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<p data-start="172" data-end="382">United Arab Emirates (UAE) cricketer Ibrar Ahmad Dawar received high praise from Indian cricket superstar&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> ahead of the much-anticipated ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> showdown against Pakistan in Dubai.</p>
<p data-start="384" data-end="629">Ibrar took to Instagram to share a video where Kohli acknowledged his impressive bowling efforts in the nets. In the clip, the Indian batting maestro was heard saying, <em data-start="552" data-end="627">&ldquo;Well bowled&hellip; he has really bowled well. He has helped a lot. Thank you.&rdquo;</em></p>
<p data-start="384" data-end="629"><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-pak-mohammed-shami-bowls-five-wides-in-11-ball-first-over-an-unwanted-record-check-full-list-8749205">IND vs PAK: Shami bowls 5 wides in 11-ball first over &ndash; an unwanted record! Check full list</a></strong></p>
<p data-start="631" data-end="904">The UAE pacer was seen aggressively bowling to Kohli, testing his skills in an intense net session. At one point, the 36-year-old Indian batter even flicked him away, showcasing his trademark elegance. Ibrar&rsquo;s sharp deliveries and consistency have clearly made an impact.</p>
<p data-start="631" data-end="904"><strong>Watch the video here:</strong>&nbsp;</p>
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<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGYRGEATs2O/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by IBRAR AHMAD DAWAR (@ibrar_ahmad_dawar)</a></p>
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<p data-start="906" data-end="1187">Having previously played for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR) in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/international-league-t20">International League T20</a> (ILT20), Ibrar has already demonstrated his talent on the big stage. His recent performances continue to turn heads, and this recognition from Kohli further cements his rising reputation.</p>
<p data-start="1189" data-end="1435">The defending champions, Pakistan, suffered a 60-run defeat against New Zealand in their tournament opener. India, on the other hand, made a strong start, securing a commanding 6-wicket victory over Bangladesh. However, Virat Kohli had a slow outing, managing just 22 off 38 balls before being dismissed by leg-spinner Rishad Hossain. With a two-paced Dubai pitch posing challenges, Kohli will be eager to regain his fluency&mdash;especially against a team he has dominated in the past.</p>
<p data-start="1813" data-end="2105">The Indian batting stalwart has a stellar record against Pakistan, amassing 678 runs in 16 ODIs at an average of 52.15, including three centuries and two fifties. As India gear up for the marquee clash, all eyes will be on Kohli to deliver another match-winning performance under pressure.</p>

Cricket, Sports: The UAE pacer was seen aggressively bowling to Kohli, testing his skills in an intense net session. At one point, the 36-year-old Indian batter even flicked him

United Arab Emirates (UAE) cricketer Ibrar Ahmad Dawar received high praise from Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli ahead of the much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy showdown against Pakistan in Dubai. Ibrar took to Instagram to share a video where Kohli acknowledged his impressive bowling efforts in the nets. In the clip, the Indian batting maestro was heard saying, “Well bowled… he has really bowled well. He has helped a lot. Thank you.” Also Read: IND vs PAK: Shami bowls 5 wides in 11-ball first over – an unwanted record! Check full list The UAE pacer was seen aggressively bowling to Kohli, testing his skills in an intense net session. At one point, the 36-year-old Indian batter even flicked him away, showcasing his trademark elegance. Ibrar’s sharp deliveries and consistency have clearly made an impact. Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by IBRAR AHMAD DAWAR (@ibrar_ahmad_dawar) Having previously played for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR) in the International League T20 (ILT20), Ibrar has already demonstrated his talent on the big stage. His recent performances continue to turn heads, and this recognition from Kohli further cements his rising reputation. The defending champions, Pakistan, suffered a 60-run defeat against New Zealand in their tournament opener. India, on the other hand, made a strong start, securing a commanding 6-wicket victory over Bangladesh. However, Virat Kohli had a slow outing, managing just 22 off 38 balls before being dismissed by leg-spinner Rishad Hossain. With a two-paced Dubai pitch posing challenges, Kohli will be eager to regain his fluency—especially against a team he has dominated in the past. The Indian batting stalwart has a stellar record against Pakistan, amassing 678 runs in 16 ODIs at an average of 52.15, including three centuries and two fifties. As India gear up for the marquee clash, all eyes will be on Kohli to deliver another match-winning performance under pressure.

Champions Trophy 2025: UAE's Ibrar Ahmad Dawar earns Kohli’s praise for brilliant bowling in nets

<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma trolled former coach Ravi Shastri after losing the toss against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy Group A match on Feb 23 in Dubai. This was India's 12th consecutive lost toss in ODIs&mdash;a record which they overtook from the Netherlands.</p>
<p>Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan won the toss and elected to bat first, after which Shastri turned to Rohit and asked, "So what have you decided?" before realising his mistake.</p>
<p><strong>Also Watch:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-pak-today-match-babar-azam-hits-five-fours-then-becomes-victim-of-own-favourite-shot-watch-video-8749204">Babar Azam hits five fours then becomes victim of own favourite shot</a></p>
<p>Rohit, with a cheeky smile, replied, "Doesn't really matter, they won the toss, so we'll bowl first."</p>
<p>"It's not the same surface but looks similar to what we played on in the last game. It could get slower. Great opportunity to come out and do what we do as a team. The way we played the last game...it wasn't easy for us and we had to work our way. You want to test yourself and be under pressure," the India skipper added.</p>
<p>As for the lost toss, India have not won a single ODI toss since the last ODI World Cup Final against Australia on Nov 19, 2023.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Before them, the Netherlands held the record for most consecutive toss losses, with 11 consecutive coin flips going against them.</p>
<p>India, who beat Bangladesh in the first match by five wickets, kept the same playing XI, which meant that left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh sat out again while Harshit Rana made it to the final 11.</p>
<p>The Indian team, however, had a nightmare start when Mohammed Shami, who took five wickets in the previous match, bowled as many as five wides in his 11-ball first over.</p>
<p>The Men in Blue although, didn't let Pakistan run away with the game despite their ace batter Babar Azam looking in fine touch. Babar smashed five fours for his 23 runs before being dismissed while trying his favourite shot&mdash;the drive&mdash;one too many times.</p>

Champions Trophy, IND vs PAK: As for the lost toss, India have not won a single ODI toss since the last ODI World Cup Final against Australia on Nov 19, 2023.  Cricket Sports

India skipper Rohit Sharma trolled former coach Ravi Shastri after losing the toss against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy Group A match on Feb 23 in Dubai. This was India's 12th consecutive lost toss in ODIs—a record which they overtook from the Netherlands. Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan won the toss and elected to bat first, after which Shastri turned to Rohit and asked, "So what have you decided?" before realising his mistake. Also Watch: Babar Azam hits five fours then becomes victim of own favourite shot Rohit, with a cheeky smile, replied, "Doesn't really matter, they won the toss, so we'll bowl first." "It's not the same surface but looks similar to what we played on in the last game. It could get slower. Great opportunity to come out and do what we do as a team. The way we played the last game...it wasn't easy for us and we had to work our way. You want to test yourself and be under pressure," the India skipper added. As for the lost toss, India have not won a single ODI toss since the last ODI World Cup Final against Australia on Nov 19, 2023. Before them, the Netherlands held the record for most consecutive toss losses, with 11 consecutive coin flips going against them. India, who beat Bangladesh in the first match by five wickets, kept the same playing XI, which meant that left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh sat out again while Harshit Rana made it to the final 11. The Indian team, however, had a nightmare start when Mohammed Shami, who took five wickets in the previous match, bowled as many as five wides in his 11-ball first over. The Men in Blue although, didn't let Pakistan run away with the game despite their ace batter Babar Azam looking in fine touch. Babar smashed five fours for his 23 runs before being dismissed while trying his favourite shot—the drive—one too many times.

Champions Trophy, IND vs PAK: India lose record 12th toss in a row, then Rohit trolls former coach Shastri

Cricket’s fiercest rivalry is back as India takes on Pakistan in a high-octane clash in Dubai. The two arch-rivals have a history of unforgettable battles, including Pakistan’s dominant 180-run win in the 2017 Champions Trophy final. With the world watching, who will emerge victorious this time?

India and Pakistan set for high-stakes clash in Dubai

<p>Ace Indian seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-shami" rel="dofollow">Mohammad Shami</a> bowled five wides in his 11-ball first over against Pakistan in Dubai in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a>, becoming the first-ever from the country to bowl as many wides in a single over in One Dayers. Unlike how he began in the tournament opener against Bangladesh at the same venue, having picked a wicket in his first over, the right-arm seamer bowled wayward this time, giving away free runs to Pakistan.</p>
<p>Up until now, several Indian bowlers had bowled four wides in an over, including ex-India quick Zaheer Khan, who did it four times (twice against Sri Lanka in 2012 and twice during the 2003 ODI World Cup), and RP Singh, who bowled it twice. Laxmipathy Balaji and Irfan Pathan are the other two seamers who once held this unwanted record.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7hh4qz5-15l70tnv-0hpm8mzh">
<p dir="ltr" lang="und">Mohammed Shami becomes the FIRST Indian to bowl 5 wide balls in an over in ODIs.<br><br>5 - Mohammed Shami v PAK, TODAY<br>4 - Zaheer Khan v AUS, 2003<br>4 - Zaheer Khan v NETH, 2003<br>4 - L Balaji v SL, 2004<br>4 - RP Singh v AUS, 2007<br>4 - RP Singh v BAN, 2008<br>4 - Zaheer Khan v SL, 2012<br>4 -&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/ek252kybrp">pic.twitter.com/ek252kybrp</a></p>
&mdash; Kausthub Gudipati (@kaustats) <a href="https://twitter.com/kaustats/status/1893595540841226527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-rawalpindi-weather-forecast-for-pak-ban-game-piles-pressure-on-pakistan-ahead-of-india-face-off-8748757" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: Rawalpindi forecast for PAK-BAN game piles pressure on Pakistan ahead of India face-off</a></strong></p>
<p>Coming around the wicket to Imam-ul-Haq, who walked in as a replacement for injured <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/fakhar-zaman" rel="dofollow">Fakhar Zaman</a>, Shami bowled a couple of them on the leg side before going wide from the batter on the offside, keeping keeper KL Rahul busy behind the stumps. Although he bowled 11 balls, Shami conceded just six runs.</p>
<h2>Even Stevens in the PP</h2>
<p>While Pakistan made just one forced change to their playing XI, India played the winning combination in their second match. Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan won the toss and elected to bat first, with a new opening pair attracting all eyeballs.</p>
<p>Following a steady start, star batter Babar Azam opened his arms against Harshit Rana, driving two beautiful-looking shots on either side. Babar looked in ominous touch, taking on Hardik Pandya on the offside. Before he departed for a well-made 23 off 26 (to Pandya, caught behind), he came down the track to Axar Patel, hitting him over long-on for a boundary, much to cheers from thousands of Pakistani fans in attendance.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7hh58ne-sr7b3yxq-1x95n2s3">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India fight back by sending back the Pakistan openers 👊<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketReels?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketReels</a><br><br>Watch LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a> in India. <br><br>Here's how to watch LIVE wherever you are 👉 <a href="https://t.co/S0poKnxpTX">https://t.co/S0poKnxpTX</a> <a href="https://t.co/bvaaU2bjnV">pic.twitter.com/bvaaU2bjnV</a></p>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1893602228373725527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>After India broke the partnership, Axar Patel&rsquo;s direct throw in the next over (off Kuldeep Yadav) accounted for Imam, who fell shy of his crease, getting out on 10.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Shami, who left the field with concerns around his leg inside the Powerplay, returned after its completion.&nbsp;</p>

Cricket, Sports: Previously, several Indian bowlers had bowled four wides in an over in ODIs, but none five, and Mohammed Shami broke this record against Pakistan.

Ace Indian seamer Mohammad Shami bowled five wides in his 11-ball first over against Pakistan in Dubai in the Champions Trophy, becoming the first-ever from the country to bowl as many wides in a single over in One Dayers. Unlike how he began in the tournament opener against Bangladesh at the same venue, having picked a wicket in his first over, the right-arm seamer bowled wayward this time, giving away free runs to Pakistan. Up until now, several Indian bowlers had bowled four wides in an over, including ex-India quick Zaheer Khan, who did it four times (twice against Sri Lanka in 2012 and twice during the 2003 ODI World Cup), and RP Singh, who bowled it twice. Laxmipathy Balaji and Irfan Pathan are the other two seamers who once held this unwanted record. Mohammed Shami becomes the FIRST Indian to bowl 5 wide balls in an over in ODIs. 5 - Mohammed Shami v PAK, TODAY 4 - Zaheer Khan v AUS, 2003 4 - Zaheer Khan v NETH, 2003 4 - L Balaji v SL, 2004 4 - RP Singh v AUS, 2007 4 - RP Singh v BAN, 2008 4 - Zaheer Khan v SL, 2012 4 -… pic.twitter.com/ek252kybrp — Kausthub Gudipati (@kaustats) February 23, 2025 Also read | Champions Trophy: Rawalpindi forecast for PAK-BAN game piles pressure on Pakistan ahead of India face-off Coming around the wicket to Imam-ul-Haq, who walked in as a replacement for injured Fakhar Zaman, Shami bowled a couple of them on the leg side before going wide from the batter on the offside, keeping keeper KL Rahul busy behind the stumps. Although he bowled 11 balls, Shami conceded just six runs. Even Stevens in the PP While Pakistan made just one forced change to their playing XI, India played the winning combination in their second match. Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan won the toss and elected to bat first, with a new opening pair attracting all eyeballs. Following a steady start, star batter Babar Azam opened his arms against Harshit Rana, driving two beautiful-looking shots on either side. Babar looked in ominous touch, taking on Hardik Pandya on the offside. Before he departed for a well-made 23 off 26 (to Pandya, caught behind), he came down the track to Axar Patel, hitting him over long-on for a boundary, much to cheers from thousands of Pakistani fans in attendance. India fight back by sending back the Pakistan openers 👊#PAKvIND #ChampionsTrophy #Cricket #CricketReels Watch LIVE on @StarSportsIndia in India. Here's how to watch LIVE wherever you are 👉 https://t.co/S0poKnxpTX pic.twitter.com/bvaaU2bjnV — ICC (@ICC) February 23, 2025 After India broke the partnership, Axar Patel’s direct throw in the next over (off Kuldeep Yadav) accounted for Imam, who fell shy of his crease, getting out on 10. Meanwhile, Shami, who left the field with concerns around his leg inside the Powerplay, returned after its completion.

