Episodes

Oct 1

The Asia Cup turned out to be an ugly affair. Dominated by off-field drama, the continental tournament made headlines for the wrong reasons more often than not. India and Pakistan met three times, including a historic first in the final. Yet, their battles will be remembered more for the tensions on the field than for any memorable cricketing moments. From the handshake snub to provocative gestures by Pakistan players, the India-Pakistan clashes were a disappointment for purists of the sport. India, however, simply took a stand they believed in. Pakistan, on the other hand, opted for the ugly route, focusing on theatrics rather than cricket. The drama reached its peak on the final day when Pakistan Cricket Board chief Mohsin Naqvi walked away with the trophy after India refused to accept it from him. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Alan John, and Kingshuk Kusari reflect on what was arguably one of the most controversial cricket tournaments in history. Tune In! Produced By Areeb Raza Sound Mix By Aman Pal

Sep 19

When Pakistan finally took the field against the UAE in Dubai on Wednesday, the Asia Cup match began under a cloud that had little to do with form or tactics. An hour-long delay, frantic calls between Lahore and Dubai, and the sudden spectre of a boycott turned routine pre-match preparations into a full-blown media circus. This episode was not an isolated burst of indignation. It was the latest in a familiar pattern: a board that prizes theatrics and brinkmanship over consistency, with players left carrying the collateral damage. Fans can debate whether the handshake snub was provocation, misunderstanding, or politicisation by India. The bigger question is simpler: did the PCB protect its players, or use them as bargaining chips? The answer is grimly obvious. Yes, there is merit in defending players from perceived slights. But there is a world of difference between a quiet procedural protest and a public demand that risks boycotting a tournament. One seeks resolution. The other seeks optics. The PCB chose optics — and the players bore the weight. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Alan John and Debodinna Chakraborty discuss how Pakistan scored an own goal, again!  Produced by Nikhil Khattar   Sound mixed by Aman Pal

Sep 12

India and Pakistan are set to clash in the Asia Cup group stage on Sunday in Dubai. The much-anticipated contest comes amid cross-border tensions and calls in India to boycott the game. Unlike previous high-voltage encounters, the hype this time feels muted. As of Friday, even the tickets were not sold out. On paper, there remains a clear gap in talent and class between the two sides, even in T20 cricket. India, the reigning world champions, look far stronger. Pakistan, missing their key batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, are still trying to adapt to the modern approach in the shortest format. Sunday’s game could well turn into a one-sided affair, with India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, eager to assert dominance over their arch-rivals. The Indians sent out a strong message in their opening match against UAE, bowling them out for just 57 runs and chasing the target in only 4.3 overs. The question remains: does Pakistan have the bowling firepower to trouble India and make this contest competitive? If not, another lopsided result could further dent the already waning quality of this once-fierce rivalry between the neighbours. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Kingshuk Kusari, and Saurabh Kumar discuss the imbalance between the two teams and what to expect from the India–Pakistan tie in the Asia Cup. Produced by Nikhil Khattar   Sound mixed by Aman Pal 

Sep 5

India are set to face Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup T20 after the Indian government recently clarified its stance on playing against Pakistan despite ongoing cross-border tensions. The Men in Blue will kick off their campaign against the UAE on September 10. However, all eyes will be on the blockbuster clash between the two arch-rivals at the Dubai International Stadium on September 14. This will be the first time India and Pakistan will face each other in an international cricket match since the Pahalgam terror attack. Should India boycott matches against Pakistan in continental and ICC tournaments, or should sports and politics remain separate when it comes to India-Pakistan encounters? Senior sports journalist Nikhil Naz joins the usual cast of Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar on the Sledging Room podcast to break down the rivalry and share insights from his two decades of covering the Asia Cup.

Aug 29

Cheteshwar Pujara retired two years after playing his last Test. R Ashwin bowed out midway through a Test series in Australia. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma announced their retirements from Test cricket during the IPL season. Yet, none of them were accorded a farewell. Overseas stars such as David Warner and James Anderson were able to choose their stage and script emotional farewell matches. Why can’t Indian greats enjoy the same privilege? Is this down to the BCCI’s inability to communicate better with its senior players? Pujara’s retirement also raises a crucial question: Is there still space for Test specialists in modern-day cricket? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Kingshuk Kusari and Saurabh Kumar debate whether India’s modern-day greats have been short-changed in retirements. Tune in!

Aug 22

India have named a 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025, starting on 9 September. While Shubman Gill’s return to the T20I format – and that too as vice-captain – grabbed the headlines, a few notable omissions raised eyebrows. Has Gill’s comeback unsettled a well-oiled T20I line-up? What happens to Sanju Samson’s role as opener now? And, more importantly, what more does Shreyas Iyer need to do to break into this Indian T20I side? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari debate India’s Asia Cup squad. Tune in! Produced by Nikhil Khattar Sound mixed by Suraj Kumar Singh

Aug 14

The two icons of Indian cricket are back in the news. After India fought hard to draw the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, there’s calm after the storm with no international assignments scheduled for the men’s team until the Asia Cup in September. However, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have once again been dragged into the headlines. Reports are circulating that the two players might retire after the ODIs in Australia this October. But why? Kohli and Rohit are still among India’s best one-day batters, and both have expressed their desire to play in the 2027 World Cup. Why are we forcing a transition when there’s no need for it? Meanwhile, Shubman Gill is reportedly set to be named vice-captain for the Asia Cup T20Is. While Gill is undoubtedly India’s next big cricket superstar, does he deserve a spot in the T20Is? Will India disturb the well-established opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Alan John, and Saurabh Kumar discuss the chatter around some big selection calls that are expected soon. Produced by Nikhil Khattar Sound Mixed by Aman Pal

Aug 6

An epic final day brought fitting end to what has been a gruelling Test series between India and England. Mohammed Siraj left everything on the ground on the final day of the Oval Test match, handing India a comeback victory at the Oval. With the win in the final Test, India also levelled the 5-match series, 2-2, against the Ben Stokes side. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Kingshuk Kusari, Rishabh Beniwal and Alan John review the India vs England series. They go through the epic and the controversial moments occurred over the 40 days of play, and how it all culminated in the 40 minutes of sheer drama on Monday, August 4. The trio put in a lot of focus on Gautam Gambhir, who has been in the headlines through this series. The India head coach, already under pressure from series losses against New Zealand and Australia, might just have saved his neck owing to some sensational performances from the Indian cricketers. Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti

Jul 29

India scripted a great escape in the 4th Test match at Manchester. Ben Stokes's England were left frustrated by the grit of Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar. Controversy struck on the final day of the Test match when Jadeja and Sundar refused to go off the field, despite the hassling of Ben Stokes and Co. England, led by Stokes, wanted the batters to call it curtains much before the scheduled closure of play after realising that they were not going to win the match. A massive wave of criticism followed Stokes and his team for unsportsmanlike conduct and trying to dictate the opposition's approach with the bat. Safe to say, the self-proclaimed custodians of the game failed morally as well. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the draw in Manchester, which felt like a win. They also build up to the 5th and final Test match of the series, which might have major workload concerns for both teams. Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti

Jul 22

India have a massive injury crisis on their hands ahead of the 4th Test match, set to start on July 23. Nitish Kumar Reddy and Arshdeep Singh have been ruled out of the Manchester Test match, and it is being reported that Akash Deep might not play as well. The injuries are not limited only to the bowling department. It is likely that Rishabh Pant will not be keeping wickets in the 4th Test due to his existing finger injury, which means that Dhruv Jurel will need to be drafted as the specialist keeper. What will be India's combination for the 4th Test? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room, Kingshuk Kusari, Saurabh Kumar, and Alan John discuss India's issues going into the Test match, and how this series has started to give Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 vibes. Further, the trio discuss the allotment of the WTC Final to England for the next three cycles and what has been brewing closer to home, in the Indian Premier League. Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti

Jul 15

It was a heartbreak of epic proportions for India at Lord’s. Chasing 193, they were reduced to 82 for 7 and then 112 for 8. Just when it seemed England would wrap things up on the final morning and head in for a relaxed Lord’s lunch, Ravindra Jadeja stood tall with a resolute act of defiance. He faced 181 deliveries for a gritty 61, with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj for company. But did India miss a trick by not being more proactive while Jadeja was batting with the tail? While it may be unfair to expect Jadeja to take undue risks, was there a moment that slipped away? What really led to India’s defeat at Lord’s, despite having dominated large portions of the Test? Was it Shubman Gill’s soft dismissal? Was it poor umpiring? Or the top-order collapse in the second innings? As we head into an eight-day break in the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy, is it time for India to rethink their playing XI? Will Jasprit Bumrah return for the Manchester Test? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Debodinna Chakraborty unpack the drama and heartbreak of Lord’s. Tune In Now Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Suraj Singh 

Jul 9

After the humbling at Headingley, not many expected India to bounce back the way they did in Birmingham. Despite piling up over 800 runs in the first Test, India lost after England chased down 371 in the final innings — a stunning blow. But at Edgbaston, it was a different India. Ruthless, clinical, and relentless. Led by Shubman Gill’s record-breaking 430-run performance and a sensational 10-wicket haul from Akash Deep, India demolished England and delivered a brutal body blow to Bazball. Did you see that coming from Gill? Criticized for his inconsistent overseas form, he’s now silenced his doubters in style — and is on course to break some major world records. As for England — were they arrogant? Did they underestimate India again? Why can’t they play for a draw when needed? Are they simply incapable of batting in the traditional way anymore? With India riding high on confidence, and the third Test at Lord’s just around the corner, the series hangs in the balance. Who will edge ahead in this enthralling race? All eyes now shift to London. Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti

Jul 2

The days of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, and Ishant Sharma hunting in packs in overseas Tests feel like a distant memory. While Bumrah still leads the pace unit, India’s overdependence on their premier fast bowler is becoming a worrying trend. In Australia, it was Bumrah or bust. He picked up 30 wickets before breaking down ahead of the series-deciding Test — and missed the Champions Trophy campaign due to injury. In England, things haven’t started well either. India appear to have learned little from past mistakes. In the first Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in Leeds, Bumrah was a lone warrior. Mohammed Siraj looked out of sorts, while Prasidh Krishna and Shardul Thakur failed to provide any meaningful support. Despite Bumrah’s five-wicket haul and four Indian batters hitting centuries, India slumped to defeat. Head coach Gautam Gambhir has defended the bowling group, insisting the young pace attack needs time and backing. But is there merit in that argument? Can India continue to be so heavily reliant on Bumrah without unearthing new fast-bowling heroes? Ahead of the second Test between England and India at Edgbaston, Akshay Ramesh, Kingshuk Kusari, and Saurabh Kumar break down the state of India’s pace attack in today's episode. Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti

Jun 25

It was truly a baptism by fire for Shubman Gill in his Test captaincy debut. India lost a match they could have—and perhaps should have—won, despite racking up over 800 runs across two innings, fuelled by four centurions and a five-wicket haul from their pace spearhead. Yet, as a new era of Indian Test cricket began, they were once again undone by familiar frailties that have plagued them in the past. England, it must be said, made light work of a daunting 371-run target on the final day. Over the course of a fiercely contested five days at Headingley, captain Gill witnessed nearly every shade of Test cricket: India’s top order fired, he silenced his doubters with a maiden century in the much-debated SENA conditions, his vice-captain struck a hundred in each innings of the Test, but his bowling unit failed to function as a collective, his fielders turned in one of their poorest performances in recent memory, and his lower middle-order folded quicker than some of those ferrying drinks onto the field. Who takes the blame for India's defeat in Leeds? There's no Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli to pin the blame on. Coach Gautam Gambhir backed his team, but did stir some controversies in his press conference post the game. With just 1 win in the last nine Tests, Gambhir is under pressure. Does he deserve more leeway? Did India get the team wrong in Leeds? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Alan John and Kingshuk Kusari discuss India's missed opportunity in the Leeds Test. Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti

Jun 19

India are set to embark on a 5-match Test series against England. Shubman Gill is captaining a new-look side away from home, as India hopes to start the new World Test Championship cycle in style. As the Sledging Room Podcast returns with the first episode of Season 3, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari discuss India's chances in the series and the potential of this new-look team giving England a run for their money. There are several talking points going into the series. What is the status of Jasprit Bumrah's fitness, should the axe fall on Gautam Gambhir if India fails in another overseas tour and what should India be a little braver in selecting their Test line-up. The series will be a massive test of Shubman Gill's mettle, who even till the start of 2024 did not have his place settled in the playing XI. If young Shubman can lead the way with the bat, it would earn him massive respect in the dressing room. But will he able to separate his batting from his leadership? As we build up for the Test series, the trio discuss a host of talking points ahead of the 1st Test at Headingly. Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Suraj Kumar Singh

May 27

The Lucknow Super Giants splashed a massive amount of cash on Rishabh Pant in the Indian Premier League 2025 mega-auction. But things went horribly wrong for both Pant and his franchise this season. LSG failed to make it to the playoffs, and Pant endured a historic low in the competition. Questions were raised about Pant’s ability as a T20 batter and as a leader of the side. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari discuss what went wrong with the Lucknow-based franchise and their captain. They also delve into the fortunes of the Delhi Capitals — Pant’s former side — who failed to qualify for the playoffs despite starting the tournament in riveting fashion. Delhi amassed a strong squad this season but suffered an incredible collapse in the second half. Constant changes in their batting order and the failure of their spinners in the final few matches overshadowed individual brilliance from the likes of KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs. Delhi were also hurt by the failure of their management, who were unable to provide the squad with the right replacements when needed. Here’s a recap of the near misses from this season of the tournament, with a special focus on the future of LSG captain Rishabh Pant. Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound mix by Suraj Singh

May 16

Virat Kohli has announced his shock retirement from Test cricket, just 770 runs short of the coveted 10,000-run mark. Despite the BCCI's efforts to convince him to stay for the upcoming England tour, Kohli decided the time was right to step away. Known for his fiery passion and unrelenting drive, Kohli’s Test legacy remains unmatched. But with his departure, the big question looms: Who will captain India in the red-ball format? Jasprit Bumrah or Shubman Gill? In this episode, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Alan Jose break down Kohli’s decision, his legacy, and what lies ahead for Indian Test cricket. Don’t miss this crucial conversation. Tune in! Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound mix by Suraj Singh

May 5

What were you doing at 14? Vaibhav Suryavanshi, at just 14, has become the toast of the cricketing world after smashing a 35-ball hundred — a knock far beyond his years as he pummelled 11 sixes, two of which travelled over 90 metres. Vaibhav became the youngest player in Twenty20 history to score a century when he dismantled some of the best bowlers in the business against Gujarat Titans. The audacity and power of his strokes left the cricket world in awe. But is it really possible for a 14-year-old to generate such immense power? We asked his coach, Manish Ojha, about the teenager’s journey from the dusty fields of Bihar to international stardom in the IPL. Ojha revealed that Vaibhav was clearing 90-metre sixes as an 11-year-old. While Vaibhav has captured the spotlight at an age when most are still dreaming of hitting a boundary in gully cricket, experts believe he must be nurtured with care to ensure his growth stays on track. In the latest episode of The Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari delve into the rise of the IPL’s latest phenomenon. Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound mix by Rohan Bharti

Apr 25

Just a week ago, everyone had written off the Mumbai Indians. But with four straight wins and a squad clicking in perfect rhythm, they've roared back into the spotlight. The five-time champions aren't just winning—they're dominating, playing with the swagger and confidence of a team that knows exactly how to conquer titles. In contrast, Rishabh Pant - acquired for a record-breaking Rs 27 crore to lead Lucknow Super Giants - has looked a shadow of his once-destructive self. After nine matches this season, he has mustered just 106 runs, with 63 of those coming in a single knock against CSK. Pant has always thrived when brimming with confidence, but at LSG, he seems jaded and weighed down by expectations. His strike rate of 96.36 is alarmingly low for someone of his caliber. Part of the issue could be his constant shuffle in the batting order, never quite settling into one role. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja have retained their spots in the Grade A+ bracket of the BCCI central contracts despite stepping away from T20Is. We break down how the BCCI arrived at that decision. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Saurabh Kumar, Kingshuk Kusari, and Alan Jose John dissect the central contracts, Pant's struggles, and Mumbai Indians' roaring comeback in IPL 2025. Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound mix by Rohan Bharti

Apr 24

As IPL 2025 approaches its halfway stage, one trend is becoming increasingly clear: teams with strong captain-coach partnerships are thriving. Whether it’s Axar Patel and Hemang Badani, Ashish Nehra and Shubman Gill, or Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting — clear communication and mutual trust are driving success. We saw a similar impact last year with Gautam Gambhir’s return. This raises an important question: Is the IPL becoming more like football, where man-management takes centre stage? What exactly is the coach’s role — to offer technical input or to manage egos and personalities? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Rishabh Beniwal dive into the evolving role of coaches and dissect the worst captain-coach combos of the season. Tune in now! Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound mix by Suraj Singh

Apr 3

Two of the biggest icons of the IPL, MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma, are under scrutiny in the 2025 season. The Dhoni mania in Chennai has turned into a cringefest, while concerns over Rohit's form continue to grow. At 43, Dhoni remains sharp behind the stumps and still packs a punch with the bat. However, the idol-worship in Chennai has taken an uncomfortable turn, with some CSK fans even cheering for the dismissals of players batting ahead of him—sparking criticism from former cricketers. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma is struggling to find form. Could Mumbai Indians be forced into a tough decision if his slump continues? Also, why are some teams unhappy with home curators this season? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari break down these burning IPL 2025 topics. Tune in now! Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound mix by Suraj Singh

Mar 28

Well, RCB are on top of the IPL points table. Yes, after the first round of matches, the men from Bengaluru are sitting pretty. They delivered a stellar performance against defending champions KKR in the IPL 2025 opener. Early signs are promising for the perennial underachievers. Could 18 finally be their lucky number? Meanwhile, CSK, DC, and SRH kicked off their campaigns with strong performances, but Rajasthan Royals have been dismal in their first two outings. They hardly resemble a side coached by Rahul Dravid. KKR, on the other hand, bounced back emphatically with a dominant win in Guwahati after their opening-day defeat to RCB. What’s with teams opting for secondary home venues? Does it truly work in their favour? And no discussion would be complete without sparing a thought for the bowlers. The IPL is becoming an all-out run-fest, leaving bowlers with nowhere to hide. What does the future hold for bowling in T20 cricket? In the latest episode of The Sledging Room, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari break down the opening week of IPL 2025. Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound mix by Rohan Bharti

Mar 11

Is Rohit's India the best in ODI history? India clinched the Champions Trophy 2025 by beating New Zealand. Rohit Sharma's team played a dominant campaign, winning the title without losing a single game. Since taking over the team, Rohit has changed the culture in the Indian team, first under the stewardship of Rahul Dravid and then Gautam Gambhir. This has resulted in India dominating the ICC white-ball competitions, where they reached the final in the 2023 ODI World Cup and won two trophies in 2024 (T20 World Cup) and 2025 (Champions Trophy). So, where does that put Rohit on the list of incredible white-ball captains that India has had? And where does this Indian team rank in terms of the best white-ball sides in the world? In this episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Kingshuk Kusari, and Alan John review the Champions Trophy Final and shed light on all the talking points of the tournament. Stick around till the end, where Akshay continues to ask his weekly trivia question. Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound mix by Suraj Singh

Mar 6

The Champions Trophy 2025 has reached its final stage. India and New Zealand are set to take on each other in the summit clash at the Dubai International Stadium on March 9, Sunday. While ICC tournaments usually have an edge to them, the ongoing tournament has been kind of bland. From washouts to security breaches in the stadiums and a lack of fans, this edition of the Champions Trophy has not had any zip about it. Is it the PCB, which is responsible for this mess, or is it the ICC, which has not been able to get the fans into the stadiums in the ODI format? With the stadiums not filling to the brim in the majority of the ODI matches, it begs an important question. Is ODI cricket dying? Once considered the preferred format between the grit of Test and the flamboyance of T20Is, is ODI cricket going to die a sorry death? Akshay Ramesh, Kingshuk Kusari, and Alan John discuss the Champions Trophy final and review the tournament in the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast. Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound mix by Rohan Bharti

