The BCCI has set new regulations for IPL teams' practice sessions to preserve pitch quality and ensure balanced training opportunities. Teams can have seven practice sessions, including two practice matches with specific guidelines. Restrictions are placed on practicing on the main square near match days to maintain the ground condition.
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After India's loss to Australia, BCCI implemented family accompaniment restrictions during tours, sparking debate. Virat Kohli expressed dissatisfaction, while Yuvraj Singh's wife, Hazel Keech, supported it, saying the policy helps players stay focused. The policy allows families for 14 days on tours over 45 days and 7 days on shorter tours.
Sam Konstas impressed during the Boxing Day Test with his explosive batting and energetic fielding. His 65-ball 60 and adventurous shots against Jasprit Bumrah earned him praise from Steve Smith, who called him 'mad.' Konstas's lively on-field behavior and confidence in his debut performance promise a bright future in cricket.
Key matchups in the high-stakes game include Rachin Ravindra’s duel with India’s spin quartet, Varun Chakravarthy’s challenge from Kane Williamson, and Mitchell Santner facing Shreyas Iyer. Mohammed Shami’s new-ball spell could be significant against New Zealand openers, especially given his success against left-handers.
India aim to maintain their decade-long unbeaten streak at the Melbourne Cricket Ground against Australia in the Boxing Day Test. Having drawn once and won twice since 2014, India seeks a fourth consecutive positive result at this historic venue. These matches include a significant 2018 victory, breaking a long-standing winless drought, and a 2020 triumph under Rahane's captaincy.
Virat Kohli achieved a landmark by surpassing Rahul Dravid's record for the most catches by an Indian fielder in international cricket, following his catch off Josh Inglis' shot. Kohli's fielding feat came during India's semi-final match against Australia in the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Smaran Ravichandran's 101 off 92 balls guided Karnataka to a fifth Vijay Hazare Trophy, defeating Vidarbha by 36 runs in a high-scoring final. Supported by Krishnan Srijith's 78 and Abhinav Manohar's explosive 79, Karnataka posted 348/6. Despite Dhruv Shorey's century, Vidarbha fell short, being all out for 312 in 48.2 overs.
Harleen Deol's unbeaten 70 and Beth Mooney's 44 led Gujarat Giants to a five-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals, securing their spot in the Women's Premier League Eliminator. Lanning's 92 off 57 balls lifted Delhi to a competitive 177 for five, but Gujarat successfully chased the target with crucial contributions from Ashleigh Gardner and Deandra Dottin.
R Ashwin's retirement announcement sparked tributes, including a heartfelt message from fellow spinner Washington Sundar. Ashwin responded with a playful movie quote, hinting at a potential passing of the baton. Sundar, a preferred choice of the current coaching staff, is seen as a like-for-like replacement for Ashwin.
India's Jasprit Bumrah is nominated for ICC Men's Cricketer of the Year and Test Cricketer of the Year for his exceptional 2024 performance. Competitors include England's Joe Root and Harry Brook, Australia's Travis Head, and Sri Lanka's Kamindu Mendis. Bumrah's consistent performance across conditions stands out.
Sunrisers Hyderabad are set to kick off the IPL-2025 season on a high note by retaining their formidable batting core and bolstering their bowling lineup with new additions. The team will face Rajasthan Royals, who are missing their captain, Sanju Samson, and have notable changes in their batting lineup.