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<p>Indian captain and veteran batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a> crossed the 11,000-run-mark in the ODIs during the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy</a> game against Bangladesh in Dubai while doing it in 261 innings, the second quickest in history. Without any surprise, his compatriot and ace batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> leads the chart, reaching the milestone in 222 innings. Rohit becomes the fourth Indian batter and the 10th overall to achieve this feat.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7dhm122-a4iyy8kh-a6wd5yvu">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fastest to 11000 ODI runs (by innings)<br>222 - Virat Kohli🇮🇳<br>261 - Rohit Sharma🇮🇳<br>276 - Sachin Tendulkar🇮🇳<br>286 - Ricky Ponting🇦🇺<br>288 - Sourav Ganguly🇮🇳<br><br>Fastest to 11000 ODI runs (by balls)<br>11831 - Virat Kohli🇮🇳<br>11868 - Rohit Sharma🇮🇳<br><br>Indians dominating the charts 💥💥&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/V1IjOUnOSu">pic.twitter.com/V1IjOUnOSu</a></p>
&mdash; Kausthub Gudipati (@kaustats) <a href="https://twitter.com/kaustats/status/1892570435595997683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>The right-handed batter crossed the 11,000 mark in the ODIs during the sixth over of India&rsquo;s run chase after hitting a four to left-armer Mustafizur Rahman in the mid-on area.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <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" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan captain does Kapil Dev at presser, says &lsquo;we are not here to participate...&rsquo;</a></strong></p>
<p>While Kohli leads the chart, and Rohit also becoming the latest entrant to the club, other Indian batters to have completed 11,000 runs in the ODIs were former captains and stalwarts Sourav Ganguly (288 innings) and Sachin Tendulkar (276). Rohit is placed behind Ganguly (11,363) on the list of batters with the most runs in this format, with veteran Sachin leading the charts with a whopping tally of 18,246 runs in 463 matches.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, among the top five quickest players to aggregate 11,000 ODI runs, of which four are Indians, the remaining one is former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, who sits in the fourth position (286 innings).&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Rohit, Kohli out in chase</h2>
<p>Chasing 229 in their tournament opener against Bangladesh, Rohit opened alongside his deputy Shubman Gill, with both going bonkers right from the word go. The pair added 69 for the first wicket, with the Indian captain scoring a quick-fire 41 off 36 balls, hitting seven boundaries.</p>
<p>As he looked like putting in the fifth gear, he top-edged off seamer Taskin Ahmed straight to the cover point position. His wicket brought Kohli onto the crease, also looking like getting a big score on the day, but seemed to have got carried away with Rishad Hossain&rsquo;s flight, hitting one straight to the gully on 22.</p>
<p>Until the 30th over, India had lost four wickets, including the star middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer on 15 and floater Axar Patel on just eight, with India&rsquo;s scorecard reading 144 for four at one stage.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

Cricket, Sports: While Rohit is the fourth Indian batter and 10th overall to achieve this feat, he sits second on that list, with his compatriot Virat Kohli leading the chart.

Indian captain and veteran batter Rohit Sharma crossed the 11,000-run-mark in the ODIs during the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy game against Bangladesh in Dubai while doing it in 261 innings, the second quickest in history. Without any surprise, his compatriot and ace batter Virat Kohli leads the chart, reaching the milestone in 222 innings. Rohit becomes the fourth Indian batter and the 10th overall to achieve this feat. Fastest to 11000 ODI runs (by innings) 222 - Virat Kohli🇮🇳 261 - Rohit Sharma🇮🇳 276 - Sachin Tendulkar🇮🇳 286 - Ricky Ponting🇦🇺 288 - Sourav Ganguly🇮🇳 Fastest to 11000 ODI runs (by balls) 11831 - Virat Kohli🇮🇳 11868 - Rohit Sharma🇮🇳 Indians dominating the charts 💥💥… pic.twitter.com/V1IjOUnOSu — Kausthub Gudipati (@kaustats) February 20, 2025 The right-handed batter crossed the 11,000 mark in the ODIs during the sixth over of India’s run chase after hitting a four to left-armer Mustafizur Rahman in the mid-on area. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan captain does Kapil Dev at presser, says ‘we are not here to participate...’ While Kohli leads the chart, and Rohit also becoming the latest entrant to the club, other Indian batters to have completed 11,000 runs in the ODIs were former captains and stalwarts Sourav Ganguly (288 innings) and Sachin Tendulkar (276). Rohit is placed behind Ganguly (11,363) on the list of batters with the most runs in this format, with veteran Sachin leading the charts with a whopping tally of 18,246 runs in 463 matches. Meanwhile, among the top five quickest players to aggregate 11,000 ODI runs, of which four are Indians, the remaining one is former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, who sits in the fourth position (286 innings). Rohit, Kohli out in chase Chasing 229 in their tournament opener against Bangladesh, Rohit opened alongside his deputy Shubman Gill, with both going bonkers right from the word go. The pair added 69 for the first wicket, with the Indian captain scoring a quick-fire 41 off 36 balls, hitting seven boundaries. As he looked like putting in the fifth gear, he top-edged off seamer Taskin Ahmed straight to the cover point position. His wicket brought Kohli onto the crease, also looking like getting a big score on the day, but seemed to have got carried away with Rishad Hossain’s flight, hitting one straight to the gully on 22. Until the 30th over, India had lost four wickets, including the star middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer on 15 and floater Axar Patel on just eight, with India’s scorecard reading 144 for four at one stage. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit Sharma becomes second quickest to 11,000 ODI runs

<p>Pakistan have been fined five percent of match fees for maintaining a slow over-rate during the opening match of Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand on Feb 19 in Karachi. The fine is the latest of the blows Pakistan have had to suffer after losing the match and batter Fakhar Zaman being ruled out of the tournament with an oblique injury.</p>
<p>"Pakistan have been fined 5 per cent of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against New Zealand in the opening match of the ICC Men&rsquo;s Champions Trophy 2025 on Wednesday," read a release by the ICC.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <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">Shami goes past Zaheer for most wickets in ICC tournaments for India with five-for vs Bangladesh</a></p>
<p>"In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined five per cent of their match fee for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time," the release further added.</p>
<p>Pakistan were found one over short of the target after time consideration was taken into account.</p>
<h2><strong>Pakistan lose Fakhar Zaman to injury</strong></h2>
<p>Pakistan's title defence couldn't have gotten off to a worse start. First, they lost the match by 60 runs, making their next match against India on Feb 23 a virtual do-or-die situation.</p>
<p>Moreover, the hosts have lost Fakhar Zaman to an injury. The batter was instrumental in Pakistan's title win in 2017, when they had beaten India in the final and Zaman had scored a ton.</p>
<p>Pakistan have named Imam ul Haq as Zaman's replacement for the tournament, and the same has been approved by the ICC Event Technical Committee as well.</p>
<p>Imam has played 72 ODIs for Pakistan, with the last one coming in October 2023 (ODI World Cup) against South Africa. He scored 3,138 runs in those ODIs at an average of 48 with nine tons and 20 fifties. His highest in ODIs is 151.</p>

Champions Trophy: Pakistan were found one over short of the target during the match against New Zealand after time consideration was taken into account. Cricket Sports

Pakistan have been fined five percent of match fees for maintaining a slow over-rate during the opening match of Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand on Feb 19 in Karachi. The fine is the latest of the blows Pakistan have had to suffer after losing the match and batter Fakhar Zaman being ruled out of the tournament with an oblique injury. "Pakistan have been fined 5 per cent of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against New Zealand in the opening match of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 on Wednesday," read a release by the ICC. Also Read: Shami goes past Zaheer for most wickets in ICC tournaments for India with five-for vs Bangladesh "In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined five per cent of their match fee for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time," the release further added. Pakistan were found one over short of the target after time consideration was taken into account. Pakistan lose Fakhar Zaman to injury Pakistan's title defence couldn't have gotten off to a worse start. First, they lost the match by 60 runs, making their next match against India on Feb 23 a virtual do-or-die situation. Moreover, the hosts have lost Fakhar Zaman to an injury. The batter was instrumental in Pakistan's title win in 2017, when they had beaten India in the final and Zaman had scored a ton. Pakistan have named Imam ul Haq as Zaman's replacement for the tournament, and the same has been approved by the ICC Event Technical Committee as well. Imam has played 72 ODIs for Pakistan, with the last one coming in October 2023 (ODI World Cup) against South Africa. He scored 3,138 runs in those ODIs at an average of 48 with nine tons and 20 fifties. His highest in ODIs is 151.

Champions Trophy: More trouble for Pakistan as ICC fines hosts for slow over rate during match against New Zealand

<p>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, saying Afghanistan are not just participating in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> for fun or to get better at their game, but to win the tournament.</p>
<p>Afghanistan will face <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/south-africa-at-champions-trophy-2025-swot-analysis-proteas-time-to-shine-at-multi-team-event-8729631" rel="dofollow">South Africa</a> in their tournament opener at the National Stadium in Karachi on Friday (Feb 21), and ahead of this crucial game, knowing what the Asian minnows did to the Proteas in their last bilateral ODIs (beating them 2-1), their captain coming out claiming his team&rsquo;s mission to win this event boosts their chances.</p>
<p><strong>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></strong></p>
<h2>Afghanistan on the top!</h2>
<p>Since the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, where Afghanistan beat three former world champions&mdash;England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka&mdash;they entered this tournament on the back of four ODI series wins against Ireland, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe.</p>
<p>Even at last year&rsquo;s T20 World Cup in the Americas, Afghanistan stunned New Zealand and Australia in their group stage to make it to their maiden semis of an ICC event. Having achieved so much in the past year or so, Afghanistan is oozing with confidence ahead of its first game of this showpiece event.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pakistan-has-many-flaws-but-if-they-can-beat-india-mohammad-amir-8740393" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: &lsquo;Pakistan has many flaws, but if they can beat India&hellip;,&rsquo; Mohammad Amir</a></strong></p>
<p>"We are not here just to participate here in this tournament. We are definitely 100% looking to win this event," Shahidi said ahead of South Africa&rsquo;s clash in Karachi.</p>
<p>"We played a lot of quality cricket from last two years, and it's a good chance for us because the boys are very experienced, and these conditions are also suitable for us, so we have a good chance and let's start it from tomorrow, and hopefully we start with the win, and we go with the same momentum throughout the tournament."</p>
<p>"Recently, we beat them in Sharjah 2-1, so we have that confidence with us, and we are not under pressure anyway because right now we are focusing what we can do in this tournament, and I believe that our team is ready for this tournament and we are focusing on our own team. There is no pressure on us," he continued.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Afghanistan is placed in Group B, alongside the Proteas, the former two-time winners Australia and ex-world champions England. While they take on England (February 26) in Lahore, their clash against Australia is scheduled two days later at the same venue.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: In the lead-up to this tournament, Afghanistan won four ODI series—against Ireland, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe.

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 ‘83’ said, "We are here to win," referring to his team's chances in the 1983 World Cup; Shahidi just did the same, saying Afghanistan are not just participating in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 for fun or to get better at their game, but to win the tournament. Afghanistan will face South Africa in their tournament opener at the National Stadium in Karachi on Friday (Feb 21), and ahead of this crucial game, knowing what the Asian minnows did to the Proteas in their last bilateral ODIs (beating them 2-1), their captain coming out claiming his team’s mission to win this event boosts their chances. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Bangladesh’s Hridoy beats heat, cramps to hit maiden ODI ton against India Afghanistan on the top! Since the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, where Afghanistan beat three former world champions—England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka—they entered this tournament on the back of four ODI series wins against Ireland, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe. Even at last year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas, Afghanistan stunned New Zealand and Australia in their group stage to make it to their maiden semis of an ICC event. Having achieved so much in the past year or so, Afghanistan is oozing with confidence ahead of its first game of this showpiece event. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: ‘Pakistan has many flaws, but if they can beat India…,’ Mohammad Amir "We are not here just to participate here in this tournament. We are definitely 100% looking to win this event," Shahidi said ahead of South Africa’s clash in Karachi. "We played a lot of quality cricket from last two years, and it's a good chance for us because the boys are very experienced, and these conditions are also suitable for us, so we have a good chance and let's start it from tomorrow, and hopefully we start with the win, and we go with the same momentum throughout the tournament." "Recently, we beat them in Sharjah 2-1, so we have that confidence with us, and we are not under pressure anyway because right now we are focusing what we can do in this tournament, and I believe that our team is ready for this tournament and we are focusing on our own team. There is no pressure on us," he continued. Meanwhile, Afghanistan is placed in Group B, alongside the Proteas, the former two-time winners Australia and ex-world champions England. While they take on England (February 26) in Lahore, their clash against Australia is scheduled two days later at the same venue. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan captain does Kapil Dev at presser, says ‘we are not here to participate...’

