‘Tiger’ backs ‘Cockroach’

Mumbai: The Shiv Sena (UBT) became the first political party to openly support the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) launched by a Maharashtra youth Abhijeet Dipke who launched a huge protest in New Delhi on Saturday. In a strong statement, SS (UBT) President and ex-CM Uddhav Thackeray threw his weight behind the CJP as thousands of youngsters hit the streets of New Delhi in the scorching sun, not for politics but for their future. “Those whom we call the architects of the nation's future have come...

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Mumbai: The Shiv Sena (UBT) became the first political party to openly support the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) launched by a Maharashtra youth Abhijeet Dipke who launched a huge protest in New Delhi on Saturday. In a strong statement, SS (UBT) President and ex-CM Uddhav Thackeray threw his weight behind the CJP as thousands of youngsters hit the streets of New Delhi in the scorching sun, not for politics but for their future. “Those whom we call the architects of the nation's future have come out carrying their pain, frustration and anxiety about their future. It is wrong to ridicule them as ‘cockroaches’ and deny them justice,” said the SS (UBT) Tiger. Thackeray said the recent NEET paper leak scandal had shattered the dreams of lakhs of students and their families, raising questions in the minds of youngsters whether merit still matters – as the movement which started on social media has spilled onto the streets across the country. “All these aggrieved young men and women are now raising their voices by becoming ‘cockroaches’. The government must listen to their demands. Do not underestimate the ‘cockroaches’ – this is the warning given by the agitation (today) at Jantar Mantar,” said Thackeray sharply. The SS (UBT)’s supportive stance came against the backdrop of mounting anger among students over the alleged irregularities in major public examinations like NEET, CBSE, CUET, and recruitment processes, which has shaken confidence in the country's education system. The Protest Around dawn, Dipke, 30 – who launched the online movement three weeks ago from the USA – reached India as thousands of supporters waited patiently and peacefully near the Parliament Street Police Station. Many waved the National Tricolour, copies of the Constitution or books of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, others carried flowers which they offered to the 1000-plus alert security personnel deployed there, and several sported symbolic cockroach masks. In a brief address, Dipke accused the government of focusing more on the CJP’s online presence than on the serious issues raised by the students. “You may be able to delete our posts, but you cannot erase us from this space,” he roared, amid loud cheers and thundering applause from the crowd. He said there must be accountability in the form of the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, failing which the CJP will continue its protests in New Delhi and also other parts of India. Anticipating detention after his homecoming, Dipke: “I was fully prepared to sacrifice my freedom for this cause.” In a warm gesture, environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk arrived from Ladakh to join the protest, declared himself as an ‘Honorary cockroach’ and expressed solidarity with Dipke. “People ask what is achieved through protests, sit-ins and marches. It proves that we are alive. The government may treat us like insects, but we are alive and capable of fighting for our rights,” mocked the CJP in a social media statement The CJP volunteers repeatedly urged the protestors to maintain decorum and make their impact in a democratic manner, which the crowds adhered to, but raised full-throated slogans intermittently, even as the protest ended without any untoward incidents. Incidentally, the Delhi Police granted permission for the demonstrations by allowing the crowds to gather directly at Jantar Mantar grounds as a ‘one-time exemption’. Demonstrations expressing solidarity to the cause were held in different parts of the country while tight security was deployed outside Dipke’s home in Chhatrapati Sambhajinar. Why are students forced to agitate?: Aaditya Thackeray Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray said why the students are being compelled to agitate when they should be planning out academic future and career options. “The young students exposed the NEET leak scam, or the CBSE marks scandal. The minister should have resigned or should have been sacked, some officials have been transferred but not suspended. The government should be ashamed of the situation,” said Aditya.

The Prince Poised To Inherit Kohli’s Crown

Waleed Hussain
Jul 6, 2025
3 min read

Picture this: a packed stadium, the air thick with anticipation, and a young man with a boyish grin strides to the crease. Shubman Gill, with his floppy hair and effortless swagger, looks like he just walked out of a Bollywood movie, ready to script a blockbuster. As India’s cricketing faithful pin their hopes on this 26-year-old prodigy, it’s hard not to feel a lump in the throat. Could this be the heir to Virat Kohli’s throne? The answer, my friends, is a resounding yes. Gill isn’t just a batsman; he’s a vibe, a hope, a future painted in bold, emotional strokes.

