Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin revealed his sudden decision to retire from international cricket after the end of the rain-interrupted Brisbane Test.

The 38-year-old Indian legendary spinner Ravichandran Ashwin surprised cricket fans by retiring from international cricket during the middle of the recently concluded Australia tour. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 had five Tests, while Ashwin announced his retirement at the end of the third Test of the series. 

Out of the first three Tests of the series in the latest Australia tour, Ashwin played only the second Test at Adelaide Oval, which was a day-night pink-ball Test match. He picked up one wicket in that Test match but was dropped from the next Test at The Gabba in Brisbane as India replaced him with the all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. 

See Also: Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant named in Delhi's probable squad for upcoming Ranji Trophy matches

I want to play more cricket: Ravichandran Ashwin

On his YouTube channel, Ashwin talked about his sudden retirement from international cricket without a farewell match. Although he wants to play more cricket, the 38-year-old felt that the Indian team wasn’t looking at him for the future. Ashwin didn’t want to stay in the team only for the farewell Test despite not deserving the place. 

Ashwin said, "I want to play more cricket. Where is the place? Obviously not in the Indian dressing room but from somewhere else. I want to be honest with the game. Imagine if I want to play farewell Test but I do not deserve a place. Imagine, I am only in the team because it is my farewell Test. I do not want that. I felt there was more strength in my cricket. I could have played more but it is always better to finish when people ask 'why not' than why.”

There is no need for a farewell: Ashwin

Ashwin clarifies that he doesn’t believe in the farewell match. He feels that the farewell match doesn’t make much difference for a player. 

The legendary off-spinner added, "What difference will this make if I came out with the ball and people are clapping? How long will people talk about it? When social media was not there, people talked about it and forgot after one week. There is no need for a farewell. The game has given us a lot and we have played with a lot of happiness.”

Ashwin ended his Test career as the second-leading Test wicket-taker for India and the eighth-leading Test wicket-taker overall, with 537 wickets in 106 Tests. He also finished as the 11th leading wicket-taker in international cricket and the second-most international wicket-taker for India, with 765 wickets in 287 matches.

Ashwin was a member of the Indian team that won the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 and ICC Champions Trophy 2013.

Former Indian spin-bowling legend Ravi Ashwin has got himself in the eye of the storm following his remarks on the Hindi language during a graduation ceremony at Rajalakshmi Engineering College in Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu. His negative comments on the Hindi language sparked nationwide outrage and widespread condemnation from his ardent supporters. 

See also: Last over mayhem in BPL produces 30 runs, acquires the second best place on the all-time list

Ashwin insists Hindi is not national but an official language

Whilst addressing a gathering at the Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Ashwin asked which language should he choose while delivering his speech. Although English and Hindi received a warm response, the mention of the Hindi language instantly plunged the audience into a state of silence.  

“I thought I should say it, Hindi is not our national language; it is an official language.”

Ashwin was quoted by DT next saying that Hindi may not be our national language but it is certainly an official language given its wide audience base all over India. Ashinw received a warm applause from the Tamil-dominated audience but a war soon broke out on social media who deemed his remarks critical.

Here is the video:

#Watch | தமிழுக்கு அதிர்ந்த அரங்கம்.. இந்திக்கு SILENT.. "இந்தி தேசிய மொழி இல்ல".. பதிவு செய்த அஸ்வின்!

சென்னையில் உள்ள தனியார் பொறியியல் கல்லூரியில் நடைபெற்ற பட்டமளிப்பு விழாவில் மாஸ் காட்டிய கிரிக்கெட் வீரர் அஸ்வின்#SunNews | #Chennai | #Ashwin | @ashwinravi99 pic.twitter.com/TeWPzWAExQ

— Sun News (@sunnewstamil) January 9, 2025

India, being a linguistically diverse nation has nearly 22 recognized languages as stated by the constitution of India. Hindi and English are the top two widely spoken languages within the country and hold the status of an official language. However, confusion looms between the language's national and official status, and more often than not, this ambiguity often leads to clashes and misinterpretation. 

