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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/south-africa-cricket" rel="dofollow">South Africa</a> had come close to winning an ICC event several times before, including at last year&rsquo;s T20 World Cup in the Americas, where they lost the grand finale by a whisker (to India). However, with them not dropping their guard, having qualified for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wtc-final-2025" rel="dofollow">WTC Final 2025</a>, and looking strong as a white-ball unit, they might have their shot at glory this time in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> in Pakistan.
<h2>Here is the SWOT Analysis of South Africa at the Champions Trophy 2025 &ndash;</h2>
<h3>Strengths &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>South African team&rsquo;s unique blend of youth and experience keeps them ahead of everyone in the competition.</li>
<li>Their ultra-strong batting line-up, with all posing great ability to win matches off their own, further puts them on the pedestal to end a trophy drought &ndash; their last being the Champions Trophy title in the inaugural edition (1998). &nbsp;</li>
<li>South Africa&rsquo;s middle and lower order is perhaps the strongest among all teams, with power hitters like Heinrich Klaasen, who has the second-best strike rate among batters who have scored 150 or more runs since the last World Cup, David Miller and lanky all-rounder Marco Jansen.</li>
<li>Kagiso Rabada spearheading the pace attack is the best thing that happened to them since his debut, and they aim to make the most of it this time.</li>
<li>The selection of two prime ODI bowlers &ndash; Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi will boost their chances of chasing glory.</li>
</ul>
Also read | <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">India at Champions Trophy 2025, SWOT Analysis &ndash; Does India have what it takes to win their second ICC trophy in 2 years?</a>
<h3>Weaknesses &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>Of all the factors that denied South Africa an ICC trophy over the years, a weakened temperament leads the chart.&nbsp;</li>
<li>South African batters struggle against spin on most days, with their ODI series loss to Afghanistan (in Sharjah) last year being the prime example.</li>
<li>Too much reliability on their middle order could turn against them, as they must have their top three keeping wickets at least till the first Powerplay in most games.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Their dismal record of just five wins in 16 ODIs played since the last World Cup (2023) could be another factor haunting them in this eight-team tournament.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Opportunities &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>South Africa has perhaps the best chance to win an ICC trophy, their Champions Trophy title with the current squad.</li>
<li>Aiden Markram, their seasoned campaigner, has it in him to be their hero, both with the bat and his leadership skills.</li>
<li>Bavuma&rsquo;s captaincy could also propel the Proteas to upset some of the best teams in this competition, with winning the event being the ultimate aim.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Threats &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>A six-match losing streak heading into the Champions Trophy might give an advantage to other teams.</li>
<li>Proteas' inability to strike gold and absorb the pressure has cost them all these years, and despite a banger of a squad at the helm, the chances of them suffering the same fate are higher.</li>
<li>South Africa has to face three prime semis contenders &ndash; Australia, England and Afghanistan, and though they can beat the heavyweights, going down in crucial matches could hamper their chances.</li>
</ul>
South Africa is placed in Group B, with their first match scheduled against Afghanistan (Feb 21) before taking on Australia (Feb 25) and finally England (Mar 1) in the league stages.&nbsp;

Cricket, Sports: South Africa is placed in Group B, with their first match scheduled against Afghanistan (Feb 21) before taking on Australia (Feb 25) and England (Mar 1).

South Africa had come close to winning an ICC event several times before, including at last year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas, where they lost the grand finale by a whisker (to India). However, with them not dropping their guard, having qualified for the WTC Final 2025, and looking strong as a white-ball unit, they might have their shot at glory this time in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan. Here is the SWOT Analysis of South Africa at the Champions Trophy 2025 – Strengths – South African team’s unique blend of youth and experience keeps them ahead of everyone in the competition. Their ultra-strong batting line-up, with all posing great ability to win matches off their own, further puts them on the pedestal to end a trophy drought – their last being the Champions Trophy title in the inaugural edition (1998). South Africa’s middle and lower order is perhaps the strongest among all teams, with power hitters like Heinrich Klaasen, who has the second-best strike rate among batters who have scored 150 or more runs since the last World Cup, David Miller and lanky all-rounder Marco Jansen. Kagiso Rabada spearheading the pace attack is the best thing that happened to them since his debut, and they aim to make the most of it this time. The selection of two prime ODI bowlers – Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi will boost their chances of chasing glory. Also read | India at Champions Trophy 2025, SWOT Analysis – Does India have what it takes to win their second ICC trophy in 2 years? Weaknesses – Of all the factors that denied South Africa an ICC trophy over the years, a weakened temperament leads the chart. South African batters struggle against spin on most days, with their ODI series loss to Afghanistan (in Sharjah) last year being the prime example. Too much reliability on their middle order could turn against them, as they must have their top three keeping wickets at least till the first Powerplay in most games. Their dismal record of just five wins in 16 ODIs played since the last World Cup (2023) could be another factor haunting them in this eight-team tournament. Opportunities – South Africa has perhaps the best chance to win an ICC trophy, their Champions Trophy title with the current squad. Aiden Markram, their seasoned campaigner, has it in him to be their hero, both with the bat and his leadership skills. Bavuma’s captaincy could also propel the Proteas to upset some of the best teams in this competition, with winning the event being the ultimate aim. Threats – A six-match losing streak heading into the Champions Trophy might give an advantage to other teams. Proteas' inability to strike gold and absorb the pressure has cost them all these years, and despite a banger of a squad at the helm, the chances of them suffering the same fate are higher. South Africa has to face three prime semis contenders – Australia, England and Afghanistan, and though they can beat the heavyweights, going down in crucial matches could hamper their chances. South Africa is placed in Group B, with their first match scheduled against Afghanistan (Feb 21) before taking on Australia (Feb 25) and finally England (Mar 1) in the league stages.

South Africa at Champions Trophy 2025, SWOT Analysis – Proteas’ time to shine at multi-team event

Former Bangladesh batter Imrul Kayes says that Jasprit Bumrah's absence in the Champions Trophy gives India's eastern neighbours a chance to capitalise. The statement comes a couple of days ahead of the start of the ICC tournament while India and Bangladesh face off each other on Feb 20 in their first group-stage match on Feb 20.
"India is a strong side with a great bowling attack and batting lineup. But Bumrah is not in the squad. We all know what he has done in the last two years for Indian cricket. His absence gives Bangladesh a chance to capitalise," said Kayes while talking to news agency PTI.
Also Read: <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">India at Champions Trophy 2025, SWOT Analysis &ndash; Does India have what it takes to win their second ICC trophy in 2 years?</a>
The former Bangladesh batter, however, confessed that Mohammed Shami could be a big threat for them in the match in Bumrah's absence.
"Shami's inclusion is big. He may be struggling a bit with fitness right now, but if he finds his rhythm, he will be a big threat for Bangladesh," said Kayes.
<h2>Former pacer Balaji put onus for India's success on Shami</h2>
Former India pacer Laxmipathy Balaji has also said that Shami has to come good with the new ball for India to do well in the tournament. Balaji pointed out that it was Shami who was carrying India's load before Bumrah became an all-format master.
"Actually, he had out-bowled Bumrah in the 2019 (50-over World Cup) and in the last World Cup (2023). Bumrah is the champion bowler across formats. But Shami has experience and, before Bumrah's arrival, it was Shami who carried India's attack all through," said Balaji as reported by news agency PTI.
Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has picked up five spinners in the India squad in Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. The three pacers in the team are Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshit Rana, with Hardik Pandya as the medium-pace all-rounder.

Champions Trophy: The former Bangladesh batter, however, confessed that Mohammed Shami could be a big threat for them in the match in Bumrah's absence. Cricket Sports

Former Bangladesh batter Imrul Kayes says that Jasprit Bumrah's absence in the Champions Trophy gives India's eastern neighbours a chance to capitalise. The statement comes a couple of days ahead of the start of the ICC tournament while India and Bangladesh face off each other on Feb 20 in their first group-stage match on Feb 20. "India is a strong side with a great bowling attack and batting lineup. But Bumrah is not in the squad. We all know what he has done in the last two years for Indian cricket. His absence gives Bangladesh a chance to capitalise," said Kayes while talking to news agency PTI. Also Read: India at Champions Trophy 2025, SWOT Analysis – Does India have what it takes to win their second ICC trophy in 2 years? The former Bangladesh batter, however, confessed that Mohammed Shami could be a big threat for them in the match in Bumrah's absence. "Shami's inclusion is big. He may be struggling a bit with fitness right now, but if he finds his rhythm, he will be a big threat for Bangladesh," said Kayes. Former pacer Balaji put onus for India's success on Shami Former India pacer Laxmipathy Balaji has also said that Shami has to come good with the new ball for India to do well in the tournament. Balaji pointed out that it was Shami who was carrying India's load before Bumrah became an all-format master. "Actually, he had out-bowled Bumrah in the 2019 (50-over World Cup) and in the last World Cup (2023). Bumrah is the champion bowler across formats. But Shami has experience and, before Bumrah's arrival, it was Shami who carried India's attack all through," said Balaji as reported by news agency PTI. Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has picked up five spinners in the India squad in Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. The three pacers in the team are Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshit Rana, with Hardik Pandya as the medium-pace all-rounder.

Champions Trophy: Former batter Imrul Kayes picks out India bowler who'll be 'a big threat for Bangladesh' in Bumrah's absence

Let the games begin!
Pakistan is set to host an ICC event for the first time in 29 years, kicking off the 2025 ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> with a grand curtain raiser at the iconic Dewan-e-Khas of Lahore Fort.
Excitement is building as the tournament opener on February 19 will see the host nation, Pakistan, face off against fellow title contenders, New Zealand. Organisers illuminated Lahore Fort in spectacular fashion, offering a stunning preview of the thrilling cricket to come in the first Champions Trophy event since 2017.
Also Read: <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">India at Champions Trophy 2025, SWOT Analysis &ndash; Does India have what it takes to win their second ICC trophy in 2 years?</a>
As defending champions, Pakistan will look to recreate their 2017 triumph, when they claimed the title in the United Kingdom. Members of that trophy-winning squad played a special role at the Lahore Fort event, stirring up fond memories of their emphatic 180-run victory over India in the final at The Oval, London.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pakistan-cricket-board">Pakistan Cricket Board</a> (PCB) Chair Mohsin Naqvi expressed the nation's excitement and readiness to host this prestigious tournament, calling it a "momentous occasion" for Pakistan and its cricket-loving people.
Watch the video of the opening ceremony here:&nbsp;
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"The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 marks the return of a global cricket event to Pakistan after nearly three decades," Naqvi said. "This tournament is not just about cricket; it&rsquo;s a chance to showcase Pakistan's hospitality and passion for the game."
The choice of Lahore Fort as the venue for the curtain raiser was steeped in symbolism, representing both Pakistan&rsquo;s rich cultural heritage and its deep cricketing legacy.
"The significance of this venue highlights our history and underscores the unbreakable bond between cricket and the people of Pakistan," Naqvi added. "This is your moment to fill the stadiums and be part of history."
Pakistan has been grouped with New Zealand, India, and Bangladesh, while the other group features <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/australia-cricket">Australia</a>, England, South Africa, and tournament debutants Afghanistan. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, setting the stage for an epic battle for glory.
With anticipation reaching fever pitch, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be a celebration of cricket, culture, and unity, with Pakistan proudly at its heart.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Organisers lit Lahore Fort in all its glory, presenting a spectacular sight as a sign of what's to come right way through first Champions Trophy event since 2017

Let the games begin! Pakistan is set to host an ICC event for the first time in 29 years, kicking off the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy with a grand curtain raiser at the iconic Dewan-e-Khas of Lahore Fort. Excitement is building as the tournament opener on February 19 will see the host nation, Pakistan, face off against fellow title contenders, New Zealand. Organisers illuminated Lahore Fort in spectacular fashion, offering a stunning preview of the thrilling cricket to come in the first Champions Trophy event since 2017. Also Read: India at Champions Trophy 2025, SWOT Analysis – Does India have what it takes to win their second ICC trophy in 2 years? As defending champions, Pakistan will look to recreate their 2017 triumph, when they claimed the title in the United Kingdom. Members of that trophy-winning squad played a special role at the Lahore Fort event, stirring up fond memories of their emphatic 180-run victory over India in the final at The Oval, London. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chair Mohsin Naqvi expressed the nation's excitement and readiness to host this prestigious tournament, calling it a "momentous occasion" for Pakistan and its cricket-loving people. Watch the video of the opening ceremony here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) "The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 marks the return of a global cricket event to Pakistan after nearly three decades," Naqvi said. "This tournament is not just about cricket; it’s a chance to showcase Pakistan's hospitality and passion for the game." The choice of Lahore Fort as the venue for the curtain raiser was steeped in symbolism, representing both Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and its deep cricketing legacy. "The significance of this venue highlights our history and underscores the unbreakable bond between cricket and the people of Pakistan," Naqvi added. "This is your moment to fill the stadiums and be part of history." Pakistan has been grouped with New Zealand, India, and Bangladesh, while the other group features Australia, England, South Africa, and tournament debutants Afghanistan. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, setting the stage for an epic battle for glory. With anticipation reaching fever pitch, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be a celebration of cricket, culture, and unity, with Pakistan proudly at its heart. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Colourful opening ceremony held in Lahore sans team captains

The 2024 T20 World Cup winner, India, is among the outright favourites for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy-2025" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> starting February 19 in Pakistan. The Men in Blue have already arrived in Dubai, a venue picked (for them) under the hybrid model, and will host all India matches, including the knockouts, should India qualify for the semis and final.
<h2>Here is the SWOT analysis of Team India at the Champions Trophy 2025 &ndash;</h2>
<h3>Strengths &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>India&rsquo;s strength remains in their batting and has always been. India perhaps has the most daunting top six among all teams, with everyone capable of winning the game on their own.&nbsp;</li>
<li>India&rsquo;s ability to adapt to the playing conditions and get acclimatised to the pitch will benefit them throughout the tournament.</li>
<li>Besides, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/axar-patel" rel="dofollow">Axar Patel</a>&rsquo;s new role as a floater boosts the team's morale, something they used to their advantage in the recently concluded England ODIs.</li>
<li>The spin powerhouse, including all kinds of spinners, will give the captain a cushion to pick from depending on the opposition and the wicket on offer.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h3>Weaknesses &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>India&rsquo;s dependence on the top order has cost them enough in the past decade, having lost the last edition (in 2017) and the 2019 World Cup because of that.&nbsp;</li>
<li><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya" rel="dofollow">Hardik Pandya</a>&rsquo;s form with the bat worries the team, while the same goes for the twin spin all-rounders &ndash; Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, who, on odd days, could fail to provide enough assistance with the bat.</li>
<li>Lack of depth in the pace attack &ndash; in the absence of ace seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah</a>, who got ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury, the onus would fall on Mohammed Shami, who continues to find his rhythm in the ODIs. The inexperienced duo of Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana could cost India at some point in the tournament.</li>
<li>Not enough batters and backups &ndash; India picked a bowlers-dominated squad with as many as eight specialist bowlers. Though the remaining seven batters are tough nuts to crack, chances of a collective failure on the day when it matters the most would haunt India till the end.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Opportunities &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>Low on confidence heading into the eight-team tournament, the Indian openers should put the grave memories behind them and aim for glory in the Champions Trophy&mdash;something similar to what they did during the home ODI World Cup&mdash;starting aggressively.</li>
<li>The newcomers in the seam attack&mdash;Harshit and Arshdeep&mdash;have an opportunity to make a name for themselves, coming out of the shadow of heavyweights like Shami and Bumrah.</li>
<li>Should India decide to play Varun Chakravarthy at any stage in the tournament, he can showcase his skill on the biggest stage and against the toughest opponents.</li>
<li>Having lost several ICC white-ball tournaments since last winning the Champions Trophy 12 years ago in England, Team India has an excellent opportunity to deliver and bring home the trophy.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Threats &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>India should avoid early collapses, mainly against teams having left-arm seamers, including Pakistan and Australia.</li>
<li>Unlike how they performed in the ODI World Cup Final (against Australia), scoring no boundaries in the middle overs, they could suffer the same fate should they deploy a submissive approach.&nbsp;</li>
<li>More often than not, Rohit has looked clueless when his bowlers are leaking runs, and with almost all teams trying to attack to win this time, Rohit could find himself in the same position.</li>
<li>Crumble under pressure: India does well and play fearless cricket until the day of the final, and if they wish to win another ICC trophy in two years, they must bury it and play aggressively in the knockouts.</li>
</ul>
India are placed in Group A, alongside the host and archrivals Pakistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh. While India play their tournament opener against Bangladesh, they take on Pakistan in a marquee clash next before facing the Blackcaps in their final league game.&nbsp;

Cricket, Sports: While India plays their tournament opener against Bangladesh, they take on Pakistan in a marquee clash next before facing the Blackcaps in their final group match.

The 2024 T20 World Cup winner, India, is among the outright favourites for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 starting February 19 in Pakistan. The Men in Blue have already arrived in Dubai, a venue picked (for them) under the hybrid model, and will host all India matches, including the knockouts, should India qualify for the semis and final. Here is the SWOT analysis of Team India at the Champions Trophy 2025 – Strengths – India’s strength remains in their batting and has always been. India perhaps has the most daunting top six among all teams, with everyone capable of winning the game on their own. India’s ability to adapt to the playing conditions and get acclimatised to the pitch will benefit them throughout the tournament. Besides, Axar Patel’s new role as a floater boosts the team's morale, something they used to their advantage in the recently concluded England ODIs. The spin powerhouse, including all kinds of spinners, will give the captain a cushion to pick from depending on the opposition and the wicket on offer. Weaknesses – India’s dependence on the top order has cost them enough in the past decade, having lost the last edition (in 2017) and the 2019 World Cup because of that. Hardik Pandya’s form with the bat worries the team, while the same goes for the twin spin all-rounders – Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, who, on odd days, could fail to provide enough assistance with the bat. Lack of depth in the pace attack – in the absence of ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah, who got ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury, the onus would fall on Mohammed Shami, who continues to find his rhythm in the ODIs. The inexperienced duo of Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana could cost India at some point in the tournament. Not enough batters and backups – India picked a bowlers-dominated squad with as many as eight specialist bowlers. Though the remaining seven batters are tough nuts to crack, chances of a collective failure on the day when it matters the most would haunt India till the end. Opportunities – Low on confidence heading into the eight-team tournament, the Indian openers should put the grave memories behind them and aim for glory in the Champions Trophy—something similar to what they did during the home ODI World Cup—starting aggressively. The newcomers in the seam attack—Harshit and Arshdeep—have an opportunity to make a name for themselves, coming out of the shadow of heavyweights like Shami and Bumrah. Should India decide to play Varun Chakravarthy at any stage in the tournament, he can showcase his skill on the biggest stage and against the toughest opponents. Having lost several ICC white-ball tournaments since last winning the Champions Trophy 12 years ago in England, Team India has an excellent opportunity to deliver and bring home the trophy. Threats – India should avoid early collapses, mainly against teams having left-arm seamers, including Pakistan and Australia. Unlike how they performed in the ODI World Cup Final (against Australia), scoring no boundaries in the middle overs, they could suffer the same fate should they deploy a submissive approach. More often than not, Rohit has looked clueless when his bowlers are leaking runs, and with almost all teams trying to attack to win this time, Rohit could find himself in the same position. Crumble under pressure: India does well and play fearless cricket until the day of the final, and if they wish to win another ICC trophy in two years, they must bury it and play aggressively in the knockouts. India are placed in Group A, alongside the host and archrivals Pakistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh. While India play their tournament opener against Bangladesh, they take on Pakistan in a marquee clash next before facing the Blackcaps in their final league game.

