Asianet Newsable

IND vs AFG, 3rd T20I: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Mischievous Act With Buggy Cam Goes Viral (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 02:13:57 +0530

The young batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was spotted having a lighthearted moment on the sidelines, showing his off-field persona during the third and final T20I of the series against England at Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Thursday, September 17.

Team India whitewashed Afghanistan 3-0 following a dominant 127-run win in the final T20I match of the series. After posting a total of 221/7 in 20 overs, thanks to Abhishek Sharma’s record-breaking 108-run knock and his 142-run opening partnership with Sanju Samson (50 off 35 balls), Indian bowlers bundled out Afghanistan for 94 in 14.1 overs, with opener Ibrahim Zadran (25) only crossing the 20-run mark.

Nitish Kumar Reddy (3/25) and Ravi Bishnoi (3/26) shared six wickets between them, while Axar Patel (2/9), Jasprit Bumrah (1/16), and Yash Thakur (1/17) kept the pressure locked in to complete a comprehensive series sweep in the national capital.

Also Read: Gambhir backs Nitish Reddy, says Hardik needs game time to return

Sooryavanshi’s Mischievous Moment With Buggy Cam

As Team India whitewashed Afghanistan in the three-match T20I series, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who didn’t get a single game throughout the series, was seen enjoying a lighthearted moment on the sidelines.

In a video that went viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), the 15-year-old was seen standing inside the boundary and providing water to Nitish Kumar Reddy, who was fielding nearby. Then, Sooryavanshi, alongside Arshdeep Singh, who was benched for the final T20I, walked back from the boundary ropes.

However, while heading back, the players crossed paths with the roving buggy camera, and a playful Sooryavanshi couldn’t resist reaching out to gently push down the camera lens, showcasing the pure mischief of a teenager.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Arshdeep Singh were serving drinks near the boundary rope when the buggy camera came their way. Suryavanshi just couldn’t resist — he reached out and disturbed the camera lens with his hand. pic.twitter.com/7IrV0e5xbU

— Mukku (@Cric_Mukku) September 17, 2026

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was serving as a waterboy after he was not included in India’s playing XI for the recent T20I series against Afghanistan, where the team management opted to give the core squad extended opportunities on the pitch.

Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson were the preferred openers, with Ishan Kishan, skipper Shreyas Iyer, and Tilak Varma locking down the middle order, which meant the teenage prodigy spent the series gaining invaluable dressing-room experience from the sidelines rather than getting game time on the field.

Gambhir Explains Vaibhav’s Exclusion from the Playing XI

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s exclusion from the playing XI became a topic of debate, given that he was Player of the Series during India’s T20I tour of Zimbabwe, where he scored 151 runs at an average of 50.33 and a stellar strike rate of 196.10.

Speaking at the post-series win press conference, India head coach Gautam Gambhir addressed the decision to rest the young talent, saying he acknowledges Vaibhav’s talent but that Sanju Samson was the preferred option ahead of him, given his experience and seniority.

However, Gambhir assured that the 15-year-old will get a long run once he breaks into the permanent setup.

“From Vaibhav's point of view, it is again a very clear conversation that he has to wait for his opportunity. We know the kind of talent he has. We know what he can do,” Gambhir said.

“But again, someone who done extremely well over a period of years obviously will always be ahead of someone who has got into the team. Whenever he gets that chance, you will get a longer run as well," he added.

Meanwhile, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will travel with the India squad for the upcoming Asian Games in Japan, where Team India, under Shreyas Iyer’s leadership, will defend the gold medal that they won at the 2023 edition of the event under Ruturaj Gaikwad’s captaincy.

Also Read: Iyer praises Abhishek's 'flawless' record century in series sweep

IND vs AFG, 3rd T20I: Abhishek Sharma’s Record-Breaking Ton Follows Yuvraj Singh's Special Text Message

Hrishikesh Damodar — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 13:04:45 +0530

Team India opener Abhishek Sharma lit up Arun Jaitley Stadium with his blistering, record-breaking performance in the Men in Blue’s 127-run win over Afghanistan in the third and final T20I in New Delhi on Thursday, September 17.

Abhishek Sharma played a blazing knock of 108 off 30 balls, including 11 sixes and 9 fours, at an astonishing strike rate of 360.00, shattering multiple records to power India to a massive total of 221/7. The explosive batter dismantled Afghanistan’s bowling attack to reach the three-figure mark in just 30 balls, making him the fastest Indian batter to score a century in T20Is.

Eventually, Team India bowlers swept through the opposition lineup, bundling them out for a mere 94 runs in 14.1 overs to complete a dominant 3-0 series sweep in the national capital. Abhishek’s performance stole the spotlight not just for his sheer power but also for the incredible mind behind it, Yuvraj Singh.

Also Read: Abhishek Sharma smashes 34-ball 108, shatters multiple T20I records

Abhishek Reveals Text from Yuvraj

As Abhishek Sharma etched his name further in the history books for his blistering performance that left the Delhi crowd in awe, the young opener revealed post-match that a crucial piece of advice from his mentor played a major role in keeping him grounded during his record-shattering knock.

Speaking to the broadcasters after India’s series win, Abhishek revealed that Yuvraj Singh advised him to bide his time in the middle, forcing every delivery, and look to rotate the strike with smart singles when the ball is not in his immediate hitting range.

“And in the last match, I only got a text from him that I shouldn’t be forcing all the balls. Specifically in these conditions, if I just take one or two singles in between, it’s not, you know, in my slot. I can take a single as well,” the 26-year-old said.

“But obviously, sir always wants me to play long, and I always have it in my mind that if I give the team such a start, obviously, when we are on the winning side, that is always in my mind,” he added.

DEKHTE DEKHTE, 100 HO BHI GAYA! Watch #AFGvIND 3rd T20I, LIVE NOW on Sony Sports Network TV channels.#SonySportsNetwork pic.twitter.com/qDbtifzrFf

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 17, 2026

Yuvraj Singh has been Abhishek Sharma’s personal coach and mentor for years, playing an instrumental role in shaping the left-hander’s aggressive approach and adaptable batting style, with the legendary World Cup-winner constantly guiding him through the ups and downs of international cricket.

How Did Abhishek Sharma Perform Throughout the Series?

Before the Afghanistan T20Is, Abhishek Sharma’s form was under scrutiny because of his inconsistent performances in the series against Ireland, England, and Zimbabwe, where he managed scores of 49 and 0 against Ireland, 59, 43, 10, 16, and 3 against England, and just 1, 8, and 2 against Zimbabwe.

Aggregating just 191 runs at an average of 19.10 in 10 innings, the southpaw’s place in India’s playing XI was questioned. However, Abhishek Sharma responded to the critics with his aggressive showing in the recently concluded T20I series against Afghanistan. In the opening match, he scored 82 off 42 balls, followed by 39 off 19 in the second T20I.

In the series finale, Abhishek Sharma continued his stunning run, smashing 108 off 34 balls to complete a record-breaking three-match series. In three innings, Abhishek aggregated 229 runs at an average of 76.33 and a strike rate of 269.41.

Abhishek Sharma will travel with the India squad for the upcoming Asian Games 2026 in Japan, where the Men in Blue will defend the Gold medal which they won in the 2023 edition of the event.

Also Read: Gambhir on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: He will have to wait for opportunity

Ajit Agarkar's Tenure as BCCI Chief Selector Nears End? Parthiv Patel Emerges as Top Contender

Hrishikesh Damodar — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 18:54:50 +0530

The uncertainty looms over Ajit Agarkar’s future as the BCCI men’s senior team chief selector, as his tenure nears a critical juncture amid potential contract extension hurdles with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Agarkar has been serving as the head of the selection committee since July 2023, and his current tenure is set to expire in September. Ahead of the BCCI’s 95th Annual General Meeting at its headquarters in Mumbai, the former India pacer’s future has become a major talking point in Indian cricket's power corridors.

In the review meeting in September, Ajit Agarkar didn’t attend as he was out of station and could not join the meeting virtually due to connectivity issues, with BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia later clarifying that no discussion took place over changes to the selection committee or Agarkar’s future.

Also Read: BCCI defers chief selector decision, Dhumal and Majumdar retained

BCCI To Take Decision on Agarkar’s Decision

The BCCI’s leadership, including president Mithun Manhas, vice-president Rajeev Shukla, secretary Devajit Saikia and and joint-secretary Prabhtej Bhatia, met at the board headquarters, where the representatives of the affiliated state board members were also present for the crucial discussions.

Following the AGM meeting, BCCI VP Rajeev Shukla stated that Arun Singh Dhumal and Anustup Majumdar will continue to be part of the IPL governing council, while the AGM has authorised the office-bearers to take a call on selectors.

“Arun Singh Dhumal, Majumdar retain IPL governing council posts; AGM authorises office-bearers to take a decision on selectors," Shukla told reporters after the meeting.

The AGM has authorised the office-bearers to take a decision on the chief selector/selector: Rajeev Shukla, BCCI vice-president@shamik100 #BCCI @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/0RzvAYJ0zy

— RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) September 18, 2026

Ajit Agarkar’s future as the BCCI chief selector became uncertain following the Rohit Sharma episode, with questions surrounding the veteran batter’s ODI future adding to the scrutiny on the selection committee ahead of India’s 2027 ODI World Cup plans.

