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Jos Buttler stepped down from England&rsquo;s white-ball captaincy, a day before the side&rsquo;s final Champions Trophy 2025 clash against South Africa on Friday (Feb 28). England endured a tough Champions Trophy 2025 run and lost to Australia and underdogs Afghanistan which prompted the decision. England&rsquo;s match against South Africa on Saturday will be Buttler&rsquo;s final match as captain with Harry Brook likely to succeed the veteran.<o:p></o:p>
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🚨 JOS BUTTLER IN PRESS CONFERENCE 🚨 - Tomorrow he will lead England team for one final time. 🏆 <a href="https://t.co/aGW0EOLhxn">pic.twitter.com/aGW0EOLhxn</a>
&mdash; Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1895472413972005141?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Buttler steps down<o:p></o:p></h2>
"I'm going to stand down as England captain. It's the right decision for me and the right decision for the team. Hopefully, somebody else who can come in alongside Baz will take the team to where it needs to be," Buttler said.<o:p></o:p>
"The overriding emotions are still sadness and disappointment. I'm sure, in time, that will pass and I can get back to really enjoying my cricket, and [will] also be able to reflect on what an immense honour it is to captain your country and all the special things that come with it," he added.<o:p></o:p>
England lost two close matches in the Champions Trophy 2025, scoring above 300 in both their matches. However, on both occasions, they ended up on the losing side meaning they exited the competition in the initial phase.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/peace-at-border-first-step-to-resumption-of-india-pakistan-bilateral-cricket-sunil-gavaskar-8764863" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Peace at border&rsquo; first step to resumption of India-Pakistan bilateral cricket: Gavaskar</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Harry Brook to succeed Buttler?<o:p></o:p></h2>
Saturday&rsquo;s clash against South Africa will be Buttler&rsquo;s final game as captain which will be played in Karachi. Harry Brook is the most likely candidate to succeed Buttler having served in the deputy role during the India series and the Champions Trophy.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
On the other hand, Buttler had a mixed record as the captain of the white-ball side. He led England to the 2022 T20 World Cup success in Australia but endured a tough 2023 ODI World Cup where they were the defending champions. England exited the ODI World Cup in the league stage and narrowly qualified for the Champions Trophy. Their T20 World Cup defence ended in the semifinal stage as India got the better of them in June 2024.<o:p></o:p>

Cricket, Sports: Jos Buttler stepped down from England’s white-ball captaincy, a day before the side’s final Champions Trophy 2025 clash against South Africa on Friday (Feb 28).

Jos Buttler stepped down from England’s white-ball captaincy, a day before the side’s final Champions Trophy 2025 clash against South Africa on Friday (Feb 28). England endured a tough Champions Trophy 2025 run and lost to Australia and underdogs Afghanistan which prompted the decision. England’s match against South Africa on Saturday will be Buttler’s final match as captain with Harry Brook likely to succeed the veteran. 🚨 JOS BUTTLER IN PRESS CONFERENCE 🚨 - Tomorrow he will lead England team for one final time. 🏆 pic.twitter.com/aGW0EOLhxn — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 28, 2025 Buttler steps down "I'm going to stand down as England captain. It's the right decision for me and the right decision for the team. Hopefully, somebody else who can come in alongside Baz will take the team to where it needs to be," Buttler said. "The overriding emotions are still sadness and disappointment. I'm sure, in time, that will pass and I can get back to really enjoying my cricket, and [will] also be able to reflect on what an immense honour it is to captain your country and all the special things that come with it," he added. England lost two close matches in the Champions Trophy 2025, scoring above 300 in both their matches. However, on both occasions, they ended up on the losing side meaning they exited the competition in the initial phase. ALSO READ | ‘Peace at border’ first step to resumption of India-Pakistan bilateral cricket: Gavaskar Harry Brook to succeed Buttler? Saturday’s clash against South Africa will be Buttler’s final game as captain which will be played in Karachi. Harry Brook is the most likely candidate to succeed Buttler having served in the deputy role during the India series and the Champions Trophy. On the other hand, Buttler had a mixed record as the captain of the white-ball side. He led England to the 2022 T20 World Cup success in Australia but endured a tough 2023 ODI World Cup where they were the defending champions. England exited the ODI World Cup in the league stage and narrowly qualified for the Champions Trophy. Their T20 World Cup defence ended in the semifinal stage as India got the better of them in June 2024.

Jos Buttler steps down as England's white-ball captain after dismal Champions Trophy 2025 run

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravi-ashwin" rel="dofollow">Ravichandran Ashwin</a> has returned to his debut franchise in the cash-rich Indian Premier League. After plying his trade for several teams since leaving <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/csk" rel="dofollow">Chennai Super Kings (CSK)</a> in 2015, Ashwin said he &lsquo;felt odd&rsquo; on his homecoming after a decade. Ashwin made his IPL debut one year after its inception in 2008, playing for the Chennai-based franchise for the coming seven editions and winning several trophies.
The ace India spinner, who announced his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-hugs-emotional-sendoffs-and-whatnot-ravi-ashwins-final-moments-as-indian-cricketer-785124" rel="dofollow">international retirement midway through the Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a> late last year, will play for CSK in IPL 2025 after the Kings shelled out $1.1m (INR 9.75 crore) at last year&rsquo;s mega auction. CSK won the bidding war against the Lucknow Super Giants, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/shubman-gill-to-make-odi-captaincy-debut-against-new-zealand-in-champions-trophy-report-8765445" rel="dofollow">Shubman Gill to make ODI captaincy debut against New Zealand in Champions Trophy &ndash; Report</a>
Speaking on a video posted by CSK&rsquo;s social media handles, Ashwin said it felt odd returning after so many years. He acknowledged the environment, saying everything and everyone is the same and that he felt like some senior upon rejoining the CSK squad ahead of the next season.
&ldquo;It feels odd, actually. It has been so many years since I left, right? I am coming back into this same team. All the people are the same. Every day, I used to practice vigorously for the season. After I came here today, I feel, I am a very senior person. But OK. Nevertheless, it&rsquo;s a good feeling. I am looking forward to going to Chepauk as well,&rdquo; Ashwin said in the video on CSK&rsquo;s social media handle.
<h2>Watch Video -</h2>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7opvgac-3lzfh445-iol774p6">
Yellove remains constant for you, Ash! 💛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a> 🦁💛<a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> <a href="https://t.co/INWZgL4Mci">pic.twitter.com/INWZgL4Mci</a>
&mdash; Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1895393828833800436?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
Playing for CSK in the seven editions previously, Ashwin had picked 90 wickets in 97 IPL matches at a reasonable economy of 6.46. On the other hand, he even represented CSK in the now-defunct Champions League T20, where he picked 30 wickets at an economy of 7.44.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, CSK will play their tournament opener against their long-time rivals, Mumbai Indians (MI), in a home game on Sunday evening (Mar 23). The return fixture is scheduled for April 20 at the Wankhede in Mumbai.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: CSK won the bidding war against the Lucknow Super Giants, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals for Ravi Ashwin at last year's auction.

Ravichandran Ashwin has returned to his debut franchise in the cash-rich Indian Premier League. After plying his trade for several teams since leaving Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2015, Ashwin said he ‘felt odd’ on his homecoming after a decade. Ashwin made his IPL debut one year after its inception in 2008, playing for the Chennai-based franchise for the coming seven editions and winning several trophies. The ace India spinner, who announced his international retirement midway through the Border-Gavaskar Trophy late last year, will play for CSK in IPL 2025 after the Kings shelled out $1.1m (INR 9.75 crore) at last year’s mega auction. CSK won the bidding war against the Lucknow Super Giants, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals. Also read | Shubman Gill to make ODI captaincy debut against New Zealand in Champions Trophy – Report Speaking on a video posted by CSK’s social media handles, Ashwin said it felt odd returning after so many years. He acknowledged the environment, saying everything and everyone is the same and that he felt like some senior upon rejoining the CSK squad ahead of the next season. “It feels odd, actually. It has been so many years since I left, right? I am coming back into this same team. All the people are the same. Every day, I used to practice vigorously for the season. After I came here today, I feel, I am a very senior person. But OK. Nevertheless, it’s a good feeling. I am looking forward to going to Chepauk as well,” Ashwin said in the video on CSK’s social media handle. Watch Video - Yellove remains constant for you, Ash! 💛#WhistlePodu #Yellove 🦁💛@ashwinravi99 pic.twitter.com/INWZgL4Mci — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) February 28, 2025 Playing for CSK in the seven editions previously, Ashwin had picked 90 wickets in 97 IPL matches at a reasonable economy of 6.46. On the other hand, he even represented CSK in the now-defunct Champions League T20, where he picked 30 wickets at an economy of 7.44. Meanwhile, CSK will play their tournament opener against their long-time rivals, Mumbai Indians (MI), in a home game on Sunday evening (Mar 23). The return fixture is scheduled for April 20 at the Wankhede in Mumbai. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: ‘I feel I am a very senior person,’ Ashwin’s first impression of CSK homecoming

SA vs ENG, Champions Trophy 2025 Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue:&nbsp;England will look to close the Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on a high after enduring a tough run as they take on South Africa in their final group game. Having already faced elimination England will have pride at stake while South Africa eye the top spot in Group B. Ahead of the key clash between South Africa and England, here are all the details of the Champions Trophy 2025 clash.&nbsp;
<h2 class="left">Where to watch the South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match on TV?</h2>
The South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match will be telecast on Star Sports Network in India.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="left">Where to watch the South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match Live Streaming online on OTT?</h2>
The South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match will be live-streamed on the JioHotstar app and website in India.
<h2 class="left">Which stadium will host the South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match?</h2>
The South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match will be played at the National Stadium in Karachi.
<h2 class="MsoNormal left">What time will the South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match start?</h2>
The South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match will start at 2:30 PM IST on Saturday (Mar 1) with the toss taking place at 2:00 PM IST.
<h2 class="MsoNormal left">Champions Trophy 2025: SA vs ENG Head-to-Head Stats</h2>
Overall: South Africa 34 wins, England 30 wins, no results 5
<h2 class="MsoNormal left">Champions Trophy 2025: SA vs ENG Pitch Report</h2>
Fast bowlers should get good help at the National Stadium in Karachi as South Africa and England look to make the most of the conditions. The pitch has historically favoured fast bowlers, so it will be interesting to see how it works on the match day.
<h2 class="MsoNormal left">Champions Trophy 2025: SA vs ENG Weather Report</h2>
The contest should go ahead without any rain interruption as both South Africa and England look to start on a winning note. The pleasant weather conditions should favour the bowlers, while the temperature would range between 25 and 30 degrees on the match day.&nbsp;
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/peace-at-border-first-step-to-resumption-of-india-pakistan-bilateral-cricket-sunil-gavaskar-8764863" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Peace at border&rsquo; first step to resumption of India-Pakistan bilateral cricket: Gavaskar</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Champions Trophy 2025: SA vs ENG Squads<o:p></o:p></h2>
South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Corbin Bosch. Travelling reserve: Kwena Maphaka.
England:&nbsp;Jos Buttler (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Tom Banton, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Jamie Smith, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Saqib Mahmood, Phil Salt, Mark Wood.

Sports, Cricket: England will look to close the Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on a high after enduring a tough run as they take on South Africa in their final group game.

SA vs ENG, Champions Trophy 2025 Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: England will look to close the Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on a high after enduring a tough run as they take on South Africa in their final group game. Having already faced elimination England will have pride at stake while South Africa eye the top spot in Group B. Ahead of the key clash between South Africa and England, here are all the details of the Champions Trophy 2025 clash. Where to watch the South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match on TV? The South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match will be telecast on Star Sports Network in India. Where to watch the South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match Live Streaming online on OTT? The South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match will be live-streamed on the JioHotstar app and website in India. Which stadium will host the South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match? The South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match will be played at the National Stadium in Karachi. What time will the South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match start? The South Africa vs England Champions Trophy 2025 match will start at 2:30 PM IST on Saturday (Mar 1) with the toss taking place at 2:00 PM IST. Champions Trophy 2025: SA vs ENG Head-to-Head Stats Overall: South Africa 34 wins, England 30 wins, no results 5 Champions Trophy 2025: SA vs ENG Pitch Report Fast bowlers should get good help at the National Stadium in Karachi as South Africa and England look to make the most of the conditions. The pitch has historically favoured fast bowlers, so it will be interesting to see how it works on the match day. Champions Trophy 2025: SA vs ENG Weather Report The contest should go ahead without any rain interruption as both South Africa and England look to start on a winning note. The pleasant weather conditions should favour the bowlers, while the temperature would range between 25 and 30 degrees on the match day. ALSO READ | ‘Peace at border’ first step to resumption of India-Pakistan bilateral cricket: Gavaskar Champions Trophy 2025: SA vs ENG Squads South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Corbin Bosch. Travelling reserve: Kwena Maphaka. England: Jos Buttler (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Tom Banton, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Jamie Smith, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Saqib Mahmood, Phil Salt, Mark Wood.

SA vs ENG Champions Trophy 2025: All you need to know, check live streaming, head-to-head, stats, pitch report, squad

Ace Indian batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shubman-gill" rel="dofollow">Shubman Gill</a> will make his ODI captaincy debut against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday (Mar 2). With reports of regular captain&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a> skipping India&rsquo;s last league of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> due to a hamstring injury, Gill, who was unwell till Wednesday and didn&rsquo;t train with the team, would wear the captain&rsquo;s hat for the first time in this format.
Gill had led India during last year&rsquo;s five T20Is against Zimbabwe, which the Men in Blue won 4-1. However, he has&nbsp; never before got a chance to lead the senior side, let alone in any ICC event.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/peace-at-border-first-step-to-resumption-of-india-pakistan-bilateral-cricket-sunil-gavaskar-8764863" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Peace at border&rsquo; first step to resumption of India-Pakistan bilateral cricket: Gavaskar</a>
During India&rsquo;s marquee game against Pakistan the past Sunday in Dubai, Rohit felt discomfort (in his hamstring) midway through Pakistani batting, briefly leaving the field for a usual check-up during the 26th over. Though he opened alongside Gill during the chase, scoring 20, including one six and three fours, Rohit opted out of India&rsquo;s first training session ahead of the New Zealand tie.
Rohit watched the scheduled three-hour training session from a distance while conversing with his teammates and head coach Gautam Gambhir, discussing strategies. The only silver lining from his presence in that training was he ran a bit, indicating the injury is not as serious, and that he can return to the XI in time for India&rsquo;s semis clash on Tuesday (Mar 4).&nbsp;
<h2>Who replaces Rohit?</h2>
Should Rohit decide to sit out, India will rope gloveman Rishabh Pant in his place, making him bat in the middle order, with regular keeper KL Rahul returning to the opening slot with Gill.&nbsp;
Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer will be number three and four, respectively, while the three all-rounders Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel will shuffle given the match conditions.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Washington Sundar is another name discussed to replace Rohit in the playing XI for a dead rubber against the Kiwis. The left-handed Sundar batted for a lengthy period during the nets, something not seen in the tournament training before this.&nbsp;
India could rest Harshit Rana and rope in Arshdeep Singh in the bowling department, while Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav might retain their places.&nbsp;
India&rsquo;s Predicted Playing XI for New Zealand match &ndash;
Shubman Gill (captain), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar/Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Gill had led India previously during last year’s five T20Is against Zimbabwe, which the Men in Blue 4-1, but never before he got a chance to lead the senior side.

