4 days ago
By Jayshree P Upadhyay and Ashwin Manikandan
MUMBAI, July 24 (Reuters) - Indian banks and insurers will launch a common customer identification system in August, with **** et managers joining later, two regulatory sources and industry executives said, allowing customers to access financial products without separately submitting identification documents.
The new system, known as Central Know-Your-Customer 2.0 (CKYC), will only require the customer's consent for these institutions to fetch data stored at a central registry when opening an account or updating their details.
India has spent more than a decade trying to create a system similar to those in countries such as Singapore and several European nations, where digital identity frameworks allow customers to access multiple financial products through a common verification process.
It will also help combat fraud through easier monitoring, the regulatory sources said.
#financial
MUMBAI, July 24 (Reuters) - Indian banks and insurers will launch a common customer identification system in August, with **** et managers joining later, two regulatory sources and industry executives said, allowing customers to access financial products without separately submitting identification documents.
The new system, known as Central Know-Your-Customer 2.0 (CKYC), will only require the customer's consent for these institutions to fetch data stored at a central registry when opening an account or updating their details.
India has spent more than a decade trying to create a system similar to those in countries such as Singapore and several European nations, where digital identity frameworks allow customers to access multiple financial products through a common verification process.
It will also help combat fraud through easier monitoring, the regulatory sources said.
#financial
4 days ago
Mayank Yadav's return to international cricket could hardly have gone better, and former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes the young fast bowler deserves patience after overcoming a difficult spell with injuries.
Playing his first international match since October 2024, Mayank announced his comeback in style during the opening T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare. The speedster was named Player of the Match after producing a match-winning spell that began with a wicket off the very first ball of the contest.
Mayank removed Brian Bennett for a duck with a hard-length delivery that straightened after pitching, forcing an outside edge that was safely taken behind the stumps. He continued to test Zimbabwe's batters with his pace and discipline, dismissing Dion Myers during the powerplay to leave the hosts under immediate pressure. His spell laid the platform for India's commanding bowling display.
The performance marked a significant moment in the pacer's career after an injury-plagued period stalled his rapid rise. Initially fast-tracked into the Indian side as part of the team's long-term plans for the 2026 T20 World Cup, Mayank spent the past two years battling recurring fitness issues that repeatedly interrupted his progress.
Speaking on 'Ash ki Baat', Ashwin reflected on the challenges of returning from multiple injuries and urged fans to avoid judging players too quickly.
"It is not easy to go through a stress fracture at a young age. We often see and think, why is he always retained? He is always injured. We easily tell this. No player plays to get injured. Injury can be very painful. It is not just physical but also a mental barrier, especially if you are injured twice. It is not easy on the body. If it resurfaces, it plays on your mind. Mayank Yadav has a lot of time and is exceptionally talented. I want him to play more," he said on 'Ash ki Baat'.
Ashwin also acknowledged India's convincing start to the series and congratulated new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer on securing his maiden victory as skipper.
"Congratulations to Shreyas for the first win. He would have been searching for it. There is not a lot to see when you restrict Zimbabwe to 120-odd. Mayank, Prince, and Ashok all got an opportunity," he said.
Mayank's impressive return has not only revived India's pace options but also reinforced why he continues to be viewed as one of the country's most exciting fast-bowling prospects when fully fit.
#ashwin #first #baat
Playing his first international match since October 2024, Mayank announced his comeback in style during the opening T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare. The speedster was named Player of the Match after producing a match-winning spell that began with a wicket off the very first ball of the contest.
Mayank removed Brian Bennett for a duck with a hard-length delivery that straightened after pitching, forcing an outside edge that was safely taken behind the stumps. He continued to test Zimbabwe's batters with his pace and discipline, dismissing Dion Myers during the powerplay to leave the hosts under immediate pressure. His spell laid the platform for India's commanding bowling display.
The performance marked a significant moment in the pacer's career after an injury-plagued period stalled his rapid rise. Initially fast-tracked into the Indian side as part of the team's long-term plans for the 2026 T20 World Cup, Mayank spent the past two years battling recurring fitness issues that repeatedly interrupted his progress.
Speaking on 'Ash ki Baat', Ashwin reflected on the challenges of returning from multiple injuries and urged fans to avoid judging players too quickly.