Ahead of the Lord’s Test, Rohit was reportedly informed by the selection committee that he would not be part of the World Cup plans, but the BCCI intervention saw the veteran batter remain in contention for the marquee event, with secretary Devajit Saikia publicly backing his current form.

Parthiv Patel Emerges Frontrunner for Chief Selector Post

As uncertainty looms over Ajit Agarkar’s future as the BCCI chief selector, former India wicketkeeper-batter and current Gujarat Titans (GT) batting coach Parthiv Patel has reportedly emerged as the strong frontrunner to take over the top role if extension talks between the incumbent and the board fall through.

According to the report by the Times of India (TOI), Parthiv Patel’s name has been discussed in Indian cricket’s power corridors over the last six months, as the office-bearers were preparing for life after Ajit Agarkar. Since Agarkar was appointed chief selector in July 2023, his future has remained under discussion as the BCCI weighed its options ahead of his contract expiry.

Amid the speculation about his appointment as BCCI chief selector, Parthiv shared a cryptic post on X (formerly Twitter), featuring a video, “The game you loved, the intelligence you didn't know it needed.” However, it was uncertain whether he was officially confirming his impending appointment or simply reacting to the mounting media frenzy.

Coming soon. I'm in. pic.twitter.com/C5Nfq8kv5b

— Parthiv Patel (@parthiv9) September 18, 2026

PARTHIV PATEL COULD BE THE NEW CHIEF SELECTOR OF THE BCCI. ✍️ - Parthiv Patel frontrunner to replace Ajit Agarkar as the new Chief Selector, if Agarkar’s contract is not extended. (TOI). pic.twitter.com/nfmTQg2P8a

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) September 18, 2026

Parthiv Patel, who played 25 Tests, 38 ODIs, and 2 T20Is, could become the senior-most member of the current selection committee in terms of Test experience if appointed as the chief selector, ahead of Shiv Sunder Das, who has represented India in 23 Tests.

Since the BCCI office-bearers have been tasked with discussing the selectors and Ajit Agarkar has remained tight-lipped regarding his future, the board is expected to take a definitive call in the coming days, setting the stage for a potential high-profile leadership change in Indian cricket's selection panel.

Also Read: 95th BCCI AGM: Key decisions on selection chief, ICC representative

Sourav Ganguly Biopic Shoot: England Cricket Club Fined Over Rs 6 Lakh for Unscheduled Filming

Hrishikesh Damodar — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 17:28:52 +0530

The former India captain and batting legend Sourav Ganguly’s biopic has come under scrutiny after an England cricket club, Leicestershire, was heavily fined £5,000 (roughly Rs 6.43 lakh) and slapped with a 27-point deduction.

Leicestershire is currently playing in the ongoing season of the County Championship Division 1, where they are battling hard to escape from relegating to Division 2 following the severe penalty handed down by the Cricket Discipline Panel. Leicestershire are currently at the bottom of the points table with just two wins from 13 matches while accumulating 92 points.

The club’s home ground, Uptonsteel Grace Road, became a centre of controversy after a match against Glamorgan produced alarming variable bounce, prompting match officials to rate the surface as 'poor'.

Also Read: Cricketing icons Sachin, Ganguly wish PM Modi on his 76th birthday

Unscheduled Ganguly Biopic Shoot Interrupted Pitch Preparations

Rajkummar Rao-starrer Sourav Ganguly’s biopic ‘Dada’ found itself at the center of an unexpected sporting controversy after filming crews utilised the square at Grace Road.

According to Leicestershire head groundsman Callum Lewin stated that the unexpected film shoot severely disrupted the standard preparation window, leaving insufficient time to adequately roll and prepare the surface before the team took the field against Glamorgan.

“It is a used pitch this time around. We had two T20s on it 10 weeks ago. There were a lot of circumstances leading up to the game that were just out of my control, such as the weather being 35 degrees," Lewin told the Cricket Regulator.

“We also had an unscheduled Bollywood filming event four days before (the match vs Glamorgan), and I was not allowed to work on the pitch. I was not allowed to cover it or anything," he added.

believe the "unscheduled Bollywood filming event" was next year's Sourav Ganguly biopic, Dada https://t.co/ieEQIdSZcM pic.twitter.com/MDWyb1aV6v

— Nick Friend (@NickFriend1) September 16, 2026

The shooting of the UK leg of the movie ‘Dada’ began in July 2026, with Rajkummar Rao and the film’s crew filming at Leicestershire’s Uptonsteel Grace Road. The shoot reportedly took place four days before the match against Glamorgan, and therefore, the pitch apparently became more vulnerable to drying out, with groundsman Callum Lewin unable to cover or work on it during the filming.

However, the Cricket Discipline Panel rejected the shoot as a mitigating factor, noting that filming lasted only one day.

Leicestershire Gets 10 Days to Appeal the Verdict

Leicestershire confirmed that the Cricket Discipline Panel has imposed a heavy fine alongside a 27-point deduction from their County Championship total, leaving the club with a 10-day window to launch an appeal against the verdict.

“The Club notes the Cricket Discipline Panel's decision, which imposes an eight-point deduction, an additional eight-point deduction suspended until the end of the 2027 season, and a financial penalty of 5,000 pounds,” Leicestershire said in a statement.

“Panel's decision, the Club is reviewing its position and considering all available options." the club added.

Leicestershire decision understandably provoking plenty of reaction.Officials very wary of marking down pitches, such are these consequences. But a big difference between low-scoring decks that seam and surfaces that are verging on dangerous.These are consecutive deliveries: pic.twitter.com/Q89jTEb0fr

— Nick Friend (@NickFriend1) September 17, 2026

Meanwhile, Leicestershire need to win against Hampshire and Warwickshire in order to stay clear of the drop zone and secure their safety in the top tier as the County Championship season draws to a close.

Also Read: Sourav Ganguly hails Mohammed Shami ahead of his 100th FC match

IND vs WI: Why Was Rishabh Pant Omitted from India's ODI Squad? The Inside Story on White-Ball Plans

Hrishikesh Damodar — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 13:12:00 +0530

India left Rishabh Pant out of the ODI squad for the West Indies series, with Dhruv Jurel called up. Pant will captain Rest of India in the Irani Cup, while team management reportedly pointed to his limited white-ball impact in the selectors' plans.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, picked up the squads for the upcoming ODI and T20I series against West Indies, starting on September 23. The selectors met in New Delhi on Wednesday to finalise the roster for the home series against the Caribbean side.

The BCCI selection committee also announced the Rest of India squad for the Irani Cup against Jammu and Kashmir, the reigning Ranji Trophy champions, and the five-day tournament will take place on October 1. The T20I squad will be led by Shreyas Iyer, while Shubman Gill will continue to captain the ODI side.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retained their place in the ODI squad, while Dhruv Jurel was added as a second-choice wicketkeeper-batter since Ishan Kishan will be at the Asian Games 2026 in Japan, and Jammu and Kashmir pacer Aquib Nabi earned his maiden ODI call-up. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal also returned to the 50-over squad.

As the BCCI announced the squads for the T20I and ODI series against West Indies, Rishabh Pant’s exclusion from the 50-over setup caught many by surprise, especially with regular backup option Ishan Kishan unavailable due to national commitments in Japan.

Instead, Dhruv Jurel was added as backup wicketkeeper for KL Rahul, who is expected to take up the primary gloves behind the stumps for the upcoming series. However, Rishabh Pant was appointed Rest of India squad captain for the upcoming edition of the Irani Cup against the defending Ranji Trophy champions.

Since Rishabh is a crucial member of India’s Test setup and remains central to the red-ball leadership group, the team management and selectors opted to give him the captaincy reins for the domestic marquee clash to keep him sharp in multi-day cricket.

Also Read: India ODI Squad for WI: Shubman Gill to lead; Rohit, Kohli included

Rishabh Pant’s exclusion from India’s ODI squad for the upcoming series against West Indies became a topic of debate, as he has been out of the 50-over setup since August 2024, when he made a solitary appearance against Sri Lanka.

According to the report by the Press Trust of India, the reason behind Pant’s non-selection to the ODI squad was his limited impact in white-ball cricket. The report suggested that ‘important members of the team management’ felt that Pant had not been able to fully utilise his abilities in white-ball cricket, which influenced the selectors' decision to leave him out of the ODI squad.

Since Rishabh Pant’s horrific car accident in December 2022, KL Rahul has firmly established himself as the primary choice behind the stumps in the 50-over format, making it harder for other contenders to break into the playing XI.

Following his last ODI appearance in August 2024, Rishabh Pant’s next List-A appearance was in the last season of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. He made his return to the tournament after seven years of absence because of his international commitments.

However, Pant had a modest outing in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring 212 runs, including two fifties, at an average of 42.40 and a strike rate of 112.76 in seven matches, numbers that ultimately fell short of providing the compelling case needed to disrupt the established middle-order and wicketkeeping combination.

In his ODI career, Rishabh Pant has aggregated 871 runs, including a century and 5 fifties, at an average of 33.50 and a strike rate of 106.21 in 31 matches.

