Ricky Ponting considers Australia and India the top favorites for the ICC Champions Trophy due to their player quality and consistent performance in major events. He also acknowledges Pakistan, the current champions, as a strong contender, noting their recent outstanding form in ODI cricket.
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Ravindra Jadeja attributes his recent success in ODIs to his preparation in domestic cricket, particularly his performance in a Ranji Trophy match. His stint helped him maintain his bowling rhythm, enabling him to excel in the ongoing series against England ahead of the Champions Trophy.
Virat Kohli's struggles continued in Australia, with another dismissal on a delivery outside off-stump during India's chase of 340 runs. Kohli's performance has been below par this tour, averaging 27.83 across four Tests. India face a daunting task of achieving a record fourth-innings run chase or batting out for a draw.
Virat Kohli has been ruled out of Delhi's Ranji Trophy matches against Saurashtra and Railways due to a persistent neck sprain. The Senior Men's Selection Committee announced a 21-member squad led by Ayush Badoni, with Rishabh Pant as the designated wicketkeeper. Kohli's recent struggles with form in the ongoing Test season were also noted.
Axar Patel, a spin-bowling all-rounder and potential successor to Ravindra Jadeja, emphasises he doesn't need to prove his worth amid Indian cricket's transition. With 184 international wickets, the 31-year-old Axar focuses on performing whenever opportunities arise. He remains unfazed by selection issues, highlighting the importance of role clarity and communication, especially in T20 cricket.
The ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 qualifiers are scheduled from April 9 to 19 in Lahore, featuring 15 games between Pakistan, West Indies, Bangladesh, Ireland, Scotland, and Thailand. This round-robin tournament will determine the final two teams to join Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and host India in the main event.
MI Cape Town achieved a dominant bonus-point victory over Durban's Super Giants at Newlands. A strong opening partnership and standout performances from George Linde and Dewald Brevis secured the win. Linde's rejuvenated form and the team's renewed energy under Rashid Khan were key factors.
Shreyas Iyer's potential Test comeback is questioned by Ravichandran Ashwin, who argues that strong IPL performances shouldn't be confused with Test credentials. Despite Iyer's key role in KKR's title win and leading PBKS in IPL 2025, Ashwin believes formats should remain distinct, praising Iyer's ODI contributions but emphasising format-specific evaluations.
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.
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.
The Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) Season 2 is poised to be a major event, featuring six teams and the participation of cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar. Suraj Samat highlights the platform's role in nurturing aspiring cricketers, with expanded marketing efforts, scholarships, and celebrity support enhancing its appeal. The tournament will feature six teams — Chennai Singams, Majhi Mumbai, Tigers of Kolkata, Bangalore Strikers, Srinagar Ke Veer, and Falcon Risers Hyderabad — competing... Expand