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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pakistan cricket team's vice-captain, Salman Ali Agha, has emphasised that clinching the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> holds greater significance than merely defeating arch-rival India in a single match. In a recent interview on the PCB Podcast, Salman expressed his excitement about Pakistan hosting the prestigious tournament and the prospect of lifting the trophy in his hometown, Lahore.
"I am excited for the Champions Trophy as Pakistan hosting an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc">ICC</a> event is special. Being from Lahore, lifting the trophy in my hometown would be a dream come true for me. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pakistan-cricket">Pakistan</a> team has the potential to win it," Salman stated.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-additional-tickets-to-go-on-sale-from-today-how-and-where-to-buy-tickets-8725455" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Additional tickets to go on sale from today- How and where to buy tickets</a>
Addressing the much-anticipated clash against India, scheduled for February 23 in Dubai, Salman acknowledged the unique atmosphere of the rivalry but stressed the importance of focusing on the ultimate goal&mdash;winning the tournament.
<h2>'We want to win the match against India'</h2>
"The atmosphere during the India-Pakistan match remains very different. As they say, it is the biggest game in the world. But the thing is, that is just one game; winning the Champions Trophy is more important than winning that one game," he remarked.
Salman further elaborated, "If we beat India but don't win the Champions Trophy, there's no benefit. Even if, God forbid, we lose that match but go on to win the Champions Trophy, that would be the biggest achievement for me."
While emphasising the team's broader objectives, Salman also expressed a strong desire to perform well against India. "We all want to win the India match, and we will try our best to achieve that. I will also strive to give my best performance against them," he added.
As the tournament approaches, Salman's focus underscores Pakistan's commitment to prioritising the championship title over individual match victories.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Pakistan's vice-captain acknowledged the unique atmosphere of the rivalry but stressed the importance of focusing on the ultimate goal—winning the tournament

Pakistan cricket team's vice-captain, Salman Ali Agha, has emphasised that clinching the ICC Champions Trophy holds greater significance than merely defeating arch-rival India in a single match. In a recent interview on the PCB Podcast, Salman expressed his excitement about Pakistan hosting the prestigious tournament and the prospect of lifting the trophy in his hometown, Lahore. "I am excited for the Champions Trophy as Pakistan hosting an ICC event is special. Being from Lahore, lifting the trophy in my hometown would be a dream come true for me. The Pakistan team has the potential to win it," Salman stated. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Additional tickets to go on sale from today- How and where to buy tickets Addressing the much-anticipated clash against India, scheduled for February 23 in Dubai, Salman acknowledged the unique atmosphere of the rivalry but stressed the importance of focusing on the ultimate goal—winning the tournament. 'We want to win the match against India' "The atmosphere during the India-Pakistan match remains very different. As they say, it is the biggest game in the world. But the thing is, that is just one game; winning the Champions Trophy is more important than winning that one game," he remarked. Salman further elaborated, "If we beat India but don't win the Champions Trophy, there's no benefit. Even if, God forbid, we lose that match but go on to win the Champions Trophy, that would be the biggest achievement for me." While emphasising the team's broader objectives, Salman also expressed a strong desire to perform well against India. "We all want to win the India match, and we will try our best to achieve that. I will also strive to give my best performance against them," he added. As the tournament approaches, Salman's focus underscores Pakistan's commitment to prioritising the championship title over individual match victories. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: 'Defending title is more important than beating...', says Pak vice-captain Salman

Additional tickets for the three-group stage India matches and semi-final 1 of the ICC Men&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> which are taking place in Dubai, UAE will go on sale today.
Demand for Champions Trophy tickets remain high and fans will be able to purchase limited tickets when they go on general sale today, Sunday, 16 February at 1:30 PM IST onwards.
Fans will be able to purchase tickets for the opening match in Dubai on 20 February between Bangladesh and India, the Pakistan versus India clash on 23 February and India&rsquo;s final group stage match against New Zealand on 2 March. There are also limited tickets available for semi-final 1 taking place on 4 March.
Tickets can be purchased online&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" href="https://u39693854.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.TtFIMp7udciS-2FN92BxkjO6aT-2FBnyBXx-2B-2BSKIxh2sSxnt3fgkoLv-2FdQkxHCWOv5qTfjPjS9jZC-2F1Ly8xv1NXnK-2Bhsbx6ZBQ1uUPAuo-2FNosa27i4f2dy39gJv8Ja9Y5vMlvl54-2Fk6Bc9QAlBRzTGK4O9Bkoa1hsyZXmBMos0i5jLcHqD1VTVHWfAS7xbbmwC09MtuPz-2BlIPljmMD4xSnJsF6HDWkllHcBrJA5MZ5FnyM8qKrg-2FzgvNWYdrJQaYl5EA-2BXMl-2F8yTaz-2BRX7DR-2FuJbtiIo-2FCPnO8A3RwIrDuH97yRL4QXJKJRWaXun0nUFOW8YZ3vtd1HiYoShD4uNLvqJX7LFnq0S4ytGjiZ2oRNy1c6643oXJfNdqIsz-2Bb-2Bn5lm8-2BoLMr4Vzr5jJ2FHDQugjFcHUOMnhHwrU56Cb4X6V4O-2FHoZkdUYHgqJn2Gy5ii6a5lMAZUejPJlZ4py7wFH89ug-2BXT-2BgzhuCKyw3cVz-2BwAlDAlPfCw7V1-2B1XOXtxB1RATZok-2FzxGWyDHWkwPrsesdLOkTBwdHOI6DonxfVA4m1rU8U58AZZvp84-2F87v41dLLZ6pM8CwF8LFqFgzRmH0KOeYPeO2rh6pKzTtGmle1bauTj2c7B1HLyinRxe-2FnYulgWu2QB5rGHKjVOOc52NZHPJKUg6TfUG0sjIwxxms-2BD1QUfoCKK3N2tTQsBiaDrRpJp-2BDfsQSXlh0ch6TBiS-2F-2BqjSbzjmdDWUypk0I7J1w9ZB25P1mYUcacSKdpINdnW1oY9Km6Q-2BlVRsIZur7DIpJAgA-3D-3DkYIC_MkbEUnH6ERM2h-2B-2FkuAT-2FNry4NVbeUzV5uWV3KTyKjwAVgeWvWDC53L4bTxwMlCac0HeUOx-2BhUOXsvGY-2B5kxzhiuvgWVMDEHb8sCZH-2BiyGiOujjk3XxQfLoNvhTdJFuRFXfYuUM-2BumE0HNk2KmMWZJuV-2BfQ5JRQi9nh0o1m28O3tsyxT7v0EwET5dDpH0G52z3QUlqkIqS8x5GLm1YN7a-2FoYpcZeSSZUADtS-2F86qcAv8UhHvqFfT4ObAV4gXKy5ujPtykBdIJ1zQ-2FyUxinFvj9Wdv3oQtZxRKQ-2BNaxdXsqN8EDU1S07lqY1c0uOgbiahssI6AzxsI1zu3mZvh6Z99lU5Jea3PQsI6n1ndDmLmoEUkC5apk183Ku8iYLSwpYLG" title="https://u39693854.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.TtFIMp7udciS-2FN92BxkjO6aT-2FBnyBXx-2B-2BSKIxh2sSxnt3fgkoLv-2FdQkxHCWOv5qTfjPjS9jZC-2F1Ly8xv1NXnK-2Bhsbx6ZBQ1uUPAuo-2FNosa27i4f2dy39gJv8Ja9Y5vMlvl54-2Fk6Bc9QAlBRzTGK4O9Bkoa1hsyZXmBMos0i5jLcHqD1VTVHWfAS7xbbmwC09MtuPz-2BlIPljmMD4xSnJsF6HDWkllHcBrJA5MZ5FnyM8qKrg-2FzgvNWYdrJQaYl5EA-2BXMl-2F8yTaz-2BRX7DR-2FuJbtiIo-2FCPnO8A3RwIrDuH97yRL4QXJKJRWaXun0nUFOW8YZ3vtd1HiYoShD4uNLvqJX7LFnq0S4ytGjiZ2oRNy1c6643oXJfNdqIsz-2Bb-2Bn5lm8-2BoLMr4Vzr5jJ2FHDQugjFcHUOMnhHwrU56Cb4X6V4O-2FHoZkdUYHgqJn2Gy5ii6a5lMAZUejPJlZ4py7wFH89ug-2BXT-2BgzhuCKyw3cVz-2BwAlDAlPfCw7V1-2B1XOXtxB1RATZok-2FzxGWyDHWkwPrsesdLOkTBwdHOI6DonxfVA4m1rU8U58AZZvp84-2F87v41dLLZ6pM8CwF8LFqFgzRmH0KOeYPeO2rh6pKzTtGmle1bauTj2c7B1HLyinRxe-2FnYulgWu2QB5rGHKjVOOc52NZHPJKUg6TfUG0sjIwxxms-2BD1QUfoCKK3N2tTQsBiaDrRpJp-2BDfsQSXlh0ch6TBiS-2F-2BqjSbzjmdDWUypk0I7J1w9ZB25P1mYUcacSKdpINdnW1oY9Km6Q-2BlVRsIZur7DIpJAgA-3D-3DkYIC_MkbEUnH6ERM2h-2B-2FkuAT-2FNry4NVbeUzV5uWV3KTyKjwAVgeWvWDC53L4bTxwMlCac0HeUOx-2BhUOXsvGY-2B5kxzhiuvgWVMDEHb8sCZH-2BiyGiOujjk3XxQfLoNvhTdJFuRFXfYuUM-2BumE0HNk2KmMWZJuV-2BfQ5JRQi9nh0o1m28O3tsyxT7v0EwET5dDpH0G52z3QUlqkIqS8x5GLm1YN7a-2FoYpcZeSSZUADtS-2F86qcAv8UhHvqFfT4ObAV4gXKy5ujPtykBdIJ1zQ-2FyUxinFvj9Wdv3oQtZxRKQ-2BNaxdXsqN8EDU1S07lqY1c0uOgbiahssI6AzxsI1zu3mZvh6Z99lU5Jea3PQsI6n1ndDmLmoEUkC5apk183Ku8iYLSwpYLG" data-linkindex="0">here.</a>
ICC Men&rsquo;s Champions Trophy Final tickets &ndash; to be played on Sunday 9 March - will be available for purchase following the conclusion of the first semi-final in Dubai.
The thrilling two-week competition will see the world&rsquo;s top eight teams put it all on the line in 15 intense matches across 19 days, with every match counting in the pursuit of the iconic white jackets.
<h2>ICC announces hike of $3,600,000 in Champions Trophy prize money</h2>
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc">ICC</a> has announced that the total <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-announces-hike-of-3600000-in-champions-trophy-2025-prize-money-winners-will-get-224-million-or-19-crore-in-inr-runners-up-will-win-112-million-or-9-crore-in-inr-8720316">prize money</a> will be $6.9 million - a staggering 53 per cent increase ($3.6 million or INR 31 crore approx) in comparison to the 2017 edition as eight teams brace to face each other in the tournament. The teams are divided into two groups of four, with the top two teams from each group going into the semi-final.&nbsp;
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 runners-up will take home $1.12 million or INR 9.5 crore approx, while the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 losing semi-finalists will take home $560,000 or INR 5 crore approx.
The eight-team tournament, happening for the first time since 2017, is set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan. India, meanwhile will play all its matches in Dubai.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Additional tickets for the three-group stage India matches and semi-final 1 at the ICC Champions Trophy which are taking place in Dubai, UAE will go on sale today

Additional tickets for the three-group stage India matches and semi-final 1 of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy which are taking place in Dubai, UAE will go on sale today. Demand for Champions Trophy tickets remain high and fans will be able to purchase limited tickets when they go on general sale today, Sunday, 16 February at 1:30 PM IST onwards. Fans will be able to purchase tickets for the opening match in Dubai on 20 February between Bangladesh and India, the Pakistan versus India clash on 23 February and India’s final group stage match against New Zealand on 2 March. There are also limited tickets available for semi-final 1 taking place on 4 March. Tickets can be purchased online here. ICC Men’s Champions Trophy Final tickets – to be played on Sunday 9 March - will be available for purchase following the conclusion of the first semi-final in Dubai. The thrilling two-week competition will see the world’s top eight teams put it all on the line in 15 intense matches across 19 days, with every match counting in the pursuit of the iconic white jackets. ICC announces hike of $3,600,000 in Champions Trophy prize money The ICC has announced that the total prize money will be $6.9 million - a staggering 53 per cent increase ($3.6 million or INR 31 crore approx) in comparison to the 2017 edition as eight teams brace to face each other in the tournament. The teams are divided into two groups of four, with the top two teams from each group going into the semi-final. The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 runners-up will take home $1.12 million or INR 9.5 crore approx, while the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 losing semi-finalists will take home $560,000 or INR 5 crore approx. The eight-team tournament, happening for the first time since 2017, is set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan. India, meanwhile will play all its matches in Dubai. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Additional tickets to go on sale from today- How and where to buy tickets

Australia faces a tough road ahead as they prepare for the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a>, with a rare winless streak, an inexperienced pace attack, and a loss of overall form casting doubts over their campaign. Yet, the Aussie spirit of resilience and big-game performance might still steer them toward another major ICC title.
Australia kicks off their Champions Trophy campaign on February 22 in Lahore against arch-rivals England, followed by matches against South Africa in Rawalpindi and Afghanistan in Lahore.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wpl-2025-dc-w-vs-mi-w-capitals-win-was-fueled-by-shafali-and-nikis-heroics-says-mithali-raj-8725240">WPL 2025, DC-W vs MI-W: 'Capitals' win was fueled by Shafali and Niki's heroics', says Mithali Raj</a>
However, they enter the tournament without their frontline bowling trio of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pat-cummins">Pat Cummins</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mitchell-starc">Mitchell Starc</a>, and Josh Hazlewood. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/steve-smith">Steve Smith</a> steps in as captain, supported by experienced hands like Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, Alex Carey, and Marnus Labuschagne. Despite promising young talent, recent form raises concerns.
<h2>Recent struggles</h2>
Since their World Cup win in 2023, Australia has played four bilateral ODI series with mixed results. While they clinched wins over West Indies at home and England in the UK, they suffered a home series defeat to Pakistan for the first time in 22 years and were clean-swept by Sri Lanka, capped by a crushing 174-run loss. Their overall record since the 2023 World Cup stands at seven wins and six losses from 13 matches.
<h2>Positives:</h2>
Stable leadership: Despite the absence of Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood, the squad has leadership depth. Smith, alongside Head, Maxwell, Carey, and Labuschagne, brings stability to the team.
Carey&rsquo;s resurgence: After missing the 2023 World Cup squad, Carey has returned with a bang, scoring 205 runs in his last four innings at an impressive average of 68.33 and a strike rate of 106.77.
Big-match players: Head, Smith, and Maxwell have a reputation for delivering on big stages. Even in poor form, their ability to step up when it counts could inspire the squad.
<h2>Negatives:</h2>
Winless in CT since 2009: Australia hasn&rsquo;t won a match in the tournament since their 2009 title run, with winless campaigns in 2013 and 2017.
Opening partnership a concern?: Travis Head lacks a reliable opening partner with Mitchell Marsh unavailable. Contenders Matt Short, Jake Fraser-McGurk, and Josh Inglis have yet to prove themselves.
Smith and Marnus' form: The team&rsquo;s anchors are struggling; Smith averages 38.55 in 12 matches with just two fifties, while Labuschagne has managed only 163 runs at 23.28 in eight innings.
Depleted pace attack: Without Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood, and Marcus Stoinis (retired from ODIs), the pace unit now has the likes of Sean Abbott, Nathan Ellis, Ben Dwarshuis, Aaron Hardie, and Spencer Johnson&mdash;a far cry from the intimidation of the veterans.
Lack of winning momentum: Recent series losses to Pakistan and Sri Lanka, combined with a whitewash, do little to build confidence.
Maxwell&rsquo;s poor form: After his World Cup heroics, Maxwell has hit a rough patch, scoring just 56 runs and taking five wickets in his last eight matches.
<h2>Australia's Champions Trophy team:</h2>
Steve Smith (captain), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matthew Short, Adam Zampa.
Travelling Reserve: Cooper Connolly.
Despite recent setbacks, Australia&rsquo;s combination of youthful promise and experienced big-match players could help them rediscover their winning formula.
The 'Aussie mentality' remains their greatest weapon.