Also Read: Ravichandran Ashwin turns 40: BCCI celebrates the spin legend's career

Dhruv Jurel is often considered for Test resurgence and multi-day formats. However, the Uttar Pradesh wicketkeeper-batter’s inclusion in the ODI squad for the series against West Indies stemmed from his stellar domestic List-A numbers, including the last season of the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

In the VHT 2025/26, Jurel has aggregated 558 runs, including 2 centuries and 4 fifties, at an average of 93.00 and a strike rate of 107 in seven matches. This was his best List A performance, as he continued to anchor the innings with composure and consistency. Interestingly, Jurel has featured only in 17 List A matches and amassed 747 runs at an average of 74.70.

Dhruv Jurel received his maiden ODI call-up for India’s white-ball tour of Australia and was a replacement for injured Rishabh Pant for the New Zealand ODI series.

'Traumatic Experience': Steve Smith Recalls Infamous 2018 Sandpaper Scandal Ahead of SA Return (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 15:49:13 +0530

The infamous 2018 Sandpaper scandal has become Steve Smith’s chapter of dark history that he continues to carry, with the veteran Australian batter is returning to South Africa after 8 years following an incident that shook the cricketing world.

Smith was serving as Australia captain when he, alongside his teammates David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, was caught in a brazen ball-tampering scheme during the Newlands Test against South Africa, an offense that resulted in heavy sanctions and forced the trio into a painful exile from international cricket.

Steve Smith is one of the five players who were part of that original touring squad, joining seasoned teammates like Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon, who will walk back onto South African pitches to face the ghosts of a turbulent past.

Also Read: Bailey backs struggling Labuschagne for upcoming South Africa Tests

‘Traumatic Experience of My Life’

As Australia, under Pat Cummins’ leadership, prepares for the upcoming Test series against South Africa, with the opening match taking place at Kingsmead Cricket Stadium in Durban on October 9, Smith finds himself revisiting the mental toll of the Cape Town fallout.

Speaking to CodeSports, the former Australian captain opened up about how the harrowing ordeal still echoes in his mind, stating that the flash of a camera makes him revisit the traumatic experience, which almost derailed his illustrious career.

“I’m not a big fan of cameras. I get anxious around cameras, to be honest.” Smith said.

“That was a traumatic experience in my life, and when I hear the flash of a camera, it makes me revisit that in a way. The 24-48 hours of being told by James Sutherland (then Cricket Australia chief executive) that I was getting banned for a year.

“That and going through the airport in Johannesburg, getting absolutely mobbed, and then flying back and doing that press conference. I still have little flashbacks here and there of it,” he added.

The chaotic scenes at Johannesburg Airport after the ball tampering scandal will live long in the memories of cricket fans around the world.Watch the exclusive Steve Smith interview ➡️ https://t.co/j2BnAkpYsv pic.twitter.com/jDVkfk6HnC

— CODE Sports (@codesportsau) September 16, 2026

Speaking to CODE Sports, Steve Smith reveals how he gets nervous around cameras after the sandpaper gate in South Africa in 2018.“I’m not a big fan of cameras … I get anxious around cameras to be honest … That was a traumatic experience in my life and when I hear the flash of… pic.twitter.com/38FvRaGsWt

— CricBlog ✍ (@cric_blog) September 17, 2026

Before Smith, alongside Warner and Bancroft, was deported back to Australia following a shocking incident, he scored 142 runs, including a fifty, at an average of 23.66 in six innings. Smith and Warner were banned from playing professionally for a year, while Bancroft was handed a 9-month ban.

Smith Opens Up About His Mental Struggles After Sandpapergate

Further speaking on the Sandpaper scandal in South Africa, Steve Smith admitted that it was an extremely difficult period, particularly in the immediate aftermath, as he struggled to cope with the mental toll of the incident.

“It was certainly a difficult period, particularly the initial period, a few days after. The mental state I was in was not great. That’s somewhere I’d like not to get to again, but I certainly learned from that and have been able to move forward with my life,” the 37-year-old said.

“I can’t remember a lot about the series. I’ve tried to block most of it out of my memory bank,” he added.

Though Steve Smith’s return to South Africa eight years after the scandal brings back heavy memories, the veteran Australian batter noted that hostile crowds and boos are something he has grown accustomed to across his career. However, he believes the overall reception has softened significantly over time.

In South Africa Tests, Smith has aggregated 411 runs, including a century and two fifties, at an average of 41.1 in 11 innings.

Also Read: Rohit Sharma's 2027 World Cup dream in focus for West Indies ODIs

'Wow': Indian Man's Flight Upgrade for Mother Draws Suryakumar Yadav's Attention in Heartwarming Video

Hrishikesh Damodar — Sat, 19 Sep 2026 21:40:42 +0530

In a heartwarming video, a travel content creator, Atul, surprisingly upgraded his mother’s Emirates flight ticket from business class to first class for their journey to Mumbai, capturing a reaction that has since melted hearts online.

In a video posted on his Instagram handle, Atul captured the reaction of his mother when he informed her that her ticket to Mumbai was upgraded to first class. She was initially left confused by his son’s surprise, before checking her boarding pass and realising that she had indeed been upgraded to first class.

Atul, who is a Chartered Accountant by profession and a travel vlogger by passion, shared the heartwarming moment online, where it quickly went viral and struck a chord with viewers for its genuine display of love and gratitude.

Also Read: Iran Women Run Tehran 10K Race Without Hijabs, Defy Laws, Videos Viral (WATCH)

Suryakumar Yadav’s Reaction Goes Viral

Atul's video of her mother’s reaction to his mother’s surprise has garnered over 25 lakh views, 64,000 likes, nearly 600 reshares, and over 3,400 saves by his followers on Instagram, showcasing just how deeply the emotional clip resonated with audiences.

The video might have reached tens of thousands of users on the platform, but it was specific heads: the former India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav. The travel content creator captured an unfiltered reaction of his mother, who initially appeared confused before carefully checking her boarding pass and realising that she had been upgraded to First Class.

She then broke into a delightful smile and playfully touched her forehead in disbelief, before Atul confirmed the surprise with an enthusiastic ‘Yes’.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by atulonthemove (@atulbranade)

In the comment section, many of his followers and Instagram users chimed in to share their appreciation for the touching mother-son bond. But it was a comment from India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav that truly stole the spotlight, writing ‘Wow’.

Atul’s surprise to his mother, who, according to him, had spent her whole life giving her family the better seat, bigger portion, and easier path, adding that upgrading her to First Class was the least he could do.

‘Now I’m Greedy’

Suryakumar Yadav’s comment on his post prompted Atul to playfully lean into the moment. His mother’s reaction to the Emirates First Class upgrade for the Mumbai journey has seemingly caught travel content creator surprised by former India T20I captain.

Reacting to Suryakumar’s comment, Atul cheekily said he feels ‘greedy’ and thanked the Mumbai batter for the special acknowledgement. He also added a heartfelt note for another Indian batting icon, Sachin Tendulkar, tagging the legendary Master Blaster in hopes that the heartwarming gesture might catch his eye as well.

“Suryakumar Yadav noticed this reel, and now I’m greedy,” Atul wrote.

“I upgraded my mom to FIRST without telling her, and her reaction was pure gold. Thank you @surya_14kumar, Dada!”

“@sachintendulkar sir, if you ever watch this, I hope it makes you smile too. Every mom deserves a surprise like this,” he added.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by atulonthemove (@atulbranade)

Meanwhile, Suryakumar Yadav has been excluded from India’s T20I setup as a captain as well as a player, despite the Men in Blue successfully defending the T20 World Cup this year on home soil, as the selectors replaced him with Shreyas Iyer as captain, citing his recent form and plans for the next two-year cycle.

Suryakumar’s last competitive appearance was in the Mumbai T20 League, where he played for Triumph Knights Mumbai North East and aggregated 163 runs, including a fifty, at an average of 40.75 in five matches.

Also Read: They Came For A Photo, Left With A Memory: Children's Lamborghini Moment Melts Hearts (WATCH)

IND vs AFG: Did Jay Shah Force ACB Member to Give Up Seat for His Security? Truth Behind Viral Claim (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 20:09:24 +0530

The International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman Jay Shah was in attendance for the second T20I of the three-match series against Afghanistan at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Tuesday, September 15.

The Men in Blue, led by Shreyas Iyer, sealed the series 2-0 following a seven-wicket win in the second T20I. Chasing a 160-run target, openers Sanju Samson (57) and Abhishek Sharma (39) formed an 89-run stand before Ishan Kishan (38*) and Tilak Varma (15*) stitched an unbeaten 60-run stand for the fourth wicket to help the home team go past the finishing line with 31 balls to spare.

Earlier, Nitish Kumar Reddy’s three-wicket haul and key wickets by Arshdeep Singh (2/35), Jasprit Bumrah (1/25), Ravi Bishnoi (1/32), and Axar Patel (1/28) restricted Afghanistan, who are the hosts of the series despite playing on Indian soil, to 159/8 in 20 overs.

Also Read: IND vs AFG, 2nd T20I: Jasprit Bumrah's Lethal Maiden Completely Tied Up Ibrahim Zadran (WATCH)

Jay Shah’s Presence Comes Under Spotlight

As Team India sealed the three-match series with an unassailable 2-0 lead, the ICC president Jay Shah’s presence in the VIP enclosure unexpectedly became the center of a social media storm following unverified claims regarding stadium seating arrangements.

Shah, who was BCCI secretary, was sitting alongside Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA) president Rohan Jaitley and the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) CEO Mirwais Ashraf in the VIP enclosure during the second T20I in New Delhi. However, social media clips began circulating that painted a vastly different picture of what actually transpired.