India at Champions Trophy 2025, SWOT Analysis – Does India have what it takes to win their second ICC trophy in 2 years

Former India pacer Laxmipathy Balaji believes that Mohammed Shami will be very important if the team has to do well in the Champions Trophy. The statement comes as India prepare for their campaign without Jasprit Bumrah, who was ruled out due to a back injury.
"Actually, he had out-bowled Bumrah in the 2019 (50-over World Cup) and in the last World Cup (2023). Bumrah is the champion bowler across formats. But Shami has experience and, before Bumrah's arrival, it was Shami who carried India's attack all through," said Balaji as reported by news agency PTI.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-one-batter-to-look-out-from-each-team-gill-rizwan-klaasen-head-williamson-jaker-brook-omarzai-8728608">Champions Trophy: One batter to look out from each team</a>
"I think it's very important. If India has to do well, then Shami has to come good with the new ball. The kind of impact he can make in his first six overs with the new ball, it will play a crucial role for India."
"Old ball is anyway...it is a defensive game now. If he can make early inroads regularly, that will give a huge boost to India," he added.
<h2>India pick five spinners for Champions Trophy</h2>
The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has picked up five spinners in the India squad&mdash;Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. The three pacers in the team are Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana with Hardik Pandya as the medium pace all-rounder.
Varun was included at the last minute in place of batter Yashasvi Jaiswal&mdash;a move that has been questioned a lot since Jaiswal was part of the provisional squad for the tournament.
The five spinners, two of which offer the same skill (Axar and Jadeja), have also been termed one too many, if not two. The idea behind selecting the spinners could be the slow and turning pitches of Dubai&mdash;the venue where India will play all its matches.
India start their campaign against Bangladesh on Feb 20 before facing Pakistan on Feb 23 and New Zealand on Mar 2 in the last group-stage match.

Champions Trophy: The three pacers in the team are Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana with Hardik Pandya as the medium pace all-rounder. Cricket Sports

Former India pacer Laxmipathy Balaji believes that Mohammed Shami will be very important if the team has to do well in the Champions Trophy. The statement comes as India prepare for their campaign without Jasprit Bumrah, who was ruled out due to a back injury. "Actually, he had out-bowled Bumrah in the 2019 (50-over World Cup) and in the last World Cup (2023). Bumrah is the champion bowler across formats. But Shami has experience and, before Bumrah's arrival, it was Shami who carried India's attack all through," said Balaji as reported by news agency PTI. Also Read: Champions Trophy: One batter to look out from each team "I think it's very important. If India has to do well, then Shami has to come good with the new ball. The kind of impact he can make in his first six overs with the new ball, it will play a crucial role for India." "Old ball is anyway...it is a defensive game now. If he can make early inroads regularly, that will give a huge boost to India," he added. India pick five spinners for Champions Trophy The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has picked up five spinners in the India squad—Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. The three pacers in the team are Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana with Hardik Pandya as the medium pace all-rounder. Varun was included at the last minute in place of batter Yashasvi Jaiswal—a move that has been questioned a lot since Jaiswal was part of the provisional squad for the tournament. The five spinners, two of which offer the same skill (Axar and Jadeja), have also been termed one too many, if not two. The idea behind selecting the spinners could be the slow and turning pitches of Dubai—the venue where India will play all its matches. India start their campaign against Bangladesh on Feb 20 before facing Pakistan on Feb 23 and New Zealand on Mar 2 in the last group-stage match.

Champions Trophy: 'Before Bumrah's arrival...,' former pacer puts onus of India's success on Shami's performance with new ball

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra believes <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bangalore">Royal Challengers Bengaluru</a> (RCB) have been handed an intriguing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">IPL</a> 2025 schedule, featuring a mix of home-heavy fixtures towards the business end of the league phase. Defending champions <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kolkata-knight-riders">Kolkata Knight Riders</a> (KKR) will face RCB in the opening match at their home ground, Eden Gardens, on March 22.
Acknowledging that RCB finished strong in IPL 2024 under a similar scenario, Chopra pointed out that their final league game against KKR could pose a tough challenge. In a video on his YouTube channel, Chopra analysed the schedule for multiple franchises, offering insights into potential advantages and obstacles.
For RCB, he noted that their campaign opens against KKR in Kolkata on March 22 and concludes with a reverse fixture against the same opponents in Bengaluru on May 17. Given that KKR dominated RCB in both encounters last season, Chopra suggested that facing them again at such crucial junctures could be a double-edged sword.
"It's interesting for Bengaluru. They have three of their last four and four of their last six games at home. They have more matches at home towards the back end. It used to be a problem earlier, but the last season made you understand that they are quite okay," he said.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pakistan-have-edge-over-india-due-to-says-former-pak-captain-8728817">Champions Trophy 2025: 'Pakistan have edge over India due to...', says former Pak captain</a> 
However, he remained cautious about the KKR factor, reminding fans that the Kolkata-based franchise has had the upper hand in recent meetings. While RCB lost convincingly at home to KKR last year, they also fell short by just one run.
"They won the last few matches at home and they happened to qualify. So if we see last year's template, it just looks alright. However, it's interesting that they are starting against Kolkata and are also ending against Kolkata. That could be a tough game because their matches are tight and Kolkata beat them here," Chopra added.
Visakhapatnam and Guwahati will host two home matches each for Delhi Capitals (DC) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) respectively, while Punjab Kings (PBKS) will play three home games in Dharamsala. KKR and DC are yet to announce their new captains for the IPL 2025 season. Meanwhile, RCB recently appointed Rajat Patidar as their new captain, while Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant were previously announced as the new skippers of PBKS and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), respectively.
<h2>'No home games in final phase might test KKR's resilience'</h2>
Turning his attention to KKR, Chopra suggested that their only major hurdle could be playing their last two league-phase matches away from home. Despite a balanced schedule that sees them playing two home and two away games in cycles, the absence of home support in the final phase might test their resilience.
"It's interesting for Kolkata as well. They are playing two matches at home and then two matches away a few times, which I feel is a good thing. The only trouble for them is that their last two matches are not at home," he said.
While discussing other franchises, Chopra pointed out that Gujarat Titans (GT) seem to have an ideal run-in, with their first two and last two matches being played at home in Ahmedabad.
"The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gujarat-titans">Gujarat Titans</a> are playing the first two at home and their last two also at home. Shubman Gill will score three fifties and a hundred in those matches. The matches are in Ahmedabad. So they will be in a good position. In case things go wrong, you have two matches at home in the end and you can turn the tide at that point in time," Chopra explained.
The Titans will kick off their campaign against PBKS and Mumbai Indians (MI) before concluding with home fixtures against LSG and Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
Another significant concern highlighted by Chopra was the inconsistent home venues for Rajasthan Royals (RR), Delhi Capitals (DC), and Punjab Kings (PBKS). He questioned Rajasthan&rsquo;s decision to start their home campaign in Guwahati instead of Jaipur, considering their poor record at the venue.
"Three teams, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, and Punjab Kings, have alternate venues, and I start wondering why you do that. Rajasthan are starting their campaign with away matches. They don't win in Guwahati. I think they have won one out of four games," he said.
"So why are you going there at the start? By the time you come to Jaipur, it would be April 13. Twenty-odd days would have passed and you wouldn't have come to your home. People in Jaipur don't know when their team will play in Rajasthan. It doesn't make sense," Chopra added.
Similarly, Delhi Capitals are set to play initial home matches in Visakhapatnam, a strategy Chopra found questionable despite their decent record at the venue. Meanwhile, Punjab Kings will conclude their home campaign in Dharamsala rather than Mullanpur, which Chopra felt could nullify their home advantage.
"Delhi are also starting with Vizag. They have performed decently in Vizag, but the same question that is there for Rajasthan applies to Delhi as well. Punjab are in a different boat altogether. Three of their last four matches are home games, and all three are in Dharamsala," he concluded.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Eden Gardens will host the season opener and final, alongside Qualifier 2, on May 23. Meanwhile, Hyderabad will host the two playoffs—Qualifier 1 and Eliminator

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra believes Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have been handed an intriguing IPL 2025 schedule, featuring a mix of home-heavy fixtures towards the business end of the league phase. Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will face RCB in the opening match at their home ground, Eden Gardens, on March 22. Acknowledging that RCB finished strong in IPL 2024 under a similar scenario, Chopra pointed out that their final league game against KKR could pose a tough challenge. In a video on his YouTube channel, Chopra analysed the schedule for multiple franchises, offering insights into potential advantages and obstacles. For RCB, he noted that their campaign opens against KKR in Kolkata on March 22 and concludes with a reverse fixture against the same opponents in Bengaluru on May 17. Given that KKR dominated RCB in both encounters last season, Chopra suggested that facing them again at such crucial junctures could be a double-edged sword. "It's interesting for Bengaluru. They have three of their last four and four of their last six games at home. They have more matches at home towards the back end. It used to be a problem earlier, but the last season made you understand that they are quite okay," he said. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: 'Pakistan have edge over India due to...', says former Pak captain However, he remained cautious about the KKR factor, reminding fans that the Kolkata-based franchise has had the upper hand in recent meetings. While RCB lost convincingly at home to KKR last year, they also fell short by just one run. "They won the last few matches at home and they happened to qualify. So if we see last year's template, it just looks alright. However, it's interesting that they are starting against Kolkata and are also ending against Kolkata. That could be a tough game because their matches are tight and Kolkata beat them here," Chopra added. Visakhapatnam and Guwahati will host two home matches each for Delhi Capitals (DC) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) respectively, while Punjab Kings (PBKS) will play three home games in Dharamsala. KKR and DC are yet to announce their new captains for the IPL 2025 season. Meanwhile, RCB recently appointed Rajat Patidar as their new captain, while Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant were previously announced as the new skippers of PBKS and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), respectively. 'No home games in final phase might test KKR's resilience' Turning his attention to KKR, Chopra suggested that their only major hurdle could be playing their last two league-phase matches away from home. Despite a balanced schedule that sees them playing two home and two away games in cycles, the absence of home support in the final phase might test their resilience. "It's interesting for Kolkata as well. They are playing two matches at home and then two matches away a few times, which I feel is a good thing. The only trouble for them is that their last two matches are not at home," he said. While discussing other franchises, Chopra pointed out that Gujarat Titans (GT) seem to have an ideal run-in, with their first two and last two matches being played at home in Ahmedabad. "The Gujarat Titans are playing the first two at home and their last two also at home. Shubman Gill will score three fifties and a hundred in those matches. The matches are in Ahmedabad. So they will be in a good position. In case things go wrong, you have two matches at home in the end and you can turn the tide at that point in time," Chopra explained. The Titans will kick off their campaign against PBKS and Mumbai Indians (MI) before concluding with home fixtures against LSG and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Another significant concern highlighted by Chopra was the inconsistent home venues for Rajasthan Royals (RR), Delhi Capitals (DC), and Punjab Kings (PBKS). He questioned Rajasthan’s decision to start their home campaign in Guwahati instead of Jaipur, considering their poor record at the venue. "Three teams, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, and Punjab Kings, have alternate venues, and I start wondering why you do that. Rajasthan are starting their campaign with away matches. They don't win in Guwahati. I think they have won one out of four games," he said. "So why are you going there at the start? By the time you come to Jaipur, it would be April 13. Twenty-odd days would have passed and you wouldn't have come to your home. People in Jaipur don't know when their team will play in Rajasthan. It doesn't make sense," Chopra added. Similarly, Delhi Capitals are set to play initial home matches in Visakhapatnam, a strategy Chopra found questionable despite their decent record at the venue. Meanwhile, Punjab Kings will conclude their home campaign in Dharamsala rather than Mullanpur, which Chopra felt could nullify their home advantage. "Delhi are also starting with Vizag. They have performed decently in Vizag, but the same question that is there for Rajasthan applies to Delhi as well. Punjab are in a different boat altogether. Three of their last four matches are home games, and all three are in Dharamsala," he concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Former India player questions puzzling schedule for multiple franchises

As Pakistan gears up to host its first ICC event in 29 years, legendary batter Muhammad Yousuf has expressed his excitement and confidence in the national team&rsquo;s chances on home turf.
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a>&nbsp;is set to start with Pakistan facing New Zealand at Karachi's National Stadium on Wednesday (Feb 19).
Yousuf lauded the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for its remarkable effort in renovating stadiums in record time, calling it a testament to the board's dedication to elevating the sport. &ldquo;I am very excited, like any Pakistani. After 29 years, Pakistan is hosting an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc">ICC</a> event,&rdquo; Yousuf was quoted saying to Samaa TV.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-one-batter-to-look-out-from-each-team-gill-rizwan-klaasen-head-williamson-jaker-brook-omarzai-8728608" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: One batter to look out from each team</a>
"Kudos to the PCB for renovating all the stadiums within six months. If Pakistan reaches the final, they will play at home. I hope Pakistan cricket performs as well as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pcb">PCB</a> has worked to prepare the stadiums.&rdquo;
<h2>'Kiwis look like the most balanced team'</h2>
Despite the excitement, Yousuf remains realistic about the challenges ahead, acknowledging New Zealand and India as the two most balanced teams in the competition. He noted New Zealand's adaptability to subcontinent conditions, citing their solid top order, well-rounded spin attack, and quality fast bowlers.
&ldquo;New Zealand looks like the most balanced side. They have a strong lineup for subcontinent conditions, with three quality fast bowlers and good spinners. Their top six in batting is solid, and the wicketkeeper is an all-rounder, supported by two spin-bowling all-rounders,&rdquo; Yousuf observed.
India, too, presents a formidable challenge, but Yousuf believes Pakistan&rsquo;s home advantage could be a decisive factor. &ldquo;India has a balanced side as well. But Pakistan has the edge with home conditions. They just need to play calculated cricket throughout the tournament.&rdquo;
Reflecting on Pakistan's recent performances, Yousuf offered valuable advice to the team. "We&rsquo;ve played on turning wickets recently. It&rsquo;s important to find the gaps against the spinners, rotate the strike, and minimize dot balls. We were exposed in the tri-series final against New Zealand, failing to dominate their spinners in the middle overs. With five fielders inside the 30-yard circle, there are always gaps to exploit.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: India, too, are seen as a formidable opponent, but Yousuf believes Pakistan has the advantage of playing on home turf, which could prove to be a crucial factor

As Pakistan gears up to host its first ICC event in 29 years, legendary batter Muhammad Yousuf has expressed his excitement and confidence in the national team’s chances on home turf. The Champions Trophy is set to start with Pakistan facing New Zealand at Karachi's National Stadium on Wednesday (Feb 19). Yousuf lauded the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for its remarkable effort in renovating stadiums in record time, calling it a testament to the board's dedication to elevating the sport. “I am very excited, like any Pakistani. After 29 years, Pakistan is hosting an ICC event,” Yousuf was quoted saying to Samaa TV. Also Read: Champions Trophy: One batter to look out from each team "Kudos to the PCB for renovating all the stadiums within six months. If Pakistan reaches the final, they will play at home. I hope Pakistan cricket performs as well as the PCB has worked to prepare the stadiums.” 'Kiwis look like the most balanced team' Despite the excitement, Yousuf remains realistic about the challenges ahead, acknowledging New Zealand and India as the two most balanced teams in the competition. He noted New Zealand's adaptability to subcontinent conditions, citing their solid top order, well-rounded spin attack, and quality fast bowlers. “New Zealand looks like the most balanced side. They have a strong lineup for subcontinent conditions, with three quality fast bowlers and good spinners. Their top six in batting is solid, and the wicketkeeper is an all-rounder, supported by two spin-bowling all-rounders,” Yousuf observed. India, too, presents a formidable challenge, but Yousuf believes Pakistan’s home advantage could be a decisive factor. “India has a balanced side as well. But Pakistan has the edge with home conditions. They just need to play calculated cricket throughout the tournament.” Reflecting on Pakistan's recent performances, Yousuf offered valuable advice to the team. "We’ve played on turning wickets recently. It’s important to find the gaps against the spinners, rotate the strike, and minimize dot balls. We were exposed in the tri-series final against New Zealand, failing to dominate their spinners in the middle overs. With five fielders inside the 30-yard circle, there are always gaps to exploit.” (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: 'Pakistan have edge over India due to...', says former Pak captain

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy-2025">Champions Trophy</a> is just two days away, and eight teams are set to fight for the title up for grabs for the first time since 2017. Host Pakistan will be aiming to take advantage of home conditions as they look to defend their title, which they had won by beating India in the&nbsp; final.
With the tournament being played in the subcontinent's batting-friendly conditions, here is one batter from each team to look out for:
<h2>Batters to look out for from each team in Champions Trophy 2025:</h2>
Shubman Gill (India)
The Indian vice-captain is in top form, scoring 259 runs in the recently-concluded three-ODI series against England with two fifties and a hundred. Gill has been looked at as India's future skipper and a successor to Virat Kohli for quite some time now. The batter has scored 1,900 runs since Jan 1, 2023, in 35 innings at an average of 61 with six hundreds and 11 fifties&mdash;the second most behind Sri Lanka's Pathum Nissanka's 1931 runs in 46 matches.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/swot-analysis-champions-trophy-2025-can-blackcaps-end-their-25-year-title-drought-8727803">Champions Trophy 2025 SWOT Analysis New Zealand: Can Blackcaps end their 25-year title drought?</a>
Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan)
The Pak skipper showed his form in the tri-nation series, scoring 122 not out as their team chased a mammoth 352. Rizwan has been Pakistan's most prolific scorer with 1458 runs in 30 innings since 2023. He scored these runs at an average of 63 with nine fifties and two hundreds.
Heinrich Klaasen (South Africa)
The Proteas wicketkeeper-batter has been a destructive force in the subcontinent, including the ODI World Cup 2023. He has scored 1278 runs in 28 matches since January 2023&mdash;the most for South Africa. He scored those runs at an average of 53 with three hundreds, and six fifties.
Travis Head (Australia)
Arguably one of the most fearsome batters in the world right now. Head loves a big stage, as was evident by his performance in the last WTC Final and ODI World Cup final. The IPL experience has made him a beast in the subcontinent as well, and he'll surely be one of the batters to look out for in the upcoming Champions Trophy.
Kane Williamson (New Zealand)
The former Kiwi skipper has been in prime form recently, hitting 133 not out against South Africa in the recently-concluded tri-series in Pakistan. He had also scored a fifty in the three-nation tournament. It could also be his last potential chance to win an ICC trophy with New Zealand in white-ball format.
Jaker Ali (Bangladesh)
Although famous for his T20I bashing, Jaker Ali could very well be Bangladesh's most important batter on the flat pitches of Dubai and Pakistan. In the five ODIs he has played so far in the career, the batter has scored 151 runs at an average of 50 and a strike rate of 112 with one fifty to his name.
Harry Brook (England)
The England star failed to impress during the India ODIs but is one of the most prolific and talented batters to look out for in the tournament. Brook is touted as the next big thing in England cricket with 23 ODIs under his belt. He has scored 769 runs in those matches at a strike rate of 101 with one hundred and five fifties.
Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan)
Omarzai is the backbone of Afghanistan's middle order, with 872 runs in 29 matches at an average of 54 with a hundred and seven fifties since 2023. He, along with Hashmatullah Shahidi, has bailed out the team on many occasions, including the famous ODI World Cup win over Pakistan in the ODI World Cup 2023.
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Champions Trophy: Host Pakistan will be aiming to take advantage of home conditions as they look to defend their title, which they had won by beating India in the final. Cricket Sports

