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A weekly India Today podcast, Sledging Room is a sports show which will hold discussions related to sports, especially cricket. This is a podcast with a difference, a podcast where tempers will flare and participants, to put it mildly, are not always polite. For your weekly dose of sporting hostilities, this is your final destination. Sledging Room will dissect views and bring in new perspectives with a dash of irreverence.
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The Asia Cup turned out to be an ugly affair. Dominated by off-field drama, the continental tournament made headlines for the wrong reasons more often than not. India and Pakistan met three times, including a historic first in the final. Yet, their battles will be remembered more for the tensions on the field than for any memorable cricketing moments. From the handshake snub to provocative gestures by Pakistan players, the India-Pakistan clashes were a disappointment for purists of the sport. India, however, simply took a stand they believed in. Pakistan, on the other hand, opted for the ugly route, focusing on theatrics rather than cricket. The drama reached its peak on the final day when Pakistan Cricket Board chief Mohsin Naqvi walked away with the trophy after India refused to accept it from him. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Alan John, and Kingshuk Kusari reflect on what was arguably one of the most controversial cricket tournaments in history. Tune In! Produced By Areeb Raza Sound Mix By Aman Pal
When Pakistan finally took the field against the UAE in Dubai on Wednesday, the Asia Cup match began under a cloud that had little to do with form or tactics. An hour-long delay, frantic calls between Lahore and Dubai, and the sudden spectre of a boycott turned routine pre-match preparations into a full-blown media circus. This episode was not an isolated burst of indignation. It was the latest in a familiar pattern: a board that prizes theatrics and brinkmanship over consistency, with players left carrying the collateral damage. Fans can debate whether the handshake snub was provocation, misunderstanding, or politicisation by India. The bigger question is simpler: did the PCB protect its players, or use them as bargaining chips? The answer is grimly obvious. Yes, there is merit in defending players from perceived slights. But there is a world of difference between a quiet procedural protest and a public demand that risks boycotting a tournament. One seeks resolution. The other seeks optics. The PCB chose optics — and the players bore the weight. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Alan John and Debodinna Chakraborty discuss how Pakistan scored an own goal, again! Produced by Nikhil Khattar Sound mixed by Aman Pal
India and Pakistan are set to clash in the Asia Cup group stage on Sunday in Dubai. The much-anticipated contest comes amid cross-border tensions and calls in India to boycott the game. Unlike previous high-voltage encounters, the hype this time feels muted. As of Friday, even the tickets were not sold out. On paper, there remains a clear gap in talent and class between the two sides, even in T20 cricket. India, the reigning world champions, look far stronger. Pakistan, missing their key batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, are still trying to adapt to the modern approach in the shortest format. Sunday’s game could well turn into a one-sided affair, with India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, eager to assert dominance over their arch-rivals. The Indians sent out a strong message in their opening match against UAE, bowling them out for just 57 runs and chasing the target in only 4.3 overs. The question remains: does Pakistan have the bowling firepower to trouble India and make this contest competitive? If not, another lopsided result could further dent the already waning quality of this once-fierce rivalry between the neighbours. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Kingshuk Kusari, and Saurabh Kumar discuss the imbalance between the two teams and what to expect from the India–Pakistan tie in the Asia Cup. Produced by Nikhil Khattar Sound mixed by Aman Pal
India are set to face Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup T20 after the Indian government recently clarified its stance on playing against Pakistan despite ongoing cross-border tensions. The Men in Blue will kick off their campaign against the UAE on September 10. However, all eyes will be on the blockbuster clash between the two arch-rivals at the Dubai International Stadium on September 14. This will be the first time India and Pakistan will face each other in an international cricket match since the Pahalgam terror attack. Should India boycott matches against Pakistan in continental and ICC tournaments, or should sports and politics remain separate when it comes to India-Pakistan encounters? Senior sports journalist Nikhil Naz joins the usual cast of Akshay Ramesh and Saurabh Kumar on the Sledging Room podcast to break down the rivalry and share insights from his two decades of covering the Asia Cup.
Cheteshwar Pujara retired two years after playing his last Test. R Ashwin bowed out midway through a Test series in Australia. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma announced their retirements from Test cricket during the IPL season. Yet, none of them were accorded a farewell.Overseas stars such as David Warner and James Anderson were able to choose their stage and script emotional farewell matches. Why can’t Indian greats enjoy the same privilege?Is this down to the BCCI’s inability to communicate better with its senior players? Pujara’s retirement also raises a crucial question: Is there still space for Test specialists in modern-day cricket?In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Kingshuk Kusari and Saurabh Kumar debate whether India’s modern-day greats have been short-changed in retirements. Tune in!
