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India's Abhishek Sharma hit a brutal 135 to set up a crushing 150-run win over England in the fifth T20 international and seal the series 4-1 on Sunday. Opener Abhishek's incredible 54-ball knock, laced with 13 sixes, fired India, who clinched the series in the fourth T20, to 247-9 after being invited to bat first at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium.<o:p></o:p>
The tourists were never in the chase despite Phil Salt's 23-ball 55 as India bowled out the tourists for 97 for their second biggest T20 victory by runs.<o:p></o:p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6nvy4yy-s4re3a4m-gqyhhmmu">
𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙒𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙁𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜! 🏆 Congratulations to the Suryakumar Yadav-led <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> on the T20I series win! 👏 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@surya_14kumar</a> <a href="https://t.co/QvgUH8iClq">pic.twitter.com/QvgUH8iClq</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1886099661452411295?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-5th-t20i-abhishek-sharma-smashes-record-books-as-india-hit-247-in-mumbai-8684526" rel="dofollow">IND vs ENG 5th T20I: Abhishek Sharma smashes record books as India hit 247 in Mumbai</a> 
England slipped to 68-4 as skipper Jos Buttler (7), Harry Brook (2) and Liam Livingstone (9) all failed to make an impact.<o:p></o:p>
Shivam Dube, a batting all-rounder who bowls medium pace, removed Salt with the first ball he bowled after he was controversially replaced by fast bowler Harshit Rana as a concussion substitute in the previous match.<o:p></o:p>
The rest of the England batting fell quickly with Jacob Bethell, who made 10, the only batter to reach double figures other than Salt.<o:p></o:p>
Abhishek turned up with the ball as well and took two wickets with his left-arm spin in the only over he bowled.<o:p></o:p>
Spinner Varun Chakravarthy and Dube also took two each.<o:p></o:p>
Pace bowler Mohammed Shami finished with three wickets as he wrapped up the England innings in 10.3 overs.<o:p></o:p>
Abhishek dominated a partnership of 115 for the second wicket with Tilak Varma following England's decision to bowl first.<o:p></o:p>
The 24-year-old raced to his fifty in 17 balls with a six and then reached his second T20 century for India in 37 deliveries. Dube was the next highest scorer with 30.<o:p></o:p>
Speedster Mark Wood dismissed Hardik Pandya for nine after earlier removing opener Sanju Samson.<o:p></o:p>
Leg-spinner Adil Rashid had Abhishek caught out in the 18th over as India lost four wickets in the final five overs.<o:p></o:p>
Fast bowler Brydon Carse took three wickets including Suryakumar Yadav for two, with the Indian captain's batting woes showing no signs of ending.<o:p></o:p>
India won the opening two matches before England came back to keep the series alive in the third game.<o:p></o:p>
India took an unassailable 3-1 lead in the fourth T20 after Rana's inclusion in place of Dube -- not a like-for-like replacement -- angered England.<o:p></o:p>
The two teams now head into three one-day internationals starting February 6 in Nagpur.<o:p></o:p>
The series is a warm-up for the 50-over Champions Trophy starting February 19 in Pakistan and Dubai.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: The tourists were never in the chase despite Phil Salt's 23-ball 55 as India bowled out the tourists for 97 for their second biggest T20 victory by runs.

India's Abhishek Sharma hit a brutal 135 to set up a crushing 150-run win over England in the fifth T20 international and seal the series 4-1 on Sunday. Opener Abhishek's incredible 54-ball knock, laced with 13 sixes, fired India, who clinched the series in the fourth T20, to 247-9 after being invited to bat first at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. The tourists were never in the chase despite Phil Salt's 23-ball 55 as India bowled out the tourists for 97 for their second biggest T20 victory by runs. 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙒𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙁𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜! 🏆 Congratulations to the Suryakumar Yadav-led #TeamIndia on the T20I series win! 👏 👏#INDvENG | @IDFCFIRSTBank | @surya_14kumar pic.twitter.com/QvgUH8iClq — BCCI (@BCCI) February 2, 2025 Also read | IND vs ENG 5th T20I: Abhishek Sharma smashes record books as India hit 247 in Mumbai England slipped to 68-4 as skipper Jos Buttler (7), Harry Brook (2) and Liam Livingstone (9) all failed to make an impact. Shivam Dube, a batting all-rounder who bowls medium pace, removed Salt with the first ball he bowled after he was controversially replaced by fast bowler Harshit Rana as a concussion substitute in the previous match. The rest of the England batting fell quickly with Jacob Bethell, who made 10, the only batter to reach double figures other than Salt. Abhishek turned up with the ball as well and took two wickets with his left-arm spin in the only over he bowled. Spinner Varun Chakravarthy and Dube also took two each. Pace bowler Mohammed Shami finished with three wickets as he wrapped up the England innings in 10.3 overs. Abhishek dominated a partnership of 115 for the second wicket with Tilak Varma following England's decision to bowl first. The 24-year-old raced to his fifty in 17 balls with a six and then reached his second T20 century for India in 37 deliveries. Dube was the next highest scorer with 30. Speedster Mark Wood dismissed Hardik Pandya for nine after earlier removing opener Sanju Samson. Leg-spinner Adil Rashid had Abhishek caught out in the 18th over as India lost four wickets in the final five overs. Fast bowler Brydon Carse took three wickets including Suryakumar Yadav for two, with the Indian captain's batting woes showing no signs of ending. India won the opening two matches before England came back to keep the series alive in the third game. India took an unassailable 3-1 lead in the fourth T20 after Rana's inclusion in place of Dube -- not a like-for-like replacement -- angered England. The two teams now head into three one-day internationals starting February 6 in Nagpur. The series is a warm-up for the 50-over Champions Trophy starting February 19 in Pakistan and Dubai.

Abhishek Sharma shines in Mumbai as India crush England in 5th T20I, win series

India's Abhishek Sharma smashed 135 runs, plundering the England bowling with 13 sixes, to power India to 247-9 in the fifth and final T20 international on Sunday. The left-handed opener Abhishek came out firing in a 54-ball knock after England won the toss and asked India to bat first at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium.<o:p></o:p>
The hosts already hold an unbeatable 3-1 series lead.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ranji-trophy-2025-round-up-jk-seal-spot-in-quarterfinals-services-sign-off-with-second-highest-run-chase-8684082" rel="dofollow">Ranji Trophy 2025 round-up: J&amp;K seal spot in quarterfinals; Services sign off with second-highest run-chase</a> 
England's bowlers checked the run surge in the final few overs, with the total at one stage looking likely to exceed 300. India were 143-2 after 10 overs.<o:p></o:p>
Fast bowler Brydon Carse took three wickets including Suryakumar Yadav for two, with the Indian captain's batting woes showing no signs of ending.<o:p></o:p>
Abhishek was brutal and, with Tilak Varma (24), took 25 runs from one Jamie Overton over, the pair putting on 115 runs for the second wicket.<o:p></o:p>
The 24-year-old raced to his fifty in 17 balls with a six and then reached his second T20 century for India in 37 deliveries. Shivam Dube was the next highest scorer with 30.<o:p></o:p>
Speedster Mark Wood dismissed Hardik Pandya for nine after earlier removing opener Sanju Samson.<o:p></o:p>
Leg-spinner Adil Rashid had Abhishek caught out in the 18th over as India lost four wickets in the final five overs.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. 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: Abhishek was brutal and, with Tilak Varma (24), took 25 runs from one Jamie Overton over, the pair putting on 115 runs for the second wicket.

India's Abhishek Sharma smashed 135 runs, plundering the England bowling with 13 sixes, to power India to 247-9 in the fifth and final T20 international on Sunday. The left-handed opener Abhishek came out firing in a 54-ball knock after England won the toss and asked India to bat first at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. The hosts already hold an unbeatable 3-1 series lead. Also read | Ranji Trophy 2025 round-up: J&K seal spot in quarterfinals; Services sign off with second-highest run-chase England's bowlers checked the run surge in the final few overs, with the total at one stage looking likely to exceed 300. India were 143-2 after 10 overs. Fast bowler Brydon Carse took three wickets including Suryakumar Yadav for two, with the Indian captain's batting woes showing no signs of ending. Abhishek was brutal and, with Tilak Varma (24), took 25 runs from one Jamie Overton over, the pair putting on 115 runs for the second wicket. The 24-year-old raced to his fifty in 17 balls with a six and then reached his second T20 century for India in 37 deliveries. Shivam Dube was the next highest scorer with 30. Speedster Mark Wood dismissed Hardik Pandya for nine after earlier removing opener Sanju Samson. Leg-spinner Adil Rashid had Abhishek caught out in the 18th over as India lost four wickets in the final five overs. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

IND vs ENG 5th T20I: Abhishek Sharma smashes record books as India hit 247 in Mumbai

On last day of the 2024/25 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ranji-trophy">Ranji Trophy</a> league stage, Jammu &amp; Kashmir sealed their spot into the quarter-finals with a 182-run win over Baroda. With the massive victory, Jammu &amp; Kashmir also ended up as table toppers in Group A, which is a huge achievement.
Resuming from 58/2, Baroda were never in the sight to chase 365 and were eventually all out for 182 in 54.5 overs. Off-spinner Sahil Lotra took the first four wickets to fall on the day, and finished with 7-75 in 26 overs, while Abid Mushtaq took 3-71 as Jammu &amp; Kashmir ended league stage with 36 points.
They had five outright wins out of seven, including one coming over defending champions Mumbai at the Sharad Pawar MCA Cricket Ground in the Bandra-Kurla Complex, to seal their spot in the quarter-finals after five years.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/u19-world-cup-india-beat-south-africa-by-nine-wickets-to-lift-trophy-8683395">ICC U19 T20 World Cup: India beat South Africa by nine wickets to lift trophy</a>
As per reports, Jammu &amp; Kashmir will now play its quarter-final game against Kerala at Pune from February 8-12 instead of its home ground in Jammu due to winter weather conditions in the city. Other quarter-final games confirmed for the Ranji Trophy are Vidarbha taking on Tamil Nadu, Haryana up against Mumbai and Saurashtra facing off against Gujarat.
<h2>Services enter record books</h2>
On the other hand, by chasing down 376 against Odisha at Cuttack without losing any wicket, Services entered the record books as the team to complete the second-highest run-chase in the history of the Ranji Trophy and sits behind Railways&rsquo; successful chase of 378 against Tripura in Agartala last year.
Suraj Vashisht remained unbeaten on 154 while Shubham Rohilla struck a superb 209 not out off 270 balls. Their unbroken 376-run opening stand is also the second highest partnership in a successful run-chase in the history of first-class cricket.
Chandigarh beat Chhattisgarh by 54 runs in Raipur and clinched six points to finish on 25, which is level with Tamil Nadu and Saurashtra. But Chandigarh narrowly missed out on a spot in the knockouts as Saurashtra (three) and Tamil Nadu (two) have more bonus points, and sealed their spots in the quarter-finals.
Madhya Pradesh took the first-innings lead in a drawn run-fest against Uttar Pradesh in their Group C match in Indore. The game between Karnataka and Haryana ended in a draw in Bengaluru, with the latter already sealing their knockouts spot. The match between Maharashtra and Tripura also ended in a draw in Solapur, with the hosts&rsquo; grabbing first innings lead.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: With the massive victory, Jammu & Kashmir also ended up as table toppers in Group A, which is a huge achievement. They won by 182 runs against Baroda

On last day of the 2024/25 Ranji Trophy league stage, Jammu & Kashmir sealed their spot into the quarter-finals with a 182-run win over Baroda. With the massive victory, Jammu & Kashmir also ended up as table toppers in Group A, which is a huge achievement. Resuming from 58/2, Baroda were never in the sight to chase 365 and were eventually all out for 182 in 54.5 overs. Off-spinner Sahil Lotra took the first four wickets to fall on the day, and finished with 7-75 in 26 overs, while Abid Mushtaq took 3-71 as Jammu & Kashmir ended league stage with 36 points. They had five outright wins out of seven, including one coming over defending champions Mumbai at the Sharad Pawar MCA Cricket Ground in the Bandra-Kurla Complex, to seal their spot in the quarter-finals after five years. Also Read: ICC U19 T20 World Cup: India beat South Africa by nine wickets to lift trophy As per reports, Jammu & Kashmir will now play its quarter-final game against Kerala at Pune from February 8-12 instead of its home ground in Jammu due to winter weather conditions in the city. Other quarter-final games confirmed for the Ranji Trophy are Vidarbha taking on Tamil Nadu, Haryana up against Mumbai and Saurashtra facing off against Gujarat. Services enter record books On the other hand, by chasing down 376 against Odisha at Cuttack without losing any wicket, Services entered the record books as the team to complete the second-highest run-chase in the history of the Ranji Trophy and sits behind Railways’ successful chase of 378 against Tripura in Agartala last year. Suraj Vashisht remained unbeaten on 154 while Shubham Rohilla struck a superb 209 not out off 270 balls. Their unbroken 376-run opening stand is also the second highest partnership in a successful run-chase in the history of first-class cricket. Chandigarh beat Chhattisgarh by 54 runs in Raipur and clinched six points to finish on 25, which is level with Tamil Nadu and Saurashtra. But Chandigarh narrowly missed out on a spot in the knockouts as Saurashtra (three) and Tamil Nadu (two) have more bonus points, and sealed their spots in the quarter-finals. Madhya Pradesh took the first-innings lead in a drawn run-fest against Uttar Pradesh in their Group C match in Indore. The game between Karnataka and Haryana ended in a draw in Bengaluru, with the latter already sealing their knockouts spot. The match between Maharashtra and Tripura also ended in a draw in Solapur, with the hosts’ grabbing first innings lead. (With inputs from agencies)

Ranji Trophy 2025 round-up: J&K seal spot in quarterfinals; Services sign off with second-highest run-chase

Former India batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanjay-manjrekar">Sanjay Manjrekar</a> has spoken out in support of ace wicketkeeper-batsman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</a>. Samson is under the lens for his poor performance in the ongoing five-match T20I series against England.
Samson's scoring in four matches thus far has been 26, 5, 3, and 1. Samson came into the series having scored three centuries in his previous five T20I matches for India, and there were high expectations of him.
However, those runs had come against Bangladesh and a weakened pace attack of South Africa. Against the extreme pace of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jofra-archer">Jofra Archer</a> and Mark Wood, Samson has struggled to get the timing right on his shots.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/u19-world-cup-india-beat-south-africa-by-nine-wickets-to-lift-trophy-8683395">ICC U19 T20 World Cup: India beat South Africa by nine wickets to lift trophy</a>
Players like Samson should be given a long period of failure because of the impact they can have when they have momentum, feels the former Indian crickter.
&ldquo;When you are looking at a T20I talent, batting talent, you have got to see when they are playing well what kind of impact they can make, what contribution they can make. And you see with Sanju Samson, when he plays well, he gets an incredible hundred and puts your team in a winning position.
So, such people are allowed failures and may be a long patch of failures as well because that&rsquo;s the nature of these as a T20 cricketer, where you can&rsquo;t play yourself, where you have to keep taking those risks that they take, and hopefully, there&rsquo;s one innings that just propels him back into form. So, with Sanju Samson, I think you should just make sure that he gets as many innings as possible purely because when he gets into form and plays well, he makes it all worth it.
If that was another guy who was failing in this fashion and when he got into form just got you 40 or 50, then maybe you would offer him a shorter rope. But I will have a lot of patience with this current version of Sanju Samson," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo.
Since taking over as India's opener in the shortest version of the game, Samson, who won the T20 World Cup last year, has amassed 506 runs in 13 matches, including three hundreds and one fifty.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Samson's scoring in four matches thus far has been 26, 5, 3, and 1. Samson entered series having scored three centuries in his previous five T20I matches for India

