Former Indian captain and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, reflecting on cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and MS Dhoni, expressed admiration for Sachin's greatness, Virat's aggressiveness, and Dhoni's calmness. Ganguly, known for his aggressive batting, highlighted these qualities on a reality show. When asked about a unique quality he possesses, he responded with "adjustment," earning applause from the audience. Ganguly recently endorsed Rohit Sharma for the T20I World Cup captaincy, advocating for Virat Kohli's inclusion in the squad. His impactful tenure as BCCI president concluded in October 2022, succeeded by Roger Binny.

Yashasvi Jaiswal's explosive 68 and Shivam Dube's powerful 63* secure India's unassailable 2-0 series lead against Afghanistan. Despite Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's early dismissals, the young duo showcased their T20 World Cup potential. Jaiswal's fearless batting, clearing boundaries against pacers and spinners, solidifies his claim for a World Cup opening slot. Dube's aggressive innings, featuring three consecutive sixes, adds to India's batting depth. Afghanistan posted 172, with Gulbadin Naib's brisk 57. Axar Patel's crucial breakthroughs limited Afghanistan, ensuring India's successful chase and setting an optimistic tone for future T20 engagements.

The BCCI has unveiled the 16-man squad for India's first two Tests against England, starting January 25. In a surprising move, 22-year-old Dhruv Jurel earns his maiden call-up as a backup wicketkeeper, stepping in for the rested Ishan Kishan. Notably, veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami and Prasidh Krishna are absent due to injury concerns. Avesh Khan retains his place alongside a formidable pace attack. The spin combination comprises Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav. India, led by Rohit Sharma, is set for their third assignment in the ongoing World Test Championship cycle. [photo courtesy: BCCI/X]

Indian cricketer Ishan Kishan faces uncertainty in his T20 World Cup aspirations as Virat Kohli commits, and Coach Rahul Dravid emphasizes domestic cricket. Kishan, despite consistent performance, draws scrutiny for his break due to mental fatigue during the South Africa series. A former BCCI official notes, "In Indian cricket, if you leave your seat at your own will, you might not get it back." Kishan's return now relies on future top-three opportunities, prompting reflection on the delicate balance between personal needs and professional commitments in cricket. The saga raises questions about the challenges emerging as the T20 World Cup approaches.

Indian cricket star Virat Kohli will miss the first T20 international against Afghanistan due to "personal reasons," confirmed coach Rahul Dravid. Kohli and captain Rohit Sharma are returning to the T20 squad after over a year's absence, aligning with preparations for the T20 World Cup in June. Dravid emphasized IPL performance as crucial for squad selection. The series opener in Mohali on Thursday precedes matches in Indore and Bengaluru. Dravid mentioned the flexibility to shuffle openers but expressed satisfaction with Yashasvi Jaiswal's left-right combination. Rinku Singh's role as a finisher also gains prominence in the upcoming series.            

India's T20I squad for the Afghanistan series excludes Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer, with reports citing disciplinary concerns. Ishan's participation in social events after withdrawing from Tests irked selectors, potentially impacting his T20 World Cup chances. Meanwhile, Shreyas' shot selection and reluctance to play Ranji Trophy led to his exclusion, though he later joined the Mumbai squad. The selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar, emphasize discipline and commitment, praising Rinku Singh and Shubman Gill's dedication. The move underscores the strict stance on players not prioritizing Test and first-class cricket.

In a remarkable feat of determination, India's para-athlete, Sheetal Devi, was honored with the prestigious Arjuna Award by President Droupadi Murmu. Born without hands in a strife-ridden village, Sheetal's journey from adversity to triumph is truly inspiring. Adopted by 11 Rashtriya Rifle Northern Comd in 2019, with the unwavering support of Meghna Girish and Anupam Kher, she received artificial limbs. Guided by coach Kuldeep Baidwan, Sheetal secured two golds and one silver at the Asian Para Games 2022, showcasing exceptional prowess in archery. Now a symbol of strength, her aspirations extend to claiming Olympic gold, making Sheetal Devi an inspiring national icon.

President Droupadi Murmu presented the prestigious Arjuna Award to cricket maestro Mohammed Shami for his exceptional display in the ODI World Cup 2023. Recommended by the BCCI, Shami emerged as the tournament's leading wicket-taker with 24 scalps in just seven matches. Overcoming a slow start, Shami's impactful comeback contributed significantly to India's performance. The award ceremony, honoring 26 athletes, showcased India's dominance at the Asian Games 2023, achieving a record medal tally. The Arjuna Awards, the nation's second-highest sporting honor, underscored Shami's cricket prowess and celebrated the nation's outstanding achievements in diverse disciplines.

German football legend Franz Beckenbauer, regarded as one of the greatest players ever, has died at 78. Nicknamed "Der Kaiser", Beckenbauer won the World Cup as a player and manager for West Germany. He also won three straight European Cups with Bayern Munich and the Ballon d'Or twice as a sweeper. Beckenbauer revolutionized defending and his elegance was ahead of his time. However, his administrative career was tainted by corruption allegations over Germany's 2006 World Cup bid. But on the pitch, his genius was undeniable as both a player and manager. Beckenbauer leaves an unmatched legacy, despite off-field controversies.

In a stellar display of cricket prowess, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and Mohammed Shami have been shortlisted for the ICC Men's ODI Cricketer of the Year. Gill's exceptional 2023, amassing 1584 runs with five centuries, set him apart. Kohli's World Cup heroics, accumulating 765 runs, earned him Player of the Tournament. Shami's lethal bowling in the World Cup, claiming 24 wickets, adds to the fierce competition. Daryl Mitchell, a key player for New Zealand, completes the formidable lineup. The cricketing world awaits the announcement of the coveted award, recognizing the outstanding contributions of these Indian cricket stars.