In recent times, the government of India has been proactively trying to unite the entire nation under the umbrella of one main language - Hindi. However, this notion has been confronted by many states and regional parties especially Tamil Nadu, who stand opposed to the wide-scale implementation of the Hindi language. Supporters on social media argued that an individual of Ashwin's prominence ought to avoid expressing opinions on delicate matters such as language.

The 38-year-old New Zealand star opening batter Martin Guptill officially announced his retirement from international cricket. He last played an international match in October 2022.

Martin Guptill made his international cricket debut in 2009 when he made his debuts in all three international cricket formats in the same year. He played 47 Tests, 198 ODIs, and 122 T20Is, where the right-handed batter scored 2586 runs (average 29.38), 7346 runs (average 41.73), and 3531 runs (average 31.81), respectively. The Blackcaps star recorded three Test centuries, 18 ODI centuries, and two ODI centuries. 

Martin Guptill's last international matches

Guptill played his last Test in October 2016 at Indore against the hosts India. In September 2022, he played his last ODI against Australia at Cairns. His last T20I as well as international cricket appearance was against Bangladesh at Christchurch in October 2022. 

Guptill was also a key member for New Zealand in their runners-up journeys in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 and 2019 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021.

See Also: Pakistan stadiums still under renovation as Champions Trophy kick-off date looms

I will forever cherish the memories: Martin Guptill

On his retirement, Guptill officially stated, “As a young kid it was always my dream to play for New Zealand and I feel incredibly lucky and proud to have played 367 games for my country. I will forever cherish the memories made wearing the silver fern alongside a great group of guys.

Guptill also thanked everyone who supported him in his incredible international cricket journey. He added, “I want to say a huge thanks to all my team-mates and coaching staff over the years, in particular Mark O’Donnell who has coached me since the Under 19 level and been a source of ongoing support and wisdom over my career.

“A special thanks must also go to my manager Leanne McGoldrick - all of the work behind the scenes never went unnoticed and I’ll be forever appreciative of all your support. To my wife Laura and our beautiful children Harley and Teddy – thank-you. Thank you Laura for the sacrifices you have made for me and our family. You’ve been my biggest supporter, my rock and my counsel through all of the ups and downs that come with the game. I am eternally grateful.

“Finally I’d like to thank all the cricket fans, here in NZ and around the world for all their support throughout the years.”

However, Guptill will continue his T20 franchise cricket journey. Here are some key stats of Guptill’s international cricket career. 

• First New Zealand batter to record a century on ODI debut. It was the 2009 Auckland ODI against West Indies, where the right-handed batter scored 122 not out, the second-highest score by an ODI debutant at that time (presently the fifth-highest score by an ODI debutant). 

• Holds the record for the second most T20I appearances for New Zealand (122 T20Is). 

• Holds the record for sixth most international appearances for New Zealand (367 matches). 

• After Brendon McCullum, Guptill became the second New Zealand batter to record at least one century in each of three international cricket formats. 

• With 237 not out against West Indies in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 Quarter-finals, Guptill holds the record for the only ODI double-century by a New Zealand batter, the second double-century and highest score in the ICC Cricket World Cup history, and the second-highest score in the ODI history.

• All-time leading T20I run-scorer for New Zealand (3531 runs). He also finished as the fifth-leading run-scorer in T20I history.

• With 7346 ODI runs, Guptill records the third most ODI runs by a New Zealand cricketer.

• With 18 ODI centuries, Guptill holds the second-most ODI centuries record for New Zealand. 

• With 13,463 international runs, Guptill finished his international career as the fifth-leading international run-scorer for New Zealand.

• With 68 T20I catches, Guptill holds the record for the most T20I catches by a New Zealand non-wicketkeeper and the third most T20I catches among overall non-wicketkeepers. 