IND vs PAK: Shami bowls 5 wides in 11-ball first over – an unwanted record! Check full list

<p>Pakistan batter Babar Azam started off his innings in a positive way during the Champions Trophy match against India on Feb 23 in Dubai. The batter hit five fours in his innings of 23 runs but eventually became victim of his own favorite shot&mdash;the drive.</p>
<p>Opening the batting with Imam ul Haq, Babar used his wrists for his first four between midwicket and mid-on off Harshit Rana in the fourth over. In the same over, Babar drove a pitched-up delivery for another four, showing his class. Watch the shot below:</p>
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<p>In the seventh over, bowled by Hardik Pandya, Babar creamed another overpitched delivery for his third four of the day. In the next over by spinner Axar Patel, the Pakistan batter smashed one boundary over mid-on.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-pak-history-suggests-rohit-is-set-to-score-big-vs-pakistan-in-dubai-8748658">History suggests Rohit is set to score big vs Pakistan in Dubai</a></p>
<p>The best of his fours came in the next over when he drove Pandya once again through covers. Babar tried the same shot on the next ball, but this time edged it behind as the ball moved away after pitching, hindering the drive.</p>
<p>Babar, who was criticised a lot for his slow innings in the opening match against New Zealand, scored a quickfire 23 off 26 balls with five fours before being dismissed. Have a look at the wicket below:</p>
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<p>Earlier, Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan won the toss and elected to bat first.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"Looks like a good surface and doesn't matter, so we want to bat first. If you play an ICC event, every game is important. The boys are familiar with the conditions and we've done well in this ground as well. Yeah, we lost the last game but it's in the past for us," said Rizwan about his decision to bat.</p>
<p>Pakistan made one change to their playing XI from the New Zealand game as Imam replaced Fakhar Zaman, who has been ruled out of the tournament with an injury.</p>

Champions Trophy, IND vs PAK: Babar Azam hit five fours in his innings of 23 runs but eventually became victim of his own favorite shot - the drive. Cricket Sports

Pakistan batter Babar Azam started off his innings in a positive way during the Champions Trophy match against India on Feb 23 in Dubai. The batter hit five fours in his innings of 23 runs but eventually became victim of his own favorite shot—the drive. Opening the batting with Imam ul Haq, Babar used his wrists for his first four between midwicket and mid-on off Harshit Rana in the fourth over. In the same over, Babar drove a pitched-up delivery for another four, showing his class. Watch the shot below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) In the seventh over, bowled by Hardik Pandya, Babar creamed another overpitched delivery for his third four of the day. In the next over by spinner Axar Patel, the Pakistan batter smashed one boundary over mid-on. Also Read: History suggests Rohit is set to score big vs Pakistan in Dubai The best of his fours came in the next over when he drove Pandya once again through covers. Babar tried the same shot on the next ball, but this time edged it behind as the ball moved away after pitching, hindering the drive. Babar, who was criticised a lot for his slow innings in the opening match against New Zealand, scored a quickfire 23 off 26 balls with five fours before being dismissed. Have a look at the wicket below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) Earlier, Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan won the toss and elected to bat first. "Looks like a good surface and doesn't matter, so we want to bat first. If you play an ICC event, every game is important. The boys are familiar with the conditions and we've done well in this ground as well. Yeah, we lost the last game but it's in the past for us," said Rizwan about his decision to bat. Pakistan made one change to their playing XI from the New Zealand game as Imam replaced Fakhar Zaman, who has been ruled out of the tournament with an injury.

Champions Trophy, IND vs PAK: Babar Azam hits five fours then becomes victim of own favourite shot - WATCH

<p>Legendary cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ian-chappell">Ian Chappell</a> has bid farewell to his illustrious journalistic career after more than five decades, penning his final piece on Sunday. The 81-year-old Australian icon reminisced about some of the most memorable moments he covered, including the legendary duel between Sachin Tendulkar and the late Shane Warne in the 1998 Chennai Test, as well as VVS Laxman&rsquo;s historic 281-run knock against Australia in Kolkata.</p>
<p>"There have been many pleasures in writing, notably <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sachin-tendulkar">Sachin Tendulkar</a> combating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shane-warne">Shane Warne</a> in Chennai. Other highlights included writing about the genius of Brian Lara, Ricky Ponting's aggression, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/vvs-laxman">VVS Laxman</a>'s classic 281 in Kolkata," Chappell wrote in his farewell column for ESPNcricinfo.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-nasser-hussain-warns-jos-buttler-after-lahore-horror-says-he-cannot-afford-another-poor-tournament-8749029">Champions Trophy: Hussain warns Jos Buttler after Lahore horror, says &lsquo;he cannot afford...&rsquo;</a></strong></p>
<p>Reflecting on his decision to retire, he likened it to stepping away from cricket, emphasising that the timing felt right. "I've been writing for more than 50 years, but the time has come, and this will be my last column. Retirement from journalism is similar to cricket&mdash;I knew the time was right," he remarked. He recalled advice from former Australian captain Richie Benaud, who had once told him, "No, Ian, it's easy. You'll know the right time."</p>
<h2>Never missed a deadline on an article</h2>
<p>Chappell acknowledged that he would miss writing but shared a humorous anecdote about an early blunder&mdash;drinking before filing a column. Influenced by Pulitzer-winning writer Walter Wellesley "Red" Smith, Chappell adhered to the principle that alcohol never enhances writing. "I observed that rule almost exclusively, but having just retired from cricket, I forgot it once in my early days of journalism. After a few beers during a rain delay, I rushed to submit a column, only to find the next morning that it was absolute nonsense. I decided never to drink again before finishing a column."</p>
<p>Throughout his career, Chappell prided himself on never missing a deadline, even if he came close a few times. He credited his wife, Barbara-Ann, for her invaluable support as an excellent sub-editor. "However, the time has come to close the writing section of my computer. I wish each and every one who has helped and befriended me along the way all the best in their future endeavors."</p>
<p>Signing off, Chappell acknowledged that writing had become an integral part of his life, even surpassing his cricket and broadcasting careers. "A justifiable part of writing is that it's all your own work&mdash;it might be rubbish, but at least it's your rubbish."</p>
<p>With that, the cricketing great officially bows out, leaving behind a rich legacy in both sports and journalism.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: The former Australian cricketer acknowledged that he would miss writing but shared a humorous anecdote about an early blunder—drinking before filing a column

Legendary cricketer Ian Chappell has bid farewell to his illustrious journalistic career after more than five decades, penning his final piece on Sunday. The 81-year-old Australian icon reminisced about some of the most memorable moments he covered, including the legendary duel between Sachin Tendulkar and the late Shane Warne in the 1998 Chennai Test, as well as VVS Laxman’s historic 281-run knock against Australia in Kolkata. "There have been many pleasures in writing, notably Sachin Tendulkar combating Shane Warne in Chennai. Other highlights included writing about the genius of Brian Lara, Ricky Ponting's aggression, and VVS Laxman's classic 281 in Kolkata," Chappell wrote in his farewell column for ESPNcricinfo. Also Read: Champions Trophy: Hussain warns Jos Buttler after Lahore horror, says ‘he cannot afford...’ Reflecting on his decision to retire, he likened it to stepping away from cricket, emphasising that the timing felt right. "I've been writing for more than 50 years, but the time has come, and this will be my last column. Retirement from journalism is similar to cricket—I knew the time was right," he remarked. He recalled advice from former Australian captain Richie Benaud, who had once told him, "No, Ian, it's easy. You'll know the right time." Never missed a deadline on an article Chappell acknowledged that he would miss writing but shared a humorous anecdote about an early blunder—drinking before filing a column. Influenced by Pulitzer-winning writer Walter Wellesley "Red" Smith, Chappell adhered to the principle that alcohol never enhances writing. "I observed that rule almost exclusively, but having just retired from cricket, I forgot it once in my early days of journalism. After a few beers during a rain delay, I rushed to submit a column, only to find the next morning that it was absolute nonsense. I decided never to drink again before finishing a column." Throughout his career, Chappell prided himself on never missing a deadline, even if he came close a few times. He credited his wife, Barbara-Ann, for her invaluable support as an excellent sub-editor. "However, the time has come to close the writing section of my computer. I wish each and every one who has helped and befriended me along the way all the best in their future endeavors." Signing off, Chappell acknowledged that writing had become an integral part of his life, even surpassing his cricket and broadcasting careers. "A justifiable part of writing is that it's all your own work—it might be rubbish, but at least it's your rubbish." With that, the cricketing great officially bows out, leaving behind a rich legacy in both sports and journalism. (With inputs from agencies)

‘That’s it folks, I am done’: Ian Chappell’s message as he bids farewell to five decades in journalism

<p>Former England skipper Nasser Hussain has warned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jos-buttler" rel="dofollow">Jos Buttler</a> of serious repercussions as captain and player should he endure another failed ICC tournament after Lahore horror against Australia. England broke several records batting first on a highway Gaddafi Stadium track, posting the highest team total (351/8) in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a> history, yet they lost the match by five wickets.</p>
<p>Australia completed the chase with 15 balls remaining, with their gloveman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/lahore-game-hero-josh-inglis-credits-dew-for-australias-historic-run-chase-against-rivals-england-in-champions-trophy-8748612" rel="dofollow">Josh Inglis making headlines</a> for his maiden ODI hundred, an unbeaten 120 off 86 balls, hitting eight fours and six sixes. Handy contributions from Matthew Short (63) and Alex Carey (69), alongside a late blitz from Glenn Maxwell (32* off 15 balls), saw Australia complete the highest-successful run chase in ICC events, their second-biggest ever.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-rawalpindi-weather-forecast-for-pak-ban-game-piles-pressure-on-pakistan-ahead-of-india-face-off-8748757" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: Rawalpindi forecast for PAK-BAN game piles pressure on Pakistan ahead of India face-off</a></strong></p>
<p>Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Hussain didn&rsquo;t complain much, considering the conditions (wet outfield), but addressed Buttler&rsquo;s situation at the helm, saying that though England played fine on the day, scoring a massive team total, Buttler must pull up his socks and his team&rsquo;s too before it gets too late for everyone.</p>
<p>"There are a lot of good things today. From a lot of the performances I've seen in bilateral series, their win percentage has dropped to 29 per cent," Hussain said on Sky Sports after the game.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"They are way down from where they need to be. They have played poorly but today they played good cricket, and it will hurt because they would have felt at times today, they could win,&rdquo; he continued.</p>
<p>The ex-England skipper shared his thoughts on Buttler&rsquo;s position in the team, saying, "But coming up against Australia, Buttler will be down, he is under pressure; he cannot afford another poor tournament.</p>
<p>"He will have to lift himself, his own game; if Buttler and Liam Livingstone finished properly, they may have got 380, and that might have been a bridge too far for Australia.</p>
<p>"It's a very difficult period for Buttler, that's the game, that's being captain,&rdquo; Hussain added.</p>
<h2>Difference between both teams</h2>
<p>While England was without Jacob Bethell for their tournament opener, Australia missed at least five first-team players, including the pace trio of regular captain Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. However, despite both teams having the same bowling attack template, Hussain explained where the difference lay.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"However, the difference between the two sides was that Steve Smith and his bowlers did it better.</p>
<p>"How many of the Australian bowlers had a bad day? They all kept Australia in the game. The problem with that is if one bowler has a bad day, then you have nowhere to go as a captain. So Carse has a bad day, and Archer is on and off the field.</p>
<p>"Australia's gamble paid off, but England, with that balance of the side, you can't afford that to happen,&rdquo; he concluded.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Australia will face South Africa next in Rawalpindi, while England faces Afghanistan.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Hussain feels England was at least 30 runs shy of their first innings total but rang warning bells for captain Jos Buttler, who looked out of his element.

Former England skipper Nasser Hussain has warned Jos Buttler of serious repercussions as captain and player should he endure another failed ICC tournament after Lahore horror against Australia. England broke several records batting first on a highway Gaddafi Stadium track, posting the highest team total (351/8) in Champions Trophy history, yet they lost the match by five wickets. Australia completed the chase with 15 balls remaining, with their gloveman Josh Inglis making headlines for his maiden ODI hundred, an unbeaten 120 off 86 balls, hitting eight fours and six sixes. Handy contributions from Matthew Short (63) and Alex Carey (69), alongside a late blitz from Glenn Maxwell (32* off 15 balls), saw Australia complete the highest-successful run chase in ICC events, their second-biggest ever. Also read | Champions Trophy: Rawalpindi forecast for PAK-BAN game piles pressure on Pakistan ahead of India face-off Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Hussain didn’t complain much, considering the conditions (wet outfield), but addressed Buttler’s situation at the helm, saying that though England played fine on the day, scoring a massive team total, Buttler must pull up his socks and his team’s too before it gets too late for everyone. "There are a lot of good things today. From a lot of the performances I've seen in bilateral series, their win percentage has dropped to 29 per cent," Hussain said on Sky Sports after the game. "They are way down from where they need to be. They have played poorly but today they played good cricket, and it will hurt because they would have felt at times today, they could win,” he continued. The ex-England skipper shared his thoughts on Buttler’s position in the team, saying, "But coming up against Australia, Buttler will be down, he is under pressure; he cannot afford another poor tournament. "He will have to lift himself, his own game; if Buttler and Liam Livingstone finished properly, they may have got 380, and that might have been a bridge too far for Australia. "It's a very difficult period for Buttler, that's the game, that's being captain,” Hussain added. Difference between both teams While England was without Jacob Bethell for their tournament opener, Australia missed at least five first-team players, including the pace trio of regular captain Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. However, despite both teams having the same bowling attack template, Hussain explained where the difference lay. "However, the difference between the two sides was that Steve Smith and his bowlers did it better. "How many of the Australian bowlers had a bad day? They all kept Australia in the game. The problem with that is if one bowler has a bad day, then you have nowhere to go as a captain. So Carse has a bad day, and Archer is on and off the field. "Australia's gamble paid off, but England, with that balance of the side, you can't afford that to happen,” he concluded. Meanwhile, Australia will face South Africa next in Rawalpindi, while England faces Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: Hussain warns Jos Buttler after Lahore horror, says ‘he cannot afford...’

