The third season of ILT20 began with thrilling matches featuring international stars and UAE talent. Waqar Younis praised the league's growth and impactful performances from UAE players like Alishan Sharafu and Farhan Khan. Improved pitch conditions have also balanced the contests, adding excitement to the tournament. Waqar is optimistic about the future of UAE cricket.
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Nitish Kumar Reddy scored his maiden Test hundred against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, becoming the third youngest Indian to do so in Australia. His remarkable 127-run partnership with Washington Sundar helped India reach 358/9 on Day 3, overcoming a follow-on threat despite trailing by 120 runs.
India's head coach Gautam Gambhir clarified that Shreyas Iyer was not benched throughout the series against England, despite speculation. Iyer played in the first ODI due to Virat Kohli's injury and performed well in subsequent matches. Gambhir emphasized the importance of rotating players and confirmed Iyer's significance ahead of the Champions Trophy.
In the final T20I against England, India achieved their highest-ever Powerplay score of 95/1, surpassing their previous best of 82/2. Openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma capitalised on the batting-friendly conditions, with Abhishek's explosive 58 runs off 21 balls leading the charge. Both teams made one change to their line-ups aiming for a win.
New Zealand defeated South Africa by 50 runs in the Champions Trophy semifinal, setting up a title clash with India. Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson's centuries propelled New Zealand to 362 for 6, while South Africa's response fell short despite David Miller's unbeaten century. The final is set for March 9 in Dubai.
Matthew Breetzke debuted for the Proteas in the ODI tri-series with an impressive 150 against New Zealand. Breetzke's composure against challenging conditions set the stage for South Africa's strong innings. However, Kane Williamson's unbeaten 133 secured victory for New Zealand.
The BCCI is implementing a demerit points system for IPL 2025, similar to the ICC's system for international cricket. A first offence will result in four points and a one-match ban, escalating with further offences. The match referee will decide the severity, potentially affecting penalties for slow over-rates and other transgressions.
The SA20 Season 3 match between Pretoria Capitals and Durban's Super Giants in Centurion was abandoned due to persistent rain. Despite attempts to start play and inspections by officials, conditions remained unplayable. Both teams received two points each, and ticket holders are eligible for refunds as per the league's policy.
South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada reveals the team is already preparing for the ICC World Test Championship Final against Australia in June 2025. Following their series win over Pakistan, coach Shukri Conrad discusses potential warm-up tests, while captain Temba Bavuma's impressive form aids their confidence. Rabada emphasizes the importance of Test cricket for South Africa.
Indian captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are gearing up for the first ODI against England with an intense net session, showcasing their versatile strokeplay. Their preparation for the three-match series is significant, especially with the Champions Trophy approaching, where they aim to solidify their standing and achieve new milestones.
Persistent rain halted the third day of the first Test between Australia and Sri Lanka, with Australia leading by a significant margin of 518 runs. Sri Lanka, struggling at 136-5 by lunch, saw Dinesh Chandimal fighting at 63 not out while Starc and Lyon kept up the pressure.