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The highly anticipated IPL 2025 season opener between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) faces a major hurdle as rain threatens to disrupt the match. Fans are eagerly waiting to see their favorite stars in action, but will the weather play spoilsport? Stay tuned for the latest updates!

Rain threat looms Kolkata vs Bengaluru season opener

As Virat Kohli steps onto the field for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league" rel="dofollow">Indian PremierLeague</a> (IPL) 2025 opener against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kolkata-knight-riders">Kolkata Knight Riders</a> (KKR) at Eden Gardens, he will mark a historic milestone&mdash;his 400th T20 match. This feat makes him only the third Indian cricketer to achieve this milestone, after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a> (448 matches) and Dinesh Karthik (412 matches).
Since making his T20 debut in 2008, Kohli has made 12,886 runs in 382 innings at an average of 41.43, with nine centuries and 97 fifties. He is not only India&rsquo;s highest run-scorer in T20s but also the sixth-highest globally.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/yuvraj-singhs-wife-hazel-keech-backs-bccis-family-time-rule-says-it-benefits-players-8878473">Yuvraj Singh's wife Hazel Keech backs BCCI&rsquo;s family time rule, says it benefits players</a>
However, this IPL season presents a new challenge. Having retired from T20Is last year after leading India to a World Cup victory with a match-winning knock in the final, Kohli now faces fresh scrutiny. His strike rate, adaptability against spin, and shot selection will be analysed as the T20 format continues evolving with more aggressive playstyles.
<h2>A fresh approach in 2025?</h2>
Kohli&rsquo;s hunt for an IPL title remains one of cricket&rsquo;s most compelling narratives. With 8,004 runs in 252 matches, including eight centuries and a record 973-run season in 2016, individual brilliance has yet to translate into championship success. This season, Kohli might look to re-invent his approach, taking more risks and adding a touch of unpredictability to his game.
His opening partner will also be different this time. Over the years, Kohli has shared the crease with Chris Gayle, Devdutt Padikkal, and Faf du Plessis. In 2025, he will pair up with England&rsquo;s explosive batter Phil Salt, a key figure in KKR&rsquo;s title-winning run last year. The two have already struck a good rapport, as seen in a recent RCB video where Salt described Kohli as a "chilled" and competitive character.
<h2>The spin test: Kohli vs Chakravarthy &amp; Narine</h2>
One of the most talked-about aspects of Kohli&rsquo;s T20 game has been his approach against spinners. Facing Varun Chakravarthy and Sunil Narine, two of KKR&rsquo;s most lethal weapons, will be a key test in the opening match.
Against Varun: Kohli has scored 40 runs off 39 balls (SR: 102.56), with just one dismissal.&nbsp;Against Narine: He has managed 162 runs in 157 balls (SR: 103.18), with four dismissals.
However, there were signs of evolution in IPL 2024. Kohli struck at 137.08 against spin, a significant improvement from his 113.38 in 2023 and 108 in 2022. His 15 sixes against spinners last season were the highest he had ever hit in an IPL campaign.
As the 2025 IPL unfolds, will we see a more adventurous Kohli against spin? Will he finally break the IPL title curse? As always, with Kohli, the season promises drama, intensity, and perhaps a few surprises.

Sports, Cricket: Since making his T20 debut in 2008, Virat Kohli has made 12,886 runs in 382 innings at an average of 41.43, with nine centuries and 97 fifties

As Virat Kohli steps onto the field for the Indian PremierLeague (IPL) 2025 opener against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens, he will mark a historic milestone—his 400th T20 match. This feat makes him only the third Indian cricketer to achieve this milestone, after Rohit Sharma (448 matches) and Dinesh Karthik (412 matches). Since making his T20 debut in 2008, Kohli has made 12,886 runs in 382 innings at an average of 41.43, with nine centuries and 97 fifties. He is not only India’s highest run-scorer in T20s but also the sixth-highest globally. Also Read: Yuvraj Singh's wife Hazel Keech backs BCCI’s family time rule, says it benefits players However, this IPL season presents a new challenge. Having retired from T20Is last year after leading India to a World Cup victory with a match-winning knock in the final, Kohli now faces fresh scrutiny. His strike rate, adaptability against spin, and shot selection will be analysed as the T20 format continues evolving with more aggressive playstyles. A fresh approach in 2025? Kohli’s hunt for an IPL title remains one of cricket’s most compelling narratives. With 8,004 runs in 252 matches, including eight centuries and a record 973-run season in 2016, individual brilliance has yet to translate into championship success. This season, Kohli might look to re-invent his approach, taking more risks and adding a touch of unpredictability to his game. His opening partner will also be different this time. Over the years, Kohli has shared the crease with Chris Gayle, Devdutt Padikkal, and Faf du Plessis. In 2025, he will pair up with England’s explosive batter Phil Salt, a key figure in KKR’s title-winning run last year. The two have already struck a good rapport, as seen in a recent RCB video where Salt described Kohli as a "chilled" and competitive character. The spin test: Kohli vs Chakravarthy & Narine One of the most talked-about aspects of Kohli’s T20 game has been his approach against spinners. Facing Varun Chakravarthy and Sunil Narine, two of KKR’s most lethal weapons, will be a key test in the opening match. Against Varun: Kohli has scored 40 runs off 39 balls (SR: 102.56), with just one dismissal. Against Narine: He has managed 162 runs in 157 balls (SR: 103.18), with four dismissals. However, there were signs of evolution in IPL 2024. Kohli struck at 137.08 against spin, a significant improvement from his 113.38 in 2023 and 108 in 2022. His 15 sixes against spinners last season were the highest he had ever hit in an IPL campaign. As the 2025 IPL unfolds, will we see a more adventurous Kohli against spin? Will he finally break the IPL title curse? As always, with Kohli, the season promises drama, intensity, and perhaps a few surprises.

IPL 2025 | Virat Kohli’s 400th T20: New beginnings, old challenges, and hunt for glory

Former Indian cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/yuvraj-singh">Yuvraj Singh</a>'s wife, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hazel-keech">Hazel Keech</a>, has expressed her support for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/board-of-control-for-cricket-in-india">Board of Control for Cricket in India</a>'s (BCCI) new rule limiting family time for players during tours. She believes that while prolonged separation can be challenging, the restriction helps cricketers stay focused on their game.
Under the rule, players&rsquo; immediate family members&mdash;including partners and children&mdash;can stay with them for 14 days after the first two weeks of a tour lasting over 45 days. On shorter tours, families can accompany players for up to a week.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/exclusive-ipl-2025-the-buttler-did-itgujarat-celebrates-rajasthan-regroups-8878395">Exclusive | IPL 2025: The Buttler did it&mdash;Gujarat celebrates, Rajasthan regroups</a>
&ldquo;When Yuvi was playing international cricket, he would be away for long periods, which was difficult for families, especially those with small children. However, I noticed that when I was present at matches, he would often be concerned about me, affecting his focus. So, a limited-time allowance strikes a balance," Keech was quoted as saying to ANI.
The BCCI introduced these restrictions following India&rsquo;s 3-1 defeat to Australia in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/border-gavaskar-trophy">Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a>. While the guidelines were included in player contracts, they were temporarily relaxed during the COVID-19 pandemic to support players&rsquo; mental well-being.
Currently, the BCCI covers the accommodation costs of players&rsquo; families during tours but does not cover travel expenses.
<h2 data-start="1740" data-end="1860">'Won't tweak the guidelines'</h2>
Meanwhile, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made it clear that it won&rsquo;t tweak the newly-implemented guidelines, including the 14-day cap on family travelling with the players on overseas tours.
However, in a recent interview, the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia clarified that the Board is in no mood to relax the rules. &ldquo;The rules were implemented after rounds of discussions with the people who are at the helm of affairs,&rdquo; Saikia said.
&ldquo;This policy has not been formulated overnight as it was in place for the past couple of decades, dating back to the playing days of our president, Roger Binny and maybe earlier thereto,&rdquo; he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Under the rule, players’ immediate family members can stay with them for 14 days after the first two weeks of a tour lasting over 45 days

Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh's wife, Hazel Keech, has expressed her support for the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) new rule limiting family time for players during tours. She believes that while prolonged separation can be challenging, the restriction helps cricketers stay focused on their game. Under the rule, players’ immediate family members—including partners and children—can stay with them for 14 days after the first two weeks of a tour lasting over 45 days. On shorter tours, families can accompany players for up to a week. Also Read: Exclusive | IPL 2025: The Buttler did it—Gujarat celebrates, Rajasthan regroups “When Yuvi was playing international cricket, he would be away for long periods, which was difficult for families, especially those with small children. However, I noticed that when I was present at matches, he would often be concerned about me, affecting his focus. So, a limited-time allowance strikes a balance," Keech was quoted as saying to ANI. The BCCI introduced these restrictions following India’s 3-1 defeat to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While the guidelines were included in player contracts, they were temporarily relaxed during the COVID-19 pandemic to support players’ mental well-being. Currently, the BCCI covers the accommodation costs of players’ families during tours but does not cover travel expenses. 'Won't tweak the guidelines' Meanwhile, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made it clear that it won’t tweak the newly-implemented guidelines, including the 14-day cap on family travelling with the players on overseas tours. However, in a recent interview, the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia clarified that the Board is in no mood to relax the rules. “The rules were implemented after rounds of discussions with the people who are at the helm of affairs,” Saikia said. “This policy has not been formulated overnight as it was in place for the past couple of decades, dating back to the playing days of our president, Roger Binny and maybe earlier thereto,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Yuvraj Singh's wife Hazel Keech backs BCCI’s family time rule, says it benefits players

The 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to begin with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders facing Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the opening match. The captains' meeting has confirmed key rule changes for IPL 2025, adding new excitement to the tournament. Watch this report to know what's new in this IPL season!

Kolkata face Bengaluru in opening match of Indian Premier League

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> is back, and with it comes the excitement, drama, and high-stakes battles that fans eagerly anticipate each year. However, for Rajasthan Royals, this season carries a tinge of loss.
The departure of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jos-buttler">Jos Buttler</a>, one of their most celebrated players, to Gujarat Titans has left a void that won&rsquo;t be easy to fill. Over the years, Buttler wasn&rsquo;t just a key player for Rajasthan; he was the heartbeat of their batting lineup, a mentor to younger players, and a trusted ally of skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</a>. His absence raises an important question: will Rajasthan Royals miss him in IPL 2025? The answer is a resounding yes.
Buttler&rsquo;s impact on Rajasthan Royals went far beyond the runs he scored. He was a match-winner, a leader on the field, and a player who could single-handedly turn games in Rajasthan&rsquo;s favor. His record speaks for itself&mdash;over 3,000 runs for the franchise, including a phenomenal 2022 season where he won the Orange Cap with 863 runs and led RR to the final. But it wasn&rsquo;t just about the numbers.
Buttler had the ability to take on the best bowlers in the world, provide explosive starts, and adapt to different match situations. Rajasthan relied heavily on him at the top of the order, and his presence often set the tone for their innings. Now, without him, the team will have to rethink its approach.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ms-dhonis-hotel-room-is-always-open-for-teammates-to-play-fifa-discuss-cricket-reveals-sam-curran-8878384">MS Dhoni&rsquo;s hotel room is always open for teammates to play FIFA, discuss cricket, reveals Sam Curran</a>
One of the biggest voids left by Buttler&rsquo;s departure is his bond with captain Sanju Samson. The duo shared a special partnership both on and off the field. They complemented each other&rsquo;s batting styles, with Samson often playing the anchor while Buttler took on the role of aggressor. Their mutual trust and understanding made Rajasthan&rsquo;s batting lineup more formidable.
<h2>Time for Sanju to step up&nbsp;</h2>
Samson himself admitted that releasing Buttler was one of the hardest decisions he had to make, showing just how much the Englishman meant to the franchise. With Buttler gone, the responsibility on Samson&rsquo;s shoulders has increased significantly, and he will have to take on an even greater leadership role this season.
Rajasthan Royals still have a talented squad, but there&rsquo;s no denying that Buttler&rsquo;s absence will be felt. Yashasvi Jaiswal, one of the brightest young talents in Indian cricket, is expected to step up and fill the void at the top. Shimron Hetmyer remains a crucial middle-order finisher, while emerging players like Dhruv Jurel and Riyan Parag have an opportunity to make a bigger impact. However, replacing a player of Buttler&rsquo;s caliber is never easy. His experience, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure made him irreplaceable.
Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans will be thrilled to have secured Buttler&rsquo;s services. The 2022 champions, who have been one of the most consistent teams in recent years, now have a player who can change the course of a match within a few overs. His presence not only strengthens their batting but also gives them a leader with immense IPL experience. Rajasthan&rsquo;s loss is certainly Gujarat&rsquo;s gain, and it wouldn&rsquo;t be surprising if Buttler plays a crucial role in their campaign this season.
For Rajasthan, this IPL will be about finding a new identity without one of their biggest stars. They have a strong core and a captain in Samson who has proven his leadership capabilities, but whether they can succeed without Buttler remains to be seen. One thing is certain&mdash;when Rajasthan Royals take the field in IPL 2025, there will be a noticeable absence at the top of the order, and fans will be left wondering what could have been if Buttler was still donning the pink jersey.

