Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam's performance remains a focal point ahead of the ODI tri-series final and ICC Champions Trophy. Despite his recent struggles, the team management backs him in his new role as an opener because of his technical skills and ability to handle the new ball, particularly in the absence of Saim Ayub.
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Hardik Pandya expressed his immense joy after India's recent victory, a moment that helped him move past the anguish of the 2017 Champions Trophy final. Over the past eight years, Pandya's career has seen significant highs and lows, but his unwavering focus on the team's success over personal achievements remains constant.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed Pakistan's readiness to host the Champions Trophy, with venues in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi prepared on schedule. Despite some renovation delays, facilities for teams and media are upgraded. The tournament starts on February 19.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) will face off in their opening match of the IPL 2025 season. SRH hold an upper hand with a strong squad and recent victories against RR, while RR contend with key players' absences, including skipper Sanju Samson, creating a significant challenge for their campaign.
Jasprit Bumrah's stellar performances in the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy highlight his exceptional skills and endurance. With 31 wickets and critical lower-order runs, he has led India's bowling attack and contributed significantly with the bat. Bumrah’s consistent efforts, including a key wicket and vital runs, have placed India in a strong position.
Virat Kohli urges a collective effort to make India a 'Sports Forward Nation' by 2036, emphasizing a holistic approach that includes infrastructure and public education. He highlights the progress in women's sports, praising female athletes for their self-driven success and stressing the need for continued support and infrastructure development across all sports.
Chamari Athapaththu, Melie Kerr, Laura Wolvaardt, and Orla Prendergast had exceptional years in women's T20Is with notable contributions in batting and all-round performances. Athapaththu led Sri Lanka to Asia Cup victory, Kerr helped New Zealand win the T20 World Cup, Wolvaardt took South Africa to their first T20 final, and Prendergast excelled for Ireland.
KL Rahul's resilient 84 in the third Test against Australia highlighted his defensive approach as key to success on the challenging tour. Focusing on respecting bowlers early on, leaving deliveries, and tightening his defense during the initial overs, Rahul believes this strategy allows batsmen to capitalize later.
Sanju Samson shares his emotional attachment to former teammate Jos Buttler and his regret over the IPL's player release regulation. Samson valued their friendship and partnership over the years. He wishes the rule could be changed to maintain long-term relationships. Samson also looks forward to working with head coach Rahul Dravid again.
Smriti Mandhana, a prominent figure in Indian women's cricket, has had an exceptional year, emerging as the ICC's Women's ODI Player of the Year. With 747 runs in 13 One-Dayers in 2024, she outperformed top players globally. Her consistent performances, including four centuries, and leading Royal Challengers Bangalore to a title, underscore her growth and maturity.
Yuvraj Singh, one of India's finest cricketers, struggled to regain his place in the team post-cancer under Virat Kohli's stringent leadership. Despite his pivotal role in past victories and beating cancer, his fitness concessions were denied. Uthappa highlights the contrasting captaincy styles, emphasizing the impact on team dynamics.