"It is not easy to go through a stress fracture at a young age. We often see and think, why is he always retained? He is always injured. We easily tell this. No player plays to get injured. Injury can be very painful. It is not just physical but also a mental barrier, especially if you are injured twice. It is not easy on the body. If it resurfaces, it plays on your mind. Mayank Yadav has a lot of time and is exceptionally talented. I want him to play more," he said on 'Ash ki Baat'.
Ashwin also acknowledged India's convincing start to the series and congratulated new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer on securing his maiden victory as skipper.
"Congratulations to Shreyas for the first win. He would have been searching for it. There is not a lot to see when you restrict Zimbabwe to 120-odd. Mayank, Prince, and Ashok all got an opportunity," he said.
Mayank's impressive return has not only revived India's pace options but also reinforced why he continues to be viewed as one of the country's most exciting fast-bowling prospects when fully fit.
#ashwin #first #baat
5 days ago
'Stop using bits and pieces players': R. Ashwin drops truth bomb on Gautam Gambhir's team selection strategy originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
R Ashwin criticises Gautam Gambhir's reliance on 'bits and pieces' cricketers.
India lost ODI series 2-1 to England to cap off a dismal UK tour.
Ex-spinner wants a fixed 17-18 player pool for the next 14 months.
Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has called on head coach Gautam Gambhir to move away from filling the squad with makeshift all-rounders, as he believes the approach is a genuine concern heading into preparations for next year's ODI World Cup.
#ashwin #gautam #pieces #next
R Ashwin criticises Gautam Gambhir's reliance on 'bits and pieces' cricketers.
India lost ODI series 2-1 to England to cap off a dismal UK tour.
Ex-spinner wants a fixed 17-18 player pool for the next 14 months.
Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has called on head coach Gautam Gambhir to move away from filling the squad with makeshift all-rounders, as he believes the approach is a genuine concern heading into preparations for next year's ODI World Cup.
#ashwin #gautam #pieces #next
6 days ago
When India begin their three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe at the Harare Sports Club on Thursday, the spotlight will not only be on the result but also on the fresh faces hoping to begin their international journeys.
Over the years, tours of Zimbabwe have evolved into India's preferred platform for testing emerging talent in the shortest format. Rather than fielding full-strength squads, the BCCI has consistently used these bilateral series to reward standout domestic and IPL performers with their maiden T20I caps.
The numbers underline that trend. A total of 22 Indian men's cricketers have made their T20I debuts against Zimbabwe, making the African nation one of India's most frequent proving grounds for future stars.
India's tradition of handing out debuts in Zimbabwe dates back to 2010. During the two-match T20I series, Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin and Naman Ojha all made their debuts in the opening game as India secured a comfortable six-wicket win. Kohli remained unbeaten on 26, Ashwin impressed with figures of 1/22, while Ojha managed two runs. In the following match, Amit Mishra became the fourth debutant of the series and returned figures of 1/21.
That tour also marked another milestone, with Suresh Raina captaining India in T20Is for the first time.
Five years later, India again arrived in Zimbabwe with a youthful squad. The 2015 series featured first T20I caps for Manish Pandey, Kedar Jadhav, Stuart Binny, Axar Patel and Sandeep Sharma in the opening game, while Sanju Samson debuted in the second T20I.
Although several batters endured modest starts, Axar Patel stood out with an impressive spell of 3/17. Manish Pandey scored 19, Kedar Jadhav made 9, Stuart Binny contributed 11 and Sandeep Sharma went wicketless. Samson scored 19 off 24 ****** in his maiden appearance.
The same tour also witnessed Ajinkya Rahane making his captaincy debut in both ODIs and T20Is.
India continued the trend in 2016, handing opportunities to another crop of newcomers. KL Rahul, Mandeep Singh, Jaydev Unadkat, Rishi Dhawan and Yuzvendra Chahal all made their T20I debuts in the opening match. It proved a difficult initiation for several players as Zimbabwe posted 170/6. Unadkat, Dhawan and Chahal all endured expensive spells, while Rahul was dismissed for a first-ball duck. Mandeep Singh provided one of the few positives with 31 off 27 ****** , although India lost the match by two runs.
The second T20I brought more debutants. Barinder Sran enjoyed a dream start to his international career, producing figures of 4/10, which remain the best bowling figures by an Indian on T20I debut. Dhawal Kulkarni also debuted in that match and claimed 1/32.
