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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.
<h2>Here's the updated Champions Trophy Points Table&nbsp;</h2>
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.&nbsp;
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.
<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;">Team Name</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">Matches Played</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">Wins</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">Loss</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">Points</td>
<td style="height: 22.3906px;">Net Run-rate</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>
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.
<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>Team Name</td>
<td>Matches Played</td>
<td>Wins</td>
<td>Loss</td>
<td>Points</td>
<td>Net Run-rate</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>
&nbsp;

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

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.
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.
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.
&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.
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: <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>
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.
<h2>Babar's leadership questioned</h2>
&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.
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&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.
(With inputs from agencies)

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

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/moin-khan">Moin Khan</a> has called for the restoration of bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan ahead of their much-anticipated clash in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> in Dubai on Sunday (Feb 23).
The tournament's future was in jeopardy after India refused to travel to Pakistan, with the PCB insisting on hosting the entire event domestically. The deadlock was resolved when both nations agreed to play their ICC tournament fixtures at neutral venues moving forward. However, with top teams arriving in Pakistan for the competition, Moin expressed disappointment over India's absence.
"Unfortunately, the Indian cricket team is not coming to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. When all the top teams are playing here, why can't India?" Moin was quoted saying to Telecom Asia Sport.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/atul-wassan-compares-india-pakistan-rivalry-to-amitabh-bachchan-punching-villains-in-bollywood-movies-8746320">Atul Wassan compares India-Pakistan rivalry to Amitabh Bachchan punching villains in Bollywood movies</a>
He highlighted the excitement of Pakistani fans who were eager to watch cricketing stars like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>, Jasprit Bumrah, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a>, and Rishabh Pant perform in Lahore and Karachi.
<h2>'Cricket can bridge gaps'</h2>
Due to political tensions, India last toured Pakistan in 2008 for the Asia Cup, and their last bilateral series took place in 2012-13 in India. Since then, the two teams have only met in ICC and Asia Cup tournaments. While India has refrained from touring Pakistan, the latter has traveled to India twice for the 2016 T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Moin believes cricket diplomacy could be instrumental in easing relations between the two nations.&nbsp;"Pakistani and Indian cricketers have always shared great camaraderie off the field, despite being fierce competitors on it. I have fond memories of those days," he said.
He urged both cricket boards and officials to use the sport as a medium to mend ties and resume regular bilateral series.&nbsp;"I strongly feel that both nations should embrace cricket diplomacy to bring back Indo-Pak bilateral matches," he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: India last toured Pakistan in 2008, and their last bilateral was in 2012-13 in India. Since then, the two teams have only met in ICC and Asia Cup tournaments

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Moin Khan has called for the restoration of bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan ahead of their much-anticipated clash in the Champions Trophy in Dubai on Sunday (Feb 23). The tournament's future was in jeopardy after India refused to travel to Pakistan, with the PCB insisting on hosting the entire event domestically. The deadlock was resolved when both nations agreed to play their ICC tournament fixtures at neutral venues moving forward. However, with top teams arriving in Pakistan for the competition, Moin expressed disappointment over India's absence. "Unfortunately, the Indian cricket team is not coming to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. When all the top teams are playing here, why can't India?" Moin was quoted saying to Telecom Asia Sport. Also Read: Atul Wassan compares India-Pakistan rivalry to Amitabh Bachchan punching villains in Bollywood movies He highlighted the excitement of Pakistani fans who were eager to watch cricketing stars like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma, and Rishabh Pant perform in Lahore and Karachi. 'Cricket can bridge gaps' Due to political tensions, India last toured Pakistan in 2008 for the Asia Cup, and their last bilateral series took place in 2012-13 in India. Since then, the two teams have only met in ICC and Asia Cup tournaments. While India has refrained from touring Pakistan, the latter has traveled to India twice for the 2016 T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup. Moin believes cricket diplomacy could be instrumental in easing relations between the two nations. "Pakistani and Indian cricketers have always shared great camaraderie off the field, despite being fierce competitors on it. I have fond memories of those days," he said. He urged both cricket boards and officials to use the sport as a medium to mend ties and resume regular bilateral series. "I strongly feel that both nations should embrace cricket diplomacy to bring back Indo-Pak bilateral matches," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Former Pak wicketkeeper calls for revival of India-Pakistan bilateral cricket

Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf says that the their next Champions Trophy match against India on Sunday (Feb 23) in Dubai is 'just another match.' The pacer, however, also termed the game a do-or-die fixture. After losing the first game against New Zealand, Pakistan will be virtually out of contention for the semis if they lose against India as well.
"We have beaten India twice here in Dubai. We will aim to make it three and repeat those performances. We are confident, and it will be a great match," Rauf said during team's practice session on Friday (Feb 21) at ICC academy in Dubai.
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">Babar Azam grinds hard in extended net session ahead of India match</a>
"What's past is past. We are now focusing on the India game. We will address the mistakes we made in the previous game and try not to repeat them. For us, it's an important fixture; a do-or-die game. We need to win this to stand a chance of qualifying for the semifinals.
"The morale is not down; all the boys will try hard and give their best. It is an important fixture, and we will aim to perform well in all departments - batting, bowling, and fielding. There is no extra pressure; we are relaxed. We will treat it as just another match," he added.
<h2>Champions Trophy 2025 Points Table&nbsp;</h2>
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. On the points table, Pakistan are at the bottom due to poor net run-rate, while New Zealand are on top with India on second and Bangladesh on third place.
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.

Champions Trophy: After losing the first game against New Zealand, Pakistan will be virtually out of contention for the semis if they lose against India as well. Cricket Sports

Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf says that the their next Champions Trophy match against India on Sunday (Feb 23) in Dubai is 'just another match.' The pacer, however, also termed the game a do-or-die fixture. After losing the first game against New Zealand, Pakistan will be virtually out of contention for the semis if they lose against India as well. "We have beaten India twice here in Dubai. We will aim to make it three and repeat those performances. We are confident, and it will be a great match," Rauf said during team's practice session on Friday (Feb 21) at ICC academy in Dubai. Also Read: Babar Azam grinds hard in extended net session ahead of India match "What's past is past. We are now focusing on the India game. We will address the mistakes we made in the previous game and try not to repeat them. For us, it's an important fixture; a do-or-die game. We need to win this to stand a chance of qualifying for the semifinals. "The morale is not down; all the boys will try hard and give their best. It is an important fixture, and we will aim to perform well in all departments - batting, bowling, and fielding. There is no extra pressure; we are relaxed. We will treat it as just another match," he added. Champions Trophy 2025 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. On the points table, Pakistan are at the bottom due to poor net run-rate, while New Zealand are on top with India on second and Bangladesh on third place. 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.

INDIA vs PAKISTAN: Haris Rauf says Pakistan will treat 'do-or-die game' against India as 'just another match'

The Indian national anthem was mistakenly played during the England vs Australia <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a> game at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Saturday (Feb 22). In a major blunder by the sound team at the venue, they accidentally played the Indian national anthem instead of Australia&rsquo;s, with the players, including English, looking baffled.
The players and the match officials walked onto the field for the customary national anthems, with England&rsquo;s being played first. Just after the Aussie team members lined up to sing theirs, the organisers wrongly played the Indian anthem, leaving everyone stunned. They realised it soon after and stopped (it) before restoring the order and playing the Australian Fair.
Also read | <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">Champions Trophy 2025: How Pakistan can qualify for semis if they lose to India | Explained</a>
Watch -&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7g2e5pl-0j9drlbg-v8bqtg1c">
In a hilarious mix-up during today's England vs. Australia match, Pakistan decided to give Australia a "surprise warm-up" by playing the Indian national anthem instead of Australia's! 🎶😂 <a href="https://t.co/vrDQKTQmio">pic.twitter.com/vrDQKTQmio</a>
&mdash; Arun (@oddEEVEN21) <a href="https://twitter.com/oddEEVEN21/status/1893224312888311906?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
Besides this being considered a one-of-a-kind instance ever recorded, it was bizarre because India is not even scheduled to play any of its Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan; instead, they will play all the matches in Dubai, including the knockouts, should they qualify.
<h2>India&rsquo;s refusal</h2>
Just like how the BCCI denied sending its team across the border for the 2023 Asia Cup (for security reasons), forcing the tournament to be played in a hybrid model (with Sri Lanka added as a last-minute alternate venue), the Indian Cricket Board did the same this time too (for the same reason), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-to-not-travel-to-pakistan-for-champions-trophy-2025-bcci-pushes-for-neutral-venue-report-774646" rel="dofollow">denying sending the Rohit Sharma-led side to Pakistan</a>.
After officially informing the apex body about it, the ICC asked Pakistan to accept the hybrid model, which they denied doing in the first go. However, after several sittings and discussions, the PCB accepted this model, choosing Dubai as the alternative venue (for India); however, that came with some conditions, which the BCCI accepted.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/atul-wassan-compares-india-pakistan-rivalry-to-amitabh-bachchan-punching-villains-in-bollywood-movies-8746320" rel="dofollow">Atul Wassan compares India-Pakistan rivalry to Amitabh Bachchan punching villains in Bollywood movies</a>
Meanwhile, returning to the England vs Australia Champions Trophy game, England batted first after losing the toss, and have scored 132 for two in 20 overs till the time of writing this.
While opener Ben Duckett completed his fifty, his partner Phil Salt got out (to Ben Dwarshuis) courtesy of a brilliant catch by Alex Carey at the mid-on area in the Powerplay.
<h3>Watch Video &ndash;</h3>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7g2fejh-gh0b6kzo-tqyg33xu">
𝙎𝙃𝙊𝙏𝙎 𝙂𝘼𝙇𝙊𝙍𝙀, 𝘽𝙐𝙏 𝙏𝙃𝙀𝙉... 𝙂𝙊𝙉𝙀! 😲💥 Phil Salt was in full flow, but Alex Carey&rsquo;s stunning grab brings his blazing knock to an end! 🧤🔥 Can Australia capitalize on this breakthrough? 🏏⚡<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophyOnJioStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophyOnJioStar</a> 👉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvENG</a>, LIVE NOW on Star Sports 2,&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/CgScZ0l4Wi">pic.twitter.com/CgScZ0l4Wi</a>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1893230517782446397?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
Later, the left-arm seamer removed Jamie Smith, batting at number three for the first time in his career for 15.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7g2fnu4-wxdf7tfq-jsbctmqa">
𝘼𝙉𝙊𝙏𝙃𝙀𝙍 𝙊𝙉𝙀 𝙂𝙊𝙀𝙎! 😲💥 Jamie Smith miscues, and Carey pouches it with ease! A soft dismissal &ndash; can England bounce back from this setback? 🏏⚡<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophyOnJioStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophyOnJioStar</a> 👉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvENG</a>, LIVE NOW on Star Sports 2, Sports 18-1 &amp; JioHotstar! <a href="https://t.co/WJeUYT4sv9">pic.twitter.com/WJeUYT4sv9</a>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1893234715781668897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
Joe Root and Duckett stitched a healthy partnership, propelling England to score at over six runs per over.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: In a major blunder by the sound team, they accidentally played the Indian national anthem instead of Australia’s, with the players looking baffled at it.

The Indian national anthem was mistakenly played during the England vs Australia Champions Trophy game at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Saturday (Feb 22). In a major blunder by the sound team at the venue, they accidentally played the Indian national anthem instead of Australia’s, with the players, including English, looking baffled. The players and the match officials walked onto the field for the customary national anthems, with England’s being played first. Just after the Aussie team members lined up to sing theirs, the organisers wrongly played the Indian anthem, leaving everyone stunned. They realised it soon after and stopped (it) before restoring the order and playing the Australian Fair. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: How Pakistan can qualify for semis if they lose to India | Explained Watch - In a hilarious mix-up during today's England vs. Australia match, Pakistan decided to give Australia a "surprise warm-up" by playing the Indian national anthem instead of Australia's! 🎶😂 pic.twitter.com/vrDQKTQmio — Arun (@oddEEVEN21) February 22, 2025 Besides this being considered a one-of-a-kind instance ever recorded, it was bizarre because India is not even scheduled to play any of its Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan; instead, they will play all the matches in Dubai, including the knockouts, should they qualify. India’s refusal Just like how the BCCI denied sending its team across the border for the 2023 Asia Cup (for security reasons), forcing the tournament to be played in a hybrid model (with Sri Lanka added as a last-minute alternate venue), the Indian Cricket Board did the same this time too (for the same reason), denying sending the Rohit Sharma-led side to Pakistan. After officially informing the apex body about it, the ICC asked Pakistan to accept the hybrid model, which they denied doing in the first go. However, after several sittings and discussions, the PCB accepted this model, choosing Dubai as the alternative venue (for India); however, that came with some conditions, which the BCCI accepted. Also read | Atul Wassan compares India-Pakistan rivalry to Amitabh Bachchan punching villains in Bollywood movies Meanwhile, returning to the England vs Australia Champions Trophy game, England batted first after losing the toss, and have scored 132 for two in 20 overs till the time of writing this. While opener Ben Duckett completed his fifty, his partner Phil Salt got out (to Ben Dwarshuis) courtesy of a brilliant catch by Alex Carey at the mid-on area in the Powerplay. Watch Video – 𝙎𝙃𝙊𝙏𝙎 𝙂𝘼𝙇𝙊𝙍𝙀, 𝘽𝙐𝙏 𝙏𝙃𝙀𝙉... 𝙂𝙊𝙉𝙀! 😲💥 Phil Salt was in full flow, but Alex Carey’s stunning grab brings his blazing knock to an end! 🧤🔥 Can Australia capitalize on this breakthrough? 🏏⚡#ChampionsTrophyOnJioStar 👉 #AUSvENG, LIVE NOW on Star Sports 2,… pic.twitter.com/CgScZ0l4Wi — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 22, 2025 Later, the left-arm seamer removed Jamie Smith, batting at number three for the first time in his career for 15. 𝘼𝙉𝙊𝙏𝙃𝙀𝙍 𝙊𝙉𝙀 𝙂𝙊𝙀𝙎! 😲💥 Jamie Smith miscues, and Carey pouches it with ease! A soft dismissal – can England bounce back from this setback? 🏏⚡#ChampionsTrophyOnJioStar 👉 #AUSvENG, LIVE NOW on Star Sports 2, Sports 18-1 & JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/WJeUYT4sv9 — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 22, 2025 Joe Root and Duckett stitched a healthy partnership, propelling England to score at over six runs per over. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian national anthem mistakenly played during ENG-AUS Champions Trophy game in Lahore - Watch

