Gautam Gambhir Backs Sai Sudharsan as a World-Class Player Ahead of Afghanistan Test
Chandigarh, June 5: Indias head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has firmly stated that the team will provide Sai Sudharsan with ample opportunities. Gambhir emphasized that Sudharsan is a world-class player, coming off a remarkable IPL 2026 season where he scored over 700 runs. Following Gambhirs remarks, it is almost certain that Sudharsan will take the number ... Read more Gautam Gambhir Backs Sai Sudharsan as a World-Class Player Ahead of Afghanistan Test
IGPL Bharath Classic: Kochhar One Behind Leader Runchanapong; Aryan Roopa Also In Top-10
IGPL Morocco Rising Stars: Karandeep Kochhar of India posted a fine round of 6-under 66 and positioned himself in the tied second place after the first day of the USD 500,000 IGPL Bharath Classic at the Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort. The 26-year-old from Chandigarh is one shot behind the leader, Thailands Runchanapong Youprayong, who carded 7-under 65 that included eight birdies against one bogey. Kochhar, a four-time winner in India, added a breakthrough win on the IGPL Tour late last year with a victory in IGPL Dubai hosted by Shiv Kapur. Kochhar had a four-birdie streak early in the round from the second hole and turned in 5-under 31, before picking two more birdies against one bogey in his second nine for a 66. Sharing the second place with Kochhar were Australias Will Florimo and Austrias Nicklas Regner. Kochhar, a four-time winner in India, added a breakthrough win on the IGPL Tour late last year with a victory in IGPL Dubai hosted by Shiv Kapur. Kochhar had a four-birdie streak early in the round from the second hole and turned in 5-under 31, before picking two more birdies against one bogey in his second nine for a 66. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The next best Indian in the field was Aryan Roopa Anand, who armed with confidence that leapfrogged since his win at the IGPL Congo, shot 4-under 68 despite two bogeys. He had six birdies including three in a row on the front nine of the course from the third to the fifth. Article Source: IANS
Woman Stabbed To Death By Spurned Partner In Mohali Office
CHANDIGARH, Jun 5: A 29-year-old woman was allegedly knifed to death by her colleague and spurned partner inside the office of a private company in Mohali, the horror unfolding in full view of others who tried to stop the attack but could not, police said on Friday. The assault took place on Thursday evening. The accused, Harvinder Mann, tried to kill himself with the same knife after repeatedly stabbing Dimple. Both were rushed to hospital where she was declared brought [] The post Woman Stabbed To Death By Spurned Partner In Mohali Office appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Lucknow Super Giants: Former cricketer and national selector Devang Gandhi on Friday hailed Rishabh Pant as the finest wicket-keeper batter India has ever seen in Tests, saying the southpaw's match-winning knock at the Gabba in 2021 would remain etched in his memory forever. Pant, 28, is preparing to play his 50th Test match against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh starting on Saturday. In 49 Tests, Pant has amassed 3476 runs at an average of 42.91 and strike-rate of 74.24, including hitting eight centuries and 18 fifties. But his milestone Test comes at a time when the past few months havent been good for him. He had a forgetful time with the bat and as a captain for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026, even as he lost the vice-captaincy in Tests to KL Rahul. During the Tests against South Africa and the BorderGavaskar Trophy series in Australia, Pants highrisk approach drew scrutiny at times. But the shift from IPLs chaos to the grind of Test cricket now offers Pant a chance to reset and be at his blistering best with the bat. See, to be honest, Rishabh got the captaincy because Shubman was injured. In all fairness, he was vice-captain. He had a fantastic England trip. Unfortunately, he couldn't play the entire series because of that injury. I feel that what happened with him in the IPL, I think selectors are looking at him where he can just discover himself back as a batsman. It's because we know how impactful a player he is as far as Test matches are concerned. With his batting, he single-handedly won us so many matches. So, if he can rediscover that touch, I think that is what selectors are looking at as always we have to look at the bigger picture. Sometimes, it's a tough call you're taking, but it's for the larger interest of the game. I'm sure, knowing Ajit, he must have conveyed it to Rishabh before announcing it and it is for the good of the team and good for Rishabh as well, Gandhi said in an exclusive conversation with IANS on Friday. Gandhi, who was the national selector when Pant made his Test debut against England at Trent Bridge in 2018, said his great overseas Tests record is a testimony to his extraordinary impact in the longer format for India, while also singling out the often-overlooked improvement in his glove work. It's very heartening to see the way he has evolved as a Test cricketer, the impact he has made on world cricket and playing 50 Test matches - it's a significant milestone. If you look at his performance overseas basically, whether just South Africa, England, even in Australia, he has played some very impactful match-winning knocks. So that was very nice to see and also, nobody talks about his wicket-keeping. The way he has improved his keeping - whether it is