• With 104 ODI catches, Guptill finished as the third most ODI catch-taker among the New Zealand non-wicketkeepers.

• With 222 international catches, Guptill ended his career as the third-leading international catch-taker as a non-wicketkeeper for New Zealand. 

Today, Ravichandran Ashwin officially announced his retirement from international cricket following the Brisbane Test, which ended in a thrilling draw. The announcement, made alongside Rohit Sharma during a press conference, marked the end of an unforgettable chapter in Indian cricket. The moment was emotional, not only for Ashwin but for cricket fans around the world. Before the press conference, Ashwin was seen talking with Virat Kohli, and a warm hug between them spoke volumes about the bond they shared. Ashwin began his statement, “I pardon for not taking your questions. I am here to announce my retirement from international cricket.” After his announcement, tributes poured in from all over the cricketing world. Fans, former teammates, opposition players, and cricket experts all took a moment to appreciate Ashwin’s incredible impact on the game. 

Ashwin’s Legacy: Top Career Achievements

Ravichandran Ashwin’s career is marked by more than just impressive statistics. Here are the top achievements that define his career:

• 2nd Highest Wicket-Taker in Test Cricket for India: With 537 wickets, Ashwin became India’s second highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, with only Anil Kumble ahead of him on the list.
• ICC Player of the Year (2016): Recognized for his all-round brilliance across formats.
• Fastest Indian to 300 Test Wickets: Highlighting his consistency and skill

See Also: Ravichandran Ashwin retires from international cricket

Ashwin’s Top Memorable Moments

Ashwin’s career was filled with memorable performances. Here are some iconic moments that stand out:

• 2013 Champions Trophy Final: Ashwin bowled the final over under immense pressure, helping India clinch victory in a thrilling finish.
• 2022 T20 World Cup vs. Pakistan: His sharp cricketing mind shone through as he left the ball close to the leg stump in a tense moment, playing a key role in the team’s success.

Ashwin’s Impact Beyond Achievements

Ashwin’s legacy goes beyond records and accolades — he was integral to many of India’s most significant wins. His influence on the game and the lasting inspiration he provided to millions of fans will continue to echo throughout the cricketing world.

Despite the Brisbane Test draw, India had a sad day, as the 38-year-old Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket. 

After the end of the Brisbane Test, Ashwin announced his international cricket retirement. In the press conference, the legendary off-spinner said, "This will be my last year as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level. I feel there's a little bit of punch left in me as a cricketer, but I'd like to express that, showcase that in club-level cricket."

Skipper Rohit Sharma, who was sitting beside Ashwin, said, "Ashwin wanted to announce his retirement at Perth Test, but we convinced him to stay at pink ball Test." 

🫂💙🇮🇳

Emotional moments from the Indian dressing room 🥹#AUSvINDOnStar #BorderGavaskarTrophy #Ashwin #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/92a4NqNsyP

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 18, 2024

See Also: Border-Gavaskar Trophy: The endgame for Indian cricket stars

Ashwin in the ongoing BGT 2024-25

In the ongoing five-match Test series in Australia, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, Ashwin played the second Test of the series. It was the day-night pink ball Test match, where Ashwin scored 22 and seven runs and picked up one wicket. However, India lost that Test match by ten wickets, and the hosts made the series 1-1 level. 

While Jasprit Bumrah-led team India went with Washington Sundar in the Test series opener at Perth, which India won by 295 runs, Ravindra Jadeja was selected in the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team for the Brisbane Test, where the all-rounder had an important role for the draw result. 

Ashwin's incredible career stats; first Indian bowler with 50 T20I wickets

Ashwin ended his international career with 537 Test wickets, 156 ODI wickets, and 72 T20I wickets. He was the first Indian bowler to record 50 T20I wickets. The off-spinner finished his Test career as the second most wicket-taker by an Indian bowler, as the off-spinner is behind the legendary Indian leg-spinner Anil Kumble, who had 619 Test wickets. 