Feb 24

How disappointed were you on Sunday? Whether you were a Pakistan fan or an Indian fan, and whether or not you enjoyed Virat Kohli's masterclass, you must have felt a tinge of sadness watching cricket's biggest rivalry turn into a one-sided affair. Once fierce competitors, Pakistan have now become India's punching bags. The Champions Trophy 2025 match in Dubai was a prime example. At no point did Pakistan look threatening. With the bat, they were timid against an Indian attack that wasn't even at its best. Captain Mohammad Rizwan played an outdated brand of ODI cricket, and Pakistan paid the price. None of their batters showed urgency, appearing overawed by the occasion and the flamboyance of the Men in Blue. What's hurting Pakistan cricket? Meanwhile, Virat Kohli silenced his critics yet again. The batting great delivered a flawless knock of 100 from 111 balls, dismantling his favourite foes. However, Indian cricket fans should remain cautious-tougher tests await their batting superstar. In the latest episode of The Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Kingshuk Kusari, and Alan John dissect the India vs Pakistan snoozefest and review the first week of the Champions Trophy 2025. Tune in! Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mix by Rohan Bharti

Feb 18

The Champions Trophy returns to the cricket calendar after eight years, marking a significant moment for Pakistan, which hosts a major ICC event for the first time in 29 years. Eight teams will compete for the prestigious title, once famously dubbed the mini-World Cup. India enters as the outright favorite, but in a high-stakes tournament like the Champions Trophy, where margins for error are minimal, every team has a chance. While India's bowling unit appears slightly vulnerable without Jasprit Bumrah, their overall strength makes them strong contenders for the title. Can Pakistan defend their crown at home? Though their approach to modern-day ODIs has been questioned, home advantage could work in their favor. While Australia and England seem out of form, Afghanistan could emerge as the dark horse from Group B. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Alan John, and Sabyasachi Choudhury analyse the strengths and weaknesses of all eight teams and rank them accordingly. Tune in! Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti

Feb 12

Why fix something that isn't broken? India seem to be overcomplicating their combination in the ODI series against England, which is a worrying sign ahead of the Champions Trophy. There appears to be a real problem of plenty for coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma. Why on earth did they leave out Shreyas Iyer for the series opener in Nagpur? An injury to Virat Kohli meant Shreyas got an opportunity after a late phone call from the skipper. The star batter revealed he was not in the XI as late as the eve of the match. India had initially decided to play both Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill in the XI at the expense of Shreyas. However, after Shreyas let his bat do the talking in the first ODI, India dropped Yashasvi for the second match. Similarly, India picked four spinners in their squad for the Champions Trophy and later added Varun Chakravarthy. Why are we mixing formats again? Why not Kuldeep Yadav instead of Varun? The team combination issue isn't limited to India. Injuries have forced the likes of Pakistan and Australia to rethink their line-ups. With just over a week to go before the Champions Trophy, things are starting to heat up. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, we discuss the selection muddle and the build-up to the Champions Trophy. Tune In! Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti

Feb 5

India's T20I side is looking formidable after a dominant 4-1 series win over England at home, continuing their impressive run in the shortest format of the game. Under Suryakumar Yadav's captaincy, India have established a settled line-up in T20Is. Young talents are excelling, while senior players are embracing greater responsibility. The template set by Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid prior to the T20 World Cup triumph has been maintained, with a few lovely updates. Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson have stood out as openers, showcasing fearless cricket at the top of the order. They have been brilliantly backed by captain Suryakumar and coach Gautam Gambhir. Tilak Varma has also cemented his place in the XI with consistent performances. Barring the established trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Kuldeep Yadav, questions arise about whether there is room for other star players to return without disrupting the current balance of the T20I side. Leading up to the 2024 T20 World Cup, the Rahul Dravid-led management reintroduced Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja. While the trio delivered strong performances, their return impacted team continuity and limited opportunities for emerging players. Can Gautam Gambhir resist the temptation to reintegrate superstars? What will happen when Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant become available for T20Is? Will they be considered, and how will their inclusion affect the current dynamics? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, we also delve into the build-up to the Champions Trophy, as India and England prepare for a three-match ODI series starting on 6 February. Tune in! Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti

Jan 28

How good are India in T20I cricket? Since winning the T20 World Cup in 2024, India have taken their game in the shortest format of the game a notch higher. It seems the transition period in T20I cricket has been more seamless than in Tests for India. Three doyens of the format - Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja - retired after the World Cup triumph. However, India don’t seem to miss them a lot. The coach-captain partnership between Gautam Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav has worked wonders. While Gambhir has not managed to find success in Test cricket, he has been a remarkable coach in T20I cricket. Why so? Is it time for India to think about having different coaches for different formats? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, we also discuss the widening gap in the relationship between star players and journalists. Also, is Bazball really going to work in limited-overs cricket? Tune In Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti

Jan 25

Rohit Sharma suffered twin failure on his return to Ranji Trophy after nine years. The India captain struggled against Jammu and Kashmir in Mumbai. While he has not regained form, questions about his participation in the first-class tournament have emerged. What’s the point of Rohit playing Ranji now? There was an opportunity for him to play domestic cricket before the 2024-25 Test season. What can Virat Kohli achieve from one round of Ranji Trophy? Will India look past their batting superstars for the tour of England, which starts in June? Well, what do you make of India’s Champions Trophy squad? What was the need for India to pick four spinners? Will Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami be fit? Were the BCCI selectors right in not picking Sanju Samson? Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the Champions Trophy squad and Ranji Trophy performances in the latest episode of Sledging Room Podcast. Tune In Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti

Jan 15

The Board of Control for Cricket in India's top brass seems to have listened to legendary Sunil Gavaskar. The BCCI is showing it’s not a cheerleader for star players. The latest restrictions on families, wives and girlfriends have created a stir in the cricket community. Are the families on a tour a distraction? Well, this clampdown on family time is not new, but it has been brought back after India’s flop show in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, raising concerns about the health of the senior national men’s team. Meanwhile, all eyes are on the selection committee meeting, scheduled for January 18/19, as the Champions Trophy squad announcement is due over the weekend. Should Jasprit Bumrah be a part of it? Are Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli automatic selections? How about Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakravarthy for the Champions Trophy? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the family diktat and the probable Champions Trophy squad. Tune In! Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Nitin Rawat

Jan 7

India surrendered the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after seven years following a disappointing campaign that concluded in Sydney. The team unravelled after their loss in Melbourne, and Jasprit Bumrah’s absence denied them the opportunity to push for a series-levelling win in Sydney. Is it fair to point fingers at individuals? Or is this a collective failure of the Indian team? Yes, Rohit Sharma was poor both with the bat and as captain. Virat Kohli lacked the spark that once made him a Test cricket great. The two senior batters failed to step up when the team needed them the most. But if we criticise the batters for their failures in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, why should the coaches escape scrutiny? Under Gautam Gambhir, it has been all talk and no action. Why was his coaching staff unable to address the team’s technical troubles? With India’s hopes of reaching the World Test Championship final now extinguished, is it time to begin the transition process? Should India wait until the England tour in June to make the tough decisions? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari discuss India’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy failure. Tune in! Produced and sound mixed by Nitin Rawat

Dec 31, 2024

Another decade-long streak has been broken under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy. India lost a Boxing Day Test in Melbourne for the first time in 13 years after their big guns flopped once again. Pressure is mounting on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Are Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma overstaying their welcome in the Test team? How long will we keep hearing the oft-repeated refrain: “Retirement is a personal call?" Does anyone within the Indian cricket team’s setup have the authority to tell Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli that their time is up? Can the head coach or selectors take the bold call of dropping them in Sydney? Some established senior players in the past, including Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane -- the heroes of India’s last Test series triumph in Australia -- were told their services were no longer required when their form dipped. Is there a different standard for the superstars? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Rishabh Beniwal, and Saurabh Kumar discuss the Boxing Day horror and what to expect in the New Year’s Test. Tune in! Produced and sound mixed by Nitin Rawat

Dec 25, 2024

The build-up to the Boxing Day Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground has been fiery. India superstars Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja have been the centre of attention for the Australian media. The host media targeted the India duo with bizarre allegations ahead of the 4th Test match. While Kohli was accused of misbehaving with a female reporter, the press accused Jadeja of not entertaining questions in English. While both allegations were busted later, did Australian media cross a line with the Indian team? If the whole media vs players has been one of the talking points this week, the teams have had more drama. Ravichandran Ashwin opted to retire and fly out in the middle of the tour; the Australian team management snubbed a young batter after just 3 Test matches. Both teams are expected to field fresh line-ups for the Boxing Day Test. But which team has the upper hand? India - who will be playing at their traditional stronghold in Australia? Or the hosts, who have done sensationally well in the last three Tests at the venue? Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari discuss this in the latest episode of the Sledging Room. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mixed by Nitin Rawat

Dec 18, 2024

Ravichandran Ashwin’s decision to announce his retirement shocked the cricketing world. Rumors began circulating on Day 5 of the Gabba Test when Ashwin was seen sharing a hug with Virat Kohli in the dressing room. He then made his way to the post-match press conference alongside Rohit Sharma, where he quickly announced his retirement before leaving. While many were taken aback by the announcement, it appears that Ashwin had carefully considered his decision. The spinner is set to return home on Thursday. At 38, when the Test season began with the home series against Bangladesh – where he earned the Player of the Series award – Ashwin seemed to have at least a couple of years of cricket left in him. However, with India not having any immediate red-ball commitments, his uncertain position as a starter in overseas matches, and ongoing knee issues, Ashwin decided to call it a day. He retires with an impressive tally of 537 wickets from 106 Tests. Ashwin made the announcement after the Gabba Test ended in a draw on Day 5. Australia and India remain level in the series as they head into the Boxing Day Test, with the third Test in Brisbane ending in a draw due to more bad weather on the final day, which reduced play to just 24.1 overs. The decision to conclude the match was made shortly after the tea break, which had been advanced due to poor light and impending rain. India, set a target of 275 in about 54 overs, were 8 for 0 in their second innings when play was called off. After a rollercoaster of a Test match at the Gabba, the focus now shifts to Melbourne, where the India-Australia rivalry will be reignited in the highly anticipated Boxing Day Test starting on December 26. Did R Ashwin time his retirement perfectly? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari dissect India's draw in Gabba and discuss how Ashwin's retirement might hamper India's BGT chances. Tune In! Produced and Sound mixed by Sachin Dwivedi

Dec 9, 2024

Not many expected India to suffer a limp loss like they did in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. After hammering Australia by 295 runs in Perth under Jasprit Bumrah's captaincy, India were humbled by 10 wickets in Adelaide. India conceded the momentum after a one-sided defeat in the pink-ball Test. Questions have been asked about Rohit Sharma's captaincy and his fading returns with the bat. Rohit looked uninspiring in Adelaide and managed just 9 runs with the bat after opting the No. 6 slot. Rohit made questionable calls and lacked conviction with his bowling and fielding changes. Is time running out for Rohit Sharma? What about Virat Kohli's never-ending struggles with the tight line outside off-stump. The two big guns failed to step up when the team needed them the most. Should India go back to Jasprit Bumrah for the Brisbane Test, starting December 6. Should there be changes to the bowling unit? Should Rohit return to the top of the order? With plenty of questions to answer, India look to bounce back in the third Test. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari diessect India's loss in Adelaide and discuss why it may be just a one-off. Tune In! Produced and Sound mixed by Sachin Dwivedi

Dec 2, 2024

It's time for the pink-ball Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with the Indian team surprisingly being the favourites. Buoyed by their success in Perth, their captain's arrival has bolstered the visitors, Rohit Sharma, ahead of the second match of the series in Adelaide. However, the arrival of Rohit poses a serious question to team management. With KL Rahul doing well as the opener in the Perth Test, will India decide to demote the batter down the order to No.5 or No.6. It had been a spot in which he was playing before the start of the Australia tour, and the result was mixed. Rohit got some match practice during the game against Prime Minister's XI and came out to bat in the No.4 spot. Rahul opened the batting in the match and looked solid and comfortable. Is this an indication that Rohit could sacrifice his place to help his in-form teammate continue his fine run? The hosting of the Champions Trophy has been a hot topic of discussion in recent times, with India and Pakistan at a stalemate and not willing to budge. But could this have been avoided long ago, and did the ICC fumble while dealing with the situation? Kingshuk Kusari, Rishabh Beniwal and Alan Jose John dissect these big questions on the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast. Tune in! Produced and Sound mixed by Sachin Dwivedi

Nov 27, 2024

The IPL mega auction was a blockbuster affair over two days in Jeddah. It took the attention away from India’s landmark Perth Test win, but cricket fans must have enjoyed the bidding wars. The two marquee sets of players grabbed all the limelight in the lead-up to the auction ever since the pruned list of 574 players was announced for the mega auction. As expected, a few teams splurged big money on big faces, who opted to enter the auction after successful stints with their ex-franchises. Some of them had nasty break-ups. Punjab Kings, who are not known for being smart in the auction, were led wonderfully well by newly appointed coach Ricky Ponting and their think tank in Jeddah. Royal Challengers Bengaluru faced the stick for missing out on big buys, but it seems it was a conscious choice as they resisted the temptation of spending big on Day 1. Under Andy Flower and Dinesh Karthik, RCB made smart buys throughout the two-day auction, impressing their fans. Barring the Will Jacks controversy, RCB did all right. What do you make of the teams' performances on the auction table? In the latest episode of the Sliding Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari review the IPL auction. Tune in! Produced and Sound mixed by Anna Priyadarshini

Nov 26, 2024

India landed a stinging first punch in Perth, beginning the five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy on a high. India hammered Australia by 295 runs, handing the hosts their first-ever loss at the Optus Stadium in Perth. Not many expected India to dominate the first Test like they did. Did you? It was a masterclass from Jasprit Bumrah and his men, especially after they were rolled over for 150 in the first innings. Jasprit Bumrah was unplayable with the red Kookaburra in Perth. At his very best, he made life difficult for the Australian batters. Are they scared of facing Bumrah? Is he the best bowler that India has produced? What about the remarkable Yashasvi Jaiswal? He got out for a duck in the first innings of his first Test in Australia. However, he buckled up and hit a daddy hundred in the second innings, deflating Australia. And well, the King is back! Virat Kohli ended a nearly 16-month wait for a hundred in Test cricket. Everything is going right for India. With Rohit Sharma returning for the 2nd Test in Adelaide, will India go 2-0 up in the series? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the sweet start to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Tune in! Produced and Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Nov 21, 2024

As we gear up for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, there’s another major cricket event over the weekend. It’s time for the IPL mega auction. The two-day bidding wars will be held in Jeddah and it will clash with Days 3 and 4 of the first Test between Australia and India. First things first, should the cricket have administrators avoided this clash? Well, money matters! There are 12 players across two marque sets. Rishabh Pant is in the news after stoking controversy over the way he left Delhi Capitals. In a tweet, he said the decision to leave the franchise was not about money. Will Pant be the costliest player in the history of the IPL auction? Will Punjab Kings go for him? What about KL Rahul? Is he returning to Bengaluru? Will KKR go for Shreyas Iyer again? In the latest episode of Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Alan john predict the potential big buys and narratives in the IPL auction. Tune In! Produced and Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi  

Nov 18, 2024

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is almost here! Aren’t you excited? India have been sensational in their last two tours of Australia. However, with a team in transition that has a few injury and availability concerns, it seems that India are on the back foot early in the series. India will not have captain Rohit Sharma, who is on paternity leave, and star batter Shubman Gill, who fractured his thumb during training, for the Perth Test. Mohammed Shami’s absence was already a big loss and India will not have two of their best batters, adding pressure on coach Gautam Gambhir, who is already under the pump. Jasprit Bumrah is set to lead India in Perth and the visitors will need to bring in their incredible fighting attitude to the fore.Can India stun Australia with a weakened side in Perth where the hosts are yet to lose? Who should replace Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill in the XI? Is there a place for young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy in the XI? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the build-up to the much-awaited series opener in Perth. Tune In! Produced and Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Nov 12, 2024

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar criticised Gautam Gambhir, saying he 'does not have the right demeanour' to speak to the media after the head coach addressed a press conference in Mumbai before his departure to Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. In a strongly-worded social media post, Manjrekar urged the Indian cricket board to keep Gambhir away from interacting with the press. Gambhir kept his responses straightforward and brief. From backing Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to praising KL Rahul's versatility, Gambhir was at his optimistic best, emphasising that India is focused on completing a series hat-trick Down Under. He even stated that Ricky Ponting's views about Virat Kohli's form would not matter as India aims to bounce back in Australia. It seems Gambhir's take on the upcoming series has divided opinions. Is it fair to criticise the former opener heading for his first major overseas tour? Should Indian cricket fans be a little more lenient and considerate? Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the explosive start to the Border-Gavskar Trophy buzz in the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast. Tune in! Produced and Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Nov 5, 2024

Few anticipated India would lose a home Test series -- especially not to New Zealand, a team that has struggled on foreign soil since the World Test Championship began in 2019. A 0-3 scoreline added to the disbelief. New Zealand, brilliantly led by Tom Latham, exceeded expectations, outshining India in all facets of the game. The statistics are stark. Rohit Sharma, the captain, has managed just 133 runs in 10 innings, while former captain Virat Kohli has scored 192 runs in the same number of innings. Between them, they recorded only two fifties over five Tests at home during the 2024 season. Although India secured a victory against Bangladesh in a two-Test series, their subsequent series against New Zealand saw them falter dramatically, losing 0-3 in a manner that exposed their vulnerabilities for the first time in many years. Is it time to look beyond Rohit and Virat in Tests? What does a series loss of this magnitude tell about Rohit Sharma’s captaincy and Gautam Gambhir’s coaching credentials? Will India be able to bounce back in Australia? Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari reflect on the shocking loss that has hurt their egos and reputations. Tune in! Produced & Sound Mix By: Sachin Dwivedi

Oct 28, 2024

The BCCI is set to release the Indian Premier League retention list on October 31. There is a lot of noise in the Indian media about who will stay and who will leave the 10 franchises. It seems fans might be in for some shock news as the likes of KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant might leave their respective franchise. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room, Kingshuk Kusari, Saurabh Kumar and Alan John bring out some exclusive news about the Indian Premier League and discuss the latest gossip from all the franchises. Apart from that the focus stays on India's Test series against New Zealand, where the hosts have lost their first-ever bilateral against the Black Caps in the history of their cricket. As concerns lay around the form of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, the trio talk about the imminent transition of the Indian Test team and how the senior members of the side have fared in the recent past. The conversation focuses especially on Rohit Sharma, who has looked unclear in his approach on several instances. Is India's form a point of concern before the all-important Border-Gavaskar Trophy? Tune In! Produced & Sound Mix By: Sachin Dwivedi  

Oct 22, 2024

Yes, we at the Sledging Room praised Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir when India swept Bangladesh 2-0 at home earlier in October. Their approach to the Kanpur Test was fascinating. However, it’s time for some tough questions again after India was stunned by New Zealand in the first match of a three-Test series in Bengaluru. India struggled in pace-friendly conditions in Bengaluru. They made a significant error at the toss, and Rohit Sharma was brave enough to acknowledge it and take the blame. Despite their past successes, India has shown vulnerabilities even at home recently. Some of Rohit Sharma’s tactics are questionable. Are India, under Rohit Sharma, capable of defending the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia? Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the Bengaluru Test shocker and its implications in the latest episode of Sledging Room. Tune in! Produced & Sound Mix By: Kapil Dev Singh

Oct 15, 2024

On Sunday, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) dropped a bombshell by leaving out former captain Babar Azam, along with fast bowling stars Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, for the last two Tests against England. The decision to exclude Babar, Shaheen, Naseem, and Sarfaraz Ahmed was made by a selection committee constituted last week. This committee includes former international umpire Aleem Dar, former pacer Aqib Javed, ex-captain Azhar Ali, and analyst Hassan Cheema, who took the bold step of dropping four senior players from the squad. Being dropped from the national team, particularly for a player who has been a cornerstone of the batting lineup, can be demoralising. This could lead to self-doubt and questions about his place in the team, potentially undermining his confidence further. Many, including Pakistan’s leading white-ball batter Fakhar Zaman, questioned the board’s decision to drop Babar, highlighting how Virat Kohli was given an extended run to regain his form by the BCCI. To put it bluntly, Babar enjoyed the hype and comparisons to modern-day greats, including Virat Kohli. However, he hasn’t managed to shut out the outside noise during this period of intense scrutiny. Meanwhile, the Indian women's team failed to impress in the Women's T20 World Cup. After losing to Australia and New Zealand in the group stage, they are on the brink of an early exit. Is it time to ask tough questions of the team and the management group? Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the big Pakistan bombshell and India's T20 World Cup show in the latest episode of the Sledging Room. Tune in! Produced & Sound Mix By: Kapil Dev Singh