Sports, Cricket: Australia kicks off their campaign on February 22 in Lahore against England, followed by matches against South Africa in Rawalpindi and Afghanistan back in Lahore

Australia faces a tough road ahead as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy, with a rare winless streak, an inexperienced pace attack, and a loss of overall form casting doubts over their campaign. Yet, the Aussie spirit of resilience and big-game performance might still steer them toward another major ICC title. Australia kicks off their Champions Trophy campaign on February 22 in Lahore against arch-rivals England, followed by matches against South Africa in Rawalpindi and Afghanistan in Lahore. Also Read: WPL 2025, DC-W vs MI-W: 'Capitals' win was fueled by Shafali and Niki's heroics', says Mithali Raj However, they enter the tournament without their frontline bowling trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood. Steve Smith steps in as captain, supported by experienced hands like Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, Alex Carey, and Marnus Labuschagne. Despite promising young talent, recent form raises concerns. Recent struggles Since their World Cup win in 2023, Australia has played four bilateral ODI series with mixed results. While they clinched wins over West Indies at home and England in the UK, they suffered a home series defeat to Pakistan for the first time in 22 years and were clean-swept by Sri Lanka, capped by a crushing 174-run loss. Their overall record since the 2023 World Cup stands at seven wins and six losses from 13 matches. Positives: Stable leadership: Despite the absence of Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood, the squad has leadership depth. Smith, alongside Head, Maxwell, Carey, and Labuschagne, brings stability to the team. Carey’s resurgence: After missing the 2023 World Cup squad, Carey has returned with a bang, scoring 205 runs in his last four innings at an impressive average of 68.33 and a strike rate of 106.77. Big-match players: Head, Smith, and Maxwell have a reputation for delivering on big stages. Even in poor form, their ability to step up when it counts could inspire the squad. Negatives: Winless in CT since 2009: Australia hasn’t won a match in the tournament since their 2009 title run, with winless campaigns in 2013 and 2017. Opening partnership a concern?: Travis Head lacks a reliable opening partner with Mitchell Marsh unavailable. Contenders Matt Short, Jake Fraser-McGurk, and Josh Inglis have yet to prove themselves. Smith and Marnus' form: The team’s anchors are struggling; Smith averages 38.55 in 12 matches with just two fifties, while Labuschagne has managed only 163 runs at 23.28 in eight innings. Depleted pace attack: Without Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood, and Marcus Stoinis (retired from ODIs), the pace unit now has the likes of Sean Abbott, Nathan Ellis, Ben Dwarshuis, Aaron Hardie, and Spencer Johnson—a far cry from the intimidation of the veterans. Lack of winning momentum: Recent series losses to Pakistan and Sri Lanka, combined with a whitewash, do little to build confidence. Maxwell’s poor form: After his World Cup heroics, Maxwell has hit a rough patch, scoring just 56 runs and taking five wickets in his last eight matches. Australia's Champions Trophy team: Steve Smith (captain), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matthew Short, Adam Zampa. Travelling Reserve: Cooper Connolly. Despite recent setbacks, Australia’s combination of youthful promise and experienced big-match players could help them rediscover their winning formula. The 'Aussie mentality' remains their greatest weapon.

SWOT Analysis: Champions Trophy 2025:-Winless streak and missing stars- Australia’s uphill battle for glory

A blistering start by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shafali-verma">Shafali Varma</a> and composed knocks by Niki Prasad and Sarah Bryce helped Delhi Capitals secure a two-wicket win against Mumbai Indians in an edge-of-the-seat thriller during the ongoing Women's Premier League (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wpl">WPL</a>) at Vadodara on Saturday (Feb 15).<o:p></o:p>
Former Indian Women's captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mithali-raj">Mithali Raj</a> shared her insights on the thrilling match between Mumbai and Delhi in an interview with the digital broadcasters.
&ldquo;What a game we witnessed today! The intensity was remarkable. Last night, we saw a high-scoring chase of 201 with big hits, but today was all about nerve and momentum. The game kept swinging between the teams, and until the final ball, the winner was anyone's guess,&rdquo; Mithali remarked.
Reflecting on Niki Prasad&rsquo;s performance, Mithali emphasised the young cricketer's significant contribution. &ldquo;Delhi Capitals' victory was largely driven by Shafali Verma's explosive start, but Niki Prasad's crucial 35-run innings was equally pivotal. When wickets were tumbling, she held her ground, offering much-needed stability. Playing her first match after leading India to victory in the ICC Women&rsquo;s U-19 World Cup, she showed remarkable poise under pressure. There must have been nerves, but she battled through brilliantly. Her maturity stood out today. With solid support from Alice Capsey and Sarah Bryce, she anchored the innings. Though she fell short with two runs needed off two balls, her contribution was massive for Delhi Capitals.&rdquo;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wpl-2025-dc-w-vs-mi-w-debutants-highlight-delhi-capitals-win-over-mumbai-indians-8724954">WPL 2025, DC-W vs MI-W: Debutants highlight Delhi Capitals&rsquo; win over Mumbai Indians</a> 
Speaking about Shafali Verma, Mithali praised her fearless approach. &ldquo;Shafali never plays defensively. From the second ball, she was scoring freely, playing her shots with signature flair. The only way to stop her today was to outthink her, and I've been in that position myself. As the fielding side adjusted, bringing mid-on up and pushing deep square leg back, Shafali instinctively aimed to clear mid-on but ended up getting caught. That was a key moment in the match.&rdquo;
<h2>'It was a joy to watch Niki play'&nbsp;</h2>
Former West Indian cricketer Stacy-Ann King also lauded Niki Prasad&rsquo;s innings, saying, &ldquo;We knew her potential from the India U-19 team, though she didn&rsquo;t get many opportunities to bat with G Trisha and Kamalini in form. After a slightly shaky start, she found her rhythm and played her shots beautifully. It was a joy to watch.&rdquo;
Analysing Mumbai Indians' performance, King highlighted a crucial lapse. &ldquo;Harmanpreet mentioned that not batting the full 20 overs cost Mumbai. Even a single run in that phase could have changed the result. This is a learning opportunity for them to reassess their approach, especially against spinners. Hayley Matthews took key wickets, including Shafali and Sarah, but conceded 15 runs before that. Both teams can learn a lot from each other about pacing their innings and fine-tuning their bowling strategies.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Debutants Niki Prasad and Sarah Bryce kept their cool as Delhi Capitals beat star-studded Mumbai Indians in their WPL 2025 campaign opener

A blistering start by Shafali Varma and composed knocks by Niki Prasad and Sarah Bryce helped Delhi Capitals secure a two-wicket win against Mumbai Indians in an edge-of-the-seat thriller during the ongoing Women's Premier League (WPL) at Vadodara on Saturday (Feb 15). Former Indian Women's captain Mithali Raj shared her insights on the thrilling match between Mumbai and Delhi in an interview with the digital broadcasters. “What a game we witnessed today! The intensity was remarkable. Last night, we saw a high-scoring chase of 201 with big hits, but today was all about nerve and momentum. The game kept swinging between the teams, and until the final ball, the winner was anyone's guess,” Mithali remarked. Reflecting on Niki Prasad’s performance, Mithali emphasised the young cricketer's significant contribution. “Delhi Capitals' victory was largely driven by Shafali Verma's explosive start, but Niki Prasad's crucial 35-run innings was equally pivotal. When wickets were tumbling, she held her ground, offering much-needed stability. Playing her first match after leading India to victory in the ICC Women’s U-19 World Cup, she showed remarkable poise under pressure. There must have been nerves, but she battled through brilliantly. Her maturity stood out today. With solid support from Alice Capsey and Sarah Bryce, she anchored the innings. Though she fell short with two runs needed off two balls, her contribution was massive for Delhi Capitals.” Also Read: WPL 2025, DC-W vs MI-W: Debutants highlight Delhi Capitals’ win over Mumbai Indians Speaking about Shafali Verma, Mithali praised her fearless approach. “Shafali never plays defensively. From the second ball, she was scoring freely, playing her shots with signature flair. The only way to stop her today was to outthink her, and I've been in that position myself. As the fielding side adjusted, bringing mid-on up and pushing deep square leg back, Shafali instinctively aimed to clear mid-on but ended up getting caught. That was a key moment in the match.” 'It was a joy to watch Niki play' Former West Indian cricketer Stacy-Ann King also lauded Niki Prasad’s innings, saying, “We knew her potential from the India U-19 team, though she didn’t get many opportunities to bat with G Trisha and Kamalini in form. After a slightly shaky start, she found her rhythm and played her shots beautifully. It was a joy to watch.” Analysing Mumbai Indians' performance, King highlighted a crucial lapse. “Harmanpreet mentioned that not batting the full 20 overs cost Mumbai. Even a single run in that phase could have changed the result. This is a learning opportunity for them to reassess their approach, especially against spinners. Hayley Matthews took key wickets, including Shafali and Sarah, but conceded 15 runs before that. Both teams can learn a lot from each other about pacing their innings and fine-tuning their bowling strategies.” (With inputs from agencies)

WPL 2025, DC-W vs MI-W: 'Capitals' win was fueled by Shafali and Niki's heroics', says  Mithali Raj

A blistering start by Shafali Varma and composed knocks by Niki Prasad and Sarah Bryce helped Delhi Capitals (DC) secure a two-wicket win against Mumbai Indians (MI) in an edge-of-the-seat thriller during the ongoing Women's Premier League (WPL) at Vadodara on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m76ifare-i621wmjy-pp0nfqy3">
📁 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAWPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAWPL</a> ↳ 📂 Last&nbsp;Over&nbsp;Classic<a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiCapitals</a> hold their nerves and win on the very last ball of the match 🔥👏 Scorecard ▶ <a href="https://t.co/99qqGTKYHu">https://t.co/99qqGTKYHu</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvDC</a> <a href="https://t.co/rvxAdfrlUr">pic.twitter.com/rvxAdfrlUr</a>
&mdash; Women's Premier League (WPL) (@wplt20) <a href="https://twitter.com/wplt20/status/1890818241624244489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
Chasing 165, DC was left 109/5 in 14.5 overs despite a fine 60-run opening stand. However, Niki Prasad and Sarah took down the equation to 10 runs off the last over despite wickets falling at other end. With two runs needed on final ball, the pair of Arundhati Reddy and Radha Yadav completed a risky double and it was worth all the toil.<o:p></o:p>
After Delhi Capitals won the toss and elected to bowl first, they were off to a fine start as a low grab by skipper Meg Lanning on a Shikha Pandey delivery sent Hayley Matthews packing for a duck on the second ball. MI was 0/1.<o:p></o:p>
In the next over, Alice Capsey gave away 19 runs, including five runs after a four on wide, two fours from Yastika Bhatia and one boundary from Nat-Sciver Brunt.<o:p></o:p>
Shikha got her second wicket in the fifth over, beating Yastika's stumps as she was gone for 11 in nine balls. MI was 32/2 in 4.2 overs.<o:p></o:p>
At the end of powerplay, MI was 41/2 in six overs, with Brunt (22*) joined by skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (2*) unbeaten.<o:p></o:p>
With a four by Brunt, MI reached the 50-run mark in 7.1 overs. In the same over, she and Kaur hit Radha for a four and six more, looting 18 runs in total.<o:p></o:p>
The duo kept the run-rate up and brought up their 50-run stand in 30 balls. In 10 overs, MI were 87/2, with Brunt (45*) and Kaur (24*) unbeaten.<o:p></o:p>
In the 11th over, Kaur went on a blitz against Annabel Sutherland, smashing her for three fours and a six before debutant Niki Prasad caught her, sending her back for 42 in 22 balls, with four boundaries and three sixes. MI was 105/3 in 10.5 overs.<o:p></o:p>
Sciver Brunt reached her fourth WPL fifty in 36 balls, with nine fours. But after that, there was one wicket falling per over from overs 14-16, leaving MI struggling at 146/6. Amelia Kerr, S Sajana and Amanjot Kaur went back to the pavilion for single digits.<o:p></o:p>
Sciver held the innings together, helping MI reach the 150-run mark in 16.5 overs.<o:p></o:p>
MI continued their implosion towards the end, bundling out for 164 runs in 19.1 overs. Brunt was the top-scorer, with 80* in 59 balls, with 13 fours.<o:p></o:p>
Sutherland (3/34) was the top bowler for DC. Shikha got two while Minnu Mani and Capsey got one each.<o:p></o:p>
During the run-chase of 165, Delhi was off to a fine start as Shafali Varma looted 22 runs in the second over bowled by Saika Ishaque, including four boundaries and a six.<o:p></o:p>
In the sixth over, Shafali launched Matthews for two successive fours, bringing up the 50-run mark in 5.1 overs and a six. However, a fine catch at short mid-wicket from Amanjot meant the bowler had the last laugh. Shafali was gone for 43 in 18 balls, with seven fours and two sixes. DC was 60/1 in 5.5 overs.<o:p></o:p>
In the next over, Lanning's knock of 15 in 19 balls, with three fours was ended by Shabnim Ismail as she castled her stumps. DC was 60/2 in 6.1 overs.<o:p></o:p>
All-rounders Amelia and Sciver got Jemimah Rodrigues (2) and Annabel Sutherland (13) in quick succession, derailing DC's chase, and sinking them to 76/4 in 8.5 overs.<o:p></o:p>
At the end of 10 overs, DC were 83/4, with Capsey (3*) and Prasad (5*) unbeaten.<o:p></o:p>
DC reached the 100-run mark in 13 overs, with the help of a four by Niki.<o:p></o:p>
An attempted loft by Capsey went into hands of Ismail at long-on, removing her at the hands of Amelia for 16 in 18 balls. DC was 109/5 in 14.5 overs.<o:p></o:p>
Some hits by Prasad and Sarah Bryce helped DC bring down the equation to 21 in two overs, but Mathews had removed Bryce for 21 in 12 balls, with two fours and a six.<o:p></o:p>
The 19th over was a thrilling one. While Shikha was run out for three, Radha Yadav tonked the final ball for a six, bringing down the equation to 10 runs in the last over.<o:p></o:p>
The final over started with Niki hitting a boundary. But the dismissal of Niki on the second-last ball for 35 in 33 balls, with four boundaries, left DC with two to get on the final ball.<o:p></o:p>
DC chased down the total on the last ball, with Arundhati Reddy (2*) and Radha Yadav (9*) completing a risky double.<o:p></o:p>
Amelia (2/21) and Mathews (2/32) were top wicket-takers for MI. Ismail, Sciver and Sajana got one each.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Cricket: Debutants Niki Prasad and Sarah Bryce kept their cool as Delhi Capitals beat star-studded Mumbai Indians in their WPL 2025 campaign opener.