An X user, Qamar (formerly Twitter), shared a clip of Jay Shah and claimed the ICC chairman asked an ACB member to give up his seat for his security guard, sparking an immediate flurry of accusations online.

Absolutely Shameful by Jay Shah During the 2nd T20i between Afghanistan & India, Jay shah asked ACB member to leave his seat for the Jay Shah security guard. pic.twitter.com/X3bQULa7Tf

— Qamar. (@Qamar5618) September 16, 2026

Jay Shah was a secretary of the BCCI for five years before taking up his role as chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC). His presence at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi was part of his high-profile administrative engagement and a testament to his ongoing commitment to supporting bilateral series coordination across international cricket boards.

Truth Behind Jay Shah’s Viral Video

An X user claims that Jay Shah forcefully asked an ACB member to give up his seat for his security is absolutely false and stems from a complete misinterpretation of routine security logistics in a high-profile VIP box.

The truth is that the ACB member, who is the board’s CEO, Naseeb Khan, was sitting right next to the next chairman, Mirwais Ashraf, and was requested by Jay Shah to move to the adjacent seat to accommodate the BCCI President, Mithun Manhas, and ensure proper VIP seating protocol for visiting leadership.

According to the protocol, Mithun Manhas, who took over the reins of the BCCI as its president in September 2025, was seated alongside other key dignitaries, including DDCA President Rohan Jaitley and ACB chairman, turning what was standard multi-board coordination into an entirely routine affair.

, . ! Afghanistan Cricket Board's leadership warmly welcomes Mr. @JayShah, ICC Chairman, and is delighted to host him for the 2nd #AFGvIND T20I this evening in Delhi. #AfghanAtalan | #AFGvIND | #GloriousNationVictoriousTeam pic.twitter.com/5eAPj30s6N

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) September 15, 2026

Therefore, the viral claim that Jay Shah forced an ACB official to vacate his seat for security reasons is misleading and appears to be based on a misinterpretation of the seating rearrangement in the VIP enclosure.

Meanwhile, Team India and Afghanistan will play the third and final T20I at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Thursday, September 17.

Also Read: Nitish Reddy on rehab, positivity after match-winning spell vs AFG

IND vs AFG: Shreyas Iyer Wins Hearts With Special Invite to Ibrahim Zadran for India’s Victory Photo

Hrishikesh Damodar — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 14:53:32 +0530

Team India skipper Shreyas Iyer displayed his exemplary sportsmanship following his side's comprehensive 3-0 series sweep against Afghanistan in the third and final T20I at Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Thursday, September 17.

The Men in Blue dominated Afghanistan in the final T20I, with Abhishek Sharma smashing a record-breaking 30-ball century to power India to 221/7, before the bowling attack bundled out the opposition for 94 in 14.1 overs to seal a series whitewash.

Nitish Kumar Reddy (2/25) and Ravi Bishnoi (3/26) led the bowling charge alongside disciplined spells from Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, and Yash Thakur to wrap up the victory. India were the visiting team, as Afghanistan were the hosts of the series despite playing on neutral venues, turning the final encounter into a memorable celebration of cricket.

Also Read: Sanju Samson vs Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: Gautam Gambhir Explains Tough Selection Call

Shreyas Iyer Invites Ibrahim Zadran for India’s Victory Photo

As Team India whitewashed Afghanistan in the three-match T20I series, skipper Shreyas Iyer decided to close out the series with a gesture that transcended the scoreboard. Since the series was named the ‘Friendship Cup’, Iyer invited Afghanistan captain Ibrahim Zadran to join India’s trophy celebrations and pose for the team’s victory photograph.

In a video that went viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), Zadran was seen initially hesitant when Iyer, Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan gleefully urged him over. Then, the Afghanistan captain stood in the middle alongside Shreyas Iyer, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Yash Thakur, and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi fr a historic snapshot that perfectly captured the essence of the 'Friendship Cup'.

The relationship between India and Afghanistan in bilateral cricket has been built on a foundation of deep warmth and mutual admiration, especially after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) provided Afghanistan with a home base in Greater Noida in 2015 and has continued to support Afghan cricket through regular bilateral engagements.

Indian Captain Shreyas Iyer invited Afghanistan Captain Ibrahim Zadran to join the winning team group picture post match.#AFGvIND #INDvAFG pic.twitter.com/kfrOyc74Bg

— Bashir Gharwal غروال (@bashir_gharwall) September 17, 2026

A similar gesture first came to light when then Indian Test captain Ajinkya Rahane invited Afghanistan captain Asghar Stanikzai and his teammates to join India for a victory photograph with the trophy after their historic 2018 Test in Bengaluru.

Afghanistan Cricket has steadily evolved into a formidable force on the global stage, backed by a legacy of mutual camaraderie and developmental support from the Indian cricketing fraternity.

Fans Praise Shreyas Iyer’s Heartwarming Gesture

Shreyas Iyer’s heartwarming gesture to include Ibrahim Zadran in India’s victory photograph drew widespread praise from cricket fans on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), with many hailing the true spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie beyond the result.

Taking to their X handle, many fans praised Iyer’s gesture, with several describing it as a beautiful display of sportsmanship and highlighting the camaraderie between the two cricketing nations, while others hailed the Indian captain for setting an example of respect and friendship in cricket.

A few expressed their admiration for the gesture, with one calling it ‘true sportsmanship’, while another described it as a ‘beautiful and simple gesture.’

Great gesture including Agg captain in winning Group photo❤️ https://t.co/9B3Ecac0Q6

— Venkatesh (@Venkat64555651) September 18, 2026

This is what the sport is all about Please treat every other teams the same way https://t.co/0lj69LDriS

— Jarks (@skraj_music) September 18, 2026

A beautiful gesture from Shreyas Iyer. Moments like these show that cricket is about respect, sportsmanship, and bringing players together beyond the result.

— Amna Malik (@amna_malik127) September 18, 2026

Good decision to invite Afghanistan Captain, this is Bharath sports sprit. Nobody do this type of spirit in the world. Jai Bharat Jai Hind.

— B. Sudheer Reddy (@SAyodya80490) September 18, 2026

That’s so amazing

— Vishal (@RedPilledVishal) September 18, 2026

Beautiful and simple gesture

— సురేష్‌ నగరకంటి (@SureshNagaraka1) September 18, 2026

True sportsmanship

— Prasenjeet Chatterjee (@PrasenjeetCha11) September 18, 2026

What a beautiful gesture by our boys. ❤️

— Abhishek (@abhishek1) September 18, 2026

@bcci @ACBofficials relationship is different level.....India is one more home away from home for Afghan Cricketers & Students.... Wish it will be for every Afghan Citizensbsone day in near future .... India & Afghan should find a common border ...

— NoneOtherThanNoOne (@Saptashwa7) September 18, 2026

Meanwhile, Team India and Afghanistan will be travelling to Japan for the upcoming Asian Games 2026. The Men in Blue will begin their campaign in the quarter-final on September 28, while Afghanistan will face Japan in the group stage.

Also Read: DDCA lauds great experience hosting India-Afghanistan T20I match

‘Were You Selling Chickpeas?: Wasim Akram Shows No Mercy to Babar Azam Over Chaotic PCB Shakeup (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 18:38:41 +0530

Former Pakistan captain and pace bowling legend Wasim Akram launched a scathing attack on Test captain Babar Azam after the Pakistan Cricket Board's drastic mid-series overhaul during their tour of England.

Under Babar’s captaincy, Pakistan suffered a humiliating 3-0 Test series whitewash at the hands of England, a campaign defined as much by turmoil off the pitch as it was by struggles on it. Ahead of the third and final Test in Edgbaston, visitors saw their seven players and coaching staff dismissed in an unexpected mid-series purge, leaving the team hotel in disarray.

For the Edgbaston Test, Pakistan made four changes to their playing XI from the Lord’s Test defeat, and Babar Azam stepped out for a face to face a barrage of questions about the changes, sparking debate across the cricketing world over the board's heavy-handed interference.

Also Read: Babar Azam turns to domestic cricket amid prolonged dip in Test form

Akram Shows No Mercy to Babar Azam

Wasim Akram, who has often been known for his reputation for speaking his mind without a filter, didn't hold back while dissecting the team's disastrous outing on foreign soil.

Speaking at a charity event in Manchester, Akram questioned Babar’s inability to keep a pulse on his own team's operations, pointing out that total abdication of awareness is unacceptable for an international captain.

“Babar Azam said he did not know. If you don’t know, then what were you doing here? Were you here to sell chickpeas?" Akram said.

“As a player or as a person, I believe that if your leader or captain does not stand by you, you cannot give 100 per cent," he added.

Wasim Akram on Babar Azam captaincy:“I don’t want to blame anyone,I think Babar should never have taken the captaincy.After 2nd Test Babar should have said he would play only as a player. If your leader or captain doesn’t have your back, you can’t give 100%.” pic.twitter.com/NEefW2ZTgg

— Shakeel Khan Khattak (@ShakeelktkKhan) September 20, 2026

At the toss, Babar Azam was asked about the challenge of leading Pakistan amid the major changes, with seven players sent home and the coaching staff reshuffled. He said the developments were news to him as well and directed questions towards the PCB.

