Just days before the start of the first Test between India and England, Indian batter KL Rahul and England captain Ben Stokes took part in a fun challenge together. The event, organized by Red Bull, showed both cricketers in a light and playful mood as they faced off in a friendly competition.
In the challenge, Rahul and Stokes had to hit targets using cricket bats. The setup was creative, with targets placed on autorickshaws and other colorful props. Both players tried to score points by hitting the targets, and the challenge ended with fireworks and laughter.
The video of their fun battle was shared online and quickly became popular among fans. It showed the good relationship between the two star players, even though they’ll soon be facing each other in a serious five-match Test series.
This lighthearted event comes just ahead of the first Test match, which will be played at Headingley from June 20, 2025. KL Rahul has been in good form recently, scoring runs in practice matches, while Stokes is ready to lead England with his usual energy and confidence.
While the Red Bull challenge was all about fun, the real competition between India and England is expected to be intense and exciting. Fans are now even more excited for the upcoming series after watching this friendly face-off between two top cricketers.
ENG vs IND, 1st Test: Gautam Gambhir Set To Rejoin Team India Squad On Tuesday, Claims Report
Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir is expected to rejoin the squad on June 17, Tuesday, with the first Test against England beginning on the 20th. The former Indian opener's absence meant assistant coaches Sitanshu Kotak, Ryan ten Doeschate, bowling coach Morne Morkel oversaw the team's preparations. India A coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar also stayed back.
Gambhir had flown back home to Delhi on July 11 due to his mother getting hospitalised, forcing him to miss the three-day fixture between Indian team and India A. According to ESPN Cricinfo, the 43-year-old's mother's condition has improved ever since.
Gambhir finds himself under pressure after two consecutive series losses in Test cricket. The former left-handed batter was in charge when India suffered a shocking 3-0 whitewash to New Zealand at home and they followed it up with relinquishing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. With a young Indian team, under Shubman Gill, bereft of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, the tourists will start as underdogs.
