asia-lists.com – Focused Updates & Live Briefs

The BCCI has ended Rajeev Kumar's decade-long tenure as the Indian cricket team's masseur. Kumar, a beloved figure known for his dedication and trademark smile, confirmed his departure on Instagram. He was crucial in player recovery, providing massages, energy drinks, and on-field support. Players like Shami and Chahal have publicly acknowledged his vital contributions.

Sachin Tendulkar recently reminisced about his epic battles with Australian legends Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne, recalling a strategic assault on McGrath in a 2000 match. He also humorously addressed controversial umpiring decisions by Steve Bucknor. Tendulkar dominated Warne, scoring 123 runs without being dismissed.

Australian fast bowler Lance Morris is set to miss the Ashes series and will be sidelined for 12 months following back surgery. The 27-year-old, who was a potential backup pace option, withdrew from the South Africa one-day series due to lower back discomfort. Tests revealed a lumbar bone stress injury, prompting the surgery.

Amitabh Bachchan praised Sachin Tendulkar's exceptional cricketing intellect, recalling instances where Tendulkar accurately predicted game scenarios. Bachchan highlighted Tendulkar's profound knowledge and ability to foresee movements in the game and bowling strategies. Recently, the Tendulkar family celebrated Arjun Tendulkar's engagement and Sara Tendulkar's launch of her Pilates studio, marking significant personal milestones.

Virat Kohli's training images from London have sparked excitement among fans as he prepares for the upcoming ODI series in Australia. Spotted at Lord's Cricket Ground, Kohli balanced practice with leisure, spending time with wife Anushka Sharma. Despite discussions about farewell matches, BCCI clarifies that Kohli and Rohit Sharma continue to be vital players in the ODI format.

As the Asia Cup 2025 approaches, the scheduled India-Pakistan cricket match in Dubai faces political opposition. Samajwadi Party leaders question the appropriateness of sporting ties given strained relations and recent terror attacks. They argue that playing against Pakistan, especially after the Pahalgam attack, is unacceptable and would disgrace the nation.

In the 1980s, this actress was linked to cricket legend Kapil Dev, with marriage seemingly on the cards. However, the relationship ended, and Dev reconciled with his ex-girlfriend. The actress later married superstar in 1988. Later, the couple got divorce in 2004. Read on to know who we are talking about.

The Indian cricket team has reportedly incorporated the Bronco Test into its fitness evaluation, joining the Yo-Yo Test and 2-kilometre time trial. This new assessment aims to elevate fitness standards by focusing on aerobic endurance, and as explained by a former strength and conditioning coach, makes cheating and cutting corners more difficult.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a 14-year-old cricketer, was bought by Rajasthan Royals. He scored 252 runs in IPL 2025 with a record-breaking century. Ambati Rayudu praised Vaibhav's talent and bat speed. Rayudu hopes Vaibhav will represent India soon. Vaibhav will join India U-19 team against Australia. The series will start on September 21 in Brisbane. Rahul Dravid will guide him.

While Shubman Gill is being groomed as a future leader, Ambati Rayudu believes Shreyas Iyer should be India's next ODI captain. Rayudu cites Iyer's calmness and success leading KKR to an IPL title, along with his ability to guide underdog teams. Iyer's consistent ODI performance, including a strong Champions Trophy and World Cup, further strengthens Rayudu's argument.

Smriti Mandhana made history on Saturday. She became the first Indian woman cricketer to score centuries in all formats. This happened during the T20I against England Women. Mandhana scored 112 runs off 62 balls. India Women posted 210/5, their highest T20I score against England. Her achievement places her among the elite cricketers globally.

Following India's Test defeat against England, Sanjay Manjrekar suggests a bowling lineup change. He wants Kuldeep Yadav to replace Shardul Thakur. Manjrekar highlights the need for quality spinners in the team. He notes that English conditions are now favorable for spin bowling. Manjrekar also expects more tactical awareness from Ravindra Jadeja, especially on pitches offering assistance.

Greg Chappell lauded Rishabh Pant's explosive batting in the recent Test match against England, comparing his game-changing impact to that of former Australian cricketer Adam Gilchrist. Pant's twin centuries at Headingley, a feat matched only by Andy Flower previously, showcased his fearless approach and ability to keep bowlers on their toes.

India celebrates the successful launch of the Axiom-4 mission, marking its return to human spaceflight after 41 years. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, carries the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians to the International Space Station. Prime Minister Modi and former cricketer Yuvraj Singh expressed national pride.

Following India's defeat to England, Sunil Gavaskar suggested that spinner Kuldeep Yadav should replace Shardul Thakur for the Birmingham Test, anticipating favorable conditions for wrist spin. Gavaskar also expressed concerns about the middle order, particularly Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair after their dismissals.