Australia pulled off a record-breaking run chase to defeat England by five wickets in Lahore. Skipper Steve Smith won the toss and chose to bowl first, but England’s Ben Duckett stole the show with a stunning 165 off 143 balls. However, his efforts went in vain as Josh Inglis' maiden ODI ton powered Australia to a historic win.

Australia pulls off record chase to stun England in Lahore

<p>Pakistan finds itself in hot waters after conceding the chance to pocket two crucial points against New Zealand in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a> opener in Karachi. A 60-run loss at the hands of Kiwis turned out too much to take for the hosts, who next face arch-rivals India in Dubai on Sunday (Feb 23) before taking on Bangladesh in their final league game at the Pindi Stadium in Rawalpindi.</p>
<p>Already <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-how-can-pakistan-qualify-for-semis-if-they-lose-to-india-explained-8746014" rel="dofollow">struggling for a place in the semis</a>, a loss against the Men in Blue could virtually send them packing four days into their home tournament. Though that&rsquo;d be a massive blow to the team and the country that celebrated the return of an ICC event to their soil for the first time since 1996, things could get worse should they depend on their result against Bangladesh to cruise ahead.</p>
<p>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/win-at-any-cost-pcb-chief-mohasin-naqvi-strong-message-to-pakistan-against-india-in-champions-trophy-8748472" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy - 'Win at any cost,' PCB chief's strong message to Pakistan Team against India</a></p>
<p>Per Accuweather, rain might hit the city from February 25 onwards till March 1, with the weather forecast on Thursday (Feb 27) &ndash; the match day between Pakistan and Bangladesh, indicating an 84 per cent chance of rain, with 96 per cent cloud cover. If that does happen, Pakistan&rsquo;s last home game could be washed out, knocking them out of the semis race.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, for Pakistan to ensure they aren&rsquo;t facing more hiccups in this tournament, not only do they have to beat India comprehensively in Dubai, but they also have to expect other results to fall in their favour. Even if Pakistan emerged victorious against their arch-rivals, they would have to win against Bangladesh to advance to the last four.</p>
<h2>India-Pakistan blockbuster tie</h2>
<p>India and Pakistan will face off in this format for the first time since the 2023 ODI World Cup, where the host beat the Men in Green in another one-sided contest. Although India also beat them in next year&rsquo;s T20 World Cup in the Americas, their record against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy (2-3) showcases a different picture.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Pakistan has lost the previous five contested ODIs against India, with their last win coming during the 2017 Champions Trophy final, when they won by a whopping 180 runs. Ironically, that was the last time a Champions Trophy game was played.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Eight years later, Pakistan plays hosts to this tournament, with seven out of eight participating teams playing their matches in the country; India is the only exception that will play all its matches in Dubai, including the knockouts, should they qualify.</p>
<p>Due to tense political relations between both countries, the Indian Government denied permission to the Indian squad to travel across the border, forcing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pcb-open-to-hybrid-model-urges-same-for-events-in-india-781329" rel="dofollow">PCB to accept the hybrid model</a>.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Pakistan lost their tournament opener to New Zealand, and to qualify for the semis, they must beat India and Bangladesh in their remaining two matches.

Pakistan finds itself in hot waters after conceding the chance to pocket two crucial points against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy 2025 opener in Karachi. A 60-run loss at the hands of Kiwis turned out too much to take for the hosts, who next face arch-rivals India in Dubai on Sunday (Feb 23) before taking on Bangladesh in their final league game at the Pindi Stadium in Rawalpindi. Already struggling for a place in the semis, a loss against the Men in Blue could virtually send them packing four days into their home tournament. Though that’d be a massive blow to the team and the country that celebrated the return of an ICC event to their soil for the first time since 1996, things could get worse should they depend on their result against Bangladesh to cruise ahead. Also read | Champions Trophy - 'Win at any cost,' PCB chief's strong message to Pakistan Team against India Per Accuweather, rain might hit the city from February 25 onwards till March 1, with the weather forecast on Thursday (Feb 27) – the match day between Pakistan and Bangladesh, indicating an 84 per cent chance of rain, with 96 per cent cloud cover. If that does happen, Pakistan’s last home game could be washed out, knocking them out of the semis race. Meanwhile, for Pakistan to ensure they aren’t facing more hiccups in this tournament, not only do they have to beat India comprehensively in Dubai, but they also have to expect other results to fall in their favour. Even if Pakistan emerged victorious against their arch-rivals, they would have to win against Bangladesh to advance to the last four. India-Pakistan blockbuster tie India and Pakistan will face off in this format for the first time since the 2023 ODI World Cup, where the host beat the Men in Green in another one-sided contest. Although India also beat them in next year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas, their record against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy (2-3) showcases a different picture. Pakistan has lost the previous five contested ODIs against India, with their last win coming during the 2017 Champions Trophy final, when they won by a whopping 180 runs. Ironically, that was the last time a Champions Trophy game was played. Eight years later, Pakistan plays hosts to this tournament, with seven out of eight participating teams playing their matches in the country; India is the only exception that will play all its matches in Dubai, including the knockouts, should they qualify. Due to tense political relations between both countries, the Indian Government denied permission to the Indian squad to travel across the border, forcing the PCB to accept the hybrid model. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: Rawalpindi forecast for PAK-BAN game piles pressure on Pakistan ahead of India face-off

<p>Ace batter Virat Kohli's form is a cause of concern for the team as India take on Pakistan in the blockbuster Champions Trophy match on Feb 23 in Dubai. Kohli, considered as one of the greatest ODI batters of all time, has played just seven games since Nov 19, 2023 &nbsp;including the ODI World Cup final and has managed to score only 191 runs. Kohli has scored these runs at an average of 27 with just two fifties to his name.&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>Virat Kohli's record against Pakistan in ICC Tournaments</strong></h2>
<p>Kohli has played eight games against Pakistan in ICC Champions Trophy and World Cup combined - scoring 333 runs at an average of 55.50 with two fifties and a hundred. The hundred, however, came long back in 2015 ODI World Cup when he scored 107 not out.</p>
<p><strong>Champions Trophy, IND vs PAK:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-pak-history-suggests-rohit-is-set-to-score-big-vs-pakistan-in-dubai-8748658">History suggests Rohit is set to score big vs Pakistan in Dubai</a></p>
<p>In ICC Champions Trophy, Kohli has played four games against Pakistan and has scored 124 runs - 81 of those came in 2017 edition's group-stage match. In rest of three innings, Kohli has managed only 16 (in 2009 Champions Trophy), 22 not out (2013 Champions Trophy) and 5 (2017 Champions Trophy final).</p>
<p>The last time Kohli faced Pakistan in an ICC tournament, he scored 16 runs before getting out in Ahmedabad in 2023 ODI World Cup. In that tournament, Kohli had scored record 765 runs but his failure against Pakistan suggests a worrying trend for India.</p>
<p>Overall in ODIs, Kohli did score a fifty against England in the final ODI before the Champions Trophy but before that his last 50 plus score had come in 2023 ODI World Cup final on Nov 19, 2023.</p>
<p>In the match against Bangladesh, he was looking good before being dismissed for 22 - another subpar score given his stature.</p>
<p>In another concern, Kohli has gotten out to leg-spin six times in his last six ODIs, something Pakistan would be aware of and would try to exploit as well.</p>

Champions Trophy: Kohli has played eight games against Pakistan in ICC Champions Trophy and World Cup combined - scoring 333 runs at an average of 55.50 with two fifties and a hundred. Cricket Sports

Ace batter Virat Kohli's form is a cause of concern for the team as India take on Pakistan in the blockbuster Champions Trophy match on Feb 23 in Dubai. Kohli, considered as one of the greatest ODI batters of all time, has played just seven games since Nov 19, 2023 including the ODI World Cup final and has managed to score only 191 runs. Kohli has scored these runs at an average of 27 with just two fifties to his name. Virat Kohli's record against Pakistan in ICC Tournaments Kohli has played eight games against Pakistan in ICC Champions Trophy and World Cup combined - scoring 333 runs at an average of 55.50 with two fifties and a hundred. The hundred, however, came long back in 2015 ODI World Cup when he scored 107 not out. Champions Trophy, IND vs PAK: History suggests Rohit is set to score big vs Pakistan in Dubai In ICC Champions Trophy, Kohli has played four games against Pakistan and has scored 124 runs - 81 of those came in 2017 edition's group-stage match. In rest of three innings, Kohli has managed only 16 (in 2009 Champions Trophy), 22 not out (2013 Champions Trophy) and 5 (2017 Champions Trophy final). The last time Kohli faced Pakistan in an ICC tournament, he scored 16 runs before getting out in Ahmedabad in 2023 ODI World Cup. In that tournament, Kohli had scored record 765 runs but his failure against Pakistan suggests a worrying trend for India. Overall in ODIs, Kohli did score a fifty against England in the final ODI before the Champions Trophy but before that his last 50 plus score had come in 2023 ODI World Cup final on Nov 19, 2023. In the match against Bangladesh, he was looking good before being dismissed for 22 - another subpar score given his stature. In another concern, Kohli has gotten out to leg-spin six times in his last six ODIs, something Pakistan would be aware of and would try to exploit as well.

Champions Trophy: India sweat over Kohli's form ahead of Pakistan match and past isn't on their side

<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma may have been going through a bit of rough patch but if history is any indicator, the batter is all set to unleash his best against Pakistan in Champions Trophy match on Feb 23 in Dubai. The Indian skipper has been superb against Pakistan - a team India plays only in ICC tournaments apart from regional Asia Cup.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-points-table-updated-ahead-of-ind-vs-pak-match-8748587">Champions Trophy: Updated points table ahead of IND vs PAK match</a></p>
<h2><strong>Rohit Sharma vs Pakistan in Last six ODIs</strong></h2>
<p>In the last six ODIs against Pakistan, Rohit has gone past 50 five times and two of those fifties were converted to a 100 as well. The Indian skipper has failed only once in the last six 50-over games against Pakistan, that too in Asia Cup prior to 2023 ODI World Cup. Rohit's last six score against Pakistan are:&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>52</strong> in 2018 Asia Cup in Dubai</li>
<li><strong>111</strong> not out in 2018 Asia Cup in Dubai</li>
<li><strong>140</strong> in 2019 ODI World Cup in Manchester</li>
<li><strong>11</strong> in 2023 Asia Cup in Pallekele</li>
<li><strong>56</strong> in 2023 Asia Cup in Colombo</li>
<li><strong>86</strong> in 2023 ODI World Cup in Ahmedabad</li>
</ul>
<p>India went on to win all those matches when Rohit scored a 50 plus barring the one in which he got out on 11 which ended in no result.</p>
<p>Talking about ICC events, Rohit has played six matches against Pakistan - scoring 350 runs at an average of 58 with two fifties and a hundred. His highest against Pakistan in ICC tournaments is 140 in 2019 World Cup.</p>
<p>In the Champions Trophy, Rohit has played three matches against Pakistan - scoring 109 runs at an average of 36 with a highest of 91.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The last time Rohit faced Pakistan in Champions Trophy - it was the final of 2017 edition where he had gotten out on a duck.&nbsp;</p>
<p>As for Champions Trophy 2025, Rohit scored 41 in India's only match against Bangladesh on Feb 20 in Dubai.</p>

Champions Trophy: In the last six ODIs against Pakistan, Rohit has gone past 50 five times and two of those fifties were converted to a 100 as well. Cricket Sports

India skipper Rohit Sharma may have been going through a bit of rough patch but if history is any indicator, the batter is all set to unleash his best against Pakistan in Champions Trophy match on Feb 23 in Dubai. The Indian skipper has been superb against Pakistan - a team India plays only in ICC tournaments apart from regional Asia Cup. Also Read: Champions Trophy: Updated points table ahead of IND vs PAK match Rohit Sharma vs Pakistan in Last six ODIs In the last six ODIs against Pakistan, Rohit has gone past 50 five times and two of those fifties were converted to a 100 as well. The Indian skipper has failed only once in the last six 50-over games against Pakistan, that too in Asia Cup prior to 2023 ODI World Cup. Rohit's last six score against Pakistan are: 52 in 2018 Asia Cup in Dubai 111 not out in 2018 Asia Cup in Dubai 140 in 2019 ODI World Cup in Manchester 11 in 2023 Asia Cup in Pallekele 56 in 2023 Asia Cup in Colombo 86 in 2023 ODI World Cup in Ahmedabad India went on to win all those matches when Rohit scored a 50 plus barring the one in which he got out on 11 which ended in no result. Talking about ICC events, Rohit has played six matches against Pakistan - scoring 350 runs at an average of 58 with two fifties and a hundred. His highest against Pakistan in ICC tournaments is 140 in 2019 World Cup. In the Champions Trophy, Rohit has played three matches against Pakistan - scoring 109 runs at an average of 36 with a highest of 91. The last time Rohit faced Pakistan in Champions Trophy - it was the final of 2017 edition where he had gotten out on a duck. As for Champions Trophy 2025, Rohit scored 41 in India's only match against Bangladesh on Feb 20 in Dubai.