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has spoken out in support of ace wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson. Samson is under the lens for his poor performance in the ongoing five-match T20I series against England. Samson's scoring in four matches thus far has been 26, 5, 3, and 1. Samson came into the series having scored three centuries in his previous five T20I matches for India, and there were high expectations of him. However, those runs had come against Bangladesh and a weakened pace attack of South Africa. Against the extreme pace of Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, Samson has struggled to get the timing right on his shots. Also Read: ICC U19 T20 World Cup: India beat South Africa by nine wickets to lift trophy Players like Samson should be given a long period of failure because of the impact they can have when they have momentum, feels the former Indian crickter. “When you are looking at a T20I talent, batting talent, you have got to see when they are playing well what kind of impact they can make, what contribution they can make. And you see with Sanju Samson, when he plays well, he gets an incredible hundred and puts your team in a winning position. So, such people are allowed failures and may be a long patch of failures as well because that’s the nature of these as a T20 cricketer, where you can’t play yourself, where you have to keep taking those risks that they take, and hopefully, there’s one innings that just propels him back into form. So, with Sanju Samson, I think you should just make sure that he gets as many innings as possible purely because when he gets into form and plays well, he makes it all worth it. If that was another guy who was failing in this fashion and when he got into form just got you 40 or 50, then maybe you would offer him a shorter rope. But I will have a lot of patience with this current version of Sanju Samson," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo. Since taking over as India's opener in the shortest version of the game, Samson, who won the T20 World Cup last year, has amassed 506 runs in 13 matches, including three hundreds and one fifty. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Talents like Sanju Samson should be allowed...', says former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar

Reigning champions India clinched their second consecutive ICC U19 Women&rsquo;s T20 World Cup title after beating South Africa by nine wickets on Sunday (Feb 2).
Trisha Gongadi put out a sparkling all-round performance as a dominant India retained their U19 Women&rsquo;s T20 World Cup title with a nine-wicket win over South Africa in the summit clash at the Bayuemas Oval.
A stellar bowling performance, with the spinners taking nine wickets &ndash; three of which went to Trisha &ndash; along with fielders stepping up nicely helped Niki Prasad-led India apply the squeeze on South Africa and bowl them out for 82 on a slow pitch.
In the chase, Trisha made 44 not out off 33 balls while Sanika Chalke slammed an unbeaten 26 off 22 deliveries to help India complete the chase in 11.2 overs to clinch the title yet again after winning it in 2023 in Potchefstroom, South Africa.
India&rsquo;s second successive triumph in the U19 Women&rsquo;s T20 World Cup yet again showed the gulf that exists between them and teams of other nations at the U19 women&rsquo;s level, as they also became the first side to win the title without losing any game.
Chasing 83, India got going with Trisha edging wide of the keeper for four Nthabiseng Nini. She then thumped Fay Cowling over covers twice for fours, before G Kamalini began by clearing mid-on with ease off Kayla Reyneke for her first boundary of the final.
Trisha took a special liking to Seshnie Naidu&rsquo;s leg-spin by rocking back to cut between cover and point, steering past short third region and swinging the full toss over fine leg to collect three fours, as India reached 36 for nil in just four overs.
Kamalini fell for eight in the fifth over when she stepped out to hit Kayla over the boundary ropes, but ended up hitting to long-on. After Sanika Chalke was off the mark with a magnificent drive between cover and mid-off, Trisha bisected the gap between deep mid-wicket and long-on for four more.
With Sanika hammering one over Ashleigh van Wyk&rsquo;s head and beating a valiant dive from long-off to get another boundary, it brought India just 25 runs away from reaching the target. The duo took their time and rotated strike well, before Sanika clipped Jemma Botha for four.
Trisha steered Jemma past the keeper for four, and was followed by Sanika heaving Monalisa for a boundary to the square leg to get the winning runs for India.
(with inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Earlier in the innings, the Indian bowlers were spot on with their line and length as they bundled out South Africa for 82 in 20 overs

Reigning champions India clinched their second consecutive ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup title after beating South Africa by nine wickets on Sunday (Feb 2). Trisha Gongadi put out a sparkling all-round performance as a dominant India retained their U19 Women’s T20 World Cup title with a nine-wicket win over South Africa in the summit clash at the Bayuemas Oval. A stellar bowling performance, with the spinners taking nine wickets – three of which went to Trisha – along with fielders stepping up nicely helped Niki Prasad-led India apply the squeeze on South Africa and bowl them out for 82 on a slow pitch. In the chase, Trisha made 44 not out off 33 balls while Sanika Chalke slammed an unbeaten 26 off 22 deliveries to help India complete the chase in 11.2 overs to clinch the title yet again after winning it in 2023 in Potchefstroom, South Africa. India’s second successive triumph in the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup yet again showed the gulf that exists between them and teams of other nations at the U19 women’s level, as they also became the first side to win the title without losing any game. Chasing 83, India got going with Trisha edging wide of the keeper for four Nthabiseng Nini. She then thumped Fay Cowling over covers twice for fours, before G Kamalini began by clearing mid-on with ease off Kayla Reyneke for her first boundary of the final. Trisha took a special liking to Seshnie Naidu’s leg-spin by rocking back to cut between cover and point, steering past short third region and swinging the full toss over fine leg to collect three fours, as India reached 36 for nil in just four overs. Kamalini fell for eight in the fifth over when she stepped out to hit Kayla over the boundary ropes, but ended up hitting to long-on. After Sanika Chalke was off the mark with a magnificent drive between cover and mid-off, Trisha bisected the gap between deep mid-wicket and long-on for four more. With Sanika hammering one over Ashleigh van Wyk’s head and beating a valiant dive from long-off to get another boundary, it brought India just 25 runs away from reaching the target. The duo took their time and rotated strike well, before Sanika clipped Jemma Botha for four. Trisha steered Jemma past the keeper for four, and was followed by Sanika heaving Monalisa for a boundary to the square leg to get the winning runs for India. (with inputs from agencies)

ICC U19 T20 World Cup: India beat South Africa by nine wickets to lift trophy

In his teenage years, Agni Chopra received a piece of invaluable advice from his father, renowned filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra: "Whatever profession you pursue, give it your best shot."
These words shaped his journey, leading him to make one of the toughest decisions of his career&mdash;leaving the comfort of Mumbai to play first-class cricket for Mizoram, a state where the sport is still finding its footing.
Despite the challenges, Mizoram cricket welcomed Agni with open arms, and his journey has been nothing short of remarkable. The 26-year-old's dedication and hard work paid off in the 2023&ndash;24 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ranji-trophy">Ranji Trophy</a> season, where he emerged as the Top run getter, scoring a staggering 939 runs at an average of nearly 80. His consistency and hunger for big scores earned him the prestigious <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/board-of-control-for-cricket-in-india">BCCI</a> award, presented by none other than his childhood idol and Indian captain, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a>.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/my-wife-will-be-watching-and-i-cant-say-that-rohit-sharmas-reply-to-biggest-thing-he-has-ever-forgotten-watch-8683178">'My wife will be watching, and I can&rsquo;t say that': Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s reply to biggest thing he has ever forgotten- WATCH</a> Receiving the award was a surreal moment for Agni, made even more special by the presence of his parents&mdash;Vidhu Vinod Chopra and noted film critic Anupama Chopra&mdash;who cheered him on from the audience. The young cricketer found himself in an elite frame alongside legends like Sachin Tendulkar, R. Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Sarfaraz Khan, and Smriti Mandhana.
"Receiving this award from Rohit Shamra, someone I have idolized for years, is truly special," Agni shared. "I have watched him play for almost half of my life, and this feels like a full-circle moment. Having my parents there to witness it meant the world to me. They have always supported me through my highs and lows, especially when I was in and out of the Mumbai team."
His ultimate ambition? To take Mizoram into the Elite Group and, eventually, don the iconic navy blue India Test cap. Having stepped out of his comfort zone, Agni Chopra is now ready to push even further, proving that with hard work, resilience, and an unwavering passion for the game, dreams do come true.

Sports, Cricket: The 26-year-old's dedication paid off in the 2023–24 Ranji Trophy season, where he emerged as the Top run getter, scoring  939 runs at an average of nearly 80.

In his teenage years, Agni Chopra received a piece of invaluable advice from his father, renowned filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra: "Whatever profession you pursue, give it your best shot." These words shaped his journey, leading him to make one of the toughest decisions of his career—leaving the comfort of Mumbai to play first-class cricket for Mizoram, a state where the sport is still finding its footing. Despite the challenges, Mizoram cricket welcomed Agni with open arms, and his journey has been nothing short of remarkable. The 26-year-old's dedication and hard work paid off in the 2023–24 Ranji Trophy season, where he emerged as the Top run getter, scoring a staggering 939 runs at an average of nearly 80. His consistency and hunger for big scores earned him the prestigious BCCI award, presented by none other than his childhood idol and Indian captain, Rohit Sharma. Also Read: 'My wife will be watching, and I can’t say that': Rohit Sharma’s reply to biggest thing he has ever forgotten- WATCH Receiving the award was a surreal moment for Agni, made even more special by the presence of his parents—Vidhu Vinod Chopra and noted film critic Anupama Chopra—who cheered him on from the audience. The young cricketer found himself in an elite frame alongside legends like Sachin Tendulkar, R. Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Sarfaraz Khan, and Smriti Mandhana. "Receiving this award from Rohit Shamra, someone I have idolized for years, is truly special," Agni shared. "I have watched him play for almost half of my life, and this feels like a full-circle moment. Having my parents there to witness it meant the world to me. They have always supported me through my highs and lows, especially when I was in and out of the Mumbai team." His ultimate ambition? To take Mizoram into the Elite Group and, eventually, don the iconic navy blue India Test cap. Having stepped out of his comfort zone, Agni Chopra is now ready to push even further, proving that with hard work, resilience, and an unwavering passion for the game, dreams do come true.

Agni Chopra’s stellar Ranji season earns him BCCI recognition

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a>&rsquo;s habit of forgetting things is not something new for the Indian cricket fans. A number of his teammates have highlighted this tendency of him during interviews.
During the Naman Awards 2024 organised by the BCCI to recognise the performances of Indian cricketers, Indian Women's team star opener Smriti Mandhana asked Rohit about a hobby that he has picked up recently that annoys his teammates.
In response, the Indian captain quipped: &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t know. They tease my about forgetting. Obviously, it&rsquo;s not a hobby but this is what they tease me about &ndash; that I forget my wallet, passport &ndash; which is absolutely not true. That happened a couple of decades back.&rdquo;
Watch the video here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Don't 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒈𝒆𝒕 to watch this 😎 Smriti Mandhana tries to find out the one hobby that Rohit Sharma has picked up recently, which his teammates tease him about 😃<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NamanAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NamanAwards</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mandhana_smriti?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mandhana_smriti</a> <a href="https://t.co/9xZomhnJjy">pic.twitter.com/9xZomhnJjy</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1885701677472448622?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

His response left the room in splits. Mandhana then posed a follow up question, &ldquo;What&rsquo;s the biggest thing you&rsquo;ve ever forgotten?&rdquo;
&ldquo;I can&rsquo;t say that!" came Rohit&rsquo;s reply resulting in more laughter. &ldquo;If this is coming live, my wife will be watching, and I can&rsquo;t say that. I will keep that to myself.&rdquo;
Meanwhile, legendary India cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sachin-tendulkar">Sachin Tendulkar</a> was conferred with the C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/board-of-control-for-cricket-in-india">BCCI</a>) on Saturday (Feb 1). Having served Indian cricket for over two decades, Tendulkar received the honour in a special ceremony held in Mumbai. The occasion also saw Ravichandran Ashwin being honoured with BCCI&rsquo;s Special Award having called time on his illustrious career in December 2024 during the Australia tour.
On the other hand, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravichandran-ashwin">Ashwin</a> was also honoured for his illustrious career, who like Sachin was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup winning squad. After Anil Kumble he was India&rsquo;s best Test bowler with 537 wickets in 106 matches.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: During the Naman Awards 2024 organized by the BCCI, star opener Smriti Mandhana asked Rohit about a hobby that annoys his teammates

Rohit Sharma’s habit of forgetting things is not something new for the Indian cricket fans. A number of his teammates have highlighted this tendency of him during interviews. During the Naman Awards 2024 organised by the BCCI to recognise the performances of Indian cricketers, Indian Women's team star opener Smriti Mandhana asked Rohit about a hobby that he has picked up recently that annoys his teammates. In response, the Indian captain quipped: “I don’t know. They tease my about forgetting. Obviously, it’s not a hobby but this is what they tease me about – that I forget my wallet, passport – which is absolutely not true. That happened a couple of decades back.” Watch the video here: Don't 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒈𝒆𝒕 to watch this 😎 Smriti Mandhana tries to find out the one hobby that Rohit Sharma has picked up recently, which his teammates tease him about 😃#NamanAwards | @ImRo45 | @mandhana_smriti pic.twitter.com/9xZomhnJjy — BCCI (@BCCI) February 1, 2025 His response left the room in splits. Mandhana then posed a follow up question, “What’s the biggest thing you’ve ever forgotten?” “I can’t say that!" came Rohit’s reply resulting in more laughter. “If this is coming live, my wife will be watching, and I can’t say that. I will keep that to myself.” Meanwhile, legendary India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar was conferred with the C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (Feb 1). Having served Indian cricket for over two decades, Tendulkar received the honour in a special ceremony held in Mumbai. The occasion also saw Ravichandran Ashwin being honoured with BCCI’s Special Award having called time on his illustrious career in December 2024 during the Australia tour. On the other hand, Ashwin was also honoured for his illustrious career, who like Sachin was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup winning squad. After Anil Kumble he was India’s best Test bowler with 537 wickets in 106 matches. (With inputs from agencies)

'My wife will be watching, and I can’t say that': Rohit Sharma’s reply to biggest thing he has ever forgotten- WATCH

Former Australian cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/brad-haddin">Brad Haddin</a> has praised <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/travis-head">Travis Head</a> for his remarkable performances over the past year, highlighting his growing maturity and consistency. Haddin believes Head is a strong contender for the prestigious Allan Border Medal, which is awarded to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/australia-cricket">Australia</a>&rsquo;s best male cricketer annually.
Head has been instrumental in Australia&rsquo;s recent success across formats, delivering match-winning knocks and playing key roles in crucial encounters. His ability to adapt to different conditions and situations has made him one of the most reliable batters in the team.
Speaking on Head&rsquo;s progress, Haddin noted that the left-handed batter has significantly matured in his approach to the game. &ldquo;He has added a lot of maturity to his batting. His decision-making has improved, and he has shown the ability to control the tempo of his innings,&rdquo; Haddin as quoted by Fox Cricket.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-former-captain-rashid-latif-slams-pakistan-squad-as-political-selection-8682837">Champions Trophy 2025: Former captain Rashid Latif slams Pakistan squad as &lsquo;political selection'</a>
One of Head&rsquo;s standout performances came in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final against India, where he played a match-winning innings of 137 runs. His heroics helped Australia lift their sixth ODI World Cup title. Additionally, he has been a key player in the Test format, producing impactful innings in the Ashes series and beyond.
Head&rsquo;s ability to perform under pressure and on big occasions has set him apart from his peers. His aggressive yet calculated batting style has provided Australia with a dependable middle-order option, capable of changing the course of a match.
The Allan Border Medal, Australia&rsquo;s highest individual cricketing honor, is awarded based on performances across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. Given his contributions in all three formats, Head is among the frontrunners for the award.
Haddin emphasized that Head&rsquo;s consistency and leadership on the field make him a deserving candidate. &ldquo;He has been phenomenal for Australia, delivering in crucial moments. He&rsquo;s not just scoring runs but also influencing matches with his presence,&rdquo; Haddin added.
With his recent performances, Travis Head has strengthened his claim to the Allan Border Medal, and many believe he could be the rightful recipient of Australian cricket&rsquo;s top individual accolade.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Head has been instrumental in Australia’s recent success across formats, delivering match-winning knocks in crucial encounters