With 765 international wickets, the off-spinner Ashwin ended as the second-leading wicket-taker for India in international cricket. Once again, Kumble is on top of this list with 953 international wickets.

In international cricket, Ashwin ended as the seventh most Test wicket-taker and 11th most international wicket-taker. 

Ashwin was also a dependable batter

The right-handed batter also scored 3503 Test runs, 707 ODI runs, and 184 T20I runs. He hit six centuries and 14 half-centuries in his Test career and one half-century in his ODI career. With four Test centuries at no.8 or lower, Ashwin holds the record for second most Test centuries at no.8 or lower, as the former New Zealand cricketer Daniel Vettori has the record with five Test centuries. Also, with 2403 Test runs at no.8 or lower batting position, Ashwin finished in the fifth position in the list of most run-scorers in the lower-order batting position (8-11). 

3500 runs and 500 wickets in Test career

Ashwin is the only second batter in Test cricket history to score 3500 runs and also picked up 500 wickets. The other name is the former English pacer Stuart Broad, who scored 3662 Test runs and took 604 Test wickets. 

Two ICC trophies

Ashwin was a playing member of India's ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 trophy-winning campaign. He was also a key member of India's ICC Champions Trophy 2013 trophy-winning journey, where he successfully delivered the final over of the rain-curtailed final against the hosts England. He successfully defended 15 runs in the final over as India won that match by five runs. He ended that tournament final with the bowling figures of 4-1-15-2.

The time has finally come as the 36-year-old legendary New Zealand pacer Tim Southee is playing his last Test as the Hamilton Test between New Zealand and England just started on Saturday (December 14).

Before his last Test, Southee picked up 389 wickets in 106 Tests. Southee was present on his last Test with his daughter. Meanwhile, on his last Test match, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) published a video where his national teammates were talking about the importance and influence of the 6ft 4in tall right-arm medium fast bowler. 

Kane Williamson

The former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson isn’t only his teammate in senior international cricket, but they had great experiences together in the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2008 in Malaysia, where Williamson led the New Zealand youths and Southee was the second leading wicket-taker in that tournament (17 wickets). While they lost the semi-final, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team won that tournament.

Southee and Williamson have played together in 260 international matches, including 88 Tests. 

Williamson said, “He was my right-hand man really, and someone I could always rely on. Just such a solid sort of loyal teammate that would always walk towards the challenge

“He’s been just an absolute stalwart, you know, in our team. Such a resilient player, really, that’s paved the path for people to come. You can sit here talking about wickets and sixes, maybe, and highlights on the field. But, you know, for me, he’s an amazing sort of representation of what’s important to play for New Zealand, to be a Black Cap and that’ll be something that I’ll always treasure.” 

See Also: After Imad Wasim, Mohammad Amir announces his second retirement from international cricket

Matt Henry

Southee has played 53 international matches with the fast bowler Matt Henry, including 23 Tests. 

Henry said, “To be able to play for New Zealand for over 100 Tests, it shows resilience and what playing for New Zealand means.”

“I think he’ll be massively missed. He’s obviously a huge part of our group and a huge backbone of this fast bowling group for 17 years. I think it is. We’ve been through some amazing games together and there’s so many fond memories to reflect on.”

Grant Elliott

Grant Elliott and Southee played 46 international matches, including two Tests. 

Grant Elliott said, “I mean, he was an exceptional cricketer. There’s no doubt about it. First New Zealander and only New Zealander takes 700 wickets in all three formats. He led by action, and I think that’s the only way he can lead.

“Champion person, champion player, just very lucky to have played with not only a great player, but an amazing person.” 

Shane Bond

Former New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond was senior to Southee. Although they never played together in Test cricket, they played 14 white-ball international matches. Also, Bond was later the bowling coach of the national team. 

Bond said, “You know, he turns up every day, always prepared, never complaints, just gets of with stuff. Loved to talk about cricket, wanted to get better.”