Natural heir

First, let’s talk about the elephant in the room—Kohli’s legacy. Virat Kohli isn’t just a cricketer; he’s a phenomenon. The man who chases runs like they owe him money, who wears his heart on his sleeve, and who’s turned Indian cricket into a global juggernaut. Replacing him is like trying to replace the sun—good luck with that, right? But here’s where Gill steps in, not as a replacement, but as a natural heir. He’s got the technique, the temperament, and—dare I say it?—the charm to carry the mantle. Watching Gill bat is like watching a masterclass in elegance, with cover drives so smooth they could make a poet cry. His 104 off 92 balls against Australia in the 2023? Pure poetry, with a side of swagger.

Now, let’s get emotional. Kohli’s journey has been India’s journey—grit, passion, and a refusal to back down. Gill, born in Fazilka, Punjab, carries that same fire, but with a millennial twist. He’s the kid who grew up idolizing Kohli, probably mimicking that iconic beard in front of a mirror. Yet, he’s carved his own path. His 208 off 360 balls in a Test against New Zealand in 2023 wasn’t just a double ton; it was a statement: “I’m here, and I’m ready.” That innings had everything—patience, aggression, and a twinkle in the eye that said, “I’ve got this.” It’s the kind of knock that makes you want to hug your TV and whisper, “You’re our boy, Shubman.”

Bollywood hero

Humor me for a second. If Kohli is the fiery Bollywood hero who storms into battle, Gill is the cool Gen-Z protagonist who wins the war with a smirk and a selfie. His Instagram game? Stronger than most bowlers’ bouncers. He’s out there posting gym selfies and travel vlogs, connecting with fans in a way that feels fresh yet familiar. Kohli brought intensity; Gill brings relatability. He’s the guy you’d want to grab a chai with, chatting about cricket and memes. But don’t let the laid-back vibe fool you—when he’s at the crease, he’s all business, dissecting bowlers with the precision of a surgeon and the flair of a rockstar.

What makes Gill the perfect heir, though, isn’t just his runs or his vibe. It’s his ability to carry a nation’s hopes without buckling. Kohli’s era was about proving India could dominate; Gill’s era will be about sustaining that dominance with grace. His 91* in the 2021 Gabba Test chase was a glimpse of that future—a young gun standing tall amid chaos, guiding India to a historic win. It’s the kind of moment that gives you goosebumps and makes you believe in destiny. Gill doesn’t just play cricket; he tells stories with his bat, stories of a new India—confident, fearless, and a little cheeky.

Not perfect

Of course, he’s not perfect. He’s had his share of ducks and near-misses, like that heartbreaking 99 against South Africa in 2024. But isn’t that what makes him human? Kohli wasn’t built in a day either. Gill’s learning, growing, and every time he walks out to bat, you can feel a nation holding its breath, rooting for him like he’s family.

He’s got the hunger, the skill, and the heart to take Indian cricket forward, not as Kohli 2.0, but as Shubman 1.0—a unique blend of grace, grit, and a grin that could melt even the toughest fast bowler’s heart.

So, here’s to Shubman Gill, the prince poised to inherit Kohli’s crown. He’s not just carrying a legacy; he’s building one, one cover drive at a time. And if that doesn’t make your heart swell and your lips crack a smile, well, you’re probably not watching closely enough.

(The writer is a senior journalist based in Mumbai.)

1 Comment

billyy brown

Jul 11, 2025

Seeing Shubman Gill emerge as the promising successor to Virat Kohli really brings a new sense of excitement to Indian cricket. It’s impressive how this young talent carries the weight of expectations with such poise and skill. In today’s sports landscape, engagement goes beyond just watching—websites like https://batery.org.in/ offer legal and licensed platforms for those interested in sports betting, providing access to numerous events and games in a regulated environment. It’s crucial to approach these platforms responsibly, keeping entertainment as the main goal. As for Gill, his solid technique and calm presence indicate he’s ready to take on the challenge, though only time will reveal how he adapts to the pressure. Watching this shift between cricket legends is captivating and…