The conversation with current Indian ball twirler Kuldeep Yadav sparked a little excitement in the hearts of the fans as he compared the legendary footballers of all times to some of India's top-end cricketers. This comparison shows the common skills, mindset, and play style of both sports, and the crossover is an effective one.

Virat Kohli as Cristiano Ronaldo & Rohit Sharma as Steven Gerrard:

According to Kuldeep Yadav, Virat is a reflection of Cristiano Ronaldo, who is also known for his hard work, how he has led the team, and his ability to perform during the most tense parts of the game. On the other hand, Kuldeep drew a parallel between Rohit Sharma and Steven Gerrard, saying that they are both level-headed players, very tactful, and win games often.

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MS Dhoni as Paul Scholes & Jasprit Bumrah as Zlatan Ibrahimovic:

MS Dhoni, who is a legend in his own right, was compared to Paul Scholes, as both of them were known for their intelligent and composed playing abilities as well as the control of the game. Jasprit Bumrah was his equal among Indian players because he was likened to Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who was unpredictable and had a style that was both unconventional and highly dominant.

Kuldeep Yadav compares Indian cricketers to football legends! ⚽🏏🔥

Kohli – Ronaldo | Rohit – Gerrard | Dhoni – Scholes
Bumrah – Zlatan | Pant – Salah | Hardik – Rooney
KL Rahul – Van Dijk | Yashasvi Jaiswal – Foden | Kuldeep – B. Silva

Agree with his picks? 🤔🔥#Cricket pic.twitter.com/IkIitrBg9b

— Akaran.A (@Akaran_1) March 25, 2025

Rishabh Pant as Mohamed Salah and Kuldeep Yadav as Bernardo Silva:

Kuldeep Yadav equated Rishabh Pant with Mohamed Salah, as both of them are immensely quick guys who can score in no time and sham opponents as they zigzag around. Similar to Salah's surprise blitzes and his goal-getter skills, Pant also pours out the same venom in cricket, and his attacking game can be crucial in winning the match.
Yet, Kuldeep Yadav was not only like Bernardo Silva but wider as well, which made everyone notice his excellent control, inventiveness, and skillful playing that led to outmaneuvering his competitors. The considerable dexterous play of Silva in football and his game sense very well reflect Kuldeep’s gripping his wrist-spin moves and tactical way of bowling, which usually perplexes hitters.

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KL Rahul as Virgil van Dijk & Hardik Pandya as Wayne Rooney:

Kuldeep was amazed at how alike KL Rahul and Virgil van Dijk are while considering some of their special qualities like their coolness, dependability, and their capability to hold the middle order. As a rock-solid defense player, Van Dijk glues the team's batting order by batting in different formats, while Rahul challenges the pressure with ease, thereby giving their side stability.
Elsewhere, Hardik Pandya was likened to Wayne Rooney, which means he is bravely aggressive, omnipotent, and has the winner-takes-all mentality. Parallel to Pens' Rooney, Pandya gets to up his game when there's a do-or-die moment, using his abilities to the maximum the game over, be it striking or breaking the crucial wicket.

INDIAN PLAYERS WHAT THEY WOULD BE LIKE IF THEY WERE FOOTBALLERS - KULDEEP YADAV! 🌟

Virat Kohli - Ronaldo
Rohit Sharma - Gerrard
MS Dhoni - Paul Scholes
Bumrah - Zlatan
Rishabh Pant - M Salah
Kuldeep Yadav - B Silva
KL Rahul - Van Dijk
Hardik Pandya - Rooney
Yashasvi - Foden pic.twitter.com/4G4ayw0vCn

— Being Human (@BhttDNSH100) March 25, 2025

Yashasvi Jaiswal as Phil Foden:

Kuldeep was of the opinion that Yashasvi Jaiswal was like the very young Phil Foden because both of them were young, had immense talent, and were able to win matches by their own performances.  Similar to Foden, who possesses the power of technique and instinct in attacking, Jaiswal is one of the strongest cricket talents of India, which we have found recently; he can play fearlessly and switch smoothly from T20's to the other formats.