Sports, Cricket: Jos Buttler was the heartbeat of their batting lineup, a mentor to younger players, and a trusted ally of skipper Sanju Samson

The Indian Premier League is back, and with it comes the excitement, drama, and high-stakes battles that fans eagerly anticipate each year. However, for Rajasthan Royals, this season carries a tinge of loss. The departure of Jos Buttler, one of their most celebrated players, to Gujarat Titans has left a void that won’t be easy to fill. Over the years, Buttler wasn’t just a key player for Rajasthan; he was the heartbeat of their batting lineup, a mentor to younger players, and a trusted ally of skipper Sanju Samson. His absence raises an important question: will Rajasthan Royals miss him in IPL 2025? The answer is a resounding yes. Buttler’s impact on Rajasthan Royals went far beyond the runs he scored. He was a match-winner, a leader on the field, and a player who could single-handedly turn games in Rajasthan’s favor. His record speaks for itself—over 3,000 runs for the franchise, including a phenomenal 2022 season where he won the Orange Cap with 863 runs and led RR to the final. But it wasn’t just about the numbers. Buttler had the ability to take on the best bowlers in the world, provide explosive starts, and adapt to different match situations. Rajasthan relied heavily on him at the top of the order, and his presence often set the tone for their innings. Now, without him, the team will have to rethink its approach. Also Read: MS Dhoni’s hotel room is always open for teammates to play FIFA, discuss cricket, reveals Sam Curran One of the biggest voids left by Buttler’s departure is his bond with captain Sanju Samson. The duo shared a special partnership both on and off the field. They complemented each other’s batting styles, with Samson often playing the anchor while Buttler took on the role of aggressor. Their mutual trust and understanding made Rajasthan’s batting lineup more formidable. Time for Sanju to step up Samson himself admitted that releasing Buttler was one of the hardest decisions he had to make, showing just how much the Englishman meant to the franchise. With Buttler gone, the responsibility on Samson’s shoulders has increased significantly, and he will have to take on an even greater leadership role this season. Rajasthan Royals still have a talented squad, but there’s no denying that Buttler’s absence will be felt. Yashasvi Jaiswal, one of the brightest young talents in Indian cricket, is expected to step up and fill the void at the top. Shimron Hetmyer remains a crucial middle-order finisher, while emerging players like Dhruv Jurel and Riyan Parag have an opportunity to make a bigger impact. However, replacing a player of Buttler’s caliber is never easy. His experience, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure made him irreplaceable. Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans will be thrilled to have secured Buttler’s services. The 2022 champions, who have been one of the most consistent teams in recent years, now have a player who can change the course of a match within a few overs. His presence not only strengthens their batting but also gives them a leader with immense IPL experience. Rajasthan’s loss is certainly Gujarat’s gain, and it wouldn’t be surprising if Buttler plays a crucial role in their campaign this season. For Rajasthan, this IPL will be about finding a new identity without one of their biggest stars. They have a strong core and a captain in Samson who has proven his leadership capabilities, but whether they can succeed without Buttler remains to be seen. One thing is certain—when Rajasthan Royals take the field in IPL 2025, there will be a noticeable absence at the top of the order, and fans will be left wondering what could have been if Buttler was still donning the pink jersey.

Exclusive | IPL 2025: The Buttler did it—Gujarat celebrates, Rajasthan regroups

England all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sam-curran">Sam Curran</a> recently shared his experience of spending time with legendary cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/msd">MS Dhoni</a>, highlighting his stress-free and approachable nature. Speaking to former England captain Nasser Hussain on the Sky Cricket Podcast, Curran described how Dhoni&rsquo;s aura continues to captivate players and fans alike.
Recalling a memorable moment, Curran said, &ldquo;The other night, I was batting with MS and Jadeja (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravindra-jadeja">Ravindra Jadeja</a>) at 11:30 in the evening, just smacking balls everywhere under the lights. I thought, where else in the world would you do this? All the local players just sit and watch MS. His calmness, the big moments he has been involved in&mdash;he never seems to panic. He never really shows too much emotion.&rdquo;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-csk-vs-mi-is-like-india-pakistan-of-ipl-says-former-india-spinner-harbhajan-singh-8878360">IPL 2025 | 'CSK vs MI is like India-Pakistan of IPL', says former India spinner Harbhajan Singh</a>
<h2 data-start="742" data-end="1017">'He is always mobbed by fans'</h2>
Curran also spoke about Dhoni&rsquo;s off-field camaraderie, noting how the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chennai-super-kings">CSK</a> legend keeps his hotel room open for teammates to play FIFA, discuss cricket, and spend time together. Due to his immense popularity, stepping out in public often leads to him getting mobbed by fans.
As CSK prepares to begin their IPL campaign against Mumbai Indians at Chepauk Stadium, Dhoni is set to play another season, chasing his sixth title under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad. While speculation continues about whether this will be his final IPL season, CSK retained him as an uncapped player for ₹4 crore under the IPL's revised retention rules.
Since retiring from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni has only featured in the IPL. In the 2024 season, he played 11 innings, scoring 161 runs at a staggering strike rate of 220 and an average of 53.66, often finishing games for CSK. Across his IPL career, he has amassed 5,243 runs in 264 matches, with a strike rate of 137.53 and 24 half-centuries, cementing his status as one of the tournament&rsquo;s greatest players.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: As CSK prepares to face Mumbai Indians, MSD is set to play another season, chasing his sixth title under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad

England all-rounder Sam Curran recently shared his experience of spending time with legendary cricketer MS Dhoni, highlighting his stress-free and approachable nature. Speaking to former England captain Nasser Hussain on the Sky Cricket Podcast, Curran described how Dhoni’s aura continues to captivate players and fans alike. Recalling a memorable moment, Curran said, “The other night, I was batting with MS and Jadeja (Ravindra Jadeja) at 11:30 in the evening, just smacking balls everywhere under the lights. I thought, where else in the world would you do this? All the local players just sit and watch MS. His calmness, the big moments he has been involved in—he never seems to panic. He never really shows too much emotion.” Also Read: IPL 2025 | 'CSK vs MI is like India-Pakistan of IPL', says former India spinner Harbhajan Singh 'He is always mobbed by fans' Curran also spoke about Dhoni’s off-field camaraderie, noting how the CSK legend keeps his hotel room open for teammates to play FIFA, discuss cricket, and spend time together. Due to his immense popularity, stepping out in public often leads to him getting mobbed by fans. As CSK prepares to begin their IPL campaign against Mumbai Indians at Chepauk Stadium, Dhoni is set to play another season, chasing his sixth title under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad. While speculation continues about whether this will be his final IPL season, CSK retained him as an uncapped player for ₹4 crore under the IPL's revised retention rules. Since retiring from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni has only featured in the IPL. In the 2024 season, he played 11 innings, scoring 161 runs at a staggering strike rate of 220 and an average of 53.66, often finishing games for CSK. Across his IPL career, he has amassed 5,243 runs in 264 matches, with a strike rate of 137.53 and 24 half-centuries, cementing his status as one of the tournament’s greatest players. (With inputs from agencies)

MS Dhoni’s hotel room is always open for teammates to play FIFA, discuss cricket, reveals Sam Curran

The much-anticipated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL) 2025 is set to begin on March 22, with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders facing off against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the iconic Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata.
Ahead of the tournament, former Indian cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/harbhajan-singh">Harbhajan Singh</a> spoke about the fierce rivalry between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI).
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-mohammed-siraj-recalls-emotional-bond-with-virat-kohli-rcb-opens-up-on-new-stint-with-gujarat-titans-8877234">IPL 2025: Siraj recalls emotional bond with Virat Kohli, admits feeling emotional over RCB separation</a>
"CSK vs MI is like India vs Pakistan in the IPL. Their fans are deeply passionate, and both teams have had legendary players over the years. If you beat CSK, your team is in the headlines, and the same goes for MI. It&rsquo;s a high-pressure, high-intensity match that is always thrilling to watch," Harbhajan said.
<h2 data-start="836" data-end="1149">'Riyan is one to watch'</h2>
The IPL veteran also expressed his admiration for Rajasthan Royals' young star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/riyan-parag">Riyan Parag</a>, who has been appointed captain in the absence of Sanju Samson.
"Every season, we see young players making an impact. Riyan Parag is one to watch&mdash;he has immense talent, and now, as Rajasthan Royals captain, he has a great opportunity to prove himself. I also want to see how the new young spinners perform this season, especially in terms of their mindset," he added.
The rivalry between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings remains one of the biggest attractions of the IPL. Fans are eagerly waiting to see <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/msd">MS Dhoni</a> back in yellow, with their last encounter being a memorable one&mdash;CSK defeated MI by 20 runs. Rohit Sharma's century went in vain as Matheesha Pathirana's four-wicket haul earned him the Player of the Game award. Interestingly, Dhoni&rsquo;s explosive 20 runs off just four balls turned out to be the exact margin of victory.
As IPL 2025 kicks off, all eyes will once again be on the biggest clash of the tournament&mdash;CSK vs MI.

Sports, Cricket: The IPL veteran also expressed his admiration for Rajasthan Royals' young star Riyan Parag, who has been appointed captain in the absence of Sanju Samson

The much-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to begin on March 22, with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders facing off against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the iconic Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata. Ahead of the tournament, former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh spoke about the fierce rivalry between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI). Also Read: IPL 2025: Siraj recalls emotional bond with Virat Kohli, admits feeling emotional over RCB separation "CSK vs MI is like India vs Pakistan in the IPL. Their fans are deeply passionate, and both teams have had legendary players over the years. If you beat CSK, your team is in the headlines, and the same goes for MI. It’s a high-pressure, high-intensity match that is always thrilling to watch," Harbhajan said. 'Riyan is one to watch' The IPL veteran also expressed his admiration for Rajasthan Royals' young star Riyan Parag, who has been appointed captain in the absence of Sanju Samson. "Every season, we see young players making an impact. Riyan Parag is one to watch—he has immense talent, and now, as Rajasthan Royals captain, he has a great opportunity to prove himself. I also want to see how the new young spinners perform this season, especially in terms of their mindset," he added. The rivalry between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings remains one of the biggest attractions of the IPL. Fans are eagerly waiting to see MS Dhoni back in yellow, with their last encounter being a memorable one—CSK defeated MI by 20 runs. Rohit Sharma's century went in vain as Matheesha Pathirana's four-wicket haul earned him the Player of the Game award. Interestingly, Dhoni’s explosive 20 runs off just four balls turned out to be the exact margin of victory. As IPL 2025 kicks off, all eyes will once again be on the biggest clash of the tournament—CSK vs MI.

IPL 2025 | 'CSK vs MI is like India-Pakistan of IPL', says former India spinner Harbhajan Singh

India and former RCB seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-siraj" rel="dofollow">Mohammed Siraj</a> recalled an emotional bond he shared with his previous IPL franchise and veteran batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli.</a> Siraj claims Virat backed and retained him during his tough times. After spending several seasons at RCB, the IPL team decided against retaining Siraj ahead of the impending season, with the Indian quick claiming to be heartbroken over separation. Ahead of the 18th edition starting on Saturday, Siraj shared insights of his new spell with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gujarat-titans" rel="dofollow">Gujarat Titans</a>.
Siraj joined RCB seven years ago in 2018, later making his India debut across longer formats, all under Virat Kohli&rsquo;s captaincy. Recalling how, despite his lean patch during that one period, Kohli retained him, Siraj said his career path only went upward after that, generously thanking the veteran cricketer for his unwavering support.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-kl-rahul-to-miss-first-two-games-for-delhi-capitals-for-personal-reasons-report-athiya-shetty-first-child-8876874" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: KL Rahul to miss Delhi Capitals' first two games for personal reasons - Report</a>
&ldquo;To be honest, Virat Kohli has a huge hand in my career. He has backed me in my bad times&mdash;2018 and 2019&mdash;he supported me, he even retained me, and after that, my performance and graph went up. He has been very supportive. It has been very emotional for me to leave RCB. Let's see what happens when I come against RCB. The match is on April 2,&rdquo; Siraj said in a chat with ANI.
Siraj left RCB as their third-highest wicket-taker, picking 83 wickets from 87 matches, with his best of 4/21. His performance peaked in 2023, where he picked 19 wickets in 14 games, averaging 19.74 and an economy of 7.50. However, despite such performances, Siraj failed to put his hands on the IPL trophy.&nbsp;
<h2>Siraj at GT</h2>
At the mega IPL 2025 auction in Jeddah late last year, former champions Gujarat Titans (GT) won the bid for Siraj, bagging his services for $1.4 million (INR 12.25 crore).
Speaking of his new spell at GT, Siraj said, &ldquo;My training is going very well with all the pacers in my team, and our bowling unit knows how to plan and execute. I am feeling very pleasant training with them all, teammates, and especially being here in Gujarat Titans.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8isev2f-vvhc5glz-6106efmy">
15 seconds of pure 𝑀𝑖𝑦𝑎𝑛 𝑚𝑎𝑔𝑖𝑐🔥 <a href="https://t.co/2jfdpa8XX6">pic.twitter.com/2jfdpa8XX6</a>
&mdash; Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) <a href="https://twitter.com/gujarat_titans/status/1902563867089367366?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
Meanwhile, at GT, Siraj has an elite pace attack to rub shoulders with, with the South African pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Gerald Coetzee alongside the India pace trio of Ishant Sharma, Prasidh Krishna, and Kulwant Khejroliya, among a few.&nbsp;
Gujarat will host the Punjab Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad in their tournament opener on Tuesday (Mar 25).&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Mohammed Siraj joined RCB seven years ago in 2018, later making his India debut across longer formats, all under Virat Kohli’s captaincy.

