Category News

An average of 13.66 – is Rohit on the decline?

By in News, Sports News
BCCI/IPL
Ffion Wynne
BBC Sport journalist
Callum Matthews
BBC Sport senior journalist
  • 8 Comments

Rohit Sharma has been under scrutiny for his poor form in the Indian Premier League (IPL), and his struggles so far in 2025 are consistent with a downward trend in the competition over the past three years.

The former Mumbai Indians captain, who still leads India’s white-ball teams, has scored 82 runs in six innings at an average of 13.66.

The opener’s 26 from 16 balls against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Thursday was his highest score this season, and with three sixes he showed some glimpses of a return to form before another soft dismissal off Pat Cummins.

“He’s finding it very hard to be consistent,” former IPL batter Abhishek Jhunjhunwala told BBC Sport.

Rohit’s run drought has also mirrored his own team’s form, as Mumbai have struggled to find a consistent winning combination – they are seventh in the table with three wins from seven.

However, this is unique to Rohit in the IPL specifically as he is still having plenty of success internationally with a T20 World Cup win in 2024 and the Champions Trophy title last month.

He is also a Mumbai legend having led them to five titles in 11 years as captain, while he is set to have a stand named after him at the iconic Wankhede stadium.

What are the numbers behind Rohit’s decline?

Why is Rohit struggling?

Mumbai Indians' Rohit Sharma walks off after being dismissedGetty Images

‘There will be patience’ – what might happen next?

Mumbai’s most recent IPL title came in 2020, having also won the previous year, and Rohit was replaced as skipper by Hardik Pandya in 2024 – but in the all-rounder’s first edition in charge, they finished bottom of the table.

Rohit’s legendary status with the side is likely to earn him a longer run in order to solve his personal batting problems, but it could present the Mumbai hierarchy with a brave call to make if he cannot regain form – and if the team maintains its inconsistency, too.

“There is a lot of pressure on him, especially when he’s playing for India,” Jhunjhunwala added.

“In the IPL, they are ruthless as we’ve seen with so many players, and we’ve seen that with Mumbai Indians.

“There will be patience with him, especially at Mumbai, because he’s done brilliantly for them over the years.

“He’s still got it. I just feel that he’s maybe lost a bit of hand-eye coordination and that can happen, but your career can really go down quite quickly. He’s got to work on a lot of things, especially his fitness.”

Former England bowler Tymal Mills, who played with Rohit at Mumbai in 2022, also backed him to rediscover his best form and described him as “a nightmare for bowlers” when in full flow.

“He’s one of the most experienced players in the world, he has been there and done it at the highest level for a very long time,” Mills told BBC Sport.

“He will stick to his processes, he will hit a lot of balls. You’ll always see him going to training early and getting his extra work done before everyone else arrives.

“When you have played as long as Rohit has, you’re going to go through bad spells. Players of his class always re-emerge.

“He has earned the right to get a long leash because he’s had such a successful career and been a nightmare for bowlers.”

Related topics

  • Franchise Cricket
  • Cricket

Strictly’s Kai Widdrington’s huge statement with new girlfriend with sweet post

By in Entertainment News, News

Strictly Come Dancing pro Kai Widdrington has gone public with his new partner Chloe Wells in a post on social media, nine months on from his split from co-star Nadiya Bychkova

Kai Widdrington has gone public with his new partner in a post on social media this week(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images for Fever)

Professional dancer Kai Widdrington has gone public with his new romance. It comes following speculation that he was in a new relationship nine months on from his split from Strictly Come Dancing co-star Nadiya Bychkova.

Kai, 29, has been rumoured to have begun a relationship with executive assistant Chloe Wells since the end of his romance with fellow dancer Nadiya, 35. And it was reported just days ago that him and Chloe are preparing for their red carpet debut as a couple and could move in together.

The pair have now gone become ‘Instagram official’ in a joint post on the platform this afternoon. Kai and Chloe shared a photo of themselves looking cosy whilst out together in the post to their respective followers. Kai is seen wearing a black jumper and dark trousers whilst beside Chloe, who’s pictured wearing a brown dress and holding a champagne flute.

Alongside the photo, the pair – who reportedly began a romance after meeting at a pub in London – teased over their “happiness”. The caption of the joint post read: “Happiness is underrated.” It included a black heart emoji.

The post was liked by several of Kai’s colleagues, including Gorka Márquez and Luba Mushtuk. Some pros from the show reacted in the comments section, like Jowita Przystał, who posted a heart-eyed emoji as her response.

Article continues below
Kai Widdrington and Chloe Wells in a photo together.
Strictly Come Dancing pro Kai Widdrington (left) has gone public over his apparent new romance with Chloe Wells (right)(Image: Instagram/kaiwidd)

Fellow pro Lauren Oakley instead wrote beside a red heart in her reply to pal Kai’s post: “Cuties.” Whilst former contestant Tasha Ghouri, who reached the final last year, wrote in a comment on the platform: “Sooo happy for you.”

