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Mumbai captain and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Rohit Sharma</a>'s teammate Ajinkya Rahane has backed the Indian skipper to come good in the domestic tournament <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ranji-trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ranji Trophy</a>. Rohit will play in Mumbai's next Ranji game against Jammu and Kashmir from January 23 to 26. Rohit has played eight Tests this season and scored only 164 runs in 15 innings at an abysmal average of 10.93.
<h2>Rahane backs Rohit to come good</h2>
"What is important is he is hungry, he is determined to do well," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ajinkya-rahane" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Rahane</a> said about Rohit as reported by news agency PTI on the eve of their match against J&amp;K.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mohammed-siraj-gears-up-for-ranji-trophy-knockout-stage-after-champions-trophy-2025-snub-8643050" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Mohammed Siraj gears up for Ranji Trophy knockout stage after Champions Trophy 2025 snub</a>
"I am sure once he gets in, he will get a big one. He batted really well yesterday [in] a couple of [net] sessions, so it's part and parcel of a player's career. I am really confident about Rohit. He has always been relaxed. Even playing at the international level, his character is similar. His attitude is pretty much relaxed. He knows his game really well so, no one has to tell him what he needs to do. Once he gets in, I'm sure he will do well. He has never changed, which is a very good thing," Rahane added.
<h3>How many runs did Rohit score in his last Ranji Trophy match?</h3>
Rohit last played in the Ranji Trophy in 2015 against Uttar Pradesh. He was required to bat only once in the match and scored 113 off 140 balls as Mumbai declared their innings at 610/9. Rohit had batted at number four, between Shreyas Iyer (137 runs) and Suryakumar Yadav (58 runs).
<h3>Rohit Sharma's Ranji Trophy stats</h3>
Rohit made his debut for Mumbai in 2008 before playing his last match in 2015. In seven years, the Indian skipper went on to play 29 matches and batted in 42 innings, scoring 3,170 runs at an average of 88.05 with 13 centuries and 11 fifties.
Overall, Rohit has played 128 first-class matches (including 67 Tests) and has scored 9,287 runs (including 4,301 Test runs) at an average of 49 with 29 hundreds (12 in Tests) and 38 fifties (18 in Tests).

Rohit last played in the Ranji Trophy in 2015 against Uttar Pradesh and scored 113 off 140 balls as Mumbai declared their innings at 610/9. Cricket Sports

Mumbai captain and Rohit Sharma's teammate Ajinkya Rahane has backed the Indian skipper to come good in the domestic tournament Ranji Trophy. Rohit will play in Mumbai's next Ranji game against Jammu and Kashmir from January 23 to 26. Rohit has played eight Tests this season and scored only 164 runs in 15 innings at an abysmal average of 10.93. Rahane backs Rohit to come good "What is important is he is hungry, he is determined to do well," Rahane said about Rohit as reported by news agency PTI on the eve of their match against J&K. Also Read: Mohammed Siraj gears up for Ranji Trophy knockout stage after Champions Trophy 2025 snub "I am sure once he gets in, he will get a big one. He batted really well yesterday [in] a couple of [net] sessions, so it's part and parcel of a player's career. I am really confident about Rohit. He has always been relaxed. Even playing at the international level, his character is similar. His attitude is pretty much relaxed. He knows his game really well so, no one has to tell him what he needs to do. Once he gets in, I'm sure he will do well. He has never changed, which is a very good thing," Rahane added. How many runs did Rohit score in his last Ranji Trophy match? Rohit last played in the Ranji Trophy in 2015 against Uttar Pradesh. He was required to bat only once in the match and scored 113 off 140 balls as Mumbai declared their innings at 610/9. Rohit had batted at number four, between Shreyas Iyer (137 runs) and Suryakumar Yadav (58 runs). Rohit Sharma's Ranji Trophy stats Rohit made his debut for Mumbai in 2008 before playing his last match in 2015. In seven years, the Indian skipper went on to play 29 matches and batted in 42 innings, scoring 3,170 runs at an average of 88.05 with 13 centuries and 11 fifties. Overall, Rohit has played 128 first-class matches (including 67 Tests) and has scored 9,287 runs (including 4,301 Test runs) at an average of 49 with 29 hundreds (12 in Tests) and 38 fifties (18 in Tests).

'His attitude is...,' Ajinkya Rahane on Rohit Sharma ahead of Mumbai's Ranji Trophy match vs J&K

After being dropped from the Indian squad for the upcoming ODI series against England and the Champions Trophy 2025, Indian pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-siraj">Mohammed Siraj</a> will be taking to domestic cricket to gain back his spot in the national team.
Siraj has started gearing up for the upcoming Group B <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ranji-trophy">Ranji Trophy</a> match for Hyderabad against Vidarbha to be played in Nagpur from January 30 to February 2. The pacer began his preparation with a training session at the Gymkhana Grounds in Hyderabad on Tuesday (Jan 22).
India captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a> said the 30-year-old right-handed pacer lost his effectiveness with the old ball and was thus dropped from the team following India's poor performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/australia">Australia</a>.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ranji-trophy-2024-25-ahead-of-rohit-sharmas-first-game-in-a-decade-for-mumbai-security-tightened-8642954">Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Ahead of Rohit Sharma's first game in a decade for Mumbai, security tightened</a>
&ldquo;Mohammed Siraj gets into gear for the upcoming #RanjiTrophy match between Hyderabad and Vidarbha! He kicked off his prep with an intense session at Gymkhana grounds TODAY!&rdquo; the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) said in a post on X on Tuesday.
Watch the video here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Mohammed Siraj gets into gear for the upcoming <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RanjiTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RanjiTrophy</a> match between Hyderabad and Vidharbha! He kicked off his prep with a intense session at Gymkhana grounds TODAY! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HyderabadVsVidharbha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HyderabadVsVidharbha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RanjiTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RanjiTrophy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Siraj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Siraj</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hyderabad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hyderabad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HCA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HCA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mdsirajofficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mdsirajofficial</a> <a href="https://t.co/lA3EBpxbrs">pic.twitter.com/lA3EBpxbrs</a>
&mdash; hydcacricket (@hydcacricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/hydcacricket/status/1881679208818385194?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

The HCA also put out a video on X, formerly Twitter, which showed Siraj bowling at full steam in nets to local batters.
Siraj will be in action in Hyderabad's next Ranji Trophy match after they meet Himachal Pradesh in Hyderabad from January 23 to 26. Hyderabad is presently sitting in sixth position with nine points from five matches with one win, two losses, and two draws.
Siraj wasn't picked in India&rsquo;s squad for the three ODIs against England and the ICC Champions Trophy. In ODI matches from 2022 to 2024, Siraj has picked 71 wickets at an average of just 22.97, the most by an Indian pacer in this period.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Sports, Cricket: The pacer has started gearing up for the upcoming Group B Ranji Trophy match for Hyderabad against Vidarbha to be played in Nagpur from January 30 to February 2

After being dropped from the Indian squad for the upcoming ODI series against England and the Champions Trophy 2025, Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj will be taking to domestic cricket to gain back his spot in the national team. Siraj has started gearing up for the upcoming Group B Ranji Trophy match for Hyderabad against Vidarbha to be played in Nagpur from January 30 to February 2. The pacer began his preparation with a training session at the Gymkhana Grounds in Hyderabad on Tuesday (Jan 22). India captain Rohit Sharma said the 30-year-old right-handed pacer lost his effectiveness with the old ball and was thus dropped from the team following India's poor performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia. Also Read: Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Ahead of Rohit Sharma's first game in a decade for Mumbai, security tightened “Mohammed Siraj gets into gear for the upcoming #RanjiTrophy match between Hyderabad and Vidarbha! He kicked off his prep with an intense session at Gymkhana grounds TODAY!” the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) said in a post on X on Tuesday. Watch the video here: Mohammed Siraj gets into gear for the upcoming #RanjiTrophy match between Hyderabad and Vidharbha! He kicked off his prep with a intense session at Gymkhana grounds TODAY! #HyderabadVsVidharbha #RanjiTrophy #Siraj #Hyderabad #HCA @mdsirajofficial pic.twitter.com/lA3EBpxbrs — hydcacricket (@hydcacricket) January 21, 2025 The HCA also put out a video on X, formerly Twitter, which showed Siraj bowling at full steam in nets to local batters. Siraj will be in action in Hyderabad's next Ranji Trophy match after they meet Himachal Pradesh in Hyderabad from January 23 to 26. Hyderabad is presently sitting in sixth position with nine points from five matches with one win, two losses, and two draws. Siraj wasn't picked in India’s squad for the three ODIs against England and the ICC Champions Trophy. In ODI matches from 2022 to 2024, Siraj has picked 71 wickets at an average of just 22.97, the most by an Indian pacer in this period. (With inputs from agencies)

Mohammed Siraj gears up for Ranji Trophy knockout stage after Champions Trophy 2025 snub

Ahead of India captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a>&rsquo;s first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ranji-trophy">Ranji Trophy</a> match for the Mumbai team in a decade, Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has made special security and seating arrangements for as many as 500 people. This will be Rohit's first Ranji outing for Mumbai since November 2015.
Defending champions Mumbai will begin the second leg of the Ranji Trophy at the Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy in BKC against Jammu and Kashmir, starting on Thursday (Jan 23). Rohit was named in Mumbai's 17-member squad along with fellow Test opener Yashasvi Jaiswal after Rohit confirmed his participation in domestic cricket.
Interestingly, Rohit will enter an elite list as he will be the first Test captain after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/anil-kumble">Anil Kumble</a> to play in a Ranji Trophy game in the last 17 years.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-1st-t20i-match-prediction-india-look-to-continue-impressive-run-under-suryakumar-yadav-8642577">IND vs ENG, 1st T20I match prediction: India look to continue impressive run under Suryakumar Yadav</a>
The MCA is expecting a huge crowd turnout at their BKC facility for Rohit's comeback match. However, seating arrangements can accommodate only up to 500 people at the venue where the Mumbai team has regularly played its league games in the Ranji Trophy.
&ldquo;Additional security has been arranged and we have also increased the sitting capacity of fans up to 500,&rdquo; a MCA official was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.
<h2>Happy that Rohit is playing in Ranji: Gavaskar</h2>
Former Indian captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sunil-gavaskar">Sunil Gavaskar</a> was happy to learn that Rohit was returning to the Ranji Trophy. &ldquo;Yes, it&rsquo;s a good thing because, look, he didn&rsquo;t get runs in Australia, so he knows he needs to spend time out in the middle. How much net practice you have or however many throwdowns you face, batting in a game, feeling the ball in the middle of the bat, knowing that a mistake will send you back to the pavilion, and then still scoring runs is a big, big difference,&rdquo; Sunil Gavaskar said in an interview.
Mumbai are currently ranked third in Elite Group A, trailing table-toppers Baroda and second-placed Jammu and Kashmir.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Defending champions Mumbai will begin the second leg of the Ranji Trophy at the Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy in BKC against Jammu and Kashmir, starting on Thursday (Jan 23).

Ahead of India captain Rohit Sharma’s first Ranji Trophy match for the Mumbai team in a decade, Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has made special security and seating arrangements for as many as 500 people. This will be Rohit's first Ranji outing for Mumbai since November 2015. Defending champions Mumbai will begin the second leg of the Ranji Trophy at the Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy in BKC against Jammu and Kashmir, starting on Thursday (Jan 23). Rohit was named in Mumbai's 17-member squad along with fellow Test opener Yashasvi Jaiswal after Rohit confirmed his participation in domestic cricket. Interestingly, Rohit will enter an elite list as he will be the first Test captain after Anil Kumble to play in a Ranji Trophy game in the last 17 years. Also Read: IND vs ENG, 1st T20I match prediction: India look to continue impressive run under Suryakumar Yadav The MCA is expecting a huge crowd turnout at their BKC facility for Rohit's comeback match. However, seating arrangements can accommodate only up to 500 people at the venue where the Mumbai team has regularly played its league games in the Ranji Trophy. “Additional security has been arranged and we have also increased the sitting capacity of fans up to 500,” a MCA official was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. Happy that Rohit is playing in Ranji: Gavaskar Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar was happy to learn that Rohit was returning to the Ranji Trophy. “Yes, it’s a good thing because, look, he didn’t get runs in Australia, so he knows he needs to spend time out in the middle. How much net practice you have or however many throwdowns you face, batting in a game, feeling the ball in the middle of the bat, knowing that a mistake will send you back to the pavilion, and then still scoring runs is a big, big difference,” Sunil Gavaskar said in an interview. Mumbai are currently ranked third in Elite Group A, trailing table-toppers Baroda and second-placed Jammu and Kashmir. (With inputs from agencies)

Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Security upped as Rohit Sharma takes the field for Mumbai again

India T20I skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suryakumar-yadav" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Suryakumar Yadav</a> has opened up on being left out of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025 </a>squad. Surya, who played in ODI World Cup 2023 at home, wasn't named in India's 15-man Champions Trophy squad. Surya, however, will lead India in the five T20Is against England which start Wednesday (Jan 22).
<h2>Surya 'hurt' by Champions Trophy snub</h2>
"Why would it hurt? If I do well, I would have been in the Champions Trophy. If I don't do well, it's important to accept that," said SKY at the pre-match press conference on the eve of first England T20I in Kolkata.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-another-controversy-as-pcb-accuses-bcci-of-bringing-politics-into-cricket-8641285" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">2025 Champions Trophy: Another controversy as PCB accuses BCCI of ' bringing politics into cricket'</a>
"And at the same time, if you see the (CT) squad, it's looking really good. Whoever is there, they are all good performers. They have done relatively well in that format for India and also playing domestic cricket and I am very happy for them.
"It hurts to think that I have not done well. And if I had done well, I would have stayed there. If I haven't done well, someone who deserves to have done really well, deserves to be there," he added.
In India's squad for the ICC tournament, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul have been selected in the middle-order while skipper Rohit Sharma and his deputy Shubman Gill have been given the opening role. Yashasvi Jaiswal is in the squad as the back-up opener with Rishabh Pant as the back-up wicketkeeper-batter.
In the lower-middle order, India have Hardik Pandya along with one of the three spin all-rounders namely Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel.
Coming to bowling, India have selected Kuldeep Yadav as the lone specialist spinner to go with three pacers in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah">Jasprit Bumrah</a>, Mohammed Shami and left-armer Arshdeep Singh.
Bumrah although will test his fitness in the final ODI against England of the three-match series to be played after the T20Is before being available for the Champions Trophy.

