Former assistant coach of India ​​Abhishek Nayar recently shared how an iconic Amitabh Bachchan movie resonated with ODI captain Rohit Sharma emotionally. Nayar, who is also a close friend of Sharma, talked about the star batter's special bond with the Bollywood film in a conversation on the Sony Sports Network.

Nayar mentioned that Sharma got very sentimental while watching Sooryavansham, starring Bachchan in a double role as a father and son. He disclosed that it is the only movie where he saw the veteran opener cry. The cricketer-turned-coach said: "Woh ek picture hai jisme maine usko rote hue dekha hai. Ekdum senti ho jaate the wo. (That is one film where I have seen him cry. He got very sentimental.)" It is worth mentioning that Abhishek Nayar continues working closely with Rohit Sharma. He was seen monitoring the 38-year-old's gym session last month ahead of the upcoming season.

Rohit Sharma’s Cricketing Achievements

On the cricketing front, Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from the game of T20 internationals after India won the T20 World Cup 2024 trophy and your Test career ended shortly after that in May 2025. His last international appearance was in the 2025 Champions Trophy final match, where India defeated New Zealand by four wickets under his captaincy to win their first ODI trophy in 12 years. He was named Player of the Match for his key 76 runs off 83 balls.

Watch the video here

A fun game of songs for the stars 🎶

Don’t miss Abhishek Nayar's 𝘏𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭 𝘊𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘢 at the end! 😅

Watch the #DPWorldAsiaCup2025 from Sept 9-28, LIVE on the Sony Sports Network TV channels & Sony LIV. #SonySportsNetwork pic.twitter.com/e0ssqApLx9

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 18, 2025

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Meanwhile, Reports had suggested that the BCCI considered Rohit and Virat Kohli for the upcoming India A series against Australia, but the selectors did not include them. There is no question over Rohit’s place in ODIs, where he has scored 11,168 runs in 265 innings at an average of 48.76 and a strike rate of 92.80, including 32 centuries and 58 fifties, with a highest score of 264.

India's preparation for the upcoming ICC Women's ODI World Cup has faced a setback as India's star middle-order batter Jemimah Rodrigues was ruled out on Wednesday of the final two ODIs against Australia after falling ill due to a viral infection and subsequent weakness. The 25-year-old Rodrigues featured prominently in the series opener with her fluency through the stroke play and after being checked over by medical staff has been advised to rest. The experienced all-rounder has played in 21 ODIs and 58 T20Is, with ODI batting averages of 38.18 and provides the stability of being a reliable anchor in India's middle-order through her ability to change gears with both spin and fast-bowlers. 

The BCCI confirmed the news on Wednesday saying that it is her health and recovery is the first priority as India prepares for the 2025 Women's World Cup playing at home.

Rodrigues out, Hasabnis brings balance to India’s ODI squad

Tejal Hasabnis has been named as Rodrigues's replacement in the squad. Hasabnis, a 28-year-old versatile all-rounder from Pune, has ODI experience with her debut being against New Zealand in October 2024, and an established domestic career that gives balance in the squad. A right-hander and off spinner, she has played for Maharashtra and West Zone since 2019 and has looked very comfortable at the international level.

Earlier this year, Hasabnis showed her capacity to play long innings by scoring a bruising 169 in a multi-day domestic match. In addition to her run scoring, she brings 45 wickets in first-class cricket to the table as well, so she offers a valuable bowling option for skipper Harmanpreet Kaur. Interestingly, she received her first ODI cap from Rodrigues herself, signifying what seems to be a passing of the baton or torch.

ALSO SEE: SRH allrounder claims 3 wickets during India A vs Australia A 1st unofficial Test

India's Updated Squad:

Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Priya Punia, Harleen Deol, Yastika Bhatia (WK), Richa Ghosh (WK), Tejal Hasabnis, Deepti Sharma, Minnu Mani, Priya Mishra, Radha Yadav, Titas Sadhu, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh Thakur, Saima Thakor.

Current circumstances of the series

The three-match WODI series has an important role in India's World Cup preparations. Australia leads 1 - 0, following an exceptionally convincing victory against India in the opening match in Mumbai, which has exposed some weaknesses in India's top order. The second ODI is today, September 17, at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, with the third ODI scheduled for September 20.