Former Australian cricketer Brad Haddin has praised Travis Head for his remarkable performances over the past year, highlighting his growing maturity and consistency. Haddin believes Head is a strong contender for the prestigious Allan Border Medal, which is awarded to Australia’s best male cricketer annually. Head has been instrumental in Australia’s recent success across formats, delivering match-winning knocks and playing key roles in crucial encounters. His ability to adapt to different conditions and situations has made him one of the most reliable batters in the team. Speaking on Head’s progress, Haddin noted that the left-handed batter has significantly matured in his approach to the game. “He has added a lot of maturity to his batting. His decision-making has improved, and he has shown the ability to control the tempo of his innings,” Haddin as quoted by Fox Cricket. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Former captain Rashid Latif slams Pakistan squad as ‘political selection' One of Head’s standout performances came in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final against India, where he played a match-winning innings of 137 runs. His heroics helped Australia lift their sixth ODI World Cup title. Additionally, he has been a key player in the Test format, producing impactful innings in the Ashes series and beyond. Head’s ability to perform under pressure and on big occasions has set him apart from his peers. His aggressive yet calculated batting style has provided Australia with a dependable middle-order option, capable of changing the course of a match. The Allan Border Medal, Australia’s highest individual cricketing honor, is awarded based on performances across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. Given his contributions in all three formats, Head is among the frontrunners for the award. Haddin emphasized that Head’s consistency and leadership on the field make him a deserving candidate. “He has been phenomenal for Australia, delivering in crucial moments. He’s not just scoring runs but also influencing matches with his presence,” Haddin added. With his recent performances, Travis Head has strengthened his claim to the Allan Border Medal, and many believe he could be the rightful recipient of Australian cricket’s top individual accolade. (With inputs from agencies)

'Travis Head emerging as Allan Border Medal favourite', says former Aus cricketer Brad Haddin

Just days after Pakistan squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was announced, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has criticised the squad, calling it a &lsquo;political selection.&rsquo; He blamed the national selection committee for making unexpected choices, raising eyebrows over some inclusions.
The squad, revealed on Friday, saw all-rounder Faheem Ashraf make a surprising comeback after two years on the sidelines. His sudden inclusion has sparked debate, with an old picture of him meeting former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif resurfacing, fuelling speculation about his selection route.
&ldquo;It looks like a politically motivated selection,&rdquo; Latif alleged while speaking to Telecomasia.net. &ldquo;Faheem has neither recent performances nor an impressive record to justify his return.&rdquo;
Once a top contender for Pakistan&rsquo;s white-ball team, Ashraf&rsquo;s form had declined. His ODI stats reflect this: in 34 ODIs, he has taken only 26 wickets at an average of 46.30, while his batting record stands at a mere 10.66 across 24 innings, with a highest score of 28.
As per reports, Aamer Jamal was initially the preferred choice but was dropped at the last minute to accommodate Ashraf. Other surprises include the return of all-rounder Khushdil Shah and wicketkeeper-batter Usman Khan, who is yet to make his ODI debut.
&ldquo;The squad includes players like Ashraf, Fakhar, and Saud Shakeel, who were not in the system during the last three tours. Now, it&rsquo;s up to captain Mohammad Rizwan to pick the best playing XI, just as Imran Khan did in 1992 and Younis Khan in 2009,&rdquo; he remarked.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/batting-great-sachin-tendulkar-conferred-with-ck-nayudu-lifetime-achievement-award-8682178">Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar conferred with C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award</a> Latif also expressed hope that promoting Babar Azam as an opener would be a successful gamble. However, he raised concerns about Pakistan&rsquo;s bowling strategy in the crucial middle overs.&nbsp;&ldquo;I think Babar will do well as an opener, but the bigger issue is who will take wickets between overs 11-20 and 31-40. That was our Achilles&rsquo; heel in the 2023 World Cup,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>Squad selection is a joke: Tanveer</h2>
Meanwhile, former Pakistan pacer Tanveer Ahmed minced no words in his criticism, labelling the squad selection as a 'joke'.
&ldquo;We have picked a squad that doesn&rsquo;t suit our own conditions,&rdquo; Tanveer told Telecomasia.net. &ldquo;Look at India&mdash;they have four quality spinners in Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel. And what do we have? Just one&mdash;Abrar Ahmed!&rdquo;
He accused the selectors of favouritism, claiming, &ldquo;This is a recommendation-based selection, and the selection committee will be responsible for its consequences. There was no need to tamper with the squad that performed so well on the last three tours.&rdquo;
Pakistan kicks off their champions trophy campaign against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19. Their clash against arch-rivals India is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai, followed by their final league match against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: The former Pakistan captain has blamed the national selection committee for making unexpected choices, raising eyebrows over some inclusions

Just days after Pakistan squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was announced, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has criticised the squad, calling it a ‘political selection.’ He blamed the national selection committee for making unexpected choices, raising eyebrows over some inclusions. The squad, revealed on Friday, saw all-rounder Faheem Ashraf make a surprising comeback after two years on the sidelines. His sudden inclusion has sparked debate, with an old picture of him meeting former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif resurfacing, fuelling speculation about his selection route. “It looks like a politically motivated selection,” Latif alleged while speaking to Telecomasia.net. “Faheem has neither recent performances nor an impressive record to justify his return.” Once a top contender for Pakistan’s white-ball team, Ashraf’s form had declined. His ODI stats reflect this: in 34 ODIs, he has taken only 26 wickets at an average of 46.30, while his batting record stands at a mere 10.66 across 24 innings, with a highest score of 28. As per reports, Aamer Jamal was initially the preferred choice but was dropped at the last minute to accommodate Ashraf. Other surprises include the return of all-rounder Khushdil Shah and wicketkeeper-batter Usman Khan, who is yet to make his ODI debut. “The squad includes players like Ashraf, Fakhar, and Saud Shakeel, who were not in the system during the last three tours. Now, it’s up to captain Mohammad Rizwan to pick the best playing XI, just as Imran Khan did in 1992 and Younis Khan in 2009,” he remarked. Also Read: Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar conferred with C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award Latif also expressed hope that promoting Babar Azam as an opener would be a successful gamble. However, he raised concerns about Pakistan’s bowling strategy in the crucial middle overs. “I think Babar will do well as an opener, but the bigger issue is who will take wickets between overs 11-20 and 31-40. That was our Achilles’ heel in the 2023 World Cup,” he added. Squad selection is a joke: Tanveer Meanwhile, former Pakistan pacer Tanveer Ahmed minced no words in his criticism, labelling the squad selection as a 'joke'. “We have picked a squad that doesn’t suit our own conditions,” Tanveer told Telecomasia.net. “Look at India—they have four quality spinners in Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel. And what do we have? Just one—Abrar Ahmed!” He accused the selectors of favouritism, claiming, “This is a recommendation-based selection, and the selection committee will be responsible for its consequences. There was no need to tamper with the squad that performed so well on the last three tours.” Pakistan kicks off their champions trophy campaign against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19. Their clash against arch-rivals India is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai, followed by their final league match against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Former captain Rashid Latif slams Pakistan squad as ‘political selection'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/yuvraj-singh">Yuvraj Singh</a>, one of cricket&rsquo;s greatest southpaws, will represent India Masters in the first edition of the International Masters League (IML), which will be played from February 22 to March 16, 2025.&nbsp;
A name synonymous with glory and game-changing moments, Yuvraj was one of the chief architects of India&rsquo;s victory in the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup in 2007, during which he famously smashed Stuart Broad for six sixes in an over. He also played a pivotal role in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc">ICC</a> Cricket World Cup 2011, where he was crowned Player of the Tournament for his outstanding all-round performance.&nbsp;
Speaking on his return to cricket as part of the India Masters team, Yuvraj Singh said, "Taking the field with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sachin-tendulkar">Sachin</a> and my other teammates feels like reliving the glory days. Playing alongside all of them brings back so many memories. For me, the IML is a tribute to the era that defined Indian cricket, and I can&rsquo;t wait to create some more unforgettable memories for all the fans who have supported us over the years."
Joining him in the IML&rsquo;s family of cricketing masters are South Africa&rsquo;s JP Duminy and Sri Lanka&rsquo;s Upul Tharanga, who will represent their respective nations.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-hina-munawar-appointed-first-female-manager-for-pakistan-mens-cricket-team-8682768">Champions Trophy 2025: Hina Munawar appointed first female manager for Pakistan men's cricket team</a> JP Duminy was known for his classy stroke-play, composure under pressure, and handy off-spin bowling. With over 9,000 international runs and leadership experience as South Africa&rsquo;s T20 captain, Duminy was often the stabilising force in crucial moments.&nbsp;
JP Duminy said, &ldquo;Representing South Africa Masters in season one of the International Masters League is a huge honour. I am looking forward to playing in a tournament that will feature the greats of the game. Cricket fans can rest assured that the cricket they will witness, will be riveting and exhilarating.&rdquo;
A stylish and consistent opening batter, Upul Tharanga scored over 9,000 international runs for Sri Lanka. He took on the new ball with panache to lay solid foundations for his team, often playing the anchor role and accelerating when required.&nbsp;
Speaking on his inclusion in the Sri Lanka Masters squad, Tharanga stated, &ldquo;I look forward to representing Sri Lanka Masters in the inaugural season of the International Masters League. The IML will be a great tournament, in which old friends and rivals will take the field and produce memorable cricket.&rdquo;
With the IML slated to begin on February 22, 2025, across Navi Mumbai, Rajkot and Raipur, fans can expect high-octane action, unforgettable performances and a celebration of cricket&rsquo;s golden era.

Sports, Cricket: Former cricketers JP Duminy and Upul Tharanga are set to play for South Africa Masters and Sri Lanka Masters respectively in the upcoming cricket league

Yuvraj Singh, one of cricket’s greatest southpaws, will represent India Masters in the first edition of the International Masters League (IML), which will be played from February 22 to March 16, 2025. A name synonymous with glory and game-changing moments, Yuvraj was one of the chief architects of India’s victory in the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup in 2007, during which he famously smashed Stuart Broad for six sixes in an over. He also played a pivotal role in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011, where he was crowned Player of the Tournament for his outstanding all-round performance. Speaking on his return to cricket as part of the India Masters team, Yuvraj Singh said, "Taking the field with Sachin and my other teammates feels like reliving the glory days. Playing alongside all of them brings back so many memories. For me, the IML is a tribute to the era that defined Indian cricket, and I can’t wait to create some more unforgettable memories for all the fans who have supported us over the years." Joining him in the IML’s family of cricketing masters are South Africa’s JP Duminy and Sri Lanka’s Upul Tharanga, who will represent their respective nations. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Hina Munawar appointed first female manager for Pakistan men's cricket team JP Duminy was known for his classy stroke-play, composure under pressure, and handy off-spin bowling. With over 9,000 international runs and leadership experience as South Africa’s T20 captain, Duminy was often the stabilising force in crucial moments. JP Duminy said, “Representing South Africa Masters in season one of the International Masters League is a huge honour. I am looking forward to playing in a tournament that will feature the greats of the game. Cricket fans can rest assured that the cricket they will witness, will be riveting and exhilarating.” A stylish and consistent opening batter, Upul Tharanga scored over 9,000 international runs for Sri Lanka. He took on the new ball with panache to lay solid foundations for his team, often playing the anchor role and accelerating when required. Speaking on his inclusion in the Sri Lanka Masters squad, Tharanga stated, “I look forward to representing Sri Lanka Masters in the inaugural season of the International Masters League. The IML will be a great tournament, in which old friends and rivals will take the field and produce memorable cricket.” With the IML slated to begin on February 22, 2025, across Navi Mumbai, Rajkot and Raipur, fans can expect high-octane action, unforgettable performances and a celebration of cricket’s golden era.

Yuvraj Singh to represent India Masters in International Masters League

Ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, Hina Munawar, a police officer with a strong background in security and operations, has been named as the first female team manager for the Pakistan men's cricket team.&nbsp;
Munawar, who has served in the Frontier Constabulary in the high-risk Swat area, has been appointed as the Operations Manager for Pakistan's Tri-Nation series and the Champions Trophy which begins on February 19 in Karachi. While senior retired bureaucrat Naveed Akram Cheema will continue as team manager, Munawar's appointment has sparked curiosity among cricket fans, experts, and media.
After passing the Civil Superior Services exam, Munawar transitioned into various law enforcement and security roles.
"Perhaps her appointment is aimed at streamlining operations within the team and between players and the board, as she has worked in strategic and leadership roles, helping to streamline various operations," said a source close to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-they-have-got-to-gautam-gambhirs-says-this-on-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-8682740">Champions Trophy 2025: 'They have got to...'- Gautam Gambhir says this on Rohit Sharma &amp; Virat Kohli</a>
Munawar, who joined the PCB last year, was also appointed manager of the Pakistan women's under-19 team for the Asia Cup.&nbsp;"She made history as the first female district officer in the Frontier Constabulary in Swat, breaking gender barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field," the source added.
It is understood that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi brought Munawar into the board on deputation, as she remains part of the Police Service of Pakistan.
The PCB aims to streamline team management and create a more organised and efficient environment, with her appointment bringing fresh perspectives to the traditionally coaching-focused and male-dominated setup.
Meanwhile, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has assured that Lahore&rsquo;s Gaddafi Stadium will be ready for the February 7 inauguration, just in time for the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Naqvi dismissed doubts raised about the tournament&rsquo;s venue. &ldquo;They were people from across the border and even others who kept on saying it looks like the Champions Trophy would be moved out of Pakistan as stadiums are not going to be ready on time. But I can announce today we are set to go for the tri-series and Champions Trophy,&rdquo; he told reporters at the renovated Gaddafi Stadium, as quoted by PTI.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Munawar, who joined the Pakistan Cricket Board last year, was also appointed manager of the Pakistan women's under-19 team for the Asia Cup

Ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, Hina Munawar, a police officer with a strong background in security and operations, has been named as the first female team manager for the Pakistan men's cricket team. Munawar, who has served in the Frontier Constabulary in the high-risk Swat area, has been appointed as the Operations Manager for Pakistan's Tri-Nation series and the Champions Trophy which begins on February 19 in Karachi. While senior retired bureaucrat Naveed Akram Cheema will continue as team manager, Munawar's appointment has sparked curiosity among cricket fans, experts, and media. After passing the Civil Superior Services exam, Munawar transitioned into various law enforcement and security roles. "Perhaps her appointment is aimed at streamlining operations within the team and between players and the board, as she has worked in strategic and leadership roles, helping to streamline various operations," said a source close to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: 'They have got to...'- Gautam Gambhir says this on Rohit Sharma & Virat Kohli Munawar, who joined the PCB last year, was also appointed manager of the Pakistan women's under-19 team for the Asia Cup. "She made history as the first female district officer in the Frontier Constabulary in Swat, breaking gender barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field," the source added. It is understood that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi brought Munawar into the board on deputation, as she remains part of the Police Service of Pakistan. The PCB aims to streamline team management and create a more organised and efficient environment, with her appointment bringing fresh perspectives to the traditionally coaching-focused and male-dominated setup. Meanwhile, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has assured that Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium will be ready for the February 7 inauguration, just in time for the 2025 Champions Trophy. Naqvi dismissed doubts raised about the tournament’s venue. “They were people from across the border and even others who kept on saying it looks like the Champions Trophy would be moved out of Pakistan as stadiums are not going to be ready on time. But I can announce today we are set to go for the tri-series and Champions Trophy,” he told reporters at the renovated Gaddafi Stadium, as quoted by PTI. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Hina Munawar appointed first female manager for Pakistan men's cricket team

India head coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gautam-gambhir">Gautam Gambhir</a> on Saturday (Feb 1) stated that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a> will have big roles to play for the team in the upcoming Champions Trophy and said the batting stars add so much value to the nation's cricket.&nbsp;
The form of Kohli and Rohit in recent times has fueled speculation about their future. &ldquo;I think both Rohit and Virat, they add so much value to the dressing room. They add so much value to Indian cricket as well. They've got to play a massive role (in the Champions Trophy),&rdquo; Gambhir said during the BCCI annual awards.
&ldquo;And I've said it before as well, those guys are so hungry, they want to play for the country. They have the passion to play for the country and deliver for the country,&rdquo; he added.
Gambhir said the team cannot relax even for a moment in the Champions Trophy because they have just three league matches, as compared to the 50-over World Cup.
&ldquo;Champions Trophy is a completely different challenge as compared to the 50-over World Cup because literally every game is a make-or-break, so you can't stop anywhere in this tournament.
&ldquo;So hopefully we're going to start off really well, because ultimately, if you want to go on and win the competition, you have to win five games,&rdquo; he said.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-5th-t20i-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-england-live-on-laptop-tv-8682357">IND vs ENG, 5th T20I live streaming: When and where to watch India vs England live on laptop, TV</a>
<h2>All games are important: Gambhir</h2>
Gambhir also played down the hype surrounding the India vs Pakistan match, which is scheduled to be played in Dubai on February 23. &ldquo;Look, we don't go to the Champions Trophy thinking that the 23rd is the most important game for us. I think five games, all the games are important. The mission to go to Dubai is to win the Champions Trophy, not only win one particular game.
&ldquo;But yes, if that is one game in the middle of winning the Champions Trophy, we're going to try and take it as seriously as possible.
&ldquo;And more importantly, I think when two countries, India and Pakistan, play against each other, obviously the emotions are really high, but ultimately the contest remains the same.&rdquo;
The former India opener hailed skipper Suryakumar Yadav for infusing a fresh life into India's T20I squad.&nbsp;&ldquo;Me and Surya have been on the same page when we talk about selflessness and fearlessness. But yes, we want to be more smart going forward, because that is how we're going to grow as a T20 team, and hopefully in all the other formats as well.
&ldquo;But I think the guys have been absolutely phenomenal. They've got the skills, they've got the temperament, they've got all the ability. And what they've done in the last six months, I think that's been incredible,&rdquo; he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: The Indian team head coach also played down the hype surrounding the India vs Pakistan match, which is scheduled to be played at Dubai on February 23