Ace Indian batter Shubman Gill will make his ODI captaincy debut against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday (Mar 2). With reports of regular captain Rohit Sharma skipping India’s last league of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a hamstring injury, Gill, who was unwell till Wednesday and didn’t train with the team, would wear the captain’s hat for the first time in this format. Gill had led India during last year’s five T20Is against Zimbabwe, which the Men in Blue won 4-1. However, he has never before got a chance to lead the senior side, let alone in any ICC event. Also read | ‘Peace at border’ first step to resumption of India-Pakistan bilateral cricket: Gavaskar During India’s marquee game against Pakistan the past Sunday in Dubai, Rohit felt discomfort (in his hamstring) midway through Pakistani batting, briefly leaving the field for a usual check-up during the 26th over. Though he opened alongside Gill during the chase, scoring 20, including one six and three fours, Rohit opted out of India’s first training session ahead of the New Zealand tie. Rohit watched the scheduled three-hour training session from a distance while conversing with his teammates and head coach Gautam Gambhir, discussing strategies. The only silver lining from his presence in that training was he ran a bit, indicating the injury is not as serious, and that he can return to the XI in time for India’s semis clash on Tuesday (Mar 4). Who replaces Rohit? Should Rohit decide to sit out, India will rope gloveman Rishabh Pant in his place, making him bat in the middle order, with regular keeper KL Rahul returning to the opening slot with Gill. Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer will be number three and four, respectively, while the three all-rounders Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel will shuffle given the match conditions. Meanwhile, Washington Sundar is another name discussed to replace Rohit in the playing XI for a dead rubber against the Kiwis. The left-handed Sundar batted for a lengthy period during the nets, something not seen in the tournament training before this. India could rest Harshit Rana and rope in Arshdeep Singh in the bowling department, while Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav might retain their places. India’s Predicted Playing XI for New Zealand match – Shubman Gill (captain), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar/Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav (With inputs from agencies)

Shubman Gill to make ODI captaincy debut against New Zealand in Champions Trophy – Report

India and Pakistan are the two Asian cricketing giants, playing each other in just ICC-bound tournaments or Asia Cup. While tense political relations between both countries have restricted them from indulging in any bilateral cricket whatsoever, talks of its resumption have been underway. Speaking on the same lines, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sunil-gavaskar" rel="dofollow">Sunil Gavaskar</a> said no bilateral cricket will happen unless there is peace at the border.
India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in late 2012, when Pakistan toured India and won the ODIs (2-1). Since then, the two teams have met in just ICC events, including the ODI World Cups, T20 World Cups and Champions Trophy, with countless fans worldwide enjoying each contest.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/playing-in-dubai-definitely-an-advantage-for-india-in-champions-trophy-rassie-van-der-dussen-8763938" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: Van der Dussen seconds India's 'schedule advantage' claim as semis loom</a>
Both sides last met during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> group stage game in Dubai, where India equalled Pakistan&rsquo;s head-to-head win tally (3-3) in this competition with a six-wicket victory over the Men in Green.
"Frankly, by having peace at the borders. It&rsquo;s very simple. If there&rsquo;s peace at the borders, then I think both governments will certainly say, 'Look, okay, we&rsquo;ve had no incidents, nothing at all. So, let&rsquo;s at least start with talking,&rsquo;" Gavaskar said while speaking on the cricket show Dressing Room, as quoted by Times of India (TOI).
India last toured Pakistan almost two decades ago for a bilateral tour, with the 2008 Asia Cup being the last time they played in the country altogether. Even for the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025, BCCI denied sending its team to Pakistan for the eight-team tournament.
After formally informing ICC about its decision, the BCCI persuaded the apex body to convince the host board (PCB) to agree to the hybrid model, which they denied (at first) but later accepted. However, they put on some conditions, which their counterpart (the BCCI) agreed to.
<h2>What can lead to resumption?</h2>
Gavaskar feels for any cricket between just the two to get underway, maintaining peace outside of the cricket ground is paramount, and unless that happens, nothing concrete will take place despite diplomatic talks.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rashid-latif-explains-what-forced-younis-khan-to-choose-afghanistan-over-pakistan-for-champions-trophy-stint-8764498" rel="dofollow">Rashid Latif explains what forced Younis Khan to choose Afghanistan over Pakistan</a>
"I&rsquo;m pretty certain there will be some back-channel connections going on. But you want to see what&rsquo;s happening both on the ground and off the ground because of the fact that there are incursions we hear about. That&rsquo;s the reason why the Indian government is saying, 'Look, maybe until all that stops, we should not even look at having or talking about anything,&rsquo;" Gavaskar explained.
Meanwhile, India and Pakistan share contrasting fates in the Champions Trophy, with the hosts knocked out of the tournament just six days into it and India, placed in the same group, having qualified for the semis.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Both sides last met during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 group stage game in Dubai, where India beat Pakistan by six wickets, equalling their CT win tally.

India and Pakistan are the two Asian cricketing giants, playing each other in just ICC-bound tournaments or Asia Cup. While tense political relations between both countries have restricted them from indulging in any bilateral cricket whatsoever, talks of its resumption have been underway. Speaking on the same lines, Sunil Gavaskar said no bilateral cricket will happen unless there is peace at the border. India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in late 2012, when Pakistan toured India and won the ODIs (2-1). Since then, the two teams have met in just ICC events, including the ODI World Cups, T20 World Cups and Champions Trophy, with countless fans worldwide enjoying each contest. Also read | Champions Trophy: Van der Dussen seconds India's 'schedule advantage' claim as semis loom Both sides last met during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 group stage game in Dubai, where India equalled Pakistan’s head-to-head win tally (3-3) in this competition with a six-wicket victory over the Men in Green. "Frankly, by having peace at the borders. It’s very simple. If there’s peace at the borders, then I think both governments will certainly say, 'Look, okay, we’ve had no incidents, nothing at all. So, let’s at least start with talking,’" Gavaskar said while speaking on the cricket show Dressing Room, as quoted by Times of India (TOI). India last toured Pakistan almost two decades ago for a bilateral tour, with the 2008 Asia Cup being the last time they played in the country altogether. Even for the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025, BCCI denied sending its team to Pakistan for the eight-team tournament. After formally informing ICC about its decision, the BCCI persuaded the apex body to convince the host board (PCB) to agree to the hybrid model, which they denied (at first) but later accepted. However, they put on some conditions, which their counterpart (the BCCI) agreed to. What can lead to resumption? Gavaskar feels for any cricket between just the two to get underway, maintaining peace outside of the cricket ground is paramount, and unless that happens, nothing concrete will take place despite diplomatic talks. Also read | Rashid Latif explains what forced Younis Khan to choose Afghanistan over Pakistan "I’m pretty certain there will be some back-channel connections going on. But you want to see what’s happening both on the ground and off the ground because of the fact that there are incursions we hear about. That’s the reason why the Indian government is saying, 'Look, maybe until all that stops, we should not even look at having or talking about anything,’" Gavaskar explained. Meanwhile, India and Pakistan share contrasting fates in the Champions Trophy, with the hosts knocked out of the tournament just six days into it and India, placed in the same group, having qualified for the semis. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Peace at border’ first step to resumption of India-Pakistan bilateral cricket: Gavaskar

Former Pakistan captain and gloveman Rashid Latif dropped a bombshell explaining why batting great Younis Khan chose to mentor Afghanistan over his country during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a>. After the hosts got knocked out of the home tournament in the group stage, courtesy of two losses and a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pakistan-remain-winless-in-home-champions-trophy-after-washed-out-bangladesh-tie-8762162" rel="dofollow">washed-out tie</a>, while Afghanistan remained in contention for a historic semis spot, Rashid said the lack of financial benefits forced Younis to pick their opponent for the mentorship role.
Younis joined Afghanistan&rsquo;s backroom staff ahead of the eight-team tournament as the mentor, joining head coach Jonathan Trott, under whom Afghanistan tasted enormous success in the past two years. Younis&rsquo; signing proved vital for Afghanistan, who posted a mammoth 325 against England in their do-or-die game in Lahore, emerging as winners eventually by eight runs.
Already upbeat to take on any cricketing giant on a bigger stage, Afghanistan&rsquo;s batting looked composed, impressing all. How their middle order contributed against lethal English bowlers indicated how far they have come in international cricket.&nbsp;
On the other end, Pakistan batters lacked zeal and intent and looked timid during their two matches against New Zealand and India, losing both. While they failed to chase 321 in the tournament opener in Karachi, Pakistan couldn&rsquo;t defend a paltry 242 against their arch-rivals, with Virat Kohli scoring a match-winning hundred.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afg-vs-aus-live-streaming-free-when-and-where-to-watch-champions-trophy-2025-afghanistan-vs-australia-live-for-free-online-mobile-ott-tv-8762839" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Prime minister will personally take notice&rsquo;: Pakistan&rsquo;s early Champions Trophy exit to be &lsquo;raised in parliament&rsquo;</a>
&ldquo;Younis Khan said no to Pakistan cricket to work with Afghanistan. There are no financial benefits here," Latif said during a Geo News show episode after Afghanistan knocked England out of Champions Trophy 2025.
Meanwhile, Naseeb Khan, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) chief executive, defended this appointment.
"Since the Champions Trophy is being held in Pakistan, it was essential to appoint an experienced and talented mentor from the host country. We have previously benefited from working with mentors from host nations during the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup,&rdquo; he explained.
<h2>Afghanistan up for Aussie challenge</h2>
Unlike Pakistan, who got knocked out from the home tournament just six days into it, Afghanistan could create history in their maiden Champions Trophy appearance by qualifying for the semis.
Having lost one game (against South Africa) and winning the other (against England), Afghanistan&rsquo;s last league match is against the ODI giants Australia, who sit one clear of them on the table in Group B.&nbsp;
Although the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rain-threatens-to-spoil-afghanistan-australia-champions-trophy-showdown-in-lahore-8764190" rel="dofollow">rain is likely to play the spoilsport in Lahore</a>, should the game go ahead, Afghanistan must cause the upset of the tournament to cruise ahead or else, even after sharing points in case of a wash-out, Afghanistan could miss out on a historic semis spot.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Younis joined Afghanistan’s backroom staff as the mentor, joining head coach Trott, under whom Afghanistan tasted enormous success in the past two years.

Former Pakistan captain and gloveman Rashid Latif dropped a bombshell explaining why batting great Younis Khan chose to mentor Afghanistan over his country during the Champions Trophy 2025. After the hosts got knocked out of the home tournament in the group stage, courtesy of two losses and a washed-out tie, while Afghanistan remained in contention for a historic semis spot, Rashid said the lack of financial benefits forced Younis to pick their opponent for the mentorship role. Younis joined Afghanistan’s backroom staff ahead of the eight-team tournament as the mentor, joining head coach Jonathan Trott, under whom Afghanistan tasted enormous success in the past two years. Younis’ signing proved vital for Afghanistan, who posted a mammoth 325 against England in their do-or-die game in Lahore, emerging as winners eventually by eight runs. Already upbeat to take on any cricketing giant on a bigger stage, Afghanistan’s batting looked composed, impressing all. How their middle order contributed against lethal English bowlers indicated how far they have come in international cricket. On the other end, Pakistan batters lacked zeal and intent and looked timid during their two matches against New Zealand and India, losing both. While they failed to chase 321 in the tournament opener in Karachi, Pakistan couldn’t defend a paltry 242 against their arch-rivals, with Virat Kohli scoring a match-winning hundred. Also read | ‘Prime minister will personally take notice’: Pakistan’s early Champions Trophy exit to be ‘raised in parliament’ “Younis Khan said no to Pakistan cricket to work with Afghanistan. There are no financial benefits here," Latif said during a Geo News show episode after Afghanistan knocked England out of Champions Trophy 2025. Meanwhile, Naseeb Khan, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) chief executive, defended this appointment. "Since the Champions Trophy is being held in Pakistan, it was essential to appoint an experienced and talented mentor from the host country. We have previously benefited from working with mentors from host nations during the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup,” he explained. Afghanistan up for Aussie challenge Unlike Pakistan, who got knocked out from the home tournament just six days into it, Afghanistan could create history in their maiden Champions Trophy appearance by qualifying for the semis. Having lost one game (against South Africa) and winning the other (against England), Afghanistan’s last league match is against the ODI giants Australia, who sit one clear of them on the table in Group B. Although the rain is likely to play the spoilsport in Lahore, should the game go ahead, Afghanistan must cause the upset of the tournament to cruise ahead or else, even after sharing points in case of a wash-out, Afghanistan could miss out on a historic semis spot. (With inputs from agencies)

Rashid Latif explains what forced Younis Khan to choose Afghanistan over Pakistan

Afghanistan vs Australia is a treat for the masses, at least considering the last two outcomes. For the third time in three years, both teams are squaring off in an ICC event, this time in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a>, where rain might play spoilsport at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Friday (Feb 28).
The rain had already washed out Australia&rsquo;s previous league game against the Proteas, resulting in both teams sharing points. However, should it similarly affect Friday&rsquo;s outcome, Afghanistan and Australia will share a point each, with Australia collecting four (in total), while Afghanistan will end the tournament with three points.
Though four points will help Australia punch the semis ticket, with their final position (on the table) remaining uncertain, Afghanistan's three points could come in handy in the race for the remaining fourth spot only if England prevails over the Proteas in their last league match. In that case, Afghanistan and South Africa will share three points each as the team with better NRR cruises through.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-who-qualifies-for-semis-from-group-b-does-afghanistan-have-a-chance-8761028" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Who will qualify for semis from Group B? Do Afghanistan stand a chance?</a>
However, should the Afghanistan-Australia game end in a no result, and South Africa beat England in Karachi on Saturday (Mar 1), the Aussies and the Proteas will march into the knockouts, with the Proteas holding the top spot with five points while Australia will be second with four. Who their opponents would be would depend on the result of the India vs New Zealand match in Dubai on Sunday (Mar 2).
Meanwhile, India and New Zealand have already qualified for the Champions Trophy semis, with the hosts Pakistan and Bangladesh knocked out of the tournament. Also, regardless of where India finishes on the points table, they will play their semifinal game on Tuesday (Mar 4) in Dubai, while the Kiwis&rsquo; semis clash is scheduled the next day in Lahore.
<h2>History</h2>
Afghanistan and Australia perhaps played the greatest World Cup game at the Wankhede in Mumbai a couple of years ago, with the Aussie all-rounder Glenn Maxwell going bonkers. Chasing 292, Australia was down 91 for seven at one stage, with captain Pat Cummins and Maxwell at the crease.&nbsp;
That, however, was the beginning of the greatest ODI innings of all time.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afg-vs-aus-live-streaming-free-when-and-where-to-watch-champions-trophy-2025-afghanistan-vs-australia-live-for-free-online-mobile-ott-tv-8762839" rel="dofollow">AFG vs AUS LIVE Streaming OTT | Champions Trophy 2025 Live streaming, match details, squad, and how to watch online</a>
Afghanistan missed a few chances, and the &lsquo;Big Show&rsquo; made them pay, scooping them for fours and sixes for fun while Cummins protected his wicket at the other end. Soon after Maxwell completed his hundred, he marched towards something no one thought would happen - a run chase.
Despite suffering from cramps throughout the latter half of the innings, Maxwell didn&rsquo;t put his guard down and slammed his maiden ODI double hundred (201*), helping <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lady-luck-smiles-on-glenn-maxwell-as-big-show-pulls-off-greatest-world-cup-run-chase-heres-how-x-reacted-656279" rel="dofollow">Australia pull off perhaps one of the greatest ODI chases</a>.
Meanwhile, next year, during the T20 World Cup in the Americas, Afghanistan stunned the world champions by beating them in the group stage and qualifying for the semis, where South Africa beat them handsomely.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: In the past two outings in the ICC events, Australia and Afghanistan have beaten each other once. It's their first face-off in the Champions Trophy.