Oct 9, 2024

Sunil Gavaskar dropped a bombshell when he wrote a column for Sportstar, hitting out at those who credited Gautam Gambhir for India’s Kanpur Test win against Bangladesh. Gavaskar said the sole credit for India’s aggressive approach should have gone to Rohit Sharma, the captain of the Test team. He said he felt people indulging in ‘foot-licking’ by crediting the newly-appointed coach. It seems the legendary Gavaskar missed the mark on this occasion. While he stated the obvious by praising Rohit Sharma for India’s fearless approach, his swipe at the head coach's supporters left a bad taste. Meanwhile, India women’s cricket has been facing criticism for its slow start to the women’s T20 World Cup. Some critics have accused the women’s cricket team of not asking the right questions. Can India wriggle out of trouble and make it to the semi-final? It looks less likely after a timid batting performance against Pakistan. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari join the bandwagon and try to make issues out of non-issues. Tune in! Produced and Sound Mix By Kapil Dev Singh

Oct 2, 2024

The Indian Premier League announced its most detailed mega-auction rules for the 2025 season. In a surprise move, the Board of Control for Cricket in India, not only made the tournament robust but also provided several safeguards for franchises from players who randomly opt out of seasons citing various personal concerns. The BCCI also made an 'India-first' move by making sure that no overseas players earn more money from the auction than the highest-paid Indian player. The board further provided incentives to all the players in the Indian Premier League, by introducing the first ever match-fee. Now, players participating in an IPL game will be additionally paid a sum of Rs 7.5 lakh - something that would really help the local cricketers coming from poor backgrounds. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the good, the bad and the ugly of the new retention and auction rules. Before the IPL retention rules, the trio discuss India's incredible victory in the Kanpur Test match against Bangladesh and also Babar Azam's surprise exit from the Pakistan ODI and T20I captaincy. Produced & Sound Mixed By: Kapil Dev Singh

Sep 23, 2024

Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant made a riveting comeback in Test cricket during India's first match against Bangladesh in Chennai. Pant scored a tremendous century, helping India win a comprehensive 280-run victory. Pant also matched MS Dhoni's tally of Test centuries in the process, hurling himself into the debate about the greatest keeper-batters from India in Test cricket. In the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari discuss whether the argument has merit and whether Pant is really on his way to becoming one of the greatest keeper-batters in the history of red-ball cricket in India. The trio also discuss the impact Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin have had on Test cricket for the country and how the in-form duo have dominated in the last four years whenever they have worn whites for India. But before all of that, the latest episode begins with the question of whether fans take India's domination in home Tests for granted and the possible reasons behind it. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Sep 18, 2024

India will be heading into a busy period of Test cricket, starting with the two-Test series against Bangladesh. 10 Tests will be played in a span of 16 weeks, as red-ball cricket will be the flavour of the next few months. India will be looking to get into the third successive World Test Championship final, and a lot will depend on how they perform at home—against Bangladesh and New Zealand—and the all-important five-Test series in Australia from November to January 2025. It will be a crucial phase of Indian cricket which will define Rohit Sharma’s legacy as Test captain. While Virat Kohli remains one of the greatest red-ball captains for India, Rohit has done well in the limited opportunities he has gotten. Having taken over Test captaincy after Virat Kohli’s unforeseen announcement in 2021, Rohit has succeeded. He was not the frontrunner to take over from Kohli, but the former Mumbai Indians captain has created a well-knit unit that has his style -- relaxed and fun-filled. Rohit Sharma, as an opener, has been phenomenal in Test cricket. Promoted to open the innings in 2019, Rohit has been one of the leading run-getters in the World Test Championship. He has proved to be India’s crisis man at home and overseas. Will he continue after the 2023-25 World Test Championship cycle? Should India look to groom a successor in the next few Tests? Will we see Rohit playing and competing in the 2027 ODI World Cup? Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Sep 11, 2024

The anticipation was finally over as the BCCI released the Indian squad for the first Test against Bangladesh on a lazy and uneventful Sunday night on September 8. As expected, the regulars were all picked in the 16-member squad, which welcomed Rishabh Pant back into all-whites. While Pant had a great return in the Duleep Trophy, could the BCCI have given him more game time before making the call to have him back in the squad? Dhruv Jurel did a fine job behind the stumps during the England series and has shown he is a serious contender for the Australia squad. The big name missing from the squad list was Shreyas Iyer, who is back into the good books of BCCI after all the misunderstanding during the England series. However, the Indian batter seems out of the Test picture as KL Rahul has been brought back into the mix. Rahul is tipped to replace Sarfaraz Khan in the lineup for the 1st Test as the competition for the middle-order spot is heating up. Shreyas may need to take his game to the next level in the domestics, especially given the emergence of talents like Musheer Khan. Yash Dayal was one of the heartwarming stories from the squad announcement. He has completed a redemption arc for the ages. Dayal's inclusion comes as India looks to find their next consistent left-arm pacer to create a big talent pool. Regarding the lineup, the big toss-up will be between Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel. Will India go for more strength in their batting lineup, or will Kuldeep's proficiency give him the edge? Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Alan Jose John dissect the big questions ahead of the first Test between India and Bangladesh. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Nitin Rawat

Sep 4, 2024

Hold onto your hats, Indian cricket fans! After a six-month hiatus, Team India is dusting off their white gear and gearing up for action under the guidance of the new head coach, Gautam Gambhir. The stage is set for an electrifying two-match Test series against Bangladesh, kicking off September 19 in Chennai. This series is India’s chance to rev up its engine and fortify its spot at the summit of the 2025 World Test Championship table. The series will mark India’s first red-ball outing since their impressive 4-1 series win against England in March 2024. Meanwhile, Bangladesh are riding high, having just swept Pakistan off their feet in a historic series win. Mohammed Siraj is poised to lead the pace brigade, and Jasprit Bumrah will likely be rested for this series. Kuldeep Yadav will likely spin his magic alongside the all-rounders. The final pace spot is a hot ticket, with Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh battling it out, the latter on the verge of a Test debut. Mohammed Shami’s much-anticipated return might have to wait until the New Zealand series. And here’s the big news: Rishabh Pant is expected to make a grand comeback to Test cricket after a whopping 634 days away, following an arduous recovery from a severe accident. Alongside him, watch for young wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel, who’s expected to join the squad. Srikar Bharat, India’s first-choice keeper against England before Jurel stole the spotlight, might be watching from the sidelines this time. Get ready for a cricketing fiesta that promises thrills, spills, and some severe spin and pace action! In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari discuss who is likely to make it to India's Test squad for the upcoming series against Bangladesh. Tune in! Produced and sound mixed by Sachin Dwivedi

Aug 28, 2024

It's time for another Indian to take over as the new ICC chairman. BCCI secretary Jay Shah was elected as the new chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Upon his election, Shah affirmed his commitment to making Test cricket the "bedrock" of the game during his tenure. Meanwhile, Johnny Grave, CEO of Cricket West Indies (CWI), has raised concerns about the ICC’s revenue-sharing model, warning of serious consequences if it isn't addressed soon. Test cricket has been losing its appeal in countries like Pakistan, West Indies, and South Africa, leading to empty stands during matches. The economic viability of Test cricket has been in question for years, and the rise of lucrative T20 leagues has further threatened the traditional format. Given India's financial influence in the cricketing world, Shah's commitment to supporting Test cricket is reassuring for its fans. On the other hand, it has not been the best of times for the Pakistan cricket team lately. After the early exit in the T20 World Cup earlier this year, they suffered a humiliating 10-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in the first Test of the ongoing series. To arrest the freefall, the Pakistan Cricket Board has turned to Artificial Intelligence to help select players. PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi expressed concerns about the lack of a strong talent pool to replace underperforming players. The PCB hopes its new domestic tournament, the Champions Cup, scheduled in Faisalabad from September 12 to 29, will help develop talent in the long run. The PCB plans to use AI to select a pool of 150 players based on data from the 50-over tournament. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Saurabh Kumar, Sabyasachi Chowdhary and Kingshuk Kusari discuss how Jay Shah's tenure as ICC head might turn out and what has gone wrong with Pakistan cricket. Tune in! Produced and sound mixed by Sachin Dwivedi

Aug 21, 2024

It’s time for the last leg of the World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle. The race for the spots in the final is heating up. India and Australia are in the pole position. South Africa and Pakistan are in with an outside chance. Bazballing England need a perfect run from here on. India are set for their stiffest test when they are set to tour Australia later this year. Yes, Australia have not beaten India in a Border-Gavaskar Test series in a decade. And Australia are not going to go down without a fight in the upcoming 5-Test series. Are India favourites to complete a hat-trick of Test series wins in Australia? Can a Test team that is in transition manage to repeat the heroics of the last two tours? Will Gautam Gambhir and Rohit Sharma combine to script history? Meanwhile, Pakistan will begin their busy home season on August 21 against Bangladesh. Questions have been asked of their all-pace bowling attack for the series opener in Rawalpindi. Can captain Shan Masood walk the talk? Will he be allowed a free hand in this crucial phase? In the latest episode of Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari discuss what promises to be an exciting few months of Test cricket. Tune in! Produced & Sound Mixed By: Kapil Dev Singh

Aug 14, 2024

The BCCI and IPL franchise owners sat down on 31 July to hold discussions about the future of the league. According to media reports circulating at the time, things got heated between few of the franchise owners when the topic of mega auction was raised. The mega auction, where teams are only allowed to retain a maximum of 4-5 players has always been a point of contention for not only the franchises but the fans as well. The successful franchises argue that why should they throw away their good work and rebuild from scratch, and those franchises, whose plans have not gone well, look to hit the reset button. In this episode of Sledging Room, which returns back after a gap of 2 weeks, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the pros and cons of mega auctions, and if there is a better way for the IPL to sustain their product. There is no denying that the mega auction brings a lot of drama to the league, but is it fair for the franchises to hit the reset button every 4 years? Apart from the auctions, the trio also discusses India's recent series loss in Sri Lanka - the first since 1997, and the latest appointment of Morne Morkel as the bowling coach of the Indian team. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Jul 31, 2024

India white-washed Sri Lanka 3-0 in the T20I series under the watchful eyes of Gautam Gambhir. One of the most prominent features in the series was that batters chipped in with the ball when necessary. Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh rolled their arms in a crunch situation and helped India win the final match of the series. This was reminiscent of the pre-2011 era of Indian cricket, where the team had able part-timers in Sourav Ganguly, Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and Yuvraj Singh, among others, who had the ability to hold their nerve when handed the ball. While it is too early to tell if this could be a regular thing, it is surely a welcome change for the Indian team, who have struggled with their combinations in white-ball cricket with their top order not contributing with the ball.  In this episode of the Sledging Room, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the point of the Sri Lanka T20I series and what they learned from Gambhir's first stint as the India head coach. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Jul 24, 2024

How good was head coach Gautam Gambhir in his first press meet? First things first, full marks for his punctuality. He sat down to address several questions with the selection committee chairman, Ajit Agarkar before India departed for the tour of Sri Lanka. One of the most interesting things to emerge from the press conference was the reasoning behind India appointing Suryakumar Yadav ahead of Hardik Pandya as T20I captain. Were injury concerns the only reason why India decided to snub Hardik Pandya? Ajit Agarkar mentioned ‘feedback from the dressing room’ as one of the main reasons behind India naming Surya Rohit Sharma’s successor. Do these reasons convince you? Also, Gautam Gambhir has backed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to play until the 2027 ODI World Cup. Can the two seniors push it until 2027? Did Gambhir make a U-turn with this statement? What to make of Shubman Gill’s appointment as vice-captain in ODIs and T20Is? Does he deserve an automatic spot in the shortest format? Akshay Ramesh, Kingshuk Kusari, and Alan Jose John discuss the much-talked-about press conference in the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast. Tune in! Produced & Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Jul 17, 2024

Just when Hardik Pandya was poised to take over as captain of the Indian team, reports from the Indian media suggested that the BCCI was rethinking and re-evaluating its options. Suryakumar Yadav was floated as a strong option because of his consistency in fitness and his record with the Indian team in the Australia and South Africa series. The discussion continued the selection panel's tradition of making very late adjustments to the squad. Just like Rinku Singh was not included at the very last minute in the Indian T20 World Cup team, Pandya's position as Rohit Sharma's successor in the T20I side has been put in doubt. In this episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Kingshuk Kusari, Alan John, and Debodinna Chakraborty discuss the onset of Gautam Gambhir's era in the Indian team and how it could be one of the most exciting periods for viewers in the country's cricket history. Gautam Gambhir has a big personality, and it is expected that his on-the-face attitude will be injected into the Indian side. If that happens, India could be an absolute force to reckon with in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, set to be played later this year in Australia. But before that happens, India has to get its house in order. There are questions about the transition, the absence of a new support staff for the SL series, and who, between Suryakumar and Hardik, will take over the Indian side after Rohit Sharma's retirement. Tune in! Produced & Sound Mix by: Kapil Dev Singh

Jul 10, 2024

The Gautam Gambhir era as India's head coach has begun. Gambhir's tenure runs until 2027, during which India will compete in three ICC white-ball tournaments and possibly the World Test Championship Finals in 2025 and 2027. Gambhir is expected to secure more ICC titles, but the last 11 years have shown how challenging it is to win world trophies, with only Australia consistently succeeding. Gambhir's response to his new role announcement was characteristic. Instead of featuring his image or past World Cup trophies, he prominently displayed the national flag alongside a message: "India is my identity." Known for his pragmatic approach, Gambhir prioritizes team success over individual stars. His cricketing journey, marked by a late and diligent Test comeback, reflects his commitment to meritocracy rather than age-based exclusions. This philosophy extends to his support for players like Sunil Narine and Andre Russell in the IPL, demonstrating his belief in talent beyond conventional norms. Despite past publicised conflicts, Gambhir and Virat Kohli share a deep-seated competitiveness and aversion to defeat. Their similarities suggest a potential for a productive working relationship, especially given Kohli's role in Gambhir's international return. When Gambhir's tenure ends, he will aim to leave India as the best side in the world, not only in ICC rankings but also with multiple World Cup trophies. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Diya Kakkar preview how the Gautam Gambhir era could pan out. Tune in! Produced and Mixed By Sachin Dwivedi

Jul 1, 2024

Saturday, June 29, will be remembered for ages in Indian cricket history. It was an emotional moment for many who had witnessed heartbreak after heartbreak over the last decade. Rohit Sharma’s India ended an 11-year wait for the International Cricket Council (ICC title) title, beating South Africa in one of the most thrilling finals in the history of the men’s T20 World Cup. Rohit led from the front throughout the campaign. Virat Kohli stepped up when it mattered the most—in the final. Head coach Rahul Dravid signed off on a high, singing a redemption story in the Caribbean. Every decision that the team management and selectors made regarding the T20 World Cup paid off, resulting in India winning their second T20 World Cup crown. Being Rohit, Dravid, and Kohli has not been easy in the last 3-4 years. Rohit Sharma was gutted and heartbroken after the ODI World Cup final in Ahmedabad. An entire nation felt the pain. Dravid’s credentials as a T20I coach were questioned in 2022. Kohli’s place in the World Cup squad was questioned when he returned to the T20I side in January. All of them proved their naysayers wrong. Rohit and Kohli signed off from T20Is at the right time. Dravid ended his coaching stint on a high. There were other heroes as well. Jasprit Bumrah stood out from the rest and showed why he is one of the best in the world. Arshdeep Singh stepped up and created a record performance that will be remembered for the ages. Axar Patel emerged as India’s new all-round hero. Suryakumar Yadav chipped in with crucial contributions. It was a complete team effort. What next for India? Will Gautam Gambhir take over? Should Hardik Pandya replace Rohit Sharma as the T20I captain? Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Alan Jose John celebrate India’s T20 World Cup triumph and issue an unconditional apology. Tune in! Produced and Mixed By Sachin Dwivedi

Jun 28, 2024

Adelaide 2022 has been avenged. India's pursuit of an ICC title appears on track after a 68-run mauling of England in Guyana. England were handed a proper drubbing and this victory will feel a lot sweeter for India as they have made light work of the reigning champions. After the defending champions crashed out in Guyana, English media started crying foul, questioning ICC's decision to allot the second semi-final to India irrespective of their Super Eight standing and the fact that Rohit Sharma's men were the only top side not to play a single match under lights during the entire tournament.  India's campaign in the tournament has mirrored their performance in the home ODI World Cup last year. They cruised into the final unbeaten, only to be outdone by Australia on the big stage. This time, they remain unbeaten and have been the standout team of the tournament. Crucially, Australia, who thwarted their hopes previously, are not in their path to an elusive trophy. South Africa, whose sole ICC event victory was in the 1998 Champions Trophy (then called the ICC Knock-Out Trophy), approached the final with their hopes and dreams. Often labeled as "chokers" throughout their international cricket history, the Proteas are determined to shed this reputation at the Kensington Oval. After having tasted contrasting outcomes in the WTC final and ODI World Cup final, Barbados 2024 could complete the redemption arc for Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Rahul Dravid and Team India. The Indian fans had to suffer twin heartbreaks at the hands of Australia, first in the WTC final in England and then the 2023 World Cup final at home. But now, the unbeaten run presents Rohit an opportunity to finally redeem himself after losing two ICC finals albeit in different formats. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Saurabh Kumar, Kingshuk Kusari and podcast debutant Rishabh Beniwal preview the final of the T20 World Cup 2024 between India and South Africa. Tune in! Produced and Mixed By Sachin Dwivedi

Jun 25, 2024

Rohit Sharma certainly did not have Monday morning blues. The India captain tore into the Australian bowling attack, ensuring Australia got their payback for the ODI World Cup heartbreak. Rohit batted like a man possessed and decimated Australia, ensuring India's unbeaten run to the T20 World Cup 2024 semi-finals. How much credit should Rohit Sharma get for showing the way with a fearless approach? At 37, The captain has been open to changing his approach and playing a selfless brand of cricket. He hit 8 sixes in his 41-ball 92 against Australia, shutting down naysayers who questioned his big-match temperament. After successfully knocking out Australia, India's next target for revenge was England. Jos Buttler's men hammered India by 10 wickets in the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final. However, with a fearless approach, this Indian team will be a tough nut to crack. India is the team to beat, and England has been dangerous. A cracker of a semi-final awaits us in Guyana on Thursday, June 27. Meanwhile, Afghanistan scripted history, beating Bangladesh and qualifying for the men's T20 World Cup semi-final for the first time. They were on a giant-killing spree, beating New Zealand, Australia and Bangladesh. Will they start as favourites against South Africa in the first semi-final? Can the Proteas shed the 'C' tag and reach their maiden T20 World Cup final? And what did you make of Gulbadin Naib's time-wasting tactics in the thriller between Afghanistan and Bangladesh? Are Australia right in cribbing about it? Akshay Ramesh, Alan Jose John and Debodinna Chakraborty preview what promises to be two cracking semifinals. Tune in! Produced and Mixed By Sachin Dwivedi

Jun 21, 2024

Jasprit Bumrah has looked a million dollar in the T20 World Cup 2024. He has 15 overs so far and conceded just four boundaries. He has 8 wickets at an economy rate of less than four runs per over. Yes, India is certainly blessed to have him in their team. The legendary West Indies pacer Ian Bishop calls him a ‘generational’ fast bowler. Brian Lara said he is India’s greatest cricketer of this era. But does he need an ICC title to prove his greatness? Pat Cummins, a modern-day great, has been a serial winner of ICC titles, and his winning spree has helped him further his legacy. Will Bumrah not be considered one of the finest if he doesn’t inspire India to an ICC title? Returning to the ongoing T20 World Cup, India began their Super 8s campaign with a thumping win over Afghanistan. There were doubts over India’s ability to perform on slow and sluggish pitches in the Caribbean, especially after they played all their group-stage games in the USA. But India silenced all critics with a comprehensive win over Rashid Khan’s men in Barbados on Thursday. Does India have the best team to counter these conditions? Are they looking unbeatable again? Can they go all the way without losing a match? Will it be different this time? We don’t need another heartbreak. Do we?  In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari analyse India’s chances of ending their 11-year-long ICC trophy drought based on evidence from their performances in the group stage and the first Super 8 game against Afghanistan. Tune in! Produced and Mixed By: Kapil Dev Singh