After back-to-back defeats at Headingley and Lord’s, Pakistan was under scrutiny not only because of their dismal performance but also for the mounting pressure from fans and experts alike who demanded complete transparency over the abrupt administrative decisions.

‘Babar Azam Should’ve Taken the Captaincy’

Further speaking on the team’s leadership vacuum, Akram asserted that Babar should have stepped down from the role entirely after the second Test defeat.

“I do not want to blame anyone, and I could be wrong as well," Akram said.

“But in my opinion, Babar should not have taken the captaincy. All of this was unnecessary. My suggestion is that after the second Test, Babar should have said that he would play only as a player," he added.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), under Mohsin Naqvi’s chairmanship, faced growing criticism over its team’s decision-making as it struggled to cope with the fallout from the abrupt changes.

Pakistan men’s team's international assignment is the ongoing Asian Games 2026, where they will begin their campaign in the quarter-finals on September 28.

Also Read: Mike Hesson expresses desire for permanent Pakistan Test coach role

Who is Tavengwa Mukuhlani? First Zimbabwean to Become ICC Deputy Chairman

Hrishikesh Damodar — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 20:26:51 +0530

Zimbabwe Cricket chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani has been appointed as the deputy chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday, September 17. The announcement came after the ICC Board approved Mukuhlani’s appointment to succeed Singapore’s Imran Khwaja, who departed the Board.

Tavengwa Mukuhlani, who has been serving as Zimbabwe Cricket chairman since 2015, will serve as the ICC Deputy Chairman until November 2027. Mukuhlani had already been part of the ICC’s administrative setup, serving on the Finance and Commercial Affairs Committee and the Nominations Committee, while also chairing the HR and Remuneration Committee.

The appointment of Tavengwa Mukuhlani as ICC Deputy Chairman has made him the first Zimbabwean appointee. Additionally, Mukuhlani is the first Zimbabwean to hold one of the top positions and the second overall to become the deputy chairman of the world governing body of cricket.

Also Read: Sri Lanka's Sonal Dinusha crowned ICC Player of the Month for August

Focus on Olympic Return and Global Expansion: Tavengwa Mukuhlani’s First Remarks

Following his appointment as the Deputy Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), Tavengwa Mukuhlani expressed his gratitude to the board of directors and emphasised his commitment to advancing the sport's global footprint during an exciting era for cricket, including the 2028 Olympics.

“I look forward to working closely with our Chairman, Mr. Jay Shah, whose leadership, energy and ambition have brought a clear sense of purpose to the ICC, with a strong focus on growing cricket, creating opportunities for our Members and reaching new audiences and markets,” Mukuhlani said in a statement released by the ICC.

“Cricket is entering an exciting period, particularly with its return to the Olympic Games and continued global expansion.

“I look forward to supporting our Chairman, Mr. Jay Shah, and fellow board directors in advancing our shared priorities and serving the best interests of cricket globally,” he added.

NEW: Zimbabwe Cricket Chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani has been appointed Deputy Chair of the ICC, becoming the first Zimbabwean to hold the position.Mukuhlani will serve until November 2027, while remaining ZC Chairman and Zimbabwe’s representative on the ICC Board.The… pic.twitter.com/0L13Cs0Mw3

— Adam Theo (@AdamTheofilatos) September 17, 2026

Tavengwa Mukuhlani’s appointment came at a time when Zimbabwe will be hosting the 2027 ODI World Cup, alongside South Africa and Namibia, marking a momentous double for African cricket as the continent prepares to showcase the sport on both the administrative and global playing stages.

The last time Zimbabwe hosted the World Cup in 2003, joining South Africa and Kenya as host nations.

Who is Tavengwa Mukuhlani?

Before his appointment as ICC Deputy Chairman, Tavengwa Mukuhlani had already established himself as an experienced cricket administrator, having served as Zimbabwe Cricket chairman since 2015 and as Zimbabwe’s representative on the ICC Board since August 2015.

During his decade-long tenure, Mukuhlani navigated Zimbabwe through turbulent times, especially after the board was suspended by the ICC in July 2019 over government interference in the administration of Zimbabwe Cricket. Zimbabwe was subsequently readmitted to the ICC in October 2019 after the elected board was reinstated.

Under Tavengwa Mukuhlani’s leadership, Zimbabwe Cricket managed to clear its significant debts and integrated the women's national team into the ICC Future Tours Programme. Apart from serving as ZC chairman and in his new role as ICC Deputy Chairman, Mukuhlani also serves as Chairman of the Africa Cricket Association (ACA).

Talking about his education, Mukuhlani trained as a pharmacist and later built a career spanning healthcare, business and cricket administration. He is affectionately known as “Doc”, a nickname dating back to his university days.

Also Read: Ravichandran Ashwin turns 40: BCCI celebrates the spin legend's career

IND vs AFG, 3rd T20I: Abhishek Sharma's Spiritual Celebration After 30-Ball Century Goes Viral (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 21:43:12 +0530

Team India opener Abhishek Sharma has unleashed absolute carnage in the third and final T20I of the series against Afghanistan at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Thursday, September 17.

After being put in to bat first by Afghanistan skipper Ibrahim Zadran, India’s openers Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson kept the opposition bowling attack at the bay, with the former taking center stage with an explosive knock. The Men in Blue raced to 142/0 in 9.4 overs before Abhishek’s threatening stay at the crease.

Abhishek Sharma played a blazing knock of 108 off 34 balls, including 11 sixes and 9 fours, at an astonishing strike rate of 317.65. The southpaw reached three-figure mark in just 30 balls, making him the fastest Indian batter ever to score a century in the history of T20Is.

Also Read: Abhishek Sharma smashes fastest T20I ton by an Indian, breaks record

Abhishek Sharma’s Record-Breaking Century Celebration Goes Viral

Abhishek Sharma did not show mercy on Afghanistan bowlers, as the Indian opener tore through the bowling attack with relentless aggression, treating the Delhi crowd to a masterclass in power-hitting and aggressive stroke-play that left the visitors completely stunned.

While Sanju Samson was anchoring the innings and protecting the partnership, Abhishek shouldered the responsibility of launching an aerial assault, clearing the ropes at ease and completing his half-century in just 15 deliveries before accelerating even further to reach his historic three-figure mark in double-quick time.

While batting on 99 off 29 balls, Abhishek took a single off the next delivery by Abdullah Ahmadzai to complete his third T20I century. After raising the bat to acknowledge the applause, the 24-year-old sat down, removed his helmet, struck a cross-legged yoga meditation pose on the pitch, and apparently chanted ‘Om Namah Shivaya’

A MAGNIFICENT MILESTONE! Relive the moment Abhishek Sharma brought up a record-breaking hundred #TeamIndia | #AFGvINDpic.twitter.com/SMbmXrtziL

— BCCI (@BCCI) September 17, 2026

Abhishek Sharma scored 102 runs through his 20 boundaries, meaning only six runs came from running between the wickets, underscoring his pure boundary-hitting dominance in one of the most blistering displays ever witnessed in international T20 cricket.

After the scores of 89 and 39 in the first two outings, Abhishek bounced back spectacularly, smashing a record-breaking 108 off 34 balls to finish the series on a high.

Abhishek Sharma's Explosive Knock Leaves Fans In Awe

Abhishek Sharma’s record-breaking century knock has sparked massive reactions on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), with fans and cricket enthusiasts hailing the young opener’s explosive batting display and calling his 30-ball century a knock to remember.

Taking to their X handles, many lauded Abhishek Sharma’s fearless approach and extraordinary power-hitting, with some even backing him to become a three-format star for India in the future. Others praised his record-breaking knock and described his breathtaking innings as a moment that could define his career.

However, a few fans were left in disbelief by his astonishing power-hitting, with one even joking that a double century in T20 cricket no longer looks impossible for the young Indian opener.

Abhishek Sharma’s timing is explosive, and his bat speed is elite. What really stands out is how he generates power through the arc without losing balance that’s what separates a good hitter from a true match defining T20 opener. He’s got huge upside, no hesitation, and plays…

— Swagat (@0xM0rtal) September 17, 2026

A knock to remember for a long time.Remember the name Abhishek Sharma

— Proud Indian (@ProudIndian2507) September 17, 2026

A Gentle reminder to everybody: he is the best T20 batter. He played like this. Many Congratulations!

— Pranav Mahajan (@_cricketpranav) September 17, 2026

Indian T20 squad is incomplete without him

— KAUSTAV (@iamkaustavbhatt) September 17, 2026

I felt he is the guy who could do it very strong I just want to see him play 3 formats in future he has that quality https://t.co/HWN1jsJHyS

— Sportsnerd (@Cricnerd293) September 17, 2026

What a moment for Abhishek Sharma! A fearless, breathtaking innings that showcased his power, confidence and incredible hitting ability. From the very first ball, he looked determined to take the game away. Moments like these can define a career. Take a bow, Abhishek! …

— FailedCricketer (@FailedCrickt) September 17, 2026

With this kind of stroke play, a double century in T20s doesn’t even look impossible for Abhishek Sharma anymore Bro is built different. #INDvsAFG pic.twitter.com/dBBz98NB9M

— AJ (@CricEsportsbuzz) September 17, 2026

hero of decade Abhishek sharma

— GulluEmpire (@GulluEmpire1234) September 17, 2026

I just love this man. I know I will continue watching cricket just because of him after Virat retires.

