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Aakash Chopra suggests Gautam Gambhir's preference for bowlers who can bat might be limiting Kuldeep Yadav's opportunities, despite his improved red-ball form. Kuldeep didn't feature in the England Test series, raising questions about his role under Gambhir's coaching approach. While he's in the Asia Cup squad, a significant role may have to wait for home conditions.

Manoj Tiwary has accused MS Dhoni of favoritism, claiming he wasn't backed despite strong performances, including a century. Tiwary suggests Dhoni's preferences influenced team selection, preventing him from securing a consistent place in the playing XI. He expressed his confusion and disappointment, highlighting a perceived lack of support during Dhoni's captaincy.

Sachin Tendulkar recently reminisced about his epic battles with Australian legends Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne, recalling a strategic assault on McGrath in a 2000 match. He also humorously addressed controversial umpiring decisions by Steve Bucknor. Tendulkar dominated Warne, scoring 123 runs without being dismissed.

South African batting legend AB de Villiers has labelled Shreyas Iyer's omission from India's Asia Cup squad as "weird", hinting that the decision may have been shaped by considerations beyond just on-field form and performance.

Sanjay Manjrekar has criticised the Indian selection committee's approach of rewarding players for Test performances with T20I spots, deeming it illogical. He questioned Shubman Gill's inclusion in the Asia Cup squad while expressing shock over Shreyas Iyer's exclusion despite his outstanding IPL form and recent displays of maturity in other formats.

Mohammad Kaif has said it will be tough for Sanju Samson to secure a spot in India's playing XI for the Asia Cup. Kaif believes Shubman Gill, who is now the vice-captain, will open the innings alongside Abhishek Sharma.

Asia Cup 2025: Shreyas Iyer's father, Santosh, has urged the selectors to give his son an opportunity in the T20I format. He revealed that Shreyas was gutted after missing out on a place in the Asia Cup squad.

Mohammed Kaif has strongly supported Jasprit Bumrah's T20I return, dismissing fitness concerns raised during the England Test series. Kaif highlighted Bumrah's match-winning ability across formats and suggested white-ball cricket suits him better due to a manageable workload. He also expressed disappointment over Mohammed Siraj's Asia Cup exclusion, praising his form and wicket-taking ability.

Mohammad Kaif has endorsed Shubman Gill as Rohit Sharma's successor in ODIs, anticipating Rohit's retirement after the 2027 World Cup. Kaif highlighted Gill's impressive run-scoring record and leadership qualities, noting his Test captaincy and T20I vice-captaincy. Gill's maturity and form, particularly during the England series, have solidified his position as a future leader, according to chief selector Ajit Agarkar.

The 2025 Asia Cup, amidst geopolitical tensions, will be held in the UAE from September 9-28. India and Pakistan have announced their squads, but past withdrawals due to political strife cast a shadow. Pakistan pulled out in 1990-91, and India in 1986. This year, India is in Group A with Pakistan, UAE, and Oman.

Mohammad Azharuddin has cautioned India against over-relying on Jasprit Bumrah and suggested including Kuldeep Yadav for the second Test against England. He emphasised the need for a more varied bowling attack to support Bumrah. Azharuddin defended Shubman Gill's captaincy, urging patience and support for the new captain despite the team's batting collapse and defeat in the first Test.

India faces a daunting challenge at Edgbaston, a venue where they've never won a Test match. After a painful defeat at Headingley, where England chased down a substantial target, India is under pressure to avoid a series loss. Breaking the Edgbaston jinx, dating back to 1967, requires an extraordinary effort against a confident England team.

The new World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle has commenced with Australia and England leading with a perfect PCT of 100. Sri Lanka follows after their series against Bangladesh. India, despite Shubman Gill's team's impressive fight and five centurions, suffered a loss to England in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy due to a middle-order collapse.

Mark Butcher urges India to prioritise winning the Edgbaston Test over managing Jasprit Bumrah's workload, emphasising the importance of leveling the series after England's Headingley victory. Despite Bumrah's desire to play at Lord's, Butcher believes his presence is crucial at Edgbaston. Captain Gill confirms Bumrah's availability, with a decision pending pitch assessment.