The Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi visited Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium on January 6 to look at the unfinished work as the Champions Trophy begins on February 19. Pakistan will host matches in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi, while India will play in Dubai. Naqvi expressed confidence in meeting the January 25 deadline.
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In the final T20I against England, India achieved their highest-ever Powerplay score of 95/1, surpassing their previous best of 82/2. Openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma capitalised on the batting-friendly conditions, with Abhishek's explosive 58 runs off 21 balls leading the charge. Both teams made one change to their line-ups aiming for a win.
Yuvraj Singh, one of India's finest cricketers, struggled to regain his place in the team post-cancer under Virat Kohli's stringent leadership. Despite his pivotal role in past victories and beating cancer, his fitness concessions were denied. Uthappa highlights the contrasting captaincy styles, emphasizing the impact on team dynamics.
Rohit Sharma, after facing highs and lows in recent months, aims for redemption in the ICC Champions Trophy. With an impressive ODI track record and upcoming matches for practice, his leadership and consistent performances will be crucial in steering India to success.
Former chief selector Sunil Joshi backs Rishabh Pant's fearless approach ahead of the Gabba Test. Joshi believes Pant's aggressive style, reminiscent of Virender Sehwag, can shift pressure onto the bowlers and lead to an Indian victory, similar to his match-winning 89* in 2021. Despite recent lower scores, Joshi is confident Pant will deliver a game-changing innings at the Gabba again.
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.
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.
Agni Chopra, born to Bollywood producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra and critic Anupama Chopra, was drafted by MI New York for $50,000 in Major League Cricket. Despite growing up in a showbiz family, Agni pursued cricket, overcoming challenges tied to his privileged status, and excelling in domestic tournaments. Now, he moves to American cricket, eyeing international opportunities.
Pakistan's Champions Trophy campaign is in jeopardy after a six-wicket loss to India, prompting top-order batsman Saud Shakeel to call for significant changes. Despite a 104-run partnership, Pakistan's batting collapsed, leading to an underwhelming total of 241. With bottom placement in Group A and a crucial match against Bangladesh next, their tournament future looks bleak.
Delhi Capitals' young batter Ashutosh Sharma led his team to a thrilling 1-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants with an unbeaten 66 off 31 balls. His heroics under pressure were reminiscent of his exceptional Ranji Trophy debut, where he scored 123 off 84 balls against Gujarat, showcasing his potential as a game-changer.
Abu Dhabi Knight Riders claimed their second win in ILT20 Season 3, defeating Gulf Giants by 37 runs despite Aayan Afzal Khan's record-setting 4/16. Michael Pepper's half-century led the Knight Riders to 176/9, with the Giants struggling at 139/8. Sunil Narine highlighted the importance of teamwork and batting depth for future matches.