Matt Sandery, head curator for Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi, discusses the rigorous preparations involved in hosting the upcoming ILT20 and the Champions Trophy that will follow. His team works from early mornings to manage unique pitch conditions and ensure high-quality playing surfaces, while also mitigating challenges like variable weather and dew.
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Persistent rain washed out most of the first day's play in the third India-Australia Test at Brisbane. Fans who braved the weather received full refunds as fewer than 15 overs were possible. Australia reached 28/0 before the downpour halted play. The outfield was submerged at one point, preventing any resumption despite drainage efforts.
Marco Jansen attributes his success in SA20 to his adaptability to diverse South African pitches. He leads with 47 wickets, excelling in the Powerplay. His all-round capabilities, including scoring 204 valuable runs, highlight his importance. Jansen now prepares for the Proteas ODI squad, hoping to continue his strong SA20 form internationally.
Pakistan leg-spinner Shadab Khan is seeking help from spin-bowling great Saqlain Mushtaq to revive his international career. Struggling since the T20 World Cup and absent from ODI cricket since last year, Shadab is keen on improving his bowling skills and aims for a comeback in the Champions Trophy at home.
New Zealand faces uncertainty over the fitness of their key bowler Matt Henry ahead of the Champions Trophy final against India. Henry, the tournament's leading wicket-taker, injured his right shoulder during the semifinal match against South Africa. Coach Gary Stead is hopeful of his recovery, with the team giving Henry every chance to play in the crucial match.
Wanindu Hasaranga's 4/35 helped Rajasthan Royals clinch a six-run win over Chennai Super Kings, despite Ruturaj Gaikwad's 63. Mitchell Starc's 5/35 powered Delhi Capitals to a seven-wicket victory against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Faf du Plessis' 50 set up the chase, with Abhishek Porel and Tristan Stubbs steering Delhi home. Rajasthan and Delhi both secured crucial wins.
Several Indian cricketers, including KL Rahul, VVS Laxman, Virender Sehwag, and Amit Mishra, along with badminton star Saina Nehwal, took to social media to extend their warm wishes for Holi. They expressed their hopes for happiness, joy, and colorful celebrations, reminding fans to enjoy responsibly. "May the splashes of colour brighten your life with laughter, love, joy and unforgettable memories. #HappyHoli," former India cricketer Virender Sehwag wrote.
Nitish Kumar Reddy's maiden century during the fourth Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground earned him recognition and made his father proud. He reached the milestone with a gritty 103 not out, partnering with Washington Sundar in a 127-run stand. Reddy emphasized his determination that kept him going despite challenges, marking his debut series with impressive performances.
Key members of India's victorious ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad, including skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir, have returned home after their successful campaign. The team created history by winning the Champions Trophy for the third time, defeating New Zealand in the final held in Dubai. India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir also touched down in Delhi, marking his return after successfully guiding the team to the prestigious Champions Trophy title.
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.
Virender Sehwag criticised the Royal Challengers Bengaluru management for releasing Mohammed Siraj, asserting that former captains Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis failed to use him effectively during powerplays. Siraj's recent performance against RCB highlighted their mistake, demonstrating his potential when utilised properly. He took three wickets against his former team on Wednesday.