T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav, who played in ODI World Cup 2023 at home, wasn't named in India's 15-man 2025 Champions Trophy squad. Cricket Sports

India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav has opened up on being left out of Champions Trophy 2025 squad. Surya, who played in ODI World Cup 2023 at home, wasn't named in India's 15-man Champions Trophy squad. Surya, however, will lead India in the five T20Is against England which start Wednesday (Jan 22). Surya 'hurt' by Champions Trophy snub "Why would it hurt? If I do well, I would have been in the Champions Trophy. If I don't do well, it's important to accept that," said SKY at the pre-match press conference on the eve of first England T20I in Kolkata. Also Read: 2025 Champions Trophy: Another controversy as PCB accuses BCCI of ' bringing politics into cricket' "And at the same time, if you see the (CT) squad, it's looking really good. Whoever is there, they are all good performers. They have done relatively well in that format for India and also playing domestic cricket and I am very happy for them. "It hurts to think that I have not done well. And if I had done well, I would have stayed there. If I haven't done well, someone who deserves to have done really well, deserves to be there," he added. In India's squad for the ICC tournament, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul have been selected in the middle-order while skipper Rohit Sharma and his deputy Shubman Gill have been given the opening role. Yashasvi Jaiswal is in the squad as the back-up opener with Rishabh Pant as the back-up wicketkeeper-batter. In the lower-middle order, India have Hardik Pandya along with one of the three spin all-rounders namely Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. Coming to bowling, India have selected Kuldeep Yadav as the lone specialist spinner to go with three pacers in Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and left-armer Arshdeep Singh. Bumrah although will test his fitness in the final ODI against England of the three-match series to be played after the T20Is before being available for the Champions Trophy.

'It hurts to think...,' India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav on 2025 Champions Trophy snub

International Cricket Council (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/international-cricket-council">ICC</a>) chairman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jay-shah">Jay Shah</a> on Tuesday (Jan 21) met International Olympic Committee (IOC) president&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/thomas-bach">Thomas Bach</a> ahead of the Extraordinary IOC session in Lausanne, Switzerland from January 30.
Both of them talked about cricket and appeared to have delved into cricket history and discussed including cricket in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
&ldquo;Momentum continues to build around cricket&rsquo;s inclusion as an @Olympics sport at the @LA2028 Games and beyond, with @JayShah meeting International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach in Lausanne, Switzerland this week,&rdquo; the ICC posted on X on Tuesday (Jan 21).
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-another-controversy-as-pcb-accuses-bcci-of-bringing-politics-into-cricket-8641285">2025 Champions Trophy: Another controversy as PCB accuses BCCI of ' bringing politics into cricket'</a>
Shah, who was elected as ICC chairman last year and took over the role on December 1, 2024, has been actively pushing for cricket&rsquo;s inclusion in the Olympics. He was in Brisbane last month during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and met 2032 Brisbane Olympic Organising Committee head Cindy Hook and Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley, trying to convince them to include cricket in the 2032 Olympics.
Watch the post below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Momentum continues to build around cricket&rsquo;s inclusion as an <a href="https://twitter.com/Olympics?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Olympics</a> sport at the @LA2028 Games and beyond, with <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JayShah</a> meeting International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach in Lausanne, Switzerland this week. <a href="https://t.co/hiySGMGNPg">pic.twitter.com/hiySGMGNPg</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1881649082701422795?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

<h2>Would like to play at the Olympics: Smith</h2>
Cricket will be set for a return in the upcoming Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The last time it was a part of the quadrennial event was in 1900. At that time, it featured only Great Britain and France. This time, with enhanced anticipation and excitement among players. A World Cup winner is also eager to be a part of the competition in the quadrennial event.
"I would like to play at the Olympics, I reckon that would be cool. We&rsquo;ll see how far I go in terms of long form cricket. But I am going to play short form cricket for a while I think when I do finish, you never know," Australia cricketer Steve Smith said as per Forbes.
Cricket will be back alongside baseball and softball, flag football, lacrosse and squash. The play is expected to be hosted in the T20 format for both men and women.

Shah, who was elected as ICC chairman last year and took over the role on 1 December 2024, has been actively pushing for cricket’s inclusion in the Olympics. Sports. Cricket.

International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman Jay Shah on Tuesday (Jan 21) met International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach ahead of the Extraordinary IOC session in Lausanne, Switzerland from January 30. Both of them talked about cricket and appeared to have delved into cricket history and discussed including cricket in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. “Momentum continues to build around cricket’s inclusion as an @Olympics sport at the @LA2028 Games and beyond, with @JayShah meeting International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach in Lausanne, Switzerland this week,” the ICC posted on X on Tuesday (Jan 21). Also Read: 2025 Champions Trophy: Another controversy as PCB accuses BCCI of ' bringing politics into cricket' Shah, who was elected as ICC chairman last year and took over the role on December 1, 2024, has been actively pushing for cricket’s inclusion in the Olympics. He was in Brisbane last month during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and met 2032 Brisbane Olympic Organising Committee head Cindy Hook and Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley, trying to convince them to include cricket in the 2032 Olympics. Watch the post below: Momentum continues to build around cricket’s inclusion as an @Olympics sport at the @LA2028 Games and beyond, with @JayShah meeting International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach in Lausanne, Switzerland this week. pic.twitter.com/hiySGMGNPg — ICC (@ICC) January 21, 2025 Would like to play at the Olympics: Smith Cricket will be set for a return in the upcoming Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The last time it was a part of the quadrennial event was in 1900. At that time, it featured only Great Britain and France. This time, with enhanced anticipation and excitement among players. A World Cup winner is also eager to be a part of the competition in the quadrennial event. "I would like to play at the Olympics, I reckon that would be cool. We’ll see how far I go in terms of long form cricket. But I am going to play short form cricket for a while I think when I do finish, you never know," Australia cricketer Steve Smith said as per Forbes. Cricket will be back alongside baseball and softball, flag football, lacrosse and squash. The play is expected to be hosted in the T20 format for both men and women.

As cricket eyes Olympic return, ICC Chairman Jay Shah meets IOC President Thomas Bach in Lausanne

In a new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025</a> controversy, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has accused the Board of Control for Cricket in India (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BCCI</a>) of 'bringing politics into cricket.' The latest row erupts nearly a month before the ICC tournament gets underway in Pakistan from February 19. India, however, will play all its matches in Dubai, UAE as per the agreed upon hybrid model with the ICC and the PCB.
<h2>New Champions Trophy 2025 Controversy</h2>
The BCCI, as per media reports, has refused to put the name of host nation, in this case Pakistan, on players' jersey. A PCB official, while speaking to the news agency IANS said hitting out at the BCCI for the stance.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-1st-t201-kolkata-i-am-desperate-says-england-coach-brendon-mccullum-ahead-of-first-match-8640879">IND vs ENG 1st T201: 'I'm desperate for...,' says England coach Brendon McCullum ahead of first match</a>
"BCCI is bringing politics into cricket, which is not at all good for the game. They refused to travel to Pakistan. They don't want to send their captain (to Pakistan) for the opening ceremony, now there are reports that they don't want the host nation's (Pakistan) name printed on their jersey. We believe that the world governing body (ICC) will not let this happen and support Pakistan," the PCB official told the agency on condition of anonymity.
The Champions Trophy 2025 has been mired in controversy ever since the venue renovation was announced and the budget was passed by the ICC.
After India refused to travel to Pakistan due to political tensions, the PCB took a hard stance on hosting the entire tournament in the country. They, however, had to buckle down after several meetings with the BCCI and PCB post Jay Shah, former BCCI secretary, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jay-shah-takes-over-as-youngest-ever-icc-chairman-780624" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">took charge as the ICC chairman</a>.
It was eventually decided that India will play its matches in Dubai including the semi-final and the final, if they make it that far. In return, Pakistan will also play its games at neutral venues and won't travel to India for ICC tournaments till 2027.

The Champions Trophy 2025 has been mired in controversy ever since the venue renovation was announced and the budget was passed by the ICC. Cricket Sports

In a new Champions Trophy 2025 controversy, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has accused the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of 'bringing politics into cricket.' The latest row erupts nearly a month before the ICC tournament gets underway in Pakistan from February 19. India, however, will play all its matches in Dubai, UAE as per the agreed upon hybrid model with the ICC and the PCB. New Champions Trophy 2025 Controversy The BCCI, as per media reports, has refused to put the name of host nation, in this case Pakistan, on players' jersey. A PCB official, while speaking to the news agency IANS said hitting out at the BCCI for the stance. Also Read: IND vs ENG 1st T201: 'I'm desperate for...,' says England coach Brendon McCullum ahead of first match "BCCI is bringing politics into cricket, which is not at all good for the game. They refused to travel to Pakistan. They don't want to send their captain (to Pakistan) for the opening ceremony, now there are reports that they don't want the host nation's (Pakistan) name printed on their jersey. We believe that the world governing body (ICC) will not let this happen and support Pakistan," the PCB official told the agency on condition of anonymity. The Champions Trophy 2025 has been mired in controversy ever since the venue renovation was announced and the budget was passed by the ICC. After India refused to travel to Pakistan due to political tensions, the PCB took a hard stance on hosting the entire tournament in the country. They, however, had to buckle down after several meetings with the BCCI and PCB post Jay Shah, former BCCI secretary, took charge as the ICC chairman. It was eventually decided that India will play its matches in Dubai including the semi-final and the final, if they make it that far. In return, Pakistan will also play its games at neutral venues and won't travel to India for ICC tournaments till 2027.

2025 Champions Trophy: Another controversy as PCB accuses BCCI of ' bringing politics into cricket'

England captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jos-buttler">Jos Buttler</a> on Tuesday (Jan 21) stressed upon the importance of allowing players to have their family members accompany them during international tours, highlighting the emotional and mental support this provides.
The statement comes after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) came out with a 10-point guideline. One of the points was the restriction of the players spending time with family members while on tour.
Under the revised rules, families can accompany players for only 14 days during tournaments lasting 45 days or longer. For shorter tours, family stays are restricted to a maximum of seven days.
This policy comes in the wake of India&rsquo;s consecutive Test series losses&mdash;first to New Zealand at home and then to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> looming, the BCCI and head coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gautam-gambhir">Gautam Gambhir</a> are keen to sharpen the team's focus and ensure optimal preparation for upcoming challenges.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-1st-t201-kolkata-i-am-desperate-says-england-coach-brendon-mccullum-ahead-of-first-match-8640879">IND vs ENG 1st T201: 'I'm desperate for...,' says England coach Brendon McCullum ahead of first match</a>
<h2>Manageable to strike balance between family and team: Buttler</h2>
Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of the first T20I between India and England, Buttler emphasised that family presence on tours is highly beneficial in the modern era. He noted that having wives and children alongside players&rsquo; offers a strong emotional anchor, aiding their mental well-being during tight schedules.
"I think it's important. We live in a day and age now, which is a very modern world, and I think it's great to be able to have families on the tour with you and try and enjoy that... There's a lot of cricket, people spend a long time away from home, and I think post-COVID all that's been highlighted as well. Absolutely, I don't think it affects the cricket too much," the England skipper said.
Buttler also said that it is &lsquo;manageable&rsquo; to strike a balance between family time and team focus.
&ldquo;I think it's something that is very manageable. Personally, from my point of view, I think it's really important to try and be able to share that with your family and lighten the load on being away from home,&rdquo; he stated.

Under the revised rules, families can accompany players for only 14 days during tournaments lasting 45 days or longer. For shorter tours, family stays are restricted to a maximum of seven days. Sports. Cricket.

England captain Jos Buttler on Tuesday (Jan 21) stressed upon the importance of allowing players to have their family members accompany them during international tours, highlighting the emotional and mental support this provides. The statement comes after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) came out with a 10-point guideline. One of the points was the restriction of the players spending time with family members while on tour. Under the revised rules, families can accompany players for only 14 days during tournaments lasting 45 days or longer. For shorter tours, family stays are restricted to a maximum of seven days. This policy comes in the wake of India’s consecutive Test series losses—first to New Zealand at home and then to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With the Champions Trophy looming, the BCCI and head coach Gautam Gambhir are keen to sharpen the team's focus and ensure optimal preparation for upcoming challenges. Also Read: IND vs ENG 1st T201: 'I'm desperate for...,' says England coach Brendon McCullum ahead of first match Manageable to strike balance between family and team: Buttler Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of the first T20I between India and England, Buttler emphasised that family presence on tours is highly beneficial in the modern era. He noted that having wives and children alongside players’ offers a strong emotional anchor, aiding their mental well-being during tight schedules. "I think it's important. We live in a day and age now, which is a very modern world, and I think it's great to be able to have families on the tour with you and try and enjoy that... There's a lot of cricket, people spend a long time away from home, and I think post-COVID all that's been highlighted as well. Absolutely, I don't think it affects the cricket too much," the England skipper said. Buttler also said that it is ‘manageable’ to strike a balance between family time and team focus. “I think it's something that is very manageable. Personally, from my point of view, I think it's really important to try and be able to share that with your family and lighten the load on being away from home,” he stated.

England skipper Jos Buttler backs family presence during tours amid BCCI new policy

England coach Brendon McCullum, who starts his tenure with white-ball team during T20I series against India, says that he wants the team to play 'watchable brand of cricket.' The comments come ahead of the first of five-T20I series which starts on Wednesday (Jan 22) at the iconic Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata.
<h2>McCullum wants England to play 'watchable brand of Cricket'</h2>
"I'm desperate for us to play a really watchable brand of cricket," he said at the pre-match conference in Kolkata on Tuesday (Jan 21).&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-england-appoint-harry-brook-as-new-white-ball-vice-captain-8639939">IND vs ENG: England appoint Harry Brook as new white-ball vice-captain</a>
"With the talent we have, there's no reason why we can't. We've got a batting line-up which is as powerful as any batting line-up in the world. We've got gun spinners, very good fielders and guys who bowl absolute rockets with the ball, so you've got options there to be able to entertain and give yourself the greatest chance of success.
"Obviously, we want to win every game we play, to try and be successful, and that's ultimately the mission for us," he said. "But our conversations and the language which we use within the dressing-rooms is quite different," he added.
England have also named dashing batter Harry Brook as the vice-captain in the team ahead of the series. After playing the five T20Is, England will stay back for the three ODIs before they depart to Pakistan for the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy 2025</a>.
The eight-team event is set to be played from February 19 to March 9 and England's ODIs vs India get over on February 12 - giving the two teams a bit of a match-practice ahead of the ICC event.
England are placed in Group B for the Champions Trophy along with Afghanistan, Australia and South Africa. The Group A consists India, Pakistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh.
Pakistan are hosting the tournament but India will play all its matches in Dubai, UAE as per the agreed upon hybrid model.