A blistering start by Shafali Varma and composed knocks by Niki Prasad and Sarah Bryce helped Delhi Capitals (DC) secure a two-wicket win against Mumbai Indians (MI) in an edge-of-the-seat thriller during the ongoing Women's Premier League (WPL) at Vadodara on Saturday. 📁 #TATAWPL ↳ 📂 Last Over Classic@DelhiCapitals hold their nerves and win on the very last ball of the match 🔥👏 Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/99qqGTKYHu#MIvDC pic.twitter.com/rvxAdfrlUr — Women's Premier League (WPL) (@wplt20) February 15, 2025 Chasing 165, DC was left 109/5 in 14.5 overs despite a fine 60-run opening stand. However, Niki Prasad and Sarah took down the equation to 10 runs off the last over despite wickets falling at other end. With two runs needed on final ball, the pair of Arundhati Reddy and Radha Yadav completed a risky double and it was worth all the toil. After Delhi Capitals won the toss and elected to bowl first, they were off to a fine start as a low grab by skipper Meg Lanning on a Shikha Pandey delivery sent Hayley Matthews packing for a duck on the second ball. MI was 0/1. In the next over, Alice Capsey gave away 19 runs, including five runs after a four on wide, two fours from Yastika Bhatia and one boundary from Nat-Sciver Brunt. Shikha got her second wicket in the fifth over, beating Yastika's stumps as she was gone for 11 in nine balls. MI was 32/2 in 4.2 overs. At the end of powerplay, MI was 41/2 in six overs, with Brunt (22*) joined by skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (2*) unbeaten. With a four by Brunt, MI reached the 50-run mark in 7.1 overs. In the same over, she and Kaur hit Radha for a four and six more, looting 18 runs in total. The duo kept the run-rate up and brought up their 50-run stand in 30 balls. In 10 overs, MI were 87/2, with Brunt (45*) and Kaur (24*) unbeaten. In the 11th over, Kaur went on a blitz against Annabel Sutherland, smashing her for three fours and a six before debutant Niki Prasad caught her, sending her back for 42 in 22 balls, with four boundaries and three sixes. MI was 105/3 in 10.5 overs. Sciver Brunt reached her fourth WPL fifty in 36 balls, with nine fours. But after that, there was one wicket falling per over from overs 14-16, leaving MI struggling at 146/6. Amelia Kerr, S Sajana and Amanjot Kaur went back to the pavilion for single digits. Sciver held the innings together, helping MI reach the 150-run mark in 16.5 overs. MI continued their implosion towards the end, bundling out for 164 runs in 19.1 overs. Brunt was the top-scorer, with 80* in 59 balls, with 13 fours. Sutherland (3/34) was the top bowler for DC. Shikha got two while Minnu Mani and Capsey got one each. During the run-chase of 165, Delhi was off to a fine start as Shafali Varma looted 22 runs in the second over bowled by Saika Ishaque, including four boundaries and a six. In the sixth over, Shafali launched Matthews for two successive fours, bringing up the 50-run mark in 5.1 overs and a six. However, a fine catch at short mid-wicket from Amanjot meant the bowler had the last laugh. Shafali was gone for 43 in 18 balls, with seven fours and two sixes. DC was 60/1 in 5.5 overs. In the next over, Lanning's knock of 15 in 19 balls, with three fours was ended by Shabnim Ismail as she castled her stumps. DC was 60/2 in 6.1 overs. All-rounders Amelia and Sciver got Jemimah Rodrigues (2) and Annabel Sutherland (13) in quick succession, derailing DC's chase, and sinking them to 76/4 in 8.5 overs. At the end of 10 overs, DC were 83/4, with Capsey (3*) and Prasad (5*) unbeaten. DC reached the 100-run mark in 13 overs, with the help of a four by Niki. An attempted loft by Capsey went into hands of Ismail at long-on, removing her at the hands of Amelia for 16 in 18 balls. DC was 109/5 in 14.5 overs. Some hits by Prasad and Sarah Bryce helped DC bring down the equation to 21 in two overs, but Mathews had removed Bryce for 21 in 12 balls, with two fours and a six. The 19th over was a thrilling one. While Shikha was run out for three, Radha Yadav tonked the final ball for a six, bringing down the equation to 10 runs in the last over. The final over started with Niki hitting a boundary. But the dismissal of Niki on the second-last ball for 35 in 33 balls, with four boundaries, left DC with two to get on the final ball. DC chased down the total on the last ball, with Arundhati Reddy (2*) and Radha Yadav (9*) completing a risky double. Amelia (2/21) and Mathews (2/32) were top wicket-takers for MI. Ismail, Sciver and Sajana got one each. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

WPL 2025, DC-W vs MI-W: Debutants highlight Delhi Capitals’ win over Mumbai Indians

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow">BCCI</a> paid a gigantic amount (in lakhs) for an unnamed star cricketer&rsquo;s luggage worth 250 kg containing 27 bags on tour Down Under. Per reports, the Indian Board paid an undisclosed sum for that player&rsquo;s luggage, which wasn&rsquo;t even his entirely, including some belonging to his entourage (family members and assistants). Besides, what made headlines was that his luggage included 17 bats, indicating the player in question was a specialist batter.<o:p></o:p>
Moreover, per a report in Dainik Jagran, the board even paid for the player's travel expenses during the long tour, where he travelled from one city to another at the board's expense.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-might-never-play-tests-again-as-bcci-ready-to-look-beyond-veteran-batter-convinced-about-new-captain-report-8724767" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma might never play Tests again; BCCI convinced about new captain - Report</a>
India had a horrid tour Down Under, losing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/border-gavaskar-trophy" rel="dofollow">Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a> for the first time in ten years. While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah</a> was India&rsquo;s best bet on that tour, returning with 32 wickets across five Tests &ndash; the most among all bowlers this time, none of the star batters left an impact, even those with an abundance experience under their belts failing massively.<o:p></o:p>
Among the ones who shone with the bat were rookie opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who slammed his maiden Test hundred Down Under in the second innings of the series opener in Perth, and young and dynamic all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who hit his first Test ton in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Besides them, only KL Rahul had played some handy knocks, while veteran batter Virat Kohli registered a century, though he failed miserably in the remaining eight innings.<o:p></o:p>
Talking of the remaining star batters, including captain Rohit Sharma, gloveman Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill, all failed to leave any mark. While Rohit and Gill played a few games, failing in all, Pant had a quiet tour Down Under this time, scoring just a quick-fire fifty in the final Test at the SCG, which India lost inside three days, conceding the series, the BGT and the chance to qualify for the WTC Final 2025.<o:p></o:p>
Following their loss to Australia, which came on the back of suffering a home series whitewash (for the first time in history) against New Zealand earlier, the BCCI tightened the screws in the quest to put things back in place.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>The repercussions<o:p></o:p></h2>
The Indian Cricket Board released a ten-pointer mandate for all centrally contracted players, making it compulsory for everyone to abide by it, or else serious repercussions would follow. Among those pointers, several made headlines for their reasons, but what didn&rsquo;t was the restriction on luggage each player can carry on the away tours (long or short). <o:p></o:p>
Though the board might not have had a cap on the number of bags and their weight before this, the BCCI has now put one, urging everyone to not carry luggage over 250 kg on overseas tours. Should a player wish to bring more luggage than that, that player must bear the overhead expenses from his pocket.<o:p></o:p>
Meanwhile, India&rsquo;s next overseas assignment is the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, starting February 19, for which the first batch of players and the coaching staff has already departed for Dubai &ndash; India&rsquo;s venue for the eight-team tournament. <o:p></o:p>
India will open their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai. <o:p></o:p>
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: While Bumrah was India’s best bet on that tour, none of the star batters left an impact, those with an abundance experience under their belts failing massively.

The BCCI paid a gigantic amount (in lakhs) for an unnamed star cricketer’s luggage worth 250 kg containing 27 bags on tour Down Under. Per reports, the Indian Board paid an undisclosed sum for that player’s luggage, which wasn’t even his entirely, including some belonging to his entourage (family members and assistants). Besides, what made headlines was that his luggage included 17 bats, indicating the player in question was a specialist batter. Moreover, per a report in Dainik Jagran, the board even paid for the player's travel expenses during the long tour, where he travelled from one city to another at the board's expense. Also read | Rohit Sharma might never play Tests again; BCCI convinced about new captain - Report India had a horrid tour Down Under, losing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time in ten years. While Jasprit Bumrah was India’s best bet on that tour, returning with 32 wickets across five Tests – the most among all bowlers this time, none of the star batters left an impact, even those with an abundance experience under their belts failing massively. Among the ones who shone with the bat were rookie opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who slammed his maiden Test hundred Down Under in the second innings of the series opener in Perth, and young and dynamic all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who hit his first Test ton in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Besides them, only KL Rahul had played some handy knocks, while veteran batter Virat Kohli registered a century, though he failed miserably in the remaining eight innings. Talking of the remaining star batters, including captain Rohit Sharma, gloveman Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill, all failed to leave any mark. While Rohit and Gill played a few games, failing in all, Pant had a quiet tour Down Under this time, scoring just a quick-fire fifty in the final Test at the SCG, which India lost inside three days, conceding the series, the BGT and the chance to qualify for the WTC Final 2025. Following their loss to Australia, which came on the back of suffering a home series whitewash (for the first time in history) against New Zealand earlier, the BCCI tightened the screws in the quest to put things back in place. The repercussions The Indian Cricket Board released a ten-pointer mandate for all centrally contracted players, making it compulsory for everyone to abide by it, or else serious repercussions would follow. Among those pointers, several made headlines for their reasons, but what didn’t was the restriction on luggage each player can carry on the away tours (long or short). Though the board might not have had a cap on the number of bags and their weight before this, the BCCI has now put one, urging everyone to not carry luggage over 250 kg on overseas tours. Should a player wish to bring more luggage than that, that player must bear the overhead expenses from his pocket. Meanwhile, India’s next overseas assignment is the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, starting February 19, for which the first batch of players and the coaching staff has already departed for Dubai – India’s venue for the eight-team tournament. India will open their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai. (With inputs from agencies)

BCCI paid gigantic sum for ‘star cricketer’s’ 250 kg worth of luggage on tour Down Under – Report

In a shocking turn of events, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow">BCCI</a> selectors have decided to look beyond <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a> in Tests, per the latest reports. The veteran Indian opener suffered a horrid time with the bat Down Under, scoring just 31 runs from five outings. Though his form alone had less to do with India conceding the BGT for the first time in a decade since most batters also failed, how fans, analysts and even broadcasters reacted to his dismal show put pressure on the BCCI to take a stern call on his future.
Rohit currently leads India in the longer formats, with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy-2025" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> being the next significant assignment. Though he remains an integral part of the One-Day side, still among runs at the top, his performances in red-ball cricket have dipped significantly, worrying the selectors ahead of the away England Tests in June.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-paid-gigantic-sum-for-star-cricketers-150-kg-worth-of-luggage-containing-27-bags-on-tour-down-under-report-8724274" rel="dofollow">BCCI paid gigantic sum for &lsquo;star cricketer&rsquo;s&rsquo; 250 kg worth of luggage on tour Down Under &ndash; Report</a>
Considering Rohit sat out of the fifth and the final BGT Test (at the SCG) owing to a mediocre run with the bat (in that series) despite batting down the order, the selectors seem to have concluded to look beyond him from the next series onwards. For the transition to happen smoothly, they have even zeroed in on his successor as the Test captain, with ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah leading the race.
Per a PTI report, the BCCI selectors avoided risking picking Bumrah in the Champions Trophy squad despite receiving clearance from the NCA doctors regarding his ailing back, and the reason behind this was the aim to have him fit for the upcoming Test season, as the selectors wish to name him the new Test captain.
<h2>Bumrah to lead India in Tests&nbsp;</h2>
After the NCA medical team, headed by Nitin Patel, put the ball in Agarkar&rsquo;s court regarding taking a final call on Bumrah&rsquo;s selection, former India quick decided against risking him, knowing he hasn&rsquo;t bowled or practiced enough to find his rhythm as the tournament was just a week away.
"It is understood that the main bone of contention was that Bumrah is yet to start bowling full tilt, and those in the know of things said that it is very difficult to get match-fit in such a short time.
&ldquo;Rather, he can come back for Mumbai Indians in the IPL and then lead India in England as Rohit Sharma is unlikely to be picked for Tests again,&rdquo; a report in the PTI said.&nbsp;
Bumrah has led India in Tests three times, in Rohit&rsquo;s absence on all occasions. He first led against England in the fifth and final Test (in Birmingham) in 2022, while his next assignment was the series opener at the Optus Stadium in Perth (against Australia) this time. The last occasion, was the SCG Test, where Bumrah suffered a back spasm, leaving the game midway, with former captain Virat Kohli leading in his absence.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: The BCCI selectors avoided risking picking Bumrah in the Champions Trophy squad despite receiving clearance from the NCA doctors regarding his ailing back.

In a shocking turn of events, the BCCI selectors have decided to look beyond Rohit Sharma in Tests, per the latest reports. The veteran Indian opener suffered a horrid time with the bat Down Under, scoring just 31 runs from five outings. Though his form alone had less to do with India conceding the BGT for the first time in a decade since most batters also failed, how fans, analysts and even broadcasters reacted to his dismal show put pressure on the BCCI to take a stern call on his future. Rohit currently leads India in the longer formats, with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 being the next significant assignment. Though he remains an integral part of the One-Day side, still among runs at the top, his performances in red-ball cricket have dipped significantly, worrying the selectors ahead of the away England Tests in June. Also read | BCCI paid gigantic sum for ‘star cricketer’s’ 250 kg worth of luggage on tour Down Under – Report Considering Rohit sat out of the fifth and the final BGT Test (at the SCG) owing to a mediocre run with the bat (in that series) despite batting down the order, the selectors seem to have concluded to look beyond him from the next series onwards. For the transition to happen smoothly, they have even zeroed in on his successor as the Test captain, with ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah leading the race. Per a PTI report, the BCCI selectors avoided risking picking Bumrah in the Champions Trophy squad despite receiving clearance from the NCA doctors regarding his ailing back, and the reason behind this was the aim to have him fit for the upcoming Test season, as the selectors wish to name him the new Test captain. Bumrah to lead India in Tests After the NCA medical team, headed by Nitin Patel, put the ball in Agarkar’s court regarding taking a final call on Bumrah’s selection, former India quick decided against risking him, knowing he hasn’t bowled or practiced enough to find his rhythm as the tournament was just a week away. "It is understood that the main bone of contention was that Bumrah is yet to start bowling full tilt, and those in the know of things said that it is very difficult to get match-fit in such a short time. “Rather, he can come back for Mumbai Indians in the IPL and then lead India in England as Rohit Sharma is unlikely to be picked for Tests again,” a report in the PTI said. Bumrah has led India in Tests three times, in Rohit’s absence on all occasions. He first led against England in the fifth and final Test (in Birmingham) in 2022, while his next assignment was the series opener at the Optus Stadium in Perth (against Australia) this time. The last occasion, was the SCG Test, where Bumrah suffered a back spasm, leaving the game midway, with former captain Virat Kohli leading in his absence. (With inputs from agencies)

Rohit Sharma might never play Tests again; BCCI convinced about new captain - Report

In a massive boost to England&rsquo;s chances of tasting success in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy-2025" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a>, opener Ben Duckett passed the fitness test, getting cleared of a left groin injury scare he suffered during the third ODI against India in Ahmedabad. Duckett scored twin fifties on an otherwise horrid tour of India, where England lost seven of the eight contested matches across two formats.
During the final ODI at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, Duckett pulled up his groin while fielding, looking visibly hampered during his quick-fire 34 in England&rsquo;s chase. Although he smoked a few boundaries, including hitting Arshdeep Singh for a few fours in an over, Duckett struggled with his groin during this brief stay.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-paid-gigantic-sum-for-star-cricketers-150-kg-worth-of-luggage-containing-27-bags-on-tour-down-under-report-8724274" rel="dofollow">BCCI paid gigantic sum for &lsquo;star cricketer&rsquo;s&rsquo; 150 kg worth of luggage on tour Down Under &ndash; Report</a>
However, with England spending some time in the UAE ahead of their Champions Trophy campaign, the tests done on Duckett&rsquo;s left groin revealed no significant issue, with the ECB press release declaring him &lsquo;fit and available&rsquo; for the eight-team tournament starting February 19 in Pakistan.
England will take on rivals Australia in their tournament opener (February 22) in Lahore.&nbsp;
<h2>Injury-hit England camp</h2>
England is due to arrive in Pakistan a day before the curtain-raiser between the hosts and New Zealand, and with Duckett being declared fit, the camp must be oozing with confidence.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/waqar-younis-sees-injury-free-pakistan-rocking-in-champions-trophy-2025-mohammad-amir-backs-babar-azam-to-hit-top-form-8724435" rel="dofollow">Waqar Younis sees Pakistan rocking in Champions Trophy 2025; Amir backs Babar Azam to hit top form</a>
While England has already lost their emerging all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/massive-blow-to-england-as-jacob-bethell-doubtful-for-3rd-odi-champions-trophy-tom-banton-called-up-as-cover-8704464" rel="dofollow">Jacob Bethell to a hamstring injury</a>, with opener Tom Banton replacing him in the CT squad, the former world champions are sweating over Jamie Smith&rsquo;s calf injury, who hasn&rsquo;t featured in the playing XI since January 28.
England also remain concerned about their bowling department, with seamer Brydon Carse nursing a toe injury while all-rounder Jamie Overton is down with a hamstring issue. Premier seamer Jofra Archer also suffered a cut on his hand.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, following an outburst from former cricketers, including England&rsquo;s own Kevin Pietersen and India&rsquo;s Ravi Shastri, over their failed preparation for the sub-continent leg, head coach Brendon McCullum defended his team&rsquo;s training against remarks about the number of practice session.
"Guys have come from a lot of cricket, and keeping guys fresh is just as important, especially when you have injuries. We've done lots of training. We have had injuries in the camp, so we've backed guys off a little bit to make sure we had a fit team,&rdquo; McCullum said while responding to Shastri&rsquo;s remarks of England having just one training session throughout the ODI series, which they lost 0-3.&nbsp;
<h3>England&rsquo;s Champions Trophy Squad &ndash;</h3>
Jos Buttler (captain), 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 and Mark Wood
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Duckett scored twin fifties on an otherwise horrid tour of India, where England lost seven of the eight contested matches across two formats.