India or abroad, he has been rock-solid as a wicket-keeper. The only thing that I can wish is that this 50 he converts it into a 100. In whatever cricket I have seen, whatever Indian history as far as wicket-keeping batsmen is concerned, I think Rishabh is probably the best wicket-keeper batter India has ever seen so far, he added. Asked to pick his defining memory of Pant in Tests, Gandhi did not hesitate in mentioning the breach of the Gabba fortress in January 2021, when Pant hit 89 not out off 138 balls as India chased down 328 to pull off a heist and get an epic 2-1 series win over Australia. I would definitely recall the Test match at Gabba. The way he played that knock and he turned it around. So winning that series despite all the things going around - India was missing a lot of senior cricketers. On the final day, he believed that he's going to single-handedly win the match, which he did. Although he got a lot of support in the start and in the middle as well, but to stay till the end and win in Australia against their full side, I think that was the memory which will always remain in my memory, to be honest. I'll always remember that very fondly, he added. Gandhi also celebrated Pant's exuberant personality on the field, saying cricket needed characters like him, not robots. Also, one thing, I like his celebration after he gets a milestone. I mean, after he gets 100, I like to see that somersault, as we just want characters on the cricket field. We don't want robots, right? So he brings that flair. He has his own style and the way he plays some shots, he knows how it works for him and that has yielded results for him. I just wish him a lot of luck as far as health and fitness is concerned. Unfortunately, like we saw last year in England, he was doing so well and then he had a setback. So I just wish him really well and I hope this fifty will be converted into a hundred, Gandhi added. On Pant's recent struggles in white-ball cricket, with Ishan Kishan also taking his place as the second keeper in ODIs, Gandhi said the remedy lay in introspection and a return to basics. If you look at his early part of the career, as you rightly mentioned that he used to play a lot of shots on the offside, he used to drive and those things may have gone amiss. Sometimes in T20, you're trying too hard. I think he just needs to take some time with himself, do a little bit of introspection, and look at his old videos. Then I'm sure, you just keep working on your basics. Whenever a player is out of form, he needs to just go back to the basics. It's not that he has to change a great deal as he knows how to score runs, which is how we played 50 Test matches. So, I think these two-three Test matches that he's going to play before going to New Zealand are going to be very crucial, he said. Further asked on how Pant can evolve his white-ball game, Gandhi said, Like playing in the V, as we always talk of the basics, and playing close to the body - these are some of the basics to work on because sometimes in white ball, you tend to throw your bat and all sorts of mistakes do creep in - like tending to play away from the body. It's not that he has to change a great deal as he knows how to score runs, which is how we played 50 Test matches. So, I think these two-three Test matches that he's going to play before going to New Zealand are going to be very crucial, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Importantly, if you look at his Test record, the way he's batted is known to all. So, when it comes to white ball, he's underachieved a little bit. I mean, I'm sure he'll ponder over it. He'll do introspection and knowing him, he's going to come back stronger and harder, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
India's No.3 Problem Unsolved Since Pujara Left, Give Next Man Longer Run, Says Gandhi
Since Cheteshwar Pujara: The number three batting position remains India's biggest concern heading into the one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh, with former national selector Devang Gandhi saying the slot has been unsettled since Cheteshwar Pujara's exit and urged the team management to give the next incumbent a longer run. Indias number three remains the most unsettled seat in its batting line-up in Tests. Since Cheteshwar Pujaras exit, seven batters have auditioned at onedrop and none have nailed it down so far. Shubman Gill had the longest stint before shifting to number after taking over as captain. Since then, Sai Sudharsan, Washington Sundar, Dhruv Jurel and Devdutt Padikkal have batted at number three. The 2-0 series loss to South Africa at home laid bare the chaos - Washington was thrust into the role on a raging turner at Eden Gardens, only to be dropped back down after Indias collapse. Sudharsan returned in Guwahati, but is yet to make the spot his. For the Test against Afghanistan, Sudharsan is again in the mix, though Padikkals prolific domestic run also puts him firmly in contention. See, the number three spot has been a spot of bother. Nobody has settled in since Pujara left. So, that will be one area. India would like to also try out the youngsters. Even Kuldeep hasn't had a game for a long time. So, if Kuldeep comes into play, his form is going to be very crucial going into Sri Lanka. So, I think India will definitely keep those options in mind and then go ahead because this is also, I feel, a very good chance - we're playing in Chandigarh, and the wicket is going to be also good. I mean, India hasn't played a Test match for quite some time. So, before heading to Sri Lanka, I think