Speculation arises that India may rest senior players like Rohit Sharma, Shami, and a spinner for Sunday's match against New Zealand, as both teams have already qualified for the semifinals. This game provides an opportunity to test bench players and ensure a fully-fit squad for the crucial semifinal, which follows just a day later.
Related news
Ricky Ponting praises Travis Head's exceptional performance, particularly his recent 140 against India, highlighting his potential to become a batting great. Ponting compares Head's aggressive style to Adam Gilchrist, emphasizing his fearless approach and ability to deliver under pressure in crucial matches like the World Test Championship and World Cup finals.
Former Pakistan skipper Younis Khan has been appointed as Afghanistan cricket team's mentor for the 2025 Champions Trophy, beginning February 19. The high-stakes tournament, with 15 matches held across Pakistan and Dubai, will see eight teams competing. Naseeb Khan, Afghanistan Cricket Board CEO, expressed confidence in Younis' expertise given the conditions.
Greg Chappell analyzes how cricket legends like Virat Kohli, Steve Smith and Joe Root face their eventual decline, termed "Elite Performance Decline Syndrome." He observes subtle shifts in their approach, marked by increased caution and a struggle to recapture peak fluency.
India Women triumphed over West Indies Women by a massive 211 runs in the first ODI at Vadodara. Smriti Mandhana's aggressive 91 and a solid opening partnership laid the foundation for India's imposing 314/9. Renuka Singh's maiden five-wicket haul (5/23) decimated the West Indies batting, restricting them to a mere 103. This dominant performance gives India a 1-0 series lead.
Former cricketer Yograj Singh sharply criticised Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed for her remarks on India captain Rohit Sharma's fitness. Mohamed called Rohit 'fat' and 'unimpressive' after his performance in the Champions Trophy. Singh emphasized such comments on cricketers should not be tolerated. Mohamed later clarified her statement, citing it was about general fitness, not body-shaming.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced a full ticket refund policy for two abandoned Champions Trophy matches in Rawalpindi. Matches on February 25 and February 27 were canceled due to rain. Eligible ticket holders can claim refunds at select TCS outlets between March 10-14. Hospitality ticket holders are excluded from refunds.
The Pakistan Cricket Board on Wednesday shifted the upcoming tri-series venues to Lahore and Karachi from Multan. The decision follows the renovations at Gaddafi Stadium and National Bank Stadium, where upgrades, including expanding seating, installing modern LED lights for broadcast, and enhancing player and spectator amenities, are nearing completion. The tri-series starts on February 8.
Desert Vipers secured a commanding 53-run win over the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, continuing their unbeaten run in ILT20. Alex Hales, with a crucial half-century, emphasised adaptability and his successful partnership with Dan Lawrence. Knight Riders’ Jason Holder pointed out the need for better discipline and tighter bowling. The Vipers remain table leaders with four consecutive wins.
Paarl Royals maintained their unbeaten home run in SA20, defeating Durban's Super Giants by six wickets. Pursuing 144, Dayyaan Galiem secured victory with a six off the penultimate delivery. Pretorius and Hermann's 91-run stand was crucial, while superb bowling from Maphaka and Fortuin restricted the Super Giants to 143 for 7.
The Vidarbha Cricket Association awarded Rs 3 crore to its Ranji Trophy-winning team. Harsh Dubey received Rs 25 lakh for setting a season record, while Karun Nair and Yash Rathod got Rs 10 lakh each. Support staff were also recognized. Veteran player Akshay Wakhare was honored at his retirement, praised by former player Faiz Fazal.