— X_wood (@x_bwood) September 17, 2026

30 balls for a century vs a full member - that's not batting, that's a highlights reel in real time.Day to remember. Abhishek Sharma has officially arrived.

— Siddharth Bhimani. (@wittysiddharth) September 17, 2026

Meanwhile, Team India posted a total of 221/7 in 20 overs, with Sanju Samson scoring 50 off 35 balls and Shreyas Iyer (17) and Shivam Dube (14) making valuable contributions alongside Abhishek Sharma’s sensational century.

The Men in Blue have already sealed the series 2-0, and the third T20I is being played as the series finale, with India looking to complete a clean sweep against Afghanistan.

Also Read: IND vs AFG, 2nd T20I: Sanju Samson's Reaction to 'Justice Mil Gaya' by Delhi Crowd Goes Viral (WATCH)

IND vs AFG: Abhishek Sharma Chased By Female Fan At Team Hotel Despite Security Intervention (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 17:10:25 +0530

Team India opener Abhishek Sharma encountered an unexpected and chaotic moment at the team hotel following the Men in Blue’s 127-run win over Afghanistan in the third and final T20I of the series at Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Friday, September 17.

Abhishek played a blazing knock of 108 off 30 balls, including 11 sixes and 9 fours, at an astonishing strike rate of 360.00, shattering multiple records to power India to a massive total of 221/7. The explosive opener dismantled Afghanistan’s bowling attack to reach the three-figure mark in just 30 balls, making him the fastest Indian batter to score a century in T20Is.

With this victory, Team India whitewashed Afghanistan in the three-match T20I series to complete a dominant 3-0 sweep, capping off a stellar campaign that had fans buzzing across the capital. However, the euphoria of the historic win quickly took a dramatic turn away from the pitch.

Also Read: DDCA lauds great experience hosting India-Afghanistan T20I match

Abhishek’s Female Fan Breaches Hotel Security in Viral Video

As Abhishek Sharma became the star of the night for his blistering performance that left his ardent fans and Delhi crowd mesmerized, a dramatic security breach unfolded behind the scenes.

In a video that went viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), Abhishek was seen entering the hotel alongside his squad when an unexpected encounter disrupted the routine entry. A woman, who was reportedly a passionate fan of the Indian opener, was seen running towards Abhishek in an attempt to get closer to him for a photograph.

However, the hotel security immediately intervened and tried to stop her from approaching the cricketer. And yet the woman continued to chase Abhishek, even as multiple security personnel attempted to hold her back, creating a chaotic scene at the hotel entrance.

Abhishek Sharma was heading to the team hotel when a girl suddenly started running after him for a photo. Even after 5–6 hotel staff tried to stop her, she kept chasing him, crying and screaming.Morne Morkel looked genuinely shocked and uncomfortable watching the whole… pic.twitter.com/OFJy83ni12

— Elysium (@CricketElysium) September 18, 2026

This was not the first time Abhishek Sharma had come across such a close encounter with fans. During IPL 2026, Sunrisers Hyderabad’s flamboyant opener had his hand forcibly grabbed and pulled by a female fan at the team hotel, leaving him visibly startled and uncomfortable before security personnel intervened.

Given his rising popularity over the last year, Abhishek has attracted a massive fan following, with his explosive performances on the field making him one of the most talked-about young stars in Indian cricket.

How Did Abhishek Sharma Perform Throughout the Series?

Abhishek Sharma will travel with the India squad for the upcoming Asian Games 2026 in Japan, where the Men in Blue will defend the Gold medal that they won in the 2023 edition of the event.

Also Read: IND vs AFG, 3rd T20I: Abhishek Sharma's Spiritual Celebration After 30-Ball Century Goes Viral (WATCH)

Asian Games 2026: Indian Cricketers Left to Handle Their Own Gear After Long Nagoya Trip (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 16:57:47 +0530

Indian men’s cricket squad, led by Suryakumar Yadav, made their arrival in Japan for the Asian Games 2026. Team India landed at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport on Sunday, September 20, before travelling on to Nagoya.

Shreyas Iyer-led Men in Blue travelled to Japan following their T20I assignment against Afghanistan, who are also part of the Asian Games. However, Team India’s arrival in Japan was not only for the Asian Games but also for a historic one-off T20I match against the hosts on September 22.

India and Japan will take on each other in a historic T20I match at the Sano International Cricket Ground in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, on Tuesday. This will be the first international meeting between the two teams in cricket. The occasion is to celebrate the 75th anniversary of India-Japan diplomatic relations.

Also Read: Suchika Tariyal proud of historic MMA bronze at Asian Games 2026

Indian Cricketers Left to Handle Their Own Gear upon Arrival

As Team India arrived in Japan for a historic T20I match and the Asian Games 2026, the players were seen carrying and handling their own luggage after their long journey from India to Nagoya.

Since the airports in Japan don’t have a facility for porters to handle passengers’ luggage, the Indian cricketers were seen carrying their own bags and cricket gear upon arrival in Nagoya. In a video that went viral, the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Yash Thakur were seen exiting the airport with kits and luggage on their respective trolleys.

After Team India players reached the bus, which was waiting outside the airport, they loaded their luggage and cricket kits before leaving for their hotel in Nagoya. This was a stark contrast to the usual arrangements for Indian cricketers on overseas tours, where team support staff generally assist with their luggage and cricket gear.

NO VIP TREATMENT IN JAPAN Team India arrived in Japan ahead of their September 22 clash and the Asian Games. After such a long journey, the players looked exhausted while carrying their heavy luggage themselves. pic.twitter.com/OWoJzHqXbh

— Mukku (@Cric_Mukku) September 21, 2026

The majority of the Team India players arrived in Japan for the first time in their international careers, with the squad travelling to Nagoya ahead of their historic T20I against Japan and the Asian Games campaign.

India’s Schedule for the Asian Games 2026?

Team India, led by Shreyas Iyer, will look to defend the gold medal that the Men in Blue won in the 2003 edition of the event in Hangzhou, China. Ruturaj Gaikwad was the captain when Team India scripted history n Hangzhou, and the current squad is now eager to replicate that success on Japanese soil.

Team India will directly play the quarterfinal, as the defending champions have received a direct entry into the knockout stage. The Shreyas Iyer-led side will face the second-placed team from Group A on September 28 at Korogi Athletic Park in Aichi Prefecture.

With Group A consisting of Afghanistan, hosts Japan, and Nepal, the group stage fixtures will determine which side advances to test their mettle against the defending champions later this month.

If India win the quarter-final, they will play in the semifinal on October 1. The final and bronze-medal match will take place on October 3. All the matches will be played at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, Aichi Prefecture, including the quarterfinals, semifinals, and medal matches.

Also Read: Coach Gautam Gambhir meets Amit Shah ahead of Japan T20I match

Major Shake-up Ahead? Ajit Agarkar Writes to BCCI Expressing Intent to Step Down as Chief Selector

Hrishikesh Damodar — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 22:44:26 +0530

The BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar’s future at the helm of the senior men’s selection committee has been thrown into uncertainty following the board’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) at its headquarters in Mumbai on Friday, September 18.

Agarkar has been serving as the head of the selection committee since July 2023, and his current tenure is set to expire in October this year. Ahead of the BCCI’s AGM in Mumbai, the former India pacer’s future has become a major talking point in Indian cricket's power corridors.

Also Read: BCCI defers chief selector decision, Dhumal and Majumdar retained

Agarkar Asks Board to Look for Alternatives

As Ajit Agarkar’s future as BCCI chief selector has become a major point of discussion, the former India pacer, whose tenure has witnessed significant transitions including India's T20 World Cup triumph and leadership changes, has reportedly written to the board members about his decision to step down.

According to the report by the Hindustan Times, a BCCI official stated that Agarkar wrote an email asking the board to look for alternatives once his term comes to an end in October this year.

“In his communication, Agarkar has cited his previous discussions with the board in February, when he had first alerted top decision-makers to look for alternatives at the end of his current term,” a BCCI official told the HT.

Ajit Agarkar had informed the BCCI of his decision not to continue as chief selector, just a day before the review meeting.

— Nitin K Srivastav (@Nitin_sachin) September 18, 2026

Following the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting (AGM), the BCCI vice-president stated that the office-bearers have been authorised to take decisions on the selectors, with the board set to decide on the matter at a later stage.

‘15 Days to Go’

Further speaking on Ajit Agarkar’s future as the BCCI chief selector, secretary Devajit Saikia stated that his tenure still has 15 days left, adding that the board will take a decision at the appropriate time.

“We still have 15 days to go, a long time in the world of cricket. We will make a decision at the appropriate time,” Saikia told the reporters.

Meanwhile, speculation has emerged that former India wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel could likely succeed Ajit Agarkar as the next chief selector. It was reported that Parthiv has emerged as the strong frontrunner to take over the top role if extension talks between the incumbent and the board fall through.

Also Read: Decision on Ajit Agarkar's tenure as chief selector in 15 days: BCCI

‘Comes Out of Syllabus’: Zaheer Khan’s Appointment as CSK’s New Head Coach Leaves Fans Surprised

Hrishikesh Damodar — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 20:05:29 +0530

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) seemingly pulled off a surprise by appointing former India left-arm pacer and 2011 World Cup winner Zaheer Khan as its new head coach ahead of the IPL 2027 auction.