Fans also reacted in the comments section. One person wrote: “Awh I’m so happy for you both.” Another follower responded to the post: “Beautiful couple.” Whilst someone else wrote: “Ahh. Love this. So happy for you Kai.”

It comes after a source told the Sun recently that Kai and Chloe were preparing to “go public” with their first red carpet appearance together. The source said that they “hit it off from the start” and that office worker Chloe has “no interest in the limelight”. The source said: “They have a real laugh together and although it’s early days, they’re planning on moving in together in the coming months.”

It’s thought to be Kai’s first relationship since he split up from fellow Strictly pro Nadiya. The former couple began dating back in 2022 – whilst both on the BBC dance show – but their break-up was then announced last summer.

Speaking to the Mirror at the Pride of Britain Awards months later in October, when asked about the break-up, Nadiya said: “We work together but we are not friends and that’s ok. One thing I can tell you is that when you see me dancing with him it will be amazing because I’m a professional.”

Kai Widdrington in a black suit and Nadiya Bychkova in a white dress.
It’s thought to be his first relationship since splitting from co-star Nadiya Bychkova last summer(Image: Hoda Davaine/Dave Benett/Getty Images)

During their relationship, Kai – who joined Strictly in 2021, four years after Nadiya made her debut on the show – paid tribute to his then-partner. He spoke about her in an interview with Hello magazine, published in 2023.

He said at the time: “She’s the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen, but the real beauty is not just what you see on the outside – it’s the person on the inside I fell in love with. People often misjudge her and just see a stunning blonde girl, but she’s more than that.”

Article continues below

Kai went on to describe Nadiya – who has a daughter, Mila, from a previous relationship – as an “amazing mother”. He told the outlet in the interview two years ago: “She’s the kindest person I’ve ever met in my entire life, and the most amazing mother.”

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

READ MORE: Dune’s Adidas-alternative red trainers that are ‘so comfortable’ have a £36 price cut

PHOTOS: Iyabo Ojo’s Daughter, Prisciilla Ties Knot With Tanzanian Partner In Lagos

By in Entertainment News, News

Priscilla Ojo, daughter of Nollywood actress and filmmaker Iyabo Ojo, has officially tied the knot with her Tanzanian heartthrob, Juma Jux, in a grand traditional wedding ceremony.

The much-anticipated union, held on Thursday, was attended by several top names in the Nigerian entertainment industry, drawing both admiration and online buzz.

The Lagos ceremony follows their intimate customary wedding held in Tanzania earlier in February.

The event was graced by numerous Nollywood stars, including Mercy Aigbe, Destiny Etiko and Toyin Abraham, who were spotted assisting with the event and dancing joyfully with the guests.

One notable appearance was that of 83-year-old legendary Juju musician Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey, whose presence thrilled attendees.

For their Nigerian traditional celebration, the couple dazzled in vibrant ensembles of purple, orange and pink. Priscilla wore a long-sleeved, asooke blouse paired with a dramatic, layered skirt adorned with sequins and stones. She completed the regal look with a purple gele and matching ipele.

The Tanzanian singer complemented his bride in a striking agbada made from matching purple asooke, featuring orange and gold embellishments. His royal blue cap with orange accents and a purple staff, topped with a carved map of Africa, added symbolic depth to the ensemble.

READ ALSO: Tunde Onakoya Eyes 70-hour Chess Marathon With Slum Kids

The bridal party added extra colour to the occasion, with the groomsmen sporting pink agbadas and the bridesmaids dressed in stylish pink traditional attire with gele headwraps.

Several clips circulating online captured the couple performing their traditional marriage rites. The decorated hall had a dreamy and heavenly ambience.

Before Thursday’s wedding, videos also showed Jux’s family in numbers flying down to Nigeria for the occasion.

Love Story

In a pre-wedding interview with BellaNaija Weddings, Jux expressed his joy at finally marrying 24-year-old Priscilla.

“It’s exciting — a dream come true. From the first day I met Priscilla, I knew she was an amazing soul,” the singer said.

Further speaking on their love story, the 35-year-old revealed, “I knew instantly she was the one. I couldn’t wait to put a ring on her hand.”

In her interview, Iyabo shared her thoughts about her daughter’s choice: “I knew Juma was the one, seeing how international he is about family. I always hoped Priscilla would get married in her early 20s.”

The actress’s estranged husband, Ademidun Ojo, also made headlines after flying into Lagos for the wedding celebration. In a trending video, the bride’s father was seen warmly greeting guests at the venue where he was lodged. Another heartwarming clip showed him embracing his new son-in-law, symbolising the union of two families.

Despite their separation, Iyabo and Ademidun came together in matching traditional outfits to support their daughter. A viral video captured the former couple dancing side by side, exuding grace and unity.

