1 month ago
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(3 min)
1444 ET – Gold futures make small gains despite a rise in Treasury yields after the Treasury Department said it would buy back $6 billion in bonds this week, less than some in the market expected. The dollar weakened, however, which tends to support gold. An easing in ******* anese yields and continued central bank buying—with China’s central bank adding 20 tons in August—also helped support prices, while the market remains focused on U.S. inflation data later this week, Konstantinos Chrysikos of Kudo.com says in a note. Front month gold settles up 0.5% in New York at $4,416 a troy ounce. Silver gains 2.5% to $67.942 a troy ounce. (anthony.harrupwsj.com)
1150 ET – Gold futures are steady as bond yields rise after the Treasury says it will buy up to $6 billion of longer-term debt at its Thursday buyback operation. The precious metals market is also focusing on this week’s inflation data—producer prices due Thursday and consumer prices on Friday. Gold’s recent slippage came as high Treasury yields, firmer Fed rate-hike expectations and rising oil prices “collectively outweighed dollar softness,” Kaynat Chainwala of Kotak Neo says in a note. Softer inflation readings would reduce the probability of a rate increase “and open the path toward the $4,500 resistance zone,” while an above-estimate result along with high energy prices “would likely reinstate selling pressure and bring the $4,300 support zone into focus.” Front month gold is up 0.2% at $4,401.20 a troy ounce. (anthony.harrupwsj.com)
#treasury #week #support #ounce
(3 min)
1444 ET – Gold futures make small gains despite a rise in Treasury yields after the Treasury Department said it would buy back $6 billion in bonds this week, less than some in the market expected. The dollar weakened, however, which tends to support gold. An easing in ******* anese yields and continued central bank buying—with China’s central bank adding 20 tons in August—also helped support prices, while the market remains focused on U.S. inflation data later this week, Konstantinos Chrysikos of Kudo.com says in a note. Front month gold settles up 0.5% in New York at $4,416 a troy ounce. Silver gains 2.5% to $67.942 a troy ounce. (anthony.harrupwsj.com)
1150 ET – Gold futures are steady as bond yields rise after the Treasury says it will buy up to $6 billion of longer-term debt at its Thursday buyback operation. The precious metals market is also focusing on this week’s inflation data—producer prices due Thursday and consumer prices on Friday. Gold’s recent slippage came as high Treasury yields, firmer Fed rate-hike expectations and rising oil prices “collectively outweighed dollar softness,” Kaynat Chainwala of Kotak Neo says in a note. Softer inflation readings would reduce the probability of a rate increase “and open the path toward the $4,500 resistance zone,” while an above-estimate result along with high energy prices “would likely reinstate selling pressure and bring the $4,300 support zone into focus.” Front month gold is up 0.2% at $4,401.20 a troy ounce. (anthony.harrupwsj.com)
#treasury #week #support #ounce
2 months ago
Surrey groundsman Lee Fortis, who made headlines last year after a heated confrontation with India head coach Gautam Gambhir at The Oval, has been placed on leave following a separate altercation with an ECB employee.
Fortis was involved in a heated exchange with the employee while preparations were under way for a Hundred fixture. The ECB employee was reportedly left in tears following the incident.
The episode took place at The Oval on July 28, a day before MI London faced London Spirit at the venue, with both teams training at the ground.
Soon afterwards, Surrey chief executive Steve Elworthy was seen having a firm discussion with Fortis on the field. The groundsman subsequently left the playing area and has not returned to The Oval since.
It remains unclear whether Fortis will return, with some sources in the English game reportedly believing that he may not resume his role.
Fortis is a well-known figure around The Oval and attracted significant attention last year after an argument with Gambhir during India's Test against England.
The disagreement centred on the condition of the square, with Gambhir telling Fortis: "You're just a groundsman, nothing beyond that."
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak subsequently described Fortis as "arrogant".
Fortis has served as The Oval's head groundsman since 2012, taking up the role at the age of 30. He has since established himself as one of the leading groundsmen in English cricket, winning the ECB's Grounds Manager of the Year award three consecutive times from 2022 to 2024.
During that period, Surrey also won three successive County Championship **** les.