India vs Pakistan is the mother of all matches. The two Asian giants will script another chapter in this iconic rivalry in Dubai this Sunday (Feb 23) in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a>. Although Pakistan holds a better head-to-head record (3-2) over India in tournament history, India will enter this contest as hot favourites, something the former Indian quick Atul Wassan feels would be no fun.
Reflecting on this iconic rivalry on the eve of the match, the cricketer-turned-broadcaster said he wishes to see Pakistan prevail in this high-octane clash, as it would make things exciting in Group A, with three teams having two points each. This way, everyone remains hooked to the competition till the end.&nbsp;
Besides, speaking on India&rsquo;s latest success against their arch-rivals across two formats, Wassan says it&rsquo;s like watching Amitabh Bachchan punching villains (in old Bollywood movies) without getting hit, which was never fun to him.&nbsp;
Also read | <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">Champions Trophy 2025: How can Pakistan qualify for semis if they lose to India | Explained</a>
Pakistan might be the defending champions, but they haven&rsquo;t won a single ODI against India in their past five contested matches, with their last win coming in the 2017 Champions Trophy final.
Meanwhile, both the teams have had contrasting starts to this edition, with Pakistan losing to New Zealand (by 60 runs) in their first game, while&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-live-score-updates-champions-trophy-2025-ball-by-ball-updates-and-full-scorecard-india-vs-bangladesh-dubai-international-cricket-stadium-8738242" rel="dofollow">India beat Bangladesh by six wickets</a> in their tournament opener in Dubai.
&ldquo;I want Pakistan to win because it will make the rest of the tournament more exciting. If Pakistan plays well and wins, there will be a real contest," Atul Wassan said in a chat with ANI. "It's like Amitabh Bachchan - if he keeps punching the enemies nonstop, there's no fun in watching it. I hope Pakistan makes a comeback; it will be good for the tournament.&rdquo;
<h2>How did the shift happen?</h2>
Pakistan was a force to reckon with until the early 2000s, having tasted plenty of success against India in the ODIs. However, since then, the momentum shifted towards India, who remain the most daunting team in world cricket, let alone in this rivalry.
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>
Speaking on the same lines, Wassan said, "Until Pakistan improves its cricket, there's no excitement in watching India vs Pakistan games. When I played in the '90s, Pakistan had so many great players - Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Saeed Anwar. We used to lose to them quite often.
"Whatever happened in Pakistan affected their cricket, and they suffered because of it. Meanwhile, India have only grown stronger. Since the 2000s, we have dominated them," he concluded.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Although Pakistan holds a better head-to-head record (3-2) over India in tournament history, India will enter this contest as hot favourites.

India vs Pakistan is the mother of all matches. The two Asian giants will script another chapter in this iconic rivalry in Dubai this Sunday (Feb 23) in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Although Pakistan holds a better head-to-head record (3-2) over India in tournament history, India will enter this contest as hot favourites, something the former Indian quick Atul Wassan feels would be no fun. Reflecting on this iconic rivalry on the eve of the match, the cricketer-turned-broadcaster said he wishes to see Pakistan prevail in this high-octane clash, as it would make things exciting in Group A, with three teams having two points each. This way, everyone remains hooked to the competition till the end. Besides, speaking on India’s latest success against their arch-rivals across two formats, Wassan says it’s like watching Amitabh Bachchan punching villains (in old Bollywood movies) without getting hit, which was never fun to him. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: How can Pakistan qualify for semis if they lose to India | Explained Pakistan might be the defending champions, but they haven’t won a single ODI against India in their past five contested matches, with their last win coming in the 2017 Champions Trophy final. Meanwhile, both the teams have had contrasting starts to this edition, with Pakistan losing to New Zealand (by 60 runs) in their first game, while India beat Bangladesh by six wickets in their tournament opener in Dubai. “I want Pakistan to win because it will make the rest of the tournament more exciting. If Pakistan plays well and wins, there will be a real contest," Atul Wassan said in a chat with ANI. "It's like Amitabh Bachchan - if he keeps punching the enemies nonstop, there's no fun in watching it. I hope Pakistan makes a comeback; it will be good for the tournament.” How did the shift happen? Pakistan was a force to reckon with until the early 2000s, having tasted plenty of success against India in the ODIs. However, since then, the momentum shifted towards India, who remain the most daunting team in world cricket, let alone in this rivalry. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Babar Azam grinds hard in extended net session ahead of India match Speaking on the same lines, Wassan said, "Until Pakistan improves its cricket, there's no excitement in watching India vs Pakistan games. When I played in the '90s, Pakistan had so many great players - Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Saeed Anwar. We used to lose to them quite often. "Whatever happened in Pakistan affected their cricket, and they suffered because of it. Meanwhile, India have only grown stronger. Since the 2000s, we have dominated them," he concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

Atul Wassan compares India-Pakistan rivalry to Amitabh Bachchan punching villains in Bollywood movies

India and Pakistan will face off on Sunday (Feb 23) in Dubai in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a>. While Pakistan will enter this contest after losing the curtain raiser to New Zealand (by 60 runs), their competitor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-live-score-updates-champions-trophy-2025-ball-by-ball-updates-and-full-scorecard-india-vs-bangladesh-dubai-international-cricket-stadium-8738242" rel="dofollow">India emerged winners against Bangladesh</a>, holding an upper hand in the semis race. However, what would happen to the tournament host should they lose the marquee clash? Would they be knocked out or still have a little window to cruise to the final four? Let's explore.
<h2>Group standing</h2>
Placed in Group A, Pakistan currently sit at the bottom with zero points, as Bangladesh, but because of their lower NNR (-1.200) compared to the Tigers (-0.408), the hosts are in the fourth position in the standings. However, with two points each (from their respective first games), New Zealand and India hold the top two spots, with the Kiwis number one with better NRR (+1.200), while India is in the second position (+0.408).
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>
After going down against New Zealand, Pakistan has two remaining matches in this tournament, against India on February 23 and Bangladesh on February 27. &nbsp;
<h3>Semis chances&nbsp;</h3>
An ICC tournament returned to Pakistan for the first time since 1996, when they co-hosted the 50-over World Cup. Although the build-up in the country was massive this time, with several former Pakistan cricketers, alongside the PCB administration, going gaga over it, their tournament could virtually end just four days into it should they lose to India on Sunday.
A loss to India could end their semis chances, although, mathematically, they could still qualify; the question remains how.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-ricky-ponting-lauds-shubman-gill-says-he-deserves-be-number-one-odi-batter-8745380" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025 - &lsquo;Shubman Gill deserves to be number 1 ODI batter,&rsquo; says Ricky Ponting</a>
India beating Pakistan could almost seal their semis place, with four points from two matches; however, Pakistan would then rely on Bangladesh to pull the rabbit out of the hat against the Kiwis the next day, besides assuming the hosts would beat Bangladesh in their final league game in Rawalpindi.
The calculations don&rsquo;t end here.
For Pakistan to ensure a semis berth, India must also beat New Zealand comprehensively to stay on the top of the points table, with the remaining three teams sharing two points each. That would boil down to the NRR as the team with a better one advances.
However, should Pakistan beat India, it would make things interesting in Group A, with all three of New Zealand and the two arch-rivals sharing two points each.&nbsp;
Should the host better their already-dominating head-to-head record against India (3-2) in this tournament, different scenarios will come into the picture.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: What would happen to Pakistan if they lose the marquee clash? Would they be knocked out or still have a little window to cruise to the final four? Let's explore.

India and Pakistan will face off on Sunday (Feb 23) in Dubai in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. While Pakistan will enter this contest after losing the curtain raiser to New Zealand (by 60 runs), their competitor India emerged winners against Bangladesh, holding an upper hand in the semis race. However, what would happen to the tournament host should they lose the marquee clash? Would they be knocked out or still have a little window to cruise to the final four? Let's explore. Group standing Placed in Group A, Pakistan currently sit at the bottom with zero points, as Bangladesh, but because of their lower NNR (-1.200) compared to the Tigers (-0.408), the hosts are in the fourth position in the standings. However, with two points each (from their respective first games), New Zealand and India hold the top two spots, with the Kiwis number one with better NRR (+1.200), while India is in the second position (+0.408). Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Babar Azam grinds hard in extended net session ahead of India match After going down against New Zealand, Pakistan has two remaining matches in this tournament, against India on February 23 and Bangladesh on February 27. Semis chances An ICC tournament returned to Pakistan for the first time since 1996, when they co-hosted the 50-over World Cup. Although the build-up in the country was massive this time, with several former Pakistan cricketers, alongside the PCB administration, going gaga over it, their tournament could virtually end just four days into it should they lose to India on Sunday. A loss to India could end their semis chances, although, mathematically, they could still qualify; the question remains how. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025 - ‘Shubman Gill deserves to be number 1 ODI batter,’ says Ricky Ponting India beating Pakistan could almost seal their semis place, with four points from two matches; however, Pakistan would then rely on Bangladesh to pull the rabbit out of the hat against the Kiwis the next day, besides assuming the hosts would beat Bangladesh in their final league game in Rawalpindi. The calculations don’t end here. For Pakistan to ensure a semis berth, India must also beat New Zealand comprehensively to stay on the top of the points table, with the remaining three teams sharing two points each. That would boil down to the NRR as the team with a better one advances. However, should Pakistan beat India, it would make things interesting in Group A, with all three of New Zealand and the two arch-rivals sharing two points each. Should the host better their already-dominating head-to-head record against India (3-2) in this tournament, different scenarios will come into the picture. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: How Pakistan can qualify for semis if they lose to India | Explained

England faces Australia in the fourth game of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy</a> on Saturday (Feb 22) in Lahore, and veteran batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/joe-root" rel="dofollow">Joe Root</a> feels no pressure to take on the world champions in their tournament opener. While England entered this competition having suffered a series whitewash against India, Australia also got cleaned bowled in the two-match ODIs against Sri Lanka in the lead-up to this, a team that didn&rsquo;t even qualify for the eight-team tournament.
Besides, what&rsquo;s common in both camps is the unavailability of star players, with Australia missing plenty compared to England. Though England had already <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-jamie-smith-returns-as-england-name-playing-xi-for-blockbuster-australia-tie-8742952" rel="dofollow">announced their playing XI</a> two days before the first marquee clash of the tournament, picking a batting-heavy top seven, Australia will announce theirs at the toss.
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>
Reflecting on this big match between Ashes rivals, Root said it&rsquo;s always a good time to play Australia, adding that as an English player, you always look forward to facing them regardless of the format.
"It's always a good time to play Australia," Root said in an exclusive chat with Sky Sports ahead of Saturday's clash. "It's the one game, whatever the format, which, as an England player, you always relish.
"You've always got to respect every opponent you come up against, and just because it's not the guys that have played for the last 10 years that everyone knows inside out, it doesn't mean they're not good players, and they're not good performers that can win games on this stage.
"Clearly, there's a huge amount of respect there but, at the same time, there's also that inner confidence that we have the ability to take on not just them, but every other team in this tournament,&rdquo; Root continued.
<h2>Belief within the camp</h2>
Though England&rsquo;s back is against the wall after losing seven of the eight contested white-ball matches against India, including losing the ODIs (0-3) &ndash; their fourth straight One-Day series loss, Root believes none of that has hampered the dressing room morale and the team remains motivated to achieve their goal of winning the Champions Trophy.&nbsp;
"The thing that excites me most is the talent that we've got within the squad," Root said.&nbsp;
"You look at the ability that's there, and you know what guys are capable of.
"Clearly, we could take anyone on in the world, and that's an exciting place to be as a team. It's just about going out there and doing it now,&rdquo; he added.
Meanwhile, in Group B, where both these teams are placed, South Africa beat Afghanistan by 107 runs in their tournament opener, pocketing two crucial points.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Reflecting on this big match between Ashes rivals, Joe Root said it’s always a good time to play Australia, adding they always look forward to facing them.

England faces Australia in the fourth game of the ICC Champions Trophy on Saturday (Feb 22) in Lahore, and veteran batter Joe Root feels no pressure to take on the world champions in their tournament opener. While England entered this competition having suffered a series whitewash against India, Australia also got cleaned bowled in the two-match ODIs against Sri Lanka in the lead-up to this, a team that didn’t even qualify for the eight-team tournament. Besides, what’s common in both camps is the unavailability of star players, with Australia missing plenty compared to England. Though England had already announced their playing XI two days before the first marquee clash of the tournament, picking a batting-heavy top seven, Australia will announce theirs at the toss. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Babar Azam grinds hard in extended net session ahead of India match Reflecting on this big match between Ashes rivals, Root said it’s always a good time to play Australia, adding that as an English player, you always look forward to facing them regardless of the format. "It's always a good time to play Australia," Root said in an exclusive chat with Sky Sports ahead of Saturday's clash. "It's the one game, whatever the format, which, as an England player, you always relish. "You've always got to respect every opponent you come up against, and just because it's not the guys that have played for the last 10 years that everyone knows inside out, it doesn't mean they're not good players, and they're not good performers that can win games on this stage. "Clearly, there's a huge amount of respect there but, at the same time, there's also that inner confidence that we have the ability to take on not just them, but every other team in this tournament,” Root continued. Belief within the camp Though England’s back is against the wall after losing seven of the eight contested white-ball matches against India, including losing the ODIs (0-3) – their fourth straight One-Day series loss, Root believes none of that has hampered the dressing room morale and the team remains motivated to achieve their goal of winning the Champions Trophy. "The thing that excites me most is the talent that we've got within the squad," Root said. "You look at the ability that's there, and you know what guys are capable of. "Clearly, we could take anyone on in the world, and that's an exciting place to be as a team. It's just about going out there and doing it now,” he added. Meanwhile, in Group B, where both these teams are placed, South Africa beat Afghanistan by 107 runs in their tournament opener, pocketing two crucial points. (With inputs from agencies)

‘We could take anyone on in the world,’ Root on England’s chances against Australia in Champions Trophy

Former Pakistan captain and star batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/babar-azam" rel="dofollow">Babar Azam</a> is putting extra yards in the nets for the marquee <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a> clash against India this Sunday (Feb 23). The right-handed batter had an extended training session in Dubai, facing several bowlers on Friday as he prepares for the crucial do-or-die game.
Per the latest reports, barring the skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammad-rizwan" rel="dofollow">Mohammad Rizwan</a>, every other batter participated in a lengthy 20-minute batting session during the scheduled three-hour practice at the Dubai International Stadium in the lead-up to the India tie. The top-order batter faced each bowler for at least two overs, trying to find his lost Midas touch.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7fquagm-xdy0du78-uvqdbu48">
Practice under lights 🏏 Gearing up for Game No. 2️⃣<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeHaveWeWill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeHaveWeWill</a> <a href="https://t.co/VM2og8G0jr">pic.twitter.com/VM2og8G0jr</a>
&mdash; Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB/status/1893010622356627587?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-ricky-ponting-lauds-shubman-gill-says-he-deserves-be-number-one-odi-batter-8745380" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025 - &lsquo;Shubman Gill deserves to be number 1 ODI batter,&rsquo; says Ricky Ponting</a>
Besides Babar, senior quicks Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf bowled seven overs each during the session, while a Times of India (TOI) report claims that Rizwan and head coach Aaqib Javed communicated throughout with the group.
<h2>Pakistan in tight spot</h2>
After losing the curtain raiser to New Zealand at the National Stadium (in Karachi) by 60 runs, Pakistan find themselves in a tight spot regarding their chances of qualifying for the home Champions Trophy semis.&nbsp;
To make it to the top four, they must beat India, against whom they have a better head-to-head record (3-2) in this tournament, and Bangladesh in their remaining two league matches.&nbsp;
However, should they lose to India in Dubai, Pakistan must hope for Bangladesh to do wonders against the high-flying New Zealand (by beating them) and for other results to fall in their favour to cruise ahead, or else they&rsquo;d be knocked out just four days into the home tournament.
Azam faced a lot of flak for his 90-ball 64 against the Kiwis, which never led Pakistan to sit comfortably during the chase. Opening alongside Saud Shakeel, who never opened in the One-Dayers before, Babar wasted plenty of deliveries inside the Powerplay; Pakistan played 47 dot balls from 60 bowled in the first 10 overs.
That start, however, kept them chasing the target throughout, and eventually, following losing crucial wickets regularly during the innings, they surrendered by 60 runs. With that, they lost a golden chance to take two points home at the start.
On the other hand, India emerged winner in their tournament opener against Bangladesh in Dubai, winning the tight contest by six wickets. Shubman Gill and Mohammed Shami starred for the Men in Blue, scoring an unbeaten hundred (101*) and a five-for (5/53), respectively.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: The right-handed batter had an extended training session in Dubai, facing several bowlers on Friday as he prepares for the crucial do-or-die game.