The festivities began with a private introduction ceremony held in Tanzania, attended only by close friends and family. Just before Valentine’s Day, Juma Jux proposed once more — this time with a bigger ring — in a romantic moment shared online.

The couple held a civil wedding a day later, attended by celebrity friends including Toyin Abraham, Chioma Good Hair, and Enioluwa.

Jux began his music journey as a rapper at 16 before signing with A.M. Records in 2008. Known for hits like “Sugua” (with Diamond Platnumz), “Juu” (with Vanessa Mdee) and “Regina” (with Otile Brown), Jux has collaborated with several African artistes, including Gyakie, Bien, Zuchu, Joh Makini, and Marioo.

Before dating influencer Priscilla, Jux was in high-profile relationships with Vanessa Mdee and Karen Bujulu. He officially confirmed his relationship with Priscilla in mid-2024 after sharing romantic photos on Instagram that sparked widespread speculation.

With their union now sealed in both Tanzanian and Nigerian tradition, fans across both nations continue to celebrate what many are calling a modern African fairytale.

PHOTOS 

Iyabo Ojo outfit for the wedding
Priscilla
Iyabo Ojo’s daughter weds partner
Priscilla Ojo
Priscilla Ojo and her new husband
Priscilla Ojo and Juma Jux
Lasosa
Enioluwa
Enioluwa and his mom
Regina chukwu
Akin Faminu
Erica Nlewedim
Mercy Eke

Flintoff ‘didn’t leave house for six months’ after crash

By in News, Sports News

Andrew ‘Freddie’ Flintoff has said he did not leave the house for six months after his Top Gear crash, which left him with both physical and mental scars.

The cricketer-turned-TV presenter sustained serious facial and rib injuries in a crash while filming the BBC motoring programme in 2022.

Speaking about the incident on ITV’s The Jonathan Ross Show, Flintoff said he had struggled with “crippling anxiety” in the wake of the crash and has suffered from flashbacks and nightmares.

“Afterwards, obviously there’s the physical scars that I’ve got. But then the mental side of it,” he told Jonathan Ross.

“I didn’t leave the house for probably six or eight months. The only times I was leaving the house was for medical appointments and surgeries,” he said.

The former England all-rounder also revealed he had to have “about five or six goes at leaving the room” and “have a chat with myself in the mirror” to help overcome his anxiety before returning to the world of cricket as a coach.

“I’d not shown myself without a face mask to anyone. It was like starting again.”

In a trailer released on Thursday for the 90-minute Disney+ documentary, Flintoff describes his “vivid” memories of the crash and says he can remember “everything about it”.

A still image from shortly after the incident is shown, depicting staff and crew attending a crashed vehicle at Top Gear’s test track at Dunsfold Park Aerodrome in Surrey.

Flintoff said filming the upcoming documentary was “quite strange” at first.

“Since the accident, had the flashbacks, the nightmares and things… you’re talking about it, you’re talking about it quite a lot,” he said.

“I enjoy watching the cricket bits, wish there was more of them in it. The hardest part is seeing people talk about you.”

He added: “I retired so long ago, it almost seems like a different life. Like watching from the outside.”

One of England’s most successful cricketers, Flintoff said he is “loving” his return to the sport coaching England Lions – the development squad underneath England Men’s cricket team.

“I think, with everything that’s happened over the past few years, that’s the one place I feel most comfortable,” he told Jonathan Ross.

“That time when I probably needed it most, cricket embraced me again,” he said.

They 47-year-old returned to television last year with a second series of his BBC programme Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams, which saw him take a team of young cricketers from his hometown of Preston on a tour of India a year after the Top Gear crash.

The acclaimed series is up for a Bafta Television Award in the factual series category next month.

In 2023, the BBC “rested” Top Gear for the foreseeable future. A financial settlement was also reached with Flintoff.

Alcaraz beats Djere to reach Barcelona Open quarters

By in News, Sports News
Getty Images

Top seed Carlos Alcaraz eased into the quarter-finals of the Barcelona Open with a straight-set win over Laslo Djere.

Spanish world number two Alcaraz, who triumphed at the Monte Carlo Masters last week, won 6-2 6-4 against Serbia’s unseeded Djere.

Alcaraz won the first five games and produced eight unanswered winners in a dominant first set.

The four-time Grand Slam winner suffered a blip in the second, falling 4-2 behind, before securing the final four games to triumph.

“After going 4-2 down in the second, I played a bit more like what my level is”, said Alcaraz.

“I am very happy that I could step up my level, and seem more like my best and I want to continue”.

The 21-year-old will play fifth seed Alex de Minaur in the last eight on Friday after the Australian thrashed Britain’s Jacob Fearnley.

Unseeded Fearnley beat Spain’s Roberto Carballes on Monday for his first ATP Tour win on clay, but was defeated 6-1 6-2 by De Minaur.

Elsewhere, Russian fourth seed Andrey Rublev lost 7-5 6-4 to unseeded Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.

Related topics

  • Tennis