Pakistan are set to host the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy for the first time in 29 years. The tournament will commence on February 19 with the hosts facing New Zealand. PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi expressed excitement for the event, emphasising its significance for showcasing Pakistan's hospitality and cricket passion.
Related news
South African cricket has experienced a resurgence with the successful launch of the SA20 league in January 2023. The league has revitalized national teams, showcased young talent, and gained international attention, celebrating its 100th game milestone with optimism for sustained success.
Glenn Maxwell has agreed with his exclusion from Australia's Test squad for the Sri Lanka tour, understanding the selectors' decision to field uncapped all-rounder Cooper Connolly. Maxwell, who last played in 2017, prioritizes opportunities for new players in subcontinent conditions while refraining from future Test cricket plans.
MI Cape Town secured a 27-run victory over Pretoria Capitals in a SA20 contest, eliminating the Capitals from playoff contention. Dewald Brevis scored an unbeaten 73, and Reeza Hendricks added 77 runs. Despite a lightning interruption, the match saw 417 runs scored. Pretoria Capitals' coach acknowledged missed opportunities and emphasized the need for better squad composition for future tournaments.
Glenn Maxwell delivered a remarkable performance in the Melbourne Stars' victory over Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash League, scoring 90 runs off 52 balls with 10 sixes and 4 fours. His innings, including a six that traveled 122 metres, helped the Stars set a target of 165, leading to a Renegades collapse at 123.
In 2024, the Indian cricket team excelled in T20 internationals, winning the ICC Men's T20 World Cup undefeated. India also triumphed in series against Bangladesh and South Africa. Veterans Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja retired from T20Is post World Cup win, marking a historic year.
India vice-captain Shubman Gill will now use an MRF sticker on his bat starting from the Champions Trophy semi-final against Australia. This new endorsement deal ends his long association with CEAT. At 25, Gill has already secured partnerships with several premium brands, highlighting his rising market value.
India, buoyant after their first T20I victory against England, looks to continue their dominant run in the second match on Saturday. With the return of pacer Mohammed Shami and a strong spin attack, India aims to capitalize on England's weakness against spin. England hopes to improve by introducing fast bowler Brydon Carse to counter India's aggressive play.
Mumbai Indians successfully chased 151 runs to defeat UP Warriorz by six wickets in the Women's Premier League. Amelia Kerr's fifer and Hayley Matthews' 68 runs were pivotal. Mumbai's win placed them second with eight points. Kerr and Matthews' performances highlighted the match, alongside Nat Sciver-Brunt's key 37 runs, propelling Mumbai's strong finish.
Prolific all-rounder Shardul Thakur is set to join Essex for seven County Championship matches starting 2025. Thakur, with outstanding recent performances including a First-Class century and a hat-trick, aims to showcase his skills in county cricket. Essex's director praises his all-round abilities, anticipating a valuable addition to the squad, especially ahead of India's Test series in England.
Suresh Raina highlights the crucial roles of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for India's success in the ICC Champions Trophy. He praises Rohit’s improved strike rate and aggressive captaincy, emphasizing the need for key performances from spinners and proper team combinations to navigate the tournament challenges.