The Champions Trophy is just two days away, and eight teams are set to fight for the title up for grabs for the first time since 2017. Host Pakistan will be aiming to take advantage of home conditions as they look to defend their title, which they had won by beating India in the final. With the tournament being played in the subcontinent's batting-friendly conditions, here is one batter from each team to look out for: Batters to look out for from each team in Champions Trophy 2025: Shubman Gill (India) The Indian vice-captain is in top form, scoring 259 runs in the recently-concluded three-ODI series against England with two fifties and a hundred. Gill has been looked at as India's future skipper and a successor to Virat Kohli for quite some time now. The batter has scored 1,900 runs since Jan 1, 2023, in 35 innings at an average of 61 with six hundreds and 11 fifties—the second most behind Sri Lanka's Pathum Nissanka's 1931 runs in 46 matches. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025 SWOT Analysis New Zealand: Can Blackcaps end their 25-year title drought? Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan) The Pak skipper showed his form in the tri-nation series, scoring 122 not out as their team chased a mammoth 352. Rizwan has been Pakistan's most prolific scorer with 1458 runs in 30 innings since 2023. He scored these runs at an average of 63 with nine fifties and two hundreds. Heinrich Klaasen (South Africa) The Proteas wicketkeeper-batter has been a destructive force in the subcontinent, including the ODI World Cup 2023. He has scored 1278 runs in 28 matches since January 2023—the most for South Africa. He scored those runs at an average of 53 with three hundreds, and six fifties. Travis Head (Australia) Arguably one of the most fearsome batters in the world right now. Head loves a big stage, as was evident by his performance in the last WTC Final and ODI World Cup final. The IPL experience has made him a beast in the subcontinent as well, and he'll surely be one of the batters to look out for in the upcoming Champions Trophy. Kane Williamson (New Zealand) The former Kiwi skipper has been in prime form recently, hitting 133 not out against South Africa in the recently-concluded tri-series in Pakistan. He had also scored a fifty in the three-nation tournament. It could also be his last potential chance to win an ICC trophy with New Zealand in white-ball format. Jaker Ali (Bangladesh) Although famous for his T20I bashing, Jaker Ali could very well be Bangladesh's most important batter on the flat pitches of Dubai and Pakistan. In the five ODIs he has played so far in the career, the batter has scored 151 runs at an average of 50 and a strike rate of 112 with one fifty to his name. Harry Brook (England) The England star failed to impress during the India ODIs but is one of the most prolific and talented batters to look out for in the tournament. Brook is touted as the next big thing in England cricket with 23 ODIs under his belt. He has scored 769 runs in those matches at a strike rate of 101 with one hundred and five fifties. Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan) Omarzai is the backbone of Afghanistan's middle order, with 872 runs in 29 matches at an average of 54 with a hundred and seven fifties since 2023. He, along with Hashmatullah Shahidi, has bailed out the team on many occasions, including the famous ODI World Cup win over Pakistan in the ODI World Cup 2023.

Champions Trophy: One batter to look out from each team

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The 2025 ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> is on the horizon, yet the cricketing world is abuzz with concerns over the alarming number of player withdrawals due to injuries. Notable absentees who would have played pivotal roles for their respective teams include India&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah">Jasprit </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah">Bumrah</a>, Australia&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pat-cummins">Pat Cummins</a>, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, and South Africa&rsquo;s Anrich Nortje, among others. 
This spate of injuries raises a pressing question: Is the relentless cricketing calendar, amplified by&nbsp;numerous international fixtures and burgeoning franchise leagues, overburdening players and compromising their well-being?&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/swot-analysis-champions-trophy-2025-can-blackcaps-end-their-25-year-title-drought-8727803">SWOT Analysis: Champions Trophy 2025-Can Blackcaps end their 25-year title drought?</a> Over the past decade, cricket has&nbsp;witnessed an explosion of franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide. The Indian Premier League (IPL) set the precedent back in 2007, inspiring similar tournaments like Australia&rsquo;s Big Bash League (BBL), the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and The Hundred in England, among others. These leagues offer lucrative contracts to top talent. However, the overlapping schedules of these tournaments with international commitments have led to a congested calendar, leaving players with minimal downtime.&nbsp;
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<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0" lang="EN-US" paraid="199079560" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{53}">Physical toll on players&nbsp;</h2>
</div>
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Fast bowlers, in particular, bear the brunt of this demanding schedule. As per a study done on the topic, &lsquo;To determine if the comparison of acute and chronic workload is associated with increased injury risk in elite cricket fast bowlers&rsquo;, by Billy T Hulin, Tim J Gabbett, Peter Blanch, Paul Chapman, David Bailey, John W Orchard, it was observed that significant increases in acute workload are associated with a heightened risk of injury among elite fast bowlers. The repetitive high intensity demands, coupled with insufficient recovery periods, predispose them to stress fractures, muscle tears, and other debilitating injuries. 
For instance, Australia's Mitchell Starc has previously grappled with injuries exacerbated by continuous play, leading to decisions about prioritising rest over participation in certain series.&nbsp;
</div>
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<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0" lang="EN-US" paraid="653434884" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{85}">Mental fatigue&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
</div>
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Beyond the physical ramifications, the relentless schedule contributes to mental fatigue as well. Players are often confined to bio-secure bubbles, isolated from family and friends, which can lead to feelings of burnout and disillusionment. For example, England&rsquo;s Tom Banton&nbsp;candidly discussed in an interview how the pressures of constant competition and life within these bubbles led him to fall out of love with the game, highlighting the psychological strain players endure.&nbsp;
</div>
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<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0" lang="EN-US" paraid="680794758" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{133}">Impact on major tournaments&nbsp;</h2>
</div>
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The timing of injuries often means that players are sidelined during&nbsp;important&nbsp; tournaments. The absence of key players not only minimises the quality of the competition but also affects team strategies. The 2025 Champions Trophy serves as a stark example, with several marquee players missing due to injuries likely linked to their exhaustive playing schedules.<span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
</div>
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While franchise leagues have revolutionised cricket by providing financial incentives and expanding the sport&rsquo;s global reach, they also present challenges in balancing commercial interests with players' health.
</div>
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<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0" lang="EN-US" paraid="1241588223" paraeid="{4a105ddd-edf5-439b-b3b6-f59edc998088}{235}">What can be done?<span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;</h2>
</div>
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To mitigate the adverse effects of an overcrowded cricket calendar, several measures can be taken into action:&nbsp;
</div>
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<ul>
<li class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0" lang="EN-US" paraid="560644624" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{229}">Strategic scheduling: Cricket boards and league organisers must collaborate to create a cohesive schedule that allows players adequate rest between series and tournaments. </li>
<li class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0" lang="EN-US" paraid="560644624" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{229}">Workload&nbsp;management: Implementing rotation policies can help manage player workloads, especially for fast bowlers who are more susceptible to injuries. </li>
<li class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0" lang="EN-US" paraid="560644624" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{229}">Player&nbsp;education: Educating players on the importance of rest and recovery can empower them to make informed decisions about their participation in various leagues and series.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
</div>
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At the&nbsp;end of the day,&nbsp;while the expansion of cricket through various leagues has enriched the sport, it is necessary to address the unintended consequence of player overexertion. Ensuring a balance between the game&rsquo;s commercial growth and the health of its players is important for the longevity and integrity of cricket.
Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.&nbsp;
</div>

Cricket | Opinions & Blogs: Is relentless cricketing calendar, amplified by several international fixtures and franchise leagues, overburdening players and compromising their well-being?

The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is on the horizon, yet the cricketing world is abuzz with concerns over the alarming number of player withdrawals due to injuries. Notable absentees who would have played pivotal roles for their respective teams include India’s Jasprit Bumrah, Australia’s Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, and South Africa’s Anrich Nortje, among others. This spate of injuries raises a pressing question: Is the relentless cricketing calendar, amplified by numerous international fixtures and burgeoning franchise leagues, overburdening players and compromising their well-being? Also Read: SWOT Analysis: Champions Trophy 2025-Can Blackcaps end their 25-year title drought? Over the past decade, cricket has witnessed an explosion of franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide. The Indian Premier League (IPL) set the precedent back in 2007, inspiring similar tournaments like Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL), the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and The Hundred in England, among others. These leagues offer lucrative contracts to top talent. However, the overlapping schedules of these tournaments with international commitments have led to a congested calendar, leaving players with minimal downtime. Physical toll on players Fast bowlers, in particular, bear the brunt of this demanding schedule. As per a study done on the topic, ‘To determine if the comparison of acute and chronic workload is associated with increased injury risk in elite cricket fast bowlers’, by Billy T Hulin, Tim J Gabbett, Peter Blanch, Paul Chapman, David Bailey, John W Orchard, it was observed that significant increases in acute workload are associated with a heightened risk of injury among elite fast bowlers. The repetitive high intensity demands, coupled with insufficient recovery periods, predispose them to stress fractures, muscle tears, and other debilitating injuries. For instance, Australia's Mitchell Starc has previously grappled with injuries exacerbated by continuous play, leading to decisions about prioritising rest over participation in certain series. Mental fatigue Beyond the physical ramifications, the relentless schedule contributes to mental fatigue as well. Players are often confined to bio-secure bubbles, isolated from family and friends, which can lead to feelings of burnout and disillusionment. For example, England’s Tom Banton candidly discussed in an interview how the pressures of constant competition and life within these bubbles led him to fall out of love with the game, highlighting the psychological strain players endure. Impact on major tournaments The timing of injuries often means that players are sidelined during important tournaments. The absence of key players not only minimises the quality of the competition but also affects team strategies. The 2025 Champions Trophy serves as a stark example, with several marquee players missing due to injuries likely linked to their exhaustive playing schedules. While franchise leagues have revolutionised cricket by providing financial incentives and expanding the sport’s global reach, they also present challenges in balancing commercial interests with players' health. What can be done? To mitigate the adverse effects of an overcrowded cricket calendar, several measures can be taken into action: Strategic scheduling: Cricket boards and league organisers must collaborate to create a cohesive schedule that allows players adequate rest between series and tournaments. Workload management: Implementing rotation policies can help manage player workloads, especially for fast bowlers who are more susceptible to injuries. Player education: Educating players on the importance of rest and recovery can empower them to make informed decisions about their participation in various leagues and series. At the end of the day, while the expansion of cricket through various leagues has enriched the sport, it is necessary to address the unintended consequence of player overexertion. Ensuring a balance between the game’s commercial growth and the health of its players is important for the longevity and integrity of cricket. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

The price of non-stop cricket: Injuries and exhaustion

The ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy 2025</a> is two days away and most of the teams have shifted their focus on the 50-over format to prepare for the tournament.&nbsp;The Champions Trophy is set to be played from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-full-schedule-match-dates-venues-timings-for-all-teams-india-pakistan-new-zealand-bangladesh-australia-england-south-africa-afghanistan-8693674">Feb 19 to March 9</a>&nbsp;in Pakistan and Dubai (only India matches and the first semi-final on March 4 and final only if India make it).
The tournament is being played for the first time since 2017 when Pakistan won the trophy by beating India in the final in the United Kingdom.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-opening-ceremony-lahore-today-gaddafi-stadium-set-to-be-inaugurated-by-pak-pm-shehbaz-sharif-on-feb-7-ali-zafar-to-perform-8698020">2025 Champions Trophy: PCB to unveil Lahore's revamped Gaddafi Stadium in grand ceremony</a>
<h2>Here's where you can watch Champions Trophy Live in your country</h2>
Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on television in India?
The Champions Trophy can be watched live on Star Sports network on TV and on Disney + Hotstar mobile app in India.
Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on TV in Pakistan?
The Champions Trophy can be watched live on PTV and A Sports on TV and on Tapmad mobile app in Pakistan.
Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on TV in Bangladesh?
The Champions Trophy can be watched live on Nagorik TV and T Sports on TV in Bangladesh.
Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on TV in New Zealand?
The Champions Trophy can be watched live on Sky Sport on TV and on Sky Sport mobile app in New Zealand.
Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on TV in Australia?
The Champions Trophy can be watched live on Prime Video on TV and mobile app in Australia.
Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on TV in England?
The Champions Trophy can be watched live on Sky Sport on TV and on Sky Sport mobile app in England.
Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on TV in South Africa?
The Champions Trophy can be watched live on SuperSport on TV in South Africa.
Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on TV in Afghanistan?
The Champions Trophy can be watched live on Ariana TV on television in Afghanistan.
Where to watch Champions Trophy Live in Sri Lanka, UAE and the USA?
The Champions Trophy can be watched live on Star Sports network on TV in Sri Lanka, Starz On in UAE and Willow TV in the USA.

Champions Trophy: The tournament is being played for the first time since 2017 when Pakistan won the trophy by beating India in the final in the United Kingdom. Cricket Sports

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is two days away and most of the teams have shifted their focus on the 50-over format to prepare for the tournament. The Champions Trophy is set to be played from Feb 19 to March 9 in Pakistan and Dubai (only India matches and the first semi-final on March 4 and final only if India make it). The tournament is being played for the first time since 2017 when Pakistan won the trophy by beating India in the final in the United Kingdom. Also Read: 2025 Champions Trophy: PCB to unveil Lahore's revamped Gaddafi Stadium in grand ceremony Here's where you can watch Champions Trophy Live in your country Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on television in India? The Champions Trophy can be watched live on Star Sports network on TV and on Disney + Hotstar mobile app in India. Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on TV in Pakistan? The Champions Trophy can be watched live on PTV and A Sports on TV and on Tapmad mobile app in Pakistan. Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on TV in Bangladesh? The Champions Trophy can be watched live on Nagorik TV and T Sports on TV in Bangladesh. Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on TV in New Zealand? The Champions Trophy can be watched live on Sky Sport on TV and on Sky Sport mobile app in New Zealand. Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on TV in Australia? The Champions Trophy can be watched live on Prime Video on TV and mobile app in Australia. Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on TV in England? The Champions Trophy can be watched live on Sky Sport on TV and on Sky Sport mobile app in England. Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on TV in South Africa? The Champions Trophy can be watched live on SuperSport on TV in South Africa. Where to watch Champions Trophy Live on TV in Afghanistan? The Champions Trophy can be watched live on Ariana TV on television in Afghanistan. Where to watch Champions Trophy Live in Sri Lanka, UAE and the USA? The Champions Trophy can be watched live on Star Sports network on TV in Sri Lanka, Starz On in UAE and Willow TV in the USA.

2025 Champions Trophy: Where to watch matches live in your country - Check Inside

With just two days left for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 to kickstart, New Zealand will look to change their fortunes as they look to end their 25-year title drought. Mitchell Santner-led New Zealand will start their campaign against hosts Pakistan in Karachi on February 19.
New Zealand, placed in Group A along with India, Bangladesh and host Pakistan, will look to clinch their second Champions Trophy title after 2000.
Here is a&nbsp; SWOT analysis of New Zealand from WION:
Strengths:
<ul>
<li>New Zealand enters the Champions Trophy with a strong unbeaten run in the Tri-Nation Series against Pakistan and South Africa, offering significant momentum and confidence.</li>
<li>Their ability to adapt quickly to different conditions has been a hallmark of their success in ICC tournaments.</li>
<li>Kane Williamson&rsquo;s sublime form anchors the batting unit, providing stability and experience.</li>
<li>Openers Will Young and Devon Conway are expected to give solid starts, despite the absence of Rachin Ravindra.</li>
<li>A deep middle order featuring Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, and Michael Bracewell ensures the ability to accelerate during the death overs.&nbsp;The presence of quality all-rounders like Phillips and Ravindra provides flexibility in both the batting and bowling departments.</li>
</ul>
Weaknesses:
<ul>
<li>The absence of key pacers Ben Sears (injury) and Lockie Ferguson (recovering from a hamstring issue) weakens the pace attack.</li>
<li>Rachin Ravindra's head injury ahead of the tournament adds to the side&rsquo;s challenges, affecting both the team balance and opening combinations.</li>
<li>With Trent Boult and Tim Southee retiring last year, the lack of experienced fast bowlers could hurt New Zealand in crunch situations.</li>
<li>A relatively inexperienced pace trio of Jacob Duffy, Will O&rsquo;Rourke, and Nathan Smith will need to step up to fill the void.</li>
</ul>
Opportunities:
<ul>
<li>Mitchell Santner, leading the side and being the most experienced bowler with 117 ODI wickets, has a great opportunity to dominate on slow, turning pitches in Pakistan and Dubai.</li>
<li>His performance with the ball could dictate New Zealand&rsquo;s success, particularly in the middle overs.</li>
<li>The tournament presents an opportunity for Jacob Duffy, Will O&rsquo;Rourke, and Nathan Smith to announce themselves on the international stage.</li>
<li>If Lockie Ferguson regains fitness, his raw pace could be a game-changer.</li>
<li>Sub-continental pitches might suit New Zealand&rsquo;s spin-heavy attack, with Phillips, Ravindra, and Santner forming a potent trio.</li>
</ul>
Threats:
<ul>
<li>One of the key challenges for the Blackcaps will be navigating the middle overs against high-quality spin bowling on turning tracks.</li>
<li>While Williamson offers composure, the rest of the batting line-up will need to adapt quickly to avoid collapses.</li>
<li>Any further injuries to key players could derail New Zealand&rsquo;s campaign, particularly given their reliance on a few core performers.</li>
<li>The absence of seasoned pacers and potential fitness concerns for Rachin Ravindra could make it difficult to find a settled and balanced playing XI</li>
</ul>
New Zealand comes into the Champions Trophy with a mixed bag of experienced campaigners and young talent. Their batting strength and all-round depth give them a competitive edge, but injuries and a thin pace attack might pose significant challenges.&nbsp;To go all the way, the Blackcaps will need their young bowlers to rise to the occasion and their batting line-up to counter spin effectively.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: New Zealand, placed in Group A along with India, Bangladesh and host Pakistan, will look to clinch their second Champions Trophy title after 2000

