Batting legend Sachin Tendulkar praised Karun Nair’s outstanding performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, noting his remarkable average of 752 runs in seven innings, with five centuries. Nair’s achievements have led Vidarbha to the tournament final, where they will face Karnataka.
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Australia dominated day two of the Gabba Test. Head smashed a brilliant 152, his second consecutive century against India. Smith ended his century drought with a classy 100. Their partnership of 241 runs rescued Australia after early wickets. Bumrah took five wickets for India. Australia finished on 405/7, putting them in a strong position.
Rajat Patidar, in his first term as RCB captain, achieved a historic win against CSK at Chepauk after 17 years. His exceptional leadership and personal performance were acknowledged by teammates, including Phil Salt, showcasing Patidar's strategic decisions and impactful innings in the game's most critical moments.
Speculation arises that India may rest senior players like Rohit Sharma, Shami, and a spinner for Sunday's match against New Zealand, as both teams have already qualified for the semifinals. This game provides an opportunity to test bench players and ensure a fully-fit squad for the crucial semifinal, which follows just a day later.
Kwena Maphaka, at 18 years and 270 days, became South Africa's youngest Test cricketer, impressing everyone with his debut against Pakistan. Despite missing the 2024 SA20 season for U19 World Cup commitments, he remains pivotal to the Paarl Royals' strategy. Known for his explosive pace, Maphaka is set to shine in the 2025 SA20 season under experienced mentors.
Sairaj Bahutule has resigned from his position as the bowling coach at BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru due to personal reasons. During his tenure, he contributed significantly to India's cricket coaching staff and worked with multiple national teams across various series and tournaments.
Harbhajan Singh comments on the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, emphasizing the impact it could have on India’s performance in the Champions Trophy. Despite this setback, he believes India remains a favorite due to experienced players like Shami and Kuldeep, along with the batting form of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
Skipper Rohit Sharma expressed satisfaction with India's near-perfect performance against England in the first ODI, emphasizing the importance of ticking all the boxes in terms of bowling and batting. Rohit praised Axar Patel's crucial 47-ball 52 and Shubman Gill's match-winning 87, which helped India recover from early setbacks and secure a four-wicket win.
Rachin Ravindra shines for New Zealand with a crucial century in the Champions Trophy, showcased his calm approach under pressure. His ability to handle spin, highlighted by his performance in India, will be tested against India's spin-heavy attack in the upcoming match in Dubai. Coach Sriram Krishnamurthy praises Rachin's resilience and mental strength post-injury.
Hashmatullah Shahidi will captain Afghanistan in their first ICC Champions Trophy, starting February 19. Key players include Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rashid Khan, and Mohammad Nabi. Spinner Mujeeb-Ur-Rahman will miss the tournament. Afghanistan's group matches are against South Africa, England, and Australia.
Will Smeed, a top-order English batter, expresses enthusiasm about joining the Pretoria Capitals for the SA20 league. Smeed eagerly anticipates playing in front of South African fans, integrating with his new teammates, and working with coach Jonathan Trott, aiming to entertain and contribute to victories.