India once again used the Zimbabwe tour in 2024 to blood a fresh batch of youngsters. Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel made their T20I debuts in the opening match of the five-game series. Sai Sudharsan was handed his maiden cap in the second T20I, while Tushar Deshpande made his de
Over the years, tours of Zimbabwe have evolved into India's preferred platform for testing emerging talent in the shortest format. Rather than fielding full-strength squads, the BCCI has consistently used these bilateral series to reward standout domestic and IPL performers with their maiden T20I caps.
The numbers underline that trend. A total of 22 Indian men's cricketers have made their T20I debuts against Zimbabwe, making the African nation one of India's most frequent proving grounds for future stars.
India's tradition of handing out debuts in Zimbabwe dates back to 2010. During the two-match T20I series, Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin and Naman Ojha all made their debuts in the opening game as India secured a comfortable six-wicket win. Kohli remained unbeaten on 26, Ashwin impressed with figures of 1/22, while Ojha managed two runs. In the following match, Amit Mishra became the fourth debutant of the series and returned figures of 1/21.
That tour also marked another milestone, with Suresh Raina captaining India in T20Is for the first time.
Five years later, India again arrived in Zimbabwe with a youthful squad. The 2015 series featured first T20I caps for Manish Pandey, Kedar Jadhav, Stuart Binny, Axar Patel and Sandeep Sharma in the opening game, while Sanju Samson debuted in the second T20I.
Although several batters endured modest starts, Axar Patel stood out with an impressive spell of 3/17. Manish Pandey scored 19, Kedar Jadhav made 9, Stuart Binny contributed 11 and Sandeep Sharma went wicketless. Samson scored 19 off 24 ****** in his maiden appearance.
The same tour also witnessed Ajinkya Rahane making his captaincy debut in both ODIs and T20Is.
India continued the trend in 2016, handing opportunities to another crop of newcomers. KL Rahul, Mandeep Singh, Jaydev Unadkat, Rishi Dhawan and Yuzvendra Chahal all made their T20I debuts in the opening match. It proved a difficult initiation for several players as Zimbabwe posted 170/6. Unadkat, Dhawan and Chahal all endured expensive spells, while Rahul was dismissed for a first-ball duck. Mandeep Singh provided one of the few positives with 31 off 27 ****** , although India lost the match by two runs.
The second T20I brought more debutants. Barinder Sran enjoyed a dream start to his international career, producing figures of 4/10, which remain the best bowling figures by an Indian on T20I debut. Dhawal Kulkarni also debuted in that match and claimed 1/32.
India once again used the Zimbabwe tour in 2024 to blood a fresh batch of youngsters. Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel made their T20I debuts in the opening match of the five-game series. Sai Sudharsan was handed his maiden cap in the second T20I, while Tushar Deshpande made his de
20 days ago
NEW DELHI: Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly criticised the selectors for leaving Sanju Samson out of India's T20I squad for the upcoming Zimbabwe tour, calling the decision "just unfair". Ashwin also warned that frequent changes in the team could create insecurity among players and hurt India's T20 setup.
Speaking on his YouTube show Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin said he completely disagreed with the decision.
"I mean, what can I even say? It's just unfair. Just unfair. I don't agree with it. But it is what it is. I mean, I don't know. Seriously, it's difficult."
Ashwin questioned the logic behind dropping Samson after a few poor scores and wondered who would be next if the team continued to lose.
"Sanju has been dropped because of losses and form. He has been left out. We've already lost two games. If we lose again, will someone else be dropped too? Who is next? That's wrong. I really hope the Indian team finds itself. Indian cricketers should not be put in an insecure position."
Samson's omission has become one of the biggest talking points in Indian cricket. The wicketkeeper-batter, who was named Player of the Tournament at this year's T20 World Cup, managed scores of 5, 0 and 1 in his last three innings against Ireland and in the opening T20I against England.
Samson was replaced in the playing XI by 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and was later left out of the Zimbabwe-bound squad.
Ashwin said such decisions can make players think more about protecting their place than winning matches.
"As I had said earlier after the SKY incident, players will go insular. They will start thinking only about themselves. In T20 cricket, that is disastrous."
"If batters start thinking that they will be dropped if they don't score runs, they will begin playing only to protect their place in the team, which is extremely dangerous."
Ashwin added that even if Samson gets another opportunity, the pressure of keeping his place could affect the way he bats.
"Even now I'm saying, imagine Sanju gets another chance. He too will start thinking about himself. And you can't even say that's wrong."
