<p>Shubman Gill and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-ban-most-wickets-in-icc-tournament-for-india-shami-60-zaheer-59-srinath-47-jadeja-43-bumrah-42-kumble-42-8740747" rel="dofollow">Mohammed Shami might have impressed everyone</a> with their match-winning performances against Bangladesh in Dubai, but Rohit Sharma has a certain someone in mind to take out for dinner after the game. His name is Axar Patel.</p>
<p>Rohit entered history books on Friday, becoming the fourth Indian, 10th overall and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-rohit-sharma-becomes-second-quickest-batter-to-11000-odi-runs-virat-kohli-india-bangladesh-dubai-8741096" rel="dofollow">second quickest batter ever to complete 11,000 ODI runs</a>, achieving the milestone in the sixth over of India&rsquo;s run chase. Though he made headlines, his fellow teammate failed to do so, and it&rsquo;s because of Rohit.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-shubman-gill-rates-dubai-hundred-against-bangladesh-his-most-satisfying-innings-8741418" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Gill rates Dubai hundred against Bangladesh &lsquo;his most satisfying innings&rsquo;</a></strong></p>
<p>Speaking of Axar, the left-arm spinner was on the verge of picking his maiden ODI hat-trick, having removed two batters on successive deliveries. He could have completed a majestic feat (for any bowler) had Rohit, standing in the first slip, wouldn&rsquo;t have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-ban-axar-misses-hattrick-after-rohit-drops-catch-in-slips-video-8739857" rel="dofollow">dropped a sitter</a>.</p>
<p>However, that drop cost India dearly, as the batter, Jaker Ali, scored a gritty 68, while his partner Towhid Hridoy completed his maiden hundred in the first innings. Their 154-run stand for the sixth wicket pulled Bangladesh out of trouble (losing five wickets for 35 at one stage), propelling the team to score a fighting 228 inside 50 overs.</p>
<p>Reflecting on the missed chance, Rohit sounded disappointed with his effort, adding he failed even by the standards he had set for himself.</p>
<p>&ldquo;May take him (Axar) for dinner tomorrow (smiles),&rdquo; Rohit said. &ldquo;No, that was an easy catch; I should have taken that catch with the standards I have set for myself. But I do know these things are bound to happen. Credit to Hridoy and Jaker, they stitched a nice partnership.&rdquo;</p>
<h3>Watch -</h3>
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<h2>Happy for Shami, Gill</h2>
<p>Mohammed Shami was the star among all Indian bowlers, returning with a five-wicket haul, his first since the 2023 ODI World Cup. Shami spearheaded the attack in Jasprit Bumrah's absence, with rookie Harshit Rana playing ahead of Arshdeep Singh, a move that paid dividends.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Crediting Shami and Gill, who scored an unbeaten 101 off 129 balls while chasing, helping India win their tournament opener in style, Rohit said, &ldquo;Very happy for him (Shami), long time waiting. We know what he brings to us. We need guys like him to stand up when we need. Gill, we know the class that he has, Shouldn't surprise anyone. It was good to see him bat till the end.&rdquo;</p>
<p>After India won their first match, their next game is against Pakistan this coming Sunday (Feb 23), and a win against their arch-rivals will all but seal their place in the Champions Trophy semis.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Courtesy of match-winning performances from Mohammed Shami and Shubman Gill, India beat Bangladesh by six wickets in their tournament opener in Dubai.

Shubman Gill and Mohammed Shami might have impressed everyone with their match-winning performances against Bangladesh in Dubai, but Rohit Sharma has a certain someone in mind to take out for dinner after the game. His name is Axar Patel. Rohit entered history books on Friday, becoming the fourth Indian, 10th overall and the second quickest batter ever to complete 11,000 ODI runs, achieving the milestone in the sixth over of India’s run chase. Though he made headlines, his fellow teammate failed to do so, and it’s because of Rohit. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Gill rates Dubai hundred against Bangladesh ‘his most satisfying innings’ Speaking of Axar, the left-arm spinner was on the verge of picking his maiden ODI hat-trick, having removed two batters on successive deliveries. He could have completed a majestic feat (for any bowler) had Rohit, standing in the first slip, wouldn’t have dropped a sitter. However, that drop cost India dearly, as the batter, Jaker Ali, scored a gritty 68, while his partner Towhid Hridoy completed his maiden hundred in the first innings. Their 154-run stand for the sixth wicket pulled Bangladesh out of trouble (losing five wickets for 35 at one stage), propelling the team to score a fighting 228 inside 50 overs. Reflecting on the missed chance, Rohit sounded disappointed with his effort, adding he failed even by the standards he had set for himself. “May take him (Axar) for dinner tomorrow (smiles),” Rohit said. “No, that was an easy catch; I should have taken that catch with the standards I have set for myself. But I do know these things are bound to happen. Credit to Hridoy and Jaker, they stitched a nice partnership.” Watch - View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) Happy for Shami, Gill Mohammed Shami was the star among all Indian bowlers, returning with a five-wicket haul, his first since the 2023 ODI World Cup. Shami spearheaded the attack in Jasprit Bumrah's absence, with rookie Harshit Rana playing ahead of Arshdeep Singh, a move that paid dividends. Crediting Shami and Gill, who scored an unbeaten 101 off 129 balls while chasing, helping India win their tournament opener in style, Rohit said, “Very happy for him (Shami), long time waiting. We know what he brings to us. We need guys like him to stand up when we need. Gill, we know the class that he has, Shouldn't surprise anyone. It was good to see him bat till the end.” After India won their first match, their next game is against Pakistan this coming Sunday (Feb 23), and a win against their arch-rivals will all but seal their place in the Champions Trophy semis. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit might take Axar out for dinner to compensate for his missed hat-trick chance

<p>Indian captain and veteran batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a> crossed the 11,000-run-mark in the ODIs during the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy</a> game against Bangladesh in Dubai while doing it in 261 innings, the second quickest in history. Without any surprise, his compatriot and ace batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> leads the chart, reaching the milestone in 222 innings. Rohit becomes the fourth Indian batter and the 10th overall to achieve this feat.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7dhm122-a4iyy8kh-a6wd5yvu">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fastest to 11000 ODI runs (by innings)<br>222 - Virat Kohli🇮🇳<br>261 - Rohit Sharma🇮🇳<br>276 - Sachin Tendulkar🇮🇳<br>286 - Ricky Ponting🇦🇺<br>288 - Sourav Ganguly🇮🇳<br><br>Fastest to 11000 ODI runs (by balls)<br>11831 - Virat Kohli🇮🇳<br>11868 - Rohit Sharma🇮🇳<br><br>Indians dominating the charts 💥💥&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/V1IjOUnOSu">pic.twitter.com/V1IjOUnOSu</a></p>
&mdash; Kausthub Gudipati (@kaustats) <a href="https://twitter.com/kaustats/status/1892570435595997683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>The right-handed batter crossed the 11,000 mark in the ODIs during the sixth over of India&rsquo;s run chase after hitting a four to left-armer Mustafizur Rahman in the mid-on area.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-afghanistan-captain-hashmatullah-shahidi-does-kapil-dev-at-presser-says-we-are-not-here-to-participate-we-are-here-to-win-8740877" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan captain does Kapil Dev at presser, says &lsquo;we are not here to participate...&rsquo;</a></strong></p>
<p>While Kohli leads the chart, and Rohit also becoming the latest entrant to the club, other Indian batters to have completed 11,000 runs in the ODIs were former captains and stalwarts Sourav Ganguly (288 innings) and Sachin Tendulkar (276). Rohit is placed behind Ganguly (11,363) on the list of batters with the most runs in this format, with veteran Sachin leading the charts with a whopping tally of 18,246 runs in 463 matches.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, among the top five quickest players to aggregate 11,000 ODI runs, of which four are Indians, the remaining one is former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, who sits in the fourth position (286 innings).&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Rohit, Kohli out in chase</h2>
<p>Chasing 229 in their tournament opener against Bangladesh, Rohit opened alongside his deputy Shubman Gill, with both going bonkers right from the word go. The pair added 69 for the first wicket, with the Indian captain scoring a quick-fire 41 off 36 balls, hitting seven boundaries.</p>
<p>As he looked like putting in the fifth gear, he top-edged off seamer Taskin Ahmed straight to the cover point position. His wicket brought Kohli onto the crease, also looking like getting a big score on the day, but seemed to have got carried away with Rishad Hossain&rsquo;s flight, hitting one straight to the gully on 22.</p>
<p>Until the 30th over, India had lost four wickets, including the star middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer on 15 and floater Axar Patel on just eight, with India&rsquo;s scorecard reading 144 for four at one stage.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

Cricket, Sports: While Rohit is the fourth Indian batter and 10th overall to achieve this feat, he sits second on that list, with his compatriot Virat Kohli leading the chart.