Speaking ahead of the game, captain Harmanpreet Kaur said in her media conference: "Jemimah is a fighter and will be back stronger. Tejal has shown great potential. This is her chance to play on the big stage." Fans have also got behind Hasabnis, celebrating her strong domestic form, and wishing her numerous well cards in the match on Tuesday.

For India, the attention now turns to recovering quickly and focusing on this unplanned change, turning it into an opportunity. With the World Cup now only one month away, every game, and every chance to bleed some new faces into the team is important.

Vivian Kingma, a fast bowler from the Netherlands, has been suspended for three months by the International Cricket Council (ICC) after testing positive for a recreational drug in an ODI match against the United Arab Emirates earlier this year.

The 30-year-old seamer provided an in-competition sample after the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 match in Utrecht, on May 12, 2025, which tested positive for Benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine. According to the ICC Anti-Doping Code, its presence in his system identifies him as having committed an anti-doping violation because it is classified as a Substance of Abuse.

Kingma accepted the charge and explained that he had taken the substance out of competition. While his admission did lead to Kingma avoiding a lengthier sanction, the ICC confirmed the violation and implemented a suspension.

Kingma will serve a period of ineligibility for three months from August 15, 2025. However, the suspension can be reduced to one month if Kingma completes a rehabilitation or treatment programme approved by the ICC. The ICC also confirmed that all of Kingma’s results from the ODI match on May 12, 2025, and all subsequent applicable matches, have been disqualified in accordance with the ICC Anti-Doping Code.

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ICC suspension sidelines Netherlands seamer after positive test

Kingma has been a crucial component of the Dutch bowling attack since his international debut back in 2013. Although known for swinging the ball with the new ball, he has played ODIs and T20Is for the Netherlands, including appearances at major ICC tournaments. Kingma will be missed as the Dutch team tries to find its footing in the World Cup League 2 competition.

The entire case raises several questions on the ICC’s commitment to preserving the image of the game. In the case of recreational drugs, even if used outside competition, it is just as out of bounds in samples provided during international matches. The governing body mentions that education and knowledge are important to avoid when players think using recreational drugs is acceptable.

For Kingma, the potential return to the international game will now depend on completing the suspension and treatment course (if applicable). As the date of return is uncertain, the Dutch team will need to use other seamers to replace Kingma.

Team India's ODI captain, Rohit Sharma, recently practiced with middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan in Bengaluru as he prepares for the Men in Blue's three-match away ODI series. Sharma, who is now active only in the ODI format, announced his Test retirement during the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL). In 2024, the 38-year-old announced his retirement from T20Is, right after winning the T20 World Cup with India.

Sarfaraz shared glimpses of the training session on Instagram on Tuesday, September 16, offering fans an inside look at his preparation alongside the senior opener. The talented batter was part of India’s squad for the three-match home Test series against New Zealand last year, scoring 171 runs across six innings at an average of 28.50. However, he was not picked for the subsequent Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England.

Ahead of the series, Sarfaraz played a 92-run knock for India A in the first unofficial Test against England Lions. India A will play three one-dayers against Australia A beginning September 30. Former India opener Aakash Chopra believes senior stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should have been part of these games to maintain match readiness.

Chopra on Senior Stars Skipping India A Series

Chopra suggested that the selectors likely approached Sharma and Kohli, but they would have declined to participate. Speaking on his YouTube channel, he said: "Neither Rohit nor Kohli is playing. Of course, it's the India A matches against Australia A, and under normal circumstances, we would say it doesn't make a difference as Rohit and Kohli wouldn't play. However, if you see when was the last time they played competitive cricket, Kohli last played in the IPL final and Rohit Sharma played even before that."

One of the strengths of #RohitSharma as a leader - his bond with Youngsters

He is practicing with Mumbai Youngsters Sarfaraz Khan & Ayush Mhatre....

Important season ahead for 3 of them....#IndianCricket @ImRo45 pic.twitter.com/wnBnf1o1Ag

— alekhaNikun (@nikun28) September 16, 2025

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He added, "I am sure the selectors would have asked them and they would have refused. Why am I saying that the selectors would have asked them? Considering the team that has been picked, it has even been tried to include the Asia Cup players so that some form stays with them and they keep playing competitive games." Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are expected to tour Australia for the three-match ODI series, with the first contest scheduled in Perth on October 19.