"If Sanju scores 45 or 48 off 25 **** and takes two more deliveries to reach his fifty, you can't say that's wrong because he is trying to protect his place in the team. I really hope... I really hope they find a solution to this."
Ashwin further argued that a good domestic season should not automatically guarantee an India call-up, while responding to suggestions that players like Prabhsimran Singh deserved opportunities after impressive performances.
"In our TNPL team, there's a player named Hunny Saini. He's a very good player and an excellent finisher. He also wants a chance. There's BR Sharad from Bengaluru Dragons, who is playing well too. If you're asking when they should get an opportunity, then send them to Zimbabwe as well. I'll send Hunny Saini too."
"See, I have all the time for Prabhsimr
Speaking on his YouTube show Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin said he completely disagreed with the decision.
"I mean, what can I even say? It's just unfair. Just unfair. I don't agree with it. But it is what it is. I mean, I don't know. Seriously, it's difficult."
Ashwin questioned the logic behind dropping Samson after a few poor scores and wondered who would be next if the team continued to lose.
"Sanju has been dropped because of losses and form. He has been left out. We've already lost two games. If we lose again, will someone else be dropped too? Who is next? That's wrong. I really hope the Indian team finds itself. Indian cricketers should not be put in an insecure position."
Samson's omission has become one of the biggest talking points in Indian cricket. The wicketkeeper-batter, who was named Player of the Tournament at this year's T20 World Cup, managed scores of 5, 0 and 1 in his last three innings against Ireland and in the opening T20I against England.
Samson was replaced in the playing XI by 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and was later left out of the Zimbabwe-bound squad.
Ashwin said such decisions can make players think more about protecting their place than winning matches.
"As I had said earlier after the SKY incident, players will go insular. They will start thinking only about themselves. In T20 cricket, that is disastrous."
"If batters start thinking that they will be dropped if they don't score runs, they will begin playing only to protect their place in the team, which is extremely dangerous."
Ashwin added that even if Samson gets another opportunity, the pressure of keeping his place could affect the way he bats.
"Even now I'm saying, imagine Sanju gets another chance. He too will start thinking about himself. And you can't even say that's wrong."
"If Sanju scores 45 or 48 off 25 **** and takes two more deliveries to reach his fifty, you can't say that's wrong because he is trying to protect his place in the team. I really hope... I really hope they find a solution to this."
Ashwin further argued that a good domestic season should not automatically guarantee an India call-up, while responding to suggestions that players like Prabhsimran Singh deserved opportunities after impressive performances.
"In our TNPL team, there's a player named Hunny Saini. He's a very good player and an excellent finisher. He also wants a chance. There's BR Sharad from Bengaluru Dragons, who is playing well too. If you're asking when they should get an opportunity, then send them to Zimbabwe as well. I'll send Hunny Saini too."
"See, I have all the time for Prabhsimr
27 days ago
Bucket list checked: Yashasvi Jaiswal dons Messi shirt to watch France vs Sweden 2026 FIFA World Cup game in New Jersey originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
India's Yashasvi Jaiswal attended the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash between France and Sweden in New Jersey.
He posted an Instagram Reel wearing the Argentina jersey of the Argentine superstar Lionel Messi, calling it a "bucket list" moment.
Although Messi's Argentina were not in action, Jaiswal soaked in the atmosphere from the stands.
MORE:Ashwin joins Dravid-owned Dublin Guardians in ETPL
India's Yashasvi Jaiswal attended the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash between France and Sweden in New Jersey.
He posted an Instagram Reel wearing the Argentina jersey of the Argentine superstar Lionel Messi, calling it a "bucket list" moment.
Although Messi's Argentina were not in action, Jaiswal soaked in the atmosphere from the stands.
MORE:Ashwin joins Dravid-owned Dublin Guardians in ETPL
1 month ago
Arshdeep Singh entered an unwanted list in India's T20I history after conceding two sixes in the opening over of Ireland's innings during the second T20 International in Belfast on Sunday. The left-arm pacer became only the third Indian bowler to be hit for two sixes in the first over of a T20I innings.
India captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and chose to bowl first. The visitors made two changes, handing debuts to batting all-rounder Suryansh Shedge and fast bowler Prince Yadav. Teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi again missed out on a debut.
"We have two changes. Suryansh (Shedge) and Prince come in and make their debut. Shedge is a sensational cricketer, both in domestic cricket and the IPL," Iyer said, adding that Prince was a "smart" cricketer who would "adapt to things".