Former Pakistan captain and star batter Babar Azam is putting extra yards in the nets for the marquee Champions Trophy clash against India this Sunday (Feb 23). The right-handed batter had an extended training session in Dubai, facing several bowlers on Friday as he prepares for the crucial do-or-die game. Per the latest reports, barring the skipper Mohammad Rizwan, every other batter participated in a lengthy 20-minute batting session during the scheduled three-hour practice at the Dubai International Stadium in the lead-up to the India tie. The top-order batter faced each bowler for at least two overs, trying to find his lost Midas touch. Practice under lights 🏏 Gearing up for Game No. 2️⃣#ChampionsTrophy | #PAKvIND | #WeHaveWeWill pic.twitter.com/VM2og8G0jr — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) February 21, 2025 Also read | Champions Trophy 2025 - ‘Shubman Gill deserves to be number 1 ODI batter,’ says Ricky Ponting Besides Babar, senior quicks Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf bowled seven overs each during the session, while a Times of India (TOI) report claims that Rizwan and head coach Aaqib Javed communicated throughout with the group. Pakistan in tight spot After losing the curtain raiser to New Zealand at the National Stadium (in Karachi) by 60 runs, Pakistan find themselves in a tight spot regarding their chances of qualifying for the home Champions Trophy semis. To make it to the top four, they must beat India, against whom they have a better head-to-head record (3-2) in this tournament, and Bangladesh in their remaining two league matches. However, should they lose to India in Dubai, Pakistan must hope for Bangladesh to do wonders against the high-flying New Zealand (by beating them) and for other results to fall in their favour to cruise ahead, or else they’d be knocked out just four days into the home tournament. Azam faced a lot of flak for his 90-ball 64 against the Kiwis, which never led Pakistan to sit comfortably during the chase. Opening alongside Saud Shakeel, who never opened in the One-Dayers before, Babar wasted plenty of deliveries inside the Powerplay; Pakistan played 47 dot balls from 60 bowled in the first 10 overs. That start, however, kept them chasing the target throughout, and eventually, following losing crucial wickets regularly during the innings, they surrendered by 60 runs. With that, they lost a golden chance to take two points home at the start. On the other hand, India emerged winner in their tournament opener against Bangladesh in Dubai, winning the tight contest by six wickets. Shubman Gill and Mohammed Shami starred for the Men in Blue, scoring an unbeaten hundred (101*) and a five-for (5/53), respectively. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Babar Azam grinds hard in extended net session ahead of India match

Former Australia captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ricky-ponting" rel="dofollow">Ricky Ponting</a> praised India batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shubman-gill" rel="dofollow">Shubman Gill</a> for his maiden ICC event hundred against Bangladesh in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a> tie in Dubai while commenting on his promotion as the new ranked number one ODI batter. Ponting credited Gill&rsquo;s game plan against Bangladesh, which saw the Men in Blue emerging victorious by six wickets.
Gill was among the two heroes on the day against the Tigers, with seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-shami" rel="dofollow">Mohammed Shami</a> also making headlines for his first five-for of the tournament. The right-handed batter looked composed during his unbeaten 101-run knock in the chase, helping India pocket two crucial points in Group A.&nbsp;
Commenting on him becoming the top batter in the One-Dayers, Ponting said the way he&rsquo;s batting at the moment, Gill deserves to sit on the pedestal.
"He thoroughly deserves to be the number-one-ranked batter in the world at the moment. It's a great sign for India that he's got his account underway early in the first game of a Champions Trophy,&rdquo; Ponting said while speaking to the ICC Review.
Although Gill is yet to prove his mettle in Tests, Ponting feels the two white-ball formats are perfectly suited for his style of play. Punter also remarked on Gill&rsquo;s rise as a big-game player (over the years), crediting his success in the IPL and captaincy experience there for this.
"He's been a very, very good international player for a number of years. He hasn't sort of transferred that over into Test Match cricket yet, but his white-ball cricket over the last three or four years has been outstanding.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Look, he's a big-game player as well. He's played really well in IPLs over the last couple of years, obviously being captain of his franchise there,&rdquo; Ponting continued.
<h2>'He scores at will against pacers'</h2>
Unlike several top-order batters worldwide, Gill takes on the fast bowlers like none other, attacking them for fun. Even against Bangladesh, he stepped out and slammed a few fours to the new ball quicks before impressing everyone by playing his natural game against the spin.&nbsp;
Gill rotated the strike brilliantly while scoring on bad deliveries. Speaking on the same lines, Ponting noted,
&ldquo;He can come out and be nice and aggressive early in the power play with the field up, get some boundaries away early by playing good, naturally aggressive cricketing shots.&nbsp;
"He's not a big hitter, he doesn't try to do anything outside of his natural game, but he scores boundaries almost at will against fast bowling,&rdquo; Ponting added.
Meanwhile, Gill will attract all eyeballs during India&rsquo;s marquee clash against the tournament host and arch-rivals Pakistan in the next match this Sunday (Feb 23) in Dubai.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Gill was among the two heroes on the day against the Tigers, with seamer Mohammed Shami also making headlines for his first five-for of the tournament.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting praised India batter Shubman Gill for his maiden ICC event hundred against Bangladesh in the Champions Trophy tie in Dubai while commenting on his promotion as the new ranked number one ODI batter. Ponting credited Gill’s game plan against Bangladesh, which saw the Men in Blue emerging victorious by six wickets. Gill was among the two heroes on the day against the Tigers, with seamer Mohammed Shami also making headlines for his first five-for of the tournament. The right-handed batter looked composed during his unbeaten 101-run knock in the chase, helping India pocket two crucial points in Group A. Commenting on him becoming the top batter in the One-Dayers, Ponting said the way he’s batting at the moment, Gill deserves to sit on the pedestal. "He thoroughly deserves to be the number-one-ranked batter in the world at the moment. It's a great sign for India that he's got his account underway early in the first game of a Champions Trophy,” Ponting said while speaking to the ICC Review. Although Gill is yet to prove his mettle in Tests, Ponting feels the two white-ball formats are perfectly suited for his style of play. Punter also remarked on Gill’s rise as a big-game player (over the years), crediting his success in the IPL and captaincy experience there for this. "He's been a very, very good international player for a number of years. He hasn't sort of transferred that over into Test Match cricket yet, but his white-ball cricket over the last three or four years has been outstanding. “Look, he's a big-game player as well. He's played really well in IPLs over the last couple of years, obviously being captain of his franchise there,” Ponting continued. 'He scores at will against pacers' Unlike several top-order batters worldwide, Gill takes on the fast bowlers like none other, attacking them for fun. Even against Bangladesh, he stepped out and slammed a few fours to the new ball quicks before impressing everyone by playing his natural game against the spin. Gill rotated the strike brilliantly while scoring on bad deliveries. Speaking on the same lines, Ponting noted, “He can come out and be nice and aggressive early in the power play with the field up, get some boundaries away early by playing good, naturally aggressive cricketing shots. "He's not a big hitter, he doesn't try to do anything outside of his natural game, but he scores boundaries almost at will against fast bowling,” Ponting added. Meanwhile, Gill will attract all eyeballs during India’s marquee clash against the tournament host and arch-rivals Pakistan in the next match this Sunday (Feb 23) in Dubai. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025 - ‘Shubman Gill deserves to be number 1 ODI batter,’ says Ricky Ponting

Champions Trophy, AFG vs SA Highlights: Tasked to chase 316, Afghanistan were bowled out for 208 runs as they lost their maiden Champions Trophy match by 107 runs. Rahmat Shah was the standout batter for Afghanistan having played a knock of 90 runs before he was out. With no big partnerships, South African bowlers were top of their game to dismiss Afghanistan and make a winning start.
The Proteas are next in action on Tuesday when they take on Australia at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi. They will conclude their Champions Trophy group stage campaign against England on Saturday (Mar 1). Afghanistan on the other hand face England on Wednesday before closing the group stage against Australia next Friday.
<h2>Follow Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy, Highlights</h2>

Tasked to chase 316, Afghanistan were bowled out for 208 runs as they lost their maiden Champions Trophy match by 107 runs. Rahmat Shah was the standout batter for Afghanistan having played a knock of 90 runs before he was out. With no big partnerships, South African bowlers were top of their game to dismiss Afghanistan and make a winning start.

Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025 LIVE: South Africa beat Afghanistan

South Africa has picked four wickets inside the first 15 overs to put Afghanistan under pressure in the run chase.&nbsp;
AFG - 82/4 in 20.3 overs
Afghanistan need 234 runs to win from 29 overs

Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025 LIVE: Proteas on top

Afghanistan has another wicket, Sediqullah Atal, to Kagiso Rabada, out run out. Having lost three wickets while chasing 316 puts the Asian team under pressure.
AFG - 50/3 in 14.1 overs&nbsp;
Afghanistan need 266 runs to win.&nbsp;

Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025 LIVE: WICKET

Afghanistan might have lost two crucial wickets inside the Powerplay, they managed to cross the 50-run-mark during the chase.
AFG - 50/2 in 13 overs
Afghanistan need 266 runs to win from 38 overs.

Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025 LIVE: 50 for Afghanistan

A late blitz from the seasoned campaigner Aiden Markram and the lower order helped South Africa post a fighting 315 for six in 50 overs. Opener Ryan Rickelton scored his maiden One-Day hundred, while Markram remained unbeaten on 52.&nbsp;
South Africa - 315/6 in 50 overs.
Afghanistan needs 316 runs to win.

Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025 LIVE: Late blitz helps Proteas cross 300

Soon after completing his maiden ODI hundred against Afghanistan, Protean opener Ryan Rickelton departed on 101, run out off Rashid Khan's bowling.&nbsp;
South Africa - 201/3 (35.3 overs)

South African opener Ryan Rickelton completed his maiden ODI hundred against Afghanistan during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 tie in Karachi.
South Africa - 199/2 (35 overs)

Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025 LIVE: Rickelton completes hundred

After losing the first wicket early, SA have been doing decent with Rickleton past his 50 and ably supported by Bavuma. The partnership is also past 50.
Score:
SA: 104/1 in 20 overs

Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025 LIVE: SA steady after early wicket loss

Just as the things were lookin settled for SA, Afghanistan strikes for the first wicket. Change of bowling worked for Afghanistan as Mohammad Nabi picks up Tony de Zorzi's wicket - A tame dismissal.
Score:
SA: 28/1 in 5.1 overs
Tony de Zorzi c Azmatullah Omarzai b Mohammad Nabi 11

Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025 LIVE: WICKET!!

After a silent couple of overs, South Africa openers have started to free their hand and have negotiated first five overs without loss of any wicket.
Live Score:
SA: 28/0 in 5 overs

Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025 LIVE: SA start freely vs AFG

1 Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), 2 Ibrahim Zadran, 3 Sediqullah Atal, 4 Rahmat Shah, 5 Hashmatullah Shahidi (capt), 6 Azmatullah Omarzai, 7 Gulbadin Naib, 8 Mohammad Nabi, 9 Rashid Khan, 10 Noor Ahmad, 11 Fazalhaq Farooqi

Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025 LIVE: AFG Playing XI

1 Ryan Rickelton (wk), 2 Tony de Zorzi, 3 Temba Bavuma (capt), 4 Rassie van der Dussen, 5 Aiden Markram, 6 David Miller, 7 Wiaan Mulder, 8 Marco Jansen, 9 Keshav Maharaj, 10 Kagiso Rabada, 11 Lungi Ngidi

Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025 LIVE: SA Playing XI

South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma has won the toss and elected to bat first in Karachi against Afghanistan.

Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025 LIVE: SA win toss and bat first

Following a series of mediocre scores against New Zealand and Australia in Tests earlier, Gill grinds hard in the domestic to return to top form in the white-ball format. The right-handed batter was the star of the day alongside seamer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-india-pacer-mohammed-shami-becomes-fastest-to-take-200-odi-wickets-ind-vs-bangladesh-8740336" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Mohammed Shami (who picked a five-for)</a>, scoring his maiden ICC tournament hundred and calling it his &lsquo;most satisfying innings&rsquo; to date. As a result,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-live-score-updates-champions-trophy-2025-ball-by-ball-updates-and-full-scorecard-india-vs-bangladesh-dubai-international-cricket-stadium-8738242" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India beat Bangladesh by six wickets</a>&nbsp;in their tournament opener in Dubai.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-shubman-gill-rates-dubai-hundred-against-bangladesh-his-most-satisfying-innings-8741418">Read Full Story</a>

Gill rates Dubai hundred against Bangladesh ‘his most satisfying innings’

India all-rounder Axar Patel says that he had started to celebrate when he saw skipper Rohit Sharma dropping the catch during Champions Trophy match against Bangladesh on Feb 20 in Dubai. The catch cold have given Axar his hattrick but alas, Rohit dropped a dolly in the slips.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-happy-that-the-axar-reacts-to-rohit-dropping-hattrick-catch-vs-bangladesh-8742714">Read Full Story</a>

Axar reacts to Rohit dropping hattrick catch vs Bangladesh

South Africa and Afghanistan will go head-to-head as they open their respective Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on Friday (Feb 21). The clash comes months after both teams had dream runs in the 2024 T20 World Cup with South Africa beating Afghanistan in the semis. Ahead of the contest between Afghanistan and South Africa in the Champions Trophy 2025.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afg-vs-sa-live-streaming-free-when-and-where-to-watch-champions-trophy-2025-afghanistan-vs-south-africa-live-for-free-online-mobile-and-tv-8739439">Check Details</a>

Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025 LIVE: When and where to watch

Afghanistan captain does Kapil Dev at presser
Did Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi do a Kapil Dev at a pre-game presser? Remember when Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh, playing the former Indian captain Kapil in a Hindi movie named &lsquo;83&rsquo; said, "We are here to win," referring to his team's chances in the 1983 World Cup; Shahidi just did the same.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-afghanistan-captain-hashmatullah-shahidi-does-kapil-dev-at-presser-says-we-are-not-here-to-participate-we-are-here-to-win-8740877">Read Full Story</a>

Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025 LIVE Score

Cricket, Sports -Champions Trophy, AFG vs SA, Highlights: Tasked to chase 316, Afghanistan were bowled out for 208 runs as they lost their maiden CT match by 107 runs. 