With just two days left for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 to kickstart, New Zealand will look to change their fortunes as they look to end their 25-year title drought. Mitchell Santner-led New Zealand will start their campaign against hosts Pakistan in Karachi on February 19. New Zealand, placed in Group A along with India, Bangladesh and host Pakistan, will look to clinch their second Champions Trophy title after 2000. Here is a SWOT analysis of New Zealand from WION: Strengths: New Zealand enters the Champions Trophy with a strong unbeaten run in the Tri-Nation Series against Pakistan and South Africa, offering significant momentum and confidence. Their ability to adapt quickly to different conditions has been a hallmark of their success in ICC tournaments. Kane Williamson’s sublime form anchors the batting unit, providing stability and experience. Openers Will Young and Devon Conway are expected to give solid starts, despite the absence of Rachin Ravindra. A deep middle order featuring Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, and Michael Bracewell ensures the ability to accelerate during the death overs. The presence of quality all-rounders like Phillips and Ravindra provides flexibility in both the batting and bowling departments. Weaknesses: The absence of key pacers Ben Sears (injury) and Lockie Ferguson (recovering from a hamstring issue) weakens the pace attack. Rachin Ravindra's head injury ahead of the tournament adds to the side’s challenges, affecting both the team balance and opening combinations. With Trent Boult and Tim Southee retiring last year, the lack of experienced fast bowlers could hurt New Zealand in crunch situations. A relatively inexperienced pace trio of Jacob Duffy, Will O’Rourke, and Nathan Smith will need to step up to fill the void. Opportunities: Mitchell Santner, leading the side and being the most experienced bowler with 117 ODI wickets, has a great opportunity to dominate on slow, turning pitches in Pakistan and Dubai. His performance with the ball could dictate New Zealand’s success, particularly in the middle overs. The tournament presents an opportunity for Jacob Duffy, Will O’Rourke, and Nathan Smith to announce themselves on the international stage. If Lockie Ferguson regains fitness, his raw pace could be a game-changer. Sub-continental pitches might suit New Zealand’s spin-heavy attack, with Phillips, Ravindra, and Santner forming a potent trio. Threats: One of the key challenges for the Blackcaps will be navigating the middle overs against high-quality spin bowling on turning tracks. While Williamson offers composure, the rest of the batting line-up will need to adapt quickly to avoid collapses. Any further injuries to key players could derail New Zealand’s campaign, particularly given their reliance on a few core performers. The absence of seasoned pacers and potential fitness concerns for Rachin Ravindra could make it difficult to find a settled and balanced playing XI New Zealand comes into the Champions Trophy with a mixed bag of experienced campaigners and young talent. Their batting strength and all-round depth give them a competitive edge, but injuries and a thin pace attack might pose significant challenges. To go all the way, the Blackcaps will need their young bowlers to rise to the occasion and their batting line-up to counter spin effectively. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025 SWOT Analysis New Zealand: Can Blackcaps end their 25-year title drought?

With just two days before the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc">ICC</a> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy 2025</a>, a video was doing rounds on social media platform X, where the Indian flag was purportedly not hoisted at Karachi's National Bank stadium, one of the ICC tournament venues.
But what is the truth? WION's correspondent in Pakistan, Anas Mallick, has confirmed that the video is from the recently-concluded tri-nation series, which featured hosts Pakistan, South Africa and New Zealand. Hence, no Indian flag. Also, the flags shown in the video are of the teams who are set to practice in Karachi, which explains Afghanistan flag being included.&nbsp;
See the viral video here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
No Indian flag in Karachi: As only the Indian team faced security issues in Pakistan and refused to play Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan, the PCB removed the Indian flag from the Karachi stadium while keeping the flags of the other guest playing nations. - Absolute Cinema,&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/2zmcATn7iQ">pic.twitter.com/2zmcATn7iQ</a>
&mdash; Nawaz 🇵🇰 (@Rnawaz31888) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rnawaz31888/status/1891070145314906408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/ugandan-runner-jacob-kiplimo-shatters-half-marathon-world-record-in-barcelona-8727525">Ugandan runner Jacob Kiplimo shatters half-marathon world record in Barcelona</a>
<h2>India to play at a neutral venue</h2>
The BCCI had previously communicated its decision to the International Cricket Council (ICC), citing the Indian government's refusal to grant clearance for the team's travel to Pakistan. Consequently, a hybrid model was adopted, allowing India to play its matches in Dubai.
The Champions Trophy is set to commence on February 19, with Pakistan hosting New Zealand at Karachi's National Stadium. India's campaign will begin on February 20 against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Stadium. The much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai, a match expected to draw huge viewership across countries.
This incident underscores the ongoing political tensions between the two cricketing nations, adding a complex layer to the tournament's dynamics.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: This tournament marks the first time Pakistan will host an ICC event since 1996. The Pakistan leg will feature games in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi

With just two days before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, a video was doing rounds on social media platform X, where the Indian flag was purportedly not hoisted at Karachi's National Bank stadium, one of the ICC tournament venues. But what is the truth? WION's correspondent in Pakistan, Anas Mallick, has confirmed that the video is from the recently-concluded tri-nation series, which featured hosts Pakistan, South Africa and New Zealand. Hence, no Indian flag. Also, the flags shown in the video are of the teams who are set to practice in Karachi, which explains Afghanistan flag being included. See the viral video here: No Indian flag in Karachi: As only the Indian team faced security issues in Pakistan and refused to play Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan, the PCB removed the Indian flag from the Karachi stadium while keeping the flags of the other guest playing nations. - Absolute Cinema,… pic.twitter.com/2zmcATn7iQ — Nawaz 🇵🇰 (@Rnawaz31888) February 16, 2025 Also Read: Ugandan runner Jacob Kiplimo shatters half-marathon world record in Barcelona India to play at a neutral venue The BCCI had previously communicated its decision to the International Cricket Council (ICC), citing the Indian government's refusal to grant clearance for the team's travel to Pakistan. Consequently, a hybrid model was adopted, allowing India to play its matches in Dubai. The Champions Trophy is set to commence on February 19, with Pakistan hosting New Zealand at Karachi's National Stadium. India's campaign will begin on February 20 against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Stadium. The much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai, a match expected to draw huge viewership across countries. This incident underscores the ongoing political tensions between the two cricketing nations, adding a complex layer to the tournament's dynamics. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: No Indian flag in Karachi stadium? What you need to know about the viral controversy

Former Indian spinner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/harbhajan-singh">Harbhajan Singh</a> has predicted that the much-anticipated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> clash between India and Pakistan on February 23 at the Dubai International Stadium will be a one-sided affair, with Rohit Sharma's team having a clear edge over their arch-rivals.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan called the match "overhyped," citing Pakistan's poor form in the recently concluded Tri-Nation Series against New Zealand and South Africa. Pakistan lost twice to New Zealand&mdash;once in the league stage and again in the final&mdash;despite playing at home in Lahore and Karachi, two key venues for the Champions Trophy. Their only victory came against South Africa, chasing 353 in Karachi earlier this week.
"The match is overhyped because there is nothing in it. India are a solid side while Pakistan are inconsistent. If you look at the stats, the difference is clear," Harbhajan said.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-champions-trophy-2025-rishabh-pant-suffers-blow-to-knee-in-training-as-india-jolted-by-injury-scare-8727157">Champions Trophy: Pant suffers blow to knee in training as India jolted by injury scare</a>
The veteran off-spinner pointed out that Pakistan&rsquo;s star batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/babar-azam">Babar Azam</a> struggled in the Tri-Nation Series, and he labelled the Mohammad Rizwan-led side as 'inexperienced'.
"Stats are taken from past matches, and while no one can predict the future, there is a clear gap between the two teams. India looks mature, while Pakistan relies heavily on Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. Their bowling isn&rsquo;t in form either," he added.
Harbhajan highlighted Babar&rsquo;s modest average of 31 against India and Rizwan&rsquo;s average of 25, while praising Fakhar Zaman's impressive average of 46 against India, acknowledging his ability to take the game away.
In contrast, he emphasised the strong form of Indian players, including Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel, and KL Rahul. Although Virat Kohli isn&rsquo;t in his peak form, Harbhajan expressed confidence that he would score runs in the Champions Trophy.
"Rohit, Gill, and Axar are in form. Kohli got a half-century recently against England, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kl-rahul">KL Rahul</a> is also playing well. Our bowling is also in good shape," Harbhajan said.
<h2>'NZ will hammer Pak in opening match'</h2>
Looking ahead to the tournament, Harbhajan predicted that Pakistan would face a heavy defeat against New Zealand in their opener on February 19, noting that the Blackcaps had figured out how to dominate them.
"New Zealand will hammer Pakistan in the opening match. They know how to tackle Pakistan. The India-Pakistan match will be one-sided, as India are far ahead," the 44-year-old signed off.
Before wrapping up, Harbhajan highlighted the impressive averages of Indian batters against Pakistan&mdash;Virat Kohli (52), Shreyas Iyer (67), Rohit Sharma (51), and Hardik Pandya (69)&mdash;as well as the strong performances of Indian bowlers in these encounters.
The two teams last faced each other in the 2024 T20 World Cup in New York, where India won by nine runs. In their previous ODI meeting during the 2023 World Cup in Ahmedabad, India comfortably defeated Pakistan by seven wickets.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: The veteran cricketer highlighted the struggle of Pakistan star batter Babar Azam in the Tri-Nation Series and called the Mohammad Rizwan-led side 'inexperienced'

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has predicted that the much-anticipated Champions Trophy clash between India and Pakistan on February 23 at the Dubai International Stadium will be a one-sided affair, with Rohit Sharma's team having a clear edge over their arch-rivals. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan called the match "overhyped," citing Pakistan's poor form in the recently concluded Tri-Nation Series against New Zealand and South Africa. Pakistan lost twice to New Zealand—once in the league stage and again in the final—despite playing at home in Lahore and Karachi, two key venues for the Champions Trophy. Their only victory came against South Africa, chasing 353 in Karachi earlier this week. "The match is overhyped because there is nothing in it. India are a solid side while Pakistan are inconsistent. If you look at the stats, the difference is clear," Harbhajan said. Also Read: Champions Trophy: Pant suffers blow to knee in training as India jolted by injury scare The veteran off-spinner pointed out that Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam struggled in the Tri-Nation Series, and he labelled the Mohammad Rizwan-led side as 'inexperienced'. "Stats are taken from past matches, and while no one can predict the future, there is a clear gap between the two teams. India looks mature, while Pakistan relies heavily on Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. Their bowling isn’t in form either," he added. Harbhajan highlighted Babar’s modest average of 31 against India and Rizwan’s average of 25, while praising Fakhar Zaman's impressive average of 46 against India, acknowledging his ability to take the game away. In contrast, he emphasised the strong form of Indian players, including Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel, and KL Rahul. Although Virat Kohli isn’t in his peak form, Harbhajan expressed confidence that he would score runs in the Champions Trophy. "Rohit, Gill, and Axar are in form. Kohli got a half-century recently against England, and KL Rahul is also playing well. Our bowling is also in good shape," Harbhajan said. 'NZ will hammer Pak in opening match' Looking ahead to the tournament, Harbhajan predicted that Pakistan would face a heavy defeat against New Zealand in their opener on February 19, noting that the Blackcaps had figured out how to dominate them. "New Zealand will hammer Pakistan in the opening match. They know how to tackle Pakistan. The India-Pakistan match will be one-sided, as India are far ahead," the 44-year-old signed off. Before wrapping up, Harbhajan highlighted the impressive averages of Indian batters against Pakistan—Virat Kohli (52), Shreyas Iyer (67), Rohit Sharma (51), and Hardik Pandya (69)—as well as the strong performances of Indian bowlers in these encounters. The two teams last faced each other in the 2024 T20 World Cup in New York, where India won by nine runs. In their previous ODI meeting during the 2023 World Cup in Ahmedabad, India comfortably defeated Pakistan by seven wickets. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Former Indian spinner predicts winner of 'overhyped' India-Pak clash

Captain Ashleigh Gardner top-scored with a brilliant 52 off 32 balls as Gujarat Giants opened their account in WPL 2025 with a six-wicket win over UP Warriorz at the Kotambi Stadium on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>
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Superb with the ball 👌 Clinical with the bat 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/Giant_Cricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Giant_Cricket</a> are off the mark in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAWPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAWPL</a> 2025 with a 6⃣-wicket victory! 🥳 This is also their first successful chase ever in the history of the tournament. 🙌 Scorecard ▶ <a href="https://t.co/KpTdz5nl8D">https://t.co/KpTdz5nl8D</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GGvUPW?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GGvUPW</a> <a href="https://t.co/nLSQNYxQO6">pic.twitter.com/nLSQNYxQO6</a>
&mdash; Women's Premier League (WPL) (@wplt20) <a href="https://twitter.com/wplt20/status/1891178160131129658?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
After a superb bowling performance, led by leg-spinner Priya Mishra's 3-25 helped GG restrict UPW to 143/9, the hosts' were reduced to 57/3 in 8.3 overs but Ashleigh led the way for GG by hitting a fantastic fifty laced with five fours and three sixes.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-hardik-pandya-ruled-out-of-mumbai-indians-opener-against-csk-heres-why-8727054" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Hardik Pandya ruled out of Mumbai Indians&rsquo; opener against CSK, here&rsquo;s why</a>
After she fell, Deandra Dottin hit a stellar cameo of 18-ball 33 not out, laced with three fours and two sixes. She found good support from Harleen Deol, who hit an unbeaten 34 off 30 balls, including hitting four boundaries, as GG got their first win while chasing in the WPL.<o:p></o:p>
Chasing 144, GG didn't have a great start to the chase as Beth Mooney holed out to mid-on for a golden duck on a full toss from Grace Harris. In the next over, GG had another blow as Dayalan Hemalatha wickets were castled by Sophie Ecclestone.<o:p></o:p>
Ashleigh got going by dispatching Kranti Goud for back-to-back boundaries, before Laura Wolvaardt stepped down the pitch to hit Sophie for a boundary. Ashleigh flicked and slammed Saima Thakor for two sixes, before Laura hit her for the third maximum of the over as 20 runs came off the fifth over.<o:p></o:p>
The 55-run stand for the third wicket came to an end when Sophie cramped Laura for room and pace, as the batter was castled through the gate. But Ashleigh marched forward to smash full tosses for boundaries, including one clubbed over deep square leg for six to get her fifty.<o:p></o:p>
But against the run of play, Ashleigh pulled straight to short fine leg and fell to Tahlia McGrath. From there, Deandra and Harleen showed good strokeplay on front foot and back foot to hit eight boundaries collectively and finish off the chase with two overs to spare.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

Sports, Cricket: After losing the season opener to RCB, Gujarat Giants returned to the winnings ways in WPL 2025, with their Captain Ashleigh Gardner starring with the bat.

Captain Ashleigh Gardner top-scored with a brilliant 52 off 32 balls as Gujarat Giants opened their account in WPL 2025 with a six-wicket win over UP Warriorz at the Kotambi Stadium on Sunday. Superb with the ball 👌 Clinical with the bat 💪@Giant_Cricket are off the mark in #TATAWPL 2025 with a 6⃣-wicket victory! 🥳 This is also their first successful chase ever in the history of the tournament. 🙌 Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/KpTdz5nl8D#GGvUPW pic.twitter.com/nLSQNYxQO6 — Women's Premier League (WPL) (@wplt20) February 16, 2025 After a superb bowling performance, led by leg-spinner Priya Mishra's 3-25 helped GG restrict UPW to 143/9, the hosts' were reduced to 57/3 in 8.3 overs but Ashleigh led the way for GG by hitting a fantastic fifty laced with five fours and three sixes. Also read | IPL 2025: Hardik Pandya ruled out of Mumbai Indians’ opener against CSK, here’s why After she fell, Deandra Dottin hit a stellar cameo of 18-ball 33 not out, laced with three fours and two sixes. She found good support from Harleen Deol, who hit an unbeaten 34 off 30 balls, including hitting four boundaries, as GG got their first win while chasing in the WPL. Chasing 144, GG didn't have a great start to the chase as Beth Mooney holed out to mid-on for a golden duck on a full toss from Grace Harris. In the next over, GG had another blow as Dayalan Hemalatha wickets were castled by Sophie Ecclestone. Ashleigh got going by dispatching Kranti Goud for back-to-back boundaries, before Laura Wolvaardt stepped down the pitch to hit Sophie for a boundary. Ashleigh flicked and slammed Saima Thakor for two sixes, before Laura hit her for the third maximum of the over as 20 runs came off the fifth over. The 55-run stand for the third wicket came to an end when Sophie cramped Laura for room and pace, as the batter was castled through the gate. But Ashleigh marched forward to smash full tosses for boundaries, including one clubbed over deep square leg for six to get her fifty. But against the run of play, Ashleigh pulled straight to short fine leg and fell to Tahlia McGrath. From there, Deandra and Harleen showed good strokeplay on front foot and back foot to hit eight boundaries collectively and finish off the chase with two overs to spare. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

GG-W vs UP-W: Ashleigh Gardner's 52* helps Gujarat Giants open account in WPL 2025

Ace Indian keeper-batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rishabh-pant" rel="dofollow">Rishabh Pant</a> suffered a knee injury during a training drill on Sunday (Feb 16) at the ICA Academy in Dubai, per the latest reports. The gloveman was standing close to a net where all-rounder Hardik Pandya was batting; after a cracker from Pandya, the ball hit Pant&rsquo;s knee, injuring him.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-hardik-pandya-ruled-out-of-mumbai-indians-opener-against-csk-heres-why-8727054" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Hardik Pandya ruled out of Mumbai Indians&rsquo; opener against CSK, here&rsquo;s why</a>
The Times of India (TOI) reported that Pant fell immediately, looking in severe pain, with the physio and Pandya running towards him. The team physio applied an ice pack right away before Pant got back to his feet but kept on limping, worrying the Indian camp days ahead of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy-2025" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy</a> start.
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Rishabh Pant got hit on his knees 👀 - hope this is not serious 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/Nz4e93Jf1b">pic.twitter.com/Nz4e93Jf1b</a>
&mdash; Nikhil (@TheCric8Boy) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheCric8Boy/status/1891082836733534609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
Pandya and Pant shared hugs and light moments after that incident before the team doctor strapped his knee, the one that got broken during a horrific car accident in December 2022. Soon after, Pant returned to the dressing room.&nbsp;
Although he returned to the nets after a while, the attacking left-hander looked uncomfortable covering the distance between the dressing room and the training area.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-full-schedule-eden-gardens-to-host-season-opener-final-csk-mi-face-off-on-march-23-8726632" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025 Full Schedule: Eden Gardens to host season opener, final; CSK-MI face off on March 23</a>
Meanwhile, upon arrival in Dubai (India&rsquo;s venue for their Champions Trophy games) on Saturday, the Men in Blue held their first training session.
India will play their first game of the tournament against Bangladesh on February 20 before taking on the host and arch-rivals Pakistan in the marquee clash three days later.
India&rsquo;s last league game is against New Zealand, on March 2.
<h2>KL leads race</h2>
After Pant got injured and ruled out from on-field cricket for an indefinite period, KL Rahul took over as the wicketkeeper, doing justice to his new role. He kept wickets during the 2023 Asia Cup and the ODI World Cup, impressing everyone.&nbsp;
Fast forward 14 months, he remains India&rsquo;s number-one choice behind the stumps. Head coach Gautam Gambhir even commented on the same following India&rsquo;s series win over England at home.
"KL is our No 1 wicketkeeper, and this is what I can say at the moment. Rishabh Pant will get his chance, but at the moment, it is KL who has done well, and we cannot play two wicketkeeper-batters," Gambhir said.
India&rsquo;s Champions Trophy squad &ndash;
Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Ravindra Jadeja and Varun Chakaravarthy
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: The gloveman was standing close to a net where all-rounder Hardik Pandya was batting; after a cracker from Pandya, the ball hit Pant’s knee, injuring him.