India head coach Gautam Gambhir on Saturday (Feb 1) stated that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will have big roles to play for the team in the upcoming Champions Trophy and said the batting stars add so much value to the nation's cricket. The form of Kohli and Rohit in recent times has fueled speculation about their future. “I think both Rohit and Virat, they add so much value to the dressing room. They add so much value to Indian cricket as well. They've got to play a massive role (in the Champions Trophy),” Gambhir said during the BCCI annual awards. “And I've said it before as well, those guys are so hungry, they want to play for the country. They have the passion to play for the country and deliver for the country,” he added. Gambhir said the team cannot relax even for a moment in the Champions Trophy because they have just three league matches, as compared to the 50-over World Cup. “Champions Trophy is a completely different challenge as compared to the 50-over World Cup because literally every game is a make-or-break, so you can't stop anywhere in this tournament. “So hopefully we're going to start off really well, because ultimately, if you want to go on and win the competition, you have to win five games,” he said. Also Read: IND vs ENG, 5th T20I live streaming: When and where to watch India vs England live on laptop, TV All games are important: Gambhir Gambhir also played down the hype surrounding the India vs Pakistan match, which is scheduled to be played in Dubai on February 23. “Look, we don't go to the Champions Trophy thinking that the 23rd is the most important game for us. I think five games, all the games are important. The mission to go to Dubai is to win the Champions Trophy, not only win one particular game. “But yes, if that is one game in the middle of winning the Champions Trophy, we're going to try and take it as seriously as possible. “And more importantly, I think when two countries, India and Pakistan, play against each other, obviously the emotions are really high, but ultimately the contest remains the same.” The former India opener hailed skipper Suryakumar Yadav for infusing a fresh life into India's T20I squad. “Me and Surya have been on the same page when we talk about selflessness and fearlessness. But yes, we want to be more smart going forward, because that is how we're going to grow as a T20 team, and hopefully in all the other formats as well. “But I think the guys have been absolutely phenomenal. They've got the skills, they've got the temperament, they've got all the ability. And what they've done in the last six months, I think that's been incredible,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: 'They have got to...'- Gautam Gambhir says this on Rohit Sharma & Virat Kohli

As Delhi celebrated a dominating victory over Railways in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ranji-trophy">Ranji Trophy</a> match at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday (Feb 1), their coach, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sarandeep-singh">Sarandeep Singh</a>, found himself at the centre of an overwhelming fan frenzy.<o:p></o:p>
As he made his way towards the stadium exit, a wave of supporters rushed toward him, eager to capture the moment. Fans surrounded him, requesting selfies, autographs, and pictures with the mastermind behind Delhi&rsquo;s triumph. 
Despite the chaos, Sarandeep Singh obliged with a warm smile, embracing the love and admiration from the passionate crowd, making it a night to remember for both the team and its supporters.<o:p></o:p>
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohlis-craze-hits-ranji-trophy-as-fans-breach-security-to-touch-his-feet-watch-8680817">Kohli-mania hits Ranji Trophy as fans breach security to touch his feet &ndash; Watch</a> 
WION&rsquo;s Jatin Verma caught up with&nbsp;Sarandeep Singh and the former India cricketer spoke about Delhi&rsquo;s thumping win, the learning process for young players, and the significance of maintaining discipline on and off the field.<o:p></o:p>
Singh was pleased with the team&rsquo;s dominant display, particularly highlighting how their game has evolved. He acknowledged the presence of experienced players like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>, who had a significant impact on the young squad.<o:p></o:p>
&ldquo;The boys were very confident, especially when Virat Kohli came in. His aura was totally different. It&rsquo;s great to see him back after 12 years. The young players have learned so much from him, and every day during net sessions, he guided them on how to play disciplined cricket, which was evident in today&rsquo;s match.&rdquo;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal">On Virat&rsquo;s commitment to domestic cricket<o:p></o:p></h2>
One of the key topics of discussion was Virat Kohli&rsquo;s involvement in domestic cricket. Singh confirmed that Kohli remains committed to playing whenever his international schedule permits.<o:p></o:p>
&ldquo;Virat has said that whenever he gets an opportunity, he will definitely come and play. He loves domestic cricket, but his international commitments across all three formats make it difficult for him to participate regularly. Despite that, he made time to play for Delhi, and his presence has been invaluable.&rdquo;<o:p></o:p>
Singh also gave insights into Kohli&rsquo;s training regime. &ldquo;He always starts preparing early. Every day, he comes in at 8 AM, trains rigorously, and then goes for net sessions. His dedication and discipline set him apart from others.&rdquo;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal">On Kohli&rsquo;s recent form and mindset<o:p></o:p></h2>
With much discussion around Kohli&rsquo;s form recently, Singh dismissed any concerns, reinforcing that the former India captain remains a top performer.<o:p></o:p>
&ldquo;At this stage of his career, where he has scored more than 27,000 runs across all formats of cricket, people should understand that the shots he gets dismissed on are also his scoring shots. There is no need to explain anything to him. He knows his game inside out and is mentally strong enough to overcome any rough patch. When he plays, the pressure is always on him, and every camera focuses on him. But he has been handling this pressure for over 15 years.&rdquo;<o:p></o:p>
Singh emphasised that his discussions with Kohli revolve around the mental aspect of the game rather than technical inputs. &ldquo;We talk a lot about international cricket, his mindset, and how to stay in a good frame of mind. When you play at that level, the mental pressure is immense. But Virat is clear-headed, and that&rsquo;s what makes him great.&rdquo;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal">On Ayush Badoni, Shivam Sharma</h2>
The former Indian cricketer also spoke about the performances of young players like Shivam Sharma and Delhi&rsquo;s captain Ayush Badoni, who have impressed this season.<o:p></o:p>
&ldquo;Shivam bowled really well today with good line and length. But he still needs to improve and be consistent throughout the season. Badoni is learning fast; he is one of the most talented boys we have. He has become a captain, and his performances show his potential. He played a brilliant knock and unfortunately missed out on a century, getting out on 99. But at this age, he has a lot to learn, and he is progressing rapidly.&rdquo;<o:p></o:p>
Praising the efforts of Delhi&rsquo;s bowlers, Singh highlighted how they adapted to the conditions. &ldquo;Navdeep Saini struggled initially but adjusted quickly, using the pitch conditions well. That&rsquo;s the mark of a good player. Even today, our bowlers executed the plans well, which was crucial for our win.&rdquo;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Kohli&rsquo;s influence on young players<o:p></o:p></h2>
Singh underlined Kohli&rsquo;s role in mentoring Delhi&rsquo;s young cricketers, focusing on discipline and professionalism.<o:p></o:p>
&ldquo;When Virat arrived, we spoke to the players beforehand. He interacted with every player, emphasizing that discipline inside and outside the ground is key to consistent performances. That&rsquo;s why he is a grandmaster of the game. Youngsters look up to him, not just for his cricketing skills but also for his disciplined lifestyle. His influence is immense, and that&rsquo;s why he continues to deliver results,&rdquo; he signed off.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: Delhi Ranji team coach Sarandeep Singh was pleased with the team’s dominant display, particularly highlighting how their game has evolved

As Delhi celebrated a dominating victory over Railways in the Ranji Trophy match at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday (Feb 1), their coach, Sarandeep Singh, found himself at the centre of an overwhelming fan frenzy. As he made his way towards the stadium exit, a wave of supporters rushed toward him, eager to capture the moment. Fans surrounded him, requesting selfies, autographs, and pictures with the mastermind behind Delhi’s triumph. Despite the chaos, Sarandeep Singh obliged with a warm smile, embracing the love and admiration from the passionate crowd, making it a night to remember for both the team and its supporters. Also Read: Kohli-mania hits Ranji Trophy as fans breach security to touch his feet – Watch WION’s Jatin Verma caught up with Sarandeep Singh and the former India cricketer spoke about Delhi’s thumping win, the learning process for young players, and the significance of maintaining discipline on and off the field. Singh was pleased with the team’s dominant display, particularly highlighting how their game has evolved. He acknowledged the presence of experienced players like Virat Kohli, who had a significant impact on the young squad. “The boys were very confident, especially when Virat Kohli came in. His aura was totally different. It’s great to see him back after 12 years. The young players have learned so much from him, and every day during net sessions, he guided them on how to play disciplined cricket, which was evident in today’s match.” On Virat’s commitment to domestic cricket One of the key topics of discussion was Virat Kohli’s involvement in domestic cricket. Singh confirmed that Kohli remains committed to playing whenever his international schedule permits. “Virat has said that whenever he gets an opportunity, he will definitely come and play. He loves domestic cricket, but his international commitments across all three formats make it difficult for him to participate regularly. Despite that, he made time to play for Delhi, and his presence has been invaluable.” Singh also gave insights into Kohli’s training regime. “He always starts preparing early. Every day, he comes in at 8 AM, trains rigorously, and then goes for net sessions. His dedication and discipline set him apart from others.” On Kohli’s recent form and mindset With much discussion around Kohli’s form recently, Singh dismissed any concerns, reinforcing that the former India captain remains a top performer. “At this stage of his career, where he has scored more than 27,000 runs across all formats of cricket, people should understand that the shots he gets dismissed on are also his scoring shots. There is no need to explain anything to him. He knows his game inside out and is mentally strong enough to overcome any rough patch. When he plays, the pressure is always on him, and every camera focuses on him. But he has been handling this pressure for over 15 years.” Singh emphasised that his discussions with Kohli revolve around the mental aspect of the game rather than technical inputs. “We talk a lot about international cricket, his mindset, and how to stay in a good frame of mind. When you play at that level, the mental pressure is immense. But Virat is clear-headed, and that’s what makes him great.” On Ayush Badoni, Shivam Sharma The former Indian cricketer also spoke about the performances of young players like Shivam Sharma and Delhi’s captain Ayush Badoni, who have impressed this season. “Shivam bowled really well today with good line and length. But he still needs to improve and be consistent throughout the season. Badoni is learning fast; he is one of the most talented boys we have. He has become a captain, and his performances show his potential. He played a brilliant knock and unfortunately missed out on a century, getting out on 99. But at this age, he has a lot to learn, and he is progressing rapidly.” Praising the efforts of Delhi’s bowlers, Singh highlighted how they adapted to the conditions. “Navdeep Saini struggled initially but adjusted quickly, using the pitch conditions well. That’s the mark of a good player. Even today, our bowlers executed the plans well, which was crucial for our win.” Kohli’s influence on young players Singh underlined Kohli’s role in mentoring Delhi’s young cricketers, focusing on discipline and professionalism. “When Virat arrived, we spoke to the players beforehand. He interacted with every player, emphasizing that discipline inside and outside the ground is key to consistent performances. That’s why he is a grandmaster of the game. Youngsters look up to him, not just for his cricketing skills but also for his disciplined lifestyle. His influence is immense, and that’s why he continues to deliver results,” he signed off.

Exclusive | Ranji Trophy 2025: ‘He’s a grandmaster of the game’: Delhi coach Sarandeep Singh on Virat Kohli’s leadership

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> is perhaps the biggest name in the cricketing world. The former India captain is the closest thing to legendary Sachin Tendulkar in this country, and his fan following is a testament to it. Known for being the biggest crowd-puller among all active players, Kohli-mania hit the Ranji Trophy during Delhi&rsquo;s home game against the Railways. On day three, several fans breached security to touch his feet, with the video doing rounds on social media.
During day three of the Ranji game in Delhi, three fans breached security to touch Kohli&rsquo;s feet, with those in charge of the proceedings rushed to the spot to separate them. Even on day one of this game, a fan jumped the security cover, running towards Kohli to meet him on the field.&nbsp;
<h3>Watch -</h3>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6ly7r3v-n570p7bm-0fmhy5b5">
3 fans entered in the stadium to meet Virat Kohli and touched his feet at Arun Jaitley stadium <a href="https://t.co/gLKOYhiwX4">pic.twitter.com/gLKOYhiwX4</a>
&mdash; Virat Kohli Fan Club (@Trend_VKohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/Trend_VKohli/status/1885587543305191521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
Kohli returned to playing Ranji Trophy for the first time in over 12 years, having last played against Uttar Pradesh in November 2012. After the BCCI made it mandatory for all Indian players to feature for their respective Ranji Trophy sides, the news of Kohli linking with the Delhi Ranji squad for their final league game (of the season) broke the internet.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-pietersen-cook-vaughan-baffled-over-harshit-rana-concussion-substitute-swap-in-pune-t20i-8680187" rel="dofollow">IND vs ENG: Ex-England captains &lsquo;baffled&rsquo; over Rana&rsquo;s &lsquo;concussion substitute swap&rsquo; in Pune T20I</a>
The crowd took centre stage on the first two days, with over 15,000 fans gathering at the Arun Jaitley Stadium to watch their hometown hero bat. After Railways were all out for 241, Delhi batted late on day one, but Kohli only came on the pitch on day two after the fall of the second wicket.
His return, however, was brief, as he was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/delhi-vs-railways-ranji-trophy-day-2-virat-kohli-wicket-video-bowled-by-himanshu-sangwan-for-six-runs-8677121" rel="dofollow">clean bowled for just six by Railways seamer Himanshu Sangwan</a>, who became an overnight sensation for his giant heroics. However, his animated celebration divided the internet after he called Kohli&rsquo;s wicket <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/himanshu-sangwan-on-dismissing-virat-kohli-its-the-most-important-wicket-of-my-life-ranji-trophy-8680585" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;the biggest one of his life&rsquo;.</a>
"It is the most important wicket of my life. It goes without saying. Virat Kohli is an inspiration to the whole country. First time in (my) life, I saw so many people turning up for a Ranji Trophy game. It was special for all of us," Himanshu said after the day&rsquo;s play.
<h2>Delhi crush Railways</h2>
Meanwhile, after taking a 133-run lead in the first innings, Delhi crushed Railways in their second innings (114) to win the match by an innings and 19 runs. &nbsp;
While captain Ayush Badoni impressed one and all with his match-winning 99 in the first innings, besides picking a wicket in the second innings, the right-arm spinner Shivam Sharma won the game for the hosts, returning with five wickets in the second innings.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Known for being the biggest crowd-puller among all active players, Kohli-mania hit the Ranji Trophy during Delhi’s home game against the Railways.