Indian captain and veteran batter Rohit Sharma crossed the 11,000-run-mark in the ODIs during the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy game against Bangladesh in Dubai while doing it in 261 innings, the second quickest in history. Without any surprise, his compatriot and ace batter Virat Kohli leads the chart, reaching the milestone in 222 innings. Rohit becomes the fourth Indian batter and the 10th overall to achieve this feat. Fastest to 11000 ODI runs (by innings) 222 - Virat Kohli🇮🇳 261 - Rohit Sharma🇮🇳 276 - Sachin Tendulkar🇮🇳 286 - Ricky Ponting🇦🇺 288 - Sourav Ganguly🇮🇳 Fastest to 11000 ODI runs (by balls) 11831 - Virat Kohli🇮🇳 11868 - Rohit Sharma🇮🇳 Indians dominating the charts 💥💥… pic.twitter.com/V1IjOUnOSu — Kausthub Gudipati (@kaustats) February 20, 2025 The right-handed batter crossed the 11,000 mark in the ODIs during the sixth over of India’s run chase after hitting a four to left-armer Mustafizur Rahman in the mid-on area. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan captain does Kapil Dev at presser, says ‘we are not here to participate...’ While Kohli leads the chart, and Rohit also becoming the latest entrant to the club, other Indian batters to have completed 11,000 runs in the ODIs were former captains and stalwarts Sourav Ganguly (288 innings) and Sachin Tendulkar (276). Rohit is placed behind Ganguly (11,363) on the list of batters with the most runs in this format, with veteran Sachin leading the charts with a whopping tally of 18,246 runs in 463 matches. Meanwhile, among the top five quickest players to aggregate 11,000 ODI runs, of which four are Indians, the remaining one is former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, who sits in the fourth position (286 innings). Rohit, Kohli out in chase Chasing 229 in their tournament opener against Bangladesh, Rohit opened alongside his deputy Shubman Gill, with both going bonkers right from the word go. The pair added 69 for the first wicket, with the Indian captain scoring a quick-fire 41 off 36 balls, hitting seven boundaries. As he looked like putting in the fifth gear, he top-edged off seamer Taskin Ahmed straight to the cover point position. His wicket brought Kohli onto the crease, also looking like getting a big score on the day, but seemed to have got carried away with Rishad Hossain’s flight, hitting one straight to the gully on 22. Until the 30th over, India had lost four wickets, including the star middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer on 15 and floater Axar Patel on just eight, with India’s scorecard reading 144 for four at one stage. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit Sharma becomes second quickest to 11,000 ODI runs

<p>Did Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi do a Kapil Dev at a pre-game presser? Remember when Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh, playing the former Indian captain Kapil in a Hindi movie named &lsquo;83&rsquo; said, "We are here to win," referring to his team's chances in the 1983 World Cup; Shahidi just did the same, saying Afghanistan are not just participating in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> for fun or to get better at their game, but to win the tournament.</p>
<p>Afghanistan will face <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/south-africa-at-champions-trophy-2025-swot-analysis-proteas-time-to-shine-at-multi-team-event-8729631" rel="dofollow">South Africa</a> in their tournament opener at the National Stadium in Karachi on Friday (Feb 21), and ahead of this crucial game, knowing what the Asian minnows did to the Proteas in their last bilateral ODIs (beating them 2-1), their captain coming out claiming his team&rsquo;s mission to win this event boosts their chances.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-bangladeshs-towhid-hridoy-beats-heat-cramps-to-notch-up-brilliant-hundred-against-india-8740585" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Bangladesh&rsquo;s Hridoy beats heat, cramps to hit maiden ODI ton against India</a></strong></p>
<h2>Afghanistan on the top!</h2>
<p>Since the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, where Afghanistan beat three former world champions&mdash;England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka&mdash;they entered this tournament on the back of four ODI series wins against Ireland, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe.</p>
<p>Even at last year&rsquo;s T20 World Cup in the Americas, Afghanistan stunned New Zealand and Australia in their group stage to make it to their maiden semis of an ICC event. Having achieved so much in the past year or so, Afghanistan is oozing with confidence ahead of its first game of this showpiece event.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pakistan-has-many-flaws-but-if-they-can-beat-india-mohammad-amir-8740393" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: &lsquo;Pakistan has many flaws, but if they can beat India&hellip;,&rsquo; Mohammad Amir</a></strong></p>
<p>"We are not here just to participate here in this tournament. We are definitely 100% looking to win this event," Shahidi said ahead of South Africa&rsquo;s clash in Karachi.</p>
<p>"We played a lot of quality cricket from last two years, and it's a good chance for us because the boys are very experienced, and these conditions are also suitable for us, so we have a good chance and let's start it from tomorrow, and hopefully we start with the win, and we go with the same momentum throughout the tournament."</p>
<p>"Recently, we beat them in Sharjah 2-1, so we have that confidence with us, and we are not under pressure anyway because right now we are focusing what we can do in this tournament, and I believe that our team is ready for this tournament and we are focusing on our own team. There is no pressure on us," he continued.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Afghanistan is placed in Group B, alongside the Proteas, the former two-time winners Australia and ex-world champions England. While they take on England (February 26) in Lahore, their clash against Australia is scheduled two days later at the same venue.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: In the lead-up to this tournament, Afghanistan won four ODI series—against Ireland, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe.

Did Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi do a Kapil Dev at a pre-game presser? Remember when Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh, playing the former Indian captain Kapil in a Hindi movie named ‘83’ said, "We are here to win," referring to his team's chances in the 1983 World Cup; Shahidi just did the same, saying Afghanistan are not just participating in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 for fun or to get better at their game, but to win the tournament. Afghanistan will face South Africa in their tournament opener at the National Stadium in Karachi on Friday (Feb 21), and ahead of this crucial game, knowing what the Asian minnows did to the Proteas in their last bilateral ODIs (beating them 2-1), their captain coming out claiming his team’s mission to win this event boosts their chances. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: Bangladesh’s Hridoy beats heat, cramps to hit maiden ODI ton against India Afghanistan on the top! Since the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, where Afghanistan beat three former world champions—England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka—they entered this tournament on the back of four ODI series wins against Ireland, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe. Even at last year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas, Afghanistan stunned New Zealand and Australia in their group stage to make it to their maiden semis of an ICC event. Having achieved so much in the past year or so, Afghanistan is oozing with confidence ahead of its first game of this showpiece event. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: ‘Pakistan has many flaws, but if they can beat India…,’ Mohammad Amir "We are not here just to participate here in this tournament. We are definitely 100% looking to win this event," Shahidi said ahead of South Africa’s clash in Karachi. "We played a lot of quality cricket from last two years, and it's a good chance for us because the boys are very experienced, and these conditions are also suitable for us, so we have a good chance and let's start it from tomorrow, and hopefully we start with the win, and we go with the same momentum throughout the tournament." "Recently, we beat them in Sharjah 2-1, so we have that confidence with us, and we are not under pressure anyway because right now we are focusing what we can do in this tournament, and I believe that our team is ready for this tournament and we are focusing on our own team. There is no pressure on us," he continued. Meanwhile, Afghanistan is placed in Group B, alongside the Proteas, the former two-time winners Australia and ex-world champions England. While they take on England (February 26) in Lahore, their clash against Australia is scheduled two days later at the same venue. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan captain does Kapil Dev at presser, says ‘we are not here to participate...’

