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Gautam Gambhir's appointment as the head coach of India was a momentous occasion in July 2024 with a high level of expectations. As a two-time World Cup champion with the fearless attitude, Gambhir was poised to carry the legacy forward and usher India into a new era. India has had success in white-ball cricket and won ICC trophies, but then again, there have been some poor performances, and even a few unwanted records to take, especially in bilateral series and Tests. Stay updated with the latest cricket news, insights, and updates by visiting Khelstake.

Here are some of the most notable unwanted records India has registered during Gambhir's tenure.

1. Sri Lanka's first ODI series defeat to West Indies since 1997.

One of the initial setbacks was the defeat in August 2024, in an ODI series against Sri Lanka. It was India's first bilateral ODI series loss to Sri Lanka in 27 years and an incredible run of success against Sri Lanka in Asia.

2. Historic Home Test Series Defeat to Australia

India's biggest blow in their Test career came when they lost a Test series to New Zealand away from home. The win brought an end to India's home advantage and was New Zealand's first-ever Test series win in India.

3. Winless ODI Calendar Year

In the first ever calendar year in more than 40 years that India did not win an ODI. The shocking figure underscored the underwhelming efforts of India in the 50-over category, despite having one of the best sides in the world.

4. first ever Bilateral T20I series defeat of Ireland

India had to bear another humiliation in June 2026 as they lost a bilateral T20I series 2-0 to Ireland. It was Ireland's maiden win in a bilateral T20I series against India and several former cricketers had predicted this was one of the lowest moments in Indian cricket.

5. New Zealand's first ODI Series victory in India.

New Zealand has already become a history-maker in test cricket and now it has added another feather to their cap by securing their first-ever series win in India in ODI cricket. Overall, the outcome left a few questions unanswered and added to India's embarrassment in bilateral contests under Gambhir.

6. Applying Pressure in Test Cricket:

India enjoys a good record in white balls but not in Test cricket. India has suffered from several defeats at home and away, and former players and experts have voiced their dismay.

7. Individual Unwanted Records

There are some Indian players as well who have made their records tarnished in Gambhir's era:

Tilak Varma had one of the slowest half-centuries in T20 cricket in India.

Prasidh Krishna had a bad day on the bowling front at the return of the T20I format against Ireland.Prasidh Krishna bowled an unwanted spell of figures in his return in T20Is against Ireland.

Shreyas Iyer's Irish defeat marks the first loss of his T20I career as captain.After the defeat to Ireland, Shreyas Iyer becomes the next Indian captain to suffer his first loss in international T20 cricket.

Conclusion

The Gautam Gambhir years have been an amalgamation of great achievements and failures. Although ICC trophies have enhanced his reputation as a head coach, a few unwanted records, including the defeat at Sri Lanka after 27 years, the historic defeats at New Zealand and the shocking defeat at Ireland in T20Is have led to questions about consistency of India's head coach in various formats.

New Zealand opened with some serious class with a terrific opening stand of **Tom Latham and Devon Conway (317)** to add another chapter to New Zealand's Test cricket history. The superior stand was the third-highest first-wicket stand for New Zealand. Keep up with the latest developments in cricket and global sports. Khelstake provides fresh updates,  expert opinions, and meaningful insights.

Both batsmen were good with the ball, had good patience and shot selection as well. They wooed the opposition bowlers by leaving good deliveries, rotating the strike frequently and taking advantage of the scoring opportunity. Their relationship created a solid foundation and New Zealand were able to run the match in lock-step.

It's far from the first occasion that Latham and Conway have been part of New Zealand's record books. The pair then joined forces to put on a 323-run stand for the first wicket against the West Indies at Mount Maunganui in December 2025, the second highest first wicket stand for the nation.

There is no other stand that they will have ahead of them than the legendary 387-run stand between Terry Jarvis and Glenn Turner against the West Indies in Georgetown in 1972. It is fitting that Latham and Conway have been part of such hallowed names.

They have been forming excellent partnerships in their latest partnership (317) and this is yet another proof of why they are one of the most reliable opening pair of the world cricket. They are superb to bat for long periods, disciplined and understanding – giving New Zealand solid starts in the longest format.

ICC is buzzing with excitement as the T20I opener between India and Ireland of the 2026 visit starts today. Though the clash is sure to deliver excitement, it is a particular player who is in focus Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The teenager is expected to make his debut for India and that may be the first step in his international career.Stay updated with the latest cricket news, insights, and updates by visiting Khelstake.

Sooryavanshi has managed to pull off feats which a lot of cricketers work for years to achieve, and he is just 15 years old. He is one of the most discussed young talents in the game, due to his performances in IPL and domestic cricket. As India prepares for their clash against Ireland in Belfast, the fans are looking forward to seeing history unfold.