“Yeah, look he deserves all the recognition. I think it’s nice in this series that people can take the opportunity to recognise what he’s done for New Zealand cricket."

The feelings of his teammates are well enough to describe Southee's importance in the national team. 

“He’s an amazing representation of what’s important to play for New Zealand.”

As Tim Southee embarks on his 107th and final Test match, hear from his current and former teammates on the legacy that he will leave behind. #NZvENG #CricketNation pic.twitter.com/WtjXoegE3w

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) December 13, 2024

The 34-year-old Indian right-arm pacer Siddarth Kaul has officially announced his retirement from all formats of cricket. He played six limited-overs matches for the national team.

Siddarth Kaul was a star in the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2008

Siddarth Kaul, the son of former Jammu and Kashmir cricketer Tej Kaul, started playing cricket at the age of six. Kaul was a key member of the India U19 team during the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2008 in Malaysia, where the Virat Kohli-led Indian team won the trophy. In that tournament, Kaul took ten wickets in five innings and finished as India’s joint-leading wicket-taker in that tournament. 

In the rain-curtailed final match of the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup, Kaul finished with the bowling figures of 5-0-26-2. Kaul delivered the final over of the match, where South Africa U19 required 19 runs to win that final and had four wickets in hand. Kaul picked two wickets in that final over and conceded only six runs, as India U19 won that final by 12 runs in the D/L method.

However, before the U19 World Cup, Kaul made his debut in first-class cricket for Punjab. On his first-class debut, Kaul recorded a five-wicket haul in the first innings as he had the bowling figures of 23-6-79-5 against Orissa. 

IPL career 

Kaul played IPL for now-defunct Deccan Chargers, SunRisers Hyderabad, and Royal Challengers Bangalore. In 55 IPL matches, Kaul took 58 wickets, while his last IPL match was for RCB in 2022. 

In the IPL 2017, Kaul took 16 wickets in ten games. In the next season, Kaul took 21 wickets in 17 games and finished as the joint-second most wicket-taker in the tournament.  

International career

Due to his consistent performances, Kaul ultimately made his international debut in the 2018 Dublin T20I against Ireland in June. In the next month, he made his ODI debut in the England tour. In his first T20I, Kaul had the bowling figures of 2-0-4-1.  

In his short international career, Kaul picked up four wickets in three T20Is and none in his three ODIs. His last international match was the 2019 Bengaluru T20I against Australia. 

In his career, Kaul took 297 wickets in 88 first-class matches, 199 wickets in 111 List A games, and 182 wickets in 145 T20s. He finished as a legendary bowler for Punjab as he ended as the leading wicket-taker for Punjab in all three formats (263 first-class wickets, 155 List A wickets, and 120 T20 wickets).

When I was a child playing cricket in the fields in Punjab, I had one dream. A dream to represent my country. In 2018, by Gods grace, I received my India Cap Number 75 in the T20i team and Cap Number 221 in the ODI team.

The time has now come to call time on my career in India… pic.twitter.com/XiNQ0NBqou

— Siddharthh Kaul (@iamsidkaul) November 28, 2024

James Anderson, the legendary England fast bowler, bid farewell to international cricket on Friday, July 12, 2024, after his side thrashed West Indies in the first Test match at Lord’s. Playing in his 188th Test match, Anderson retired as the most successful pace bowler in the history of Test cricket with 704 wickets, just four shy of second-placed Shane Warne.

The cricketing world paid tribute to Anderson’s remarkable career, with wishes pouring in from all corners, including a heartfelt message from the legendary Sachin Tendulkar.

Career highlights

James Anderson’s career is adorned with numerous milestones and records that speak volumes about his skill and longevity. He debuted in 2003 and played 188 Tests, amassing 704 wickets. Anderson holds the record for the most wickets by a fast bowler in Test cricket, surpassing legends like Glenn McGrath and Wasim Akram.

