Indian cricket team’s trusted throw-down specialist, Raghavendra Dwivedi, popularly known as Raghu was in for a surprise, on his arrival in Nagpur for the first ODI against England. When the Indian squad arrived at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Raghu, who got off the team bus along with the players was stopped by the local police, who did not recognize him and suspected him to be some illegal man.

The security personnel, whose duty was to secure the team, seemed completely oblivious to Raghu’s years of association with Indian cricket. The confusion escalated as video journalists on the scene began to explain that he belonged to the coaching staff. “He is a coach! ” they shouted out hoping to get the situation back on track. However, instead of getting angry over the situation, Raghu maintained his composure and patience as usual. The issue was soon settled, and he was permitted to go inside with the rest of the team.
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The photo quickly trended on social media as Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar shared a photo with Raghu on his ‘X’ account, captioning it “Our own,” showing camaraderie and respect for the team behind the curtains.
Raghu of Indian cricket team was denied entry by Nagpur police. pic.twitter.com/xbbkO1u4hu
— mufaddla parody (@mufaddl_parody) February 4, 2025
Our own ♥️ pic.twitter.com/pqKKnfhaaR
— Washington Sundar (@Sundarwashi5) February 4, 2025
As India prepare to face England in the three-match ODI series, the team will look forward to carry the momentum they have received through the T20I series where they won 4-1 convincingly. The third and last T20I in Mumbai saw the Men in Blue crush England by a big margin of 150 runs, a statement win before the 50-over format.
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This series is most critical preparatory ground given the shadow looming Champions Trophy 2025 as India is scheduled to play their tournament opener against Bangladesh on 20 February in Dubai. India, however, have been slightly set back in their preparation with the non-availability of their pacemaster Jasprit Bumrah. Though initially named for the squad, he has been ruled out from this series owing to back strain and is presently under rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru.
This is a severe blow, given his capability of troubling the opposing batters under all conditions. But in a surprising twist, the side has decided to include in-form spinner Varun Chakaravarthy into the side from the T20I series he played against England.