<p>Bangladesh has a new hero, and his name is Towhid Hridoy. The young batter scored his maiden ODI hundred against India in the side&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-fans-show-cold-response-in-hot-dubai-conditions-for-india-vs-bangladesh-tie-8739542" rel="dofollow">opening game of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai</a> on Thursday (Feb 20), lifting his team from misery after India reduced Bangladesh to 35 for five at one stage.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7dcguh3-cn73ji0k-g9cflrnt">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Maiden ODI 💯 for Bangladesh's Tawhid Hridoy and what an occasion to bring it up 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BANvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BANvIND</a> ✍️: <a href="https://t.co/zafQJUBu9o">https://t.co/zafQJUBu9o</a> <a href="https://t.co/zgkUwb4MXy">pic.twitter.com/zgkUwb4MXy</a></p>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1892552816410952007?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>After being asked to bowl first, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-india-pacer-mohammed-shami-becomes-fastest-to-take-200-odi-wickets-ind-vs-bangladesh-8740336" rel="dofollow">Mohammed Shami</a>-led Indian bowling attack destroyed Bangladesh&rsquo;s top order by removing three of the five batters out on duck, with the remaining two on five (Mehidy Hasan Miraz) and 25 (Tanzid Hasan). With Bangladesh&rsquo;s back against the wall, the two batters &ndash; Jaker Ali and Hridoy, saved their team&rsquo;s day by posting a respectable target against the ODI giants.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pakistan-has-many-flaws-but-if-they-can-beat-india-mohammad-amir-8740393" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: &lsquo;Pakistan has many flaws, but if they can beat India&hellip;,&rsquo; Mohammad Amir</a></strong></p>
<p>The two deployed a cautious approach upfront, saving their wickets while beating the Dubai heat and the cramps (that followed) to pull their side out of trouble. Thanks to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ind-vs-ban-axar-misses-hattrick-after-rohit-drops-catch-in-slips-video-8739857" rel="dofollow">several dropped chances</a>, much to India&rsquo;s disappointment, the pair made the most of their second chances and kept the run rate ticking.</p>
<h2>Hridoy, the hero!</h2>
<p>Though Jaker stood his ground at one end, Hridoy&rsquo;s innings impressed everyone, including the dressing room that kept cheering him as he approached his maiden ODI hundred. Even after losing Jaker (on 68 off 114 balls) and spinner Rishad Hossain on 18, the right-handed batter kept going, scoring runs off poor balls while dodging or playing the good ones. That kept India under pressure, which at one stage looked like wrapping up Bangladesh under 100.</p>
<p>Soon after getting into his 90s, Hridoy fell on the pitch after playing a shot, screaming with pain as the Physio and his partner rushed to the spot to check on him. After a brief inspection, Hridoy returned to his feet, trying to push himself for each single.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In Shami&rsquo;s last over, where he later completed his five-for, his first since the ODI World Cup in 2023, Hridoy played one to the point and was pumped up on hitting his first ODI hundred.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7dcri9z-wbrydp58-iw0cxsoa">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Been hearing about Towhid Hridoy for a couple of years now and frankly, he hadn't done all that much. Showed his class today.</p>
&mdash; Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1892551441132195994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>He got out in the final over (off Harshit Rana) on 100, with Bangladesh scoring 228 in the first innings.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Sports, Cricket: Despite being reduced to 35 for five at one stage, Bangladesh scored a fighting 228 against India, thanks to a 154-run stand between Jaker Ali and Towhid Hridoy.

Bangladesh has a new hero, and his name is Towhid Hridoy. The young batter scored his maiden ODI hundred against India in the side’s opening game of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai on Thursday (Feb 20), lifting his team from misery after India reduced Bangladesh to 35 for five at one stage. Maiden ODI 💯 for Bangladesh's Tawhid Hridoy and what an occasion to bring it up 👏#ChampionsTrophy #BANvIND ✍️: https://t.co/zafQJUBu9o pic.twitter.com/zgkUwb4MXy — ICC (@ICC) February 20, 2025 After being asked to bowl first, the Mohammed Shami-led Indian bowling attack destroyed Bangladesh’s top order by removing three of the five batters out on duck, with the remaining two on five (Mehidy Hasan Miraz) and 25 (Tanzid Hasan). With Bangladesh’s back against the wall, the two batters – Jaker Ali and Hridoy, saved their team’s day by posting a respectable target against the ODI giants. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025: ‘Pakistan has many flaws, but if they can beat India…,’ Mohammad Amir The two deployed a cautious approach upfront, saving their wickets while beating the Dubai heat and the cramps (that followed) to pull their side out of trouble. Thanks to several dropped chances, much to India’s disappointment, the pair made the most of their second chances and kept the run rate ticking. Hridoy, the hero! Though Jaker stood his ground at one end, Hridoy’s innings impressed everyone, including the dressing room that kept cheering him as he approached his maiden ODI hundred. Even after losing Jaker (on 68 off 114 balls) and spinner Rishad Hossain on 18, the right-handed batter kept going, scoring runs off poor balls while dodging or playing the good ones. That kept India under pressure, which at one stage looked like wrapping up Bangladesh under 100. Soon after getting into his 90s, Hridoy fell on the pitch after playing a shot, screaming with pain as the Physio and his partner rushed to the spot to check on him. After a brief inspection, Hridoy returned to his feet, trying to push himself for each single. In Shami’s last over, where he later completed his five-for, his first since the ODI World Cup in 2023, Hridoy played one to the point and was pumped up on hitting his first ODI hundred. Been hearing about Towhid Hridoy for a couple of years now and frankly, he hadn't done all that much. Showed his class today. — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) February 20, 2025 He got out in the final over (off Harshit Rana) on 100, with Bangladesh scoring 228 in the first innings. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Bangladesh’s Hridoy beats heat, cramps to hit maiden ODI ton against India

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>AFG vs SA, Champions Trophy 2025 Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: </b>South Africa and Afghanistan will go head-to-head as they open their respective Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on Friday (Feb 21). The clash comes months after both teams had dream runs in the 2024 T20 World Cup with South Africa beating Afghanistan in the semis. Ahead of the contest between Afghanistan and South Africa in the Champions Trophy 2025, here are all the details.</p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Where to watch the Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 match on TV?</strong><o:p></o:p></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 match will be telecast on Sports 18 and Star Sports Network in India.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Where to watch the Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp;</span>match Live Streaming online on OTT?</strong><o:p></o:p></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 match will be live-streamed on the JioHotstar app and website in India.</p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Which stadium will host the Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 match?</strong></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 match will be played at the National Stadium in Karachi.</p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>What time will the Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 match start?</strong></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 match will start at 2:30 PM IST on Friday (Feb 21) with the toss taking place at 2:00 PM IST.<strong></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pak-skipper-muhammad-rizwan-offers-update-on-fakhar-zaman-injury-8739149" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy: Pak skipper Muhammad Rizwan offers update on Fakhar Zaman injury</a><br></strong></p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Champions Trophy 2025, AFG vs SA Squads</strong><o:p></o:p></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Afghanistan: </strong>Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Ikram Alikhil, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Nangyal Kharoti, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Farid Malik, Naveed Zadran. Reserves: Darwish Rasooli, Bilal Sami</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>South Africa: </strong>Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Corbin Bosch. Travelling reserve: Kwena Maphaka</p>

Sports, Cricket:  The Champions Trophy 2025 comes months after both teams had dream runs in the 2024 T20 World Cup with South Africa beating Afghanistan in the semis.

AFG vs SA, Champions Trophy 2025 Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: South Africa and Afghanistan will go head-to-head as they open their respective Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on Friday (Feb 21). The clash comes months after both teams had dream runs in the 2024 T20 World Cup with South Africa beating Afghanistan in the semis. Ahead of the contest between Afghanistan and South Africa in the Champions Trophy 2025, here are all the details. Where to watch the Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 match on TV? The Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 match will be telecast on Sports 18 and Star Sports Network in India. Where to watch the Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 match Live Streaming online on OTT? The Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 match will be live-streamed on the JioHotstar app and website in India. Which stadium will host the Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 match? The Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 match will be played at the National Stadium in Karachi. What time will the Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 match start? The Afghanistan vs South Africa Champions Trophy 2025 match will start at 2:30 PM IST on Friday (Feb 21) with the toss taking place at 2:00 PM IST. ALSO READ | Champions Trophy: Pak skipper Muhammad Rizwan offers update on Fakhar Zaman injury Champions Trophy 2025, AFG vs SA Squads Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Ikram Alikhil, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Nangyal Kharoti, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Farid Malik, Naveed Zadran. Reserves: Darwish Rasooli, Bilal Sami South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Corbin Bosch. Travelling reserve: Kwena Maphaka

AFG vs SA Live Streaming Free: When and where to watch Champions Trophy 2025 Afghanistan vs South Africa live online