Champions Trophy, AFG vs SA Highlights: Tasked to chase 316, Afghanistan were bowled out for 208 runs as they lost their maiden Champions Trophy match by 107 runs. Rahmat Shah was the standout batter for Afghanistan having played a knock of 90 runs before he was out. With no big partnerships, South African bowlers were top of their game to dismiss Afghanistan and make a winning start. The Proteas are next in action on Tuesday when they take on Australia at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi. They will conclude their Champions Trophy group stage campaign against England on Saturday (Mar 1). Afghanistan on the other hand face England on Wednesday before closing the group stage against Australia next Friday. Follow Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy, Highlights

Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy 2025, Highlights: South Africa beat Afghanistan by 107 runs

The PCB is upset over Pakistan&rsquo;s name missing from the logo during the live broadcast of the recently concluded India vs Bangladesh <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a> game in Dubai. The absence of Pakistan&rsquo;s name in the CT branding forced the host board to write to the ICC seeking an explanation.
During the India vs Bangladesh tie on Friday, the logo of the event&rsquo;s name &ndash; Champions Trophy 2025 was carried out throughout the live telecast; however, Pakistan&rsquo;s (host country) name was missing for the entirety of the match, which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-live-score-updates-champions-trophy-2025-ball-by-ball-updates-and-full-scorecard-india-vs-bangladesh-dubai-international-cricket-stadium-8738242" rel="dofollow">India won by six wickets</a>.
<figure class="image"><img alt="IND vs BAN" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/einj32BqbA1ClIOFlTrp.jpg" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>IND vs BAN Photograph: (Others)</figcaption>
</figure>
&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-anil-kumble-spots-loophole-in-virat-kohlis-game-amid-lean-patch-concerns-8744163" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Kumble spots 'loophole' in Kohli's game amid lean patch concerns</a>
Although the broadcaster is bound to carry the event and the host nation&rsquo;s name in all games, including during the India matches that Dubai is hosting, it wasn&rsquo;t the case during their tournament opener. The logo, however, was on display during the curtain-raiser between Pakistan and New Zealand in Karachi and even during Friday&rsquo;s match between Afghanistan and South Africa.
<figure class="image"><img alt="PAK v NZ" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/tV8865lWfi7MH7H9xv2N.jpg" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>PAK v NZ Photograph: (Others)</figcaption>
</figure>
The PCB is assumed to be irked by this decision to omit Pakistan&rsquo;s name from the broadcasting logo, against which they took action, reaching out to the apex body and asking for assurances that it will not happen again during the tournament.
<h2>ICC&rsquo;s answer</h2>
Per the latest report, the ICC is believed to have informed the PCB about this being a technical glitch; the answer has left the PCB dissatisfied. Given that the graphics are designed in advance and provided to the ICC live feed (in advance), Pakistan&rsquo;s name missing from the broadcasting logo has left the board unconvinced over this issue.
Meanwhile, the ICC has maintained its stance of technical malfunction as the reason behind this, assuring the PCB that this issue will not occur again regardless of whether the matches take place in Pakistan or the UAE. The next game in the UAE is between two Asian giants and arch-rivals India and Pakistan this coming Sunday (Feb 23).&nbsp;
<h3>India and Pakistan in Champions Trophy 2025</h3>
While the hosts Pakistan lost their opening game against New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi by 60 runs, their age-old rivals India emerged victorious against Bangladesh in their first match.&nbsp;
Besides worrying about the semis qualification scenario, for which they must beat India and New Zealand or win at least one game by a massive margin and expect other results to fall in their favour, Pakistan will miss attacking opener Fakhar Zaman, who got ruled out of the tournament with an injury. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-blow-for-pakistan-as-fakhar-zaman-ruled-out-of-tournament-imam-ul-haq-named-replacement-8739642" rel="dofollow">The hosts have recalled Imam-Ul-Haq as his replacement</a>. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: The absence of Pakistan’s name in the Champions Trophy branding forced the host board (the PCB) to write to the apex body - ICC seeking an explanation.

The PCB is upset over Pakistan’s name missing from the logo during the live broadcast of the recently concluded India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy game in Dubai. The absence of Pakistan’s name in the CT branding forced the host board to write to the ICC seeking an explanation. During the India vs Bangladesh tie on Friday, the logo of the event’s name – Champions Trophy 2025 was carried out throughout the live telecast; however, Pakistan’s (host country) name was missing for the entirety of the match, which India won by six wickets. IND vs BAN Photograph: (Others) Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Kumble spots 'loophole' in Kohli's game amid lean patch concerns Although the broadcaster is bound to carry the event and the host nation’s name in all games, including during the India matches that Dubai is hosting, it wasn’t the case during their tournament opener. The logo, however, was on display during the curtain-raiser between Pakistan and New Zealand in Karachi and even during Friday’s match between Afghanistan and South Africa. PAK v NZ Photograph: (Others) The PCB is assumed to be irked by this decision to omit Pakistan’s name from the broadcasting logo, against which they took action, reaching out to the apex body and asking for assurances that it will not happen again during the tournament. ICC’s answer Per the latest report, the ICC is believed to have informed the PCB about this being a technical glitch; the answer has left the PCB dissatisfied. Given that the graphics are designed in advance and provided to the ICC live feed (in advance), Pakistan’s name missing from the broadcasting logo has left the board unconvinced over this issue. Meanwhile, the ICC has maintained its stance of technical malfunction as the reason behind this, assuring the PCB that this issue will not occur again regardless of whether the matches take place in Pakistan or the UAE. The next game in the UAE is between two Asian giants and arch-rivals India and Pakistan this coming Sunday (Feb 23). India and Pakistan in Champions Trophy 2025 While the hosts Pakistan lost their opening game against New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi by 60 runs, their age-old rivals India emerged victorious against Bangladesh in their first match. Besides worrying about the semis qualification scenario, for which they must beat India and New Zealand or win at least one game by a massive margin and expect other results to fall in their favour, Pakistan will miss attacking opener Fakhar Zaman, who got ruled out of the tournament with an injury. The hosts have recalled Imam-Ul-Haq as his replacement. (With inputs from agencies)

PCB upset over Pakistan’s name missing from broadcasting logo during IND vs BAN Champions Trophy tie

Former India spinner and coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/anil-kumble" rel="dofollow">Anil Kumble</a> has spotted a loophole in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a>&rsquo;s game amid his lean patch across formats. Even though Kohli hit a Test hundred in Perth in November, his bat hasn&rsquo;t clicked (the way) it used to for several months now. His dismissal against Bangladesh in the Champions Trophy game echoes the same concerns.
So, where does the problem lie? His technique, temperament, or something else has restricted him from scoring big. Kumble perhaps has the answer.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-ban-india-batter-virat-kohli-failed-with-bat-but-still-created-a-record-most-catches-for-india-in-odis-kohli-156-azhar-156-8742142" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: India batter Virat Kohli fails with bat but still creates a record</a>
Having played and coached different versions of Kohli, Kumble knows a thing or two about his game more than anyone else. Commenting on his form, Kumble feels the batting stalwart is perhaps trying too hard to catch up with his rhythm. Doing that has put him under pressure, pulling him away from being relaxed, and with all clubbed together, he&rsquo;s unable to score runs. &nbsp;
"Having been through a lean patch, so to speak, especially in white-ball cricket - he hasn't had that kind of run for a long period of time - I feel he's trying a bit too hard," Kumble said on ESPNcricinfo Match Day.&nbsp;
"You have that in players who have been there and done that before, and everyone sort of looks up to you saying he's the guy who's going to take the game away, and he's the one guy who is the important man in the team.
"I think he's trying a bit too hard. You can see that in the way he is going about his innings. He just needs to not worry about it. Rohit [Sharma] comes in there, has the freedom because there is plenty of batting, and all of them are in great form. Similarly, for Virat, he just needs to come in and not worry about anything else,&rdquo; Kumble noted.
<h2>Kohli&rsquo;s struggle against spin</h2>
Virat Kohli&rsquo;s last six dismissals have come against spin, five of which to leg spinners. Speaking on his ability to play spin, Kumble said that when in form, Kohli is great against turning deliveries; however, on current form, he is trying too hard to score, giving the opposition an extra chance of dismissing him.&nbsp;
Instead, he suggested that the right-handed batter must feel composed about his game and concentrate on rotating strike against the spinners,&nbsp;something he does well and is known for.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pakistan-all-rounder-khushdil-shah-doesnt-fear-facing-india-says-every-team-is-beatable-8743958" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan's Khushdil Shah doesn&rsquo;t fear facing India, says &lsquo;every team is beatable&rsquo;</a>
Besides, Kumble also feels Kohli must take a step back in his game and approach (about the outcome), adding he needs to relax a bit and worry less about the results.
"To start off against spin, on surfaces like that, you need a lot of confidence. He's certainly trying too hard to manoeuvre that," Kumble said.&nbsp;
"He's a good player of spin when he's in form, when he's wanting to just knock singles off and keep rotating the strike. Now he's trying too hard to score runs rather than just manoeuvre, and that's been his game plan.
"All players go through tough moments in their career, but I get a feeling watching him bat, I think he is putting a lot more pressure on himself. He just needs to relax a little bit and not worry too much about the outcome of what happens on the field rather than just go out there and have the freedom to just go and play naturally, what he does really well,&rdquo; he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Speaking on his ability to play spin, Kumble said Kohli is great against turning deliveries; however, on current form, he is trying too hard to score against it.

Former India spinner and coach Anil Kumble has spotted a loophole in Virat Kohli’s game amid his lean patch across formats. Even though Kohli hit a Test hundred in Perth in November, his bat hasn’t clicked (the way) it used to for several months now. His dismissal against Bangladesh in the Champions Trophy game echoes the same concerns. So, where does the problem lie? His technique, temperament, or something else has restricted him from scoring big. Kumble perhaps has the answer. Also read | Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: India batter Virat Kohli fails with bat but still creates a record Having played and coached different versions of Kohli, Kumble knows a thing or two about his game more than anyone else. Commenting on his form, Kumble feels the batting stalwart is perhaps trying too hard to catch up with his rhythm. Doing that has put him under pressure, pulling him away from being relaxed, and with all clubbed together, he’s unable to score runs. "Having been through a lean patch, so to speak, especially in white-ball cricket - he hasn't had that kind of run for a long period of time - I feel he's trying a bit too hard," Kumble said on ESPNcricinfo Match Day. "You have that in players who have been there and done that before, and everyone sort of looks up to you saying he's the guy who's going to take the game away, and he's the one guy who is the important man in the team. "I think he's trying a bit too hard. You can see that in the way he is going about his innings. He just needs to not worry about it. Rohit [Sharma] comes in there, has the freedom because there is plenty of batting, and all of them are in great form. Similarly, for Virat, he just needs to come in and not worry about anything else,” Kumble noted. Kohli’s struggle against spin Virat Kohli’s last six dismissals have come against spin, five of which to leg spinners. Speaking on his ability to play spin, Kumble said that when in form, Kohli is great against turning deliveries; however, on current form, he is trying too hard to score, giving the opposition an extra chance of dismissing him. Instead, he suggested that the right-handed batter must feel composed about his game and concentrate on rotating strike against the spinners, something he does well and is known for. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan's Khushdil Shah doesn’t fear facing India, says ‘every team is beatable’ Besides, Kumble also feels Kohli must take a step back in his game and approach (about the outcome), adding he needs to relax a bit and worry less about the results. "To start off against spin, on surfaces like that, you need a lot of confidence. He's certainly trying too hard to manoeuvre that," Kumble said. "He's a good player of spin when he's in form, when he's wanting to just knock singles off and keep rotating the strike. Now he's trying too hard to score runs rather than just manoeuvre, and that's been his game plan. "All players go through tough moments in their career, but I get a feeling watching him bat, I think he is putting a lot more pressure on himself. He just needs to relax a little bit and not worry too much about the outcome of what happens on the field rather than just go out there and have the freedom to just go and play naturally, what he does really well,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Kumble spots 'loophole' in Kohli's game amid lean patch concerns

Pakistan spin-bowling all-rounder Khushdil Shah doesn&rsquo;t fear taking on India in the marquee <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> clash on Sunday (Feb 23) in Dubai, saying even though India remains a top team in this format, they are beatable. Putting all recent performances behind them, Shah believes if Pakistan can click as a unit on D-day and execute their roles, they can deny India a chance to qualify for the semis in their second game of the tournament.
Pakistan vs India is the mother of all matches, and for what it brings to the table, it justifies the hype.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-gill-is-here-to-stay-for-long-but-not-iyer-manjrekars-assessment-of-indian-stars-bangladesh-dubai-8743126" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: &lsquo;Gill is here to stay for long but not Iyer,&rsquo; Manjrekar&rsquo;s assessment of Indian stars</a>
Placed together in Group A, the arch-rivals will face off in the high-octane clash at the Dubai International Stadium this coming Sunday. Knowing Pakistan holds a better head-to-head record (3-2) against the Men in Blue, they&rsquo;d fancy their chances.
Khushdil said despite Pakistan suffering a 60-run defeat at the hands of New Zealand in the curtain-raiser on Wednesday (Feb 19), there is a belief in the camp that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pak-skipper-rizwan-terms-india-game-as-another-normal-match-despite-loss-vs-nz-8739270" rel="dofollow">Pakistan can shun India</a> on the day it matters the most.
"India has a good, strong team, but every team is beatable, and India too can be defeated. If we bring our A-game, then we can beat India. The belief is there, and if there is belief, then we can make things happen," Khushdil said in a chat with TelecomAsia, as quoted by Times of India (TOI).&nbsp;
While for Pakistan, the game against India is a must-win, the Men in Blue can enjoy the advantage they have after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-live-score-updates-champions-trophy-2025-ball-by-ball-updates-and-full-scorecard-india-vs-bangladesh-dubai-international-cricket-stadium-8738242" rel="dofollow">beating Bangladesh by six wickets</a> in their tournament opener.
<h2>Pressure separates India-Pakistan game from rest</h2>
Should India emerge victorious against Pakistan on Sunday, they would qualify for the final four, while the hosts would be out of the tournament just four days into it. However, if Pakistan beat India in the marquee clash, both teams would be on equal points (two each), with each having an equal chance of making the semis.
Reflecting on what separates the India-Pakistan game from all, Shah said it&rsquo;s the pressure, and the team handling it well will walk out as the winner.
"When India and Pakistan play, the whole world watches. The team that manages pressure better wins, and we are used to it,&rdquo; Shah said adding, "We have lost one match but we are still in the tournament. We can beat India if we play well so don&rsquo;t rule out as yet.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Shah believes if Pakistan can click as a unit on D-day, they can deny India a chance to qualify for the semis in their second game of the tournament.