The latest incident has now left one of English cricket's most recognisable groundsmen, who stands around 6ft 10in tall, away from The Oval while the circumstances surrounding his absence remain unclear.
#oval #year
Fortis was involved in a heated exchange with the employee while preparations were under way for a Hundred fixture. The ECB employee was reportedly left in tears following the incident.
The episode took place at The Oval on July 28, a day before MI London faced London Spirit at the venue, with both teams training at the ground.
Soon afterwards, Surrey chief executive Steve Elworthy was seen having a firm discussion with Fortis on the field. The groundsman subsequently left the playing area and has not returned to The Oval since.
It remains unclear whether Fortis will return, with some sources in the English game reportedly believing that he may not resume his role.
Fortis is a well-known figure around The Oval and attracted significant attention last year after an argument with Gambhir during India's Test against England.
The disagreement centred on the condition of the square, with Gambhir telling Fortis: "You're just a groundsman, nothing beyond that."
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak subsequently described Fortis as "arrogant".
Fortis has served as The Oval's head groundsman since 2012, taking up the role at the age of 30. He has since established himself as one of the leading groundsmen in English cricket, winning the ECB's Grounds Manager of the Year award three consecutive times from 2022 to 2024.
During that period, Surrey also won three successive County Championship **** les.
The latest incident has now left one of English cricket's most recognisable groundsmen, who stands around 6ft 10in tall, away from The Oval while the circumstances surrounding his absence remain unclear.
#oval #year
2 months ago
NEW DELHI: Yashasvi Jaiswal has broken his silence on his heated confrontation with Sri Lanka pacer Asitha Fernando, making a surprise comment on a social media video discussing their on-field spat during the opening day of the second Test in Colombo.
Jaiswal responded to a Cricbuzz video featuring cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle, ***** led 'Did Jaiswal cross the line?', urging people not to judge the incident without knowing what had been said between the two players.
"If you don't know what he said then please don't make your judgment if anyone cross the line we need to let them know this India will fight and reply," Yashasvi Jaiswal commented on the video.
The comment quickly went viral, adding another layer to an incident that had already attracted considerable attention after Jaiswal and Fernando were involved in a heated exchange immediately after the India opener was dismissed.
Jaiswal was dismissed for 45 by Fernando in the first session at the SSC ground after hitting the pacer for three boundaries in the over. Fernando gave the Indian opener a send-off as he walked towards the pavilion, prompting Jaiswal to turn back and confront him.
The two players exchanged words before coming face-to-face. Jaiswal's helmet made contact with Fernando's forehead during the confrontation, and there was also physical contact before Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva and other players intervened to separate them.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak also acknowledged that Jaiswal should not have moved so close to Fernando, although he suggested the confrontation may have resulted from emotions running high.
"I think the bowler must have made some comment, and it was probably said in the heat of the moment. Obviously, I don't think Jaiswal should have gone that close, but these things happen in the heat of the moment," Kotak said.
Kotak offered a similar ***** sment during his post-day press conference.
"I think they must have said something to him and it might have happened in the heat of the moment. Obviously, Jaiswal, I don't think he should have been so close (to Fernando), but that happens when you are in the heat of the moment," Kotak said.
#moment
Jaiswal responded to a Cricbuzz video featuring cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle, ***** led 'Did Jaiswal cross the line?', urging people not to judge the incident without knowing what had been said between the two players.
"If you don't know what he said then please don't make your judgment if anyone cross the line we need to let them know this India will fight and reply," Yashasvi Jaiswal commented on the video.
The comment quickly went viral, adding another layer to an incident that had already attracted considerable attention after Jaiswal and Fernando were involved in a heated exchange immediately after the India opener was dismissed.
Jaiswal was dismissed for 45 by Fernando in the first session at the SSC ground after hitting the pacer for three boundaries in the over. Fernando gave the Indian opener a send-off as he walked towards the pavilion, prompting Jaiswal to turn back and confront him.
The two players exchanged words before coming face-to-face. Jaiswal's helmet made contact with Fernando's forehead during the confrontation, and there was also physical contact before Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva and other players intervened to separate them.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak also acknowledged that Jaiswal should not have moved so close to Fernando, although he suggested the confrontation may have resulted from emotions running high.