Ireland opener Ross Adair gave his team a fast start by attacking Arshdeep in the opening over. After missing an earlier opportunity, Adair connected with a length delivery outside off and cleared the boundary for six. On the very next ball, Arshdeep pitched the ball fuller, but Adair held his shape and hit it straight back over the bowler's head for another six.
With those two hits, Arshdeep joined a short list of Indian bowlers who have conceded two sixes in the first over of a T20I innings.
Indian bowlers to concede two sixes in the first over of a T20I innings:
Ravichandran Ashwin vs New Zealand, Nagpur, 2016
Shardul Thakur vs New Zealand, Auckland, 2020
Arshdeep Singh vs Ireland, Belfast, 2026
The match carried added importance after Ireland stunned India by 34 runs in the first T20I at the same venue on Friday. It was Ireland's first victory over the reigning T20 world champions in any format and gave them a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. India need a win in the second game to avoid losing the series.
India captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and chose to bowl first. The visitors made two changes, handing debuts to batting all-rounder Suryansh Shedge and fast bowler Prince Yadav. Teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi again missed out on a debut.
"We have two changes. Suryansh (Shedge) and Prince come in and make their debut. Shedge is a sensational cricketer, both in domestic cricket and the IPL," Iyer said, adding that Prince was a "smart" cricketer who would "adapt to things".
Ireland opener Ross Adair gave his team a fast start by attacking Arshdeep in the opening over. After missing an earlier opportunity, Adair connected with a length delivery outside off and cleared the boundary for six. On the very next ball, Arshdeep pitched the ball fuller, but Adair held his shape and hit it straight back over the bowler's head for another six.
With those two hits, Arshdeep joined a short list of Indian bowlers who have conceded two sixes in the first over of a T20I innings.
Indian bowlers to concede two sixes in the first over of a T20I innings:
Ravichandran Ashwin vs New Zealand, Nagpur, 2016
Shardul Thakur vs New Zealand, Auckland, 2020
Arshdeep Singh vs Ireland, Belfast, 2026
The match carried added importance after Ireland stunned India by 34 runs in the first T20I at the same venue on Friday. It was Ireland's first victory over the reigning T20 world champions in any format and gave them a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. India need a win in the second game to avoid losing the series.
1 month ago
'Team first': R Ashwin defends Gautam Gambhir in keeping Vaibhav Sooryavanshi out of India lineup vs Ireland in 1st T20I originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Ravichandran Ashwin publicly defended Gautam Gambhir's decision to keep Vaibhav Sooryavanshi out of India's first T20I vs Ireland.
He argued in-form openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma should not be dropped to accommodate hype.
Ashwin said sitting out and serving the team is a valuable role for the young prodigy.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Ravichandran Ashwin publicly defended Gautam Gambhir's decision to keep Vaibhav Sooryavanshi out of India's first T20I vs Ireland.
He argued in-form openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma should not be dropped to accommodate hype.
Ashwin said sitting out and serving the team is a valuable role for the young prodigy.
1 month ago
By Ashwin Manikandan and Abinaya V
June 22 (Reuters) - Meta Platforms will invest $900 million in Indian fintech startup CRED, valuing it at $4.5 billion, while tapping CRED's founder Kunal Shah to head WhatsApp globally, the companies said on Monday.
India is WhatsApp's largest market, with more than 500 million users, and the platform is expanding beyond messaging into payments and business services in the country.
Will Cathcart, the current head of WhatsApp, will move to a new role within Meta after seven years leading the messaging service, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said in a Facebook post. Shah, who founded CRED in 2018, confirmed the announcement.
Meta's investment is one of the largest into India's financial technology sector in recent years. The valuation is higher than the $3.5 billion in CRED's previous funding round in 2025, but lower than its peak of $6.4 billion in 2022.
June 22 (Reuters) - Meta Platforms will invest $900 million in Indian fintech startup CRED, valuing it at $4.5 billion, while tapping CRED's founder Kunal Shah to head WhatsApp globally, the companies said on Monday.
India is WhatsApp's largest market, with more than 500 million users, and the platform is expanding beyond messaging into payments and business services in the country.
Will Cathcart, the current head of WhatsApp, will move to a new role within Meta after seven years leading the messaging service, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said in a Facebook post. Shah, who founded CRED in 2018, confirmed the announcement.