In a massive boost to England’s chances of tasting success in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, opener Ben Duckett passed the fitness test, getting cleared of a left groin injury scare he suffered during the third ODI against India in Ahmedabad. Duckett scored twin fifties on an otherwise horrid tour of India, where England lost seven of the eight contested matches across two formats. During the final ODI at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, Duckett pulled up his groin while fielding, looking visibly hampered during his quick-fire 34 in England’s chase. Although he smoked a few boundaries, including hitting Arshdeep Singh for a few fours in an over, Duckett struggled with his groin during this brief stay. Also read | BCCI paid gigantic sum for ‘star cricketer’s’ 150 kg worth of luggage on tour Down Under – Report However, with England spending some time in the UAE ahead of their Champions Trophy campaign, the tests done on Duckett’s left groin revealed no significant issue, with the ECB press release declaring him ‘fit and available’ for the eight-team tournament starting February 19 in Pakistan. England will take on rivals Australia in their tournament opener (February 22) in Lahore. Injury-hit England camp England is due to arrive in Pakistan a day before the curtain-raiser between the hosts and New Zealand, and with Duckett being declared fit, the camp must be oozing with confidence. Also read | Waqar Younis sees Pakistan rocking in Champions Trophy 2025; Amir backs Babar Azam to hit top form While England has already lost their emerging all-rounder Jacob Bethell to a hamstring injury, with opener Tom Banton replacing him in the CT squad, the former world champions are sweating over Jamie Smith’s calf injury, who hasn’t featured in the playing XI since January 28. England also remain concerned about their bowling department, with seamer Brydon Carse nursing a toe injury while all-rounder Jamie Overton is down with a hamstring issue. Premier seamer Jofra Archer also suffered a cut on his hand. Meanwhile, following an outburst from former cricketers, including England’s own Kevin Pietersen and India’s Ravi Shastri, over their failed preparation for the sub-continent leg, head coach Brendon McCullum defended his team’s training against remarks about the number of practice session. "Guys have come from a lot of cricket, and keeping guys fresh is just as important, especially when you have injuries. We've done lots of training. We have had injuries in the camp, so we've backed guys off a little bit to make sure we had a fit team,” McCullum said while responding to Shastri’s remarks of England having just one training session throughout the ODI series, which they lost 0-3. England’s Champions Trophy Squad – Jos Buttler (captain), 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 and Mark Wood (With inputs from agencies)

England receive massive boost ahead of Champions Trophy 2025

All eyeballs are on the Pakistan men&rsquo;s cricket team that hosts the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy-2025" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> starting February 19. Though they <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-vs-nz-clinical-new-zealand-thump-pakistan-to-win-tri-nations-final-ahead-of-champions-trophy-2025-8722277" rel="dofollow">lost the Tri-Series Final to New Zealand</a> in the dress rehearsal for the eight-team tournament&rsquo;s opener, former seamers Waqar Younis and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-amir" rel="dofollow">Mohammad Amir</a> have backed them to rock in the first showpiece event of the year. Amir also remarked that Babar Azam is one inning away from hitting top form.
Pakistan is placed in Group A alongside Bangladesh, New Zealand and arch-rivals India, against whom they are scheduled to face off (on Feb 23) in the marquee clash.
Speaking on the same lines, Waqar Younis reflected on this high-octane clash, saying everyone&rsquo;s been waiting for this big day on the cricket calendar, which will hit bull's eye engagement-wise.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-paid-gigantic-sum-for-star-cricketers-150-kg-worth-of-luggage-containing-27-bags-on-tour-down-under-report-8724274" rel="dofollow">BCCI paid gigantic sum for &lsquo;star cricketer&rsquo;s&rsquo; 150 kg worth of luggage on tour Down Under &ndash; Report</a>
&ldquo;It is always going to be big. We all know how important this clash is. The entire world is anxiously waiting for the big day when the two teams face each other after a long time," Waqar said in a chat with TimesofIndia.com.&nbsp;
"In fact, we are all eagerly waiting. We will once again witness a fantastic game of cricket on March 23. It is going to be a full house. We can't wait," the former Pakistan coach continued.
Shedding some light on Pakistan&rsquo;s chances of defending the Champions Trophy title, Waqar said he is concerned about the injuries within the camp, knowing how much cricket everyone&rsquo;s been playing, but remains optimistic of the Men in Green doing wonders in the first home ICC tournament since the 1996 World Cup.&nbsp;
"They are on the right track. I hope everyone stays fit and injury-free. The cricket schedule is packed these days, so injuries are a major concern. There are teams challenging for this Champions Trophy, and it is going to be a big and exciting tournament,&rdquo; said Waqar on Pakistan&rsquo;s chances in the Champions Trophy.
<h2>Waqar on Bumrah&rsquo;s absence</h2>
Team India will be without their ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah for the multi-team tournament in Pakistan (and Dubai &ndash; for India games), and Waqar said his absence is a massive blow for the tournament&rsquo;s favourites as they never wanted to be in this position concerning Bumrah.
&ldquo;He is a world-class bowler&mdash;very quick, very aggressive, and very smart. It is difficult for any batter to handle him. India never wanted to miss him," Waqar said of Bumrah and his absence from the Champions Trophy.
<h3>Amir backs Pakistan, Babar to hit top form&nbsp;</h3>
Former Pakistan seamer Mohammad Amir has backed his team to exceed expectations, especially throwing weight behind star batter Babar Azam, who hasn&rsquo;t hit an ODI hundred since August 2023.&nbsp;
On a social media post, Amir wrote, &ldquo;Don't worry everyone. Pakistan team and Babar Azam will perform in Champions Trophy INSHA ALLAH. Mark my words ☺️☺️☺️.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m768z0rm-8v4exlbz-2plhuz45">
Don't worry everyone. Pakistan team and babar azam will perform in champions trophy INSHA ALLAH. Mark my words ☺️☺️☺️.
&mdash; Mohammad Amir (@iamamirofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamamirofficial/status/1890744301375615100?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
Meanwhile, in the just concluded tri-series involving South Africa and New Zealand, Babar opened in the absence of Saim Ayub, scoring 62 runs in three innings.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Pakistan is placed in Group A alongside Bangladesh, New Zealand and India, against whom they are scheduled to face off (on March 23) in the marquee clash.

All eyeballs are on the Pakistan men’s cricket team that hosts the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 starting February 19. Though they lost the Tri-Series Final to New Zealand in the dress rehearsal for the eight-team tournament’s opener, former seamers Waqar Younis and Mohammad Amir have backed them to rock in the first showpiece event of the year. Amir also remarked that Babar Azam is one inning away from hitting top form. Pakistan is placed in Group A alongside Bangladesh, New Zealand and arch-rivals India, against whom they are scheduled to face off (on Feb 23) in the marquee clash. Speaking on the same lines, Waqar Younis reflected on this high-octane clash, saying everyone’s been waiting for this big day on the cricket calendar, which will hit bull's eye engagement-wise. Also read | BCCI paid gigantic sum for ‘star cricketer’s’ 150 kg worth of luggage on tour Down Under – Report “It is always going to be big. We all know how important this clash is. The entire world is anxiously waiting for the big day when the two teams face each other after a long time," Waqar said in a chat with TimesofIndia.com. "In fact, we are all eagerly waiting. We will once again witness a fantastic game of cricket on March 23. It is going to be a full house. We can't wait," the former Pakistan coach continued. Shedding some light on Pakistan’s chances of defending the Champions Trophy title, Waqar said he is concerned about the injuries within the camp, knowing how much cricket everyone’s been playing, but remains optimistic of the Men in Green doing wonders in the first home ICC tournament since the 1996 World Cup. "They are on the right track. I hope everyone stays fit and injury-free. The cricket schedule is packed these days, so injuries are a major concern. There are teams challenging for this Champions Trophy, and it is going to be a big and exciting tournament,” said Waqar on Pakistan’s chances in the Champions Trophy. Waqar on Bumrah’s absence Team India will be without their ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah for the multi-team tournament in Pakistan (and Dubai – for India games), and Waqar said his absence is a massive blow for the tournament’s favourites as they never wanted to be in this position concerning Bumrah. “He is a world-class bowler—very quick, very aggressive, and very smart. It is difficult for any batter to handle him. India never wanted to miss him," Waqar said of Bumrah and his absence from the Champions Trophy. Amir backs Pakistan, Babar to hit top form Former Pakistan seamer Mohammad Amir has backed his team to exceed expectations, especially throwing weight behind star batter Babar Azam, who hasn’t hit an ODI hundred since August 2023. On a social media post, Amir wrote, “Don't worry everyone. Pakistan team and Babar Azam will perform in Champions Trophy INSHA ALLAH. Mark my words ☺️☺️☺️. Don't worry everyone. Pakistan team and babar azam will perform in champions trophy INSHA ALLAH. Mark my words ☺️☺️☺️. — Mohammad Amir (@iamamirofficial) February 15, 2025 Meanwhile, in the just concluded tri-series involving South Africa and New Zealand, Babar opened in the absence of Saim Ayub, scoring 62 runs in three innings. (With inputs from agencies)

Waqar Younis sees Pakistan rocking in Champions Trophy 2025; Amir backs Babar Azam to hit top form

ICC Champions Trophy 2025:&nbsp;The ICC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy 2025</a>&nbsp;is all set to start from February 19 in Pakistan. This is the first time since 1996 ODI World Cup that Pakistan are hosting an ICC tournament.They had co-hosted the 1996 ODI WC along with India and Sri Lanka.
India, meanwhile, will play all its three league matches in Dubai, UAE. This is as per the agreed upon hybrid model with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">ICC</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pcb" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">PCB</a>.
India start their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 at 2:30 pm India time before taking on arch-rival Pakistan on February 23 (2:30 pm India time). India play their final group-stage match against New Zealand on March 2 (2:30 pm India time).
The first semi-final will also be played in Dubai irrespective of India making it or not. The second semi-final, however, will be played in Lahore, Pakistan.
The final, on March 9, will be played in Lahore if India fails to qualify and in Dubai if the opposite happens. The hybrid model came in place due to political tensions between India and Pakistan because of which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BCCI</a>&nbsp;declined to send the team to Pakistan.
A total of eight teams, i.e. India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, England, Afghanistan, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa are divided in two groups for the tournament.
<h2>Check 2025 Champions Trophy 2025 News and Latest Updates Today | Feb 15 below:</h2>

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

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Latest News and Updates Today | Feb 15

Ashwin questions India&rsquo;s strategy behind picking five spinners for Champions Trophy 2025
Former Indian cricketer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravichandran-ashwin" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ravichandran Ashwin</a>&nbsp;has questioned Team India&rsquo;s strategy behind picking five spinners for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a>. As India will play all its matches in Dubai with their first game scheduled against Bangladesh on Thursday (Feb 20), Ashwin feels the Men in Blue might have picked spinners &lsquo;one too many, if not two&rsquo; for the eight-team tournament.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ravi-ashwin-questions-indias-strategy-behind-picking-five-spinners-for-champions-trophy-2025-8724048" rel="dofollow">Read full story here</a>

First set of Indian players, support staff leave for Dubai
Several key players were spotted at the airport, including star batter&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Virat Kohli</a>, all-rounders&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravindra-jadeja" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ravindra Jadeja</a>&nbsp;and Washington Sundar, and wicketkeeper-batters Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul. Spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, along with middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer, all-rounder Axar Patel, and pacers Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh, were also part of the travelling contingent. Skipper Rohit Sharma joined the squad, while Hardik Pandya was the last to arrive before departure.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-first-set-of-indian-players-support-staff-leave-for-dubai-8723558" rel="dofollow">Read full story</a>

Former England cricketer questions team's 50-over experience
Former England cricketer Mark Butcher has expressed concerns over England&rsquo;s lack of experience in the 50-over format ahead of the upcoming&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Champions Trophy</a>. His remarks follow England&rsquo;s crushing 3-0 ODI series defeat against India, which exposed significant weaknesses in their one-day setup.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-former-england-cricketer-questions-teams-50-over-experience-8723511" rel="dofollow">Read full story here</a>

Smith should open the batting for Australia, says former Oz wicketkeeper Legendary Australian cricketer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/adam-gilchrist" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Adam Gilchrist</a>&nbsp;has suggested that stand-in captain&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/steve-smith" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Steve Smith</a>&nbsp;should open the batting in Australia&rsquo;s ODI team for the upcoming Champions Trophy in Pakistan. Gilchrist believes this move would allow Smith to face more deliveries and maximize his impact.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-smith-should-open-the-batting-for-australia-says-former-oz-wicketkeeper-8723191" rel="dofollow">Read full story</a>

Pakistan head coach backs Babar Azam as opener Following Pakistan's five-wicket loss to New Zealand in the tri-nation ODI series final, Javed addressed concerns about Babar&rsquo;s elevation to the opening slot. He defended the management&rsquo;s decision, highlighting that the move was made to maximize the team's advantage in the powerplay and that Babar is well-suited for the role.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pakistan-head-coach-backs-babar-azam-as-opener-8722953" rel="dofollow">Read full story here</a>

Where to watch matches live in your country - Check Inside
The ICC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Champions Trophy 2025</a>&nbsp;is less than two weeks away and most of the teams have shifted their focus on the 50-over format to prepare for the tournament. India and England are playing an ODI series in India while Pakistan, New Zealand and South Africa will be taking part in a tri-nation series from February 8 in Pakistan.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-where-to-watch-matches-live-on-tv-in-participating-countries-where-to-live-stream-champions-trophy-on-tv-and-mobile-app-in-india-pakistan-sa-nz-australia-england-afghanistan-bangladesh-8699107">Check Here</a>