Pakistan spin-bowling all-rounder Khushdil Shah doesn’t fear taking on India in the marquee ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash on Sunday (Feb 23) in Dubai, saying even though India remains a top team in this format, they are beatable. Putting all recent performances behind them, Shah believes if Pakistan can click as a unit on D-day and execute their roles, they can deny India a chance to qualify for the semis in their second game of the tournament. Pakistan vs India is the mother of all matches, and for what it brings to the table, it justifies the hype. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: ‘Gill is here to stay for long but not Iyer,’ Manjrekar’s assessment of Indian stars Placed together in Group A, the arch-rivals will face off in the high-octane clash at the Dubai International Stadium this coming Sunday. Knowing Pakistan holds a better head-to-head record (3-2) against the Men in Blue, they’d fancy their chances. Khushdil said despite Pakistan suffering a 60-run defeat at the hands of New Zealand in the curtain-raiser on Wednesday (Feb 19), there is a belief in the camp that Pakistan can shun India on the day it matters the most. "India has a good, strong team, but every team is beatable, and India too can be defeated. If we bring our A-game, then we can beat India. The belief is there, and if there is belief, then we can make things happen," Khushdil said in a chat with TelecomAsia, as quoted by Times of India (TOI). While for Pakistan, the game against India is a must-win, the Men in Blue can enjoy the advantage they have after beating Bangladesh by six wickets in their tournament opener. Pressure separates India-Pakistan game from rest Should India emerge victorious against Pakistan on Sunday, they would qualify for the final four, while the hosts would be out of the tournament just four days into it. However, if Pakistan beat India in the marquee clash, both teams would be on equal points (two each), with each having an equal chance of making the semis. Reflecting on what separates the India-Pakistan game from all, Shah said it’s the pressure, and the team handling it well will walk out as the winner. "When India and Pakistan play, the whole world watches. The team that manages pressure better wins, and we are used to it,” Shah said adding, "We have lost one match but we are still in the tournament. We can beat India if we play well so don’t rule out as yet.” (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan's Khushdil Shah doesn’t fear facing India, says ‘every team is beatable’

Star South African batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/heinrich-klaasen" rel="dofollow">Heinrich Klaasen</a> is ruled out of the side&rsquo;s tournament opener against Afghanistan with a left elbow soft tissue injury. The Proteas are also resting left-arm unorthodox spinner Tabraiz Shamsi. While Klaasen&rsquo;s absence comes as a blow for the team, which last lost their bilateral series against Afghanistan, South Africa picked a batting-heavy XI for this match, aiming to go one-up against the emerging Asian team.
Klaasen was South Africa&rsquo;s best bet against spin - Afghanistan&rsquo;s strength, with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rashid-khan" rel="dofollow">Rashid Khan</a>, Noor Ahmed and veteran Mohammad Nabi around, and his absence leaves the Proteas exposed against the trio. Although captain Temba Bavuma didn&rsquo;t mention his injury at the toss, he appeared surprised (looking) at the wicket, saying the pitch looked different than it usually does in this part of the world.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-gill-is-here-to-stay-for-long-but-not-iyer-manjrekars-assessment-of-indian-stars-bangladesh-dubai-8743126" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: &lsquo;Gill is here to stay for long but not Iyer,&rsquo; Manjrekar&rsquo;s assessment of Indian stars</a>
Reflecting on the playing XI picked for his crucial tie, which doesn&rsquo;t include Shamsi, Bavuma said he has complete faith in his bowling attack but admitted it's hard to comment on what would be a good batting score at the National Stadium in Karachi.
&ldquo;(The) Wicket looks different from how it generally does in Pakistan. Not really sure how it'll react. We have to assess the wicket; hope to get a good score on the board. We have a lot of confidence in our bowling, consistency has been our strength. Just one spinner today; tricky to say what a good score,&rdquo; Bavuma said at the toss.&nbsp;
After Klaasen&rsquo;s injury news came the South African camp added he would be missing Friday&rsquo;s game on precautionary grounds.
<h2>Playing XIs &ndash;</h2>
South Africa - Ryan Rickelton (wk), Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma (captain), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi
Afghanistan - Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad and Fazalhaq Farooqi
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Klaasen was South Africa’s best bet against spin - which is Afghanistan’s strength, and his absence leaves the Proteas exposed against the trio.

Star South African batter Heinrich Klaasen is ruled out of the side’s tournament opener against Afghanistan with a left elbow soft tissue injury. The Proteas are also resting left-arm unorthodox spinner Tabraiz Shamsi. While Klaasen’s absence comes as a blow for the team, which last lost their bilateral series against Afghanistan, South Africa picked a batting-heavy XI for this match, aiming to go one-up against the emerging Asian team. Klaasen was South Africa’s best bet against spin - Afghanistan’s strength, with Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmed and veteran Mohammad Nabi around, and his absence leaves the Proteas exposed against the trio. Although captain Temba Bavuma didn’t mention his injury at the toss, he appeared surprised (looking) at the wicket, saying the pitch looked different than it usually does in this part of the world. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: ‘Gill is here to stay for long but not Iyer,’ Manjrekar’s assessment of Indian stars Reflecting on the playing XI picked for his crucial tie, which doesn’t include Shamsi, Bavuma said he has complete faith in his bowling attack but admitted it's hard to comment on what would be a good batting score at the National Stadium in Karachi. “(The) Wicket looks different from how it generally does in Pakistan. Not really sure how it'll react. We have to assess the wicket; hope to get a good score on the board. We have a lot of confidence in our bowling, consistency has been our strength. Just one spinner today; tricky to say what a good score,” Bavuma said at the toss. After Klaasen’s injury news came the South African camp added he would be missing Friday’s game on precautionary grounds. Playing XIs – South Africa - Ryan Rickelton (wk), Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma (captain), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi Afghanistan - Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad and Fazalhaq Farooqi (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Klaasen ruled out of Afghanistan game with injury; Shamsi rested

Kerala fielder Salman Nizar at short-leg was hit on the head when Gujarat's Arjan Nagwaswalla played an aggressive shot during the Ranji Trophy semi-final on Friday (Feb 21). Nizar didn't know where the ball went as he looked around his teammates celebrating - a strange reaction under normal circumstances. The ball had bounced off his head to Kerala skipper Sachin Baby who caught it in the slips.
Nagwaswalla, Gujarat's last wicket of the innings, was out and his team bowled was bowled out for 455 - two runs short of Kerala's first innings total of 457. The celebration by Kerala fielders was because the two-run lead meant they virtually are in the Ranji Trophy final of the season. Have a look at the dramatic moment below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
1⃣ wicket in hand 2⃣ runs to equal scores 3⃣ runs to secure a crucial First-Innings Lead Joy. Despair. Emotions. Absolute Drama! 😮 Scorecard ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/kisimA9o9w">https://t.co/kisimA9o9w</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RanjiTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RanjiTrophy</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GUJvKER?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GUJvKER</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SF1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SF1</a> <a href="https://t.co/LgTkVfRH7q">pic.twitter.com/LgTkVfRH7q</a>
&mdash; BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCIdomestic/status/1892826150910492877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

The fifth and final morning of the match had started with Gujarat, at 429/7, needing 28 runs short of Kerala's total and they needed one extra run to gain the first innings lead advantage.
Also Read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-ban-india-batter-virat-kohli-failed-with-bat-but-still-created-a-record-most-catches-for-india-in-odis-kohli-156-azhar-156-8742142" aria-label="Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: India batter Virat Kohli fails with bat but still creates a record">Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: India batter Virat Kohli fails with bat but still creates a record</a>
Kerala spinner Aditya Sarwate picked all three wickets. The first was Jaymeet Patel - the batter, unbeaten on 74 at the end of day 4, was probably the biggest hurdle before Kerala. Sarwate, however, got him out only after the batter was able to add five runs to his overnight score.
Next to go was Siddharth Desai after Gujarat added 10 more runs to the total post Patel's dismissal. With only 12 runs required to get the lead, Priyajitsing Jadeja played 30 balls for his three runs and gave enough support to Nagwaswalla but it wasn't enough in the end.
Kerala will now be playing its first Ranji Trophy final 68 years after it started featuring in India's premier domestic red-ball tournament. They will face the winner of the second semi-final where Vidarbha are on the brink of beating Mumbai.

Ranji Trophy: Kerala virtually are in the Ranji Trophy final of the season after securing two-run lead over Gujarat in first innings amid high drama on the last wicket. Cricket Sports

Kerala fielder Salman Nizar at short-leg was hit on the head when Gujarat's Arjan Nagwaswalla played an aggressive shot during the Ranji Trophy semi-final on Friday (Feb 21). Nizar didn't know where the ball went as he looked around his teammates celebrating - a strange reaction under normal circumstances. The ball had bounced off his head to Kerala skipper Sachin Baby who caught it in the slips. Nagwaswalla, Gujarat's last wicket of the innings, was out and his team bowled was bowled out for 455 - two runs short of Kerala's first innings total of 457. The celebration by Kerala fielders was because the two-run lead meant they virtually are in the Ranji Trophy final of the season. Have a look at the dramatic moment below: 1⃣ wicket in hand 2⃣ runs to equal scores 3⃣ runs to secure a crucial First-Innings Lead Joy. Despair. Emotions. Absolute Drama! 😮 Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/kisimA9o9w#RanjiTrophy | @IDFCFIRSTBank | #GUJvKER | #SF1 pic.twitter.com/LgTkVfRH7q — BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) February 21, 2025 The fifth and final morning of the match had started with Gujarat, at 429/7, needing 28 runs short of Kerala's total and they needed one extra run to gain the first innings lead advantage. Also Read: Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: India batter Virat Kohli fails with bat but still creates a record Kerala spinner Aditya Sarwate picked all three wickets. The first was Jaymeet Patel - the batter, unbeaten on 74 at the end of day 4, was probably the biggest hurdle before Kerala. Sarwate, however, got him out only after the batter was able to add five runs to his overnight score. Next to go was Siddharth Desai after Gujarat added 10 more runs to the total post Patel's dismissal. With only 12 runs required to get the lead, Priyajitsing Jadeja played 30 balls for his three runs and gave enough support to Nagwaswalla but it wasn't enough in the end. Kerala will now be playing its first Ranji Trophy final 68 years after it started featuring in India's premier domestic red-ball tournament. They will face the winner of the second semi-final where Vidarbha are on the brink of beating Mumbai.

Ranji Trophy: Kerala all but enter final with two-run lead in first innings after last-wicket drama against Gujarat | WATCH

Shubman Gill, even while batting at 60 per cent, is a complete batter, indicating his longevity across all formats; however, Shreyas Iyer isn&rsquo;t there yet, per cricketer-turned-broadcaster Sanjay Manjrekar. His remarks have come after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-shubman-gill-rates-dubai-hundred-against-bangladesh-his-most-satisfying-innings-8741418" rel="dofollow">Gill hit his maiden ICC tournament hundred against Bangladesh</a> in India&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a> opener in Dubai, helping the Men in Blue win by six wickets.
While Gill, alongside seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-ban-most-wickets-in-icc-tournament-for-india-shami-60-zaheer-59-srinath-47-jadeja-43-bumrah-42-kumble-42-8740747" rel="dofollow">Mohammed Shami</a>, made headlines for his match-winning performance against the Tigers, Iyer&rsquo;s loose stroke cost him his wicket on 15 (while chasing), disappointing the fans and Manjrekar.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-shubman-gill-hits-his-slowest-odi-ton-but-becomes-fastest-to-8-odi-tons-for-india-8742391" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: Shubman Gill hits his slowest ton but becomes fastest to 8 ODI hundreds for India</a>
Noting the difference between the two batters, Sanjay said, unlike Iyer, Gill will take the game right till the end and win it for his team; but even though Iyer is as talented as anyone on the side, he doesn&rsquo;t give that impression.
"He [Gill] is batting at the right position to make a huge impact. When he gets a hundred, like today, it seems like there is plenty left in the tank," Manjrekar said on ESPNcricinfo Match Day.&nbsp;
"It was like 60% of Shubman Gill is enough to get a hundred like this and he stays till the end. That is the difference between Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill that Gill will take you right till the end. He is somebody who you think is going to be around for 10-15 years. Shreyas Iyer, despite his obvious talent, doesn't give you that impression,&rdquo; he continued.&nbsp;
Gill scored an unbeaten 101 off 129 balls against Bangladesh, hitting nine fours and two sixes, one of which was hit off pacer Tanzim Hasan in the ninth over, which went straight into the second tier at deep-midwicket.
"Some of the shots he played - the good-length ball he hit, and it went into second tier&hellip; the big game is at his beck and call," Manjrekar said.&nbsp;
"Can he be better in 50-over cricket as a batter? I don't think so, what can be better than this?" Manjrekar noted.
<h2>&lsquo;India is blessed&rsquo;</h2>
While Gill scored quickly inside the Powerplay, hitting 26 off 23 balls, he put brakes on his scoring rate just when Bangladesh introduced the spinners to the attack, completing his fifty in 69 balls &ndash; his slowest ever. The right-handed batter hit odd fours but kept rotating the strike, helping India inch closer to the win. He eventually scored his hundred off 125 balls, his slowest thus far, but his ability to change gears impressed Manjrekar.
"He's got the class to do it [change gears]. India are blessed with [a top three] who are also Test batters, so they can play different gears. Yashasvi Jaiswal, when he comes in eventually, is also a Test batter.&nbsp;
&ldquo;So, if the ball is swinging around in overseas conditions, they have the ability to see the new ball through and then handle the various situations. Shubman Gill is that kind of a player; he is not one-dimensional; he has all the gears, and we saw him do that today as well.&nbsp;
&ldquo;He is a guy at the top of his 50-over-cricket prowess, and he does it very calmly. There is an air of dominance and surety with the way he bats and finishes games,&rdquo; Manjrekar added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: While Gill made headlines for his match-winning performance against the Tigers, Iyer’s loose stroke cost him his wicket on 15, disappointing Manjrekar.