Jun 18, 2024

India has reached the Super 8s of the T20 World Cup without losing a single game. India has now travelled to the West Indies for the Super 8 stages and will face Australia, Afghanistan and Bangladesh. Should India change their playing XI, given the conditions will be much more spin-friendly? If so, who gets dropped from playing XI? Many fans on social media have argued for the exclusion of Ravindra Jadeja, given that neither has the all-rounder scored any runs in group stages nor has he picked up any wickets. But will India be brave to drop a senior Indian player to accommodate a specialist spinner like Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal? The Indian team has a slight concern about Virat Kohli. Kohli has scored 1,4, and 0 in the three matches in the group stage, and there are murmurs if the batter should return to the No. 3 position, which might give the Indian team better stability on slower surfaces. Should Kohli return to his role as a grafter in the Indian batting line-up and play the longer innings without worrying about his strike rate? Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari had previewed the teams in the Super 8s and discussed their chances of reaching the semi-finals. The three also discussed the struggles of the Indian batting unit and how the Indian team might overcome that challenge with a single tweak in their composition. The Sri Lankan side has also complained about tournament scheduling. Captain Wanindu Hasaranga and spinner Maheesh Theekshana lashed out at the T20 World Cup 2024 schedule, which sees them play in four different venues. Sri Lanka lost its first match of the campaign to South Africa, which was played in New York. After this, they will play Bangladesh in Dallas on June 7 and then head to Florida to face Nepal four days later. In contrast, a team like India has been stationed in New York and will play 3 out of 4 group-stage matches at the Nassau County Stadium. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Saurabh Kumar, Kingshuk Kusari and Alan Jose John unpack various issues that teams have faced in the first week of this T20 World Cup. Tune in! Produced and Mixed By: Sachin Dwivedi

Jun 10, 2024

How can you not chase 120 when you know the tournament is on the line? The biggest match of the T20 World Cup saw Pakistan do a Pakistan. It was worse. Never has Pakistan been this listless with the bat in a major tournament in the recent past. After a shock defeat to the USA, who are playing a men's T20 World Cup for the first time, Pakistan were humbled by their arch-rivals India in New York on Monday. Pakistan bowlers gave it their all after the run of green went Babar Azam's way at the toss. Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir and Haris Rauf bowled their hearts out to restrict the mighty Indian batting unit for just 119 in New York. However, there was no intent throughout the chase, with Babar Azam failing early and Mohammad Rizwan lacking common sense; Pakistan choked in the chase, losing by 6 runs. The defeat has pushed Pakistan to the brink of elimination. The 2022 finalists are set to exit without even making it to the Super 8s this year. Who should take the blame for Pakistan's horror show? Is it the cricket board? Keep in mind that captains were changed, and new coaches were brought in just months before the T20 World Cup. There is pressure on Babar Azam. Is it time for him to go as captain? Is it time for him to quit T20I cricket? Are Pakistan playing outdated cricket? Plenty of questions as the Green Shirts implode on the biggest stage. India, on the other hand, has won two in two. But they are not yet looking like title contenders. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Kingshuk Kusari, and Alan John discuss Pakistan's T20I team's downfall. Tune in! Produced and Mixed By: Kapil Dev Singh  

Jun 5, 2024

India head coach Rahul Dravid took a slight dig at the tournament organisers ahead of their T20 World Cup 2024 opener against Ireland. Speaking in a press conference, Dravid said it was odd to hold training sessions at a park in an ICC tournament. The stadium was built in a very short time. Even three months ago, there was a public park on the premises. The ICC had avidly advertised how quickly the stadium had been built. However, as it turns out, things had horribly gone wrong. Inconsistent bounce on a fresh pitch and puffs of dust coming out from the outfield meant that the whole thing had been rushed. In India's warm-up game against Bangladesh, batters found it difficult to adjust to the pace and bounce of the pitch. Ahead of India's first T20 World Cup game at the venue, Sri Lanka and South Africa played out a low-scoring thriller. The pitch was in focus again as Sri Lanka was bowled out for 77, and South Africa dragged it till the 17th over to reach the target. This match raised a very important question—is this the kind of cricket that will attract viewers from the USA, where the ICC is trying to spread the game? Given that India plays three games at the same venue, it raises a couple of very important questions. What is going to be the team's combination? Who are the undroppable players from the unit? The team is filled with superstars, but as head coach Rahul Dravid says, conditions will play a major role in the team's campaign in this World Cup. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Saurabh Kumar, Kingshuk Kusari, and Alan Jose John unpack various issues that teams have faced in the first week of this T20 World Cup. Tune in! Produced and Mixed by Sachin Dwivedi

May 31, 2024

The IPL is over, and the biggest T20 carnival is here. The USA and the West Indies will co-host the men’s T20 World Cup from June 1 to June 29. The USA will host a cricket tournament of such magnitude for the first time. 3 venues are hosting the T20 World Cup in the USA, and the big India vs Pakistan clash will be played in New York. The ICC’s move to award the USA the hosting rights is a major step toward globalising the game. One of the most popular sports in the world is heading to the biggest sports market. Will the ICC’s gamble work? Yes, the Asian community in the USA will lap it up. But will the T20 World Cup make some noise in the USA? Well, at least it’s starting. More importantly, the ninth edition of the men’s T20 World Cup will have 20 teams -- as many sides for the first time in history. Is it going to affect the competitiveness of the tournament? Well, more teams will add to the flavour of the tournament and is a big step toward making the game global. Don’t count out the associates. Each one of them deserves to be here. It’s going to be an exciting World Cup, for sure. Can India progress to the semi-final and go all the way? Is Pakistan riding on chaos? Will England be able to defend their crown?  Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Alan John discuss the buzz around the T20 World Cup. Tune in! Produced and Mixed by Sachin Dwivedi

May 28, 2024

Have you seen a more dominant campaign than this? KKR looked like champions and played like champions, winning the IPL 2024 trophy in style. They won 9 out of 14 matches in the league stage and hammered the SunRisers in Qualifier 1 to progress to the final. Let's not talk about the title match! It was one of the most one-sided tournament finals, definitely the most one-sided IPL final. Shreyas Iyer became only the fifth Indian captain after MS Dhoni, Gautam Gambhir, Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya to win the IPL trophy. For Gambhir, it was a sensational return to Kolkata as the team's mentor. And for Pat Cummins, it was the first major tournament defeat as captain. Many Indian fans joked about SRH choking on Sunday, wondering why another team led by Cummins did not choke on November 19, 2023. KKR's dominant run brings us to this question: Who should take credit for their triumph? Should it be Gautam Gambhir? Yes, he deserves a lot of credit for the glorious run. Having taken over as the mentor, Gambhir brought role clarity and kept the team focused on the ultimate prize. Then there is coach Chandrakant Pandit, who has added the IPL crown to his decorated trophy cabinet. How much credit should Shreyas Iyer, the captain, deserve? A lot. The India batter had a difficult period before the IPL, losing his central contract and battling an injury. However, he never let that affect his leadership on the field. He stepped up with the bat in crunch situations and looked calm and composed. Should Shreyas be a future candidate for India captaincy? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari reflect on KKR's run. We have also picked our IPL 2024 Team of the Tournament. Tune in! Produced and Mixed by Sachin Dwivedi

May 25, 2024

Pat Cummins has guided SRH to the final of the Indian Premier League 2024. The Hyderabad-based side are going to face KKR in the summit clash of the tournament. Two mentality monsters in the world of cricket - Pat Cummins and Gautam Gambhir are set to go head to head at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Chennai on Sunday, 26 April Cummins has made waves around the world since taking over as captain. Cummins has won the Ashes at home, and drawn it away. He has won the WTC Final against India in 2023 and has beaten India in India in the ODI World Cup 2023. In the only format that he had not been captaining - T20 - Cummins' purple patch has taken SRH to the final of the IPL - one of the biggest, if not the biggest franchise league in the world 2 ICC trophies in a single year, and is now in touching distance of the IPL glory. Where does this put Pat Cummins as a captain? Can he be compared to a certain - all-conquering MS Dhoni? On the other hand, do we not talk enough about KKR captain Shreyas Iyer who came back from an injury and guided his team to the final, and made it look very comfortable while doing it? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Kingshuk Kusari and Sabyasachi Chowdhury discuss the mellow build-up of IPL 2024 Final and the legacy of Pat Cummins as a captain. Tune In! Produced and Mixed by Sachin Dwivedi

May 20, 2024

The top four of IPL 2024 have been finalised. KKR and SRH are all set to face in the Qualifier 1, while RR and RCB will meet in the Eliminator in Ahmedabad on May 21 and 22. Yes, if you hadn’t followed up on the last two weeks of the IPL, you would have been rubbing your eyes after seeing RCB in the fourth spot. Faf du Plessis-led RCB made a miraculous late run to reach the playoffs. They won six on the trot, including the knockout punch to CSK and MS Dhoni. RCB vs CSK in Bengaluru was a cracker of a contest. Virat Kohli fired. MS Dhoni fired. But, it ended in heartbreak for the 42-year-old after Yash Dayal’s moment of redemption. Have we seen the last of MS Dhoni as an IPL player? The former CSK captain was angry at himself and heartbroken after CSK missed the playoff berth by the barest of margins. However, unruly fan behaviour overshadowed the thrilling contest. CSK fans alleged RCB fans abused the travelling supporters in Bengaluru and behaved badly with women outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. On the other hand, a few RCB fans alleged they had experienced something similar in Chennai. Are the fan wars becoming toxic? Is it ruining the sport? What was the need to criticise Kohli and RCB for celebrating their win? Why get personal? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Kingshuk Kusari, and Sabyasachi Chowdhury discuss the thrilling finish to the league stage of IPL 2024 and predict the playoffs. Tune in! Produced and Mixed by Sachin Dwivedi

May 17, 2024

Even as the IPL is nearing its business end, BCCI has sounded the bugle, inviting applications for the potential successor of Indian team head coach Rahul Dravid. This move comes as Rahul Dravid's tenure ends after the T20 World Cup in 2024. According to sources, India may hire a foreign head coach after nearly a decade. Notable triumphs under prior foreign coaches, such as John Wright and Gary Kirsten, make this option appealing. Wright led India to the 2003 ODI World Cup finals, and Kirsten oversaw India's victory in the 2011 ODI World Cup after a 28-year absence. The deadline for coach applications is May 27, paving the way for crucial decisions in Indian cricket. There have been reports that the board is considering former New Zealand captain and current CSK head coach Stephen Fleming as a potential successor to Dravid. However, given the BCCI's requirement that the new head coach be in charge of all three formats, it remains to be seen whether Fleming would apply for the position, which will need him to stay with the squad for 10 months per year. However, why can't India look at someone like Gautam Gambhir for the head coach role? Gambhir, known for his tactical and leadership abilities, could be a possibility. The former India opener, who played pivotal roles in the finals of the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup, assisting the team to victory on both occasions, served as the mentor of the Super Giants for two seasons in 2022-2023. Notably, LSG qualified for the IPL playoffs on both times and led KKR to the IPL 2024 playoffs. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah may have rejected the idea of having different coaches for different formats, but maybe in the next few years, the Indian team might need to look for different coaches for the red-ball and white-ball formats. Tune in! Produced & Mixed By Sachin Dwivedi

May 13, 2024

Kolkata became the first team to qualify for the IPL 2024 playoffs. After being a mid-table struggler in the last few seasons, KKR has been the team to beat this season. And it’s no coincidence that Gautam Gambhir returned to the side as their mentor. Under Gambhir, KKR played like champions and won two titles -- in 2012 and 2014. However, a few pundits, including the legendary Sunil Gavaskar, have questioned if giving all the credit to Gautam Gambhir is fair. Ian Bishop, former West Indies pacer, made it a point to mention Shreyas Iyer’s brilliant captaincy in IPL 2024. Then, there is Chandrakant Pandit, who is a domestic doyen when it comes to coaching. It is a combined effort, but there’s no doubt that Gambhir’s return has made it tick for the Knight Riders. Are they capable of going all the way? Do they have any chinks in their armour? If they go all the way and win their 3rd title, will they retain Shreyas Iyer for the next season? Who will be their retentions, considering they have had a strong core over the years? Will they keep faith in the likes of Andre Russell and Sunil Narine? Meanwhile, MI is out of the playoffs race. They look disoriented, and their former captain, Rohit Sharma, looks disinterested. Is it time for Rohit to leave the franchise? Will KKR be his new home in 2025? Before all that, India would want Rohit Sharma to regain form and lead well at the T20 World Cup. Join Akshay Ramesh, Alan Jose John and Kingshuk Kusari as they discuss KKR’s rise and Rohit Sharma’s concerning form in the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast. Produced & Mixed By: Kapil Dev Singh

May 10, 2024

A Virat Kohli-inspired RCB is somehow alive in the playoffs race. From looking destined for an early exit to winning four matches on a trot, RCB has scripted quite a turnaround in IPL 2024. Much of RCB's turnaround has to be credited to Kohli. Shutting down all his critics, he has let his bat do the talking and made a statement with his match-winning contributions to RCB in their last three games. RCB's fourth straight win meant PBKS became the second team to get knocked out of the IPL 2024 playoffs race. Punjab's barren run without a playoff appearance has now extended to its 11th season. Despite recording the most successful run chase in T20 cricket and defeating five-time champion Chennai in Chepauk, Punjab failed to advance to the last four. Punjab was the most entertaining team this season, but a few lapses meant they missed another playoff spot. Speculation is rife about KL Rahul's long-term future with the LSG franchise, which is currently sixth in the 10-team points table and has two more league games left this season. If KL Rahul leaves LSG, will he go to RCB, CSK, or PBKS? It will be interesting to see how this saga unfolds. At the same time, another question arises: Will Virat Kohli open the batting alongside captain Rohit Sharma? Join Alan John, Saurabh Kumar and Diya Kakkar in another IPL episode of the Sledging Room Podcast. Tune in! Produced & Mixed by Sachin Dwivedi

May 6, 2024

Sunil Gavaskar shredded Virat Kohli's arguments into pieces. In one of the most straightforward pieces of television commentary, the legendary India batter lashed out at Virat Kohli, who had questioned his critics and the credibility of people who spoke about his strike rate. Kohli has often stressed the importance of not listening to outside noise, but it seems the superstar batter lets criticism affect him. In a strongly worded post-match interview midway through the IPL 2024 season, he attacked his critics and questioned people 'sitting in a box' and talking about his strike rate. Gavaskar's takedown of Kohli's comments has also exposed the toxic nature of a section of fans on social media. How can you go and question Sunil Gavaskar's credentials as a cricketer? Well, here's a simple question to all toxic fans: When did you start following the game? At the same time, another question arises: Is Gavaskar targeting only a few? Why go on a rant against Hardik Pandya and Virat Kohli? Why not talk about Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav? Meanwhile, is there any point in questioning MS Dhoni's batting position for CSK? Why is so much noise about what the former wicketkeeper, who is in the twilight of his career, is doing for the Super Kings in what probably is his last IPL season as a player? Join Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari in a spicy episode of the Sledging Room Podcast. Tune in! Produced & Mixed by Kapil Dev Singh

May 2, 2024

India has named a 15-man squad with four reserve players under Rohit Sharma's leadership for the T20 World Cup 2024. While the top order is heavily stacked with experienced veterans like Rohit, Virat Kohli, and Suryakumar, the squad is completed by four spinners, three pacers, and two wicketkeepers. There was a joy for Sanju Samson and Yuzvendra Chahal, but despair for Rinku Singh, one of India's brightest T20 finds, who was dropped to reserves when the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee finalized India’s squad in Ahmedabad on Tuesday. Before the IPL began, Rinku was a top contender for the T20 World Cup squad, known for his finishing skills akin to MS Dhoni's. In his 15 T20Is for India, he's scored 356 runs at an impressive average of 89 and a striking rate of 176.23. But the star finisher was dropped to the reserves when the final squad was announced. It remains to be seen who will fulfil the finisher's job in the World Cup in Rinku's absence, as Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja have both struggled recently. One of the wicketkeepers, either Sanju Samson or Rishabh Pant, will have to do it. Shivam Dube has earned his maiden call-up with first-choice all-rounder Hardik Pandya named vice-captain. With spin likely to play a significant role in Caribbean conditions, Chahal's inclusion could prove vital. However, the composition of the final lineup, particularly regarding the batting order, remains a decision for the team management. Concerns also linger over India's pace bowling stocks, with Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh not being in the best of their forms in IPL 2024. Will India miss Rinku Singh's services, and how will the final playing XI shape up once the tournament begins in the Carribean? Saurabh Kumar, Akshay Ramesh, and Sabyasachi Chowdhary discuss how strong is India's T20 World Cup squad in the latest episode of Sledging Room Podcast.

Apr 29, 2024

We are living in Virat Kohli's world. The RCB star first hit out the GT bowlers for a match-winning unbeaten 70 and then tore into critics of his strike rate and his often-questioned ability to play against spinners in the middle overs. Kohli's remarks have been met with contrasting reactions. While a few lauded Kohli for giving it back, others have questioned the need to go after critics after having had issues while facing spin in the past. Well, what truly matters is that Virat Kohli is batting at his best just ahead of the T20 World Cup in 2024. If India has to end the ICC title drought, the form of Kohli and Rohit Sharma will be key. After 9 matches in the IPL 2024, Sanju Samson ranks 4th in the Orange Cap list. Samson has the highest strike rate among the top 5 batters in the league and has also led his team to 8 wins out of 9 matches. What more will Samson need to do to get into the T20 World Cup 2024 squad? The Rajasthan captain has been consistently ignored by the selection panel for the ICC tournaments, and this year, he is in contention with a resurgent Pant and a wily KL Rahul, who has adapted to the modern template of T20 batting. Will Samson make it to the side? If yes, who sits out, and how does the Playing XI look for India in the tournament set to be hosted jointly by the USA and West Indies? Saurabh Kumar, Alan John, and Kingshuk Kusari discuss Virat Kohli's and Sanju Samson's roles in the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast. Produced and Mixed by Sachin Dwivedi

Apr 26, 2024

The public seems to think Virat Kohli’s place in the T20 World Cup is a given. However, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru superstar shot himself in the foot when he came up with a snoozefest in Hyderabad in RCB’s win over SunRisers on April 25, days ahead of the T20 World Cup selection meeting. Yes, Virat Kohli deserves another shot at the T20 World Cup, but will his inclusion do more harm than good to Team India? Can he bat at No. 3, considering his struggles against spin, especially after the powerplay? Should he be used as a pinch-hitter in the powerplay? If that’s going to be the case, Yashasvi Jaiswal, who is hungry for big runs, might have to warm the benches. Also, if media reports are anything to go by, Sanju Samson might miss out on a World Cup berth again. Having missed the ODI World Cup last year, Samson looked set to go to the USA and the Caribbean. However, it seems the selectors are more inclined to take KL Rahul as the second wicketkeeper, with Rishabh Pant set to take the gloves. Will we get to see Shashi Tharoor’s furious rants on social media again? Does KL Rahul deserve a spot more than Sanju Samson? With the selectors set to name the T20 World Cup in the final week of May, Saurabh Kumar, Akshay Ramesh and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the probables in the latest episode of Sledging Room Podcast. Produced and Mixed By Kapil Dev Singh

Apr 22, 2024

We are halfway through the IPL 2024 season. While the playoffs race is heating up, the focus is also on the T20 World Cup squad selection, which is set to be done before May 1. Yes, many young names have performed wonderfully well, but will the selectors make bold calls and reward them? Should an aggressive and in-form batter like Abhishek Sharma, who has been one of the pillars of SRH’s batting brutality, be picked for the T20 World Cup, starting June 1? Then, there is Riyan Parag, who has revived his IPL career with the Rajasthan side. Should India look at grooming young pacers like Harshit Rana and Mayank Yadav for the World Cup? Is that a risk worth taking? Handing debuts to youngsters in an ICC event puts undue pressure on them. Isn’t it? At the same time, it’s worth mentioning that India, under MS Dhoni’s captaincy, won the T20 World Cup in 2007 with fresh faces. There are some other important questions, too. Will Ravindra Jadeja, who is struggling for form with both ball and bat, find a place in the 15? Isn’t Axar Patel a better option? What about opening the innings with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma? Sanju Samson or Rishabh Pant? KL Rahul in? Shivam Dube as spin-hitter? In this episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Alan John and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the potential T20 World Cup picks. Tune in! Produced and Sound Mix By: Kapil Dev Singh

Apr 19, 2024

The Impact Player rule has helped unearth gems like Ashutosh Sharma, who is making waves in the IPL 2024 season. The 25-year-old from Madhya Pradesh and Shashank Singh have been the usual suspects for PBKS in an otherwise floundering batting line-up. But, several cricketers have raised concerns about the Impact Player rule. Yes, record-breaking scores of 270 and 280 add much flair to the viewing experience. But it's removing the balance between bat and ball as teams get an extra specialist batter. More importantly, all-rounders, especially Indian all-rounders, are not getting enough opportunities. Rohit Sharma, speaking on his appearance in the Club Prairie Fire Podcast, rued that the likes of Shivam Dube and Washington Sundar haven't gotten enough opportunities to roll their arm over. Also, in his inimitable style, Rohit Sharma rubbished rumours about the T20 World Cup team selection, opening the door to many more discussions about it. In a special episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Kumar Keshav of AajTak Radio joins Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar. Tune In! Produced & Sound Mix By: Sachin Dwivedi