Afghanistan vs Australia is a treat for the masses, at least considering the last two outcomes. For the third time in three years, both teams are squaring off in an ICC event, this time in the Champions Trophy 2025, where rain might play spoilsport at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Friday (Feb 28). The rain had already washed out Australia’s previous league game against the Proteas, resulting in both teams sharing points. However, should it similarly affect Friday’s outcome, Afghanistan and Australia will share a point each, with Australia collecting four (in total), while Afghanistan will end the tournament with three points. Though four points will help Australia punch the semis ticket, with their final position (on the table) remaining uncertain, Afghanistan's three points could come in handy in the race for the remaining fourth spot only if England prevails over the Proteas in their last league match. In that case, Afghanistan and South Africa will share three points each as the team with better NRR cruises through. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Who will qualify for semis from Group B? Do Afghanistan stand a chance? However, should the Afghanistan-Australia game end in a no result, and South Africa beat England in Karachi on Saturday (Mar 1), the Aussies and the Proteas will march into the knockouts, with the Proteas holding the top spot with five points while Australia will be second with four. Who their opponents would be would depend on the result of the India vs New Zealand match in Dubai on Sunday (Mar 2). Meanwhile, India and New Zealand have already qualified for the Champions Trophy semis, with the hosts Pakistan and Bangladesh knocked out of the tournament. Also, regardless of where India finishes on the points table, they will play their semifinal game on Tuesday (Mar 4) in Dubai, while the Kiwis’ semis clash is scheduled the next day in Lahore. History Afghanistan and Australia perhaps played the greatest World Cup game at the Wankhede in Mumbai a couple of years ago, with the Aussie all-rounder Glenn Maxwell going bonkers. Chasing 292, Australia was down 91 for seven at one stage, with captain Pat Cummins and Maxwell at the crease. That, however, was the beginning of the greatest ODI innings of all time. Also read | AFG vs AUS LIVE Streaming OTT | Champions Trophy 2025 Live streaming, match details, squad, and how to watch online Afghanistan missed a few chances, and the ‘Big Show’ made them pay, scooping them for fours and sixes for fun while Cummins protected his wicket at the other end. Soon after Maxwell completed his hundred, he marched towards something no one thought would happen - a run chase. Despite suffering from cramps throughout the latter half of the innings, Maxwell didn’t put his guard down and slammed his maiden ODI double hundred (201*), helping Australia pull off perhaps one of the greatest ODI chases. Meanwhile, next year, during the T20 World Cup in the Americas, Afghanistan stunned the world champions by beating them in the group stage and qualifying for the semis, where South Africa beat them handsomely. (With inputs from agencies)

Rain threatens to spoil Afghanistan-Australia Champions Trophy showdown in Lahore

After PCB selector Aaqib Javed and former England broadcasters Nasser Hussain and Mike Atherton pointed fingers at India for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-have-undeniable-advantage-in-champions-trophy-2025-accuses-former-england-captain-8757258" rel="dofollow">enjoying the definite privilege of playing at just one venue</a> (Dubai), staying at the same hotel, and having to avoid the commute (for all), South African batter Rassie Van der Dussen joined the list, adding no one has to be a rocket scientist to know that the Men in Blue have this advantage in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a>.
India is to play all its matches in Dubai, including the semis and the final (should they qualify for it), instead of in Pakistan &ndash; the host country, for security reasons. While the remaining seven teams are to play their league matches at different venues and pitches, also considering the travel required, several, including Pat Cummins, have pointed out the disadvantages their teams have around it.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pat-cummins-alleges-icc-of-favouring-india-in-champions-trophy-says-they-have-a-huge-advantage-8753590" rel="dofollow">Cummins accuses ICC of favouring India in Champions Trophy, says &lsquo;they have a huge advantage&hellip;&rsquo;</a>
After the ICC finalised Pakistan as the venue for the first showpiece event of the year, the BCCI decided against sending its team across the border for security concerns. The Indian board then persuaded the apex body to convince the PCB to accept the hybrid model, which they denied initially. Following thorough internal discussions, the host board agreed to it later but with several conditions, which the BCCI had to agree to.
Meanwhile, speaking on the same lines ahead of his side&rsquo;s crucial game against England, Rassie said he seconds with all the pointers claiming India's advantage in this tournament, adding it&rsquo;s up to them to utilise it to their benefit.
"It's definitely an advantage. I saw that Pakistan was commenting about it, but it's definitely an advantage. If you can stay in one place, stay in one hotel, practice in the same facilities, play in the same stadium, on the same pitches every time, it's definitely an advantage," Rassie said from Karachi, where South Africa will play England.&nbsp;
"I don't think you have to be a rocket scientist to know that. The onus would be on them to use that advantage. In a sense, it puts more pressure on them because whoever is going to play them in the semi or potentially the final is going to go there, and the conditions are going to be foreign, but they [India] are going to be used to it. The pressure would be on them to get it right because they have all that knowledge,&rdquo; he continued.
<h2>Preferences</h2>
While India and New Zealand have qualified for the semis from Group A, the fight for the remaining two spots continues in Group B, where the Proteas and Australia are in the pole position to advance. Should South Africa beat winless England at the National Stadium, they will cruise ahead; but the question remains, whom and where would they play their semis clash against?
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prime-minister-will-personally-take-notice-pakistans-early-champions-trophy-exit-to-be-raised-in-parliament-8763012" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Prime minister will personally take notice&rsquo;: Pakistan&rsquo;s early Champions Trophy exit to be &lsquo;raised in parliament&rsquo;</a>
Depending upon their positions on the points table, South Africa would either play India in Dubai (on Tuesday) or New Zealand in Lahore (on Wednesday). Asked what his preferred venue is, Rassie said logistically it has to be in Pakistan.&nbsp;
"If it's a personal thing, I would say playing in Lahore because it's just good to bat there. The Dubai pitch is not as high-scoring as the Lahore but no, I don't think it really matters," he said.&nbsp;
"Probably, logistically it will be easier to play in Lahore. You don't have to go through an international flight and go to Dubai and literally go to another country to play. Lahore is not too far from where we are at the moment, so conditions are fairly similar. It's literally one of those things, we don't know what's going to happen until Saturday evening,&rdquo; he continued.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Rassie Van der Dussen says no one has to be a rocket scientist to know that the Men in Blue have this advantage in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

After PCB selector Aaqib Javed and former England broadcasters Nasser Hussain and Mike Atherton pointed fingers at India for enjoying the definite privilege of playing at just one venue (Dubai), staying at the same hotel, and having to avoid the commute (for all), South African batter Rassie Van der Dussen joined the list, adding no one has to be a rocket scientist to know that the Men in Blue have this advantage in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. India is to play all its matches in Dubai, including the semis and the final (should they qualify for it), instead of in Pakistan – the host country, for security reasons. While the remaining seven teams are to play their league matches at different venues and pitches, also considering the travel required, several, including Pat Cummins, have pointed out the disadvantages their teams have around it. Also read | Cummins accuses ICC of favouring India in Champions Trophy, says ‘they have a huge advantage…’ After the ICC finalised Pakistan as the venue for the first showpiece event of the year, the BCCI decided against sending its team across the border for security concerns. The Indian board then persuaded the apex body to convince the PCB to accept the hybrid model, which they denied initially. Following thorough internal discussions, the host board agreed to it later but with several conditions, which the BCCI had to agree to. Meanwhile, speaking on the same lines ahead of his side’s crucial game against England, Rassie said he seconds with all the pointers claiming India's advantage in this tournament, adding it’s up to them to utilise it to their benefit. "It's definitely an advantage. I saw that Pakistan was commenting about it, but it's definitely an advantage. If you can stay in one place, stay in one hotel, practice in the same facilities, play in the same stadium, on the same pitches every time, it's definitely an advantage," Rassie said from Karachi, where South Africa will play England. "I don't think you have to be a rocket scientist to know that. The onus would be on them to use that advantage. In a sense, it puts more pressure on them because whoever is going to play them in the semi or potentially the final is going to go there, and the conditions are going to be foreign, but they [India] are going to be used to it. The pressure would be on them to get it right because they have all that knowledge,” he continued. Preferences While India and New Zealand have qualified for the semis from Group A, the fight for the remaining two spots continues in Group B, where the Proteas and Australia are in the pole position to advance. Should South Africa beat winless England at the National Stadium, they will cruise ahead; but the question remains, whom and where would they play their semis clash against? Also read | ‘Prime minister will personally take notice’: Pakistan’s early Champions Trophy exit to be ‘raised in parliament’ Depending upon their positions on the points table, South Africa would either play India in Dubai (on Tuesday) or New Zealand in Lahore (on Wednesday). Asked what his preferred venue is, Rassie said logistically it has to be in Pakistan. "If it's a personal thing, I would say playing in Lahore because it's just good to bat there. The Dubai pitch is not as high-scoring as the Lahore but no, I don't think it really matters," he said. "Probably, logistically it will be easier to play in Lahore. You don't have to go through an international flight and go to Dubai and literally go to another country to play. Lahore is not too far from where we are at the moment, so conditions are fairly similar. It's literally one of those things, we don't know what's going to happen until Saturday evening,” he continued. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: Van der Dussen seconds India's 'schedule advantage' claim as semis loom

Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi said that the team is planning for the entire Australian team and not just Glenn Maxwell. The comments were in context of Maxwell's 2023 ODI World Cup innings when he hit 200 while cramped badly and took the team home from 91/7. The loss had ended Afghanistan's campaign in the ICC tournament.
"You think we will come only to play with Maxwell?," said Shahidi when asked about the 2023 WC meeting vs Australia after beating England in the Champions Trophy on Feb 26.
Champions Trophy: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-coach-jonathan-trott-confident-afghanistan-never-going-to-be-taken-lightly-ever-again-after-england-win-8762158">Coach Jonathan Trott confident 'Afghanistan's never going to be taken lightly ever again' after England win</a>
The win kept Afghanistan alive in the ICC tournament but sent England packing home, their third disappointing ICC tournament on the trot.
"We have planning for all Australian team. I know that he (Maxwell) played really well in 2023 World Cup, but that's part of history."
"After that, we beat them in [the] T20 World Cup. We think about all [the] opposition team, we are not coming to the ground to plan on [an] individual player. We will try our best to come with the planning and we are not playing only Maxwell - we are playing Australia."
"We will try to play positive game - just like we defeated England today, we hope to beat Australia as well," Shahidi said. "We won't put that pressure on ourselves by thinking too much about the semi-final qualification," he added.
Afghanistan next play against Australia, which is a do-or-die game for both teams. Australia are currently at three points from two games while Afghanistan have two. Whichever team wins the match will become the first one to enter semis from Group B.
In case Afghanistan wins, Australia will have to hope for South Africa's loss against England in their last group stage match, and that too by a huge margin.&nbsp;
In case Australia wins, then South Africa will also qualify for the semis with their three points, while Afghanistan will join England in going home.

Cricket | Sports: Champions Trophy: The win on Feb 26 kept Afghanistan alive in the ICC tournament but sent England packing home - their third disappointing ICC tournament on the trot.

Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi said that the team is planning for the entire Australian team and not just Glenn Maxwell. The comments were in context of Maxwell's 2023 ODI World Cup innings when he hit 200 while cramped badly and took the team home from 91/7. The loss had ended Afghanistan's campaign in the ICC tournament. "You think we will come only to play with Maxwell?," said Shahidi when asked about the 2023 WC meeting vs Australia after beating England in the Champions Trophy on Feb 26. Champions Trophy: Coach Jonathan Trott confident 'Afghanistan's never going to be taken lightly ever again' after England win The win kept Afghanistan alive in the ICC tournament but sent England packing home, their third disappointing ICC tournament on the trot. "We have planning for all Australian team. I know that he (Maxwell) played really well in 2023 World Cup, but that's part of history." "After that, we beat them in [the] T20 World Cup. We think about all [the] opposition team, we are not coming to the ground to plan on [an] individual player. We will try our best to come with the planning and we are not playing only Maxwell - we are playing Australia." "We will try to play positive game - just like we defeated England today, we hope to beat Australia as well," Shahidi said. "We won't put that pressure on ourselves by thinking too much about the semi-final qualification," he added. Afghanistan next play against Australia, which is a do-or-die game for both teams. Australia are currently at three points from two games while Afghanistan have two. Whichever team wins the match will become the first one to enter semis from Group B. In case Afghanistan wins, Australia will have to hope for South Africa's loss against England in their last group stage match, and that too by a huge margin. In case Australia wins, then South Africa will also qualify for the semis with their three points, while Afghanistan will join England in going home.

Champions Trophy: 'Just like we defeated England...,' Afghan skipper Shahidi exudes confidence for AUS game

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy</a> host and holders, Pakistan, went winless in the home edition after rain forced a washout in Rawalpindi in their last league game against Bangladesh on Thursday (Feb 27). Pakistan staged the first ICC event in almost three decades, having last co-hosted the ODI World Cup in 1996, and ended up on the losing side in two contested mamatches&mdash;ainst New Zealand and India.
After going down in the two marquee matches in Group A, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/host-defending-champions-pakistan-out-of-champions-trophy-after-new-zealand-beat-bangladesh-in-rawalpindi-8753319" rel="dofollow">Pakistan&rsquo;s highly-anticipated campaign ended in misery</a> just six days into the tournament. Although their loss to the Kiwis in the curtain-raiser was hurting for the fans to watch, losing to India in their next match in Dubai crushed their hopes of advancing to the next round.
They still, however, had a game in hand (against Bangladesh) to play and win and end the first showpiece event of the year with at least one win, but the Rain Gods had other plans.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-champions-trophy-rohit-sharma-skips-training-gill-remains-absent-new-look-batting-lineup-for-kiwi-clash-8761858" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: Rohit doubtful for New Zealand match; unwell Gill misses training</a>
However, even before the India-Pakistan match, reports of rain playing spoilsport in Pakistan&rsquo;s last home game, potentially spoiling their chances of sealing a semifinal berth, did rounds on the internet.
Knowing Pakistan had already lost one game (to New Zealand) by then, a win over India would have made it three points, which were not enough had India and New Zealand ended with four points each.
<h2>Pakistan cricket in mud!</h2>
Pakistan has seen contrasting results in the past fortnight.
While chasing over 340 against New Zealand during one of the home tri-series games brought joy to the fans worldwide, getting eliminated from the home ICC tournament and becoming the first team to do so in this edition hurt them even more.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/afg-vs-eng-dressing-room-erupts-in-joy-after-afghanistan-win-first-champions-trophy-match-against-england-watch-8760685" rel="dofollow">Watch - Dressing room erupts in joy after Afghanistan win first Champions Trophy match</a>
Not for the first time did Pakistan suffer such a result in an ICC tournament. During the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, Pakistan failed to reach the semis despite the playing conditions favouring them throughout. What followed next was worse.
At next year&rsquo;s T20 World Cup in the Americas, Pakistan lost to the co-host USA in their first game before going down to India in their next. Although they beat Canada in a relatively closer contest, a washout against Ireland sent them packing from the preliminary round.&nbsp;
At this year&rsquo;s Champions Trophy, Pakistan were upbeat about putting the past behind them and delivering powerful performances; however, none of that happened, as they ended the home campaign with zero wins from three matches, with just one point coming from the washed-out result against Bangladesh.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: At this year’s Champions Trophy, Pakistan were upbeat about putting the past behind them and delivering powerful performances; however, none of that happened.