Ace Indian keeper-batter Rishabh Pant suffered a knee injury during a training drill on Sunday (Feb 16) at the ICA Academy in Dubai, per the latest reports. The gloveman was standing close to a net where all-rounder Hardik Pandya was batting; after a cracker from Pandya, the ball hit Pant’s knee, injuring him. Also read | IPL 2025: Hardik Pandya ruled out of Mumbai Indians’ opener against CSK, here’s why The Times of India (TOI) reported that Pant fell immediately, looking in severe pain, with the physio and Pandya running towards him. The team physio applied an ice pack right away before Pant got back to his feet but kept on limping, worrying the Indian camp days ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy start. Rishabh Pant got hit on his knees 👀 - hope this is not serious 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Nz4e93Jf1b — Nikhil (@TheCric8Boy) February 16, 2025 Pandya and Pant shared hugs and light moments after that incident before the team doctor strapped his knee, the one that got broken during a horrific car accident in December 2022. Soon after, Pant returned to the dressing room. Although he returned to the nets after a while, the attacking left-hander looked uncomfortable covering the distance between the dressing room and the training area. Also read | IPL 2025 Full Schedule: Eden Gardens to host season opener, final; CSK-MI face off on March 23 Meanwhile, upon arrival in Dubai (India’s venue for their Champions Trophy games) on Saturday, the Men in Blue held their first training session. India will play their first game of the tournament against Bangladesh on February 20 before taking on the host and arch-rivals Pakistan in the marquee clash three days later. India’s last league game is against New Zealand, on March 2. KL leads race After Pant got injured and ruled out from on-field cricket for an indefinite period, KL Rahul took over as the wicketkeeper, doing justice to his new role. He kept wickets during the 2023 Asia Cup and the ODI World Cup, impressing everyone. Fast forward 14 months, he remains India’s number-one choice behind the stumps. Head coach Gautam Gambhir even commented on the same following India’s series win over England at home. "KL is our No 1 wicketkeeper, and this is what I can say at the moment. Rishabh Pant will get his chance, but at the moment, it is KL who has done well, and we cannot play two wicketkeeper-batters," Gambhir said. India’s Champions Trophy squad – Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Ravindra Jadeja and Varun Chakaravarthy (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: Pant suffers blow to knee in training as India jolted by injury scare

In an early blow to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-check-out-mumbai-indians-mi-full-schedule-mi-vs-csk-mi-vs-rcb-hardik-pandya-rohit-sharma-jasprit-bumrah-8726952" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians</a> ahead of IPL 2025, their captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya" rel="dofollow">Hardik Pandya</a>&nbsp;is ruled out of the side&rsquo;s season opener against their rivals <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-check-out-chennai-super-kings-csk-full-schedule-csk-vs-mi-csk-vs-rcb-ms-dhoni-8726773" rel="dofollow">Chennai Super Kings (CSK)</a>. The IPL on Sunday (Feb 16) announced the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-full-schedule-eden-gardens-to-host-season-opener-final-csk-mi-face-off-on-march-23-8726632" rel="dofollow">final schedule of the 18th edition of the cash-rich league</a>, where the two most successful IPL teams are scheduled for an early face-off in the second game on March 23 at Chepauk.
Upon his return to his first IPL franchise following a trade with MI and Gujarat Titans (GT), Pandya took over the captaincy from veteran skipper Rohit Sharma. That decision, however, wasn&rsquo;t well-received by the fans, as they mocked and booed the star all-rounder throughout, piling pressure on him, which led to a dip in his and the team&rsquo;s performance.
As a result, Mumbai could win just four out of the 14 matches, finishing at 10th position with just eight points. &nbsp;
If that wasn&rsquo;t enough, Pandya being slapped with a one-match ban for three over-rate offenses the past season, resulting in him getting ruled out of the marquee clash against CSK in IPL 2025, would add salt to the injury.
Since Pandya&rsquo;s MI failed to qualify for the playoffs in IPL 2024, his one-match ban is carried forward to IPL 2025.
However, it remains to be seen who leads Mumbai Indians against Chennai Super Kings in their first face-off of the season. With several options to choose from, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah leads the race, subject to his fitness.
<h2>Mumbai, Chennai to face off twice in IPL 2025</h2>
Unlike the past season, where Chennai and Mumbai played each other only once, the IPL heavyweights will take on each other twice this year, with the first game coming on the second day of IPL 2025, while the return fixture is scheduled on April 20 in Mumbai.
The most-talked-about IPL rivalry has plenty riding on it, given the superstars featuring across both camps. While Mumbai&rsquo;s squad is a star-studded one featuring Bumrah, Rohit Sharma, and Suryakumar Yadav among others, Chennai&rsquo;s backbone remains intact with MS Dhoni, the skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and ace all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja holding it tight.
<h3>Squads &ndash;</h3>
CSK - Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain), Rahul Tripathi, Shaik Rasheed, Andre Siddarth, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton, Vijay Shankar, Sam Curran, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Ravindra Jadeja, Rachin Ravindra, Deepak Hooda, MS Dhoni, Devon Conway, Vansh Bedi, Matheesha Pathirana, Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Choudhary, Nathan Ellis, Anshul Kamboj, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Gurjapneet Singh, R Ashwin, Noor Ahmad and Shreyas Gopal
MI - Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma, Tilak Varma, Trent Boult, Naman Dhir, Robin Minz, Karn Sharma, Ryan Rickelton, Deepak Chahar, Mujeeb Rahman, Will Jacks, Ashwani Kumar, Mitchell Santner, Reece Topley, Krishnan Shrijith, Raj Angad Bawa, Satyanarayana Raju, Bevon Jacobs, Arjun Tendulkar, Lizaad Williams and Vignesh Puthur
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Upon his return to his first IPL franchise following a trade deal with MI and Gujarat Titans, Pandya took over the captaincy from veteran skipper Rohit Sharma.

In an early blow to Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2025, their captain Hardik Pandya is ruled out of the side’s season opener against their rivals Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The IPL on Sunday (Feb 16) announced the final schedule of the 18th edition of the cash-rich league, where the two most successful IPL teams are scheduled for an early face-off in the second game on March 23 at Chepauk. Upon his return to his first IPL franchise following a trade with MI and Gujarat Titans (GT), Pandya took over the captaincy from veteran skipper Rohit Sharma. That decision, however, wasn’t well-received by the fans, as they mocked and booed the star all-rounder throughout, piling pressure on him, which led to a dip in his and the team’s performance. As a result, Mumbai could win just four out of the 14 matches, finishing at 10th position with just eight points. If that wasn’t enough, Pandya being slapped with a one-match ban for three over-rate offenses the past season, resulting in him getting ruled out of the marquee clash against CSK in IPL 2025, would add salt to the injury. Since Pandya’s MI failed to qualify for the playoffs in IPL 2024, his one-match ban is carried forward to IPL 2025. However, it remains to be seen who leads Mumbai Indians against Chennai Super Kings in their first face-off of the season. With several options to choose from, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah leads the race, subject to his fitness. Mumbai, Chennai to face off twice in IPL 2025 Unlike the past season, where Chennai and Mumbai played each other only once, the IPL heavyweights will take on each other twice this year, with the first game coming on the second day of IPL 2025, while the return fixture is scheduled on April 20 in Mumbai. The most-talked-about IPL rivalry has plenty riding on it, given the superstars featuring across both camps. While Mumbai’s squad is a star-studded one featuring Bumrah, Rohit Sharma, and Suryakumar Yadav among others, Chennai’s backbone remains intact with MS Dhoni, the skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and ace all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja holding it tight. Squads – CSK - Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain), Rahul Tripathi, Shaik Rasheed, Andre Siddarth, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton, Vijay Shankar, Sam Curran, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Ravindra Jadeja, Rachin Ravindra, Deepak Hooda, MS Dhoni, Devon Conway, Vansh Bedi, Matheesha Pathirana, Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Choudhary, Nathan Ellis, Anshul Kamboj, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Gurjapneet Singh, R Ashwin, Noor Ahmad and Shreyas Gopal MI - Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma, Tilak Varma, Trent Boult, Naman Dhir, Robin Minz, Karn Sharma, Ryan Rickelton, Deepak Chahar, Mujeeb Rahman, Will Jacks, Ashwani Kumar, Mitchell Santner, Reece Topley, Krishnan Shrijith, Raj Angad Bawa, Satyanarayana Raju, Bevon Jacobs, Arjun Tendulkar, Lizaad Williams and Vignesh Puthur (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Hardik Pandya ruled out of Mumbai Indians’ opener against CSK, here’s why

The five-time Indian Premier League winners&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians (MI)</a> are ready to chase history as they gear up for another blockbuster season of the IPL. The joint-most successful IPL side will take on their oldest rivals,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-check-out-chennai-super-kings-csk-full-schedule-csk-vs-mi-csk-vs-rcb-ms-dhoni-8726773" rel="dofollow">Chennai Super Kings (CSK)</a>, in their tournament opener on March 23 at Chepauk stadium; the return fixture is scheduled for April 20 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
During their scheduled 14 league matches, the Hardik Pandya-led franchise will face CSK, Gujarat Titans (GT), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Delhi Capitals (DC) and SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) twice while facing the remaining four sides just once, per the revised format.
Having last won the tournament five years ago in 2020, Mumbai finished 10th last season, with just four wins (eight points) from 14 matches.
Meanwhile, Mumbai retained their core, perhaps the strongest among all ahead of last December&rsquo;s auction, including captain Pandya, veteran batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a>, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah and two T20 specialists &ndash; Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma.&nbsp;
At the auction, they bagged some top names in the shortest format, including picking up Will Jacks, Mitchell Santner and returning seamer Trent Boult. They also bagged services of several new and emerging faces, indicating what they can do with a perfect blend of youth and experience in the next&nbsp;season.
With the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-full-schedule-eden-gardens-to-host-season-opener-final-csk-mi-face-off-on-march-23-8726632" rel="dofollow">IPL announcing the full schedule for the 18th edition</a>, it&rsquo;s time we look at Mumbai Indians&rsquo; schedule.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m77smhtp-729lg8mp-hgcqyczz">
𝑵𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒓 𝒎𝒆𝒊𝒏 𝒅𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒐𝒓𝒂 𝒑𝒊𝒕𝒘𝒂 𝒅𝒐, 𝒎𝒂𝒎𝒂 🗣 🗓 𝗧𝗮𝘁𝗮 𝗜𝗣𝗟 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 schedule aa gaya hai! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiMeriJaan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiMeriJaan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiIndians?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiIndians</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/HoBuM6a8UT">pic.twitter.com/HoBuM6a8UT</a>
&mdash; Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan/status/1891097662981628171?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Here is MI&rsquo;s IPL 2025 full schedule &ndash;</h2>
<ul>
<li>March 23: vs Chennai Super Kings, M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai - 7:30 PM</li>
<li>March 29: vs Gujarat Titans, Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad - 7:30 PM</li>
<li>March 31: vs Kolkata Knight Riders, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai - 7:30 PM</li>
<li>April 4: vs Lucknow Super Giants, BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow - 7:30 PM</li>
<li>April 7: vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai - 7:30 PM</li>
<li>April 13: vs Delhi Capitals, Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi - 7:30 PM</li>
<li>April 17: vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai - 7:30 PM</li>
<li>April 20: vs Chennai Super Kings, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai - 7:30 PM</li>
<li>April 23: vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad - 7:30 PM</li>
<li>April 27: vs Lucknow Super Giants, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai - 3:30 PM</li>
<li>May 1: vs Rajasthan Royals, Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur - 7:30 PM</li>
<li>May 6: vs Gujarat Titans, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai - 7:30 PM</li>
<li>May 11: vs Punjab Kings, HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala - 3:30 PM</li>
<li>May 15: vs Delhi Capitals, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai - 7:30 PM</li>
</ul>
<h3>Mumbai Indians&rsquo; squad for IPL 2025 &ndash;</h3>
Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma, Tilak Varma, Trent Boult, Naman Dhir, Robin Minz, Karn Sharma, Ryan Rickelton, Deepak Chahar, Mujeeb Rahman, Will Jacks, Ashwani Kumar, Mitchell Santner, Reece Topley, Krishnan Shrijith, Raj Angad Bawa, Satyanarayana Raju, Bevon Jacobs, Arjun Tendulkar, Lizaad Williams and Vignesh Puthur

Sports, Cricket: Having last won the tournament five years ago in 2020, Mumbai finished in the 10th position last season, with just four wins (eight points) from 14 matches.

The five-time Indian Premier League winners Mumbai Indians (MI) are ready to chase history as they gear up for another blockbuster season of the IPL. The joint-most successful IPL side will take on their oldest rivals, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), in their tournament opener on March 23 at Chepauk stadium; the return fixture is scheduled for April 20 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. During their scheduled 14 league matches, the Hardik Pandya-led franchise will face CSK, Gujarat Titans (GT), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Delhi Capitals (DC) and SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) twice while facing the remaining four sides just once, per the revised format. Having last won the tournament five years ago in 2020, Mumbai finished 10th last season, with just four wins (eight points) from 14 matches. Meanwhile, Mumbai retained their core, perhaps the strongest among all ahead of last December’s auction, including captain Pandya, veteran batter Rohit Sharma, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah and two T20 specialists – Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma. At the auction, they bagged some top names in the shortest format, including picking up Will Jacks, Mitchell Santner and returning seamer Trent Boult. They also bagged services of several new and emerging faces, indicating what they can do with a perfect blend of youth and experience in the next season. With the IPL announcing the full schedule for the 18th edition, it’s time we look at Mumbai Indians’ schedule. 𝑵𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒓 𝒎𝒆𝒊𝒏 𝒅𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒐𝒓𝒂 𝒑𝒊𝒕𝒘𝒂 𝒅𝒐, 𝒎𝒂𝒎𝒂 🗣 🗓 𝗧𝗮𝘁𝗮 𝗜𝗣𝗟 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 schedule aa gaya hai! #MumbaiMeriJaan #MumbaiIndians #TATAIPL pic.twitter.com/HoBuM6a8UT — Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) February 16, 2025 Here is MI’s IPL 2025 full schedule – March 23: vs Chennai Super Kings, M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai - 7:30 PM March 29: vs Gujarat Titans, Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad - 7:30 PM March 31: vs Kolkata Knight Riders, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai - 7:30 PM April 4: vs Lucknow Super Giants, BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow - 7:30 PM April 7: vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai - 7:30 PM April 13: vs Delhi Capitals, Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi - 7:30 PM April 17: vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai - 7:30 PM April 20: vs Chennai Super Kings, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai - 7:30 PM April 23: vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad - 7:30 PM April 27: vs Lucknow Super Giants, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai - 3:30 PM May 1: vs Rajasthan Royals, Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur - 7:30 PM May 6: vs Gujarat Titans, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai - 7:30 PM May 11: vs Punjab Kings, HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala - 3:30 PM May 15: vs Delhi Capitals, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai - 7:30 PM Mumbai Indians’ squad for IPL 2025 – Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma, Tilak Varma, Trent Boult, Naman Dhir, Robin Minz, Karn Sharma, Ryan Rickelton, Deepak Chahar, Mujeeb Rahman, Will Jacks, Ashwani Kumar, Mitchell Santner, Reece Topley, Krishnan Shrijith, Raj Angad Bawa, Satyanarayana Raju, Bevon Jacobs, Arjun Tendulkar, Lizaad Williams and Vignesh Puthur

IPL 2025: Check out Mumbai Indians (MI) Full Schedule

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rcb" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)</a> will begin their IPL 2025 campaign against the defending IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on the first day of the tournament (March 22) at the Eden Gardens. RCB appointed batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/royal-challengers-bengaluru-name-rajat-patidar-as-new-skipper-ahead-of-ipl-2025-8716503" rel="dofollow">Rajat Patidar as the side&rsquo;s new captain</a>, replacing departed veteran opener Faf du Plessis, who will now feature for the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025. Meanwhile, RCB&rsquo;s final group game is against the KKR (May 17) in Bengaluru.
RCB&rsquo;s marquee clash against their rivals <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-check-out-chennai-super-kings-csk-full-schedule-csk-vs-mi-csk-vs-rcb-ms-dhoni-8726773" rel="dofollow">Chennai Super Kings (CSK)</a> is scheduled for March 28, while the return fixture will get underway on May 3 in Bengaluru.&nbsp;
Though they will play three of their first eight games at home (and five away), the M Chinnaswamy will stage four of their last six matches.&nbsp;
The new-look RCB side has enough firepower in their ranks to chase the ultimate glory, which is to win an IPL title. Having come close several times in the past years, including making it to the playoffs after beating CSK in the Southern Derby the last season, RCB believe they can strike a balance and do whatever it takes to realise their dream of being crowned the champions.&nbsp;
The inclusion of several match-winners across all departments, including the English batting trio of Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone and Jacob Bethell, will boost their daunting-looking batting lineup while picking up homegrown talents like Suyash Sharma, Rasikh Salam and Jitesh Sharma in the last auction, further improve their chances of turning the tables around.
With the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-full-schedule-eden-gardens-to-host-season-opener-final-csk-mi-face-off-on-march-23-8726632" rel="dofollow">IPL announcing the final schedule of the 18th edition</a>, it&rsquo;s time we look at RCB&rsquo;s full schedule.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m77qv6tn-6kp6dovb-x22z0apz">
🚨 IPL 2025 Full Schedule Released! 🚨 🗓️ Here&rsquo;s when, where, and who we&rsquo;ll face in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TataIPL2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TataIPL2025</a>. 🔥 We&rsquo;re locking horns with CSK, RR, PBKS, KKR and DC twice. We play MI, GT, LSG and SRH once. 💪 Save the dates, 12th Man Army. We are ready to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a>! 🙌 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%B2%A8%E0%B2%AE%E0%B3%8D%E0%B2%AERCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ನಮ್ಮRCB</a>&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/92NpYAw8e3">pic.twitter.com/92NpYAw8e3</a>
&mdash; Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1891101634673156231?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Here is RCB&rsquo;s IPL 2025 full schedule -</h2>
<ul>
<li>KKR vs RCB - 7:30 pm - March 22 - Kolkata</li>
<li>CSK vs RCB - 7:30 pm - March 28 - Chennai</li>
<li>RCB vs GT - 7:30 pm - April 2 - Bengaluru</li>
<li>MI vs RCB - 7:30 pm - April 7 - Mumbai</li>
<li>RCB vs DC - 7:30 pm - April 10 - Bengaluru</li>
<li>RR vs RCB - 3:30 pm - April 13 - Jaipur</li>
<li>RCB vs PBKS - 7:30 pm - April 18 - Bengaluru</li>
<li>PBKS vs RCB - 3:30 pm - April 20 - Mullanpur</li>
<li>RCB vs RR - 7:30 pm - April 24 - Bengaluru</li>
<li>DC vs RCB - 7:30 pm - April 27 - Delhi</li>
<li>RCB vs CSK - 7:30 pm - May 3 - Bengaluru</li>
<li>LSG vs RCB - 7:30 pm - May 9 - Lucknow</li>
<li>RCB vs SRH - 7:30 pm - May 13 - Bengaluru</li>
<li>RCB vs KKR - 7:30 pm - May 17 - Bengaluru</li>
</ul>
<h3>RCB&rsquo;s IPL 2025 squad &ndash;</h3>
Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar, Yash Dayal, Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Rasikh Dar, Suyash Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Swapnil Singh, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Nuwan Thushara, Manoj Bhandage, Jacob Bethell, Devdutt Padikkal, Swastik Chhikara, Lungi Ngidi, Abhinandan Singh and Mohit Rathee

Sports, Cricket: RCB’s marquee clash against their rivals Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is scheduled for March 28, while the return fixture will get underway on May 3 in Bengaluru.