<p>Mohammed Shami, during the Champions Trophy match against Bangladesh on Thursday (Feb 20) in Dubai, became India's highest wicket-taker in the ICC 50-over tournaments&mdash;ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy. Shami now has 60 wickets combined in both the tournaments, going past former left-arm fast bowler Zaheer Khan's 59-wicket mark.</p>
<p>Other India pacers in the list are Javagal Srinath (47), Ravindra Jadeja (43) and Jasprit Bumrah (42) along with Anil Kumbale (42).</p>
<p><strong>Also Watch: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-ban-axar-misses-hattrick-after-rohit-drops-catch-in-slips-video-8739857">Axar misses hattrick after Rohit drops dolly in slips</a></p>
<p>Shami has played a total of 19 matches for India in the ICC ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy combined for his 60 wickets, while Zaheer played 32 matches for his wickets. Shami has also taken five five-fors in these games&mdash;also the most for any Indian bowler.</p>
<p>Among active cricketers, Shami is behind only Australia's Mitchell Starc, who has 71 wickets in 32 matches at these two tournaments. Overall, Shami's 60 wickets are seventh highest in the world behind Glenn McGrath (92), Muthiah Muralidaran (92), Lasith Malinga (81), Starc, Chaminda Vaas (67), and Wasim Akram (62).</p>
<h2><strong>Shami becomes fastest to 200 ODI wickets</strong></h2>
<p>During the match, Shami also completed his 200 wickets in the ODIs for India. He is the fastest bowler to reach the mark in terms of balls bowled. The Indian pacer took 5126 balls to reach the record, beating Australia's Mitchell Starc, who had taken 5240 balls to take 200 ODI wickets.</p>
<p>Shami, playing his 104th ODI game, is also the joint second-fastest to reach the milestone in terms of matches played along with Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq. Only Starc, who took 200 wickets in 102 matches, is ahead of Shami.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Thanks to Shami, India bowled out Bangladesh for 228 runs. The score would have been even lower if not for a 154-run partnership between Jake Ali (61) and Towhid Hridoy (100) for the sixth wicket.</p>

Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: Shami now has 60 wickets combined in both the tournaments, going past former left-arm fast bowler Zaheer Khan's 59-wicket mark. Cricket Sports

Mohammed Shami, during the Champions Trophy match against Bangladesh on Thursday (Feb 20) in Dubai, became India's highest wicket-taker in the ICC 50-over tournaments—ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy. Shami now has 60 wickets combined in both the tournaments, going past former left-arm fast bowler Zaheer Khan's 59-wicket mark. Other India pacers in the list are Javagal Srinath (47), Ravindra Jadeja (43) and Jasprit Bumrah (42) along with Anil Kumbale (42). Also Watch: Axar misses hattrick after Rohit drops dolly in slips Shami has played a total of 19 matches for India in the ICC ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy combined for his 60 wickets, while Zaheer played 32 matches for his wickets. Shami has also taken five five-fors in these games—also the most for any Indian bowler. Among active cricketers, Shami is behind only Australia's Mitchell Starc, who has 71 wickets in 32 matches at these two tournaments. Overall, Shami's 60 wickets are seventh highest in the world behind Glenn McGrath (92), Muthiah Muralidaran (92), Lasith Malinga (81), Starc, Chaminda Vaas (67), and Wasim Akram (62). Shami becomes fastest to 200 ODI wickets During the match, Shami also completed his 200 wickets in the ODIs for India. He is the fastest bowler to reach the mark in terms of balls bowled. The Indian pacer took 5126 balls to reach the record, beating Australia's Mitchell Starc, who had taken 5240 balls to take 200 ODI wickets. Shami, playing his 104th ODI game, is also the joint second-fastest to reach the milestone in terms of matches played along with Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq. Only Starc, who took 200 wickets in 102 matches, is ahead of Shami. Thanks to Shami, India bowled out Bangladesh for 228 runs. The score would have been even lower if not for a 154-run partnership between Jake Ali (61) and Towhid Hridoy (100) for the sixth wicket.

Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: Shami goes past Zaheer for most wickets in ICC tournaments for India with five-for vs Bangladesh

<p>Bangladesh has a new hero, and his name is Towhid Hridoy. The young batter scored his maiden ODI hundred against India in the side&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-fans-show-cold-response-in-hot-dubai-conditions-for-india-vs-bangladesh-tie-8739542" rel="dofollow">opening game of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai</a> on Thursday (Feb 20), lifting his team from misery after India reduced Bangladesh to 35 for five at one stage.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7dcguh3-cn73ji0k-g9cflrnt">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Maiden ODI 💯 for Bangladesh's Tawhid Hridoy and what an occasion to bring it up 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BANvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BANvIND</a> ✍️: <a href="https://t.co/zafQJUBu9o">https://t.co/zafQJUBu9o</a> <a href="https://t.co/zgkUwb4MXy">pic.twitter.com/zgkUwb4MXy</a></p>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1892552816410952007?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>After being asked to bowl first, 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" rel="dofollow">Mohammed Shami</a>-led Indian bowling attack destroyed Bangladesh&rsquo;s top order by removing three of the five batters out on duck, with the remaining two on five (Mehidy Hasan Miraz) and 25 (Tanzid Hasan). With Bangladesh&rsquo;s back against the wall, the two batters &ndash; Jaker Ali and Hridoy, saved their team&rsquo;s day by posting a respectable target against the ODI giants.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pakistan-has-many-flaws-but-if-they-can-beat-india-mohammad-amir-8740393" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: &lsquo;Pakistan has many flaws, but if they can beat India&hellip;,&rsquo; Mohammad Amir</a></strong></p>
<p>The two deployed a cautious approach upfront, saving their wickets while beating the Dubai heat and the cramps (that followed) to pull their side out of trouble. Thanks to <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">several dropped chances</a>, much to India&rsquo;s disappointment, the pair made the most of their second chances and kept the run rate ticking.</p>
<h2>Hridoy, the hero!</h2>
<p>Though Jaker stood his ground at one end, Hridoy&rsquo;s innings impressed everyone, including the dressing room that kept cheering him as he approached his maiden ODI hundred. Even after losing Jaker (on 68 off 114 balls) and spinner Rishad Hossain on 18, the right-handed batter kept going, scoring runs off poor balls while dodging or playing the good ones. That kept India under pressure, which at one stage looked like wrapping up Bangladesh under 100.</p>
<p>Soon after getting into his 90s, Hridoy fell on the pitch after playing a shot, screaming with pain as the Physio and his partner rushed to the spot to check on him. After a brief inspection, Hridoy returned to his feet, trying to push himself for each single.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In Shami&rsquo;s last over, where he later completed his five-for, his first since the ODI World Cup in 2023, Hridoy played one to the point and was pumped up on hitting his first ODI hundred.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7dcri9z-wbrydp58-iw0cxsoa">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Been hearing about Towhid Hridoy for a couple of years now and frankly, he hadn't done all that much. Showed his class today.</p>
&mdash; Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1892551441132195994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>He got out in the final over (off Harshit Rana) on 100, with Bangladesh scoring 228 in the first innings.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Despite being reduced to 35 for five at one stage, Bangladesh scored a fighting 228 against India, thanks to a 154-run stand between Jaker Ali and Towhid Hridoy.

Bangladesh has a new hero, and his name is Towhid Hridoy. The young batter scored his maiden ODI hundred against India in the side’s opening game of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai on Thursday (Feb 20), lifting his team from misery after India reduced Bangladesh to 35 for five at one stage. Maiden ODI 💯 for Bangladesh's Tawhid Hridoy and what an occasion to bring it up 👏#ChampionsTrophy #BANvIND ✍️: https://t.co/zafQJUBu9o pic.twitter.com/zgkUwb4MXy — ICC (@ICC) February 20, 2025 After being asked to bowl first, the Mohammed Shami-led Indian bowling attack destroyed Bangladesh’s top order by removing three of the five batters out on duck, with the remaining two on five (Mehidy Hasan Miraz) and 25 (Tanzid Hasan). With Bangladesh’s back against the wall, the two batters – Jaker Ali and Hridoy, saved their team’s day by posting a respectable target against the ODI giants. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: ‘Pakistan has many flaws, but if they can beat India…,’ Mohammad Amir The two deployed a cautious approach upfront, saving their wickets while beating the Dubai heat and the cramps (that followed) to pull their side out of trouble. Thanks to several dropped chances, much to India’s disappointment, the pair made the most of their second chances and kept the run rate ticking. Hridoy, the hero! Though Jaker stood his ground at one end, Hridoy’s innings impressed everyone, including the dressing room that kept cheering him as he approached his maiden ODI hundred. Even after losing Jaker (on 68 off 114 balls) and spinner Rishad Hossain on 18, the right-handed batter kept going, scoring runs off poor balls while dodging or playing the good ones. That kept India under pressure, which at one stage looked like wrapping up Bangladesh under 100. Soon after getting into his 90s, Hridoy fell on the pitch after playing a shot, screaming with pain as the Physio and his partner rushed to the spot to check on him. After a brief inspection, Hridoy returned to his feet, trying to push himself for each single. In Shami’s last over, where he later completed his five-for, his first since the ODI World Cup in 2023, Hridoy played one to the point and was pumped up on hitting his first ODI hundred. Been hearing about Towhid Hridoy for a couple of years now and frankly, he hadn't done all that much. Showed his class today. — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) February 20, 2025 He got out in the final over (off Harshit Rana) on 100, with Bangladesh scoring 228 in the first innings. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Bangladesh’s Hridoy beats heat, cramps to hit maiden ODI ton against India

<p>Champions Trophy 2025 host <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-vs-nz-live-score-updates-champions-trophy-2025-minutes-by-minutes-updates-and-full-scorecard-pakistan-vs-new-zealand-national-stadium-karachi-8734431" rel="dofollow">Pakistan lost the curtain-raiser to New Zealand in Karachi by 60 runs</a>, leaving them with must-win games against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-at-champions-trophy-2025-swot-analysis-does-india-have-what-it-takes-to-win-their-second-icc-trophy-in-2-years-8729216" rel="dofollow">arch-rivals India</a> and Bangladesh in their remaining two matches. Former Pakistan seamer Mohammad Amir reflected on the result, admitting Pakistan has many flaws; still, if they can beat India, against whom they have a better head-to-head record (3-2) in this tournament, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-heres-how-pakistan-could-still-qualify-for-semis-despite-defeat-against-new-zealand-8738330" rel="dofollow">anything can happen</a>.</p>
<p>He, however, recalled calling New Zealand the favourites for the title, saying their win over the hosts has just increased the pressure on Pakistan for their game against India in Dubai on Sunday (February 23).&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <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">Champions Trophy: HISTORIC! India pacer Mohammed Shami becomes fastest to take 200 ODI wickets</a></strong></p>
<p>&ldquo;This defeat (to New Zealand) just increases the pressure of the India game. I still have hope (that Pakistan will qualify for the semis) as a Pakistani. If Pakistan win the game against India, then anything can happen,&rdquo; Amir said, as quoted by the Indian Express.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Amir further admitted that teams like New Zealand tick almost all boxes when it comes to such big tournaments, making them a force to reckon with. However, Pakistan has concerns about their opening not attacking and the middle order struggling against the spin, and (going by that logic) they are more likely to suffer the same fate against ODI heavyweights India in their next match.</p>
<p>Should India beat Pakistan, the tournament host could be out inside the league stage only.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;I had said yesterday that New Zealand are hot favourites. When teams come for big tournaments like the Champions Trophy, they tick all the boxes. But Pakistan team has so many flaws, from the opening pair to spin bowling to the middle order. If you go by proper cricketing (logic), then New Zealand will dominate like this!&rdquo; Amir continued.</p>
<h2>Pakistan in mud after Kiwi loss</h2>
<p>New Zealand batted first in Karachi, scoring a whopping 320 runs in the 50 overs. Opener Will Young and veteran batter Tom Latham scored respective hundreds, while all-rounder Glenn Philips&rsquo; fireworks in the death overs propelled them to a massive first-inning total.</p>
<p>On the other hand, Pakistan was without their regular opener, Fakhar Zaman, for the first ten overs, with Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel opening for the hosts. The move backfired as Pakistan lost wickets regularly, but what hurt them more was the number of dot balls in the first ten overs (47), an unwanted record.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Though handy contributions from the lower order kept them alive in the chase, proper planning and execution from the Kiwi bowlers helped their team draw first blood in their group and the tournament.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: After losing to New Zealand, Pakistan must win their remaining two league matches against India and Bangladesh to cruise into the Champions Trophy 2025 semis.

Champions Trophy 2025 host Pakistan lost the curtain-raiser to New Zealand in Karachi by 60 runs, leaving them with must-win games against arch-rivals India and Bangladesh in their remaining two matches. Former Pakistan seamer Mohammad Amir reflected on the result, admitting Pakistan has many flaws; still, if they can beat India, against whom they have a better head-to-head record (3-2) in this tournament, anything can happen. He, however, recalled calling New Zealand the favourites for the title, saying their win over the hosts has just increased the pressure on Pakistan for their game against India in Dubai on Sunday (February 23). Also read | Champions Trophy: HISTORIC! India pacer Mohammed Shami becomes fastest to take 200 ODI wickets “This defeat (to New Zealand) just increases the pressure of the India game. I still have hope (that Pakistan will qualify for the semis) as a Pakistani. If Pakistan win the game against India, then anything can happen,” Amir said, as quoted by the Indian Express. Amir further admitted that teams like New Zealand tick almost all boxes when it comes to such big tournaments, making them a force to reckon with. However, Pakistan has concerns about their opening not attacking and the middle order struggling against the spin, and (going by that logic) they are more likely to suffer the same fate against ODI heavyweights India in their next match. Should India beat Pakistan, the tournament host could be out inside the league stage only. “I had said yesterday that New Zealand are hot favourites. When teams come for big tournaments like the Champions Trophy, they tick all the boxes. But Pakistan team has so many flaws, from the opening pair to spin bowling to the middle order. If you go by proper cricketing (logic), then New Zealand will dominate like this!” Amir continued. Pakistan in mud after Kiwi loss New Zealand batted first in Karachi, scoring a whopping 320 runs in the 50 overs. Opener Will Young and veteran batter Tom Latham scored respective hundreds, while all-rounder Glenn Philips’ fireworks in the death overs propelled them to a massive first-inning total. On the other hand, Pakistan was without their regular opener, Fakhar Zaman, for the first ten overs, with Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel opening for the hosts. The move backfired as Pakistan lost wickets regularly, but what hurt them more was the number of dot balls in the first ten overs (47), an unwanted record. Though handy contributions from the lower order kept them alive in the chase, proper planning and execution from the Kiwi bowlers helped their team draw first blood in their group and the tournament. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: ‘Pakistan has many flaws, but if they can beat India…,’ Mohammad Amir

<p>India pacer Mohammed Shami became the fastest bowler to take 200 ODI wickets on Thursday (Feb 20) in terms of balls bowled. Shami reached the landmark during the Champions Trophy match against Bangladesh in Dubai. The Indian pacer took 5126 balls to reach the record, beating Australia's Mitchell Starc, who had taken 5240 balls to take 200 ODI wickets.</p>
<p>Shami, playing his 104th ODI game, is also the joint second-fastest to reach the milestone in terms of matches played along with Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq. Only Starc, who took 200 wickets in 102 matches, is ahead of Shami.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also Watch:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-ban-axar-misses-hattrick-after-rohit-drops-catch-in-slips-video-8739857">Axar misses hattrick after Rohit drops dolly in slips</a></p>
<p>The Indian pacer dismissed Jake Ali in the 43rd over of Bangladesh innings to complete 200 wickets. He had previously dismissed Soumya Sarkar in the first over of the match before dismissing Mehidy Hasan Miraz a while later.</p>
<p>Shami later picked up wickets of Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Taskin Ahmed as well to complete his five-for. The pacer eventually finished at 5/53 in 10 overs.</p>
<h2><strong>Hridoy-Jaker rearguard lifts Bangladesh after first powerplay debacle</strong></h2>
<p>After India reduced Bangladesh to 35/5 inside 10 overs, Jake Ali and Towhid Hridoy joined forces and added 154 runs for the sixth wicket before Shami removed Ali on 61.</p>
<p>A small cameo of 18 runs off 12 balls by Rishad Hossain took Bangladesh post 200&mdash;something that had looked highly unlikely after the first 10 overs.</p>
<p>Once Rishad departed on a team score of 215, India made small work of the remaining wickets and bowled out Bangladesh for 228 runs in 49.4 overs. Hridoy, who completed a sensational 100&mdash;also his maiden one in ODIs&mdash;was the last wicket to fall.</p>
<p>For India, Harshit Rana took 3/31 while Axar Patel picked up 2/43&mdash;both in the same over, apart from Shami's five-for.</p>

Champions Trophy: Shami, playing his 104th ODI game, is also the joint second-fastest to reach the milestone in terms of matches played along with Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq. Cricket Sports

India pacer Mohammed Shami became the fastest bowler to take 200 ODI wickets on Thursday (Feb 20) in terms of balls bowled. Shami reached the landmark during the Champions Trophy match against Bangladesh in Dubai. The Indian pacer took 5126 balls to reach the record, beating Australia's Mitchell Starc, who had taken 5240 balls to take 200 ODI wickets. Shami, playing his 104th ODI game, is also the joint second-fastest to reach the milestone in terms of matches played along with Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq. Only Starc, who took 200 wickets in 102 matches, is ahead of Shami. Also Watch: Axar misses hattrick after Rohit drops dolly in slips The Indian pacer dismissed Jake Ali in the 43rd over of Bangladesh innings to complete 200 wickets. He had previously dismissed Soumya Sarkar in the first over of the match before dismissing Mehidy Hasan Miraz a while later. Shami later picked up wickets of Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Taskin Ahmed as well to complete his five-for. The pacer eventually finished at 5/53 in 10 overs. Hridoy-Jaker rearguard lifts Bangladesh after first powerplay debacle After India reduced Bangladesh to 35/5 inside 10 overs, Jake Ali and Towhid Hridoy joined forces and added 154 runs for the sixth wicket before Shami removed Ali on 61. A small cameo of 18 runs off 12 balls by Rishad Hossain took Bangladesh post 200—something that had looked highly unlikely after the first 10 overs. Once Rishad departed on a team score of 215, India made small work of the remaining wickets and bowled out Bangladesh for 228 runs in 49.4 overs. Hridoy, who completed a sensational 100—also his maiden one in ODIs—was the last wicket to fall. For India, Harshit Rana took 3/31 while Axar Patel picked up 2/43—both in the same over, apart from Shami's five-for.

