Shoaib Bashir finally gets India visa, set to join England squad this weekend. The ECB confirms resolution, but criticism continues from England over the delay. Captain Ben Stokes expresses frustration, with calls to postpone the series. Bashir's visa saga sparks broader discussions on fair treatment for citizens of Pakistani heritage. The Indian government remains silent on the matter. Stokes hopeful for Bashir's swift arrival, while former cricketer David Lloyd demands a series postponement. The visa complexities shed light on challenges faced by players with Pakistani roots.

England's spinner Shoaib Bashir faces disappointment as visa issues sideline him from the opening Test against India. The 20-year-old, born in Surrey with Pakistani roots, returned home to resolve the matter after a delay in his visa application. Despite hopes for assistance from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Bashir is compelled to return to London for the correct paperwork. England captain Ben Stokes expresses frustration, stating, "I'm devastated for him." With Bashir out, England turns to Rehan Ahmad, Jack Leach, and uncapped Tom Hartley to face India's spin lineup in the series opener in Hyderabad.

Renowned boxer Mary Kom, a six-time World Champion and 2012 Olympic medalist, bids farewell, citing the International Boxing Association's age limit of 40 for elite-level competition. At 41, Mary expresses her unyielding desire to continue but acknowledges, "because of the age limit, I can't compete anymore." The iconic athlete reflects on her illustrious career, being the first Indian woman with six world titles, a gold at the 2014 Asian Games, and record-setting achievements. Mary's retirement underscores the impact of age restrictions on athletes, leaving a void in the world of boxing.

Uncapped spinner Shoaib Bashir, of Pakistani heritage, confronts visa hurdles on England's India tour, forcing his absence from the first Test. Expressing frustration, Captain Ben Stokes says, "I feel bad for Bashir." India's Rohit Sharma hopes for a swift resolution. UK PM Rishi Sunak's office demands fairness, stating, "We expect India to treat British citizens fairly." The spokesperson adds, "We've raised issues about their experience of applying for visas with the Indian High Commissioner in London." Despite setbacks, Bashir secures a last-minute visa. As England finalizes its XI, the visa saga adds tension, with Sunak's office emphasizing fair treatment in the process.

Virat Kohli's absence for the first two Tests against England is a significant boost for the visitors, yet England faces a formidable challenge in India. Kohli's on-field leadership and experience will be missed. England, aiming to make history in India, grapples with the tough task of adapting quickly. Despite Harry Brook's withdrawal, wicketkeeper Ben Foakes now pairs with Jonny Bairstow. The spin department introduces Jack Leach, supported by three young spinners. England's unconventional approach, forgoing practice matches in Indian conditions, raises eyebrows. India, undefeated at home since 2012, holds the advantage, making England's series start crucial.            

Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has opted out of the first two Tests against England, citing personal reasons. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed Kohli's decision and stated that the selectors will soon name a replacement. Kohli, emphasizing personal situations demanding his attention, received support from the BCCI and team management. The board urged respect for his privacy and called for focus on supporting the Indian cricket team in the upcoming Test series. Kohli's absence prompts potential batting reshuffles, with options like Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, KS Bharat, and others in consideration. The series kicks off in Hyderabad on January 25.

Pakistan's cricket sensation, Shoaib Malik, exchanged vows with popular TV actor Sana Javed on Saturday, sharing joyful snapshots on social media. The wedding comes amidst swirling rumors of Malik's separation from Indian tennis star Sania Mirza. The couple had kept their private lives under wraps, but speculations heightened when Mirza posted a cryptic message about the challenges of marriage. Notably, both Malik and Mirza had made adjustments to their social media bios in recent months. Fans were surprised by this turn of events, given Malik's previous marriage to Mirza in 2010.

Indian spinner R Ashwin, on his YouTube channel, supports Shivam Dube's inclusion in India's T20 World Cup squad, likening him to a 'Yuvraj Singh Lite' package. Dube's explosive batting in the Afghanistan series, securing two fifties, has caught Ashwin's attention. Ashwin suggests Dube's aggressive spin-hitting style makes him a valuable asset, especially in West Indies conditions. Despite recognizing Hardik Pandya's importance, Ashwin sees Dube as an additional weapon for India. Comparing Dube to the legendary Yuvraj Singh, Ashwin praises his ability to attack spinners straight down the ground. The debate now arises over selecting Pandya, Dube, or both for the T20 World Cup.

In a nail-biting encounter, Rohit Sharma led India to a thrilling victory against Afghanistan, securing a clean sweep in the T20I series. The final match witnessed unprecedented drama with not one but two Super Overs. After Rohit Sharma's remarkable 121-run innings and Rinku Singh's explosive 69*, both teams ended up tied at 212. The subsequent Super Over also concluded in a draw, leading to another Super Over, where India emerged victorious. Afghanistan's Gulbadin Naib's heroic 55 kept the contest alive. Despite the intense battle, India's depth prevailed, securing a memorable win and a 3-0 series sweep.

Virat Kohli's quest for 12,000 T20 runs hit a roadblock as he suffered his inaugural golden duck against Afghanistan in the third T20I. The highly anticipated moment turned somber as Ibrahim Zadran dismissed Kohli early in the second over at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium. Kohli's unexpected duck marked his 35th in international cricket, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's previous record of 34. Despite the stumble, Kohli's name now stands in history with this unwanted milestone. The Men In Blue faced an unanticipated challenge on home turf, leaving fans and the cricket fraternity surprised by the rare failure of the usually prolific batter.