Meta's investment is one of the largest into India's financial technology sector in recent years. The valuation is higher than the $3.5 billion in CRED's previous funding round in 2025, but lower than its peak of $6.4 billion in 2022.
1 month ago
Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly defended teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi following the criticism that emerged after the youngster's altercation with Sri Lankan players during the tri-series final in Dambulla.
The incident took place after India's defeat in the Super Over and quickly became a major talking point among fans and experts. However, Ashwin believes the reaction has been excessive and warned against turning criticism into personal attacks on a young cricketer still learning the demands of the international game.
Speaking on his YouTube show Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin questioned why so many people were quick to target Sooryavanshi over a single moment.
"All we can do is talk with hate. And what happens then? If the person we are hating eventually reads those things, it might affect them a little. But what do we achieve by talking like that? That is why I am saying this. How can you hate Vaibhav Sooryavanshi?"
Ashwin also pushed back against those demanding greater maturity from the teenager, reminding critics that age and experience must be taken into account before passing judgement.
"Tell me, how can anyone hate him? And everyone is saying, 'This kid should have shown maturity. He should have spoken with more maturity.' Have we forgotten that we too were children once? Have we forgotten that there are children like that in our own families? This is a very dangerous trend," he added.
The former off-spinner went on to explain the difference between constructive criticism and hatred, arguing that the two are often confused in modern sporting discussions.
"What is criticism? If today you are hosting the show and I tell you, 'Vimal bhai, I didn't like the hosting so much today. Maybe we can pay attention here. Maybe this question could have been asked differently. Maybe this point could have been handled differently.' That is criticism. Criticism means finding a path for someone to move forward and improve. But what is hatred? Hatred is when somebody has achieved something, and we keep attacking them with words. We keep trying to pull them down. That does not happen," said Ashwin.
With Sooryavanshi potentially set for his India debut in the upcoming T20I series against Ireland, Ashwin urged supporters and critics alike to allow the youngster to develop without the weight of constant scrutiny.
"Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is a cricketer. He performs for us. He is an entertainer with immense skill. Forget his family, his well-wishers, his fans and the team management for a moment. As a lover of the sport, I just want him to enjoy cricket and play without pressure. After playing cricket for so many years, I've realised that playing freely, without baggage, is one of the hardest things to do. As long as we can give him that freedom, let him enjoy himself. Whether he succeeds or fails doesn't matter. The way he plays is a spectacle. Let the kid enjoy himself," said Ashwin.
The backing from Ashwin co
The incident took place after India's defeat in the Super Over and quickly became a major talking point among fans and experts. However, Ashwin believes the reaction has been excessive and warned against turning criticism into personal attacks on a young cricketer still learning the demands of the international game.
Speaking on his YouTube show Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin questioned why so many people were quick to target Sooryavanshi over a single moment.
"All we can do is talk with hate. And what happens then? If the person we are hating eventually reads those things, it might affect them a little. But what do we achieve by talking like that? That is why I am saying this. How can you hate Vaibhav Sooryavanshi?"
Ashwin also pushed back against those demanding greater maturity from the teenager, reminding critics that age and experience must be taken into account before passing judgement.
"Tell me, how can anyone hate him? And everyone is saying, 'This kid should have shown maturity. He should have spoken with more maturity.' Have we forgotten that we too were children once? Have we forgotten that there are children like that in our own families? This is a very dangerous trend," he added.
The former off-spinner went on to explain the difference between constructive criticism and hatred, arguing that the two are often confused in modern sporting discussions.
"What is criticism? If today you are hosting the show and I tell you, 'Vimal bhai, I didn't like the hosting so much today. Maybe we can pay attention here. Maybe this question could have been asked differently. Maybe this point could have been handled differently.' That is criticism. Criticism means finding a path for someone to move forward and improve. But what is hatred? Hatred is when somebody has achieved something, and we keep attacking them with words. We keep trying to pull them down. That does not happen," said Ashwin.
With Sooryavanshi potentially set for his India debut in the upcoming T20I series against Ireland, Ashwin urged supporters and critics alike to allow the youngster to develop without the weight of constant scrutiny.
"Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is a cricketer. He performs for us. He is an entertainer with immense skill. Forget his family, his well-wishers, his fans and the team management for a moment. As a lover of the sport, I just want him to enjoy cricket and play without pressure. After playing cricket for so many years, I've realised that playing freely, without baggage, is one of the hardest things to do. As long as we can give him that freedom, let him enjoy himself. Whether he succeeds or fails doesn't matter. The way he plays is a spectacle. Let the kid enjoy himself," said Ashwin.