this is the right time to get most of the players back in form and give them some game time, Gandhi said in an exclusive conversation with IANS on Friday. On Sudarshan's prospects, Gandhi, who featured in four Tests and three ODIs for India, suggested the young left-handed batter may be left out after failing to make the most of his chances in Tests in England and at home, while backing an in-form Padikkal to get a fair run. See, in all fairness, Sai has had a fair run. I mean, he played in England and thereafter, he played in India as well. Unfortunately, he didn't grab those chances. So, I think he will probably have to sit out of this Test match. Padikkal has only played two Test matches wherein he got up to fifty once. I think whoever is playing should be given a fair run - give him at least four or five Test matches to prove himself. It's not an easy spot to bat, especially number three. It requires sound technique, and temperament. So, it's a very challenging position to bat at. Whoever they have identified, they need to give him a longer run, he added. On the evolution of Shubman Gill after taking over as India's Test skipper last year, Gandhi was effusive in his praise. See, there has been a steady growth as far as his captaincy is concerned. Since he took over as captain, we know how well he took to captaincy as a batter, right? Scoring 700 runs on his first tour of England. So, that was very good. I think that will help him a lot and over the years, if you even look at the way he was captaining in the IPL, there has been a steady progress. He lends that balance to them and he brings that calmness to the table which I think is very important. It's quite, in fact, heartening to see the way he has been evolving as a captain and also as a batsman. The inclusion of left-arm spinners Harsh Dubey and Manav Suthar in the Test squad has been a big talking point and Gandhi said all-round ability has become a key selection parameter, especially in planning for life beyond Ravindra Jadeja. Yes, definitely and see, (Ravindra) Jadeja has served for a very long time. But if you look ahead, we definitely are looking for spinners. At the same time, it helps if you are able to bat. Then I think it lends a lot of balance to the side as you bat deep. Sometimes, it becomes very crucial if your bowlers are able to bat well and it's an added comfort. On tall right-arm fast bowler Gurnoor Brar being included in the Test set-up ahead of Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi, who picked 60 wickets in a victorious Ranji Trophy campaign, Gandhi said physical attributes and an 'X-factor' sometimes tipped the scales in a player's favour. At the same time, Gandhi felt Nabi would get his opportunities to play Tests through the India A route, especially with the side set to play two multi-day games in Galle, Sri Lanka. Sometimes there are certain players who can be fast-tracked if selectors feel that Gurnoor has a little bit of a spark. He has the height going for him. So that is why he may have been preferred over Auqib. But I'm sure, there are a lot of A series, as we know, and that he can be a part of that squad. Sometimes the selectors want to see again and have a closer look at how he bowls in the nets and all. So I'm sure he'll be groomed into the India A squad and he'll get his opportunities from there. But some players are fast-tracked while some people will have to take the staircase. Unfortunately, he's not being fast-tracked - so that's OK. I mean, I wouldn't worry overly. But it's not that the domestic performances are not rewarded - they are rewarded. But sometimes there are certain tough calls which selectors do take and we have to understand that, he added. He further said a green wicket in Chandigarh could well give Brar his Test debut, and that the match would also help selectors assess him ahead of the New Zealand series. It does - if as selectors you feel that he's got an x factor, right, then you may fast track him. You sometimes don't want to delay it. So I have a strong feeling that if the wicket is a little green, then he might make his debut because I think that will be a good way to prepare for the New Zealand series as well. It will give us some insight into how he's bowling in a Test match and if any areas need to be addressed. Between now and the New Zealand Test matches, he'll have enough time to work on those aspects of his bowling. So, I mean, there are certain attributes, but it's always the x-factor which sometimes weighs the decision-making, he added. Brar, Dubey and Suthar have all come through the India A system before earning their maiden Test call-up, and Gandhi signed off by underlining the value of a steady feeder line that continues to supply players to the senior side. It's very heartening because whenever selectors go to the breadth of the country, watching all the domestic matches, and then you pick someone who goes on to play for India A and he does really well, it feels great. So, we have a very good system here in India where players go through the ranks of Ranji Trophy, Duleep Trophy and Irani Cup. Brar, Dubey and Suthar have all come through the India A system before earning their maiden Test call-up, and Gandhi signed off by underlining the value of a steady feeder line that continues to supply players to the senior side. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So, it's a very systematic process and I think people need to just appreciate that and look at the kind of talent India has always thrown up, whether it is white ball cricket, and even red ball as well. It's a very good system that we have at the moment. Article Source: IANS