Champions Trophy, IND vs PAK: History suggests Rohit is set to score big vs Pakistan in Dubai

<p>Yorkshire-born Australian gloveman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-josh-inglis-counters-bazball-helps-australia-down-england-in-lahore-8747790" rel="dofollow">Josh Inglis was the star of the night against England</a> in the marquee <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a> match at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Saturday (Feb 22). The right-handed batter slammed his maiden ODI hundred to steer the defending world champions to complete the highest successful run-chase (353) in an ICC event - Australia&rsquo;s second biggest in this format ever, winning the game by five wickets.</p>
<p>Inglis walked in during the 20th over, with Australia needing 200 runs in around 30 overs. Though the target is achievable in today&rsquo;s game, as proved by Australia at the end (having wrapped up the chase with 15 balls remaining), doing it still required plenty of effort.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pcb-demands-icc-explanation-after-indias-national-anthem-played-before-aus-eng-match-8747612" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: PCB demands ICC explanation after India's national anthem played before AUS-ENG match</a></strong></p>
<p>Commenting on what helped Australia win their first Champions Trophy game since 2009, Inglis said dew played a massive factor, explaining how training in Lahore for two nights (before this match) made Australia believe in hunting the highest score ever scored in this competition.</p>
<p>&ldquo;I think 350 is a big total in any one-day game &ndash; but we trained here at night for the last couple of days, and it got really dewy around 7.30-8 o'clock,&rdquo; Inglis said after the game. &ldquo;So, we sort of knew that was in our favour during the run chase, and if we could take it deep enough, it would be tough for the bowlers at the back end.</p>
<p>&ldquo;It made life easier for us; the wicket skidded on beautifully, and it really helped our run chase,&rdquo; he continued.</p>
<h2>Famous run chase and how it unfolded</h2>
<p>After England opener Ben Duckett powered his team to register 351 for eight batting first, thanks to his highest ODI score (165) &ndash; also the highest for any batter in this tournament history, Australia&rsquo;s new opening pair of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/travis-head" rel="dofollow">Travis Head</a> and Matthew Short provided a blistering start.</p>
<p>Though the two English quicks &ndash; Jofra Archer and Mark Wood accounted for Head (6) and captain Steve Smith (5), respectively, they struggled throughout, conceding over 75 runs each during their respective spells, as the Aussie batters made most of the wet outfield and the ball.</p>
<p>Crediting the 95-run stand between Short and Marnus Labuschagne for setting the base for him and the remaining batters to come and deliver for the team, Inglis said,&nbsp;</p>
<p>"I think, firstly, the partnership between Shorty and Marnus was really important. They set the platform there, (and) got us off to a good start. We were in and around the run rate to start off with.</p>
<p>"Then me, and Carey, we didn't really say too much out there. Carey is pretty quiet when he's batting. I just tried to not look at the scoreboard too much, look at the run rate, (just) keep batting the way we were going. We knew if we could get close enough with Maxi (Glenn Maxwell) still to come &ndash; we've just seen what Maxi can do, and everyone's seen it for a while now.</p>
<p>"To get close enough for him to be able to explode like that at the back end was probably in the back of our thoughts,&rdquo; he added.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meanwhile, a win in Lahore, where Australia will play another match against Afghanistan (on February 28) sees them sharing two points with table-toppers South Africa, whom they face next in Rawalpindi on February 25.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Inglis explains how training in Lahore for two nights (before this match) made Australia believe in hunting the highest score ever scored in this competition.

Yorkshire-born Australian gloveman Josh Inglis was the star of the night against England in the marquee Champions Trophy match at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Saturday (Feb 22). The right-handed batter slammed his maiden ODI hundred to steer the defending world champions to complete the highest successful run-chase (353) in an ICC event - Australia’s second biggest in this format ever, winning the game by five wickets. Inglis walked in during the 20th over, with Australia needing 200 runs in around 30 overs. Though the target is achievable in today’s game, as proved by Australia at the end (having wrapped up the chase with 15 balls remaining), doing it still required plenty of effort. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: PCB demands ICC explanation after India's national anthem played before AUS-ENG match Commenting on what helped Australia win their first Champions Trophy game since 2009, Inglis said dew played a massive factor, explaining how training in Lahore for two nights (before this match) made Australia believe in hunting the highest score ever scored in this competition. “I think 350 is a big total in any one-day game – but we trained here at night for the last couple of days, and it got really dewy around 7.30-8 o'clock,” Inglis said after the game. “So, we sort of knew that was in our favour during the run chase, and if we could take it deep enough, it would be tough for the bowlers at the back end. “It made life easier for us; the wicket skidded on beautifully, and it really helped our run chase,” he continued. Famous run chase and how it unfolded After England opener Ben Duckett powered his team to register 351 for eight batting first, thanks to his highest ODI score (165) – also the highest for any batter in this tournament history, Australia’s new opening pair of Travis Head and Matthew Short provided a blistering start. Though the two English quicks – Jofra Archer and Mark Wood accounted for Head (6) and captain Steve Smith (5), respectively, they struggled throughout, conceding over 75 runs each during their respective spells, as the Aussie batters made most of the wet outfield and the ball. Crediting the 95-run stand between Short and Marnus Labuschagne for setting the base for him and the remaining batters to come and deliver for the team, Inglis said, "I think, firstly, the partnership between Shorty and Marnus was really important. They set the platform there, (and) got us off to a good start. We were in and around the run rate to start off with. "Then me, and Carey, we didn't really say too much out there. Carey is pretty quiet when he's batting. I just tried to not look at the scoreboard too much, look at the run rate, (just) keep batting the way we were going. We knew if we could get close enough with Maxi (Glenn Maxwell) still to come – we've just seen what Maxi can do, and everyone's seen it for a while now. "To get close enough for him to be able to explode like that at the back end was probably in the back of our thoughts,” he added. Meanwhile, a win in Lahore, where Australia will play another match against Afghanistan (on February 28) sees them sharing two points with table-toppers South Africa, whom they face next in Rawalpindi on February 25. (With inputs from agencies)

How Yorkshire-born Inglis taught England a lesson in famous Champions Trophy chase in Lahore

<p>The Champions Trophy is up and running with four matches already done. In the last match of the tournament, Australia chased down 351 - the highest ever chase in the Champions Trophy history. The win, however, wasn't enough for Australia to go top of the Group B points table as they settled for number two spot with South Africa being at the top.</p>
<p>The eight-team tournament has 12 group stage matches before top two teams from each group go ahead and enter the semis, scheduled to be played in Dubai on Mar 4 and in Lahore on Mar 5.</p>
<h2><strong>Here's the updated Champions Trophy Points Table</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Group A: India, New Zealand, Pakistan and Bangladesh</strong></p>
<p>India and New Zealand have won their opening matches, and earned two points each for the win. Bangladesh and Pakistan, however, lost their matches and are yet to open their account.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/theres-no-advantage-for-india-pakistan-coach-aaqib-javed-plays-down-points-table-lead-ahead-of-marquee-champions-trophy-tie-8748246">'There&rsquo;s no advantage...,&rsquo; Pakistan coach plays down India's points table lead ahead of Champions Trophy tie</a></p>
<p>On the points table, Pakistan are at bottom due to poor net run-rate, while New Zealand are on top with India on second and Bangladesh on third place.</p>
<p>In the opening fixture of the tournament, New Zealand beat Pakistan by 60 runs and took their net run-rate to +1.200 while the same points were given to Pakistan but in debit, ie -1.200.</p>
<p>During India vs Bangladesh match, India won the match by six wickets and earned a net run-rate of +0.408 while Bangladesh were handed -0.408 net run-rate.</p>
<figure class="tinymce-table-div">
<figure class="tinymce-table-div">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 824px; height: 106px; border-width: 1px;" class="center">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px;"><strong>Team Name</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;"><strong>Matches Played</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;"><strong>Wins</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;"><strong>Loss</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;"><strong>Points</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;"><strong>Net Run-rate</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">New Zealand</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">+1.2000</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">India</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">+0.408</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">Bangladesh</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">-0.408</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">Pakistan</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">-1.2000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
</figure>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Group B: Australia, England, Afghanistan and South Africa</strong></p>
<p>South Africa beat Afghanistan by a mammoth 107 runs in the first match of Group B to earn two points and go on top of the table. The Proteas not only gained two points but also a net run-rate of +2.140 while Afghanistan are at -2.140 on the points table.</p>
<p>In the match between England Australia, the Kangaroos became victorious by five wickets, earning two points as well as a net run-rate of +0.475. England, on the other hand, received -0.475 net run rate despite posting highest 1st innings total in the Champions Trophy history.</p>
<figure class="tinymce-table-div">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 805px; height: 153px;"><colgroup><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Team Name</strong></td>
<td><strong>Matches Played</strong></td>
<td><strong>Wins</strong></td>
<td><strong>Loss</strong></td>
<td><strong>Points</strong></td>
<td><strong>Net Run-rate</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>South Africa</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>+2.140</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Australia</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>+0.475</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>England</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>-0.475</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Afghanistan</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>-2.140</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>

Champions Trophy: In the last match of the tournament, Australia chased down 351 vs England - the highest ever chase in the Champions Trophy history. Cricket Sports

The Champions Trophy is up and running with four matches already done. In the last match of the tournament, Australia chased down 351 - the highest ever chase in the Champions Trophy history. The win, however, wasn't enough for Australia to go top of the Group B points table as they settled for number two spot with South Africa being at the top. The eight-team tournament has 12 group stage matches before top two teams from each group go ahead and enter the semis, scheduled to be played in Dubai on Mar 4 and in Lahore on Mar 5. Here's the updated Champions Trophy Points Table Group A: India, New Zealand, Pakistan and Bangladesh India and New Zealand have won their opening matches, and earned two points each for the win. Bangladesh and Pakistan, however, lost their matches and are yet to open their account. Also Read: 'There’s no advantage...,’ Pakistan coach plays down India's points table lead ahead of Champions Trophy tie On the points table, Pakistan are at bottom due to poor net run-rate, while New Zealand are on top with India on second and Bangladesh on third place. In the opening fixture of the tournament, New Zealand beat Pakistan by 60 runs and took their net run-rate to +1.200 while the same points were given to Pakistan but in debit, ie -1.200. During India vs Bangladesh match, India won the match by six wickets and earned a net run-rate of +0.408 while Bangladesh were handed -0.408 net run-rate. Team Name Matches Played Wins Loss Points Net Run-rate New Zealand 1 1 0 2 +1.2000 India 1 1 0 2 +0.408 Bangladesh 1 0 1 0 -0.408 Pakistan 1 0 1 0 -1.2000 Group B: Australia, England, Afghanistan and South Africa South Africa beat Afghanistan by a mammoth 107 runs in the first match of Group B to earn two points and go on top of the table. The Proteas not only gained two points but also a net run-rate of +2.140 while Afghanistan are at -2.140 on the points table. In the match between England Australia, the Kangaroos became victorious by five wickets, earning two points as well as a net run-rate of +0.475. England, on the other hand, received -0.475 net run rate despite posting highest 1st innings total in the Champions Trophy history. Team Name Matches Played Wins Loss Points Net Run-rate South Africa 1 1 0 2 +2.140 Australia 1 1 0 2 +0.475 England 1 0 1 0 -0.475 Afghanistan 1 0 1 0 -2.140

Champions Trophy: Updated points table ahead of IND vs PAK match

<p>Pakistan Cricket Board chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohsin-naqvi" rel="dofollow">Mohsin Naqvi</a> was present at the ICC Academy on the eve of the India vs Pakistan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a> game in Dubai, motivating the Men in Green to land the first punch, urging them to &lsquo;win at any cost&rsquo;. Per the latest reports, Naqvi has asked the team to shut all critics, including him, with a powerful performance a win against India.</p>
<p>A PTI report stated that Pakistan&rsquo;s training session, scheduled for two hours, was cut short after Naqvi held discussions with key holders, including the skipper Mohammad Rizwan, head coach Aaqib Javed, and senior pacers like Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf. The report added that Naqvi was unhappy with the team&rsquo;s selection for the New Zealand game as he interacted with each team player and support staff.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/theres-no-advantage-for-india-pakistan-coach-aaqib-javed-plays-down-points-table-lead-ahead-of-marquee-champions-trophy-tie-8748246" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;There&rsquo;s no advantage...,&rsquo; Pakistan coach plays down India's points table lead ahead of Champions Trophy tie</a></strong></p>
<p>Speaking to the media later, Naqvi said Pakistan is ready to play India in the marquee Champions Trophy clash, expecting this to be a cracker while adding that his team is well-equipped for the tie.</p>
<p>"It will be a great game. Our team is fully prepared, and in my opinion, they are in good form. We stand with them, whether they win or lose," Naqvi said.</p>
<h2>Babar&rsquo;s absence raises doubts</h2>
<p>Pakistan star batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/babar-azam" rel="dofollow">Babar Azam</a> was nowhere to be seen during his team&rsquo;s final training session ahead of the India match, raising questions over his availability. Since no media reports have suggested that Babar is nursing any injury or faces any threat of getting dropped after the New Zealand game, he remains a vital cog in the wheel against India.</p>
<p>Babar faced a lot of flak from all corners for his 90-ball 64 against the Kiwis while chasing as Pakistan fell shy of the target (321) by 60 runs, losing a key chance to gain an early lead over their competitors in the home tournament.</p>
<p>However, against India, all eyeballs will again be on him, with the question remaining, where would he bat? After Fakhar Zaman&rsquo;s untimely injury that ruled him out of the tournament, with the PCB bringing in Imam-ul-Haq as his replacement, Pakistan could have a new opening stand for his marquee clash.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Besides, reports of Pakistan including opener Usman Khan into the playing XI are also doing rounds on social media. Should Usman and Imam open against India, Babar would return to his ideal number three position, where he batted majorly throughout his career.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Per the latest reports, Mohsin Naqvi has asked the team to shut all critics, including him, with a powerful performance leading to a thumping win.