The backing from Ashwin co
1 month ago
CHENNAI: Every successful Indian team has eventually unearthed an all-rounder who quietly solves multiple problems at once. In Harsh Dubey, India believe they may have found another such cricketer for the future.
The 23-year-old left-arm spinning all-rounder is still at the beginning of his international journey, but the early signs have already convinced the team management that he is a player worth investing in. The confidence being shown in him was evident from captain Shubman Gill's words, who sees Dubey as an important addition to India's pool of all-rounders.
"If we look at the pool of all-rounders, especially left-arm spinning all-rounders who can bat, he is one of those players. He is very young and it's important that we show confidence in players like him. He is someone who can bowl 10 overs for us and, if required, can also get the job done with the bat in situations where you need 80 runs in the last 10 overs," Gill said.
Those comments came before India's squad for the England ODI series was announced. However, despite Gill's endorsement and a promising start at the international level, Dubey did not find a place in the squad as Axar Patel returned to the side after being rested for the Afghanistan series.
Yet, his omission is unlikely to alter the long-term plans India appear to have for him. With Ravichandran Ashwin having retired and India managing the workload of Ravindra Jadeja and Axar, the team management has already started grooming the next generation of spin-bowling all-rounders.
The selectors had named Dubey in both the Test and ODI squads against Afghanistan, signalling a long-term investment rather than a short-term experiment.
That faith was further underlined in the first ODI when Dubey was preferred over the more experienced Kuldeep Yadav. In his debut, the youngster came under pressure in his opening over, but he responded impressively, showing the temperament and finished with figures of 3-47 from five overs and ended his two-match ODI stint with four wickets. While his economy rate of 7.08 remained on the higher side, he managed to strike at crucial moments and showed an ability to bounce back under pressure.
While his bowling credentials are already well established, his batting potential is an untapped area in the series. India believe there is more to come from him with the bat, particularly because he possesses the ability to finish innings and contribute valuable lower-order runs.
His numbers across formats further strengthen his case. In the IPL, he has taken eight wickets in eight matches for Sunrisers Hyderabad at an average of 28.50. In List A cricket, he has picked up 35 wickets in 32 matches and scored 296 runs in 17 innings, including two half-centuries, averaging 26.50 with the bat.
His first-class record is even more impressive. In 27 matches, Dubey has claimed 133 wickets at an average of 23.26, including nine five-wicket hauls and two 10-wicket matc
The 23-year-old left-arm spinning all-rounder is still at the beginning of his international journey, but the early signs have already convinced the team management that he is a player worth investing in. The confidence being shown in him was evident from captain Shubman Gill's words, who sees Dubey as an important addition to India's pool of all-rounders.
"If we look at the pool of all-rounders, especially left-arm spinning all-rounders who can bat, he is one of those players. He is very young and it's important that we show confidence in players like him. He is someone who can bowl 10 overs for us and, if required, can also get the job done with the bat in situations where you need 80 runs in the last 10 overs," Gill said.
Those comments came before India's squad for the England ODI series was announced. However, despite Gill's endorsement and a promising start at the international level, Dubey did not find a place in the squad as Axar Patel returned to the side after being rested for the Afghanistan series.
Yet, his omission is unlikely to alter the long-term plans India appear to have for him. With Ravichandran Ashwin having retired and India managing the workload of Ravindra Jadeja and Axar, the team management has already started grooming the next generation of spin-bowling all-rounders.
The selectors had named Dubey in both the Test and ODI squads against Afghanistan, signalling a long-term investment rather than a short-term experiment.
That faith was further underlined in the first ODI when Dubey was preferred over the more experienced Kuldeep Yadav. In his debut, the youngster came under pressure in his opening over, but he responded impressively, showing the temperament and finished with figures of 3-47 from five overs and ended his two-match ODI stint with four wickets. While his economy rate of 7.08 remained on the higher side, he managed to strike at crucial moments and showed an ability to bounce back under pressure.
While his bowling credentials are already well established, his batting potential is an untapped area in the series. India believe there is more to come from him with the bat, particularly because he possesses the ability to finish innings and contribute valuable lower-order runs.