Zaheer’s appointment came two months after long-time head coach Stephen Fleming stepped down following two decades at the helm, marking the end of a legendary era in franchise cricket. Following Fleming’s decision to part ways with the five-time IPL champions, the CSK management was hunting for a new coach ahead of the 2027 season.

The reports suggested names like Eoin Morgan and Brendon McCullum, who was replaced by Stephen Fleming as England’s Test coach, as potential frontrunners. However, Zaheer Khan, who worked with Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants, emerged as the surprise choice for the role.

Also Read: IPL 2027: Zaheer Khan replaces Stephen Fleming as CSK's head coach

Zaheer Khan’s New Innings with CSK

Former India pacer Zaheer Khan will begin his new innings in the capacity of head coach with Chennai Super Kings, after having served as a mentor for Lucknow Super Giants and held senior cricket operations and player-development roles with Mumbai Indians.

For the first time in his career post-retirement, Zaheer has stepped into the head coaching position at the helm of an IPL franchise, tasked with carrying forward the winning culture built over nearly two decades. His appointment came at a time when the five-time IPL champions were looking to begin a new chapter following a disappointing 2026 season and the departure of their long-serving coach Stephen Fleming.

The CSK officially announced Zaheer as the new head coach through its X handle (formerly Twitter), writing:

“Left Arm “Taking” Over! Welcoming Zaheer Khan as the Head Coach of Chennai Super Kings!”

Left Arm “Taking” Over! Welcoming Zaheer Khan as the Head Coach of Chennai Super Kings!#WhistlePodu #Yellove

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) September 21, 2026

Zaheer Khan’s role as head coach of Chennai Super Kings, a long-time rival team of Mumbai Indians, with whom the former Indian pacer previously worked in a senior coaching and development capacity, adds another intriguing chapter to his IPL journey.

Having played under the captaincy of MS Dhoni, Zaheer reunites with his former India skipper in the dugout, combining their wealth of cricketing intellect to steer the Yellow Army toward a formidable resurgence.

Fans React to Zaheer Khan’s Surprise CSK Appointment

Zaheer Khan’s appointment as the new head coach of the Chennai Super Kings has sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with fans and cricket enthusiasts expressing surprise and excitement over the unexpected move.

Taking to their X handles (formerly Twitter), fans welcomed Zaheer Khan to the CSK setup, while others described the appointment as unexpected and highlighted his tactical knowledge and bowling expertise. Some fans also expressed optimism about the former India pacer’s ability to shape CSK’s bowling attack,

However, a few fans admitted they did not see the appointment coming, with some calling it a surprising choice while still expressing curiosity about how Zaheer will shape Chennai Super Kings’ new era.

Good luck to one of the most favourite bowling captains we have ever had! All the best, @ImZaheer

— Nikhil (@CricCrazyNIKS) September 21, 2026

Two of Best indian cricketing brains will work together, hope they can give few good talent to indian cricket .

— Tuna Patro (@tuna_patro56225) September 21, 2026

Left arm taking over. But the interesting part starts now.Zaheer the bowler mastered the art of reading batters and building plans.Now he gets an entire CSK dressing room to work with.Can the left-arm master build CSK's next bowling identity?#CSK #IPL2027 #3rdManView

— Third Man View (@3rdManView) September 21, 2026

Replacing Stephen Fleming after nearly two decades is the toughest coaching job in franchise cricket. Bringing in Zaheer Khan brings elite bowling acumen and modern dugout experience right when CSK needed a strategic reset. Big move! ✍️ #CricketTwitter #IPL #CSK

— Vinod (@WINod2419) September 21, 2026

That was unexpected man. Well done great choice @ChennaiIPL . Welcome home sir @ImZaheer !!

— Archit Garg (@ar_chit7) September 21, 2026

Zaheer Khan to CSK feels bold, unexpected, and very much pure WhistlePodu energy.

— Swagat (@0xM0rtal) September 21, 2026

He seems to be a good call. His nature and game knowledge is good , I think it will go well with csk.

— NoCoSaL (@NoCoSaL) September 21, 2026

Comes out of syllabus :) Thalla touch https://t.co/mBfpSgt1C4

— Sahil Malhotra (@Sahil_Malhotra1) September 21, 2026

Welcome to the den Zaheer Khan A new chapter begins at Chennai Super Kings. The experience the knowledge and the winning mindset you bring can make this journey special.All the best Coach! Whistle Podu! https://t.co/79yk1xi00t pic.twitter.com/89ZVqY4oLI

— Avnish Tiwari (@avnishtiwarii) September 21, 2026

Definitely didn’t see this coming ! But honestly great to see an Indian coach in the CSK setup. Zaheer's tactical brain is top tier, very curious to see how this plays out

— NK | Curious Mind (@BuildWithNK) September 21, 2026

Considering how great our bowling attack is I am happy with this move.

— Dev (@ZenithDev07) September 21, 2026

Zaheer Khan will work alongside former CSK captain MS Dhoni, batting coach Mike Hussey, and the rest of the franchise’s support staff as he takes charge from Stephen Fleming ahead of IPL 2027.

Also Read: New England coach Stephen Fleming eyes WTC glory and No. 1 Test rank

For the first time since 2009, the Chennai Super Kings appointed a coach outside of their traditional inner circle, breaking a 17-year operational mould and signaling a bold, forward-looking strategic shift for the franchise

‘Nice Mate’: Brett Lee Praises Young Bihar Bowler’s Incredible Stump-Hitting Accuracy (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Sat, 19 Sep 2026 02:36:56 +0530

In a sheer display of raw pace and pinpoint accuracy, a grassroots bowler from Bihar has captured the attention of the cricket fraternity by shattering all three stumps in a viral video, with former Australian pacer Brett Lee also impressed by the youngster’s stunning effort.

In a video posted by the young bowler, Mohit Kumar was seen uprooting one stump with each delivery on an uneven mud surface, eventually knocking down all three stumps with three successive balls before pulling off Mohammed Siraj’s trademark ‘Siuuu’ celebration, mimicking the iconic football-style leap and twist made famous by Cristiano Ronaldo.

Indian grassroots talent across the country often stays out of the spotlight as they hone their skills on rough pitches and local grounds far from mainstream infrastructure. Now, with social media, their talent can reach a much wider audience.

Also Read: UPL 2026: Haridwar Elmas to face Nainital Tigers in men's opener

Indian Grassroots Bowler’s Exceptional Stump-Hitting Accuracy

Mohit Kumar, a bowler from Bihar’s village, was first brought to the spotlight after Star Sports shared a video of his impressive bowling skills on social media, especially on Instagram. Thereafter, Mohit’s Instagram handle started gaining traction as cricket fans flocked to his videos.

A video that went viral on social media has particularly grabbed the attention of the cricketing world, in which he was seen hitting one stump with each delivery and knocking down all three stumps with three successive balls.

Mohit uprooted the middle stump on his first delivery before returning to knock down the leg stump with his second ball and then the leg stump with his third delivery. Each delivery was executed with remarkable precision, leaving the three stumps scattered one after another. And then, he celebrated by doing Mohammed Siraj’s trademark ‘Siuuu’, adding a fun touch to his impressive display.

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A post shared by Star Sports India (@starsportsindia)

Mohit Kumar has posted several videos of his bowling skills, showcasing his tireless dedication and raw talent. Kumar seemingly practices on rough village pitches, as evident from the rough mud surfaces and natural surroundings visible in his clips.

Since access to the grassroots network can often feel limited, digital platforms have become a vital bridge, helping young talents gain visibility beyond their local communities.

Brett Lee’s Comment Goes Viral

A viral video of Mohit Kumar’s precision bowling quickly transcended ordinary digital feeds when it caught the eye of legendary Australian fast bowler Brett Lee on Instagram.

In the comment section of his video, Lee dropped a simple yet meaningful two-word reaction, writing "Nice mate." It appears to be a fitting tribute to a stunning display of raw talent, who was grinding away on rough village pitches.

Mohit Kumar was delighted to receive the appreciation from one of Australia’s greatest bowlers, thanking him for the encouraging words and calling Lee his inspiration.

“Thank you so much, sir. You are my inspiration. I am a fast bowler from a small village in Bihar. Your comment means a lot to me, sir.

Mohit Kumar’s journey from a remote village pitch to receiving validation from one of the fastest bowlers in cricket history highlights the undeniable power of social media in turning raw, unpolished street talent into an overnight inspiration.

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Sanju Samson vs Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: Gautam Gambhir Explains Tough Selection Call

Team Asianet Newsable — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 10:22:50 +0530

New Delhi: Indian coach Gautam Gambhir has cleared the air on why young talent Vaibhav Suryavanshi didn't feature in the playing XI for the T20 series against Afghanistan. Gambhir said that the 15-year-old prodigy will have to wait a little longer for his chance to play for Team India.

Vaibhav had entered the Afghanistan series in red-hot form. He was named 'Player of the Series' during the Zimbabwe tour, where he scored 151 runs at a blistering strike rate of 196.10. However, with Sanju Samson's return to the squad, Vaibhav had to sit on the reserve bench, a move that disappointed many fans. He wasn't given an opportunity even in the final match of the series on Thursday, September 17.

Why Sanju instead of Vaibhav?

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Gambhir highlighted Sanju's consistent and strong performances for India in recent times. He also confessed that dropping Sanju for Vaibhav during the previous England series was the most difficult decision of his coaching career.