Pakistan Cricket Board chief Mohsin Naqvi was present at the ICC Academy on the eve of the India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy game in Dubai, motivating the Men in Green to land the first punch, urging them to ‘win at any cost’. Per the latest reports, Naqvi has asked the team to shut all critics, including him, with a powerful performance a win against India. A PTI report stated that Pakistan’s training session, scheduled for two hours, was cut short after Naqvi held discussions with key holders, including the skipper Mohammad Rizwan, head coach Aaqib Javed, and senior pacers like Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf. The report added that Naqvi was unhappy with the team’s selection for the New Zealand game as he interacted with each team player and support staff. Also read | ‘There’s no advantage...,’ Pakistan coach plays down India's points table lead ahead of Champions Trophy tie Speaking to the media later, Naqvi said Pakistan is ready to play India in the marquee Champions Trophy clash, expecting this to be a cracker while adding that his team is well-equipped for the tie. "It will be a great game. Our team is fully prepared, and in my opinion, they are in good form. We stand with them, whether they win or lose," Naqvi said. Babar’s absence raises doubts Pakistan star batter Babar Azam was nowhere to be seen during his team’s final training session ahead of the India match, raising questions over his availability. Since no media reports have suggested that Babar is nursing any injury or faces any threat of getting dropped after the New Zealand game, he remains a vital cog in the wheel against India. Babar faced a lot of flak from all corners for his 90-ball 64 against the Kiwis while chasing as Pakistan fell shy of the target (321) by 60 runs, losing a key chance to gain an early lead over their competitors in the home tournament. However, against India, all eyeballs will again be on him, with the question remaining, where would he bat? After Fakhar Zaman’s untimely injury that ruled him out of the tournament, with the PCB bringing in Imam-ul-Haq as his replacement, Pakistan could have a new opening stand for his marquee clash. Besides, reports of Pakistan including opener Usman Khan into the playing XI are also doing rounds on social media. Should Usman and Imam open against India, Babar would return to his ideal number three position, where he batted majorly throughout his career. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy - 'Win at any cost,' PCB chief's strong message to Pakistan Team against India

<p>Pakistan head coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/aaqib-javed" rel="dofollow">Aaqib Javed</a> remains unfazed by India&rsquo;s winning start to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a>, saying &lsquo;they hold no advantage&rsquo; over the hosts ahead of the marquee clash on Sunday in Dubai. Given that India is playing all its matches in the UAE, where (pitch) conditions are a tad different from those in Pakistan, Javed said that all CT-bound Pakistani players who have played on such surfaces over the years know more about it than their counterparts.</p>
<p>While India is among the top two teams in the group after winning their tournament opener against Bangladesh (by six wickets), Pakistan sits in the fourth position, having lost the curtain-raiser to New Zealand in Karachi by 60 runs.</p>
<p>For them to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-how-can-pakistan-qualify-for-semis-if-they-lose-to-india-explained-8746014" rel="dofollow">stay in the semis contention race</a>, they must aim at bettering their already-leading head-to-head record (3-2) against India in this competition, something Javed feels is his team&rsquo;s ultimate aim.</p>
<p>Speaking to the media ahead of the match, Javed noted that the hype around the India-Pakistan game is external; as for the players, although it remains an honour to be a part of it, that&rsquo;s their job as professionals to win matches for the team, and that they must take this crucial tie against India like any other game.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/exclusive-champions-trophy-2025-mental-strength-will-decide-india-pak-clash-say-pakistans-chief-selector-8747695" rel="dofollow">Exclusive | Champions Trophy 2025- 'Mental strength will decide India-Pak clash', says Pakistan's chief selector</a></strong></p>
<p>"For the cricketers, this is a profession," Javed said at the pre-game presser in Dubai.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"For them, it definitely is an honour. But, it is a profession. You try your best. In that, you sometimes lose as well. It is a match... one team will win, one will lose. How does it matter? Why so much pressure? Every game is different.</p>
<p>"In a Pakistan-India game, the energy will remain high. And this is the beauty of this contest. What does the crowd do? When you play well, the crowd supports you, they clap their hands. When you play poorly, be it India or Pakistan, the home crowd will go against you.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"As a player, you shouldn't keep the crowd in mind. We never kept it, and neither should these players. What's your focus? Ball, bat - that's it,&rdquo; he continued.</p>
<h2>India holds no advantage</h2>
<p>Despite the Men in Blue sitting comfortably in the race for the top-four finish, Javed feels they hold no advantage whatsoever against Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"There's no advantage [for India] at all because if you look at all the Pakistani players, they have been playing leagues here. The PSL has been played here. So, there's nothing really - there's no advantage or disadvantage,&rdquo; he said.</p>
<p>Although a fresh wicket was used for the India-Bangladesh game, it remains to be seen what surface is picked for the marquee India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy match.</p>
<p>"We also have to see the pitch and the ground here. Are these similar to the one we have in Pakistan or are they different? We will play in accordance with the pitches, conditions and the opposition team,&rdquo; Javed concluded.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Despite the Men in Blue sitting comfortably in the race for the top-four finish, Javed feels they hold no advantage whatsoever against Pakistan.

Pakistan head coach Aaqib Javed remains unfazed by India’s winning start to the Champions Trophy 2025, saying ‘they hold no advantage’ over the hosts ahead of the marquee clash on Sunday in Dubai. Given that India is playing all its matches in the UAE, where (pitch) conditions are a tad different from those in Pakistan, Javed said that all CT-bound Pakistani players who have played on such surfaces over the years know more about it than their counterparts. While India is among the top two teams in the group after winning their tournament opener against Bangladesh (by six wickets), Pakistan sits in the fourth position, having lost the curtain-raiser to New Zealand in Karachi by 60 runs. For them to stay in the semis contention race, they must aim at bettering their already-leading head-to-head record (3-2) against India in this competition, something Javed feels is his team’s ultimate aim. Speaking to the media ahead of the match, Javed noted that the hype around the India-Pakistan game is external; as for the players, although it remains an honour to be a part of it, that’s their job as professionals to win matches for the team, and that they must take this crucial tie against India like any other game. Also read | Exclusive | Champions Trophy 2025- 'Mental strength will decide India-Pak clash', says Pakistan's chief selector "For the cricketers, this is a profession," Javed said at the pre-game presser in Dubai. "For them, it definitely is an honour. But, it is a profession. You try your best. In that, you sometimes lose as well. It is a match... one team will win, one will lose. How does it matter? Why so much pressure? Every game is different. "In a Pakistan-India game, the energy will remain high. And this is the beauty of this contest. What does the crowd do? When you play well, the crowd supports you, they clap their hands. When you play poorly, be it India or Pakistan, the home crowd will go against you. "As a player, you shouldn't keep the crowd in mind. We never kept it, and neither should these players. What's your focus? Ball, bat - that's it,” he continued. India holds no advantage Despite the Men in Blue sitting comfortably in the race for the top-four finish, Javed feels they hold no advantage whatsoever against Pakistan. "There's no advantage [for India] at all because if you look at all the Pakistani players, they have been playing leagues here. The PSL has been played here. So, there's nothing really - there's no advantage or disadvantage,” he said. Although a fresh wicket was used for the India-Bangladesh game, it remains to be seen what surface is picked for the marquee India vs Pakistan Champions Trophy match. "We also have to see the pitch and the ground here. Are these similar to the one we have in Pakistan or are they different? We will play in accordance with the pitches, conditions and the opposition team,” Javed concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

‘There’s no advantage...,’ Pakistan coach plays down India's points table lead ahead of Champions Trophy tie

<p>Chinelle Henry's (62) record-equalling half-century and four wickets each for Kranti Goud and Grace Harris gave UP Warriorz their maiden win in the third edition of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/womens-premier-league">Women's Premier League</a> as they beat Delhi Capitals by 33 runs here on Saturday.</p>
<p>UP-W came roaring back into the contest riding on Henry's excellent 23-ball 62, studded with eight sixes and two fours, to set a 178-run target for the Delhi side.</p>
<p>Henry etched her name in the record books in the first half when she hit an 18-ball fifty to register the joint-fastest fifty in WPL history in terms of balls faced, joining Sophia Dunkley who recorded the feat in 2023 edition for Gujarat Giants against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.</p>
<p>The unheralded Goud then broke the back of Delhi Capitals' chase as they could only manage 144 in 19.3 overs.&nbsp;The 21-year-old uncapped Goud accounted for DC's top-order &mdash; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shafali-verma">Shafali Verma</a> (24), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/meg-lanning">Meg Lanning</a> (5), Jemimah Rodrigues (56) &mdash; and later on Jess Jonassen (5) to return 4-0-25-4.</p>
<p>In their previous meet, Delhi had clinched a commanding seven-wicket win a few days ago but to their credit, UPW produced an all-round performance to record their maiden win in the competition.</p>
<p>The victory lifted UP Warriorz from the bottom of the points table as they moved one place above to get to the fourth. They now have two points from three matches after one win and two defeats.</p>
<p>On the other hand, Lannings' Delhi remained third with four points in as many games. DC have won two and lost as many so far this season.&nbsp;Delhi were in trouble when Lanning was cleaned up by Goud in the fifth over and Verma failed to push on despite a positive start, making 24 off 30 balls with four fours.</p>
<p>For Delhi, India batter Rodrigues waged a lone battle of sorts to make a fine 56 off 35 balls with eight fours and a six but her effort went in vain.&nbsp;After their top-order flopped, Delhi's strong middle-order also could not make a dent when their overseas trio of Marizanne Kapp (9), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/annabel-sutherland">Annabel Sutherland</a> (5) and Jess Jonassen (5) fell in quick succession.</p>
<p>Earlier, West Indies' Henry struck eight sixes and two fours in her 23-ball 62 and provided a much-needed impetus to UPW, who were limping at one stage at 91 for six after 14 overs.&nbsp;The right-handed Caribbean batter struck three sixes in Arundhati Reddy's penultimate over of the innings to bring up her fifty in only 18 balls.</p>
<p>Henry's whirlwind knock at No. 8 lifted UP Warriorz out of doldrums as they were facing the risk of being restricted for a moderate total after each of their specialist batters had flopped.</p>
<p><strong>Brief scores: UP Warriorz:</strong> 177/9 in 20 overs (Tahlia McGrath 24, Chinelle Henry 62; Marizanne Kapp 2/18, Arundhati Reddy 2/52, Jess Jonassen 4/31) beat <strong>Delhi Capitals:</strong> 144 all out in 19.3 overs (Shafali Verma 24, Jemimah Rodrigues 56; Kranti Goud 4/25, Grace Harris 4/15) by 33 runs.</p>

Sports, Cricket: UP-W came roaring back into the contest riding on Henry's excellent 23-ball 62, studded with eight sixes and two fours, to set a 178-run target for the Delhi side

Chinelle Henry's (62) record-equalling half-century and four wickets each for Kranti Goud and Grace Harris gave UP Warriorz their maiden win in the third edition of the Women's Premier League as they beat Delhi Capitals by 33 runs here on Saturday. UP-W came roaring back into the contest riding on Henry's excellent 23-ball 62, studded with eight sixes and two fours, to set a 178-run target for the Delhi side. Henry etched her name in the record books in the first half when she hit an 18-ball fifty to register the joint-fastest fifty in WPL history in terms of balls faced, joining Sophia Dunkley who recorded the feat in 2023 edition for Gujarat Giants against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The unheralded Goud then broke the back of Delhi Capitals' chase as they could only manage 144 in 19.3 overs. The 21-year-old uncapped Goud accounted for DC's top-order — Shafali Verma (24), Meg Lanning (5), Jemimah Rodrigues (56) — and later on Jess Jonassen (5) to return 4-0-25-4. In their previous meet, Delhi had clinched a commanding seven-wicket win a few days ago but to their credit, UPW produced an all-round performance to record their maiden win in the competition. The victory lifted UP Warriorz from the bottom of the points table as they moved one place above to get to the fourth. They now have two points from three matches after one win and two defeats. On the other hand, Lannings' Delhi remained third with four points in as many games. DC have won two and lost as many so far this season. Delhi were in trouble when Lanning was cleaned up by Goud in the fifth over and Verma failed to push on despite a positive start, making 24 off 30 balls with four fours. For Delhi, India batter Rodrigues waged a lone battle of sorts to make a fine 56 off 35 balls with eight fours and a six but her effort went in vain. After their top-order flopped, Delhi's strong middle-order also could not make a dent when their overseas trio of Marizanne Kapp (9), Annabel Sutherland (5) and Jess Jonassen (5) fell in quick succession. Earlier, West Indies' Henry struck eight sixes and two fours in her 23-ball 62 and provided a much-needed impetus to UPW, who were limping at one stage at 91 for six after 14 overs. The right-handed Caribbean batter struck three sixes in Arundhati Reddy's penultimate over of the innings to bring up her fifty in only 18 balls. Henry's whirlwind knock at No. 8 lifted UP Warriorz out of doldrums as they were facing the risk of being restricted for a moderate total after each of their specialist batters had flopped. Brief scores: UP Warriorz: 177/9 in 20 overs (Tahlia McGrath 24, Chinelle Henry 62; Marizanne Kapp 2/18, Arundhati Reddy 2/52, Jess Jonassen 4/31) beat Delhi Capitals: 144 all out in 19.3 overs (Shafali Verma 24, Jemimah Rodrigues 56; Kranti Goud 4/25, Grace Harris 4/15) by 33 runs.