Shubman Gill, even while batting at 60 per cent, is a complete batter, indicating his longevity across all formats; however, Shreyas Iyer isn’t there yet, per cricketer-turned-broadcaster Sanjay Manjrekar. His remarks have come after Gill hit his maiden ICC tournament hundred against Bangladesh in India’s Champions Trophy 2025 opener in Dubai, helping the Men in Blue win by six wickets. While Gill, alongside seamer Mohammed Shami, made headlines for his match-winning performance against the Tigers, Iyer’s loose stroke cost him his wicket on 15 (while chasing), disappointing the fans and Manjrekar. Also read | Champions Trophy: Shubman Gill hits his slowest ton but becomes fastest to 8 ODI hundreds for India Noting the difference between the two batters, Sanjay said, unlike Iyer, Gill will take the game right till the end and win it for his team; but even though Iyer is as talented as anyone on the side, he doesn’t give that impression. "He [Gill] is batting at the right position to make a huge impact. When he gets a hundred, like today, it seems like there is plenty left in the tank," Manjrekar said on ESPNcricinfo Match Day. "It was like 60% of Shubman Gill is enough to get a hundred like this and he stays till the end. That is the difference between Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill that Gill will take you right till the end. He is somebody who you think is going to be around for 10-15 years. Shreyas Iyer, despite his obvious talent, doesn't give you that impression,” he continued. Gill scored an unbeaten 101 off 129 balls against Bangladesh, hitting nine fours and two sixes, one of which was hit off pacer Tanzim Hasan in the ninth over, which went straight into the second tier at deep-midwicket. "Some of the shots he played - the good-length ball he hit, and it went into second tier… the big game is at his beck and call," Manjrekar said. "Can he be better in 50-over cricket as a batter? I don't think so, what can be better than this?" Manjrekar noted. ‘India is blessed’ While Gill scored quickly inside the Powerplay, hitting 26 off 23 balls, he put brakes on his scoring rate just when Bangladesh introduced the spinners to the attack, completing his fifty in 69 balls – his slowest ever. The right-handed batter hit odd fours but kept rotating the strike, helping India inch closer to the win. He eventually scored his hundred off 125 balls, his slowest thus far, but his ability to change gears impressed Manjrekar. "He's got the class to do it [change gears]. India are blessed with [a top three] who are also Test batters, so they can play different gears. Yashasvi Jaiswal, when he comes in eventually, is also a Test batter. “So, if the ball is swinging around in overseas conditions, they have the ability to see the new ball through and then handle the various situations. Shubman Gill is that kind of a player; he is not one-dimensional; he has all the gears, and we saw him do that today as well. “He is a guy at the top of his 50-over-cricket prowess, and he does it very calmly. There is an air of dominance and surety with the way he bats and finishes games,” Manjrekar added. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: ‘Gill is here to stay for long but not Iyer,’ Manjrekar’s assessment of Indian stars

England has included gloveman Jamie Smith in their playing XI for their marquee clash against Australia scheduled for Saturday (Feb 22) in Lahore. England&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> opener will see Smith batting at number three for the first time in his career, with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/joe-root" rel="dofollow">Joe Root</a>, who held that position for the longest time in the past decade, to play at number four throughout the tournament.
England made this change in the wake of an embarrassing 0-3 defeat at the hands of India in the recently concluded ODI series, where Root batted at number three, and even though he contributed with handy runs, it failed to help England taste any success in the 50-over format.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ex-india-skipper-sourav-ganguly-meets-with-car-accident-on-durgapur-highway-near-dantanpur-8742095" rel="dofollow">Ex-India skipper Sourav Ganguly meets with car accident</a>
Impressed with Smith&rsquo;s limited outings thus far across formats, England has thrown the newcomer up the order, who, up until now, has batted at number five or six in his seven-match ODI career.
Meanwhile, following <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/massive-blow-to-england-as-jacob-bethell-doubtful-for-3rd-odi-champions-trophy-tom-banton-called-up-as-cover-8704464" rel="dofollow">Jacob Bethell&rsquo;s injury during the away India tour</a> earlier, which ruled him out of the eight-team tournament, England found it tougher to strike a balance in the batting order in their quest to return to the winning ways in ODIs. The English management preferred a batting-heavy top seven for the side&rsquo;s tournament opener. Liam Livingstone's selection at number seven leaves him and Root to share ten overs between them.
<h2>Heavy middle order</h2>
Smith&rsquo;s promotion to number three means England will have Root, Harry Brook and captain Jos Buttler playing at four, five and six, respectively, with hard-hitting Liam coming in at seven. At the top, they have their preferred pair of Ben Duckett, who passed the fitness test in time for the Champions Trophy, and another keeper-batter, Phil Salt.
England chose the pace duo of Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, with bowling all-rounder Brydon Carse picked as the first change bowler. Veteran leggie Adil Rashid remains their frontline spinner, having impressed against India recently.&nbsp;
England&rsquo;s backup seamers include Saqib Mahmood, Gus Atkinson and all-rounder Jamie Overton.
On the other hand, Australia will be without their several first-team players, including the famous pace trio of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc, alongside two all-rounders, Marcus Stoinis, who announced his shock retirement in the lead-up to the event, and Mitchell Marsh, who is out with an injury.
England&rsquo;s playing XI against Australia &ndash;
Phil Salt, Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith (wk), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler, Liam Livingstone, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid and Mark Wood
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: England named their playing XI for their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener against Australia two days before their scheduled game in Lahore.

England has included gloveman Jamie Smith in their playing XI for their marquee clash against Australia scheduled for Saturday (Feb 22) in Lahore. England’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener will see Smith batting at number three for the first time in his career, with Joe Root, who held that position for the longest time in the past decade, to play at number four throughout the tournament. England made this change in the wake of an embarrassing 0-3 defeat at the hands of India in the recently concluded ODI series, where Root batted at number three, and even though he contributed with handy runs, it failed to help England taste any success in the 50-over format. Also read | Ex-India skipper Sourav Ganguly meets with car accident Impressed with Smith’s limited outings thus far across formats, England has thrown the newcomer up the order, who, up until now, has batted at number five or six in his seven-match ODI career. Meanwhile, following Jacob Bethell’s injury during the away India tour earlier, which ruled him out of the eight-team tournament, England found it tougher to strike a balance in the batting order in their quest to return to the winning ways in ODIs. The English management preferred a batting-heavy top seven for the side’s tournament opener. Liam Livingstone's selection at number seven leaves him and Root to share ten overs between them. Heavy middle order Smith’s promotion to number three means England will have Root, Harry Brook and captain Jos Buttler playing at four, five and six, respectively, with hard-hitting Liam coming in at seven. At the top, they have their preferred pair of Ben Duckett, who passed the fitness test in time for the Champions Trophy, and another keeper-batter, Phil Salt. England chose the pace duo of Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, with bowling all-rounder Brydon Carse picked as the first change bowler. Veteran leggie Adil Rashid remains their frontline spinner, having impressed against India recently. England’s backup seamers include Saqib Mahmood, Gus Atkinson and all-rounder Jamie Overton. On the other hand, Australia will be without their several first-team players, including the famous pace trio of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc, alongside two all-rounders, Marcus Stoinis, who announced his shock retirement in the lead-up to the event, and Mitchell Marsh, who is out with an injury. England’s playing XI against Australia – Phil Salt, Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith (wk), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler, Liam Livingstone, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid and Mark Wood (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Jamie Smith returns as England name playing XI for blockbuster Australia tie

India all-rounder Axar Patel says that he had already started to celebrate by the time he realised that skipper Rohit Sharma had dropped the catch during the Champions Trophy match against Bangladesh on Feb 20 in Dubai. The catch could have given Axar his hattrick but alas, Rohit dropped a dolly in the slips.
"A lot happened. I didn't know if it (Tanzid Hasan wicket) was out, but KL appealed and it was out. Then I got the second wicket. The third one, when the edge was found, I thought I got my hat-trick. It was an eventful over. I started to celebrate and then I saw it (Rohit dropping the catch)," Axar said during the innings break while talking to broadcasters.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-these-things-happen-says-india-skipper-rohit-on-dropping-catch-which-denied-axar-hattrick-8742593">'These things happen,' says India skipper Rohit on dropping catch which denied Axar hattrick</a>
"I didn't react and just came back. It's part of the game. My role is to contribute whenever my team needs it. Happy that the team trusts me a lot," he added.
Axar, bowling the ninth over of Bangladesh's innings and first of his quota, took a wicket off the second and third balls - dismissing Tanzid Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. He then bowled a loopy delivery to Jake Ali and the batter poked at it. The ball travelled to Rohit in the first slip who dropped the catch.
As per ESPNCricinfo data, Rohit has dropped most catches since 2023 in ODIs. The India skipper has held onto 12 catches out of 22 chances and has dropped 10. No other fielder has dropped catches in double figures since 2023 with the second worst after Rohit being Zimbabwe's Brandon King with eight dropped catches in 22 chances.
After the dropped catch, Jake Ali and Towhid Hridoy went on to add 154 runs for the sixth wicket - the highest for Bangladesh against India for any wicket. Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for 228 in 49.4 overs with India pacer Mohammed Shami taking 5/53.
In reply, India vice-captain Shubman Gill scored his second consecutive ton in ODIs as he finished at 101 not out and took the team home. India next play Pakistan in a high-octane match on Sunday (Feb 23).

Champions Trophy: After the dropped catch, Jake Ali and Towhid Hridoy went on to add 154 runs for sixth wicket - the highest for Bangladesh against India for any wicket. Cricket Sports

India all-rounder Axar Patel says that he had already started to celebrate by the time he realised that skipper Rohit Sharma had dropped the catch during the Champions Trophy match against Bangladesh on Feb 20 in Dubai. The catch could have given Axar his hattrick but alas, Rohit dropped a dolly in the slips. "A lot happened. I didn't know if it (Tanzid Hasan wicket) was out, but KL appealed and it was out. Then I got the second wicket. The third one, when the edge was found, I thought I got my hat-trick. It was an eventful over. I started to celebrate and then I saw it (Rohit dropping the catch)," Axar said during the innings break while talking to broadcasters. Also Read: 'These things happen,' says India skipper Rohit on dropping catch which denied Axar hattrick "I didn't react and just came back. It's part of the game. My role is to contribute whenever my team needs it. Happy that the team trusts me a lot," he added. Axar, bowling the ninth over of Bangladesh's innings and first of his quota, took a wicket off the second and third balls - dismissing Tanzid Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. He then bowled a loopy delivery to Jake Ali and the batter poked at it. The ball travelled to Rohit in the first slip who dropped the catch. As per ESPNCricinfo data, Rohit has dropped most catches since 2023 in ODIs. The India skipper has held onto 12 catches out of 22 chances and has dropped 10. No other fielder has dropped catches in double figures since 2023 with the second worst after Rohit being Zimbabwe's Brandon King with eight dropped catches in 22 chances. After the dropped catch, Jake Ali and Towhid Hridoy went on to add 154 runs for the sixth wicket - the highest for Bangladesh against India for any wicket. Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for 228 in 49.4 overs with India pacer Mohammed Shami taking 5/53. In reply, India vice-captain Shubman Gill scored his second consecutive ton in ODIs as he finished at 101 not out and took the team home. India next play Pakistan in a high-octane match on Sunday (Feb 23).

Champions Trophy: 'Happy that the...,' Axar reacts to Rohit dropping hattrick catch vs Bangladesh

India skipper Rohit Sharma has reacted to dropping a catch off Axar Patel's bowling during the Champions Trophy 2025 match against Bangladesh on Feb 20 in Dubai. The catch could have gotten Axar Patel a hattrick but the skipper dropped it in the slips. It didn't prove too costly in the end as India won the match by six wickets.
"That was an easy catch, I should have taken that," Rohit said at the presentation after the win.&nbsp;
"The standard I've set for myself for standing in the slips... That was a little disappointing, but these things happen, I do understand that. But again, the way these guys bowled that set the game for us," he added.
Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-ban-india-batter-virat-kohli-failed-with-bat-but-still-created-a-record-most-catches-for-india-in-odis-kohli-156-azhar-156-8742142">India batter Virat Kohli fails with bat but still creates a record</a>
Axar, bowling the ninth over of Bangladesh's innings and first of his quota, took a wicket of the second and third balls - dismissing Tanzid Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. He then bowled a loopy delivery to Jake Ali and the batter poked at it. The ball travelled to Rohit in the first slip who dropped the dolly.
As per ESPNCricinfo data, Rohit has dropped the most number of catches since 2023 in ODIs. The India skipper has held onto 12 catches out of 22 chances and has dropped 10. No other fielder has dropped catches in double figures since 2023 with the second worst after Rohit being Zimbabwe's Brandon King with eight dropped catches in 22 chances.
After the dropped catch, Jake Ali and Towhid Hridoy went on to add 154 runs for the sixth wicket - the highest for Bangladesh against India for any wicket. Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for 228 in 49.4 overs with India pacer Mohammed Shami taking 5/53.
In reply, India vice-captain Shubman Gill scored his second consecutive ton in ODIs as he finished at 101 not out and took the team home. India next play Pakistan in a high-octane match on Sunday (Feb 23).

Champions Trophy: The catch could have gotten Axar Patel a hattrick but the skipper dropped it in the slips. It didn't prove too costly in the end as India won the match by six wickets. Cricket Sports

India skipper Rohit Sharma has reacted to dropping a catch off Axar Patel's bowling during the Champions Trophy 2025 match against Bangladesh on Feb 20 in Dubai. The catch could have gotten Axar Patel a hattrick but the skipper dropped it in the slips. It didn't prove too costly in the end as India won the match by six wickets. "That was an easy catch, I should have taken that," Rohit said at the presentation after the win. "The standard I've set for myself for standing in the slips... That was a little disappointing, but these things happen, I do understand that. But again, the way these guys bowled that set the game for us," he added. Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: India batter Virat Kohli fails with bat but still creates a record Axar, bowling the ninth over of Bangladesh's innings and first of his quota, took a wicket of the second and third balls - dismissing Tanzid Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. He then bowled a loopy delivery to Jake Ali and the batter poked at it. The ball travelled to Rohit in the first slip who dropped the dolly. As per ESPNCricinfo data, Rohit has dropped the most number of catches since 2023 in ODIs. The India skipper has held onto 12 catches out of 22 chances and has dropped 10. No other fielder has dropped catches in double figures since 2023 with the second worst after Rohit being Zimbabwe's Brandon King with eight dropped catches in 22 chances. After the dropped catch, Jake Ali and Towhid Hridoy went on to add 154 runs for the sixth wicket - the highest for Bangladesh against India for any wicket. Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for 228 in 49.4 overs with India pacer Mohammed Shami taking 5/53. In reply, India vice-captain Shubman Gill scored his second consecutive ton in ODIs as he finished at 101 not out and took the team home. India next play Pakistan in a high-octane match on Sunday (Feb 23).