Virat Kohli is perhaps the biggest name in the cricketing world. The former India captain is the closest thing to legendary Sachin Tendulkar in this country, and his fan following is a testament to it. Known for being the biggest crowd-puller among all active players, Kohli-mania hit the Ranji Trophy during Delhi’s home game against the Railways. On day three, several fans breached security to touch his feet, with the video doing rounds on social media. During day three of the Ranji game in Delhi, three fans breached security to touch Kohli’s feet, with those in charge of the proceedings rushed to the spot to separate them. Even on day one of this game, a fan jumped the security cover, running towards Kohli to meet him on the field. Watch - 3 fans entered in the stadium to meet Virat Kohli and touched his feet at Arun Jaitley stadium pic.twitter.com/gLKOYhiwX4 — Virat Kohli Fan Club (@Trend_VKohli) February 1, 2025 Kohli returned to playing Ranji Trophy for the first time in over 12 years, having last played against Uttar Pradesh in November 2012. After the BCCI made it mandatory for all Indian players to feature for their respective Ranji Trophy sides, the news of Kohli linking with the Delhi Ranji squad for their final league game (of the season) broke the internet. Also read | IND vs ENG: Ex-England captains ‘baffled’ over Rana’s ‘concussion substitute swap’ in Pune T20I The crowd took centre stage on the first two days, with over 15,000 fans gathering at the Arun Jaitley Stadium to watch their hometown hero bat. After Railways were all out for 241, Delhi batted late on day one, but Kohli only came on the pitch on day two after the fall of the second wicket. His return, however, was brief, as he was clean bowled for just six by Railways seamer Himanshu Sangwan, who became an overnight sensation for his giant heroics. However, his animated celebration divided the internet after he called Kohli’s wicket ‘the biggest one of his life’. "It is the most important wicket of my life. It goes without saying. Virat Kohli is an inspiration to the whole country. First time in (my) life, I saw so many people turning up for a Ranji Trophy game. It was special for all of us," Himanshu said after the day’s play. Delhi crush Railways Meanwhile, after taking a 133-run lead in the first innings, Delhi crushed Railways in their second innings (114) to win the match by an innings and 19 runs. While captain Ayush Badoni impressed one and all with his match-winning 99 in the first innings, besides picking a wicket in the second innings, the right-arm spinner Shivam Sharma won the game for the hosts, returning with five wickets in the second innings. (With inputs from agencies)

Kohli-mania hits Ranji Trophy as fans breach security to touch his feet – Watch

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/who-is-himanshu-sangwan-railways-pacer-who-silenced-arun-jaitley-stadium-after-dismissing-king-kohli-on-ranji-trophy-return-8677378" rel="dofollow">Himanshu Sangwan</a> became an overnight sensation after he claimed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/delhi-vs-railways-ranji-trophy-day-2-virat-kohli-wicket-video-bowled-by-himanshu-sangwan-for-six-runs-8677121" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli&rsquo;s wicket</a> on day two of the Ranji Trophy game between Delhi and Railways at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. After Delhi&rsquo;s overnight batters, Sanat Sangwan and Yash Dhull, made the crowd (in abundance) wait for over an hour to watch their hometown hero play, Sangwan spoilt it for them by sending Kohli packing for just six.
Kohli last played a Ranji game in November 2012 (against Uttar Pradesh), and upon returning to playing domestic cricket after over 12 years, he failed to leave a mark, though he smashed Himanshu for a straight drive (for a four) on the previous ball.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-comes-up-with-heart-warming-gesture-touches-feet-of-childhood-coach-rajkumar-sharma-during-felcitation-8678472" rel="dofollow">Watch: Virat comes up with heart-warming gesture, touches feet of childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma during felicitation</a>
Meanwhile, Railways seamer Kunal Yadav had beaten Kohli (outside off stump) twice on two balls in the previous over; to avoid getting in the same position again, he approached Himanshu (walking down the crease) in the next over only to miss the incoming delivery, which broke his off stump.
Reflecting on his big wicket, Sangwan said it (Kohli&rsquo;s dismissal) was the biggest moment of his cricket career.&nbsp;
"It is the most important wicket of my life. It goes without saying. Virat Kohli is an inspiration to the whole country. First time in (my) life, I saw so many people turning up for a Ranji Trophy game. It was special for all of us," Himanshu said after the day&rsquo;s play.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/the-homecoming-that-wasnt-kohlis-23-minute-tryst-with-fate-8677784" rel="dofollow">Ranji Trophy 2025: The homecoming that wasn&rsquo;t-Kohli&rsquo;s 23-minute tryst with fate</a>
Elaborating on what went behind the scenes, on tackling Kohli&rsquo;s game, Sangwan said the Railways bowlers didn&rsquo;t plan around one batter, instead they worked on the bigger goal.
"We did not have any special plan for Kohli. Since all Delhi batters play aggressive cricket, our plan was to bowl in the channel. If you do not give runs to an aggressive batter, he will try a big shot and get out. Perhaps the same happened with him,&rdquo; he continued.
<h2>No Kohli show, but Delhi on top</h2>
Meanwhile, Kohli&rsquo;s dismissal saw Delhi reeling at 86 for three, trailing Railways by 155 runs. Delhi captain Ayush Badoni impressed everyone with his stellar 99, while Sumit Mathur&rsquo;s 86 helped Delhi recover; they eventually got all out on 374, securing a 133-run lead.
On day three, Delhi reduced Railways to 76 for five before tea, with Shivam Sharma returning with two wickets. The India international Navdeep Saini also returned with one wicket thus far.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Railways seamer Himanshu Sangwan removed Virat Kohli, clean bowled on six during day two of the Ranji Trophy game at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. 

Himanshu Sangwan became an overnight sensation after he claimed Virat Kohli’s wicket on day two of the Ranji Trophy game between Delhi and Railways at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. After Delhi’s overnight batters, Sanat Sangwan and Yash Dhull, made the crowd (in abundance) wait for over an hour to watch their hometown hero play, Sangwan spoilt it for them by sending Kohli packing for just six. Kohli last played a Ranji game in November 2012 (against Uttar Pradesh), and upon returning to playing domestic cricket after over 12 years, he failed to leave a mark, though he smashed Himanshu for a straight drive (for a four) on the previous ball. Also read | Watch: Virat comes up with heart-warming gesture, touches feet of childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma during felicitation Meanwhile, Railways seamer Kunal Yadav had beaten Kohli (outside off stump) twice on two balls in the previous over; to avoid getting in the same position again, he approached Himanshu (walking down the crease) in the next over only to miss the incoming delivery, which broke his off stump. Reflecting on his big wicket, Sangwan said it (Kohli’s dismissal) was the biggest moment of his cricket career. "It is the most important wicket of my life. It goes without saying. Virat Kohli is an inspiration to the whole country. First time in (my) life, I saw so many people turning up for a Ranji Trophy game. It was special for all of us," Himanshu said after the day’s play. Also read | Ranji Trophy 2025: The homecoming that wasn’t-Kohli’s 23-minute tryst with fate Elaborating on what went behind the scenes, on tackling Kohli’s game, Sangwan said the Railways bowlers didn’t plan around one batter, instead they worked on the bigger goal. "We did not have any special plan for Kohli. Since all Delhi batters play aggressive cricket, our plan was to bowl in the channel. If you do not give runs to an aggressive batter, he will try a big shot and get out. Perhaps the same happened with him,” he continued. No Kohli show, but Delhi on top Meanwhile, Kohli’s dismissal saw Delhi reeling at 86 for three, trailing Railways by 155 runs. Delhi captain Ayush Badoni impressed everyone with his stellar 99, while Sumit Mathur’s 86 helped Delhi recover; they eventually got all out on 374, securing a 133-run lead. On day three, Delhi reduced Railways to 76 for five before tea, with Shivam Sharma returning with two wickets. The India international Navdeep Saini also returned with one wicket thus far. (With inputs from agencies)

Himanshu Sangwan on dismissing Virat Kohli in Ranji Trophy: ‘It’s the most important wicket of my life’

Former England captains <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/alastair-cook" rel="dofollow">Alastair Cook</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/michael-vaughan" rel="dofollow">Michael Vaughan</a> and Kevin Pietersen watching Harshit Rana replacing Shivam Dube as a &lsquo;concussion substitute&rsquo; during the fourth T20I in Pune. Although England captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/harshit-rana-not-a-like-for-like-replacement-for-shivam-dube-jos-buttler-hits-back-at-indian-camp-after-pune-t20i-loss-concussion-sub-8679978">Jos Buttler expressed disappointment and reservations against this decision</a>, hitting back at the Indian camp in the post-match presser, the abovementioned names were seemingly unhappy with the match referee allowing this despite Rana not being a &lsquo;like-for-like replacement&rsquo; of Dube.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-pandya-dube-lead-from-front-as-india-pocket-t20i-series-with-win-in-pune-8679296" rel="dofollow">IND vs ENG: Pandya, Dube lead from front as India pocket T20I series with win in Pune</a>
During India&rsquo;s first innings, Dube was hit on his helmet in the final over, with the hosts replacing him with the seamer (Rana), debuting in the shortest format. The right-arm pacer made early inroads in his first T20I game for India, removing all-rounders Liam Livingstone and Jacob Bethell before accounting for Jamie Overton to help India win the match (by 15 runs), clinching the series.
Meanwhile, Cook bashed this decision, saying it made no sense to replace a hard-hitting Dube, who scored a crucial fifty in the first innings, with a seamer, as, as per the law, an all-rounder should have been replaced by an all-rounder and not a bowler. &ldquo;Replacing a big-hitting batting all-rounder, who has bowled one over in the IPL [in 2024], with a guy who can't bat and bowls heavy seam makes no sense to me whatsoever,&rdquo; Cook said while talking to TNT Sports after the match.&nbsp;
&ldquo;It seems absolute madness that you are allowed to do it, but credit to the lad on debut, but he shouldn't be allowed to play there. It gave the captain another brilliant option,&rdquo; he added.
Besides, Vaughan also took to social media, questioning this move.&nbsp;
On his X handle, he wrote, "How can an out &amp; out bowler replace a batter who bowls part time !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! #INDvsENG."
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How can an out &amp; out bowler replace a batter who bowls part time !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a>
&mdash; Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1885373477076541822?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2025</a></blockquote>
Vaughan also took a jibe at Harsha Bhogle.
After Bhogle wrote, &ldquo;Has there ever been so much depth in Indian T20 cricket,&rdquo; following India&rsquo;s series-clinching win in Pune, Vaughan replied, &ldquo;Especially when you can replace a batter with a bowler.&rdquo;
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Especially when you can replace a batter with a bowler 😜 <a href="https://t.co/BVs3dfQKjN">https://t.co/BVs3dfQKjN</a>
&mdash; Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1885420583225008437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>What do the ICC rules say?</h2>
Per Rule 1.2.7.3 of the ICC playing conditions for concussion substitution, &ldquo;The ICC Match Referee should ordinarily approve a Concussion Replacement Request if the replacement is a like-for-like player whose inclusion will not excessively advantage his team for the remainder of the match.&rdquo;
Besides, Rule 1.2.7.7 states: &ldquo;The decision of the ICC Match Referee in relation to any Concussion Replacement Request shall be final, and neither team shall have any right of appeal.&rdquo;
Given Buttler looked amused seeing Rana on the field, even mentioning that England will approach the match referee seeking an explanation on this, Kevin Pietersen, calling out the game when Rana dismissed Livingstone, said,&nbsp;
"I'm not sure he is like for like. Jos Buttler was not happy with the substitute before getting out. He was fuming after he got out, walked straight to the dugout and had a word with the coach because he thought it was not like for like.&rdquo;
"I think the key here is that if you have a look at Shivam Dube, and you ask anybody in the world whether Harshit Rana is a like-for-like replacement, I'm not so sure anyone would have said that they are," he added.
(WIth inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: During India’s first innings, Dube was hit on his helmet in the final over, with the hosts replacing him with the seamer (Rana), debuting in the shortest format.

Former England captains Alastair Cook, Michael Vaughan and Kevin Pietersen watching Harshit Rana replacing Shivam Dube as a ‘concussion substitute’ during the fourth T20I in Pune. Although England captain Jos Buttler expressed disappointment and reservations against this decision, hitting back at the Indian camp in the post-match presser, the abovementioned names were seemingly unhappy with the match referee allowing this despite Rana not being a ‘like-for-like replacement’ of Dube. Also read | IND vs ENG: Pandya, Dube lead from front as India pocket T20I series with win in Pune During India’s first innings, Dube was hit on his helmet in the final over, with the hosts replacing him with the seamer (Rana), debuting in the shortest format. The right-arm pacer made early inroads in his first T20I game for India, removing all-rounders Liam Livingstone and Jacob Bethell before accounting for Jamie Overton to help India win the match (by 15 runs), clinching the series. Meanwhile, Cook bashed this decision, saying it made no sense to replace a hard-hitting Dube, who scored a crucial fifty in the first innings, with a seamer, as, as per the law, an all-rounder should have been replaced by an all-rounder and not a bowler. “Replacing a big-hitting batting all-rounder, who has bowled one over in the IPL [in 2024], with a guy who can't bat and bowls heavy seam makes no sense to me whatsoever,” Cook said while talking to TNT Sports after the match. “It seems absolute madness that you are allowed to do it, but credit to the lad on debut, but he shouldn't be allowed to play there. It gave the captain another brilliant option,” he added. Besides, Vaughan also took to social media, questioning this move. On his X handle, he wrote, "How can an out & out bowler replace a batter who bowls part time !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! #INDvsENG." How can an out & out bowler replace a batter who bowls part time !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! #INDvsENG — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) January 31, 2025 Vaughan also took a jibe at Harsha Bhogle. After Bhogle wrote, “Has there ever been so much depth in Indian T20 cricket,” following India’s series-clinching win in Pune, Vaughan replied, “Especially when you can replace a batter with a bowler.” Especially when you can replace a batter with a bowler 😜 https://t.co/BVs3dfQKjN — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) January 31, 2025 What do the ICC rules say? Per Rule 1.2.7.3 of the ICC playing conditions for concussion substitution, “The ICC Match Referee should ordinarily approve a Concussion Replacement Request if the replacement is a like-for-like player whose inclusion will not excessively advantage his team for the remainder of the match.” Besides, Rule 1.2.7.7 states: “The decision of the ICC Match Referee in relation to any Concussion Replacement Request shall be final, and neither team shall have any right of appeal.” Given Buttler looked amused seeing Rana on the field, even mentioning that England will approach the match referee seeking an explanation on this, Kevin Pietersen, calling out the game when Rana dismissed Livingstone, said, "I'm not sure he is like for like. Jos Buttler was not happy with the substitute before getting out. He was fuming after he got out, walked straight to the dugout and had a word with the coach because he thought it was not like for like.” "I think the key here is that if you have a look at Shivam Dube, and you ask anybody in the world whether Harshit Rana is a like-for-like replacement, I'm not so sure anyone would have said that they are," he added. (WIth inputs from agencies)

IND vs ENG: Ex-England captains ‘baffled’ over Rana’s ‘concussion substitute swap’ in Pune T20I

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/harshit-rana">Harshit Rana</a> wasn&rsquo;t part of the playing XI that took the field on Friday (Jan 31) in Pune, but returned with three wickets to see India home after coming on as a concussion sub for injured&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shivam-dube">Shivam Dube</a>, a decision England captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/buttler">Jos Buttler</a> disagreed with. Speaking to the media after losing the fourth T20I, Buttler said Rana coming in for Dube was &lsquo;not a like-for-like replacement&rsquo;.
Buttler, who got out on just two while chasing, said when he came out to bat, he asked who is Rana on for (on the field). Upon being told he was a concussion sub for Dube, who suffered a blow to his head on his way to 53 off 34 balls, Buttler had his reservations against this call. He added that either Dube, a batter who bowls medium pace, has gained his speed or Rana, a seamer, has transformed into a batter as good as Dube.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-pandya-dube-lead-from-front-as-india-pocket-t20i-series-with-win-in-pune-8679296" rel="dofollow">IND vs ENG: Pandya, Dube lead from front as India pocket T20I series with win in Pune</a>
"It is not a like-for-like replacement. We don't agree with that," Buttler said after losing the Pune T20I by 15 runs.&nbsp;
"Either Shivam Dube has put on about 25mph with the ball, or Harshit has really improved his batting. It's part of the game, and we really should have gone on to win the match, but we disagree with the decision.
"There was no consultation [with us]. That's something I was thinking as I came out to bat - who is Harshit on for? They said he is a concussion replacement, which I obviously disagreed with. It is not a like-for-like replacement. They said that the match referee had made the decision. We had no say in it or any part of it. But we'll ask Javagal [Srinath] some questions just to get some clarity around it."
<h2>Not blaming 'this call' for the loss</h2>
England had their chances in the must-win game in Pune but crumbled under pressure to concede it, losing the match and eventually the series (1-3).
After England reduced India to 79 for five inside the 11th over, with the top-order back in the hut, two all-rounders Dube and Hardik Pandya added 87 for the sixth wicket to pull India out of the mud, propelling them to 181 for nine in 20 overs.
During the chase, England was sitting in the driver&rsquo;s seat with the opening stand adding 62 for the first wicket inside the Powerplay. England, however, failed to make the most of this start, as they kept losing wickets regularly, with Rana, the concussion sub, contributing with three (to his name), including that of Jacob Bethal and Liam Livingstone.
Although he did not blame Rana&rsquo;s concussion move as the reason for the loss, Buttler said they would anyway take some clarity (from the match referee) over this decision.&nbsp;
"Like I said, it was not the whole reason why we did not win the match. We had our chances to win the game which we could have still taken. But I'd like to have a bit more clarity on that,&rdquo; he added.
Meanwhile, the fifth and final T20I will get underway at the Wankhede in Mumbai on Sunday (Feb 2).&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Buttler said either Dube, a batter who bowls medium pace, has gained his speed or Rana, a seamer, has transformed into a batter as good as Dube.