India and former RCB seamer Mohammed Siraj recalled an emotional bond he shared with his previous IPL franchise and veteran batter Virat Kohli. Siraj claims Virat backed and retained him during his tough times. After spending several seasons at RCB, the IPL team decided against retaining Siraj ahead of the impending season, with the Indian quick claiming to be heartbroken over separation. Ahead of the 18th edition starting on Saturday, Siraj shared insights of his new spell with Gujarat Titans. Siraj joined RCB seven years ago in 2018, later making his India debut across longer formats, all under Virat Kohli’s captaincy. Recalling how, despite his lean patch during that one period, Kohli retained him, Siraj said his career path only went upward after that, generously thanking the veteran cricketer for his unwavering support. Also read | IPL 2025: KL Rahul to miss Delhi Capitals' first two games for personal reasons - Report “To be honest, Virat Kohli has a huge hand in my career. He has backed me in my bad times—2018 and 2019—he supported me, he even retained me, and after that, my performance and graph went up. He has been very supportive. It has been very emotional for me to leave RCB. Let's see what happens when I come against RCB. The match is on April 2,” Siraj said in a chat with ANI. Siraj left RCB as their third-highest wicket-taker, picking 83 wickets from 87 matches, with his best of 4/21. His performance peaked in 2023, where he picked 19 wickets in 14 games, averaging 19.74 and an economy of 7.50. However, despite such performances, Siraj failed to put his hands on the IPL trophy. Siraj at GT At the mega IPL 2025 auction in Jeddah late last year, former champions Gujarat Titans (GT) won the bid for Siraj, bagging his services for $1.4 million (INR 12.25 crore). Speaking of his new spell at GT, Siraj said, “My training is going very well with all the pacers in my team, and our bowling unit knows how to plan and execute. I am feeling very pleasant training with them all, teammates, and especially being here in Gujarat Titans.” 15 seconds of pure 𝑀𝑖𝑦𝑎𝑛 𝑚𝑎𝑔𝑖𝑐🔥 pic.twitter.com/2jfdpa8XX6 — Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) March 20, 2025 Meanwhile, at GT, Siraj has an elite pace attack to rub shoulders with, with the South African pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Gerald Coetzee alongside the India pace trio of Ishant Sharma, Prasidh Krishna, and Kulwant Khejroliya, among a few. Gujarat will host the Punjab Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad in their tournament opener on Tuesday (Mar 25). (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Siraj recalls emotional bond with Virat Kohli, admits feeling emotional over RCB separation

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/delhi-capitals" rel="dofollow">Delhi Capitals</a> (DC) could be without its marquee Indian player, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kl-rahul" rel="dofollow">KL Rahul</a>, for their first two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> games. Delhi opens its account against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Monday (Mar 24) in Vizag, and the latest reports suggest that Rahul could be missing that match for personal reasons.
After India&rsquo;s Champions Trophy win in Dubai, Rahul announced he and his wife Athiya Shetty are awaiting the birth of their first child. As first informed by Australian women&rsquo;s team cricketer Alyssa Healy during a recent chat on YouTube channel - LiSTNR Sport, Rahul could be away for the first two DC games, with the franchise losing two key batters, including England batter Harry Brook, who pulled out of the impending season earlier, for their tournament opener.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-no-bans-for-captains-in-slow-over-rate-offense-as-bcci-revises-playing-conditions-8876093" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: No bans for captains in slow over-rate offence as BCCI revises playing conditions</a>
&ldquo;No Harry Brook, (so) it will be interesting to see who the replacement player will be. They have KL Rahul, who will probably not play the first couple of games, I think... they are awaiting the birth of (their) child, but that dynamic is really cool,&rdquo; Healy, who joined the DC camp earlier, said during the chat.&nbsp;
&ldquo;They have that power in the young guys, but they also have a KL Rahul who can stitch the innings in T20 cricket. He's going to be really exciting to watch,&rdquo; she continued.
<h3>Watch -</h3>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8ipo55j-oeb13cfr-h4e58z6p">
KL RAHUL set to miss first couple of matches <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2025</a> <a href="https://t.co/HS7vQJbUU7">pic.twitter.com/HS7vQJbUU7</a>
&mdash; Sanskar Gupta (@Sanskar7701) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sanskar7701/status/1902636310734442499?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
Though the franchise is yet to announce Brook&rsquo;s replacement, who cannot register his name in the IPL auction until 2028, DC will have to find an apt replacement for Rahul for the two matches to ensure they are well-equipped and ready to take down their oppositions.&nbsp;
While Rahul was the frontrunner to lead Delhi in the impending season, he denied accepting the role, with the franchise appointing all-rounder Axar Patel as the new captain. The Proteas batting great, and their former skipper, Faf du Plessis, will play as his deputy.&nbsp;
<h2>DC-LSG ready for a blockbuster show</h2>
After LSG and Rahul mutually decided to part ways following their first three seasons together, the Lucknow-based outfit purchased ex-DC captain Rishabh Pant for a whopping $31 million (INR 27 crore) at the mega auction late last year, with Delhi bagging Rahul&rsquo;s services for $1.2 million (INR 12 crore).
With no Rahul and Brook, it remains to be seen what batting lineup DC would go ahead with for their first two matches.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: After India's Champions Trophy triumph over New Zealand in Dubai, KL Rahul announced he and his wife are expecting the birth of their first child.

Delhi Capitals (DC) could be without its marquee Indian player, KL Rahul, for their first two IPL 2025 games. Delhi opens its account against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Monday (Mar 24) in Vizag, and the latest reports suggest that Rahul could be missing that match for personal reasons. After India’s Champions Trophy win in Dubai, Rahul announced he and his wife Athiya Shetty are awaiting the birth of their first child. As first informed by Australian women’s team cricketer Alyssa Healy during a recent chat on YouTube channel - LiSTNR Sport, Rahul could be away for the first two DC games, with the franchise losing two key batters, including England batter Harry Brook, who pulled out of the impending season earlier, for their tournament opener. Also read | IPL 2025: No bans for captains in slow over-rate offence as BCCI revises playing conditions “No Harry Brook, (so) it will be interesting to see who the replacement player will be. They have KL Rahul, who will probably not play the first couple of games, I think... they are awaiting the birth of (their) child, but that dynamic is really cool,” Healy, who joined the DC camp earlier, said during the chat. “They have that power in the young guys, but they also have a KL Rahul who can stitch the innings in T20 cricket. He's going to be really exciting to watch,” she continued. Watch - KL RAHUL set to miss first couple of matches #IPL2025 pic.twitter.com/HS7vQJbUU7 — Sanskar Gupta (@Sanskar7701) March 20, 2025 Though the franchise is yet to announce Brook’s replacement, who cannot register his name in the IPL auction until 2028, DC will have to find an apt replacement for Rahul for the two matches to ensure they are well-equipped and ready to take down their oppositions. While Rahul was the frontrunner to lead Delhi in the impending season, he denied accepting the role, with the franchise appointing all-rounder Axar Patel as the new captain. The Proteas batting great, and their former skipper, Faf du Plessis, will play as his deputy. DC-LSG ready for a blockbuster show After LSG and Rahul mutually decided to part ways following their first three seasons together, the Lucknow-based outfit purchased ex-DC captain Rishabh Pant for a whopping $31 million (INR 27 crore) at the mega auction late last year, with Delhi bagging Rahul’s services for $1.2 million (INR 12 crore). With no Rahul and Brook, it remains to be seen what batting lineup DC would go ahead with for their first two matches. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: KL Rahul to miss Delhi Capitals' first two games for personal reasons - Report

Opener Hasan Nawaz smashed the quickest T20I hundred for Pakistan in 44 balls during the 3rd T20I against New Zealand in Auckland, helping the Men in Green complete a massive 205-run chase inside 16 overs with nine wickets remaining. Captain Salman Ali Agha remained unbeaten on 51 off 31 balls, while Nawaz's fellow opener Mohammad Haris scored a quick-fire 41 off 20 balls.
Pakistan found a gem in Nawaz in the post-Babar-Rizwan era. After getting out on a duck in the previous two matches, the right-handed batter added 74 runs for the first wicket (with Haris) - registering the team&rsquo;s highest-ever Powerplay total (75) in T20Is. Haris&rsquo; dismissal brought the skipper to the crease, who continued his purple patch at number three.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-no-bans-for-captains-in-slow-over-rate-offense-as-bcci-revises-playing-conditions-8876093" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: No bans for captains in slow over-rate offence as BCCI revises playing conditions</a>
Pakistan hit 12 sixes during the chase, seven of which came off Nawaz&rsquo;s bat, who also hit ten fours during his maiden T20I hundred. Nawaz and Salman added 133 for the second wicket stand, helping Pakistan win its first match on the tour.
<h2>Chapman&rsquo;s show at Eden Park</h2>
New Zealand batter Mark Chapman loves playing against Pakistan, especially in the T20Is. Having amassed tons of runs earlier, he continued his golden run against his favourite opposition in the third T20I, hitting a brilliant 94.&nbsp;
Sending New Zealand to bat first, Pakistan removed opener Finn Allen in the first over, with Tim Seifert departing soon after inside the Powerplay.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-lsg-to-replace-injured-indian-seamer-with-shardul-thakur-report-mohsin-khan-mega-auction-8875798" rel="dofollow">Overlooked at mega auction, all-rounder Shardul Thakur finds new home in IPL 2025</a>
Chapman began the onslaught from the word go, hammering Pakistan bowlers all around the park. Though he impressed everyone with his quick-fire knock, he failed to get much support during the middle overs, with all-rounder Michael Bracewell providing a little with his 18-ball 31 at the end.&nbsp;
For Pakistan, the seasoned duo of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shaheen-afridi" rel="dofollow">Shaheen Shah Afridi</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/haris-rauf" rel="dofollow">Haris Rauf</a> returned with two and three wickets, respectively, and all-rounder Abbas Afridi and spinner Abrar Ahmed picked two each. Bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan also picked a wicket.
Meanwhile, the five-match series stands 2-1 in favour of New Zealand, with the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui to host the next game this Sunday.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Pakistan broke multiple records during the 3rd T20I run chase against New Zealand in Auckland, including registering team's highest PP total.

Opener Hasan Nawaz smashed the quickest T20I hundred for Pakistan in 44 balls during the 3rd T20I against New Zealand in Auckland, helping the Men in Green complete a massive 205-run chase inside 16 overs with nine wickets remaining. Captain Salman Ali Agha remained unbeaten on 51 off 31 balls, while Nawaz's fellow opener Mohammad Haris scored a quick-fire 41 off 20 balls. Pakistan found a gem in Nawaz in the post-Babar-Rizwan era. After getting out on a duck in the previous two matches, the right-handed batter added 74 runs for the first wicket (with Haris) - registering the team’s highest-ever Powerplay total (75) in T20Is. Haris’ dismissal brought the skipper to the crease, who continued his purple patch at number three. Also read | IPL 2025: No bans for captains in slow over-rate offence as BCCI revises playing conditions Pakistan hit 12 sixes during the chase, seven of which came off Nawaz’s bat, who also hit ten fours during his maiden T20I hundred. Nawaz and Salman added 133 for the second wicket stand, helping Pakistan win its first match on the tour. Chapman’s show at Eden Park New Zealand batter Mark Chapman loves playing against Pakistan, especially in the T20Is. Having amassed tons of runs earlier, he continued his golden run against his favourite opposition in the third T20I, hitting a brilliant 94. Sending New Zealand to bat first, Pakistan removed opener Finn Allen in the first over, with Tim Seifert departing soon after inside the Powerplay. Also read | Overlooked at mega auction, all-rounder Shardul Thakur finds new home in IPL 2025 Chapman began the onslaught from the word go, hammering Pakistan bowlers all around the park. Though he impressed everyone with his quick-fire knock, he failed to get much support during the middle overs, with all-rounder Michael Bracewell providing a little with his 18-ball 31 at the end. For Pakistan, the seasoned duo of Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf returned with two and three wickets, respectively, and all-rounder Abbas Afridi and spinner Abrar Ahmed picked two each. Bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan also picked a wicket. Meanwhile, the five-match series stands 2-1 in favour of New Zealand, with the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui to host the next game this Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

Hasan Nawaz hits quickest T20I hundred for Pakistan in Auckland tie

All ten IPL captains will now be exempted from any ban over their respective teams' slow over-rate offences from the impending season onwards as BCCI revised playing conditions. Under the new rule, they shall be penalised with demerit points, with the ban being enforced only in dire cases.
The BCCI and the IPL governing council informed all the ten captains and teams&rsquo; think tanks about the new rule change during the mandatory pre-season meeting in Mumbai on Thursday (Mar 20) afternoon. Instead, the new rule, similar to a system introduced by the ICC earlier, will see BCCI slapping demerit points to the captains based on the offence&rsquo;s severity, to be carried over for the next three years.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-lsg-to-replace-injured-indian-seamer-with-shardul-thakur-report-mohsin-khan-mega-auction-8875798" rel="dofollow">Overlooked at mega auction, all-rounder Shardul Thakur finds new home in IPL 2025</a>
&ldquo;The captain will be penalised with demerit points but will not face a match ban for the slow over-rate,&rdquo; a source close to the information said in a chat with Cricbuzz.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The Level 1 offence will be charged 25 to 75 per cent match fees with demerit points, which will be calculated for the next three years.&nbsp;
&ldquo;A Level 2 offence, if exactly deemed serious, will result in four demerit points.
"For every 4 demerit points accumulated, the match referee can impose a penalty, either in the form of a 100 per cent fine or additional demerit points. These demerit points could potentially lead to a match ban in the future. But for slow overrate, it won't be a match ban (immediately),&rdquo; the source added.
Meanwhile, a few captains have suffered the wrath of their team&rsquo;s slow over-rate offence before, including the former Delhi Capitals captain Rishabh Pant, who missed a crucial game against the RCB last season, with Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya banned from MI&rsquo;s first game in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> due to an over-rate offence the previous season.
<h2>Impact Player Rule to stay</h2>
In the latest development around the Impact Player rule, the BCCI confirmed this controversial change is here to stay for the season and only be reviewed after the 2027 edition.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/kkr-vs-rcb-will-rain-play-spoilsport-in-ipl-2025-opener-check-out-saturdays-weather-report-8875667" rel="dofollow">KKR vs RCB: Will rain play spoilsport in IPL 2025 opener? Check out Saturday&rsquo;s weather report</a>
"The IPL will continue to implement the Impact Player rule, allowing teams to substitute one player during a match, at least until 2027," an unnamed source continued.
Besides, the BCCI has also amended the DRS rule usage ahead of IPL 2025. Under revised playing conditions, the bowling team can use the DRS for height wide, the wides outside the off-stump and regarding no balls. These rules are in addition to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-revokes-saliva-ban-in-major-changes-ahead-of-ipl-2025-second-new-ball-11th-over-8873247" rel="dofollow">BCCI revoking the ban on saliva usage and the second new ball in the second innings of the evening games</a>.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports, IPL: The BCCI informed all the captains and teams’ think tanks about the new rule change during the mandatory pre-season meeting in Mumbai on Thursday.