The ICC Champions Trophy host and holders, Pakistan, went winless in the home edition after rain forced a washout in Rawalpindi in their last league game against Bangladesh on Thursday (Feb 27). Pakistan staged the first ICC event in almost three decades, having last co-hosted the ODI World Cup in 1996, and ended up on the losing side in two contested mamatches—ainst New Zealand and India. After going down in the two marquee matches in Group A, Pakistan’s highly-anticipated campaign ended in misery just six days into the tournament. Although their loss to the Kiwis in the curtain-raiser was hurting for the fans to watch, losing to India in their next match in Dubai crushed their hopes of advancing to the next round. They still, however, had a game in hand (against Bangladesh) to play and win and end the first showpiece event of the year with at least one win, but the Rain Gods had other plans. Also read | Champions Trophy: Rohit doubtful for New Zealand match; unwell Gill misses training However, even before the India-Pakistan match, reports of rain playing spoilsport in Pakistan’s last home game, potentially spoiling their chances of sealing a semifinal berth, did rounds on the internet. Knowing Pakistan had already lost one game (to New Zealand) by then, a win over India would have made it three points, which were not enough had India and New Zealand ended with four points each. Pakistan cricket in mud! Pakistan has seen contrasting results in the past fortnight. While chasing over 340 against New Zealand during one of the home tri-series games brought joy to the fans worldwide, getting eliminated from the home ICC tournament and becoming the first team to do so in this edition hurt them even more. Also read | Watch - Dressing room erupts in joy after Afghanistan win first Champions Trophy match Not for the first time did Pakistan suffer such a result in an ICC tournament. During the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, Pakistan failed to reach the semis despite the playing conditions favouring them throughout. What followed next was worse. At next year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas, Pakistan lost to the co-host USA in their first game before going down to India in their next. Although they beat Canada in a relatively closer contest, a washout against Ireland sent them packing from the preliminary round. At this year’s Champions Trophy, Pakistan were upbeat about putting the past behind them and delivering powerful performances; however, none of that happened, as they ended the home campaign with zero wins from three matches, with just one point coming from the washed-out result against Bangladesh. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan remain winless in home Champions Trophy after washed-out Bangladesh tie

Afghanistan coach Jonathan Trott says that no team will take Afghanistan lightly in future. The comments come after Trott's boys beat England in Champions Trophy on Feb 26 in Lahore. With the loss, England were sent packing home while Afghanistan still have a shot at the semis.
"What happened in the World Cup, T20 World Cup, and [now], I say this to the players: Afghanistan's never going to be taken lightly ever again," he said after the match.&nbsp;
"In the past, perhaps people would have seen the fixture and thought it was a little bit easier than playing a historic Test nation."
Also Read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-fakhar-zaman-retirement-news-here-what-pak-batter-said-about-retiring-8761155" aria-label="Champions Trophy: Fakhar Zaman retiring? Here's what Pak opener said">Champions Trophy: Fakhar Zaman retiring? Here's what Pak opener said</a>
"But in this format, in these conditions, I don't see that. I see every game that we play is going to be competitive and every game we go into I expect to win. Australia aren't going to take us lightly."
"Since I've been coach, we've played against Australia three times and we've been in the game each of those games. I'll tell the players to enjoy tonight. I'm going to make sure when they wake up tomorrow, they're ready for Australia immediately. The focus is on Australia. That's how the players are going to be and that's what I'll tell the fans," added Trott.
Afghanistan next play against Australia which is a do or die game for both teams. Australia are currently at three points from two games while Afghanistan have two. Whichever team wins the match will become the first one to enter semis from Group B.
In case Afghanistan wins, Australia will have to hope for South Africa's loss against England in their last group stage match and that too by a huge margin.&nbsp;
In case Australia win then South Africa will also qualify for the semis with their three points while Afghanistan will join England in going home.

Afghanistan next play against Australia which is a do or die game for both teams. Australia are currently at three points from two games while Afghanistan have two. Cricket Sports

Afghanistan coach Jonathan Trott says that no team will take Afghanistan lightly in future. The comments come after Trott's boys beat England in Champions Trophy on Feb 26 in Lahore. With the loss, England were sent packing home while Afghanistan still have a shot at the semis. "What happened in the World Cup, T20 World Cup, and [now], I say this to the players: Afghanistan's never going to be taken lightly ever again," he said after the match. "In the past, perhaps people would have seen the fixture and thought it was a little bit easier than playing a historic Test nation." Also Read: Champions Trophy: Fakhar Zaman retiring? Here's what Pak opener said "But in this format, in these conditions, I don't see that. I see every game that we play is going to be competitive and every game we go into I expect to win. Australia aren't going to take us lightly." "Since I've been coach, we've played against Australia three times and we've been in the game each of those games. I'll tell the players to enjoy tonight. I'm going to make sure when they wake up tomorrow, they're ready for Australia immediately. The focus is on Australia. That's how the players are going to be and that's what I'll tell the fans," added Trott. Afghanistan next play against Australia which is a do or die game for both teams. Australia are currently at three points from two games while Afghanistan have two. Whichever team wins the match will become the first one to enter semis from Group B. In case Afghanistan wins, Australia will have to hope for South Africa's loss against England in their last group stage match and that too by a huge margin. In case Australia win then South Africa will also qualify for the semis with their three points while Afghanistan will join England in going home.

Champions Trophy: Coach Jonathan Trott confident 'Afghanistan's never going to be taken lightly ever again' after England win

Pakistan vs Bangladesh:&nbsp;Pakistan and Bangladesh play in Rawalpindi on Feb 27 in their last group match of the Champions Trophy. Both the teams have already been knocked out of the tournament after losing their first two games.
Pakistan lost their first match against New Zealand by 60 runs while they lost by six wickest in the second match against India. As for Bangladesh, they lost the first match against India by six wickets before losing by five wickets against New Zealand.
The game, which is set to be played n Feb 27 in Rawalpindi, has rain predicted to play a spoilsport. In the last match between Australia and South Africa, the game rain and ground conditions didn't let the toss happen as the two teams shared one-point each.
The game between Bangladesh and Pakistan, even if washed out, won't have any impact on the sgtanding or points of Group A with India and New Zealand already through the semis.
Both, Pakistan and Bangladesh would be hoping to get a game and finish off the rather disappointing tournament with a win to get some morale boost.
<h2>Follow Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy Live Cricket Match Score Updates Below:</h2>

Anothe match abandoned in Rawalpindi without a ball being bowled. What a shame! Pakistan and Bangladesh finish theri campaigns without a win but get one point each for this washout.
This live blog has ended.

PAK vs BAN Live score: Match abandoned 

Champions Trophy: Ravi Shastri&rsquo;s advice for drowning England after Afghanistan bashing
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-ibrahims-177-helps-afghanistan-knock-out-england-8759862" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">England&rsquo;s Champions Trophy 2025 hopes came down crashing</a>&nbsp;in Lahore on Wednesday (Feb 26) after Afghanistan shocked them for the second time in a 50-over ICC event by eight runs. The successive loss in their league stage meant England were knocked out of the tournament, leaving three teams from Group B fighting for the remaining two spots in the semis. Former India coach Ravi Shastri has some advice for the English Team.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ravi-shastris-advice-for-drowning-england-after-afghanistan-bashing-8761218">Read Here</a>

PAK vs BAN Live score: Overs starting to reduce in Rawalpindi

Champions Trophy 2025 - Who qualifies for semis from Group B? Does Afghanistan have a chance?
While the two teams from Group A &ndash; India and New Zealand have qualified for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025</a>&nbsp;semi-finals, the fight for the remaining two spots continues in the other group, with plenty happening since Wednesday's thriller between Afghanistan and England in Lahore.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-ibrahims-177-helps-afghanistan-knock-out-england-8759862" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">England is out of the semis race</a>, leaving three teams (Australia, South Africa and Afghanistan) for two positions in the final four. So, who makes it through? Can Afghanistan realise their dream, or would the Proteas and Aussies advance?
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-who-qualifies-for-semis-from-group-b-does-afghanistan-have-a-chance-8761028">Check Here</a>

PAK vs BAN Live score: still raining in Rawalpindi

It is still raining in Rawalpindi with no good signs available for cricket.

The weather continues to play spoilsport as the toss for this penultimate Group A fixture has been delayed.

PAK vs BAN Live score: Toss delayed in Pindi

Defending champions and hosts Pakistan will look to end the Champions Tropjhy 2025 campaign on a high note as they face Bangladesh on Thursday (Feb 27). With both teams winless, it will be a perfect contest for either side to restore pride. With pride up for stake in the final group game between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Champions Trophy 2025, here are all the details of the contest.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-vs-ban-live-streaming-free-when-and-where-to-watch-champions-trophy-2025-pakistan-vs-bangladesh-live-for-free-online-mobile-and-tv-8758231">Check Here</a>

 PAK vs BAN Live score: Live streaming, match details, squad, and how to watch online

PAK vs BAN: Pakistan and Bangladesh are set to play their last group stage match in the Champions Trophy. Both the teams are already out after losing their first two games. Cricket Sports

Pakistan vs Bangladesh: Pakistan and Bangladesh play in Rawalpindi on Feb 27 in their last group match of the Champions Trophy. Both the teams have already been knocked out of the tournament after losing their first two games. Pakistan lost their first match against New Zealand by 60 runs while they lost by six wickest in the second match against India. As for Bangladesh, they lost the first match against India by six wickets before losing by five wickets against New Zealand. The game, which is set to be played n Feb 27 in Rawalpindi, has rain predicted to play a spoilsport. In the last match between Australia and South Africa, the game rain and ground conditions didn't let the toss happen as the two teams shared one-point each. The game between Bangladesh and Pakistan, even if washed out, won't have any impact on the sgtanding or points of Group A with India and New Zealand already through the semis. Both, Pakistan and Bangladesh would be hoping to get a game and finish off the rather disappointing tournament with a win to get some morale boost. Follow Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy Live Cricket Match Score Updates Below:

HIGHLIGHTS | PAK vs BAN Today Cricket Match Score: Rain washes out another game in Rawalpindi

India captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a> skipped Wednesday&rsquo;s training at the ICC Academy facility in Dubai, and his deputy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shubman-gill" rel="dofollow">Shubman Gill</a> was nowhere to be seen during the scheduled three-hour practice session under the lights, per the latest reports. While Rohit is nursing a hamstring injury he suffered during India&rsquo;s marquee clash against Pakistan, Gill was unwell, thus missing India&rsquo;s first training session ahead of the New Zealand tie.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7n80f2u-t7sy1ghs-z9fg0ruh">
📸📸 Prepping 🆙 for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvIND</a> 👌👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy</a> <a href="https://t.co/YpL0V6aCKw">pic.twitter.com/YpL0V6aCKw</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1895052574371520982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
Against Pakistan in India&rsquo;s second league match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which the Men in Blue won by six wickets, Rohit injured his hamstring with the team doctors addressing it briefly during Pakistan's innings. He returned to batting during India&rsquo;s chase, scoring 20 off 15 balls, including three fours and a six. Besides, his opening partner Gill was on song against the arch-rivals, hitting a crucial fifty.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ravi-shastris-advice-for-drowning-england-after-afghanistan-bashing-8761218" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: Ravi Shastri&rsquo;s advice for drowning England after Afghanistan bashing</a>
Per Cricbuzz, Rohit was present at the venue but just as an onlooker, observing the batters go hard in an intense training session. The report further suggests that Rohit might consider giving the Kiwi game a miss on precautionary grounds to avoid aggravating the injury ahead of crucial knockout games.&nbsp;
With India and New Zealand already qualified for the Champions Trophy semis, with the hosts and defending champions Pakistan and Bangladesh knocked out of the home event, the two teams can afford to rest their key players ahead of their respective semis ties.
<h2>Changes in batting order</h2>
Should Rohit decide against playing the New Zealand match, the management will have to bring in his replacement, and considering the selected 15 had not more than three designated openers, KL Rahul will open with Gill.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mitchell-starc-reveals-what-led-to-his-absence-from-australias-champions-trophy-squad-8760534" rel="dofollow">Starc reveals what led to his absence from Australia&rsquo;s Champions Trophy squad</a>
With Rahul returning to the top order, he leaves a space vacant in the middle, which the gloveman Rishabh Pant will fill in, playing his maiden Champions Trophy match.&nbsp;
Gill and Rahul will likely open, with Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant comprising the middle order, while Hardik Pandya and the two left-arm all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel will take care of the lower middle order.&nbsp;
India could also rest ace seamer Mohammad Shami, who picked a five-for in the side&rsquo;s tournament opener against Bangladesh but was wicketless against Pakistan in the next game.&nbsp;
The team management could field two rookie seamers, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana, sharing the new ball, with Pandya coming in as a first change. Frontline spinner Kuldeep Yadav is expected to retain his place.&nbsp;
India will face New Zealand this Sunday (Mar 2) in Dubai.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Rohit could miss New Zealand's Champions Trophy tie on precautionary grounds to avoid aggravating the injury ahead of crucial knockout games.

India captain Rohit Sharma skipped Wednesday’s training at the ICC Academy facility in Dubai, and his deputy Shubman Gill was nowhere to be seen during the scheduled three-hour practice session under the lights, per the latest reports. While Rohit is nursing a hamstring injury he suffered during India’s marquee clash against Pakistan, Gill was unwell, thus missing India’s first training session ahead of the New Zealand tie. 📸📸 Prepping 🆙 for #NZvIND 👌👌#TeamIndia | #ChampionsTrophy pic.twitter.com/YpL0V6aCKw — BCCI (@BCCI) February 27, 2025 Against Pakistan in India’s second league match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which the Men in Blue won by six wickets, Rohit injured his hamstring with the team doctors addressing it briefly during Pakistan's innings. He returned to batting during India’s chase, scoring 20 off 15 balls, including three fours and a six. Besides, his opening partner Gill was on song against the arch-rivals, hitting a crucial fifty. Also read | Champions Trophy: Ravi Shastri’s advice for drowning England after Afghanistan bashing Per Cricbuzz, Rohit was present at the venue but just as an onlooker, observing the batters go hard in an intense training session. The report further suggests that Rohit might consider giving the Kiwi game a miss on precautionary grounds to avoid aggravating the injury ahead of crucial knockout games. With India and New Zealand already qualified for the Champions Trophy semis, with the hosts and defending champions Pakistan and Bangladesh knocked out of the home event, the two teams can afford to rest their key players ahead of their respective semis ties. Changes in batting order Should Rohit decide against playing the New Zealand match, the management will have to bring in his replacement, and considering the selected 15 had not more than three designated openers, KL Rahul will open with Gill. Also read | Starc reveals what led to his absence from Australia’s Champions Trophy squad With Rahul returning to the top order, he leaves a space vacant in the middle, which the gloveman Rishabh Pant will fill in, playing his maiden Champions Trophy match. Gill and Rahul will likely open, with Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant comprising the middle order, while Hardik Pandya and the two left-arm all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel will take care of the lower middle order. India could also rest ace seamer Mohammad Shami, who picked a five-for in the side’s tournament opener against Bangladesh but was wicketless against Pakistan in the next game. The team management could field two rookie seamers, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana, sharing the new ball, with Pandya coming in as a first change. Frontline spinner Kuldeep Yadav is expected to retain his place. India will face New Zealand this Sunday (Mar 2) in Dubai. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: Rohit doubtful for New Zealand match; unwell Gill misses training

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-ibrahims-177-helps-afghanistan-knock-out-england-8759862" rel="dofollow">England&rsquo;s Champions Trophy 2025 hopes came down crashing</a> in Lahore on Wednesday (Feb 26) after Afghanistan shocked them for the second time in a 50-over ICC event by eight runs. The successive loss in their league stage meant England were knocked out of the tournament, leaving three teams from Group B fighting for the remaining two spots in the semis. Former India coach Ravi Shastri has some advice for the English Team.
England&rsquo;s lead-up to the eight-team tournament was as horrible as their temperament and plans. They toured India for eight white-ball games (5 T20Is and 3 ODIs), losing seven.&nbsp;
Though <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jos-buttler-drops-hint-on-captaincy-future-after-afghanistan-shocker-in-champions-trophy-says-all-possibilities-to-be-considered-8760313" rel="dofollow">England captain Jos Buttler</a> and a few players sounded optimistic about the team&rsquo;s turnaround in performances and results, nothing helped them in the first showpiece event of the year.
England began the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a> with a five-wicket loss at the hands of Australia, thanks to a match-winning hundred by Aussie gloveman Josh Inglis (in the chase), and against Afghanistan, they fell shy of the target by just eight runs.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-who-qualifies-for-semis-from-group-b-does-afghanistan-have-a-chance-8761028" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025 - Who qualifies for semis from Group B? Does Afghanistan have a chance?</a>
Down by injuries to several first-team players, including rookie all-rounder Jacob Bethell and seamer Brydon Carse, England were reported to have not trained enough during the India ODIs, facing a lot of social media flak, with even former cricketers lamenting this practice.
Taking to his social media handle (X), Shastri first congratulated Afghanistan for a massive win in their maiden Champions Trophy appearance before advising England to play sub-continent cricket seriously without making any excuses.
&ldquo;Afghanistan. You guys rock. Kammaaal Kaardi. For England. Take playing in the Subcontinent seriously with no excuses. Only then you will be recognised as a Team that can TRAVEL #AFGvENG #ChampionsTrophy2025,&rdquo; he wrote on X.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7n2p209-vzq64cru-dhw67by4">
Afghanistan. You guys rock. Kammaaal Kaardi. For England. Take playing in the Subcontinent seriously with no excuses. Only then you will be recognised as a Team that can TRAVEL <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFGvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFGvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy2025</a> <a href="https://t.co/6dUYlzAVc5">pic.twitter.com/6dUYlzAVc5</a>
&mdash; Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc/status/1894803309082378313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Sachin lauds Afghanistan&rsquo;s victory</h2>
On the other hand, veteran batter Sachin Tendulkar was among the countless ex-cricketers who wished Afghanistan for this feat on his social media.&nbsp;
Taking to X, Sachin wrote that Afghanistan beating any top-ranked team across formats shouldn&rsquo;t be considered or looked at as an upset.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Afghanistan&rsquo;s steady and consistent rise in international cricket has been inspiring! You can&rsquo;t term their wins as upsets anymore, they&rsquo;ve made this a habit now.&nbsp;
"A superb century by @IZadran18 and wonderful five-for by @AzmatOmarzai, sealed another memorable win for Afghanistan.
Well played!&nbsp;
#AFGvENG&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7n2oklv-hk1tsy5j-t51uoo4a">
Afghanistan&rsquo;s steady and consistent rise in international cricket has been inspiring! You can&rsquo;t term their wins as upsets anymore, they&rsquo;ve made this a habit now. A superb century by <a href="https://twitter.com/IZadran18?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IZadran18</a> and wonderful five-for by <a href="https://twitter.com/AzmatOmarzay?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AzmatOmarzay</a>, sealed another memorable win for Afghanistan.&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/J1MVULDtKC">pic.twitter.com/J1MVULDtKC</a>
&mdash; Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1894819993638052320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
Meanwhile, Afghanistan&rsquo;s win over England puts them on the brink of a semis qualification, for which they must beat the defending world champions Australia in their last league match.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Though Buttler and a few English players sounded optimistic about the team’s turnarounds in performances and results in the Champions Trophy, nothing helped them.