Kuldeep’s comparisons have sparked engaging discussions among fans, drawing exciting parallels between cricket and football while showcasing the unique strengths of these players in their respective sports.

Kick off the IPL-2025 season with magnificent excitement. The viewers were privileged to witness a moment of sheer drama during which the owner of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Sanjiv Goenka, was seen in a serious conversation with captain Rishabh Pant and head coach Justin Langer. The conversation, in the ending of the LSG’s unexpected loss to Delhi Capitals (DC) at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, was a crucial one. The photo has since earned considerable attention, as well.

Apude dengulu start pant gadiki owner tho 😭🤣🤣🤣 #DCvLSG pic.twitter.com/6ems9oI2yb

— Prabhas Devotee🔥 (@SainathPB) March 24, 2025

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This live conversation takes place at a crucial time on the heels of Pant’s lackluster performance in the match as LSG failed to defend their total against a resurgent DC side. Now, with Pant leading the side, Goenka’s latest interaction has raised questions about his management style. The LSG owner’s visible frustration after the loss to DC suggests that the pressure is mounting on Pant, who is expected to deliver results following his high-profile transfer. The talk, while not as loud as Goenka’s prior enthusiasm with the then skipper KL Rahul in the IPL 2024 season, sets the tone for the owner’s hopes for the new captain, who was one of the most expensive purchases as he cost the team ₹27 crores at the IPL auction.

This incident indicates the fact that the IPL is a high-pressure environment where the owners of the teams, coaches, and captains are being watched all the time to produce the desired results. In a league where a single run might win, Goenka's involvement is an indication of how the bench can inadvertently become a battlefield in the world’s most aggressive T20 competition. 

LSG captain Rishabh Pant has been out from the Indian team for a while. The last he was seen in blues was in June 2024. Earlier Rishab played for Delhi capitals and was an intergral part of them and in last year's auction he made himself into the pool of players. He was picked by Lucknow Super Giants for 27 crores which was the highest bid in the history of IPL. They had the bidding war against Delhi but at last, it was in the hands of Lucknow. 

Rishabh had to struggle a lot which started 3 years ago when he met with a car accident. He was hospitalised and had a huge injury in his leg and back but stir determination made him heal quickly. Soon he was from his steps to walk then were able to run. He had to skip the 2023 World Cup too where he was in the recovery phase and Kl Rahul took his position he didn't take but cemented his position. 

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Pant Comeback and Neutrals

After the world cup the dynamics changed and India were preparing for T20 world cup and Rishab Pant too was the part of the team after the huge accident. His IPL tournament was too good where he scored 465 runs in 12 innings and that made his name in T20 squard and Rishabh had a good T20 world cup with the second highest run getter in the tournament. But after that it was complete change in the dynamics after it. 

Gautam Gambhir took charge of the Indian team and gave a drastic change where Gill, jaiswal and Pant were rested from T20 and new people were given chances. Soon Pant spot was taken over by Kl Rahul in T20s. It started from there then after the recent Bgt series his performance was not upto the mark where he couldn't convert his starts to high scores. 

IPL 2025 is a gateway for the team

SSoon he was dropped from the ODI too as recent series against New Zealand were against him though he was selected in Champions Trophy but he was benched in all the games where Kl Rahul was prefered more than him. Now the IPL is on the ground and as Lucknow captain his first match itself against Delhi Capitals. Here he needs to prove himself the desired amount given to him was right.  

Read More: Aakash Chopra Shows His Concerns On Making Rahane As Kolkata Captain

There was a bidding war for Rishabh Pant as he wanted, too, test his market value and a few franchises, were interested in him but in the end, it was Delhi vs Lucknow. Where Lucknow bought him for 27 crores. If he wants to get into the Indian team he has to score a mountain of runs to justify his position because in the Indian team if you are dropped it's rare you will be picked you have to give more than 100 per cent to comeback which is now the case of Rishabh Pant. 

The video, which was shot during an ad for IPL 2025, has left cricket followers in a frenzy as it has become popular across the social media platforms.