IND vs ENG 1st T201: England have also named dashing batter Harry Brook as the vice-captain on the team ahead of the five-T20I series which begins on January 22. Cricket Sports

England coach Brendon McCullum, who starts his tenure with white-ball team during T20I series against India, says that he wants the team to play 'watchable brand of cricket.' The comments come ahead of the first of five-T20I series which starts on Wednesday (Jan 22) at the iconic Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata. McCullum wants England to play 'watchable brand of Cricket' "I'm desperate for us to play a really watchable brand of cricket," he said at the pre-match conference in Kolkata on Tuesday (Jan 21). Also Read: IND vs ENG: England appoint Harry Brook as new white-ball vice-captain "With the talent we have, there's no reason why we can't. We've got a batting line-up which is as powerful as any batting line-up in the world. We've got gun spinners, very good fielders and guys who bowl absolute rockets with the ball, so you've got options there to be able to entertain and give yourself the greatest chance of success. "Obviously, we want to win every game we play, to try and be successful, and that's ultimately the mission for us," he said. "But our conversations and the language which we use within the dressing-rooms is quite different," he added. England have also named dashing batter Harry Brook as the vice-captain in the team ahead of the series. After playing the five T20Is, England will stay back for the three ODIs before they depart to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The eight-team event is set to be played from February 19 to March 9 and England's ODIs vs India get over on February 12 - giving the two teams a bit of a match-practice ahead of the ICC event. England are placed in Group B for the Champions Trophy along with Afghanistan, Australia and South Africa. The Group A consists India, Pakistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh. Pakistan are hosting the tournament but India will play all its matches in Dubai, UAE as per the agreed upon hybrid model.

IND vs ENG 1st T20I: 'I'm desperate for...,' says England coach Brendon McCullum ahead of first match

It was a debut to remember for Vaishnavi Sharma as she picked up a fifer and a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hat-trick">hat-trick</a> against Malaysia in their group A clash at Kuala Lumpur in the ongoing ICC Under-19 Women&rsquo;s T20 World Cup 2025.
Vaishnavi became the first-ever India U-19 women cricketer to take a hat-trick in World Cup. On the second ball of the 14th over, the left-arm spinner trapped Ain in front of the wickets.
The following delivery was a repeat of the previous ball as Vaishnavi again trapped Nur Isma Dania into her trap as she was given LBW out. The hat-trick ball was special as the batter created a space for herself, but Sharma quickly saw the gap and bowled her round the leg-stump.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-jos-buttler-led-england-announce-playing-xi-for-eden-gardens-opener-duckett-salt-to-open-8640878">IND vs ENG: Jos Buttler-led England announce Playing XI for Eden Gardens opener; Duckett, Salt to open</a>
The 19-year-old was born in Gwalior, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/madhya-pradesh">Madhya Pradesh</a>, and is also the first cricketer to play from the Chambal region. She is also the holder of the Jagmohan Dalmiya Trophy for the Best Woman Cricketer in the Junior Domestic season in 2022-23.
Watch the hat-trick here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
𝕎 𝕎 𝕎<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s left arm spinner &amp; debutant Vaishnavi Sharma becomes the first Indian bowler to pick up a hattrick in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19WomensWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19WomensWorldCup</a> tournament! 🙌🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19WomensT20WConJioStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19WomensT20WConJioStar</a> 👉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDWvMASW?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDWvMASW</a>, LIVE NOW on Disney+ Hotstar! <a href="https://t.co/DaEdFnus07">pic.twitter.com/DaEdFnus07</a>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1881609966513226190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

Besides Sharma, Aayushi Shukla was also the star with the ball as she took a three-wicket haul to rattle <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/malaysia">Malaysia</a>. Talking about the match, India chased down the target of 32 runs in 2.5 overs.
(With inputs from agencies)

The 19-year-old was born in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, and is also the first cricketer to play from the Chambal region. She is also the Jagmohan Dalmiya Trophy for the Best Woman Cricketer in the Junior Domestic season in 2022-23. Sports. Cricket

It was a debut to remember for Vaishnavi Sharma as she picked up a fifer and a hat-trick against Malaysia in their group A clash at Kuala Lumpur in the ongoing ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025. Vaishnavi became the first-ever India U-19 women cricketer to take a hat-trick in World Cup. On the second ball of the 14th over, the left-arm spinner trapped Ain in front of the wickets. The following delivery was a repeat of the previous ball as Vaishnavi again trapped Nur Isma Dania into her trap as she was given LBW out. The hat-trick ball was special as the batter created a space for herself, but Sharma quickly saw the gap and bowled her round the leg-stump. Also Read: IND vs ENG: Jos Buttler-led England announce Playing XI for Eden Gardens opener; Duckett, Salt to open The 19-year-old was born in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, and is also the first cricketer to play from the Chambal region. She is also the holder of the Jagmohan Dalmiya Trophy for the Best Woman Cricketer in the Junior Domestic season in 2022-23. Watch the hat-trick here: 𝕎 𝕎 𝕎#TeamIndia's left arm spinner & debutant Vaishnavi Sharma becomes the first Indian bowler to pick up a hattrick in #U19WomensWorldCup tournament! 🙌🏻#U19WomensT20WConJioStar 👉 #INDWvMASW, LIVE NOW on Disney+ Hotstar! pic.twitter.com/DaEdFnus07 — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) January 21, 2025 Besides Sharma, Aayushi Shukla was also the star with the ball as she took a three-wicket haul to rattle Malaysia. Talking about the match, India chased down the target of 32 runs in 2.5 overs. (With inputs from agencies)

Women’s U19 T20 World Cup 2025: Vaishnavi scripts history; takes fifer including hat-trick on debut

Australia great <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ian-healy">Ian Healy</a> on Tuesday (Jan 21) said that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=BCCI">BCCI</a>)&rsquo;s 10-point guidelines to the players was an admission of eroding discipline within the Indian team, and he urged other cricketing nations to &lsquo;stay vigilant&rsquo; and not to go through a similar situation.
Following India&rsquo;s 1-3 series loss to Australia in the recent Border-Gavaskar trophy, the BCCI has come out with a slew of measures, making it mandatory for all players &lsquo;to stay for the entire duration of scheduled practice sessions and travel together to and from the venue.&rsquo;
The policy also placed restrictions on the time the players would get with their families while on tour. &ldquo;The reshaping of Indian cricket. A strict, strong response from Indian cricket authorities basically admitting they have let discipline of their national team slip badly,&rdquo; Healy told SEN Radio.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-england-appoint-harry-brook-as-new-white-ball-vice-captain-8639939">IND vs ENG: England appoint Harry Brook as new white-ball vice-captain</a>
&ldquo;It made for extraordinary reading that the following issues could go unapproved for so long. Maybe administrators and players have disrespected the dream of representing a powerhouse of the sport. Australia - plus other countries - be aware as to how far things can get off the rails without noticing the effects. Stay vigilant. Take all that into the contest,&rdquo; he added.
The restrictions were put in place after some players travelled separately with their families during the Australia tour. Until now, never before in Indian cricket did a coach&rsquo;s manager travel along with the side, stay in the same hotel, and even have access to VIP box in stadiums, but Team India head coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gautam-gambhir">Gautam Gambhir</a>&rsquo;s manager, Gaurav Arora, was doing all of this.
The Indian Cricket Board was made aware of the situation and acted swiftly, banning Arora from being part of it.&nbsp;

Following India’s 1-3 series loss to Australia in the recent Border-Gavaskar trophy, the BCCI has come out with a slew of measures. The policy also placed restrictions on the time the players would get with their families while on tour. Sports. Cricket.

Australia great Ian Healy on Tuesday (Jan 21) said that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)’s 10-point guidelines to the players was an admission of eroding discipline within the Indian team, and he urged other cricketing nations to ‘stay vigilant’ and not to go through a similar situation. Following India’s 1-3 series loss to Australia in the recent Border-Gavaskar trophy, the BCCI has come out with a slew of measures, making it mandatory for all players ‘to stay for the entire duration of scheduled practice sessions and travel together to and from the venue.’ The policy also placed restrictions on the time the players would get with their families while on tour. “The reshaping of Indian cricket. A strict, strong response from Indian cricket authorities basically admitting they have let discipline of their national team slip badly,” Healy told SEN Radio. Also Read: IND vs ENG: England appoint Harry Brook as new white-ball vice-captain “It made for extraordinary reading that the following issues could go unapproved for so long. Maybe administrators and players have disrespected the dream of representing a powerhouse of the sport. Australia - plus other countries - be aware as to how far things can get off the rails without noticing the effects. Stay vigilant. Take all that into the contest,” he added. The restrictions were put in place after some players travelled separately with their families during the Australia tour. Until now, never before in Indian cricket did a coach’s manager travel along with the side, stay in the same hotel, and even have access to VIP box in stadiums, but Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir’s manager, Gaurav Arora, was doing all of this. The Indian Cricket Board was made aware of the situation and acted swiftly, banning Arora from being part of it.

Former Australian cricketer Ian Healy warns other teams after BCCI's strict new guidelines

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has described&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya">Hardik Pandya</a> as the player who completes the Indian playing XI for the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">ICC Champions Trophy </a>starting next month.<o:p></o:p>
Hardik was a vital cog in India's machinery during the ODI World Cup 2023 before an injury during the campaign ruled him out of the tournament.
His aggressive batting display and the ability to effortlessly chip in with the ball make him a valuable asset for the Men in Blue.
&ldquo;The main player in the Indian team, without him the playing XI is incomplete is Hardik Pandya. He is my favourite, he is remarkable with the bat and the ball. He finishes the game as well,&rdquo; Kamran said on his YouTube channel.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-1st-t20i-brendon-mccullum-lifts-lid-on-jos-buttlers-role-to-play-as-pure-8639269">IND vs ENG, 1st T20I: Brendon McCullum lifts lid on Jos Buttler's role, 'to play as pure...'</a>
So far, Hardik has featured for India in 86 ODIs, made 1,769 runs at an average of 34.01, including 11 fifties with a best of 92*. With the ball, he has chipped in with 84 wickets at an average of 35.23, with best figures of 4/24.
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Hardik will play an important role: Raina</h2>
Apart from Kamran, former India cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suresh-raina">Suresh Raina</a> also said that the star all-rounder will be important for India during the ICC Champions Trophy.
&ldquo;The most important role will be Hardik Pandya's when he bowls and whether he bowls in tandem with Kuldeep Yadav,&rdquo; Raina said.
For the upcoming marquee event, Rohit Sharma will be the captain of the side while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shubman-gill">Shubman Gill</a> will be his deputy.
The tournament will run from February 19 till March 9. It will be hosted by Pakistan and UAE, with India playing its matches in UAE under a hybrid model.
India squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit Sharma , Shubman Gill , Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul , Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja.

Hardik Pandya was a vital cog in India's machinery during the ODI World Cup 2023 before an injury during the campaign ruled him out of the tournament. Sports. Cricket.

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has described Hardik Pandya as the player who completes the Indian playing XI for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy starting next month. Hardik was a vital cog in India's machinery during the ODI World Cup 2023 before an injury during the campaign ruled him out of the tournament. His aggressive batting display and the ability to effortlessly chip in with the ball make him a valuable asset for the Men in Blue. “The main player in the Indian team, without him the playing XI is incomplete is Hardik Pandya. He is my favourite, he is remarkable with the bat and the ball. He finishes the game as well,” Kamran said on his YouTube channel. Also Read: IND vs ENG, 1st T20I: Brendon McCullum lifts lid on Jos Buttler's role, 'to play as pure...' So far, Hardik has featured for India in 86 ODIs, made 1,769 runs at an average of 34.01, including 11 fifties with a best of 92*. With the ball, he has chipped in with 84 wickets at an average of 35.23, with best figures of 4/24. Hardik will play an important role: Raina Apart from Kamran, former India cricketer Suresh Raina also said that the star all-rounder will be important for India during the ICC Champions Trophy. “The most important role will be Hardik Pandya's when he bowls and whether he bowls in tandem with Kuldeep Yadav,” Raina said. For the upcoming marquee event, Rohit Sharma will be the captain of the side while Shubman Gill will be his deputy. The tournament will run from February 19 till March 9. It will be hosted by Pakistan and UAE, with India playing its matches in UAE under a hybrid model. India squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit Sharma , Shubman Gill , Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul , Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja.

Champions Trophy 2025: Ex-Pakistan batter says India's playing XI is incomplete without THIS player

India batter<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli"> Virat Kohli</a> has confirmed his availability to play for Delhi in the domestic red-ball tournament Ranji Trophy 12 years after playing his last first-class match in domestic cricket. Kohli's availability was confirmed by ESPNCricinfo citing Delhi coach Sarandeep Singh as the source.&nbsp;
Kohli will play in Delhi's last round of group-stage matches against Railways from January 30 to February 2. Kohli's non-confirmation to play in the Ranji Trophy was getting a lot of reaction as other players including <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-to-play-in-ranji-trophy-match-for-mumbai-after-10-years-how-many-runs-he-scored-in-last-match-rohit-sharma-ranji-trophy-runs-highest-score-8638816">Rohit Sharma made themselves available</a>.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-lsg-skipper-rishabh-pant-record-as-captain-wins-loss-runs-and-all-you-need-to-know-8638707" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025: New LSG skipper Rishabh Pant's record as captain - All you need to know</a>
Kohli, however, had informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci">BCCI</a>) that he won't be playing in Delhi's match against Saurashtra from January 23 as he is recovering from neck pain for which he took an injection on January 8 - three days after India's tour of Australia had ended, reported ESPNCricinfo.
<h2>How many runs Virat Kohli scored in his last Ranji Trophy match?</h2>
Kohli played his last Ranji Trophy match against Uttar Pradesh in 2012. Batting at number 4, he scored 14 runs in the first innings as Delhi were bowled out for 235. In the second innings, Kohli scored 43 runs as Delhi scored 322 runs and set UP a target of 155 runs. UP won the match by six wickets.
<h2>Virat Kohli's Ranji Trophy stats</h2>
Kohli made his debut for Delhi in 2006 against Tamil Nadu before playing his last match in 2012. In six years, the former Indian skipper went on to play 23 matches - scoring 1,574 runs at an average of 50.70.
Overall, Kohli has played 155 first-class matches (including his 123 Tests) and has scored 11,479 runs (including 9,230 Test runs) at an average of 55.96 with 37 hundreds (30 in Tests) and 39 fifties (31 in Tests).
The decision to play in domestic cricket comes days after the BCCI made it mandatory for players to play in the new policy.

