bbc-north.co.uk – Daily Features & Must-Read News

Cricketers Shikhar Dhawan and Yuzvendra Chahal have created a viral Instagram reel. The video features Bollywood-style humor and a popular dialogue. Their natural comic timing has impressed fans. The duo is known for their engaging social media content. This collaboration highlights their strong friendship and entertainment skills beyond cricket. Their chemistry continues to captivate followers.

Cricket star Deepak Chahar's surprise appearance on Bigg Boss fueled wildcard entry rumors. Interacting with host Salman Khan, Chahar joked about the show's challenges. However, his visit was to support his sister, Malti Chahar, the season's second wildcard. Deepak's charismatic presence, including a playful cricket session with Salman, delighted fans.

The ILT20 Season 4 Player Auction on October 1, 2025, concluded with high drama and record deals. Andre Fletcher emerged as the top buy at USD 260,000 for MI Emirates, followed by Scott Currie for Dubai Capitals. Liam Dawson led pacer acquisitions, with UAE pacers also in high demand.

Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin went unsold at the ILT20 2025 auction, with reports suggesting he withdrew his availability despite a high base price. Commentator Simon Doull found this surprising, given teams had significant funds. Ashwin, now available for global leagues, is confirmed for the BBL and interested in The Hundred.

Match referee Andy Pycroft, previously embroiled in an Asia Cup handshake controversy, received a warm welcome at the India vs West Indies 1st Test. Shubman Gill, making his home debut as India's Test captain, saw West Indies win the toss and bat first. The match began smoothly, free from any past drama.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar believes the upcoming ODI World Cup in India marks a watershed moment for women's cricket, predicting Harmanpreet Kaur's team can clinch their first global trophy on home soil. He highlighted Harmanpreet's impactful 2017 innings and Smriti Mandhana's grace, stressing the tournament's potential to inspire young girls and transcend barriers.

West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph will miss the upcoming Test series against India. A lower back injury has ruled him out of the two-match contest. Jediah Blades will replace Joseph for the series starting October 2 in Ahmedabad. Jason Holder declined selection as a replacement. The team also lost Shamar Joseph earlier due to injury.

India celebrated their Asia Cup 2025 victory over Pakistan but refused to accept the trophy from ACC president Mohsin Naqvi, an interim Pakistani minister. This decision stemmed from strained diplomatic relations following a terrorist attack. The BCCI plans to lodge a strong protest against Naqvi's actions at an upcoming ICC conference.

The Mumbai Cricket Association recently honoured ICC chairman Jay Shah for his extraordinary contributions to cricket. His decade-long leadership significantly strengthened domestic structures, enhanced the IPL, and notably reformed women's cricket. Shah's initiatives led to increased prize money and recognition, setting the stage for the record-breaking ICC Women's World Cup 2025.

Virat Kohli delighted fans by sharing an intimate new photograph with wife Anushka Sharma, quickly amassing over 5 million likes. The couple, recently seen in London with their son Akaay, continues to share glimpses of their family life. This follows Virat's heartfelt birthday tribute to Anushka in May, highlighting their enduring relationship since meeting in 2013.