Afghanistan pacer Shapoor Zadran has announced his retirement from international cricket after a notable career spanning over 10 years. He played key roles in Afghanistan's cricket rise, including being the hero of their first ICC Men's Cricket World Cup win in 2015. Having last played in 2020, the 37-year-old made the announcement via his Facebook page.
Related news
Kolkata Knight Riders gear up to defend their IPL title against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, with new captain Ajinkya Rahane at the helm. Shah Rukh Khan, the team's co-owner, delivered an uplifting message to the squad, expressing confidence in Rahane and coach Chandrakant Pandit. KKR aim for their fourth title amidst a star-studded opening at the Eden Gardens.
Rohit Sharma's batting struggles continued in the Brisbane Test, dismissed for just 10 runs. His move to the middle order, accommodating KL Rahul's return as opener, has added to his difficulties, according to teammate Cheteshwar Pujara. Rohit's recent scores reflect his struggles, aggregating low totals in previous series against New Zealand and Bangladesh.
England coach Brendon McCullum on Monday expressed confidence in India head coach Gautam Gambhir’s abilities, praising him as a strong leader. Despite recent losses, McCullum believes Gambhir will bring out the best in his team. Gambhir's emphasis on team unity, along with McCullum's faith, suggests a promising future for Indian cricket under his guidance.
Mohammed Shami celebrated his fifer during India's win over Bangladesh with a gesture dedicated to his late father. Backed by skipper Rohit Sharma, Shami became the fastest Indian to 200 ODI wickets. Reflecting on his journey, Shami emphasized the importance of dedication, persistence, and living in the present while acknowledging past challenges.
West Indies fast bowling legend Andy Roberts lauded Mohammed Shami as India's best bowler, praising his control and swing. Roberts questioned India's decision to bat first in the second Test against Australia. Though injured, Shami's recent strong domestic performances raise hopes for his return to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a series currently tied 1-1.
South African fast bowler Gerald Coetzee, playing for Joburg Super Kings, has been sidelined from the SA20 tournament due to a hamstring strain. His absence is a significant loss as he was a potential replacement for injured Anrich Nortje. Coetzee's participation in the upcoming Champions Trophy remains uncertain, adding to South Africa's fast-bowling concerns.
Hardik Pandya discussed the challenges of leading Mumbai Indians due to the team's legacy. Despite facing criticism last year, Pandya aims to improve as captain by 2025. He had a tough IPL 2024 but showed remarkable performance in the T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy. MI starts their IPL 2025 campaign on March 23 against CSK.
Mohammed Shami showcased his form with a three-wicket spell for Bengal in the Vijay Hazare Trophy preliminary quarterfinal against Haryana. Despite being slightly expensive, 3 for 61, Shami's performance boosts his prospects for a comeback to the Indian team, having been absent since the 2023 ODI World Cup because of injury and subsequent flare-up issues during rehab.
India Women crushed West Indies by 211 runs in the first ODI, riding on Smriti Mandhana's blistering 91 and Renuka Singh Thakur's impressive five-wicket haul. Mandhana anchored the innings with a fluent knock, while Thakur's fiery spell decimated the West Indies batting lineup.
The BCCI has set new regulations for IPL teams' practice sessions to preserve pitch quality and ensure balanced training opportunities. Teams can have seven practice sessions, including two practice matches with specific guidelines. Restrictions are placed on practicing on the main square near match days to maintain the ground condition.