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IND vs AFG One-off Test Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
IND vs AFG One-off Test , Cricket Tips :After the IPL 2026, India are preparing for the home series against Afghanistan. These two teams will play three ODIs and one test in June 2026. The test match will be held at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, New Chandigarh, at 9:30 PM IST on Saturday. Shubman Gill will lead a new-look Test side. Only KL Rahul has played more than 50 tests in the current Indian squad. Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja have been given the rest. Gurnoor Brar, Manav Suthar, and Harsh Dubey are the new faces. Afghanistan will see Hashmatullah Shahidi leading the side, which has a very good squad. If the wicket grips and turns, Afghanistan can be a dangerous side. IND vs AFG: Match Details Date : June 6-10, 2026 (Saturday-Wednesday) Time : 9:30 AM IST Venue : Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, New Chandigarh IND vs AFG: Live Streaming Details The live action of the one-off test will be available on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can also watch the live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. IND vs AFG: Head-to-Head in Test Total Matches : 01 India : 01 Afghanistan : 00 Drawn : 00 IND vs AFG: Ground Pitch Report This is the first-ever Test in Mullanpur. The wicket is expected to get slow with time, and spinners will have a big role. At this venue, the team that wins the toss and bats first will have a little edge on the conditions because chasing will be difficult here. IND vs AFG: Possible XIs India : KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill , Rishabh Pant (wk), Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel, Washington Sundar, Nitish Reddy, Kuldeep Yadav, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna Afghanistan : Afsar Zazai, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Rahmat Shah, Hasmatullah Shahidi , Abdul Malik, Abdul Malik, Azmatullah Omarzai, Qais Ahmed, N. Kharote, Ziaur Rahman Sharifi, Mohammad Saleem Safi IND vs AFG: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Shubman Gill has been India's top performer. He will be the key batter in this game. For Afghanistan, Rahmanullah Gurbaz has been a consistent scorer and will be the one to watch out for. Probable Best Bowler Kuldeep Yadav will get good assistance from the wicket and can make a difference. For Afghanistan, Qais Ahmed has been making an impact in tests and will be tough to face. Today Match Prediction :India hold an edge because of the home conditions and experience. We predict India will beat Afghanistan in a one-off test. IND vs AFG Match One-Off Test, Today Match IND vs AFG, IND vs AFG Prediction, IND vs AFG Predicted XIs, Injury Update for India vs Afghanistan Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
My Eyes Will Be On Harsh Dubey: R Ashwin Ahead Of One-Off Test Against Afghanistan
India will take on Afghanistan in a one-off Test at New Chandigarh from Saturday onwards.
'Will Help Them Fix Their Issues': Ex-India Star On One-Off Test Against Afghanistan
India will take on Afghanistan in a one-off Test from June 6 onwards at New Chandigarh. This comes after the Men in Blue suffered a 0-2 clean sweep loss to South Africa at home last year.
'His Career Is At Its Peak Now': Ex-India Star On KL Rahul Ahead Of Afghanistan Tests
Ahead of India's one-off Test against Afghanistan at the PCA New International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh from June 6, Aakash Chopra said Rahul's experience and consistency will be vital to the team's success during the ongoing transition period.
'His Career Is At Its Peak Now': Ex-India Star On Rahul Ahead Of Afg Tests
Ahead of India's one-off Test against Afghanistan at the PCA New International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh from June 6, Aakash Chopra said Rahul's experience and consistency will be vital to the...
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohlis Fitness Tests Ahead of ODI Series Against Afghanistan
New Chandigarh, June 4: The Indian cricket team is facing uncertainty regarding the participation of two former captains, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, in the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan. Both players have retired from Test and T20 formats, and fans are eager to see them in more ODI matches as they approach the twilight ... Read more Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohlis Fitness Tests Ahead of ODI Series Against Afghanistan
Afghanistan Test: A Golden Opportunity for Indian Youngsters, Says Saba Karim
New Chandigarh, June 4: A single Test match between India and Afghanistan is set to take place on June 6 at the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium. Former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Saba Karim has emphasized that this Test presents a significant opportunity for Team India to address its shortcomings in Test cricket and lay a strong foundation ... Read more Afghanistan Test: A Golden Opportunity for Indian Youngsters, Says Saba Karim
'His Success Will Redefine Indian Test Team': R Ashwin's Big Claim On Shubman Gill
Ahead of India's one-off Test against Afghanistan at the PCA New International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh beginning June 6, Ravichandran Ashwin praised Shubman Gill's leadership and batting performances during India's tour of England.