He was a very gifted boy, who grew up to be so much more.

The journey of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been truly remarkable. His fearless batting, ability to score quickly and his maturity under pressure have won appreciation from the cricket experts, former players and the fans.

From handling pressure situations to facing seasoned bowlers, Sooryavanshi has always been a man of confidence and composure, far beyond his years. Such attributes have won the selectors' trust that he is fit for the international field.

What's so special about this debut?

There are those in Indian cricket who come with big dreams to every generation. Vaibhav is one of them.

The match against Ireland has many things in its favour for his debut:

He has the potential of becoming the youngest player to play for India in the international cricketing arena.

He is joining the national team after a phenomenal IPL season.

His hitting style is just right for today's T20 cricket.

He is considered to be one of the brightest prospects in Indian cricket by the fans.

His debut has the hype of some of his closest friends in recent history.

A New Era for Indian Cricket

India have a mix of young and experienced in their squad for the Ireland series. In addition to established names, there are also emerging talents such as Sooryavanshi, who are the future.

The Ireland tour is a chance for India to get a taste of international matches and see who will be the next big talent. If the debut is successful, Vaibhav's chances in the India T20 team will be boosted as he could be a permanent addition.

What Fans Can Expect

Sooryavanshi's role is likely to remain his natural attacking game, should he be picked in the playing 11.

Fans can expect:

Fearless stroke-making

Aggressive powerplay batting

Quick scoring opportunities

Intriguing collaborations with India's best order batsmen

His style has already captured the imagination of some of cricket's most explosive youngsters.

The Spotlight on Belfast The Ireland series will be a two-match affair in T20Is but the first game has been the one which has drawn unprecedented attention. Cricket fans from across the world and India will be watching to see if Sooryavanshi can repeat his domestic glory on the world stage.

This is more than just a T20I; it could be the start of a new chapter in Indian cricket for many.

Final Thoughts

The Delhi Capitals (DC) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have just done massive trade ahead of IPL 2027, which saw Rishabh Pant and Kuldeep Yadav join the other teams. The deal has caused a stir in cricket circles and could have a major influence on the fortunes of both teams in the upcoming season. Visit Khelstake for more ipl related updates.

Pant Returns to His IPL Home

Rishabh Pant returns to the Delhi Capitals, an emotional homecoming. Pant played for DC for most of his IPL career, evolving from a promising youngster to become one of the most promising wicket keepers-batters in India's IPL. Under the leadership of Delhi, he became a favourite of the fans and even led the team to victory in some seasons.

Pant has now made his comeback to the team where he created his IPL magic. Delhi Capitals will hope he can add his explosive batting, leadership, and match-winning skills to challenge for a title in IPL 2027.

Kuldeep Yadav Joins LSG

Kuldeep Yadav, the left hand Chinaman, is traded to Lucknow Super Giants. Kuldeep consistently picked wickets in the past few seasons and helped Delhi Capitals in the middle order in the IPL.

His entry will certainly give LSG's bowling attack a huge boost. The left-arm wrist-spinner is a man with valuable experience, wicket taking ability, and a knack of breaking the crucial partnerships, all of which could prove crucial in tight contests.

A Win-Win Deal?

Delhi, on the other hand, would gain some firepower in the batting order, and address the leadership issues with Pant. He is one of the most valuable T20 players in the world for his ability to put the game on ice and complete innings.

On the other hand, Lucknow is getting a match-winning bowler in the form of Kuldeep Yadav. In today's T20 world, where quality spin bowling has become a crucial aspect of the game, LSG could consider this as a smart move for the balance of the team.

Fan Reactions 

Fans of both franchises have reacted passionately to the trade. Delhi supporters are thrilled to see Pant back in familiar colors, while LSG fans are excited about adding one of India's premier spinners to their squad.

Social media platforms were flooded with discussions, with many calling it one of the most significant player exchanges in IPL history.

Looking Up To IPL 2027

The Pant-Kuldeep deal might be among the most important ones to watch in IPL 2027. Both are match-winners and will be coming into the new season with high expectations.

With the teams getting ready and the preparations underway, the main focus will be on how fast Pant is able to get back into Delhi Capitals' form and how well Kuldeep Yadav is able to bolster the Lucknow Super Giants' bowling lineup.

Kieron Pollard has emerged as the highest run scorer in T20 cricket, passing Chris Gayle, with 473 runs.

On Sunday, 21st June 2026, Kieron Pollard made history for the game of T20 cricket. The West Indian all-rounder equaled and broke Chris Gayle's record of 14,562 runs for most runs in T20 cricket history. Visit Khelstake for more cricket related updates.