Indian ODI captain Rohit Sharma has begun his build-up for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, spending a week at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. The 38-year-old opener, who has retired from Tests and T20Is, is now fully committed to ODIs and is sharpening his skills for the tour starting October 19 in Perth.

According to RevSportz journalist Rohit Juglan, Sharma arrived at the CoE earlier this week and specifically requested bouncy practice wickets to prepare for Australian conditions. On Tuesday, he batted for nearly an hour in the nets, focusing on strokeplay and adjusting to pace and bounce. It marked his first extended session since the IPL 2025 season in June.

Sharma had earlier cleared the mandatory Yo-Yo and Bronco fitness tests at the CoE in August. While his initial schedule suggested just a short stay, the extended one-week camp highlights his intent to prepare thoroughly. Reports suggested he could feature in the India A vs Australia A series later this month, but selectors kept him out to ensure he remains fresh and focused for the senior team.

ALSO SEE: Pakistan’s press conference cancellation sparks tensions ahead of UAE clash

ODI captain leads India’s build-up with focused training before Australia series

With over 11,000 ODI runs and three double centuries to his name, Sharma remains India’s most experienced campaigner in the format. His last international outing came in India’s Champions Trophy final win over New Zealand in March. This series against Australia is India’s first white-ball tour Down Under since the 2023 World Cup, adding to its importance. Facing a pace attack led by Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, Sharma’s ability to handle the bounce at the top of the order will be crucial.

The news of Sharma’s training camp has sparked excitement among fans, many celebrating his return to “Hitman mode.” Analysts also praised his proactive request for bouncy wickets, calling it a smart move to replicate conditions in Australia. With other key players like Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant also preparing at the CoE, India’s ODI squad is steadily building momentum ahead of the high-profile tour.

Cricket Australia has moved the third women's ODI between Australia and India, which was supposed to be a day-night match at Melbourne's Junction Oval on March 1, 2026, to Hobart's Bellerive Oval. The change comes due to delays in installing new floodlights at Junction Oval and the constraints of a tight tour schedule.

The multi-format India tour was arranged around an Australian home window and moved to February–March to accommodate the Women’s Premier League (WPL) in January and the ODI World Cup later in the year. The original itinerary included three T20Is in mid-February, three ODIs on February 24, 27, and March 1, followed by a day-night Test in Perth in early March. However, Junction Oval’s new floodlights will not be ready in time, with installation, commissioning, and spectator access issues making a day-night international unsafe and impractical on the scheduled date.

With just one day between the second and third ODIs, organizers concluded that switching the March 1 fixture to a daytime start was not feasible. Cricket Australia’s head of operations, Peter Roach, expressed disappointment at losing a Melbourne international, saying, “We are disappointed we have had to move this match from Junction Oval and that there will be no women's international match in Melbourne this season. We anticipated the Junction Oval lights would be installed several weeks before this fixture and were looking forward to celebrating the first international match under lights at the ground.”

Hobart to Host Back-to-Back ODIs

Hobart will now host back-to-back ODIs in the series, simplifying travel and accommodation logistics for teams, broadcasters, and officials. Cricket Australia has also confirmed that fans who purchased tickets for the Junction Oval fixture will receive refunds.

See Also: Major League Cricket 2026 scheduled amid governance concerns

Junction Oval’s calendar will remain busy, hosting WBBL fixtures for Melbourne Stars and Renegades and other domestic daytime cricket, while the lights installation project continues. The updated schedule for India Women’s tour of Australia 2026 is:

• February 15 – 1st T20I – Sydney
• February 19 – 2nd T20I – Canberra
• February 21 – 3rd T20I – Adelaide
• February 24 – 1st ODI – Brisbane
• February 27 – 2nd ODI – Hobart
• March 1 – 3rd ODI – Hobart
• March 6-9 – Test Match – Perth

England wrapped up that three-match ODI series against South Africa in a really big way. They got this huge 342-run win at the Rose Bowl in Southampton on Sunday. It was kind of historic, you know. Even though they had already lost the series after dropping the first two games. Jos Buttler's team put on a show in the last one. Like, a performance for the ages, basically.