Kohli played his last Ranji Trophy match against Uttar Pradesh in 2012. Batting at number 4, he scored 14 runs in the first innings and 43 in second innings. Cricket Sports

India batter Virat Kohli has confirmed his availability to play for Delhi in the domestic red-ball tournament Ranji Trophy 12 years after playing his last first-class match in domestic cricket. Kohli's availability was confirmed by ESPNCricinfo citing Delhi coach Sarandeep Singh as the source. Kohli will play in Delhi's last round of group-stage matches against Railways from January 30 to February 2. Kohli's non-confirmation to play in the Ranji Trophy was getting a lot of reaction as other players including Rohit Sharma made themselves available. Also Read: IPL 2025: New LSG skipper Rishabh Pant's record as captain - All you need to know Kohli, however, had informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that he won't be playing in Delhi's match against Saurashtra from January 23 as he is recovering from neck pain for which he took an injection on January 8 - three days after India's tour of Australia had ended, reported ESPNCricinfo. How many runs Virat Kohli scored in his last Ranji Trophy match? Kohli played his last Ranji Trophy match against Uttar Pradesh in 2012. Batting at number 4, he scored 14 runs in the first innings as Delhi were bowled out for 235. In the second innings, Kohli scored 43 runs as Delhi scored 322 runs and set UP a target of 155 runs. UP won the match by six wickets. Virat Kohli's Ranji Trophy stats Kohli made his debut for Delhi in 2006 against Tamil Nadu before playing his last match in 2012. In six years, the former Indian skipper went on to play 23 matches - scoring 1,574 runs at an average of 50.70. Overall, Kohli has played 155 first-class matches (including his 123 Tests) and has scored 11,479 runs (including 9,230 Test runs) at an average of 55.96 with 37 hundreds (30 in Tests) and 39 fifties (31 in Tests). The decision to play in domestic cricket comes days after the BCCI made it mandatory for players to play in the new policy.

Virat Kohli to play in Delhi's Ranji Trophy match vs Railways

India skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Rohit Sharma</a> is set to play for Mumbai in the red-ball tournament Ranji Trophy 10 years after playing his last first-class match in domestic cricket. Rohit confirmed his availability during the announcement of India's 15-man squad for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy-2025" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025</a>.
"Yes, I will play," Rohit said when asked specifically about his participation in domestic cricket.&nbsp;
Rohit will play in Mumbai's next Ranji game against Jammu and Kashmir from January 23 to 26. The side also includes other big players, namely, Shreyas Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shardul Thakur as well.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-lsg-skipper-rishabh-pant-record-as-captain-wins-loss-runs-and-all-you-need-to-know-8638707" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025: New LSG skipper Rishabh Pant's record as captain - All you need to know</a>
<h2>How many runs did Rohit score in his last Ranji Trophy match?</h2>
Rohit last played in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ranji-trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ranji Trophy</a> in 2015 against Uttar Pradesh. He was required to bat only once in the match and scored 113 off 140 balls as Mumbai declared their innings at 610/9. Rohit had batted at number four, between Shreyas Iyer (137 runs) and Suryakumar Yadav (58 runs).
<h2>Rohit Sharma's Ranji Trophy stats</h2>
Rohit made his debut for Mumbai in 2008 before playing his last match in 2015. In seven years, the Indian skipper went on to play 29 matches and batted in 42 innings, scoring 3,170 runs at an average of 88.05 with 13 centuries and 11 fifties.
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After 10 Long Years 𝗥𝗼𝗵𝗶𝘁 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗮 set to Play in Ranji Trophy! Rohit in Ranji Trophy (2008-2015) 29 matches 42 Innings 3170 runs 88.05 Avg 13 Centuries 11 Half Centuries <a href="https://t.co/Vy0l5vgzgp">pic.twitter.com/Vy0l5vgzgp</a>
&mdash; 𝑺𝒉𝒆𝒃𝒂𝒔 (@Shebas_10dulkar) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shebas_10dulkar/status/1880966652214538433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Overall, Rohit has played 128 first-class matches (including 67 Tests) and has scored 9,287 runs (including 4,301 Test runs) at an average of 49 with 29 hundreds (12 in Tests) and 38 fifties (18 in Tests).
Mumbai Ranji Trophy squad for match against Jammu and Kashmir: Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ayush Mhatre, Shreyas Iyer, Siddhesh Lad, Shivam Dube, Hardik Tamore (wk), Akash Anand (wk), Tanush Kotian, Shams Mulani, Himanshu Singh, Shardul Thakur, Mohit Awasthi, Sylvester Dsouza, Royston Dias, Karsh Kothari
&nbsp;

Rohit had last played in Ranji Trophy in 2015 against Uttar Pradesh. He was required to bat only once in the match and had scored 113 off 140 balls. Cricket Sports

India skipper Rohit Sharma is set to play for Mumbai in the red-ball tournament Ranji Trophy 10 years after playing his last first-class match in domestic cricket. Rohit confirmed his availability during the announcement of India's 15-man squad for the Champions Trophy 2025. "Yes, I will play," Rohit said when asked specifically about his participation in domestic cricket. Rohit will play in Mumbai's next Ranji game against Jammu and Kashmir from January 23 to 26. The side also includes other big players, namely, Shreyas Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shardul Thakur as well. Also Read: IPL 2025: New LSG skipper Rishabh Pant's record as captain - All you need to know How many runs did Rohit score in his last Ranji Trophy match? Rohit last played in the Ranji Trophy in 2015 against Uttar Pradesh. He was required to bat only once in the match and scored 113 off 140 balls as Mumbai declared their innings at 610/9. Rohit had batted at number four, between Shreyas Iyer (137 runs) and Suryakumar Yadav (58 runs). Rohit Sharma's Ranji Trophy stats Rohit made his debut for Mumbai in 2008 before playing his last match in 2015. In seven years, the Indian skipper went on to play 29 matches and batted in 42 innings, scoring 3,170 runs at an average of 88.05 with 13 centuries and 11 fifties. After 10 Long Years 𝗥𝗼𝗵𝗶𝘁 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗮 set to Play in Ranji Trophy! Rohit in Ranji Trophy (2008-2015) 29 matches 42 Innings 3170 runs 88.05 Avg 13 Centuries 11 Half Centuries pic.twitter.com/Vy0l5vgzgp — 𝑺𝒉𝒆𝒃𝒂𝒔 (@Shebas_10dulkar) January 19, 2025 Overall, Rohit has played 128 first-class matches (including 67 Tests) and has scored 9,287 runs (including 4,301 Test runs) at an average of 49 with 29 hundreds (12 in Tests) and 38 fifties (18 in Tests). Mumbai Ranji Trophy squad for match against Jammu and Kashmir: Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ayush Mhatre, Shreyas Iyer, Siddhesh Lad, Shivam Dube, Hardik Tamore (wk), Akash Anand (wk), Tanush Kotian, Shams Mulani, Himanshu Singh, Shardul Thakur, Mohit Awasthi, Sylvester Dsouza, Royston Dias, Karsh Kothari

Rohit Sharma to play in Ranji Trophy match for Mumbai after 10 years

Indian Premier League (IPL) side <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lucknow-super-giants">Lucknow Super Giants</a> (LSG) announced <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rishabh-pant">Rishabh Pant</a> as the new LSG skipper at an event on Monday (Jan 20) in Kolkata. Pant replaces KL Rahul as LSG skipper who had led the team in the first three seasons from 2022 to 2024. Rahul and Pant switched sides in the IPL mega auction 2025 when Delhi Capitals, Pant's former IPL team, picked Rahul and named him the skipper as well.
Pant was picked up by LSG in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025">IPL 2025</a> mega auction for an exorbitant amount of INR 27 crore (US $3.21 million approx.), making him the most expensive player in the history of the league. With Pant at helm, LSG aims to end their trophy drought&mdash;something that Rahul couldn't do. Let's have a look at how good a chance Pant has as a player and a captain:
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-new-lsg-captain-rishabh-pant-says-he-learned-to-care-for-a-player-from-rohit-sharma-8638520">New LSG captain Rishabh Pant says learned to 'care for a player' from Rohit Sharma</a>
<h2>Pant's Record As IPL Captain</h2>
This will be the first time Pant will turn up for a different team other than the Delhi Capitals in the IPL. The wicketkeeper-batter had started his career with DC in 2016 and went on to play 111 matches for them.
Pant was named the DC skipper in 2021 before a car accident ruled him out of the 2023 season. He returned in 2024 to lead the side before moving out of the team.
In his capacity as the DC skipper, Pant led the team in 43 matches and registered wins in 23 of them. He lost 19 IPL matches as captain, while one game ended in a tie. Pant's win percentage as IPL captain is 53.48 with a win-loss ratio of 1.21.
As for his batting prowess, Pant scored 3,284 runs in 11 matches at an average of 35 and a strike rate of 148.93. He also hit 18 fifties and a hundred in the IPL for DC, with a highest of 128 not out.
Pant, as IPL captain, has scored 1205 runs at an average of 35 and a strike rate of 143.96 - clearly showing no impact of captaincy on his batting. He has also hit six fifties as IPL captain with a highest of 88 not out.
His runs as IPL captain are third most for Delhi Capitals, following Virender Sehwag (1523 runs in 52 matches) and Shreyas Iyer (1242 runs in 41 matches).

In his capacity as the DC skipper, Pant led the team in 43 matches and registered a win in 23 of them. He lost 19 IPL matches as captain while one game ended as tie. cricket sports

Indian Premier League (IPL) side Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) announced Rishabh Pant as the new LSG skipper at an event on Monday (Jan 20) in Kolkata. Pant replaces KL Rahul as LSG skipper who had led the team in the first three seasons from 2022 to 2024. Rahul and Pant switched sides in the IPL mega auction 2025 when Delhi Capitals, Pant's former IPL team, picked Rahul and named him the skipper as well. Pant was picked up by LSG in the IPL 2025 mega auction for an exorbitant amount of INR 27 crore (US $3.21 million approx.), making him the most expensive player in the history of the league. With Pant at helm, LSG aims to end their trophy drought—something that Rahul couldn't do. Let's have a look at how good a chance Pant has as a player and a captain: Also Read: New LSG captain Rishabh Pant says learned to 'care for a player' from Rohit Sharma Pant's Record As IPL Captain This will be the first time Pant will turn up for a different team other than the Delhi Capitals in the IPL. The wicketkeeper-batter had started his career with DC in 2016 and went on to play 111 matches for them. Pant was named the DC skipper in 2021 before a car accident ruled him out of the 2023 season. He returned in 2024 to lead the side before moving out of the team. In his capacity as the DC skipper, Pant led the team in 43 matches and registered wins in 23 of them. He lost 19 IPL matches as captain, while one game ended in a tie. Pant's win percentage as IPL captain is 53.48 with a win-loss ratio of 1.21. As for his batting prowess, Pant scored 3,284 runs in 11 matches at an average of 35 and a strike rate of 148.93. He also hit 18 fifties and a hundred in the IPL for DC, with a highest of 128 not out. Pant, as IPL captain, has scored 1205 runs at an average of 35 and a strike rate of 143.96 - clearly showing no impact of captaincy on his batting. He has also hit six fifties as IPL captain with a highest of 88 not out. His runs as IPL captain are third most for Delhi Capitals, following Virender Sehwag (1523 runs in 52 matches) and Shreyas Iyer (1242 runs in 41 matches).

IPL 2025: New LSG skipper Rishabh Pant's record as captain - All you need to know

Indian Premier League (IPL) side <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lucknow-super-giants">Lucknow Super Giants</a>' (LSG) new captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rishabh-pant">Rishabh Pant</a> said that he has learned to care for players from skipper Rohit Sharma. He made the statement at an event in Kolkata where Pant was announced as the new LSG skipper. Pant was acquired by LSG for an exorbitant amount of INR 27 crore (US $3.21 million approx.) at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025">IPL 2025</a> mega auction in December 2024.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;ve learnt from a lot of captains and a lot of my seniors because I feel you don&rsquo;t have to only learn from your captain. There are a lot of senior players who have experience of the game, the way the game is moving forward. There&rsquo;s a lot you can learn from all the seniors, not just the captain,&rdquo; said Pant during the event.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jasprit-bumrah-coldplay-concert-in-mumbai-chris-martin-sorry-for-telling-lie-pacer-reacts-8638369" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'I'm so sorry,' says Coldplay's Chris Martin for telling 'a lie' about Jasprit Bumrah during Mumbai concert</a>
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s difficult to be very specific. With Rohit bhai, I have learnt how to care for a player. And I feel the same as a captain when I captain a side. I feel if you give confidence and trust to a player, he will do things you can&rsquo;t even imagine for you and for the team. And that&rsquo;s the kind of ideology we like to have,&rdquo; added Pant.&nbsp;
<h2>LSG to have 'never-say-die attitude'</h2>
The new skipper also said that the team under him 'will have a clear communication and a never-say-die attitude.' Pant replaces KL Rahul as LSG skipper who had led the team in the first three seasons from 2022-2024. Rahul and Pant switched sides in the IPL mega auction when Delhi Capitals, Pant's former IPL team, picked Rahul and named him the skipper as well.
The wicketkeeper-batter also said that he was worried about being picked by Punjab Kings who had a huge purse in the IPL mega auction.
"I only had one tension, that was Punjab. They had the highest purse," Pant had said during the auction in an interview.
The new skipper of LSG has promised to give his "200%". "That's my commitment to you. I will try whatever is in my power to repay the faith you have shown. Looking forward to have a new beginning with new energy and just have a blast out there, and have lots of fun."
<h2>Pant IPL stats</h2>
This will be the first time Pant will turn up for a different team other than Delhi Capitals in the IPL. The wicketkeeper-batter started his career with Delhi in 2016 and went on to play 111 matches for them.
In those matches, Pant scored 3,284 runs at an average of 35 and a strike rate of 148.93. He also hit 18 fifties and a hundred in the IPL for DC with a high score of 128 not out. He was also named the skipper in 2021 before a car accident ruled him out of the 2023 season. He returned in 2024 to lead the side before moving out of the team.

