Gautam Gambhir Seeks Blessings Ahead of T20 Clash with Bangladesh

Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir visits a holy shrine for blessings ahead of the T20I series against Bangladesh. Celebrated during Shardiya Navratri, the team prepares for the series set across India. Key players include Suryakumar Yadav, Sanju Samson, and returning talent Abhishek Sharma.

In preparation for the upcoming T20 International series against Bangladesh, India's head coach, Gautam Gambhir, visited the revered Maa Pitambara Temple in Datia, offering prayers on the auspicious occasion of the second day of Shardiya Navratri. Clad in traditional attire, the former cricket star sought divine blessings, receiving honors from temple officials.

The festival of Navratri, translating to 'nine nights' in Sanskrit, is a major Hindu celebration dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine manifestations, known as Navdurga. While four Navratris take place throughout the year, Chaitra Navratri and Shardiya Navratri, coinciding with seasonal transitions, are more widely observed by devotees.

Celebrations during Navratri vary across India, with North India, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh, showcasing cultural events such as the Ramlila. This dramatic portrayal of the Ramayana concludes with Vijayadashami, highlighted by the burning of effigies representing the demon king Ravana. Concurrently, India gears up for its T20I series against Bangladesh, beginning October 6 in Gwalior, followed by games in Delhi and Hyderabad.

The Indian squad sees right-hand batter Suryakumar Yadav leading the team, accompanied by wicketkeeper-batters Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma. Young talent Abhishek Sharma rejoins the squad, alongside Riyan Parag and Nitish Kumar Reddy. All-rounders Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar, and Shivam Dube enhance the roster, with Ravi Bishnoi and Varun Chakaravarthy as spinners, and seamers Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, and Mayank Yadav rounding out the lineup. The series promises competitive cricket action between the two nations.

(With inputs from agencies.)