His numbers across formats further strengthen his case. In the IPL, he has taken eight wickets in eight matches for Sunrisers Hyderabad at an average of 28.50. In List A cricket, he has picked up 35 wickets in 32 matches and scored 296 runs in 17 innings, including two half-centuries, averaging 26.50 with the bat.
His first-class record is even more impressive. In 27 matches, Dubey has claimed 133 wickets at an average of 23.26, including nine five-wicket hauls and two 10-wicket matc
2 months ago
NEW DELHI: Manav Suthar announced his arrival on the Test stage in stunning fashion, producing a six-wicket haul against Afghanistan in his maiden appearance for India at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur.
The left-arm spinner finished with exceptional figures of 6/33 from 22 overs as Afghanistan were bowled out for 152 in response to India's imposing first-innings total of 564/8 declared.
Suthar's spell not only put India firmly in control of the one-off Test but also earned him a place in the record books.
The 23-year-old registered the best bowling figures in an innings on Test debut by an Indian in 38 years.
The last Indian to better that mark in his debut Test innings was Narendra Hirwani, who produced a legendary performance against the West Indies in Chennai in 1988, claiming 8/61 and later finishing the match with 16 wickets.
Suthar also joined an exclusive club of Indian bowlers to register six-wicket hauls on Test debut. Before him, only Hirwani, Ravichandran Ashwin, Dilip Doshi and Syed Abid Ali had achieved the feat in an innings during their first Test appearances.
Furthermore, Suthar became the 10th Indian (seventh among spinners) to pick a five-wicket haul on Test debut.
What made Suthar's effort particularly impressive was the control he displayed throughout a long spell. He conceded just 33 runs in 22 overs, including 10 maidens, while maintaining an outstanding economy rate of 1.50. His victims included Abdul Malik, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rahmat Shah, Afsar Zazai, Sharafuddin Ashraf and Mohammad Saleem Safi.
After picking up three wickets on the second day, Suthar returned on Day 3 to complete the milestone haul. His ability to generate drift, extract turn and vary his pace consistently troubled Afghanistan's batting line-up.
ALSO READ: 'Rajasthan ka Jadeja': The making of Manav Suthar, India's newest left-arm spin hope
While Prasidh Krishna chipped in with three wickets, it was Suthar who stole the spotlight with a memorable debut performance.
With Ravindra Jadeja entering the latter stages of his career, India's selectors will be encouraged by the emergence of another promising left-arm spinning option in the red-ball format.
For Suthar, it was a dream beginning to what could be a long international journey.
131582496
The left-arm spinner finished with exceptional figures of 6/33 from 22 overs as Afghanistan were bowled out for 152 in response to India's imposing first-innings total of 564/8 declared.
Suthar's spell not only put India firmly in control of the one-off Test but also earned him a place in the record books.
The 23-year-old registered the best bowling figures in an innings on Test debut by an Indian in 38 years.
The last Indian to better that mark in his debut Test innings was Narendra Hirwani, who produced a legendary performance against the West Indies in Chennai in 1988, claiming 8/61 and later finishing the match with 16 wickets.
Suthar also joined an exclusive club of Indian bowlers to register six-wicket hauls on Test debut. Before him, only Hirwani, Ravichandran Ashwin, Dilip Doshi and Syed Abid Ali had achieved the feat in an innings during their first Test appearances.
Furthermore, Suthar became the 10th Indian (seventh among spinners) to pick a five-wicket haul on Test debut.
What made Suthar's effort particularly impressive was the control he displayed throughout a long spell. He conceded just 33 runs in 22 overs, including 10 maidens, while maintaining an outstanding economy rate of 1.50. His victims included Abdul Malik, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rahmat Shah, Afsar Zazai, Sharafuddin Ashraf and Mohammad Saleem Safi.
After picking up three wickets on the second day, Suthar returned on Day 3 to complete the milestone haul. His ability to generate drift, extract turn and vary his pace consistently troubled Afghanistan's batting line-up.
ALSO READ: 'Rajasthan ka Jadeja': The making of Manav Suthar, India's newest left-arm spin hope
While Prasidh Krishna chipped in with three wickets, it was Suthar who stole the spotlight with a memorable debut performance.
With Ravindra Jadeja entering the latter stages of his career, India's selectors will be encouraged by the emergence of another promising left-arm spinning option in the red-ball format.
For Suthar, it was a dream beginning to what could be a long international journey.
131582496