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

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

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

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is all set to start from February 19 in Pakistan. This is the first time since 1996 ODI World Cup that Pakistan are hosting an ICC tournament.They had co-hosted the 1996 ODI WC along with India and Sri Lanka. India, meanwhile, will play all its three league matches in Dubai, UAE. This is as per the agreed upon hybrid model with the ICC and PCB. India start their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 at 2:30 pm India time before taking on arch-rival Pakistan on February 23 (2:30 pm India time). India play their final group-stage match against New Zealand on March 2 (2:30 pm India time). The first semi-final will also be played in Dubai irrespective of India making it or not. The second semi-final, however, will be played in Lahore, Pakistan. The final, on March 9, will be played in Lahore if India fails to qualify and in Dubai if the opposite happens. The hybrid model came in place due to political tensions between India and Pakistan because of which BCCI declined to send the team to Pakistan. A total of eight teams, i.e. India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, England, Afghanistan, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa are divided in two groups for the tournament. Check 2025 Champions Trophy 2025 News and Latest Updates Today | Feb 15 below:

HIGHLIGHTS | 2025 Champions Trophy: Check ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Latest News and Updates Today | Feb 15

Former Indian cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravichandran-ashwin" rel="dofollow">Ravichandran Ashwin</a> has questioned Team India&rsquo;s strategy behind picking five spinners for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a>. As India will play all its matches in Dubai with their first game scheduled against Bangladesh on Thursday (Feb 20), Ashwin feels the Men in Blue might have picked spinners &lsquo;one too many, if not two&rsquo; for the eight-team tournament.
While two all-rounders, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/axar-patel" rel="dofollow">Axar Patel</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravindra-jadeja" rel="dofollow">Ravindra Jadeja</a>, are sure-starters, with unorthodox Kuldeep Yadav being another one to play all matches, mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy and all-rounder Washington Sundar are backup options. In the 15-man squad, India has picked just three seamers - Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami and Harshit Rana.
Speaking on his Hindi YouTube channel &lsquo;Ash ki Baat&rsquo;, Ashwin admitted India might have picked too many spinners for the Dubai pitch, which doesn't offer much assistance (to them) contradictory to the general notion of spinners doing well in that part of the world.
&ldquo;Five spinners in Dubai? I don&rsquo;t know. I think we are one spinner too many, if not two," Ashwin said.&nbsp;
"The two left-arm spinners (Jadeja and Axar) are your best all-rounders alongside Hardik Pandya. So both Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja are going to play. Hardik will also play, and Kuldeep will play,&rdquo; he continued.
<h2>What's the playing combination?</h2>
Considering India will play two seamers alongside Hardik Pandya (and Axar and Jadeja), it leaves a window for just one spinner (of the three) for that one remaining spot, with ace left-armer Kuldeep Yadav leading the race.&nbsp;
Owing to star performances in the recently concluded T20I series against England at home, Varun replaced Yashasvi Jaiswal in the final 15, whereas Sundar retained his place after impressing on his second tour Down Under earlier.
Meanwhile, Ashwin, who played the 2022 T20 World Cup in Dubai, where India crashed out from the group stages, feels should India pick Varun in the&nbsp;XI, they have to drop a seamer for that, or he must replace Kuldeep in the side, with both being risky calls.
"If you want Varun Chakravarthy in the team, then you will have to make a pacer sit out and use Hardik as your second pacer. Else, you will have to drop a spinner to bring in a third seamer," he noted.
In the tournament, India is placed in Group A, alongside the host and arch-rivals Pakistan, with Bangladesh and New Zealand being the remaining two teams. After taking on Bangladesh in their tournament opener, India will face Pakistan three days later before facing New Zealand in their last league match (on March 2).&nbsp;
Dubai will continue to stage India&rsquo;s knockout games (should they qualify for the semis and the final, respectively.)&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: While Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav are sure-starters, mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy and all-rounder Washington Sundar are backup options.

Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has questioned Team India’s strategy behind picking five spinners for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. As India will play all its matches in Dubai with their first game scheduled against Bangladesh on Thursday (Feb 20), Ashwin feels the Men in Blue might have picked spinners ‘one too many, if not two’ for the eight-team tournament. While two all-rounders, Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, are sure-starters, with unorthodox Kuldeep Yadav being another one to play all matches, mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy and all-rounder Washington Sundar are backup options. In the 15-man squad, India has picked just three seamers - Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami and Harshit Rana. Speaking on his Hindi YouTube channel ‘Ash ki Baat’, Ashwin admitted India might have picked too many spinners for the Dubai pitch, which doesn't offer much assistance (to them) contradictory to the general notion of spinners doing well in that part of the world. “Five spinners in Dubai? I don’t know. I think we are one spinner too many, if not two," Ashwin said. "The two left-arm spinners (Jadeja and Axar) are your best all-rounders alongside Hardik Pandya. So both Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja are going to play. Hardik will also play, and Kuldeep will play,” he continued. What's the playing combination? Considering India will play two seamers alongside Hardik Pandya (and Axar and Jadeja), it leaves a window for just one spinner (of the three) for that one remaining spot, with ace left-armer Kuldeep Yadav leading the race. Owing to star performances in the recently concluded T20I series against England at home, Varun replaced Yashasvi Jaiswal in the final 15, whereas Sundar retained his place after impressing on his second tour Down Under earlier. Meanwhile, Ashwin, who played the 2022 T20 World Cup in Dubai, where India crashed out from the group stages, feels should India pick Varun in the XI, they have to drop a seamer for that, or he must replace Kuldeep in the side, with both being risky calls. "If you want Varun Chakravarthy in the team, then you will have to make a pacer sit out and use Hardik as your second pacer. Else, you will have to drop a spinner to bring in a third seamer," he noted. In the tournament, India is placed in Group A, alongside the host and arch-rivals Pakistan, with Bangladesh and New Zealand being the remaining two teams. After taking on Bangladesh in their tournament opener, India will face Pakistan three days later before facing New Zealand in their last league match (on March 2). Dubai will continue to stage India’s knockout games (should they qualify for the semis and the final, respectively.) (With inputs from agencies)

Ashwin questions India’s strategy behind picking five spinners for Champions Trophy 2025

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/punjab-kings">Punjab Kings</a>&rsquo; new addition and blazing young batter Priyansh Arya is all set for the upcoming edition of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL). Arya, who has been playing cricket since the age of 9, was picked by the Kings in the 2025 mega auction and will be playing his first-ever IPL season. &nbsp; &ldquo;I am really excited to meet head coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ricky-ponting">Ricky Ponting</a>. I love his pull shot. Apart from that, I am also excited to meet Shreyas. I love his attitude and the way he walks. I have never met Shreyas earlier. I think he is a great leader, he has won IPL and all domestic trophies as a captain. So I feel he is the best leader," the 24-year-old said.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-first-set-of-indian-players-support-staff-leave-for-dubai-8723558">Champions Trophy 2025: First set of Indian players, support staff leave for Dubai</a> Arya took the nation by storm when he hit six sixes in an over, in Delhi&rsquo;s domestic T20 league in August 2024, becoming the fourth Indian cricketer to do so. Recalling the moment, he revealed that a special message came for him, after he achieved the feat, from India&rsquo;s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav.
<h2>'SKY told me to believe in myself'&nbsp;</h2>
&ldquo;After three sixes, I believed that I could hit six sixes as well, as my partner Ayush Badoni was hitting four to five sixes in an over, in every match. After I did so, Suryakumar Yadav messaged me and said that my batting was total entertainment and asked me to keep believing in myself. It was quite motivating for me.&rdquo; Ahead of IPL season 17, Arya was up for auction but was not grabbed by any franchise. But he did not let the setback deter him and he continued to work hard on his game. &nbsp; Recalling his emotions before last season's IPL, the 24-year-old opening batter, said, "I felt bad about not being selected. This year, again, I had a lot of expectations from the auctions but I was not thinking about it and was focused on Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 matches."
"After I was picked by Punjab Kings, I was elated but could not celebrate much as I continued to focus on the tournaments. I will surely celebrate soon," Arya said. &nbsp; Coached by World Cup-winning captain Ricky Ponting and led by the talented Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer, Punjab Kings will enter IPL 2025 in an all-new avatar and begin their title quest.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Arya took the nation by storm when he hit six sixes in an over, in Delhi’s domestic T20 league in August 2024, becoming the fourth Indian cricketer to do so

Punjab Kings’ new addition and blazing young batter Priyansh Arya is all set for the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Arya, who has been playing cricket since the age of 9, was picked by the Kings in the 2025 mega auction and will be playing his first-ever IPL season. “I am really excited to meet head coach Ricky Ponting. I love his pull shot. Apart from that, I am also excited to meet Shreyas. I love his attitude and the way he walks. I have never met Shreyas earlier. I think he is a great leader, he has won IPL and all domestic trophies as a captain. So I feel he is the best leader," the 24-year-old said. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: First set of Indian players, support staff leave for Dubai Arya took the nation by storm when he hit six sixes in an over, in Delhi’s domestic T20 league in August 2024, becoming the fourth Indian cricketer to do so. Recalling the moment, he revealed that a special message came for him, after he achieved the feat, from India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav. 'SKY told me to believe in myself' “After three sixes, I believed that I could hit six sixes as well, as my partner Ayush Badoni was hitting four to five sixes in an over, in every match. After I did so, Suryakumar Yadav messaged me and said that my batting was total entertainment and asked me to keep believing in myself. It was quite motivating for me.” Ahead of IPL season 17, Arya was up for auction but was not grabbed by any franchise. But he did not let the setback deter him and he continued to work hard on his game. Recalling his emotions before last season's IPL, the 24-year-old opening batter, said, "I felt bad about not being selected. This year, again, I had a lot of expectations from the auctions but I was not thinking about it and was focused on Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 matches." "After I was picked by Punjab Kings, I was elated but could not celebrate much as I continued to focus on the tournaments. I will surely celebrate soon," Arya said. Coached by World Cup-winning captain Ricky Ponting and led by the talented Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer, Punjab Kings will enter IPL 2025 in an all-new avatar and begin their title quest. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: 'I love his attitude', Priyansh Arya excited to play under Shreyas Iyer

The first group of Indian players and support staff arrived at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on Saturday to depart for Dubai for the upcoming ICC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a>.
India will begin their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-former-england-cricketer-questions-teams-50-over-experience-8723511">Champions Trophy 2025: Former England cricketer questions team's 50-over experience</a>
Several key players were spotted at the airport, including star batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>, all-rounders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravindra-jadeja">Ravindra Jadeja</a> and Washington Sundar, and wicketkeeper-batters Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul. Spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, along with middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer, all-rounder Axar Patel, and pacers Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh, were also part of the travelling contingent. Skipper Rohit Sharma joined the squad, while Hardik Pandya was the last to arrive before departure.
Watch the video here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Mumbai: The first batch of the Indian Cricket team departs for Dubai to participate in the ICC Champions Trophy. All matches of Team India will be held in Dubai, while the rest will take place in Pakistan. The ICC Champions Trophy will begin on February 19 and will&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/C4VdRPddyn">pic.twitter.com/C4VdRPddyn</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1890677601100038645?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

Head coach Gautam Gambhir was seen with his support staff, including fielding coach T. Dilip, bowling coach Morne Morkel, and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate, as they geared up for the tournament. With their preparations in full swing, India aim to make a strong start in their quest for the prestigious title.
<h2>Squad shake-up</h2>
On Tuesday night (Feb 11), India made two significant changes to their 15-member squad. The first was widely anticipated&mdash;pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out due to a lower back injury, with Harshit Rana named as his replacement.
The second change came as a surprise to many: Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was dropped in favour of spinner Varun Chakravarthy. This decision sparked mixed reactions from fans and former cricketers, with some questioning the need for the swap while others supported bolstering the spin attack.
Chakravarthy&rsquo;s inclusion followed his ODI debut against England, where he delivered a steady performance, recording figures of 1/54 in 10 overs.&nbsp;With these last-minute adjustments, India is set to take on the best in the world as they chase Champions Trophy glory.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Head coach Gautam Gambhir was seen with his support staff, including fielding coach T. Dilip, bowling coach Morne Morkel, and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate

The first group of Indian players and support staff arrived at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on Saturday to depart for Dubai for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. India will begin their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Former England cricketer questions team's 50-over experience Several key players were spotted at the airport, including star batter Virat Kohli, all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, and wicketkeeper-batters Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul. Spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, along with middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer, all-rounder Axar Patel, and pacers Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh, were also part of the travelling contingent. Skipper Rohit Sharma joined the squad, while Hardik Pandya was the last to arrive before departure. Watch the video here: #WATCH | Mumbai: The first batch of the Indian Cricket team departs for Dubai to participate in the ICC Champions Trophy. All matches of Team India will be held in Dubai, while the rest will take place in Pakistan. The ICC Champions Trophy will begin on February 19 and will… pic.twitter.com/C4VdRPddyn — ANI (@ANI) February 15, 2025 Head coach Gautam Gambhir was seen with his support staff, including fielding coach T. Dilip, bowling coach Morne Morkel, and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate, as they geared up for the tournament. With their preparations in full swing, India aim to make a strong start in their quest for the prestigious title. Squad shake-up On Tuesday night (Feb 11), India made two significant changes to their 15-member squad. The first was widely anticipated—pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out due to a lower back injury, with Harshit Rana named as his replacement. The second change came as a surprise to many: Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was dropped in favour of spinner Varun Chakravarthy. This decision sparked mixed reactions from fans and former cricketers, with some questioning the need for the swap while others supported bolstering the spin attack. Chakravarthy’s inclusion followed his ODI debut against England, where he delivered a steady performance, recording figures of 1/54 in 10 overs. With these last-minute adjustments, India is set to take on the best in the world as they chase Champions Trophy glory. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: First set of Indian players, support staff leave for Dubai

Former England cricketer Mark Butcher has expressed concerns over England&rsquo;s lack of experience in the 50-over format ahead of the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a>. His remarks follow England&rsquo;s crushing 3-0 ODI series defeat against India, which exposed significant weaknesses in their one-day setup.
Speaking on the Wisden Cricket Weekly podcast after England&rsquo;s third ODI loss in Ahmedabad, Butcher pointed out the inexperience within the squad. Several players had limited exposure to List A cricket, including Jacob Bethell, who had played just 16 List A matches before making his ODI debut last summer. Similarly, Gus Atkinson, who debuted internationally in 2023 after only two List A games, struggled on tour, conceding 139 runs in two ODIs. Following Bethell&rsquo;s injury, England recalled <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/tom-banton">Tom Banton</a>, who had not played a 50-over match since his last ODI appearance in 2020.
&ldquo;The first thing that struck me during the first two ODIs was just how naive most of our cricket is in the 50-over format,&rdquo; Butcher said, as quoted by Wisden.
&ldquo;I thought, &lsquo;Why might that be?&rsquo; It&rsquo;s because we don&rsquo;t play enough of it. The 50-over game demands an evolving tempo. It&rsquo;s not about playing at a constant pace; knowing when to accelerate, when to consolidate, and having the awareness to adjust comes only with experience,&rdquo; he explained.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pakistan-head-coach-backs-babar-azam-as-opener-8722953">Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan head coach backs Babar Azam as opener</a>
Butcher drew a comparison to the 1990s when England played just three to six ODIs per summer. Back then, he noted, opposition teams&mdash;be it India, West Indies, or Australia&mdash;had players with significantly more caps than their English counterparts. He believes England now finds itself in a similar situation, where players from teams like India boast far greater experience. For instance, even a seasoned player like Jos Buttler is outmatched in terms of ODI caps compared to his Indian counterparts.
&ldquo;Many of our players will improve from this exposure. Gus Atkinson, for example, has had a tough tour, but that&rsquo;s not necessarily a bad thing. He has dominated easily until now, and this is his first major challenge. If he has the hunger and drive, he&rsquo;ll come out stronger. But if we&rsquo;re talking about winning the Champions Trophy in just a few weeks, the lack of experience in our squad makes it unlikely. The 50-over game requires more than just an aggressive approach&mdash;it demands skill, adaptability, and game awareness,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>India's young players more experienced</h2>
In contrast, India&rsquo;s younger players have far more experience in the format. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shubhman-gill">Shubman Gill</a>, at just 25, has already played 50 ODIs and over 100 List A matches. Yashasvi Jaiswal, who made his ODI debut in the second match of the series in Cuttack, has already featured in 30 List A games despite being in the early stages of his career.
England will begin their Champions Trophy campaign on February 22 in Lahore against arch-rivals Australia. They will also face Afghanistan and South Africa in the group stage, hoping to overcome their recent struggles and make a strong impact in the tournament.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: England will begin their campaign on February 22 in Lahore against arch-rivals Australia. They will also face Afghanistan and South Africa in the group stage