India have named a 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025, starting on 9 September. While Shubman Gill’s return to the T20I format – and that too as vice-captain – grabbed the headlines, a few notable omissions raised eyebrows. Has Gill’s comeback unsettled a well-oiled T20I line-up? What happens to Sanju Samson’s role as opener now? And, more importantly, what more does Shreyas Iyer need to do to break into this Indian T20I side? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari debate India’s Asia Cup squad. Tune in! Produced by Nikhil Khattar Sound mixed by Suraj Kumar Singh
The two icons of Indian cricket are back in the news. After India fought hard to draw the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, there’s calm after the storm with no international assignments scheduled for the men’s team until the Asia Cup in September. However, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have once again been dragged into the headlines. Reports are circulating that the two players might retire after the ODIs in Australia this October. But why? Kohli and Rohit are still among India’s best one-day batters, and both have expressed their desire to play in the 2027 World Cup. Why are we forcing a transition when there’s no need for it? Meanwhile, Shubman Gill is reportedly set to be named vice-captain for the Asia Cup T20Is. While Gill is undoubtedly India’s next big cricket superstar, does he deserve a spot in the T20Is? Will India disturb the well-established opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Alan John, and Saurabh Kumar discuss the chatter around some big selection calls that are expected soon. Produced by Nikhil Khattar Sound Mixed by Aman Pal
An epic final day brought fitting end to what has been a gruelling Test series between India and England. Mohammed Siraj left everything on the ground on the final day of the Oval Test match, handing India a comeback victory at the Oval. With the win in the final Test, India also levelled the 5-match series, 2-2, against the Ben Stokes side. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Kingshuk Kusari, Rishabh Beniwal and Alan John review the India vs England series. They go through the epic and the controversial moments occurred over the 40 days of play, and how it all culminated in the 40 minutes of sheer drama on Monday, August 4. The trio put in a lot of focus on Gautam Gambhir, who has been in the headlines through this series. The India head coach, already under pressure from series losses against New Zealand and Australia, might just have saved his neck owing to some sensational performances from the Indian cricketers. Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti
India scripted a great escape in the 4th Test match at Manchester. Ben Stokes's England were left frustrated by the grit of Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar. Controversy struck on the final day of the Test match when Jadeja and Sundar refused to go off the field, despite the hassling of Ben Stokes and Co. England, led by Stokes, wanted the batters to call it curtains much before the scheduled closure of play after realising that they were not going to win the match. A massive wave of criticism followed Stokes and his team for unsportsmanlike conduct and trying to dictate the opposition's approach with the bat. Safe to say, the self-proclaimed custodians of the game failed morally as well. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari discuss the draw in Manchester, which felt like a win. They also build up to the 5th and final Test match of the series, which might have major workload concerns for both teams. Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti
India have a massive injury crisis on their hands ahead of the 4th Test match, set to start on July 23. Nitish Kumar Reddy and Arshdeep Singh have been ruled out of the Manchester Test match, and it is being reported that Akash Deep might not play as well. The injuries are not limited only to the bowling department. It is likely that Rishabh Pant will not be keeping wickets in the 4th Test due to his existing finger injury, which means that Dhruv Jurel will need to be drafted as the specialist keeper. What will be India's combination for the 4th Test? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room, Kingshuk Kusari, Saurabh Kumar, and Alan John discuss India's issues going into the Test match, and how this series has started to give Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 vibes. Further, the trio discuss the allotment of the WTC Final to England for the next three cycles and what has been brewing closer to home, in the Indian Premier League. Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti
It was a heartbreak of epic proportions for India at Lord’s. Chasing 193, they were reduced to 82 for 7 and then 112 for 8. Just when it seemed England would wrap things up on the final morning and head in for a relaxed Lord’s lunch, Ravindra Jadeja stood tall with a resolute act of defiance. He faced 181 deliveries for a gritty 61, with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj for company. But did India miss a trick by not being more proactive while Jadeja was batting with the tail? While it may be unfair to expect Jadeja to take undue risks, was there a moment that slipped away? What really led to India’s defeat at Lord’s, despite having dominated large portions of the Test? Was it Shubman Gill’s soft dismissal? Was it poor umpiring? Or the top-order collapse in the second innings? As we head into an eight-day break in the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy, is it time for India to rethink their playing XI? Will Jasprit Bumrah return for the Manchester Test? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Debodinna Chakraborty unpack the drama and heartbreak of Lord’s. Tune In Now Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Suraj Singh