"I think the bowler must have made some comment, and it was probably said in the heat of the moment. Obviously, I don't think Jaiswal should have gone that close, but these things happen in the heat of the moment," Kotak said.
Kotak offered a similar ***** sment during his post-day press conference.
"I think they must have said something to him and it might have happened in the heat of the moment. Obviously, Jaiswal, I don't think he should have been so close (to Fernando), but that happens when you are in the heat of the moment," Kotak said.
#moment
2 months ago
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak firmly dismissed speculation surrounding Kuldeep Yadav's absence from the Colombo Test, insisting the left-arm wrist spinner was genuinely down with viral fever and there was "no need to fake" an illness to leave him out of the XI.
"If the team needs a spinner and then he doesn't play, there is no need to fake that he wasn't keeping well," Kotak said, stressing that Kuldeep was unfit to take the field.
Kotak also provided a positive update on Rishabh Pant, who retired hurt on two after being struck on the left wrist by a Lahiru ****** ara bouncer shortly after tea on Day 1. The wicketkeeper-batter received treatment before leaving the field, but Kotak said he was expected to resume his innings on Monday.
India ended the day on 300/5 with Dhruv Jurel and Saransh Jain unbeaten, while hoping Pant's return can help push the total higher.
The opening day also saw tempers flare when Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sri Lanka pacer Asitha Fernando exchanged words following the opener's dismissal. Kotak termed it a "heat of the moment" incident, though he felt Jaiswal should not have approached the bowler. Sri Lanka fast bowling coach Ryan van Niekerk called the confrontation an "overflow of emotion", leaving any disciplinary action in the hands of match referee Andy Pycroft.
#kotak #India #jaiswal #spinner
"If the team needs a spinner and then he doesn't play, there is no need to fake that he wasn't keeping well," Kotak said, stressing that Kuldeep was unfit to take the field.
Kotak also provided a positive update on Rishabh Pant, who retired hurt on two after being struck on the left wrist by a Lahiru ****** ara bouncer shortly after tea on Day 1. The wicketkeeper-batter received treatment before leaving the field, but Kotak said he was expected to resume his innings on Monday.
India ended the day on 300/5 with Dhruv Jurel and Saransh Jain unbeaten, while hoping Pant's return can help push the total higher.
The opening day also saw tempers flare when Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sri Lanka pacer Asitha Fernando exchanged words following the opener's dismissal. Kotak termed it a "heat of the moment" incident, though he felt Jaiswal should not have approached the bowler. Sri Lanka fast bowling coach Ryan van Niekerk called the confrontation an "overflow of emotion", leaving any disciplinary action in the hands of match referee Andy Pycroft.
#kotak #India #jaiswal #spinner
2 months ago
NEW DELHI: Yashasvi Jaiswal's heated on-field confrontation with Sri Lanka pacer Asitha Fernando on the opening day of the second Test in Colombo drew criticism from former India all-rounder Ajay Jadeja, who warned the young opener that physical contact crosses a dangerous line.
Jaiswal was dismissed for 45 by Fernando in the first session at the SSC ground after the Sri Lankan pacer had conceded three boundaries to the left-hander in the over. Fernando responded with a send-off as Jaiswal began walking back to the pavilion, prompting the India opener to turn around and confront the bowler.
The exchange quickly escalated, with the two players trading words before coming face-to-face. Jaiswal's helmet made contact with Fernando's forehead, and there was also a push before Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva and other players intervened to separate them.
Jadeja, speaking on Sony Sports, criticised Jaiswal for taking the confrontation too far and drew a comparison with an earlier incident involving the Indian opener and Sri Lanka's Niroshan **** wella.
"It is dangerous territory. There is no doubt about that. Physical contact is a different thing. In the last match, Jaiswal was on the other side. He was fielding, and he said things to Niroshan **** wella, and we said that banter is nice as long as there is nothing wrong with your language," Jadeja said on Sony Sports.
He then stressed that players who engage in banter must also be prepared to receive it.
"The same thing happened, but if someone cannot laugh at himself, he shouldn't laugh at others. If you can't take it back, don't say it to others either while standing on the ground," he added.
Jadeja's comments came after Jaiswal's confrontation with Fernando turned physical, putting the India batter under the scrutiny of match officials and potentially the ICC Code of Conduct.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak also acknowledged that Jaiswal should not have moved so close to Fernando, although he suggested the exchange was the result of emotions running high.