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has taken a scathing dig at Babar Azam after he played a slow innings during Pakistan&rsquo;s defeat to New Zealand in the opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025 contest. Tasked to chase 321 runs, Pakistan lost by 60 runs during which Babar played a 64-run knock. The innings was later criticised by Ashwin as he compared the innings with the turtle from &ldquo;The Tortoise and Rabbit Story&rdquo;.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Babar&rsquo;s journey to 50 coupled with Salman Ali Agha&rsquo;s batting has to be the best depiction of &ldquo; The Tortoise and Rabbit story&rdquo; . <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy</a> <br><br>The 50 I hope will come soon enough🤞</p>
&mdash; Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1892236833641087072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</span></p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;"><strong>Ashwin makes scathing remark about Babar</strong><o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">"Babar's journey to 50 coupled with Salman Ali Agha's batting has to be the best depiction of 'The Tortoise and Rabbit story'. #ChampionsTrophy," Ashwin wrote on X.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">The former Pakistan scored 64 runs off 90 balls which consisted of 6 fours and a six before he was scalped by Mitchell Santner. However, the asking run rate was climbing consistently while Babar was in the middle leading to his harsh criticism. Interestingly, at one point the asking rate was above 10 as Pakistan were struggling to keep pace.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">Babar was given a good helping hand by Khushdil Shah as he played a quickfire innings of 69 runs off 49 deliveries. His innings consisted of 10 fours and a six while Salman Agha also contributed with 42 off 28. While other batters were contributing to reducing the asking rate, Babar&rsquo;s innings did no favours to Pakistan as they ended on a losing note.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">ALSO READ | </span><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-live-score-updates-champions-trophy-2025-ball-by-ball-updates-and-full-scorecard-india-vs-bangladesh-dubai-international-cricket-stadium-8738242" aria-label="LIVE | IND vs BAN Live Score, Champions Trophy 2025: India kickoff against Bangladesh in Dubai">LIVE | IND vs BAN Live Score, Champions Trophy 2025: India kickoff against Bangladesh in Dubai</a></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">The defeat to New Zealand now means Pakistan&rsquo;s clash against India on Sunday could be a must-win affair. If India and New Zealand both beat Bangladesh in their respective contests, then a defeat to India will spell the end of Pakistan&rsquo;s journey in the Champions Trophy 2025.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">The squad will now board their flight to Dubai as they face India in the Gulf nation under the hybrid model.</span></p>

Sports, Cricket: Tasked to chase 321 runs, Pakistan lost by 60 runs during which Babar Azam played a 64-run knock which made no favours for the defending champions.

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has taken a scathing dig at Babar Azam after he played a slow innings during Pakistan’s defeat to New Zealand in the opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025 contest. Tasked to chase 321 runs, Pakistan lost by 60 runs during which Babar played a 64-run knock. The innings was later criticised by Ashwin as he compared the innings with the turtle from “The Tortoise and Rabbit Story”. Babar’s journey to 50 coupled with Salman Ali Agha’s batting has to be the best depiction of “ The Tortoise and Rabbit story” . #ChampionsTrophy The 50 I hope will come soon enough🤞 — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) February 19, 2025 Ashwin makes scathing remark about Babar "Babar's journey to 50 coupled with Salman Ali Agha's batting has to be the best depiction of 'The Tortoise and Rabbit story'. #ChampionsTrophy," Ashwin wrote on X. The former Pakistan scored 64 runs off 90 balls which consisted of 6 fours and a six before he was scalped by Mitchell Santner. However, the asking run rate was climbing consistently while Babar was in the middle leading to his harsh criticism. Interestingly, at one point the asking rate was above 10 as Pakistan were struggling to keep pace. Babar was given a good helping hand by Khushdil Shah as he played a quickfire innings of 69 runs off 49 deliveries. His innings consisted of 10 fours and a six while Salman Agha also contributed with 42 off 28. While other batters were contributing to reducing the asking rate, Babar’s innings did no favours to Pakistan as they ended on a losing note. ALSO READ | LIVE | IND vs BAN Live Score, Champions Trophy 2025: India kickoff against Bangladesh in Dubai The defeat to New Zealand now means Pakistan’s clash against India on Sunday could be a must-win affair. If India and New Zealand both beat Bangladesh in their respective contests, then a defeat to India will spell the end of Pakistan’s journey in the Champions Trophy 2025. The squad will now board their flight to Dubai as they face India in the Gulf nation under the hybrid model.

Champions Trophy 2025: Ravi Ashwin takes scathing dig at Babar Azam, compares innings with tortoise

Indian opening batsman Shubman Gill become the new world No. 1 ODI batter, days ahead of their teams facing off in a much-awaited clash in the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025.

Shubman Gill claims world no. 1 ODI batsman spot ahead of champions trophy 2025

<p class="MsoNormal"><b>IND vs BAN, Champions Trophy 2025 Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue:&nbsp;</b>India will look to raise curtains on a high as they take on Bangladesh in their match of the Champions Trophy 2025 contest. The match will be played on Thursday (Feb 20) with India being the clear favourites after white-washing England 3-0 last week. Ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025 contest between India and Bangladesh, here are all the details, including live streaming, squads, and more.</p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Where to watch the India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match on TV?</strong><o:p></o:p></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be telecast on Sports 18 and Star Sports Network in India.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Where to watch the India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp;</span>match Live Streaming online on OTT?</strong><o:p></o:p></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be live-streamed on the Disney+Hotstar app and website in India.</p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Which stadium will host the India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match?</strong></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be played at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.&nbsp;</p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>What time will the India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match start?</strong></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will start at 2:30 PM IST on Thursday (Feb 20) with the toss taking place at 2:00 PM IST.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/swot-analysis-champions-trophy-2025-underdogs-with-a-fight-can-bangladesh-overcome-the-odds-8733923" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">SWOT analysis | Champions Trophy 2025: Underdogs with fighting spirit - Can Bangladesh overcome the odds?</a></strong></p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Champions Trophy 2025, IND vs BAN Squads</strong></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>India: </strong>Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill (Vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Rishabh Pant (WK), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohd. Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Ravindra Jadeja, Varun Chakaravarthy.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Bangladesh:</strong> Nazmul Hossain Shanto (c), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, MD Mahmud Ullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossain Emon, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana.</p>

IND vs BAN Live Streaming Free: India will look to raise curtains on a high as they take on Bangladesh in their match of the CT 2025 contest. Ahead of the match here are all the details.

IND vs BAN, Champions Trophy 2025 Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: India will look to raise curtains on a high as they take on Bangladesh in their match of the Champions Trophy 2025 contest. The match will be played on Thursday (Feb 20) with India being the clear favourites after white-washing England 3-0 last week. Ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025 contest between India and Bangladesh, here are all the details, including live streaming, squads, and more. Where to watch the India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match on TV? The India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be telecast on Sports 18 and Star Sports Network in India. Where to watch the India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match Live Streaming online on OTT? The India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be live-streamed on the Disney+Hotstar app and website in India. Which stadium will host the India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match? The India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be played at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. What time will the India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match start? The India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will start at 2:30 PM IST on Thursday (Feb 20) with the toss taking place at 2:00 PM IST. ALSO READ | SWOT analysis | Champions Trophy 2025: Underdogs with fighting spirit - Can Bangladesh overcome the odds? Champions Trophy 2025, IND vs BAN Squads India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill (Vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Rishabh Pant (WK), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohd. Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Ravindra Jadeja, Varun Chakaravarthy. Bangladesh: Nazmul Hossain Shanto (c), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, MD Mahmud Ullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossain Emon, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana.

IND vs BAN Live Streaming Free: When and where to watch Champions Trophy 2025 India vs Bangladesh live online

New Zealand beat Pakistan by 60 runs in the first match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Latham smashed an unbeaten 118 off 104 balls and Young hit 107 in New Zealand’s total of 320-5. Watch this report for more details!

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: New Zealand beat Pakistan by 60 runs in the opening game

<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><span>New Zealand's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/glenn-phillips">Glenn Phillips</a> added another spectacular catch to his ever-growing collection on Wednesday (Feb 19), leaving Pakistani fans absolutely stunned. The Kiwi all-rounder pulled off a sensational one-handed diving catch to dismiss Pakistan skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammad-rizwan">Muhammad Rizwan</a> during the opening match of the Champions Trophy at the National Stadium in Karachi.</span></p>
<p><span>The stunning moment happened on the final ball of the 10th over, with William O'Rourke bowling to Rizwan. The Pakistani captain slashed hard, sending the ball racing past the point region. Phillips dived full stretch and plucked the ball out of thin air. Rizwan, stunned, had to depart after scoring just three runs off 14 balls.</span></p>
<p><span><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></span></p>
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<p><span>Chasing a target of 321, Pakistan opened their innings with Saud Shakeel and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/babar-azam">Babar Azam</a>, as Fakhar Zaman was unavailable due to an injury sustained while fielding on the second ball of the tournament. Shakeel fell early, scoring six runs from 19 deliveries before being caught at third man by Matt Henry, giving Rourke his first wicket of the match.</span></p>
<h2><span>&lsquo;Means a great deal&rsquo; &mdash; Will Young celebrates special ton</span></h2>
<p><span>After being put into bat by Mohammad Rizwan, New Zealand posted a formidable 320 runs on the board. Will Young and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/tom-latham">Tom Latham</a> were the heroes with the bat, notching up crucial centuries and adding 118 runs for the fourth wicket. Their partnership rescued the Kiwis from a precarious position at 73 for 3 in the 19th over.</span></p>
<p><span>Speaking at the innings break, Young reflected on his knock: "Means a great deal, obviously. The start of the Champions Trophy, and to start like that is a special feeling. 320 is a good total; it didn't look that possible after those three early wickets. Tom Latham came out with the fire, and we managed to keep the board rolling. We&rsquo;ll have to see how the wicket behaves. It was difficult when they bowled back of a length, and it did spin as well."</span></p>
<p><span>Glenn Phillips and Tom Latham then accelerated the scoring, adding a blistering 125-run partnership for the fifth wicket in just 74 balls. Phillips hammered 61 off 39 deliveries, including three boundaries and four towering sixes. Latham, anchoring the innings, remained unbeaten on 118 off 104 balls, striking 10 fours and three sixes to propel New Zealand past the 300-run mark.</span></p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: The moment happened in 10th over, with William O'Rourke delivering to Rizwan. The Pakistani captain slashed hard, sending the ball racing past the point region