England’s Champions Trophy 2025 hopes came down crashing in Lahore on Wednesday (Feb 26) after Afghanistan shocked them for the second time in a 50-over ICC event by eight runs. The successive loss in their league stage meant England were knocked out of the tournament, leaving three teams from Group B fighting for the remaining two spots in the semis. Former India coach Ravi Shastri has some advice for the English Team. England’s lead-up to the eight-team tournament was as horrible as their temperament and plans. They toured India for eight white-ball games (5 T20Is and 3 ODIs), losing seven. Though England captain Jos Buttler and a few players sounded optimistic about the team’s turnaround in performances and results, nothing helped them in the first showpiece event of the year. England began the Champions Trophy with a five-wicket loss at the hands of Australia, thanks to a match-winning hundred by Aussie gloveman Josh Inglis (in the chase), and against Afghanistan, they fell shy of the target by just eight runs. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025 - Who qualifies for semis from Group B? Does Afghanistan have a chance? Down by injuries to several first-team players, including rookie all-rounder Jacob Bethell and seamer Brydon Carse, England were reported to have not trained enough during the India ODIs, facing a lot of social media flak, with even former cricketers lamenting this practice. Taking to his social media handle (X), Shastri first congratulated Afghanistan for a massive win in their maiden Champions Trophy appearance before advising England to play sub-continent cricket seriously without making any excuses. “Afghanistan. You guys rock. Kammaaal Kaardi. For England. Take playing in the Subcontinent seriously with no excuses. Only then you will be recognised as a Team that can TRAVEL #AFGvENG #ChampionsTrophy2025,” he wrote on X. Afghanistan. You guys rock. Kammaaal Kaardi. For England. Take playing in the Subcontinent seriously with no excuses. Only then you will be recognised as a Team that can TRAVEL #AFGvENG #ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/6dUYlzAVc5 — Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) February 26, 2025 Sachin lauds Afghanistan’s victory On the other hand, veteran batter Sachin Tendulkar was among the countless ex-cricketers who wished Afghanistan for this feat on his social media. Taking to X, Sachin wrote that Afghanistan beating any top-ranked team across formats shouldn’t be considered or looked at as an upset. “Afghanistan’s steady and consistent rise in international cricket has been inspiring! You can’t term their wins as upsets anymore, they’ve made this a habit now. "A superb century by @IZadran18 and wonderful five-for by @AzmatOmarzai, sealed another memorable win for Afghanistan. Well played! #AFGvENG” Afghanistan’s steady and consistent rise in international cricket has been inspiring! You can’t term their wins as upsets anymore, they’ve made this a habit now. A superb century by @IZadran18 and wonderful five-for by @AzmatOmarzay, sealed another memorable win for Afghanistan.… pic.twitter.com/J1MVULDtKC — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) February 26, 2025 Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s win over England puts them on the brink of a semis qualification, for which they must beat the defending world champions Australia in their last league match. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: Ravi Shastri’s advice for drowning England after Afghanistan bashing

Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman has refuted retirement rumours after the team's dismal performance in the Champions Trophy. The hosts were knocked out of the tournament after two consecutive losses in the first two group-stage matches against New Zealand and India.
Zaman played only one game in the tournament, against New Zealand, during which he got injured in the first over of the match and left the field immediately. He did return to bat but was not his usual self as he laboured to a 41-ball 24. Pakistan lost the match by 60 runs.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-who-qualifies-for-semis-from-group-b-does-afghanistan-have-a-chance-8761028">Champions Trophy 2025 - Who qualifies for semis from Group B? Does Afghanistan have a chance?</a>
"I heard about this [retirement rumours] a lot and even my friends messaged me about it, but there's nothing to it," Fakhar said while talking to PCB Digital. "The ODI format is my favourite format. Yes with my thyroid, there was a thing that I could take more time getting back into it. But I want to play T20s, ODIs, even Tests again. As far as my comeback is concerned, I spoke to the doctor and I can start playing cricket again within the month."
"The doctor has advised me that I can start training again in three weeks. So I think I should be back to playing cricket in a month's time."
Fakhar had come to the side as a replacement to Saim Ayub but Imam ul Haq was eventually the player who went on to play the game against India. Imam, however, could manage only 10 runs before being run out on a direct throw by Axar Patel.
Pakistan coach Aaqib Javed, meanwhile, has blamed 'inexperience' for his team's humiliating loss against India in the Champions Trophy on Feb 23 in Dubai.
"When Pakistan and India are playing, it's not only cricket - it's more than that. You need a lot of experience," Javed said, as reported by cricket news website ESPNCricinfo.&nbsp;

The hosts were knocked out of the tournament after two consecutive losses in the first two group stage matches against New Zealand and India. Cricket Sports

Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman has refuted retirement rumours after the team's dismal performance in the Champions Trophy. The hosts were knocked out of the tournament after two consecutive losses in the first two group-stage matches against New Zealand and India. Zaman played only one game in the tournament, against New Zealand, during which he got injured in the first over of the match and left the field immediately. He did return to bat but was not his usual self as he laboured to a 41-ball 24. Pakistan lost the match by 60 runs. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025 - Who qualifies for semis from Group B? Does Afghanistan have a chance? "I heard about this [retirement rumours] a lot and even my friends messaged me about it, but there's nothing to it," Fakhar said while talking to PCB Digital. "The ODI format is my favourite format. Yes with my thyroid, there was a thing that I could take more time getting back into it. But I want to play T20s, ODIs, even Tests again. As far as my comeback is concerned, I spoke to the doctor and I can start playing cricket again within the month." "The doctor has advised me that I can start training again in three weeks. So I think I should be back to playing cricket in a month's time." Fakhar had come to the side as a replacement to Saim Ayub but Imam ul Haq was eventually the player who went on to play the game against India. Imam, however, could manage only 10 runs before being run out on a direct throw by Axar Patel. Pakistan coach Aaqib Javed, meanwhile, has blamed 'inexperience' for his team's humiliating loss against India in the Champions Trophy on Feb 23 in Dubai. "When Pakistan and India are playing, it's not only cricket - it's more than that. You need a lot of experience," Javed said, as reported by cricket news website ESPNCricinfo.

Champions Trophy: Fakhar Zaman retiring? Here's what Pak opener said

While the two teams from Group A &ndash; India and New Zealand have qualified for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a> semi-finals, the fight for the remaining two spots continues in the other group, with plenty happening since Wednesday's thriller between Afghanistan and England in Lahore. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-ibrahims-177-helps-afghanistan-knock-out-england-8759862" rel="dofollow">England is out of the semis race</a>, leaving three teams (Australia, South Africa and Afghanistan) fighting for the two positions in the final four. So, who makes it through? Can Afghanistan realise their dream, or would the Proteas and Aussies advance?
<h2>Group B scenarios</h2>
Afghanistan's win over England increases their chances of reaching the Champions Trophy semis in their maiden appearance but also leaves doors open for Australia and South Africa to cruise ahead.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/afg-vs-eng-dressing-room-erupts-in-joy-after-afghanistan-win-first-champions-trophy-match-against-england-watch-8760685" rel="dofollow">Watch - Dressing room erupts in joy after Afghanistan win first Champions Trophy match</a>
Meanwhile, all four teams have played two games each, with Proteas and Aussies sitting at the top with three points each besides their names, having won one and attaining one point from their washed-out tie earlier. Afghanistan is third on the list with one win and a loss in two matches, with England knocked out from the semis race after going down in their two successive games.
<h3>How can Australia and South Africa qualify?</h3>
Australia face Afghanistan in their final league game on Friday (Feb 28) in Lahore, and a win there would confirm their qualification in the last four. On the other hand, the Proteas' game against England will also be crucial to their chances.&nbsp;
Should South Africa beat them in Karachi on Saturday (Mar 1), they will join Australia from Group B in the semis. However, the outcomes of their final league matches will determine their positions on the points table.
Considering another case scenario, where Australia beat Afghanistan and England upset the Proteas, the Aussies would end the league games with five points, while South Africa would have three.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jos-buttler-drops-hint-on-captaincy-future-after-afghanistan-shocker-in-champions-trophy-says-all-possibilities-to-be-considered-8760313" rel="dofollow">England skipper Jos Buttler admits captaincy is at stake after Afghanistan shocker</a>
<h3>How can Afghanistan qualify for Champions Trophy semis?</h3>
Afghanistan has been on a rampage since the ODI World Cup in India, where they beat three former world champions, including England, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, in their group stage, narrowly missing out on the semis spot.&nbsp;
Next year, during the T20 World Cup in the Americas, they stunned the world with comprehensive wins over New Zealand and Australia in the group games, qualifying for their maiden semis in the tournament. South Africa crushed them in a one-sided contest in the semi-final.
In the 2025 Champions Trophy, they lost their tournament opener to South Africa by 105 runs, but a win over England has kept their hopes alive. Though still low on NRR, beating the defending world champions Australia in their last league match will seal their ticket for the semis, creating history.
However, should they lose, they&rsquo;d be out of the tournament.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Only India and New Zealand from Group A have qualified for the Champions Trophy semis thus far, with the fight for the remaining two spots continuing in Group B.

While the two teams from Group A – India and New Zealand have qualified for the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-finals, the fight for the remaining two spots continues in the other group, with plenty happening since Wednesday's thriller between Afghanistan and England in Lahore. England is out of the semis race, leaving three teams (Australia, South Africa and Afghanistan) fighting for the two positions in the final four. So, who makes it through? Can Afghanistan realise their dream, or would the Proteas and Aussies advance? Group B scenarios Afghanistan's win over England increases their chances of reaching the Champions Trophy semis in their maiden appearance but also leaves doors open for Australia and South Africa to cruise ahead. Also read | Watch - Dressing room erupts in joy after Afghanistan win first Champions Trophy match Meanwhile, all four teams have played two games each, with Proteas and Aussies sitting at the top with three points each besides their names, having won one and attaining one point from their washed-out tie earlier. Afghanistan is third on the list with one win and a loss in two matches, with England knocked out from the semis race after going down in their two successive games. How can Australia and South Africa qualify? Australia face Afghanistan in their final league game on Friday (Feb 28) in Lahore, and a win there would confirm their qualification in the last four. On the other hand, the Proteas' game against England will also be crucial to their chances. Should South Africa beat them in Karachi on Saturday (Mar 1), they will join Australia from Group B in the semis. However, the outcomes of their final league matches will determine their positions on the points table. Considering another case scenario, where Australia beat Afghanistan and England upset the Proteas, the Aussies would end the league games with five points, while South Africa would have three. Also read | England skipper Jos Buttler admits captaincy is at stake after Afghanistan shocker How can Afghanistan qualify for Champions Trophy semis? Afghanistan has been on a rampage since the ODI World Cup in India, where they beat three former world champions, including England, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, in their group stage, narrowly missing out on the semis spot. Next year, during the T20 World Cup in the Americas, they stunned the world with comprehensive wins over New Zealand and Australia in the group games, qualifying for their maiden semis in the tournament. South Africa crushed them in a one-sided contest in the semi-final. In the 2025 Champions Trophy, they lost their tournament opener to South Africa by 105 runs, but a win over England has kept their hopes alive. Though still low on NRR, beating the defending world champions Australia in their last league match will seal their ticket for the semis, creating history. However, should they lose, they’d be out of the tournament. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Who will qualify for semis from Group B? Do Afghanistan stand a chance?

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-ibrahims-177-helps-afghanistan-knock-out-england-8759862" rel="dofollow">Afghanistan beating England to win its maiden ICC Champions Trophy match</a> on Wednesday (Feb 26) in Lahore was a moment they will cherish forever. Although they had already beaten them in an ODI World Cup game in Delhi two years ago, doing it against the former champions in their first-ever <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a> speaks volumes of their rise in international cricket. This win, however, has put them on the brink of a semis spot in the eight-team tournament. A win over Australia would do that.
The cricket world, barring England, celebrated Afghanistan&rsquo;s win, and why shouldn&rsquo;t they; the way they played throughout the game, keeping their nerves and belief intact to win a thriller, is appraisable.&nbsp;
The moment Afghanistan&rsquo;s most valuable ODI cricketer - Azmatullah Omarzai, picked his fifth and innings&rsquo; final wicket by removing England spinner Adil Rashid, caught at the deep long-off in the final over, the dressing room, crowd and millions watching back home erupted in joy.
<h3>Watch the video &ndash;</h3>
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<h2>Omarzai and Zadran, the heroes!</h2>
Omarzai enjoyed batting and bowling at the Gaddafi Stadium (against England), scoring 41 off 31 balls, including hitting three sixes, and later returning with match-winning figures of five for 58, helping Afghanistan knock England out of the tournament.&nbsp;
However, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-afghanistans-ibrahim-zadran-scores-highest-individual-score-scripts-two-more-records-8759245" rel="dofollow">Ibrahim Zadran was another hero from their camp</a> who had England on the floor from ball one.&nbsp;
The young opener has made a name in world cricket with his exploits, having already smashed a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-will-bat-like-tendulkar-ibrahim-zadran-credits-indian-legend-for-century-against-australia-656191" rel="dofollow">World Cup hundred (against Australia</a> in Mumbai in 2023). After demolishing England bowlers in Lahore, he broke their back and the internet.&nbsp;
After electing to bat first, Afghanistan lost three wickets inside the Powerplay but didn&rsquo;t let their guard down. Alongside skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi, Zadran added 103 for the fourth wicket, completing his fifty before notching up his hundred soon after and breaking loose after that.
Zadran&rsquo;s late blitz (177) saw Afghanistan pile up a massive 325 for seven in the first innings.
England&rsquo;s chase began in the most English manner &ndash; a few fours, a wicket, some more fours and another wicket.
Joe Root was England&rsquo;s best batter on the day, completing his 17th ODI ton (120 off 111 balls), his first in six years, but even that wasn&rsquo;t enough for them to overcome the Afghan scare in ODIs.
England came close to chasing the target, with all-rounder Jamie Overton and seamer Jofra Archer hitting fours late in the chase, but a last-minute twist saw the game turn upside down as Afghanistan clinched the thriller.
Meanwhile, they next face Australia, and should they beat them, Afghanistan will qualify for their maiden Champions Trophy semis.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Opener Zadran and all-rounder Omarzai were instrumental in helping Afghanistan beat England and knocking them out of Champions Trophy 2025.