Champions Trophy: HISTORIC! India pacer Mohammed Shami becomes fastest to take 200 ODI wickets

<p>India rattled Bangladesh early on during the Champions Trophy match on Feb 20 in Dubai. Bangladesh would have lost six wickets inside nine overs only if skipper Rohit had held onto a simple catch in slips off Axar Patel - who was on a hattrick.</p>
<p>Axar, bowling the ninth over of the 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. Have a look at the moment below:</p>
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<p>Earlier, Bangladesh won the toss and elected to bat first at the Dubai International Stadium. The decision was proved wrong instantly as Mohammed Shami struck in the first over of the match, sending back Soumya Sarkar.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><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">Blow for Pakistan as Fakhar Zaman ruled out of tournament, Imam ul Haq named replacement</a></p>
<p>Harshit Rana then picked up the wicket of skipper Najmul Shanto in the next over as Bangladesh were reduced to 2/2 inside two overs. There was a brief partnership of 24 runs before Shami struck again and sent back Mehidy Hasan Miraz.</p>
<p>Axar then took wickets in an over to break Bangladesh's back. They were 39/5 in 10 overs - a nightmare start for any team.</p>
<p>Jake Ali and Towhid Hridoy joined forces and added 154 runs for the sixth wicket before Shami removed Ali on 61.</p>
<p>A small cameo of 18 runs off 12 balls by Rishad Hossain took Bangladesh post 200 - something which had looked highly unlikely after the first 10 overs.</p>
<p>Once Rishad departed on a team score of 215, India made small work of the remaining wickets and bowled out Bangladesh for 228 runs in 49.4 overs. Hridoy, who completed a sensational 100 - also his maiden one in ODIs, was the last wicket to fall.</p>
<p>For India, Harshit Rana took 3/31 while Axar Patel picked up 2/43 - both in same over, apart from Shami's five-for.</p>

Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: Bangladesh would have lost six wickets inside nine overs only if skipper Rohit had held onto a simple catch in slips off Axar Patel - who was on hattrick. Cricket Sports

India rattled Bangladesh early on during the Champions Trophy match on Feb 20 in Dubai. Bangladesh would have lost six wickets inside nine overs only if skipper Rohit had held onto a simple catch in slips off Axar Patel - who was on a hattrick. Axar, bowling the ninth over of the 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. Have a look at the moment below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) Earlier, Bangladesh won the toss and elected to bat first at the Dubai International Stadium. The decision was proved wrong instantly as Mohammed Shami struck in the first over of the match, sending back Soumya Sarkar. Also Read: Blow for Pakistan as Fakhar Zaman ruled out of tournament, Imam ul Haq named replacement Harshit Rana then picked up the wicket of skipper Najmul Shanto in the next over as Bangladesh were reduced to 2/2 inside two overs. There was a brief partnership of 24 runs before Shami struck again and sent back Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Axar then took wickets in an over to break Bangladesh's back. They were 39/5 in 10 overs - a nightmare start for any team. Jake Ali and Towhid Hridoy joined forces and added 154 runs for the sixth wicket before Shami removed Ali on 61. A small cameo of 18 runs off 12 balls by Rishad Hossain took Bangladesh post 200 - something which had looked highly unlikely after the first 10 overs. Once Rishad departed on a team score of 215, India made small work of the remaining wickets and bowled out Bangladesh for 228 runs in 49.4 overs. Hridoy, who completed a sensational 100 - also his maiden one in ODIs, was the last wicket to fall. For India, Harshit Rana took 3/31 while Axar Patel picked up 2/43 - both in same over, apart from Shami's five-for.

Champions Trophy, IND vs BAN: Axar misses hattrick after Rohit drops dolly in slips | WATCH

<p>In a blow to Pakistan, batter Fakhar Zaman has been ruled out of the Champions Trophy after playing just one match&mdash;against New Zealand on Feb 19 in Karachi. The batter had suffered an injury during the first over of the tournament and was taken for scans. The development was reported by ICC in a media release on Thursday (Feb 20).</p>
<p>Pakistan have named Imam ul Haq as Zaman's replacement for the tournament, and the same has been approved by the ICC Event Technical Committee as well.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-cricket-is-still-a-distant-goal-india-pacer-shami-reveals-doctor-advice-during-rehab-8739450">'Cricket is still a distant goal,' India pacer Shami reveals doctor's advice during rehab</a></p>
<p>Imam has played 72 ODIs for Pakistan with last of it coming in October 2023 (ODI World Cup) against South Africa. He has scored &nbsp;3,138 runs those ODIs at an average of 48 with nine tons and 20 fifties. His highest in ODIs is 151.</p>
<h2><strong>Fakhar Zaman injury</strong></h2>
<p>Zaman suffered the injury on a shot by Will Young, who drove Shaheen Afridi through the covers in the very first over. Zaman, while trying to stop the ball, seemed to have hurt his left side rib area and was forced off the field two balls into the match. The boundary, however, was saved.</p>
<p>"Fakhar Zaman is being assessed and examined for a muscular sprain, and further updates will be provided in due course," said the PCB in a statement shortly after the batter had left the field.</p>
<p>Zaman returned to the field eventually but didn't bat as an opener when Pakistan started the chase. He was clearly not at his best while batting and Rizwan admitted that losing him as the opener was crucial. Fakhar scored 24 off 41 balls during his stay.</p>
<p>"Let's see what the result from the [scan] is. Losing Fakhar Zaman [as opener] was crucial," said skipper Rizwan after the match, which Pakistan lost by 60 runs.</p>

Champions Trophy: Pakistan have named Imam ul Haq as Zaman's replacement for the tournament and the same has been approved by ICC Event Technical Committee as well. Cricket Sports

In a blow to Pakistan, batter Fakhar Zaman has been ruled out of the Champions Trophy after playing just one match—against New Zealand on Feb 19 in Karachi. The batter had suffered an injury during the first over of the tournament and was taken for scans. The development was reported by ICC in a media release on Thursday (Feb 20). Pakistan have named Imam ul Haq as Zaman's replacement for the tournament, and the same has been approved by the ICC Event Technical Committee as well. Also Read: 'Cricket is still a distant goal,' India pacer Shami reveals doctor's advice during rehab Imam has played 72 ODIs for Pakistan with last of it coming in October 2023 (ODI World Cup) against South Africa. He has scored 3,138 runs those ODIs at an average of 48 with nine tons and 20 fifties. His highest in ODIs is 151. Fakhar Zaman injury Zaman suffered the injury on a shot by Will Young, who drove Shaheen Afridi through the covers in the very first over. Zaman, while trying to stop the ball, seemed to have hurt his left side rib area and was forced off the field two balls into the match. The boundary, however, was saved. "Fakhar Zaman is being assessed and examined for a muscular sprain, and further updates will be provided in due course," said the PCB in a statement shortly after the batter had left the field. Zaman returned to the field eventually but didn't bat as an opener when Pakistan started the chase. He was clearly not at his best while batting and Rizwan admitted that losing him as the opener was crucial. Fakhar scored 24 off 41 balls during his stay. "Let's see what the result from the [scan] is. Losing Fakhar Zaman [as opener] was crucial," said skipper Rizwan after the match, which Pakistan lost by 60 runs.

Champions Trophy: Blow for Pakistan as Fakhar Zaman ruled out of tournament, Imam ul Haq named replacement

<p>India pacer Mohammed Shami has revealed that the doctor told him 'cricket is still a distant goal' when he started his rehab following the surgery for the injury suffered during the ODI World Cup 2023. Shami last played in international cricket in the ODI WC final in November 2023 at home before making a comeback in January last month against England in T20Is.</p>
<p>"I always wondered when I would be able to put my feet on the ground again, as someone who is used to running on the field constantly was now in crutches," Shami told in a video shared by BCCI.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pak-skipper-rizwan-terms-india-game-as-another-normal-match-despite-loss-vs-nz-8739270">Pak skipper Rizwan terms India CT game as 'another normal match' despite loss vs NZ</a></p>
<p>"A lot of thoughts used to run through my mind. Will I be able to do it again? Will I be able to walk without a limp? For the first two months, I often doubted whether I would be able to play again as an injury like this followed by a 14-month break can pull you down.</p>
<p>"My first question to the doctor was 'how many days until I can be back on the field'. He said, 'my priority is to get you to walk, then jog, and then run and thinking about playing competitive cricket is still a distant goal'," added the pacer.</p>
<h2><strong>Shami key for India at Champions Trophy</strong></h2>
<p>The 34-year-old pacer is going to be the key for India at the Champions Trophy, especially when premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah is not part of the squad. Shami will have to act as the leader of the pace group which has Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana - both young - as other fast bowlers.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Apart from these three, Hardik Pandya is also in the squad as a medium-pace all-rounder. India, however, have gone spin-heavy in the tournament with five options in the squad.</p>
<p>Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar are three spin all-rounders in the squad, while Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy are two specialist spinners.</p>

Champions Trophy: Shami is going to be the key for India at Champions Trophy, especially when premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah is not part of the squad. Cricket Sports

India pacer Mohammed Shami has revealed that the doctor told him 'cricket is still a distant goal' when he started his rehab following the surgery for the injury suffered during the ODI World Cup 2023. Shami last played in international cricket in the ODI WC final in November 2023 at home before making a comeback in January last month against England in T20Is. "I always wondered when I would be able to put my feet on the ground again, as someone who is used to running on the field constantly was now in crutches," Shami told in a video shared by BCCI. Also Read: Pak skipper Rizwan terms India CT game as 'another normal match' despite loss vs NZ "A lot of thoughts used to run through my mind. Will I be able to do it again? Will I be able to walk without a limp? For the first two months, I often doubted whether I would be able to play again as an injury like this followed by a 14-month break can pull you down. "My first question to the doctor was 'how many days until I can be back on the field'. He said, 'my priority is to get you to walk, then jog, and then run and thinking about playing competitive cricket is still a distant goal'," added the pacer. Shami key for India at Champions Trophy The 34-year-old pacer is going to be the key for India at the Champions Trophy, especially when premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah is not part of the squad. Shami will have to act as the leader of the pace group which has Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana - both young - as other fast bowlers. Apart from these three, Hardik Pandya is also in the squad as a medium-pace all-rounder. India, however, have gone spin-heavy in the tournament with five options in the squad. Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar are three spin all-rounders in the squad, while Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy are two specialist spinners.

Champions Trophy: Shami shares doctor's plan at rehab. 'Cricket is still a distant goal'

<p>Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan said that their upcoming Champions Trophy match against India is 'another normal' game for them. The comment came after Pakistan's 60-run loss against New Zealand in tournament opener on Feb 19 in Karachi.</p>
<p>Pakistan's batting looked toothless while chasing 320 against New Zealand and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pak-skipper-muhammad-rizwan-offers-update-on-fakhar-zaman-injury-8739149">doubt over destructive batter Fakhar Zaman's availability</a> won't help their cause against India.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-heres-how-pakistan-could-still-qualify-for-semis-despite-defeat-against-new-zealand-8738330">Here's how Pakistan could still qualify for CT semis despite defeat against New Zealand</a></p>
<p>"This match is gone, and the next match is another normal match for us," Rizwan said after the loss against New Zealand.</p>
<p>Pakistan were specially horrible during the first 10 overs of their chase - scoring just 22 runs for the loss of one wicket. It was always going to be tough from there on and wickets falling at regular intervals didn't help Pakistan's cause either. They were eventually bowled out for 260 runs.</p>
<p>"We didn't want to put pressure on ourselves by thinking we are defending champions," said Rizwan about the loss but admitted that they lost the momentum twice during the game.</p>
<p>"We lost momentum twice, first in the death overs and then in the powerplay with the bat," Rizwan conceded.</p>
<p>New Zealand were 207/4 in 40 overs but pummeled Pak bowlers for 113 runs in the last 10 overs - thanks to a quickfire 61 off 39 balls by Glenn Phillips. The Kiwi also <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pak-vs-nz-glenn-phillips-stuns-pakistani-crowd-with-terrific-one-handed-catch-to-dismiss-muhammad-rizwan-watch-8737383">took a flying catch</a> later on in the game to send back Rizwan.</p>
<h2><strong>Young, Latham join EXCLUSIVE club with individual tons</strong></h2>
<p>New Zealand batter Will Young (107) and Tom Latham (118 not out) joined a special club after completing their respective hundreds. With the tons, the duo became the latest entrants in the club of teams with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-nz-vs-pak-young-latham-join-exclusive-club-with-individual-tons-8737190">multiple batters scoring hundreds in an innings in Champions Trophy</a>.</p>
<p>The feat was first achieved by Indian batters Virender Sehwag and Sourav Ganguly during 2002 edition of Champions Trophy when they scored a ton each against England.</p>

Champions Trophy:  Muhammad Rizwan's comments came after Pakistan's 60-run loss against New Zealand in tournament opener on Feb 19 in Karachi. Cricket Sports

Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan said that their upcoming Champions Trophy match against India is 'another normal' game for them. The comment came after Pakistan's 60-run loss against New Zealand in tournament opener on Feb 19 in Karachi. Pakistan's batting looked toothless while chasing 320 against New Zealand and doubt over destructive batter Fakhar Zaman's availability won't help their cause against India. Also Read: Here's how Pakistan could still qualify for CT semis despite defeat against New Zealand "This match is gone, and the next match is another normal match for us," Rizwan said after the loss against New Zealand. Pakistan were specially horrible during the first 10 overs of their chase - scoring just 22 runs for the loss of one wicket. It was always going to be tough from there on and wickets falling at regular intervals didn't help Pakistan's cause either. They were eventually bowled out for 260 runs. "We didn't want to put pressure on ourselves by thinking we are defending champions," said Rizwan about the loss but admitted that they lost the momentum twice during the game. "We lost momentum twice, first in the death overs and then in the powerplay with the bat," Rizwan conceded. New Zealand were 207/4 in 40 overs but pummeled Pak bowlers for 113 runs in the last 10 overs - thanks to a quickfire 61 off 39 balls by Glenn Phillips. The Kiwi also took a flying catch later on in the game to send back Rizwan. Young, Latham join EXCLUSIVE club with individual tons New Zealand batter Will Young (107) and Tom Latham (118 not out) joined a special club after completing their respective hundreds. With the tons, the duo became the latest entrants in the club of teams with multiple batters scoring hundreds in an innings in Champions Trophy. The feat was first achieved by Indian batters Virender Sehwag and Sourav Ganguly during 2002 edition of Champions Trophy when they scored a ton each against England.

