Australia and India prepare for the third Test at the Gabba, with Australia's Josh Hazlewood potentially returning. India seek to repeat their historic 2021 victory at the Gabba, while Australia aim to solidify their World Test Championship final chances. India's lineup is under scrutiny, with Rohit Sharma's batting position and potential bowling changes in focus.
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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of not only winning the ICC Champions Trophy but also defeating India in Dubai on February 23. He expressed confidence in the team's capabilities and praised the renovated Gaddafi Stadium. The event celebrated the completion of stadium renovations with performances by prominent artists and a vibrant fireworks display.
Ricky Ponting hailed Jasprit Bumrah's performance in the Border-Gavaskar Series as one of the best fast-bowling displays ever. Bumrah became the highest Indian wicket-taker in Australia with 64 wickets. Despite back spasms, his impactful bowling enabled India to fiercely contest the series, making him the 'Player of the Series' with 32 wickets.
Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi asserts the team has strategized for the entire Australian lineup for their crucial Champions Trophy match, not just focusing on Glenn Maxwell. After an impressive victory against England, Afghanistan aims to secure a semifinal spot with a win against Australia.
Shreyas Iyer continues to shine in domestic cricket with a stunning century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, amassing 312 runs in four matches. In contrast, India's T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav struggles with consecutive ducks. Karun Nair sets a world record with 542 runs in five games before dismissal, leading Vidarbha to an unbeaten run.
Mohammed Siraj reunited with former teammate Virat Kohli ahead of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs. Gujarat Titans clash in Bengaluru on Wednesday (April 2). RCB, led by new captain Rajat Patidar, boast a strong start to their season with impressive victories over Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings
Nat Sciver-Brunt has been a standout performer for Mumbai Indians in the WPL, leading the Orange Cap list with 493 runs and taking 9 wickets. Her partnership with Hayley Matthews has been crucial, and her ability to score briskly and all around the park has made her more dangerous. Sciver-Brunt's consistency and mentorship have been key to MI's success.
Afghanistan's head coach Jonathan Trott praised his team's resilient performance in their eight-run victory over England, which keeps them in contention for the ICC Champions Trophy semifinals. The win demonstrates Afghanistan's progress under Trott's guidance and sets the stage for a crucial match against Australia.
Sanju Samson recalled his journey with Rajasthan Royals, starting under Rahul Dravid in 2013. Now, in 2025, Samson captains the team while Dravid serves as coach. Their reunion highlights Dravid's long-term influence. Samson looks forward to learning from Dravid, who returned after coaching India's T20 World Cup win. Rajasthan Royals open their IPL 2025 campaign on March 23.
Star cricketers returning to domestic cricket has been stressed as important for those aiming to play for India, with Varun Chakravarthy affirming that playing for Tamil Nadu has significantly aided his development. His performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy have contributed to his improvement and readiness for international matches.
The Champions Trophy final between India and New Zealand in Dubai will feature Australia's Paul Reiffel and England's Richard Illingworth as on-field umpires. Sri Lanka's Ranjan Madugalle will serve as the match referee. India and New Zealand reached the final after defeating Australia and South Africa respectively.