Afghanistan beating England to win its maiden ICC Champions Trophy match on Wednesday (Feb 26) in Lahore was a moment they will cherish forever. Although they had already beaten them in an ODI World Cup game in Delhi two years ago, doing it against the former champions in their first-ever Champions Trophy speaks volumes of their rise in international cricket. This win, however, has put them on the brink of a semis spot in the eight-team tournament. A win over Australia would do that. The cricket world, barring England, celebrated Afghanistan’s win, and why shouldn’t they; the way they played throughout the game, keeping their nerves and belief intact to win a thriller, is appraisable. The moment Afghanistan’s most valuable ODI cricketer - Azmatullah Omarzai, picked his fifth and innings’ final wicket by removing England spinner Adil Rashid, caught at the deep long-off in the final over, the dressing room, crowd and millions watching back home erupted in joy. Watch the video – View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) Omarzai and Zadran, the heroes! Omarzai enjoyed batting and bowling at the Gaddafi Stadium (against England), scoring 41 off 31 balls, including hitting three sixes, and later returning with match-winning figures of five for 58, helping Afghanistan knock England out of the tournament. However, Ibrahim Zadran was another hero from their camp who had England on the floor from ball one. The young opener has made a name in world cricket with his exploits, having already smashed a World Cup hundred (against Australia in Mumbai in 2023). After demolishing England bowlers in Lahore, he broke their back and the internet. After electing to bat first, Afghanistan lost three wickets inside the Powerplay but didn’t let their guard down. Alongside skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi, Zadran added 103 for the fourth wicket, completing his fifty before notching up his hundred soon after and breaking loose after that. Zadran’s late blitz (177) saw Afghanistan pile up a massive 325 for seven in the first innings. England’s chase began in the most English manner – a few fours, a wicket, some more fours and another wicket. Joe Root was England’s best batter on the day, completing his 17th ODI ton (120 off 111 balls), his first in six years, but even that wasn’t enough for them to overcome the Afghan scare in ODIs. England came close to chasing the target, with all-rounder Jamie Overton and seamer Jofra Archer hitting fours late in the chase, but a last-minute twist saw the game turn upside down as Afghanistan clinched the thriller. Meanwhile, they next face Australia, and should they beat them, Afghanistan will qualify for their maiden Champions Trophy semis. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch - Dressing room erupts in joy after Afghanistan win first Champions Trophy match

Ace Australian quick <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mitchell-starc" rel="dofollow">Mitchell Starc</a> has revealed what led to his absence from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a>. Starc was among the Aussie pace trio, including regular captain Pat Cummins and seasoned seamer Josh Hazlewood, who did not feature in the first showpiece event of the year. While Cummins and Hazlewood missed the Champions Trophy due to respective injuries, Starc admitted pain in his ankle (he felt during Sri Lanka Tests) and &lsquo;personal views&rsquo; forced him to pull out of contention.
Speaking for the first time since opting out of the Champions Trophy squad, Starc said, "There's a few different reasons, some personal views, and had a bit of ankle pain through the Test series [against Sri Lanka]."&nbsp;
"So just get that one right, obviously, we've got the Test final coming up and a West Indies tour after that.
"There's some IPL cricket as well, but my main one top of my mind is that Test final, so get my body right, play some cricket in the next couple of months and then ready to go for the Test final,&rdquo; the left-arm quick said while chatting on Willow Talk podcast.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jos-buttler-drops-hint-on-captaincy-future-after-afghanistan-shocker-in-champions-trophy-says-all-possibilities-to-be-considered-8760313" rel="dofollow">Jos Buttler admits to fear losing England&rsquo;s captaincy after Afghanistan shocker</a>
While he did not elaborate on his (personal) reasons, Starc&rsquo;s absence makes sense for his longevity and fitness.&nbsp;
The ageing left-arm quick was part of the five Tests at home against India, throwing rockets throughout the series while playing the two away Tests against Sri Lanka. Though Cricket Australia (CA) named him in the 15-man squad for the eight-team tournament in Pakistan, Starc chose to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-mitchell-starc-pulls-out-in-another-major-blow-for-australia-steve-smith-to-lead-8712498" rel="dofollow">skip it to reclaim full fitness for the upcoming IPL and the WTC Final</a>.
Besides, had he been picked and playing, Starc would have been travelling to a new city for Australia&rsquo;s scheduled group stage matches and even to Dubai (to face India) should they qualify for the semis.&nbsp;
<h2>Changes in the WTC model? Starc says yes!</h2>
Also, defending the WTC title is something Starc has his eyes on, and even though they have already tasted success the last time and made it to the finals this year, the ace quick feels it (WTC model) needs some tinkering.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Australia missed out on making it to the finals the first time due to slow over-rate penalties, but Starc feels it gained significance when the Aussies qualified for the second one.&nbsp;
"The first one being a new concept, I remember definitely, I was like, what's this all about? It doesn't mean much," he said. "We're trying to win every Test match, every Test series. And then we got close to it, and we missed out, and watching it on TV; we all wanted to be a part of it. So that quickly changed.
"And then the second cycle, we made the final and, obviously, playing India on neutral territory, that was a big occasion for both teams, managed to get the chocolates that time. And now we find ourselves sitting [with] a chance to win it for the second time on the trot.
"I think the format needs some tinkering still. It's a very hard one to fix, I guess when you only play six series that contribute to the point system. You get the same points for home and away wins, it's a percentage-based model. So it's an imperfect system. But I think two really good teams will be facing off in the final,&rdquo; he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Starc was part of the five Tests at home against India, throwing rockets throughout the series while playing the two away Tests against Sri Lanka.

Ace Australian quick Mitchell Starc has revealed what led to his absence from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Starc was among the Aussie pace trio, including regular captain Pat Cummins and seasoned seamer Josh Hazlewood, who did not feature in the first showpiece event of the year. While Cummins and Hazlewood missed the Champions Trophy due to respective injuries, Starc admitted pain in his ankle (he felt during Sri Lanka Tests) and ‘personal views’ forced him to pull out of contention. Speaking for the first time since opting out of the Champions Trophy squad, Starc said, "There's a few different reasons, some personal views, and had a bit of ankle pain through the Test series [against Sri Lanka]." "So just get that one right, obviously, we've got the Test final coming up and a West Indies tour after that. "There's some IPL cricket as well, but my main one top of my mind is that Test final, so get my body right, play some cricket in the next couple of months and then ready to go for the Test final,” the left-arm quick said while chatting on Willow Talk podcast. Also read | Jos Buttler admits to fear losing England’s captaincy after Afghanistan shocker While he did not elaborate on his (personal) reasons, Starc’s absence makes sense for his longevity and fitness. The ageing left-arm quick was part of the five Tests at home against India, throwing rockets throughout the series while playing the two away Tests against Sri Lanka. Though Cricket Australia (CA) named him in the 15-man squad for the eight-team tournament in Pakistan, Starc chose to skip it to reclaim full fitness for the upcoming IPL and the WTC Final. Besides, had he been picked and playing, Starc would have been travelling to a new city for Australia’s scheduled group stage matches and even to Dubai (to face India) should they qualify for the semis. Changes in the WTC model? Starc says yes! Also, defending the WTC title is something Starc has his eyes on, and even though they have already tasted success the last time and made it to the finals this year, the ace quick feels it (WTC model) needs some tinkering. Meanwhile, Australia missed out on making it to the finals the first time due to slow over-rate penalties, but Starc feels it gained significance when the Aussies qualified for the second one. "The first one being a new concept, I remember definitely, I was like, what's this all about? It doesn't mean much," he said. "We're trying to win every Test match, every Test series. And then we got close to it, and we missed out, and watching it on TV; we all wanted to be a part of it. So that quickly changed. "And then the second cycle, we made the final and, obviously, playing India on neutral territory, that was a big occasion for both teams, managed to get the chocolates that time. And now we find ourselves sitting [with] a chance to win it for the second time on the trot. "I think the format needs some tinkering still. It's a very hard one to fix, I guess when you only play six series that contribute to the point system. You get the same points for home and away wins, it's a percentage-based model. So it's an imperfect system. But I think two really good teams will be facing off in the final,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Starc reveals what led to his absence from Australia’s Champions Trophy squad

England captain and veteran batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jos-buttler" rel="dofollow">Jos Buttler</a> addressed the elephant in the room after his side&rsquo;s successive loss in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a>, this time <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-ibrahims-177-helps-afghanistan-knock-out-england-8759862" rel="dofollow">against Afghanistan by just eight runs</a>. England&rsquo;s second defeat on the trot has knocked them out of the semis race, as they become the third team after hosts Pakistan and Bangladesh to get eliminated from the first showpiece event of the year.
England getting ruled out inside the group stage raises questions over the team&rsquo;s ODI future, which once sat on the pedestal, having won the ODI World Cup six years ago at home. Barring last year&rsquo;s T20 World Cup in the Americas, where they lost to India in the semis, England failed to reach the knockouts in the two 50-over tournaments in the past two years, putting pressure on the management and Butter over their positions in the side.
Buttler faces heat over his leadership role, and after suffering another shocker against Afghanistan at this year&rsquo;s eight-team event, he knows he could face the axe.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pakistan-is-on-the-bottom-admits-coach-aaqib-javed-after-early-exit-for-hosts-and-defending-champions-8759531" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: 'Pakistan is at the bottom,' admits coach Aaqib Javed after early exit for hosts and defending champions</a>
Reflecting on the same after the game in Lahore, the English captain said, "It's tough to say; stood here right now, and I don't want to make any sort of emotional statements."&nbsp;
"But I think it's fair to say that you've got to consider all possibilities.
"I've enjoyed it [the captaincy]. I've seen lots of people say it doesn't sit well with me, but I do enjoy it. I enjoy the challenge. Obviously, I don't enjoy losing games of cricket and the results. And of course, when they're not going well, you do look at yourself in the mirror and say, 'Am I part of the problem or am I part of the solution?' I think that's what I've got to work out,&rdquo; he added in a chat with Sky Sports.
<h2>&lsquo;I enjoy leading&rsquo;</h2>
Buttler is a seasoned campaigner, a trusted team man and a proven leader; however, outcomes sometimes take a toll even on the best of them, so how could Buttler be spared?&nbsp;
Talking about leadership, Buttler admitted enjoying this responsibility but didn&rsquo;t shy away from adding that he needs to take some time off before debating his future as England&rsquo;s white-ball captain.
&ldquo;You [the press] are probably not the first people I'd discuss that with," he said.
&ldquo;I'll take a little bit of time to work out, personally, what I think is right, and, obviously, the guys at the top are in charge, and they'll have their own views as well.
&ldquo;I enjoy leading. Even before, when I wasn't captain, I'd like to think of myself as a leader in the team, but results are tough, and they weigh heavy at times. Of course, you want to be leading a winning team, and we haven't been that for a while now, so obviously that brings some difficult moments,&rdquo; he added.
Meanwhile, England&rsquo;s last league game against South Africa (March 1) might be a dead rubber for them, but could contribute to the Group standings should they beat the Proteas.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Under Jos, England failed to reach the semis in the last two 50-over tournaments, with the English captain admitting to fearing losing the white-ball captaincy.

England captain and veteran batter Jos Buttler addressed the elephant in the room after his side’s successive loss in the ongoing Champions Trophy, this time against Afghanistan by just eight runs. England’s second defeat on the trot has knocked them out of the semis race, as they become the third team after hosts Pakistan and Bangladesh to get eliminated from the first showpiece event of the year. England getting ruled out inside the group stage raises questions over the team’s ODI future, which once sat on the pedestal, having won the ODI World Cup six years ago at home. Barring last year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas, where they lost to India in the semis, England failed to reach the knockouts in the two 50-over tournaments in the past two years, putting pressure on the management and Butter over their positions in the side. Buttler faces heat over his leadership role, and after suffering another shocker against Afghanistan at this year’s eight-team event, he knows he could face the axe. Also read | Champions Trophy: 'Pakistan is at the bottom,' admits coach Aaqib Javed after early exit for hosts and defending champions Reflecting on the same after the game in Lahore, the English captain said, "It's tough to say; stood here right now, and I don't want to make any sort of emotional statements." "But I think it's fair to say that you've got to consider all possibilities. "I've enjoyed it [the captaincy]. I've seen lots of people say it doesn't sit well with me, but I do enjoy it. I enjoy the challenge. Obviously, I don't enjoy losing games of cricket and the results. And of course, when they're not going well, you do look at yourself in the mirror and say, 'Am I part of the problem or am I part of the solution?' I think that's what I've got to work out,” he added in a chat with Sky Sports. ‘I enjoy leading’ Buttler is a seasoned campaigner, a trusted team man and a proven leader; however, outcomes sometimes take a toll even on the best of them, so how could Buttler be spared? Talking about leadership, Buttler admitted enjoying this responsibility but didn’t shy away from adding that he needs to take some time off before debating his future as England’s white-ball captain. “You [the press] are probably not the first people I'd discuss that with," he said. “I'll take a little bit of time to work out, personally, what I think is right, and, obviously, the guys at the top are in charge, and they'll have their own views as well. “I enjoy leading. Even before, when I wasn't captain, I'd like to think of myself as a leader in the team, but results are tough, and they weigh heavy at times. Of course, you want to be leading a winning team, and we haven't been that for a while now, so obviously that brings some difficult moments,” he added. Meanwhile, England’s last league game against South Africa (March 1) might be a dead rubber for them, but could contribute to the Group standings should they beat the Proteas. (With inputs from agencies)

England skipper Jos Buttler admits captaincy is at stake after Afghanistan shocker

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/danielle-wyatt" rel="dofollow">Danielle Wyatt</a> had always been a fan of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Watching legends like Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers, Tillakaratne Dilshan, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> light up the Indian Premier League made RCB more than just a team for her&mdash;it was an emotion. The electric atmosphere, even through the television, made her dream of donning the iconic red and gold one day. Little did she know, that dream would become a reality.&nbsp;
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Her first taste of RCB merchandise came through an unexpected source&mdash;Mike Hesson. Unable to buy the green T-shirt in England, she reached out to the then RCB director, who graciously sent her one. The moment she put it on, she felt something special.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wpl-2025-sciver-brunts-all-round-show-matthews-fifty-power-mi-to-eight-wicket-win-over-upw-8759907">WPL 2025: Sciver-Brunt's all-round show, Matthews' fifty power MI to eight-wicket win over UPW</a>
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Of course, there was also that infamous tweet. Years ago, in sheer admiration of a Virat Kohli masterclass, she had tweeted something that spiraled out of control&mdash;news outlets in India splashed headlines claiming she wanted to marry Virat. It was meant to be banter, but the internet had other plans. Looking back, she laughed about it. Twitter had always been a space for her playful side.&nbsp;
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But admiration aside, it was Virat&rsquo;s consistency, loyalty, and impact that truly inspired her. He had been a pillar for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bangalore">RCB</a> and Indian cricket, influencing countless young players, boys and girls alike, to take up the sport. And now, Danielle found herself in a similar position&mdash;a young boy from Mumbai had travelled all the way to Bangalore just to watch her play. The passion of Indian fans was unlike anything else. Selfies, autographs, cheers from the streets&mdash;it was all overwhelming yet deeply humbling. This was what made playing in India so special.&nbsp;
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Then came the call from her agent, Josh.&nbsp;
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&ldquo;RCB are keen,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;
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But Danielle had been working on this move even before the call. She had been relentlessly nudging her close friend and WPL teammate, Smriti Mandhana. &ldquo;Smitty, come on, we&rsquo;ve got to play together in the WPL. It&rsquo;ll be amazing.&rdquo;&nbsp;
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And it happened. A month later, she got the confirmation&mdash;she was officially a part of RCB. The excitement was unreal. She called her wife, rang up her parents, and reveled in the joy of joining a franchise she had adored for so long. Soon, the thoughts of playing at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium flooded her mind. The noise, the energy, the legacy&mdash;she couldn&rsquo;t wait.&nbsp;
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Her first day felt like the first day of school. New cricket bag, fresh kit, the excitement of wearing the RCB helmet&mdash;it was all surreal. She captured every moment, taking videos and photos, eager to share them.&nbsp;
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But with the joy came responsibility. Joining a franchise like RCB, especially as defending champions, brought pressure. The WPL was a high-stakes tournament, and she wanted to prove her worth. Cricket, especially T20s, could be unpredictable, but she was ready. She trained hard, leaned on Smriti for calmness, and focused on delivering.&nbsp;
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As she settled in, she found herself at the centre of playful banter. Fans called out to her, some getting her name right&mdash;Wyatt, while others called her &lsquo;Watt&rsquo; or &lsquo;Hodgie.&rsquo; It was all in good spirits, and she embraced it.&nbsp;
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And then came the mischief. Feeling comfortable in her new surroundings, she plotted her first prank.&nbsp;
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&ldquo;I&rsquo;ll just take one of Smitty&rsquo;s bats out of her bag,&rdquo; she whispered, laughing. &ldquo;She might cry.&rdquo;&nbsp;
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RCB was more than just a team&mdash;it was a family, filled with laughter, camaraderie, and an unbreakable bond. As she looked around at her teammates, donned in RCB colors, she felt the weight of her journey. From being a fan to becoming a part of the team, it had come full circle.&nbsp;
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The next few weeks promised excitement, challenges, and moments to cherish. But for Danielle Wyatt, one thing was certain&mdash;she was exactly where she was meant to be.&nbsp;
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Sports, Cricket: Her first taste of RCB merchandise came through Mike Hesson. Unable to buy the green T-shirt in England, she reached out to the then RCB director, who sent her one