Champions Trophy: Pak skipper Rizwan terms India game as 'another normal match' despite loss vs NZ

<p>Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan offered an update on batter Fakhar Zaman's injury after losing the opening match of Champions Trophy against New Zealand on Feb 19 in Karachi. Fakhar was injured while fielding two balls into the match and was taken for scans.</p>
<p>The batter returned to the field eventually but didn't bat as an opener when Pakistan started the chase. He was clearly not at his best while batting and Rizwan admitted that losing him as the opener was crucial. Fakhar scored 24 off 41 balls during his stay.</p>
<p>"Let's see what the result from the [scan] is. Losing Fakhar Zaman [as opener] was crucial," said Rizwan after the match which Pakistan lost by 60 runs.</p>
<p><strong>Also Watch:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pak-vs-nz-glenn-phillips-stuns-pakistani-crowd-with-terrific-one-handed-catch-to-dismiss-muhammad-rizwan-watch-8737383">Glenn Phillips stuns Pakistani crowd with terrific one-handed catch to dismiss Muhammad Rizwan</a></p>
<h2><strong>Fakhar Zaman Injury</strong></h2>
<p>Zaman suffered the injury on a shot by Will Young, who drove Shaheen Afridi through the covers in the very first over. Zaman, while trying to stop the ball, seemed to have hurt his left side rib area and was forced off the field two balls into the match. The boundary, however, was saved.</p>
<p>"Fakhar Zaman is being assessed and examined for a muscular sprain, and further updates will be provided in due course," said the PCB in a statement shortly after the batter left the field.</p>
<p><strong>New Zealand down Pakistan in CT opener</strong></p>
<p>Batting first after losing the toss, Kiwis put up an imposing total of 320/5 in 50 overs. For New Zealand, Will Young scored 107, Tom Latham hit 118 not out and Glenn Phillips smashed a quickfire 61 off 39 balls.</p>
<p>While chasing, Pakistan were never in hunt after ending the first powerplay of 10 overs for just 22 runs and losing one wicket.</p>
<p>It was always going to be tough from there on and wickets falling at regular intervals didn't help Pakistan's cause either. They were eventually bowled out for 260 runs.</p>
<p>Pakistan, hoping to defend the title, next play India in a crucial match on Feb 23 in Dubai.</p>

Champions Trophy: Fakhar was injured while fielding two balls into the match and was taken for scans. He returned to the field eventually but didn't bat as an opener in chase. Cricket Sports

Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan offered an update on batter Fakhar Zaman's injury after losing the opening match of Champions Trophy against New Zealand on Feb 19 in Karachi. Fakhar was injured while fielding two balls into the match and was taken for scans. The batter returned to the field eventually but didn't bat as an opener when Pakistan started the chase. He was clearly not at his best while batting and Rizwan admitted that losing him as the opener was crucial. Fakhar scored 24 off 41 balls during his stay. "Let's see what the result from the [scan] is. Losing Fakhar Zaman [as opener] was crucial," said Rizwan after the match which Pakistan lost by 60 runs. Also Watch: Glenn Phillips stuns Pakistani crowd with terrific one-handed catch to dismiss Muhammad Rizwan Fakhar Zaman Injury Zaman suffered the injury on a shot by Will Young, who drove Shaheen Afridi through the covers in the very first over. Zaman, while trying to stop the ball, seemed to have hurt his left side rib area and was forced off the field two balls into the match. The boundary, however, was saved. "Fakhar Zaman is being assessed and examined for a muscular sprain, and further updates will be provided in due course," said the PCB in a statement shortly after the batter left the field. New Zealand down Pakistan in CT opener Batting first after losing the toss, Kiwis put up an imposing total of 320/5 in 50 overs. For New Zealand, Will Young scored 107, Tom Latham hit 118 not out and Glenn Phillips smashed a quickfire 61 off 39 balls. While chasing, Pakistan were never in hunt after ending the first powerplay of 10 overs for just 22 runs and losing one wicket. It was always going to be tough from there on and wickets falling at regular intervals didn't help Pakistan's cause either. They were eventually bowled out for 260 runs. Pakistan, hoping to defend the title, next play India in a crucial match on Feb 23 in Dubai.

Champions Trophy: Pak skipper Muhammad Rizwan offers update on Fakhar Zaman's injury

<p>Former India skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/dhoni">Mahendra Singh Dhoni</a> has spoken on his retirement plans from the Indian Premier League (IPL). Dhoni, who retired from international cricket across all formats in 2019, has continued to play IPL for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Since last two seasons, however, the speculations around his eminent retirement has grown multi-folds.</p>
<p>&ldquo;I've retired since 2019, so it will be quite some time. What I've been doing in the meantime is I just want to enjoy cricket for the last, whatever few years, you know, I will be able to play,&rdquo; Dhoni's said on Wednesday (Feb 19) during an event as reported by news agency PTI.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-we-have-picked-only-two-spinners-other-three-are-all-rounders-rohit-8737572">Champions Trophy 2025: We have picked only two spinners, other three are all-rounders: Rohit</a></p>
<p>&ldquo;I want to enjoy it, how I did as a child when I was in school. When I lived in a colony, 4 o'clock (in the afternoon) was sports time, so we'll go and play cricket more often than not.</p>
<p>&ldquo;But if the weather doesn't permit, we used to play football. I want to play with the same kind of innocence&hellip; (but it is) easier said than done,&rdquo; Dhoni added.</p>
<h2><strong>Dhoni to play another IPL?</strong></h2>
<p>By Dhoni's comments, it is clear that the talismanic wicketkeeper-batter will be playing the IPL for at least a couple more years including the IPL 2025. He has, however, quit the captaincy for CSK which has been given to young batter Ruturaj Gaikwad since IPL 2024.</p>
<p>Ahead of the IPL mega auction in November 2024, Dhoni was also retained by CSK as an uncapped player - a policy that BCCI brought back for retired India players.</p>
<p>Under Dhoni, CSK became one of the most successful IPL franchises - winning five titles. Dhoni is also India's most successful skippers and the only captain to win all three ICC white-ball titles - T20 World Cup in 2007, ODI World Cup in 2011 and Champions Trophy in 2013.</p>

IPL 2025: MS Dhoni, who retired from international cricket across all formats in 2019, has continued to play IPL for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). cricket Sports

Former India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni has spoken on his retirement plans from the Indian Premier League (IPL). Dhoni, who retired from international cricket across all formats in 2019, has continued to play IPL for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Since last two seasons, however, the speculations around his eminent retirement has grown multi-folds. “I've retired since 2019, so it will be quite some time. What I've been doing in the meantime is I just want to enjoy cricket for the last, whatever few years, you know, I will be able to play,” Dhoni's said on Wednesday (Feb 19) during an event as reported by news agency PTI. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: We have picked only two spinners, other three are all-rounders: Rohit “I want to enjoy it, how I did as a child when I was in school. When I lived in a colony, 4 o'clock (in the afternoon) was sports time, so we'll go and play cricket more often than not. “But if the weather doesn't permit, we used to play football. I want to play with the same kind of innocence… (but it is) easier said than done,” Dhoni added. Dhoni to play another IPL? By Dhoni's comments, it is clear that the talismanic wicketkeeper-batter will be playing the IPL for at least a couple more years including the IPL 2025. He has, however, quit the captaincy for CSK which has been given to young batter Ruturaj Gaikwad since IPL 2024. Ahead of the IPL mega auction in November 2024, Dhoni was also retained by CSK as an uncapped player - a policy that BCCI brought back for retired India players. Under Dhoni, CSK became one of the most successful IPL franchises - winning five titles. Dhoni is also India's most successful skippers and the only captain to win all three ICC white-ball titles - T20 World Cup in 2007, ODI World Cup in 2011 and Champions Trophy in 2013.

IPL 2025: 'I want to play...,' CSK legend MS Dhoni shares plan on impending retirement

<p>Captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/meg-lanning">Meg Lanning</a>'s stellar 69 off 49 balls powered Delhi Capitals to a thrilling seven-wicket victory over UP Warriorz in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/womens-premier-league">Women&rsquo;s Premier League</a> (WPL) on Wednesday in Vadodara.</p>
<p>Batting first, UP Warriorz posted a competitive 166 for seven, anchored by Kiran Navgire's explosive 51 off 27 balls. Despite the strong start, the total proved insufficient as Delhi chased it down with one ball to spare.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-we-have-picked-only-two-spinners-other-three-are-all-rounders-rohit-8737572">Champions Trophy 2025: We have picked only two spinners, other three are all-rounders: Rohit</a></strong></p>
<p>Delhi began their innings with confidence, thanks to a solid 65-run opening stand between Lanning and Shafali Verma, who contributed 16 off 16 balls. Shafali fell in the seventh over, caught by Chinelle Henry off Deepti Sharma, and Jemimah Rodrigues departed for a duck in the following over, top-edging a paddle sweep off Sophie Ecclestone to Rajeshwari Gayakwad.</p>
<h2>Crucial partnership between Sutherland &amp; Kapp</h2>
<p>A crucial 48-run fourth-wicket partnership between Annabel Sutherland (41* off 35) and Marizanne Kapp (19* off 17) kept Delhi in the hunt. With 32 needed from the final three overs, Kapp reduced the pressure with consecutive boundaries off Ecclestone, and Sutherland sealed the win with two vital fours off Tahila McGrath in the last over.</p>
<p>Earlier, UP Warriorz got off to a flying start with a 66-run opening partnership between Navgire and Dinesh Vrinda (16 off 15) in just 5.5 overs. However, the innings lost momentum, with five wickets falling for just 52 runs. Shweta Sehrawat (37 off 33) and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/grace-harris">Grace Harris</a> (12) tried to rebuild, adding 36 runs for the fifth wicket before Harris was dismissed by Arundhati Reddy, offering a simple catch to Shafali. Chinelle Henry's unbeaten 33 off 15 balls provided a late surge, pushing UP Warriorz beyond the 160-mark.</p>
<p>Sutherland was Delhi Capitals' standout bowler, claiming 2/26 in her four-over spell.&nbsp;With this win, Delhi Capitals secured their second victory in the tournament, showcasing their depth and resilience in a high-pressure chase.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Batting first, UP Warriorz posted 166/7, anchored by Kiran Navgire's 51 off 27 balls. Despite the strong start, the total was insufficient as Delhi chased.

Captain Meg Lanning's stellar 69 off 49 balls powered Delhi Capitals to a thrilling seven-wicket victory over UP Warriorz in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) on Wednesday in Vadodara. Batting first, UP Warriorz posted a competitive 166 for seven, anchored by Kiran Navgire's explosive 51 off 27 balls. Despite the strong start, the total proved insufficient as Delhi chased it down with one ball to spare. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: We have picked only two spinners, other three are all-rounders: Rohit Delhi began their innings with confidence, thanks to a solid 65-run opening stand between Lanning and Shafali Verma, who contributed 16 off 16 balls. Shafali fell in the seventh over, caught by Chinelle Henry off Deepti Sharma, and Jemimah Rodrigues departed for a duck in the following over, top-edging a paddle sweep off Sophie Ecclestone to Rajeshwari Gayakwad. Crucial partnership between Sutherland & Kapp A crucial 48-run fourth-wicket partnership between Annabel Sutherland (41* off 35) and Marizanne Kapp (19* off 17) kept Delhi in the hunt. With 32 needed from the final three overs, Kapp reduced the pressure with consecutive boundaries off Ecclestone, and Sutherland sealed the win with two vital fours off Tahila McGrath in the last over. Earlier, UP Warriorz got off to a flying start with a 66-run opening partnership between Navgire and Dinesh Vrinda (16 off 15) in just 5.5 overs. However, the innings lost momentum, with five wickets falling for just 52 runs. Shweta Sehrawat (37 off 33) and Grace Harris (12) tried to rebuild, adding 36 runs for the fifth wicket before Harris was dismissed by Arundhati Reddy, offering a simple catch to Shafali. Chinelle Henry's unbeaten 33 off 15 balls provided a late surge, pushing UP Warriorz beyond the 160-mark. Sutherland was Delhi Capitals' standout bowler, claiming 2/26 in her four-over spell. With this win, Delhi Capitals secured their second victory in the tournament, showcasing their depth and resilience in a high-pressure chase. (With inputs from agencies)