Champions Trophy: 'These things happen,' says India skipper Rohit on dropping catch which denied Axar hattrick

India vice-captain Shubman Gill continued his sublime form as he scored his second consecutive ton and eighth overall to take the team home against Bangladesh in Champions Trophy on Feb 20 in Dubai. Gill is now fastest to eight ODI tons for India, taking as many as 60 innings less than Sachin Tendulkar. Before Gill, the same record rested with Shikhar Dhawan who had reached the milestone in 57 innings.
<h2>List of Players Fastest to 8 ODI Tons for India</h2>
<ul>
<li>Shubman Gill - 51 innings</li>
<li>Shikhar Dhawan - 57 innings</li>
<li>Virat Kohli - 68 innings</li>
<li>Gautam Gambhir - 98 innings</li>
<li>Sachin Tendulkar - 111 innings</li>
</ul>
Gill reached his hundred off 125 balls - the slowest for India in ODIs since 2012. Before him, Sachin's 138-ball hundred against Bangladesh was the slowest for India in 2010.
Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-ban-india-batter-virat-kohli-failed-with-bat-but-still-created-a-record-most-catches-for-india-in-odis-kohli-156-azhar-156-8742142">India batter Virat Kohli failed with bat but still creates a record</a>
This was also Gill's fourth consecutive fifty-plus score in ODI. Ahead of the match against Bangladesh, the Indian batter scored 87, 60 and 112 in three ODIs against England. Gill eventually finished at 101 not out.
<h2>India beat Bangladesh by six wickets</h2>
India won their opening match of the Champions Trophy by six wickets. For Men in Blue, Mohammed Shami starred with the ball as he took 5/53 and played a key role in bowling out the opposition for 228.
On the way to his five-for, Shami also became the fastest to take 200 ODI wickets in terms of number of balls bowled and second fastest in terms of number of games played.
Chasing the total, India skipper Rohit Sharma gave the team a quick start and added 50 plus for the opening wicket with Shubman Gill. After Rohit got out for a quickfire 41 and Kohli was dismissed shortly, Gill took over the innings and stayed unbeaten throughout.
India next play Pakistan in a blockbuster clash on Sunday (Feb 23) in Dubai.

Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: Shubman Gill is now fastest to eight ODI tons for India, taking as many as 60 innings less than Sachin Tendulkar.  Cricket Sports

India vice-captain Shubman Gill continued his sublime form as he scored his second consecutive ton and eighth overall to take the team home against Bangladesh in Champions Trophy on Feb 20 in Dubai. Gill is now fastest to eight ODI tons for India, taking as many as 60 innings less than Sachin Tendulkar. Before Gill, the same record rested with Shikhar Dhawan who had reached the milestone in 57 innings. List of Players Fastest to 8 ODI Tons for India Shubman Gill - 51 innings Shikhar Dhawan - 57 innings Virat Kohli - 68 innings Gautam Gambhir - 98 innings Sachin Tendulkar - 111 innings Gill reached his hundred off 125 balls - the slowest for India in ODIs since 2012. Before him, Sachin's 138-ball hundred against Bangladesh was the slowest for India in 2010. Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: India batter Virat Kohli failed with bat but still creates a record This was also Gill's fourth consecutive fifty-plus score in ODI. Ahead of the match against Bangladesh, the Indian batter scored 87, 60 and 112 in three ODIs against England. Gill eventually finished at 101 not out. India beat Bangladesh by six wickets India won their opening match of the Champions Trophy by six wickets. For Men in Blue, Mohammed Shami starred with the ball as he took 5/53 and played a key role in bowling out the opposition for 228. On the way to his five-for, Shami also became the fastest to take 200 ODI wickets in terms of number of balls bowled and second fastest in terms of number of games played. Chasing the total, India skipper Rohit Sharma gave the team a quick start and added 50 plus for the opening wicket with Shubman Gill. After Rohit got out for a quickfire 41 and Kohli was dismissed shortly, Gill took over the innings and stayed unbeaten throughout. India next play Pakistan in a blockbuster clash on Sunday (Feb 23) in Dubai.

Champions Trophy: Shubman Gill hits his slowest ton but becomes fastest to 8 ODI hundreds for India

India batter Virat Kohli may have failed with the bat in the Champions Trophy match against Bangladesh on Feb 20 in Dubai, UAE but still managed to create a record. Kohli's milestone moment, however, came in the field as he took two catches during India's fielding.
The ace India batter now has 156 catches as a fielder for India - the joint most along with former India skipper Mohammed Azharuddin. Kohli reached the record in 295 innings while Azhar took 332 innings for the same number of catches.
Also Read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ex-india-skipper-sourav-ganguly-meets-with-car-accident-on-durgapur-highway-near-dantanpur-8742095" aria-label="Ex-India skipper Sourav Ganguly meets with car accident on highway">Ex-India skipper Sourav Ganguly meets with car accident on highway</a>
Overall, Kohli is now behind only Sri Lanka's Mahela Jayawardene (218 catches) and Australia's Ricky Ponting (160 catches) for most catches as a fielder in ODIs.
With the bat, Kohli couldn't do much as he scored 22 runs off 38 balls and hit just one boundary before being dismissed by leggie Rishad Hossain. Kohli fell to a leg-spinner for the sixth time in his last six ODIs - showcasing his weakness against wrist spin.
<h2>Gill, Shami star in India's win</h2>
India won their opening match of the Champions Trophy by six wickets. For Men in Blue, Mohammed Shami starred with the ball as he took 5/53 and played a key role in bowling out the opposition for 228.
On the way to his five-for, Shami also became the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-india-pacer-mohammed-shami-becomes-fastest-to-take-200-odi-wickets-ind-vs-bangladesh-8740336">fastest to take 200 ODI wickets</a> in terms of number of balls bowled and second fastest in terms of number of games played.
Chasing the total, India skipper Rohit Sharma gave the team a quick start and added 50-plus runs for the opening wicket with Shubman Gill. After Rohit got out for a quickfire 41 and Kohli was dismissed shortly, Gill took over the innings and stayed unbeaten throughout.
The opener went on to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-shubman-gill-rates-dubai-hundred-against-bangladesh-his-most-satisfying-innings-8741418">score 101 not out</a> - his first hundred in an ICC tournament. India next play Pakistan in a blockbuster clash on Sunday (Feb 23).

Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: Kohli now has 156 catches as a fielder for India - the joint most along with former India skipper Mohammed Azharuddin. Cricket Sports

India batter Virat Kohli may have failed with the bat in the Champions Trophy match against Bangladesh on Feb 20 in Dubai, UAE but still managed to create a record. Kohli's milestone moment, however, came in the field as he took two catches during India's fielding. The ace India batter now has 156 catches as a fielder for India - the joint most along with former India skipper Mohammed Azharuddin. Kohli reached the record in 295 innings while Azhar took 332 innings for the same number of catches. Also Read: Ex-India skipper Sourav Ganguly meets with car accident on highway Overall, Kohli is now behind only Sri Lanka's Mahela Jayawardene (218 catches) and Australia's Ricky Ponting (160 catches) for most catches as a fielder in ODIs. With the bat, Kohli couldn't do much as he scored 22 runs off 38 balls and hit just one boundary before being dismissed by leggie Rishad Hossain. Kohli fell to a leg-spinner for the sixth time in his last six ODIs - showcasing his weakness against wrist spin. Gill, Shami star in India's win India won their opening match of the Champions Trophy by six wickets. For Men in Blue, Mohammed Shami starred with the ball as he took 5/53 and played a key role in bowling out the opposition for 228. On the way to his five-for, Shami also became the fastest to take 200 ODI wickets in terms of number of balls bowled and second fastest in terms of number of games played. Chasing the total, India skipper Rohit Sharma gave the team a quick start and added 50-plus runs for the opening wicket with Shubman Gill. After Rohit got out for a quickfire 41 and Kohli was dismissed shortly, Gill took over the innings and stayed unbeaten throughout. The opener went on to score 101 not out - his first hundred in an ICC tournament. India next play Pakistan in a blockbuster clash on Sunday (Feb 23).

Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: India batter Virat Kohli fails with bat but still creates a record

Former India skipper and ex-BCCI president Sourav Ganguly met with a minor accident on Thursday (Feb 20). Ganguly, however, didn't suffer any injuries but his vehicle was damaged a bit. The accident happened on Durgapur highway near Dantanpur when Ganguly was travelling to Bardhaman.
According to reports, Ganguly's Range Rover was moving at a controlled speed amid rains when a truck tried to push the car. Ganguly's vehicle lost control for a bit but the drive gained it back quickly, stopping any huge loss of life or stuff.
Champions Trophy 2025: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-shubman-gill-rates-dubai-hundred-against-bangladesh-his-most-satisfying-innings-8741418">Gill rates Dubai hundred against Bangladesh &lsquo;his most satisfying innings&rsquo;</a>
The accident happened when sudden halt of Ganguly's car caused multiple vehicles crashing into one another with the car right behind ramming into the ex-skipper's vehicle.
Ganguly took a 10-minute break before the situation came under control and moved on to his detitanation afterwards. Reports later confirmed that Ganguly was completely safe.
The ex-BCCI president later reached his destination and attended an event at Bardhaman University as well as an event by Bardhaman Sports Association.
More to follow...

The accident happened when the sudden halt of Ganguly's car caused multiple vehicles to crash into one another with the car right behind ramming into the ex-skipper's vehicle.

Former India skipper and ex-BCCI president Sourav Ganguly met with a minor accident on Thursday (Feb 20). Ganguly, however, didn't suffer any injuries but his vehicle was damaged a bit. The accident happened on Durgapur highway near Dantanpur when Ganguly was travelling to Bardhaman. According to reports, Ganguly's Range Rover was moving at a controlled speed amid rains when a truck tried to push the car. Ganguly's vehicle lost control for a bit but the drive gained it back quickly, stopping any huge loss of life or stuff. Champions Trophy 2025: Gill rates Dubai hundred against Bangladesh ‘his most satisfying innings’ The accident happened when sudden halt of Ganguly's car caused multiple vehicles crashing into one another with the car right behind ramming into the ex-skipper's vehicle. Ganguly took a 10-minute break before the situation came under control and moved on to his detitanation afterwards. Reports later confirmed that Ganguly was completely safe. The ex-BCCI president later reached his destination and attended an event at Bardhaman University as well as an event by Bardhaman Sports Association. More to follow...

Ex-India skipper Sourav Ganguly meets with car accident

Shubman Gill and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-ban-most-wickets-in-icc-tournament-for-india-shami-60-zaheer-59-srinath-47-jadeja-43-bumrah-42-kumble-42-8740747" rel="dofollow">Mohammed Shami might have impressed everyone</a> with their match-winning performances against Bangladesh in Dubai, but Rohit Sharma has a certain someone in mind to take out for dinner after the game. His name is Axar Patel.
Rohit entered history books on Friday, becoming the fourth Indian, 10th overall and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-rohit-sharma-becomes-second-quickest-batter-to-11000-odi-runs-virat-kohli-india-bangladesh-dubai-8741096" rel="dofollow">second quickest batter ever to complete 11,000 ODI runs</a>, achieving the milestone in the sixth over of India&rsquo;s run chase. Though he made headlines, his fellow teammate failed to do so, and it&rsquo;s because of Rohit.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-shubman-gill-rates-dubai-hundred-against-bangladesh-his-most-satisfying-innings-8741418" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Gill rates Dubai hundred against Bangladesh &lsquo;his most satisfying innings&rsquo;</a>
Speaking of Axar, the left-arm spinner was on the verge of picking his maiden ODI hat-trick, having removed two batters on successive deliveries. He could have completed a majestic feat (for any bowler) had Rohit, standing in the first slip, wouldn&rsquo;t have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-ban-axar-misses-hattrick-after-rohit-drops-catch-in-slips-video-8739857" rel="dofollow">dropped a sitter</a>.
However, that drop cost India dearly, as the batter, Jaker Ali, scored a gritty 68, while his partner Towhid Hridoy completed his maiden hundred in the first innings. Their 154-run stand for the sixth wicket pulled Bangladesh out of trouble (losing five wickets for 35 at one stage), propelling the team to score a fighting 228 inside 50 overs.
Reflecting on the missed chance, Rohit sounded disappointed with his effort, adding he failed even by the standards he had set for himself.
&ldquo;May take him (Axar) for dinner tomorrow (smiles),&rdquo; Rohit said. &ldquo;No, that was an easy catch; I should have taken that catch with the standards I have set for myself. But I do know these things are bound to happen. Credit to Hridoy and Jaker, they stitched a nice partnership.&rdquo;
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<h2>Happy for Shami, Gill</h2>
Mohammed Shami was the star among all Indian bowlers, returning with a five-wicket haul, his first since the 2023 ODI World Cup. Shami spearheaded the attack in Jasprit Bumrah's absence, with rookie Harshit Rana playing ahead of Arshdeep Singh, a move that paid dividends.&nbsp;
Crediting Shami and Gill, who scored an unbeaten 101 off 129 balls while chasing, helping India win their tournament opener in style, Rohit said, &ldquo;Very happy for him (Shami), long time waiting. We know what he brings to us. We need guys like him to stand up when we need. Gill, we know the class that he has, Shouldn't surprise anyone. It was good to see him bat till the end.&rdquo;
After India won their first match, their next game is against Pakistan this coming Sunday (Feb 23), and a win against their arch-rivals will all but seal their place in the Champions Trophy semis.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Courtesy of match-winning performances from Mohammed Shami and Shubman Gill, India beat Bangladesh by six wickets in their tournament opener in Dubai.