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will begin their IPL 2025 campaign against the defending IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on the first day of the tournament (March 22) at the Eden Gardens. RCB appointed batter Rajat Patidar as the side’s new captain, replacing departed veteran opener Faf du Plessis, who will now feature for the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025. Meanwhile, RCB’s final group game is against the KKR (May 17) in Bengaluru. RCB’s marquee clash against their rivals Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is scheduled for March 28, while the return fixture will get underway on May 3 in Bengaluru. Though they will play three of their first eight games at home (and five away), the M Chinnaswamy will stage four of their last six matches. The new-look RCB side has enough firepower in their ranks to chase the ultimate glory, which is to win an IPL title. Having come close several times in the past years, including making it to the playoffs after beating CSK in the Southern Derby the last season, RCB believe they can strike a balance and do whatever it takes to realise their dream of being crowned the champions. The inclusion of several match-winners across all departments, including the English batting trio of Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone and Jacob Bethell, will boost their daunting-looking batting lineup while picking up homegrown talents like Suyash Sharma, Rasikh Salam and Jitesh Sharma in the last auction, further improve their chances of turning the tables around. With the IPL announcing the final schedule of the 18th edition, it’s time we look at RCB’s full schedule. 🚨 IPL 2025 Full Schedule Released! 🚨 🗓️ Here’s when, where, and who we’ll face in the #TataIPL2025. 🔥 We’re locking horns with CSK, RR, PBKS, KKR and DC twice. We play MI, GT, LSG and SRH once. 💪 Save the dates, 12th Man Army. We are ready to #PlayBold! 🙌 #ನಮ್ಮRCB… pic.twitter.com/92NpYAw8e3 — Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) February 16, 2025 Here is RCB’s IPL 2025 full schedule - KKR vs RCB - 7:30 pm - March 22 - Kolkata CSK vs RCB - 7:30 pm - March 28 - Chennai RCB vs GT - 7:30 pm - April 2 - Bengaluru MI vs RCB - 7:30 pm - April 7 - Mumbai RCB vs DC - 7:30 pm - April 10 - Bengaluru RR vs RCB - 3:30 pm - April 13 - Jaipur RCB vs PBKS - 7:30 pm - April 18 - Bengaluru PBKS vs RCB - 3:30 pm - April 20 - Mullanpur RCB vs RR - 7:30 pm - April 24 - Bengaluru DC vs RCB - 7:30 pm - April 27 - Delhi RCB vs CSK - 7:30 pm - May 3 - Bengaluru LSG vs RCB - 7:30 pm - May 9 - Lucknow RCB vs SRH - 7:30 pm - May 13 - Bengaluru RCB vs KKR - 7:30 pm - May 17 - Bengaluru RCB’s IPL 2025 squad – Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar, Yash Dayal, Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Rasikh Dar, Suyash Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Swapnil Singh, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Nuwan Thushara, Manoj Bhandage, Jacob Bethell, Devdutt Padikkal, Swastik Chhikara, Lungi Ngidi, Abhinandan Singh and Mohit Rathee

IPL 2025: Check out Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Full Schedule

The five-time IPL winners, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chennai-super-kings-csk" rel="dofollow">Chennai Super Kings (CSK)</a>, will begin their IPL 2025 campaign against their oldest rivals and the joint-most successful IPL team &ndash; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians</a>, in the first of the two matches on Sunday evening (March 23).
Led by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ruturaj-gaikwad" rel="dofollow">Ruturaj Gaikwad</a>, the Yellow Brigade has plenty to look forward to this season, with, for the nth time since his international retirement, all eyeballs will be on the veteran gloveman MS Dhoni.
Besides Dhoni, CSK also have several new faces, a handful of match winners and core members, including Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja and the Kiwi pair of Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra.
The return of Ravichandran Ashwin to CSK after ten years will boost the side&rsquo;s bowling and overall experience otherwise, with the newcomers, including Khaleel Ahmed, Anshul Kamboj and Noor Ahmed, adding firepower to the attack.&nbsp;
In the batting department, the addition of several Indian talents in Rahul Tripathi and Deepak Hooda, with the return of all-rounder Sam Curran and the inclusion of his countryman Jamie Overton, add value to the already-strengthened batting line-up.
Meanwhile, with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-full-schedule-eden-gardens-to-host-season-opener-final-csk-mi-face-off-on-march-23-8726632" rel="dofollow">IPL announcing the schedule for the 18th edition</a>, it&rsquo;s time we look at when and where CSK will play its scheduled 14 matches this season. Placed in Group B alongside KKR, RCB, RR and PBKS, CSK will play MI twice, once on the first double header of the season and next on April 20 in the return game.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m77perih-10qwwllb-r0nss63z">
𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗬𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗪𝗛𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗟𝗘𝗦 &amp; 𝗬𝗘𝗟𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘, 2⃣0⃣2⃣5⃣- Here we come! 🦁🔥 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheSummerIsComing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheSummerIsComing</a> <a href="https://t.co/Qx15ZejJhk">pic.twitter.com/Qx15ZejJhk</a>
&mdash; Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1891107474788270411?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Here is CSK&rsquo;s IPL 2025 full schedule -</h2>
<ul>
<li>March 23 (Sunday): Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians (MI) in Chennai</li>
<li>March 28 (Friday): Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Chennai</li>
<li>March 30 (Sunday): Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Guwahati</li>
<li>April 5 (Saturday): Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals (DC) in Chennai</li>
<li>April 8 (Tuesday): Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Mullanpur</li>
<li>April 11 (Friday): Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Chennai</li>
<li>April 14 (Monday): Chennai Super Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Lucknow</li>
<li>April 20 (Sunday): Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians (MI) in Mumbai</li>
<li>April 25 (Friday): Chennai Super Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Chennai</li>
<li>April 30 (Wednesday): Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Chennai</li>
<li>May 3 (Saturday): Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Bengaluru</li>
<li>May 7 (Wednesday): Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Kolkata</li>
<li>May 12 (Monday): Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Chennai</li>
<li>May 18 (Sunday): Chennai Super Kings vs Gujarat Titans (GT) in Ahmedaba</li>
</ul>
<h3>CSK&rsquo;s IPL 2025 squad &ndash;</h3>
Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rahul Tripathi, Shaik Rasheed, Andre Siddarth, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton, Vijay Shankar, Sam Curran, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Ravindra Jadeja, Rachin Ravindra, Deepak Hooda, MS Dhoni, Devon Conway, Vansh Bedi, Matheesha Pathirana, Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Choudhary, Nathan Ellis, Anshul Kamboj, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Gurjapneet Singh, R Ashwin, Noor Ahmad and Shreyas Gopal

Sports, Cricket: Placed in Group B alongside KKR, RCB, RR and PBKS, CSK will play MI twice, once on the first double header of the season and next on April 20 in the return game.

The five-time IPL winners, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), will begin their IPL 2025 campaign against their oldest rivals and the joint-most successful IPL team – Mumbai Indians, in the first of the two matches on Sunday evening (March 23). Led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, the Yellow Brigade has plenty to look forward to this season, with, for the nth time since his international retirement, all eyeballs will be on the veteran gloveman MS Dhoni. Besides Dhoni, CSK also have several new faces, a handful of match winners and core members, including Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja and the Kiwi pair of Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra. The return of Ravichandran Ashwin to CSK after ten years will boost the side’s bowling and overall experience otherwise, with the newcomers, including Khaleel Ahmed, Anshul Kamboj and Noor Ahmed, adding firepower to the attack. In the batting department, the addition of several Indian talents in Rahul Tripathi and Deepak Hooda, with the return of all-rounder Sam Curran and the inclusion of his countryman Jamie Overton, add value to the already-strengthened batting line-up. Meanwhile, with the IPL announcing the schedule for the 18th edition, it’s time we look at when and where CSK will play its scheduled 14 matches this season. Placed in Group B alongside KKR, RCB, RR and PBKS, CSK will play MI twice, once on the first double header of the season and next on April 20 in the return game. 𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗬𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗪𝗛𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗟𝗘𝗦 & 𝗬𝗘𝗟𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘, 2⃣0⃣2⃣5⃣- Here we come! 🦁🔥 #WhistlePodu #TheSummerIsComing pic.twitter.com/Qx15ZejJhk — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) February 16, 2025 Here is CSK’s IPL 2025 full schedule - March 23 (Sunday): Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians (MI) in Chennai March 28 (Friday): Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Chennai March 30 (Sunday): Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Guwahati April 5 (Saturday): Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals (DC) in Chennai April 8 (Tuesday): Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Mullanpur April 11 (Friday): Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Chennai April 14 (Monday): Chennai Super Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Lucknow April 20 (Sunday): Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians (MI) in Mumbai April 25 (Friday): Chennai Super Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Chennai April 30 (Wednesday): Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Chennai May 3 (Saturday): Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Bengaluru May 7 (Wednesday): Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Kolkata May 12 (Monday): Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Chennai May 18 (Sunday): Chennai Super Kings vs Gujarat Titans (GT) in Ahmedaba CSK’s IPL 2025 squad – Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rahul Tripathi, Shaik Rasheed, Andre Siddarth, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton, Vijay Shankar, Sam Curran, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Ravindra Jadeja, Rachin Ravindra, Deepak Hooda, MS Dhoni, Devon Conway, Vansh Bedi, Matheesha Pathirana, Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Choudhary, Nathan Ellis, Anshul Kamboj, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Gurjapneet Singh, R Ashwin, Noor Ahmad and Shreyas Gopal

IPL 2025: Check out Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Full Schedule

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> full schedule is out, and Eden Gardens in Kolkata is slated to host the season opener (March 22) and the final (May 25), alongside the Qualifier 2 on May 23. For the first time in a decade, the iconic venue will be hosting an IPL final, having last staged on two occasions in 2013 and 2015. Meanwhile, Hyderabad, the home venue of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sunrisers-hyderabad" rel="dofollow">SunRisers Hyderabad</a>, will host the two playoffs &ndash; Qualifier 1 on May 20 and Eliminator on May 21.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m77piq7r-mrm4g5vq-3f2p4o0a">
Mark your calendars, folks! 🥳🗓<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> 2025 kicks off on March 2️⃣2️⃣ with a clash between <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KKRiders</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> 🤜🤛 When is your favourite team's&nbsp;first&nbsp;match?&nbsp;🤔 <a href="https://t.co/f2tf3YcSyY">pic.twitter.com/f2tf3YcSyY</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1891108307756015779?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League will feature 74 matches spread over two months (65 days) with 12 doubleheaders.&nbsp;
The defending champions <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kkr" rel="dofollow">Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)</a> will host <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rcb" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)</a> in the curtain-raiser on Saturday evening (Mar 22), and the marquee clash between the two most successful teams &ndash; Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) will be played on the next day (Mar 23). The first doubleheader of IPL 2025 will also feature last year&rsquo;s runners-up SRH hosting Rajasthan Royals (RR) in an afternoon game.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ex-india-selector-kris-srikkanth-compares-rajat-patidars-rcb-captaincy-call-to-ms-dhonis-appointment-as-india-captain-in-2007-8726363" rel="dofollow">Ex-India selector compares Patidar&rsquo;s RCB captaincy call to MS Dhoni's appointment as India captain</a>
While Royals, Gujarat Titans (GT), Delhi Capitals (DC) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will play three afternoon games each, the remaining seven IPL teams will play two day matches.&nbsp;
Besides, 13 venues are listed to host all matches this season, with three - Guwahati (Royals' second home venue), Visakhapatnam (Capitals' second home venue) and Dharamsala (Punjab's second home venue) added to the usual ten cities. Guwahati and Vizag will stage two games each, and Dharamsala will host three.
While Punjab Kings (PBKS) is the only team to host three back-to-back home games (all in Dharamsala from May 4 to 11), no team is scheduled for three away matches this season. Delhi, Mumbai and Lucknow will face PBKS during that window.
<h2>New season, same format</h2>
Since the IPL expanded to ten teams in 2022, all teams have been split into two groups, with KKR, RCB, Royals, CSK and Punjab in Group A and SRH, Capitals, Titans, Mumbai and LSG in Group B.&nbsp;
The teams will face the remaining ones in their group and one in the other &ndash; determined by seeds, twice, and the remaining four teams in the other once.
For instance, CSK and MI will face off twice despite not being in the same group.
While Chepauk will host their first clash of this season, an evening game on March 23, the Wankhede in Mumbai will stage the return tie on April 20, again an evening contest.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), starting March 22, will feature 74 matches spread over two months (65 days) with 12 doubleheaders.

The IPL 2025 full schedule is out, and Eden Gardens in Kolkata is slated to host the season opener (March 22) and the final (May 25), alongside the Qualifier 2 on May 23. For the first time in a decade, the iconic venue will be hosting an IPL final, having last staged on two occasions in 2013 and 2015. Meanwhile, Hyderabad, the home venue of SunRisers Hyderabad, will host the two playoffs – Qualifier 1 on May 20 and Eliminator on May 21. Mark your calendars, folks! 🥳🗓#TATAIPL 2025 kicks off on March 2️⃣2️⃣ with a clash between @KKRiders and @RCBTweets 🤜🤛 When is your favourite team's first match? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/f2tf3YcSyY — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) February 16, 2025 The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League will feature 74 matches spread over two months (65 days) with 12 doubleheaders. The defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will host Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the curtain-raiser on Saturday evening (Mar 22), and the marquee clash between the two most successful teams – Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) will be played on the next day (Mar 23). The first doubleheader of IPL 2025 will also feature last year’s runners-up SRH hosting Rajasthan Royals (RR) in an afternoon game. Also read | Ex-India selector compares Patidar’s RCB captaincy call to MS Dhoni's appointment as India captain While Royals, Gujarat Titans (GT), Delhi Capitals (DC) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will play three afternoon games each, the remaining seven IPL teams will play two day matches. Besides, 13 venues are listed to host all matches this season, with three - Guwahati (Royals' second home venue), Visakhapatnam (Capitals' second home venue) and Dharamsala (Punjab's second home venue) added to the usual ten cities. Guwahati and Vizag will stage two games each, and Dharamsala will host three. While Punjab Kings (PBKS) is the only team to host three back-to-back home games (all in Dharamsala from May 4 to 11), no team is scheduled for three away matches this season. Delhi, Mumbai and Lucknow will face PBKS during that window. New season, same format Since the IPL expanded to ten teams in 2022, all teams have been split into two groups, with KKR, RCB, Royals, CSK and Punjab in Group A and SRH, Capitals, Titans, Mumbai and LSG in Group B. The teams will face the remaining ones in their group and one in the other – determined by seeds, twice, and the remaining four teams in the other once. For instance, CSK and MI will face off twice despite not being in the same group. While Chepauk will host their first clash of this season, an evening game on March 23, the Wankhede in Mumbai will stage the return tie on April 20, again an evening contest. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025 Full Schedule: Eden Gardens to host season opener, final; CSK-MI face off on March 23

Former Indian cricketer and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has made a bold call on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rajat-patidar-named-new-rcb-captain-for-ipl-season-8718321" rel="dofollow">Rajat Patidar&rsquo;s shocking appointment as RCB captain</a>. The Bengaluru-based IPL franchise named Patidar their new captain ahead of star batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a>, with the cricketing lobby reacting differently to it.
Though RCB&rsquo;s director of cricket, Mo Bobat, admitted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-virat-kohli-doesnt-need-captaincy-rcbs-director-of-cricket-mo-bobat-rajat-patidar-8717766" rel="dofollow">considering Kohli&rsquo;s name for the leadership role</a>, Srikkanth feels Patidar&rsquo;s appointment is a smart call by the IPL franchise, so much so that he compared his promotion to the leadership group to that of MS Dhoni&rsquo;s appointment as the Indian captain in 2007.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rashid-latif-hails-afghanistans-rashid-khan-calls-him-bigger-cricketer-than-wasim-akram-8726272" rel="dofollow">Rashid Latif hails Afghanistan&rsquo;s Rashid Khan, calls him bigger cricketer than Wasim Akram</a>
Speaking on his YouTube channel &lsquo;Cheeky Cheeka&rsquo;, Srikkanth said Virat must have said no to the RCB captaincy to concentrate more on his batting, while RCB must have picked Patidar after consulting the ace batter only.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I think it is Virat who said no to the captaincy. He must have wanted to focus on batting, and RCB did all of this in consultation with Virat Kohli,&rdquo; Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Kohli also congratulated Patidar on becoming the new RCB captain.
&ldquo;I am here to inform everyone like the others will do as well, that Rajat Patidar is going to be the new captain of RCB. Rajat, firstly, I want to congratulate you and wish you all the very best.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The way you have grown in the franchise and the way you have performed, you have made a place in the hearts of all the fans of RCB all over India. They get excited to watch you play.&nbsp;
&ldquo;So, this is very well deserved. Myself and the other team members will be right behind you, and you&rsquo;ll have all our support,&rdquo; Kohli said in a video posted by RCB.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m77j2ee8-112uceo7-cghjegfv">
𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐨𝐡𝐥𝐢 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬! 💌 &ldquo;Myself and the other team members will be right behind you, Rajat&rdquo;: Virat Kohli &ldquo;The way you have grown in this franchise and the way you have performed, you&rsquo;ve made a place in the hearts of all RCB fans. This is very well deserved.&rdquo;&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/dgjDLm8ZCN">pic.twitter.com/dgjDLm8ZCN</a>
&mdash; Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1889924890331111838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
Patidar will be the fourth Indian captain to lead RCB in the IPL, with Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble and Kohli being the previous skippers.
Besides, Patidar is the second name to lead the franchise since Kohli stepped down in 2021, replacing Faf du Plessis, who captained them for three seasons from 2022 to 2024.&nbsp;
Du Plessis will now represent Delhi Capitals from IPL 2025 onwards.
<h2>From MS Dhoni to Patidar</h2>
Srikkanth feels Patidar&rsquo;s appointment makes sense, given he&rsquo;s been a seasoned IPL campaigner, with everyone not expecting much out of his captaincy. Comparing that to Dhoni becoming the Indian skipper back in 2007, Srikkanth said,
&ldquo;He (Rajat) is a good choice. He has been doing well in the IPL, and the good thing is that he will not carry a lot of expectations, like how Dhoni was appointed in 2007 as the Indian captain; not a lot was expected from his team. Rajat will take his calls, and he has Virat Kohli to consult any time.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Srikkanth said Virat must have said no to the RCB captaincy to focus on his batting, while RCB must have picked Patidar after consulting the ace batter only.

