Australia and Afghanistan face off in a crucial match in Lahore, with the semifinal spot on the line. Australia, aware of Afghanistan's strength and spin prowess, are focused on a solid performance. Both teams need a win to advance, with a washout favoring Australia.
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India triumphed over New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final, marking their second ICC title in nine months. Key decisions, including promoting Axar Patel in the batting order and backing KL Rahul over Rishabh Pant, played crucial roles, while Varun Chakravarthy's unexpected inclusion bolstered their spin attack. This win marked India's second ICC title in just nine months. They had previously clinched the 2024 T20 World Cup in June, defeating South Africa in the final in Barbados.
New Zealand's relatively smaller player pool allows for longer runs and a cohesive team culture. Batter Glenn Phillips believes this advantage helps them perform better in ICC tournaments compared to countries like India, where the intense competition may shorten player opportunities and increase individual pressure.
Rohit Sharma cited Varun Chakaravarthy's X-factor as the reason for his selection in India's Champions Trophy match against New Zealand, where he took 5 wickets for 42 runs. India's win by 44 runs set up a semi-final against Australia. Varun, the Player of the Match, credited his teammates' support for easing his initial nerves.
Akash Deep, having recovered from a back injury, is now 100% fit and eager to play for LSG. He is optimistic about his team’s potential, despite initial setbacks. He also appreciates the mentorship of Zaheer Khan at LSG for improving his skills.
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.
India lost seven wickets in the final session of the fourth Test against Australia, conceding lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Australia's victory puts them second in the World Test Championship standings, making it tough for India to reach the WTC Final. Australia's potential win in Sydney will extend their dominance while worsening things for India.
Australia are on the brink of sealing a 2-0 series sweep against Sri Lanka, needing just two more wickets as the hosts finished day three at 211 for 8. Angelo Mathews' significant 76-run innings ended shortly before stumps, with Nathan Lyon leading Australia's bowling attack. Sri Lanka are ahead by only 54 runs in their second innings.
David Payne, after a stellar season in England's T20 Blast, aims to showcase his talent with the Desert Vipers in the ILT20 for an England comeback. Payne, who took 33 wickets, highlights his fitness owing to exclusive white-ball focus and looks forward to challenging for the title with the Vipers, leveraging UAE conditions.
New Zealand's off-spinner Michael Bracewell on Friday dismissed concerns about India's perceived advantage of playing all their Champions Trophy matches in Dubai. Rohit Sharma-led India has been and will continue to play their matches in Dubai, including the final if they progress that far in the ongoing Champiopns Trophy. New Zealand are scheduled to play their first match in Dubai against India on Sunday, following their previous two games in Pakistan.
Shreevats Goswami humorously advised Abhishek Sharma to keep his room clean. He praised Abhishek's fearless cricket and his growth as a bowler, thanks to the guidance of Muttiah Muralitharan. Cricketer Jagadeesha Suchith encouraged Abhishek to persist with hard work, sharing advice from Sachin Tendulkar. Abhishek's big-hitting and bowling skills have made him a valuable asset.