The Initial Stupid Stupid Stupid Incident

In the course of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Pant executed an unnecessary attempting to score a highly aggressive shot in the Melbourne Test, which cost him his wicket. It was Sunil Gavaskar who was doing the analysis and, when he saw Pant attempt the poor shot, he fiercely said, "Stupid, Stupid, Stupid!" while blaming him for annihilating the game. The saga got a lot of speculation with some viewers siding with Gavaskar’s assessment, while the rest were in support of Pant’s overly aggressive approach.

Rishabh Pant recreating the 'Stupid, Stupid, Stupid!' of Sunil Gavaskar. 🤣pic.twitter.com/JhrK34luWh

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) March 17, 2025

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Reenactment by Pant in Good Spirit

Instead of letting the comments get to him, Pant decided to take a jab at the aggression displayed by Gavaskar on set during the shoot. Fans were delighted at their favorite player’s ability to poke fun at himself in response to the now infamous commentary.

Yet again Pant's jovial behavior delighted the cricket fans as he demonstrated that whilst cricket is often viewed as a serious sport, there is, in fact, room for laughing and making jokes.

Former Indian cricket team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has once again won the hearts of his fans, but this time not on the cricket pitch. Dhoni was seen dancing with his wife Sakshi Dhoni to the tune of "Tu Jaane Na" at Rishabh Pant's sister's wedding. The couple seemed happy and free as they danced together, and the moment soon went viral on social media.

Their performance video has gone viral, with fans hailing the duo for the chemistry and contagious energy they shared. Dhoni, who is generally portrayed as being calm and composed, was seen to let his hair down and show his playful and energetic side at this momentous occasion to the delight of his fans.

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MS Dhoni vibing with Sakshi at Rishabh Pant's sister's wedding. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Qq9ZngNApK

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) March 13, 2025

Ms Dhoni, Suresh Raina and, Rishabh Pant Dance together in Rishabh Pant Sister Wedding ❤️pic.twitter.com/n3FUcy2Cfk

— Vikas Yadav (@VikasYadav66200) March 12, 2025

The wedding itself, already a happy occasion, was made all the more memorable by this wonderful dance. The fans of Dhoni and his bride were soon praising the couple, and the clip continues to go viral on different platforms, proving that even the most legendary cricket players know how to have fun off the pitch

Cricket did change from a game of pure skill to one where fitness plays a crucial role in determining a successful player. In the past, most of the cricketers relied on their technique and experience; however, the time has come now when fitness becomes a game-changer. There have been quite a few cricketers who have done extraordinary fitness transformations, proving that hard work, good discipline, and the right kind of training can redefine the way a player's career shapes up.

1. Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli will probably be known as the most famous transformation in cricket. Coming from a very talented yet slightly overweight younger background at the beginning of his career, Kohli underwent a transformation of extreme fitness. He started having a strict diet and workout, abstaining from junk food and indulging in lean proteins and high-intensity workouts.

Today he is regarded as one of the fittest athletes in the world due to his stamina, agility, and explosive running between the wickets. His hard work towards fitness has motivated a whole generation of cricketers.

2. Chris Gayle

Chris Gayle, affectionately known as the "Universe Boss,” wasn’t always the muscular six-hitting machine he is today. He made his debut in late 1990s tall and lanky, devoid of any of the raw power he was to become famous for.

However, as T20 cricket evolved, Gayle realized that to dominate bowlers, he had to pack in some strength. And with sheer strength training, cardio, and a high-protein diet, Gayle turned huge, improving on explosive batting. And even at 40, he kept with him that imposing stature to prove that fitness is the only way to extend a cricketer’s career and enhance natural talent.   

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3. Sarfaraz Ahmed

Former Pakistan Captian Sarfaraz Ahmed was criticized for his fitness in 2019, with the unforgivable sin of having been kept out of the Pakistan team. Sabotaged by his weight for a long time, he worked hard and became determined to make a comeback within months, dropping dear nearly 10 kilograms through disciplined training and diet control. And his lean physique spoke volumes when he returned in September 2019, impressing both fans and critics alike.