They batted first and just piled on the runs. Ended up with 414 for 5 in 50 overs. That was massive. Jacob Bethell scored a century, 110 runs. Joe Root got 100 too. Those two put together this solid partnership. Left the South African bowlers scratching their heads, no real answers there. Then the middle order came in and finished it off strong. Pushed the total over 400, you know.

Archer leads the charge as England rewrite ODI record books

South Africa had to chase that big number. People figured they'd fight back some, since they batted pretty well in the earlier matches. But nope. Jofra Archer came in hot with his bowling. Fiery spell that blew them away. He took 4 for 18. Dismantled their top order with all that pace and precision. Adil Rashid chipped in with 3 wickets as a spinner. Brydon Carse got 2 with his pace. They all supported each other well. South Africa just crumbled. All out for 72 in only 20.5 overs.

ALSO SEE: On This Day: Birthday of Shubman Gill who became one of the youngest Test captains for team India

England's 342-run win put their name in the history books. It beats everything before in ODIs by runs. They topped India's big 317-run beatdown of Sri Lanka back in 2023. Thing is, no team's ever done better than 340 runs since one-day cricket started in 1971.

South Africa got hit hard here. This loss tops their worst ever in ODIs. It went past that 276-run thrashing from Australia earlier this year. Their batsmen fell apart quick too. That innings lasted only 24.5 overs. Second shortest in ODI records.

Archer got the Player of the Match nod, and he earned it with that killer spell. He talked about it after. He said, "Even before I bowled a ball, I knew it was going to be difficult for them since we scored over 300. I just tried to hit the pitch hard and keep it straight. Playing three games in a row means a lot to me."

England lost the series 2-1 overall. But this massive win in Southampton, you know, it's going to stick in people's minds as a real landmark in ODI cricket.

Zimbabwe all-rounder Sikandar Raza reached a career milestone by claiming the No.1 spot in the ICC Men’s ODI all-rounder rankings for the first time, marking a historic achievement. His consistent performances have finally earned him this well-deserved recognition on the international stage.

Sikandar Raza’s stellar performance against Sri Lanka in Harare proved vital in his rise. The seasoned all-rounder excelled with both bat and ball, showcasing his match-winning skills and leading Zimbabwe strongly in the series. His impactful displays not only helped Zimbabwe stay in the contest but also boosted his individual ranking points significantly.

For years, Raza has been the backbone of Zimbabwe’s limited-overs side, anchoring the middle order and delivering breakthroughs with the ball. This landmark moment underlines his immense value and dedication to the team, while also highlighting his reputation as one of the finest all-rounders currently active in world cricket.

See Also: Who Should Bat at No. 3 for India in Asia Cup 2025? Samson vs Tilak Debate

Sikandar Raza Achieves Highest Feat in His Cricketing Career:

At 39, Sikandar Raza proved his class once again with a match-winning performance in the two-match ODI series against Sri Lanka. He scored 92 runs in the first game and followed it with an unbeaten 59 in the second, also chipping in with a crucial wicket.

These efforts lifted him to the top of the ICC ODI all-rounder rankings, moving past Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi, who sit in second and third place, respectively. Previously, Raza’s highest ranking was second, achieved in December 2023, making this a career-best achievement for the Zimbabwe veteran.

Sikandar Raza reached a career-best all-rounder rating of 302, overtaking Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai (296) and Mohammad Nabi (292). His excellent batting also lifted him nine spots in the ODI batting charts to 22nd. Additionally, he climbed one place in the bowling rankings, now occupying the 38th position, underlining his all-round impact for Zimbabwe.

Sikandar Raza Thanks Everyone for His Success:

After securing this milestone, Sikandar Raza expressed heartfelt gratitude to his fans, family, friends, and teammates for their constant support. He shared his appreciation through a social media post, acknowledging their role in his journey and celebrating the achievement with those who stood by him.

He wrote, “ Firstly Alhamdulillah. Now the emotions have settled I would like to thank Zimbabwe 🇿🇼 , Zimbabwe Cricket and Zimbabweans for their unwavering love , support and prayers as without it this dream of mine wouldn’t have been possible.”