All ten IPL captains will now be exempted from any ban over their respective teams' slow over-rate offences from the impending season onwards as BCCI revised playing conditions. Under the new rule, they shall be penalised with demerit points, with the ban being enforced only in dire cases. The BCCI and the IPL governing council informed all the ten captains and teams’ think tanks about the new rule change during the mandatory pre-season meeting in Mumbai on Thursday (Mar 20) afternoon. Instead, the new rule, similar to a system introduced by the ICC earlier, will see BCCI slapping demerit points to the captains based on the offence’s severity, to be carried over for the next three years. Also read | Overlooked at mega auction, all-rounder Shardul Thakur finds new home in IPL 2025 “The captain will be penalised with demerit points but will not face a match ban for the slow over-rate,” a source close to the information said in a chat with Cricbuzz. “The Level 1 offence will be charged 25 to 75 per cent match fees with demerit points, which will be calculated for the next three years. “A Level 2 offence, if exactly deemed serious, will result in four demerit points. "For every 4 demerit points accumulated, the match referee can impose a penalty, either in the form of a 100 per cent fine or additional demerit points. These demerit points could potentially lead to a match ban in the future. But for slow overrate, it won't be a match ban (immediately),” the source added. Meanwhile, a few captains have suffered the wrath of their team’s slow over-rate offence before, including the former Delhi Capitals captain Rishabh Pant, who missed a crucial game against the RCB last season, with Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya banned from MI’s first game in IPL 2025 due to an over-rate offence the previous season. Impact Player Rule to stay In the latest development around the Impact Player rule, the BCCI confirmed this controversial change is here to stay for the season and only be reviewed after the 2027 edition. Also read | KKR vs RCB: Will rain play spoilsport in IPL 2025 opener? Check out Saturday’s weather report "The IPL will continue to implement the Impact Player rule, allowing teams to substitute one player during a match, at least until 2027," an unnamed source continued. Besides, the BCCI has also amended the DRS rule usage ahead of IPL 2025. Under revised playing conditions, the bowling team can use the DRS for height wide, the wides outside the off-stump and regarding no balls. These rules are in addition to the BCCI revoking the ban on saliva usage and the second new ball in the second innings of the evening games. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: No bans for captains in slow over-rate offence as BCCI revises playing conditions

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lucknow-super-giants" rel="dofollow">Lucknow Super Giants</a> (LSG) has replaced their Indian seamer Mohsin Khan with Mumbai all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shardul-thakur" rel="dofollow">Shardul Thakur</a>, per the latest report. Thakur remained unsold at last year&rsquo;s mega auction in Jeddah but had been training alongside LSG players since their pre-season camp began. Though an official announcement will soon follow, the report suggests that Thakur has been informed of his inclusion in the squad ahead of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>.
A Times of India (TOI) report claims that Thakur will travel with the LSG squad to Vizag for their season-opener against the Delhi Capitals on Monday (Mar 24).&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/kkr-vs-rcb-will-rain-play-spoilsport-in-ipl-2025-opener-check-out-saturdays-weather-report-8875667" rel="dofollow">KKR vs RCB: Will rain play spoilsport in IPL 2025 opener? Check out Saturday&rsquo;s weather report</a>
Meanwhile, the lanky seamer Mohsin has been away from action for the past three months due to an ACL injury that he picked up earlier. After recovering in time for IPL 2025, another blow (calf strain) during LSG training ruled him out of action indefinitely; as a result, LSG was forced to make this change.
<h2>Lack of pacers at LSG</h2>
Besides him, LSG&rsquo;s premier Indian pacers, including Akash Deep, Mayank Yadav and Avesh Khan, continue to recover from their respective injuries at BCCI&rsquo;s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru; all three are yet to link up with the squad.&nbsp;
Zaheer Khan, LSG mentor, also spoke on the same lines. Without sharing many details on their match fitness, Zaheer underlined the side&rsquo;s approach this season as their chase for their maiden IPL title continues.&nbsp;
"The situation is dynamic for some of our players due to injuries. But it&rsquo;s time that we look for positives and adopt things to tackle the situation amicably. Some players are at the National Cricket Academy and others are spending time with their physios. Right now, it will not be right to say anything about this. The situation will be dynamic this season,&rdquo; Zaheer said in a media interaction, as quoted by Times of India.
However, to begin with, Shardul will lead LSG&rsquo;s pace attack (for being the most experienced of the lot), with seamers uncapped Rajvardhan Hangargekar and Prince Yadav waiting in the wings for their chance. West Indies&rsquo; Shamar Joseph is the lone overseas seamer in the LSG squad.&nbsp;
Though LSG has a settled squad at the helm, they still need their injured Indian quicks to recover in time and be available for most of the tournament.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Though an official announcement will soon follow, the report suggests that Thakur has been informed of his inclusion in the squad ahead of IPL 2025.

The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) has replaced their Indian seamer Mohsin Khan with Mumbai all-rounder Shardul Thakur, per the latest report. Thakur remained unsold at last year’s mega auction in Jeddah but had been training alongside LSG players since their pre-season camp began. Though an official announcement will soon follow, the report suggests that Thakur has been informed of his inclusion in the squad ahead of IPL 2025. A Times of India (TOI) report claims that Thakur will travel with the LSG squad to Vizag for their season-opener against the Delhi Capitals on Monday (Mar 24). Also read | KKR vs RCB: Will rain play spoilsport in IPL 2025 opener? Check out Saturday’s weather report Meanwhile, the lanky seamer Mohsin has been away from action for the past three months due to an ACL injury that he picked up earlier. After recovering in time for IPL 2025, another blow (calf strain) during LSG training ruled him out of action indefinitely; as a result, LSG was forced to make this change. Lack of pacers at LSG Besides him, LSG’s premier Indian pacers, including Akash Deep, Mayank Yadav and Avesh Khan, continue to recover from their respective injuries at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru; all three are yet to link up with the squad. Zaheer Khan, LSG mentor, also spoke on the same lines. Without sharing many details on their match fitness, Zaheer underlined the side’s approach this season as their chase for their maiden IPL title continues. "The situation is dynamic for some of our players due to injuries. But it’s time that we look for positives and adopt things to tackle the situation amicably. Some players are at the National Cricket Academy and others are spending time with their physios. Right now, it will not be right to say anything about this. The situation will be dynamic this season,” Zaheer said in a media interaction, as quoted by Times of India. However, to begin with, Shardul will lead LSG’s pace attack (for being the most experienced of the lot), with seamers uncapped Rajvardhan Hangargekar and Prince Yadav waiting in the wings for their chance. West Indies’ Shamar Joseph is the lone overseas seamer in the LSG squad. Though LSG has a settled squad at the helm, they still need their injured Indian quicks to recover in time and be available for most of the tournament. (With inputs from agencies)

Overlooked at mega auction, all-rounder Shardul Thakur finds new home in IPL 2025

NZ vs PAK, 3rd T20I Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: New Zealand will loom to seal the five-match T20I series against Pakistan as they take on the visitors on Friday (Mar 21). Having already won the opening two matches, the hosts will have their eyes on the prize in the absence of big names like Devon Conway and Mitchell Santener. Ahead of the third T20I contest between New Zealand and Pakistan, here are all the details.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Where to watch the New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I Live Streaming online on OTT?</h2>
The New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I will be live-streamed on the FanCode app and website in India.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Where to watch the New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I&nbsp;on TV?</h2>
The New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I will be telecast on Sony Sports Network in India.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Which stadium will host the New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I?</h2>
The New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I will be played at the Eden Park in Auckland.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">What time will the New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I?</h2>
The New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I will start at 7:15 PM local time (11:45 AM IST) on Friday (Mar 21) with the toss taking place at 1:45 PM local time (6:15 AM IST).
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/speaking-exclusively-to-wions-aditya-pimpale-was-avni-aneja-co-founder-of-six5six-who-are-the-official-kits-manufacturers-of-kkr-in-ipl-2025-8870944" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025 Exclusive: Story behind Kolkata Knight Riders' new kit and how Shah Rukh Khan played a key role</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">NZ vs PAK 3rd T20I Match Prediction</h2>
Having already dominated the T20I series, we expect New Zealand to win the match and therefore seal the series 3-0. New Zealand's form and home conditions will play an important role in the outcome of the match.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Squads<o:p></o:p></h2>
New Zealand: Michael Bracewell (c), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes (matches 4-5), Mitch Hay, Matt Henry (matches 4-5), Kyle Jamieson (matches 1-3), Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Will O&rsquo;Rourke (matches 1-3), Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi
Pakistan:&nbsp;Mohammad Rizwan (c), Salman Agha, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Akif Javed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Imam-ul-Haq, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Irfan Niazi, Naseem Shah, Sufiyan Muqeem and Tayyab Tahir.

NZ vs PAK Free Live Streaming | New Zealand will loom to seal the five-match T20I series against Pakistan as they take on the visitors on Friday (Mar 21) at the Eden Park in Auckland.

NZ vs PAK, 3rd T20I Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: New Zealand will loom to seal the five-match T20I series against Pakistan as they take on the visitors on Friday (Mar 21). Having already won the opening two matches, the hosts will have their eyes on the prize in the absence of big names like Devon Conway and Mitchell Santener. Ahead of the third T20I contest between New Zealand and Pakistan, here are all the details. Where to watch the New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I Live Streaming online on OTT? The New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I will be live-streamed on the FanCode app and website in India. Where to watch the New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I on TV? The New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I will be telecast on Sony Sports Network in India. Which stadium will host the New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I? The New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I will be played at the Eden Park in Auckland. What time will the New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I? The New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I will start at 7:15 PM local time (11:45 AM IST) on Friday (Mar 21) with the toss taking place at 1:45 PM local time (6:15 AM IST). ALSO READ | IPL 2025 Exclusive: Story behind Kolkata Knight Riders' new kit and how Shah Rukh Khan played a key role NZ vs PAK 3rd T20I Match Prediction Having already dominated the T20I series, we expect New Zealand to win the match and therefore seal the series 3-0. New Zealand's form and home conditions will play an important role in the outcome of the match. Squads New Zealand: Michael Bracewell (c), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes (matches 4-5), Mitch Hay, Matt Henry (matches 4-5), Kyle Jamieson (matches 1-3), Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Will O’Rourke (matches 1-3), Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Salman Agha, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Akif Javed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Imam-ul-Haq, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Irfan Niazi, Naseem Shah, Sufiyan Muqeem and Tayyab Tahir.

NZ vs PAK Free Live Streaming || When and where to watch New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I live online, match winner prediction

The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is just one sleep away, but fans might have to wait an extra day for the action to get underway. An orange alert in some parts of West Bengal and a forecast of &lsquo;thunderstorms with lightning&rsquo; as warned by Kolkata's Regional Meteorological Centre threatens to play spoilsport in the curtain raiser at the Eden Gardens on Saturday (Mar 22). Hosts Kolkata Knight Riders will take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the tournament opener.
The Indian Metrological Department&rsquo;s (IMD) forecast reads, "A trough runs from central Odisha to Vidarbha, and there is wind confluence over east and adjoining central India due to the above trough and anticyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal at lower tropospheric levels.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-amid-security-concerns-april-6-kkr-lsg-game-moved-out-of-eden-gardens-guwahati-8874179" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Amid security concerns, April 6 KKR-LSG game moved out of Eden Gardens</a>
&ldquo;Isolated to scattered light or moderate rainfall accompanied with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds likely over sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim on March 20 and 21,&rdquo; the statement added.
As a result, the department has issued an orange alert till March 22.
Meanwhile, not only does the weather forecast ring alarm bells for the IPL 2025 opener, but it could bring curtains down on the glitzy opening ceremony scheduled before the game, including several B-town superstars. The ground staff is taking all precautions by covering the playing area as dark clouds keep paying visits at the iconic venue ahead of the marquee KKR vs RCB tie in IPL 2025.
<h2>Time for action to begin&nbsp;</h2>
A long wait for another blockbuster IPL season ends on Saturday when the defending champions KKR play host to the travelling RCB side in the tournament opener. Both teams have their plans set for the curtain raiser, with KKR announcing their new leadership, naming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ajinkya-rahane" rel="dofollow">Ajinkya Rahane</a> the captain and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/venkatesh-iyer" rel="dofollow">Venkatesh Iyer</a> as his deputy.&nbsp;
On the other hand, RCB also has a new captain in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rajat-patidar" rel="dofollow">Rajat Patidar</a>, who leads an exciting-looking side heading into the 18th edition. Both teams have a new set of players, with several uncapped ones waiting to get unleashed on the IPL stage.&nbsp;
Looking at the head-to-head record, in 34 contested matches, Bengaluru has won just 14 times, while the three-time IPL winners Kolkata emerged victorious 20 times.&nbsp;
Besides, in their last four meetings, KKR has won all four matches, winning six out of their previous eight ties.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: The ground staff is taking all precautions by covering the playing area as dark clouds pay visits at the iconic venue ahead of the tournament opener.

The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is just one sleep away, but fans might have to wait an extra day for the action to get underway. An orange alert in some parts of West Bengal and a forecast of ‘thunderstorms with lightning’ as warned by Kolkata's Regional Meteorological Centre threatens to play spoilsport in the curtain raiser at the Eden Gardens on Saturday (Mar 22). Hosts Kolkata Knight Riders will take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the tournament opener. The Indian Metrological Department’s (IMD) forecast reads, "A trough runs from central Odisha to Vidarbha, and there is wind confluence over east and adjoining central India due to the above trough and anticyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal at lower tropospheric levels. Also read | IPL 2025: Amid security concerns, April 6 KKR-LSG game moved out of Eden Gardens “Isolated to scattered light or moderate rainfall accompanied with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds likely over sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim on March 20 and 21,” the statement added. As a result, the department has issued an orange alert till March 22. Meanwhile, not only does the weather forecast ring alarm bells for the IPL 2025 opener, but it could bring curtains down on the glitzy opening ceremony scheduled before the game, including several B-town superstars. The ground staff is taking all precautions by covering the playing area as dark clouds keep paying visits at the iconic venue ahead of the marquee KKR vs RCB tie in IPL 2025. Time for action to begin A long wait for another blockbuster IPL season ends on Saturday when the defending champions KKR play host to the travelling RCB side in the tournament opener. Both teams have their plans set for the curtain raiser, with KKR announcing their new leadership, naming Ajinkya Rahane the captain and Venkatesh Iyer as his deputy. On the other hand, RCB also has a new captain in Rajat Patidar, who leads an exciting-looking side heading into the 18th edition. Both teams have a new set of players, with several uncapped ones waiting to get unleashed on the IPL stage. Looking at the head-to-head record, in 34 contested matches, Bengaluru has won just 14 times, while the three-time IPL winners Kolkata emerged victorious 20 times. Besides, in their last four meetings, KKR has won all four matches, winning six out of their previous eight ties. (With inputs from agencies)

KKR vs RCB: Will rain play spoilsport in IPL 2025 opener? Check out Saturday’s weather report