Harshit Rana wasn’t part of the playing XI that took the field on Friday (Jan 31) in Pune, but returned with three wickets to see India home after coming on as a concussion sub for injured Shivam Dube, a decision England captain Jos Buttler disagreed with. Speaking to the media after losing the fourth T20I, Buttler said Rana coming in for Dube was ‘not a like-for-like replacement’. Buttler, who got out on just two while chasing, said when he came out to bat, he asked who is Rana on for (on the field). Upon being told he was a concussion sub for Dube, who suffered a blow to his head on his way to 53 off 34 balls, Buttler had his reservations against this call. He added that either Dube, a batter who bowls medium pace, has gained his speed or Rana, a seamer, has transformed into a batter as good as Dube. Also read | IND vs ENG: Pandya, Dube lead from front as India pocket T20I series with win in Pune "It is not a like-for-like replacement. We don't agree with that," Buttler said after losing the Pune T20I by 15 runs. "Either Shivam Dube has put on about 25mph with the ball, or Harshit has really improved his batting. It's part of the game, and we really should have gone on to win the match, but we disagree with the decision. "There was no consultation [with us]. That's something I was thinking as I came out to bat - who is Harshit on for? They said he is a concussion replacement, which I obviously disagreed with. It is not a like-for-like replacement. They said that the match referee had made the decision. We had no say in it or any part of it. But we'll ask Javagal [Srinath] some questions just to get some clarity around it." Not blaming 'this call' for the loss England had their chances in the must-win game in Pune but crumbled under pressure to concede it, losing the match and eventually the series (1-3). After England reduced India to 79 for five inside the 11th over, with the top-order back in the hut, two all-rounders Dube and Hardik Pandya added 87 for the sixth wicket to pull India out of the mud, propelling them to 181 for nine in 20 overs. During the chase, England was sitting in the driver’s seat with the opening stand adding 62 for the first wicket inside the Powerplay. England, however, failed to make the most of this start, as they kept losing wickets regularly, with Rana, the concussion sub, contributing with three (to his name), including that of Jacob Bethal and Liam Livingstone. Although he did not blame Rana’s concussion move as the reason for the loss, Buttler said they would anyway take some clarity (from the match referee) over this decision. "Like I said, it was not the whole reason why we did not win the match. We had our chances to win the game which we could have still taken. But I'd like to have a bit more clarity on that,” he added. Meanwhile, the fifth and final T20I will get underway at the Wankhede in Mumbai on Sunday (Feb 2). (With inputs from agencies)

'Harshit Rana not a ‘like-for-like replacement’ for Dube,' Buttler hits back at India's 'concussion sub' swap

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;made his return to domestic cricket when he took the field with Delhi against Railways on Thursday (Jan 30). This was Kohli's first&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ranji-trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ranji Trophy</a>&nbsp;match for Delhi since 2012 when he played against Uttar Pradesh. Ahead of the match, his teammates were joyed by India star's presence who has more than 80 tons to his name in international cricket - second only to Sachin Tendulkar's 100.
Delhi skipper Ayush Badoni, the 25-year-old uncapped batter, also revealed Kohli's batting position and the India batter's advice to the team.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ranji-trophy-what-are-you-saying-says-india-star-virat-kohli-when-offered-help-to-carry-kit-8668677" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India star Virat Kohli when denies help to carry kit</a>
"He will bat at No. 4. He encouraged us to stay positive and express ourselves confidently," Badoni said on the eve of match against Railways as reported by news agency PTI.
"He will bat at No. 4. He encouraged us to stay positive and express ourselves confidently," Badoni said on the eve of match against Railways as reported by news agency PTI.
He is one of the high-profile players, including Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ravindra Jadeja, to feature in Ranji Trophy matches for their respective teams.
The participation comes in the wake of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Board of Control for Cricket in India</a>&nbsp;(BCCI) making it mandatory for the player to play domestic cricket after the recent series losses against New Zealand and Australia in Tests.
<h2>Follow Delhi vs Railways Day 2 Ranji Trophy Live Updates Below:</h2>

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Kohli's return to Ranji Trophy lasts only 15 balls his off stump goes cart-wheeling and the crowd has started leaving the ground. The crowd still chanted his name and gave him an applause, reports WION's Jatin from the ground.&nbsp;
Virat Kohli b Sangwan 6&nbsp;
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Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Kohli out for 6

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: At the end of Day 2, Delhi finished at 334/7. Captain Ayush Badoni was Delhi's highest scorer with 99 runs from 77 balls. He was well supported by Sumit Mathur, who remained unbeaten on 78 runs from 189 balls.
At the end of the day's play, Virat Kohli was felicitated by the Delhi &amp; District Cricket Association for playing 100 Tests matches for India.
This live blog is now ended.

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Delhi 334/7 at end of Day 2

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: WICKET!
Kunal Yadav dismisses Shivam Sharma for 14 runs.
Score:
Delhi:&nbsp;313/7 (89.4 overs)

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: WICKET!

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Delhi crosses the 300-run mark against Railways. Sumit Mathur remains not out on 68 runs off 151 balls.

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Delhi cross 300

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Pranav Rajvanshi is dismissed by Ayan for well-made 42 runs.
Score:
Delhi: 293/6 (80.4 overs)

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: As Delhi takes lead over Railways, Sumit Mathur hit 50 and put Delhi in a commanding position. Delhi leads Railways by 43 runs
Score: 283/5 (78.5 overs)

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Sumit Mathur hits 50

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Delhi takes lead over Railways. Ayush Badoni remains Delh's highest scorer in the innings with 99 runs.
Score:&nbsp;244/5 (61.4 overs)

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Delhi takes lead over Railways

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Delhi captain Ayush Badoni is OUT on 99. Spinner Karn Sharma strikes for Railways
Score: 230/5 (55.2 overs)
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Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Delhi captain Ayush Badoni gone for 99!

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Ayush Badoni and Sumit Mathur take Delhi past 200-mark. They now trail Railways by 33 runs.
Score:
Delhi: 207/4 (50.4 overs)&nbsp;

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Delhi cross 200 

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live:&nbsp;Delhi captain Ayush Badoni smashed 50 in 34 balls. His innings included seven boundaries and one six.

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Ayush Badoni smashes 50

Delhi have done well to stay on course despite Virat Kohli's failure with the bat. Skipper Badoni has hit fifty and is being ably supported by Sumit Mathur as the duo add unbeaten 50 runs for the fifth wicket. Delhi still trail by 73 runs.
Delhi:&nbsp;168/4 (Badoni 52, Mathur 28) in 42 overs vs Railways: 241 all out in first innings

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Lunch

Delhi skipper Ayush Badoni and Sumit Mathue have brought some calmness after two quicky wickets including Kohli. The duo have added 50+ runs so far.
Delhi:&nbsp;163/4 (Badoni 49, Mathur 26) in 40 overs vs Railways: 241 all out in first innings

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Badoni, Mathur start rebuild

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The crowd waited two days for Kohli to bat and he did in the first session but the return to Ranji Trophy lasted only for 15 balls as Sangwan sent his off-stump cartwheeling. Kohli managed only six runs and was one of the three wickets to fall in the first session on day 2 for Delhi.&nbsp;
The home team, however, has scored at decent pace and trail by only 111 runs in the first innings with skipper Badoni on the crease.
Delhi:&nbsp;130/4 (Badoni 25, Mathur 17) in 35 overs vs Railways: 241 all out in first innings
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Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Delhi trail by 111 runs

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Railways's Sangwan on fire as he take two wickets in two overs including Kohli who lasted 15 balls on his Ranji Trophy retunr after 13 years. Delhi struggling here as they cross 100-run mark.
Delhi: 103/4 (Badoni 10, Mathur 6) in 30 overs vs Railways: 241 all out in first innings
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Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Delhi four down

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A controversial decision by umpire bring Kohli to crease as Delhi now again look to consolidate their innings after loss of Yash Dhull who made 32.
Delhi: 79/2 (Kohli 0, Sanat 29) in 25 overs vs Railways: 241 all out in first innings
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Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Kohli at crease

As Virat Kohli made his way to the crease, the crowd in the stadium gave the India star a standing ovation, reports WION's Jatin Verma who is at the ground.
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Crowd goes crazy at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> comes out bat for Delhi against Railways in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RanjiTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RanjiTrophy</a> <a href="https://t.co/2hxRkZmKeB">pic.twitter.com/2hxRkZmKeB</a>
&mdash; Prashant (@journoinmaking) <a href="https://twitter.com/journoinmaking/status/1885194103287406856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Standing ovation for Kohli

A horrible decision by the on-field umpire and sends back Yash Dhull which bring Virat Kohli to crease much to pleasure of crowd.
Yash Dhull lbw b RA Sharma 32

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Delhi players have looked solid and compact so far on day 2 morning as the crowd eagerly waits for Virat Kohli to come out and bat. Delhi now trail by less than 180 runs in the first innings.
Delhi: 65/1 (Dhull 29, Sanat 20) in 20 overs vs Railways: 241 all out in first innings
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Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Delhi chip away

The DDCA has decided to felicitate Kohli for playing 100 Tests for India - only second player from Delhi to do so after Virender Sehwag and Ishant Sharma.

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: DDCA to felicitate Kohli

BCCI selector Ajay Rata is present at the Arun Jaitley stadium today to watch the Delhi vs Railways, informs WION's Jatin Verma from the ground.

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live

Delhi have managed to 50-run mark in the first innings as they now trail by less than 200 runs. Dhull and Sanat still on crease as the crowd waits for Kohli to come who is ready in the dug out.
Delhi: 55/1 (Dhull 25, Sanat 14) in 15 overs vs Railways: 241 all out in first innings

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Delhi cross 50

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Delhi end day 1 200 runs behind Railways first innings total. The fans who have come to see Virat Kohli bat will might get the chance today as the India star is slated to bat at number four.
Delhi:&nbsp;41/1 (Dull 17, Sanat 10) in 10 overs&nbsp;
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Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live: Delhi resume their innings

Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Live : Delhi resume their innings from 41/1 after bowling out Railways for 241 in their first innings. Cricket Sports

Virat Kohli made his return to domestic cricket when he took the field with Delhi against Railways on Thursday (Jan 30). This was Kohli's first Ranji Trophy match for Delhi since 2012 when he played against Uttar Pradesh. Ahead of the match, his teammates were joyed by India star's presence who has more than 80 tons to his name in international cricket - second only to Sachin Tendulkar's 100. Delhi skipper Ayush Badoni, the 25-year-old uncapped batter, also revealed Kohli's batting position and the India batter's advice to the team. Also Read: India star Virat Kohli when denies help to carry kit "He will bat at No. 4. He encouraged us to stay positive and express ourselves confidently," Badoni said on the eve of match against Railways as reported by news agency PTI. "He will bat at No. 4. He encouraged us to stay positive and express ourselves confidently," Badoni said on the eve of match against Railways as reported by news agency PTI. He is one of the high-profile players, including Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ravindra Jadeja, to feature in Ranji Trophy matches for their respective teams. The participation comes in the wake of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) making it mandatory for the player to play domestic cricket after the recent series losses against New Zealand and Australia in Tests. Follow Delhi vs Railways Day 2 Ranji Trophy Live Updates Below:

Highlights | Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy: Delhi 334/7 at end of Day 2

Defending champions India thrashed England by 9 wickets in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc">ICC</a> Women's U19 T20 World Cup semifinal at the Bayuemas Oval on Friday to set up a summit clash with South Africa.
After winning the toss and choosing to bat, England got off to a strong start led by Davina Perrin and skipper Abigale Norgrove. But the Indian bowlers turned the game around in the second half and restricted England to 113/8 in 20 overs.
In response, riding on G Kamilini's half-century knock of 56, India chased down the target in 15 overs and paved their way to the final, scheduled to be played against South Africa on Sunday.
Batting first, England got off to a flying start in the semi-final as Davina Perrin's 45 off 40 balls, featuring two massive sixes and four boundaries, and skipper Abi Norgrove's 30 off 25 deliveries, including three fours and a six, powered England to 73-2 at the halfway mark.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/the-homecoming-that-wasnt-kohlis-23-minute-tryst-with-fate-8677784">Ranji Trophy 2025: The homecoming that wasn&rsquo;t-Kohli&rsquo;s 23-minute tryst with fate</a> However, India's bowlers turned the game around in the second half, with Parunika Sisodia (3-21) and Aayushi Shukla (2-21) leading the fightback. Aayushi struck crucial blows, dismissing both Perrin and Norgrove, slowing England's scoring momentum.
The collapse was sealed by Vaishnavi Sharma (3-23), who produced a brilliant 16th over, taking three wickets as England crumbled to 92-8. A late push by Amrutha Surenkumar saw England reach 113 in their 20 overs.
India had a stellar start to the run chase, scoring 44 in the powerplay without losing any wickets. Trisha Gongadi smashed 35 of 29 balls before Phoebe got the all-important wicket.
Kamalini G and Sanilka Chalke guided India to 70-1 at the end of the 10th over before sealing the victory with four overs to spare.
"As captain, I am really proud. As a player, I am really happy that we are one step closer to lifting the trophy. We've been working hard to this day, and we are one step closer. Coming into the semifinal, we knew England would come hard at us. They started really well, but we wanted to stay calm and bowl good balls and get quick wickets.
"I think all of us are clear about our roles. Everyday someone or the other takes the responsibility for the team. All set for the final. No nerves. We are really excited and want to go out there and dominate," said India captain Niki Prasad after the match.
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.

Sports, Cricket: India chased down the target in 15 overs and paved their way to the final, scheduled to be played against South Africa on Sunday

Defending champions India thrashed England by 9 wickets in the ICC Women's U19 T20 World Cup semifinal at the Bayuemas Oval on Friday to set up a summit clash with South Africa. After winning the toss and choosing to bat, England got off to a strong start led by Davina Perrin and skipper Abigale Norgrove. But the Indian bowlers turned the game around in the second half and restricted England to 113/8 in 20 overs. In response, riding on G Kamilini's half-century knock of 56, India chased down the target in 15 overs and paved their way to the final, scheduled to be played against South Africa on Sunday. Batting first, England got off to a flying start in the semi-final as Davina Perrin's 45 off 40 balls, featuring two massive sixes and four boundaries, and skipper Abi Norgrove's 30 off 25 deliveries, including three fours and a six, powered England to 73-2 at the halfway mark. Also Read: Ranji Trophy 2025: The homecoming that wasn’t-Kohli’s 23-minute tryst with fate However, India's bowlers turned the game around in the second half, with Parunika Sisodia (3-21) and Aayushi Shukla (2-21) leading the fightback. Aayushi struck crucial blows, dismissing both Perrin and Norgrove, slowing England's scoring momentum. The collapse was sealed by Vaishnavi Sharma (3-23), who produced a brilliant 16th over, taking three wickets as England crumbled to 92-8. A late push by Amrutha Surenkumar saw England reach 113 in their 20 overs. India had a stellar start to the run chase, scoring 44 in the powerplay without losing any wickets. Trisha Gongadi smashed 35 of 29 balls before Phoebe got the all-important wicket. Kamalini G and Sanilka Chalke guided India to 70-1 at the end of the 10th over before sealing the victory with four overs to spare. "As captain, I am really proud. As a player, I am really happy that we are one step closer to lifting the trophy. We've been working hard to this day, and we are one step closer. Coming into the semifinal, we knew England would come hard at us. They started really well, but we wanted to stay calm and bowl good balls and get quick wickets. "I think all of us are clear about our roles. Everyday someone or the other takes the responsibility for the team. All set for the final. No nerves. We are really excited and want to go out there and dominate," said India captain Niki Prasad after the match. 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.