WPL 2025: Lanning, Sutherland hand DC-W seven-wicket win over UP-W

<p>The selection of five spinners in India's Champions Trophy squad has raised eyebrows, but captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a> on Wednesday defended the move, emphasising that three of them are all-rounders who bring significant value to the team.</p>
<p>Varun Chakaravarthy and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kuldeep-yadav">Kuldeep Yadav</a> are the two specialist spinners, while Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar offer both bowling and batting capabilities.</p>
<p>"There are two spinners, and the other three are all-rounders. I don&rsquo;t see them as just five spinners; those three can bat and bowl. Other teams might have fast-bowling all-rounders, but we play to our strength, which is spin," Rohit explained.</p>
<p>India&rsquo;s fast-bowling options include <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-shami">Mohammed Shami</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/arshdeep-singh">Arshdeep Singh</a>, and Harshit Rana, with Hardik Pandya as the sole pace all-rounder. Jasprit Bumrah&rsquo;s absence puts extra responsibility on Shami, who is still finding his rhythm after a recent injury.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pak-vs-nz-glenn-phillips-stuns-pakistani-crowd-with-terrific-one-handed-catch-to-dismiss-muhammad-rizwan-watch-8737383">Champions Trophy, PAK vs NZ: Glenn Phillips stuns Pakistani crowd with terrific one-handed catch to dismiss Muhammad Rizwan | WATCH</a></strong></p>
<p>Rohit stressed that India&rsquo;s preference for depth in batting influenced the squad composition. "Jadeja, Axar, and Washy give us a different dimension and a lot of depth. We wanted players with two skills rather than just one."</p>
<h2>'We have arsenal to tackle conditions'</h2>
<p>With rain affecting Dubai in recent days, India might face overcast conditions in their opener against Bangladesh on Thursday. Rohit expressed confidence in his team&rsquo;s preparation. "We have the arsenal to tackle such conditions. If the bowlers get help, they&rsquo;ll exploit it, and the batters know what to do. The focus is on all seven or eight batters contributing. Even without a century, teams can get par or above-par scores if everyone chips in."</p>
<p>On Varun Chakaravarthy's inclusion, Rohit highlighted his uniqueness. "He doesn&rsquo;t show many variations in the nets; maybe he saves them for the matches, which is good. He has something different, and that&rsquo;s why he&rsquo;s here. His performance over the last 8-9 months has been very impressive."</p>
<p>Rohit acknowledged that both Shami and Kuldeep are working their way back to full form after injuries. "Shami has played a few games since his return, and for us, it was more about getting him back in Indian colours than worrying about wickets. He looks fine, and for bowlers like him, it&rsquo;s about finding their rhythm. The same goes for Kuldeep, who had a hernia operation and was out for two and a half months. The numbers may not show it, but for certain players, it&rsquo;s just about getting back to playing. If these two are in form, our team looks very good."</p>
<p>India will hope their spin-heavy combination, backed by all-round depth and experienced pacers, helps them start their Champions Trophy campaign on a strong note.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav are the two spinners, while Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar offer both bowling and batting capabilities

The selection of five spinners in India's Champions Trophy squad has raised eyebrows, but captain Rohit Sharma on Wednesday defended the move, emphasising that three of them are all-rounders who bring significant value to the team. Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav are the two specialist spinners, while Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar offer both bowling and batting capabilities. "There are two spinners, and the other three are all-rounders. I don’t see them as just five spinners; those three can bat and bowl. Other teams might have fast-bowling all-rounders, but we play to our strength, which is spin," Rohit explained. India’s fast-bowling options include Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshit Rana, with Hardik Pandya as the sole pace all-rounder. Jasprit Bumrah’s absence puts extra responsibility on Shami, who is still finding his rhythm after a recent injury. Also Read: Champions Trophy, PAK vs NZ: Glenn Phillips stuns Pakistani crowd with terrific one-handed catch to dismiss Muhammad Rizwan | WATCH Rohit stressed that India’s preference for depth in batting influenced the squad composition. "Jadeja, Axar, and Washy give us a different dimension and a lot of depth. We wanted players with two skills rather than just one." 'We have arsenal to tackle conditions' With rain affecting Dubai in recent days, India might face overcast conditions in their opener against Bangladesh on Thursday. Rohit expressed confidence in his team’s preparation. "We have the arsenal to tackle such conditions. If the bowlers get help, they’ll exploit it, and the batters know what to do. The focus is on all seven or eight batters contributing. Even without a century, teams can get par or above-par scores if everyone chips in." On Varun Chakaravarthy's inclusion, Rohit highlighted his uniqueness. "He doesn’t show many variations in the nets; maybe he saves them for the matches, which is good. He has something different, and that’s why he’s here. His performance over the last 8-9 months has been very impressive." Rohit acknowledged that both Shami and Kuldeep are working their way back to full form after injuries. "Shami has played a few games since his return, and for us, it was more about getting him back in Indian colours than worrying about wickets. He looks fine, and for bowlers like him, it’s about finding their rhythm. The same goes for Kuldeep, who had a hernia operation and was out for two and a half months. The numbers may not show it, but for certain players, it’s just about getting back to playing. If these two are in form, our team looks very good." India will hope their spin-heavy combination, backed by all-round depth and experienced pacers, helps them start their Champions Trophy campaign on a strong note. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: We have picked only two spinners, other three are all-rounders: Rohit

<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><span>New Zealand's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/glenn-phillips">Glenn Phillips</a> added another spectacular catch to his ever-growing collection on Wednesday (Feb 19), leaving Pakistani fans absolutely stunned. The Kiwi all-rounder pulled off a sensational one-handed diving catch to dismiss Pakistan skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammad-rizwan">Muhammad Rizwan</a> during the opening match of the Champions Trophy at the National Stadium in Karachi.</span></p>
<p><span>The stunning moment happened on the final ball of the 10th over, with William O'Rourke bowling to Rizwan. The Pakistani captain slashed hard, sending the ball racing past the point region. Phillips dived full stretch and plucked the ball out of thin air. Rizwan, stunned, had to depart after scoring just three runs off 14 balls.</span></p>
<p><span><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></span></p>
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<p><span>Chasing a target of 321, Pakistan opened their innings with Saud Shakeel and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/babar-azam">Babar Azam</a>, as Fakhar Zaman was unavailable due to an injury sustained while fielding on the second ball of the tournament. Shakeel fell early, scoring six runs from 19 deliveries before being caught at third man by Matt Henry, giving Rourke his first wicket of the match.</span></p>
<h2><span>&lsquo;Means a great deal&rsquo; &mdash; Will Young celebrates special ton</span></h2>
<p><span>After being put into bat by Mohammad Rizwan, New Zealand posted a formidable 320 runs on the board. Will Young and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/tom-latham">Tom Latham</a> were the heroes with the bat, notching up crucial centuries and adding 118 runs for the fourth wicket. Their partnership rescued the Kiwis from a precarious position at 73 for 3 in the 19th over.</span></p>
<p><span>Speaking at the innings break, Young reflected on his knock: "Means a great deal, obviously. The start of the Champions Trophy, and to start like that is a special feeling. 320 is a good total; it didn't look that possible after those three early wickets. Tom Latham came out with the fire, and we managed to keep the board rolling. We&rsquo;ll have to see how the wicket behaves. It was difficult when they bowled back of a length, and it did spin as well."</span></p>
<p><span>Glenn Phillips and Tom Latham then accelerated the scoring, adding a blistering 125-run partnership for the fifth wicket in just 74 balls. Phillips hammered 61 off 39 deliveries, including three boundaries and four towering sixes. Latham, anchoring the innings, remained unbeaten on 118 off 104 balls, striking 10 fours and three sixes to propel New Zealand past the 300-run mark.</span></p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: The moment happened in 10th over, with William O'Rourke delivering to Rizwan. The Pakistani captain slashed hard, sending the ball racing past the point region

New Zealand's Glenn Phillips added another spectacular catch to his ever-growing collection on Wednesday (Feb 19), leaving Pakistani fans absolutely stunned. The Kiwi all-rounder pulled off a sensational one-handed diving catch to dismiss Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan during the opening match of the Champions Trophy at the National Stadium in Karachi. The stunning moment happened on the final ball of the 10th over, with William O'Rourke bowling to Rizwan. The Pakistani captain slashed hard, sending the ball racing past the point region. Phillips dived full stretch and plucked the ball out of thin air. Rizwan, stunned, had to depart after scoring just three runs off 14 balls. Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) Chasing a target of 321, Pakistan opened their innings with Saud Shakeel and Babar Azam, as Fakhar Zaman was unavailable due to an injury sustained while fielding on the second ball of the tournament. Shakeel fell early, scoring six runs from 19 deliveries before being caught at third man by Matt Henry, giving Rourke his first wicket of the match. ‘Means a great deal’ — Will Young celebrates special ton After being put into bat by Mohammad Rizwan, New Zealand posted a formidable 320 runs on the board. Will Young and Tom Latham were the heroes with the bat, notching up crucial centuries and adding 118 runs for the fourth wicket. Their partnership rescued the Kiwis from a precarious position at 73 for 3 in the 19th over. Speaking at the innings break, Young reflected on his knock: "Means a great deal, obviously. The start of the Champions Trophy, and to start like that is a special feeling. 320 is a good total; it didn't look that possible after those three early wickets. Tom Latham came out with the fire, and we managed to keep the board rolling. We’ll have to see how the wicket behaves. It was difficult when they bowled back of a length, and it did spin as well." Glenn Phillips and Tom Latham then accelerated the scoring, adding a blistering 125-run partnership for the fifth wicket in just 74 balls. Phillips hammered 61 off 39 deliveries, including three boundaries and four towering sixes. Latham, anchoring the innings, remained unbeaten on 118 off 104 balls, striking 10 fours and three sixes to propel New Zealand past the 300-run mark. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy, PAK vs NZ: Glenn Phillips stuns Pakistani crowd with terrific one-handed catch to dismiss Muhammad Rizwan | WATCH

<p>Yash Rathod and Akshay Wadkar shared an unbroken 91-run partnership as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/vidarbha">Vidarbha</a> recovered from a mini collapse to lead by 260 runs against Mumbai at stumps on day three of their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ranji-trophy">Ranji Trophy</a> semifinal here on Wednesday.</p>
<p>After Vidarbha dismissed Mumbai for 270 to take a first-innings lead of 113 runs, the hosts found themselves in trouble after being reduced to 56 for four, thanks to Shams Mulani's (2/50) two-wicket burst.</p>
<p>However, Rathod (59) and Wadkar (31) steadied the ship, guiding Vidarbha to 147 for four in 53 overs. At stumps, the duo, who train at the same academy in Nagpur, remained at the crease, but with Mulani and the spinners making the ball talk, Vidarbha is aware that the job is far from over, with two full days of play remaining.</p>
<p>With a 113-run first innings lead in hand, the hosts had a solid foundation, but Mumbai all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shardul-thakur">Shardul Thakur</a> (1/14) gave them a glimmer of hope with an early breakthrough in the second over.</p>
<p>Thakur, who is set to join Essex for the County Championship, removed Atharva Taide for a duck, trapping him in front with an inswinger.&nbsp;Danish Malewar (29), who scored a vital 79 in the first innings, looked in good touch, hitting five boundaries before Mulani dismissed him off his own bowling with a sharp caught-and-bowl effort, leaving Vidarbha at 40 for two.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/karun-nair">Karun Nair</a> (6), in scintillating form, joined opener Dhruv Shorey (13) at the crease, but Tanush Kotian (1/33) made an impact, dismissing Shorey LBW after he missed a classic off-break delivery. Much was expected of Nair, but he too fell, sent back by Mulani, as Vidarbha slumped to 56 for four. Nair was rapped on the pads while trying to defend, and although he challenged the on-field umpire's decision, he lost the appeal.</p>
<p>Wadkar and Rathod then regrouped, building a steady partnership to bring Vidarbha back on track.&nbsp;Earlier, Akash Anand completed his second first-class century and shared a 69-run stand with Tanush Kotian (33) to lead Mumbai's recovery after they ended the second day at 188 for seven.</p>
<p>Anand, who resumed his innings at 67, played a gritty knock, facing 256 balls and hitting 11 fours. His partnership with Kotian took Mumbai close to the 250-mark before left-arm spinner Parth Rekhade broke the stand, removing Kotian with a delivery that drifted in from around the stumps to bowl him out.</p>
<p>Anand, who had reached double figures with a boundary to fine leg, was dismissed in the 88th over, caught behind while chasing a wide delivery from Nachiket Bhute.&nbsp;Mohit Avasthi was the last man to fall, cleaned up by Harsh Dubey, as Mumbai were bowled out for 270 just before lunch.</p>
<p><strong>Brief score: </strong>Vidarbha 383 &amp; 147 in 53 overs (Yash Rathod 59 not out; Shams Mulani 2/50) lead Mumbai 270 all out in 92 overs (Akash Anand 106; Parth Rekhade 4/55) by 260 runs.</p>
<h2>Priyank's ton anchors Gujarat's innings&nbsp;</h2>
<p>Ton-up Priyank Panchal anchors Gujarat's strong reply against Kerala Ahmedabad, Feb 19 (PTI) Gujarat's seasoned batter Priyank Panchal played a solid knock, remaining unbeaten on 117, as the former champions reached 222 for 1 at stumps on Day 3 of their Ranji Trophy semifinal against Kerala, here on Wednesday.</p>
<p>Trailing by just 235 runs with two full days remaining, Gujarat's batting unit showed resilience and intent on a placid Motera surface, where it seemed Kerala found themselves 100 runs short, having scored at snail's pace.</p>
<p>Resuming their first innings at 418/7, Kerala added 39 more runs before being bowled out for 457 just 10 overs into the morning session.&nbsp;Mohammed Azharuddeen remained stranded on a magnificent 177 off 341 balls, his career-best knock featuring 20 fours and a solitary six.</p>
<p>His innings provided the backbone to Kerala's total as wickets tumbled around him. Gujarat skipper Chintan Gaja provided the first breakthrough of the day, dismissing Aditya Sarwate with a delivery that straightened from the middle stump to clip the off-stump. Sarwate managed just one run before becoming Gaja's 200th first-class victim in his 59th match.</p>
<p>Sensing the urgency to add quick runs, Azharuddeen took Kerala past 450 with a boundary off Arzan Nagwaswalla.</p>
<p>However, with wickets falling at the other end, the Kerala wicketkeeper-batter was left stranded as Nidheesh MD (run out) and Nedumankuzhy Basil (bowled by Gaja) perished in quick succession.&nbsp;In response, Gujarat began their innings with a positive intent as openers Panchal and Aarya Desai put together a solid 131-run stand in 36.4 overs.</p>
<p>Desai, aggressive yet composed, scored 73 off 118 balls, striking 11 boundaries and one six. He looked assured before losing control and dragging a wide delivery from Basil onto his stumps.</p>
<p>Despite that breakthrough, Kerala's bowlers struggled to make further inroads. Panchal, a veteran of the domestic circuit, anchored the innings with a mix of caution and aggression. Panchal reached his 29th first-class century&mdash;his second of the season&mdash;off just 155 balls, bringing up the milestone in style with a six over long-on against Sarwate.</p>
<p>The 34-year-old, once on the fringes of the Indian team after Gujarat's maiden Ranji Trophy triumph in 2016-17, has had an ordinary season with only one century (against Rajasthan) and a half-century (against Vidarbha) prior to this match.</p>
<p>However, he delivered when his team needed him the most.&nbsp;Hingrajia provided solid support at the other end with a patient, unbeaten 30 off 108 balls, hitting three boundaries.&nbsp;For Kerala, veteran spinner Jalaj posed some questions and induced a few edges, but the lack of support from the field meant Gujarat kept consolidating.</p>
<p><strong>Brief scores: </strong>Kerala 457; 187 overs (Mohammed Azharuddeen 177 not out, Sachin Baby 69, Salman Nizar 52; Arzan Nagwaswalla 3/81, Chintan Gaja 2/75);&nbsp;Gujarat 222/1; 71 overs (Priyank Panchal 117 batting, Aarya Desai 73, Manan Hingrajia 30 batting; Nedumankuzhy Basil 1/40). Gujarat trail by 235 runs.</p>