New Zealand's Glenn Phillips added another spectacular catch to his ever-growing collection on Wednesday (Feb 19), leaving Pakistani fans absolutely stunned. The Kiwi all-rounder pulled off a sensational one-handed diving catch to dismiss Pakistan skipper Muhammad Rizwan during the opening match of the Champions Trophy at the National Stadium in Karachi. The stunning moment happened on the final ball of the 10th over, with William O'Rourke bowling to Rizwan. The Pakistani captain slashed hard, sending the ball racing past the point region. Phillips dived full stretch and plucked the ball out of thin air. Rizwan, stunned, had to depart after scoring just three runs off 14 balls. Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) Chasing a target of 321, Pakistan opened their innings with Saud Shakeel and Babar Azam, as Fakhar Zaman was unavailable due to an injury sustained while fielding on the second ball of the tournament. Shakeel fell early, scoring six runs from 19 deliveries before being caught at third man by Matt Henry, giving Rourke his first wicket of the match. ‘Means a great deal’ — Will Young celebrates special ton After being put into bat by Mohammad Rizwan, New Zealand posted a formidable 320 runs on the board. Will Young and Tom Latham were the heroes with the bat, notching up crucial centuries and adding 118 runs for the fourth wicket. Their partnership rescued the Kiwis from a precarious position at 73 for 3 in the 19th over. Speaking at the innings break, Young reflected on his knock: "Means a great deal, obviously. The start of the Champions Trophy, and to start like that is a special feeling. 320 is a good total; it didn't look that possible after those three early wickets. Tom Latham came out with the fire, and we managed to keep the board rolling. We’ll have to see how the wicket behaves. It was difficult when they bowled back of a length, and it did spin as well." Glenn Phillips and Tom Latham then accelerated the scoring, adding a blistering 125-run partnership for the fifth wicket in just 74 balls. Phillips hammered 61 off 39 deliveries, including three boundaries and four towering sixes. Latham, anchoring the innings, remained unbeaten on 118 off 104 balls, striking 10 fours and three sixes to propel New Zealand past the 300-run mark. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy, PAK vs NZ: Glenn Phillips stuns Pakistani crowd with terrific one-handed catch to dismiss Muhammad Rizwan | WATCH

<p>Bangladesh captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/najmul-hossain-shanto">Najmul Hossain Shanto</a> expressed confidence in his team&rsquo;s abilities ahead of their crucial <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> Group A match against India in Dubai. Speaking to the media, Shanto stressed the importance of focusing on their own game plan rather than worrying about individual opponents.</p>
<p>When asked about the absence of Indian pace spearhead <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah">Jasprit Bumrah</a>, Shanto dismissed the idea that it gave Bangladesh an advantage.&nbsp;&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t think about any individual player. The Indian team is a quality side, and our focus is on executing our plans,&rdquo; he said firmly.</p>
<p>Shanto acknowledged the high standard of competition in the tournament, noting that all eight teams were strong contenders. &ldquo;If we execute our plans well, we&rsquo;ll have a good match against India,&rdquo; he added.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-kane-williamson-breaks-6-year-streak-during-opener-against-pakistan-8737013">Champions Trophy 2025: Kane Williamson breaks 6-year streak during opener against Pakistan</a></strong></p>
<p>Discussing the playing conditions in Dubai, Shanto pointed out the differences compared to Pakistan, where Bangladesh recently played Test matches.</p>
<p>&ldquo;The wickets here aren&rsquo;t as high-scoring as in Pakistan. We need to adjust accordingly, but having played in Pakistan recently, we&rsquo;re aware of the conditions there,&rdquo; he explained.</p>
<p>The Bangladesh skipper expressed faith in the balance of his squad and their ability to compete at the highest level.&nbsp;&ldquo;We have a well-balanced team. If we perform well and stick to our plans, I believe we can beat any team,&rdquo; he said confidently.</p>
<h2>'We have developed some good fast bowlers'</h2>
<p>Shanto also highlighted Bangladesh&rsquo;s growing strength in the pace department, noting that their fast bowlers could make a significant impact.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Over the past couple of years, we&rsquo;ve developed some good fast bowlers. If they hit the right areas, it&rsquo;ll be a big advantage for us,&rdquo; he said.</p>
<p>He praised the versatility within the team, mentioning the value of their all-rounders. &ldquo;We have some good all-rounders, and I hope they&rsquo;ll perform well tomorrow,&rdquo; he added.</p>
<p>When asked about the absence of veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan from the squad, Shanto kept his response brief, simply stating, &ldquo;No.&rdquo;&nbsp;The skipper also acknowledged the unwavering support of Bangladeshi fans worldwide.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Wherever we play, we get a lot of support,&rdquo; he noted, appreciating the passion of their supporters.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: With Bangladesh aiming to make a strong start in the tournament, all eyes will be on their performance against India as they look to turn confidence into results

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto expressed confidence in his team’s abilities ahead of their crucial Champions Trophy Group A match against India in Dubai. Speaking to the media, Shanto stressed the importance of focusing on their own game plan rather than worrying about individual opponents. When asked about the absence of Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, Shanto dismissed the idea that it gave Bangladesh an advantage. “I don’t think about any individual player. The Indian team is a quality side, and our focus is on executing our plans,” he said firmly. Shanto acknowledged the high standard of competition in the tournament, noting that all eight teams were strong contenders. “If we execute our plans well, we’ll have a good match against India,” he added. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Kane Williamson breaks 6-year streak during opener against Pakistan Discussing the playing conditions in Dubai, Shanto pointed out the differences compared to Pakistan, where Bangladesh recently played Test matches. “The wickets here aren’t as high-scoring as in Pakistan. We need to adjust accordingly, but having played in Pakistan recently, we’re aware of the conditions there,” he explained. The Bangladesh skipper expressed faith in the balance of his squad and their ability to compete at the highest level. “We have a well-balanced team. If we perform well and stick to our plans, I believe we can beat any team,” he said confidently. 'We have developed some good fast bowlers' Shanto also highlighted Bangladesh’s growing strength in the pace department, noting that their fast bowlers could make a significant impact. “Over the past couple of years, we’ve developed some good fast bowlers. If they hit the right areas, it’ll be a big advantage for us,” he said. He praised the versatility within the team, mentioning the value of their all-rounders. “We have some good all-rounders, and I hope they’ll perform well tomorrow,” he added. When asked about the absence of veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan from the squad, Shanto kept his response brief, simply stating, “No.” The skipper also acknowledged the unwavering support of Bangladeshi fans worldwide. “Wherever we play, we get a lot of support,” he noted, appreciating the passion of their supporters. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025 | IND vs BAN: ‘Not thinking about individual, focus is on executing our plans,’ says Bangladesh skipper

<p>New Zealand&rsquo;s star batter Kane Williamson&rsquo;s remarkable six-year streak of avoiding single-digit scores in ODIs came to an end during the ICC Champions Trophy opener against Pakistan on Wednesday (Feb 19).</p>
<p>Coming in to bat with New Zealand at 39/1, Williamson&rsquo;s stay at the crease turned out to be brief. He managed just one run off two balls before edging a delivery from Naseem Shah to wicketkeeper and Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pak-vs-nz-video-naseem-shah-bowls-dream-delivery-to-dismiss-kane-williamson-wtach-8736735">Champions Trophy, PAK vs NZ: Naseem Shah bowls 'dream delivery' to dismiss Kane Williamson | WATCH</a></strong></p>
<p>This was Williamson&rsquo;s first single-digit score in ODIs since January 5, 2019, when he scored just one run off nine balls against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;In the 38 matches and 36 innings between these two low scores, Williamson amassed 1,775 runs at an impressive average of 61.20, with three centuries and 12 half-centuries. His stellar run included a &lsquo;Player of the Tournament&rsquo; performance in the 2019 Cricket World Cup, where he scored 578 runs in nine innings at an average of 82.57, with two hundreds and two fifties, including a best score of 148.</p>
<h2>Injury scare for Fakhar Zaman?</h2>
<p>Earlier in the match,&nbsp;Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman suffered an injury scare during the opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand on Feb 19 in Karachi. The destructive batter is currently being checked for a muscular sprain.</p>
<p>Zaman suffered the scare on a shot by Will Young, who drove Shaheen Afridi through the covers. Zaman, while trying to stop the ball, seemed to have hurt his left side rib area and was forced off the field two balls into the match.</p>
<p>"Fakhar Zaman is being assessed and examined for a muscular sprain, and further updates will be provided in due course," said the PCB in a statement.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Williamson’s stay at the crease was brief. He managed just one run off two balls before edging a delivery from Naseem Shah to wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan

New Zealand’s star batter Kane Williamson’s remarkable six-year streak of avoiding single-digit scores in ODIs came to an end during the ICC Champions Trophy opener against Pakistan on Wednesday (Feb 19). Coming in to bat with New Zealand at 39/1, Williamson’s stay at the crease turned out to be brief. He managed just one run off two balls before edging a delivery from Naseem Shah to wicketkeeper and Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan. Also Read: Champions Trophy, PAK vs NZ: Naseem Shah bowls 'dream delivery' to dismiss Kane Williamson | WATCH This was Williamson’s first single-digit score in ODIs since January 5, 2019, when he scored just one run off nine balls against Sri Lanka. In the 38 matches and 36 innings between these two low scores, Williamson amassed 1,775 runs at an impressive average of 61.20, with three centuries and 12 half-centuries. His stellar run included a ‘Player of the Tournament’ performance in the 2019 Cricket World Cup, where he scored 578 runs in nine innings at an average of 82.57, with two hundreds and two fifties, including a best score of 148. Injury scare for Fakhar Zaman? Earlier in the match, Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman suffered an injury scare during the opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand on Feb 19 in Karachi. The destructive batter is currently being checked for a muscular sprain. Zaman suffered the scare on a shot by Will Young, who drove Shaheen Afridi through the covers. Zaman, while trying to stop the ball, seemed to have hurt his left side rib area and was forced off the field two balls into the match. "Fakhar Zaman is being assessed and examined for a muscular sprain, and further updates will be provided in due course," said the PCB in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Kane Williamson breaks 6-year streak during opener against Pakistan

<p>ICC Hall of Famer and former Australian skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ricky-ponting">Ricky Ponting</a> has thrown his support behind <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/steve-smith">Steve Smith</a> opening the batting during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, believing the experienced right-hander could anchor the innings at the top of the order.</p>
<p>Australia&rsquo;s campaign begins on February 22 in Lahore against arch-rivals England, followed by matches against South Africa (February 25) in Rawalpindi and Afghanistan (February 28) back in Lahore.</p>
<p>Ponting, speaking on The ICC Review, addressed Australia&rsquo;s mounting injury concerns. Regular captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pat-cummins">Pat Cummins</a>, fast bowlers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, all-rounders Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh, and even recently retired Marcus Stoinis (from ODIs) will miss the tournament, forcing selectors to make some bold calls.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pak-vs-nz-batter-fakhar-zaman-suffers-injury-scare-while-fielding-8736507">Champions Trophy, PAK vs NZ: Jolt for Pakistan as batter Fakhar Zaman suffers injury scare</a></strong></p>
<p>While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/travis-head">Travis Head</a> appears locked in for a top-order spot, Ponting speculated that moving Smith up from his usual No. 4 position could be on the cards. Smith has thrived as an opener in the Big Bash League, including hitting a blistering 121* off 64 balls for the Sydney Sixers in January.</p>
<p>Despite 151 ODI innings, Smith has never opened in the format. The move would also reflect concerns about the current form of young opener Jake Fraser-McGurk, who averages just 14 from seven ODI innings since debuting in February 2024. His best knock&mdash;41 off 18 balls&mdash;came against the West Indies, but consistency has eluded him.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Yeah, he is making it harder and harder (for selectors to stick with Fraser-McGurk),&rdquo; Ponting admitted. &ldquo;There&rsquo;s just so much talent there, but we haven&rsquo;t seen it consistently enough just yet. And that&rsquo;s one of the big calls they&rsquo;ll have to make now.&rdquo;</p>
<p>Ponting believes Smith&rsquo;s class and recent white-ball form could provide Australia with stability at the top.</p>
<p>&ldquo;(Smith) could be someone who could be an anchor through this Champions Trophy at the top of the order. And you know that with the form that he&rsquo;s in, he&rsquo;s going to make big runs,&rdquo; Ponting added.</p>
<p>However, he also acknowledged the upside of Fraser-McGurk&rsquo;s aggressive stroke play. &ldquo;Jake is the sort of player that, if he plays at his best&hellip; he could win a tournament (for Australia).</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Australia’s campaign begins on February 22 in Lahore vs England, followed by matches against South Africa (February 25) and Afghanistan (February 28) in Lahore

ICC Hall of Famer and former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting has thrown his support behind Steve Smith opening the batting during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, believing the experienced right-hander could anchor the innings at the top of the order. Australia’s campaign begins on February 22 in Lahore against arch-rivals England, followed by matches against South Africa (February 25) in Rawalpindi and Afghanistan (February 28) back in Lahore. Ponting, speaking on The ICC Review, addressed Australia’s mounting injury concerns. Regular captain Pat Cummins, fast bowlers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, all-rounders Cameron Green and Mitchell Marsh, and even recently retired Marcus Stoinis (from ODIs) will miss the tournament, forcing selectors to make some bold calls. Also Read: Champions Trophy, PAK vs NZ: Jolt for Pakistan as batter Fakhar Zaman suffers injury scare While Travis Head appears locked in for a top-order spot, Ponting speculated that moving Smith up from his usual No. 4 position could be on the cards. Smith has thrived as an opener in the Big Bash League, including hitting a blistering 121* off 64 balls for the Sydney Sixers in January. Despite 151 ODI innings, Smith has never opened in the format. The move would also reflect concerns about the current form of young opener Jake Fraser-McGurk, who averages just 14 from seven ODI innings since debuting in February 2024. His best knock—41 off 18 balls—came against the West Indies, but consistency has eluded him. “Yeah, he is making it harder and harder (for selectors to stick with Fraser-McGurk),” Ponting admitted. “There’s just so much talent there, but we haven’t seen it consistently enough just yet. And that’s one of the big calls they’ll have to make now.” Ponting believes Smith’s class and recent white-ball form could provide Australia with stability at the top. “(Smith) could be someone who could be an anchor through this Champions Trophy at the top of the order. And you know that with the form that he’s in, he’s going to make big runs,” Ponting added. However, he also acknowledged the upside of Fraser-McGurk’s aggressive stroke play. “Jake is the sort of player that, if he plays at his best… he could win a tournament (for Australia). (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025 | Australia’s opening dilemma: Ponting backs captain Smith to step up

<p>The Indian cricket team started their preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy with an intense net session after landing in Dubai. Players like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a>, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Hardik Pandya wasted no time getting used to the conditions ahead of their tournament opener.</p>
<p>During practice, India captain Rohit Sharma faced local left-arm pacer Awais Ahmad, sharpening his game against yorkers in anticipation of challenges from bowlers like Shaheen Shah Afridi and others. After the session, Rohit shared a light-hearted moment with Ahmad, who had tested him with pinpoint accuracy. &ldquo;Aap humare pair todhne ka koshish kar rahe the (You were trying to break my leg),&rdquo; Rohit remarked, adding a touch of camaraderie to the intense practice.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-gill-overtakes-babar-as-top-odi-batter-in-latest-icc-rankings-8735961">Champions Trophy 2025: Gill overtakes Babar as top ODI batter in latest ICC rankings</a></strong></p>
<p>Meanwhile, KL Rahul worked diligently on his big-hitting skills, embracing an aggressive approach as he prepared for his role in the middle order. Known for his technical finesse, Rahul appeared to shift gears, focusing on clearing the ropes with ease. Having scored a quickfire 40 off 29 balls in the third ODI against England, Rahul&rsquo;s role at No. 5 or 6 will be pivotal in the death overs, where acceleration is important. His range-hitting practice was evident during the high-intensity session, with sixes flowing off almost every delivery.</p>
<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"Aap humara pair todne ki koshish kar rahe the."<br><br>- Rohit Sharma to net bowler after Champions Trophy practice 🤣<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy</a> <a href="https://t.co/dpkVrqmE0L">pic.twitter.com/dpkVrqmE0L</a></p>
&mdash; Field Vision (@FieldVisionIND) <a href="https://twitter.com/FieldVisionIND/status/1891756252062974112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shreyas-iyer">Shreyas Iyer</a>, who has impressed with his aggressive stroke play in recent matches, also worked on his power game, adding depth to India&rsquo;s batting arsenal.</p>
<h2>Players fine tuning their skills</h2>
<p>Opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shubhman-gill">Shubman Gill</a>, fresh off a player of the series performance against England, looked in sublime touch once again. His scores of 87, 60, and 112 in that series seemed to have given him immense confidence, as he played elegant drives and authoritative pulls during practice.</p>
<p>Rohit, coming off a stellar 119 in the second ODI against England, continued to refine his form, working on late cuts and delicate touch shots, while Virat Kohli, who showed signs of resurgence with a steady 52 in the third ODI, looked confident and composed, middling the ball with precision as he focused on playing late and timing his strokes perfectly.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
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Cricket, Sports: After the end of the nets session, Rohit also had a fun chat with Awais Ahmad, who tested the India captain with some precise yorkers during the practice sessions