U19 World Cup: Defending champs India thrash England by 9 wickets to seal spot in final

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Remember the 1999 series &lsquo;Futurama&rsquo;? In an episode, one of the cast members on the fictional soap opera All My Circuits malfunction, leading to an open casting call for child actors. <span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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Bender makes Tinny Tim, a young orphan robot, believe that he could have a shot at the role, only for Tim to realise that Bender is actually auditioning. After Tinny Tim realizes that Bender has no intention of helping him, he says &ldquo;You raised my hopes and dashed them quite expertly, sir. Bravo!&rdquo;<span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
<span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">Such were the emotions of the fans present in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/arun-jaitley-cricket-stadium">Arun Jaitley Stadium</a> on Friday.
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In the world of sports, hope is a powerful emotion. It can lift spirits, fuel belief, and bring thousands together in shared anticipation. But when dashed, it can leave an unshakable void, one that echoed through the Arun Jaitley Stadium on a crisp Friday morning.<span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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The excitement had been brewing since dawn. Fans lined up outside the stadium as early as 6 AM, eager to catch a glimpse of their hometown hero, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>. The energy inside the ground was palpable as Delhi&rsquo;s innings unfolded, with every dismissal bringing them closer to the moment they had all been waiting for.<span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
<span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-australia-all-rounder-mitch-marsh-ruled-out-with-back-issue-8677421">Champions Trophy 2025: Australia all-rounder Mitch Marsh ruled out with back issue</a> 
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At 10:31 AM, that moment arrived.<span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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As <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/yash-dhull">Yash </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/yash-dhull">Dhull</a> fell lbw to Rahul Sharma, a roar erupted from the Bishan Singh Bedi stand. Not in celebration of the wicket, but in anticipation of the man who was about to step onto the field. When Kohli emerged from the pavilion, the entire stadium stood as one, a sea of applause and chants of &ldquo;Kohli! Kohli!&rdquo; reverberating through the air. The sheer intensity of the ovation was deafening. It wasn&rsquo;t just about watching a cricketing great&mdash;it was about witnessing a homecoming, a potential masterclass in the making.<span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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Kohli took his guard and faced his first ball. A yorker from Rahul, which he looked to flick but missed. The next delivery, a full ball angled across him, saw his bottom hand come off the bat as he attempted a drive&mdash;nervous signs from a man known for his supreme confidence. 
The crowd, however, remained undeterred. Every run he scored was met with loud applause, each defensive stroke welcomed with encouraging cheers. When he finally broke the shackles with a fierce straight drive past Sangwan, a boundary that rattled the sightscreen, the stadium erupted once more. This was it. This was the moment.<span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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Hope swelled in the stands. Could today be the day? Could this be the innings that reminded everyone of Kohli&rsquo;s brilliance in whites?<span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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But cricket, much like life, can be cruel.<span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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At 10:54 AM, just 23 minutes after he walked in, that hope was crushed.<span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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Sangwan steamed in again, angling the ball in from outside off. Kohli, looking to drive expansively, moved too far forward. The inward movement and low bounce deceived him completely. In an instant, the off-stump was sent cartwheeling.<span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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A collective gasp swept through the stadium. And then, silence. Absolute silence.<span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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Kohli stood there for a second, staring at the wreckage, playing an imaginary defensive stroke in the air, perhaps wondering if a straighter bat could have saved him. But it was too late. As Sangwan, a Najafgarh native and former Delhi squad member, celebrated wildly, Kohli trudged back to the pavilion.<span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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Disbelief settled over the crowd. One by one, fans began to leave, their hope shattered. Some faithfuls, however, lingered near the dressing room balcony, chanting his name four more times, unwilling to let go of the moment.<span class="EOP SCXW33534458 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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Hope, after all, never truly dies. Even when it disappoints, it finds a way to bring people back. And maybe, just maybe, they&rsquo;ll return for another chance to witness the magic that once seemed inevitable.
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Sports, Cricket: The excitement had been brewing since dawn. Fans lined up outside the stadium as early as 6 AM, eager to catch a glimpse of their hometown hero, Virat Kohli

Remember the 1999 series ‘Futurama’? In an episode, one of the cast members on the fictional soap opera All My Circuits malfunction, leading to an open casting call for child actors. Bender makes Tinny Tim, a young orphan robot, believe that he could have a shot at the role, only for Tim to realise that Bender is actually auditioning. After Tinny Tim realizes that Bender has no intention of helping him, he says “You raised my hopes and dashed them quite expertly, sir. Bravo!” Such were the emotions of the fans present in Arun Jaitley Stadium on Friday. In the world of sports, hope is a powerful emotion. It can lift spirits, fuel belief, and bring thousands together in shared anticipation. But when dashed, it can leave an unshakable void, one that echoed through the Arun Jaitley Stadium on a crisp Friday morning. The excitement had been brewing since dawn. Fans lined up outside the stadium as early as 6 AM, eager to catch a glimpse of their hometown hero, Virat Kohli. The energy inside the ground was palpable as Delhi’s innings unfolded, with every dismissal bringing them closer to the moment they had all been waiting for. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Australia all-rounder Mitch Marsh ruled out with back issue At 10:31 AM, that moment arrived. As Yash Dhull fell lbw to Rahul Sharma, a roar erupted from the Bishan Singh Bedi stand. Not in celebration of the wicket, but in anticipation of the man who was about to step onto the field. When Kohli emerged from the pavilion, the entire stadium stood as one, a sea of applause and chants of “Kohli! Kohli!” reverberating through the air. The sheer intensity of the ovation was deafening. It wasn’t just about watching a cricketing great—it was about witnessing a homecoming, a potential masterclass in the making. Kohli took his guard and faced his first ball. A yorker from Rahul, which he looked to flick but missed. The next delivery, a full ball angled across him, saw his bottom hand come off the bat as he attempted a drive—nervous signs from a man known for his supreme confidence. The crowd, however, remained undeterred. Every run he scored was met with loud applause, each defensive stroke welcomed with encouraging cheers. When he finally broke the shackles with a fierce straight drive past Sangwan, a boundary that rattled the sightscreen, the stadium erupted once more. This was it. This was the moment. Hope swelled in the stands. Could today be the day? Could this be the innings that reminded everyone of Kohli’s brilliance in whites? But cricket, much like life, can be cruel. At 10:54 AM, just 23 minutes after he walked in, that hope was crushed. Sangwan steamed in again, angling the ball in from outside off. Kohli, looking to drive expansively, moved too far forward. The inward movement and low bounce deceived him completely. In an instant, the off-stump was sent cartwheeling. A collective gasp swept through the stadium. And then, silence. Absolute silence. Kohli stood there for a second, staring at the wreckage, playing an imaginary defensive stroke in the air, perhaps wondering if a straighter bat could have saved him. But it was too late. As Sangwan, a Najafgarh native and former Delhi squad member, celebrated wildly, Kohli trudged back to the pavilion. Disbelief settled over the crowd. One by one, fans began to leave, their hope shattered. Some faithfuls, however, lingered near the dressing room balcony, chanting his name four more times, unwilling to let go of the moment. Hope, after all, never truly dies. Even when it disappoints, it finds a way to bring people back. And maybe, just maybe, they’ll return for another chance to witness the magic that once seemed inevitable.

Ranji Trophy 2025: The homecoming that wasn’t-Kohli’s 23-minute tryst with fate

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Former India captain and legendary batsman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sachin-tendulkar">Sachin Tendulkar</a> will be bestowed with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/board-of-control-for-cricket-in-india">BCCI</a>'s Lifetime Achievement award at their annual gala on Saturday (Feb 1). The 51-year-old, who played 664 matches for India, holds the record for the highest number of Test and ODI runs in history. However, he played only one T20I in his stellar career.&nbsp;
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"Yes, he will be the recipient of the C K Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award for the year 2024," a Board source told&nbsp;PTI. Tendulkar's 200 Test and 463 ODI appearances are also the highest by any player in the history of the game.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravichandran-ashwin">Ravichandran Ashwin</a> will be given a special award for his contribution to Indian cricket during Naman Awards on Saturday (Feb 1).
Also Read: &nbsp;
Ashwin, who retired from international cricket, will be given a special award. Having made his international debut in 2010, Ashwin went on to become India&rsquo;s most successful off-spinner in Test and international cricket and claimed 537 wickets, the second-most for India in Test cricket after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/anil-kumble">Anil Kumble</a> (619).
Jasprit Bumrah, the pace spearhead, will receive the Polly Umrigar Award for Best Male International Cricketer, while Smriti Mandhana will be named the Best International Cricketer of the Year - Female.
Sarfaraz Khan and Asha Shobhana will be conferred with the Best International debut - men&rsquo;s and women&rsquo;s awards respectively, while Deepti Sharma will receive an award for being the highest wicket-taker in women&rsquo;s cricket.
Meanwhile, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) will be honoured for being the Best Association in domestic cricket. In 2024, Mumbai had won the Ranji Trophy for the 42nd time.
&ldquo;Mumbai Cricket Association will be honored with the Best Performance in BCCI Domestic Tournaments (2023-24) award at the BCCI Annual Awards - Naman 2023-24. This recognition reflects Mumbai&rsquo;s dominance in domestic cricket, including the Ranji Trophy and Irani Cup triumphs, and celebrates the relentless spirit of our players, support staff and administrators,&rdquo; the MCA said in a statement.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Sports, Cricket: The Master Blaster holds the record for the highest number of Test and ODI runs in history, played 664 international matches for the Indian cricket team

Former India captain and legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar will be bestowed with BCCI's Lifetime Achievement award at their annual gala on Saturday (Feb 1). The 51-year-old, who played 664 matches for India, holds the record for the highest number of Test and ODI runs in history. However, he played only one T20I in his stellar career. "Yes, he will be the recipient of the C K Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award for the year 2024," a Board source told PTI. Tendulkar's 200 Test and 463 ODI appearances are also the highest by any player in the history of the game. Meanwhile, Ravichandran Ashwin will be given a special award for his contribution to Indian cricket during Naman Awards on Saturday (Feb 1). Also Read: Ashwin, who retired from international cricket, will be given a special award. Having made his international debut in 2010, Ashwin went on to become India’s most successful off-spinner in Test and international cricket and claimed 537 wickets, the second-most for India in Test cricket after Anil Kumble (619). Jasprit Bumrah, the pace spearhead, will receive the Polly Umrigar Award for Best Male International Cricketer, while Smriti Mandhana will be named the Best International Cricketer of the Year - Female. Sarfaraz Khan and Asha Shobhana will be conferred with the Best International debut - men’s and women’s awards respectively, while Deepti Sharma will receive an award for being the highest wicket-taker in women’s cricket. Meanwhile, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) will be honoured for being the Best Association in domestic cricket. In 2024, Mumbai had won the Ranji Trophy for the 42nd time. “Mumbai Cricket Association will be honored with the Best Performance in BCCI Domestic Tournaments (2023-24) award at the BCCI Annual Awards - Naman 2023-24. This recognition reflects Mumbai’s dominance in domestic cricket, including the Ranji Trophy and Irani Cup triumphs, and celebrates the relentless spirit of our players, support staff and administrators,” the MCA said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Sachin Tendulkar to be bestowed with BCCI's Lifetime Achievement award: Report

Australia's all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mitchell-marsh">Mitch Marsh</a>'s international future has taken another hit with a back injury ruling him out of the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025.
Marsh had been contending with a lower back issue since being dropped from the Test team after the fourth match of an unconvincing home series against India.
He missed the end of the Perth Scorchers' Big Bash League campaign but the problem deteriorated over the past three to four weeks as Marsh attempted rehabilitation.
The reigning Allan Border Medallist's injury is not a stress fracture as had been reported on Friday morning.&nbsp;Cricket Australia selectors made the call to sideline Marsh from the Champions Trophy while meeting on Thursday night during the two-Test series in Sri Lanka.
Marsh will also miss the two-match One Day International series against Sri Lanka that follows the Tests.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/who-is-himanshu-sangwan-railways-pacer-who-silenced-arun-jaitley-stadium-after-dismissing-king-kohli-on-ranji-trophy-return-8677378">Who is Himanshu Sangwan, Railways pacer who silenced Arun Jaitley Stadium after dismissing King Kohli on Ranji Trophy return</a>
The hope is that sidelining Marsh in the short term will give the 33-year-old the best chance of extending his international career, but there is no timeline for his return.
Marsh still holds hope of a Test recall but now appears stuck behind allrounders Beau Webster and Cameron Green, who is due back in May.
Green may not be available to bowl before the World Test Championship Final against South Africa in June, which is followed by a three-match series against West Indies to follow.
Marsh's injury could also end his hopes of lining up for the IPL's Lucknow Super Giants in March after Justin Langer's team selected him at last year's auction.
<h2>Smith or Head to lead in CT?</h2>
The allrounder had been set to captain Australia in the Champions Trophy, which begins in Pakistan in February if Pat Cummins failed to recover from his own ankle injury in time.
Australia remains unsure whether Cummins will be available, with the captain missing the Sri Lanka Test series for the birth of his second child.
Selectors released a preliminary Champions Trophy squad earlier this month but it does not need to be finalised until February 12.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/steve-smith">Steve Smith</a> or <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/travis-head">Travis Head</a> would be the clearest options to captain Australia if Marsh and Cummins are unavailable.
Australia play their first match of the tournament against England in Lahore on February 22.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Marsh had been contending with a lower back issue since being dropped from the Test team after the fourth match of an unconvincing home series against India

Australia's all-rounder Mitch Marsh's international future has taken another hit with a back injury ruling him out of the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. Marsh had been contending with a lower back issue since being dropped from the Test team after the fourth match of an unconvincing home series against India. He missed the end of the Perth Scorchers' Big Bash League campaign but the problem deteriorated over the past three to four weeks as Marsh attempted rehabilitation. The reigning Allan Border Medallist's injury is not a stress fracture as had been reported on Friday morning. Cricket Australia selectors made the call to sideline Marsh from the Champions Trophy while meeting on Thursday night during the two-Test series in Sri Lanka. Marsh will also miss the two-match One Day International series against Sri Lanka that follows the Tests. Also Read: Who is Himanshu Sangwan, Railways pacer who silenced Arun Jaitley Stadium after dismissing King Kohli on Ranji Trophy return The hope is that sidelining Marsh in the short term will give the 33-year-old the best chance of extending his international career, but there is no timeline for his return. Marsh still holds hope of a Test recall but now appears stuck behind allrounders Beau Webster and Cameron Green, who is due back in May. Green may not be available to bowl before the World Test Championship Final against South Africa in June, which is followed by a three-match series against West Indies to follow. Marsh's injury could also end his hopes of lining up for the IPL's Lucknow Super Giants in March after Justin Langer's team selected him at last year's auction. Smith or Head to lead in CT? The allrounder had been set to captain Australia in the Champions Trophy, which begins in Pakistan in February if Pat Cummins failed to recover from his own ankle injury in time. Australia remains unsure whether Cummins will be available, with the captain missing the Sri Lanka Test series for the birth of his second child. Selectors released a preliminary Champions Trophy squad earlier this month but it does not need to be finalised until February 12. Steve Smith or Travis Head would be the clearest options to captain Australia if Marsh and Cummins are unavailable. Australia play their first match of the tournament against England in Lahore on February 22. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Australia all-rounder Mitch Marsh ruled out with back issue

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>&rsquo;s much-anticipated return to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ranji-trophy">Ranji Trophy</a> after a gap of more than 12 years, turned into a bittersweet spectacle for cricket fans.<span class="EOP SCXW107629700 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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The Delhi crowd gathered in large numbers at the iconic venue, their excitement palpable as one of India&rsquo;s greatest cricketers strode out to bat under the blazing sun.<span class="EOP SCXW107629700 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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For Himanshu Sangwan, this was a moment of immense significance, but not an unfamiliar one. Known for his knack for dismantling high-profile batting line-ups, Sangwan has built a reputation as a giant slayer in domestic cricket. The 29-year-old seamer from Delhi first announced himself in dramatic fashion back in 2019 during a Ranji Trophy match at the historic Wankhede Stadium.<span class="EOP SCXW107629700 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
<span class="EOP SCXW107629700 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/delhi-vs-railways-ranji-trophy-day-2-virat-kohli-wicket-video-bowled-by-himanshu-sangwan-for-six-runs-8677121">Delhi vs Railways, Ranji Trophy: WATCH | Virat Kohli bowled for 6 on return</a> 
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On that day, Sangwan delivered one of Railways&rsquo; most celebrated victories, taking six wickets to engineer a 10-wicket triumph over Mumbai. Among his victims were Indian stalwarts Ajinkya Rahane and Prithvi Shaw.<span class="EOP SCXW107629700 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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Himanshu was born on September 2, 1995, in Delhi&rsquo;s Najafgarh area, the same locality which also was home to veteran batter Virender Sehwag.&nbsp;<span class="EOP SCXW107629700 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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Sangwan began his professional cricketing journey in 2019, making his List A debut during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/vijay-hazare">Vijay Hazare Trophy</a>. Shortly after, he debuted in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on November 8, 2019, and capped the year with his first Ranji Trophy appearance on December 9. <span class="EOP SCXW107629700 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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In first-class cricket, Sangwan has played 23 matches, picking 77 wickets at an average of 19.92 and an economy rate of 3.02. His disciplined bowling and ability to adapt to different conditions have made him a reliable asset for the Railways team. In List A cricket, Sangwan has taken 21 wickets in 17 matches at an economy rate of 5.28 and an average of 34.71.<span class="EOP SCXW107629700 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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In the past, he has worked as a ticket collector at the New Delhi Railway Station. He also trained at the MRF Pace Foundation, where he was coached under Aussie legend Glenn McGrath.<span class="EOP SCXW107629700 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
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Sports, Cricket: He has worked as a ticket collector at the New Delhi Railway Station. He also trained at MRF Pace Foundation, where he was coached under Australia's Glenn McGrath. 