Former England cricketer Mark Butcher has expressed concerns over England’s lack of experience in the 50-over format ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy. His remarks follow England’s crushing 3-0 ODI series defeat against India, which exposed significant weaknesses in their one-day setup. Speaking on the Wisden Cricket Weekly podcast after England’s third ODI loss in Ahmedabad, Butcher pointed out the inexperience within the squad. Several players had limited exposure to List A cricket, including Jacob Bethell, who had played just 16 List A matches before making his ODI debut last summer. Similarly, Gus Atkinson, who debuted internationally in 2023 after only two List A games, struggled on tour, conceding 139 runs in two ODIs. Following Bethell’s injury, England recalled Tom Banton, who had not played a 50-over match since his last ODI appearance in 2020. “The first thing that struck me during the first two ODIs was just how naive most of our cricket is in the 50-over format,” Butcher said, as quoted by Wisden. “I thought, ‘Why might that be?’ It’s because we don’t play enough of it. The 50-over game demands an evolving tempo. It’s not about playing at a constant pace; knowing when to accelerate, when to consolidate, and having the awareness to adjust comes only with experience,” he explained. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan head coach backs Babar Azam as opener Butcher drew a comparison to the 1990s when England played just three to six ODIs per summer. Back then, he noted, opposition teams—be it India, West Indies, or Australia—had players with significantly more caps than their English counterparts. He believes England now finds itself in a similar situation, where players from teams like India boast far greater experience. For instance, even a seasoned player like Jos Buttler is outmatched in terms of ODI caps compared to his Indian counterparts. “Many of our players will improve from this exposure. Gus Atkinson, for example, has had a tough tour, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. He has dominated easily until now, and this is his first major challenge. If he has the hunger and drive, he’ll come out stronger. But if we’re talking about winning the Champions Trophy in just a few weeks, the lack of experience in our squad makes it unlikely. The 50-over game requires more than just an aggressive approach—it demands skill, adaptability, and game awareness,” he added. India's young players more experienced In contrast, India’s younger players have far more experience in the format. Shubman Gill, at just 25, has already played 50 ODIs and over 100 List A matches. Yashasvi Jaiswal, who made his ODI debut in the second match of the series in Cuttack, has already featured in 30 List A games despite being in the early stages of his career. England will begin their Champions Trophy campaign on February 22 in Lahore against arch-rivals Australia. They will also face Afghanistan and South Africa in the group stage, hoping to overcome their recent struggles and make a strong impact in the tournament. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Former England cricketer questions team's 50-over experience

Legendary Australian cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/adam-gilchrist">Adam Gilchrist</a> has suggested that stand-in captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/steve-smith">Steve Smith</a> should open the batting in Australia&rsquo;s ODI team for the upcoming Champions Trophy in Pakistan. Gilchrist believes this move would allow Smith to face more deliveries and maximise his impact.
In Australia's recent 2-0 ODI series defeat to Sri Lanka, Smith, batting in the middle order, managed scores of just 12 and 29. With young opener Jake Fraser-McGurk struggling for consistency, Gilchrist sees Smith as a strong opening option, though he also finds Matt Short a viable candidate to partner with Travis Head.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s a tough call right now, but I believe Steve Smith should open. I&rsquo;m not sure where he batted in Sri Lanka, but Travis Head is a certainty. I also like Matt Short in that role&mdash;he forms a good left-hand, right-hand combination,&rdquo; Gilchrist said on ABC Summer Grandstand on Saturday.
He added, &ldquo;Smith has opened in T20 cricket successfully, so I don&rsquo;t see why he couldn&rsquo;t do it in ODIs. Maybe he&rsquo;s too valuable in the middle order, but in a 50-over game, you want your best batters facing as many balls as possible. It&rsquo;s a strong option to consider.&rdquo;
<h2>Injury woes for Australia</h2>
Australia will enter the Champions Trophy without key pacers <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mitchell-starc">Mitchell Starc</a>, Josh Hazlewood and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pat-cummins">Pat Cummins</a>, as well as all-rounders Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh, who are sidelined due to injuries.
With group-stage clashes against England, Afghanistan, and South Africa, Gilchrist believes Australia could face difficulties in Pakistan, especially with limited preparation in the ODI format.
&ldquo;There hasn&rsquo;t been much focus on ODIs lately,&rdquo; he said.
&ldquo;Australia had a fantastic summer, but teams mainly prioritise 50-over cricket during a World Cup year. With the next ODI World Cup in 2027, this tournament is an opportunity to experiment with younger players, which could lead to mixed results.&rdquo;
Despite the challenges, Gilchrist acknowledged Australia&rsquo;s ability to fight through tough situations. &ldquo;They always find a way to get through tournaments, but conditions in Pakistan and the absence of key players will make this a tough campaign,&rdquo; he concluded.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Australia go into the upcoming Champions Trophy without their first-choice pacers in Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins

Legendary Australian cricketer Adam Gilchrist has suggested that stand-in captain Steve Smith should open the batting in Australia’s ODI team for the upcoming Champions Trophy in Pakistan. Gilchrist believes this move would allow Smith to face more deliveries and maximise his impact. In Australia's recent 2-0 ODI series defeat to Sri Lanka, Smith, batting in the middle order, managed scores of just 12 and 29. With young opener Jake Fraser-McGurk struggling for consistency, Gilchrist sees Smith as a strong opening option, though he also finds Matt Short a viable candidate to partner with Travis Head. “It’s a tough call right now, but I believe Steve Smith should open. I’m not sure where he batted in Sri Lanka, but Travis Head is a certainty. I also like Matt Short in that role—he forms a good left-hand, right-hand combination,” Gilchrist said on ABC Summer Grandstand on Saturday. He added, “Smith has opened in T20 cricket successfully, so I don’t see why he couldn’t do it in ODIs. Maybe he’s too valuable in the middle order, but in a 50-over game, you want your best batters facing as many balls as possible. It’s a strong option to consider.” Injury woes for Australia Australia will enter the Champions Trophy without key pacers Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins, as well as all-rounders Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh, who are sidelined due to injuries. With group-stage clashes against England, Afghanistan, and South Africa, Gilchrist believes Australia could face difficulties in Pakistan, especially with limited preparation in the ODI format. “There hasn’t been much focus on ODIs lately,” he said. “Australia had a fantastic summer, but teams mainly prioritise 50-over cricket during a World Cup year. With the next ODI World Cup in 2027, this tournament is an opportunity to experiment with younger players, which could lead to mixed results.” Despite the challenges, Gilchrist acknowledged Australia’s ability to fight through tough situations. “They always find a way to get through tournaments, but conditions in Pakistan and the absence of key players will make this a tough campaign,” he concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Smith should open the batting for Australia, says former Oz wicketkeeper

Pakistan's interim head coach Aqib Javed has backed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/babar-azam">Babar Azam</a> to continue opening the batting as the team prepares for the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy 2025</a>, scheduled from February 19 to March 9.
Following Pakistan's five-wicket loss to New Zealand in the tri-nation ODI series final, Javed addressed concerns about Babar&rsquo;s elevation to the opening slot. He defended the management&rsquo;s decision, highlighting that the move was made to maximise the team's advantage in the powerplay, adding that Babar is well-suited for the role.
Explaining the decision, Javed pointed to past series where Babar often found himself at the crease early, regardless of his batting position. "If you look at our away series against South Africa, Babar had to bat in the first over in every game. Then, when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/saim-ayub">Saim Ayub</a> got injured, he had to open in Tests as well. These pitches aren&rsquo;t troubling batters early on, so we wanted our best batter to make the most of the powerplay," he stated in a post-match press conference.
Confident in Babar&rsquo;s ability, he added, "I believe Babar should open in these conditions, and I am hopeful he will play a big innings in important matches."
Despite Pakistan securing just one win in three matches in the tri-series, Javed expressed optimism about the team&rsquo;s prospects in the Champions Trophy. He stressed that the squad has all the necessary components to challenge top teams.
"This team has everything it needs to do well in the Champions Trophy. If our batting lineup plays normally, we can score 350 runs consistently down to number eight. With Haris Rauf returning to form alongside Naseem Shah, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shaheen-afridi">Shaheen Afridi</a>, and our spinners, we have all the ingredients to defeat any team," he stated.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/live-2025-champions-trophy-check-icc-champions-trophy-2025-latest-news-and-updates-today-feb-15-8722940">LIVE | 2025 Champions Trophy: Check ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Latest News and Updates Today | Feb 15</a>
Javed also defended the selection of Khushdil Shah and Faheem Ashraf, explaining that their inclusion was necessary for balance in an extended tournament.
"We needed both a spin all-rounder and a pace all-rounder, which is why Khushdil and Faheem are part of the squad," he explained.
<h2>Ex-Pak cricketer Basit Ali questions move</h2>
However, former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali criticised the decision to promote Babar as an opener, especially after the team&rsquo;s disappointing tri-series performance.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, he questioned the move and its impact on both Babar&rsquo;s form and the team's confidence. "If Pakistan had won the tri-nation series, the confidence level of the entire team would have been high," he said.
Basit expressed frustration over the change, arguing that Babar was already excelling at number three and should not have been shifted.
"Who told Babar Azam to open? I am shocked at this decision. What kind of thinking is this? He was scoring 50-70 at number three against South Africa, but they disrupted that as well. Now, just 62 runs in three matches&mdash;this is the approach they are going with?" he lamented.
Pakistan will open their Champions Trophy campaign against New Zealand in the tournament opener on February 19 in Karachi.
With Babar&rsquo;s batting position under scrutiny, his performances in the marquee event will be closely watched.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: The head coach endorsed the management's decision to move Babar up the order and expressed optimism that former captain would thrive in this role

Pakistan's interim head coach Aqib Javed has backed Babar Azam to continue opening the batting as the team prepares for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled from February 19 to March 9. Following Pakistan's five-wicket loss to New Zealand in the tri-nation ODI series final, Javed addressed concerns about Babar’s elevation to the opening slot. He defended the management’s decision, highlighting that the move was made to maximise the team's advantage in the powerplay, adding that Babar is well-suited for the role. Explaining the decision, Javed pointed to past series where Babar often found himself at the crease early, regardless of his batting position. "If you look at our away series against South Africa, Babar had to bat in the first over in every game. Then, when Saim Ayub got injured, he had to open in Tests as well. These pitches aren’t troubling batters early on, so we wanted our best batter to make the most of the powerplay," he stated in a post-match press conference. Confident in Babar’s ability, he added, "I believe Babar should open in these conditions, and I am hopeful he will play a big innings in important matches." Despite Pakistan securing just one win in three matches in the tri-series, Javed expressed optimism about the team’s prospects in the Champions Trophy. He stressed that the squad has all the necessary components to challenge top teams. "This team has everything it needs to do well in the Champions Trophy. If our batting lineup plays normally, we can score 350 runs consistently down to number eight. With Haris Rauf returning to form alongside Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, and our spinners, we have all the ingredients to defeat any team," he stated. Also Read: LIVE | 2025 Champions Trophy: Check ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Latest News and Updates Today | Feb 15 Javed also defended the selection of Khushdil Shah and Faheem Ashraf, explaining that their inclusion was necessary for balance in an extended tournament. "We needed both a spin all-rounder and a pace all-rounder, which is why Khushdil and Faheem are part of the squad," he explained. Ex-Pak cricketer Basit Ali questions move However, former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali criticised the decision to promote Babar as an opener, especially after the team’s disappointing tri-series performance. Speaking on his YouTube channel, he questioned the move and its impact on both Babar’s form and the team's confidence. "If Pakistan had won the tri-nation series, the confidence level of the entire team would have been high," he said. Basit expressed frustration over the change, arguing that Babar was already excelling at number three and should not have been shifted. "Who told Babar Azam to open? I am shocked at this decision. What kind of thinking is this? He was scoring 50-70 at number three against South Africa, but they disrupted that as well. Now, just 62 runs in three matches—this is the approach they are going with?" he lamented. Pakistan will open their Champions Trophy campaign against New Zealand in the tournament opener on February 19 in Karachi. With Babar’s batting position under scrutiny, his performances in the marquee event will be closely watched. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan head coach backs Babar Azam as opener

In a thrilling Women's Premier League (WPL) match, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bangalore">Royal Challengers Bangalore</a> (RCB) secured a remarkable victory over Delhi Capitals, with skipper Smriti Mandhana lauding the exceptional performances of Kanika Ahuja and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/richa-ghosh">Richa Ghosh</a>. The duo's resilient partnership was instrumental in chasing down a massive target of 202 runs, leading RCB to a six-wicket triumph.
Mandhana expressed immense pride in her team's fighting spirit, especially highlighting the composure displayed by Ahuja and Ghosh under pressure. She noted that watching the match from the sidelines was more nerve-wracking than playing, but the duo's brilliant batting provided much-needed relief and confidence.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2025-rcb-make-winning-start-as-defending-champions-beat-gujarat-giants-8722296">WPL 2025: RCB make winning start as defending champions beat Gujarat Giants</a>
"It was brilliant to watch", Mandhana was quoted saying to ESPNcricinfo. "They [Ahuja and Ghosh] have been doing that in the nets in the last seven to eight days to all our bowlers. So, really happy that things clicked on. But yeah, I think after the first innings we knew with the dew coming, it was going to be tough to bowl. So we always thought that we were in the game."
"The way Richa batted and Pez (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ellyse-perry">Perry</a>) batted was amazing to watch," she added.
<h2>RCB without key players</h2>
RCB had lost key players like Sophie Devine (unavailable), Shreyanka Patil, Asha Sobhana and Sophie Molineux (all injured) ahead of the season, so they had to look for some alternative options.
This resulted in three debutants: Prema Rawat, VJ Joshitha and Raghvi Bist. The inexperience in the bowling unit showed, and sloppiness in the field did not help. Mandhana backed her young players but said there remained 'a lot of things to work on' if they are to defend their title this season.
"I think we lost pretty much the top-three wicket-takers of last year," Mandhana was quoted saying to ESPNcricinfo.
"And we had to start, but luckily we had good options. And whoever came in for the injured people, I think they were all brilliant replacements," she added.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Mandhana expressed immense pride in her team's fighting spirit, especially highlighting the composure displayed by Ahuja and Ghosh under pressure