Defending IPL champions <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kolkata-knight-riders-kkr" rel="dofollow">Kolkata Knight Riders</a>&rsquo; (KKR) home game against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) scheduled for April 6 has shifted out of the Eden Gardens due to security concerns. The Kolkata police expressed their inability to provide an apt cover for this IPL tie due to &lsquo;Ram Navami&rsquo; celebrations across the city on the same day, Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President Snehasish Ganguly said on Thursday.
Following earlier reports of BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari announcing that over 20,000 processions would be organised across the state to celebrate the festival, Ganguly said the state board has informed the BCCI about rescheduling the game, which Guwahati will now host in IPL 2025.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-revokes-saliva-ban-in-major-changes-ahead-of-ipl-2025-second-new-ball-11th-over-8873247" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025 Rule Change: BCCI informs all captains of two massive rule changes ahead of IPL 2025, check out</a>
"We have informed the BCCI about rescheduling the match, but there is no possibility of hosting it in the city at a later date. Now, I'm hearing that it will be shifted to Guwahati," Ganguly told PTI.
<h2>KKR ready to defend IPL title</h2>
KKR beat SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL 2024 final to win its third title, becoming the third-most successful team in the competition history. With mentor Gautam Gambhir, head coach Chandrakant Pandit and several experienced heads within the squad, KKR made the most of this chance and realised their dream of lifting another IPL trophy ten years after last winning in 2014.
However, ahead of the mega auction in December 2024, KKR let go of their captain, Shreyas Iyer and seamer Mitchell Starc, with one going to Punjab Kings (Iyer) and the other finding his new IPL home in Delhi Capitals.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/i-was-looking-for-one-guy-hoping-hed-come-and-talk-to-me-nitish-reddy-recalls-dressing-room-joy-after-mcg-hundred-srh-ipl-2025-travis-head-virat-kohli-8874094" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;I was looking for one guy&hellip;hoping he&rsquo;d come and talk to me,&rsquo; Nitish Reddy recalls dressing room joy after MCG hundred</a>
Ahead of the 18th edition, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/speaking-exclusively-to-wions-aditya-pimpale-was-avni-aneja-co-founder-of-six5six-who-are-the-official-kits-manufacturers-of-kkr-in-ipl-2025-8870944" rel="dofollow">KKR announced their new retro kit</a>, with black and golden sleeves, alongside picking a new captain in seasoned campaigner Ajinkya Rahane. Venkatesh Iyer, whom they repurchased at auction after letting him go ahead of the retention list announcement, KKR named Rahane&rsquo;s deputy.
Meanwhile, KKR will host the curtain raiser this season, hosting Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Saturday (Mar 22) at the Eden Gardens, which will also hosts the final (May 25).&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President Snehasish Ganguly informed the BCCI about Kolkata police's inability to provide apt cover for this IPL tie.

Defending IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) home game against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) scheduled for April 6 has shifted out of the Eden Gardens due to security concerns. The Kolkata police expressed their inability to provide an apt cover for this IPL tie due to ‘Ram Navami’ celebrations across the city on the same day, Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President Snehasish Ganguly said on Thursday. Following earlier reports of BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari announcing that over 20,000 processions would be organised across the state to celebrate the festival, Ganguly said the state board has informed the BCCI about rescheduling the game, which Guwahati will now host in IPL 2025. Also read | IPL 2025 Rule Change: BCCI informs all captains of two massive rule changes ahead of IPL 2025, check out "We have informed the BCCI about rescheduling the match, but there is no possibility of hosting it in the city at a later date. Now, I'm hearing that it will be shifted to Guwahati," Ganguly told PTI. KKR ready to defend IPL title KKR beat SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL 2024 final to win its third title, becoming the third-most successful team in the competition history. With mentor Gautam Gambhir, head coach Chandrakant Pandit and several experienced heads within the squad, KKR made the most of this chance and realised their dream of lifting another IPL trophy ten years after last winning in 2014. However, ahead of the mega auction in December 2024, KKR let go of their captain, Shreyas Iyer and seamer Mitchell Starc, with one going to Punjab Kings (Iyer) and the other finding his new IPL home in Delhi Capitals. Also read | ‘I was looking for one guy…hoping he’d come and talk to me,’ Nitish Reddy recalls dressing room joy after MCG hundred Ahead of the 18th edition, the KKR announced their new retro kit, with black and golden sleeves, alongside picking a new captain in seasoned campaigner Ajinkya Rahane. Venkatesh Iyer, whom they repurchased at auction after letting him go ahead of the retention list announcement, KKR named Rahane’s deputy. Meanwhile, KKR will host the curtain raiser this season, hosting Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Saturday (Mar 22) at the Eden Gardens, which will also hosts the final (May 25). (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Amid security concerns, April 6 KKR-LSG game moved out of Eden Gardens

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/nitish-kumar-reddy" rel="dofollow">Nitish Reddy</a> was among a handful of Indian players who impressed everyone on the Australian tour Down Under. Making his Test debut at the Optus Stadium in Perth, Reddy slammed his maiden hundred three games later at the MCG, as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-social-media-bursts-into-joy-over-nitish-reddys-maiden-test-hundred-check-reactions-8572794" rel="dofollow">cricketing world went gaga over it</a>. Although everyone cheered for him, Reddy revealed he strived for validation from two people, one in the dressing room and one outside.
Reddy is an emerging star. After making the right noises in the domestic games in the lead-up to his IPL debut last season, where Reddy smoked 303 runs and picked three wickets in SRH&rsquo;s almost successful campaign, head coach Gautam Gambhir unleashed him onto the international scene. Following his T20I debut earlier, Reddy got his maiden chance in the Test series Down Under, grabbing the opportunity with both hands.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jasprit-bumrah-nca-return-fuels-chances-of-his-early-ipl-2025-comeback-mumbai-indians-8873705" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah&rsquo;s NCA return fuels chances of his early IPL 2025 comeback</a>
Reddy shared shoulders with some of the best names in cricket the past year and narrated one of the inside stories during an hour-long podcast at PUMA India headquarters in Bengaluru.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Back in the locker room, he (Virat Kohli) once asked Sarfaraz (Khan), &lsquo;Sarfu, tera size kya hai?&rsquo; (Sarfaraz, what&rsquo;s your shoe size?), and he said, &lsquo;Nine.&rsquo; Then he turned to me, and I thought, &lsquo;Oh my god, I have to guess this correctly,&rsquo; because even if they weren&rsquo;t my size, I really wanted his shoes. I said, &lsquo;10,&rsquo; and he gave them to me. In the next match, I wore those shoes and scored a hundred!" Reddy revealed during a recent chat.
Meanwhile, detailing what happened inside the dressing room post his maiden Test hundred, Reddy said, &ldquo;Everyone in the dressing room came up and congratulated me, but I was just looking for one guy&mdash;hoping he&rsquo;d come and talk to me. When Virat bhai (Kohli) finally walked up and told me I had played a wonderful game, that moment itself was special for me. I was also scanning the stands for my father but couldn&rsquo;t find him. Later, I saw on the screen that he was crying.&rdquo;
<h2>Conversation with Head</h2>
Reddy plays with Australia superstar Travis Head at SRH in the IPL, with whom he will be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-nitish-kumar-reddy-set-to-join-srh-after-clearing-fitness-test-8855150" rel="dofollow">back in action during the 18th season</a>, starting March 22. Revealing a conversation with the attacking batter sometime during the BGT, Reddy said Head tried to distract him during his stay at the crease.
&ldquo;Travis came up to me and said, &lsquo;Nitish, where are you going to party tonight?&rsquo;&mdash;knowing fully well that I wouldn&rsquo;t. Then he went on, &lsquo;Australia is such a great place. Melbourne is an amazing city, you have to go out and chill.&rsquo; He was just trying to distract me. I just told him, &lsquo;Okay, Travis, one day we&rsquo;ll both&nbsp;go and party!&rsquo; During another match, he was fielding at short leg and warned me, &lsquo;Nitish, if you hit me, I&rsquo;ll hit you when you bowl!&rdquo; Reddy said.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Following his T20I debut earlier, Nitish Kumar Reddy got his maiden chance in the Test series Down Under, gabbing opportunity with both arms.

Nitish Reddy was among a handful of Indian players who impressed everyone on the Australian tour Down Under. Making his Test debut at the Optus Stadium in Perth, Reddy slammed his maiden hundred three games later at the MCG, as the cricketing world went gaga over it. Although everyone cheered for him, Reddy revealed he strived for validation from two people, one in the dressing room and one outside. Reddy is an emerging star. After making the right noises in the domestic games in the lead-up to his IPL debut last season, where Reddy smoked 303 runs and picked three wickets in SRH’s almost successful campaign, head coach Gautam Gambhir unleashed him onto the international scene. Following his T20I debut earlier, Reddy got his maiden chance in the Test series Down Under, grabbing the opportunity with both hands. Also read | Jasprit Bumrah’s NCA return fuels chances of his early IPL 2025 comeback Reddy shared shoulders with some of the best names in cricket the past year and narrated one of the inside stories during an hour-long podcast at PUMA India headquarters in Bengaluru. “Back in the locker room, he (Virat Kohli) once asked Sarfaraz (Khan), ‘Sarfu, tera size kya hai?’ (Sarfaraz, what’s your shoe size?), and he said, ‘Nine.’ Then he turned to me, and I thought, ‘Oh my god, I have to guess this correctly,’ because even if they weren’t my size, I really wanted his shoes. I said, ‘10,’ and he gave them to me. In the next match, I wore those shoes and scored a hundred!" Reddy revealed during a recent chat. Meanwhile, detailing what happened inside the dressing room post his maiden Test hundred, Reddy said, “Everyone in the dressing room came up and congratulated me, but I was just looking for one guy—hoping he’d come and talk to me. When Virat bhai (Kohli) finally walked up and told me I had played a wonderful game, that moment itself was special for me. I was also scanning the stands for my father but couldn’t find him. Later, I saw on the screen that he was crying.” Conversation with Head Reddy plays with Australia superstar Travis Head at SRH in the IPL, with whom he will be back in action during the 18th season, starting March 22. Revealing a conversation with the attacking batter sometime during the BGT, Reddy said Head tried to distract him during his stay at the crease. “Travis came up to me and said, ‘Nitish, where are you going to party tonight?’—knowing fully well that I wouldn’t. Then he went on, ‘Australia is such a great place. Melbourne is an amazing city, you have to go out and chill.’ He was just trying to distract me. I just told him, ‘Okay, Travis, one day we’ll both go and party!’ During another match, he was fielding at short leg and warned me, ‘Nitish, if you hit me, I’ll hit you when you bowl!” Reddy said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘I was looking for one guy…hoping he’d come and talk to me,’ Nitish Reddy recalls dressing room joy after MCG hundred

Ace India seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah</a> has returned to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, fuelling his chances of making a potential early comeback in the IPL 2025. Bumrah reported at the NCA for the second time in over a week to assess his readiness for the 18th edition of the cash-rich league starting Saturday (Mar 22). Mumbai Indians (MI) will face Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the marquee clash on Sunday evening.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-jasprit-bumrah-leaves-scg-amid-injury-scare-post-lunch-on-day-2-watch-8589779" rel="dofollow">Bumrah suffered a back injury during the fifth and final BGT Test against Australia at the SCG</a> in January and has been out of action since. Though he came close to attaining full fitness in time for the recently concluded ICC Champions Trophy 2025, a last-minute lapse forced the selectors to overlook him; despite not having him, India won its third CT title by beating New Zealand in the final.
However, with the IPL 2025 just around the corner, MI is sweating over Bumrah&rsquo;s fitness. During his first visit to the NCA, Bumrah complained of back pain and discomfort while bowling, with the NCA doctors recommending specific exercises for the same, further advising him to return a week later.
Should Bumrah feel comfortable in his follow-through, jump, and while delivering the ball, he shall return earlier than expected to the Mumbai Indians squad for the impending season. However, per latest reports, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jasprit-bumrah-injury-update-latest-news-blow-for-mumbai-indians-as-pacer-ruled-out-of-first-few-ipl-2025-games-8852847" rel="dofollow">ace seamer would miss the first week's action</a>.
On his potential return date, MI&rsquo;s head coach Mahela Jayawardene said, "He just started that progress. We have to wait and see what their feedback is on him. At the moment, everything is going well, but obviously, it is on a day-to-day basis, the progress. He is in good spirits, and hopefully, he can join the team sooner."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-revokes-saliva-ban-in-major-changes-ahead-of-ipl-2025-second-new-ball-11th-over-8873247" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025 Rule Change: BCCI informs all captains of two massive rule changes ahead of IPL 2025, check out</a>
"Obviously, not having him is a challenge. He is one of the best bowlers in the world and he has been a fantastic pro for us for many years," he further said during the pre-season presser.
<h2>Sanju to report at NCA next month</h2>
Besides, Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson will also return to the NCA for clearance next month. After receiving partial clearance over his finger injury, Sanju can bat but wasn't cleared to keep wickets following surgery on his index finger.
As a result, RR decided to use him as the impact player for the first three games, with young batter Riyan Parag named team captain in his place. After three matches, Samson will report to the NCA to determine his role in the remainder of the tournament.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: During his first visit to the NCA, Bumrah complained of discomfort while bowling, with the NCA doctors recommending specific exercises for the same.