Apr 15, 2024

What's it with Rajasthan Royals and their strong starts? Their fans start getting nervous when they win a couple of matches on the trot. We have seen the Royals slipping from comfortable positions in the past. Are they a victim of their own genius? Yes, they returned to winning ways by beating Punjab in Mullanpur. But why send Tanush Kotian to open the innings? Kotian, an off-spinner who bats at No. 8 and No. 9 for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy, did not bowl at all. Who is responsible for making such bold calls? Well, Sanju Samson and Kumar Sangakkara need to keep it simple if they are to go one step further and wait for the title. On the other hand, there is going to be more pressure and chatter around Hardik Pandya after MI lost to CSK in the much-anticipated El Clasico. Was Sunil Gavaskar right in going after Hardik Pandya for bowling 3 loose balls to MS Dhoni in that last over? Is there an issue with Hardik's fitness, considering the manner in which he has struggled to bowl? Is Hardik Pandya an automatic choice for the T20 World Cup? Are there different yardsticks for selection for different players? Are opposition teams scared of Shivam Dube now? He is no longer a spin-hitter and he showed in the El Clasico that he is capable of taking down fast bowlers too. Should he be part of the T20 World Cup squad? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the exciting El Clasico week and more. Tune In! Produced & Sound Mix By: Kapil Dev Singh  

Apr 12, 2024

After the RCB women's side won the WPL 2024, there was hope and expectation that the men's side would do better and finally win the season this time. However, RCB being RCB have started the tournament on a horrific note with five losses and one win in the first six matches of IPL 2024. In fact, MI handed the Bengaluru side a thumping seven-wicket hammering at Wankhede and now RCB are languishing in the 9th position. RCB were so bad that after the loss, captain Faf du Plessis conceded that his team was struggling because their bowling group did not have "as many weapons" as the other teams. Du Plessis said RCB's batters need to be adept at scoring more runs to even "have a chance" while their bowling group needs to find new ways to be effective. Unless a miraculous turn of events occurs, it's safe to say that RCB's chances of winning their maiden IPL title are next to none this season. With their dismal performance, the dream of ending RCB's 16-year-long wait, led by their iconic star Virat Kohli, seems destined to be deferred for another year. Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah was simply sensational against RCB. Bumrah's spell was so special that it made even Virat Kohli look ordinary at Wankhede. Bumrah picked a five-wicket haul and then his post-match comments were an absolute gem. Even Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav hit form with Hardik Pandya realising his potential as a finisher against RCB. Surya hitting form ahead of the T20 World Cup is welcome news for all Indian fans as the Rohit Sharma-led side needs their best T20I batter in top gear for the ICC tournament. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Saurabh Kumar, Kingshuk Kusari and Alan John discuss what's wrong with RCB. Tune In! Produced and Mixed By: Sachin Dwivedi

Apr 8, 2024

Virat Kohli hit another T20 hundred, his 8th IPL century but RCB lost yet again. Kohli anchored RCB's innings with a brilliant 113 off 72 balls, while the rest of the team could only muster 59 off 48 balls. Despite receiving 11 extra runs from RR, RCB's total never posed a threat as RR comfortably chased it down with 5 deliveries and 6 wickets to spare. Despite losing Yashasvi Jaiswal early, RR's Jos Buttler and Sanju Samson capitalized on the favorable batting conditions, with Buttler scoring an unbeaten century off 58 balls and Samson contributing a quickfire 69 off 41 balls. Questions arose about RCB's batting strategy despite Kohli's century on Saturday. Concerns were raised about the pace of his innings, with some suggesting it could hinder the team's performance. Speculation also emerged about Kohli's suitability as an opener for India in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Was Kohli's slow hundred responsible for RCB's loss against RR? Well, the numbers don't lie. While it's tempting to blame Kohli for his 'slowest' IPL hundred, the bigger issue lies in the lack of support from a seemingly dysfunctional RCB team. With two weeks of IPL gone, we look it into who are the automatic choices to play the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Rinku Singh and Ravindra Jadeja are all but in. Will Sanju Samson and Rishabh Pant make the squad as the two wicketkeepers? In the latest episode of Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari discuss why it's wrong to blame Kohli. Produced and Mixed By: Sachin Dwivedi

Apr 5, 2024

It’s 2024. RCB won the Women’s Premier League title and it was expected to inspire the men in the IPL. Two weeks into the IPL 2024 season, RCB look like they would end up with the wooden spoon, again! Virat Kohli is waging a lone battle, trying to shoulder the burden of scoring runs in an otherwise faltering batting line-up. Let’s not talk too much in detail about RCB’s bowling attack. It’s dysfunctional. Did they lose it at the auction table? What should RCB do to find success in the IPL? Owners have changed, captains have changed, coaches have changed, but their retain luck doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. Should they rename themselves as RCB? On the other hand, Gautam Gambhir is back at his ‘home’ and it seems he has a Midas touch. The Knight Riders are playing an absolutely exciting brand of cricket, bringing back memories of the all-conquering squad under the former opener. Sunil Narine is shining again as an opener. Andre Russell is looking like a world-class all-rounder again. All signs pointing toward their 3rd title triumph? Akshay Ramesh, Alan John and Debodinna Chakraborty stir up some uneasy conversations in the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast. Tune in! Produced and Sound Mix By- Kapil Dev Singh

Apr 1, 2024

Vintage MS Dhoni is back? Did the Super King underestimate himself? After not getting an opportunity to bat at home in Chennai's first two IPL 2024 matches, Dhoni lit up Visakhapatnam with a sensational knock of 36 from just 17 balls. Chennai lost to Delhi, but CSK fans celebrated the final six from Dhoni as the decibel levels hit the roof in Vizag. Just a reminder, the Sledging Room podcast will have two episodes per week during the duration of the IPL. Dhoni's 3 sixes were enough paisa-vasool for the Sea of Yellow in Vizag as they cared very little about the result of the match. On the other hand, Rishabh Pant turned back the clock, hitting his first fifty on his return to the IPL after recovering from multiple injuries he suffered in a life-threatening car crash. In an emotional post-match chat, Rishabh Pant said he waited 1-and-half-years to see a one-handed six fly off his bat. Not just him, but the entire country waited that long to see the batting hero back on the field and doing what he does best. Moving away from the IPL, there is turmoil in Pakistan cricket. Shaheen Afridi was sacked as Pakistan captain and the PCB, which has seen quite a few administration changes in the last few months, reinstated Babar Azam as their ODI and T20I captain. All is not well as Shaheen is reportedly unhappy with the change. Can turmoil bring the best out of Pakistan in the T20 World Cup? Tune in! Produced and Mixed By: Sachin Dwivedi

Mar 27, 2024

The IPL 2024 season could not have asked for a better start as the first-round matches lived up to the hype. While Ruturaj Gaikwad has found success and love as new CSK captain, Hardik Pandya's stint as MI captain has had an interesting start. In a never-seen-before moment in franchise cricket, Hardik Pandya was booed by fans at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Yes, the feeling of Ahmedabad fans was understandable. The boos were completely okay as the emotion of the fans was a reminder of the intense rivalries and loyalties that is commonplace in football. But, it started to get uglier as Hardik was subjected to casteist chants, as seen in viral videos on social media. The TV visuals of Hardik Pandya commanding Rohit Sharma on the field also did not help as there was more hate for the new skipper on social media. While there were a couple of glaring decision-making errors, Hardik Pandya must get more time to settle into a big role at a big franchise. More than anything, he needs the support of his teammates and the Mumbai Indians fans. Yes, the IPL is back and so is the drama around it! Tune in! Produced and Mixed By: Kapil Dev Singh

Mar 20, 2024

Ee Sala Cup Namdhu! The long wait has ended. Royal Challengers Bengaluru fans can finally rejoice as Smriti Mandhana and her team have won a trophy for RCB as their Women's Premier League campaign ended on a triumphant note. More than RCB's victory, the packed crowds at the Women's Premier League matches are another message to the naysayers of women's cricket. And we are just days away from the start of the biggest T20 carnival of the year, the Indian Premier League. Can RCB complete a double? At the same time, all eyes will be on Mumbai Indians and whether newly-appointed captain Hardik Pandya can keep the house in order. Moving north, Lucknow Super Giants have a new coach in Justin Langer. It will be interesting to see the camaraderie and the working relationship between one of the most successful Australian coaches and KL Rahul as LSG look to end their playoffs curse. What are your picks for the top 4 of IPL 2024? Who do you think will bag the wooden spoon? In the latest episode of Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari preview the new season. Tune in! Produced by Sachin Dwivedi

Mar 13, 2024

It's that time of the year when fan wars become a norm. Yes, it's time for another season of the Indian Premier League. Before previewing and analysing the strengths and weaknesses of the ten teams, let's give you a brief on the major talking points in the lead-up to IPL 2024. Oh, and all Bazball sympathisers, it's time to concede defeat. India hammered England 4-1 to kill the hype around England's much-talked-about approach to Test cricket. Also, it's time to credit the BCCI for trying to put Test cricket where it belongs with their new 'Test cricket incentive scheme'. More on it is on www.indiatoday.in/sports. /> The most significant talking point is Rishabh Pant's return. The Delhi Capitals star has been declared fit to keep wickets in the new IPL season by the BCCI medical team. Should the Capitals hand over the responsibility of captaincy to Pant or allow him to ease back into competitive cricket? Regardless of how he performs on his return, Pant has to be lauded for his courage and grit to recover as quickly as he has from a life-threatening car crash. What about Chennai Super Kings? Will this be MS Dhoni's last season? If so, who will the 5-time champions look to as their future leader? Do they have someone in their squad to take over from Dhoni, or will they bring someone to the mega auction in 2025? Is Rohit Sharma an option? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari share a glimpse of what will happen in this space in the coming weeks. Tune in! Produced by Sachin Dwivedi

Mar 6, 2024

We are officially in the IPL month. And SunRisers Hyderabad have sounded the bugle with a change in captaincy.  Australia's World Cup-winning skipper Pat Cummins takes over SRH from Aiden Markram, who did not have the greatest of seasons last year with the team. With the change in captaincy, SRH hope to get over their terrible memories from the last season where they finished with the wooden spoon. What made SRH make this captaincy move? Cummins' IPL pay cheque of Rs 20.50 crore or his purple patch as a captain for the Australian Men's Cricket team? Before Cummins' captaincy saga took over the cricketing fraternity, the real buzz was about BCCI axing Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan from central contract. Was the board right in its decision to reprimand the Indian star duo or the players were hard done by? Also, we discuss the journey of Jonny Bairstow and R Ashwin, who will play their 100th Test in Dharamsala (if weather permits) and ask tough questions of the England cricket team. Can England finally win another Test match and make it 2-3 in Dharamsala? Who will make way for Jasprit Bumrah in the Indian line-up? Tune in! Produced by Sachin Dwivedi

Feb 28, 2024

It's time to concede defeat. Yes, those who backed England to strike again in the Test series were proved wrong. The final nail in England's coffin was hit by a young brigade led by Rohit Sharma, which found new heroes in the absence of their established mainstays. Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Dhruv Jurel, Sarfaraz Khan, Akash Deep and Kuldeep Yadav have also stepped up and delivered big for the team, under the able guidance of Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid. India have found new heroes in every Test to bounce back from the 1-0 deficit and seal an unbeatable 3-1 lead with a match left in Dharamsala. Yes, we have spoken quite a lot about Bazball. The English media has hyped England's bravado-filled approach so much so that India's incredible effort to bounce back from an early setback has flown under the radar. In the latest episode of Sledging Room podcast, we discuss why it's time to stop Marvelling Bazball and ask tough questions of the England cricket team. Is it time for England to address the elephant in the room? Is Rohit Sharma an under-appreciated Test captain? Like a doting father, Rohit has been protective of the young stars in the team. At the same time, the captain sent out a warning for those who don't have the hunger to play Test cricket. Join Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Alan Jose John as they return with another episode of the Sledging Room podcast, this time making a complete U-turn. Tune In! Produced by Sachin Dwivedi

Feb 21, 2024

Well, is it time to write Bazball's obituary? It seems so as Ben Stokes's led touring side was hammered by 434 runs, their biggest margin of defeat since World War II, in Rajkot. It was a proper statement from Rohit Sharma and his men as England failed to walk the talk. Despite the defeat, Ben Stokes was bullish that England will not change their approach. He labeled criticism, some of them constructive, as 'outside noise'. Head coach Brendon McCullum echoed the thoughts of Stokes, saying that it's up to them whether or not to listen to what people are saying about their approach. Both Stokes and McCullum said England are capable of bouncing back and beating India 3-2. Are they? Cricket is a game of uncertainty. No team, especially in Test cricket, can be ruled out. However, England are looking to throw punches in the dark. More importantly, some of the comments from England players have done very little to deflect the criticism that is coming their way. Ben Duckett was slammed saying that double-centurion Yashasvi Jaiswal was inspired by Bazball in the second innings in Rajkot, and rightly so. After saying England is capable of even chasing 600, they folded for 122 in Rajkot. Can England walk the talk, at least in Rajkot? They can, if they learn from Malayalam superstar Mammootty, says one of his biggest fans, Alan Jose John. Alan is joined by Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar as they discuss England's horror show in Rajkot in the latest episode of Sledging Room Podcast. Tune in! Produced by Sachin Dwivedi

Feb 14, 2024

Yes, the cricket world is waiting for the India vs England series to resume. After two intense Tests in Hyderabad and Vizag, there was a lull before the storm as the teams enjoyed a week’s break. But, plenty happened. Even as the buzz has been around the Rajkot Test, a BCCI diktat to players dominated the narrative on social media. Reports have suggested that BCCI was not happy with players skipping Ranji Trophy duties to prepare for IPL 2024. Why should the players prioritise Ranji Trophy? Yes, the domestic red-ball tournament is part of Indian cricket’s rich tradition, but have the selectors rewarded Ranji Trophy performances while picking squads for the senior national teams? Go ask, Jalaj Saxena. Also, where is the continuity in terms of selection? Avesh Khan, who was part of the first two Tests, has not been picked for the remainder of the series. Why no place for Cheteshwar Pujara? Yes, India’s envious domestic structure is something that needs to be preserved. But at what cost? Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari discuss why it’s not entirely right to blame players in the latest episode of the Sledging Room. We answer this in the Sledging Room! Tune in! Produced by Sachin Dwivedi

Feb 7, 2024

Yes, Jasprit Bumrah bowled one of the greatest spells of reverse swing bowling by an Indian fast bowler in Vizag. But, what about R Ashwin? 9 wickets in 2 Tests while Tom Hartley, who made his debut in Hyderabad, has 5 more than the Indian off-spinner. Is it just a lean patch for R Ashwin or is that he needs rank-turners to pick up heaps of wickets? Well, we are not saying this. On several occasions, former spinners have attributed Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja's incredible numbers to the nature of pitches in India. Hyderabad and Vizag were not rank-turners, but traditional Indian pitches that offer more turn as the Test match progresses. Okay, let us ask you this. Can this Indian side be beaten again? From the Vizag Test showing, were you convinced that India can go on and win the series? Or do England have it in them to land another punch? We answer this in the Sledging Room! Tune in! Produced by Sachin Dwivedi

Jan 31, 2024

Okay, let’s start with an apology. An apology to England, their captain Ben Stokes, their head coach ‘Baz’ McCullum and their much-talked-about approach, Bazball. Bazball won’t work in Pakistan, they said. Bazball won’t work against Australia in the Ashes, they said.  Bazball has no chance against India in India, they said.  Stokes’s all-conquering England side have proved naysayers wrong, and have done so in some style with the flair and fearlessness that McCullum was known for in his playing days. Questions have to be asked of India, especially captain Rohit Sharma. Geoffrey Boycott and Michael Vaughan have launched into his captaincy as a lack of proactive approach in Hyderabad cost India. Rohit was happy to sit back and wait for things to happen, while Ben Stokes made things happen on the field. Was Rahul Dravid not overseeing things when Ollie Pope was reverse-sweeping the Indian spinners? Why did experienced R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja fail in the second innings? Were they spooked by England’s approach? Is this England’s best chance to push for a Test series win in India? Do you think Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma are capable enough to challenge the intimidating approach from England? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the Hyderabad heist and the Gabba thriller. Tune In! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Jan 24, 2024

Barring the circus in Pakistan cricket, nothing has offfered more entertainment to world cricket like the Bazball in the last two years. The term was coined by an English journalist and it is derived from England men's Test team head coach Brendon McCullum's nickname 'Baz'. Does the legendary batter approve of it? Well, no! Brendon McCullum hates generalising England's new approach and the coinage of the term 'Bazball'. He believes there is more to their approach than just scoring at close to 6 runs per over. The former New Zealand captain, who took over as England's Test coach in 2022, has revolutionised the way England have played Test cricket. Yes, England have achieved away wins, notably in Pakistan and New Zealand. But, are they capable of breaching the fortress in India? Will India prepare rank-turners? Will such pitches help the future of Test cricket? Have India not learned their lessons from the past? Should there be more balance between bat and ball? Also, let's address the big question. Will Virat Kohli's absence hurt India? It definitely will, but the hosts have players who can step up. KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer now have an opportunity to play together. For Bazball, the India series might prove to be make-or-break! Buckle up, the next 2 months are going to be an exciting ride. Listen in! Produced and Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Jan 17, 2024

Rohit Sharma’s return to T20I cricket has been underwhelming, but it's quite clear that the team management and selectors have zeroed in on the senior campaigner to lead India at the T20 World Cup. There's no doubting Sharma's class and a couple of good knocks in the IPL might be enough for him to book his ticket to the USA and the West Indies. On the other hand, Virat Kohli, like he always does, has stirred up debates with his first outing in T20I cricket in 14 months. The former captain, who is known for being an accumulator and an anchor, came out all guns firing in Indore against Afghanistan. Virat Kohli slog-sweep a spinner. Yes, you read that right. But, is that the Virat that India needs? Does this version of the star batter suit the team's needs? Would it not be wise for India to have the 'anchor' on what is expected to be slow pitches in the West Indies in the T20 World Cup? And have India found a proper back-up option for Hardik Pandya? Is it only a back-up or a replacement option? Shivam Dube is busy requesting MS Dhoni to give him a couple of overs for CSK in IPL 2024. Will 'Mahi Bhai' listen? India need Dube to sharpen his bowling skills ahead of the World Cup? What about Pakistan? The change in captaincy and the change in team management hasn't brought the desired results. Was it a witch hunt against Babar during the ODI World Cup? Is Shaheen Afridi the right man to lead Pakistan in the T20 World Cup? Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Alan John, a Virat Kohli fanboy, discuss the learnings and lessons from the T20I series against Afghanistan. Tune In! Produced and Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Jan 10, 2024

The Indian cricket landscape buzzed with fervent discussions as the BCCI made a significant move by reinstating two of its most experienced players, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, into the T20I squad for the upcoming series against Afghanistan. This decision marked a pivotal moment, especially considering both players had not participated in the shortest format at the international level since their last game in the 2022 T20 World Cup semifinal against England. Fans and pundits alike pointed out that Kohli's impressive T20I record, boasting the highest run tally in T20I history with 4,008 runs at an average of 52.73, could be a game-changer for the team. Similarly, Rohit Sharma's experience as a former captain and his ability to score big were seen as assets that could bolster the Indian batting lineup. But, the move was not without its detractors. Critics argued that the inclusion of Kohli and Sharma might come at the expense of emerging talents like Shubman Gill, who had an outstanding IPL season in 2023, and Yashasvi Jaiswal. There were concerns that this could potentially stifle the growth of these young players, who had shown promise and seemed ready to take on the mantle in the T20 format. The BCCI's choice also sparked debates about whether it was prudent to rely on the veterans' past glories instead of embracing the aggressive, modern style of T20 cricket that the younger players had been cultivating. Also, England are coming to India for a 5-Test series and the chatter about pitches has come to the spotlight at the right time. The English team cribbed too much about pitches last time they were in India in 2021. After the sensational win on an “unsatisfactory” pitch in Cape Town, the Indian Test team might want to play on rank-turners in the upcoming series, starting January 25. Listen in!