"I think the bowler must have made some comment, and it was probably said in the heat of the moment. Obviously, I don't think Jaiswal should have gone that close, but these things happen in the heat of the moment," Kotak said.
Kotak reiterated his **** sment in the post-day press conference, saying the exchange could have been triggered by something Fernando said.
"I think they must have said something to him and it might have happened in the heat of the moment. Obviously, Jaiswal, I don't think he should have been so close (to Fernando), but that happens when you are in the heat of the moment," Kotak said.
Sri Lanka fast bowling coach Ryan van Niekerk declined to comment on any possible punishment and left the matter to match referee Andy Pycroft.
"The verbals are probably an overflow of emotion. I'll leave that to the match referee to deal with," he said.
Pycroft could examine the incident under Article
Jaiswal was dismissed for 45 by Fernando in the first session at the SSC ground after the Sri Lankan pacer had conceded three boundaries to the left-hander in the over. Fernando responded with a send-off as Jaiswal began walking back to the pavilion, prompting the India opener to turn around and confront the bowler.
The exchange quickly escalated, with the two players trading words before coming face-to-face. Jaiswal's helmet made contact with Fernando's forehead, and there was also a push before Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva and other players intervened to separate them.
Jadeja, speaking on Sony Sports, criticised Jaiswal for taking the confrontation too far and drew a comparison with an earlier incident involving the Indian opener and Sri Lanka's Niroshan **** wella.
"It is dangerous territory. There is no doubt about that. Physical contact is a different thing. In the last match, Jaiswal was on the other side. He was fielding, and he said things to Niroshan **** wella, and we said that banter is nice as long as there is nothing wrong with your language," Jadeja said on Sony Sports.
He then stressed that players who engage in banter must also be prepared to receive it.
"The same thing happened, but if someone cannot laugh at himself, he shouldn't laugh at others. If you can't take it back, don't say it to others either while standing on the ground," he added.
Jadeja's comments came after Jaiswal's confrontation with Fernando turned physical, putting the India batter under the scrutiny of match officials and potentially the ICC Code of Conduct.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak also acknowledged that Jaiswal should not have moved so close to Fernando, although he suggested the exchange was the result of emotions running high.
"I think the bowler must have made some comment, and it was probably said in the heat of the moment. Obviously, I don't think Jaiswal should have gone that close, but these things happen in the heat of the moment," Kotak said.
Kotak reiterated his **** sment in the post-day press conference, saying the exchange could have been triggered by something Fernando said.
"I think they must have said something to him and it might have happened in the heat of the moment. Obviously, Jaiswal, I don't think he should have been so close (to Fernando), but that happens when you are in the heat of the moment," Kotak said.
Sri Lanka fast bowling coach Ryan van Niekerk declined to comment on any possible punishment and left the matter to match referee Andy Pycroft.
"The verbals are probably an overflow of emotion. I'll leave that to the match referee to deal with," he said.
Pycroft could examine the incident under Article
2 months ago
KL Rahul's condition after retiring hurt on the opening day of India's first Test against Sri Lanka is not a major concern, with batting coach Sitanshu Kotak saying the senior batter is "fine now" after suffering cramps.
Rahul scored a patient 77 off 162 ******* before leaving the field during the final session. He had formed a crucial 150-run partnership with Devdutt Padikkal, helping India take control of the contest.
"KL batted really well, was getting cramps everywhere. fine now," Kotak told reporters after the day's play.
The biggest highlight of India's batting effort was Padikkal's unbeaten 131, his maiden international century. Returning to Test cricket after last playing against Australia in Perth in 2024, the Karnataka batter looked confident and composed throughout his innings.
Kotak praised the work Padikkal has put in over the past two years and also highlighted Sai Sudharsan's progress.
"Credit to Devdutt Padikkal for preparing & working hard in last 2 years. Both he, Sai are batting well. They are new ball batter," he added.
Padikkal reached his hundred from 134 ******* and struck a variety of shots against Sri Lanka's pace and spin attack. He was particularly effective against left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya, using sweeps, punches and attacking shots to keep the bowlers under pressure.