Lucknow Super Giants: India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will bring up his 50th Test appearance when the hosts face Afghanistan in a oneoff match starting in New Chandigarh on Saturday, with Devender Sharma, his childhood coach at Sonnet Club, calling the milestone a very big deal, while adding that his recent IPL struggles do not necessarily define him in red-ball cricket. Before Pant, only MS Dhoni and Syed Kirmani are the only wicketkeeper-batters to have played more than 50 Tests for India. But the past few weeks have been a turbulent one for Pant, after making only 312 runs in 14 games for Lucknow Super Giants, who finished at the bottom of the IPL 2026 points table, he was let go of as the vice-captain of the Indian Test team and left out of the ODI team for the three-game series against Afghanistan. This is a very big milestone for him. To be on the verge of playing his 50th Test match as a wicketkeeper-batter for India is a very huge thing for Rishabh. One must remember that IPL is a white-ball tournament, while Test cricket is played with a red ball, which makes both formats different. We all know that Rishabh is a champion player in red-ball cricket. On the last overseas tour of India, which was in England, he scored twin tons in Leeds and despite sustaining the foot fracture, he came to bat and hit a fifty for India. But playing the 50th Test match for India, it's a big deal for anyone, let alone him. Also, Rishabh is a very successful player of red ball cricket and has been a match winner for the Indian team. Mentally, he is very strong and as a coach, I feel he will play very well in all the red ball games happening in the rest of the year and he will make India win, starting from the game against Afghanistan, Sharma said in an exclusive conversation with IANS on Thursday. In 49 Tests, Pant has amassed 3476 runs at an average of 42.91 and a strike rate of 74.24, including hitting eight centuries and 18 fifties. But Pant was far away from his chirpy and blistering self in IPL 2026, and Sharma feels he just needs one good knock to be at his run-scoring best, while revealing what he told him about making certain adjustments. In the IPL, as a captain, his thinking was to make LSG win a lot of matches. In that process, he took a lot of responsibilities on himself and the expected results didnt pan out. In the first few matches, LSG had some wins, but as the team lost a lot of games later, the pressure was created on the captain. Plus, he was playing too many strokes, and more of his shots were on the off-side, because of which he was getting out. So, in T20s, there are a lot of ups and downs, and in the process, a cricketer also faces a lean period, which means a batter cant be at peace. Even though Rishabh didnt make as many expected runs in the IPL, I am sure he will fare well in the red-ball matches for India. But I have told him to play more vertical strokes, and less of horizontal shots. Plus, don't collect many runs on-side and should look to play through the off-side, as I do know he can play very well there. Somehow, it didnt click in the IPL, but thats part and parcel of the game. If he gets a good start against Afghanistan, then he can be back in form as match winners like him need just one innings to be back to their run-scoring best, he elaborated. Sharma was equally effusive about the stature Pant has made for himself in Tests, right from the time he smacked Adil Rashid for six on his first ball at Trent Bridge in 2018, saying no Indian batter had dominated overseas conditions quite like him in recent times. Its also evident from six of his eight Test centuries coming outside India, making him one of the vital cogs in the sides run-making wheel. His journey as a Test cricketer has been very good so far. From the start, if you see in overseas Tests, whether it was in Australia, England, or South Africa, he has dominated there as a Test cricketer. If you see his previous record, no one has dominated so much like him in terms of scoring centuries in Tests. So, his journey in Tests has been very good so far and I hope he will continue to be a match-winner for the Indian team in the longer format, he said. Sharma also believes that Pant still has it in him to play all three formats for India. As a coach, I still believe that he can play three formats for India at any given time. You see, in ODIs, he was dropped without getting a chance to play in a 50-over game after August 2024. How will he be able to make runs if hes not given a chance to play? His journey as a Test cricketer has been very good so far. From the start, if you see in overseas Tests, whether it was in Australia, England, or South Africa, he has dominated there as a Test cricketer. If you see his previous record, no one has dominated so much like him in terms of scoring centuries in Tests. So, his journey in Tests has been very good so far and I hope he will continue to be a match-winner for the Indian team in the longer format, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sharma signed off by invoking Pant's remarkable comeback from the near-fatal road accident in December 2022 as the clearest proof of his mental fortitude. If you are not mentally strong, you cannot survive playing cricket at the international level. We all have seen how he has come back to play for India after the accident. He is mentally strong and will not let anyone down, including the Indian team. Article Source: IANS
Bomb threat email targets Haryana mayors office and temples; security tightened
Panchkula authorities initiated a swift security response following a bomb threat email targeting the Mayor's Office and several prominent temples. The MC Commissioner and staff were evacuated as police conducted thorough checks. Investigations are underway by the Cyber Cell to trace the email's origin, with security heightened at religious sites.
'KL Rahul Has Entered The Peak Phase Of His Test Career': Aakash Chopra
