Shreyas Iyer took part in the IPL 2025 clash against Rajasthan Royals despite feeling unwell. He came out to bat and scored 30 runs off 25 balls before being subbed off during the innings break. According to the on-air commentators, Iyer was “carrying a niggle” and was “unable to take the field” for the second innings. Punjab Kings brought in Harpreet Brar as their Impact Player and handed the captaincy to Shashank Singh. Iyer’s absence was a big miss, but Punjab still managed to post 220/5 and kept their playoff hopes alive with a strong batting performance. (PC: AFP)

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar revealed he attempted to dissuade Virat Kohli from retiring from Test cricket during IPL 2025. Despite Bangar's efforts, Kohli was resolute in his decision, believing it was the right time to step away from the format. Bangar expressed personal sadness, acknowledging Kohli's stature in the game and his conviction about the timing of his retirement. Kohli officially announced his retirement from Test cricket ahead of the England tour in the 2025–27 World Test Championship cycle. He will continue to represent India in ODIs, focusing on the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, having already retired from T20Is after the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA. (PC: IceCric News)

Virat Kohli's unexpected retirement from Test cricket has left the cricketing world in shock. Former BCCI President Sourav Ganguly expressed surprise at Kohli's decision, especially ahead of the crucial five-match Test series against England starting June 20. Kohli concluded his illustrious Test career with 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and seven double centuries, and led India to 40 victories as captain. His retirement follows closely after Rohit Sharma's, leaving India without its two senior pros for the England tour. Ganguly acknowledged the selectors' challenge in appointing a new captain, with Shubman Gill emerging as the frontrunner and Rishabh Pant likely to be named deputy. (PC: Hindustan Times)

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag believes Virat Kohli retired from Test cricket prematurely. Despite a dip in form, Sehwag highlights Kohli's unmatched fitness and dedication, asserting that at 36, he surpasses 90% of players in physical condition. Sehwag emphasizes Kohli's unwavering routine and hunger for runs, suggesting he could have comfortably played for two more years. Kohli concluded his Test career with 123 matches, narrowly missing the 10,000-run milestone. A planned felicitation at Chinnaswamy Stadium was postponed due to rain. Sehwag's remarks underscore the sentiment that Kohli's early retirement leaves a significant void in Indian cricket. (PC: Getty Images & India)

Despite retiring from Test cricket, Virat Kohli may return to England's red-ball scene, as Middlesex expresses interest in signing him for a county stint at Lord's. Middlesex's Director of Cricket, Alan Coleman, confirmed discussions are underway, highlighting Kohli's iconic status. While BCCI restricts contracted players from overseas T20 leagues, county championship participation remains possible. Kohli's retirement statement omitted any mention of first-class cricket, leaving the door open. Middlesex, aiming for Division Two promotion, envisions a potential Kohli-Williamson middle-order partnership. Upcoming matches at Lord's and an away game against Lancashire could feature Kohli, rekindling his rivalry with James Anderson. Kohli concluded his Test career with 9,230 runs in 123 matches. (PC: AFP)

On May 16, 2025, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) honored Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma by naming a stand at Mumbai's iconic Wankhede Stadium after him. The “Rohit Sharma Stand” at the Divecha Pavilion Level 3 was unveiled in a ceremony attended by dignitaries, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and veteran politician Sharad Pawar. Rohit, visibly emotional, expressed deep gratitude to his parents for their sacrifices, guiding them onto the stage during the event. Teammate Suryakumar Yadav shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, praising Rohit's journey from finisher to opener to captain, and highlighting his humility and leadership. (PC: India Today)  

Former India coach Ravi Shastri disagreed with the decision to exclude Rohit Sharma from the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Sydney. With India trailing 2-1, Shastri said that if he were coach, Rohit would have definitely played, as the series was still open. Rohit stepped down due to poor form, allowing Jasprit Bumrah to captain. He prioritized team needs over personal ambitions. The Test was played on a bowler-friendly pitch, and India failed to level the series. (PC: Wikipedia)

On May 16, 2025, Indian javelin star Neeraj Chopra achieved a major career milestone by surpassing the 90-meter mark for the first time, registering a personal best of 90.23 meters at the Doha Diamond League. He became the first Indian and only the third Asian to breach the 90-meter barrier in men's javelin, joining an elite group of 25 global athletes. Despite this landmark throw, Chopra finished second behind Germany’s Julian Weber, who won with 91.06 meters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Chopra, calling the achievement a moment of pride for India. (PC: PTI)

India’s Neeraj Chopra shattered the 90m barrier for the first time in his career with a stunning 90.23m throw at the 2025 Doha Diamond League, but settled for second place. Germany’s Julian Weber stole the win with a final-round throw of 91.06m. Despite not clinching gold, Chopra set a new national record and became only the third Asian to cross 90m. This was his season debut and first major competition under new coach Jan Zelezny. Grenada’s Anderson Peters placed third, while India’s Kishore Jena finished eighth. Chopra’s feat marks a significant milestone in his legendary career. (PC: India Today)

Speculation swirls around India’s Test captaincy as Gautam Gambhir reportedly held an extended meeting with the likely skipper, with Shubman Gill emerging as the frontrunner. Jasprit Bumrah, once considered the natural choice, now finds his leadership chances clouded by concerns over injury and workload. While no official announcement has been made, insiders hint at shifting dynamics within the team. With Gambhir known for his firm stance on team culture, managing Bumrah’s morale and role will be critical. As the BCCI weighs its options, the dressing room's balance and India's Test future could hinge on how this sensitive transition unfolds.