In a thrilling Women's Premier League (WPL) match, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) secured a remarkable victory over Delhi Capitals, with skipper Smriti Mandhana lauding the exceptional performances of Kanika Ahuja and Richa Ghosh. The duo's resilient partnership was instrumental in chasing down a massive target of 202 runs, leading RCB to a six-wicket triumph. Mandhana expressed immense pride in her team's fighting spirit, especially highlighting the composure displayed by Ahuja and Ghosh under pressure. She noted that watching the match from the sidelines was more nerve-wracking than playing, but the duo's brilliant batting provided much-needed relief and confidence. Also Read: WPL 2025: RCB make winning start as defending champions beat Gujarat Giants "It was brilliant to watch", Mandhana was quoted saying to ESPNcricinfo. "They [Ahuja and Ghosh] have been doing that in the nets in the last seven to eight days to all our bowlers. So, really happy that things clicked on. But yeah, I think after the first innings we knew with the dew coming, it was going to be tough to bowl. So we always thought that we were in the game." "The way Richa batted and Pez (Perry) batted was amazing to watch," she added. RCB without key players RCB had lost key players like Sophie Devine (unavailable), Shreyanka Patil, Asha Sobhana and Sophie Molineux (all injured) ahead of the season, so they had to look for some alternative options. This resulted in three debutants: Prema Rawat, VJ Joshitha and Raghvi Bist. The inexperience in the bowling unit showed, and sloppiness in the field did not help. Mandhana backed her young players but said there remained 'a lot of things to work on' if they are to defend their title this season. "I think we lost pretty much the top-three wicket-takers of last year," Mandhana was quoted saying to ESPNcricinfo. "And we had to start, but luckily we had good options. And whoever came in for the injured people, I think they were all brilliant replacements," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

WPL 2025: 'Brilliant to watch': Skipper Mandhana praises Kanika, Richa for RCB's thrilling win

Kashvee Gautam's journey from a sports-enthusiastic child in Chandigarh to a prominent figure in Indian women&rsquo;s cricket is a testament to her dedication and passion for the game. <o:p></o:p>
Born into a supportive family, with her father working as a property dealer and her mother as a homemaker, Kashvee was encouraged to pursue her interests from a young age. She dabbled in various sports, including skating, badminton, and football, but it was cricket that truly captured her heart.<o:p></o:p>
In her early years, Kashvee often found herself playing gully cricket with boys, waking up as early as 5 am to be part of the sport she loved. Despite the lack of women&rsquo;s cricket academies in Chandigarh at the time, an accidental meeting with coach Mr. Nagesh Gupta provided her with the guidance she needed.
Under his mentorship, Kashvee&rsquo;s talent flourished, and she quickly made her mark by representing the Punjab Cricket Association in 2017. Later, she shifted her base to Chandigarh and rose to become the captain of the state&rsquo;s team.<o:p></o:p>
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2025-mumbai-indians-women-vs-delhi-capitals-women-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-mi-vs-dc-live-on-laptop-tv-8721609">WPL 2025, Mumbai Indians Women vs Delhi Capitals Women live streaming: When and where to watch MI vs DC live on laptop, TV</a>
Her leadership and skills on the field did not go unnoticed. In the inaugural <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wpl">Women&rsquo;s Premier League</a> (WPL) edition, Kashvee was signed by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gujarat-giants">Gujarat Giants</a> for a whopping $231,000 USD, making her the most expensive uncapped Indian player at the time. However, an untimely injury ruled her out of the tournament, and Mumbai&rsquo;s Sayali Sathgare was named as her replacement.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal">'WPL has elevated quality of game'</h2>
Undeterred by this setback, Kashvee focused on her recovery and worked diligently to enhance her game. She concentrated on improving her range hitting and explored scoring opportunities both in front of and behind the wicket. Recognising the slim margin for error in high-level tournaments like the WPL, she developed variations in her bowling to stay ahead of the competition. Her efforts bore fruit in the domestic season, where she maintained an impressive economy rate, bolstering her confidence for future matches.<o:p></o:p>
Looking ahead, Kashvee has set clear personal goals for the third season of the league. She aims to take as many wickets as possible during the powerplay overs, keep her economy rate low, and excel in her role as a finisher, guiding her team to victory in tight situations.<o:p></o:p>
Throughout her journey, Kashvee&rsquo;s family has been her pillar of support. They have stood by her during challenging times, offering motivation and ensuring she has the necessary resources to succeed. Their unwavering belief in her abilities has been instrumental in her rise in the cricketing world.<o:p></o:p>
Kashvee acknowledges the transformative impact of the WPL on women&rsquo;s cricket in India. She observes that the tournament has elevated the intensity and quality of the game, with players showcasing remarkable range hitting and competitive spirit. This evolution bodes well for the future, as India continues to produce talented finishers, batters, and bowlers who are making their mark on the global stage.<o:p></o:p>
She draws inspiration from Indian all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya">Hardik Pandya</a>, as she admires his skills, on-field attitude, and ability to both bowl effectively and finish games under pressure. Her admiration extends to emulating his style, as evident by her tattoos inspired by him.<o:p></o:p>
As Kashvee Gautam prepares for the upcoming season, her eyes are set on contributing significantly to her team&rsquo;s success and aspirations of national selection.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: Kashvee dabbled in various sports, including skating, badminton, and football, but it was cricket that truly captured her heart

Kashvee Gautam's journey from a sports-enthusiastic child in Chandigarh to a prominent figure in Indian women’s cricket is a testament to her dedication and passion for the game. Born into a supportive family, with her father working as a property dealer and her mother as a homemaker, Kashvee was encouraged to pursue her interests from a young age. She dabbled in various sports, including skating, badminton, and football, but it was cricket that truly captured her heart. In her early years, Kashvee often found herself playing gully cricket with boys, waking up as early as 5 am to be part of the sport she loved. Despite the lack of women’s cricket academies in Chandigarh at the time, an accidental meeting with coach Mr. Nagesh Gupta provided her with the guidance she needed. Under his mentorship, Kashvee’s talent flourished, and she quickly made her mark by representing the Punjab Cricket Association in 2017. Later, she shifted her base to Chandigarh and rose to become the captain of the state’s team. Also Read: WPL 2025, Mumbai Indians Women vs Delhi Capitals Women live streaming: When and where to watch MI vs DC live on laptop, TV Her leadership and skills on the field did not go unnoticed. In the inaugural Women’s Premier League (WPL) edition, Kashvee was signed by the Gujarat Giants for a whopping $231,000 USD, making her the most expensive uncapped Indian player at the time. However, an untimely injury ruled her out of the tournament, and Mumbai’s Sayali Sathgare was named as her replacement. 'WPL has elevated quality of game' Undeterred by this setback, Kashvee focused on her recovery and worked diligently to enhance her game. She concentrated on improving her range hitting and explored scoring opportunities both in front of and behind the wicket. Recognising the slim margin for error in high-level tournaments like the WPL, she developed variations in her bowling to stay ahead of the competition. Her efforts bore fruit in the domestic season, where she maintained an impressive economy rate, bolstering her confidence for future matches. Looking ahead, Kashvee has set clear personal goals for the third season of the league. She aims to take as many wickets as possible during the powerplay overs, keep her economy rate low, and excel in her role as a finisher, guiding her team to victory in tight situations. Throughout her journey, Kashvee’s family has been her pillar of support. They have stood by her during challenging times, offering motivation and ensuring she has the necessary resources to succeed. Their unwavering belief in her abilities has been instrumental in her rise in the cricketing world. Kashvee acknowledges the transformative impact of the WPL on women’s cricket in India. She observes that the tournament has elevated the intensity and quality of the game, with players showcasing remarkable range hitting and competitive spirit. This evolution bodes well for the future, as India continues to produce talented finishers, batters, and bowlers who are making their mark on the global stage. She draws inspiration from Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya, as she admires his skills, on-field attitude, and ability to both bowl effectively and finish games under pressure. Her admiration extends to emulating his style, as evident by her tattoos inspired by him. As Kashvee Gautam prepares for the upcoming season, her eyes are set on contributing significantly to her team’s success and aspirations of national selection.

Exclusive | From gully cricket to WPL glory: Kashvee Gautam's cricketing odyssey

ICC Champions Trophy 2025:&nbsp;The ICC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy 2025</a>&nbsp;is all set to start from February 19 in Pakistan. This is the first time since 1996 ODI World Cup that Pakistan are hosting an ICC tournament.They had co-hosted the 1996 ODI WC along with India and Sri Lanka.
India, meanwhile, will play all its three league matches in Dubai, UAE. This is as per the agreed upon hybrid model with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">ICC</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pcb" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">PCB</a>.
India start their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 at 2:30 pm India time before taking on arch-rival Pakistan on February 23 (2:30 pm India time). India play their final group-stage match against New Zealand on March 2 (2:30 pm India time).
The first semi-final will also be played in Dubai irrespective of India making it or not. The second semi-final, however, will be played in Lahore, Pakistan.
The final, on March 9, will be played in Lahore if India fails to qualify and in Dubai if the opposite happens. The hybrid model came in place due to political tensions between India and Pakistan because of which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BCCI</a>&nbsp;declined to send the team to Pakistan.
A total of eight teams, i.e. India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, England, Afghanistan, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa are divided in two groups for the tournament.
<h2>Check 2025 Champions Trophy 2025 Live News and Latest Updates Today | Feb 14 below:</h2>

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Latest News and Updates Today | Feb 14

Sri Lanka hand reality check to Australia before Champions Trophy
Australia were handed a reality check before the Champions Trophy 2025 as they lost the ODI series to Sri Lanka 2-0 on Friday (Feb 14). Playing at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Australian batters were all over the place as the 2009 Champions Trophy winners were bowled out for 107 while chasing 282 and thereby lost the match by a massive 174 runs. This comes after they lost the opening ODI of the series by 49 runs.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-hand-reality-check-to-australia-before-champions-trophy-2025-win-odi-series-2-0-8720911">Read Full Story</a>

Jaiswal joins Mumbai squad for Ranji Trophy semis after Champions Trophy snub
India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal is set to return to the Ranji Trophy for Mumbai during the semi-final against Vidarbha in Nagpur from Feb 17-21. The move comes after batter was replaced in India's Champions Trophy squad with mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-batter-yashasvi-jaiswal-joins-mumbai-squad-for-ranji-trophy-semis-after-champions-trophy-snub-8720865">Read Full Story</a>

Karun Nair opens up on Champions Trophy snub
Team India is all set to begin its Champions Trophy 2025 campaign in less than a week as they bid for their third title in the tournament. The team selection was a close call as batters like Ishan Kishan and later Yashasvi Jaiswal missed the plane despite performing in the domestic circuit. However, one name that stood out on top was Karun Nair who made a statement in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy but was snubbed in favour of big names.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/karun-nair-opens-up-on-champions-trophy-snub-says-ajit-agarkar-made-it-very-clear-8720530">Read Full Story</a>

Bangladesh skipper Shanto says Bangladesh 'going to tournament to become champions'
Bangladesh skipper&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/najmul-hossain-shanto" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Najmul Hossain Shanto</a>&nbsp;says that his team is going to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Champions Trophy 2025</a>&nbsp;to 'become champions.' Shanto, however, acknowledged that all eight teams in the tournament are quality ones and have the ability to win. The Champions Trophy starts February 19 and Bangladesh start their campaign on Feb 20 against neighbours India in Dubai, UAE.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-bangladesh-skipper-shanto-says-bangladesh-going-to-tournament-to-become-champions-8717076">Read Full Story</a>

Former pacer Zaheer says 'excess flexibility could come back to hurt' India
Former India pacer Zaheer Khan says that 'excessive flexibility' under coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gautam-gambhir" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gautam Gambhir</a>&nbsp;could hurt the team. Zaheer's comments could be about the changing batting order in the first two ODIs against England in the ongoing series. The team, however, won both matches by four wickets.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-former-pacer-zaheer-says-excess-flexibility-could-come-back-to-hurt-india-8710066">Read Full Story</a>

Pak skipper Rizwan on Babar's form ahead of Champions Trophy
Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan has backed ace batter Babar Azam to break the rut in form in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. Babar has been struggling for form since last one and a half years now and was dismissed cheaply in the currently ongoing tri-series as well.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pakistan-news-today-he-is-still-being-tested-pak-skipper-rizwan-on-babar-form-8719604">Read Full Story</a>

 ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Latest News and Updates Today | Feb 14

India coach Gautam Gambhir opens up on Bumrah being ruled out of tournament
India head coach Gautam Gambhir has opened up on premier pacer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jasprit Bumrah</a>&nbsp;missing the upcoming&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy?page=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Champions Trophy</a>&nbsp;due to a back injury. While Bumrah's scans reveal no major hinderance, India have decided to not rush him to the international cricket. The pacer last played in Sydney Test against Australia in early January when he picked up a back injury.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-release-champions-trophy-warmup-games-schedule-from-to-be-played-february-14-to-17-8717781">Read Full Story</a>

<div class="live-blog-date-title-div ">
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<div class="update-content">
ICC Champions Trophy Warm-up Match Schedule
14 February &ndash; Pakistan Shaheens v Afghanistan, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore (Pakistan)
16 February &ndash; New Zealand v Afghanistan, National Stadium, Karachi (Pakistan)
17 February &ndash; Pakistan Shaheens v South Africa, National Stadium, Karachi (Pakistan)
17 February &ndash; Pakistan Shaheens v Bangladesh, ICC Cricket Academy, Dubai (UAE)
</div>

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Gambhir reveals why Varun Chakaravarthy replaced Jaiswal in final India squad
India coach Gautam Gambhir has explained the reasoning behind replacing batter Yashasvi Jaiswal with spinner Varun Chakaravarthy in Champions Trophy squad. The replacement came on the last day of squad deadline on Feb 11 - a day before India's final ODI against England on Feb 12.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-gambhir-reveals-why-varun-chakaravarthy-replaced-jaiswal-in-final-india-squad-8718391">Read Full Story</a>
</div>

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is all set to start from February 19 in Pakistan. This is the first time since 1996 ODI World Cup that Pakistan are hosting an ICC tournament.They had co-hosted the 1996 ODI WC along with India and Sri Lanka. India, meanwhile, will play all its three league matches in Dubai, UAE. This is as per the agreed upon hybrid model with the ICC and PCB. India start their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 at 2:30 pm India time before taking on arch-rival Pakistan on February 23 (2:30 pm India time). India play their final group-stage match against New Zealand on March 2 (2:30 pm India time). The first semi-final will also be played in Dubai irrespective of India making it or not. The second semi-final, however, will be played in Lahore, Pakistan. The final, on March 9, will be played in Lahore if India fails to qualify and in Dubai if the opposite happens. The hybrid model came in place due to political tensions between India and Pakistan because of which BCCI declined to send the team to Pakistan. A total of eight teams, i.e. India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, England, Afghanistan, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa are divided in two groups for the tournament. Check 2025 Champions Trophy 2025 Live News and Latest Updates Today | Feb 14 below:

HIGHLIGHTS | 2025 Champions Trophy: Check ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Latest News and Updates Today | Feb 14

India coach Gautam Gambhir has made it clear that the team will continue to send a left-hand batter in middle-order as a floater in the future games. The statement comes after India promoted Axar Patel twice at number 5 in the ODIs against England where he scored 52 and 41 not out.
"That's the way cricket is meant to be played," Gambhir said after Ahmedabad ODI win and whitewashing England 3-0 in the ODI series. "I know a lot of people talk about it, but that's the way we've got to play the game and that's the way cricket should be played. It's not about the batting order. It's about who can create what impact.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-batter-yashasvi-jaiswal-joins-mumbai-squad-for-ranji-trophy-semis-after-champions-trophy-snub-8720865">India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal joins Mumbai squad for Ranji Trophy semis after Champions Trophy snub</a>
"And it's about... if you have the option of putting a quality left-hander in the middle, why won't you do that? Why would you want to have the top five as right-handers?," added the Indian coach.
With Jaiswal being out of the squad, India have Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer in top four - all right-handed batsmen. India do have an option of playing Rishabh Pant but that would mean one less bowling option in the playing XI.
The Men in Blue also have Ravindra Jadeja as another left-hander in the squad in case Axar flops on a day. Gambhir, however, has backed Patel in the role.
"We don't look at averages and stats and all that stuff. We look at who can deliver more at that number. Axar has done fabulously well. Both the games (against England) he got the opportunity, he delivered for us. I know there will always be people talking about it. But I think that's the way we want to go in the future as well," Gambhir said.
India next play in the Champions Trophy 2025 where they start their campaign on Feb 20 against Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Champions Trophy: The statement comes after India promoted Axar Patel twice at number 5 in the ODIs against England where he scored 52 and 41 not out. Cricket Sports

India coach Gautam Gambhir has made it clear that the team will continue to send a left-hand batter in middle-order as a floater in the future games. The statement comes after India promoted Axar Patel twice at number 5 in the ODIs against England where he scored 52 and 41 not out. "That's the way cricket is meant to be played," Gambhir said after Ahmedabad ODI win and whitewashing England 3-0 in the ODI series. "I know a lot of people talk about it, but that's the way we've got to play the game and that's the way cricket should be played. It's not about the batting order. It's about who can create what impact. Also Read: India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal joins Mumbai squad for Ranji Trophy semis after Champions Trophy snub "And it's about... if you have the option of putting a quality left-hander in the middle, why won't you do that? Why would you want to have the top five as right-handers?," added the Indian coach. With Jaiswal being out of the squad, India have Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer in top four - all right-handed batsmen. India do have an option of playing Rishabh Pant but that would mean one less bowling option in the playing XI. The Men in Blue also have Ravindra Jadeja as another left-hander in the squad in case Axar flops on a day. Gambhir, however, has backed Patel in the role. "We don't look at averages and stats and all that stuff. We look at who can deliver more at that number. Axar has done fabulously well. Both the games (against England) he got the opportunity, he delivered for us. I know there will always be people talking about it. But I think that's the way we want to go in the future as well," Gambhir said. India next play in the Champions Trophy 2025 where they start their campaign on Feb 20 against Bangladesh.