His improved fitness clearly gave him an upper hand: well-conceived performances of the likes of a triple and double century in domestic cricket. Estranged from his critics, Sarfaraz's journey proves that hard work and discipline truly brought him back. 

4. Rishabh Pant

Rishabh Pant's transformation is probably among the most inspirational stories in the world of cricket. After a fateful car accident in December 2022, Pant, while he managed to escape with his life, suffered a multitude of injuries that would put him out of play for almost two years. His recovery for a back injury involved six months of physiotherapy followed by endless hours of strength training and agility workouts to build mobility. In the process, Pant lost quite a lot of weight and created an entirely new, muscular body through a very strict diet and rehabilitation process.

Starting in 2024, he was able to return to competitive cricket, having better reflexes, brighter movement behind the stumps, and greater commanding power with the bat. The metamorphosis is not merely a story of endurance but also a visit into how fitness plays its crucial role in the readdressing of present-day cricket.

5. Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya started as a lean and talented all-rounder but was soon to realize that physical endurance was an essential part of consistent performance. To boost his power and endurance, he took up a rigorous fitness regimen of weight training, yoga, and cardio. His conversion into a lean and muscular athlete allowed him to bowl 140 km/h with ease while clearing the boundaries. 

His enhanced fitness made him one of the valuable players to India in all formats. Apart from the physique, it is his athleticism and stamina that make him the modern-day superstar of cricket.

Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant has been shortlisted for the Laureus World Comeback of the Year Award. This is after his remarkable comeback to cricket after a severe car accident in December 2022. His recovery and return have been a motivating experience of resilience and grit
Pant is the second cricketer to be nominated for a Laureus, following Sachin Tendulkar, who was awarded the Laureus Sporting Moment Award in 2020 for India's 2011 World Cup triumph.
Pant's Inspirational Journey
After having incurred multiple injuries, such as damage to his knee ligaments, Pant went through a lengthy period of rehabilitation. His return to the cricketing arena was proof of his strength and will power. His nomination not only shows recognition for his individual accomplishment but also his influence on the sport and sport-lovers globally.
What is the Laureus World Sports Awards?
The Laureus World Sports Awards, popularly referred to as the "Oscars of Sport," recognize excellent performances in several sports categories such as Best Male & Female Sportsperson, Breakthrough of the Year, and Comeback of the Year. The winners are selected by the Laureus World Sports Academy, which comprises legendary sports persons.

🚨 NEWS ALERT 🚨

Rishabh Pant has been nominated for the Laureus World Comeback of the Year Award! 🔥

The Indian keeper-batter becomes only the second cricketer ever to receive a nomination for the prestigious Laureus World Sports Awards, after Sachin Tendulkar 🏆👏

A proud… pic.twitter.com/F9ZHiAyzaq

— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) March 3, 2025

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India's Presence at Laureus
While cricket is underrepresented at Laureus, India has left its imprint. In 2020, Sachin Tendulkar was awarded for his tearful 2011 World Cup moment. Now, Pant's nomination keeps India's expanding legacy on the international sporting stage.
When Will the Winners Be Announced?
The Laureus World Sports Awards ceremony happens every year, with the exact date to be released shortly. In any case, Rishabh Pant's odyssey is a win in itself for him and Indian cricket.

Rishabh Pant will likely return to the Indian playing XI as India host New Zealand in their last group-stage game of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The match in Dubai will be key to deciding the top spot in Group A. 

Rishabh Pant's Possible Entry

Rishabh Pant has not made an appearance in India's playing XI, with KL Rahul taking over wicketkeeping duties. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate acknowledged the challenge of this situation, stating, "It's been very hard on Rishabh Pant not playing." Despite that, sources suggest that Pant may find himself part of today's squad, providing him an opportunity to impress.

KL Rahul's Role in Pant's Absence

During Pant's absence, KL Rahul took up the wicketkeeping role. Rahul has accepted the competition between him and Pant for the role of wicketkeeper-batsman in the ODI side, revealing that there is always an inclination for the captain and the coach to select one among them.