Danielle Wyatt had always been a fan of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Watching legends like Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers, Tillakaratne Dilshan, and Virat Kohli light up the Indian Premier League made RCB more than just a team for her—it was an emotion. The electric atmosphere, even through the television, made her dream of donning the iconic red and gold one day. Little did she know, that dream would become a reality. Her first taste of RCB merchandise came through an unexpected source—Mike Hesson. Unable to buy the green T-shirt in England, she reached out to the then RCB director, who graciously sent her one. The moment she put it on, she felt something special. Also Read: WPL 2025: Sciver-Brunt's all-round show, Matthews' fifty power MI to eight-wicket win over UPW Of course, there was also that infamous tweet. Years ago, in sheer admiration of a Virat Kohli masterclass, she had tweeted something that spiraled out of control—news outlets in India splashed headlines claiming she wanted to marry Virat. It was meant to be banter, but the internet had other plans. Looking back, she laughed about it. Twitter had always been a space for her playful side. But admiration aside, it was Virat’s consistency, loyalty, and impact that truly inspired her. He had been a pillar for RCB and Indian cricket, influencing countless young players, boys and girls alike, to take up the sport. And now, Danielle found herself in a similar position—a young boy from Mumbai had travelled all the way to Bangalore just to watch her play. The passion of Indian fans was unlike anything else. Selfies, autographs, cheers from the streets—it was all overwhelming yet deeply humbling. This was what made playing in India so special. Then came the call from her agent, Josh. “RCB are keen,” he said. But Danielle had been working on this move even before the call. She had been relentlessly nudging her close friend and WPL teammate, Smriti Mandhana. “Smitty, come on, we’ve got to play together in the WPL. It’ll be amazing.” And it happened. A month later, she got the confirmation—she was officially a part of RCB. The excitement was unreal. She called her wife, rang up her parents, and reveled in the joy of joining a franchise she had adored for so long. Soon, the thoughts of playing at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium flooded her mind. The noise, the energy, the legacy—she couldn’t wait. Her first day felt like the first day of school. New cricket bag, fresh kit, the excitement of wearing the RCB helmet—it was all surreal. She captured every moment, taking videos and photos, eager to share them. But with the joy came responsibility. Joining a franchise like RCB, especially as defending champions, brought pressure. The WPL was a high-stakes tournament, and she wanted to prove her worth. Cricket, especially T20s, could be unpredictable, but she was ready. She trained hard, leaned on Smriti for calmness, and focused on delivering. As she settled in, she found herself at the centre of playful banter. Fans called out to her, some getting her name right—Wyatt, while others called her ‘Watt’ or ‘Hodgie.’ It was all in good spirits, and she embraced it. And then came the mischief. Feeling comfortable in her new surroundings, she plotted her first prank. “I’ll just take one of Smitty’s bats out of her bag,” she whispered, laughing. “She might cry.” RCB was more than just a team—it was a family, filled with laughter, camaraderie, and an unbreakable bond. As she looked around at her teammates, donned in RCB colors, she felt the weight of her journey. From being a fan to becoming a part of the team, it had come full circle. The next few weeks promised excitement, challenges, and moments to cherish. But for Danielle Wyatt, one thing was certain—she was exactly where she was meant to be.

From fangirl to firepower: Wyatt’s RCB dream comes true!

Nat Sciver-Brunt and Hayley Matthews smashed commanding fifties after a superb bowling effort as the Mumbai Indians hammered UP Warriorz by eight wickets in their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/womens-premier-league">Women's Premier League</a> match here on Wednesday.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/nat-sciver-brunt">Sciver-Brunt</a> continued her sensational form, finishing with figures of 3/18 as MI restricted UPW to 142/9 after opting to bowl first.
The England all-rounder then played a match-winning knock of 75 not out off 44 balls, including 13 fours, forming an 82-ball 133-run second-wicket partnership with Matthews (59 off 50 balls) to guide MI to victory in just 17 overs.
MI's third consecutive win propelled them to the top of the standings with six points, while UPW remained in fourth place after their fourth loss in six encounters with MI.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-ibrahims-177-helps-afghanistan-knock-out-england-8759862">Champions Trophy 2025: Ibrahim's 177 helps Afghanistan show England the door</a>
MI's chase started quietly, with Matthews being dropped by Ecclestone early. After seven dot balls, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/yastika-bhatia">Yastika Bhatia</a> was dismissed off Deepti Sharma's bowling, leaving MI at 6/1 in the 4th over. Matthews then responded with a four and a six, before Sciver-Brunt took charge, smashing three consecutive fours off Saima Thakor in a 15-run over, as MI ended the power play at 33/1.
Sciver-Brunt continued her explosive hitting, striking consecutive fours off Chinelle Henry in a 13-run over. Ecclestone came next, and the England batter blasted three more fours in the 13th over to bring up her fifty off just 29 balls.
In the 16th over, Matthews joined the fun, smashing a six off Grace Harris before adding two more fours in a 22-run over. She too brought up her fifty off 45 balls.
Although Matthews was dismissed by Ecclestone in the 17th over, the damage had already been done, and MI reached the target with ease. Earlier, UPW had made a solid start as Harris, opening the innings, struck six fours and two sixes in a fiery knock. She added 79 runs for the second wicket with Vrinda Dinesh (33), but UPW suffered an inexplicable collapse, losing four wickets for just 12 runs and never recovered.
Sciver-Brunt was the standout bowler, claiming three wickets, while spinner Sanskriti Gupta (2/11) played a key role with a twin strike. Shabnim Ismail (2/33) also chipped in with two wickets, and Amelia Kerr (1/24) and Hayley Matthews (1/38) claimed one wicket each.
UPW lost Kiran Navgire early, but Harris's aggressive stroke play, particularly against Ismail and Matthews, kept the pressure on MI. Vrinda also found her rhythm, hitting Sciver-Brunt for two fours and driving Ismail to the ropes.
However, the momentum shifted when Amelia Kerr removed Harris in the 10th over, sparking a collapse. UPW lost three more wickets, including that of captain Deepti Sharma, in quick succession.
After Grace's departure, Gupta struck twice, dismissing Vrinda and Tahila McGrath in consecutive balls, while Matthews accounted for Deepti in the 12th over, leaving UPW reeling at 93/5.
Sciver-Brunt then cleaned up the lower order, dismissing Shweta Sehrawat (19) and Henry (7) as UPW lost their way.

Sports, Cricket: Sciver-Brunt continued her sensational form, finishing with figures of 3/18 as MI restricted UPW to 142/9 after opting to bowl first

Nat Sciver-Brunt and Hayley Matthews smashed commanding fifties after a superb bowling effort as the Mumbai Indians hammered UP Warriorz by eight wickets in their Women's Premier League match here on Wednesday. Sciver-Brunt continued her sensational form, finishing with figures of 3/18 as MI restricted UPW to 142/9 after opting to bowl first. The England all-rounder then played a match-winning knock of 75 not out off 44 balls, including 13 fours, forming an 82-ball 133-run second-wicket partnership with Matthews (59 off 50 balls) to guide MI to victory in just 17 overs. MI's third consecutive win propelled them to the top of the standings with six points, while UPW remained in fourth place after their fourth loss in six encounters with MI. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Ibrahim's 177 helps Afghanistan show England the door MI's chase started quietly, with Matthews being dropped by Ecclestone early. After seven dot balls, Yastika Bhatia was dismissed off Deepti Sharma's bowling, leaving MI at 6/1 in the 4th over. Matthews then responded with a four and a six, before Sciver-Brunt took charge, smashing three consecutive fours off Saima Thakor in a 15-run over, as MI ended the power play at 33/1. Sciver-Brunt continued her explosive hitting, striking consecutive fours off Chinelle Henry in a 13-run over. Ecclestone came next, and the England batter blasted three more fours in the 13th over to bring up her fifty off just 29 balls. In the 16th over, Matthews joined the fun, smashing a six off Grace Harris before adding two more fours in a 22-run over. She too brought up her fifty off 45 balls. Although Matthews was dismissed by Ecclestone in the 17th over, the damage had already been done, and MI reached the target with ease. Earlier, UPW had made a solid start as Harris, opening the innings, struck six fours and two sixes in a fiery knock. She added 79 runs for the second wicket with Vrinda Dinesh (33), but UPW suffered an inexplicable collapse, losing four wickets for just 12 runs and never recovered. Sciver-Brunt was the standout bowler, claiming three wickets, while spinner Sanskriti Gupta (2/11) played a key role with a twin strike. Shabnim Ismail (2/33) also chipped in with two wickets, and Amelia Kerr (1/24) and Hayley Matthews (1/38) claimed one wicket each. UPW lost Kiran Navgire early, but Harris's aggressive stroke play, particularly against Ismail and Matthews, kept the pressure on MI. Vrinda also found her rhythm, hitting Sciver-Brunt for two fours and driving Ismail to the ropes. However, the momentum shifted when Amelia Kerr removed Harris in the 10th over, sparking a collapse. UPW lost three more wickets, including that of captain Deepti Sharma, in quick succession. After Grace's departure, Gupta struck twice, dismissing Vrinda and Tahila McGrath in consecutive balls, while Matthews accounted for Deepti in the 12th over, leaving UPW reeling at 93/5. Sciver-Brunt then cleaned up the lower order, dismissing Shweta Sehrawat (19) and Henry (7) as UPW lost their way.

WPL 2025: Sciver-Brunt's all-round show, Matthews' fifty power MI to eight-wicket win over UPW

Afghanistan stunned England with a thrilling 8-run victory in the Champions Trophy on Wednesday (Feb 26), courtesy of Ibrahim Zadran&rsquo;s majestic 177 and Azmatullah Omarzai&rsquo;s brilliant five-wicket haul. The win knocked a lackluster England out of the tournament, leaving them winless after two matches.
England will now face South Africa in their final Group B encounter, while Afghanistan, with two points, must defeat Australia to keep their quarterfinal hopes alive.
Chasing 326, England struggled early as Phil Salt and Jamie Smith fell cheaply, and were reduced to 30 for two. Despite Joe Root&rsquo;s masterful 120 off 111 balls, featuring 11 fours and a six, England faltered at crucial moments. Root built steady partnerships, adding 68 runs with Ben Duckett (38) and 83 with skipper Jos Buttler. However, their dismissals disrupted England&rsquo;s chase, leaving Root to anchor the innings alone.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-clears-australian-spinner-matt-kuhnemanns-bowling-action-8759514">ICC clears Australian spinner Matt Kuhnemann&rsquo;s bowling action</a>
Root&rsquo;s knock was a display of finesse rather than power, maintaining a near-run-a-ball strike rate with inventive strokes, including a reverse sweep off Noor Ahmad and a scooped six off Fazalhaq Farooqi. He reached his 17th ODI century with a single off Rashid Khan but eventually perished while attempting a ramp shot off Omarzai, caught by Rahmanullah Gurbaz.
Jamie Overton (32 off 28) fought bravely, adding 54 for the seventh wicket, but his dismissal to Omarzai sealed England&rsquo;s fate. Omarzai&rsquo;s 5/58 proved decisive as England were bowled out for 317 with one ball remaining, marking the end of their campaign.
Earlier, Afghanistan had struggled at 37/3 in the ninth over, but Zadran steadied the innings, forging key partnerships&mdash;a 72-run stand with Omarzai (41 off 31) for the fifth wicket and a 111-run partnership with Mohammad Nabi (40 off 24) for the sixth. Hashmatullah Shahidi also contributed 40 off 67 balls.
Zadran, whose daddy hundred came off 146 balls (12x4, 6x6), had solid support from skipper Hashmathullah Shahidi (40, 67b, 3x4), with whom he raised 103 runs for the fourth wicket, and Azmatullah Omarzai (41, 31b) with whom he milked 72 runs for the fifth wicket.
Later, he plundered 111 runs for the sixth wicket with Mohammed Nabi (40, 24b) to put England through the wringer.
Brief scores: Afghanistan: 325/7 in 50 overs (Ibrahim Zadran 177, Hashmatullah Shahidi 40, Azmatullah Omarzai 41, Mohammad Nabi 40; Jofra Archer 3/64, Liam Livingstone 2/28) beat England: 317 all out in 49.5 overs (Joe Root 120, Ben Duckett 38, Jos Buttler 38, Jamie Overton 32; Azmatullah Omarzai 5/58, Mohammad Nabi 2/58).
&nbsp;

Sports, Cricket: Zadran notched up his total off 146 deliveries, while Shahidi struck 40 off 67 balls after Afghanistan were left struggling at 37 for 3 in the ninth over

Afghanistan stunned England with a thrilling 8-run victory in the Champions Trophy on Wednesday (Feb 26), courtesy of Ibrahim Zadran’s majestic 177 and Azmatullah Omarzai’s brilliant five-wicket haul. The win knocked a lackluster England out of the tournament, leaving them winless after two matches. England will now face South Africa in their final Group B encounter, while Afghanistan, with two points, must defeat Australia to keep their quarterfinal hopes alive. Chasing 326, England struggled early as Phil Salt and Jamie Smith fell cheaply, and were reduced to 30 for two. Despite Joe Root’s masterful 120 off 111 balls, featuring 11 fours and a six, England faltered at crucial moments. Root built steady partnerships, adding 68 runs with Ben Duckett (38) and 83 with skipper Jos Buttler. However, their dismissals disrupted England’s chase, leaving Root to anchor the innings alone. Also Read: ICC clears Australian spinner Matt Kuhnemann’s bowling action Root’s knock was a display of finesse rather than power, maintaining a near-run-a-ball strike rate with inventive strokes, including a reverse sweep off Noor Ahmad and a scooped six off Fazalhaq Farooqi. He reached his 17th ODI century with a single off Rashid Khan but eventually perished while attempting a ramp shot off Omarzai, caught by Rahmanullah Gurbaz. Jamie Overton (32 off 28) fought bravely, adding 54 for the seventh wicket, but his dismissal to Omarzai sealed England’s fate. Omarzai’s 5/58 proved decisive as England were bowled out for 317 with one ball remaining, marking the end of their campaign. Earlier, Afghanistan had struggled at 37/3 in the ninth over, but Zadran steadied the innings, forging key partnerships—a 72-run stand with Omarzai (41 off 31) for the fifth wicket and a 111-run partnership with Mohammad Nabi (40 off 24) for the sixth. Hashmatullah Shahidi also contributed 40 off 67 balls. Zadran, whose daddy hundred came off 146 balls (12x4, 6x6), had solid support from skipper Hashmathullah Shahidi (40, 67b, 3x4), with whom he raised 103 runs for the fourth wicket, and Azmatullah Omarzai (41, 31b) with whom he milked 72 runs for the fifth wicket. Later, he plundered 111 runs for the sixth wicket with Mohammed Nabi (40, 24b) to put England through the wringer. Brief scores: Afghanistan: 325/7 in 50 overs (Ibrahim Zadran 177, Hashmatullah Shahidi 40, Azmatullah Omarzai 41, Mohammad Nabi 40; Jofra Archer 3/64, Liam Livingstone 2/28) beat England: 317 all out in 49.5 overs (Joe Root 120, Ben Duckett 38, Jos Buttler 38, Jamie Overton 32; Azmatullah Omarzai 5/58, Mohammad Nabi 2/58).

