India's inclusion of five spinners for the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai, despite historical leanings towards pace-friendly pitches, aims to lengthen the batting lineup under head coach Gautam Gambhir's strategy. The heavy spin selection also compensates for the inexperience in the pace attack with the absence of key players like Jasprit Bumrah.
Related news
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam questions Saif Ali Khan's rapid recovery after a six-hour surgery, while Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut calls it a medical miracle. The Bollywood actor was stabbed in his thoracic spine by an intruder but discharged from Lilavati Hospital just four days later.
After the dramatic second day of the fourth Test, Steve Smith praised Virat Kohli’s discipline and Yashasvi Jaiswal's aggression. Kohli's cautious 36 and Jaiswal's aggressive 82 ended abruptly with a confusing run-out, shifting momentum to Australia. Smith highlighted the psychological advantage gained from Kohli and Jaiswal’s sudden dismissals.
England will play their first T20I against India in Kolkata, with Jos Buttler leading the team but not keeping wickets. This is England's first limited-overs tour under coach Brendon McCullum. India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, are favorites on home ground. Mohammed Shami returns to the Indian team after recovering from a foot injury.
Ravichandran Ashwin's sudden retirement has marked the end of India's famed spin-bowling duo. Ravindra Jadeja, while acknowledging the unexpected move, emphasized the need to move forward. The pair, dominant at home for a decade, brought different strengths to the table. Jadeja highlighted their on-field communication and mentorship, aspects he'll miss.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru played Rajasthan Royals wearing green jerseys. This promoted environmental sustainability. Rajat Patidar chose to bowl first after winning the toss. The green kit is part of RCB's "Go Green" initiative. It raises awareness about conservation. The jersey is made from recycled polyester. RCB is a carbon-neutral franchise. They monitor emissions from various sources.
Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin announced the creation of a joint action committee with several state CMs against the Centre's delimitation plan, which he deems an assault on federalism. Stalin called for firm resistance, inviting political parties to join the committee's first meeting in Chennai, March 2025. This follows concerns over reduced parliamentary seats due to population control measures.
A 28-year-old man, Sukhjit, died after a speeding Audi collided with his Ertiga on Ring Road in Delhi. The Audi driver, Paras Pathania, was apprehended later. Sukhjit was returning from Gurgaon and ran a transportation business. The impact left the vehicle mangled, and a case has been registered.
Multan Sultans, a team in the Pakistan Super League, has launched a charitable campaign to support Palestinian charities. The team pledges to donate Rs 100,000 for every six hit and every wicket taken by their players during the PSL season. The league commenced with exciting matches, including Quetta Gladiators' victory and Karachi Kings' successful pursuit of Multan Sultans' score.
Hamas has released two of six Israeli hostages in Rafah under the ceasefire agreement with Israel. Relatives of Tal Shoham and Avera Mengistu celebrated their return after nearly a decade. Four more hostages are expected to be freed, with tensions still high over the conflict's impact.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday humorously suggested introducing a law to counter Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah's dominance. During a New Year's Day reception ahead of the Sydney Test, the PM praised Bumrah’s exceptional performance in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which includes 30 wickets at an average of 12.83.