He further wrote, “ To my team mates past and present of national team and franchise cricket , this wouldn’t have been possible without the lessons you all shared. To my family and fans all across the globe for the prayers and support I have had over the years. Always Alhamdulillah #VisitZimbabwe”

Firstly Alhamdulillah

Now the emotions have settled I would like to thank Zimbabwe 🇿🇼 , Zimbabwe Cricket and Zimbabweans for their unwavering love , support and prayers as without it this dream of mine wouldn’t have been possible

To my team mates past and present of national… pic.twitter.com/liiEaSdqvT

— Sikandar Raza (@SRazaB24) September 4, 2025

The South African men’s cricket team is set to tour Pakistan later this year for a month-long series, although Cricket South Africa (CSA) has reportedly requested the trip be kept as short as possible. Sources suggest the Proteas want the schedule limited to 16 playing days, along with two additional weeks of rest.

Negotiations are ongoing between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and CSA, with discussions including a three-day gap between the two Test matches. Tentatively, the tour will begin with red-ball action on October 12 in Lahore, followed by the second Test in Rawalpindi on October 20.

The white-ball leg of the tour will feature a three-match ODI series starting October 28 in Rawalpindi, with the second ODI on October 31 and the third on November 2 in Faisalabad. This will be followed by a three-match T20I series, beginning November 5 in Multan, while the final two games will be played in Lahore on November 8 and 9.

Venue and logistical discussions

PCB has floated several venue options for the tour, with Lahore and Rawalpindi considered for the Test matches, while Faisalabad and Multan join the mix for white-ball games. A South African recce team has already visited Pakistan and will submit its findings to CSA officials before the schedule is finalized.

🚨 THE SCHEDULE OF SOUTH AFRICA’S TOUR OF PAKISTAN 🚨(Saleem Khaliq)

1st Test Oct 12 –Lahore
2nd Test Oct 20 –Rawalpindi

1st ODI Oct 28 –Rawalpindi
2nd ODI Oct 31 –Faisalabad
3rd ODI Nov 2 –Faisalabad

1st T20 Nov 5 – Multan
2nd T20 Nov 8 – Lahore
3rd T20 Nov 9 – Lahore pic.twitter.com/WNyDXBNie4

— junaiz (@dhillow_) September 4, 2025

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Interestingly, reports suggest the South African team does not want any honorary or ceremonial engagements during the tour and wants to concentrate on only cricket. The full itinerary, with the venues and dates, will be confirmed by the PCB and CSA once they have reviewed the recce report.

Zimbabwe's preparations for their eagerly awaited ODI return have suffered a significant blow, after the wicket-taking Oskers captain, Craig Ervine's, exit from the continuing Sri Lanka series. In the build-up to the first match in Harare, the experienced left-handed batsman had to bow out of the series after suffering an injury to the back of his calf.

Medical scans have indicated the full extent of the damage that was done, as it was established that the 40-year-old sustained a Grade II strain in the left calf, while the scans also showed a chronic and resolving Grade I strain in the right calf. With the scans ruling him out of competing in the ODI contest of 2 matches, the selectors will now have to turn to seasoned all-rounder Sean Williams to lead the team in the absence of the captain, Ervine.

Ervine's absence is a major loss for Zimbabwe, purely based on experience, and considering Ervine was in good form in his past few 50-over matches. His calmness at the top of the order and presence amongst younger players will be missed, and he finds the shaky home side up against a formidable Sri Lankan unit. Williams will have experience to draw upon for captaincy duties and will again be steadfast with a young team competing on Zimbabwe soil.

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Focus Shifts to T20I Series After ODIs

Adding further intrigue to the series is the highly anticipated return of Brendon Taylor, who has returned to international cricket close to four years since his last international appearance. A seasoned campaigner and a proven batsman, Taylor had previously played for Zimbabwe in September 2021 against Ireland, and his positive presence will provide vital experience and a protagonist in the middle order. Taylor's return has already sparked tremendous enthusiasm amongst fans who are excited to see him back in the national colors.

This ODI series will also be Zimbabwe's first limited-overs arrangement since their home Tests against South Africa and New Zealand, along with the T20I tri-series earlier this year. With a transitional squad moving between experienced players and new faces, Zimbabwe will use this series to build momentum before the T20I leg of the tour.

The first ODI is on today (29 August) at Harare Sports Club, and the second and final ODI is on 31 August, where he would wish to get some form back before all focus is on the three-match T20I series, where Zimbabwe will hope to challenge their captain's absence and give the tourists a good fight.