The sparsely attended ICC 2025 Champions Trophy matches in Dubai and Karachi have raised concerns about the declining interest in ODI cricket. With fan engagement dropping, questions are emerging about the relevance and future of the format, as compared to the more popular T20 leagues.
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Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Bangar praised Rishabh Pant for his crucial half-century against Australia in Sydney, highlighting his bravery and calculated risks. Pant's aggressive 50 in 29 balls helped India stay in contention to win the Test match. Bangar commended Pant's diverse gameplay and resilience throughout the series, despite earlier challenges.
Australia's Steve Smith equalled the Big Bash League record for most centuries with a remarkable unbeaten 121 runs off 64 balls for the Sydney Sixers against Perth Scorchers. Smith’s knock, which included ten fours and seven sixes, contributed to the Sixers' total of 222 for 3. Sixers won the contest by 14 runs.
India clinched the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, ending a 12-year wait. Key contributions from senior players like Virat Kohli and standout performances from KL Rahul were crucial. Kohli highlighted the importance of experience, past learnings, and focusing on self-belief. His leadership guided the team to another significant triumph, marking his fourth ICC title.
The World Test Championship may see reforms in its points system, including bonus points for decisive victories and rewarding wins in away games. These changes aim to address perceived unfairness and increase competitiveness. Discussions will take place in April to finalise the new points system, set to commence from the next cycle beginning in June.
Pakistan's Saim Ayub injured his ankle during the second Test against South Africa, who struggled to 72-3 by lunch on Friday. Ryan Rickleton hit a fifty while South Africa's early strong start faltered. Kwena Maphaka made history as South Africa's youngest Test debutant. Pakistan bowlers Abbas and Agha took key wickets.
Cricket Australia announced that spinner Matthew Kuhnemann, who played a key role in the Test series victory in Sri Lanka, has been cited for a suspect bowling action. He will undergo tests to determine the legitimacy of his action, and if found illegal, he will be prohibited from bowling until corrected.
Smriti Mandhana's impressive 91 and Renuka Thakur Singh's five-wicket haul led India to a resounding 211-run victory over West Indies in the first ODI at Vadodara. India posted a formidable 314/9, powered by Mandhana's knock and contributions from Rawal, Deol, Kaur, Ghosh, and Rodrigues. Thakur Singh's devastating bowling spell dismantled the West Indies batting lineup, restricting them to just 103.
Alan Wilkins, the veteran commentator, joyfully announced his recovery from throat cancer and his imminent return to India for the IPL season. Overcoming this health challenge, the 71-year-old broadcaster expressed immense gratitude and a renewed sense of youthfulness. His return to the commentary box is celebrated by fans, marking a triumphant moment in his distinguished career.
English cricketers are seeking clarity from the ECB about No-Objection Certificates to play in the PSL, which now clashes with the English domestic season. The ECB’s new policy, meant to protect local cricket, restricts NOCs during the English summer except for the IPL. Some players may still secure NOCs following a consultation group’s assessment.
India celebrated a historic win in the Champions Trophy final, defeating New Zealand by four wickets in Dubai. Skipper Rohit Sharma scored 76, leading the team to their third title. KL Rahul contributed with an unbeaten 34, sealing the victory with six balls remaining. The win sparked widespread celebrations and congratulatory messages on social media from fans, former cricketers, and politicians.