Former Indian cricketer and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has made a bold call on Rajat Patidar’s shocking appointment as RCB captain. The Bengaluru-based IPL franchise named Patidar their new captain ahead of star batter Virat Kohli, with the cricketing lobby reacting differently to it. Though RCB’s director of cricket, Mo Bobat, admitted considering Kohli’s name for the leadership role, Srikkanth feels Patidar’s appointment is a smart call by the IPL franchise, so much so that he compared his promotion to the leadership group to that of MS Dhoni’s appointment as the Indian captain in 2007. Also read | Rashid Latif hails Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan, calls him bigger cricketer than Wasim Akram Speaking on his YouTube channel ‘Cheeky Cheeka’, Srikkanth said Virat must have said no to the RCB captaincy to concentrate more on his batting, while RCB must have picked Patidar after consulting the ace batter only. “I think it is Virat who said no to the captaincy. He must have wanted to focus on batting, and RCB did all of this in consultation with Virat Kohli,” Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel. Meanwhile, Kohli also congratulated Patidar on becoming the new RCB captain. “I am here to inform everyone like the others will do as well, that Rajat Patidar is going to be the new captain of RCB. Rajat, firstly, I want to congratulate you and wish you all the very best. “The way you have grown in the franchise and the way you have performed, you have made a place in the hearts of all the fans of RCB all over India. They get excited to watch you play. “So, this is very well deserved. Myself and the other team members will be right behind you, and you’ll have all our support,” Kohli said in a video posted by RCB. 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐨𝐡𝐥𝐢 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬! 💌 “Myself and the other team members will be right behind you, Rajat”: Virat Kohli “The way you have grown in this franchise and the way you have performed, you’ve made a place in the hearts of all RCB fans. This is very well deserved.”… pic.twitter.com/dgjDLm8ZCN — Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) February 13, 2025 Patidar will be the fourth Indian captain to lead RCB in the IPL, with Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble and Kohli being the previous skippers. Besides, Patidar is the second name to lead the franchise since Kohli stepped down in 2021, replacing Faf du Plessis, who captained them for three seasons from 2022 to 2024. Du Plessis will now represent Delhi Capitals from IPL 2025 onwards. From MS Dhoni to Patidar Srikkanth feels Patidar’s appointment makes sense, given he’s been a seasoned IPL campaigner, with everyone not expecting much out of his captaincy. Comparing that to Dhoni becoming the Indian skipper back in 2007, Srikkanth said, “He (Rajat) is a good choice. He has been doing well in the IPL, and the good thing is that he will not carry a lot of expectations, like how Dhoni was appointed in 2007 as the Indian captain; not a lot was expected from his team. Rajat will take his calls, and he has Virat Kohli to consult any time.” (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-India selector compares Patidar’s RCB captaincy call to MS Dhoni's appointment as India captain

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wasim-akram" rel="dofollow">Wasim Akram</a> is perhaps the greatest left-arm pacer in cricket history; none comes close to his calibre and achievements across formats, but even that is not enough for him to sit at the pedestal as his former teammate and Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels a certain someone from Afghanistan is a mightier cricketer than him. The player in question here is the star all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rashid-khan" rel="dofollow">Rashid Khan</a>.
While Pakistan had a rich cricketing history even before Wasim emerged on the international scene, with several world-class cricketers rocking in Tests and ODIs, Rashid&rsquo;s influence on Afghanistan&rsquo;s cricket has helped them get global recognition, something Latif feels is of a higher achievement than any on the cricket field.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-former-india-cricketer-pinpoints-pakistans-achilles-heel-8725806" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Former India cricketer pinpoints Pakistan&rsquo;s achilles' heel</a>
&ldquo;Rashid has brought Afghanistan on the map; he has helped them get recognition,&rdquo; Rashid Latif said on &lsquo;Hasna Mana Hai&rsquo; - a talk show on Geo News.
&ldquo;He is greater than Wasim Akram.
&ldquo;I am sorry (to say), but Rashid&rsquo;s stature is bigger,&rdquo; he continued.
However, per the records, Wasim Akram picked 916 international wickets (414 in Tests and 502 in ODIs) in 460 matches, besides winning the 1992 ODI World Cup in Australia. He even picked up a hat-trick in the final against England.&nbsp;
On the other hand, Rashid has already picked over 400 international wickets across three formats.&nbsp;
<h2>Latif&rsquo;s only advice to Rashid</h2>
Although Rashid Khan remains the best spinner from Afghanistan, especially considering his records in the shorter formats, Latif has just one piece of advice for the ace all-rounder, urging him to improve his Test side and play more red-ball matches against Pakistan.
&ldquo;I have only one piece of advice for Rashid Khan. &lsquo;Improve your test team and play more Test matches against Pakistan,'&rdquo; Latif added.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan is gearing up for the first showpiece event of the year &ndash; the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy-2025" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> in Pakistan. Placed in Group B, Afghanistan will take on ODI heavyweights like Australia, England and South Africa in their league matches, and should they win two of the three games, they can qualify for their maiden semis in this eight-team tournament.
Afghanistan will open their campaign against South Africa (on February 21 in Karachi), whom they defeated across three ODIs late last year before taking on England (Feb 26) and Australia (Feb 28) in their remaining two matches.
<h3>Afghanistan&rsquo;s Champions Trophy squad &ndash;</h3>
Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Ibrahim Zadran, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah (vice-captain), Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Fareeh Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Nangeyalia Kharote, Naveed Zadran and Noor Ahmad
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: While Wasim Akram has picked 916 international wickets in 460 matches, Rashid has already picked over 400 international wickets across three formats.

Wasim Akram is perhaps the greatest left-arm pacer in cricket history; none comes close to his calibre and achievements across formats, but even that is not enough for him to sit at the pedestal as his former teammate and Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels a certain someone from Afghanistan is a mightier cricketer than him. The player in question here is the star all-rounder Rashid Khan. While Pakistan had a rich cricketing history even before Wasim emerged on the international scene, with several world-class cricketers rocking in Tests and ODIs, Rashid’s influence on Afghanistan’s cricket has helped them get global recognition, something Latif feels is of a higher achievement than any on the cricket field. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Former India cricketer pinpoints Pakistan’s achilles' heel “Rashid has brought Afghanistan on the map; he has helped them get recognition,” Rashid Latif said on ‘Hasna Mana Hai’ - a talk show on Geo News. “He is greater than Wasim Akram. “I am sorry (to say), but Rashid’s stature is bigger,” he continued. However, per the records, Wasim Akram picked 916 international wickets (414 in Tests and 502 in ODIs) in 460 matches, besides winning the 1992 ODI World Cup in Australia. He even picked up a hat-trick in the final against England. On the other hand, Rashid has already picked over 400 international wickets across three formats. Latif’s only advice to Rashid Although Rashid Khan remains the best spinner from Afghanistan, especially considering his records in the shorter formats, Latif has just one piece of advice for the ace all-rounder, urging him to improve his Test side and play more red-ball matches against Pakistan. “I have only one piece of advice for Rashid Khan. ‘Improve your test team and play more Test matches against Pakistan,'” Latif added. Meanwhile, Afghanistan is gearing up for the first showpiece event of the year – the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan. Placed in Group B, Afghanistan will take on ODI heavyweights like Australia, England and South Africa in their league matches, and should they win two of the three games, they can qualify for their maiden semis in this eight-team tournament. Afghanistan will open their campaign against South Africa (on February 21 in Karachi), whom they defeated across three ODIs late last year before taking on England (Feb 26) and Australia (Feb 28) in their remaining two matches. Afghanistan’s Champions Trophy squad – Hashmatullah Shahidi (captain), Ibrahim Zadran, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah (vice-captain), Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Fareeh Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Nangeyalia Kharote, Naveed Zadran and Noor Ahmad (With inputs from agencies)

Rashid Latif hails Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan, calls him bigger cricketer than Wasim Akram

ICC Champions Trophy 2025:&nbsp;The ICC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy 2025</a>&nbsp;is all set to start from February 19 in Pakistan. This is the first time since 1996 ODI World Cup that Pakistan are hosting an ICC tournament.They had co-hosted the 1996 ODI WC along with India and Sri Lanka.
India, meanwhile, will play all its three league matches in Dubai, UAE. This is as per the agreed upon hybrid model with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">ICC</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pcb" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">PCB</a>.
India start their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 at 2:30 pm India time before taking on arch-rival Pakistan on February 23 (2:30 pm India time). India play their final group-stage match against New Zealand on March 2 (2:30 pm India time).
The first semi-final will also be played in Dubai irrespective of India making it or not. The second semi-final, however, will be played in Lahore, Pakistan.
The final, on March 9, will be played in Lahore if India fails to qualify and in Dubai if the opposite happens. The hybrid model came in place due to political tensions between India and Pakistan because of which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BCCI</a>&nbsp;declined to send the team to Pakistan.
A total of eight teams, i.e. India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, England, Afghanistan, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa are divided in two groups for the tournament.
<h2>Check 2025 Champions Trophy 2025 Live News and Latest Updates Today | Feb 16 below:</h2>

That's all for today from us. We'll be back tomorrow with more updates and info on the Champions Trophy 2025 which begins February 19, until then stay with us for complete coverage of the ICC tournament.
This live blog has ended.

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Latest News and Updates Today | Feb 16

Former India cricketer pinpoints Pakistan&rsquo;s achilles' heel As the date nears for the ICC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Champions Trophy</a>&nbsp;2025, cricket pundits are analysing the strengths and weaknesses of the competing teams, with Pakistan&mdash;the defending champions&mdash;drawing particular attention. Former Indian cricketer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/aakash-chopra" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Aakash Chopra</a>&nbsp;shared his insights, highlighting a recurring issue that could haunt Pakistan in the tournament: Their vulnerability under pressure.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-former-india-cricketer-pinpoints-pakistans-achilles-heel-8725806" rel="dofollow">Read full story here</a>

Former Blackcaps bowler backs Kiwi mix of youth and experience to shine Despite the relatively inexperienced fast-bowling attack,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/tim-southee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Southee</a>&nbsp;is optimistic about his former team&rsquo;s chances in Pakistan. The Blackcaps&rsquo; recent victory in the Tri-Nation Series, which served as a warm-up for the tournament, left a strong impression on him.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-former-blackcaps-bowler-backs-kiwi-mix-of-youth-and-experience-to-shine-8725717" rel="dofollow">Read full story here</a>

'Defending title is more important than beating...', says Pak vice-captain Salman
Pakistan cricket team's vice-captain, Salman Ali Agha, has emphasized that clinching the ICC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Champions Trophy</a>&nbsp;holds greater significance than merely defeating arch-rival India in a single match. In a recent interview on the PCB Podcast, Salman expressed his excitement about Pakistan hosting the prestigious tournament and the prospect of lifting the trophy in his hometown, Lahore.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-defending-title-is-more-important-than-beating-says-pak-vice-captain-salman-8725525" rel="dofollow">Read full story here</a>

Additional tickets to go on sale from today- How and where to buy tickets
Additional tickets for the three-group stage India matches and semi-final 1 at the ICC Men&rsquo;s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Champions Trophy</a>&nbsp;which are taking place in Dubai, UAE will go on sale today.&nbsp;Tickets can be purchased online&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0" href="https://u39693854.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.TtFIMp7udciS-2FN92BxkjO6aT-2FBnyBXx-2B-2BSKIxh2sSxnt3fgkoLv-2FdQkxHCWOv5qTfjPjS9jZC-2F1Ly8xv1NXnK-2Bhsbx6ZBQ1uUPAuo-2FNosa27i4f2dy39gJv8Ja9Y5vMlvl54-2Fk6Bc9QAlBRzTGK4O9Bkoa1hsyZXmBMos0i5jLcHqD1VTVHWfAS7xbbmwC09MtuPz-2BlIPljmMD4xSnJsF6HDWkllHcBrJA5MZ5FnyM8qKrg-2FzgvNWYdrJQaYl5EA-2BXMl-2F8yTaz-2BRX7DR-2FuJbtiIo-2FCPnO8A3RwIrDuH97yRL4QXJKJRWaXun0nUFOW8YZ3vtd1HiYoShD4uNLvqJX7LFnq0S4ytGjiZ2oRNy1c6643oXJfNdqIsz-2Bb-2Bn5lm8-2BoLMr4Vzr5jJ2FHDQugjFcHUOMnhHwrU56Cb4X6V4O-2FHoZkdUYHgqJn2Gy5ii6a5lMAZUejPJlZ4py7wFH89ug-2BXT-2BgzhuCKyw3cVz-2BwAlDAlPfCw7V1-2B1XOXtxB1RATZok-2FzxGWyDHWkwPrsesdLOkTBwdHOI6DonxfVA4m1rU8U58AZZvp84-2F87v41dLLZ6pM8CwF8LFqFgzRmH0KOeYPeO2rh6pKzTtGmle1bauTj2c7B1HLyinRxe-2FnYulgWu2QB5rGHKjVOOc52NZHPJKUg6TfUG0sjIwxxms-2BD1QUfoCKK3N2tTQsBiaDrRpJp-2BDfsQSXlh0ch6TBiS-2F-2BqjSbzjmdDWUypk0I7J1w9ZB25P1mYUcacSKdpINdnW1oY9Km6Q-2BlVRsIZur7DIpJAgA-3D-3DkYIC_MkbEUnH6ERM2h-2B-2FkuAT-2FNry4NVbeUzV5uWV3KTyKjwAVgeWvWDC53L4bTxwMlCac0HeUOx-2BhUOXsvGY-2B5kxzhiuvgWVMDEHb8sCZH-2BiyGiOujjk3XxQfLoNvhTdJFuRFXfYuUM-2BumE0HNk2KmMWZJuV-2BfQ5JRQi9nh0o1m28O3tsyxT7v0EwET5dDpH0G52z3QUlqkIqS8x5GLm1YN7a-2FoYpcZeSSZUADtS-2F86qcAv8UhHvqFfT4ObAV4gXKy5ujPtykBdIJ1zQ-2FyUxinFvj9Wdv3oQtZxRKQ-2BNaxdXsqN8EDU1S07lqY1c0uOgbiahssI6AzxsI1zu3mZvh6Z99lU5Jea3PQsI6n1ndDmLmoEUkC5apk183Ku8iYLSwpYLG" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://u39693854.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.TtFIMp7udciS-2FN92BxkjO6aT-2FBnyBXx-2B-2BSKIxh2sSxnt3fgkoLv-2FdQkxHCWOv5qTfjPjS9jZC-2F1Ly8xv1NXnK-2Bhsbx6ZBQ1uUPAuo-2FNosa27i4f2dy39gJv8Ja9Y5vMlvl54-2Fk6Bc9QAlBRzTGK4O9Bkoa1hsyZXmBMos0i5jLcHqD1VTVHWfAS7xbbmwC09MtuPz-2BlIPljmMD4xSnJsF6HDWkllHcBrJA5MZ5FnyM8qKrg-2FzgvNWYdrJQaYl5EA-2BXMl-2F8yTaz-2BRX7DR-2FuJbtiIo-2FCPnO8A3RwIrDuH97yRL4QXJKJRWaXun0nUFOW8YZ3vtd1HiYoShD4uNLvqJX7LFnq0S4ytGjiZ2oRNy1c6643oXJfNdqIsz-2Bb-2Bn5lm8-2BoLMr4Vzr5jJ2FHDQugjFcHUOMnhHwrU56Cb4X6V4O-2FHoZkdUYHgqJn2Gy5ii6a5lMAZUejPJlZ4py7wFH89ug-2BXT-2BgzhuCKyw3cVz-2BwAlDAlPfCw7V1-2B1XOXtxB1RATZok-2FzxGWyDHWkwPrsesdLOkTBwdHOI6DonxfVA4m1rU8U58AZZvp84-2F87v41dLLZ6pM8CwF8LFqFgzRmH0KOeYPeO2rh6pKzTtGmle1bauTj2c7B1HLyinRxe-2FnYulgWu2QB5rGHKjVOOc52NZHPJKUg6TfUG0sjIwxxms-2BD1QUfoCKK3N2tTQsBiaDrRpJp-2BDfsQSXlh0ch6TBiS-2F-2BqjSbzjmdDWUypk0I7J1w9ZB25P1mYUcacSKdpINdnW1oY9Km6Q-2BlVRsIZur7DIpJAgA-3D-3DkYIC_MkbEUnH6ERM2h-2B-2FkuAT-2FNry4NVbeUzV5uWV3KTyKjwAVgeWvWDC53L4bTxwMlCac0HeUOx-2BhUOXsvGY-2B5kxzhiuvgWVMDEHb8sCZH-2BiyGiOujjk3XxQfLoNvhTdJFuRFXfYuUM-2BumE0HNk2KmMWZJuV-2BfQ5JRQi9nh0o1m28O3tsyxT7v0EwET5dDpH0G52z3QUlqkIqS8x5GLm1YN7a-2FoYpcZeSSZUADtS-2F86qcAv8UhHvqFfT4ObAV4gXKy5ujPtykBdIJ1zQ-2FyUxinFvj9Wdv3oQtZxRKQ-2BNaxdXsqN8EDU1S07lqY1c0uOgbiahssI6AzxsI1zu3mZvh6Z99lU5Jea3PQsI6n1ndDmLmoEUkC5apk183Ku8iYLSwpYLG">here.</a>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-additional-tickets-to-go-on-sale-from-today-how-and-where-to-buy-tickets-8725455" rel="dofollow">Read full story here</a>

