And India’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy have started well. Despite Virat Kohli’s untimely injury concern, the entire team chipped in with decent performances, with Shubman Gill making a match-winning 87. Shreyas Iyer, however, made a shocking claim after the match, sharing that he wasn’t supposed to play the first IND vs ENG ODI in Nagpur. Meanwhile, Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja have given a great headache for Rohit Sharma as both the left-arm orthodox spinners came through. In other news, Babar Azam shared a rather intriguing update. On that note, let us look at six of the most eye-catching stories from the day (Feb 6).
Rohit Sharma didn’t want Shreyas Iyer?
Shreyas Iyer has revealed that he wasn’t initially part of India’s plans for the 1st ODI against England, but got a last-minute call-up due to Virat Kohli’s injury. Iyer said he received a call from captain Rohit Sharma informing him of Kohli’s swollen knee and his subsequent inclusion in the team. Iyer made the most of the opportunity, scoring 59 runs to help India win the match. It was him that put impetus in the Indian innings and allowed Gill to take his time. Read more here: Shreyas Iyer “wasn’t supposed to play” IND vs ENG 1st ODI, got lucky due to Virat Kohli
What did Babar Azam lose?
Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam has lost his phone, along with all his contacts. He shared the news on social media, saying he will get back to everyone once he finds it. The news has sparked a mixed reaction on Twitter, with some showing love and support, while others are offering sarcastic takes on the situation. It was a bit shocking for an A-lister player to share this update on his social media, nonetheless! Read more here: Babar Azam loses phone, promises “to get back” but fans come up with hilarious responses
Virat Kohli injured?
Virat Kohli missed the 1st IND vs ENG ODI in Nagpur due to a knee injury. India skipper Rohit Sharma confirmed the news at the toss, stating that Kohli had a knee problem the previous night. As a result, Yashasvi Jaiswal made his ODI debut, opening the batting alongside Rohit. Harshit Rana also made his ODI debut, taking 3/53. Kohli complained about a neck issue during a Ranji Trophy game before making his return but now another injury has halted his path. Read more here: Virat Kohli dropped from Nagpur ODI due to knee problem, Gill in middle-order
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Shock retirement before Champions Trophy
In a shocking move, Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis announced his retirement from ODI cricket, just before the ICC Champions Trophy. Stoinis, 35, will continue to play T20 cricket for Australia. With 1,495 runs and 48 wickets in 74 ODIs, Stoinis has been a key player in Australia’s World Cup-winning squad in 2023. He cited a desire to focus on T20 cricket in the final years of his career. Coach Andrew McDonald praised Stoinis, calling him a “pivotal part” of Australia’s ODI setup. Read more here: Marcus Stoinis shocks fans: Australian announces ODI retirement just before Champions Trophy
Harshit Rana creates unique feat
Harshit Rana made an impressive debut in the IND vs ENG 1st ODI, taking 3/53 despite a rough start. He was surprisingly chosen over Arshdeep Singh to share the new ball with Mohammed Shami. Rana’s debut was marked by a scathing attack from Phil Salt, but he bounced back to claim crucial wickets. Notably, Rana has taken three-wicket hauls in his debut matches across all formats, becoming the first Indian to achieve this feat. Read more here: Gautam Gambhir-backed Harshit Rana creates massive record in IND vs ENG 1st ODI
Rohit Sharma’s form a massive issue
Rohit Sharma’s form has become a major concern. The Indian captain has struggled with the bat, scoring lowly in his last 10 innings, with a highest score of just 18. His dismissals have shown a pattern, with him getting caught out while trying to take on bowlers. With the ICC Champions Trophy approaching, Rohit has just two more ODIs to regain his form. His aggressive batting style could help him make a comeback, but time is running out. Read more here: Rohit Sharma gives India a massive worry ahead of ICC Champions Trophy; time’s running up