PCA New International Cricket Stadium: Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra believes vice-captain KL Rahul has entered the defining phase of his Test career and must embrace a leadership role in Indias batting unit as one of the experienced cricketer. Ahead of Indias one-off Test against Afghanistan at the PCA New International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh from June 6, Chopra said Rahuls experience and consistency will be vital to the teams success during the ongoing transition period. KL Rahuls Test career has now entered its peak phase. He is not getting any younger, and he has been around for long enough. We have seen him succeed in Test cricket, especially in overseas conditions. He has been one of Indias better openers in the longest format, Chopra told Jio Hotstar. Rahul was recently appointed vice-captain under Test skipper Shubman Gill, a move Chopra believes reflects the teams faith in his ability to shoulder greater responsibility. Now he has been promoted to become Shubman Gills deputy, that is a big responsibility, especially in transition. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retiring, India need someone like KL Rahul to fully own that spot at the top of the order, he added. Chopra noted that while Rahul has already established himself as a prolific run-scorer in the format, the challenge now lies in maintaining that standard over an extended period. Now he has been promoted to become Shubman Gills deputy, that is a big responsibility, especially in transition. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retiring, India need someone like KL Rahul to fully own that spot at the top of the order, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, India will begin their post-IPL Test season against Afghanistan on June 6, with Rahul set to partner the captain at the top of the order as the team embarks on a fresh chapter in red-ball cricket. Article Source: IANS
Gill's Red-ball Success Will Play A Big Role In Redefining Indias Test Team: Ashwin
PCA New International Cricket Stadium: Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Test captain Shubman Gill to become the cornerstone of Indias red-ball future, saying the openers success in the longest format could play a defining role in shaping the teams next era. Ahead of Indias one-off Test against Afghanistan at the PCA New International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh beginning June 6, Ashwin praised Gills leadership and batting performances during Indias recent tour of England, where the youngster impressed in his first assignment as Test captain. Shubman Gill had a fantastic series in England. As soon as he was made captain, he went there and delivered, both with the bat and with his leadership. He scored runs in tough conditions and handled the pressure of captaincy with maturity. That showed his class and his ability to bat long, Ashwin told Jio Hotstar. The veteran spinner credited Gills recent technical adjustments for his success in seaming conditions, highlighting improvements in his defensive game against the moving ball. He has worked hard on his technique, especially keeping his bat close to the pads, which helped him reduce the gap between bat and pad, making him more solid against the moving ball, Ashwin explained. While Gill is yet to produce a major innings at home since taking over the Test captaincy, Ashwin believes the 26-year-old is poised for a strong showing in familiar conditions. Yes, he hasnt fired with the bat yet on home soil as captain, but with this change in his batting technique, I expect him to go all guns blazing at home too. His success in Test cricket will play a big role in redefining Indias Test team. He is the kind of player who can lead the batting line-up for years to come, he added. The former off-spinner also shared his thoughts on Indias spin resources for the Afghanistan Test, with all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja unavailable. Ashwin expects wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav to spearhead the attack, while all-rounder Washington Sundar provides control and balance. Kuldeep Yadav will lead the spin attack against Afghanistan in the absence of Ravindra Jadeja. He has been bowling with great rhythm and confidence. His ability to turn the ball both ways and his experience in home conditions make him a huge threat, Ashwin said. The former off-spinner also shared his thoughts on Indias spin resources for the Afghanistan Test, with all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja unavailable. Ashwin expects wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav to spearhead the attack, while all-rounder Washington Sundar provides control and balance. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ashwin also expressed excitement about the possibility of domestic standout Harsh Dubey making his Test debut. However, my eyes will be on Harsh Dubey. I am curious whether he will get a chance. We will have to wait and see if the team goes with Manav Suthar or Harsh Dubey. But I am particularly interested in Dubey because of his strong domestic season. He also had a very good IPL season. Those performances work in his favour. I am looking forward to seeing him make his debut, he said. Article Source: IANS
Two Associates Of Foreign-Based Terror Operative Held From Punjabs Mohali
CHANDIGARH, Jun 4: Two associates of a foreign-based terror operative were apprehended in Mohali, leading to the foiling of a plot aimed at targeting critical public infrastructure in the area. Punjabs Director General of Police, Gaurav Yadav said on Thursday that, In a major breakthrough against cross-border terror networks, State Special Operations Cell (#SSOC), SAS Nagar, apprehends two associates of a foreign-based terror operative from #Mohali. The operation led to the recovery of an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), resulting in [] The post Two Associates Of Foreign-Based Terror Operative Held From Punjabs Mohali appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Punjab Police Foils Terror Plot, Arrests Two Suspects with IED
Chandigarh, June 4: The Punjab Police has achieved a significant breakthrough against a cross-border terrorist network. The states Director General of Police (DGP) announced that the Special Operations Cell (SOC) of Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar has arrested two suspects who were in contact with terrorists operating from abroad. In a post on the Punjab ... Read more Punjab Police Foils Terror Plot, Arrests Two Suspects with IED
Indian Team Prepares for Test Match Against Afghanistan