WPL 2025: Henry, Goud give UP Warriorz maiden win of season, beat Delhi Capitals

<p>Josh Inglis&rsquo; scintillating unbeaten century led Australia to a record-breaking chase, as they defeated England by five wickets in their ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> clash on Saturday (Feb 22). Australia&rsquo;s 356/5 in 47.3 overs marked the highest successful run chase in any ICC 50-over tournament.</p>
<p>Inglis played a match-winning knock, scoring 120* off just 86 balls, laced with eight fours and six sixes. He was well supported by Matthew Short (63), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/alex-carey">Alex Carey</a> (69), and Marnus Labuschagne (47), as Australia comfortably chased down England&rsquo;s imposing total of 351/8 with 15 balls to spare.</p>
<p>Earlier, England&rsquo;s innings was anchored by a stunning 165 from opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ben-duckett">Ben Duckett</a>&mdash;the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history. His 143-ball masterclass featured 17 fours and three sixes. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/joe-root">Joe Root</a> (68) provided solid support, helping England post a formidable total after being asked to bat first.</p>
<p>Phil Salt&rsquo;s brisk start was cut short by Ben Dwarshuis in the second over, courtesy of a sharp catch by Alex Carey. Jamie Smith showed promise but fell early, leaving England unsettled. Root, ending a streak of 11 ODIs without a fifty against Australia, looked in fine touch before falling to Adam Zampa in the 31st over.</p>
<p>While England lost Harry Brook and Liam Livingstone cheaply, Duckett remained composed, expertly maneuvering the spinners before being trapped LBW by Labuschagne in the 48th over. Labuschagne picked up another wicket but conceded 15 runs in the final over as England reached 351/8.</p>
<p>Australia&rsquo;s bowlers had mixed returns, with Dwarshuis leading the attack (3/66), while Zampa (2/64) and Labuschagne (2/41) chipped in.</p>
<p><strong>Brief scores: England:</strong> 351/8 in 50 overs (Ben Duckett 165, Joe Root 68; Ben Dwarshuis 3/66, Adam Zampa 2/64, Marnus Labuschagne 2/41) lost to&nbsp; <strong>Australia:</strong> 356/5 in 47.3 overs (Josh Inglis 120*; Liam Livingstone 1/47)</p>

Sports, Cricket: Inglis remained not out on 120 off just 86 balls from which he hit eight fours and six sixes as Australia chased down the target of 352 with 15 balls to spare

Josh Inglis’ scintillating unbeaten century led Australia to a record-breaking chase, as they defeated England by five wickets in their ICC Champions Trophy clash on Saturday (Feb 22). Australia’s 356/5 in 47.3 overs marked the highest successful run chase in any ICC 50-over tournament. Inglis played a match-winning knock, scoring 120* off just 86 balls, laced with eight fours and six sixes. He was well supported by Matthew Short (63), Alex Carey (69), and Marnus Labuschagne (47), as Australia comfortably chased down England’s imposing total of 351/8 with 15 balls to spare. Earlier, England’s innings was anchored by a stunning 165 from opener Ben Duckett—the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history. His 143-ball masterclass featured 17 fours and three sixes. Joe Root (68) provided solid support, helping England post a formidable total after being asked to bat first. Phil Salt’s brisk start was cut short by Ben Dwarshuis in the second over, courtesy of a sharp catch by Alex Carey. Jamie Smith showed promise but fell early, leaving England unsettled. Root, ending a streak of 11 ODIs without a fifty against Australia, looked in fine touch before falling to Adam Zampa in the 31st over. While England lost Harry Brook and Liam Livingstone cheaply, Duckett remained composed, expertly maneuvering the spinners before being trapped LBW by Labuschagne in the 48th over. Labuschagne picked up another wicket but conceded 15 runs in the final over as England reached 351/8. Australia’s bowlers had mixed returns, with Dwarshuis leading the attack (3/66), while Zampa (2/64) and Labuschagne (2/41) chipped in. Brief scores: England: 351/8 in 50 overs (Ben Duckett 165, Joe Root 68; Ben Dwarshuis 3/66, Adam Zampa 2/64, Marnus Labuschagne 2/41) lost to Australia: 356/5 in 47.3 overs (Josh Inglis 120*; Liam Livingstone 1/47)

Champions Trophy 2025: Josh Inglis counters Bazball, helps Australia down England in Lahore

<p>As India and Pakistan prepare for their high-stakes ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025 clash in Dubai, experts emphasise that mental resilience will be the key differentiator between the two sides. With Pakistan fighting to stay in the tournament and India looking to secure a semifinal berth, the psychological battle will be just as crucial as the on-field performances.</p>
<p>Former Pakistan pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wahab-riaz">Wahab Riaz</a> believes that the team must not dwell on their loss against New Zealand but instead focus on maintaining composure under pressure. Riaz pointed out that while Pakistan missed crucial moments in their last match, they have the skills and ability to bounce back.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Being cautious was good, but one has to play to the situation. Cricket is as much a mental game as it is about skill. We missed a trick in the last match, but I do not think they will repeat the same mistakes against India,&rdquo; Wahab Riaz, JioHotstar expert, replied to WION's question while addressing the media prior to the ICC Men&rsquo;s Champions Trophy 2025 clash between India and Pakistan.</p>
<p>He highlighted the role of pressure in such high-profile games, emphasising that handling nerves will be vital. &ldquo;You can have all the talent in the world, but if you cannot manage pressure, you will struggle. Pakistan needs to stay focused and build their innings wisely,&rdquo; he added.</p>
<p>Riaz also acknowledged that Pakistan&rsquo;s lack of one-day international matches in recent months has impacted their consistency. However, he believes the team can still turn things around if they trust their abilities and remain mentally strong.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer and commentator <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanjay-manjrekar">Sanjay Manjrekar</a> echoed similar sentiments, stressing that Pakistan must overcome their mental hurdle against India to stand a chance. He recalled how Indian teams of the past struggled psychologically against Pakistan, but the roles have now reversed.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Deep down, Pakistan knows they are up against a superior team. It&rsquo;s a tough mindset to shake off. We used to face the same challenge in the 80s and 90s against them. Unless they believe they can win, it will be difficult,&rdquo; Manjrekar remarked.</p>
<p>While praising India&rsquo;s dominant performance in the tournament so far, he also offered words of caution for star batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>.</p>
<h2>'Kohli has been overthinking his game'</h2>
<p>&ldquo;Kohli has been overthinking his game, and when you start doing that, you complicate things unnecessarily. His challenge right now is more mental than technical. He needs to go in with a relaxed mindset and not put additional pressure on himself,&rdquo; he advised.</p>
<p>Manjrekar also addressed the pressure on Pakistan&rsquo;s bowlers, particularly Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, who failed to make an impact in their previous match. &ldquo;When you&rsquo;re low on confidence, the ball does not come out the way you want it to. Shaheen has the ability, but he needs to back himself mentally,&rdquo; he added.</p>
<p>Both Riaz and Manjrekar agreed that managing high-pressure situations will be the decisive factor in this match. Riaz highlighted the importance of making smart decisions under pressure, while Manjrekar emphasised that belief in one&rsquo;s ability is non-negotiable in such big encounters.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Pakistan must approach this game with the belief that they can win. If they start off doubting themselves, India will capitalise. Similarly, India must not take things for granted. They have been dominant, but in cricket, momentum shifts fast,&rdquo; Manjrekar opined.</p>
<p>With India riding high on confidence and Pakistan desperate for redemption, the mental game will dictate the outcome. The team that stays composed, absorbs the pressure, and executes under stress will emerge victorious in what promises to be another unforgettable chapter in this historic rivalry.</p>

Sports, Cricket: Former Pakistan pacer Wahab Riaz believes that the team must not dwell on their loss against New Zealand but instead focus on maintaining composure under pressure

As India and Pakistan prepare for their high-stakes ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash in Dubai, experts emphasise that mental resilience will be the key differentiator between the two sides. With Pakistan fighting to stay in the tournament and India looking to secure a semifinal berth, the psychological battle will be just as crucial as the on-field performances. Former Pakistan pacer Wahab Riaz believes that the team must not dwell on their loss against New Zealand but instead focus on maintaining composure under pressure. Riaz pointed out that while Pakistan missed crucial moments in their last match, they have the skills and ability to bounce back. “Being cautious was good, but one has to play to the situation. Cricket is as much a mental game as it is about skill. We missed a trick in the last match, but I do not think they will repeat the same mistakes against India,” Wahab Riaz, JioHotstar expert, replied to WION's question while addressing the media prior to the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 clash between India and Pakistan. He highlighted the role of pressure in such high-profile games, emphasising that handling nerves will be vital. “You can have all the talent in the world, but if you cannot manage pressure, you will struggle. Pakistan needs to stay focused and build their innings wisely,” he added. Riaz also acknowledged that Pakistan’s lack of one-day international matches in recent months has impacted their consistency. However, he believes the team can still turn things around if they trust their abilities and remain mentally strong. Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar echoed similar sentiments, stressing that Pakistan must overcome their mental hurdle against India to stand a chance. He recalled how Indian teams of the past struggled psychologically against Pakistan, but the roles have now reversed. “Deep down, Pakistan knows they are up against a superior team. It’s a tough mindset to shake off. We used to face the same challenge in the 80s and 90s against them. Unless they believe they can win, it will be difficult,” Manjrekar remarked. While praising India’s dominant performance in the tournament so far, he also offered words of caution for star batter Virat Kohli. 'Kohli has been overthinking his game' “Kohli has been overthinking his game, and when you start doing that, you complicate things unnecessarily. His challenge right now is more mental than technical. He needs to go in with a relaxed mindset and not put additional pressure on himself,” he advised. Manjrekar also addressed the pressure on Pakistan’s bowlers, particularly Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, who failed to make an impact in their previous match. “When you’re low on confidence, the ball does not come out the way you want it to. Shaheen has the ability, but he needs to back himself mentally,” he added. Both Riaz and Manjrekar agreed that managing high-pressure situations will be the decisive factor in this match. Riaz highlighted the importance of making smart decisions under pressure, while Manjrekar emphasised that belief in one’s ability is non-negotiable in such big encounters. “Pakistan must approach this game with the belief that they can win. If they start off doubting themselves, India will capitalise. Similarly, India must not take things for granted. They have been dominant, but in cricket, momentum shifts fast,” Manjrekar opined. With India riding high on confidence and Pakistan desperate for redemption, the mental game will dictate the outcome. The team that stays composed, absorbs the pressure, and executes under stress will emerge victorious in what promises to be another unforgettable chapter in this historic rivalry.

Exclusive | Champions Trophy 2025- 'Mental strength will decide India-Pak clash', says Pakistan's chief selector

<p>The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sought an explanation from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc">International Cricket Council</a> (ICC) after India's national anthem was briefly played at the start of the Australia-England <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> match in Lahore on Saturday (Feb 22).</p>
<p>As the two teams lined up for their national anthems, spectators were momentarily surprised when the Indian anthem played for a fraction of a second before being stopped. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pakistan-cricket-board">PCB</a> has blamed the ICC for the mix-up and has formally written to the governing body, demanding clarification.</p>
<p>A source close to the ICC confirmed that the PCB&rsquo;s letter outlined the incident and sought accountability.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pakistans-pace-trio-will-bring-out-something-special-against-india-says-head-coach-aaqib-javed-8747512">Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan's pace trio will bring out something special against India, says head coach Aaqib Javed</a></strong></p>
<h2>'ICC must explain the error'</h2>
<p>"The PCB has emphasized that the ICC must explain the error, as their officials are responsible for managing the national anthem playlist during the Champions Trophy. Given that India is not playing in Pakistan, it is difficult to understand how their anthem was mistakenly played," the source said.</p>
<p>India had refused to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns and is playing its share of Champions Trophy matches in Dubai. The two arch-rivals are set to face off on Sunday in a crucial game, where a Pakistan loss would mean elimination from the tournament.</p>
<p>This is not the first grievance raised by the PCB during the tournament. Earlier, the board had also written to the ICC regarding Pakistan's name logo not being displayed on television screens during India's match against Bangladesh in Dubai. The ICC later assured the PCB that it was an unintentional mistake and confirmed that all Dubai matches would feature the correct three-line horizontal logo, including Pakistan's name.</p>
<p>Coming to the game, England's Ben Duckett scripted history with the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history, smashing 165 runs to set up a formidable total of 351/8 against Australia at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.</p>
<p>After being put in to bat by Steve Smith, England overcame early setbacks with a solid 158-run stand between Duckett and Joe Root (68). The duo anchored the innings through the middle overs, displaying improved batting tactics compared to their recent struggles in India.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: As the two teams lined up for their national anthems, spectators were surprised when the Indian anthem played for a fraction of a second before being stopped

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sought an explanation from the International Cricket Council (ICC) after India's national anthem was briefly played at the start of the Australia-England Champions Trophy match in Lahore on Saturday (Feb 22). As the two teams lined up for their national anthems, spectators were momentarily surprised when the Indian anthem played for a fraction of a second before being stopped. The PCB has blamed the ICC for the mix-up and has formally written to the governing body, demanding clarification. A source close to the ICC confirmed that the PCB’s letter outlined the incident and sought accountability. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan's pace trio will bring out something special against India, says head coach Aaqib Javed 'ICC must explain the error' "The PCB has emphasized that the ICC must explain the error, as their officials are responsible for managing the national anthem playlist during the Champions Trophy. Given that India is not playing in Pakistan, it is difficult to understand how their anthem was mistakenly played," the source said. India had refused to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns and is playing its share of Champions Trophy matches in Dubai. The two arch-rivals are set to face off on Sunday in a crucial game, where a Pakistan loss would mean elimination from the tournament. This is not the first grievance raised by the PCB during the tournament. Earlier, the board had also written to the ICC regarding Pakistan's name logo not being displayed on television screens during India's match against Bangladesh in Dubai. The ICC later assured the PCB that it was an unintentional mistake and confirmed that all Dubai matches would feature the correct three-line horizontal logo, including Pakistan's name. Coming to the game, England's Ben Duckett scripted history with the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history, smashing 165 runs to set up a formidable total of 351/8 against Australia at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. After being put in to bat by Steve Smith, England overcame early setbacks with a solid 158-run stand between Duckett and Joe Root (68). The duo anchored the innings through the middle overs, displaying improved batting tactics compared to their recent struggles in India. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: PCB demands ICC explanation after India's national anthem played before AUS-ENG match

<p>Pakistan head coach Aaqib Javed has placed his trust in the pace trio of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shaheen-afridi">Shaheen Shah Afridi</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/naseem-shah">Naseem Shah</a>, and Haris Rauf, believing they will deliver &ldquo;something special&rdquo; in the must-win Champions Trophy clash against India on Sunday (Feb 23).</p>
<p>Pakistan faces immense pressure, not only due to their recent record against India but also because of the absence of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/fakhar-zaman">Fakhar Zaman</a>, who was instrumental in their 2017 Champions Trophy final victory but has been ruled out due to injury.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Fakhar is a big loss. He is a match-winner, but we have confidence in the rest of our players,&rdquo; Javed said at the pre-match press conference.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-indias-vice-captain-shubman-gill-shares-winning-score-in-dubai-8747286">Champions Trophy 2025: India's vice-captain Shubman Gill shares winning score in Dubai</a></strong></p>
<h2>'Our strength lies in pace bowling'</h2>
<p>Acknowledging the high stakes of the game, he emphasised that pressure is an inherent part of such matches. &ldquo;There is always pressure; no game is without it. But this is the best opportunity for any player to make a mark. We may have fewer spin options, but our strength lies in pace bowling. This trio reminds me of our 1990s pace attack, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wasim-akram">Wasim Akram</a> and Waqar Younis. I believe they will bring something special tomorrow,&rdquo; he added.</p>
<p>With Pakistan already having lost their tournament opener to New Zealand in Karachi, another defeat would significantly hurt their semifinal chances.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, India has begun their campaign on a strong note, securing a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their opening match on a slow surface. Their ability to adapt during the chase of a modest 229 in 47 overs gave them valuable insight into the conditions.</p>
<p>However, Javed dismissed talks of India holding an advantage due to their prior match experience at the venue. &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t think playing an extra match here gives India any advantage,&rdquo; he remarked confidently.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Pakistan faces immense pressure due to absence of Fakhar Zaman, who was instrumental in their 2017 Champions Trophy final but has been ruled out due to injury

