Former Australian coach Darren Lehmann criticized chief selector George Bailey for being too close to the Test team to make tough decisions, particularly regarding the struggling top order. Captain Pat Cummins defended Bailey, praising his boldness and objectivity, emphasizing the broader considerations beyond online scrutiny in selection.
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Mumbai's Suryansh Shedge, an emerging cricket talent, shines in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy with impressive performances, leading to an IPL contract with Punjab Kings. Shedge is eager to meet his idol, Virat Kohli, and learn from his experience as he transitions to a larger cricketing stage.
New Zealand faces uncertainty over the fitness of their key bowler Matt Henry ahead of the Champions Trophy final against India. Henry, the tournament's leading wicket-taker, injured his right shoulder during the semifinal match against South Africa. Coach Gary Stead is hopeful of his recovery, with the team giving Henry every chance to play in the crucial match.
India's vice-captain Shubman Gill suggested that a score of 300-325 would be ideal for the upcoming Champions Trophy match against Pakistan, noting the absence of dew influences. He emphasized that the team batting second will face more pressure, accentuating the need for strong performances in the middle overs.
New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been appointed captain of the Desert Vipers for the upcoming ILT20 season, replacing Colin Munro. The 33-year-old signed a two-year deal and aims to lead the team to victory after their runner-up finish last season. Ferguson emphasizes an aggressive, wicket-taking approach as captain and empowering players.
A senior Pakistani official plans to request Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to address the national cricket team's poor performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Concerns over the Pakistan Cricket Board's management and spending will be discussed in Parliament and the Federal Cabinet, highlighting the need for transparency and reforms.
Ron Draper, the oldest living Test cricketer, passed away at 98 in Gqeberha. Draper played two Test matches for South Africa in 1950. His first-class debut was marked by a century on his 19th birthday. Draper is remembered for his continued cricketing career until 1959-60, maintaining an impressive average of 41.64.
Tamim Iqbal, former Bangladesh captain, has retired from international cricket. In his career, he scored over 15,000 runs and hit 25 centuries. Although expected to return for the Champions Trophy, he chose to walk away. Tamim played 70 Tests, 243 ODIs and 78 T20Is, scoring hundreds in all formats.
As LSG prepares for IPL 2025, skipper Rishabh Pant emphasizes a proactive leadership strategy. Bought for Rs 27 crore, Pant focuses on clear communication with senior and international players to achieve team alignment. He aims to foster an environment where players share thoughts freely. LSG's season opener is against Delhi Capitals on March 24.
The second season of the Indian Street Premier League reaches its final stage with the top four teams: Majhi Mumbai, Falcon Risers Hyderabad, Srinagar Ke Veer, and KVN Bangalore Strikers. The first qualifier sees top-placed Majhi Mumbai facing Hyderabad, while the Eliminator features Srinagar against Bangalore. Key players include Rajat Mundhe, Abhishek Kumar Dalhor, Kisan Satpute, and Sagar Ali.
Sunil Gavaskar is concerned about Virat Kohli's recurring issues with getting out due to an open bat face. Kohli's recent struggles include a disappointing performance in India's first Champions Trophy match.