Cricket, Sports: After Vidarbha dismissed Mumbai for 270 to take a first-innings lead of 113 runs, the hosts found themselves in trouble after being reduced to 56/4

Yash Rathod and Akshay Wadkar shared an unbroken 91-run partnership as Vidarbha recovered from a mini collapse to lead by 260 runs against Mumbai at stumps on day three of their Ranji Trophy semifinal here on Wednesday. After Vidarbha dismissed Mumbai for 270 to take a first-innings lead of 113 runs, the hosts found themselves in trouble after being reduced to 56 for four, thanks to Shams Mulani's (2/50) two-wicket burst. However, Rathod (59) and Wadkar (31) steadied the ship, guiding Vidarbha to 147 for four in 53 overs. At stumps, the duo, who train at the same academy in Nagpur, remained at the crease, but with Mulani and the spinners making the ball talk, Vidarbha is aware that the job is far from over, with two full days of play remaining. With a 113-run first innings lead in hand, the hosts had a solid foundation, but Mumbai all-rounder Shardul Thakur (1/14) gave them a glimmer of hope with an early breakthrough in the second over. Thakur, who is set to join Essex for the County Championship, removed Atharva Taide for a duck, trapping him in front with an inswinger. Danish Malewar (29), who scored a vital 79 in the first innings, looked in good touch, hitting five boundaries before Mulani dismissed him off his own bowling with a sharp caught-and-bowl effort, leaving Vidarbha at 40 for two. Karun Nair (6), in scintillating form, joined opener Dhruv Shorey (13) at the crease, but Tanush Kotian (1/33) made an impact, dismissing Shorey LBW after he missed a classic off-break delivery. Much was expected of Nair, but he too fell, sent back by Mulani, as Vidarbha slumped to 56 for four. Nair was rapped on the pads while trying to defend, and although he challenged the on-field umpire's decision, he lost the appeal. Wadkar and Rathod then regrouped, building a steady partnership to bring Vidarbha back on track. Earlier, Akash Anand completed his second first-class century and shared a 69-run stand with Tanush Kotian (33) to lead Mumbai's recovery after they ended the second day at 188 for seven. Anand, who resumed his innings at 67, played a gritty knock, facing 256 balls and hitting 11 fours. His partnership with Kotian took Mumbai close to the 250-mark before left-arm spinner Parth Rekhade broke the stand, removing Kotian with a delivery that drifted in from around the stumps to bowl him out. Anand, who had reached double figures with a boundary to fine leg, was dismissed in the 88th over, caught behind while chasing a wide delivery from Nachiket Bhute. Mohit Avasthi was the last man to fall, cleaned up by Harsh Dubey, as Mumbai were bowled out for 270 just before lunch. Brief score: Vidarbha 383 & 147 in 53 overs (Yash Rathod 59 not out; Shams Mulani 2/50) lead Mumbai 270 all out in 92 overs (Akash Anand 106; Parth Rekhade 4/55) by 260 runs. Priyank's ton anchors Gujarat's innings Ton-up Priyank Panchal anchors Gujarat's strong reply against Kerala Ahmedabad, Feb 19 (PTI) Gujarat's seasoned batter Priyank Panchal played a solid knock, remaining unbeaten on 117, as the former champions reached 222 for 1 at stumps on Day 3 of their Ranji Trophy semifinal against Kerala, here on Wednesday. Trailing by just 235 runs with two full days remaining, Gujarat's batting unit showed resilience and intent on a placid Motera surface, where it seemed Kerala found themselves 100 runs short, having scored at snail's pace. Resuming their first innings at 418/7, Kerala added 39 more runs before being bowled out for 457 just 10 overs into the morning session. Mohammed Azharuddeen remained stranded on a magnificent 177 off 341 balls, his career-best knock featuring 20 fours and a solitary six. His innings provided the backbone to Kerala's total as wickets tumbled around him. Gujarat skipper Chintan Gaja provided the first breakthrough of the day, dismissing Aditya Sarwate with a delivery that straightened from the middle stump to clip the off-stump. Sarwate managed just one run before becoming Gaja's 200th first-class victim in his 59th match. Sensing the urgency to add quick runs, Azharuddeen took Kerala past 450 with a boundary off Arzan Nagwaswalla. However, with wickets falling at the other end, the Kerala wicketkeeper-batter was left stranded as Nidheesh MD (run out) and Nedumankuzhy Basil (bowled by Gaja) perished in quick succession. In response, Gujarat began their innings with a positive intent as openers Panchal and Aarya Desai put together a solid 131-run stand in 36.4 overs. Desai, aggressive yet composed, scored 73 off 118 balls, striking 11 boundaries and one six. He looked assured before losing control and dragging a wide delivery from Basil onto his stumps. Despite that breakthrough, Kerala's bowlers struggled to make further inroads. Panchal, a veteran of the domestic circuit, anchored the innings with a mix of caution and aggression. Panchal reached his 29th first-class century—his second of the season—off just 155 balls, bringing up the milestone in style with a six over long-on against Sarwate. The 34-year-old, once on the fringes of the Indian team after Gujarat's maiden Ranji Trophy triumph in 2016-17, has had an ordinary season with only one century (against Rajasthan) and a half-century (against Vidarbha) prior to this match. However, he delivered when his team needed him the most. Hingrajia provided solid support at the other end with a patient, unbeaten 30 off 108 balls, hitting three boundaries. For Kerala, veteran spinner Jalaj posed some questions and induced a few edges, but the lack of support from the field meant Gujarat kept consolidating. Brief scores: Kerala 457; 187 overs (Mohammed Azharuddeen 177 not out, Sachin Baby 69, Salman Nizar 52; Arzan Nagwaswalla 3/81, Chintan Gaja 2/75); Gujarat 222/1; 71 overs (Priyank Panchal 117 batting, Aarya Desai 73, Manan Hingrajia 30 batting; Nedumankuzhy Basil 1/40). Gujarat trail by 235 runs.

Ranji Trophy: Vidarbha extends lead against Mumbai; Priyank's ton anchors Gujarat's strong reply vs Kerala

<p>New Zealand batter Will Young and Tom Latham joined a special club after completing their respective hundreds in the first match of the Champions Trophy 2025 against Pakistan on Feb 19 in Karachi. Young scored 107 before being dismissed while Latham scored 118 not out as New Zealand posted 320/5 in 50 overs.</p>
<p>With the tons, the duo became the latest entrants in the club of teams with multiple batters scoring hundreds in an innings in Champions Trophy.</p>
<p>The feat was first achieved by Indian batters Virender Sehwag and Sourav Ganguly during 2002 edition of Champions Trophy when they scored a ton each against England.</p>
<p><strong>Also Watch:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pak-vs-nz-video-naseem-shah-bowls-dream-delivery-to-dismiss-kane-williamson-wtach-8736735">Naseem Shah bowls 'dream delivery' to dismiss Kane Williamson</a></p>
<p><strong>Here's the full list of multiple batters scoring hundreds in an innings in Champions Trophy:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>India - Virender Sehwag (126) &amp; Sourav Ganguly (117*) vs ENG, 2002</li>
<li>West Indies - Chris Gayle (101) &amp; Dwayne Bravo (112*) vs ENG, 2006</li>
<li>Australia - Shane Watson (136*) &amp; Ricky Ponting (111*) vs ENG, 2009</li>
<li>Bangladesh - Shakib Al Hasan (114) &amp; Mahmudullah (102*) vs NZ, 2017</li>
<li>New Zealand - Will Young (107) &amp; Tom Latham (118*) vs PAK, 2025</li>
</ul>
<h2><strong>Young, Latham power New Zealand innings</strong></h2>
<p>Earlier, New Zealand were asked to bat first after losing the toss against Pakistan. The Kiwis started well, adding 39 runs for the first wicket before two quick wickets jolted their innings.</p>
<p>After losing the third wicket for less than 100 runs, Latham and Young joined forces. The duo added 118 runs for the fourth wicket before Young was dismissed.</p>
<p>Latham was then joined by Glenn Phillips and they added 125 runs for the fifth wicket and took New Zealand past 300 - something which looked distant till the end of 40th over.</p>
<p>Phillips was the last batter to get out but not before hitting 61 off 39 balls - falling four runs short of completing 1,000 ODI runs.</p>
<p>For Pakistan, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf picked two wickets each while spinner Abrar Ahmed chipped in with one wicket.</p>

With the tons, the duo became the latest entrants in the club of teams with multiple batters scoring hundreds in an innings in Champions Trophy. Cricket Sports

New Zealand batter Will Young and Tom Latham joined a special club after completing their respective hundreds in the first match of the Champions Trophy 2025 against Pakistan on Feb 19 in Karachi. Young scored 107 before being dismissed while Latham scored 118 not out as New Zealand posted 320/5 in 50 overs. With the tons, the duo became the latest entrants in the club of teams with multiple batters scoring hundreds in an innings in Champions Trophy. The feat was first achieved by Indian batters Virender Sehwag and Sourav Ganguly during 2002 edition of Champions Trophy when they scored a ton each against England. Also Watch: Naseem Shah bowls 'dream delivery' to dismiss Kane Williamson Here's the full list of multiple batters scoring hundreds in an innings in Champions Trophy: India - Virender Sehwag (126) & Sourav Ganguly (117*) vs ENG, 2002 West Indies - Chris Gayle (101) & Dwayne Bravo (112*) vs ENG, 2006 Australia - Shane Watson (136*) & Ricky Ponting (111*) vs ENG, 2009 Bangladesh - Shakib Al Hasan (114) & Mahmudullah (102*) vs NZ, 2017 New Zealand - Will Young (107) & Tom Latham (118*) vs PAK, 2025 Young, Latham power New Zealand innings Earlier, New Zealand were asked to bat first after losing the toss against Pakistan. The Kiwis started well, adding 39 runs for the first wicket before two quick wickets jolted their innings. After losing the third wicket for less than 100 runs, Latham and Young joined forces. The duo added 118 runs for the fourth wicket before Young was dismissed. Latham was then joined by Glenn Phillips and they added 125 runs for the fifth wicket and took New Zealand past 300 - something which looked distant till the end of 40th over. Phillips was the last batter to get out but not before hitting 61 off 39 balls - falling four runs short of completing 1,000 ODI runs. For Pakistan, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf picked two wickets each while spinner Abrar Ahmed chipped in with one wicket.

Champions Trophy, NZ vs PAK: Young, Latham join EXCLUSIVE club with individual tons in Karachi

<p>Bangladesh captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/najmul-hossain-shanto">Najmul Hossain Shanto</a> expressed confidence in his team&rsquo;s abilities ahead of their crucial <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> Group A match against India in Dubai. Speaking to the media, Shanto stressed the importance of focusing on their own game plan rather than worrying about individual opponents.</p>
<p>When asked about the absence of Indian pace spearhead <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah">Jasprit Bumrah</a>, Shanto dismissed the idea that it gave Bangladesh an advantage.&nbsp;&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t think about any individual player. The Indian team is a quality side, and our focus is on executing our plans,&rdquo; he said firmly.</p>
<p>Shanto acknowledged the high standard of competition in the tournament, noting that all eight teams were strong contenders. &ldquo;If we execute our plans well, we&rsquo;ll have a good match against India,&rdquo; he added.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-kane-williamson-breaks-6-year-streak-during-opener-against-pakistan-8737013">Champions Trophy 2025: Kane Williamson breaks 6-year streak during opener against Pakistan</a></strong></p>
<p>Discussing the playing conditions in Dubai, Shanto pointed out the differences compared to Pakistan, where Bangladesh recently played Test matches.</p>
<p>&ldquo;The wickets here aren&rsquo;t as high-scoring as in Pakistan. We need to adjust accordingly, but having played in Pakistan recently, we&rsquo;re aware of the conditions there,&rdquo; he explained.</p>
<p>The Bangladesh skipper expressed faith in the balance of his squad and their ability to compete at the highest level.&nbsp;&ldquo;We have a well-balanced team. If we perform well and stick to our plans, I believe we can beat any team,&rdquo; he said confidently.</p>
<h2>'We have developed some good fast bowlers'</h2>
<p>Shanto also highlighted Bangladesh&rsquo;s growing strength in the pace department, noting that their fast bowlers could make a significant impact.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Over the past couple of years, we&rsquo;ve developed some good fast bowlers. If they hit the right areas, it&rsquo;ll be a big advantage for us,&rdquo; he said.</p>
<p>He praised the versatility within the team, mentioning the value of their all-rounders. &ldquo;We have some good all-rounders, and I hope they&rsquo;ll perform well tomorrow,&rdquo; he added.</p>
<p>When asked about the absence of veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan from the squad, Shanto kept his response brief, simply stating, &ldquo;No.&rdquo;&nbsp;The skipper also acknowledged the unwavering support of Bangladeshi fans worldwide.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Wherever we play, we get a lot of support,&rdquo; he noted, appreciating the passion of their supporters.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: With Bangladesh aiming to make a strong start in the tournament, all eyes will be on their performance against India as they look to turn confidence into results

