India and New Zealand have secured their spots in the Champions Trophy semi-finals with consecutive Group A victories. India beat Bangladesh and Pakistan, while New Zealand triumphed over the same teams. India are playing all their matches in Dubai. Australia's Pat Cummins pointed out that it gives India the benefit of staying in one location
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New Zealand secured a 2-0 series win against Sri Lanka by claiming the second T20 match by 45 runs. Despite strong performances from Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera, Sri Lanka faltered in their chase of 187, bowing out for 141. Jacob Duffy's four-wicket haul proved crucial, effectively curbing the Sri Lankan batting lineup's momentum.
Travis Head tormented Indian bowlers again, smashing a magnificent 152 in the third Test at the Gabba, his second consecutive century of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He had scored 140 to win the Adelaide Test for Australia. Head also shared a massive 241-run stand with Steve Smith (101), who also scored a century.
India's women's U-19 team, led by Parunika Sisodia, began their World Cup title defense with a decisive nine-wicket win over the West Indies in Kuala Lumpur. The West Indies were dismissed for just 44 runs, with India achieving the target in 4.2 overs, reaching 47 for 1.
SA20 League Commissioner Graeme Smith highlighted the league's uniqueness due to its professional and competitive franchises, strong local and international player rosters, and passionate fan support. He emphasised the positive global image the league projects, with filled stadiums and exciting matchups. Season 3 starts with Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs MI Cape Town.
Wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul prefers batting in the top order but is open to adapting to the team's needs. Reflecting on his IPL journey and his move to Delhi Capitals, he expressed eagerness for the new season. Rahul emphasised the importance of flexibility and his commitment to contributing to the team's success in any role.
Mayank Agarwal was one of the key reasons behind Karnataka winning the Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) for a record fifth time in the 2024-25 edition. Mayank finished as the edition's second-highest run-scorer, accumulating 651 runs in 10 matches. However, Mayank's glorious run arrived after perseverance under immense pressure internally and externally. The cricketer was motivated to send a message to those who wrote him off.
The Australia vs South Africa game in the Champions Trophy was abandoned due to rain, leading both teams to share points. Each team's qualification depends on their final group stage matches, with South Africa and Australia having better chances if they secure wins. England and Afghanistan must win their remaining games to advance.
Jammu & Kashmir cricket team registered a surprising five-wicket victory over Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy Elite Group A match. Subsequently, JKCA filed an official complaint with the BCCI regarding poor umpiring decisions. Such issues, including a questionable lbw ruling and an ignored edge by Shreyas Iyer, left the team dismayed.
Harbhajan Singh shared how his feud with Andrew Symonds transformed into a deep friendship after the infamous "Monkeygate" scandal. Symonds' visit to Harbhajan's home with a bottle of rum initiated their reconciliation. They later won the IPL championship together. Harbhajan expressed grief over Symonds' untimely death, highlighting their strong bond.
The ODI-format Champions Trophy is scheduled to begin on February 19, with England set to play only three 50-over matches against India before the prestigious tournament. England skipper Jos Buttler highlighted the appeal of the series, adding, "I think it's going to be a really exciting T20 series. There are ODIs to follow as well, so yeah, I'm just looking forward to the games."