See Also: Replacing Jadeja in T20Is? India star shares honest thoughts

The final test match

In his final Test match, England dominated the West Indies, winning by an innings and 114 runs. Anderson played a crucial role, taking four wickets, including a three-wicket haul in the first innings. Despite the stellar debut performance of Gus Atkinson, who picked up 12 wickets, Anderson’s presence on the field was significant, leading his team one last time.

Tributes and farewell

The cricketing community showered Anderson with tributes on social media. Fellow cricketers, former teammates, and fans expressed their admiration and gratitude for his contributions to the game. The respect and love for Anderson were evident, highlighting his impact on cricket.

Sachin Tendulkar’s Tribute

Among the many tributes, Sachin Tendulkar’s message stood out. Tendulkar, an old foe and one of the greatest batter Anderson has bowled against, wrote a heartfelt note on his ‘X’ account. He praised Anderson’s action, speed, accuracy, swing, and fitness, acknowledging the inspiration Anderson has been for generations. Tendulkar wished Anderson a wonderful life with his family, away from the rigors of professional cricket.

Anderson’s impact on Cricket

James Anderson has left an indelible mark on cricket. His exceptional skill and dedication have inspired countless young cricketers. Anderson’s contributions to England’s success, including multiple Ashes victories, have made him a beloved figure in English cricket.

James Anderson’s retirement marks the end of an era for English cricket. His career, filled with remarkable achievements and memorable moments, stands as a testament to his greatness. As he bows out, the cricketing world celebrates his contributions and looks forward to seeing the impact of his legacy on future generations.

In a stunning turn of events, Virat Kohli, the former captain of the Indian cricket team and Player of the Match in the T20 World Cup 2024 final, announced his retirement from T20 internationals right after India’s triumphant victory over South Africa in Barbados on Saturday.

Kohli, who is regarded as one of India’s greatest cricketers, expressed that it was time for the next generation to take the helm. From the by-lanes of Delhi to the pinnacle of world cricket, Kohli’s T20I career has seen numerous highs and lows, culminating in this perfect farewell.

See Also: Watch: Rohit Sharma hugs an emotional Hardik after India win T20 World Cup 2024 against South Africa

The Farewell Announcement

“This was my last T20 World Cup; this is exactly what we wanted to achieve,” Kohli shared with the broadcasters following India’s end to an 11-year ICC title drought. “One day you feel like you can’t get a run, and then this happens. God is great. It was a now-or-never kind of situation. This was my last T20 game playing for India. We wanted to lift that cup.”

When asked by Harsha Bhogle if he was officially announcing his retirement, Kohli confirmed, “Yes, I have. This was an open secret. It’s not something I wouldn’t have announced even if we had lost. It’s time for the next generation to take the T20 game forward.”

Reflecting on the Journey

Reflecting on the long-awaited victory, Kohli remarked, “It’s been a long wait for us, to win an ICC tournament. You look at someone like Rohit (Sharma), he’s played nine T20 World Cups and this is my sixth. He deserves it. It’s been difficult to hold back emotions, and I think it’s going to sink in later. It’s an amazing day, and I’m thankful.”

A remarkable career

Virat Kohli’s career is distinguished by his rare achievement of winning both the ODI and T20 World Cups. Kohli made his T20I debut in 2010 and participated in several T20 World Cups, each time facing disappointment until the 2024 edition. In this tournament, Kohli emerged as the savior, especially after India’s rocky start against South Africa. His gritty knock of 76 off 59 balls helped India set a record high total of 176/7 in a T20 World Cup final.

A touching farewell

In a scene reminiscent of 2011 when he carried his idol on his shoulders after India’s World Cup victory, Kohli was seen embracing everyone around him, sharing the joy and relief of this monumental win. This victory not only ended India’s long wait for an ICC title but also marked a fitting end to Kohli’s illustrious T20I career.