Ace India seamer Jasprit Bumrah has returned to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, fuelling his chances of making a potential early comeback in the IPL 2025. Bumrah reported at the NCA for the second time in over a week to assess his readiness for the 18th edition of the cash-rich league starting Saturday (Mar 22). Mumbai Indians (MI) will face Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the marquee clash on Sunday evening. Bumrah suffered a back injury during the fifth and final BGT Test against Australia at the SCG in January and has been out of action since. Though he came close to attaining full fitness in time for the recently concluded ICC Champions Trophy 2025, a last-minute lapse forced the selectors to overlook him; despite not having him, India won its third CT title by beating New Zealand in the final. However, with the IPL 2025 just around the corner, MI is sweating over Bumrah’s fitness. During his first visit to the NCA, Bumrah complained of back pain and discomfort while bowling, with the NCA doctors recommending specific exercises for the same, further advising him to return a week later. Should Bumrah feel comfortable in his follow-through, jump, and while delivering the ball, he shall return earlier than expected to the Mumbai Indians squad for the impending season. However, per latest reports, the ace seamer would miss the first week's action. On his potential return date, MI’s head coach Mahela Jayawardene said, "He just started that progress. We have to wait and see what their feedback is on him. At the moment, everything is going well, but obviously, it is on a day-to-day basis, the progress. He is in good spirits, and hopefully, he can join the team sooner." Also read | IPL 2025 Rule Change: BCCI informs all captains of two massive rule changes ahead of IPL 2025, check out "Obviously, not having him is a challenge. He is one of the best bowlers in the world and he has been a fantastic pro for us for many years," he further said during the pre-season presser. Sanju to report at NCA next month Besides, Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson will also return to the NCA for clearance next month. After receiving partial clearance over his finger injury, Sanju can bat but wasn't cleared to keep wickets following surgery on his index finger. As a result, RR decided to use him as the impact player for the first three games, with young batter Riyan Parag named team captain in his place. After three matches, Samson will report to the NCA to determine his role in the remainder of the tournament. (With inputs from agencies)

Jasprit Bumrah’s NCA return fuels chances of his early IPL 2025 comeback

Indian spin bowler Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma, who is a dance choreographer were granted divorce by the Mumbai family court on Thursday (March &nbsp;20). The court, granted decree to the couple on the joint petition filed for divorce by mutual consent. The news was confirmed by Nitin Kumar Gupta, Chahal's lawyer, while speaking to the media outside the court.
"The court has granted the decree of divorce. The court has accepted the joint petition of both parties. The parties are no longer husband and wife," Nitin was quoted as saying to news agency ANI.&nbsp;
Chahal and Dhanashree first met in Gurugram in December 2020 and fell in love. They dated each other for some time and got married the same year. However, their relationship did not last long and they separated in June 2022, according to the petition filed by them in the court. On February 5, 2025 a joint petition was filed before the Bandra Family Court seeking divorce by mutual consent.
The decision comes a day after the Bombay High Court, directed the family court to expedite proceedings, owing to Chahal's commitment to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, which starts from March 22. Chahal is a member of the Punjab Kings, which plays its first match on Tuesday (March 25) against Gujarat Titans.
The six-month mandatory period stipulated for every couple after filing of the divorce was also waived by the Bombay High Court on Wednesday.
Compiling by the divorce settlement terms, Chahal paid Dhanashree Rs 4.75 crore ($5,50,197) of which Rs 2.37 ($2,74,519) crore was paid as first installment, while the second installment was to be paid after the divorce decree was granted, noted the Bombay High Court.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/speaking-exclusively-to-wions-aditya-pimpale-was-avni-aneja-co-founder-of-six5six-who-are-the-official-kits-manufacturers-of-kkr-in-ipl-2025-8870944" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025 Exclusive: Story behind Kolkata Knight Riders' new kit and how Shah Rukh Khan played a key role</a>
<h2>Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma's love story and marriage&nbsp;</h2>
Yuzvendra and Dhanashree first met in Gurugram in December 2020 after the cricketer signed up for Dhanashree's YouTube dance classes during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;
After dating for a few months, Chahal and Mumbai-based dentist Dhanashree got married in Gurugram in December 2020.
Meanwhile, IPL 2025 season kicks off on March &nbsp;22, with the first game to be played between Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bangalore at the iconic Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata.

Sports, Cricket: Indian spin bowler Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma, who is a dance choreographer were granted divorce by the Mumbai family court.

Indian spin bowler Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma, who is a dance choreographer were granted divorce by the Mumbai family court on Thursday (March 20). The court, granted decree to the couple on the joint petition filed for divorce by mutual consent. The news was confirmed by Nitin Kumar Gupta, Chahal's lawyer, while speaking to the media outside the court. "The court has granted the decree of divorce. The court has accepted the joint petition of both parties. The parties are no longer husband and wife," Nitin was quoted as saying to news agency ANI. Chahal and Dhanashree first met in Gurugram in December 2020 and fell in love. They dated each other for some time and got married the same year. However, their relationship did not last long and they separated in June 2022, according to the petition filed by them in the court. On February 5, 2025 a joint petition was filed before the Bandra Family Court seeking divorce by mutual consent. The decision comes a day after the Bombay High Court, directed the family court to expedite proceedings, owing to Chahal's commitment to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, which starts from March 22. Chahal is a member of the Punjab Kings, which plays its first match on Tuesday (March 25) against Gujarat Titans. The six-month mandatory period stipulated for every couple after filing of the divorce was also waived by the Bombay High Court on Wednesday. Compiling by the divorce settlement terms, Chahal paid Dhanashree Rs 4.75 crore ($5,50,197) of which Rs 2.37 ($2,74,519) crore was paid as first installment, while the second installment was to be paid after the divorce decree was granted, noted the Bombay High Court. ALSO READ | IPL 2025 Exclusive: Story behind Kolkata Knight Riders' new kit and how Shah Rukh Khan played a key role Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma's love story and marriage Yuzvendra and Dhanashree first met in Gurugram in December 2020 after the cricketer signed up for Dhanashree's YouTube dance classes during the COVID-19 pandemic. After dating for a few months, Chahal and Mumbai-based dentist Dhanashree got married in Gurugram in December 2020. Meanwhile, IPL 2025 season kicks off on March 22, with the first game to be played between Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bangalore at the iconic Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata.

Yuzvendra Chahal, Dhanashree officially divorced. Check Details

IPL 2025 Rule Change: The BCCI has introduced a few changes ahead of IPL 2025 starting March 22. The apex body and league&rsquo;s governing council met with all the ten captains and the team managers in a crucial pre-season meeting in Mumbai on Thursday, informing them of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-mulling-to-lift-saliva-ban-ahead-of-ipl-2025-8870535" rel="dofollow">revoking the use of saliva on the cricket ball</a> and introducing a second new ball in the second innings during evening games.
Lifting the ban on saliva came after India seamer Mohammed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/test-greats-back-mohammed-shamis-plea-to-revoke-salvia-ban-for-reverse-swing-8828123" rel="dofollow">Shami echoed concerns about the wrath faced by the bowlers in death overs</a>, with the lack of reverse swing further denting their morale in One-Dayers mainly.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-announces-whooping-cash-prize-for-champions-trophy-winners-india-8872472" rel="dofollow">BCCI announces whopping award money for Champions Trophy winners India</a>
"We always keep requesting the authorities to allow us to use saliva so that swing and reverse comes into play during matches," Shami said after guiding India home in the Champions Trophy 2025, with former seamers Vernon Philander and Tim Southee throwing their support behind him.&nbsp;
After the COVID-19 virus gripped the world sometime in early 2020, the ICC decided to ban saliva usage on a cricket ball to avoid its spread. However, with the virus and pandemic all behind us, calls to revoke the ban began doing rounds.
<h2>The story behind the second new ball</h2>
Meanwhile, (the use of) the second new ball in the second innings could change the competition&rsquo;s dynamics, with the main factor behind this rule being to counter the dew&rsquo;s impact during evening matches.
Per the latest report, the second new ball will come into the picture after the 11th over of the second innings, helping nullify the dew factor the winning captain enjoyed taking, further ensuring the balance between bat and ball. Though it&rsquo;s unlikely that the rule will come into the picture for the day games, given there is no dew around, it's still for the on-field umpires to decide if the fielding team shall be using the second new ball during evening matches.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ecb-clears-bangladeshs-shakib-al-hasan-of-illegal-bowling-action-8872740" rel="dofollow">ECB clears Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan of illegal bowling action</a>
"It's up to the umpires to determine whether the ball needs to be changed. They will decide based on the presence of dew," a source close to the information informed Cricbuzz.
Meanwhile, the 18th edition of the cash-rich league will get underway on Saturday, with the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders facing Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the iconic Eden Gardens in the curtain raiser.&nbsp;
On Sunday, the first double header of this season, SunRisers Hyderabad will host Rajasthan Royals, with Chennai Super Kings facing Mumbai Indians in the marquee clash later in the evening.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025 Rule Change | The BCCI and the IPL council met all ten captains and the team managers on Thursday, informing them about the addition of new rules ahead of IPL 2025.

IPL 2025 Rule Change: The BCCI has introduced a few changes ahead of IPL 2025 starting March 22. The apex body and league’s governing council met with all the ten captains and the team managers in a crucial pre-season meeting in Mumbai on Thursday, informing them of revoking the use of saliva on the cricket ball and introducing a second new ball in the second innings during evening games. Lifting the ban on saliva came after India seamer Mohammed Shami echoed concerns about the wrath faced by the bowlers in death overs, with the lack of reverse swing further denting their morale in One-Dayers mainly. Also read | BCCI announces whopping award money for Champions Trophy winners India "We always keep requesting the authorities to allow us to use saliva so that swing and reverse comes into play during matches," Shami said after guiding India home in the Champions Trophy 2025, with former seamers Vernon Philander and Tim Southee throwing their support behind him. After the COVID-19 virus gripped the world sometime in early 2020, the ICC decided to ban saliva usage on a cricket ball to avoid its spread. However, with the virus and pandemic all behind us, calls to revoke the ban began doing rounds. The story behind the second new ball Meanwhile, (the use of) the second new ball in the second innings could change the competition’s dynamics, with the main factor behind this rule being to counter the dew’s impact during evening matches. Per the latest report, the second new ball will come into the picture after the 11th over of the second innings, helping nullify the dew factor the winning captain enjoyed taking, further ensuring the balance between bat and ball. Though it’s unlikely that the rule will come into the picture for the day games, given there is no dew around, it's still for the on-field umpires to decide if the fielding team shall be using the second new ball during evening matches. Also read | ECB clears Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan of illegal bowling action "It's up to the umpires to determine whether the ball needs to be changed. They will decide based on the presence of dew," a source close to the information informed Cricbuzz. Meanwhile, the 18th edition of the cash-rich league will get underway on Saturday, with the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders facing Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the iconic Eden Gardens in the curtain raiser. On Sunday, the first double header of this season, SunRisers Hyderabad will host Rajasthan Royals, with Chennai Super Kings facing Mumbai Indians in the marquee clash later in the evening. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025 Rule Change: BCCI informs all captains of two massive rule changes ahead of IPL 2025. Check details

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) cleared veteran all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shakib-al-hasan" rel="dofollow">Shakib Al Hasan</a> of a suspect bowling action months after he faced a ban across all forms of cricket over the same. In a massive boost for the left-arm off-spinner, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bangladeshs-shakib-al-hasan-banned-from-all-ecb-competitions-over-illegal-action-783882" rel="dofollow">suspended indefinitely</a> earlier, he is reported to have received a green signal to continue bowling in the County Championships and the Hundred.
Bangladesh selectors dropped Shakib from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a> squad, potentially his last white-ball tournament for the Tigers. Since he could not bowl, reducing his efficiency as a cricketer, the BCB decided against picking and playing Shakib, the batter.
<h2>Massive boost for Shakib</h2>
Per Cricbuzz, Shakib confirmed getting clearance over his suspected bowling action following a test in England. During his third bowling assessment test at Loughborough University on March 9, Shakib bowled 22 deliveries, all of which he cleared, with the BCB statement confirming that Shakib has "successfully remedied his action".
"The news is right (passing about the bowling test), and I am cleared to bowl again," Shakib said, as quoted by Cricbuzz.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-announces-whooping-cash-prize-for-champions-trophy-winners-india-8872472" rel="dofollow">BCCI announces whopping award money for Champions Trophy winners India</a>
Meanwhile, Shakib was suspended from bowling in all of cricket in December last year. The left-armer failed his first test at Loughborough University, forcing the ECB to suspend him altogether. By clause 11.3 of the ICC's regulations for illegal bowling actions, the apex body and all cricket boards&nbsp;suspended Shakib over illegal bowling action from all competitions.
Later in January this year, Shakib failed the second test in Chennai, prompting the BCB to overlook him for the first showpiece event of the year.
Besides, an ESPNcricinfo report suggested that Shakib arrived in the UK on February 27; after getting cleared to bowl in the English competitions, he might feature for Surrey in the upcoming County Championship season.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: After Shakib failed his second bowling assessment test in Chennai in January this year, the BCB decided against picking him the Champions Trophy squad.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) cleared veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan of a suspect bowling action months after he faced a ban across all forms of cricket over the same. In a massive boost for the left-arm off-spinner, suspended indefinitely earlier, he is reported to have received a green signal to continue bowling in the County Championships and the Hundred. Bangladesh selectors dropped Shakib from the Champions Trophy 2025 squad, potentially his last white-ball tournament for the Tigers. Since he could not bowl, reducing his efficiency as a cricketer, the BCB decided against picking and playing Shakib, the batter. Massive boost for Shakib Per Cricbuzz, Shakib confirmed getting clearance over his suspected bowling action following a test in England. During his third bowling assessment test at Loughborough University on March 9, Shakib bowled 22 deliveries, all of which he cleared, with the BCB statement confirming that Shakib has "successfully remedied his action". "The news is right (passing about the bowling test), and I am cleared to bowl again," Shakib said, as quoted by Cricbuzz. Also read | BCCI announces whopping award money for Champions Trophy winners India Meanwhile, Shakib was suspended from bowling in all of cricket in December last year. The left-armer failed his first test at Loughborough University, forcing the ECB to suspend him altogether. By clause 11.3 of the ICC's regulations for illegal bowling actions, the apex body and all cricket boards suspended Shakib over illegal bowling action from all competitions. Later in January this year, Shakib failed the second test in Chennai, prompting the BCB to overlook him for the first showpiece event of the year. Besides, an ESPNcricinfo report suggested that Shakib arrived in the UK on February 27; after getting cleared to bowl in the English competitions, he might feature for Surrey in the upcoming County Championship season. (With inputs from agencies)

ECB clears Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan of illegal bowling action

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow">BCCI</a> announced a whopping cash prize of $6.7m (INR 58 crore) for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a> winners India on Thursday (Mar 20). The Indian Cricket Board rewarded the Men in Blue for their third CT title, becoming the most successful team in the competition history. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-live-score-today-final-match-updates-live-streaming-champions-trophy-2025-ball-by-ball-commentary-full-scorecard-india-vs-new-zealand-dubai-stadium-9-march-8835543" rel="dofollow">India beat New Zealand by four wickets</a> in the Dubai showdown.&nbsp;
The Indian men&rsquo;s cricket team failed to win any ICC title in the past decade but won two in the past two years, including the T20 World Cup 2024 in the Americas; it was also the second title for India this year, including the Women&rsquo;s U19 World Cup triumph earlier. The BCCI President, Roger Binny, lauded India&rsquo;s rise on the global stage after years of dominance across formats.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-riyan-parag-to-lead-rajasthan-royals-for-opening-three-matches-unfit-sanju-samson-to-play-as-batter-8872091" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Riyan Parag to lead Rajasthan Royals for opening three matches; unfit Sanju Samson to play as batter</a>
"Winning back-to-back ICC titles is special, and this reward recognizes Team India's dedication and excellence on the global stage," BCCI president Roger Binny said.&nbsp;
"The cash award is a recognition of the hard work that everyone puts in behind the scenes. This was also our second ICC Trophy in 2025, following the ICC U19 Women's World Cup triumph, and it highlights the strong cricketing ecosystem in place in our country," he continued.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8h2e13d-z0p6h6ul-dkra5ivp">
🚨 NEWS 🚨 BCCI Announces Cash Prize for India's victorious ICC Champions Trophy 2025 contingent. Details 🔽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy</a> <a href="https://t.co/si5V9RFFgX">https://t.co/si5V9RFFgX</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1902593706550816797?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
Meanwhile, the ICC had announced a $2.24m cash prize for the winners, India, and an additional $34,000 for each match won (for every team), barring the semis and the finale.
The ICC&rsquo;s total prize pot of $6.9m is a massive 53% increase from the previous edition eight years ago in 2017.&nbsp;
However, New Zealand, the runners-up, bagged $1.12m, with the two semi-finalists, South Africa and Australia, winning $560,000 each. Besides, each of the eight participating nations pocketed $125,000 for competing in the first showpiece event of the year.
<h2>India&rsquo;s rise to the top</h2>
The Indian Team has been a force to reckon with since the past decade. Although they failed to win an ICC title during that window, having come close to bagging a few, they won two in the past two years.
Such was their dominance across formats, mainly under the captain Rohit Sharma, that they played four ICC finals in the past three years, losing two and winning as many. Barring the two they lost in the same year (2023), the Men in Blue remained unbeaten in their remaining two played across different formats.
India, however, failed to reach the WTC Final this year, with the T20 World Cup next year being their next major assignment.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: The ICC’s total prize pot of $6.9m for this year's Champions Trophy is a massive 53% increase from the previous edition eight years ago in 2017.

