Despite no longer holding the official captaincy, Rohit Sharma's leadership instincts were evident during India's second ODI against Australia in Adelaide. After the 33rd over, noticing Washington Sundar's ineffective bowling plan against left-hander Cooper Connolly, Rohit approached Sundar with animated guidance, emphasizing the need for the off-spinner to bowl slower and move the ball away from the batter. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill remained engrossed in setting the field, showcasing his commitment to his role. Rohit's intervention highlighted his continued influence on the team's strategy and decision-making. (PC: JioHotstar)    

Virat Kohli scored two consecutive ducks against Australia in recent ODIs. After this, some social media users unfairly blamed his wife, actor Anushka Sharma, for his poor performance, with some even posting extreme messages. Fans of Anushka quickly came to her defence, calling out the misogyny and saying women are wrongly blamed for men’s failures. Many noted that the couple’s move to London could be related to avoiding such trolling. Virat and Anushka married in 2017 and have two children. Anushka has not announced new film projects since 2018 but continues to be in the public eye. (PC: X)

In a thrilling encounter at the Adelaide Oval, Australia defeated India by 2 wickets in the 2nd ODI, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Chasing India’s total of 264/9, powered by Rohit Sharma’s 73 off 97 balls and Shreyas Iyer’s 61 off 77, Australia relied on half-centuries from Matthew Short and Cooper Connolly to edge past the target. Australian skipper Mitchell Marsh had opted to bowl first after winning the toss. India’s top order, including Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, put up resistance, but Australia’s balanced batting and disciplined bowling sealed the victory with ease. 

Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra will be a torch-bearer for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. The Milano Cortina Games will be held from February 6 to 22, 2026, in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.   Bindra, India’s first individual Olympic gold medallist in the 10m air rifle event at Beijing 2008, said he is “truly humbled” by the honour. The torch relay is a key Olympic tradition, symbolising unity and perseverance. Bindra will carry the flame through different regions of Italy before the opening ceremony. The 2026 Games will feature 116 medal events across 16 disciplines.

Virat Kohli’s much-awaited Adelaide appearance ended in disappointment as he was dismissed for a duck in the second ODI against Australia. The former captain was trapped LBW by Xavier Bartlett after facing just four balls, marking his second straight duck in the series. As Kohli walked back, he waved to the Adelaide crowd, sparking talk that it could be his final game at the venue. Fans responded with a standing ovation for one of their favourites. Kohli has scored 976 runs at Adelaide Oval — the most by a visiting batter — making it one of his most successful grounds. (PC: X)

India face Australia in the second ODI at Adelaide on Thursday, looking to level the series after losing the opener in Perth. All eyes are on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who struggled in the first match. Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said both stars are in good form and confident of a comeback. India’s record in Adelaide is strong, with nine wins in 15 ODIs. Rain and a damp pitch may help Australia’s pace attack, led by Starc and Hazlewood. Alex Carey and Adam Zampa return for Australia, boosting their balance as India aim to fight back. (PC: X)

Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed has questioned India coach Gautam Gambhir over the non-selection of Sarfaraz Khan. Despite strong performances in domestic cricket and a Test century against New Zealand, Sarfaraz was left out of India’s recent tours to Australia and England, as well as the India A team against South Africa A. Mohamed hinted the omission might be due to Sarfaraz’s surname. AIMIM leaders also raised concerns over his exclusion. Selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar cited injuries and team balance for some decisions, but critics say Sarfaraz’s consistent form deserved more opportunities. The debate has sparked discussion on fairness in cricket selection. (PC: India Today)

India’s Women’s World Cup hopes are hanging by a thread after three straight defeats, leaving captain Harmanpreet Kaur under pressure to spark a turnaround. India’s latest loss to England by four runs has put their semifinal chances in danger, though they remain fourth on the points table. Harmanpreet scored a gritty 70 but her leadership is being questioned as India struggle with focus and consistency. With two matches left, wins against New Zealand and Bangladesh could still secure qualification. For Harmanpreet, this is a defining moment — to rally her team or risk another lost campaign. (PC: X)

The Afghanistan Cricket Board has accused Pakistan of carrying out a drone strike that killed three Afghan cricketers in Paktika province on October 17, 2025. The cricketers were returning home after a local match when the attack occurred. The Board claims to have evidence linking Pakistan to the strike. The incident has intensified tensions between the two nations, already strained due to border disputes and militant activities. Pakistan has yet to comment on the allegations. The Afghanistan Cricket Board has vowed to seek justice for the victims. (PC: X)  

ACC President Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as PCB Chairman and Pakistan's Interior Minister, has refused to hand over the Asia Cup trophy to India unless their captain collects it personally from the ACC office. India defeated Pakistan in the Dubai final but declined to accept the trophy from Naqvi, citing his political position. The presentation ceremony was delayed over an hour as tensions escalated. Individual awards were distributed by other dignitaries, but the trophy was removed from the podium. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia called the situation unfortunate and announced plans to lodge a formal protest with the ICC. The trophy remains at ACC headquarters in Dubai. (PC: Business Standard)