The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) remains confident about the readiness of Karachi's National Stadium for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 starting February 19. Despite significant challenges and delays in the renovation efforts, PCB officials maintain optimism. Concerns persist until possession of the upgraded stadiums is confirmed by the Board.
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Former Australian pacer Mitchell Johnson criticised Team India for using ineffective intimidation tactics against Australia's debutant players in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Johnson said the attempts to unnerve the rookies failed as two of them performed well in Australia's 3-1 series win. He emphasised the need for experienced players to guide newcomers in handling high-pressure situations.
Kevin Pietersen criticised England for not holding practice sessions after losses in the T20I and ODI series against India. He highlighted that practicing is crucial for improvement, especially when facing defeats. Jos Buttler defended their approach, stressing that they trained adequately despite tour challenges. Pietersen also dismissed media excuses regarding injuries and lack of turnaround time.
England captain Ben Stokes, despite experiencing another emotional setback due to a recurring hamstring injury during the third Test against New Zealand, remains resolute about his bowling workload. The injury, a recurrence of a previous one sustained in August, forced him off the field and prevented him from batting in the second innings.
Paarl Royals secured a five-wicket win against Durban Super Giants, reinforcing their lead in SA20 Season 3. With 20 points, they are close to clinching a playoff spot. Mujeeb-ur-Rahman starred with 2/23, restricting the Super Giants to 142/7. Rubin Hermann's 44 off 22 balls was crucial in their successful chase, reaching victory comfortably.
Riyan Parag's debut as captain for Rajasthan Royals saw his team lose two consecutive matches in IPL 2025. Parag has already become the first player from Assam to lead an IPL team. Regular captain Sanju Samson is expected to return on April 5. Despite his efforts, the Royals recorded significant defeats against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Kolkata Knight Riders.
Yashasvi Jaiswal will play for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy against Jammu & Kashmir on January 23. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma trained with Mumbai's team, but it's unclear if he will play in the Ranji match, focusing on preparation for the Champions Trophy. Head coach Gautam Gambhir stressed the importance of domestic cricket for player development.
The Dubai Capitals secured a spot in the ILT20 Season 3 playoffs with a 26-run win over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, largely due to David Warner's unbeaten 93. Chasing a daunting target of 218, the Knight Riders fell short despite strong starts from Andries Gous and Kyle Mayers.
Suryakumar Yadav's 70 and Ajinkya Rahane's unbeaten 88 put Mumbai in a strong position against Haryana in the Ranji Trophy quarterfinals on Monday. Shardul Thakur's six wickets restricted Haryana to 301, despite their narrow first-innings lead. Mumbai ended day three at 278/4, establishing a commanding lead of 292 runs, with Rahane steady at the crease.
MI Cape Town clinched the SA20 Season 3 title after impressive wins in Qualifier 1 and the Final. Key performances came from Rassie van der Dussen, Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, George Linde, and Delano Potgieter, showcasing their dominance throughout the tournament.
Bengal opener Abhimanyu Easwaran, who was part of the Indian squad in Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, has suffered a hairline fracture on his right hand’s middle finger, sidelining him from the upcoming Ranji Trophy matches. Easwaran, known for his consistent performances in India A teams, sustained the injury during a club match.