New Chandigarh, June 4: The Indian cricket team is gearing up for a single Test match against Afghanistan, set to take place on June 6 in New Chandigarh. Captain Shubman Gill led the first training session on Wednesday as players focused on their preparations. Most players have recently returned from their IPL commitments. At the ... Read more Indian Team Prepares for Test Match Against Afghanistan
Consumer cant be made to suffer for insurers own admn lapse: Chandigarh Consumer Commission
Unemployed teachers protest in Mohali over recruitment delay; stopped on border
Government assures meeting on June 9; protesters warn of larger agitation on June 16
Suicide by junior resident: GMCH moves to spot distress early
HoDs told to check on students regularly
Three acquitted in 2019 murder case due to lack of evidence
Police had claimed mobile phone tracking led to breakthrough; gambling winnings cited as motive
Luxury buses, e-fleet push, smart stops: Chandigarhs transit overhaul begins
Administration Targets Premium Inter-state Segment
Property tax defaulters to soon get recovery notices
Administrator Reviews Preparations, infra upgradation plans for Asian Relay Athletics Cship-2027
Citizens urged to complete mobile app process to continue getting ration subsidy
Punjab expands health cover, adds more procedures in pvt hospitals
SAD claims HC bail for Majitha worker, seeks CMs resignation
Man with disabilities shot dead in Jhajjar; police probe revenge angle
Lahaul-Spiti panchayat wins Rs 1cr national award
Punjab Chief Minister Approves Revised Heritage Street Project in Anandpur Sahib
Chandigarh, June 3: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann reviewed two significant projects aimed at enhancing the states cultural identity and showcasing its rich heritage to the world. During a high-level meeting of the Tourism and Cultural Affairs Department, Chief Minister Mann approved the construction of a grand welcome gate at the Shambhu border, designed to ... Read more Punjab Chief Minister Approves Revised Heritage Street Project in Anandpur Sahib
Haryana govt proposes Rs 100c Green Climate Fund
Ateli gets halt for Daurai-Tanakpur Express
After 19-day stir, 51 women begin indefinite fast in Hisars Chanot village
Gill's India Hit Ground Running In New Chandigarh Ahead Of Afghanistan Test
The Lucknow Super Giants: India's focus on red-ball cricket restarted right after the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 ended. Captain Shubman Gill led the first training session in New Chandigarh on Wednesday in preparation for the one-off Test against Afghanistan starting on June 6. With most players arriving fresh from their IPL commitments, the session kicked off India's training for their first Test of the season. The Indian players participated in an intensive net session at the PCA Stadium complex in Mullanpur. Head coach Gautam Gambhir closely watched the practice and had lengthy discussions with the players. Newly-appointed vice-captain KL Rahul spent a lot of time batting in the nets with opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant as the batting group shifted its focus from T20 cricket to the longer format. Gill, who recently led the Gujarat Titans to the IPL 2026 final, joined the national team after the tournament. He was actively involved during the session alongside fielding coach T. Dilip. The skipper will lead a Test side that looks somewhat fresh, as it is missing senior players Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja. India's pace attack seemed to be working hard, with fast bowlers Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna bowling long spells. However, Siraj's ability to play in the Test is uncertain due to workload-management issues after he participated in every match of the Gujarat Titans' IPL campaign. A decision on his availability is expected soon. If Siraj is rested, uncapped Jammu & Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi is likely the top candidate for a call-up after an impressive domestic season where he took 60 wickets in the Ranji Trophy. Nabi is currently among a group of net bowlers helping the Indian squad, which also includes Gurjapneet Singh, Prince Yadav, Saransh Jain, Zeeshan Ansari, and Shivang Kumar. Another key player in the camp is express pacer Mayank Yadav, who has joined as a net bowler. The Lucknow Super Giants speedster, whose career has been impacted by injuries, is helping Indias batters prepare for Afghanistan's pace attack while working on his own return to competitive cricket. If Siraj is rested, uncapped Jammu & Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi is likely the top candidate for a call-up after an impressive domestic season where he took 60 wickets in the Ranji Trophy. Nabi is currently among a group of net bowlers helping the Indian squad, which also includes Gurjapneet Singh, Prince Yadav, Saransh Jain, Zeeshan Ansari, and Shivang Kumar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Shubman Gill (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul (vc), Sai Sudharsan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Devdutt Padikkal, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Manav Suthar, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey, Dhruv Jurel (wk) Article Source: IANS
Indian robot debuts in kidney transplant in PGI
Man injured in suspected leopard attack in Mullanpur, wildlife teams find no evidence
Elderly couple loses over Rs 2cr in 15-day digital arrest ordeal
Chandigarh, June 3: A remarkable opportunity has emerged for young individuals eager to kickstart their professional careers with a government institution. The Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) has released an official notification announcing the recruitment of 20 apprentice positions across various trades for a duration of one year. These appointments will be made under the ... Read more BBMB Announces Recruitment for 20 Apprentice Positions: A Golden Opportunity for 8th-10th Pass Candidates
Family of arrested Punjab youth appeals for intervention; claims self-defense in police standoff
A family's plea to Punjab and central governments highlights the arrest of Manpreet Singh and other youths from Punjab after a firing incident in Kasol. The family claims Manpreet acted in self-defense following an alleged assault by locals. They are seeking intervention for the safe return of the youths, emphasizing Manpreet's role as the sole breadwinner.