"Sanju has already proved his worth. A World Cup-winning performance doesn't just happen by chance. Dropping Sanju for the England series was perhaps the toughest decision of my coaching career. But sometimes, you have to prioritise a player's form. I wanted to go back to the same team combination that won the T20 World Cup. A player doesn't become bad just because they fail in three or four consecutive matches. The players in a World Cup-winning team don't suddenly become bad after one series," Gambhir said after the match.

Living up to Gambhir's trust, Sanju Samson delivered a stellar performance against Afghanistan, scoring 117 runs, including two half-centuries.

'Vaibhav has to wait'

Gambhir clarified that while Vaibhav Suryavanshi's talent is undeniable, Sanju was always the priority. The coach also assured that when Vaibhav gets his chance, he will be given a long run in the team.

"We have clear communication with Vaibhav; he has to wait for his chance. We know his talent very well. But someone who has been performing well for years will always get priority over a newcomer. When he gets his chance, we will give him a long run. That's how Indian cricket is. We want that kind of competition and talent in the dressing room. Whether you are 15 or 30, sometimes you have to wait for your chances," Gambhir added.

Cricket fans are now hopeful of seeing Vaibhav Suryavanshi on the field in the upcoming Japan T20 series or the Asian Games.

Click here to watch Asianet News Live

‘I Ignored the Message’: Akash Deep Recalls Calling Rahul Dravid to Apologise Before Test Debut (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 23:55:29 +0530

Team India pacer Akash Deep revealed a hilarious story before making his Test debut against England in the fourth Test of the five-match series against England in Ranchi in 2024. Akash made it to the playing XI after the team management decided to rest Jasprit Bumrah to manage his workload.

The Bengal pacer received his maiden international cap from then-head coach Rahul Dravid, who handed him the cap in an emotional ceremony. Akash Deep had a brilliant start to his Test debut, rattling England’s top order by dismissing Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Zak Crawley in a memorable opening spell.

Akash picked up three wickets in the first innings, but in the second innings, he was unable to add to his tally as England were bowled out for 145, with India winning the Test by five wickets. In the final Test, Akash Deep was dropped from the playing XI to make way for Jasprit Bumrah, who returned after being rested for the Ranchi Test.

Also Read: IND vs AFG: Shreyas Iyer Wins Hearts With Special Invite to Ibrahim Zadran for India’s Victory Photo

When Akash Deep Ignores Rahul Dravid’s Test Debut Message

On the eve of his Test debut, Akash Deep encountered an unexpected yet funny moment of confusion when he received a message from the head coach himself, which he initially overlooked before realizing the monumental news and hastily calling back to apologize.

Speaking at Panchayat Aaj Tak Bihar, Akash Deep revealed that Rahul Dravid’s number was not saved on his phone when he received a message from the former India captain about making his Test debut. Soon, he called Dravid to apologise for ignoring his message initially.

“I got a message from Rahul sir saying, ‘You are playing tomorrow.’ His number was not saved on my phone, so I ignored the message,” the Bihar cricketer said.

“I was restless because I had a doubt whether I was playing. When I checked the message again, I realised it was Rahul sir's number. I called him and said, sorry, sir, your number was not saved, so I missed the message,” he added.

'जब राहुल सर का मैसेज आया कि कल का मैच मैं खेल रहा हूं.. तब उनका नम्बर सेव नहीं था... वो जिंदगी का सबसे बड़ा ऑफर था'- आकाशदीप, क्रिकेटर#PanchayatAajTakBihar #Bihar #BiharSports #Cricket #ATVideo | @SwetaSinghAT | Akash Deep pic.twitter.com/oOzLncWVTI

— AajTak (@aajtak) September 18, 2026

Akash Deep was added to India’s squad for the remaining three Tests against England as Avesh Khan’s replacement, earning his maiden Test call-up after impressing for India A against the England Lions.

Though he played only one Test in the series, Akash Deep made a memorable debut, finishing with three wickets in the first innings against England.

‘Biggest Opportunity of my Life’

After receiving confirmation from Rahul Dravid about making his Test debut against England, Akash Deep viewed the opportunity as the biggest test of his 22-23 years of hard work and preparation.

“I was happy, but I looked at it as an opportunity. I thought that this was the biggest opportunity of my life,” the 29-year-old said.

“Whatever I had done over 22-23 years, these five days were the examination for that,” he added.

In his Test career, Akash Deep has picked up 28 wickets, including a four-wicket haul and a fifer, at an average of 35.78 and an economy rate of 3.91 in 10 matches. His best Test performance came in India’s tour of England, where he picked up 13 wickets at an average of 36.46 and an economy rate of 4.34 in 3 matches.

Meanwhile, Akash Deep was included in the Rest of India’s squad for the upcoming Irani Cup against reigning Ranji Trophy champions, Jammu and Kashmir, only subject to fitness, as he has been on the sidelines due to an injury.

Also Read: Major Shake-up Ahead? Ajit Agarkar Writes to BCCI Expressing Intent to Step Down as Chief Selector

WATCH: Gravity-Defying Looping Spin Delivery Produces Bizarre Wicket in Local Pakistan Cricket Match

Hrishikesh Damodar — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 23:43:52 +0530

Pakistan’s local cricket match witnessed hilarious yet wild scenes as a bowler uncorked a delivery defying conventional physics, floating high into the night sky before dipping sharply to catch the bewildered batter off guard.

In a video that went viral on social media, especially on X (formerly Twitter), a bowler was seen delivering a looping ball that rose sharply into the air before dipping sharply and spinning towards the batter, who was completely deceived by the unusual direction of the ball and ended up losing his wicket.

Since the spin bowling with a clever variation used an extreme, almost acrobatic run-up reminiscent of village cricket, where bowlers would often try different unorthodox techniques to deceive batters, the delivery left both the batter and the fielders stunned.

Also Read: ETPL: Maxwell's 82* keeps Belfast's qualification hopes alive

How Did Bowler Deceive the Batter?

The local Pakistan cricket match was between two unnamed local teams, and it grabbed the attention of social media users, especially on X (formerly Twitter), because of the sheer audacity of the delivery's flight path and the batter’s complete helplessness at the crease.

In a viral video, the bowler was taking a run-up from quite a distance away, building up momentum before unleashing the spinning delivery with an exaggerated action that sent the ball high into the air. The ball then dipped sharply towards the batter, who was looking to hit a big shot.

However, as the batter was attempting to go for a shot, his willow connected with the ball, but the resulting edge flew into the air and was caught by the wicketkeeper behind the stumps. The bowler, fielders, and the umpire were left amused by his bizarre dismissal, while the batter stood there at the crease for seconds in disbelief before walking back to the pavilion.

Crazy DismissalVillage cricket never fails to deliver pic.twitter.com/a1c7vq8v0e

— Ravi (@ravimane53) September 16, 2026

The local cricket match often allows the bowlers to try different variations and experimental techniques that would never survive the scrutiny of professional international play, proving yet again that grassroots cricket remains the most unpredictable and entertaining theater in the sport.

Since grassroots cricket doesn’t gain as much spotlight as International cricket, moments like this captured on camera serve as a brilliant reminder of the raw, unscripted, and eccentric brilliance thriving away from the global limelight,

Viral Delivery Leaves Cricket Fans Stunned On Social Media

A viral video of the bowler’s unorthodox looping delivery and the batter’s bizarre dismissal has sparked a flurry of reactions on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), with fans and cricket enthusiasts expressing disbelief and amusement over the bizarre delivery and dismissal.

Taking to their X handles, many fans jokingly reacted to the batter’s bizarre dismissal, with some calling the delivery a ‘moonball’ and others saying they would retire if dismissed that way. Some also praised the bowler’s clever variation, while others simply found the dismissal hilarious.

However, a few users admitted they would be left stunned or embarrassed if they were dismissed in such an unusual manner.

Nothing wrong with a bit of flight and guile! https://t.co/xsh3lOjfQ0

— Iceland Cricket (@icelandcricket) September 17, 2026

There's no way https://t.co/sWMUrhAuYi

— Athi (@aahhtee) September 16, 2026

I would cry if I got out this way https://t.co/ATvxERcsCb

— “no more mutants” (@snikiwe_) September 16, 2026

Absolute gold https://t.co/dLp3XW1N14

— Lazza (@Lazza_58) September 16, 2026

Batsman would be in a depression now

— ` (@kshitij_extra) September 16, 2026

Now *that* is a moonball

— Rich Harle (@RJHarle) September 16, 2026

@Kyenedy we’ve seen a few of these “above the helmet line” displays in our cricket coaching time

— Chris de Klerk (@chrisdeekay) September 16, 2026

If I would got out like this, I would retire at that moment.

— Apurva Patel (@Apurva25) September 17, 2026

Batter having nightmares for ever about this

— ChaturGPT (@CoinRichKid) September 17, 2026

Hilarious

— Amit T (@amittalwalkar) September 16, 2026

@geoffreytoyana one of the reasons I avoid watching associate countries is the fear of coming across stuff like this.

— Tat'uRadebe (@hlubizer) September 16, 2026

The local cricket match has been a source of not just entertainment but also a showcase of brilliance when the cricketing world least expects it, turning an ordinary afternoon fixture into an unforgettable internet phenomenon that unites cricket lovers across borders.

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