After the humbling at Headingley, not many expected India to bounce back the way they did in Birmingham. Despite piling up over 800 runs in the first Test, India lost after England chased down 371 in the final innings — a stunning blow. But at Edgbaston, it was a different India. Ruthless, clinical, and relentless. Led by Shubman Gill’s record-breaking 430-run performance and a sensational 10-wicket haul from Akash Deep, India demolished England and delivered a brutal body blow to Bazball. Did you see that coming from Gill? Criticized for his inconsistent overseas form, he’s now silenced his doubters in style — and is on course to break some major world records. As for England — were they arrogant? Did they underestimate India again? Why can’t they play for a draw when needed? Are they simply incapable of batting in the traditional way anymore? With India riding high on confidence, and the third Test at Lord’s just around the corner, the series hangs in the balance. Who will edge ahead in this enthralling race? All eyes now shift to London. Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti
The days of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, and Ishant Sharma hunting in packs in overseas Tests feel like a distant memory. While Bumrah still leads the pace unit, India’s overdependence on their premier fast bowler is becoming a worrying trend. In Australia, it was Bumrah or bust. He picked up 30 wickets before breaking down ahead of the series-deciding Test — and missed the Champions Trophy campaign due to injury. In England, things haven’t started well either. India appear to have learned little from past mistakes. In the first Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in Leeds, Bumrah was a lone warrior. Mohammed Siraj looked out of sorts, while Prasidh Krishna and Shardul Thakur failed to provide any meaningful support. Despite Bumrah’s five-wicket haul and four Indian batters hitting centuries, India slumped to defeat. Head coach Gautam Gambhir has defended the bowling group, insisting the young pace attack needs time and backing. But is there merit in that argument? Can India continue to be so heavily reliant on Bumrah without unearthing new fast-bowling heroes? Ahead of the second Test between England and India at Edgbaston, Akshay Ramesh, Kingshuk Kusari, and Saurabh Kumar break down the state of India’s pace attack in today's episode. Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti
It was truly a baptism by fire for Shubman Gill in his Test captaincy debut. India lost a match they could have—and perhaps should have—won, despite racking up over 800 runs across two innings, fuelled by four centurions and a five-wicket haul from their pace spearhead. Yet, as a new era of Indian Test cricket began, they were once again undone by familiar frailties that have plagued them in the past. England, it must be said, made light work of a daunting 371-run target on the final day.Over the course of a fiercely contested five days at Headingley, captain Gill witnessed nearly every shade of Test cricket: India’s top order fired, he silenced his doubters with a maiden century in the much-debated SENA conditions, his vice-captain struck a hundred in each innings of the Test, but his bowling unit failed to function as a collective, his fielders turned in one of their poorest performances in recent memory, and his lower middle-order folded quicker than some of those ferrying drinks onto the field.Who takes the blame for India's defeat in Leeds? There's no Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli to pin the blame on.Coach Gautam Gambhir backed his team, but did stir some controversies in his press conference post the game. With just 1 win in the last nine Tests, Gambhir is under pressure.Does he deserve more leeway? Did India get the team wrong in Leeds?In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Alan John and Kingshuk Kusari discuss India's missed opportunity in the Leeds Test.Produced by Garvit SrivastavaSound mixed by Rohan Bharti
India are set to embark on a 5-match Test series against England. Shubman Gill is captaining a new-look side away from home, as India hopes to start the new World Test Championship cycle in style. As the Sledging Room Podcast returns with the first episode of Season 3, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari discuss India's chances in the series and the potential of this new-look team giving England a run for their money. There are several talking points going into the series. What is the status of Jasprit Bumrah's fitness, should the axe fall on Gautam Gambhir if India fails in another overseas tour and what should India be a little braver in selecting their Test line-up. The series will be a massive test of Shubman Gill's mettle, who even till the start of 2024 did not have his place settled in the playing XI. If young Shubman can lead the way with the bat, it would earn him massive respect in the dressing room. But will he able to separate his batting from his leadership? As we build up for the Test series, the trio discuss a host of talking points ahead of the 1st Test at Headingly. Produced by Garvit Srivastava Sound mixed by Suraj Kumar Singh