Pakistan head coach Aaqib Javed has placed his trust in the pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, believing they will deliver “something special” in the must-win Champions Trophy clash against India on Sunday (Feb 23). Pakistan faces immense pressure, not only due to their recent record against India but also because of the absence of Fakhar Zaman, who was instrumental in their 2017 Champions Trophy final victory but has been ruled out due to injury. “Fakhar is a big loss. He is a match-winner, but we have confidence in the rest of our players,” Javed said at the pre-match press conference. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: India's vice-captain Shubman Gill shares winning score in Dubai 'Our strength lies in pace bowling' Acknowledging the high stakes of the game, he emphasised that pressure is an inherent part of such matches. “There is always pressure; no game is without it. But this is the best opportunity for any player to make a mark. We may have fewer spin options, but our strength lies in pace bowling. This trio reminds me of our 1990s pace attack, including Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis. I believe they will bring something special tomorrow,” he added. With Pakistan already having lost their tournament opener to New Zealand in Karachi, another defeat would significantly hurt their semifinal chances. Meanwhile, India has begun their campaign on a strong note, securing a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their opening match on a slow surface. Their ability to adapt during the chase of a modest 229 in 47 overs gave them valuable insight into the conditions. However, Javed dismissed talks of India holding an advantage due to their prior match experience at the venue. “I don’t think playing an extra match here gives India any advantage,” he remarked confidently. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan's pace trio will bring out something special against India, says head coach Aaqib Javed

<p>India vice-captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shubhman-gill">Shubman Gill</a> shared his thoughts ahead of the highly anticipated ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> clash against arch-rivals Pakistan, emphasising the importance of a strong total and addressing concerns about Rishabh Pant&rsquo;s health.</p>
<p>Gill believes that a total in excess of 300 would be a 'very good' score considering the conditions in Dubai, especially with no dew expected. "We definitely want to play positive and aggressive cricket. A score of 300-325 will be ideal on this wicket. The team that bats well in the middle overs will have a better chance of winning," he said.</p>
<p>Despite India's dominant record against Pakistan in world events, the match continues to generate significant excitement. India won their tournament opener against Bangladesh, while Pakistan lost to New Zealand, making Sunday's clash a must-win encounter for them.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-pak-live-streaming-free-when-and-where-to-watch-champions-trophy-2025-india-vs-pakistan-live-for-free-online-mobile-and-tv-8747121">Ind vs Pak Live Streaming Free: When and where to watch Champions Trophy 2025 India vs Pakistan live online</a></strong></p>
<p>Gill dismissed the impact of the toss, asserting that the team batting second would face more pressure. "Toss won't matter as there is no dew. The team chasing will be under more pressure," said Gill, who scored an unbeaten century against Bangladesh.</p>
<h2>Pant down with viral</h2>
<p>Additionally, Gill revealed that wicketkeeper-batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rishabh-pant">Rishabh Pant</a> missed the practice session due to a viral fever. "Rishabh is down with viral; that is why he did not come for practice," he said.</p>
<p>As vice-captain, Gill also highlighted his role in keeping the non-playing members of the squad in a positive mindset. "I try to keep players who are not in the playing eleven motivated and ready for their chance. Whenever I notice someone feeling low or lacking confidence, I talk to them and have those conversations," he added.</p>
<p><strong>India squad:</strong> Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohd. Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Ravindra Jadeja, Varun Chakaravarthy.</p>
<p><strong>Pakistan squad:</strong> Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi.</p>

Sports, Cricket: Gill believes that a total in excess of 300 would be a 'very good' score considering the conditions in Dubai, especially with no dew expected

India vice-captain Shubman Gill shared his thoughts ahead of the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy clash against arch-rivals Pakistan, emphasising the importance of a strong total and addressing concerns about Rishabh Pant’s health. Gill believes that a total in excess of 300 would be a 'very good' score considering the conditions in Dubai, especially with no dew expected. "We definitely want to play positive and aggressive cricket. A score of 300-325 will be ideal on this wicket. The team that bats well in the middle overs will have a better chance of winning," he said. Despite India's dominant record against Pakistan in world events, the match continues to generate significant excitement. India won their tournament opener against Bangladesh, while Pakistan lost to New Zealand, making Sunday's clash a must-win encounter for them. Also Read: Ind vs Pak Live Streaming Free: When and where to watch Champions Trophy 2025 India vs Pakistan live online Gill dismissed the impact of the toss, asserting that the team batting second would face more pressure. "Toss won't matter as there is no dew. The team chasing will be under more pressure," said Gill, who scored an unbeaten century against Bangladesh. Pant down with viral Additionally, Gill revealed that wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant missed the practice session due to a viral fever. "Rishabh is down with viral; that is why he did not come for practice," he said. As vice-captain, Gill also highlighted his role in keeping the non-playing members of the squad in a positive mindset. "I try to keep players who are not in the playing eleven motivated and ready for their chance. Whenever I notice someone feeling low or lacking confidence, I talk to them and have those conversations," he added. India squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohd. Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Ravindra Jadeja, Varun Chakaravarthy. Pakistan squad: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Champions Trophy 2025: India's vice-captain Shubman Gill shares winning score in Dubai

<p>India&rsquo;s fast bowler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-shami">Mohammed Shami</a> has credited his unique fitness regimen&mdash;eating just one meal a day&mdash;for maintaining peak performance. The 34-year-old pacer, a key figure in India&rsquo;s Champions Trophy campaign, revealed that he abstains from breakfast and lunch, relying solely on dinner to fuel his body.</p>
<p>"After 2015, I only have one meal a day. I only have dinner; no breakfast, no lunch. It is very difficult at first, but once you get used to it, it becomes easy," Shami shared in a conversation with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/navjot-singh-sidhu">Navjot Singh Sidhu</a> on official broadcaster Star.</p>
<p>His disciplined approach has played a crucial role in his success. He was the standout bowler in India's tournament opener against Bangladesh, taking five wickets and becoming the fastest Indian to reach 200 ODI wickets.</p>
<h2>'I stay away from sweets'</h2>
<p>Shami&rsquo;s comeback follows a 14-month injury layoff after suffering an ankle injury in the 2023 ODI <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/world-cup">World Cup</a> final against Australia.&nbsp;<span>Shami said he gained quite a bit of weight during the recovery phase and had to shed nearly nine kgs to get back into shape.</span></p>
<p><span>"I have lost nine kgs (during rehabilitation). The most difficult thing is you have to challenge yourself. When you are in this condition... When I was at the NCA, it was a very difficult phase," "My weight was touching 90kgs. The best thing about me is that I do not crave for delicacies. I stay away from sweets. I stay away from a lot of things, things that generally one shouldn't eat. So, I stay away from them," said Shami.</span></p>
<p>Shami, who has claimed 55 wickets across three ODI World Cups and became the eighth Indian to reach 200 wickets in one-day cricket, added that despite his strict regimen he does enjoy his biryani once in a while. "And, as far as the biryani is concerned, so sometimes it's okay."</p>
<p>Shami will be a key player in India&rsquo;s much-anticipated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> clash against Pakistan on Sunday (Feb 23), with his fitness and form crucial for India&rsquo;s campaign.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Shami’s comeback follows a 14-month injury layoff after suffering an ankle injury in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia

India’s fast bowler Mohammed Shami has credited his unique fitness regimen—eating just one meal a day—for maintaining peak performance. The 34-year-old pacer, a key figure in India’s Champions Trophy campaign, revealed that he abstains from breakfast and lunch, relying solely on dinner to fuel his body. "After 2015, I only have one meal a day. I only have dinner; no breakfast, no lunch. It is very difficult at first, but once you get used to it, it becomes easy," Shami shared in a conversation with Navjot Singh Sidhu on official broadcaster Star. His disciplined approach has played a crucial role in his success. He was the standout bowler in India's tournament opener against Bangladesh, taking five wickets and becoming the fastest Indian to reach 200 ODI wickets. 'I stay away from sweets' Shami’s comeback follows a 14-month injury layoff after suffering an ankle injury in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia. Shami said he gained quite a bit of weight during the recovery phase and had to shed nearly nine kgs to get back into shape. "I have lost nine kgs (during rehabilitation). The most difficult thing is you have to challenge yourself. When you are in this condition... When I was at the NCA, it was a very difficult phase," "My weight was touching 90kgs. The best thing about me is that I do not crave for delicacies. I stay away from sweets. I stay away from a lot of things, things that generally one shouldn't eat. So, I stay away from them," said Shami. Shami, who has claimed 55 wickets across three ODI World Cups and became the eighth Indian to reach 200 wickets in one-day cricket, added that despite his strict regimen he does enjoy his biryani once in a while. "And, as far as the biryani is concerned, so sometimes it's okay." Shami will be a key player in India’s much-anticipated Champions Trophy clash against Pakistan on Sunday (Feb 23), with his fitness and form crucial for India’s campaign. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025 | One meal a day: Indian pacer opens up on sacrifices for India comeback

<p>Former India batter Sunil Gavaskar says that Virat Kohli needs to 'tighten up now' after being dismissed cheaply during Champions Trophy match against Bangladesh on Feb 21. Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain took Kohli's wicket for 22 runs - sixth time he was dismissed by a leggie in his last six ODI innings.</p>
<p>"It is to a great extent due to the fact that the bat face opens up. Same thing happens when he's playing against the quicks in Australia. The bat face opening up, looking to play through the covers, opening the face of the bat, that gets him into trouble. So, that is something that he's got to watch out for, even when he got out," Gavaskar told India Today.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-updated-points-table-after-south-africa-vs-afghanistan-group-b-match-8746878">Champions Trophy: Updated points table after South Africa vs Afghanistan Group B match</a></p>
<p>"A couple of times before he got out, he reached for Rishad, the ball turned, the bat face opened, and luckily the bat face opened and so there was no nick. So, that is something that he'll have to tighten up on now. But yes, I guess if you're getting out to the same kind of bowling, then there is a bit of concern there," added Gavaskar.</p>
<h2><strong>Kohli's leg-spin weakness</strong></h2>
<p>Before the match against Bangladesh, Kohli had played two ODIs against England and was dismissed by spinner Adil Rashid both the times. Prior to that, Kohli played three ODIs against Sri Lanka and was dismissed by Dunith Wellalage (left-arm othrodox which same as right-hand leg spin), Jeffery Vandersey and Wanindu Hasaranga, both regular leg-spinners.</p>
<p>Ahead of the match against Pakistan on Feb 23 in Dubai, the ace batter spent extra time at the nets to prepare. He reached the training session one hour earlier than the rest of the team at the ICC Academy on Saturday (Feb 22).</p>
<p>The right-handed batter was joined by the batting coach Sitanshu Kotak and throw-down specialists Nuwan Seneviratne and D Raghvendra (Raghu), and by the time the rest of the team reached the venue, Kohli was already done with his one training session. About 15 minutes later, Kohli removed his batting gear and took a break while putting an ice pack on his left leg.</p>

Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain took Kohli's wicket for 22 runs - sixth time he was dismissed by a leggie in his last six ODI innings. Cricket Sports

Former India batter Sunil Gavaskar says that Virat Kohli needs to 'tighten up now' after being dismissed cheaply during Champions Trophy match against Bangladesh on Feb 21. Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain took Kohli's wicket for 22 runs - sixth time he was dismissed by a leggie in his last six ODI innings. "It is to a great extent due to the fact that the bat face opens up. Same thing happens when he's playing against the quicks in Australia. The bat face opening up, looking to play through the covers, opening the face of the bat, that gets him into trouble. So, that is something that he's got to watch out for, even when he got out," Gavaskar told India Today. Also Read: Champions Trophy: Updated points table after South Africa vs Afghanistan Group B match "A couple of times before he got out, he reached for Rishad, the ball turned, the bat face opened, and luckily the bat face opened and so there was no nick. So, that is something that he'll have to tighten up on now. But yes, I guess if you're getting out to the same kind of bowling, then there is a bit of concern there," added Gavaskar. Kohli's leg-spin weakness Before the match against Bangladesh, Kohli had played two ODIs against England and was dismissed by spinner Adil Rashid both the times. Prior to that, Kohli played three ODIs against Sri Lanka and was dismissed by Dunith Wellalage (left-arm othrodox which same as right-hand leg spin), Jeffery Vandersey and Wanindu Hasaranga, both regular leg-spinners. Ahead of the match against Pakistan on Feb 23 in Dubai, the ace batter spent extra time at the nets to prepare. He reached the training session one hour earlier than the rest of the team at the ICC Academy on Saturday (Feb 22). The right-handed batter was joined by the batting coach Sitanshu Kotak and throw-down specialists Nuwan Seneviratne and D Raghvendra (Raghu), and by the time the rest of the team reached the venue, Kohli was already done with his one training session. About 15 minutes later, Kohli removed his batting gear and took a break while putting an ice pack on his left leg.