Jan 3, 2024

South Africa named a 14-man Test squad for their 2-Test series in January-February with 7 uncapped players. Uncapped opening batter Neil Brand was named as the captain of the side which has a collective experience of 50 Tests. Notably, Brand might become only the second uncapped player to lead a Test team after New Zealand's Lee Germon in 1995 in the last 50 years. South Africa began their cycle of World Test Championship 2023-25 with a dominant win over India in the Boxing Day Test in Centurion. The Proteas are taking on India with a full-strength team, but they have opted not to send some of their star players to New Zealand. The series in New Zealand is clashing with the second season of South Africa's premier domestic T20 league - SA20. A significant number of players are now choosing the lucrative opportunities offered by these leagues over the traditional path of representing their national teams under central contracts. This shift is indicative of a broader transformation in the cricketing landscape, where the fast-paced, entertainment-rich format of T20 leagues is increasingly favored. One of the most striking examples of this trend is New Zealand's Trent Boult, a formidable pace bowler known for his wicket-taking prowess across formats. Boult made headlines when he turned down a central contract from New Zealand Cricket just months before the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. The West Indies, too, has seen a wave of its players opting for the T20 league route. A study by the Federation of International Cricketers' Associations (FICA) revealed that over 49% of players would consider declining national contracts to focus on T20 leagues, highlighting the significant impact these leagues have on the sport. Akshay Ramesh, Rounaq Sehrawat and Kingshuk Kusari discuss what is the future of the longest format of the game in the first episode of the New Year.  Tune in!

Dec 27, 2023

There are always two sides to a story, like two sides to a coin. Indian cricket in 2023 has a similar narrative. You can look it as another year in which India failed to win an ICC trophy or laud the processes that were put in place to achieve the ultimate glory. And none of you are going to disagree that 2023 was a landmark year for women's cricket with the inaugural edition of the WPL and the Test victories. Isn't it? Rohit Sharma's heroic World Cup show and his subsequent removal from Mumbai Indians captaincy dominated the headlines in 2023. Hardik Pandya was seen as Rohit's successor in white-ball cricket, but he has had some difficult injury concerns. Wasn't it the year of comebacks for the Rahuls? (Dravid and KL). The Indian women's cricket team also shone brightly in 2023, registering remarkable Test match wins against formidable opponents like England and Australia. These victories were significant, as they highlighted the growing prowess and potential of women's cricket in India. Adding to the jubilation of Indian cricket in 2023 was the triumph of MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Under Dhoni's experienced and cool-headed leadership, CSK clinched the title, further cementing Dhoni's legacy as one of the most successful captains in the history of the IPL. Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Dec 20, 2023

In the high-stakes world of the Indian Premier League (IPL) auctions, the 2024 event in Dubai was a spectacle of record-breaking bids and strategic acquisitions. Among the stars who shone the brightest were Australian cricketing sensations Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, who not only broke the bank but also set new benchmarks in the history of IPL salaries. Mitchell Starc, known for his lethal pace and swing, made a triumphant return to the IPL after a hiatus, with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) securing his services for an astounding Rs 24.75 crore. This deal not only made him the most expensive player in the 2024 auction but also the priciest buy in the entire history of the league. Pat Cummins, the Australian skipper and World Cup-winning hero, wasn't far behind in the financial windfall. The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) won a fierce bidding war against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), purchasing Cummins for Rs 20.5 crore. The auction also highlighted the impact of meticulous scouting, as uncapped Indian players attracted significant interest and lucrative deals. But, RCB's quest to upgrade their bowling unit seemed to fall short post-auction. While they did secure four pacers, including Alzarri Joseph for Rs 11.50 crore and Lockie Ferguson for Rs 2 crore, the overall composition of their bowling lineup raised questions. Their inability to win the bid for Pat Cummins, who could have been a game-changing addition, was seen as a missed opportunity. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Dec 13, 2023

After the World Cup, there was a lull, as expected. A section of heartbroken Indian cricket fans vowed to not watch cricket again. But the interest is back as plenty of irresistible cricketing action is all set to get underway. India have already headed to South Africa for a full-length tour. Pakistan are hoping to win a Test match in Australia for the first time since 1995. West Indies and England have begun their high-intensity preparation for the T20 World Cup in June next year. However, the buzz is high, as expected, for the IPL 2024 mini-auction, set to be held in Dubai from December 19. A maximum of 77 slots are now available with up to 30 being slotted for overseas players. As expected, MS Dhoni is among the biggest talking points. Will Chennai Super Kings go for a back-up for the wicketkeeper, who is recovering from a knee injury? Do Gujarat Titans need a replacement for Hardik Pandya? Yes, he led them to glory in 2022 and to the final in 2023. But the Impact Player rule has made it easy for teams to not feel the pinch of missing an all-rounder. Will Mitchell Starc have a big day? Will Shahrukh Khan be the most sought-after Indian player? Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Dec 6, 2023

Yes, the Sledging Room is back. As expected, we have asked a few tough questions as early as the first episode of Season 2. India lifted a T20I trophy after missing out on the World Cup. Yes, the scheduling of the series is questionable, but nothing can take away the efforts of the young Indian team, led by an impressive debutant captain Suryakumar Yadav. India will next embark on a major tour of South Africa where they will play 3 T20Is, as many ODIs and 2 Tests. The biggest talking point from the selection news was the absence of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in white-ball squads. Are the two doyens of Indian cricket going to play the T20 World Cup? Do India need an anchor like Kohli in the USA and the West Indies? Well, the IPL retentions created a sensational buzz on November 26. Hardik Pandya's homecoming dominated the headlines. After leading Gujarat Titans in two successful editions, Hardik returned to Mumbai Indians. How will Gujarat benefit from the move? Why did RCB get involved in the trade? Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Rounaq Sehrawat come together for the curtain-raiser of Season 2 of Sledging Room, which is set to take a new avatar with a lot more than our much-loved discussions. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Nov 20, 2023

India's journey through the ICC World Cup 2023 was a remarkable tale of skill, determination, and ultimately, heartbreak. The Men in Blue, led by the dynamic Rohit Sharma, embarked on a campaign that promised to end their ICC trophy drought. With every match, the Indian team built momentum, showcasing a brand of cricket that was both aggressive and captivating. Rohit Sharma, the captain, was at the forefront of this charge. His leadership style was characterized by an unyielding aggression, particularly in the powerplay overs. He redefined the role of an opener, blending power with exquisite timing, and setting a frenetic pace that often left the opposition reeling. His approach was not just about personal milestones; it was about laying a solid foundation for the middle order, exemplified by his impressive strike rate of 124.15 during the tournament. Throughout the World Cup, Rohit's batting was a spectacle of dominance. He amassed a total of 597 runs, second only to his compatriot Virat Kohli, who topped the charts with 765 runs. Together, they formed a formidable duo that propelled India to the final, held in Ahmedabad. Rohit's scores of 131, 86, 48, 46, 87, 4, 40, 61, and 47 were instrumental in India's ability to set challenging targets and chase down scores with confidence. However, despite the heroics of their captain and the team's overall performance, India's dream run came to a halt in the final against Australia. The Australian team, known for their prowess in World Cups, secured their sixth title, winning by six wickets with seven overs to spare. It was a moment of collective heartbreak for a billion Indians, as the national team fell short of clinching the coveted trophy. Yes, India were the most ruthless side until the final. On the big day, nerves took over? The approach in the middle overs after Rohit Sharma had given India another solid start came under the scanner. 240 was never going to be enough, kwowing there would be dew later in the evening. Travis Head's sensational knock helped Australia lift another World Cup trophy, this time after silencing the biggest crowd at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Nov 17, 2023

India is set to face off against Australia in what promises to be a riveting contest in Ahmedabad. India are gunning revenge for the 2003 heartbreak as it seems the tables have turned with India looking invincible like how Ricky Ponting's side was 20 years ago. India's journey to the final has been nothing short of formidable. With an unbeaten streak that includes a sensational victory over New Zealand in the semi-finals, the host nation has showcased a blend of aggressive batting and clinical bowling. Australia, on the other hand, has scripted a narrative of resurgence after a shaky start to the tournament, losing their first two matches. However, the five-time champions have bounced back with a vengeance, epitomised by their nail-biting three-wicket win over South Africa in the semi-final. As expected, there was controversy surrounding the pitch preparations with the BCCI being the target of a section of western media. Allegations surfaced against the Indian team management for influencing the pitch conditions to suit their strengths. But do these allegations hold weight? Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar weighed in on the controversy, downplaying the significance of the pitch swap. Gavaskar emphasised that the pitch is the same for all teams and dismissed concerns over any undue advantage, lashing out at media reports. Listen in!

Nov 14, 2023

India have the opportunity to play New Zealand in another World Cup semifinal. Four years after the heartbreak of 2019, India will take on the Black Caps, this time at the Wankhede Stadium for a place in the final of the 2023 World Cup. India have been the best team of the tournament by a mile. Unbeaten in the league stage, Rohit Sharma's men have been in sublime form. New Zealand, who played and lost the last two World Cup finals, will fancy their chances too. They haven't been the best team of the tournament but they did enough to reach the last-four of yet another world event. With Kane Williamson fit and raring to go, expect typical guts and glory from the Kiwis, who have a lot of batting depth and some serious assets in the pace department. India have not won an ICC trophy in 10 years and they are in the best possible position to end that jinx. But it won't be easy despite their trailblazing campaign. South Africa are playing Australia in the second semifinal and neither of those two teams will be easy to deal with. Australia, five-time champions, started on a sluggish note, but they found their mojo soon after and have been formidable. South Africa slipped twice but their batters are perhaps the most dangerous in ODIs now. They can pack a punch in vital moments even as chasing might still be an issue, especially in crunch games. Produced and Sound Mix By Sachin Dwivedi

Nov 10, 2023

India are set to face New Zealand in the semifinal of the 2023 World Cup with Pakistan facing an improbable task against England in their final fixture of the tournament. In 2019, New Zealand had defeated India in a thriller which was truncated by rain. MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja were involved in a sensational partnership but Dhoni's run-out meant curtains for India in their run-chase. New Zealand went on to lose the final to England, a game considered by many to be one of the greatest ever played. India have been clinical in the ongoing World Cup, having won everything and against everyone. New Zealand have been scratchy. They needed to win by a certain margin against Sri Lanka to make it nearly impossible for Pakistan. Back in 2019, it was the same situation with New Zealand edging past Pakistan whose net run rate was lower than the Black Caps. Like in 2019, Pakistan did little to deserve a spot in the final-four. One could feel for Afghanistan who had done so much to leave themselves with a realistic chance of making it to the semifinals until Glenn Maxwell smashed an unbeaten 201 to script a come-from-behind win. There's plenty at stake for all the four teams here. India have not won an ICC event in 10 years. South Africa and New Zealand have never won the World Cup. And Australia would be desperate to win their sixth ODI World Cup after a middling start to the tournament. Listen in!

Nov 8, 2023

The Cricket World Cup 2023 is entering the business end of the league stage and there have been some sensational matches. For those who questioned the absence of close matches, the World Cup is serving some thrillers and magical moments over the last few days. On November 7, 2023, the cricket world witnessed an extraordinary spectacle in Mumbai during a World Cup match between Australia and Afghanistan. The Australian team, led by Glenn Maxwell's phenomenal performance, clinched an improbable victory, sealing their spot in the semi-finals. Maxwell, battling through pain and exhaustion, single-handedly turned the tide of the game with a staggering score of 201 runs off just 128 balls. This feat not only marked his highest-ever One Day International (ODI) score but also set a new record for the highest individual score by an Australian batter in an ODI match. His innings, which included 21 fours and 10 sixes, was hailed as arguably the greatest knock in the history of limited-overs cricket. Produced and Sound Mix By Kapil Dev Singh

Nov 3, 2023

India have become the first side to storm into the semi-finals of World Cup 2023 with a record-breaking 302-run win over Sri Lanka. With seven successive wins, India have been in a league of their own, and with just two more league matches to play, it is starting to feel like a dream. India are not short of match-winners with the likes of Mohammed Shami, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shreyas Iyer and Kuldeep Yadav stepping up on different occasion. Despite being two-time World Champions, India's performance in ICC tournaments has rarely been as relentless and precise as it is now. Judging from the evidence at hand, even the most fearless wouldn't hesitate to place their bet on the Men in Blue. While India have locked in a semi-final berth, the other three spots that will secure a place in the knockout stage are still up for grabs. Rajarshi Gupta is joined by Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar as they recap and dissect World Cup 2023. Tune In!

Nov 1, 2023

India have looked a cut above the rest so far in World Cup 2023. With 6 wins in as many matches, India are 2 points away from sealing a semi-finals berth. The synergy between the batsmen and bowlers has been the cornerstone of India's success in the World Cup 2023. With their current form, the Indian cricket team is a strong contender for the championship, and fans are eagerly awaiting the end of their ICC title drought. On the other hand, Afghanistan have exceeded expectations with a terrific show. They outclassed Sri Lanka a week after comfortably hammering Pakistan. Their batters have come to the party in a matured showing to back up their world-class bowling unit. Can they sneak through to the semi-finals? The Jonathan Trott-coached side looks dangerous at the moment! In the latest episode of Sledging Room, Rajarshi Gupta is joined by Akshay Ramesh and Diya Kakkar as they discuss India’s sensational run and how the race to the semi-finals is heating up. Tune In! Listen in! Produced and Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Oct 27, 2023

What is going wrong with England? The defending champions have looked a shadow of their former self in the World Cup in India. Having lost 4 out of their first 5 matches, England have been rocked. They look a bit clueless with captain Jos Buttler not exuding the confidence and the charisma that Eoin Morgan did. This string of defeats marked the worst start for any defending champion since the 1999 World Cup. Criticism was rife, with many pointing fingers at the lack of attention given to domestic 50-over cricket in England. Former cricketer Nasser Hussain was particularly vocal, slamming the criticism and arguing that it provided an easy escape for the players from their underwhelming performance in India. To compound England’s woes, they will next face high-flying India on Sunday in Lucknow in what looks like a mismatch based on current form. India have not beaten England in World Cups since 2003 and Rohit Sharma’s men might just break that streak in style to potentially knock the holders out of the semi-final race. In the latest episode of Sledging Room, Rajarshi Gupta is joined by Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar as they decode England’s shocking run in India. Listen in! Produced and Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Oct 25, 2023

Pakistan have lost three successive matches to India, Australia and Afghanistan in the ongoing 2023 World Cup and their semifinal hopes are as good as over. Pakistan have only themselves to blame for their timid performances so far in the tournament. Have Pakistan lost focus? Instead on focusing on making a strong cricket team, Pakistan Cricket Board has continued to do petty politics. Some of Pakistan's former cricketers have even slammed the establishment for packing the side with players that they like. The team's captain, Babar Azam, is facing significant criticism and his position as captain is under threat.  On the other hand, Afghanistan have punched above their weight with wins over former champions England and Pakistan. Can they sneak into the semi-finals? The World Cup is heading toward an exciting business stage and Rajarshi Gupta leads another lively discussion on the latest episode of Sledging Room with Akshay Ramesh and Diya Kakkar. Tune in! Produced and Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Oct 20, 2023

Former captain Virat Kohli made headlines in India’s dominant World Cup 2023 win over Bangladesh in Pune by scoring his 48th ODI century. However, the manner in which he achieved this milestone sparked a wave of criticism from fans and cricket enthusiasts alike. Kohli's decision to deny singles as he neared his century was seen by some as a selfish move on social media. KL Rahul, who was batting alongside Kohli, later revealed that it was he who denied the singles to Kohli, allowing him to reach his century. Despite this clarification, some fans felt that Kohli's pursuit of his milestone was 'selfish', leading to a flurry of criticism on social media platforms. Former Indian cricketer Kris Srikkanth came to Kohli's defense, expressing surprise at the criticism directed towards the star batter. Srikkanth's comments underscored the fact that cricket is not just a team sport but also about individual contributions. But, not all former cricketers shared Srikkanth's viewpoint. Cheteshwar Pujara, said prioritising the team’s goals is always the right thing to do while former Australia opener Matthew Hayden highlighted the importance of maintaining Net Run Rate in a major tournament.  Tune in to find out how Sledging Room viewed this controversy! Produced and Recorded By- Kapil Dev Singh

Oct 18, 2023

The World Cup has livened up in India. After India's dominant win over Pakistan in Ahmedabad, Afghanistan lit up Delhi by stunning England, the defending champions. India made it 8-0 against Pakistan in World Cups, highlighting the widening gulf in class between the two sides. Ahmedabad put on a splendid show with a packed house of 1,30,000 people but Pakistan failed to live up to expectations, falling to a crushing 7-wicket defeat. Pakistan's performance in the match was underwhelming, failing to meet expectations. Their inability to secure even a single victory against India in World Cup matches since 1992 was glaringly evident. The team's strategy and planning were called into question, particularly in light of Mickey Arthur's post-match comments. Arthur, the team director, expressed his disappointment, stating that the match felt more like a BCCI event rather than an ICC one. His remarks sparked controversy and drew criticism from former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram, who blasted Arthur for his comments. And, the crowd behaviour in Ahmedabad was in the spotlight. Did the passionate fans deserve scrutiny? Are Afghanistan now smelling a top 4 finish? Well with their potent spin arsenal, it's not right to rule them out. They will play New Zealand and Pakistan in Chennai on spin-friendly surfaces in their next two games. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room, Rajarshi Gupta has been joined by Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar as they discuss the incredible matches over the weekend. Tune in! Produced, Sound Mix By- Kapil & Sachin

Oct 13, 2023

India have made it 2 in 2 in the World Cup 2023, much like their arch-rivals Pakistan. The two teams could not have asked for better start to their campaigns before the marquee India vs Pakistan match, scheduled for October 14 in Ahmedabad. India laid down an early marker with a convincing win over Australia in Chennai but they showcased their ruthless side against Afghanistan in Delhi on October 11. On a flat batting pitch at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Jasprit Bumrah’s best-ever World Cup figures of 4 for 39 helped India restrict Afghanistan to 272 after which it a Rohit Sharma show. India chased down the target in just 35 overs as Rohit Sharma hit an 84-ball 131, tearing into the Afghanistan bowling attack. It was Rohit’s only 2nd hundred in 2023 and the skipper broke a series of records. Rohit broke Sachin Tendulkar's record for most hundreds in the tournament history. Rohit also got to his hundred in just 63 balls, breaking Kapil Dev's record (72) for the fastest hundred in World Cups by an Indian batter. Rohit Sharma was named the Player of the Match but quite a few argued it should have been Jasprit Bumrah. And then there was the highlight of the match where Virat Kohli patched up with Afghanistan pacer Naveen-ul-Haq after their ugly IPL spat. India will start the big-ticket match as clear favourites. Questions were asked about Pakistan's over-reliance on Babar Azam and the rest of the top-order before they headed to the World Cup. However, Mohammad Rizwan and newbie Abdullah Shafique put those doubts to rest when they scripted Pakistan's World Cup record chase against Sri Lanka in Hyderabad on Tuesday. Pakistan hadn't successfully chased more than 265 in their World Cup history before Tuesday, but they gunned down 345 to script a new tournament record. And their successful run chase came after their batting superstar, Babar Azam, was out for 10. The Hyderabad leg of Pakistan's campaign was a super hit. How Ahmedabad pans out can be a defining bit of their World Cup journey. Tune in! Produced and Sound Mix By- Kapil Dev Singh 

Oct 11, 2023

India marked a triumphant victory over Australia in their inaugural match held in Chennai. The match was a testament to the resilience and strategic prowess of the Indian cricket team, particularly highlighting the significant contributions of Virat Kohli and KL Rahul. The match began on a shaky note for India, with the team losing its first three wickets for a mere two runs while chasing a target of 200 set by Australia. However, the tide turned dramatically when Virat Kohli and KL Rahul stepped onto the pitch. The duo weaved a remarkable partnership of over 150 runs, pulling India out of the quagmire and setting the stage for a memorable victory. On the other hand, Australia's performance with the bat was far from impressive. Their innings was marred by early setbacks, with Jasprit Bumrah dismissing Mitchell Marsh in the third over. The Australian batsmen struggled against India's spin attack, with Ravindra Jadeja claiming key wickets, including that of Alex Carey and Marnus Labuschagne. India's victory over Australia in the 2023 World Cup match was a perfect blend of strategic batting, effective bowling, and agile fielding. The match underscored the importance of teamwork and resilience, with Kohli and KL Rahul turning a precarious situation into a triumphant victory. Their performance not only led India to a win but also sent a strong message to their opponents about their formidable presence in the tournament. Rajarshi Gupta is joined by Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar as they recap and dissect the first-round action of World Cup 2023. Tune in! Produced & Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Oct 6, 2023

India will start their World Cup campaign against Australia in Chennai on October 8. Australia are 5-time world champions and are one of the favourites in the tournament but they will be up against hosts India, who have ticked every box so far. R Ashwin was a late addition to the Indian squad after an injury to Axar Patel. India now have a formidable spin attack with Ashwin set to go into battle alongside Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav. Ashwin might have been a late addition but the veteran off-spinner has had the wood over Australia in the recent past. Ashwin will be licking his lips to have a go against the likes of David Warner, Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne in his home ground, the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. However, it remains to be seen if Shubman Gill, who is down with dengue, will be able to get fit and be ready for the big-ticket match. Rahul Dravid, speaking to the media on Friday, assured that Gill is feeling better and the medical team is monitoring him. Meanwhile, England, the defending champions, had a forgettable start to their campaign. After their batters flopped against New Zealand, their bowlers failed to come to the party as the Black Caps won by 9 wickets. Jos Buttler's side looked jaded as they lacked the intent with the bat and were obliterated by Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra with the bat. It was a proper hammering from which England need to recover if they are to keep their hopes of retaining the title. These are still early days in the 2023 World Cup but the teams that take the early initiative and show their domination in these opening encounters would have made their jobs easier for a path to the semi-finals. On the other hand, Pakistan's top-order crumbled against the Netherlands in their opener in Hyderabad. However, they recovered to post a total in excess of 280 with handy contributions from Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel. There's plenty of action to come over the weekend, which includes the India vs Australia blockbuster. Rajarshi Gupta was joined by Akshay Ramesh as they discussed the start to the World Cup in India. Tune in.

