The ICC Champions Trophy returns after more than seven years, with Pakistan hosting an ICC tournament for the first time since 1996. Rivalries, particularly India vs Pakistan, and key player absences add to the intrigue.
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Prabhsimran Singh of Punjab Kings is in sensational form at the Vijay Hazare Trophy with three consecutive centuries, solidifying his position as a key player. Singh aims for consistency to earn a spot in the India team, working hard alongside teammates Arshdeep Singh and Abhishek Sharma.
UAE all-rounder Dhruv Parashar aims to excel in powerplay overs for the Desert Vipers in ILT20, leveraging his experience and success. Under bowling coach Carl Crowe's guidance, Parashar refined his skills, significantly contributing to UAE's victory in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier B. He sees ILT20 as transformative for UAE cricket.
Former India cricketers Cheteshwar Pujara and Harbhajan Singh believe Rohit Sharma's return to form is crucial for his captaincy during the ongoing series against Australia. Pujara emphasised the importance of a solid start for Rohit, suggesting he focus on the initial 20-30 runs. Harbhajan concurred, stating a captain's performance significantly influences their decision-making.
Hardik Pandya has won back the support of fans through key performances in India's ICC T20 World Cup win in the Caribbean last year. As the Champions Trophy continues, Pandya and the team are determined to secure another championship title, starting with their upcoming match against Pakistan.
Virat Kohli's struggles during the Border Gavaskar Trophy against Australia can be attributed to a 'mental block', according to Ricky Ponting. Kohli's form dipped after a century in the first Test of the series at Perth, managing just 90 runs in his other eight innings on the tour. Ponting noted that Kohli's efforts have made batting harder for him.
David Payne, Gloucestershire's T20 Blast star with 33 wickets, joins Desert Vipers for the 2025 ILT20, aiming to regain his spot in England's white-ball squad. After a successful T20 Blast campaign, where he prioritized white-ball cricket, Payne is eager to showcase his skills in the UAE. He believes the Vipers' strong squad and balanced attack make them title contenders.
Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman's half centuries powered New Zealand to a 113-run victory against Sri Lanka in the second ODI, securing a 2-0 series win. Ravindra scored 79 and Chapman contributed 62 as New Zealand posted 255-9. Sri Lanka faltered at 22-4 and despite Kamindu Mendis' career-best 64, they were bowled out for 142 in 30.2 overs.
Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan's 97-run partnership helped Pakistan recover to 143-4 after a shaky start against the West Indies on the first day of the first Test in Multan. Their innings was crucial after Jayden Seales struck early, leaving Pakistan at 46-4. The match faced initial delays due to fog and poor air quality.
Ajinkya Rahane's blistering 98 off 56 balls propelled Mumbai to the Syed Mushtaq Ali final, chasing down Baroda's 159 with ease. Rahane's fifth half-century of the tournament, studded with 11 fours and 5 sixes, showcased his dominance. The veteran batsman leads the tournament in runs, justifying his recent IPL acquisition by Kolkata Knight Riders.
The ILT20 has quickly become a key cricket event despite overlapping with other major T20 leagues. The 2025 edition will feature star-studded squads from six teams, each aiming for glory with new signings and strong retentions, including international legends and promising talents.