Shubman Gill and Mohammed Shami might have impressed everyone with their match-winning performances against Bangladesh in Dubai, but Rohit Sharma has a certain someone in mind to take out for dinner after the game. His name is Axar Patel. Rohit entered history books on Friday, becoming the fourth Indian, 10th overall and the second quickest batter ever to complete 11,000 ODI runs, achieving the milestone in the sixth over of India’s run chase. Though he made headlines, his fellow teammate failed to do so, and it’s because of Rohit. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Gill rates Dubai hundred against Bangladesh ‘his most satisfying innings’ Speaking of Axar, the left-arm spinner was on the verge of picking his maiden ODI hat-trick, having removed two batters on successive deliveries. He could have completed a majestic feat (for any bowler) had Rohit, standing in the first slip, wouldn’t have dropped a sitter. However, that drop cost India dearly, as the batter, Jaker Ali, scored a gritty 68, while his partner Towhid Hridoy completed his maiden hundred in the first innings. Their 154-run stand for the sixth wicket pulled Bangladesh out of trouble (losing five wickets for 35 at one stage), propelling the team to score a fighting 228 inside 50 overs. Reflecting on the missed chance, Rohit sounded disappointed with his effort, adding he failed even by the standards he had set for himself. “May take him (Axar) for dinner tomorrow (smiles),” Rohit said. “No, that was an easy catch; I should have taken that catch with the standards I have set for myself. But I do know these things are bound to happen. Credit to Hridoy and Jaker, they stitched a nice partnership.” Watch - View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) Happy for Shami, Gill Mohammed Shami was the star among all Indian bowlers, returning with a five-wicket haul, his first since the 2023 ODI World Cup. Shami spearheaded the attack in Jasprit Bumrah's absence, with rookie Harshit Rana playing ahead of Arshdeep Singh, a move that paid dividends. Crediting Shami and Gill, who scored an unbeaten 101 off 129 balls while chasing, helping India win their tournament opener in style, Rohit said, “Very happy for him (Shami), long time waiting. We know what he brings to us. We need guys like him to stand up when we need. Gill, we know the class that he has, Shouldn't surprise anyone. It was good to see him bat till the end.” After India won their first match, their next game is against Pakistan this coming Sunday (Feb 23), and a win against their arch-rivals will all but seal their place in the Champions Trophy semis. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit might take Axar out for dinner to compensate for his missed hat-trick chance

Shubman Gill is back, and back with a bang.
Following a series of mediocre scores against New Zealand and Australia in Tests earlier, Gill grinds hard in the domestic to return to top form in the white-ball format. The right-handed batter was the star of the day alongside seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-india-pacer-mohammed-shami-becomes-fastest-to-take-200-odi-wickets-ind-vs-bangladesh-8740336" rel="dofollow">Mohammed Shami (who picked a five-for)</a>, scoring his maiden ICC tournament hundred and calling it his &lsquo;most satisfying innings&rsquo; to date. As a result, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-live-score-updates-champions-trophy-2025-ball-by-ball-updates-and-full-scorecard-india-vs-bangladesh-dubai-international-cricket-stadium-8738242" rel="dofollow">India beat Bangladesh by six wickets</a> in their tournament opener in Dubai.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-bangladeshs-towhid-hridoy-beats-heat-cramps-to-notch-up-brilliant-hundred-against-india-8740585" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Bangladesh&rsquo;s Hridoy beats heat, cramps to hit maiden ODI ton against India</a>
Opening alongside the skipper Rohit Sharma, who created history by becoming the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-rohit-sharma-becomes-second-quickest-batter-to-11000-odi-runs-virat-kohli-india-bangladesh-dubai-8741096" rel="dofollow">second quickest batter to 11,000 ODI runs</a> (after Virat Kohli) in 261 innings, Gill launched from the word go, keeping Bangladesh seamers quiet in the Powerplay.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7dlb35q-6i0udwtk-wkqm2fzp">
9️⃣8️⃣metres 😲 A breathtaking six from Shubman Gill. Watch LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a> in India. Here's how to watch LIVE wherever you are 👉 <a href="https://t.co/AIBA0YZyiZ">https://t.co/AIBA0YZyiZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/LgIK5AjixQ">pic.twitter.com/LgIK5AjixQ</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1892580736890184018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
Though India lost Sharma inside the first ten overs, with the middle order also failing to click, including Virat Kohli (22), Shreyas Iyer (15), and floater Axar Patel (8), Gill stood his ground, playing a mature knock to see his team home.&nbsp;
The ODI vice-captain attacked the pacers, slamming a huge six and boundaries earlier, but what stood out was his game and gap-finding and single-taking abilities (in the middle overs), which helped India stay on track for an easy win.
&ldquo;Definitely one of my most satisfying innings that I have played and my first century in ICC events,&rdquo; Gill said at the post-match presser. &ldquo;Very satisfying and very happy with the way I performed. When me and Rohit bhai went out there, we thought cutting the ball wasn't easy because the balls which were outside the off-stump weren't coming onto the bat that nicely.&rdquo;&nbsp;
&ldquo;So, I thought of using my feet to even the fast bowlers and tried to go over the circle,&rdquo; Gill explained his game plan against the seamers.
<h2>Tackling spinners is an art</h2>
While Kohli and Axar fell prey to Rishad Hossain&rsquo;s leg spin, Gill took his time to score against the spinners. Explaining further how he and Virat talked through trying to score runs against them, Gill said,&nbsp;
&ldquo;When the spinners came on, me and Virat bhai were talking in the middle that it's not easy to score singles off the front foot, so we'll try to score singles off the back foot. And it's not easy to hit down the ground, so we just keep rotating the strike. At one point, there was a bit of pressure on us.&rdquo;&nbsp;
&ldquo;The message was sent from outside that I have to try to bat till the end, and that's what I tried to do. (On his two sixes) The first one gave me a lot of confidence, and the second one helped me come closer to my hundred, so both were very satisfying,&rdquo; he continued.
Gill won the Player of the Match award for his magnificent match-winning hundred.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Shubman Gill scored an unbeaten 101 off 129 balls against Bangladesh, hitting nine fours and two sixes in his match-winning knock for India.

Shubman Gill is back, and back with a bang. Following a series of mediocre scores against New Zealand and Australia in Tests earlier, Gill grinds hard in the domestic to return to top form in the white-ball format. The right-handed batter was the star of the day alongside seamer Mohammed Shami (who picked a five-for), scoring his maiden ICC tournament hundred and calling it his ‘most satisfying innings’ to date. As a result, India beat Bangladesh by six wickets in their tournament opener in Dubai. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Bangladesh’s Hridoy beats heat, cramps to hit maiden ODI ton against India Opening alongside the skipper Rohit Sharma, who created history by becoming the second quickest batter to 11,000 ODI runs (after Virat Kohli) in 261 innings, Gill launched from the word go, keeping Bangladesh seamers quiet in the Powerplay. 9️⃣8️⃣metres 😲 A breathtaking six from Shubman Gill. Watch LIVE on @StarSportsIndia in India. Here's how to watch LIVE wherever you are 👉 https://t.co/AIBA0YZyiZ pic.twitter.com/LgIK5AjixQ — ICC (@ICC) February 20, 2025 Though India lost Sharma inside the first ten overs, with the middle order also failing to click, including Virat Kohli (22), Shreyas Iyer (15), and floater Axar Patel (8), Gill stood his ground, playing a mature knock to see his team home. The ODI vice-captain attacked the pacers, slamming a huge six and boundaries earlier, but what stood out was his game and gap-finding and single-taking abilities (in the middle overs), which helped India stay on track for an easy win. “Definitely one of my most satisfying innings that I have played and my first century in ICC events,” Gill said at the post-match presser. “Very satisfying and very happy with the way I performed. When me and Rohit bhai went out there, we thought cutting the ball wasn't easy because the balls which were outside the off-stump weren't coming onto the bat that nicely.” “So, I thought of using my feet to even the fast bowlers and tried to go over the circle,” Gill explained his game plan against the seamers. Tackling spinners is an art While Kohli and Axar fell prey to Rishad Hossain’s leg spin, Gill took his time to score against the spinners. Explaining further how he and Virat talked through trying to score runs against them, Gill said, “When the spinners came on, me and Virat bhai were talking in the middle that it's not easy to score singles off the front foot, so we'll try to score singles off the back foot. And it's not easy to hit down the ground, so we just keep rotating the strike. At one point, there was a bit of pressure on us.” “The message was sent from outside that I have to try to bat till the end, and that's what I tried to do. (On his two sixes) The first one gave me a lot of confidence, and the second one helped me come closer to my hundred, so both were very satisfying,” he continued. Gill won the Player of the Match award for his magnificent match-winning hundred. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Gill rates Dubai hundred against Bangladesh ‘his most satisfying innings’

IND vs BAN, Champions Trophy 2025: The Indian Team emerged victorious in their tournament opener against Bangladesh by six wickets in Dubai on Friday. The second game of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was no short of entertainment, as players from both teams impressed on this hot day at the Dubai International Stadium.
Bangladesh batted first after winning the toss but failed to make any impact, with Indian bowlers tearing into their top order, reducing them to 35 for five at one stage. Jaker Ali and Towhid Hridoy were the saving grace for the Tigers, stitching a 154-run stand for the sixth wicket and pulling them out of trouble.
While Jaker got out on a well-made 68, Hridoy completed his maiden ODI hundred soon after, propelling Bangladesh to a fighting total of 228 in the first innings.
India&rsquo;s chase began impressively, with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill attacking the opposition from the word go.&nbsp;
While Rohit got out on 41, having crossed the 11,000 run-mark in the ODIs (in the meantime), Gill stood his ground. The middle order failed to click, with Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer and floater Axar Patel departing early; KL Rahul&rsquo;s gritty 41* off 47, alongside Gill&rsquo;s maiden Champions Trophy hundred, helped India win their first game of this tournament.
India will face arch-rivals Pakistan this coming Sunday (Feb 23) in Dubai.&nbsp;

India has opened its account in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with a six-wicket win over Bangladesh in Dubai. For the Men in Blue, opener Shubman Gill and seamer Mohammed Shami starred.

IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025: India win against Bangladesh

Shubman Gill continues his brilliant form with the bat, completing a magnificent hundred on his Champions Trophy debut, guiding India in the touching distance of the win.
IND: 222/4 in 45.2 overs vs BAN (228 all out)
India need 5 runs to win

IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025: Gill hits hundred in chase

Hero with the bat in the first innings, Jaker Ali dropped KL Rahul on nine, much to India's delight. The Men in Blue, however, would aim to make the most of this chance as they near a victory in this game.&nbsp;
IND: 175/4 in 38 overs vs BAN (228 all out)
India need 53 runs from 71 balls

IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025:  Rahul DROPPED, India inch closer to win

Axar Patel is the latest to fall victim to Rishad's fabolous line and length in this game, as he top-edged one, getting out caught &amp; bowled on eight.&nbsp;
IND: 144/4 in 30.1 overs vs BAN (228 all out)
India need 85 runs from 19.5 overs.

IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025: WICKET

Shreyas Iyer goes after trying one too many shots as Bangladesh take third Indian wicket. India, however, need less than 100 runs so should not be a worry.
IND: 133/3 in 27.4 overs vs BAN (228 all out)
India need 96 runs in 22.2 overs.

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Ace Indian batter Virat Kohli departed on 22, getting out caught in the point position off leg-spinner Rishad Hossain. He is the second Indian batter to fall in the chase of 229.
IND: 112/2 in 22.4 overs vs BAN (228 all out)
India need 117 runs in 27 overs.
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IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025: Kohli departs on 22, India 112/2

Opener Shubamn Gill looked in an ominous touch against Bangladesh, nearing his maiden Champions Trophy 50 as India breached the 100-run-mark.&nbsp;
IND: 101/1 in 20 overs vs BAN (228 all out)
India need 128 runs in 30 overs.

IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025: India reach 100, Gill nears 50

Despite Rohit's wicket, India doesn't seem in too much trouble as they near 100-run mark with Shubman Gill spearheading the innings.
IND: 84/1 in 15 overs vs BAN (228 all out)
India need 144 runs in 35 overs.

IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025: India on cruise control

India lose the first wicket as Rohit departs after scoring a decent 41.
IND: 69/1 in 10 overs vs BAN (228)
Rohit Sharma c Rishad Hossain b Taskin Ahmed 41
India need 160 runs in 40 overs.

After starting cautiously, Indian openers have started scoring freely as they cross the 50-run mark.
IND: 51/0 in 8 overs vs BAN (228 all out)
India need 178 runs in 42 overs.

IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025: 50 up for India

Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill have started the chase for India in an cautious manner. Both the batters have tried to break free but Bangladesh bowlers have been good with their lines and lengths.
IND: 23/0 in 5 overs vs BAN (228 all out)
India need 206 runs in 45 overs.

IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025: India cautious in chase

Harshit takes his third wicket as Bangladesh get bowled out with Hridoy being the last wicket after a sensational 100.
BAN: 228 all out (Hridoy 100, Shami 5/53)

IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025: Bangladesh all-out

And another equally inspirational story as Shami takes his fifth wicket of the innings.
BAN: 228/9 in 48.4 overs
Taskin Ahmed c Iyer b Mohammed Shami 3

IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025: Fifer for Shami

What an innigs this has been, bringing Bangladesh back in the contest from 35/5! Sensational

IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025: 100 for Hridoy

Another one for Shami as he rattles Tanzim Hasan Sakib's stumps.
BAN: 215/8 in 46.2 overs
Tanzim Hasan Sakib b Mohammed Shami 0

IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025: WICKET!!

Harshit takes one more wicket as Bangladesh lose its 7th wicket of the innings.
BAN:&nbsp;214/7 in 45.3 overs
Rishad Hossain c Pandya b Harshit Rana 18

Shami takes his 200th ODI wicket as Bangladesh go past 200 and would not try to finish strong - A great comeback by them.
Live Score:&nbsp;
BAN:&nbsp;212/6 (45 overs)

IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025: Bangladesh try to finish strong

Shami to the rescue again as he takes out Jaker Ali for this third wicket of the innings and breaks the 154-run partnership.
BAN: 189/6 in 39.4 overs
Jaker Ali c Kohli b Mohammed Shami 68

IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025:  WICKET!!

This partnership is reaching the heights India wouldn't like as Bangladesh cross 150-mark with 10 overs to go and still only five wicets down.
Live Score:&nbsp;
BAN:&nbsp;164/5 (40 overs)

IND vs BAN Live, Champions Trophy 2025: Hridoy, Jaker take Bangladesh past 150

IND vs BAN: India beat Bangladesh by six wickets in their tournament opener in Dubai on Friday (Feb 20), with seamer Mohammed Shami and opener Shubman Gill starring for India.

IND vs BAN, Champions Trophy 2025: The Indian Team emerged victorious in their tournament opener against Bangladesh by six wickets in Dubai on Friday. The second game of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was no short of entertainment, as players from both teams impressed on this hot day at the Dubai International Stadium. Bangladesh batted first after winning the toss but failed to make any impact, with Indian bowlers tearing into their top order, reducing them to 35 for five at one stage. Jaker Ali and Towhid Hridoy were the saving grace for the Tigers, stitching a 154-run stand for the sixth wicket and pulling them out of trouble. While Jaker got out on a well-made 68, Hridoy completed his maiden ODI hundred soon after, propelling Bangladesh to a fighting total of 228 in the first innings. India’s chase began impressively, with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill attacking the opposition from the word go. While Rohit got out on 41, having crossed the 11,000 run-mark in the ODIs (in the meantime), Gill stood his ground. The middle order failed to click, with Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer and floater Axar Patel departing early; KL Rahul’s gritty 41* off 47, alongside Gill’s maiden Champions Trophy hundred, helped India win their first game of this tournament. India will face arch-rivals Pakistan this coming Sunday (Feb 23) in Dubai.

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