"[To me] its important how they bat in different phases," Kotak said, underlining the importance of adapting to changing conditions during an innings.
India ended the day at 288 for two, with Padikkal unbeaten on 131 and Rishabh Pant on 27. Shubman Gill made a valuable contribution before being dismissed by Jayasuriya.
Rahul's departure was the only concern for India, although Kotak's update should ease worries about the batter's condition. Padikkal also battled dehydration late in the humid day but continued his innings.
With India firmly in control after the opening day, attention will now turn to whether Rahul is fit to return and how Padikkal and Pant build on the strong platform.
133264997
#test
Rahul scored a patient 77 off 162 ******* before leaving the field during the final session. He had formed a crucial 150-run partnership with Devdutt Padikkal, helping India take control of the contest.
"KL batted really well, was getting cramps everywhere. fine now," Kotak told reporters after the day's play.
The biggest highlight of India's batting effort was Padikkal's unbeaten 131, his maiden international century. Returning to Test cricket after last playing against Australia in Perth in 2024, the Karnataka batter looked confident and composed throughout his innings.
Kotak praised the work Padikkal has put in over the past two years and also highlighted Sai Sudharsan's progress.
"Credit to Devdutt Padikkal for preparing & working hard in last 2 years. Both he, Sai are batting well. They are new ball batter," he added.
Padikkal reached his hundred from 134 ******* and struck a variety of shots against Sri Lanka's pace and spin attack. He was particularly effective against left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya, using sweeps, punches and attacking shots to keep the bowlers under pressure.
"[To me] its important how they bat in different phases," Kotak said, underlining the importance of adapting to changing conditions during an innings.
India ended the day at 288 for two, with Padikkal unbeaten on 131 and Rishabh Pant on 27. Shubman Gill made a valuable contribution before being dismissed by Jayasuriya.
Rahul's departure was the only concern for India, although Kotak's update should ease worries about the batter's condition. Padikkal also battled dehydration late in the humid day but continued his innings.
With India firmly in control after the opening day, attention will now turn to whether Rahul is fit to return and how Padikkal and Pant build on the strong platform.
133264997
#test
2 months ago
'Used his opportunity': India coach praises Devdutt Padikkal after historic maiden Test century vs Sri Lanka at Galle originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak praised Devdutt Padikkal's maiden Test century vs Sri Lanka in Galle.
Kotak said the left-hander had used his opportunity after waiting for a chance.
Padikkal scored the hundred at number three against Sri Lanka on Day 1.
When India came to bat first during the first Test match against Sri Lanka at Galle, many people were unsure of how the Men in Blue would perform. Skipper Shubman Gill was recovering from an injury sustained during the practice match last week, while Sai Sudarshan was ruled out earlier due to injury.
#galle #Opportunity
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak praised Devdutt Padikkal's maiden Test century vs Sri Lanka in Galle.
Kotak said the left-hander had used his opportunity after waiting for a chance.
Padikkal scored the hundred at number three against Sri Lanka on Day 1.
When India came to bat first during the first Test match against Sri Lanka at Galle, many people were unsure of how the Men in Blue would perform. Skipper Shubman Gill was recovering from an injury sustained during the practice match last week, while Sai Sudarshan was ruled out earlier due to injury.
#galle #Opportunity
3 months ago
New Delhi: The Indian cricket board (BCCI) may have to work overtime to get the support staff for the Indian team in order after the conclusion of the ongoing England tour. TOI understands that ***** istant coach Ryan ten Doeschate and fast bowling coach Morne Morkel are contemplating moving on from their respective roles once their contracts expire after the ODI series in England this month.
"Doeschate isn't very sure of continuing with this job. He has conveyed his problems with travelling with the team throughout the year. Morkel is still weighing his options. The board is discussing the matter with the two coaches and will try to see if things can be sorted out," a BCCI source told TOI.
The Indian team is due to leave for Sri Lanka for a two-Test series in the first week of Aug. Cricket head at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) VVS Laxman will take his CoE coaching staff with him for India's three-match T20I series in Zimbabwe in the last week of July.