The BCCI announced a whopping cash prize of $6.7m (INR 58 crore) for Champions Trophy 2025 winners India on Thursday (Mar 20). The Indian Cricket Board rewarded the Men in Blue for their third CT title, becoming the most successful team in the competition history. India beat New Zealand by four wickets in the Dubai showdown. The Indian men’s cricket team failed to win any ICC title in the past decade but won two in the past two years, including the T20 World Cup 2024 in the Americas; it was also the second title for India this year, including the Women’s U19 World Cup triumph earlier. The BCCI President, Roger Binny, lauded India’s rise on the global stage after years of dominance across formats. Also read | IPL 2025: Riyan Parag to lead Rajasthan Royals for opening three matches; unfit Sanju Samson to play as batter "Winning back-to-back ICC titles is special, and this reward recognizes Team India's dedication and excellence on the global stage," BCCI president Roger Binny said. "The cash award is a recognition of the hard work that everyone puts in behind the scenes. This was also our second ICC Trophy in 2025, following the ICC U19 Women's World Cup triumph, and it highlights the strong cricketing ecosystem in place in our country," he continued. 🚨 NEWS 🚨 BCCI Announces Cash Prize for India's victorious ICC Champions Trophy 2025 contingent. Details 🔽 #TeamIndia | #ChampionsTrophy https://t.co/si5V9RFFgX — BCCI (@BCCI) March 20, 2025 Meanwhile, the ICC had announced a $2.24m cash prize for the winners, India, and an additional $34,000 for each match won (for every team), barring the semis and the finale. The ICC’s total prize pot of $6.9m is a massive 53% increase from the previous edition eight years ago in 2017. However, New Zealand, the runners-up, bagged $1.12m, with the two semi-finalists, South Africa and Australia, winning $560,000 each. Besides, each of the eight participating nations pocketed $125,000 for competing in the first showpiece event of the year. India’s rise to the top The Indian Team has been a force to reckon with since the past decade. Although they failed to win an ICC title during that window, having come close to bagging a few, they won two in the past two years. Such was their dominance across formats, mainly under the captain Rohit Sharma, that they played four ICC finals in the past three years, losing two and winning as many. Barring the two they lost in the same year (2023), the Men in Blue remained unbeaten in their remaining two played across different formats. India, however, failed to reach the WTC Final this year, with the T20 World Cup next year being their next major assignment. (With inputs from agencies)

BCCI announces whopping award money for Champions Trophy winners India

IPL 2025 opening ceremony, Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) is all set for kick off as 10 teams battle out on the biggest stage starting Saturday (Mar 22). While Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) raise the curtains for the IPL 2025, a host of star names will peform during the opening ceremony including Karan Aujla, Shreya Ghoshal and Disha Patani. So here are all the details of the opening ceremoy of IPL 2025 including date, time, performers, venue and live streaming.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Get ready for the ultimate vibe check! 😎 Global Superstar Karan Aujla, is all set to light up the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> 18 Opening Ceremony, bringing the fire and setting new trends like never before! 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/GeetanDiMachine?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GeetanDiMachine</a> <a href="https://t.co/zRyGCRl8be">pic.twitter.com/zRyGCRl8be</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1902334236822319137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Where to watch the IPL 2025 opening ceremony on TV?</h2>
The IPL 2025 opening ceremony will be telecasted on Star Sports and Sports 18 Network in India.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Where to watch the IPL 2025 opening ceremony Live Streaming online on OTT?</h2>
The IPL 2025 opening ceremony will be live-streamed on the JioHotstar app and website in India.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Which stadium will host the IPL 2025 opening ceremony?</h2>
The IPL 2025 opening ceremony will be hosted at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, right before the Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru match.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">What time will the IPL 2025 opening ceremony start?</h2>
The IPL 2025 opening ceremony is scheduled to start at 6:00 PM IST with host of star names performing.&nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Who will perform in the IPL 2025 opening ceremony?</h2>
The IPL 2025 opening ceremony will have host of big Bollywood names performing including Karan Aujla, Shreya Ghoshal and Disha Patani. Few other names are also in rumoured to peform during the grand opening ceremony.&nbsp;
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">When will the IPL 2025 KKR vs RCB contest start?</h2>
The IPL 2025 KKR vs RCB contest will start at 7:30 PM IST on Saturday (Mar 22) with the toss taking place at 7:00 PM IST.&nbsp;
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/speaking-exclusively-to-wions-aditya-pimpale-was-avni-aneja-co-founder-of-six5six-who-are-the-official-kits-manufacturers-of-kkr-in-ipl-2025-8870944" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025 Exclusive: Story behind Kolkata Knight Riders' new kit and how Shah Rukh Khan played a key role</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">IPL 2025: KKR vs RCB Squad</h2>
Kolkata Knight Riders: Ajinkya Rahane (C), Manish Pandey, Rovman Powell, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Ramandeep Singh, Rinku Singh, Quinton de Kock, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Luvnith Sisodia, Moeen Ali, Venkatesh Iyer, Sunil Narine, Anukul Roy, Andre Russell, Vaibhav Arora, Harshit Rana, Spencer Johnson, Mayank Markande, Anrich Nortje, Chetan Sakariya, Varun Chakaravarthy
Royal Challengers Bengaluru:&nbsp;Rajat Patidar (c), Virat Kohli, Yash Dayal, Josh Hazlewood, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Liam Livingstone, Rasikh Dar, Suyash Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Swapnil Singh, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Nuwan Thushara, Manoj Bhandage, Jacob Bethel, Devdutt Padikkal, Swastik Chhikara, Lungi Ngidi, Abhinandan Singh, Mohit Rathee

Sports, Cricket, IPL: A host of star names will peform during the opening ceremony of the IPL 2025 including Karan Aujla, Shreya Ghoshal and Disha Patani.

IPL 2025 opening ceremony, Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) is all set for kick off as 10 teams battle out on the biggest stage starting Saturday (Mar 22). While Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) raise the curtains for the IPL 2025, a host of star names will peform during the opening ceremony including Karan Aujla, Shreya Ghoshal and Disha Patani. So here are all the details of the opening ceremoy of IPL 2025 including date, time, performers, venue and live streaming. Get ready for the ultimate vibe check! 😎 Global Superstar Karan Aujla, is all set to light up the #TATAIPL 18 Opening Ceremony, bringing the fire and setting new trends like never before! 🔥@GeetanDiMachine pic.twitter.com/zRyGCRl8be — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 19, 2025 Where to watch the IPL 2025 opening ceremony on TV? The IPL 2025 opening ceremony will be telecasted on Star Sports and Sports 18 Network in India. Where to watch the IPL 2025 opening ceremony Live Streaming online on OTT? The IPL 2025 opening ceremony will be live-streamed on the JioHotstar app and website in India. Which stadium will host the IPL 2025 opening ceremony? The IPL 2025 opening ceremony will be hosted at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, right before the Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru match. What time will the IPL 2025 opening ceremony start? The IPL 2025 opening ceremony is scheduled to start at 6:00 PM IST with host of star names performing. Who will perform in the IPL 2025 opening ceremony? The IPL 2025 opening ceremony will have host of big Bollywood names performing including Karan Aujla, Shreya Ghoshal and Disha Patani. Few other names are also in rumoured to peform during the grand opening ceremony. When will the IPL 2025 KKR vs RCB contest start? The IPL 2025 KKR vs RCB contest will start at 7:30 PM IST on Saturday (Mar 22) with the toss taking place at 7:00 PM IST. ALSO READ | IPL 2025 Exclusive: Story behind Kolkata Knight Riders' new kit and how Shah Rukh Khan played a key role IPL 2025: KKR vs RCB Squad Kolkata Knight Riders: Ajinkya Rahane (C), Manish Pandey, Rovman Powell, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Ramandeep Singh, Rinku Singh, Quinton de Kock, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Luvnith Sisodia, Moeen Ali, Venkatesh Iyer, Sunil Narine, Anukul Roy, Andre Russell, Vaibhav Arora, Harshit Rana, Spencer Johnson, Mayank Markande, Anrich Nortje, Chetan Sakariya, Varun Chakaravarthy Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Rajat Patidar (c), Virat Kohli, Yash Dayal, Josh Hazlewood, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Liam Livingstone, Rasikh Dar, Suyash Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Swapnil Singh, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Nuwan Thushara, Manoj Bhandage, Jacob Bethel, Devdutt Padikkal, Swastik Chhikara, Lungi Ngidi, Abhinandan Singh, Mohit Rathee

IPL 2025 Opening Ceremony: Check Date, Time, Performers, Venue, How to Watch Live Streaming

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan Royals have named Riyan Parag as their new captain for the upcoming season as regular skipper Sanju Samson struggles with fitness. Parag will lead the side in the opening three matches of the IPL 2025 season starting on Saturday (Mar 22). Samson will return to the captaincy role once fit and will participate in all the matches only as a pure batter. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Riyan Parag to lead RR for three matches<o:p></o:p></h2>
&ldquo;Rajasthan Royals have announced that Riyan Parag will lead the team for the first three matches of IPL 2025. The young all-rounder will take charge in the opening fixture against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23, followed by home encounters against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders on March 26 and five-time champions Chennai Super Kings on March 30,&rdquo; a statement on Rajasthan Royals&rsquo; website read.<o:p></o:p>
In an announcement made on Thursday, the 2008 champions opted to hand Parag the captaincy while Samson continues to recover from a thumb injury he suffered during the Ranji Trophy season. The injury also kept him out of the Ranji Trophy final where his side finished runners-up. However, despite this Samson will continue to feature as a batter in the side indicating he could be used as a make away for the Impact Player.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/speaking-exclusively-to-wions-aditya-pimpale-was-avni-aneja-co-founder-of-six5six-who-are-the-official-kits-manufacturers-of-kkr-in-ipl-2025-8870944" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025 Exclusive: Story behind Kolkata Knight Riders' new kit and how Shah Rukh Khan played a key role</a>
Samson will be expected to feature during the batting innings before RR can use their Impact Player option. In this scenario, Dhruv Jurel will keep the wickets for the franchise, giving flexibility in the batting unit.<o:p></o:p>
Under Parag RR will play against SunRisers Hyderabad (away), Kolkata Knight Riders (Guwahati) and Chennai Super Kings (Guwahati) before Samson returns to the captaincy role for the fourth match against Punjab Kings in Chandigarh. RR will play first leg of their home games away in Guwahati before returning to Jaipur, their traditional home on April 13 as they face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

Sports, Cricket, IPL: Rajasthan Royals have named Riyan Parag as their new captain for the upcoming season as regular skipper Sanju Samson struggles with fitness.