Kashmir Cricketer Auqib Nabi Nears India Test Debut in Afghanistan Series
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi is emerging as a strong contender for a potential India call-up as selectors are expected to take a final decision within the next 48 hours on Mohammed Sirajs availability for the one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh. According to The Times of India, Auqib Nabi is being []
Keval Singh Dhillon Takes Charge as Punjab BJP President, Leaders Predict 2027 Will Be Game-Changer
Chandigarh, June 3: Keval Singh Dhillon has officially assumed the role of President of the Punjab unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday. Appointed on May 28, Dhillon hails from the Sikh community. Upon his taking charge, numerous Punjab BJP leaders extended their best wishes. Central Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu remarked, Today is ... Read more Keval Singh Dhillon Takes Charge as Punjab BJP President, Leaders Predict 2027 Will Be Game-Changer
BJP Prepares for Double Engine Government in Punjab, Says Ravneet Singh Bittu
Mohali, June 3: The newly appointed President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Punjab, Sardar Keval Singh Dhillon, officially took charge at the party headquarters in Chandigarh. Central Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu attended the event and was welcomed at the airport. Upon arrival, Bittu announced plans to establish a Double Engine Government in Punjab. ... Read more BJP Prepares for Double Engine Government in Punjab, Says Ravneet Singh Bittu
Badshahs Chandigarh nightclub sealed over alleged building violations
Badshahs Chandigarh nightclub, SAGO, has been sealed by authorities over alleged building-rule violations. Officials said repeated notices and opportunities to rectify unauthorized structural changes were ignored, prompting enforcement action as part of a wider crackdown
Vijay Hazare Trophy: After earning his maiden India call-up for the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan, left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Harsh Dubey expressed that the opportunity to potentially share the field and dressing room with veterans of the game, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, is a dream he has carried throughout his cricketing journey. Dubey, who was one of the stars of Vidarbha's triumphant 2024-25 Ranji Trophy campaign and captained Vidarbha to their maiden Vijay Hazare Trophy title in 2025, is the one of three uncapped players selected in India's ODI squad alongside pacers Prince Yadav and Gurnoor Brar. If you ask any young cricketer who they want to play with right now, the first two names will be Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. I have grown up watching them. Ever since I started understanding cricket, they have been performing for India and dominating world cricket. So, getting a chance to play with them is a huge achievement for me. I always wanted to play alongside at least one legend before they retire or whenever their final phase comes. Even if I get to play one match with them, it will be a dream-come-true moment for me, Dubey told JioStar. India's ODI squad for the Afghanistan series includes both Kohli and Rohit, although the latter's participation remains subject to fitness clearance following a hamstring injury suffered during IPL 2026. Dubey's call-up comes as India continue their preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, with the selectors rewarding the youngster after his impressive performances. He had also recently been named in India's Test squad for the one-off game in New Chandigarh. The youngster revealed that despite being selected for the Sri Lanka A ODI tri-series, he never imagined an India call-up would arrive so soon, let alone in both formats. To be honest, as soon as my name came up for Sri Lanka A ODI tri-series, I felt I was not really in the scheme of things yet. So, I told myself to focus on the IPL for now and think about the tri-series when the time came. I genuinely had no idea my name could come up, let alone in both formats. So, honestly, I have no words for it, he said. Dubey then recounted the surreal moment when he first learned about his selection. We had reached the airport and found out our flight was delayed by an hour. I got a call from someone managing a cricket social media page, asking how I felt about my name being in the ODI series. Because of the noise and network issues in the lounge, I thought he was referring to the Sri Lanka A ODI tri-series, so I said it felt like one step closer to the dream and that my focus was still on the IPL. As soon as I hung up, I started getting messages saying I had received both the Test and ODI call-ups. I was confused because the squad had just been announced, so I quickly checked online and saw the news. It honestly took me a few minutes to process what had happened. Even when Murali sir asked me who the other spinners in the squad were, I told him I had only seen my own name. It genuinely felt like I was dreaming, Dubey stated. While many have already begun to view him as a potential long-term option in India's spin department, Dubey insisted he is not looking too far ahead. If you ask any cricketer, he will say that he wants to play for India and play for a long time. But instead of thinking too far ahead, I prefer to focus on what is in my hands, one game at a time. If I am playing an IPL game today, my focus is on what I can do better today. If I am playing for India tomorrow, I will focus on what more I can do for my team, rather than thinking about playing for the next 10 years. I don't want to think too far ahead about playing the 2027 World Cup or winning the WTC for India. I just want to stay in the present and do the best I can with what is in my hands, he expressed. Dubey, who will also get an opportunity to work under Indias ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill during the Afghanistan series, said he is eager to understand the skipper's leadership style up close. I don't want to think too far ahead about playing the 2027 World Cup or winning the WTC for India. I just want to stay in the present and do the best I can with what is in my hands, he expressed. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India will face Afghanistan in a one-off four-day Test in New Chandigarh, followed by a three-match ODI series in Dharamshala, Lucknow and Chennai, with Dubey now set to embark on the most significant chapter of his young career. Article Source: IANS
'Doesn't Feel Like India': British Architect Praises Chandigarh's Urban Planning And Cleanliness
A British architect admires Chandigarh's cleanliness and well-planned urban design during his recent visit.
Explosion in pvt hospital at Gurdaspur
CHANDIGARH/GURDASPUR, June 2: An explosion took place in the emergency ward of a private hospital in Punjabs Gurdaspur district on Tuesday, shattering door glass and windowpanes. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Gurdaspur Senior Superintendent of Police, Aditya said Kalanaur police station received information about a loud sound at Multani Hospital, located near the bus stand in Kalanaur area. No one was hurt in the incident. Upon receiving information, the Deputy Superintendent of Police and the Station House Officer [] The post Explosion in pvt hospital at Gurdaspur appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