India coach Gambhir confirms left-right combination to continue in Champions Trophy

India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal is set to return to the Ranji Trophy for Mumbai during the semi-final against Vidarbha in Nagpur from Feb 17-21. The move comes after the batter was replaced in India's Champions Trophy squad with mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy.
Jaiswal was included in India's provisional 15-man squad for the ICC tournament but was eventually left out in the final squad announced on Feb 11.
Jaiswal's presence will add more power to a star-studded Mumbai team.&nbsp;Apart from Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane, T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube and Shardul Thakur are the other India internationals in Mumbai's squad.
<h2>Gambhir explains Jaiswal's snub</h2>
Roping in Chakaravarthy in place of Jaiswal raised a few eyebrows but India coach Gautam Gambhir gave an explanation around that after India's final ODI against England on Feb 12. Notably, Varun was included in the England squad only after his 14-wicket Player of the Series performance in the T20Is vs England prior to the ODIs.
"I'm not going to say that he's going to start and all that stuff, but it's always good to have a strong bowling line-up because we know that if he can actually get those wickets in the middle, it's always going to be an advantage, and that was one of the reasons. Otherwise, we know that Yashasvi has got a fabulous future ahead. It's just that we could only pick 15," Gambhir had said.
Jaiswal in Ranji Trophy
Jaiswal has previously played one game in Ranji Trophy this season - the same match where Rohit Sharma marked his return to the domestic cricket - against Jammu and Kashmir. The batter, however, had failed to impress in the match - scoring four runs in the first innings and 26 in the second one.
Mumbai went on to lose the match by five wickets - putting them in a tricky position to make it to the QFs but they somehow managed eventually.

Jaiswal was included in India's provisional 15-man squad for the ICC tournament but was eventually left out in the final squad announced on Feb 11. Cricket Sports

India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal is set to return to the Ranji Trophy for Mumbai during the semi-final against Vidarbha in Nagpur from Feb 17-21. The move comes after the batter was replaced in India's Champions Trophy squad with mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy. Jaiswal was included in India's provisional 15-man squad for the ICC tournament but was eventually left out in the final squad announced on Feb 11. Jaiswal's presence will add more power to a star-studded Mumbai team. Apart from Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane, T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube and Shardul Thakur are the other India internationals in Mumbai's squad. Gambhir explains Jaiswal's snub Roping in Chakaravarthy in place of Jaiswal raised a few eyebrows but India coach Gautam Gambhir gave an explanation around that after India's final ODI against England on Feb 12. Notably, Varun was included in the England squad only after his 14-wicket Player of the Series performance in the T20Is vs England prior to the ODIs. "I'm not going to say that he's going to start and all that stuff, but it's always good to have a strong bowling line-up because we know that if he can actually get those wickets in the middle, it's always going to be an advantage, and that was one of the reasons. Otherwise, we know that Yashasvi has got a fabulous future ahead. It's just that we could only pick 15," Gambhir had said. Jaiswal in Ranji Trophy Jaiswal has previously played one game in Ranji Trophy this season - the same match where Rohit Sharma marked his return to the domestic cricket - against Jammu and Kashmir. The batter, however, had failed to impress in the match - scoring four runs in the first innings and 26 in the second one. Mumbai went on to lose the match by five wickets - putting them in a tricky position to make it to the QFs but they somehow managed eventually.

India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal joins Mumbai squad for Ranji Trophy semis after Champions Trophy snub

ICC Champions trophy Prize Money: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a hike for more than 50 per cent in prize money for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. The eight-team tournament, happening for the first time since 2017, is set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan. India, meanwhile will play all its matches in Dubai.
<h2>ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Prize Money: All details&nbsp;</h2>
The ICC has announced that the total prize money will be $6.9 million - a staggering 53 per cent increase ($3.6 million or INR 31 crore approx) in comparison to the 2017 edition as eight teams brace to face each other in the tournament. The teams are divided into two groups of four, with the top two teams from each group going into the semi-final.
<h3>How much prize money will ICC Champions Trophy winners receive?</h3>
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 winners will take home $2.24 million or INR 19 crore approx.
<h3>How much prize money will ICC Champions Trophy runners-up receive?</h3>
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 runners-up will take home $1.12 million or INR 9.5 crore approx.
<h3>How much prize money will ICC Champions Trophy losing semi-finalists receive?</h3>
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 losing semi-finalists will take home $560,000 or INR 5 crore approx.
<h3>How much prize money will &nbsp;teams get for finishing fifth and sixth in the ICC Champions Trophy?</h3>
The teams will get $350,000 each or INR 3 crore for finishing fifth or sixth in the ICC Champions Trophy.
<h3>How much prize money will teams get for finishing seventh and eighth in the ICC Champions Trophy?</h3>
The teams will get $140,000 each or INR 1.21 crore for finishing fifth or sixth in the ICC Champions Trophy.
<h3>How much teams will get for each group-stage win in the Champions Trophy?</h3>
The teams will win $34,000 or INR 3 million on each group stage victory. Each team will play three group stage matches in the tournament before the semi-finals begin.
($1 = INR 85)

ICC Champions trophy Prize Money | The ICC has announced that the total prize money will be $6.9 million - a staggering 53 per cent increase ($3.6 million or INR 31 crore) in comparison to 2017 edition. Cricket sports

ICC Champions trophy Prize Money: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a hike for more than 50 per cent in prize money for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. The eight-team tournament, happening for the first time since 2017, is set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan. India, meanwhile will play all its matches in Dubai. ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Prize Money: All details The ICC has announced that the total prize money will be $6.9 million - a staggering 53 per cent increase ($3.6 million or INR 31 crore approx) in comparison to the 2017 edition as eight teams brace to face each other in the tournament. The teams are divided into two groups of four, with the top two teams from each group going into the semi-final. How much prize money will ICC Champions Trophy winners receive? The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 winners will take home $2.24 million or INR 19 crore approx. How much prize money will ICC Champions Trophy runners-up receive? The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 runners-up will take home $1.12 million or INR 9.5 crore approx. How much prize money will ICC Champions Trophy losing semi-finalists receive? The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 losing semi-finalists will take home $560,000 or INR 5 crore approx. How much prize money will teams get for finishing fifth and sixth in the ICC Champions Trophy? The teams will get $350,000 each or INR 3 crore for finishing fifth or sixth in the ICC Champions Trophy. How much prize money will teams get for finishing seventh and eighth in the ICC Champions Trophy? The teams will get $140,000 each or INR 1.21 crore for finishing fifth or sixth in the ICC Champions Trophy. How much teams will get for each group-stage win in the Champions Trophy? The teams will win $34,000 or INR 3 million on each group stage victory. Each team will play three group stage matches in the tournament before the semi-finals begin. ($1 = INR 85)

ICC announces hike of $3,600,000 in Champions Trophy prize money - Check how much winner will get

England coach Brendon McCullum has rubbished the claims of his team not doing enough practice ahead of the recent T20I and ODI series against India. England lost the T20I series 1-4 and was whitewashed 0-3 in the ODI series. The results are a jolt for England who won't play any more matches till Champions Trophy 2025 which starts Feb 19.
"Firstly, it's factually incorrect, the whole statement that we don't train," McCullum said while talking to talkSPORT after the third ODI in Ahmedabad. "We've trained plenty right throughout, guys have come from a lot of cricket as well. I think it's an easy thing to have as a throwaway line that guys don't train enough when the results aren't right."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pakistan-news-today-he-is-still-being-tested-pak-skipper-rizwan-on-babar-form-8719604">'He is still being tested,' Pak skipper Rizwan on Babar's form ahead of Champions Trophy</a>
"But we've got a style and a method that we believe in. We've got guys who are battling injuries and trying to make sure that we've got enough bodies out on the field, knowing that we've got a huge assignment coming up in a week or two. Ultimately it's factually incorrect what's been said and we'll stay true to what we believe in," added the England coach.
<h2>What's all the drama?</h2>
During the TV commentary discussion in the third India vs England ODI on Feb 12 between former English batter Kevin Pietersen and ex-India coach Ravi Shastri, it was claimed that England didn't practice ahead of the second and third ODI, barring Joe Root.
England went on to lose the third ODI by 142 runs - one of their biggest defeats in the ODIs. Skipper Jos Buttler, however, refuted the claims of non-training.
"I think we've had a reasonably long tour, a few long travel days... there have been a couple of times we've not trained, but we've certainly done plenty of training throughout the tour. We obviously try to create a really good environment, but don't mistake that for a lazy environment or a lack of effort. The guys are desperate to perform, do well and improve,&rdquo; the England skipper said.

England went on to lose the third ODI by 142 runs - one of their biggest defeats in the ODIs. England skipper Jos Buttler, however, also refuted the claims of non-training. Cricket Sports

England coach Brendon McCullum has rubbished the claims of his team not doing enough practice ahead of the recent T20I and ODI series against India. England lost the T20I series 1-4 and was whitewashed 0-3 in the ODI series. The results are a jolt for England who won't play any more matches till Champions Trophy 2025 which starts Feb 19. "Firstly, it's factually incorrect, the whole statement that we don't train," McCullum said while talking to talkSPORT after the third ODI in Ahmedabad. "We've trained plenty right throughout, guys have come from a lot of cricket as well. I think it's an easy thing to have as a throwaway line that guys don't train enough when the results aren't right." Also Read: 'He is still being tested,' Pak skipper Rizwan on Babar's form ahead of Champions Trophy "But we've got a style and a method that we believe in. We've got guys who are battling injuries and trying to make sure that we've got enough bodies out on the field, knowing that we've got a huge assignment coming up in a week or two. Ultimately it's factually incorrect what's been said and we'll stay true to what we believe in," added the England coach. What's all the drama? During the TV commentary discussion in the third India vs England ODI on Feb 12 between former English batter Kevin Pietersen and ex-India coach Ravi Shastri, it was claimed that England didn't practice ahead of the second and third ODI, barring Joe Root. England went on to lose the third ODI by 142 runs - one of their biggest defeats in the ODIs. Skipper Jos Buttler, however, refuted the claims of non-training. "I think we've had a reasonably long tour, a few long travel days... there have been a couple of times we've not trained, but we've certainly done plenty of training throughout the tour. We obviously try to create a really good environment, but don't mistake that for a lazy environment or a lack of effort. The guys are desperate to perform, do well and improve,” the England skipper said.

England coach McCullum rubbishes 'factually incorrect' claims of players not training

Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan has backed ace batter and former captain Babar Azam to break the rut in form in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. Babar has been struggling for form since the last one and a half years and was dismissed cheaply in the currently ongoing tri-series as well.
"Babar has scored so many runs for Pakistan that we expect him to score a hundred in each game," Rizwan said as quoted by cricket news website ESPNCricinfo. "If we don't judge him by those extreme expectations, you'll find he's still chipping in and contributing valuably for us.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/kkr-rcb-to-kick-off-ipl-2025-on-march-22-full-schedule-to-be-out-soon-report-8719112">KKR-RCB to kick off IPL 2025 on March 22; full schedule to be out soon &ndash; Report</a>
"As a captain, I expect a lot more of him too because of all he has done in the past. There is obviously an additional pressure because of it and I'm sure he feels that too. But if you look at his innings in South Africa, [he is still scoring runs]. It's not as if he has clear technical deficiencies, but he is still being tested. I am confident he'll come out of it," Rizwan added.
<h2>Babar's worrying form&nbsp;</h2>
Former Pakistan skipper Babar has been in a fix ever since the 2023 Asia Cup. He has scored 901 runs in 24 innings of 25 matches at an average of 42.90. He has managed eight fifties and a hundred - his average in that period, however, dropped to 38 against a career average of 56 if the innings of 151 against Nepal is taken out of account.
In the two matches played in the ongoing tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand, Babar managed 23 and 10 runs, respectively as an opener - causing more headache for Pakistan.
The batter did score two fifties on the tour of South Africa in December 2024 and Pakistan hope that he'll get back to form in the upcoming tournament in time as they look to defend their title.

Former Pakistan skipper Babar has been in a fix ever sine 2023 Asia Cup. He has scored 901 runs in 24 innings of 25 matches at an average of 42.90. Cricket Sports

Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan has backed ace batter and former captain Babar Azam to break the rut in form in the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. Babar has been struggling for form since the last one and a half years and was dismissed cheaply in the currently ongoing tri-series as well. "Babar has scored so many runs for Pakistan that we expect him to score a hundred in each game," Rizwan said as quoted by cricket news website ESPNCricinfo. "If we don't judge him by those extreme expectations, you'll find he's still chipping in and contributing valuably for us. Also Read: KKR-RCB to kick off IPL 2025 on March 22; full schedule to be out soon – Report "As a captain, I expect a lot more of him too because of all he has done in the past. There is obviously an additional pressure because of it and I'm sure he feels that too. But if you look at his innings in South Africa, [he is still scoring runs]. It's not as if he has clear technical deficiencies, but he is still being tested. I am confident he'll come out of it," Rizwan added. Babar's worrying form Former Pakistan skipper Babar has been in a fix ever since the 2023 Asia Cup. He has scored 901 runs in 24 innings of 25 matches at an average of 42.90. He has managed eight fifties and a hundred - his average in that period, however, dropped to 38 against a career average of 56 if the innings of 151 against Nepal is taken out of account. In the two matches played in the ongoing tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand, Babar managed 23 and 10 runs, respectively as an opener - causing more headache for Pakistan. The batter did score two fifties on the tour of South Africa in December 2024 and Pakistan hope that he'll get back to form in the upcoming tournament in time as they look to defend their title.

'He is still being tested,' Pak skipper Rizwan on Babar's form ahead of Champions Trophy

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