Oct 4, 2023

As the 2023 Cricket World Cup is set to get underway, India emerge as a formidable force and a favorite to clinch the title. The tournament, scheduled from October 5 to November 19, will be hosted across ten stadiums in India, with the final match set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This marks a significant event for India, as they, under Rohit Sharma, seek to end a decade-long trophy drought at major ICC events. India had issues with fitness of some of their star players and form concerns, but the team has managed to head into the World Cup with most boxes ticked. KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer and Jasprit Bumrah looked ready after recovering from long injury layoffs while the addition of off-spinner R Ashwin as a late replacement for injured Axar Patel adds variety and more experience to the bowling line-up.  The memory of India's triumphant 2011 World Cup victory, where Sachin Tendulkar emerged as the highest run-getter and Virat Kohli played a pivotal role in the final against Sri Lanka, still lingers. However, since lifting the 2013 Champions Trophy, India has not won a global title, despite their financial muscle and smooth run-up to the tournament. Pakistan, a team known for its unpredictability, could potentially pose a challenge to all teams, including India. However, they have one too many problems as their middle-order and spin-bowling line-up look weak. Babar Azam needs to work magic and inspire his team if Pakistan are to make a mark.  Tune in! Produced, Sound Mix By- Kapil and Sachin 

Sep 29, 2023

India made a significant eleventh-hour change to its squad for the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup 2023 squad. Veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was named as a replacement for the injured all-rounder Axar Patel. Ashwin, who is undoubtedly one of the greatest off-spinners, brings a wealth of experience to the team. With 155 wickets from 115 one-day internationals, his inclusion adds variety to India's bowling attack, complementing left-arm spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav. His game awareness and match smartness are well-known assets that could play a crucial role in tight contests, making him a valuable addition to the team. Despite having played only four ODIs since the start of 2018, Ashwin's potential for another World Cup campaign was evident. His training at the National Cricket Academy under the watchful eyes of VVS Laxman sparked speculation about his comeback to the ODI side. His recent performance against Australia in an ODI series where he picked 4 wickets in 2 matches sealed his place as Axar failed to recover from the injury. . Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid's decision to include Ashwin in the squad reflects their faith in the seasoned spinner. Despite some concerns about Ashwin's batting strike rate compared to Axar Patel's, the team management recognizes Ashwin's proven match-winning capabilities. His calm demeanor in tense situations will be an asset for the Men in Blue. Meanwhile, Pakistan Cricket Board chief’s distasteful comment about India did not go down well with the cricket world. A day after Pakistan were given a heartwarming welcome upon their arrival in Hyderabad for the World Cup, Zaka Ashraf made a shocking comment and later cleared the air around it. However, there was no apology from the PCB boss. It was immature from the senior administrator, considering the team’s upcoming campaign in India. Also, all is not well in the Bangladesh camp with Tamim Iqbal making his disappointment at having missed out on the World Cup squad public. Captain Shakib Al Hasan also responded to Tamim, making it more complicated. In the latest episode of Sledging Room Podcast, Rajarshi Gupta and Akshay Ramesh discuss the final phase of the World Cup 2023 build-up. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Sep 27, 2023

What was it like preparing Sachin Tendulkar for a press conference? How was it dining with some of cricket's all-time greats? How was it like managing the Indian cricket team on some of the most historic tours in the game? On this special episode of the Sledging Room, get up, close and personal with Amrit Mathur, a well-respected sports journalist who also served as manager of the Indian cricket team for the tour of South Africa in 1992 and several others. Amrit was also a member of PILCOM which was tasked with the organisation of the 1996 World Cup. Moreover, Amrit was also appointed General Manager in the BCCI and the COO of the Delhi Daredevils. Few have seen cricket the way Amrit Mathur has through the many hats he has worn over decades. Not surprisingly, his book Pitchside, is a reflection of the many years spent with the Indian cricket team and the several relationships forged over time. This book is pure pleasure for every cricket fan. It's clean storytelling. There are detailed chapters on India's tour of South Africa in 1992, the 1996 World Cup, the 2002 NatWest Series in England, the 2003 World Cup, the 2004 tour of Pakistan and the IPL. Amrit has weaved the narrative beautifully to engage cricket fans from every generation. With India's World Cup preparation ending on a high, it was a great time to invite Amrit Mathur to the Sledging Room. In the latest episode, we talk to him about his book (a fantastic read) and all things cricket. This is a truly unmissable episode. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Sep 20, 2023

India has eased concerns over their World Cup preparation with solid performances in the Asia Cup, which finished with a resounding win over Sri Lanka in the final. Mohammed Siraj picked 6 for 21, the fourth-best figure by an Indian bowler, to bowl Sri Lanka out for only 50. Shubman Gill finished as the leading run-scorer in the tournament, while Rohit Sharma stood out with three successive half-centuries. Virat Kohli was outstanding in the Super 4 match against Pakistan, hitting his 47th ODI hundred. At the same time, KL Rahul returned to international cricket with a superb hundred against Pakistan and a gritty knock against Sri Lanka the next day. India has resolved most of their issues, but their bench strength remains a concern. Against Bangladesh, India had rested several of their first-choice players and lost by six runs despite a Gill hundred. Things are looking good for some of India's young players. Gill is quickly closing the gap with Babar Azam for the top spot in the ICC rankings for batters, while Mohammed Siraj stormed to No.1 from No.9 after his destructive spell in the final on Sunday. Meanwhile, Pakistan has some severe issues to address. Their overt reliance on the top three in the batting order proved costly against India and Sri Lanka. The pace attack, the team's pride, failed against India. It appears that Naseem Shah will be ruled out of the World Cup. Despite their No.1 ranking, Pakistan is clearly not the team to beat in this World Cup. Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar join Rajarshi Gupta in another scintillating episode of the Sledging Room. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Sep 13, 2023

There was a bit of criticism for the Asian Cricket Council's decision to deploy a Reserve Day for India's Super 4 match of the 2023 Asia Cup against Pakistan. But that furore was uncalled for. Thank goodness there was an extra day. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) faced significant backlash over its decision to schedule a reserve day for the Super Fours match between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023. Critics argued that the move was inconsistent and unfair to other teams participating in the tournament. The controversy arose when the ACC announced a reserve day for the India-Pakistan match, but not for any of the other Super Four matches. Despite the controversy, the match between India and Pakistan did indeed go into the reserve day due to inclement weather. Meanwhile, India also qualified for the final of Asia Cup 2023 after winning a low-scoring affair in Colombo against Sri Lanka. India have ticked quite a few boxes, especially after the fine returns of Jasprit Bumrah and KL Rahul from injuries. Are they now a favourite to win the ODI World Cup? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar join Rajarshi Gupta to discuss the Asia Cup showing of Team India so far. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Sep 6, 2023

India named their 15-man provisional squad for the 2023 Cricket World Cup and there were no real surprises. KL Rahul, who has not played international cricket since March, made it to the side. Prasidh Krishna and Tilak Varma were named in the Asia Cup squad but they were not included in the World Cup line-up. Sanju Samson, named as a travelling stand-by for the Asia Cup, was also snubbed for the World Cup. Is this the best India could have gathered then? Rohit Sharma certainly thinks so but can this team mount a serious challenge at the World Cup? India have had a rusty build-up to the World Cup. They lost a series to Bangladesh last year and another to Australia at home in 2023. Between those two setbacks, India won back-to-back series over New Zealand and Sri Lanka and defeated West Indies 2-1 in the West Indies. However, their top-order has not fired as consistently as India would have liked and that remains cause for concern. India have a few chinks in their armour, as was evident from their top-order batting display against Pakistan and the lethargic fielding efforts against Nepal. Can they resolve these issues soon enough? Saurabh Kumar and Akshay Ramesh join Rajarshi Gupta in one of the most scintillating episodes of the Sledging Room! Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Aug 30, 2023

KL Rahul was named in India's Asia Cup squad even as chief selector Ajit Agarkar conceded the batsman had suffered another niggle. A day before India left for Sri Lanka for the continental tournament, coach Rahul Dravid confirmed KL Rahul would not play the first two matches against Pakistan and Nepal. This brings us back to a question we asked last week on the Sledging Room: should KL Rahul have been selected in the first place? And there's a new question this week: what does Rahul's injury mean for India in the match against Pakistan and the World Cup squad overall? India are likely to announce their World Cup side on September 3. Now, with Rahul not having played international cricket for several months, should he be named in the squad for cricket's biggest showpiece event? In the immediate future, what about India's batting line-up? Also, will Virat Kohli bat at No.4 like a lot of experts have suggested in a bid to add more heft to the batting line-up? Or will Rohit Sharma move down the order to allow both Ishan and Shubman Gill open the innings? There are several burning questions that still need to be answered. Who else would ask them but Akshay Ramesh and Rajarshi Gupta. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Aug 23, 2023

India named their squad for the Asia Cup and not surprisingly, a few players made comebacks. KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer, Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna were called back after they spent time away from the team recovering from long-time injury issues. However, KL Rahul now has a fresh niggle. Forget this niggle, on what basis has he made it back into the Indian team? What is his recent run of scores in one-day cricket? The same questions should be asked of Shreyas Iyer. Both Rahul and Shreyas walked in the Indian squad despite having been out of competitive action for more than six months. Rahul last played for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 in May of this year, when he suffered a thigh injury. And now it appears that he has a new ailment. Shreyas has been out since March with a back injury. He most recently competed in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at home. There is no denying the batting duo's talent, but the risk of them being rusty heading into the World Cup remains. They only have a three-match ODI series against Australia after the Asia Cup before competing in the ICC event. Did India miss a trick by not introducing Tilak Varma into the ODI mix earlier? Is this an instinctive call? What's Suryakumar Yadav's role in the side now? India haven't yet announced a preliminary World Cup squad. The deadline is September 5, which means there are just two matches for the selectors to analyse who could make it to the side. They will have three more weeks after that to make as many changes as they like. Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar join Rajarshi Gupta in another enthralling debate on the Sledging Room. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Aug 16, 2023

In August 2023, the Indian cricket team faced a disappointing defeat in the T20I series against the West Indies. Despite a valiant comeback in the third and fourth T20Is, the team led by Hardik Pandya was outclassed in the decisive fifth match, resulting in a 3-2 series loss. The defeat was particularly bitter as no team has ever successfully come back from a 0-2 deficit in a T20I series, and India failed to change this outcome. The reasons for India's defeat were multifaceted. Complacency and a lack of clear process were cited as significant factors that hurt India in the series. The number one ranked side was given a harsh reality check by the hosts, who performed exceptionally under new leadership. The Indian team's performance was further marred by defensive captaincy, particularly when India was bowling, and a lack of support for key players during crucial moments of the game. Former Indian seamer Venkatesh Prasad did not mince words in his criticism of the team's performance. He labeled the current Indian limited-overs side as 'very ordinary' and called out their lack of introspection and accountability for their shortcomings. Prasad highlighted the absence of the 'fire' and 'hunger' for victory in the team's approach. He also criticized the team for living in an illusion and failing to acknowledge their poor performance. Hardik Pandya's captaincy came under intense scrutiny following the series loss. His decisions during the matches were questioned by commentators and former players alike. Aakash Chopra suggested that Pandya's successful captaincy record in the IPL was due to the influence of Gujarat Titans coach Ashish Nehra and even went as far as to label some of his decisions as clueless. Former Tamil Nadu opener Abhinav Mukund echoed these sentiments, stating that Pandya often looked 'confused' on the field. As the 2023 ODI World Cup approaches, the Indian men's cricket team is grappling with a muddled and perplexing build-up. The team's preparation has been marred by a lack of clarity regarding the starting XI, with the crucial No. 4 spot and other positions attracting unwanted attention. This confusion, coupled with the recent T20I series defeat, has cast a shadow over India's prospects in the upcoming World Cup. It remains to be seen how the team will address these issues and bounce back from their recent setbacks. In the 64th episode of Sledging Room, Rajarshi Gupta has been joined by Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar to discuss the growing concerns around India’s white-ball teams. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Aug 9, 2023

As the ODI World Cup looms, India's cricket team has been grappling with a muddled and confusing build-up. The team's preparation has been marked by a lack of clarity over the first-choice playing XI, with the crucial No. 4 spot and other positions in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. This uncertainty has been exacerbated by the team management's decision to rest stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli during a three-match ODI series against the West Indies in July 2023. The decision to rest Sharma and Kohli was part of an experimental strategy aimed at identifying potential World Cup players. However, this move sparked controversy and criticism, particularly when India lost the second ODI to the West Indies. Critics questioned the wisdom of resting two of the team's most experienced and successful players, especially given the proximity of the World Cup. The criticism has not only been directed at the team management but also at head coach Rahul Dravid. Dravid has been under fire for India's unclear ODI World Cup preparations. His decision to conduct last-minute experiments during the series against the West Indies was seen as a sign that India was running out of time to finalize their World Cup squad. Dravid's tenure as coach has been marked by a series of disappointing performances across all formats. India's loss in the World Test Championship final in June was followed by a less than convincing performance in the ODI series against the West Indies. These setbacks have led to questions about Dravid's suitability for the role, with some critics suggesting that he is not proactive enough. Despite the criticism, it's important to note that the team has been trying to identify backup options and give opportunities to other players. Players like Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, and Shardul Thakur were given chances to prove themselves in the absence of Sharma and Kohli. However, the results have been mixed, leading to more questions than answers. India's build-up to the ODI World Cup has been fraught with confusion and uncertainty. As the World Cup approaches, the Indian cricket team will need to address these issues and find a winning formula that can deliver success on the biggest stage. Tune in!  Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Aug 2, 2023

India won the ODI series against the West Indies but their chaotic build-up to the 2023 World Cup has raised several more questions. Why were Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli rested when they were part of the squad? Why were India not playing close to their full strength with the World Cup just a few weeks away? And why was Yuzvendra Chahal not given a single game? How many of the bowlers who played in the ODIs against West Indies end up playing the World Cup? Is Suryakumar Yadav a certainty for the World Cup despite his horror run of form in one-day cricket? There are burning questions that the team management needs to address with the World Cup approaching rapidly. Rahul Dravid, the India coach, said he wanted to experiment and figure out the best possible combinations ahead of the showpiece event. Fair enough. But should these experiments not have taken place much before the World Cup? Isn't this the time to play your best combination. Yes, some of India's key players battled injuries but those injuries didn't happen overnight. The Indian team management was just as confused in the run-up to the T20 World Cup and nearly a year later, things don't seem a lot more different. Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar join Rajarshi Gupta in another heated debate on the latest episode of the Sledging Room. Tune in!  Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Jul 26, 2023

Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain of the Indian women's cricket team, has recently been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. During an ODI, match against Bangladesh in Dhaka, the celebrated displayed an outburst of poor behaviour that has drawn criticism from various quarters. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has subsequently handed her a two-match suspension. The incident occurred during the third match of the ICC Women's Championship series. After being adjudged LBW, Kaur reacted by smashing the stumps with her bat and publicly criticising the umpiring. Kaur's behaviour has not only attracted penalties but also widespread criticism. She was accused of setting a bad example for young cricketers who look up to her. Former women's captain Diana Edulji expressed her disappointment in a column, stating that such behaviour can negatively impact the team culture over time. Kaur's behaviour was not worthy of an Indian cricket team captain. Also, the star player’s outburst and her subsequent behaviour during the post-match presentation ceremony might have an impact on the relations between the Indian cricket board and their Bangladesh counterparts. Also, in the latest episode of the Sledging Room, we discuss India’s Test series win in the West Indies and how the visitors missed an opportunity to force a win in the 2nd Test which was hampered by persistent rain on Day 5. Questions about India’s batting intent have emerged even as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and debutant Yashasvi Jaiswal scored aplenty against a weak bowling attack. Rajarshi Gupta is joined by Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar in another heated discussion in the 61st episode of Sledging Room. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Jul 19, 2023

In the realm of Test cricket, few bowlers have left an indelible mark like Ravichandran Ashwin. Since his debut in 2011, Ashwin has evolved into one of the most successful off-spinners of his time. With a remarkable ability to take wickets across various conditions and a batting prowess that complements his bowling skills, Ashwin's records speak volumes about his impact on the game. Ashwin's Test career has been nothing short of extraordinary. With an astonishing tally of 486 wickets in just 93 Tests, he stands among a select group of bowlers to have achieved this milestone. Maintaining an impressive average of 23.61, Ashwin has consistently troubled batsmen with his skillful spin and subtle variations. His extraordinary feat includes an impressive count of 34 five-wicket hauls, testifying to his ability to dismantle opposition line-ups. One of Ashwin's defining characteristics is his versatility on different pitches. Whether it's exploiting spin-friendly tracks or creating trouble on surfaces that offer minimal assistance to spinners, Ashwin has repeatedly showcased his adaptability. His ability to extract turn and bounce from any kind of wicket puts immense pressure on batsmen, making him a true match-winner for his team. Ashwin's contributions with the bat are not to be overlooked either. With 3129 runs to his name at an average of 26.97, he has proven himself as a genuine all-rounder. Often rescuing his team from challenging situations, Ashwin's five centuries showcase his ability to balance patience and aggression. His valuable runs down the order have turned the tide in India's favor on numerous occasions, making him a vital asset to the team. Ashwin was not played for the WTC final which India lost but he came back into the side with 12 wickets in an emphatic victory over West Indies. Ashwin was also ignored for the Test matches in England back in 2021. Does the world's best Test bowler not deserve automatic selection across conditions? The Sledging Room's latest episode addresses the curious case of R Ashwin and looks at several other factors in Indian cricket after their victory in the first Test in Dominica. Meanwhile, how long will England carry James Anderson. The veteran pacer was left out of the third Ashes Test but is back in the playing XI for the fourth Test in Manchester. Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar join Rajarshi Gupta in the latest episode of the Sledging Room! Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Jul 12, 2023

The 2023 ODI World Cup to be played in India is less than three months away. But is the Indian team ready? There isn't much time and now is as good a time as any to delve deep into India's preparedness for cricket's showpiece event which returns to Asia after 12 years. India had of course won the World Cup in 2011 which was co-hosted by India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Back then, India had a solid side ready for the World Cup with the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni in superb form. Besides, the team had plenty of bowling options in the playing XI. Rohit Sharma's team has issues. Yes, they started the year well with series wins over Sri Lanka and New Zealand but they were beaten by Australia. Rohit Sharma hasn't played a lot of ODIs after the pandemic while Virat Kohli is still struggling to get his mojo back, never mind those hundreds against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. To make matters worse, Suryakumar Yadav has not set the ODI stage on fire despite his heroics in T20Is. He bagged three golden ducks in the series against Australia but given his heroic return to form for Mumbai Indians, India would be hoping he is in fine form for the rest of the year. Rishabh Pant, a high-impact player in the middle-order is racing against time to be fit for the World Cup following a car crash in December. Moreover, India's bowling resources will also be in focus. Jasprit Bumrah, who destroyed England with a six-wicket haul in July last year, has been away from action for a long time. The focus will be on Mohammed Siraj to lead the pace attack while the likes of Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal could end up playing crucial roles. Also on the Sledging Room, a look into England's fightback against Australia at Leeds. And as India start their third cycle of the World Test Championship, can Yashasvi Jaiswal cement his place in the side? Will Shubman Gill be a suitable replacement for Cheteshwar Pujara? Will Rohit Sharma, the India Test captain, answer his critics with some solid performances? Saurabh Kumar and Alan John join Rajarshi Gupta in a riveting debate on the latest episode of the Sledging Room. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Jul 5, 2023

The dismissal perhaps made a difference to the eventual result. Ben Stokes's stunning 155 went in vain as Australia secured a memorable victory. Stuart Broad was scathing in his criticism of the Australians while the Australian media called Stokes a crybaby for his own take on the controversial dismissal. R Ashwin, who had famously Mankaded Jos Buttler in the IPL, weighed in on the issue and lauded Alex Carey for his quick thinking even as former England cricketers rushed to Bairstow's defence. Is this now the ugliest Ashes in recent memory? Listen in!