New LSG captain Rishabh Pant, who was bought for INR 27 crore (US $3.21 million approx.), said that the team under him 'will have a clear communication and a never-say-die attitude.' Cricket Sports

Indian Premier League (IPL) side Lucknow Super Giants' (LSG) new captain Rishabh Pant said that he has learned to care for players from skipper Rohit Sharma. He made the statement at an event in Kolkata where Pant was announced as the new LSG skipper. Pant was acquired by LSG for an exorbitant amount of INR 27 crore (US $3.21 million approx.) at the IPL 2025 mega auction in December 2024. “I’ve learnt from a lot of captains and a lot of my seniors because I feel you don’t have to only learn from your captain. There are a lot of senior players who have experience of the game, the way the game is moving forward. There’s a lot you can learn from all the seniors, not just the captain,” said Pant during the event. Also Read: 'I'm so sorry,' says Coldplay's Chris Martin for telling 'a lie' about Jasprit Bumrah during Mumbai concert “It’s difficult to be very specific. With Rohit bhai, I have learnt how to care for a player. And I feel the same as a captain when I captain a side. I feel if you give confidence and trust to a player, he will do things you can’t even imagine for you and for the team. And that’s the kind of ideology we like to have,” added Pant. LSG to have 'never-say-die attitude' The new skipper also said that the team under him 'will have a clear communication and a never-say-die attitude.' Pant replaces KL Rahul as LSG skipper who had led the team in the first three seasons from 2022-2024. Rahul and Pant switched sides in the IPL mega auction when Delhi Capitals, Pant's former IPL team, picked Rahul and named him the skipper as well. The wicketkeeper-batter also said that he was worried about being picked by Punjab Kings who had a huge purse in the IPL mega auction. "I only had one tension, that was Punjab. They had the highest purse," Pant had said during the auction in an interview. The new skipper of LSG has promised to give his "200%". "That's my commitment to you. I will try whatever is in my power to repay the faith you have shown. Looking forward to have a new beginning with new energy and just have a blast out there, and have lots of fun." Pant IPL stats This will be the first time Pant will turn up for a different team other than Delhi Capitals in the IPL. The wicketkeeper-batter started his career with Delhi in 2016 and went on to play 111 matches for them. In those matches, Pant scored 3,284 runs at an average of 35 and a strike rate of 148.93. He also hit 18 fifties and a hundred in the IPL for DC with a high score of 128 not out. He was also named the skipper in 2021 before a car accident ruled him out of the 2023 season. He returned in 2024 to lead the side before moving out of the team.

IPL 2025: New LSG captain Rishabh Pant says learned to 'care for a player' from Rohit Sharma

Music band Coldplay singer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chris-martin">Chris Martin</a> apologised on Sunday for telling a 'lie' related to India pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah">Jasprit Bumrah</a> during the band's concert in Mumbai on January 18. Martin had also given a shoutout to the pacer during the show and showed a clip of the bowler as well.
&ldquo;This is very serious. Yesterday, during our show, we said that Jasprit Burmah had asked us to stop the show because he was backstage and wanted to bowl at me. This was not true. It was a lie. I'm so sorry," Martin said on Sunday (Jan 19), as reported by news outlet Hindustan Times.
<h2>Bumrah reacts to Coldplay's tribute</h2>
India pacer Bumrah, on Monday (Jan 20), reacted to the shoutout to him by Coldplay during their Mumbai concert. The pacer shared Martin's clip on his official X account and acknowledged that 'it made him smile.'
"This made me smile! Incredible vibe at the @coldplay concert in Mumbai (from what I&rsquo;ve seen here) and even more special to be mentioned," Bumrah wrote on X along side a clip. Have a look at the post below:
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This made me smile! Incredible vibe at the <a href="https://twitter.com/coldplay?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@coldplay</a> concert in Mumbai (from what I&rsquo;ve seen here) and even more special to be mentioned ✨ <a href="https://t.co/SQuTVbwhWs">pic.twitter.com/SQuTVbwhWs</a>
&mdash; Jasprit Bumrah (@Jaspritbumrah93) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93/status/1881316762635173953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Bumrah will next be seen in action during the India vs England third ODI on February 12. The pacer has been selected in India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy 2025</a> squad but will test his fitness in the third England ODI prior to that.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-india-team-news-today-aakash-chopra-says-siraj-should-have-been-selected-instead-of-three-spinners-8638254">Ex-India opener feels Mohammed Siraj should have been in India squad</a>
Along with Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh have been selected as two other pacers, while all-rounder Hardik Pandya is expected to play a role with the ball as well.
The Champions Trophy begins on February 19 in Pakistan, but India will play all matches in Dubai, UAE, as per the agreed upon hybrid model with the ICC and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
India squad for Champions Trophy: Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh and Yashasvi Jaiswal

India pacer Bumrah, on Jan 20, reacted to the shoutout to him by Coldplay during their Mumbai concert. The pacer acknowledged that 'it made him smile.' Cricket Sports

Music band Coldplay singer Chris Martin apologised on Sunday for telling a 'lie' related to India pacer Jasprit Bumrah during the band's concert in Mumbai on January 18. Martin had also given a shoutout to the pacer during the show and showed a clip of the bowler as well. “This is very serious. Yesterday, during our show, we said that Jasprit Burmah had asked us to stop the show because he was backstage and wanted to bowl at me. This was not true. It was a lie. I'm so sorry," Martin said on Sunday (Jan 19), as reported by news outlet Hindustan Times. Bumrah reacts to Coldplay's tribute India pacer Bumrah, on Monday (Jan 20), reacted to the shoutout to him by Coldplay during their Mumbai concert. The pacer shared Martin's clip on his official X account and acknowledged that 'it made him smile.' "This made me smile! Incredible vibe at the @coldplay concert in Mumbai (from what I’ve seen here) and even more special to be mentioned," Bumrah wrote on X along side a clip. Have a look at the post below: This made me smile! Incredible vibe at the @coldplay concert in Mumbai (from what I’ve seen here) and even more special to be mentioned ✨ pic.twitter.com/SQuTVbwhWs — Jasprit Bumrah (@Jaspritbumrah93) January 20, 2025 Bumrah will next be seen in action during the India vs England third ODI on February 12. The pacer has been selected in India's Champions Trophy 2025 squad but will test his fitness in the third England ODI prior to that. Also Read: Ex-India opener feels Mohammed Siraj should have been in India squad Along with Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh have been selected as two other pacers, while all-rounder Hardik Pandya is expected to play a role with the ball as well. The Champions Trophy begins on February 19 in Pakistan, but India will play all matches in Dubai, UAE, as per the agreed upon hybrid model with the ICC and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). India squad for Champions Trophy: Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh and Yashasvi Jaiswal

'I'm so sorry,' says Coldplay's Chris Martin for telling 'a lie' about Jasprit Bumrah during Mumbai concert

Former India opener Aakash Chopra says pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-siraj">Mohammed Siraj</a> should have been in India's Champions Trophy 2025 squad. The comments come a couple of days after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bumrah-shami-return-to-15-man-india-squad-for-champions-trophy-karun-nair-misses-out-8632588">15-man squad</a> for the ICC tournament, which is scheduled to be played from February 19 to March 9.
"In my opinion, Mohammed Siraj should have been a part of this team, and I will even tell in whose place he should have been there," Chopra stated on his YouTube channel. "The team has two left-arm spinners and one off-spinner. You could have dropped one of the three. If you wished, you could have left out Ravindra Jadeja and kept Mohammed Siraj in his place."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/vice-captain-axar-patel-ready-for-new-challenge-with-role-flexibility-in-england-t20is-8637963" rel="dofollow">Vice-captain Axar Patel ready for new challenge with &lsquo;role flexibility&rsquo; in England T20Is</a>
"I feel Siraj would have had greater value. He would have been used more. He would have contributed more to the team, and I see lesser chances of Jadeja playing. Honestly speaking, he might not play at all. So if Jadeja is not going to play, you would have had a player who would have had greater chances of playing," he added.
<h2>Why was Siraj not picked?</h2>
During the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad announcement press conference, skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a> explained that Siraj's impact with the new ball has dipped and hence he has not been selected in the squad.
&ldquo;That's purely because we thought over it. We are not sure about Bumrah, whether he is going to play or not. So, we thought of wanting someone who can bowl with the new ball and at the backend. So we picked Arshdeep to bowl at the backend. Shami, we all saw what he can do with the new ball," Rohit had said on January 18.
India have three pacers in the squad in Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh with all-rounder Hardik Pandya expected to play a role with the ball as well.

During the Champions Trophy 2025 squad announcement, skipper Rohit explained that Siraj's impact with the new ball has dipped and hence he has not been selected. Cricket Sports

Former India opener Aakash Chopra says pacer Mohammed Siraj should have been in India's Champions Trophy 2025 squad. The comments come a couple of days after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the 15-man squad for the ICC tournament, which is scheduled to be played from February 19 to March 9. "In my opinion, Mohammed Siraj should have been a part of this team, and I will even tell in whose place he should have been there," Chopra stated on his YouTube channel. "The team has two left-arm spinners and one off-spinner. You could have dropped one of the three. If you wished, you could have left out Ravindra Jadeja and kept Mohammed Siraj in his place." Also Read: Vice-captain Axar Patel ready for new challenge with ‘role flexibility’ in England T20Is "I feel Siraj would have had greater value. He would have been used more. He would have contributed more to the team, and I see lesser chances of Jadeja playing. Honestly speaking, he might not play at all. So if Jadeja is not going to play, you would have had a player who would have had greater chances of playing," he added. Why was Siraj not picked? During the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad announcement press conference, skipper Rohit Sharma explained that Siraj's impact with the new ball has dipped and hence he has not been selected in the squad. “That's purely because we thought over it. We are not sure about Bumrah, whether he is going to play or not. So, we thought of wanting someone who can bowl with the new ball and at the backend. So we picked Arshdeep to bowl at the backend. Shami, we all saw what he can do with the new ball," Rohit had said on January 18. India have three pacers in the squad in Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh with all-rounder Hardik Pandya expected to play a role with the ball as well.

2025 Champions Trophy: 'Could have dropped...,' Ex-India opener feels Mohammed Siraj should have been in India squad

Axar Patel, Team India&rsquo;s new T20I vice-captain, feels his role will be more than of a floater during the England series. The left-handed all-rounder has been India&rsquo;s mainstay across both domains, batting and bowling, with his performance in the 2024 T20 World Cup final against South Africa (with the bat) a testament to it.
Given that ageing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jadeja">Ravindra Jadeja</a> is approaching the twilight stage of his ODI career, Axar remains the first choice for any captain across formats.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/disappointed-and-perplexed-shreyas-iyer-breaks-silence-on-kkr-exit-ahead-of-ipl-2025-8637827" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Disappointed and perplexed&rsquo; Shreyas Iyer breaks silence on KKR exit</a>
Besides being known to bowl tight lines in the shortest format, Axar&rsquo;s role as middle order batter has come in handy for India. Though his numbers until the end of 2022 read 21.26 (batting average) and 131.25 (strike rate), his promotion in the batting order saw a surge, with both increasing rapidly (average to 30.32 and strike rate 145.62 since the start of 2023).
Batting at number three, four, six and seven in the past two years across all competitions (for India, IPL and domestic), Axar has scored six fifties.
Shedding light on his role in this new-looking T20I side, Axar said, "Batting wise, it's not just with me, but we spoke in 2023-24 itself that the openers are fixed, but everyone from Nos. 3 to 7 have been told that they can come into bat anytime, in any situation. It is not just that one batter will bat at a particular position.
"Our middle order will come to bat depending on the match situation, what kind of bowlers are bowling at the time, which match-up works well.
"We've spoken about that how we can all be floaters, be it coming in early or obviously finishing. This is not just for me but for everyone from No. 3 and below, especially if they are in good touch in the nets. We will adjust accordingly. In T20Is, how you use your batters is so crucial, so this is an important factor in batting,&rdquo; Axar said in a chat with reporters on Monday in Kolkata.
<h2>New day, new role</h2>
Besides thinking about how to be used during 40 overs, Axar will now have to play as Suryakumar&rsquo;s deputy, meaning he will now be part of the leadership group, working towards building the team for the next T20 World Cup (next year).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/womens-u19-t20-world-cup-2025-nigeria-beat-new-zealand-in-one-crickets-greatest-upsets-8637229" rel="dofollow">Women&rsquo;s U19 T20 World Cup 2025: Nigeria beat New Zealand in cricket&rsquo;s greatest upset</a>
"It has just been a day, but as part of the leadership group, there is an extra responsibility," Axar said. "The T20I side is settled, so there's not much pressure, but there are small decisions that need making, and during the game, I need to work closely with Suryakumar.
"As part of the leadership group, you have to learn to take harsh decisions. We have spoken about sharing our genuine opinions, and that will help build trust in this group.
"The T20I format is such that it is so fast that you have to make decisions quickly, so the larger conversations [with the coaches] is about how to do that,&rdquo; he continued.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, India will play five T20Is against England starting January 22 in Kolkata.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Given that ageing Ravindra Jadeja is approaching the twilight stage of his ODI career, Axar remains the first choice for any captain across formats.