Match Significance

Both of these teams are already through to the semifinals, but depending on the outcome of this game, they would be facing respective opponents. In case of a win for India, they will face Australia in the semifinals, while the loss would result in a matchup against South Africa.

Historical Context

This is the first Champions Trophy encounter between India and New Zealand. Interestingly, the teams met in the 2000 ICC Knockouts final, which New Zealand won.

Pant's return, expected to happen soon, makes this match more interesting. The fans are keenly waiting to see how India will manage their playing XI. The match is set to be an exciting contest between two of the best teams.

Vice-captain Shubman Gill said that star wicketkeeper batter Rishabh Pant is suffering from a viral fever, raising concerns about his availability for the important game. The Indian cricket team faces a setback just before their biggest rivalry clash against Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Bad News for India! Shubman Gill Says Star Player is Sick Before Pakistan Match

India’s preparations are going well but Pant skipped the team’s practice session at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. With the crucial Group A match set against India for Sunday, February 23, the team is hoping he recovers quickly.

🚨 𝑹𝑬𝑷𝑶𝑹𝑻𝑺 🚨

Rishabh Pant misses today’s training session due to a viral fever in Dubai 🇮🇳👀#PAKvIND #ODIs #RishabhPant #ChampionsTrophy #Sportskeeda pic.twitter.com/6KceiPs3MA

— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) February 22, 2025

Speaking to the media, Gill said, “Rishabh has a viral fever, which is why he didn’t practice today. The team is keeping an eye on him, and we hope he gets better before the match.”

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Pant’s absence could hurt India’s batting lineup and wicketkeeping options. Pant has been in great form since his return to international cricket and has played key innings in recent games. His attacking batting makes him a vital player, especially in high-pressure games.

The India-Pakistan rivalry is one of the most exciting in cricket, and every player’s availability matters in that game. With Pant’s health still uncertain, fans and team management will be hoping for good news. For now, all attention is on Pant’s recovery, and India is hoping that their explosive wicketkeeper-batter can be fit in time for the biggest rivalry in Dubai.

The Champions Trophy is just two days away and every team is gearing up for this biggest event. Last time Champions Pakistan are going to host the tournament. India is going to play all their matches in UAE stating the security concerns. India has reached the UAE recently. 
India has started their practice sessions in UAE where every player is keen and dedicated. Despite quite big blows before the Champions Trophy, the Indian team core looks quite manageable and the bench strength they possess is quite remarkable.  
Rishabh Pant Faces Injury Scare
Team India reached Dubai and as soon as they landed they started their practice session without wasting their time off. India is in the A group of the Champions Trophy and this Thursday (20thFebruary) they are going to face Bangladesh in their opening encounter at Dubai International Stadium. 
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During the practice session, every player was practising according to the role given. In this huge news erupted that Rishabh Pant got struck in his left knee. This happened during the practice session where Hardik Pandya was batting he played a shot that struck Rishabh Pant's left knee and was seen enduring huge pain, Captain Rohit Sharma seemed to consoling him. 
 It is depicted that it was the same knee where he got into a major car accident, immediate ice packing was given still he was still in pain and seen limping around. This may be a big blow because Pant possesses the firepower that India requires to down the order. Even KL Rahul is selected as a backup for wicket wicket-keeping option. 
Indian Team Injury Concerns
Already team India has lost their main players ahead of Champions Trophy. India's pace bowling sensation Jasprit Bumrah has been out from the team due to a back problem that was caused during the Bgt series. This is a big blow for India where their leader of the bowling pack is missing the tournament. 
However, another good news is that Mohammad Shami is back into the side who is forbidden looking fit and fine. Shami participated in the final ODI between India and England which India whitewashed England completely. Other players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul were also seen in good touch in that series. Captain Rohit Sharma would have gained a lot of confidence with his knock of 119 which he hit against England in the second ODI. 
Virat Kohli too showed his glimpse of coming back in the third ODI with his vital 50. But the major concern is Rishabh Pant's latest injury because India can't lose another big armour before the match against Bangladesh on 20th February.