Winless streak and missing stars- Australia&rsquo;s uphill battle for glory Australia faces a tough road ahead as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy, with a rare winless streak, an inexperienced pace attack, and a loss of overall form casting doubts over their campaign. Yet, the Aussie spirit of resilience and big-game performance might still steer them toward another major ICC title. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-winless-streak-and-missing-stars-australias-uphill-battle-for-glory-8725335" rel="dofollow">Read full story here</a>
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Where to watch matches live in your country - Check Inside
The ICC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Champions Trophy 2025</a>&nbsp;is less than two weeks away and most of the teams have shifted their focus on the 50-over format to prepare for the tournament. India and England are playing an ODI series in India while Pakistan, New Zealand and South Africa will be taking part in a tri-nation series from February 8 in Pakistan.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-where-to-watch-matches-live-on-tv-in-participating-countries-where-to-live-stream-champions-trophy-on-tv-and-mobile-app-in-india-pakistan-sa-nz-australia-england-afghanistan-bangladesh-8699107">Check Here</a>

ICC announces hike of $3,600,000 in Champions Trophy prize money
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a hike for more than 50 percent in prize money for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. The eight-team tournament, happening for the first time since 2017, is set to begin from Feb 19 in Pakistan. India, meanwhile play all its matches in Dubai.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-announces-hike-of-3600000-in-champions-trophy-2025-prize-money-winners-will-get-224-million-or-19-crore-in-inr-runners-up-will-win-112-million-or-9-crore-in-inr-8720316">Read Full Story</a>

List of players doubtful or ruled-out of tournament
The ICC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Champions Trophy</a>&nbsp;is set to begin in eight days and the teams are expected to submit their final squad on Tuesday (Feb 11). Leading to the tournament, some of the marquee players have become unavailable or are doubtful due to injuries. The injuries could add to the woes of the teams for the tournament which is already being played with cut-throat competition and under comparatively harsh conditions of the sub-continent.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-list-of-players-doubtful-or-ruled-out-of-tournament-bumrah-cummins-hazlewood-rauf-nortje-coetzee-ferguson-bethell-8710335">Check Full List</a>

2025 Champions Trophy: The tournament begins February 19 in Pakistan while India is set to play all its matches in Dubai, UAE including the semi-final and the final. Cricket Sports

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is all set to start from February 19 in Pakistan. This is the first time since 1996 ODI World Cup that Pakistan are hosting an ICC tournament.They had co-hosted the 1996 ODI WC along with India and Sri Lanka. India, meanwhile, will play all its three league matches in Dubai, UAE. This is as per the agreed upon hybrid model with the ICC and PCB. India start their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 at 2:30 pm India time before taking on arch-rival Pakistan on February 23 (2:30 pm India time). India play their final group-stage match against New Zealand on March 2 (2:30 pm India time). The first semi-final will also be played in Dubai irrespective of India making it or not. The second semi-final, however, will be played in Lahore, Pakistan. The final, on March 9, will be played in Lahore if India fails to qualify and in Dubai if the opposite happens. The hybrid model came in place due to political tensions between India and Pakistan because of which BCCI declined to send the team to Pakistan. A total of eight teams, i.e. India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, England, Afghanistan, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa are divided in two groups for the tournament. Check 2025 Champions Trophy 2025 Live News and Latest Updates Today | Feb 16 below:

HIGHLIGHTS | 2025 Champions Trophy: Check ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Latest News and Updates Today | Feb 16

Yashasvi Jaiswal has been ruled out of Mumbai's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ranji-trophy">Ranji Trophy</a> semi-final against Vidarbha, set to begin on Monday in Nagpur, after sustaining a right ankle injury during training.
Having named in India's Champions Trophy 2025 squad, Jaiswal was later replaced by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/varun-chakaravarthy" rel="dofollow">Varun Chakaravarthy</a> in a last-minute change to the final 15-member touring side. Though included as a non-travelling reserve, Jaiswal is now expected to return home to recover.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-former-india-cricketer-pinpoints-pakistans-achilles-heel-8725806">Champions Trophy 2025: Former India cricketer pinpoints Pakistan&rsquo;s achilles' heel</a>
Mumbai has decided not to name a replacement for Jaiswal in the semi-final, confident that their existing squad depth, which includes <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ajinkya-rahane">Ajinkya Rahane</a>, Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, and Shardul Thakur, will suffice. Notably, Dube, another non-travelling reserve for India's Champions Trophy squad, could be called up to Dubai if the need arises.
A regular in India&rsquo;s Test squad, Jaiswal made his ODI debut against England earlier this month in Nagpur, stepping in for Virat Kohli, who was sidelined with a knee issue. Jaiswal managed 15 runs in that match.
This Ranji Trophy season, Jaiswal has played just one game, against Jammu and Kashmir, where he scored 4 and 26 in the two innings. Mumbai lost that match by five wickets.
Defending champions Mumbai have endured a challenging campaign this year. They narrowly advanced to the quarterfinals and then faced a tense battle against Haryana, ultimately saved by their lower order in the first innings.
The semi-final against Vidarbha is a rematch of last year&rsquo;s final. Vidarbha enters the clash in formidable form, having won seven of their eight games this season. They booked their semi-final spot with a commanding 198-run victory over Tamil Nadu in the quarterfinal.
<h2>Mumbai squad&nbsp;</h2>
Ajinkya Rahane (captain), Ayush Mhatre, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Amogh Bhatkal, Suryakumar Yadav, Siddhesh Lad, Shivam Dube, Akash Anand (wicket-keeper), Hardik Tamore (wicket-keeper), Suryansh Shedge, Shardul Thakur, Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Mohit Avasthi, Sylvester D'Souza, Royston Dias, Atharva Ankolekar, Harsh Tanna.

Sports, Cricket: This season, Jaiswal has only featured in one Ranji Trophy match, against Jammu and Kashmir, where he scored 4 and 26 in the two innings

Yashasvi Jaiswal has been ruled out of Mumbai's Ranji Trophy semi-final against Vidarbha, set to begin on Monday in Nagpur, after sustaining a right ankle injury during training. Having named in India's Champions Trophy 2025 squad, Jaiswal was later replaced by Varun Chakaravarthy in a last-minute change to the final 15-member touring side. Though included as a non-travelling reserve, Jaiswal is now expected to return home to recover. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Former India cricketer pinpoints Pakistan’s achilles' heel Mumbai has decided not to name a replacement for Jaiswal in the semi-final, confident that their existing squad depth, which includes Ajinkya Rahane, Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, and Shardul Thakur, will suffice. Notably, Dube, another non-travelling reserve for India's Champions Trophy squad, could be called up to Dubai if the need arises. A regular in India’s Test squad, Jaiswal made his ODI debut against England earlier this month in Nagpur, stepping in for Virat Kohli, who was sidelined with a knee issue. Jaiswal managed 15 runs in that match. This Ranji Trophy season, Jaiswal has played just one game, against Jammu and Kashmir, where he scored 4 and 26 in the two innings. Mumbai lost that match by five wickets. Defending champions Mumbai have endured a challenging campaign this year. They narrowly advanced to the quarterfinals and then faced a tense battle against Haryana, ultimately saved by their lower order in the first innings. The semi-final against Vidarbha is a rematch of last year’s final. Vidarbha enters the clash in formidable form, having won seven of their eight games this season. They booked their semi-final spot with a commanding 198-run victory over Tamil Nadu in the quarterfinal. Mumbai squad Ajinkya Rahane (captain), Ayush Mhatre, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Amogh Bhatkal, Suryakumar Yadav, Siddhesh Lad, Shivam Dube, Akash Anand (wicket-keeper), Hardik Tamore (wicket-keeper), Suryansh Shedge, Shardul Thakur, Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Mohit Avasthi, Sylvester D'Souza, Royston Dias, Atharva Ankolekar, Harsh Tanna.

Ranji Trophy: Yashasvi Jaiswal to miss semifinal against Vidarbha due to injury

As the date nears for the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025, cricket pundits are analysing the strengths and weaknesses of the competing teams, with Pakistan&mdash;the defending champions&mdash;drawing particular attention.
Former Indian cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/aakash-chopra">Aakash Chopra</a> shared his insights, highlighting a recurring issue that could haunt Pakistan in the tournament: Their vulnerability under pressure.
Chopra, known for his sharp cricketing analysis, pointed out that while Pakistan possesses immense talent and the ability to produce sensational victories, their perennial inconsistency remains a concern. He noted that this has been a longstanding issue for the team, where moments of brilliance are often accompanied by shocking collapses. &ldquo;Pakistan&rsquo;s unpredictability makes them dangerous, but it also makes them vulnerable,&rdquo; Chopra said on his YouTube channel, saying that mental strength and handling crunch situations could be decisive factors in the marquee tournament.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-former-blackcaps-bowler-backs-kiwi-mix-of-youth-and-experience-to-shine-8725717">Champions Trophy 2025: Former Blackcaps bowler backs Kiwi mix of youth and experience to shine</a>
One of the key aspects Chopra stressed on was Pakistan's tendency to crack in high-pressure games, a pattern that has been observed in several ICC tournaments. Despite their capability to defeat top teams, the squad has often struggled to maintain composure in knockout matches. This psychological hurdle, according to Chopra, is a 'perennial weakness' that the team must address if they hope to defend their title.
<h2>Will Pakistan be a formidable opponent?</h2>
A major test for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pakistan-cricket">Pakistan</a> will come on February 23, when they face arch-rivals India in a highly anticipated match in Dubai. Given the intense history between the two teams, the contest will not only test Pakistan's cricketing skills but also their mental fortitude. Chopra hinted that this clash could set the tone for the rest of their campaign, serving as a barometer of whether they have overcome their mental fragility.
Beyond individual games, the larger question for Pakistan remains their ability to string together consistent performances throughout the tournament. The Champions Trophy, known for its competitive format, leaves little room for error, and even a single lapse could prove costly. Chopra advised that, for Pakistan to truly dominate, they must couple their raw talent with strategic discipline and a steely mindset.
As the countdown to the Champions Trophy continues, cricket fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Pakistan can rise above their historical shortcomings and prove themselves as not just unpredictable, but formidable opponents.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: A major test for Pakistan will come on Feb 23, when they face India. The contest will not only test Pakistan's cricketing skills but also their mental fortitude

As the date nears for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, cricket pundits are analysing the strengths and weaknesses of the competing teams, with Pakistan—the defending champions—drawing particular attention. Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra shared his insights, highlighting a recurring issue that could haunt Pakistan in the tournament: Their vulnerability under pressure. Chopra, known for his sharp cricketing analysis, pointed out that while Pakistan possesses immense talent and the ability to produce sensational victories, their perennial inconsistency remains a concern. He noted that this has been a longstanding issue for the team, where moments of brilliance are often accompanied by shocking collapses. “Pakistan’s unpredictability makes them dangerous, but it also makes them vulnerable,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel, saying that mental strength and handling crunch situations could be decisive factors in the marquee tournament. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Former Blackcaps bowler backs Kiwi mix of youth and experience to shine One of the key aspects Chopra stressed on was Pakistan's tendency to crack in high-pressure games, a pattern that has been observed in several ICC tournaments. Despite their capability to defeat top teams, the squad has often struggled to maintain composure in knockout matches. This psychological hurdle, according to Chopra, is a 'perennial weakness' that the team must address if they hope to defend their title. Will Pakistan be a formidable opponent? A major test for Pakistan will come on February 23, when they face arch-rivals India in a highly anticipated match in Dubai. Given the intense history between the two teams, the contest will not only test Pakistan's cricketing skills but also their mental fortitude. Chopra hinted that this clash could set the tone for the rest of their campaign, serving as a barometer of whether they have overcome their mental fragility. Beyond individual games, the larger question for Pakistan remains their ability to string together consistent performances throughout the tournament. The Champions Trophy, known for its competitive format, leaves little room for error, and even a single lapse could prove costly. Chopra advised that, for Pakistan to truly dominate, they must couple their raw talent with strategic discipline and a steely mindset. As the countdown to the Champions Trophy continues, cricket fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Pakistan can rise above their historical shortcomings and prove themselves as not just unpredictable, but formidable opponents. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Former India cricketer pinpoints Pakistan’s achilles' heel

Tim Southee, a stalwart of New Zealand cricket, will find himself in an unfamiliar position during the ICC Men&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025&mdash;watching from the sidelines rather than playing. The former Blackcaps bowler and captain announced his retirement from international cricket at the end of 2024, meaning both he and Trent Boult will be absent as New Zealand aims to reclaim the trophy they last won in 2000.
Despite the relatively inexperienced fast-bowling attack, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/tim-southee">Southee</a> is optimistic about his former team&rsquo;s chances in Pakistan. The Blackcaps&rsquo; recent victory in the Tri-Nation Series, which served as a warm-up for the tournament, left a strong impression on him.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-defending-title-is-more-important-than-beating-says-pak-vice-captain-salman-8725525" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: 'Defending title is more important than beating...', says Pak vice-captain Salman</a>
&ldquo;The way the team has played, with different guys stepping up, shows a great mix of experience and exciting young talent," Southee remarked. "The Tri-Nation Series has provided valuable experience and momentum heading into the Champions Trophy. Getting accustomed to the conditions in Pakistan can only be beneficial."
Key to New Zealand&rsquo;s prospects will be Kane Williamson and captain Mitchell Santner. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kane-williamson">Williamson</a>, back in form with crucial contributions in the Tri-Nation Series, brings a calming presence and a seasoned understanding of match situations.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s great to see Kane with some scores under his belt," Southee said. "He&rsquo;s pure class, and even though he hasn&rsquo;t played much one-day cricket recently, he looked completely in control. That ability to read the game and stay composed is what sets top batters apart."
<h2>'Santer is a skillful bowler'</h2>
Southee also praised Santner&rsquo;s leadership, describing him as a calm and thoughtful captain who leads by example across all facets of the game.
&ldquo;Mitch has done a fantastic job," he noted. "He&rsquo;s a skilful bowler, a sharp fielder, and a more-than-capable batter. I experienced his captaincy toward the end of my career, and he thinks about the game well. I&rsquo;m sure he&rsquo;ll lead from the front."
While Williamson and Santner provide the backbone of experience, the spotlight will also be on emerging stars like fast bowler Will O&rsquo;Rourke and all-rounder Nathan Smith. O&rsquo;Rourke, who claimed four wickets in the Tri-Nation final, has impressed in both Test and limited-overs formats.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s different not having Trent and myself at an ICC event, but it&rsquo;s exciting to see this new group take the stage," Southee said. &ldquo;Will has the attributes to succeed at the international level&mdash;pace, bounce, and a desire to keep improving. The exposure to these conditions in Pakistan will be invaluable for him."
Southee also highlighted Smith&rsquo;s confidence and self-belief, traits he sees as essential at the top level.&nbsp;&ldquo;Will is a man of few words but listens and learns. Nathan has a real confidence about him, and you need that in international cricket. Both are still growing, and I&rsquo;m sure they&rsquo;ll be massive assets for New Zealand for years to come."
As the Champions Trophy approaches, Southee remains hopeful that the Blackcaps can replicate the success of the 2000 squad.
&ldquo;New Zealand has a strong track record in ICC events&mdash;they&rsquo;re always in the mix. In a tournament like this, if you get on a roll, anything can happen. I&rsquo;d love to see the team there at the end, lifting the trophy," he concluded.

Sports, Cricket: Despite the relatively inexperienced fast-bowling attack, former Blackcaps bowler Time Southee is optimistic about his former team’s chances in Pakistan

Tim Southee, a stalwart of New Zealand cricket, will find himself in an unfamiliar position during the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025—watching from the sidelines rather than playing. The former Blackcaps bowler and captain announced his retirement from international cricket at the end of 2024, meaning both he and Trent Boult will be absent as New Zealand aims to reclaim the trophy they last won in 2000. Despite the relatively inexperienced fast-bowling attack, Southee is optimistic about his former team’s chances in Pakistan. The Blackcaps’ recent victory in the Tri-Nation Series, which served as a warm-up for the tournament, left a strong impression on him. Also Read: Champions Trophy: 'Defending title is more important than beating...', says Pak vice-captain Salman “The way the team has played, with different guys stepping up, shows a great mix of experience and exciting young talent," Southee remarked. "The Tri-Nation Series has provided valuable experience and momentum heading into the Champions Trophy. Getting accustomed to the conditions in Pakistan can only be beneficial." Key to New Zealand’s prospects will be Kane Williamson and captain Mitchell Santner. Williamson, back in form with crucial contributions in the Tri-Nation Series, brings a calming presence and a seasoned understanding of match situations. “It’s great to see Kane with some scores under his belt," Southee said. "He’s pure class, and even though he hasn’t played much one-day cricket recently, he looked completely in control. That ability to read the game and stay composed is what sets top batters apart." 'Santer is a skillful bowler' Southee also praised Santner’s leadership, describing him as a calm and thoughtful captain who leads by example across all facets of the game. “Mitch has done a fantastic job," he noted. "He’s a skilful bowler, a sharp fielder, and a more-than-capable batter. I experienced his captaincy toward the end of my career, and he thinks about the game well. I’m sure he’ll lead from the front." While Williamson and Santner provide the backbone of experience, the spotlight will also be on emerging stars like fast bowler Will O’Rourke and all-rounder Nathan Smith. O’Rourke, who claimed four wickets in the Tri-Nation final, has impressed in both Test and limited-overs formats. “It’s different not having Trent and myself at an ICC event, but it’s exciting to see this new group take the stage," Southee said. “Will has the attributes to succeed at the international level—pace, bounce, and a desire to keep improving. The exposure to these conditions in Pakistan will be invaluable for him." Southee also highlighted Smith’s confidence and self-belief, traits he sees as essential at the top level. “Will is a man of few words but listens and learns. Nathan has a real confidence about him, and you need that in international cricket. Both are still growing, and I’m sure they’ll be massive assets for New Zealand for years to come." As the Champions Trophy approaches, Southee remains hopeful that the Blackcaps can replicate the success of the 2000 squad. “New Zealand has a strong track record in ICC events—they’re always in the mix. In a tournament like this, if you get on a roll, anything can happen. I’d love to see the team there at the end, lifting the trophy," he concluded.

Champions Trophy 2025: Former Blackcaps bowler backs Kiwi mix of youth and experience to shine

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