Axar Patel, Team India’s new T20I vice-captain, feels his role will be more than of a floater during the England series. The left-handed all-rounder has been India’s mainstay across both domains, batting and bowling, with his performance in the 2024 T20 World Cup final against South Africa (with the bat) a testament to it. Given that ageing Ravindra Jadeja is approaching the twilight stage of his ODI career, Axar remains the first choice for any captain across formats. Also read | ‘Disappointed and perplexed’ Shreyas Iyer breaks silence on KKR exit Besides being known to bowl tight lines in the shortest format, Axar’s role as middle order batter has come in handy for India. Though his numbers until the end of 2022 read 21.26 (batting average) and 131.25 (strike rate), his promotion in the batting order saw a surge, with both increasing rapidly (average to 30.32 and strike rate 145.62 since the start of 2023). Batting at number three, four, six and seven in the past two years across all competitions (for India, IPL and domestic), Axar has scored six fifties. Shedding light on his role in this new-looking T20I side, Axar said, "Batting wise, it's not just with me, but we spoke in 2023-24 itself that the openers are fixed, but everyone from Nos. 3 to 7 have been told that they can come into bat anytime, in any situation. It is not just that one batter will bat at a particular position. "Our middle order will come to bat depending on the match situation, what kind of bowlers are bowling at the time, which match-up works well. "We've spoken about that how we can all be floaters, be it coming in early or obviously finishing. This is not just for me but for everyone from No. 3 and below, especially if they are in good touch in the nets. We will adjust accordingly. In T20Is, how you use your batters is so crucial, so this is an important factor in batting,” Axar said in a chat with reporters on Monday in Kolkata. New day, new role Besides thinking about how to be used during 40 overs, Axar will now have to play as Suryakumar’s deputy, meaning he will now be part of the leadership group, working towards building the team for the next T20 World Cup (next year). Also read | Women’s U19 T20 World Cup 2025: Nigeria beat New Zealand in cricket’s greatest upset "It has just been a day, but as part of the leadership group, there is an extra responsibility," Axar said. "The T20I side is settled, so there's not much pressure, but there are small decisions that need making, and during the game, I need to work closely with Suryakumar. "As part of the leadership group, you have to learn to take harsh decisions. We have spoken about sharing our genuine opinions, and that will help build trust in this group. "The T20I format is such that it is so fast that you have to make decisions quickly, so the larger conversations [with the coaches] is about how to do that,” he continued. Meanwhile, India will play five T20Is against England starting January 22 in Kolkata. (With inputs from agencies)

Vice-captain Axar Patel ready for new challenge with ‘role flexibility’ in England T20Is

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lucknow-super-giants">Lucknow Super Giants</a> (LSG) has named <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rishabh-pant">Rishabh Pant</a> as its new skipper. LSG named Pant as the captain at an event on Monday (Jan 20) in Kolkata. Pant was acquired by LSG for an exorbitant amount of INR 27 crore (US $3.21 million approx.) at the IPL mega auction in December 2024.
"Thank you to LSG family for showing the faith in me," Pant said, alongside team owner Sanjiv Goenka and mentor Zaheer Khan. "I will give my 200% and that's my commitment to you. I will try whatever is in my power to repay the faith you have shown. Looking forward to have a new beginning with new energy and just have a blast out there, and have lots of fun."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/this-ex-world-cup-winner-wants-pant-to-play-with-more-responsibility-he-is-8637219" rel="dofollow">This ex-World Cup winner wants Pant to play with more responsibility</a>
<h2>Pant-Rahul switch sides</h2>
Pant replaces KL Rahul as LSG skipper who had led the team in the first three seasons from 2022-2024. Rahul and Pant switched sides in the IPL mega auction 2025 when Delhi Capitals, Pant's former IPL team, picked Rahul and named him the skipper as well.
This will be the first time Pant will turn up for a different team other than Delhi Capitals in the IPL. The wicketkeeper-batter had started his career with DC in 2016 and went on to play 111 matches for them.
In those matches, Pant scored 3,284 runs at an average of 35 and a strike rate of 148.93. He also hit 18 fifties and a hundred in the IPL for DC with a highest of 128 not out. He was also named the skipper in 2021 before a car accident ruled him out of the 2023 season. He returned in 2024 to lead the side before moving out of the team.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025">IPL 2025</a> starts on March 21 weekend at Eden Gardens, Kolkata with the final set to be played on May 25 at the same venue.

Pant was acquired by LSG for an exorbitant amount of INR 27 crore (US $3.21 million approx.) at the IPL mega auction in December 2024. Cricket Sports

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) has named Rishabh Pant as its new skipper. LSG named Pant as the captain at an event on Monday (Jan 20) in Kolkata. Pant was acquired by LSG for an exorbitant amount of INR 27 crore (US $3.21 million approx.) at the IPL mega auction in December 2024. "Thank you to LSG family for showing the faith in me," Pant said, alongside team owner Sanjiv Goenka and mentor Zaheer Khan. "I will give my 200% and that's my commitment to you. I will try whatever is in my power to repay the faith you have shown. Looking forward to have a new beginning with new energy and just have a blast out there, and have lots of fun." Also Read: This ex-World Cup winner wants Pant to play with more responsibility Pant-Rahul switch sides Pant replaces KL Rahul as LSG skipper who had led the team in the first three seasons from 2022-2024. Rahul and Pant switched sides in the IPL mega auction 2025 when Delhi Capitals, Pant's former IPL team, picked Rahul and named him the skipper as well. This will be the first time Pant will turn up for a different team other than Delhi Capitals in the IPL. The wicketkeeper-batter had started his career with DC in 2016 and went on to play 111 matches for them. In those matches, Pant scored 3,284 runs at an average of 35 and a strike rate of 148.93. He also hit 18 fifties and a hundred in the IPL for DC with a highest of 128 not out. He was also named the skipper in 2021 before a car accident ruled him out of the 2023 season. He returned in 2024 to lead the side before moving out of the team. IPL 2025 starts on March 21 weekend at Eden Gardens, Kolkata with the final set to be played on May 25 at the same venue.

IPL 2025: Rishabh Pant named LSG captain. 'Looking forward to...'

Amid rumours of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shreyas-iyer">Shreyas Iyer</a> leading <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kkr">KKR</a>&rsquo;s retention race ahead of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl">IPL 2025</a> auction late last year, the India international and the IPL 2024 champions parted ways, with KKR opting to retain six players but Iyer. The middle-order batter helped Kolkata Knight Riders win their third IPL title, beating SunRisers Hyderabad in the finale.
Fast-forward to January 2025, Iyer is named the new captain of Punjab Kings (PBKS), with the IPL franchise splurging $3.09mn (INR 26.75 crore) &ndash; a record price in the auction history. Although he held the record of the most expensive player ever (for a few minutes), LSG bagging Rishabh Pant for a whopping $3.11m (INR 27 crore) surpassed his figures.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-vows-to-bring-champions-trophy-home-recalls-mumbais-victory-parade-during-wankhedes-50th-anniversary-8636854" rel="dofollow">Upbeat India captain Rohit vows to bring Champions Trophy title home</a>
Meanwhile, for the first time since parting ways with KKR, for whom he played two seasons (2022-2204), missing the 2023 edition with an injury, Iyer broke his silence on what happened behind the scenes. Dismissing reports of him seeking more money being the reason behind KKR&rsquo;s call, Iyer said &lsquo;lack of communication&rsquo; led to the fallout between them.
"Certainly, I had a fantastic time winning the championship at KKR,&rdquo; Iyer said in a chat with the Indian Express.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The fan following was outstanding; they were electrifying in the stadium and I loved every moment I spent there. So, obviously, we had a conversation straight after the IPL championship. But for a few months, there was a layover and no concrete effort in having a retention talk.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I was perplexed about what was happening. So, because of a lack of communication, we came to a situation where we parted ways mutually. And that&rsquo;s the long and short of it," he said.
<h2>&lsquo;Disappointing&rsquo;</h2>
Iyer didn&rsquo;t mince his words to admit that he expected KKR to act quickly and not take until one week before the retention date to discuss the future. The star India batter said he had to take a call, and what happened afterwards was perhaps written in the stars.
"Yes, obviously disappointed because when you don&rsquo;t have a certain line of communication and if you get to know things one week prior to the retention date, then obviously something is lacking over there. So I had to take a call. Whatever is written is supposed to happen," he added.
Meanwhile, Iyer reunites with former Australia captain Ricky Ponting at the PBKS, who joined their backroom staff as the new coach.&nbsp;
The 18th edition of the IPL begins on March 21 weekend.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: The middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer helped Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) win their third IPL title, beating SunRisers Hyderabad in the finale.

Amid rumours of Shreyas Iyer leading KKR’s retention race ahead of the IPL 2025 auction late last year, the India international and the IPL 2024 champions parted ways, with KKR opting to retain six players but Iyer. The middle-order batter helped Kolkata Knight Riders win their third IPL title, beating SunRisers Hyderabad in the finale. Fast-forward to January 2025, Iyer is named the new captain of Punjab Kings (PBKS), with the IPL franchise splurging $3.09mn (INR 26.75 crore) – a record price in the auction history. Although he held the record of the most expensive player ever (for a few minutes), LSG bagging Rishabh Pant for a whopping $3.11m (INR 27 crore) surpassed his figures. Also read | Upbeat India captain Rohit vows to bring Champions Trophy title home Meanwhile, for the first time since parting ways with KKR, for whom he played two seasons (2022-2204), missing the 2023 edition with an injury, Iyer broke his silence on what happened behind the scenes. Dismissing reports of him seeking more money being the reason behind KKR’s call, Iyer said ‘lack of communication’ led to the fallout between them. "Certainly, I had a fantastic time winning the championship at KKR,” Iyer said in a chat with the Indian Express. “The fan following was outstanding; they were electrifying in the stadium and I loved every moment I spent there. So, obviously, we had a conversation straight after the IPL championship. But for a few months, there was a layover and no concrete effort in having a retention talk. “I was perplexed about what was happening. So, because of a lack of communication, we came to a situation where we parted ways mutually. And that’s the long and short of it," he said. ‘Disappointing’ Iyer didn’t mince his words to admit that he expected KKR to act quickly and not take until one week before the retention date to discuss the future. The star India batter said he had to take a call, and what happened afterwards was perhaps written in the stars. "Yes, obviously disappointed because when you don’t have a certain line of communication and if you get to know things one week prior to the retention date, then obviously something is lacking over there. So I had to take a call. Whatever is written is supposed to happen," he added. Meanwhile, Iyer reunites with former Australia captain Ricky Ponting at the PBKS, who joined their backroom staff as the new coach. The 18th edition of the IPL begins on March 21 weekend. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Disappointed and perplexed’: Shreyas Iyer breaks silence on KKR exit

Former Indian cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suresh-raina">Suresh Raina</a> recently shared his thoughts on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rishabh-pant">Rishabh Pant</a>&rsquo;s importance to the Indian cricket team and the upcoming T20I and ODI series against England. Speaking on Star Sports Press Room, Raina praised Pant&rsquo;s improvement in wicket-keeping and stressed the need for him to play with more responsibility in the 50-over format.
&ldquo;Rishabh has improved a lot as a wicket-keeper. In this tournament, he needs to focus on batting responsibly. If Yashasvi isn&rsquo;t in the top order, Pant can be a crucial player, batting at number four or even before <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya">Hardik Pandya</a>. If he plays 40-50 balls, he can change the game. He has the talent and ability to be the X-factor, but he must avoid mistakes that could cost the team,&rdquo; Raina stated.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-vows-to-bring-champions-trophy-home-recalls-mumbais-victory-parade-during-wankhedes-50th-anniversary-8636854">Upbeat India captain Rohit vows to bring Champions Trophy title home</a>
Speaking about the importance of the series against England and his predictions for the Champions Trophy semi-finalists, Raina said the matches would help key players like Mohammed Shami and Washington Sundar who haven&rsquo;t played ODIs recently. He predicted India, New Zealand, Afghanistan, and South Africa as semi-finalists, praising Afghanistan&rsquo;s mystery spinners and team unity. &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t underestimate Afghanistan. They&rsquo;ve played a lot of short-format cricket and are a strong unit,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>England series crucial for building momentum: Raina</h2>
Addressing India&rsquo;s recent run in ODIs, Raina said, &ldquo;There are concerns after losses to New Zealand and Sri Lanka, and our top three batters need to regain form. This series is crucial to building momentum. Pakistan doesn&rsquo;t have an edge over us as we have six match-winners and quality bowlers. But batting with patience, building partnerships, and adapting to different wickets will be key.&rdquo;
Raina also highlighted the absence of a leg-spinner, saying a player like Bishnoi could have been valuable. He expressed confidence in Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s leadership and backed veterans like Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja to deliver in a tight situation.
Recalling the 2013 Champions Trophy win, Raina said, "Rohit, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat</a>, and Jadeja were brilliant then. Rohit has matured as a captain and batsman since, and I believe he can replicate his World Cup performances. If Rohit stays for 20-25 overs, he could produce match-winning innings in Dubai&rsquo;s challenging conditions."

Suresh Raina praised Pant’s improvement in wicket-keeping and stressed the need for him to play with more responsibility in the 50-over format. Sports. Cricket.

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina recently shared his thoughts on Rishabh Pant’s importance to the Indian cricket team and the upcoming T20I and ODI series against England. Speaking on Star Sports Press Room, Raina praised Pant’s improvement in wicket-keeping and stressed the need for him to play with more responsibility in the 50-over format. “Rishabh has improved a lot as a wicket-keeper. In this tournament, he needs to focus on batting responsibly. If Yashasvi isn’t in the top order, Pant can be a crucial player, batting at number four or even before Hardik Pandya. If he plays 40-50 balls, he can change the game. He has the talent and ability to be the X-factor, but he must avoid mistakes that could cost the team,” Raina stated. Also Read: Upbeat India captain Rohit vows to bring Champions Trophy title home Speaking about the importance of the series against England and his predictions for the Champions Trophy semi-finalists, Raina said the matches would help key players like Mohammed Shami and Washington Sundar who haven’t played ODIs recently. He predicted India, New Zealand, Afghanistan, and South Africa as semi-finalists, praising Afghanistan’s mystery spinners and team unity. “Don’t underestimate Afghanistan. They’ve played a lot of short-format cricket and are a strong unit,” he added. England series crucial for building momentum: Raina Addressing India’s recent run in ODIs, Raina said, “There are concerns after losses to New Zealand and Sri Lanka, and our top three batters need to regain form. This series is crucial to building momentum. Pakistan doesn’t have an edge over us as we have six match-winners and quality bowlers. But batting with patience, building partnerships, and adapting to different wickets will be key.” Raina also highlighted the absence of a leg-spinner, saying a player like Bishnoi could have been valuable. He expressed confidence in Rohit Sharma’s leadership and backed veterans like Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja to deliver in a tight situation. Recalling the 2013 Champions Trophy win, Raina said, "Rohit, Virat, and Jadeja were brilliant then. Rohit has matured as a captain and batsman since, and I believe he can replicate his World Cup performances. If Rohit stays for 20-25 overs, he could produce match-winning innings in Dubai’s challenging conditions."

