Gradientz | Smart Opinions, Brief Reports & Global Events

Rishabh Pant's twin centuries in the Leeds Test have sparked discussions about his potential to surpass Rahul Dravid's record for most Test centuries by an Indian in England. Sanjay Manjrekar highlighted Pant's unique position as a wicketkeeper-batter, praising his adaptability and aggressive yet measured approach.

Sourav Ganguly confirmed Virat Kohli's Test retirement was his own decision, despite BCCI's attempts to persuade him otherwise. Ganguly acknowledged Kohli's choice, drawing parallels to his own retirement, emphasizing that every player understands their standing. While surprised by Kohli's relatively early departure at 36, Ganguly believes Kohli felt it was the right time, similar to his own exit.

Before Anushka Sharma, Virat Kohli was reportedly in a two-year relationship with actress Izabelle Leite, whom he met during an ad shoot. While Kohli never publicly acknowledged it, Leite confirmed the relationship in a 2014 interview. Now married and living in Doha with two daughters, Leite's old photos with Kohli have resurfaced.

Anushka Sharma, the celebrated actress, candidly shared her post-pregnancy body image struggles, revealing initial fears of self-acceptance after her daughter's birth. She emphasizes a shift in perspective, embracing her body's changes and prioritizing comfort over societal beauty standards. Sharma aims to raise her daughter Vamika in a world free from unrealistic expectations, promoting self-love and confidence.

Rishabh Pant made twin centuries at Headingley Test. He became the first Indian to score centuries in both innings of a Test in England. Pant joined India’s twin centuries club. His consistency in England earned him a special place. Pant equalled the record for the most sixes in a Test in England. The Headingley Test was historic for India.

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli are committed to shielding their children, Vamika and Akaay, from the constant glare of public attention. In a recent interview, Anushka emphasized the couple's focus on instilling strong values and ensuring a normal upbringing for their kids.

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli, admired for their parenting, prioritize a balanced upbringing for their children, Vamika and Akaay. Anushka emphasized in an old interview the importance of love, respect, and shared responsibilities within the family unit. The couple aims to shield their children from social media's glare, allowing them to choose their online presence later.

Shubman Gill, in his Test captaincy debut, displayed a passionate leadership style reminiscent of Virat Kohli during the match against England. His animated celebration after a perceived dismissal of Joe Root, later overturned by DRS, sparked commentary about his transformed on-field demeanor.

Shubman Gill's exuberant celebration after a near dismissal of Joe Root sparked commentary box comparisons to Virat Kohli. Despite the overturned decision, Gill marked his Test captaincy debut with a century, joining an elite list of Indian players. He also reached 2,000 Test runs, mirroring Kohli's achievement in his captaincy debut.

Sourav Ganguly believes it will be challenging for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to maintain fitness and secure spots in India's 2027 ODI World Cup squad, considering their age and limited ODI opportunities. Ganguly acknowledged Kohli's irreplaceable caliber and praised Yuvraj Singh's exceptional white-ball performance, regretting his limited Test opportunities due to a strong batting lineup.

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli, celebrated for their enduring love story, prioritize family life and thoughtful parenting. They married in Italy in 2017 and have since welcomed daughter Vamika and son Akaay. The couple emphasizes a balanced family dynamic, shielding their children from the public eye and social media to ensure a normal upbringing.

An old commercial featuring Virat Kohli and Genelia D'souza has resurfaced, sparking controversy on Reddit. The ad, portraying them as pilot and air hostess, was banned for its suggestive content implying misconduct during a flight, disrespecting aviation professionals. While some viewers found them appealing, others criticized the ad's concept, especially considering Genelia's personal life at the time.

During the India vs England Test, Sanjay Manjrekar's commentary sparked controversy with a remark seemingly aimed at Virat Kohli's off-stump struggles. While praising KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal, Manjrekar alluded to a 'former batter' prone to chasing wide deliveries. This subtle dig surfaced shortly after Kohli's Test retirement, even as Gill and Jaiswal shone with impressive centuries.

Anushka Sharma shared a nostalgic look at her yoga journey, highlighting its importance through various life stages, including pregnancy. She emphasized yoga as a timeless wellness practice. Currently, Sharma and her husband, Virat Kohli, are reportedly residing in Notting Hill, London, seeking a peaceful environment for their children's upbringing. Sharma's last on-screen appearance was in the film 'Qala'.

Virat Kohli is currently in London with Anushka Sharma and their children. He is taking a break from cricket during the India-England Test series. The family is reportedly staying in Notting Hill. Kohli is enjoying a low-profile life, away from the public eye. He was also offered a chance to play for Middlesex County.

Michael Vaughan believes Virat Kohli's leadership will be missed in England, but his batting average of 33.21 doesn't cause major concern. India enter the Test series with a revamped team, including Shubman Gill as captain and Rishabh Pant as vice-captain, marking a significant transition. Vaughan suggests this presents an opportunity for emerging Indian talent to shine.

Cheteshwar Pujara playfully trolled Michael Vaughan by presenting him with a framed copy of his incorrect prediction of a 4-0 India whitewash in the 2020-21 Australia Test series. The incident occurred before the first Test between India and England, amusing fellow commentators like Sunil Gavaskar and Harsha Bhogle.

During the first Test between India and England, Sanjay Manjrekar's commentary sparked debate with a remark seemingly aimed at Virat Kohli. Manjrekar praised openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal for their disciplined approach, contrasting it with a 'former batter' known for chasing wide deliveries.

As Team India begins a new Test cricket chapter under Shubman Gill at Headingley, Virat Kohli's absence is keenly felt. Nasser Hussain lauded Kohli's impact, recalling his fiery leadership during the 2021 Lord's Test. With key players missing, India face England, marking a symbolic shift in the post-Kohli era, with Sai Sudharsan debuting and Karun Nair returning.

June 20th continues to be a significant date for Indian Test debuts as Sai Sudharsan received his Test Cap No. 317 against England at Headingley. Following in the footsteps of Dravid, Ganguly, and Kohli, Sudharsan, the IPL 2025 Orange Cap winner, steps into a rebuilding Indian side at No. 3.