DRS, July 19: Rohit Sharma-Gautam Gambhir bonhomie, Siraj sidelined, BCCI unhappy with selectors

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has asked the Indian team selectors to refrain from leaking information to the media as a part of damage control following the Rohit Sharma row. The board put to rest reports claiming that the Hitman will be playing his last game at Lord’s. On the same day, Rohit and head coach Gambhir were seen smiling at the Lord’s balcony. Only time will tell what will transpire on Sunday. Meanwhile, Washington Sundar’s replacement has been named for the 3rd ODI. On that note, let’s take a look at the top headlines from Saturday.

Rohit Sharma-Gambhir bonhomie

Ever since the news of Rohit Sharma‘s ‘forced retirement’ from international cricket, after the India vs England third ODI at Lord’s broke out, there have been a few reports suggesting — all is not well between him and coach Gautam Gambhir. But then, on the eve of the eventful match, the duo, perhaps purposely were seen sharing laughter at the iconic Lord’s balcony. Read more here.

Mohammed Siraj sidelined

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra opined that Mohammed Siraj has been sidelines from the ODI format despite having proved his credentials in the past. The Hyderabad pacer, who was once considered an all-format player, was last seen in action in the one-off Test against AFG and wasn’t picked in the squad for the T20Is vs IRE and ENG or the ODI series either. Chopra reckoned that while there was lack of clarity on Siraj at the moment, the pacer is expected to be a part of the Indian team in the 50-over format in the near future. Read more here.

BCCI asks selectors to stay mum

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is unhappy with the selectors for leaking information on Rohit Sharma‘s future, fuelling speculations of his retirement. The board has reportedly directed the selectors to stay silent on the topic and not speak to the media about it. The report claims that the discussion between the selectors and Sharma on the latter’s future has been going on for some time now, and that head coach Gautam Gambhir has also been kept in the loop. Read more here.

Latest news

Morne Morkel backs Rohit Sharma

India’s assistant coach Morne Morkel has skirted around the rumours of Rohit Sharma‘s potential retirement after the India vs England 3rd ODI at Lord’s. The former South Africa fast bowler was asked about the rumours. He talked about Rohit’s struggles against England and stated that being an opener in testing conditions isn’t easy. He backed Rohit to come good, something he has done in his 19-year India career. Morkel stated that the management – Gautam Gambhir and Shubman Gill – aren’t worried about his batting or place in the side. Read more here.

Dubey replaces Sundar

Harsh Dubey has been added to the Indian ODI squad as a replacement for Washington Sundar. Sundar, who got injured in the second ODI in Cardiff, has been ruled out of the series-deciding Lord’s ODI. Dubey made his international debut against Afghanistan and is now slotted in India’s squad as a somewhat like-for-like replacement. Read more here.

Must-win game for India, Gambhir

The pressure on India will be immense. England outplayed them in Cardiff. As soon as the hosts bettered their bowling attack, India crumbled after a surprising collapse. Virat Kohli looked in great touch but it was his wicket that started the downfall for India. Joe Root then showed why he is India’s arch-nemesis. With that, India are at the crossroads. Will they end this UK tour on a high or go home with just learning and nothing materialistic? Read the ENG vs IND 3rd ODI preview here.

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