At the BCCI's annual Naman Awards, Jasprit Bumrah and Smriti Mandhana were honored as the best international cricketers. Legendary Sachin Tendulkar was given the Lifetime Achievement Award. In total, 26 awards were distributed, recognizing excellence in both men's and women's cricket across various categories.
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Maharashtra cricketer Ankit Bawne is serving a one-match suspension from the BCCI for contesting an umpire's decision during a Ranji Trophy match last year, causing him to miss the current game against Baroda. Bawne remained on the field for 15 minutes disputing the decision. The team respects BCCI's decision and looks forward to Bawne's return.
Shreyas Iyer has been named captain of Punjab Kings ahead of the IPL 2025 season, reuniting with coach Ricky Ponting. Iyer was acquired for Rs 26.75 crore, making him the second-most expensive player in IPL history. Multiple teams, including Kolkata Knight Riders, are yet to announce their captains, while six franchises have confirmed their leadership for the upcoming season.
Sunil Narine's exceptional all-round performance propelled Kolkata Knight Riders to a dominant eight-wicket victory over Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk. Narine's mesmerizing spell of 3 for 13 restricted CSK to a paltry 103/9, their lowest-ever IPL total at home. He then blazed 44 off 18 balls, ensuring a comfortable chase, overshadowing MS Dhoni's return as captain.
Ashwani Kumar's impressive four-wicket haul on IPL debut and Ryan Rickelton's unbeaten 62 helped Mumbai Indians secure a commanding eight-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders. Kumar became the first Indian to take four wickets on IPL debut, contributing significantly to KKR's collapse at 116 all out.
The third edition of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) begins on February 14 with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) facing Gujarat Giants in Vadodara. RCB's title defense is challenged by key player absences due to injuries. Gujarat Giants have appointed Ashleigh Gardner as captain, aiming for better performance this season.
Rohit Sharma's leadership in winning the Champions Trophy has renewed confidence in his captaincy despite earlier criticisms. Former wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik asserted Rohit Sharma is an able leader and credited the IPL for India's depth in talent, citing the tournament's role in transforming India's approach to winning and improving cricket infrastructure.
Virat Kohli arrived an hour before the team for extra practice to address his poor form ahead of India's crucial Champions Trophy match against Pakistan. Michael Clarke praised Kohli's dedication, predicting he could excel under pressure, while Sanjay Manjrekar warned that Kohli might be overexerting himself.
India narrowly escaped a follow-on scare against Australia in the Gabba Test, thanks to a crucial 47-run partnership between Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah. Akash Deep's composed 31 runs proved vital, sparking celebrations in the Indian dressing room. With the series tied 1-1, the Melbourne Boxing Day Test promises a thrilling decider.
KL Rahul emerged as a key player in India's Champions Trophy triumph, showcasing his talent through crucial performances in several matches. His effective approach against spin and calm presence under pressure were acknowledged by teammates, including captain Rohit Sharma. Rahul emphasized the importance of contributing to the team's needs in his wicketkeeper-batter role.
Three Indian cricketers, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Axar Patel, visited Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri before their second ODI against England. They sought divine blessings and were provided with tight security. The Indian team is scheduled for a practice session at Barabati Stadium with extensive security measures in place for their movements.