Sources said that Doeschate may be in talks with an IPL franchise, while Morkel hasn't said anything firmly yet. Head coach Gautam Gambhir had handpicked these two coaches when he took charge in July 2024. The BCCI has always endorsed support staff coming through its coaching programme at the CoE. Last year, Abhishek Nayar was replaced by Sitanshu Kotak as batting coach.
If things aren't resolved with Doeschate and Morkel, the BCCI may be forced to send Lakshmipathy Balaji, who was recently appointed as the fast bowling coach at the CoE, to Sri Lanka.
Fielding coach under fire
TOI has also learnt that fielding coach T Dilip is under pressure to save his job. The board is not happy with the team's deteriorating fielding standards. Dilip got a reprieve last year after being sacked along with Nayar.
"Doeschate isn't very sure of continuing with this job. He has conveyed his problems with travelling with the team throughout the year. Morkel is still weighing his options. The board is discussing the matter with the two coaches and will try to see if things can be sorted out," a BCCI source told TOI.
The Indian team is due to leave for Sri Lanka for a two-Test series in the first week of Aug. Cricket head at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) VVS Laxman will take his CoE coaching staff with him for India's three-match T20I series in Zimbabwe in the last week of July.
Sources said that Doeschate may be in talks with an IPL franchise, while Morkel hasn't said anything firmly yet. Head coach Gautam Gambhir had handpicked these two coaches when he took charge in July 2024. The BCCI has always endorsed support staff coming through its coaching programme at the CoE. Last year, Abhishek Nayar was replaced by Sitanshu Kotak as batting coach.
If things aren't resolved with Doeschate and Morkel, the BCCI may be forced to send Lakshmipathy Balaji, who was recently appointed as the fast bowling coach at the CoE, to Sri Lanka.
Fielding coach under fire
TOI has also learnt that fielding coach T Dilip is under pressure to save his job. The board is not happy with the team's deteriorating fielding standards. Dilip got a reprieve last year after being sacked along with Nayar.
4 months ago
Against expectation and, perhaps, much of the public mood, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's India debut did not happen in Ireland. The 15-year-old batting sensation remained on the bench for the second T20I against Ireland after also missing out in the series opener, even though India had lost the first match by 34 runs.
His omission has surprised many fans and former players. Former England captain Michael Vaughan had said after the first T20I that he "couldn't believe" India left out the teenager.
However, instead of judging the decision, to leave Sooryavanshi out, at face value, it may be worth understanding the Gautam Gambhir-led Indian team management's thinking behind it.
Before the series, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak had made it clear that India did not want to give Sooryavanshi a game by leaving out someone who had already earned his place through performances.
"Vaibhav is very talented, there is no doubt. And the way he has batted in IPL and all the other games, there is no need to tell that he has got a lot of natural abilities. Because in IPL he has faced Jofra, a lot of quick bowlers, a lot of experienced bowlers. And it seems that nothing is bothering him. So he is obviously an extraordinary talent," Kotak had said.
He added, "I am sure that he will get his dues and his opportunities. So I don't think that just to give him an opportunity, we should drop someone who has already been scoring runs. That also won't be right. I think there is a very thin line between trying to give somebody an opportunity and you are being unfair to some other player."
Those comments suggest India are backing the players who helped win the 2026 T20 World Cup. Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan have all been among the runs, and dropping any of them simply to hand Sooryavanshi a debut could send the wrong message.
There may be another reason too. India could be allowing Sooryavanshi time to understand the dressing-room environment before asking him to walk out in national colours. It is not unusual for young players to spend a few games watching senior players prepare, train and handle pressure before getting their first opportunity.
Captain Shreyas Iyer hinted at the same approach during the toss before the first T20I. Asked if Sooryavanshi would debut, he replied: "Unfortunately, no." He then reassured everyone by adding, "He'll (Sooryavanshi) get his opportunity when the time comes."
That opportunity could now come in England, where India begin a five-match T20I series on Wednesday.
If selected, Sooryavanshi, aged 15 years and 93 days, would become the youngest player to represent India's senior men's team, breaking the record held by Sachin Tendulkar, who made his Test debut at 16 years and 205 days in 1989 before making his ODI debut 33 days later.
He would also become the youngest player to feature in a top-tier men's T20 international, surpassing Ireland's Joshua Little, who was 16 years and 309 days old on debut
His omission has surprised many fans and former players. Former England captain Michael Vaughan had said after the first T20I that he "couldn't believe" India left out the teenager.