The Lucknow Super Giants splashed a massive amount of cash on Rishabh Pant in the Indian Premier League 2025 mega-auction. But things went horribly wrong for both Pant and his franchise this season. LSG failed to make it to the playoffs, and Pant endured a historic low in the competition.Questions were raised about Pant’s ability as a T20 batter and as a leader of the side. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Kingshuk Kusari discuss what went wrong with the Lucknow-based franchise and their captain. They also delve into the fortunes of the Delhi Capitals — Pant’s former side — who failed to qualify for the playoffs despite starting the tournament in riveting fashion.Delhi amassed a strong squad this season but suffered an incredible collapse in the second half. Constant changes in their batting order and the failure of their spinners in the final few matches overshadowed individual brilliance from the likes of KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs. Delhi were also hurt by the failure of their management, who were unable to provide the squad with the right replacements when needed.Here’s a recap of the near misses from this season of the tournament, with a special focus on the future of LSG captain Rishabh Pant.Produced by Prateek LidhooSound mix by Suraj Singh
Virat Kohli has announced his shock retirement from Test cricket, just 770 runs short of the coveted 10,000-run mark. Despite the BCCI's efforts to convince him to stay for the upcoming England tour, Kohli decided the time was right to step away. Known for his fiery passion and unrelenting drive, Kohli’s Test legacy remains unmatched. But with his departure, the big question looms: Who will captain India in the red-ball format? Jasprit Bumrah or Shubman Gill? In this episode, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Alan Jose break down Kohli’s decision, his legacy, and what lies ahead for Indian Test cricket. Don’t miss this crucial conversation. Tune in! Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound mix by Suraj Singh
What were you doing at 14? Vaibhav Suryavanshi, at just 14, has become the toast of the cricketing world after smashing a 35-ball hundred — a knock far beyond his years as he pummelled 11 sixes, two of which travelled over 90 metres.Vaibhav became the youngest player in Twenty20 history to score a century when he dismantled some of the best bowlers in the business against Gujarat Titans. The audacity and power of his strokes left the cricket world in awe. But is it really possible for a 14-year-old to generate such immense power? We asked his coach, Manish Ojha, about the teenager’s journey from the dusty fields of Bihar to international stardom in the IPL. Ojha revealed that Vaibhav was clearing 90-metre sixes as an 11-year-old.While Vaibhav has captured the spotlight at an age when most are still dreaming of hitting a boundary in gully cricket, experts believe he must be nurtured with care to ensure his growth stays on track. In the latest episode of The Sledging Room podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari delve into the rise of the IPL’s latest phenomenon.Produced by Prateek LidhooSound mix by Rohan Bharti
Just a week ago, everyone had written off the Mumbai Indians. But with four straight wins and a squad clicking in perfect rhythm, they've roared back into the spotlight. The five-time champions aren't just winning—they're dominating, playing with the swagger and confidence of a team that knows exactly how to conquer titles. In contrast, Rishabh Pant - acquired for a record-breaking Rs 27 crore to lead Lucknow Super Giants - has looked a shadow of his once-destructive self. After nine matches this season, he has mustered just 106 runs, with 63 of those coming in a single knock against CSK. Pant has always thrived when brimming with confidence, but at LSG, he seems jaded and weighed down by expectations. His strike rate of 96.36 is alarmingly low for someone of his caliber. Part of the issue could be his constant shuffle in the batting order, never quite settling into one role. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja have retained their spots in the Grade A+ bracket of the BCCI central contracts despite stepping away from T20Is. We break down how the BCCI arrived at that decision. In the latest episode of the Sledging Room podcast, Saurabh Kumar, Kingshuk Kusari, and Alan Jose John dissect the central contracts, Pant's struggles, and Mumbai Indians' roaring comeback in IPL 2025. Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound mix by Rohan Bharti
As IPL 2025 approaches its halfway stage, one trend is becoming increasingly clear: teams with strong captain-coach partnerships are thriving. Whether it’s Axar Patel and Hemang Badani, Ashish Nehra and Shubman Gill, or Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting — clear communication and mutual trust are driving success. We saw a similar impact last year with Gautam Gambhir’s return. This raises an important question: Is the IPL becoming more like football, where man-management takes centre stage? What exactly is the coach’s role — to offer technical input or to manage egos and personalities? In the latest episode of the Sledging Room Podcast, Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar, and Rishabh Beniwal dive into the evolving role of coaches and dissect the worst captain-coach combos of the season. Tune in now! Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound mix by Suraj Singh
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