Punjab Kings start their IPL 2025 campaign against Gujarat Titans with Shreyas Iyer as the new captain. Iyer's leadership aims to turn around Punjab’s fortunes as they strive for their first title. Both teams, featuring key players like Iyer, Shubman Gill and Rashid Khan, look to set a strong tone for their seasons.
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Mumbai's Suryansh Shedge, an emerging cricket talent, shines in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy with impressive performances, leading to an IPL contract with Punjab Kings. Shedge is eager to meet his idol, Virat Kohli, and learn from his experience as he transitions to a larger cricketing stage.
Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes Rohit Sharma and selectors will influence his retirement decision. Manjrekar also suggested Virat Kohli play County cricket to enhance his Test skills before the England series. Kohli's fitness could allow him to continue playing at a the highest level, asserted Sanjay Bangar.
Virat Kohli's unbeaten century against Pakistan in his 299th ODI has propelled him to the fifth position in ICC rankings and surpassed Ricky Ponting's run total. Kohli now needs 149 runs to overtake Kumar Sangakkara. Ricky Ponting commented on Kohli's pursuit of Tendulkar’s record, highlighting Kohli's enduring performance and fitness at age 36.
Mohammed Shami showcased his form with a three-wicket spell for Bengal in the Vijay Hazare Trophy preliminary quarterfinal against Haryana. Despite being slightly expensive, 3 for 61, Shami's performance boosts his prospects for a comeback to the Indian team, having been absent since the 2023 ODI World Cup because of injury and subsequent flare-up issues during rehab.
Shafali Verma's blistering 80 not out led Delhi Capitals to a dominant nine-wicket win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Women's Premier League. The victory made DC the first team to qualify for the playoffs, while RCB suffered their fourth consecutive home defeat.
Harbhajan Singh comments on the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, emphasizing the impact it could have on India’s performance in the Champions Trophy. Despite this setback, he believes India remains a favorite due to experienced players like Shami and Kuldeep, along with the batting form of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
The UAE has been a historic venue for iconic India-Pakistan ODI clashes, featuring epic contests such as India's 38-run victory in the 1985 Rothmans Cup, Javed Miandad's famous last-ball six in the 1986 Austral-Asia Cup final, and Sachin Tendulkar's memorable century in the 1996 Pepsi Sharjah Cup. These matches have seen thrilling last-ball finishes and stellar individual performances.
The SA20 cricket competition is focusing on the playoffs this week. The first Qualifier between MI Cape Town and Paarl Royals will be at St George’s Park. The Eliminator match will be in Centurion, followed by the grand final at the Wanderers in Johannesburg. The event promises intense action and exciting matches leading up to the final.
Rassie van der Dussen reflected on missing out on the T20 World Cup despite a strong year, pivoting to opportunities in various T20 leagues. Van der Dussen emphasised on continuous learning and playing for South Africa, inspired by Faf du Plessis. He spoke after Lhuan-dre Pretorius impressed once again in the SA20, aiding Paarl Royals in defeating MI Cape Town.
England all-rounder Sam Curran is aiming to bring his winning streak to the Desert Vipers in the ILT20 season. Fresh off successes with the Oval Invincibles and Surrey, Curran highlights the strong team culture and familiarity with coaches as key factors. With experienced teammates, he's confident in their potential for success.