However, instead of judging the decision, to leave Sooryavanshi out, at face value, it may be worth understanding the Gautam Gambhir-led Indian team management's thinking behind it.
Before the series, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak had made it clear that India did not want to give Sooryavanshi a game by leaving out someone who had already earned his place through performances.
"Vaibhav is very talented, there is no doubt. And the way he has batted in IPL and all the other games, there is no need to tell that he has got a lot of natural abilities. Because in IPL he has faced Jofra, a lot of quick bowlers, a lot of experienced bowlers. And it seems that nothing is bothering him. So he is obviously an extraordinary talent," Kotak had said.
He added, "I am sure that he will get his dues and his opportunities. So I don't think that just to give him an opportunity, we should drop someone who has already been scoring runs. That also won't be right. I think there is a very thin line between trying to give somebody an opportunity and you are being unfair to some other player."
Those comments suggest India are backing the players who helped win the 2026 T20 World Cup. Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan have all been among the runs, and dropping any of them simply to hand Sooryavanshi a debut could send the wrong message.
There may be another reason too. India could be allowing Sooryavanshi time to understand the dressing-room environment before asking him to walk out in national colours. It is not unusual for young players to spend a few games watching senior players prepare, train and handle pressure before getting their first opportunity.
Captain Shreyas Iyer hinted at the same approach during the toss before the first T20I. Asked if Sooryavanshi would debut, he replied: "Unfortunately, no." He then reassured everyone by adding, "He'll (Sooryavanshi) get his opportunity when the time comes."
That opportunity could now come in England, where India begin a five-match T20I series on Wednesday.
If selected, Sooryavanshi, aged 15 years and 93 days, would become the youngest player to represent India's senior men's team, breaking the record held by Sachin Tendulkar, who made his Test debut at 16 years and 205 days in 1989 before making his ODI debut 33 days later.
He would also become the youngest player to feature in a top-tier men's T20 international, surpassing Ireland's Joshua Little, who was 16 years and 309 days old on debut
4 months ago
Here are the Montreal Canadiens and NHL news items you may have missed on Wednesday.
It was a very encouraging season for 22-year-old Juraj Slafkovsky. He set career bests in goals, ******* ists, and points, while also gaining confidence when he was tasked with driving the charge on the second line. [Canadiens Player Grades: Slafkovsky Took Next Step In Evolution]
It appears that the Matthew Knies trade dossier has not been shut. According to Deren Dreger, Knies is still very much in play in the NHL’s trade market. The Canadiens reportedly attempted to swing a deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs at the deadline, but it fell through at the last moment. [Canadiens Hughes Berated Leafs GM For Failed Knies Trade]
Some are suggesting the Carolina Hurricanes will likely buyout former Hab Jesperi Kotakniemi, but given his age, I’d venture a guess that a team would be willing to take a flier on him, for a very low price.
The Montreal Victoire have re-signed Abby Roque to a two-year contract extension. Roque was crucial in helping the Victoire secure their first Walter Cup Championship in 2024-25.
It was a very encouraging season for 22-year-old Juraj Slafkovsky. He set career bests in goals, ******* ists, and points, while also gaining confidence when he was tasked with driving the charge on the second line. [Canadiens Player Grades: Slafkovsky Took Next Step In Evolution]
It appears that the Matthew Knies trade dossier has not been shut. According to Deren Dreger, Knies is still very much in play in the NHL’s trade market. The Canadiens reportedly attempted to swing a deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs at the deadline, but it fell through at the last moment. [Canadiens Hughes Berated Leafs GM For Failed Knies Trade]
Some are suggesting the Carolina Hurricanes will likely buyout former Hab Jesperi Kotakniemi, but given his age, I’d venture a guess that a team would be willing to take a flier on him, for a very low price.
The Montreal Victoire have re-signed Abby Roque to a two-year contract extension. Roque was crucial in helping the Victoire secure their first Walter Cup Championship in 2024-25.
4 months ago
TimesofIndia.com in Mullanpur: India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak believes Rishabh Pant should continue playing his natural game and rejected suggestions that the wicketkeeper-batter alone needs to adjust his approach according to match situations.