Pollard will have a lot more to his name to his all-time list at the age of 54, given his longevity and his batter of an explosive nature. Gayle, also known as the "Universe Boss," held the record for the shortest format for over 10 years by his fearless batting and many match winning innings.

Pollard's journey to the top of T20 cricket is a testament to his consistency, adaptability, and power-hitting skills. He has played for various teams across the globe since his debut in 2006, such as IPL, Caribbean Premier League (CPL), Pakistan Super League (PSL), and other prominent T20 leagues. He has been one of the most daunting batters in the format and can also finish the game under pressure and have the ability to clear the boundaries at will.

Leading run getters in T20 cricket

Kieron Pollard

2. Chris Gayle

3. Alex Hales

4. Jos Buttler

5. David Warner

6. Virat Kohli

Pollard has been relevant in all eras because he diversified his game from the aggressive style that many players stick to. He was a reliable middle-order batsman, a valuable bowler and a motivational leader for a number of teams. In his current post, he is able to take his career to its next phase and still perform at a high level, thanks to his fitness and dedication.

It's quite a challenge to outdo Chris Gayle. Gayle's stroke making ability left a huge impression in T20 cricket and broke so many records, he collected thousands of runs. His run total was seemingly unbeatable year after year. Pollard's consistency and longevity, however, has allowed him to take over from his West Indian compatriot.

It is also an indication of West Indies supremacy in T20 cricket. Great legends such as Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard, Dwayne Bravo and Andre Russell have made the format and brought excitement to the masses worldwide.

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Test cricket remains the ultimate examination of a player's skill, temperament, and consistency. Since the year 2000, many legends have played  the format, but only a few have elevated themselves to "GOAT" (Greatest of All Time) status through their extraordinary achievements and lasting impact on the game.Visit Khelstake for more cricket.

1. Sachin Tendulkar – The Master Blaster

No discussion about cricket greatness is complete without Sachin Tendulkar. Although his career began in the 20th century, a major portion of his success came after 2000. Tendulkar finished his Test career with 15,921 runs, the highest in the history of the format, along with 51 centuries.

His technique, adaptability, and ability to perform against every bowling attack made him the benchmark for batting excellence. For over two decades, he carried the hopes of millions and inspired an entire generation of cricketers.

Test Stats:

Matches: 200

Runs: 15,921

Average: 53.78

Centuries: 51

2. Jacques Kallis – The Ultimate All-Rounder

South Africa's Jacques Kallis is the greatest all-rounder in Test cricket history. He combined the consistency of a top-order batsman with the effectiveness of a genuine fast-medium bowler.

Kallis scored over 13,000 Test runs and took nearly 300 wickets, an achievement which cannot be matched by most all-rounders. His calm temperament and match-winning abilities made him the backbone of South African cricket for nearly two decades.

Test Stats:

Matches: 166

Runs: 13,289

Average: 55.37

Centuries: 45

Wickets: 292

3. Virat Kohli – The Modern-Day King

Virat Kohli transformed India's approach to Test cricket with his aggressive captaincy and relentless hunger for runs. He emphasized fitness, fast bowling, and an attacking mindset, helping India become a dominant Test side.

Kohli has produced memorable performances across the world, including centuries in Australia, England, and South Africa. His passion and consistency have made him one of the defining cricketers of the modern era.

Test Stats:

Matches: Over 120

Runs: Over 9,000

Average: Around 46

Centuries: 30+

Beyond statistics, Kohli's influence on Indian Test cricket is immense and enduring.

4. Steve Smith – The Run Machine

Steve Smith's rise from a leg-spinning all-rounder to one of the greatest Test batsmen is one of cricket's most remarkable stories. His unconventional technique has not stopped him from dominating bowling attacks worldwide.

Smith's exceptional average, especially in an era filled with high-quality fast bowlers, places him among the all-time greats. His Ashes performances against England are considered some of the best batting displays in modern Test cricket.

Test Stats:

Matches: Over 110

Runs: Over 10,000

Average: Above 55

Centuries: 35+

His hunger for big scores and ability to perform under pressure make him a true GOAT contender.

5. James Anderson – The Pace Bowling Legend

Fast bowlers rarely enjoy long careers, but James Anderson defied expectations. The English pacer became the most successful fast bowler in Test history through his mastery of swing, accuracy, and longevity.

For over two decades, Anderson troubled the world's best batsmen in all conditions. His ability to adapt and maintain peak performance into his late thirties and forties is nothing short of extraordinary.