This ex-World Cup winner wants Pant to play with more responsibility

Cricket has seen some mightiest upsets, but none like Nigeria beating New Zealand. On Monday (Jan 20), the African nation registered their first win in the ongoing Women&rsquo;s Under-19 T20 World Cup 2025, beating heavyweight New Zealand by a whisker.
Batting first after losing the toss in the rain-affected match in Kuching, Malaysia, Nigeria scored a gritty 65 for six in 13 overs, with their captain Lucky Piety and batter Lillian Udeh top-scoring, hitting 19* and 18, respectively.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-vows-to-bring-champions-trophy-home-recalls-mumbais-victory-parade-during-wankhedes-50th-anniversary-8636854" rel="dofollow">Upbeat India captain Rohit vows to bring Champions Trophy title home</a>
For the White Ferns, five bowlers picked a wicket each, with Ayaan Lambat being the only exception.&nbsp;
New Zealand&rsquo;s chase went horribly wrong, with opener Kate Irwin getting run out on the first ball without facing a delivery. Her fellow opener, Emma McLeod, departed two overs later to the right-arm seamer Usen Peace.&nbsp;
NZ kept losing wickets at regular intervals, with their scorecard at the end of 11 overs reading 49 for five, needing 17 off two overs.&nbsp;
It is where the game got interesting.&nbsp;
<h2>Time for history!</h2>
Captain Tash Wakelin kept her side in the chase, hitting a four in the penultimate over, with New Zealand scoring eight off it, leaving nine for the final six balls.&nbsp;
They, however, managed just six off Udeh&rsquo;s third over as Nigeria scripted history, winning their maiden ICC Women's U19 T20 World Cup event game.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/fit-again-shami-throws-rockets-with-strapped-knee-in-training-ahead-of-england-t20i-opener-watch-8636647" rel="dofollow">Fit-again Shami throws 'rockets' in training with strapped knee - Watch</a>
Udeh was her side&rsquo;s hero for the day, hitting 18 while batting and conceding just eight runs off three overs, including picking a wicket. She won the Player of the Match for her star performance.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the Nigerian women&rsquo;s team will take on South Africa in their league match on Wednesday (Jan 22), with the New Zealand women&rsquo;s team taking on Samoa on the same day.&nbsp;
Besides, their positions on the points table are almost contrasting. While Nigeria sits in the second spot with one win and a no-result in two scheduled matches, the White Ferns are at the bottom of it, having lost both games played thus far.

Sports, Cricket: The Nigerian women’s team will take on South Africa in their league match on Wednesday (Jan 22), with the New Zealand women’s team taking on Samoa on the same day.

Cricket has seen some mightiest upsets, but none like Nigeria beating New Zealand. On Monday (Jan 20), the African nation registered their first win in the ongoing Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup 2025, beating heavyweight New Zealand by a whisker. Batting first after losing the toss in the rain-affected match in Kuching, Malaysia, Nigeria scored a gritty 65 for six in 13 overs, with their captain Lucky Piety and batter Lillian Udeh top-scoring, hitting 19* and 18, respectively. Also read | Upbeat India captain Rohit vows to bring Champions Trophy title home For the White Ferns, five bowlers picked a wicket each, with Ayaan Lambat being the only exception. New Zealand’s chase went horribly wrong, with opener Kate Irwin getting run out on the first ball without facing a delivery. Her fellow opener, Emma McLeod, departed two overs later to the right-arm seamer Usen Peace. NZ kept losing wickets at regular intervals, with their scorecard at the end of 11 overs reading 49 for five, needing 17 off two overs. It is where the game got interesting. Time for history! Captain Tash Wakelin kept her side in the chase, hitting a four in the penultimate over, with New Zealand scoring eight off it, leaving nine for the final six balls. They, however, managed just six off Udeh’s third over as Nigeria scripted history, winning their maiden ICC Women's U19 T20 World Cup event game. Also read | Fit-again Shami throws 'rockets' in training with strapped knee - Watch Udeh was her side’s hero for the day, hitting 18 while batting and conceding just eight runs off three overs, including picking a wicket. She won the Player of the Match for her star performance. Meanwhile, the Nigerian women’s team will take on South Africa in their league match on Wednesday (Jan 22), with the New Zealand women’s team taking on Samoa on the same day. Besides, their positions on the points table are almost contrasting. While Nigeria sits in the second spot with one win and a no-result in two scheduled matches, the White Ferns are at the bottom of it, having lost both games played thus far.

Women’s U19 T20 World Cup 2025: Nigeria beat New Zealand in cricket’s greatest upset

Amid all the drama and talks around <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a>&rsquo;s form, captaincy and position in the team, especially in Tests, the Indian captain vows to bring the coveted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">ICC Champions Trophy</a> (CT) title home, he said during Wankhede&rsquo;s 50th anniversary celebratory event in Mumbai on Sunday (Jan 19). Recalling the victory parade in the city following India&rsquo;s T20 World Cup win in the Americas last year, Rohit said he wishes to relive that moment again this time.
Present alongside Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, and Ravi Shastri at a ceremony hosted by the Mumbai Cricket Association, Rohit posed with the CT trophy but at a distance despite Gavaskar and Shastri pushing him to come closer to it. In a heartfelt video doing rounds on social media, Rohit politely denied their request, urging the seniors to take centre stage instead.&nbsp;
<h3>Watch &ndash;</h3>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m64pnd42-25li9964-cgax89q5">
Sunil Gavaskar and Ravi Shastri were asking Captain Rohit Sharma to stand near the Champions Trophy during photo shoot, but Rohit refused to stand near the trophy and stood in the corner.🥹❤️ Captain bring it home 🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> 🐐 <a href="https://t.co/GeqWV2aoij">pic.twitter.com/GeqWV2aoij</a>
&mdash; 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) <a href="https://twitter.com/rushiii_12/status/1880986561313165599?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
Meanwhile, Rohit continues to lead India in the eight-team tournament in Dubai (Pakistan being the original host), with the BCCI selectors announcing a potent 15-man squad late last week.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/fit-again-shami-throws-rockets-with-strapped-knee-in-training-ahead-of-england-t20i-opener-watch-8636647" rel="dofollow">Fit-again Shami throws rockets in training with strapped knee - Watch</a>
Banking on the support from millions of cricket fans back home and his team&rsquo;s performance, Rohit wishes to bring the title home, celebrating again at the iconic Wankhede Stadium.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m64pr8ar-e5d8szqf-zwngiv9t">
𝗔 𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗺𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗻 𝗶𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗲! 🤩 The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy</a> was graced by the icons of Indian cricket at the historic Wankhede Stadium 🏆🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/vzkdHDgPLk">pic.twitter.com/vzkdHDgPLk</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1881005977241334225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
"We will embark on another tournament. I am sure when we reach Dubai, the wishes of 140 crore people will be behind us, we know that," Rohit said. "We will try and do everything we can to bring this trophy back here to the Wankhede," he added.
While the tournament begins (on February 19) in Pakistan, India will play all its matches in Dubai (the neutral venue) under the approved hybrid model, including the semis and the final, should they qualify.&nbsp;
India, placed in Group A, will open their campaign against Bangladesh (February 20) before facing the arch-rivals three days later. Rohit&rsquo;s side will take on New Zealand in their last league match a week later at the same venue.
<h2>Rohit recalls victory parade</h2>
After Team India ended their ICC trophy drought last year with their second T20 World Cup title, the fans gave a heroic welcome to Rohit&rsquo;s team upon their return to the country.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/no-personal-vehicles-for-indian-cricketers-as-cab-enforces-bccis-policy-ahead-of-england-t20is-8636495">IND vs ENG 2025: No personal vehicles for Indian cricketers as Bengal cricket body CAB enforces BCCI&rsquo;s policy</a>
A sea of cricket fans wearing blue jerseys surrounded Team India&rsquo;s open-roof bus parade along the Marine Drive culminating with a massive celebration at the Wankhede Stadium.
"I remember, we were still in Barbados after winning the World Cup, and we were stuck there due to a storm, but planning was in process as to what we would do once we were back in India.
"It was planned that we would go to Delhi, but what after that? No one knew what to do after that, but I wanted that World Cup (trophy) should come here to Wankhede. Each of the recent World Cups we have won in 2007 and 2011 has been celebrated at Wankhede, and bringing the trophy of 2024 was also very important for us," Rohit added.
Meanwhile, Rohit will return to action during the three-match ODI series against England starting February 6.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: After India ended their ICC trophy drought with their second T20 World Cup title, the fans gave a heroic welcome to them upon their return to the country.

Amid all the drama and talks around Rohit Sharma’s form, captaincy and position in the team, especially in Tests, the Indian captain vows to bring the coveted ICC Champions Trophy (CT) title home, he said during Wankhede’s 50th anniversary celebratory event in Mumbai on Sunday (Jan 19). Recalling the victory parade in the city following India’s T20 World Cup win in the Americas last year, Rohit said he wishes to relive that moment again this time. Present alongside Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, and Ravi Shastri at a ceremony hosted by the Mumbai Cricket Association, Rohit posed with the CT trophy but at a distance despite Gavaskar and Shastri pushing him to come closer to it. In a heartfelt video doing rounds on social media, Rohit politely denied their request, urging the seniors to take centre stage instead. Watch – Sunil Gavaskar and Ravi Shastri were asking Captain Rohit Sharma to stand near the Champions Trophy during photo shoot, but Rohit refused to stand near the trophy and stood in the corner.🥹❤️ Captain bring it home 🏆 @ImRo45 🐐 pic.twitter.com/GeqWV2aoij — 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) January 19, 2025 Meanwhile, Rohit continues to lead India in the eight-team tournament in Dubai (Pakistan being the original host), with the BCCI selectors announcing a potent 15-man squad late last week. Also read | Fit-again Shami throws rockets in training with strapped knee - Watch Banking on the support from millions of cricket fans back home and his team’s performance, Rohit wishes to bring the title home, celebrating again at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. 𝗔 𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗺𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗻 𝗶𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗲! 🤩 The #ChampionsTrophy was graced by the icons of Indian cricket at the historic Wankhede Stadium 🏆🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/vzkdHDgPLk — ICC (@ICC) January 19, 2025 "We will embark on another tournament. I am sure when we reach Dubai, the wishes of 140 crore people will be behind us, we know that," Rohit said. "We will try and do everything we can to bring this trophy back here to the Wankhede," he added. While the tournament begins (on February 19) in Pakistan, India will play all its matches in Dubai (the neutral venue) under the approved hybrid model, including the semis and the final, should they qualify. India, placed in Group A, will open their campaign against Bangladesh (February 20) before facing the arch-rivals three days later. Rohit’s side will take on New Zealand in their last league match a week later at the same venue. Rohit recalls victory parade After Team India ended their ICC trophy drought last year with their second T20 World Cup title, the fans gave a heroic welcome to Rohit’s team upon their return to the country. Also read | IND vs ENG 2025: No personal vehicles for Indian cricketers as Bengal cricket body CAB enforces BCCI’s policy A sea of cricket fans wearing blue jerseys surrounded Team India’s open-roof bus parade along the Marine Drive culminating with a massive celebration at the Wankhede Stadium. "I remember, we were still in Barbados after winning the World Cup, and we were stuck there due to a storm, but planning was in process as to what we would do once we were back in India. "It was planned that we would go to Delhi, but what after that? No one knew what to do after that, but I wanted that World Cup (trophy) should come here to Wankhede. Each of the recent World Cups we have won in 2007 and 2011 has been celebrated at Wankhede, and bringing the trophy of 2024 was also very important for us," Rohit added. Meanwhile, Rohit will return to action during the three-match ODI series against England starting February 6. (With inputs from agencies)

Upbeat India captain Rohit vows to bring Champions Trophy title home

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shami">Mohammed Shami</a> has returned to the Indian Team, since ODI World Cup final (in November 2023), bowling full throttle in his first training session on Sunday in Kolkata. Ahead of the T20I series opener against England on Wednesday (Jan 22) at the Eden Gardens, Shami&rsquo;s bowling was the focus as he threw 'rockets' in the nets with the strapped knee.
The ace Indian quick looked in his element and bowled for over an hour in the nets, with the bowling coach Morne Morkel keeping a close tab on his progress. Upon returning to competitive cricket late last year, Shami played several Ranji Trophy matches (for Bengal) before plying his trade in the domestic white-ball competitions &ndash; Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/no-personal-vehicles-for-indian-cricketers-as-cab-enforces-bccis-policy-ahead-of-england-t20is-8636495" rel="dofollow">IND vs ENG 2025: No personal vehicles for Indian cricketers as CAB enforces BCCI&rsquo;s policy</a>
Although he recovered from the swelling on his knee, something India captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit">Rohit Sharma</a> pointed out as one of the reasons for Shami's delayed international comeback, the selectors decided against picking him for India&rsquo;s tour of Australia. In his absence, Jasprit Bumrah shouldered the entire burden, even captaining India in two matches, while returning with 32 wickets across nine innings &ndash; the most by any bowler in BGT 2024/25.
Shami began training by marking a spot on a good-length area on the practice pitches, warming up by bowling with a half run-up for close to 20 minutes. He then bowled full run-ups to openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma before getting down to fielding drills with coach T Dilip and head coach Gambhir. Following the net session, Shami wrapped up the evening with a full-throttle ten-minute spell on the practice pitches.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m64noblp-dwgzwyqu-angc89pe">
He's BACK 💪🏻 Team India 🇮🇳 Mohd. Shami 😎 Eden Gardens 🏟️ Just perfect 👌🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/MdShami11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MdShami11</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/PwCuEOcaDA">pic.twitter.com/PwCuEOcaDA</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1881189914370293788?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Ready for India comeback</h2>
Having missed all cricket action for India since suffering an ankle injury some 14 months ago, Shami will lead the pace attack against England in the five T20Is.&nbsp;
The selectors also picked the right-arm pacer for England ODIs and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">ICC Champions Trophy</a> starting February 19, with Jasprit Bumrah, recovering from a back injury, leading the three-bowler seam attack in the showpiece event.&nbsp;
While Pakistan, the tournament host, will stage all matches, India will play all its games in Dubai, the chosen neutral venue, including the marquee clash against arch-rivals on (February 23). Besides the three league games (against Bangladesh on Feb 20 and New Zealand on Mar 2), Dubai will host India&rsquo;s knockout games, should they qualify.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Having missed all cricket action for India since suffering an ankle injury some 14 months ago, Shami will lead the pace attack against England in the five T20Is. 