Most POTM awards in T20Is
16 – Virat Kohli (125 mats)*
15 – Suryakumar Yadav (68)
14 – Rohit Sharma (159)
14 – Sikandar Raza (86)
14 – Mohd Nabi (129)
14 – Virandeep Singh (78)

Speculations are rife within the cricketing fraternity regarding Rohit Sharma‘s future in T20 internationals, with reports suggesting that the Indian cricket stalwart might be on the brink of bidding adieu to the shortest format of the game. The looming T20 World Cup has intensified discussions surrounding Rohit’s retirement, especially in light of recent developments surrounding the team’s leadership dynamics.

Reports of Retirement: The End of an Era?

Recent reports from Dainik Jagran have hinted that Rohit Sharma may retire from T20Is following the conclusion of the upcoming T20 World Cup. This revelation has sent shockwaves across the cricketing world, as Rohit’s prowess in the format and his invaluable contributions to the Indian team are widely acknowledged and celebrated.

See Also: Netherlands announce squad for T20 World Cup

The decision regarding Rohit’s T20I future appears to be closely linked to the selection and elevation of Hardik Pandya within the Indian cricket setup. Despite purported concerns over his recent performances, Hardik’s inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad and his appointment as vice-captain has raised eyebrows and fueled speculation regarding the team’s long-term strategy.

Mumbai Indians’ Leadership Shift: Rohit vs. Hardik

Tensions between Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya have been palpable, particularly within the Mumbai Indians franchise. The abrupt transition of leadership from Rohit to Hardik at MI has been met with scepticism and scrutiny, with the move carrying significant implications for both players and the team’s dynamics.

Reports suggest that the decision to anoint Hardik as captain has yet to be universally embraced, with divisions emerging among players and fans alike. While overseas players may be more accepting of Hardik’s leadership, domestic talents reportedly continue to look up to Rohit. This sentiment underscores the complexities of team dynamics and player relationships.

Impact on IPL 2024: Performance and Leadership

The leadership transition at Mumbai Indians has coincided with a turbulent IPL 2024 campaign for the franchise, with Rohit and Jasprit Bumrah allegedly expressing concerns over Hardik’s captaincy. Hardik’s handling of young talent like Tilak Varma has further exacerbated tensions within the team, potentially impacting on-field performances.

Selection Controversy: The Pressure Factor

Reports have hinted at internal discord within the BCCI selection panel regarding Hardik’s inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad. Despite reservations from individuals like Rohit Sharma and Ajit Agarkar, external pressures purportedly influenced the decision, with the belief that Hardik represents India’s future captaincy aspirations in T20Is.

Following India’s exit from the 2022 T20 World Cup, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli temporarily shifted from T20Is to focus on ODI cricket. However, their subsequent return to the T20I fold hinted at a potential resurgence, only to be overshadowed by the emergence of Hardik Pandya as a pivotal figure in the team’s leadership hierarchy.

Hardik’s Struggles: Question Marks Over Leadership

Hardik Pandya’s struggles in IPL 2024 have added another layer of complexity to the ongoing debate surrounding his leadership credentials. With his form dwindling and impact diminishing, doubts persist regarding his suitability as India’s future T20I captain—a role that carries immense responsibility and scrutiny.

Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya have endured mixed fortunes in IPL 2024, with flashes of brilliance overshadowed by periods of inconsistency. As stalwarts of the Mumbai Indians franchise, their performances in the tournament have come under heightened scrutiny, offering glimpses into their respective mindsets and capabilities.

India’s Dilemma: Investing in Hardik as Captain

The Indian cricket team faces a problem regarding the future of its T20I leadership, with Hardik Pandya’s selection as vice-captain prompting soul-searching within the setup. The decision to invest in Hardik as a potential captain reflects the team management’s long-term vision, yet uncertainties persist regarding his readiness for the role.

As the T20 World Cup approaches, Team India must navigate the delicate balance between experience and potential, weighing the contributions of seasoned campaigners like Rohit Sharma against the promise of emerging talents like Hardik Pandya. The path forward is fraught with complexities and uncertainties, requiring careful consideration and strategic planning.