The Indian cricket team started their preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy with an intense net session after landing in Dubai. Players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Hardik Pandya wasted no time getting used to the conditions ahead of their tournament opener. During practice, India captain Rohit Sharma faced local left-arm pacer Awais Ahmad, sharpening his game against yorkers in anticipation of challenges from bowlers like Shaheen Shah Afridi and others. After the session, Rohit shared a light-hearted moment with Ahmad, who had tested him with pinpoint accuracy. “Aap humare pair todhne ka koshish kar rahe the (You were trying to break my leg),” Rohit remarked, adding a touch of camaraderie to the intense practice. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Gill overtakes Babar as top ODI batter in latest ICC rankings Meanwhile, KL Rahul worked diligently on his big-hitting skills, embracing an aggressive approach as he prepared for his role in the middle order. Known for his technical finesse, Rahul appeared to shift gears, focusing on clearing the ropes with ease. Having scored a quickfire 40 off 29 balls in the third ODI against England, Rahul’s role at No. 5 or 6 will be pivotal in the death overs, where acceleration is important. His range-hitting practice was evident during the high-intensity session, with sixes flowing off almost every delivery. Watch the video here: "Aap humara pair todne ki koshish kar rahe the." - Rohit Sharma to net bowler after Champions Trophy practice 🤣#ChampionsTrophy2025 #ChampionsTrophy pic.twitter.com/dpkVrqmE0L — Field Vision (@FieldVisionIND) February 18, 2025 Shreyas Iyer, who has impressed with his aggressive stroke play in recent matches, also worked on his power game, adding depth to India’s batting arsenal. Players fine tuning their skills Opener Shubman Gill, fresh off a player of the series performance against England, looked in sublime touch once again. His scores of 87, 60, and 112 in that series seemed to have given him immense confidence, as he played elegant drives and authoritative pulls during practice. Rohit, coming off a stellar 119 in the second ODI against England, continued to refine his form, working on late cuts and delicate touch shots, while Virat Kohli, who showed signs of resurgence with a steady 52 in the third ODI, looked confident and composed, middling the ball with precision as he focused on playing late and timing his strokes perfectly. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: 'You are trying to break our...': Rohit Sharma's reply with net bowler in Dubai

<p>India&rsquo;s star opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shubhman-gill">Shubman Gill</a> has risen to the top of the ICC Men&rsquo;s ODI batting rankings, overtaking Pakistan&rsquo;s Babar Azam just ahead of the ICC Men&rsquo;s Champions Trophy 2025. In the latest weekly rankings update, released on Wednesday (Feb 19), Gill&rsquo;s remarkable 112 from 102 balls against England in the third ODI in Ahmedabad helped him gain 23 rating points, taking his tally to 796&mdash;ahead of Babar Azam.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This marks Gill&rsquo;s return to the top spot, which he first claimed in November 2023 during the ICC Men&rsquo;s Cricket World Cup. His consistent form has given India a strong edge going into the eight-team tournament, with four Indian batters now featuring in the top 10. Captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a> is in third position, Virat Kohli remains steady in sixth, and Shreyas Iyer, after a solid knock of 78 in the same match against England, has moved up one slot to ninth.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ex-pakistan-spinner-calls-for-teaching-bcci-a-lesson-over-tantrums-8735569">Champions Trophy: Ex-Pakistan spinner calls for 'teaching BCCI a lesson' over tantrums</a></strong></p>
<p>Meanwhile, Pakistan&rsquo;s skipper Mohammad Rizwan has climbed six places to 15th after impressive performances in the Tri-Nation series at home, where he scored 122 not out against South Africa and 46 in the final against New Zealand.</p>
<p>His teammate Salman Agha, named player of the series, made a massive leap of 24 places to 48th after scoring 134 against South Africa and 45 in the final. Several other players made notable gains in the latest update, with South Africa&rsquo;s Heinrich Klaasen rising to fourth, New Zealand&rsquo;s Daryl Mitchell up to fifth, and solid progress from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/aiden-markram">Aiden Markram</a>, Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, and Tom Latham.</p>
<h2>'Theekshana is top-ranked bowler'</h2>
<p>Meanwhile, in the bowling rankings, Sri Lanka&rsquo;s mystery spinner Mahesh Theekshana has secured the top spot, displacing Afghanistan&rsquo;s Rashid Khan. South Africa&rsquo;s Keshav Maharaj has returned to the rankings in sixth position, while New Zealand spinner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mitchell-santner">Mitchell Santner</a> (up to seventh) and England&rsquo;s Adil Rashid (up to 22nd) have also made significant progress. Besides this, Pakistan&rsquo;s pace sensation, Naseem Shah, has progressed from 48th to 45th in the bowling rankings.</p>

Cricket, Sports: Gill’s 112 off 102 balls against England in the third ODI in Ahmedabad put him 23 rating points ahead of Babar with an aggregate of 796 points

India’s star opener Shubman Gill has risen to the top of the ICC Men’s ODI batting rankings, overtaking Pakistan’s Babar Azam just ahead of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. In the latest weekly rankings update, released on Wednesday (Feb 19), Gill’s remarkable 112 from 102 balls against England in the third ODI in Ahmedabad helped him gain 23 rating points, taking his tally to 796—ahead of Babar Azam. This marks Gill’s return to the top spot, which he first claimed in November 2023 during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. His consistent form has given India a strong edge going into the eight-team tournament, with four Indian batters now featuring in the top 10. Captain Rohit Sharma is in third position, Virat Kohli remains steady in sixth, and Shreyas Iyer, after a solid knock of 78 in the same match against England, has moved up one slot to ninth. Also Read: Champions Trophy: Ex-Pakistan spinner calls for 'teaching BCCI a lesson' over tantrums Meanwhile, Pakistan’s skipper Mohammad Rizwan has climbed six places to 15th after impressive performances in the Tri-Nation series at home, where he scored 122 not out against South Africa and 46 in the final against New Zealand. His teammate Salman Agha, named player of the series, made a massive leap of 24 places to 48th after scoring 134 against South Africa and 45 in the final. Several other players made notable gains in the latest update, with South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen rising to fourth, New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell up to fifth, and solid progress from Aiden Markram, Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, and Tom Latham. 'Theekshana is top-ranked bowler' Meanwhile, in the bowling rankings, Sri Lanka’s mystery spinner Mahesh Theekshana has secured the top spot, displacing Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan. South Africa’s Keshav Maharaj has returned to the rankings in sixth position, while New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner (up to seventh) and England’s Adil Rashid (up to 22nd) have also made significant progress. Besides this, Pakistan’s pace sensation, Naseem Shah, has progressed from 48th to 45th in the bowling rankings.