Test Stats:

Matches: 188

Wickets: 704

Best Bowling: 7/42

Average: 26.45

Anderson's achievements have redefined what is possible for fast bowlers in Test cricket.

Choosing the greatest Test players of the 21st century is never easy, but Sachin Tendulkar, Jacques Kallis, Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, and James Anderson stand out for their consistency, records, and impact on the game.

Each dominated in different ways: Tendulkar with unmatched longevity, Kallis with all-round brilliance, Kohli with leadership and intensity, Smith with extraordinary batting, and Anderson with historic bowling achievements.

Their legacies ensure that whenever fans debate the Test cricket GOAT, these five names will always be at the center of the conversation.

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The Heavy Weight of 15: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and the Price of Instant Fame

It is the oldest story in sports: one day you are a hero, and the next, you are the target.

Just a few months ago, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was the darling of Indian cricket, capturing everyone's imagination with a brilliant breakout season in IPL 2026. Fast forward to the ongoing tri-series, and the runs have dried up. Predictably, the cheers have turned to criticism. Visit Khelstake for more cricket. With experienced players gradually making way for emerging stars, fans are witnessing the beginning of a new era

Sooryavanshi is only 15 years old. He isn't just learning how to bat agaiest international bowling; he is learning how to navigate life, all while the world watches his every move. At that age, emotions run raw, and under immense pressure, they can easily boil over. That is exactly what happened during India A's recent clash with Sri Lanka A.

The game itself was a pressure cooker. After a grueling battle, both teams were deadlocked at 265 runs, sending the match into a high-stakes Super Over. With India needing 17 runs to win under a rapidly fading sky, Sooryavanshi walked out to open the batting alongside Suryansh Shedge.

In the dimming light, hitting became nearly impossible, and India fell short. As the Sri Lankan team erupted in celebration, the heartbreak of defeat turned ugly. Reportedly, a Sri Lankan player directed an abusive comment straight at the teenager.

In that split second, the professional athlete vanished, and a hurt, angry 15-year-old took over. Sooryavanshi reacted instantly, firing back. What followed was a heated, emotional confrontation that required teammates and officials to rush in and pull the players apart.

In the aftermath, the internet did what it does best: it judged. Fans and former cricketers flooded social media, criticizing the teenager for losing his cool and lecturing him on how he "should" have handled the provocation.

Among the critics was former Indian batsman Sanjay Manjrekar, who took to social media to advocate for tough love. Manjrekar stated that if he were India’s coach, he would bench Sooryavanshi for the next game against Afghanistan A as a disciplinary measure. To Manjrekar, representing your country means maintaining your composure, no matter what.

It is a fair point about discipline, but it highlights the brutal reality young athletes face today. Sooryavanshi is being asked to have the emotional maturity of a seasoned veteran before he is even old enough to drive. This incident wasn't just a cricket controversy; it was a teenager making a mistake on a global stage, and finding out just how unforgiving the world of sports can be.

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Indian cricket is about to take a new turn. After the recent changes in the squad, the national team is ready to groom the new generation of talent and is geared up to face the future of T20 cricket. Visit Khelstake for more cricket. With experienced players gradually making way for emerging stars, fans are witnessing the beginning of a new era.

India has developed one of the world's best talent pipelines in recent times. So, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has helped in grooming youngsters who are now in the international circuit. There have been a number of youngsters who have won selection into the national team with their vibrancy, fearlessness, and creative approach to cricket.

The leadership group is changing as well. The team is working on the long-term vision by entrusting new captains and vice-captains with more responsibility. In T20 cricket, one needs to be bold, flexible and take quick decisions in order to become a successful player. India's leadership development seems to be geared towards producing leaders who are able to survive in this rapidly evolving world.

Squad depth is probably one of the greatest benefits of the move. The Indian team is not like other teams, who have a handful of stars in their ranks, but instead, it has numerous replacements for almost every position. Whether it's destructive opening batters, versatile all-rounders, or pace bowlers capable of delivering in crucial moments, the team has a wealth of resources to choose from.

However, challenges remain. Young players will have to learn to cope with the rigours of international cricket where expectations are far higher than domestic cricket. These emerging prospects will determine whether these talents can get to the top, through consistency, mental toughness and facing the very best competition.

It's important for fans to realize that it takes time to rebuild. There's a natural cycle in which team members face setbacks at times, but this is part of the process of making a stronger, more balanced team. Not just on immediate results, but also on creating a team that will be able to go for big ICC trophies over the coming few years.

India's new T20 era is more than just a change of personnel. It signifies a move towards a younger, vibrant and future-oriented team culture. With these young guns still in the system and the leadership change set to take place, the Indian team's superiority in the shortest format of the game may last for years.

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