Champions Trophy 2025: Ibrahim's 177 helps Afghanistan show England the door

A disastrous mix-up between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/karun-nair">Karun Nair</a> (86) and Danish Malewar (138*) denied the former a well-deserved century, but the duo's resilient partnership helped Vidarbha reach 254/4 at stumps on Day 1 of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ranji-trophy">Ranji Trophy</a> final against Kerala at the VCA Stadium on Wednesday.
After Kerala's seamers reduced the hosts to 24/3, Nair and Malewar staged a remarkable recovery, stitching together a 215-run stand for the fourth wicket across 414 deliveries. Their watchful yet assertive batting laid a solid foundation for Vidarbha in the summit clash.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pakistan-is-on-the-bottom-admits-coach-aaqib-javed-after-early-exit-for-hosts-and-defending-champions-8759531">Ranji Trophy Final KER vs VID: In form of his life, Karun Nair reaches another milestone</a>
However, the partnership ended unexpectedly when a misjudged single call saw Nair get run out, just 14 runs shy of his hundred. The dismissal came in the 82nd over, shortly after Kerala opted for the second new ball.
Eden Apple Tom's delivery outside off-stump swung sharply, slipping past both wicketkeeper Mohammed Azharuddeen and first slip. Seizing the opportunity for a quick run, both batters set off, but Rohan Kunnummal's sharp fielding from second slip caught Nair short of his crease. The veteran batter vented his frustration by throwing his bat, but his gritty 188-ball knock, featuring eight fours and a six, had already played a crucial role in Vidarbha's recovery.
Malewar, 21, continued his impressive debut season, remaining unbeaten on 138 off 259 balls with 14 boundaries and two sixes. His innings, marked by authoritative strokes on both sides of the wicket, built on his recent form following scores of 75 and 79 in the knockout stages.
Earlier, Kerala's seamers exploited the green pitch to perfection. MD Nidheesh (2/33) struck with the second ball of the match, trapping Parth Rekhade lbw. Darshan Nalkande's painstaking 21-ball stay ended with a soft dismissal, while Dhruv Shorey (16) edged behind chasing a wide delivery from Eden Apple Tom.
Despite the early blows, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/vidarbha">Vidarbha'</a>s fightback has left them in a commanding position heading into Day 2.
Brief scores: Vidarbha: 254/4 in 86 overs (Danish Malewar 138*, Karun Nair 86; MD Nidheesh 2/33) vs Kerala.

Sports, Cricket: Malewar, 21, continued his impressive debut season, remaining unbeaten on 138 off 259 balls with 14 boundaries and two sixes

A disastrous mix-up between Karun Nair (86) and Danish Malewar (138*) denied the former a well-deserved century, but the duo's resilient partnership helped Vidarbha reach 254/4 at stumps on Day 1 of the Ranji Trophy final against Kerala at the VCA Stadium on Wednesday. After Kerala's seamers reduced the hosts to 24/3, Nair and Malewar staged a remarkable recovery, stitching together a 215-run stand for the fourth wicket across 414 deliveries. Their watchful yet assertive batting laid a solid foundation for Vidarbha in the summit clash. Also Read: Ranji Trophy Final KER vs VID: In form of his life, Karun Nair reaches another milestone However, the partnership ended unexpectedly when a misjudged single call saw Nair get run out, just 14 runs shy of his hundred. The dismissal came in the 82nd over, shortly after Kerala opted for the second new ball. Eden Apple Tom's delivery outside off-stump swung sharply, slipping past both wicketkeeper Mohammed Azharuddeen and first slip. Seizing the opportunity for a quick run, both batters set off, but Rohan Kunnummal's sharp fielding from second slip caught Nair short of his crease. The veteran batter vented his frustration by throwing his bat, but his gritty 188-ball knock, featuring eight fours and a six, had already played a crucial role in Vidarbha's recovery. Malewar, 21, continued his impressive debut season, remaining unbeaten on 138 off 259 balls with 14 boundaries and two sixes. His innings, marked by authoritative strokes on both sides of the wicket, built on his recent form following scores of 75 and 79 in the knockout stages. Earlier, Kerala's seamers exploited the green pitch to perfection. MD Nidheesh (2/33) struck with the second ball of the match, trapping Parth Rekhade lbw. Darshan Nalkande's painstaking 21-ball stay ended with a soft dismissal, while Dhruv Shorey (16) edged behind chasing a wide delivery from Eden Apple Tom. Despite the early blows, Vidarbha's fightback has left them in a commanding position heading into Day 2. Brief scores: Vidarbha: 254/4 in 86 overs (Danish Malewar 138*, Karun Nair 86; MD Nidheesh 2/33) vs Kerala.

Ranji Trophy Final: Malewar's unbeaten ton, Nair's 86 take Vidarbha to 254/4 on Day 1

Pakistan coach Aaqib Javed has put the onus on 'inexperience' for his team's humiliating loss against India in Champions Trophy on Feb 23. The loss almost closed the door on the hosts chances of making it to the top four before Bangladesh's loss vs New Zealand slammed it shut.
"When Pakistan and India are playing, it's not only cricket - it's more than that. You need a lot of experience," Javed said, as reported by cricket news website ESPNCricinfo.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-afghanistans-ibrahim-zadran-scores-highest-individual-score-scripts-two-more-records-8759245">Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran scores highest individual score, scripts two more records</a>
"This Indian team was the most experienced - they have almost 1500 games together. And Pakistan is at the bottom, with less than 400 games together. If you look at players like Babar Azam is the only one who has played more than 100 games. Then there's Mohammad Rizwan (88 ODIs) and then Shaheen Afridi (64 ODIs)."
"The rest of them have less than 30 matches. Tayyab Tahir has played like eight games. Imam-ul-Haq (73 games) was coming back in the team. The main thing is, when nothing works, and when you are talking about more than a game, then the experience counts. There is no doubt," explained a disheartened Pak coach.
In the match against India, Pakistan posted a modest 241 on the scoreboard with Saud Shakeel being the highest scorer at 62. In reply, the Pak bowling attack, especially the pace trio of Afridi, Haris and Naseem looked listless as India chased the total with 45 balls and six wickets left. Virat Kohli went on to score a hundred with a four which was also the winning shot of the match.&nbsp;
From Group A, India and New Zealand have qualified for the semis after winning their first two games, respectively. Pakistan and Bangladesh have been knocked out of the race with both teams set to play a dead-rubber game on Feb 27 in Rawalpindi.

Champions Trophy: The loss almost closed the door on the hosts chances of making it to the top four before Bangladesh's loss vs New Zealand slammed it shut.

Pakistan coach Aaqib Javed has put the onus on 'inexperience' for his team's humiliating loss against India in Champions Trophy on Feb 23. The loss almost closed the door on the hosts chances of making it to the top four before Bangladesh's loss vs New Zealand slammed it shut. "When Pakistan and India are playing, it's not only cricket - it's more than that. You need a lot of experience," Javed said, as reported by cricket news website ESPNCricinfo. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran scores highest individual score, scripts two more records "This Indian team was the most experienced - they have almost 1500 games together. And Pakistan is at the bottom, with less than 400 games together. If you look at players like Babar Azam is the only one who has played more than 100 games. Then there's Mohammad Rizwan (88 ODIs) and then Shaheen Afridi (64 ODIs)." "The rest of them have less than 30 matches. Tayyab Tahir has played like eight games. Imam-ul-Haq (73 games) was coming back in the team. The main thing is, when nothing works, and when you are talking about more than a game, then the experience counts. There is no doubt," explained a disheartened Pak coach. In the match against India, Pakistan posted a modest 241 on the scoreboard with Saud Shakeel being the highest scorer at 62. In reply, the Pak bowling attack, especially the pace trio of Afridi, Haris and Naseem looked listless as India chased the total with 45 balls and six wickets left. Virat Kohli went on to score a hundred with a four which was also the winning shot of the match. From Group A, India and New Zealand have qualified for the semis after winning their first two games, respectively. Pakistan and Bangladesh have been knocked out of the race with both teams set to play a dead-rubber game on Feb 27 in Rawalpindi.

Champions Trophy: 'Pakistan is at the bottom,' admits coach Aaqib Javed after early exit for hosts and defending champions

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that Australian left-arm spinner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/matthew-kuhnemann" rel="dofollow">Matthew Kuhnemann</a>'s bowling action is legal, allowing him to continue bowling in international cricket.
In a statement, the ICC said, "The International Cricket Council (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc">ICC</a>) today confirmed that the bowling action of Australia spinner Matthew Kuhnemann has been found to be legal, and the player can continue bowling in international cricket."
Kuhnemann had been reported for a suspected illegal action during the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle on February 9, prompting an independent bowling assessment at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane on February 15. The assessment results confirmed that his elbow extension remained within the permitted 15-degree threshold under the ICC&rsquo;s Illegal Bowling Regulations.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-yograj-singh-calls-out-wasim-shoaib-says-he-can-transform-pakistan-cricket-in-a-year-8759337">Champions Trophy 2025: Yograj Singh calls out Wasim &amp; Akhtar, says he can transform Pakistan cricket in a year!</a>
With the matter now resolved, Cricket Australia (CA) expressed their support for the 28-year-old spinner.
<h2 data-start="821" data-end="928">'Matt has full support of Australian cricket'</h2>
"We are pleased for Matt that this matter is now resolved," said Ben Oliver, CA's Executive General Manager of National Teams. "It has been a challenging period for Matt; however, he has carried himself exceptionally well. He has had the full support of Australian cricket, and he can now move forward to the next phase of his international career with great confidence."
Kuhnemann was a standout performer in Australia&rsquo;s recent 2-0 Test series sweep over Sri Lanka, finishing as the leading wicket-taker with 16 scalps at an average of 17.18. His impressive form has strengthened his contention for future Test tours, including Australia&rsquo;s upcoming series in the Caribbean.
Under ICC regulations, a bowling action is deemed illegal if the elbow joint extends beyond 15 degrees between the point when the arm is horizontal and the moment the ball is released. Flexing, cocking, or twisting of the wrist is permitted.
With his action now cleared, Kuhnemann is expected to return to competitive cricket soon. His next potential outing is scheduled for March 6, when Tasmania hosts Queensland in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sheffield-shield" rel="dofollow">Sheffield Shield</a>.

Sports, Cricket: The results of the assessment revealed that his elbow extension remained within the permitted 15-degree threshold under the ICC’s illegal bowling regulations

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that Australian left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann's bowling action is legal, allowing him to continue bowling in international cricket. In a statement, the ICC said, "The International Cricket Council (ICC) today confirmed that the bowling action of Australia spinner Matthew Kuhnemann has been found to be legal, and the player can continue bowling in international cricket." Kuhnemann had been reported for a suspected illegal action during the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle on February 9, prompting an independent bowling assessment at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane on February 15. The assessment results confirmed that his elbow extension remained within the permitted 15-degree threshold under the ICC’s Illegal Bowling Regulations. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Yograj Singh calls out Wasim & Akhtar, says he can transform Pakistan cricket in a year! With the matter now resolved, Cricket Australia (CA) expressed their support for the 28-year-old spinner. 'Matt has full support of Australian cricket' "We are pleased for Matt that this matter is now resolved," said Ben Oliver, CA's Executive General Manager of National Teams. "It has been a challenging period for Matt; however, he has carried himself exceptionally well. He has had the full support of Australian cricket, and he can now move forward to the next phase of his international career with great confidence." Kuhnemann was a standout performer in Australia’s recent 2-0 Test series sweep over Sri Lanka, finishing as the leading wicket-taker with 16 scalps at an average of 17.18. His impressive form has strengthened his contention for future Test tours, including Australia’s upcoming series in the Caribbean. Under ICC regulations, a bowling action is deemed illegal if the elbow joint extends beyond 15 degrees between the point when the arm is horizontal and the moment the ball is released. Flexing, cocking, or twisting of the wrist is permitted. With his action now cleared, Kuhnemann is expected to return to competitive cricket soon. His next potential outing is scheduled for March 6, when Tasmania hosts Queensland in the Sheffield Shield.

ICC clears Australian spinner Matt Kuhnemann’s bowling action

The Indian cricket team had a lot of success last year, with T20 World Cup win in June 2024 being one of the most memorable moments. India pacer Jasprit Bumrah was the architect of the victory alongside his red-ball exploits as well. For his performance, Bumrah was named 2024 Cricketer of the Year and received the prestigious Sir Garfield Sobers trophy.
&ldquo;It feels really good,&rdquo; Bumrah said after receiving his trophy among other awards at the Champions Trophy match between India and Pakistan on Feb 23.
&ldquo;As a child, I'd seen some of my childhood heroes win this (Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy) award. Always a privilege when you get such an honour,&rdquo; he added.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-afghanistan-vs-england-score-today-jofra-archer-creates-history-breaks-james-anderson-this-21-year-old-record-8759151">Champions Trophy, AFG vs ENG: Jofra Archer creates history, breaks James Anderson's THIS 21-year old record</a>
The pacer took 86 wickets across formats for India in 21 games (Tests and T20Is). Out of those 86 wickets, 71 came in Test cricket but Bumrah said that the T20 World Cup win is 'always going to be special.'
&ldquo;The T20 World Cup which we won is always going to be special and will be there in my mind. Obviously, a lot of learnings in my mind in the year as well. We played a lot of Test cricket, we got to know a lot of different experiences, so yeah, I'm very happy and hopefully better things will follow,&rdquo; said the pacer.
Bumrah is currently undergoing rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for the back issue he picked up during the last Test in Sydney against Australia in January first week this year.
The pacer, subsequently, was ruled out of India's squad of Champions Trophy and was replaced by Harshit Rana. India, meanwhile, have managed to win both their matches so far in the ICC tournament and have made it the semis.
They play their last group-stage match against New Zealand on March 2 in Dubai, UAE.

ICC Cricketer of the Year Bumrah took 86 wickets across formats for India in 21 games (Tests and T20Is). Out of those 86 wickets, 71 came in Test cricket. Sports

The Indian cricket team had a lot of success last year, with T20 World Cup win in June 2024 being one of the most memorable moments. India pacer Jasprit Bumrah was the architect of the victory alongside his red-ball exploits as well. For his performance, Bumrah was named 2024 Cricketer of the Year and received the prestigious Sir Garfield Sobers trophy. “It feels really good,” Bumrah said after receiving his trophy among other awards at the Champions Trophy match between India and Pakistan on Feb 23. “As a child, I'd seen some of my childhood heroes win this (Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy) award. Always a privilege when you get such an honour,” he added. Also Read: Champions Trophy, AFG vs ENG: Jofra Archer creates history, breaks James Anderson's THIS 21-year old record The pacer took 86 wickets across formats for India in 21 games (Tests and T20Is). Out of those 86 wickets, 71 came in Test cricket but Bumrah said that the T20 World Cup win is 'always going to be special.' “The T20 World Cup which we won is always going to be special and will be there in my mind. Obviously, a lot of learnings in my mind in the year as well. We played a lot of Test cricket, we got to know a lot of different experiences, so yeah, I'm very happy and hopefully better things will follow,” said the pacer. Bumrah is currently undergoing rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for the back issue he picked up during the last Test in Sydney against Australia in January first week this year. The pacer, subsequently, was ruled out of India's squad of Champions Trophy and was replaced by Harshit Rana. India, meanwhile, have managed to win both their matches so far in the ICC tournament and have made it the semis. They play their last group-stage match against New Zealand on March 2 in Dubai, UAE.

ICC Cricketer of the Year Jasprit Bumrah shares his favourite moment from 2024 and it's not his spell at Perth in BGT

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