Champions Trophy: 'Tighten up,' Gavaskar to Kohli after batter gets dismissed on leg spin sixth time in last six ODIs

<p>Ace Indian batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> knows and understands the gravity of an India-Pakistan match, and to ensure he&rsquo;s up with the hype and his game, he reached the training session one hour earlier than the rest of the team at the ICC Academy on Saturday (Feb 22). India faces Pakistan in the marquee <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> clash in Dubai on Sunday (Feb 23).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-babar-azam-grinds-hard-in-extended-net-session-ahead-of-india-match-8745589" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Babar Azam grinds hard in extended net session ahead of India match</a></strong></p>
<p>The right-handed batter was joined by the batting coach Sitanshu Kotak and throw-down specialists Nuwan Seneviratne and D Raghvendra (Raghu), and by the time the rest of the team reached the venue, Kohli was already done with his one training session. About 15 minutes later, Kohli removed his batting gear and took a break while putting an ice pack on his left leg.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Kohli has been in the headlines lately for falling prey to similar (kinds of) dismissals across formats. While his knack of chasing the fourth-stump line (in Tests) cost him throughout the BGT Down Under, Kohli getting out to leg spinners in a similar fashion has put him under pressure.</p>
<p>To arrest his lean patch, Kohli trained for an extra hour before the marquee clash against Pakistan. Against the Men in Green in the ODIs, Virat averages 52.15, striking at 100.29, with his highest One-Day score (183 in Dhaka, 2012) coming against the same opponent.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h2>Desperate for runs<o:p></o:p></h2>
<p>Against Bangladesh in India&rsquo;s tournament opener, Kohli got out to leggie Rishad Hossain caught at gully on 22. While Michael Clarke lauded Kohli&rsquo;s commitment to return to his best, former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Virat is trying way too hard.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>&ldquo;I think he is trying too hard. Coming 90 minutes earlier to practice is a sign. He can come two minutes before the match and get going. I think he is trying a bit too much," Manjrekar said to broadcaster Star Sports.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/indian-national-anthem-mistakenly-played-during-eng-aus-champions-trophy-game-in-lahore-8746681" rel="dofollow">Indian national anthem mistakenly played during ENG-AUS Champions Trophy game in Lahore - Watch</a></strong></p>
<p>Knowing what Virat can do on the bigger stage, remembering perhaps his greatest knock against Pakistan (during the 2022 T20 World Cup), Clarke explained Kohli&rsquo;s desperation to reach the venue earlier than the team, adding he thrives in big tournaments. Clarke further urged fans not to be surprised should the Indian batter return to his old self against Pakistan.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>&ldquo;I think Virat is one of those players who thrive in big tournaments. He hasn't been in the best of form, which is why he's training an hour and a half earlier. That's what great players do-when something doesn't feel right, they make time to correct it before stepping onto the field," Clarke said, as quoted by Times of India (TOI). &nbsp;<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">"What I like about the Champions Trophy is that there's no time to ease into the tournament-you have to be at your best straight away. Virat is such a great player that he might just flick that switch. You might have watched him the other day and thought he wasn't at his best, but he steps up when India need him most. Don't be surprised if it happens against Pakistan on the big day," Clarke added.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: While Michael Clarke lauded Kohli’s commitment to return to his best, former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Virat is trying way too hard.

Ace Indian batter Virat Kohli knows and understands the gravity of an India-Pakistan match, and to ensure he’s up with the hype and his game, he reached the training session one hour earlier than the rest of the team at the ICC Academy on Saturday (Feb 22). India faces Pakistan in the marquee ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash in Dubai on Sunday (Feb 23). Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Babar Azam grinds hard in extended net session ahead of India match The right-handed batter was joined by the batting coach Sitanshu Kotak and throw-down specialists Nuwan Seneviratne and D Raghvendra (Raghu), and by the time the rest of the team reached the venue, Kohli was already done with his one training session. About 15 minutes later, Kohli removed his batting gear and took a break while putting an ice pack on his left leg. Kohli has been in the headlines lately for falling prey to similar (kinds of) dismissals across formats. While his knack of chasing the fourth-stump line (in Tests) cost him throughout the BGT Down Under, Kohli getting out to leg spinners in a similar fashion has put him under pressure. To arrest his lean patch, Kohli trained for an extra hour before the marquee clash against Pakistan. Against the Men in Green in the ODIs, Virat averages 52.15, striking at 100.29, with his highest One-Day score (183 in Dhaka, 2012) coming against the same opponent. Desperate for runs Against Bangladesh in India’s tournament opener, Kohli got out to leggie Rishad Hossain caught at gully on 22. While Michael Clarke lauded Kohli’s commitment to return to his best, former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Virat is trying way too hard. “I think he is trying too hard. Coming 90 minutes earlier to practice is a sign. He can come two minutes before the match and get going. I think he is trying a bit too much," Manjrekar said to broadcaster Star Sports. Also read | Indian national anthem mistakenly played during ENG-AUS Champions Trophy game in Lahore - Watch Knowing what Virat can do on the bigger stage, remembering perhaps his greatest knock against Pakistan (during the 2022 T20 World Cup), Clarke explained Kohli’s desperation to reach the venue earlier than the team, adding he thrives in big tournaments. Clarke further urged fans not to be surprised should the Indian batter return to his old self against Pakistan. “I think Virat is one of those players who thrive in big tournaments. He hasn't been in the best of form, which is why he's training an hour and a half earlier. That's what great players do-when something doesn't feel right, they make time to correct it before stepping onto the field," Clarke said, as quoted by Times of India (TOI). "What I like about the Champions Trophy is that there's no time to ease into the tournament-you have to be at your best straight away. Virat is such a great player that he might just flick that switch. You might have watched him the other day and thought he wasn't at his best, but he steps up when India need him most. Don't be surprised if it happens against Pakistan on the big day," Clarke added. (With inputs from agencies)

Virat Kohli reaches training an hour earlier than Indian team for Pakistan's Champions Trophy tie

<p>The Champions Trophy is up and running with three matches already done. In the three matches, two games were between Group A teams while one was played between Group B teams. The eight-team tournament has 12 group stage matches before top two teams from each group go ahead and enter the semis, scheduled to be played in Dubai on Mar 4 and in Lahore on Mar 5.</p>
<p>Each team plays three matches against rest of the teams in its group - making even one loss very difficult for teams to bounce back from.</p>
<h2><strong>Here's the updated Champions Trophy Points Table&nbsp;</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Group A: India, New Zealand, Pakistan and Bangladesh</strong></p>
<p>India and New Zealand have won their opening matches, respectively and earned two points each for the win. Bangladesh and Pakistan, however, lost their matches and are yet to open their account.&nbsp;</p>
<p>On the points table, Pakistan are at bottom due to poor net run-rate, while New Zealand are on top with India on second and Bangladesh on third place.</p>
<p>In the opening fixture of the tournament, New Zealand beat Pakistan by 60 runs and took their net run-rate to +1.200 while the same points were given to Pakistan but in debit, ie -1.200.</p>
<p>During India vs Bangladesh match, India won the match by six wickets and earned a net run-rate of +0.408 while Bangladesh were handed -0.408 net run-rate.</p>
<figure class="tinymce-table-div">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 824px; height: 106px; border-width: 1px;" class="center"><colgroup><col style="width: 137.167px;"><col style="width: 137.167px;"><col style="width: 137.167px;"><col style="width: 137.167px;"><col style="width: 137.167px;"><col style="width: 137.167px;"></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px;"><strong>Team Name</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;"><strong>Matches Played</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;"><strong>Wins</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;"><strong>Loss</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;"><strong>Points</strong></td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;"><strong>Net Run-rate</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">New Zealand</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">+1.2000</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">India</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">+0.408</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">Bangladesh</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">-0.408</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3906px;">
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">Pakistan</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">-1.2000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<p><strong>Group B: Australia, England, Afghanistan and South Africa</strong></p>
<p>South Africa beat Afghanistan by a mammoth 107 runs in the first match of Group B to earn two points and go on top of the table. The other two teams, England and Australia, are yet to finish playing a match before they earn or lose points.</p>
<p>The Proteas not only gained two points but also a net run-rate of +2.140 while Afghanistan are at -2.140 on the points table.</p>
<figure class="tinymce-table-div">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 805px; height: 153px;"><colgroup><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"><col style="width: 134.5px;"></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Team Name</strong></td>
<td><strong>Matches Played</strong></td>
<td><strong>Wins</strong></td>
<td><strong>Loss</strong></td>
<td><strong>Points</strong></td>
<td><strong>Net Run-rate</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>South Africa</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>+2.140</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Afghanistan</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>-2.140</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Australia</td>
<td>-</td>
<td>-</td>
<td>-</td>
<td>-</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>England</td>
<td>-</td>
<td>-</td>
<td>-</td>
<td>-</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

Champions Trophy: New Zealand are at the top of Group A while India are second. In Group B, South Africa are at top after their 107-run against Afghanistan. Cricket Sports

The Champions Trophy is up and running with three matches already done. In the three matches, two games were between Group A teams while one was played between Group B teams. The eight-team tournament has 12 group stage matches before top two teams from each group go ahead and enter the semis, scheduled to be played in Dubai on Mar 4 and in Lahore on Mar 5. Each team plays three matches against rest of the teams in its group - making even one loss very difficult for teams to bounce back from. Here's the updated Champions Trophy Points Table Group A: India, New Zealand, Pakistan and Bangladesh India and New Zealand have won their opening matches, respectively and earned two points each for the win. Bangladesh and Pakistan, however, lost their matches and are yet to open their account. On the points table, Pakistan are at bottom due to poor net run-rate, while New Zealand are on top with India on second and Bangladesh on third place. In the opening fixture of the tournament, New Zealand beat Pakistan by 60 runs and took their net run-rate to +1.200 while the same points were given to Pakistan but in debit, ie -1.200. During India vs Bangladesh match, India won the match by six wickets and earned a net run-rate of +0.408 while Bangladesh were handed -0.408 net run-rate. Team Name Matches Played Wins Loss Points Net Run-rate New Zealand 1 1 0 2 +1.2000 India 1 1 0 2 +0.408 Bangladesh 1 0 1 0 -0.408 Pakistan 1 0 1 0 -1.2000 Group B: Australia, England, Afghanistan and South Africa South Africa beat Afghanistan by a mammoth 107 runs in the first match of Group B to earn two points and go on top of the table. The other two teams, England and Australia, are yet to finish playing a match before they earn or lose points. The Proteas not only gained two points but also a net run-rate of +2.140 while Afghanistan are at -2.140 on the points table. Team Name Matches Played Wins Loss Points Net Run-rate South Africa 1 1 0 2 +2.140 Afghanistan 1 0 1 0 -2.140 Australia - - - - - England - - - -

Champions Trophy: Updated points table after South Africa vs Afghanistan Group B match

<p>Former Pakistan batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/umar-akmal">Umar Akmal</a> has blamed ex-captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/babar-azam">Babar Azam</a> for failing to develop a strong bench during his time, attributing the team's current struggles to his leadership approach.</p>
<p>Pakistan, the defending champions of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> and hosts of a major ICC event for the first time in nearly three decades, suffered a disappointing start by losing to New Zealand in their opening match. This setback has put their semifinal qualification in jeopardy.</p>
<p>Umar, who last played for Pakistan in 2019, did not hold back in his criticism of Babar, accusing him of favouritism and lack of foresight.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Babar was captain for almost five years in all formats, yet he never worked on building a strong bench due to his personal likes and dislikes,&rdquo; Umar said in an interview.</p>
<p>Babar led Pakistan from late 2019 to late 2023 before stepping down following their World Cup campaign. He was reinstated as the white-ball captain in 2024 but relinquished the role after another disappointing T20 World Cup performance.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-former-pak-wicketkeeper-calls-for-revival-of-india-pakistan-bilateral-cricket-8746745">Champions Trophy 2025: Former Pak wicketkeeper calls for revival of India-Pakistan bilateral cricket</a></strong></p>
<p>Umar recalled that during his own strong domestic performances, he had approached Babar for a chance to return to the national team.&nbsp;&ldquo;I told Babar, &lsquo;Give me a fair chance. You are excelling in the top order, and I can be a reliable finisher. Together, we can help Pakistan win matches,&rsquo;&rdquo; Umar revealed. However, he claims his plea was ignored.</p>
<h2>Babar's leadership questioned</h2>
<p>&ldquo;He never gave players a fair chance. A team&rsquo;s consistency depends on a strong bench, and that&rsquo;s something Babar failed to develop,&rdquo; he added.</p>
<p>The 34-year-old, who played 16 Tests, 121 ODIs, and 84 T20Is for Pakistan, believes that the national team has stagnated because deserving domestic performers were overlooked.</p>
<p>Babar has been under increasing scrutiny since Pakistan&rsquo;s loss in the three-nation series final on February 14. His struggles in the opening Champions Trophy match have only added to the pressure.&nbsp;Former Test cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/basit-ali">Basit Ali</a> also questioned Babar&rsquo;s approach, suggesting that his reluctance to adapt and lead with flexibility is hurting Pakistan&rsquo;s progress.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Umar, who last played for Pakistan in 2019, did not hold back in his criticism of Babar, accusing him of favoritism and lack of foresight

Former Pakistan batter Umar Akmal has blamed ex-captain Babar Azam for failing to develop a strong bench during his time, attributing the team's current struggles to his leadership approach. Pakistan, the defending champions of the Champions Trophy and hosts of a major ICC event for the first time in nearly three decades, suffered a disappointing start by losing to New Zealand in their opening match. This setback has put their semifinal qualification in jeopardy. Umar, who last played for Pakistan in 2019, did not hold back in his criticism of Babar, accusing him of favouritism and lack of foresight. “Babar was captain for almost five years in all formats, yet he never worked on building a strong bench due to his personal likes and dislikes,” Umar said in an interview. Babar led Pakistan from late 2019 to late 2023 before stepping down following their World Cup campaign. He was reinstated as the white-ball captain in 2024 but relinquished the role after another disappointing T20 World Cup performance. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Former Pak wicketkeeper calls for revival of India-Pakistan bilateral cricket Umar recalled that during his own strong domestic performances, he had approached Babar for a chance to return to the national team. “I told Babar, ‘Give me a fair chance. You are excelling in the top order, and I can be a reliable finisher. Together, we can help Pakistan win matches,’” Umar revealed. However, he claims his plea was ignored. Babar's leadership questioned “He never gave players a fair chance. A team’s consistency depends on a strong bench, and that’s something Babar failed to develop,” he added. The 34-year-old, who played 16 Tests, 121 ODIs, and 84 T20Is for Pakistan, believes that the national team has stagnated because deserving domestic performers were overlooked. Babar has been under increasing scrutiny since Pakistan’s loss in the three-nation series final on February 14. His struggles in the opening Champions Trophy match have only added to the pressure. Former Test cricketer Basit Ali also questioned Babar’s approach, suggesting that his reluctance to adapt and lead with flexibility is hurting Pakistan’s progress. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Did Babar Azam hinder team's growth? Former Pak batter thinks so

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