Virat Kohli’s much-anticipated return to the Ranji Trophy after a gap of more than 12 years, turned into a bittersweet spectacle for cricket fans. The Delhi crowd gathered in large numbers at the iconic venue, their excitement palpable as one of India’s greatest cricketers strode out to bat under the blazing sun. For Himanshu Sangwan, this was a moment of immense significance, but not an unfamiliar one. Known for his knack for dismantling high-profile batting line-ups, Sangwan has built a reputation as a giant slayer in domestic cricket. The 29-year-old seamer from Delhi first announced himself in dramatic fashion back in 2019 during a Ranji Trophy match at the historic Wankhede Stadium. Also Read: Delhi vs Railways, Ranji Trophy: WATCH | Virat Kohli bowled for 6 on return On that day, Sangwan delivered one of Railways’ most celebrated victories, taking six wickets to engineer a 10-wicket triumph over Mumbai. Among his victims were Indian stalwarts Ajinkya Rahane and Prithvi Shaw. Himanshu was born on September 2, 1995, in Delhi’s Najafgarh area, the same locality which also was home to veteran batter Virender Sehwag. Sangwan began his professional cricketing journey in 2019, making his List A debut during the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Shortly after, he debuted in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on November 8, 2019, and capped the year with his first Ranji Trophy appearance on December 9. In first-class cricket, Sangwan has played 23 matches, picking 77 wickets at an average of 19.92 and an economy rate of 3.02. His disciplined bowling and ability to adapt to different conditions have made him a reliable asset for the Railways team. In List A cricket, Sangwan has taken 21 wickets in 17 matches at an economy rate of 5.28 and an average of 34.71. In the past, he has worked as a ticket collector at the New Delhi Railway Station. He also trained at the MRF Pace Foundation, where he was coached under Aussie legend Glenn McGrath.

Who is Himanshu Sangwan, Railways pacer who silenced Arun Jaitley Stadium after dismissing King Kohli on Ranji Trophy return

Virat Kohli's Ranji Trophy return lasted only for 15 balls as his off-stump was sent cart-wheeling for a personal score of six runs on day 2 of the Delhi vs Railways match on Friday (Jan 31).&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Kohli</a>, who is playing his first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ranji-trophy">Ranji Trophy</a> match in over 12 years, was given a standing ovation by the crowd at Arun Jaitley stadium as he came on to bat but the dream for fans didn't last long.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/delhi-vs-railways-day-2-live-score-virat-kohli-ranji-trophy-return-updates-liveblog-8676636" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Latest Updates</a>
Himanshu Sangwan had been hit for a four down the ground on a slightly fuller ball. The Railways bowler immediately corrected his length and the next ball went through the gate of Kohli's defence - uprooting his off-stump. Have a look at the wicket below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Virat Kohli scored more than expected. If this is their condition in Ranji, they should retire Asap. <a href="https://t.co/5gBKICySJF">pic.twitter.com/5gBKICySJF</a>
&mdash; Facts (@BefittingFacts) <a href="https://twitter.com/BefittingFacts/status/1885213047599276198?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

<h2>Delhi vs Railways Match Update - Day 2</h2>
Delhi started the day from the overnight score of 41/1, trailing by 200 runs in the first innings. Overnight batters Yash Dhull and Sanat Sangwan batted well and added 67 runs for the second wicket before Dhull was dismissed on 32.
Railways pacer Rahul Sharma trapped Dhull LBW in the 24th over of the innings. The ball looked going above the stumps but the on-field umpire decided otherwise and gave Dhull out, much to his dismay.
Kohli then walked in to bat to a thunderous roar of the crowd which started leaving as soon as the India star was dismissed. Sangwan dismissed Sanat in his next over, bringing Delhi to four down for less than 100 runs.
Skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ayush-badoni">Ayush Badoni</a> then got support from Sumit Mathur and steadied the innings. The duo added 71 unbeaten runs for the fifth wicket with Badoni reaching his 50 as well while Mathur scored 28 by the time the first session came to an end.
By lunch on day 2, Delhi were trailing by 73 runs in the first innings having finished the first session at 168/4 with Badoni looking solid for them.

Delhi vs Railways, Ranji Trophy: Kohli, making his return to domestic cricket after 13 years, scored only six runs before being bowled on day 2. Sports Cricket

Virat Kohli's Ranji Trophy return lasted only for 15 balls as his off-stump was sent cart-wheeling for a personal score of six runs on day 2 of the Delhi vs Railways match on Friday (Jan 31). Kohli, who is playing his first Ranji Trophy match in over 12 years, was given a standing ovation by the crowd at Arun Jaitley stadium as he came on to bat but the dream for fans didn't last long. Also Read: Delhi vs Railways Day 2, Ranji Trophy Latest Updates Himanshu Sangwan had been hit for a four down the ground on a slightly fuller ball. The Railways bowler immediately corrected his length and the next ball went through the gate of Kohli's defence - uprooting his off-stump. Have a look at the wicket below: Virat Kohli scored more than expected. If this is their condition in Ranji, they should retire Asap. pic.twitter.com/5gBKICySJF — Facts (@BefittingFacts) January 31, 2025 Delhi vs Railways Match Update - Day 2 Delhi started the day from the overnight score of 41/1, trailing by 200 runs in the first innings. Overnight batters Yash Dhull and Sanat Sangwan batted well and added 67 runs for the second wicket before Dhull was dismissed on 32. Railways pacer Rahul Sharma trapped Dhull LBW in the 24th over of the innings. The ball looked going above the stumps but the on-field umpire decided otherwise and gave Dhull out, much to his dismay. Kohli then walked in to bat to a thunderous roar of the crowd which started leaving as soon as the India star was dismissed. Sangwan dismissed Sanat in his next over, bringing Delhi to four down for less than 100 runs. Skipper Ayush Badoni then got support from Sumit Mathur and steadied the innings. The duo added 71 unbeaten runs for the fifth wicket with Badoni reaching his 50 as well while Mathur scored 28 by the time the first session came to an end. By lunch on day 2, Delhi were trailing by 73 runs in the first innings having finished the first session at 168/4 with Badoni looking solid for them.

Delhi vs Railways, Ranji Trophy: WATCH | Virat Kohli bowled for 6 on return

As <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/navdeep-saini">Navdeep Saini</a> walked towards the group of reporters, his eyes were beaming with confidence, and his stride was the kind that comes with a sense of purpose and joy. <o:p></o:p>
His broad smile and relaxed demeanour reflected the excitement of the day, one that had seen him deliver a brilliant performance with the ball on a charged-up opening day of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ranji-trophy">Ranji Trophy</a> match. The atmosphere around Arun Jaitley Stadium was electric, largely due to Virat Kohli&rsquo;s much-anticipated return to domestic cricket with Delhi, and Saini&rsquo;s energy was just as infectious.<o:p></o:p>
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sl-vs-aus-galle-test-sri-lanka-lose-three-quick-wickets-after-australia-declare-on-654-6-8675605">SL vs AUS, Galle Test: Sri Lanka lose three quick wickets after Australia declare on 654-6</a>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>&rsquo;s much-anticipated return to domestic cricket through the Ranji Trophy match for Delhi against Railways sparked an electric atmosphere at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. For pacer Navdeep Saini, who claimed 3-62 on day one, the excitement was palpable.<o:p></o:p>
&ldquo;Look, it&rsquo;s a big deal for me too, playing alongside Kohli. He&rsquo;s a legend. Just being in the dressing room with him lifts the whole team&rsquo;s energy. Over the past two days, our practice sessions have been a different vibe. His energy is so high that it lifts everyone around him. He&rsquo;s so involved on the field, always talking to the bowlers and the captain,&rdquo; shared Saini.<o:p></o:p>
&ldquo;Kohli gives 110% in everything&mdash;whether he&rsquo;s batting, fielding, or in the gym. Watching him train pushes you to follow his lead. That kind of effort carries over to the match itself. We didn&rsquo;t expect such a huge crowd, but when we walked into the ground this morning, the queue was so long that we knew we were in for something special,&rdquo; Saini added, reflecting on the hype.<o:p></o:p>
Asked if there was pressure on the young Delhi players with such a large crowd in attendance, Saini replied, &ldquo;For the younger guys, it&rsquo;s a proud moment to share the dressing room with Virat. Whether you're fielding at slip with him or asking him for advice on how to improve your game, it&rsquo;s a golden opportunity to learn.&rdquo;<o:p></o:p>
A standout moment of the day came when Karn Sharma attempted a big shot but was caught brilliantly by Yash Dhull in the deep. Kohli was the first to applaud Dhull&rsquo;s effort, sparking a roar from the crowd, who immediately began chanting, &ldquo;Kohli, Kohli.&rdquo;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal">'Captain and I discussed the short-ball plan'</h2>
Reflecting on the game&rsquo;s strategy, Saini explained, "The captain and I discussed the short-ball plan, and Virat had a word with Badoni too. The pitch wasn&rsquo;t offering much, so we stayed patient. We knew bouncers could give us a chance for a wicket, even if we conceded some runs, and that&rsquo;s exactly what happened."<o:p></o:p>
Saini was also surprised by the pitch&rsquo;s behaviour after lunch, as it seemed to ease up despite having a greenish tinge earlier. &ldquo;The conditions in the morning were perfect for bowling, but the pitch played differently in the second session than we expected.&rdquo;<o:p></o:p>

Cricket Sports: Navdeep Saini was also surprised by the pitch’s behaviour after lunch session, as it seemed to ease up despite having a greenish tinge earlier

As Navdeep Saini walked towards the group of reporters, his eyes were beaming with confidence, and his stride was the kind that comes with a sense of purpose and joy. His broad smile and relaxed demeanour reflected the excitement of the day, one that had seen him deliver a brilliant performance with the ball on a charged-up opening day of the Ranji Trophy match. The atmosphere around Arun Jaitley Stadium was electric, largely due to Virat Kohli’s much-anticipated return to domestic cricket with Delhi, and Saini’s energy was just as infectious. Also Read: SL vs AUS, Galle Test: Sri Lanka lose three quick wickets after Australia declare on 654-6 Virat Kohli’s much-anticipated return to domestic cricket through the Ranji Trophy match for Delhi against Railways sparked an electric atmosphere at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. For pacer Navdeep Saini, who claimed 3-62 on day one, the excitement was palpable. “Look, it’s a big deal for me too, playing alongside Kohli. He’s a legend. Just being in the dressing room with him lifts the whole team’s energy. Over the past two days, our practice sessions have been a different vibe. His energy is so high that it lifts everyone around him. He’s so involved on the field, always talking to the bowlers and the captain,” shared Saini. “Kohli gives 110% in everything—whether he’s batting, fielding, or in the gym. Watching him train pushes you to follow his lead. That kind of effort carries over to the match itself. We didn’t expect such a huge crowd, but when we walked into the ground this morning, the queue was so long that we knew we were in for something special,” Saini added, reflecting on the hype. Asked if there was pressure on the young Delhi players with such a large crowd in attendance, Saini replied, “For the younger guys, it’s a proud moment to share the dressing room with Virat. Whether you're fielding at slip with him or asking him for advice on how to improve your game, it’s a golden opportunity to learn.” A standout moment of the day came when Karn Sharma attempted a big shot but was caught brilliantly by Yash Dhull in the deep. Kohli was the first to applaud Dhull’s effort, sparking a roar from the crowd, who immediately began chanting, “Kohli, Kohli.” 'Captain and I discussed the short-ball plan' Reflecting on the game’s strategy, Saini explained, "The captain and I discussed the short-ball plan, and Virat had a word with Badoni too. The pitch wasn’t offering much, so we stayed patient. We knew bouncers could give us a chance for a wicket, even if we conceded some runs, and that’s exactly what happened." Saini was also surprised by the pitch’s behaviour after lunch, as it seemed to ease up despite having a greenish tinge earlier. “The conditions in the morning were perfect for bowling, but the pitch played differently in the second session than we expected.”

Ranji Trophy 2025: Kohli inspires, Saini delivers amid electric atmosphere

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in conjunction with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">ICC</a> will hold the opening ceremony of the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy</a> on February 16 in Lahore.
A source in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pcb" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">PCB</a> told PTI that chairman Mohsin Naqvi had approved a scheduled list of events prior to the first match of the tournament on February 19 at the National Stadium in Karachi between Pakistan and New Zealand.
The PCB will officially open the renovated Gaddafi Stadium on February 7, for which Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has been invited as the chief guest.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-we-will-be-pcb-reiterates-as-uncertainty-looms-8668590" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'We will be...': PCB reiterates as uncertainty looms aruond Champions Trophy</a>
On February 11, the PCB will launch the renovated National Stadium in Karachi with a ceremony in which President Asif Ali Zardari has been invited as the chief guest.
The source said the PCB and ICC were also working out the schedule of the captains' press conference and photoshoots. They are likely to be held in Lahore on February 16.
The opening ceremony is scheduled at Huzoori Bagh at the historic Lahore Fort, in which officials of different boards, celebrities, legends of the game, and government officials will be invited.
The ICC and PCB are yet to confirm if Indian captain Rohit Sharma would be travelling to Lahore for the events.
India will be playing their Champions Trophy matches in Dubai as part of a hybrid model deal between the ICC, PCB, and BCCI, and if they qualify for the final, then the title clash will also be held in the UAE city on March 9.
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.

On February 11, the PCB will launch the renovated National Stadium in Karachi with a ceremony in which President Asif Ali Zardari has been invited as the chief guest. Cricket SPorts

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in conjunction with the ICC will hold the opening ceremony of the upcoming Champions Trophy on February 16 in Lahore. A source in the PCB told PTI that chairman Mohsin Naqvi had approved a scheduled list of events prior to the first match of the tournament on February 19 at the National Stadium in Karachi between Pakistan and New Zealand. The PCB will officially open the renovated Gaddafi Stadium on February 7, for which Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has been invited as the chief guest. Also Read: 'We will be...': PCB reiterates as uncertainty looms aruond Champions Trophy On February 11, the PCB will launch the renovated National Stadium in Karachi with a ceremony in which President Asif Ali Zardari has been invited as the chief guest. The source said the PCB and ICC were also working out the schedule of the captains' press conference and photoshoots. They are likely to be held in Lahore on February 16. The opening ceremony is scheduled at Huzoori Bagh at the historic Lahore Fort, in which officials of different boards, celebrities, legends of the game, and government officials will be invited. The ICC and PCB are yet to confirm if Indian captain Rohit Sharma would be travelling to Lahore for the events. India will be playing their Champions Trophy matches in Dubai as part of a hybrid model deal between the ICC, PCB, and BCCI, and if they qualify for the final, then the title clash will also be held in the UAE city on March 9. 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.

Champions Trophy 2025: ICC, PCB to hold opening ceremony on Feb 16 in Lahore

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