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto expressed confidence in his team’s abilities ahead of their crucial Champions Trophy Group A match against India in Dubai. Speaking to the media, Shanto stressed the importance of focusing on their own game plan rather than worrying about individual opponents. When asked about the absence of Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, Shanto dismissed the idea that it gave Bangladesh an advantage. “I don’t think about any individual player. The Indian team is a quality side, and our focus is on executing our plans,” he said firmly. Shanto acknowledged the high standard of competition in the tournament, noting that all eight teams were strong contenders. “If we execute our plans well, we’ll have a good match against India,” he added. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Kane Williamson breaks 6-year streak during opener against Pakistan Discussing the playing conditions in Dubai, Shanto pointed out the differences compared to Pakistan, where Bangladesh recently played Test matches. “The wickets here aren’t as high-scoring as in Pakistan. We need to adjust accordingly, but having played in Pakistan recently, we’re aware of the conditions there,” he explained. The Bangladesh skipper expressed faith in the balance of his squad and their ability to compete at the highest level. “We have a well-balanced team. If we perform well and stick to our plans, I believe we can beat any team,” he said confidently. 'We have developed some good fast bowlers' Shanto also highlighted Bangladesh’s growing strength in the pace department, noting that their fast bowlers could make a significant impact. “Over the past couple of years, we’ve developed some good fast bowlers. If they hit the right areas, it’ll be a big advantage for us,” he said. He praised the versatility within the team, mentioning the value of their all-rounders. “We have some good all-rounders, and I hope they’ll perform well tomorrow,” he added. When asked about the absence of veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan from the squad, Shanto kept his response brief, simply stating, “No.” The skipper also acknowledged the unwavering support of Bangladeshi fans worldwide. “Wherever we play, we get a lot of support,” he noted, appreciating the passion of their supporters. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025 | IND vs BAN: ‘Not thinking about individual, focus is on executing our plans,’ says Bangladesh skipper

<p>New Zealand&rsquo;s star batter Kane Williamson&rsquo;s remarkable six-year streak of avoiding single-digit scores in ODIs came to an end during the ICC Champions Trophy opener against Pakistan on Wednesday (Feb 19).</p>
<p>Coming in to bat with New Zealand at 39/1, Williamson&rsquo;s stay at the crease turned out to be brief. He managed just one run off two balls before edging a delivery from Naseem Shah to wicketkeeper and Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pak-vs-nz-video-naseem-shah-bowls-dream-delivery-to-dismiss-kane-williamson-wtach-8736735">Champions Trophy, PAK vs NZ: Naseem Shah bowls 'dream delivery' to dismiss Kane Williamson | WATCH</a></strong></p>
<p>This was Williamson&rsquo;s first single-digit score in ODIs since January 5, 2019, when he scored just one run off nine balls against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;In the 38 matches and 36 innings between these two low scores, Williamson amassed 1,775 runs at an impressive average of 61.20, with three centuries and 12 half-centuries. His stellar run included a &lsquo;Player of the Tournament&rsquo; performance in the 2019 Cricket World Cup, where he scored 578 runs in nine innings at an average of 82.57, with two hundreds and two fifties, including a best score of 148.</p>
<h2>Injury scare for Fakhar Zaman?</h2>
<p>Earlier in the match,&nbsp;Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman suffered an injury scare during the opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand on Feb 19 in Karachi. The destructive batter is currently being checked for a muscular sprain.</p>
<p>Zaman suffered the scare on a shot by Will Young, who drove Shaheen Afridi through the covers. Zaman, while trying to stop the ball, seemed to have hurt his left side rib area and was forced off the field two balls into the match.</p>
<p>"Fakhar Zaman is being assessed and examined for a muscular sprain, and further updates will be provided in due course," said the PCB in a statement.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Williamson’s stay at the crease was brief. He managed just one run off two balls before edging a delivery from Naseem Shah to wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan

New Zealand’s star batter Kane Williamson’s remarkable six-year streak of avoiding single-digit scores in ODIs came to an end during the ICC Champions Trophy opener against Pakistan on Wednesday (Feb 19). Coming in to bat with New Zealand at 39/1, Williamson’s stay at the crease turned out to be brief. He managed just one run off two balls before edging a delivery from Naseem Shah to wicketkeeper and Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan. Also Read: Champions Trophy, PAK vs NZ: Naseem Shah bowls 'dream delivery' to dismiss Kane Williamson | WATCH This was Williamson’s first single-digit score in ODIs since January 5, 2019, when he scored just one run off nine balls against Sri Lanka. In the 38 matches and 36 innings between these two low scores, Williamson amassed 1,775 runs at an impressive average of 61.20, with three centuries and 12 half-centuries. His stellar run included a ‘Player of the Tournament’ performance in the 2019 Cricket World Cup, where he scored 578 runs in nine innings at an average of 82.57, with two hundreds and two fifties, including a best score of 148. Injury scare for Fakhar Zaman? Earlier in the match, Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman suffered an injury scare during the opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand on Feb 19 in Karachi. The destructive batter is currently being checked for a muscular sprain. Zaman suffered the scare on a shot by Will Young, who drove Shaheen Afridi through the covers. Zaman, while trying to stop the ball, seemed to have hurt his left side rib area and was forced off the field two balls into the match. "Fakhar Zaman is being assessed and examined for a muscular sprain, and further updates will be provided in due course," said the PCB in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Kane Williamson breaks 6-year streak during opener against Pakistan

<p>Pakistan bowler Naseem Shah bowled a peach of a delivery to dismiss New Zealand batter Kane Williamson in first match of the Champions Trophy on Feb 19 in Karachi. The wicket could be described as the dream for a right-hand bowler.</p>
<p>The moment came in ninth over with Shah pushing the ball towards good-length area as it moved every so slightly after pitching and took Williamson's bat-edge. The edge travelled to wicketkeeper Muhammad Rizwan who pouched it safely. Have a look at the wicket below:</p>
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<p>Pakistan, however, suffered a blow when batter Fakhar Zaman has suffered an injury scare in the first over of the match. The destructive batter is currently being checked for muscular sprain.</p>
<p><strong>Also Watch:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-nz-vs-pak-video-abrar-ahmed-takes-first-wicket-of-tournament-clean-bowls-kiwi-conway-8736225">Abrar Ahmed takes first wicket of tournament, clean bowls Kiwi Conway</a></p>
<p>The hosts will be hoping for the batter to come out without any serious concerns as they look to defend the title they had won in 2017 - also the last time Champions Trophy was played.</p>
<h2><strong>Champions Trophy gets underway in Pakistan</strong></h2>
<p>Earlier, Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan won the toss and elected to bowl first. New Zealand were doing good till Abrar Ahmed struck.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Pakistan leggie sent back Devon Conway in the eighth over with a beautiful googly. Conway could manage only 10 runs off 17 ball before being dismissed but had added 39 runs for the opening wicket with Will Young.</p>
<p>Pacer Naseem Shah took advantage of the opening and sent back Kane Williamson caught behind off a peach.</p>
<p>New Zealand started rebuilding after losing two wickets in space of five balls. Young and Daryl Mitchell had added 33 runs for the third wicket and looked to add more before Haris Rauf sent back Mitchell.</p>
<p>Young and Tom Latham then took New Zealand past 100 in the 23rd over with Young reaching his 50 as well. The batter was dismissed shortly after scoring his 100.</p>

Champions Trophy: The moment came in ninth over with Shah pushing the ball towards good-length area as it moved every so slightly after pitching and took Williamson's bat-edge. Cricket Sports

Pakistan bowler Naseem Shah bowled a peach of a delivery to dismiss New Zealand batter Kane Williamson in first match of the Champions Trophy on Feb 19 in Karachi. The wicket could be described as the dream for a right-hand bowler. The moment came in ninth over with Shah pushing the ball towards good-length area as it moved every so slightly after pitching and took Williamson's bat-edge. The edge travelled to wicketkeeper Muhammad Rizwan who pouched it safely. Have a look at the wicket below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) Pakistan, however, suffered a blow when batter Fakhar Zaman has suffered an injury scare in the first over of the match. The destructive batter is currently being checked for muscular sprain. Also Watch: Abrar Ahmed takes first wicket of tournament, clean bowls Kiwi Conway The hosts will be hoping for the batter to come out without any serious concerns as they look to defend the title they had won in 2017 - also the last time Champions Trophy was played. Champions Trophy gets underway in Pakistan Earlier, Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan won the toss and elected to bowl first. New Zealand were doing good till Abrar Ahmed struck. The Pakistan leggie sent back Devon Conway in the eighth over with a beautiful googly. Conway could manage only 10 runs off 17 ball before being dismissed but had added 39 runs for the opening wicket with Will Young. Pacer Naseem Shah took advantage of the opening and sent back Kane Williamson caught behind off a peach. New Zealand started rebuilding after losing two wickets in space of five balls. Young and Daryl Mitchell had added 33 runs for the third wicket and looked to add more before Haris Rauf sent back Mitchell. Young and Tom Latham then took New Zealand past 100 in the 23rd over with Young reaching his 50 as well. The batter was dismissed shortly after scoring his 100.

Champions Trophy, PAK vs NZ: Naseem Shah bowls 'dream delivery' to dismiss Kane Williamson | WATCH

<p>ICC Hall of Famer and former Australian skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ricky-ponting">Ricky Ponting</a> has thrown his support behind <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/steve-smith">Steve Smith</a> opening the batting during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, believing the experienced right-hander could anchor the innings at the top of the order.</p>
<p>Australia&rsquo;s campaign begins on February 22 in Lahore against arch-rivals England, followed by matches against South Africa (February 25) in Rawalpindi and Afghanistan (February 28) back in Lahore.</p>
<p>Ponting, speaking on The ICC Review, addressed Australia&rsquo;s mounting injury concerns. Regular captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pat-cummins">Pat Cummins</a>, fast bowlers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, all-rounders Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh, and even recently retired Marcus Stoinis (from ODIs) will miss the tournament, forcing selectors to make some bold calls.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pak-vs-nz-batter-fakhar-zaman-suffers-injury-scare-while-fielding-8736507">Champions Trophy, PAK vs NZ: Jolt for Pakistan as batter Fakhar Zaman suffers injury scare</a></strong></p>
<p>While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/travis-head">Travis Head</a> appears locked in for a top-order spot, Ponting speculated that moving Smith up from his usual No. 4 position could be on the cards. Smith has thrived as an opener in the Big Bash League, including hitting a blistering 121* off 64 balls for the Sydney Sixers in January.</p>
<p>Despite 151 ODI innings, Smith has never opened in the format. The move would also reflect concerns about the current form of young opener Jake Fraser-McGurk, who averages just 14 from seven ODI innings since debuting in February 2024. His best knock&mdash;41 off 18 balls&mdash;came against the West Indies, but consistency has eluded him.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Yeah, he is making it harder and harder (for selectors to stick with Fraser-McGurk),&rdquo; Ponting admitted. &ldquo;There&rsquo;s just so much talent there, but we haven&rsquo;t seen it consistently enough just yet. And that&rsquo;s one of the big calls they&rsquo;ll have to make now.&rdquo;</p>
<p>Ponting believes Smith&rsquo;s class and recent white-ball form could provide Australia with stability at the top.</p>
<p>&ldquo;(Smith) could be someone who could be an anchor through this Champions Trophy at the top of the order. And you know that with the form that he&rsquo;s in, he&rsquo;s going to make big runs,&rdquo; Ponting added.</p>
<p>However, he also acknowledged the upside of Fraser-McGurk&rsquo;s aggressive stroke play. &ldquo;Jake is the sort of player that, if he plays at his best&hellip; he could win a tournament (for Australia).</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Australia’s campaign begins on February 22 in Lahore vs England, followed by matches against South Africa (February 25) and Afghanistan (February 28) in Lahore

ICC Hall of Famer and former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting has thrown his support behind Steve Smith opening the batting during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, believing the experienced right-hander could anchor the innings at the top of the order. Australia’s campaign begins on February 22 in Lahore against arch-rivals England, followed by matches against South Africa (February 25) in Rawalpindi and Afghanistan (February 28) back in Lahore. Ponting, speaking on The ICC Review, addressed Australia’s mounting injury concerns. Regular captain Pat Cummins, fast bowlers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, all-rounders Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh, and even recently retired Marcus Stoinis (from ODIs) will miss the tournament, forcing selectors to make some bold calls. Also Read: Champions Trophy, PAK vs NZ: Jolt for Pakistan as batter Fakhar Zaman suffers injury scare While Travis Head appears locked in for a top-order spot, Ponting speculated that moving Smith up from his usual No. 4 position could be on the cards. Smith has thrived as an opener in the Big Bash League, including hitting a blistering 121* off 64 balls for the Sydney Sixers in January. Despite 151 ODI innings, Smith has never opened in the format. The move would also reflect concerns about the current form of young opener Jake Fraser-McGurk, who averages just 14 from seven ODI innings since debuting in February 2024. His best knock—41 off 18 balls—came against the West Indies, but consistency has eluded him. “Yeah, he is making it harder and harder (for selectors to stick with Fraser-McGurk),” Ponting admitted. “There’s just so much talent there, but we haven’t seen it consistently enough just yet. And that’s one of the big calls they’ll have to make now.” Ponting believes Smith’s class and recent white-ball form could provide Australia with stability at the top. “(Smith) could be someone who could be an anchor through this Champions Trophy at the top of the order. And you know that with the form that he’s in, he’s going to make big runs,” Ponting added. However, he also acknowledged the upside of Fraser-McGurk’s aggressive stroke play. “Jake is the sort of player that, if he plays at his best… he could win a tournament (for Australia). (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025 | Australia’s opening dilemma: Ponting backs captain Smith to step up

<p>Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman has suffered an injury scare during the opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand on Feb 19 in Karachi. The destructive batter was checked for a muscular sprain. He returned to the field in the 48th over but didn't come to bat as opener.</p>
<p>Zaman suffered the scare on a shot by Will Young, who drove Shaheen Afridi through the covers. Zaman, while trying to stop the ball, seemed to have hurt his left side rib area and was forced off the field two balls into the match.</p>
<p><strong>Also Watch:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-nz-vs-pak-video-abrar-ahmed-takes-first-wicket-of-tournament-clean-bowls-kiwi-conway-8736225">Abrar Ahmed takes first wicket of tournament, clean bowls Kiwi Conway</a></p>
<p>"Fakhar Zaman is being assessed and examined for a muscular sprain, and further updates will be provided in due course," said the PCB in a statement.</p>
<p>The hosts will be hoping for the batter to come out without any serious concerns as they look to defend the title they had won in 2017&mdash;also the last time the Champions Trophy was played. Pakistan are already without Saim Ayub, their regular opener, for some time. Ayub was ruled out of the tournament long before its start with similar kind of injury.</p>
<h2><strong>Champions Trophy gets underway in Pakistan</strong></h2>
<p>Earlier, Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan won the toss and elected to bowl first. New Zealand were doing good till Abrar Ahmed struck.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Pakistan leggie sent back Devon Conway in the eighth over with a beautiful googly. Conway could manage only 10 runs off 17 balls before being dismissed but had added 39 runs for the opening wicket with Will Young.</p>
<p>Pacer Naseem Shah took advantage of the opening and sent back Kane Williamson, caught behind off a peach.</p>
<p>New Zealand started rebuilding after losing two wickets in space of five balls. Young and Daryl Mitchell had added 33 runs for the third wicket and looked to add more before Haris Rauf sent back Mitchell.</p>
<p>Young and Tom Latham then took New Zealand past 100 in the 23rd over, with Young reaching his 50 as well.</p>

Champions Trophy, PAK vs NZ: Fakhar Zaman suffered the scare in the first over and returned to the field in the 48th over but didn't come to bat as opener. Cricket Sports

Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman has suffered an injury scare during the opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand on Feb 19 in Karachi. The destructive batter was checked for a muscular sprain. He returned to the field in the 48th over but didn't come to bat as opener. Zaman suffered the scare on a shot by Will Young, who drove Shaheen Afridi through the covers. Zaman, while trying to stop the ball, seemed to have hurt his left side rib area and was forced off the field two balls into the match. Also Watch: Abrar Ahmed takes first wicket of tournament, clean bowls Kiwi Conway "Fakhar Zaman is being assessed and examined for a muscular sprain, and further updates will be provided in due course," said the PCB in a statement. The hosts will be hoping for the batter to come out without any serious concerns as they look to defend the title they had won in 2017—also the last time the Champions Trophy was played. Pakistan are already without Saim Ayub, their regular opener, for some time. Ayub was ruled out of the tournament long before its start with similar kind of injury. Champions Trophy gets underway in Pakistan Earlier, Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan won the toss and elected to bowl first. New Zealand were doing good till Abrar Ahmed struck. The Pakistan leggie sent back Devon Conway in the eighth over with a beautiful googly. Conway could manage only 10 runs off 17 balls before being dismissed but had added 39 runs for the opening wicket with Will Young. Pacer Naseem Shah took advantage of the opening and sent back Kane Williamson, caught behind off a peach. New Zealand started rebuilding after losing two wickets in space of five balls. Young and Daryl Mitchell had added 33 runs for the third wicket and looked to add more before Haris Rauf sent back Mitchell. Young and Tom Latham then took New Zealand past 100 in the 23rd over, with Young reaching his 50 as well.