Mohammed Shami has returned to the Indian Team, since ODI World Cup final (in November 2023), bowling full throttle in his first training session on Sunday in Kolkata. Ahead of the T20I series opener against England on Wednesday (Jan 22) at the Eden Gardens, Shami’s bowling was the focus as he threw 'rockets' in the nets with the strapped knee. The ace Indian quick looked in his element and bowled for over an hour in the nets, with the bowling coach Morne Morkel keeping a close tab on his progress. Upon returning to competitive cricket late last year, Shami played several Ranji Trophy matches (for Bengal) before plying his trade in the domestic white-ball competitions – Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy. Also read | IND vs ENG 2025: No personal vehicles for Indian cricketers as CAB enforces BCCI’s policy Although he recovered from the swelling on his knee, something India captain Rohit Sharma pointed out as one of the reasons for Shami's delayed international comeback, the selectors decided against picking him for India’s tour of Australia. In his absence, Jasprit Bumrah shouldered the entire burden, even captaining India in two matches, while returning with 32 wickets across nine innings – the most by any bowler in BGT 2024/25. Shami began training by marking a spot on a good-length area on the practice pitches, warming up by bowling with a half run-up for close to 20 minutes. He then bowled full run-ups to openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma before getting down to fielding drills with coach T Dilip and head coach Gambhir. Following the net session, Shami wrapped up the evening with a full-throttle ten-minute spell on the practice pitches. He's BACK 💪🏻 Team India 🇮🇳 Mohd. Shami 😎 Eden Gardens 🏟️ Just perfect 👌🏻#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @MdShami11 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/PwCuEOcaDA — BCCI (@BCCI) January 20, 2025 Ready for India comeback Having missed all cricket action for India since suffering an ankle injury some 14 months ago, Shami will lead the pace attack against England in the five T20Is. The selectors also picked the right-arm pacer for England ODIs and the ICC Champions Trophy starting February 19, with Jasprit Bumrah, recovering from a back injury, leading the three-bowler seam attack in the showpiece event. While Pakistan, the tournament host, will stage all matches, India will play all its games in Dubai, the chosen neutral venue, including the marquee clash against arch-rivals on (February 23). Besides the three league games (against Bangladesh on Feb 20 and New Zealand on Mar 2), Dubai will host India’s knockout games, should they qualify. (With inputs from agencies)

Fit-again Shami throws 'rockets' in training with strapped knee - Watch

The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has disallowed players to travel to the game venues in personal vehicles, adhering to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow">BCCI</a>&rsquo;s new 10-point policy document. Instead, all players would travel together from the training to the hotel and vice-versa in the team bus, as mentioned in one of the pointers. Ahead of the five-match T20Is against England starting Wednesday (Jan 22) at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, the BCCI shared the latest mandate with all state associations hosting games.
CAB president Snehasish Ganguly said the body has made all arrangements in accordance with the BCCI&rsquo;s new policies on Sunday (Jan 19), Team India&rsquo;s first day of training at the Eden Gardens.&nbsp;
"In keeping with the BCCI's 10-point guidelines for players, the Cricket Association of Bengal has not arranged any separate means of conveyance [for individual players]," Ganguly said, as quoted by PTI news agency.&nbsp;
"Only a team bus has been arranged for the Indian team. There won't be any personal vehicles for the cricketers.&nbsp;We have to follow the guidelines, which clearly state that all players are expected to travel with the team to and from matches and practice sessions,&rdquo; he continued.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-champions-trophy-team-news-suresh-raina-says-suryakumar-yadav-x-factor-will-be-missed-8635623" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: 'He will be missed,' Ex-India batter on not having X-factor in squad</a>
In that specific notification, a player must get a &lsquo;pre-approved&rsquo; nod from the head coach or the chief selector to travel separately from the rest of the squad to training or matches and must wait for the training session or the game to get over before leaving the venue.
"This rule ensures commitment and fosters a strong work ethic within the team," the document said.
<h2>What led to BCCI issuing strict new guidelines?</h2>
Early last week, in the wake of India&rsquo;s horror run in Tests, a high-profile review meeting in Mumbai took place, including the board members, the chief selector Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir and Test and ODI captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit">Rohit Sharma</a>, where the BCCI decided to issue the new policy document.&nbsp;
The Rohit-led side had lost six of the last eight contested Tests (three to New Zealand at home and as many (1-3) against Australia Down Under), piling misery on Indian Cricket.
In an attempt to put things back in place, the BCCI issued a new mandate, notifying everyone of it.
Should any centrally contracted player (not playing any series for India) decide not to abide by the new rules, the repercussions would follow which will exceed just disciplinary actions.
India and England will play five T20Is, followed by three One-Dayers starting February 6. The Men in Blue will travel to Dubai next for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> starting February 19, with India&rsquo;s first match scheduled against Bangladesh the next day.&nbsp;
India will face host Pakistan three days later (on February 23) before taking on New Zealand in their last league a week later. Dubai will host all India matches, including the knockouts, should they qualify.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Ahead of the five-match T20Is against England starting Wednesday (Jan 22), the BCCI shared the latest mandate with all state associations hosting games.

The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has disallowed players to travel to the game venues in personal vehicles, adhering to BCCI’s new 10-point policy document. Instead, all players would travel together from the training to the hotel and vice-versa in the team bus, as mentioned in one of the pointers. Ahead of the five-match T20Is against England starting Wednesday (Jan 22) at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, the BCCI shared the latest mandate with all state associations hosting games. CAB president Snehasish Ganguly said the body has made all arrangements in accordance with the BCCI’s new policies on Sunday (Jan 19), Team India’s first day of training at the Eden Gardens. "In keeping with the BCCI's 10-point guidelines for players, the Cricket Association of Bengal has not arranged any separate means of conveyance [for individual players]," Ganguly said, as quoted by PTI news agency. "Only a team bus has been arranged for the Indian team. There won't be any personal vehicles for the cricketers. We have to follow the guidelines, which clearly state that all players are expected to travel with the team to and from matches and practice sessions,” he continued. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: 'He will be missed,' Ex-India batter on not having X-factor in squad In that specific notification, a player must get a ‘pre-approved’ nod from the head coach or the chief selector to travel separately from the rest of the squad to training or matches and must wait for the training session or the game to get over before leaving the venue. "This rule ensures commitment and fosters a strong work ethic within the team," the document said. What led to BCCI issuing strict new guidelines? Early last week, in the wake of India’s horror run in Tests, a high-profile review meeting in Mumbai took place, including the board members, the chief selector Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir and Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma, where the BCCI decided to issue the new policy document. The Rohit-led side had lost six of the last eight contested Tests (three to New Zealand at home and as many (1-3) against Australia Down Under), piling misery on Indian Cricket. In an attempt to put things back in place, the BCCI issued a new mandate, notifying everyone of it. Should any centrally contracted player (not playing any series for India) decide not to abide by the new rules, the repercussions would follow which will exceed just disciplinary actions. India and England will play five T20Is, followed by three One-Dayers starting February 6. The Men in Blue will travel to Dubai next for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 starting February 19, with India’s first match scheduled against Bangladesh the next day. India will face host Pakistan three days later (on February 23) before taking on New Zealand in their last league a week later. Dubai will host all India matches, including the knockouts, should they qualify. (With inputs from agencies)

IND vs ENG 2025: No personal vehicles for Indian cricketers as Bengal cricket body CAB enforces BCCI’s policy

India Champions Trophy Team Updates: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci">BCCI</a>) has announced the India squad for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/2025-champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">2025 Champions Trophy</a> and the England ODIs as well. Most of the expected names made the team while there were some surprises as well.
India selected KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as two wicketkeeper-batters while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</a> was overlooked - a hot topic of discussion. Shubman Gill was named the vice captain - a surprise move by the board.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/karun-nair">Karun Nair</a>, who had a blasting Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) during which he averaged 389.50 in eight innings, was also overlooked with Shreyas Iyer, Virat Kohli and Rahul expected to handle the middle order.
Pacer Jasprit Bumrah was also included in the team (subject to fitness) while Mohammed Shami made a comeback as well. Among the spinners, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Washigton Sundar were included with no place for Varun Chakravarthy.
India play all its matches in Dubai, UAE including semi-final and the final - if they make it that far. The tournament starts February 19 with the final scheduled to be played on March 9.
India Champions Trophy 2025 Team: Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh and Yashasvi Jaiswal
<h2>This Live Blog has Ended now.</h2>

Former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has backed Pakistan to win the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 as only a month remains for the start of the coveted tournament. Speaking to broadcasters, Gavaskar reckons the home side will have the advantage, citing the situation&nbsp;in the 2023 ODI World Cup where India being the home side had the advantage.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-india-but-sunil-gavaskar-predicts-this-team-to-win-champions-trophy-2025-8632495">Read More</a>

Champions Trophy News: Sunil Gavaskar picks his winner

Former India all-rounder Suresh Raina says that India's T20 skipper Suryakumar Yadav will be missed in the Champions Trophy 2025. The Board on Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) didn't name Surya in the 15-man India squad for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/2025-champions-trophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2025 Champions Trophy</a>&nbsp;squad.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-champions-trophy-team-news-suresh-raina-says-suryakumar-yadav-x-factor-will-be-missed-8635623">Read More</a>

India Champions Trophy Team Live Updates: Suresh Raina on India missing X-factor

The BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar explained why Karun Nair failed to make the cut in India&rsquo;s Champions Trophy squad announced on Saturday (Jan 18). Indian captain Rohit Sharma and Agarkar revealed the chosen 15 for the first showpiece event of the year during a presser in Mumbai.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/chief-selector-ajit-agarkar-explains-karun-nairs-snub-from-indias-champions-trophy-2025-squad-8632946">Read More</a>

India Champions Trophy Team Live Updates: Agarkar explains Karun Nair snub

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BCCI</a>) chief selector Ajit Agarkar has said that any decision on Virat Kohli and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rohit Sharma</a>'s future will be taken after the ICC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/2025-champions-trophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Champions Trophy 2025</a>. The ICC tournament is scheduled to be played from February 19 to March 9.
Senior batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are facing heat after a poor show in the recently-concluded tour of Australia where India lost the five-Test series 1-3.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-champions-trophy-team-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-retirement-news-ajit-agarkar-statement-8635509">Read More</a>

India Champions Trophy Team Live Updates: Rohit-Kohli's future to be decided after Champions Trophy 2025

Indian skipper&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rohit Sharma</a>&nbsp;explained why&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-siraj" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mohammed Siraj</a>&nbsp;failed to make the cut in squad for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Champions Trophy</a>&nbsp;and the ODIs against England announced on Saturday (Jan 18).
Siraj, who has 71 ODI wickets to his name in 44 games, was not included in the squad especially with uncertainties around Jasprit Bumrah&rsquo;s availability. In place of Siraj, left-arm pacer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/arshdeep-singh" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arshdeep Singh</a>&nbsp;has earned a spot after becoming the highest wicket-taker in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sirajs-impact-dips-when-not-bowling-with-the-new-ball-rohit-8633213">Read More</a>

India Champions Trophy Team Live Updates: Rohit reveals reason behind Siraj's snub

Board on Control for Cricket in India (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BCCI</a>) chief selector&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ajit-agarkar" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ajit Agarkar</a>&nbsp;says that the new regulations by the board is not a punishment for players. The statement comes after the BCCI announced a new policy for the players which limits family time on the tour and makes it mandatory to play domestic cricket.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/chief-selector-ajit-agarkar-statement-on-new-bcci-policy-india-champions-trophy-team-8635385">Read More</a>

India Champions Trophy Team Live Updates: BCCI chief selector on new player policy

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has attributed his exclusion to Kerala Cricket Association&rsquo;s (KCA) failure in handling Samson&rsquo;s case. Tharoor alleges the administrators&rsquo; egos have cost Samson a place in India&rsquo;s ODI squad for the first showpiece event of the year.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/destroyed-by-egos-of-administrators-congress-mp-shashi-tharoor-on-sanju-samsons-absence-from-indias-champions-trophy-squad-8634644">Read More</a>

India Champions Trophy Team Live Updates: Congress MP Tharoor chimes in on Samson snub

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sanju Samson</a>'s non participation in the recently-concluded domestic 50-over tournament Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) may have led to his non-selection in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2025 Champions Trophy</a>&nbsp;India squad. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, selected KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as the two wicketkeepers in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bumrah-shami-return-to-15-man-india-squad-for-champions-trophy-karun-nair-misses-out-8632588" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India Champions Trophy squad</a>.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-champions-trophy-2025-team-news-vijay-hajare-trophy-absence-reason-behind-samson-non-selection-kca-president-responsd-8635125">Read Here</a>

India Champions Trophy Team Live Updates: VHT absence reason behind Sanju Samson's India snub?

As per a report, the delay in the squad announcement by over two hours was because of disagreements over the selection of a few players and the roles of others in the team. The BCCI selection committee, alongside the team captain and the head coach (Gautam Gambhir), made a few bold calls, with Gill getting promoted as Rohit&rsquo;s deputy the talking point of the squad announcement. What makes this call interesting is how they ignored Pandya - India&rsquo;s vice-captain during the home World Cup just 15 months ago.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/gambhir-wanted-samson-over-pant-pandya-to-be-vice-captain-for-champions-trophy-rohit-agarkar-denied-report-8634867">Read More</a>

India Champions Trophy Team Live Updates: Gambhir-Rohit at odds over vice-captain?

India Champions Trophy Team Live Updates: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the India squad for the tournament and the England ODIs. Cricket Sports

India Champions Trophy Team Updates: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the India squad for 2025 Champions Trophy and the England ODIs as well. Most of the expected names made the team while there were some surprises as well. India selected KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as two wicketkeeper-batters while Sanju Samson was overlooked - a hot topic of discussion. Shubman Gill was named the vice captain - a surprise move by the board. Karun Nair, who had a blasting Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) during which he averaged 389.50 in eight innings, was also overlooked with Shreyas Iyer, Virat Kohli and Rahul expected to handle the middle order. Pacer Jasprit Bumrah was also included in the team (subject to fitness) while Mohammed Shami made a comeback as well. Among the spinners, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Washigton Sundar were included with no place for Varun Chakravarthy. India play all its matches in Dubai, UAE including semi-final and the final - if they make it that far. The tournament starts February 19 with the final scheduled to be played on March 9. India Champions Trophy 2025 Team: Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh and Yashasvi Jaiswal This Live Blog has Ended now.

India Champions Trophy Team Updates Highlights

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