Jun 28, 2023

The selection committee has been criticised for some of their decisions after the India Test squad for the West Indies tour was named a few days back. Agreed, it's not easy being a cricket selector in India. Questions will always be asked. Players will always be disappointed. But how do the selectors justify the repeated snubs to Sarfaraz Khan, one of the most prolific run-scorers in domestic cricket in recent years? It's not just him, there are a few others who would have perhaps expected a call-up ahead of, say Ruturaj Gaikwad. The main question then is: are the Indian selectors not giving enough importance to domestic cricket? Is the selection inspired by the IPL? Listen in!

Jun 21, 2023

Do India have players who are ready to take up Test captaincy? Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant were groomed, but both the stars have been on the sidelines due to injuries. KL Rahul has not made good use of opportunities that came his way. Is it time for someone like Shreyas Iyer to step up? How about appointing Ajinkya Rahane as interim captain and groom a youngster for the role? The Sledging Room's latest episode is unmissable. Tune in now as Akshay Ramesh joins Rajarshi Gupta in another heated cricket debate. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Jun 14, 2023

Australia, newly minted Test champions, will face off against England in the 2023 Ashes starting from June 16. This is the oldest rivalry in cricket and garners huge interest the world over. Australia were ruthless in their 209-run victory over India in the World Test Championship Final at The Oval. Days later, they will take on England, who have crushed opponents with their now fabled Bazball. Australia believe England's hyper-aggressive approach with the bat won't work against their pacers. Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Scott Boland will be waiting to see how England's batters come at them. Also on the Sledging Room, we look at Rahul Dravid's impact as India coach. Has the Indian Test team lost its sting under him? How will India bounce back after THAT defeat!? Listen in!

Jun 12, 2023

India failed to break their 10-year jinx in ICC tournaments after a listless batting display against Australia at The Oval, a Test which ended with a dramatic collapse for India in the morning session of the final day. Who's to blame for the defeat? Was India's defeat inevitable? Listen in!

Jun 6, 2023

When India take on Australia in the WTC final, they will need to rekindle some of that aggression and who better to lead them that way than Virat Kohli. Listen in!

Jun 6, 2023

There's plenty at stake and like India, Australia too have played some tough cricket to get to the WTC Final. But are the Aussies now a little to soft to battle an India which will look to play Test matches as true as possible to the Kohli School of Cricket. Also on the latest episode of the Sledging Room, will India play two spinners and will Ishan Kishan debut at the Oval? Who should be India's pacers in the final? We discuss the Indian playing XI, Australia's attitude, India's intent and a lot more in the build-up to the most important Test match of the year. Listen in!

May 31, 2023

Could the Titans have defended 215? Was the rain rule just unfair to the bowling team? Listen in!

May 24, 2023

Royal Challengers Bangalore could not qualify for the IPL playoffs for the first time in four years. They have never won the IPL but they had raised their fans' hopes during the last three seasons after making it to the last four. Despite lack of any IPL silverware, RCB's fans have been super loyal and their support is the envy of most other teams. The team really needs to stand up and repay the faith of their ardent fans. In the 50th episode of the Sledging Room, Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar join Rajarshi Gupta in another heated debate.

May 17, 2023

This 2023 IPL is heating up in its last week of group matches with several teams eyeing the remaining three playoff spots. Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad are out of the reckoning and nothing seemed to go to plan for these two teams. Rishabh Pant's absence definitely hurt DC while the huge investment on Harry Brook did little good for SRH. The 49th episode of the Sledging Room is worth a listen and a watch if you are eager to figure out some of the most burning issues in the IPL this week. Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar join Rajarshi Gupta in another scintillating episode of one of the most popular cricket podcasts in the country. Tune in!

May 10, 2023

There have been several conversations around Virat Kohli's strike-rate in the T20 format. RCB captain Faf du Plessis, the current Orange Cap holder, has scored at a strike-rate over 150. What has Kohli been missing? Does he need to score more quickly in a format which has changed rapidly over the years? Also in focus is Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma. While the team is still in contention for a berth in the playoffs, their captain's form is crucial. He came in to bat at No.3 against Chennai Super Kings last weekend but he was dismissed for 0 for the second successive match. Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar join Rajarshi Gupta in another heated debate on the Sledging Room. Listen in!

May 3, 2023

Virat Kohli is no stranger to controversies. He has been involved in some arguments and sledge-fests with opposition players in the past but his stature has grown in world cricket. Naveen-ul-Haq might have been at fault in needling Kohli but the senior pro could have perhaps handled it with a little more dignity. Was Gautam Gambhir trying to stand up for his young player? Who is to blame? The latest episode of the Sledging Room takes a look with its typical no non-sense style. Besides, what about MS Dhoni? There is speculation that this could be his last IPL season but we want more of him for the next couple of years at least! Tune in to the Sledging Room's 47th episode!

Apr 26, 2023

Mumbai Indians, the most successful side in IPL history, looked good for a while before two straight defeats. Their bowlers have leaked runs in the death overs and batters have failed to chase down big totals. They still have some brilliant players in the team but they need some miracles to make it work this season. MI had finished last in the points table in 2022- what is in store for them this summer? Listen in!

Apr 19, 2023

In the latest episode of the Sledging Room, we discuss whether India's top batters need to take the strike-rate conversation a little more seriously? Why is it that batters from Australia, England and West Indies always come out and bat so rapidly while some of India's stars are happy to play the "anchor role" in T20 cricket? Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar join Rajarshi Gupta in another heated debate on the Sledging Room. Tune in!

Apr 12, 2023

Delhi Capitals went for David Warner as their stand-in captain but the Australia opener, who was battling for place in the Australian side, has struggled to get going. He has hit 3 fifties in 4 matches but those runs have come at a cost. Delhi Capitals lost to Mumbai Indians in a game where Warner hit 51 off 47 balls. Also, strike rate concerns have become more mainstream in this year's IPL. It's not just the noise from the Sledging Room anymore as experts are questioning when runs are not coming at pace. Tune in!

Apr 5, 2023

Both Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings had a poor time last season. Can they make a comeback this season? For Royal Challengers Bangalore, Virat Kohli has started the season brilliantly. These are good early signs for a team which has shocked observers for its lack of a single IPL trophy despite the riches of talent in the side. Listen in!

Mar 29, 2023

The new season of IPL will get underway from March 31 with defending champions Gujarat Titans taking on Chennai Super Kings in Ahmedabad. A lot is expected of IPL 2023 as the tournament returns to home and away format for the first time since 2019. Will it be the Super Kings’ year? Will RCB finally manage to repay their faith? The IPL 2023 edition also provides the ones who are in the waitlist to move up the ladder. Akshay Ramesh joined Rajarshi Gupta for a wholesome discussion on IPL 2023 on the Sledging Room. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Amrit Regi

Mar 22, 2023

India had won 8 ODIs before the Vizag game but the worrying signs were there in Mumbai as well as Kolkata against Sri Lanka. KL Rahul had pulled his team out of trouble on each of those occasions. This is a World Cup year and India are still trying to figure out the best possible XI. You could argue there is time left but then you start to see what has gone wrong repeatedly for the Indian team over the last several years. Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar join Rajarshi Gupta in another fiery debate on the Sledging Room' 41st episode. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Amrit Regi

Mar 15, 2023

Should India and Australia have shown more intent in the final Test? Have India answered every question despite another series win against Australia? How much did India miss Rishabh Pant? Burning questions were once again asked on one of the podcasts. Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar joined Rajarshi Gupta in another fierce debate on the Sledging Room. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Amrit Regi

Mar 8, 2023

Virat Kohli is of course not the lone batter to struggle in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The Indore pitch was in focus after India's dramatic collapse in the first innings and another below-par performance in the second. After a 9-wicket defeat, India captain Rohit Sharma said his team just wanted to play to its strengths? But are these pitches really a good idea, especially against Australia? Moreover, are India well prepared to take on Australia's spinners? Even in Nagpur and Delhi, the top-order had a tough time against Nathan Lyon and his two rookie spin partners. Rohit Sharma stood out in the first Test with a classy hundred while the lower-order trio of Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin and Axar Patel have pulled India out of tricky situations. They could not fire in Indore and the result was a sound defeat. Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar join Rajarshi Gupta in another heated debate on the Sledging Room. Tune in! Produced By Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Amrit Regi

Mar 1, 2023

India have done remarkably well at home - they have been invincible in their own backyard but in the last few years, that success has been largely due to the spin twin of R Ashwin and R Jadeja and the emergence of Axar Patel. Not only have they taken wickets in clusters, they have also made significant contributions with the bat. Do India need a new approach? Should KL Rahul make way for Shubman Gill? Who is a replacement for Virat Kohli? The latest episode of the Sledging Room started on a pleasant note but then things got bitter! Tune in and listen as Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar join Rajarshi Gupta for a fiery debate. Listen in! Produced By Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Feb 22, 2023

Questions have been asked of Australia’s team selection. Pat Cummins’s captaincy has been questioned and the visitors have been ravaged by injury concerns. Do they have it in them to stage a comeback and battle for pride and manage a draw? Listen in!

Feb 15, 2023

Australia could perhaps learn a lesson or two from India who defied the odds in 2019 and 2021 to win back-to-back Test series Down Under. Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar join Rajarshi Gupta for a fiery episode where the Aussie media's conspiracy theories were busted. Listen in!

Feb 8, 2023

Is it fair to say the Indian team has lost the killer instinct in Test cricket with Rahul Dravid as coach? Under Ravi Shastri, India won Tests in South Africa and England and secured back-to-back Test series in Australia, a feat that was once considered impossible to achieve. Can India continue their dominating run against Australia or will the visitors shock the hosts? Rajarshi Gupta was joined by Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar in the latest episode of the Sledging Room. Tune in!

Feb 1, 2023

The Women's Premier League is finally happening. Record bids for broadcast rights and team ownership showed there is massive interest and women's cricket in India has now come of age. There is little doubt the WPL will do a lot of good for women's cricketers in the country but can it make an early impression? Should the WPL have been launched earlier or is this the right time? How important will this tournament be for India's women cricketers especially after the U19 T20 World Cup triumph? Also on the Sledging Room, there was a heated debate around India's preparation ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. While the Aussies toured Pakistan and Sri Lanka last year and then trained on turning pitches in Sydney, India come on the back of a series of limited-overs matches, without Rishabh Pant and the possibility of Shreyas Iyer missing the first Test in Nagpur. Priya Nagi and Akshay Ramesh join Rajarshi Gupta for an intense debate in the latest episode of the Sledging Room. Tune in!

Jan 26, 2023

Should India have selected Sarfaraz Khan for the Test series against Australia? Despite lots of runs in the Ranji Trophy, Sarfaraz Khan continues to be out in the cold. Several former India cricketers have questioned the move and questioned the obsession with cricketers who look a particular way instead of focusing on the real hard runs scored in the middle. Sarfaraz Khan has been one of India's top batters in the country's most elite domestic tournament but he found no spots in either the series in Bangladesh or the high-profile Test series to be played at home against Australia. Sunil Gavaskar said the selectors should go to a fashion show if they want to rope in models while Venkatesh Prasad said there were other players in the side who had more kgs than Sarfaraz Khan. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill has been on fire for India scoring a record 360 runs in the ODI series against New Zealand. Rarely has an India batter started that well as such an early age. Only 23, Gill has scored hundreds including a double century from just 21 one-day internationals. Is Shubman Gill the next Virat Kohli? Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari join Rajarshi Gupta in yet another heated, controversial debate on the Sledging Room. Tune in for the latest episode! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Amrit Regi

Jan 18, 2023

Mankading, not anymore. Call it what you will, the furore over non-strikers' run-outs is intense every time a bowler removes the bails to 'Mankad' a batter. Rohit Sharma withdrew an appeal after Mohammed Shami dismissed Dasun Shanuka on 98 in an ODI which India already had in their grasp. Then there was an instance of a non-striker being run-out for backing up too far. But why the controversy when it is a perfectly legitimate form of dismissal. In another heated debate in the Sledging Room, Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar join Rajarshi Gupta to dissect the bizarre comparisons between Virat Kohli and Babar Azam by the Pakistan cricket fraternity. Virat Kohli is closing in on Sachin Tendulkar's ODI world record of 49 hundreds and is in the middle of red-hot form with 3 hundreds in 4 ODIs after a dismal run. Babar Azam, the Pakistan captain, has faced flak after his team failed to win a single Test at home last year. He, is however, the top-ranked ODI batter. Kohli's sensational return to form sparked off a series of tweets from Pakistan fans AND journalists questioning the Indian star's achievements. The fact is Virat Kohli has scored runs all around the world and in different conditions. Tune in to listen to a fiery debate! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Amrit Regi

Jan 11, 2023

Ishan Kishan, exactly a month after scoring a record-breaking double hundred against Bangladesh, was dropped for India's next ODI against Sri Lanka. The reason? Rohit Sharma said it was only "fair" to give Shubman Gill a chance after his consistent run in the format. Meanwhile, Suryakumar Yadav, who scored a breathtaking hundred in the series-deciding T20I against Sri Lanka, did not find a spot in the playing XI against Sri Lanka in Guwahati. Was all this done only to accommodate KL Rahul? Ishan Kishan's omission certainly left several experts baffled. At a time, India should be looking to bring in an X-factor at the top, a young cricketer was left out despite a sensational double hundred. That move also brought back memories of how Karun Nair was left out for a Test after he had scored a triple hundred against England in his previous match. Also, remember Kuldeep Yadav who was dropped after a man-of-the-match performance in the first Test against Bangladesh? Just, what's going on with the Indian team management? Rajarshi Gupta, Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar were involved in another hostile debate on the latest episode of the Sledging Room. Listen in!

Jan 4, 2023

Will Hardik Pandya take over India's white-ball captaincy soon? The all-rounder has been named as captain of the T20I side for the Sri Lanka series and has been elevated to vice-captain role in ODIs. While the Indian cricket board (BCCI) has not confirmed the change of guard in T20Is, it appears as if India are preparing for transition. Will the injury-prone all-rounder be able to manage the rigours of the workload? Is the solution to India's woes in white-ball cricket change in captaincy? We discuss! Listen in!

Dec 28, 2022

KL Rahul, standing in as captain for Rohit Sharma, failed in both Tests while Shubman Gill who scored his maiden Test hundred is sure to keep the former on his toes. Kuldeep Yadav returned to the Test side, scored runs, got wickets, won the man-of-the-match award and was dropped from the second Test. The Indian thinktank was severely criticised and KL Rahul had little to offer in terms of explanation for this bizarre call. Besides, as interesting things played out in Bangladesh, some interesting developments were seen in Kochi. Tune in to listen to the sporting banter in yet another episode pf Sledging Room!

Dec 21, 2022

Did Mbappe deserve to win the tournament a little more than Lionel Messi, or was it Messi's brilliance throughout the tournament that had more weight? Can Mbappe keep shining and overtake Miroslav Klose’s all-time scoring record in World Cup? We discuss in Sledging Room. Listen in!

Dec 14, 2022

Messi vs Ronaldo. Who is the greatest of all time? Which of these two will end their international careers with the higher accolades? That debate seems to have been settled at the Qatar World Cup after Ronaldo's Portugal crashed out of the quarterfinals while Messi's Argentina stormed through to the final. We discuss in Sledging Room. Tune in!

Dec 7, 2022

What can Indian cricket learn from the Ronaldo saga? Is Ronaldo no longer needed for Portugal and heavyweight European clash? We discuss in this episode of Sledging Room. Tune in!

Nov 30, 2022

The Sledging Room dived deep into some aspects of the FIFA World Cup which have dominated headlines the world over. Many around the globe have been left perplexed with the additional time deployed in these World Cup matches and several others have wondered if it was right for FIFA to ban teams from expressing their stand on 'One Love'. Apart from football, cricket was obviously in the focus in the latest episode of an intense debate on the Sledging Room. Tune in!

Nov 23, 2022

How independent are the selectors when it comes to selecting India's cricket teams? No, we are not suggesting sacking the selection committee was a bad move. But a lot more needs to be done. How about a specialist coach? How about a different captain for the T20 format for India? Tune in to The Sledging Room.

Nov 16, 2022

India with all their cricketing riches, have not won an ICC trophy in 9 years. India have an abundance of talent but new players need to be looked at immediately and given a long rope. Who will take the lead and finally concede that India have been way too conservative in T20 cricket and need to think of and implement new and fresher plans? Listen in!

Nov 9, 2022

Yes, Pakistan are in the title clash but they needed to beat only two good teams to get there. South Africa had one poor hour against Pakistan and then choked against Netherlands. There are plenty of arguments to be made and plenty of questions to be answered. We discuss. Tune in!

Nov 2, 2022

Why are India still persisting with KL Rahul? Why did India look to bat first in Perth? Why did India's pacers not bowl more yorkers? We discuss this in Sledging Room. Tune in!

Oct 26, 2022

Is KL Rahul a weak link in India’s top-order? Can this bowling attack step up against stronger teams? We discuss this in Sledging Room. Tune in!

Oct 19, 2022

Can India start the tournament with a win in a high-pressure game? There is a lot at stake for both teams. We discuss in Sledging Room. Listen in!

Oct 12, 2022

Are India well prepared or should they have at least played a couple of games against the Australian national team in their backyard? We discuss in this episode of Sledging Room. Tune in!

Oct 5, 2022

KL Rahul's approach has often been criticised even in the IPL where he is famed for his run-scoring consistency. As India opener, has Rahul failed to keep with the team's new approach of attack-at-all-costs? Does Rahul's reluctance to accelerate at the top put more pressure on Rohit Sharma? We discuss in the Sledging Room. Tune in!

Sep 28, 2022

The run-out stirred a controversy which overshadowed India's historic 3-0 whitewash of England in the ODI series. But why this fuss over a dismissal which was completely within the laws of the game? Tune in!

Sep 21, 2022

Rohit Sharma's captaincy has also raised some eyebrows. Is he more composed as Mumbai Indians skipper? Is he showing too many emotions as India captain? How about his bowling changes and field placements? We discuss in Sledging Room. Tune in!

Sep 14, 2022

Some burning questions addressed in this podcast which does tend to get a little.... well.. overwhelming and perhaps mean. Tune in!

Sep 7, 2022

At the Asia Cup, India's familiar problems resurfaced. While Rohit Sharma’s captaincy has come under scanner, bowling is a huge cause for concern. Tune in to Sledging Room to know!

Aug 31, 2022

India are off to a winning start at the Asia Cup and they do not deserve a lot of criticism but with the T20 World Cup approaching, should they look to add a dash of firepower to that batting line-up? Tune in!

Aug 24, 2022

Are Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli ready for the Pakistan test? How will India's bowling line-up fare without Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel? We discuss this and more in this episode of Sledging Room. Tune in!

Aug 17, 2022

How far will England's aggressive approach take them? Also, should Virat Kohli have toured Zimbabwe? We discuss in this episode of Sledging Room. Tune in!

Aug 10, 2022

Some burning questions addressed in this podcast which does tend to get a little.... well.. overwhelming and perhaps mean. Tune in!

Aug 3, 2022

India have done really well in T20Is since their disappointing performance at the T20 World Cup last year. But with the next edition just around the corner, what really is India's best XI? We discuss in this episode of Sledging Room. Tune in now!

Jul 27, 2022

Does it make sense to play so many bilateral ODI series? Should there be more tri-series to keep players and fans interested? Has T20 cricket ruined the one-day format? We discuss in this episode of Sledging Room. Tune in now!

Jul 20, 2022

Virat Kohli has barely played international cricket this year. How much rest is enough and how much of it is too much? We discuss in this episode. Tune in!

Jul 13, 2022

Should there be pay parity? Is the women's IPL a good idea? What are the challenges for women's cricketers in India and the world over? Listen up!

Jul 6, 2022

The episode dives deep into some troubling issues: Virat Kohli's poor form, the bowlers' lack of sting, bizarre tactics and several others. Tune in!

Jun 29, 2022

Could India have been a bit more competitive? Should India have played a proper first-class match? Tune in!

Jun 22, 2022

We discuss Pant's inability to replicate his brilliance in T20 Internationals for India, if Dinesh Karthik should be India's wicket keeper for India in the T20 World Cup, and Rahul Dravid's coaching tenets. Listen up!

Jun 16, 2022

Some burning questions addressed in this podcast which does tend to get a little.... well.. overwhelming and perhaps mean. Tune in!