Champions Trophy, PAK vs NZ: Jolt for Pakistan as batter Fakhar Zaman suffers injury scare

<p>The Indian cricket team started their preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy with an intense net session after landing in Dubai. Players like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a>, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Hardik Pandya wasted no time getting used to the conditions ahead of their tournament opener.</p>
<p>During practice, India captain Rohit Sharma faced local left-arm pacer Awais Ahmad, sharpening his game against yorkers in anticipation of challenges from bowlers like Shaheen Shah Afridi and others. After the session, Rohit shared a light-hearted moment with Ahmad, who had tested him with pinpoint accuracy. &ldquo;Aap humare pair todhne ka koshish kar rahe the (You were trying to break my leg),&rdquo; Rohit remarked, adding a touch of camaraderie to the intense practice.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-gill-overtakes-babar-as-top-odi-batter-in-latest-icc-rankings-8735961">Champions Trophy 2025: Gill overtakes Babar as top ODI batter in latest ICC rankings</a></strong></p>
<p>Meanwhile, KL Rahul worked diligently on his big-hitting skills, embracing an aggressive approach as he prepared for his role in the middle order. Known for his technical finesse, Rahul appeared to shift gears, focusing on clearing the ropes with ease. Having scored a quickfire 40 off 29 balls in the third ODI against England, Rahul&rsquo;s role at No. 5 or 6 will be pivotal in the death overs, where acceleration is important. His range-hitting practice was evident during the high-intensity session, with sixes flowing off almost every delivery.</p>
<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"Aap humara pair todne ki koshish kar rahe the."<br><br>- Rohit Sharma to net bowler after Champions Trophy practice 🤣<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy</a> <a href="https://t.co/dpkVrqmE0L">pic.twitter.com/dpkVrqmE0L</a></p>
&mdash; Field Vision (@FieldVisionIND) <a href="https://twitter.com/FieldVisionIND/status/1891756252062974112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shreyas-iyer">Shreyas Iyer</a>, who has impressed with his aggressive stroke play in recent matches, also worked on his power game, adding depth to India&rsquo;s batting arsenal.</p>
<h2>Players fine tuning their skills</h2>
<p>Opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shubhman-gill">Shubman Gill</a>, fresh off a player of the series performance against England, looked in sublime touch once again. His scores of 87, 60, and 112 in that series seemed to have given him immense confidence, as he played elegant drives and authoritative pulls during practice.</p>
<p>Rohit, coming off a stellar 119 in the second ODI against England, continued to refine his form, working on late cuts and delicate touch shots, while Virat Kohli, who showed signs of resurgence with a steady 52 in the third ODI, looked confident and composed, middling the ball with precision as he focused on playing late and timing his strokes perfectly.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
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Cricket, Sports: After the end of the nets session, Rohit also had a fun chat with Awais Ahmad, who tested the India captain with some precise yorkers during the practice sessions

The Indian cricket team started their preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy with an intense net session after landing in Dubai. Players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Hardik Pandya wasted no time getting used to the conditions ahead of their tournament opener. During practice, India captain Rohit Sharma faced local left-arm pacer Awais Ahmad, sharpening his game against yorkers in anticipation of challenges from bowlers like Shaheen Shah Afridi and others. After the session, Rohit shared a light-hearted moment with Ahmad, who had tested him with pinpoint accuracy. “Aap humare pair todhne ka koshish kar rahe the (You were trying to break my leg),” Rohit remarked, adding a touch of camaraderie to the intense practice. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Gill overtakes Babar as top ODI batter in latest ICC rankings Meanwhile, KL Rahul worked diligently on his big-hitting skills, embracing an aggressive approach as he prepared for his role in the middle order. Known for his technical finesse, Rahul appeared to shift gears, focusing on clearing the ropes with ease. Having scored a quickfire 40 off 29 balls in the third ODI against England, Rahul’s role at No. 5 or 6 will be pivotal in the death overs, where acceleration is important. His range-hitting practice was evident during the high-intensity session, with sixes flowing off almost every delivery. Watch the video here: "Aap humara pair todne ki koshish kar rahe the." - Rohit Sharma to net bowler after Champions Trophy practice 🤣#ChampionsTrophy2025 #ChampionsTrophy pic.twitter.com/dpkVrqmE0L — Field Vision (@FieldVisionIND) February 18, 2025 Shreyas Iyer, who has impressed with his aggressive stroke play in recent matches, also worked on his power game, adding depth to India’s batting arsenal. Players fine tuning their skills Opener Shubman Gill, fresh off a player of the series performance against England, looked in sublime touch once again. His scores of 87, 60, and 112 in that series seemed to have given him immense confidence, as he played elegant drives and authoritative pulls during practice. Rohit, coming off a stellar 119 in the second ODI against England, continued to refine his form, working on late cuts and delicate touch shots, while Virat Kohli, who showed signs of resurgence with a steady 52 in the third ODI, looked confident and composed, middling the ball with precision as he focused on playing late and timing his strokes perfectly. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: 'You are trying to break our...': Rohit Sharma's reply with net bowler in Dubai

<p>Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed became the first wicket-taker of the Champions Trophy 2025 as he clean bowled New Zealand batter Devon Conway with a sensational googly. The opening match of the Champions Trophy between Pakistan and New Zealand is being played at the National Stadium in Karachi.</p>
<p>The wicket came on the third ball of the eight over when Abrar pushed a good length ball to Conway. The Kiwi batter tried to play it with the turn, but the ball spun the other way and hit the top of off-stump. Have a look at the wicket below:</p>
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<p>Conway managed just 10 runs off 17 balls before being dismissed but had added 39 runs for the first wicket with Will Young.</p>
<h2><strong>Champions Trophy Gets Underway</strong></h2>
<p>Earlier, Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan won the toss and elected to bowl first in the opening match of the ICC tournament. New Zealand were doing good till Abrar struck. Pacer Naseem Shah took advantage of the opening and sent back Kane Williamson, caught behind off a peach.</p>
<p>New Zealand started rebuilding after losing two wickets in space of five balls. Young and Daryl Mitchell had added 33 runs for the third wicket and looked to add more before Haris Rauf sent back Mitchell.</p>
<p>Young and Tom Latham then took New Zealand past 100 in the 23rd over, with Young reaching his 50 as well. Both the players completed their respective hundreds too.</p>
<p>While Young scored 10, Latham managed 118 not out. Towards the end, Glen Phillips also played a fast hand of 61 off 39 balls as New Zealand added more than 100 runs in the last 10 overs.</p>
<p>The Kiwis finished eventually finished with 320/5 in their 50 overs. For Pakistan, Naseem and Haris Rauf took two wickets each.</p>

Champions Trophy, NZ vs PAK: Abrar Ahmed became the first wicket-taker of the Champions Trophy 2025 as he clean-bowled New Zealand batter Devon Conway. Cricket Sports

Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed became the first wicket-taker of the Champions Trophy 2025 as he clean bowled New Zealand batter Devon Conway with a sensational googly. The opening match of the Champions Trophy between Pakistan and New Zealand is being played at the National Stadium in Karachi. The wicket came on the third ball of the eight over when Abrar pushed a good length ball to Conway. The Kiwi batter tried to play it with the turn, but the ball spun the other way and hit the top of off-stump. Have a look at the wicket below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) Conway managed just 10 runs off 17 balls before being dismissed but had added 39 runs for the first wicket with Will Young. Champions Trophy Gets Underway Earlier, Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan won the toss and elected to bowl first in the opening match of the ICC tournament. New Zealand were doing good till Abrar struck. Pacer Naseem Shah took advantage of the opening and sent back Kane Williamson, caught behind off a peach. New Zealand started rebuilding after losing two wickets in space of five balls. Young and Daryl Mitchell had added 33 runs for the third wicket and looked to add more before Haris Rauf sent back Mitchell. Young and Tom Latham then took New Zealand past 100 in the 23rd over, with Young reaching his 50 as well. Both the players completed their respective hundreds too. While Young scored 10, Latham managed 118 not out. Towards the end, Glen Phillips also played a fast hand of 61 off 39 balls as New Zealand added more than 100 runs in the last 10 overs. The Kiwis finished eventually finished with 320/5 in their 50 overs. For Pakistan, Naseem and Haris Rauf took two wickets each.

Champions Trophy, NZ vs PAK: Abrar Ahmed takes first wicket of tournament, clean bowls Kiwi Conway | WATCH

<p>India&rsquo;s star opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shubhman-gill">Shubman Gill</a> has risen to the top of the ICC Men&rsquo;s ODI batting rankings, overtaking Pakistan&rsquo;s Babar Azam just ahead of the ICC Men&rsquo;s Champions Trophy 2025. In the latest weekly rankings update, released on Wednesday (Feb 19), Gill&rsquo;s remarkable 112 from 102 balls against England in the third ODI in Ahmedabad helped him gain 23 rating points, taking his tally to 796&mdash;ahead of Babar Azam.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This marks Gill&rsquo;s return to the top spot, which he first claimed in November 2023 during the ICC Men&rsquo;s Cricket World Cup. His consistent form has given India a strong edge going into the eight-team tournament, with four Indian batters now featuring in the top 10. Captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a> is in third position, Virat Kohli remains steady in sixth, and Shreyas Iyer, after a solid knock of 78 in the same match against England, has moved up one slot to ninth.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ex-pakistan-spinner-calls-for-teaching-bcci-a-lesson-over-tantrums-8735569">Champions Trophy: Ex-Pakistan spinner calls for 'teaching BCCI a lesson' over tantrums</a></strong></p>
<p>Meanwhile, Pakistan&rsquo;s skipper Mohammad Rizwan has climbed six places to 15th after impressive performances in the Tri-Nation series at home, where he scored 122 not out against South Africa and 46 in the final against New Zealand.</p>
<p>His teammate Salman Agha, named player of the series, made a massive leap of 24 places to 48th after scoring 134 against South Africa and 45 in the final. Several other players made notable gains in the latest update, with South Africa&rsquo;s Heinrich Klaasen rising to fourth, New Zealand&rsquo;s Daryl Mitchell up to fifth, and solid progress from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/aiden-markram">Aiden Markram</a>, Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, and Tom Latham.</p>
<h2>'Theekshana is top-ranked bowler'</h2>
<p>Meanwhile, in the bowling rankings, Sri Lanka&rsquo;s mystery spinner Mahesh Theekshana has secured the top spot, displacing Afghanistan&rsquo;s Rashid Khan. South Africa&rsquo;s Keshav Maharaj has returned to the rankings in sixth position, while New Zealand spinner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mitchell-santner">Mitchell Santner</a> (up to seventh) and England&rsquo;s Adil Rashid (up to 22nd) have also made significant progress. Besides this, Pakistan&rsquo;s pace sensation, Naseem Shah, has progressed from 48th to 45th in the bowling rankings.</p>

Cricket, Sports: Gill’s 112 off 102 balls against England in the third ODI in Ahmedabad put him 23 rating points ahead of Babar with an aggregate of 796 points

India’s star opener Shubman Gill has risen to the top of the ICC Men’s ODI batting rankings, overtaking Pakistan’s Babar Azam just ahead of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. In the latest weekly rankings update, released on Wednesday (Feb 19), Gill’s remarkable 112 from 102 balls against England in the third ODI in Ahmedabad helped him gain 23 rating points, taking his tally to 796—ahead of Babar Azam. This marks Gill’s return to the top spot, which he first claimed in November 2023 during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. His consistent form has given India a strong edge going into the eight-team tournament, with four Indian batters now featuring in the top 10. Captain Rohit Sharma is in third position, Virat Kohli remains steady in sixth, and Shreyas Iyer, after a solid knock of 78 in the same match against England, has moved up one slot to ninth. Also Read: Champions Trophy: Ex-Pakistan spinner calls for 'teaching BCCI a lesson' over tantrums Meanwhile, Pakistan’s skipper Mohammad Rizwan has climbed six places to 15th after impressive performances in the Tri-Nation series at home, where he scored 122 not out against South Africa and 46 in the final against New Zealand. His teammate Salman Agha, named player of the series, made a massive leap of 24 places to 48th after scoring 134 against South Africa and 45 in the final. Several other players made notable gains in the latest update, with South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen rising to fourth, New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell up to fifth, and solid progress from Aiden Markram, Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, and Tom Latham. 'Theekshana is top-ranked bowler' Meanwhile, in the bowling rankings, Sri Lanka’s mystery spinner Mahesh Theekshana has secured the top spot, displacing Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan. South Africa’s Keshav Maharaj has returned to the rankings in sixth position, while New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner (up to seventh) and England’s Adil Rashid (up to 22nd) have also made significant progress. Besides this, Pakistan’s pace sensation, Naseem Shah, has progressed from 48th to 45th in the bowling rankings.

Champions Trophy 2025: Gill overtakes Babar as top ODI batter in latest ICC rankings

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