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan Royals have named Riyan Parag as their new captain for the upcoming season as regular skipper Sanju Samson struggles with fitness. Parag will lead the side in the opening three matches of the IPL 2025 season starting on Saturday (Mar 22). Samson will return to the captaincy role once fit and will participate in all the matches only as a pure batter. Riyan Parag to lead RR for three matches “Rajasthan Royals have announced that Riyan Parag will lead the team for the first three matches of IPL 2025. The young all-rounder will take charge in the opening fixture against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23, followed by home encounters against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders on March 26 and five-time champions Chennai Super Kings on March 30,” a statement on Rajasthan Royals’ website read. In an announcement made on Thursday, the 2008 champions opted to hand Parag the captaincy while Samson continues to recover from a thumb injury he suffered during the Ranji Trophy season. The injury also kept him out of the Ranji Trophy final where his side finished runners-up. However, despite this Samson will continue to feature as a batter in the side indicating he could be used as a make away for the Impact Player. ALSO READ | IPL 2025 Exclusive: Story behind Kolkata Knight Riders' new kit and how Shah Rukh Khan played a key role Samson will be expected to feature during the batting innings before RR can use their Impact Player option. In this scenario, Dhruv Jurel will keep the wickets for the franchise, giving flexibility in the batting unit. Under Parag RR will play against SunRisers Hyderabad (away), Kolkata Knight Riders (Guwahati) and Chennai Super Kings (Guwahati) before Samson returns to the captaincy role for the fourth match against Punjab Kings in Chandigarh. RR will play first leg of their home games away in Guwahati before returning to Jaipur, their traditional home on April 13 as they face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

IPL 2025: Riyan Parag to lead Rajasthan Royals for opening three matches; unfit Sanju Samson to play as batter

With just days remaining for the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season, defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are all set to defend their crown. Led by Ajinkya Rahane KKR will open its campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as they host them at the Eden Gardens. However, the new-looking design of the franchise&rsquo;s kit has attracted its fan base as we decode the fascinating story behind it.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">WION Exclusive on IPL 2025<o:p></o:p></h2>
Speaking exclusively to WION&rsquo;s Aditya Pimpale was Avni Aneja, co-founder of SIX5SIX who are the official kits manufacturers of KKR in IPL 2025. SIX5SIX is a leading brand in the Indian sports market giving tough fights to international kit manufacturers Nike, Adidas and others.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Question: How did the collaboration with Kolkata Knight Riders start?<o:p></o:p></h2>
So, SIX5SIX has been around for about say six years. We've done quite a few sports till now and it's been football primarily. Then we've done table tennis, we've manufactured kits for a bunch of other teams and sports as well.
Cricket is something that we got into fairly recently when we stepped foot in it a couple of years ago. There's not a bigger property than IPL in this country at all. So that was always our target. We started with another IPL team last year when we collaborated with Lucknow Super Giants. So I would say that&rsquo;s where the base was for our recent collaboration with KKR as we built a brand in the last couple of years.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Question: How did your adventure with SIX5SIX start?<o:p></o:p></h2>
Primarily, SIX5SIX is a sportswear and streetwear brand and the primary focus at this point is obviously sports. I and my co-founder who is also my brother Ambar, have been sports people all our lives. So this was a culture inculcated by my parents. We played a bunch of sports I played state-level basketball. My brother actually played state-level U-16 cricket when he was in school and college so we were always connected to sports.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-kkr-vs-lsg-on-april-6-likely-to-be-rescheduled-due-to-security-concerns-8867263" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025: KKR vs LSG on April 6 likely to be rescheduled due to security concerns</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Question: How was your experience working with KKR while designing the new kit?<o:p></o:p></h2>
I feel like what we as a brand have done in the last few years with all of the sports and now that we moved into cricket is that our philosophy is design first. What we do is put our heart and soul into making a jersey come alive not just for the players but also for the fans because I feel like that connection is very important as someone who's also wearing the jersey or someone who's supporting the person wearing the jersey.
So our philosophy has always been very of course, associating ourselves with a legacy like KKR, made the design process so much easier because we had quite a bit of freedom in terms of what we wanted to design and two. After all, they had such a rich history and heritage and obviously, the most obvious one at this point was because like you said they were defending champions last year.

Sports, Cricket, IPL: Speaking exclusively to WION’s Aditya Pimpale was Avni Aneja, co-founder of SIX5SIX who are the official kits manufacturers of KKR in IPL 2025.

With just days remaining for the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season, defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are all set to defend their crown. Led by Ajinkya Rahane KKR will open its campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as they host them at the Eden Gardens. However, the new-looking design of the franchise’s kit has attracted its fan base as we decode the fascinating story behind it. WION Exclusive on IPL 2025 Speaking exclusively to WION’s Aditya Pimpale was Avni Aneja, co-founder of SIX5SIX who are the official kits manufacturers of KKR in IPL 2025. SIX5SIX is a leading brand in the Indian sports market giving tough fights to international kit manufacturers Nike, Adidas and others. Question: How did the collaboration with Kolkata Knight Riders start? So, SIX5SIX has been around for about say six years. We've done quite a few sports till now and it's been football primarily. Then we've done table tennis, we've manufactured kits for a bunch of other teams and sports as well. Cricket is something that we got into fairly recently when we stepped foot in it a couple of years ago. There's not a bigger property than IPL in this country at all. So that was always our target. We started with another IPL team last year when we collaborated with Lucknow Super Giants. So I would say that’s where the base was for our recent collaboration with KKR as we built a brand in the last couple of years. Question: How did your adventure with SIX5SIX start? Primarily, SIX5SIX is a sportswear and streetwear brand and the primary focus at this point is obviously sports. I and my co-founder who is also my brother Ambar, have been sports people all our lives. So this was a culture inculcated by my parents. We played a bunch of sports I played state-level basketball. My brother actually played state-level U-16 cricket when he was in school and college so we were always connected to sports. ALSO READ | IPL 2025: KKR vs LSG on April 6 likely to be rescheduled due to security concerns Question: How was your experience working with KKR while designing the new kit? I feel like what we as a brand have done in the last few years with all of the sports and now that we moved into cricket is that our philosophy is design first. What we do is put our heart and soul into making a jersey come alive not just for the players but also for the fans because I feel like that connection is very important as someone who's also wearing the jersey or someone who's supporting the person wearing the jersey. So our philosophy has always been very of course, associating ourselves with a legacy like KKR, made the design process so much easier because we had quite a bit of freedom in terms of what we wanted to design and two. After all, they had such a rich history and heritage and obviously, the most obvious one at this point was because like you said they were defending champions last year.

IPL 2025 Exclusive: Story behind Kolkata Knight Riders' new kit and what influenced the idea

Mumbai Indians (MI) captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya">Hardik Pandya</a> has expressed his gratitude for having experienced leaders by his side as he takes charge of the five-time <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL) champions in the upcoming season. After a disappointing campaign last year, Pandya is looking forward to the support and guidance available within the squad.
Returning to MI last season after leading Gujarat Titans for two years, Pandya acknowledged the wealth of experience surrounding him.
"I am fortunate to have three captains playing alongside me. Their experience adds immense value. I know that I have three different minds who have led India in various formats and possess years of leadership experience. They can always support me, guide me, and put an arm around my shoulder when needed," Pandya said at a press conference.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/how-to-buy-kkr-vs-rcb-ipl-tickets-sale-date-prices-and-where-to-buy-from-check-steps-and-other-key-details-8868872">How to buy KKR vs RCB IPL tickets: Sale date, prices, and where to buy from Check Steps and other Key Details</a>
He was likely referring to Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav&mdash;all of whom have captained India. Rohit, a veteran leader, has led MI to five IPL titles and captained India across formats. Bumrah has led the national team in T20Is and Tests, while Suryakumar is India's current T20I captain. With such an experienced core, Pandya will have strong backing as he looks to steer Mumbai Indians to success this season.
<h2 data-start="820" data-end="1250">SKY to lead MI in opening match</h2>
However, MI will begin their IPL 2025 campaign without Pandya, as he serves a one-match suspension. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suryakumar-yadav">Suryakumar Yadav</a> will lead the side in their opening clash against Chennai Super Kings on Sunday.
Pandya's suspension stems from a slow over-rate offense in MI&rsquo;s last match of IPL 2024 against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). This was his third such offense in the league, resulting in a one-match ban and a $35,000 fine.
Speaking at the press conference, Pandya admitted that the delay in the final over was unintentional but unavoidable at times.
"That is out of my control. Last year, the last over was delayed by a minute and a half or two. At that moment, I didn&rsquo;t realize the consequences," he said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
Despite his absence, Pandya expressed confidence in Suryakumar Yadav&rsquo;s leadership.&nbsp;"It&rsquo;s unfortunate, but I have to accept the rules. Whether this regulation continues next season is up to the authorities. In my absence, Surya is the ideal choice to lead. He already captains India in T20Is, so he&rsquo;s well-equipped for the role," Pandya concluded.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: MI will begin their IPL 2025 campaign without Pandya, as he serves a one-match suspension. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the side in their opening match against CSK

Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya has expressed his gratitude for having experienced leaders by his side as he takes charge of the five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions in the upcoming season. After a disappointing campaign last year, Pandya is looking forward to the support and guidance available within the squad. Returning to MI last season after leading Gujarat Titans for two years, Pandya acknowledged the wealth of experience surrounding him. "I am fortunate to have three captains playing alongside me. Their experience adds immense value. I know that I have three different minds who have led India in various formats and possess years of leadership experience. They can always support me, guide me, and put an arm around my shoulder when needed," Pandya said at a press conference. Also Read: How to buy KKR vs RCB IPL tickets: Sale date, prices, and where to buy from Check Steps and other Key Details He was likely referring to Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav—all of whom have captained India. Rohit, a veteran leader, has led MI to five IPL titles and captained India across formats. Bumrah has led the national team in T20Is and Tests, while Suryakumar is India's current T20I captain. With such an experienced core, Pandya will have strong backing as he looks to steer Mumbai Indians to success this season. SKY to lead MI in opening match However, MI will begin their IPL 2025 campaign without Pandya, as he serves a one-match suspension. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the side in their opening clash against Chennai Super Kings on Sunday. Pandya's suspension stems from a slow over-rate offense in MI’s last match of IPL 2024 against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). This was his third such offense in the league, resulting in a one-match ban and a $35,000 fine. Speaking at the press conference, Pandya admitted that the delay in the final over was unintentional but unavoidable at times. "That is out of my control. Last year, the last over was delayed by a minute and a half or two. At that moment, I didn’t realize the consequences," he said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. Despite his absence, Pandya expressed confidence in Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership. "It’s unfortunate, but I have to accept the rules. Whether this regulation continues next season is up to the authorities. In my absence, Surya is the ideal choice to lead. He already captains India in T20Is, so he’s well-equipped for the role," Pandya concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025 | Hardik Pandya: Slow over-rates are sometimes beyond my control

New Zealand Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/christopher-luxon">Christopher Luxon</a>, on his official visit to India, took time to engage in one of the country&rsquo;s most beloved pastimes&mdash;cricket. Alongside Indian cricket legend Kapil Dev and former New Zealand internationals <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ross-taylor">Ross Taylor</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ajaz-patel">Ajaz Patel</a>, Luxon participated in a friendly game of gully cricket in Delhi, strengthening the ties between the two cricket-loving nations.
The event, attended by an enthusiastic crowd of local children, showcased how cricket continues to be a powerful cultural bridge between India and New Zealand. Luxon shared his excitement on social media, tweeting,&nbsp;"Nothing unites New Zealand and India more than our shared love of cricket."
See the social media post here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Nothing unites New Zealand and India more than our shared love of cricket. <a href="https://t.co/osnqmdgIu7">pic.twitter.com/osnqmdgIu7</a>
&mdash; Christopher Luxon (@chrisluxonmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/chrisluxonmp/status/1902183139386257876?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This symbolic game came shortly after India&rsquo;s triumph over New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy final in Dubai. In a thrilling match, the Indian team secured the title with a four-wicket victory over the Black Caps. Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s brilliant knock of 76 runs led India&rsquo;s chase as they successfully reached the target of 252 runs. Despite falling short in the final, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner praised his team&rsquo;s resilience, acknowledging standout performances from players like Rachin Ravindra, who was named Player of the Tournament.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-mulling-to-lift-saliva-ban-ahead-of-ipl-2025-8870535">BCCI mulling to lift saliva ban ahead of IPL 2025?</a>
Luxon, known for his enthusiasm for cricket, further displayed his sporting spirit during his official engagements. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was left in fits of laughter when his New Zealand counterpart jokingly referenced their recent defeat to India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final in Dubai. Luxon and his delegation were in New Delhi to engage in discussions with PM Modi on a range of topics, including trade, education, and sports cooperation. However, cricket found its way into the conversation, underscoring its role as a bridge between the two nations.
During their joint media address, Luxon playfully noted that he and Modi had a tacit agreement not to discuss New Zealand&rsquo;s recent loss in the final, joking that it might spark a &ldquo;major diplomatic incident.&rdquo;
&ldquo;I truly appreciate the Prime Minister refraining from mentioning New Zealand&rsquo;s recent defeat to India in Dubai,&rdquo; Luxon said with a grin. &ldquo;Of course, I haven&rsquo;t brought up our Test series victories in India either.&rdquo;
His remark drew laughter from the audience, with Luxon adding, &ldquo;Let&rsquo;s just keep it that way and avoid any diplomatic trouble.&rdquo;
PM Modi, known for his love of cricket, couldn&rsquo;t help but laugh at Luxon&rsquo;s wit. Ross Taylor, who was also part of the delegation, joined in the amusement, highlighting the friendly ties between the two nations.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Sports, Cricket: Luxon participated in a friendly game of gully cricket in Delhi, strengthening the ties between the two cricket-loving nations

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, on his official visit to India, took time to engage in one of the country’s most beloved pastimes—cricket. Alongside Indian cricket legend Kapil Dev and former New Zealand internationals Ross Taylor and Ajaz Patel, Luxon participated in a friendly game of gully cricket in Delhi, strengthening the ties between the two cricket-loving nations. The event, attended by an enthusiastic crowd of local children, showcased how cricket continues to be a powerful cultural bridge between India and New Zealand. Luxon shared his excitement on social media, tweeting, "Nothing unites New Zealand and India more than our shared love of cricket." See the social media post here: Nothing unites New Zealand and India more than our shared love of cricket. pic.twitter.com/osnqmdgIu7 — Christopher Luxon (@chrisluxonmp) March 19, 2025 This symbolic game came shortly after India’s triumph over New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy final in Dubai. In a thrilling match, the Indian team secured the title with a four-wicket victory over the Black Caps. Rohit Sharma’s brilliant knock of 76 runs led India’s chase as they successfully reached the target of 252 runs. Despite falling short in the final, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner praised his team’s resilience, acknowledging standout performances from players like Rachin Ravindra, who was named Player of the Tournament. Also Read: BCCI mulling to lift saliva ban ahead of IPL 2025? Luxon, known for his enthusiasm for cricket, further displayed his sporting spirit during his official engagements. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was left in fits of laughter when his New Zealand counterpart jokingly referenced their recent defeat to India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final in Dubai. Luxon and his delegation were in New Delhi to engage in discussions with PM Modi on a range of topics, including trade, education, and sports cooperation. However, cricket found its way into the conversation, underscoring its role as a bridge between the two nations. During their joint media address, Luxon playfully noted that he and Modi had a tacit agreement not to discuss New Zealand’s recent loss in the final, joking that it might spark a “major diplomatic incident.” “I truly appreciate the Prime Minister refraining from mentioning New Zealand’s recent defeat to India in Dubai,” Luxon said with a grin. “Of course, I haven’t brought up our Test series victories in India either.” His remark drew laughter from the audience, with Luxon adding, “Let’s just keep it that way and avoid any diplomatic trouble.” PM Modi, known for his love of cricket, couldn’t help but laugh at Luxon’s wit. Ross Taylor, who was also part of the delegation, joined in the amusement, highlighting the friendly ties between the two nations. (With inputs from agencies)

Bowled over by cricket! NZ PM Christopher Luxon plays gully cricket in India with Kapil Dev, Ross Taylor & Ajaz Patel

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