"I don't think Rishabh alone has to play according to the situation. Every player has a different style. Sai Sudharsan plays differently, Shubman Gill plays differently, KL Rahul plays differently and Rishabh plays differently. What we want is for everyone to play their own game with complete freedom," Kotak said after India's dominant showing in the one-off Test against Afghanistan.
Kotak explained that while every player has the freedom to express themselves, the team's requirements remain paramount.
"When the team needs something specific in red-ball cricket, every batter has to respond to that need. But Rishabh is a senior player who understands the game. Why would anyone tell him how to bat? He reads bowlers, changes gears and often tries things bowlers do not expect. That is his strength."
The batting coach felt Pant's innings showcased exactly why he remains one of the most dangerous players in world cricket.
— BCCI (BCCI)
"He may have missed out on a hundred or even more runs, but I thought he batted really well. KL Rahul, Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan also batted exceptionally well."
Kotak was equally effusive in his praise for debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar, whose impressive performance with both bat and ball vindicated the team's faith in him.
"He is a very good prospect and has been progressing through the system for the last few years. From Ranji Trophy to India Emerging and India A, he has consistently performed. The BCCI structure gives players exposure and opportunities, and Manav has made the most of them."
Having closely followed Suthar's development, Kotak admitted he was never surprised by the youngster's emergence.
— BCCI (BCCI)
"Ever since I first saw him, I felt he would play for India one day. He is talented, hardworking, consistent and bowls really well. The timing of opportunities is never guaranteed, but he always looked like a player destined to represent India."
The coach defended India's decision not to bat again after dismissing Afghanistan cheaply in the first innings.
"Once they were bowled out for 151, everyone felt it was important to bowl again if they got out before lunch. There will be times when we need to bowl 100 or 120 overs in a Test match. It is not only about giving batters more practice. It is also about preparing bowlers, especially spinners, for long spells."
Kotak also highlighted Washington Sundar's maturity and professionalism.
"Washington has been around the system for a long time. What impresses me most is that his work ethic never changes, whether he is playing, sitting out, batting or bowling. That consistency is why he keeps contributing whenever the team needs him."
"I don't think Rishabh alone has to play according to the situation. Every player has a different style. Sai Sudharsan plays differently, Shubman Gill plays differently, KL Rahul plays differently and Rishabh plays differently. What we want is for everyone to play their own game with complete freedom," Kotak said after India's dominant showing in the one-off Test against Afghanistan.
Kotak explained that while every player has the freedom to express themselves, the team's requirements remain paramount.
"When the team needs something specific in red-ball cricket, every batter has to respond to that need. But Rishabh is a senior player who understands the game. Why would anyone tell him how to bat? He reads bowlers, changes gears and often tries things bowlers do not expect. That is his strength."
The batting coach felt Pant's innings showcased exactly why he remains one of the most dangerous players in world cricket.
— BCCI (BCCI)
"He may have missed out on a hundred or even more runs, but I thought he batted really well. KL Rahul, Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan also batted exceptionally well."
Kotak was equally effusive in his praise for debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar, whose impressive performance with both bat and ball vindicated the team's faith in him.
"He is a very good prospect and has been progressing through the system for the last few years. From Ranji Trophy to India Emerging and India A, he has consistently performed. The BCCI structure gives players exposure and opportunities, and Manav has made the most of them."
Having closely followed Suthar's development, Kotak admitted he was never surprised by the youngster's emergence.
— BCCI (BCCI)
"Ever since I first saw him, I felt he would play for India one day. He is talented, hardworking, consistent and bowls really well. The timing of opportunities is never guaranteed, but he always looked like a player destined to represent India."
The coach defended India's decision not to bat again after dismissing Afghanistan cheaply in the first innings.
"Once they were bowled out for 151, everyone felt it was important to bowl again if they got out before lunch. There will be times when we need to bowl 100 or 120 overs in a Test match. It is not only about giving batters more practice. It is also about preparing bowlers, especially spinners, for long spells."
Kotak also highlighted Washington Sundar's maturity and professionalism.
"Washington has been around the system for a long time. What impresses me most is that his work ethic never changes, whether he is playing, sitting out, batting or bowling. That consistency is why he keeps contributing whenever the team needs him."
