played under Rohit’s leadership, praised the decision as a testament to Rohit’s character.

Speaking to reporters, Pant explained, “There are some decisions you are not involved in. I cannot explain more than that. It was an emotional decision. We see him as a leader.” The wicket-keeper batsman underlined how Rohit’s decision reflected not only selflessness but also his commitment to the team, calling him a “true leader.”

Pant also addressed his own approach to batting in the opening day of the fifth Test. After facing criticism for a lackluster performance in Melbourne, Pant showed restraint with a 98-ball 40, as India was bowled out for 185. He explained that the conditions at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) and the game situation required him to adjust his aggressive batting style.

“I was not in a frame of mind where I wanted to take charge of the game because the wicket was doing too much, and the situation we were in didn’t allow for that,” Pant said in the post-day press conference. He emphasized the importance of playing a secure brand of cricket to avoid quick collapses.

Reflecting on his previous performance in Melbourne, Pant acknowledged the criticism he had received for his shot selection, especially the pull shot that earned him scorn from cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar. Pant’s approach in Sydney was a stark contrast, as he chose caution over risk, stating, “Yes, there is a time to attack, but when you have to feel that from inside. I can’t just premeditate that I’m going to play this way. Whatever the game asked me to do on a given day, that’s what I tried to do.”

The 27-year-old cricketer’s ability to adjust his game according to the match conditions and his focus on team-first decisions reflect his maturity and understanding of the game’s demands.

Related Topics:5th test Australia Cricket News India vs Australia Indian cricket Leadership Rohit Sharma scg

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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.

Published

3 days ago

April 27, 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.

Cricket news

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.

Published

2 weeks ago

April 14, 2026

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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.

Cricket news

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.

Published

2 weeks ago

April 14, 2026

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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.