Ahead of the Champions Trophy, India's cricket team seeks a morale boost by winning the T20I series against England. The series starts at Eden Gardens. Key players like Sanju Samson and Nitish Kumar Reddy are under watch, while England relies on Jos Buttler and Jacob Bethell. Coach Brendon McCullum remains optimistic about England's chances.
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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.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board on Monday announced central contracts for 2025, awarding 22 players including stars like Litton Das and Shadman Islam. Mahmudullah will not continue his contract beyond February 2025 and Mushfiqur Rahim is now in Grade B. Bangladesh exited the ICC Champions Trophy in the group stage, surpassing Sri Lanka and West Indies in rankings.
India's women's U-19 team, led by Parunika Sisodia, began their World Cup title defense with a decisive nine-wicket win over the West Indies in Kuala Lumpur. The West Indies were dismissed for just 44 runs, with India achieving the target in 4.2 overs, reaching 47 for 1.
The BCCI has included all-rounder Tanush Kotian in the Indian cricket squad for the fourth and fifth Tests against Australia. Kotian, an off-spinner from Mumbai, earned his spot with impressive domestic performances, including a standout 2023-24 Ranji Trophy season. He replaces retired R Ashwin, bolstering India's spin-bowling and batting lineup for the crucial matches ahead.
New Zealand's Rachin Ravindra emphasizes the necessity of adapting to Dubai's unique pitch conditions for the Champions Trophy final against India. Despite New Zealand's limited experience on this pitch, Ravindra remains optimistic about their preparation and aims to deliver a stronger performance than in their previous encounter with India.
Shubman Gill's century in the third ODI against England highlighted his talent, making him the fastest to 2,500 runs in ODI history. Gill's 112-run knock helped India set a strong foundation at 226/3. Virat Kohli's 52, alongside contributions from other top-order batsmen, set the stage for a potentially thrilling finish with India eyeing a series sweep.
The Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, both five-time IPL champions, are set to face off in their first match of 2025 season. MI coach Mahela Jayawardene and captain Hardik Pandya expressed eagerness to alter their first-match losing streak since 2012. MI aim to launch their campaign positively after a disappointing 2024 season.
Xavier Bartlett made a promising IPL debut for Punjab Kings, taking a wicket in his first over against KKR. Despite PBKS's batting struggles, Bartlett contributed with the bat after his impressive performance in the Big Bash League, where he was the leading wicket-taker. His recent international success, including multiple wickets, highlights his potential impact for Punjab Kings this season.
New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been named captain of the Desert Vipers for the ILT20 season, replacing Colin Munro. Head coach James Foster commended Ferguson's skills and leadership, highlighting his consistent performance and strong temperament. UAE's Khuzaima bin Tanveer also joins the team, emphasizing the squad's ambition to win the competition.
Virat Kohli and Harbhajan Singh's playful dance during the rain delay at the Border-Gavaskar Trophy went viral. Harbhajan, on commentary duties, recounted the incident, explaining how Kohli teased him about his outfit resembling actor Jeetendra's, leading to an impromptu dance-off. Their lighthearted exchange highlights the camaraderie between the two cricketers.