Champions Trophy 2025: Gill overtakes Babar as top ODI batter in latest ICC rankings

<p>As Bangladesh gears up for the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025, the cricketing world watches with keen interest. With a squad that emphasises on fighting spirit more than star power, Bangladesh faces a formidable challenge in a group stacked with cricketing giants.</p>
<p>The absence of stalwarts like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shakib-al-hasan">Shakib Al Hasan</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/tamim-iqbal">Tamim Iqbal</a> marks the dawn of a new era for the team, with fresh faces and emerging talents tasked with carrying the nation&rsquo;s cricketing hopes. This analysis delves into the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that could shape Bangladesh's journey in this prestigious tournament.</p>
<h2>Strengths</h2>
<p><strong>Experienced core: </strong>Bangladesh's backbone lies in its seasoned campaigners. The presence of veterans like Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah brings invaluable experience to the team. With 272 ODIs, Mushfiqur's ability to anchor the innings is a vital asset, while Mahmudullah's consistency and composure in the middle order provide stability.</p>
<p>Their combined leadership and tactical acumen will be essential in navigating high-pressure situations and guiding younger players on the global stage.</p>
<p><strong>Strong pace attack: </strong>The pace department is spearheaded by Taskin Ahmed and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mustafizur-rahman" rel="dofollow">Mustafizur Rahman</a>, both of whom have proven track records. Taskin, having emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the latest Bangladesh Premier League with 25 scalps, offers sharp bounce and aggression.</p>
<p>Mustafizur&rsquo;s deceptive cutters and death-over expertise add a different dimension to the attack. Young talents like Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Nahid Rana provide depth, promising a well-rounded pace arsenal.</p>
<h2>Weaknesses</h2>
<p><strong>Absence of key players: </strong>Missing Shakib Al Hasan due to suspension is a massive blow. His dual ability to control the game with both bat and ball has been pivotal for Bangladesh. Without Shakib, the middle order looks vulnerable, and the spin department lacks a proven match-winner.</p>
<p>Litton Das' omission, following a string of poor performances, leaves the top order without its aggressive opener. His absence could result in a more cautious start, potentially affecting Bangladesh&rsquo;s scoring momentum.</p>
<p><strong>Batting inconsistency: </strong>The top-order inconsistency is a major concern. Players like Tanzid Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto have struggled to string together reliable scores, with averages below 30 in recent series.&nbsp;The lack of left-handed options beyond Soumya Sarkar makes the lineup predictable, allowing opposition bowlers to devise effective strategies.</p>
<h2>Opportunities</h2>
<p><strong>Leadership of Najmul Hossain Shanto: </strong>Shanto's captaincy offers a fresh tactical outlook. His recent performances suggest a growing maturity, and leading the side in such a tournament provides an opportunity to build a resilient, unified team.&nbsp;A successful campaign could cement his role as a long-term leader for Bangladesh.</p>
<p><strong>Emerging talents: </strong>Young players like Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Towhid Hridoy have shown immense promise in domestic circuits. Tanzid&rsquo;s impressive BPL season, where he scored 485 runs at an average of 44.09, highlights his potential.&nbsp;Tanzim Hasan Sakib, with 16 wickets in 9 BPL matches, has a golden opportunity to make his mark and secure his spot in the national setup.</p>
<h2>Threats</h2>
<p><strong>Inexperience in high-stakes matches: </strong>While promising, the younger members of the squad lack experience in high-pressure international matches. This inexperience might lead to costly lapses in judgment, especially in crunch situations.&nbsp;The coaching staff needs to prepare the team mentally and tactically to withstand the rigors of the Champions Trophy.</p>
<p><strong>Formidable group stage opponents: </strong>Bangladesh finds itself in a challenging group with India, Pakistan, and New Zealand&mdash;all teams with strong ICC tournament records. Recent series losses to teams like the West Indies and Afghanistan have exposed Bangladesh&rsquo;s vulnerabilities, particularly in chasing or setting competitive totals. Overcoming both the psychological and on-field challenges of facing such formidable opponents will be a tall task.</p>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p>Bangladesh enters the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as underdogs, with a squad that emphasises resilience over raw power. The experienced core of Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah provides a stabilising presence, while the pace attack led by Taskin and Mustafizur holds promise.</p>
<p>However, the absence of Shakib Al Hasan and Litton Das leaves significant gaps, and batting inconsistencies remain a pressing issue. If emerging talents like Tanzid Hasan and Towhid Hridoy can rise to the occasion, Bangladesh could spring a surprise or two.</p>

Cricket, Sports: With a squad that emphasises on fighting spirit more than star power, Bangladesh faces a formidable challenge in a group stacked with cricketing giants

As Bangladesh gears up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the cricketing world watches with keen interest. With a squad that emphasises on fighting spirit more than star power, Bangladesh faces a formidable challenge in a group stacked with cricketing giants. The absence of stalwarts like Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal marks the dawn of a new era for the team, with fresh faces and emerging talents tasked with carrying the nation’s cricketing hopes. This analysis delves into the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that could shape Bangladesh's journey in this prestigious tournament. Strengths Experienced core: Bangladesh's backbone lies in its seasoned campaigners. The presence of veterans like Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah brings invaluable experience to the team. With 272 ODIs, Mushfiqur's ability to anchor the innings is a vital asset, while Mahmudullah's consistency and composure in the middle order provide stability. Their combined leadership and tactical acumen will be essential in navigating high-pressure situations and guiding younger players on the global stage. Strong pace attack: The pace department is spearheaded by Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman, both of whom have proven track records. Taskin, having emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the latest Bangladesh Premier League with 25 scalps, offers sharp bounce and aggression. Mustafizur’s deceptive cutters and death-over expertise add a different dimension to the attack. Young talents like Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Nahid Rana provide depth, promising a well-rounded pace arsenal. Weaknesses Absence of key players: Missing Shakib Al Hasan due to suspension is a massive blow. His dual ability to control the game with both bat and ball has been pivotal for Bangladesh. Without Shakib, the middle order looks vulnerable, and the spin department lacks a proven match-winner. Litton Das' omission, following a string of poor performances, leaves the top order without its aggressive opener. His absence could result in a more cautious start, potentially affecting Bangladesh’s scoring momentum. Batting inconsistency: The top-order inconsistency is a major concern. Players like Tanzid Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto have struggled to string together reliable scores, with averages below 30 in recent series. The lack of left-handed options beyond Soumya Sarkar makes the lineup predictable, allowing opposition bowlers to devise effective strategies. Opportunities Leadership of Najmul Hossain Shanto: Shanto's captaincy offers a fresh tactical outlook. His recent performances suggest a growing maturity, and leading the side in such a tournament provides an opportunity to build a resilient, unified team. A successful campaign could cement his role as a long-term leader for Bangladesh. Emerging talents: Young players like Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Towhid Hridoy have shown immense promise in domestic circuits. Tanzid’s impressive BPL season, where he scored 485 runs at an average of 44.09, highlights his potential. Tanzim Hasan Sakib, with 16 wickets in 9 BPL matches, has a golden opportunity to make his mark and secure his spot in the national setup. Threats Inexperience in high-stakes matches: While promising, the younger members of the squad lack experience in high-pressure international matches. This inexperience might lead to costly lapses in judgment, especially in crunch situations. The coaching staff needs to prepare the team mentally and tactically to withstand the rigors of the Champions Trophy. Formidable group stage opponents: Bangladesh finds itself in a challenging group with India, Pakistan, and New Zealand—all teams with strong ICC tournament records. Recent series losses to teams like the West Indies and Afghanistan have exposed Bangladesh’s vulnerabilities, particularly in chasing or setting competitive totals. Overcoming both the psychological and on-field challenges of facing such formidable opponents will be a tall task. Conclusion Bangladesh enters the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as underdogs, with a squad that emphasises resilience over raw power. The experienced core of Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah provides a stabilising presence, while the pace attack led by Taskin and Mustafizur holds promise. However, the absence of Shakib Al Hasan and Litton Das leaves significant gaps, and batting inconsistencies remain a pressing issue. If emerging talents like Tanzid Hasan and Towhid Hridoy can rise to the occasion, Bangladesh could spring a surprise or two.

SWOT analysis | Champions Trophy 2025: Underdogs with fighting spirit - Can Bangladesh overcome the odds?

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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0" paraid="1629711104" paraeid="{a3073ec8-220b-4dba-8bb5-c75dca473b20}{34}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Afghanistan's journey to the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025 marks a historic milestone for the team as they make their maiden appearance in this prestigious 50-over tournament. </span></span></p>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0" paraid="1629711104" paraeid="{a3073ec8-220b-4dba-8bb5-c75dca473b20}{34}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Placed in a challenging group with Australia, England, and South Africa, Afghanistan have an exciting opportunity to showcase their growth as a cricketing powerhouse. With their formidable spin attack, dynamic opening pair, and familiarity with the conditions in Pakistan, they could surprise many. Here&rsquo;s a SWOT analysis of their prospects.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="2020717947" paraeid="{234878f8-4953-402d-b9ce-75ffc583ec29}{37}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Strengths</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></h2>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1316884564" paraeid="{234878f8-4953-402d-b9ce-75ffc583ec29}{53}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">World-class spin attack: </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rashid-khan">Rashid Khan</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammad-nabi">Mohammad Nabi</a>, Noor Ahmad, and Nangeyalia Kharote form one of the most lethal spin departments in the tournament. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Rashid Khan&rsquo;s exceptional economy rate (4.2) and wicket-taking ability provide a huge advantage on spin-friendly tracks. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Even with the absence of Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Afghanistan&rsquo;s depth in spin remains unmatched.</span></span><strong><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></strong></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1474813412" paraeid="{234878f8-4953-402d-b9ce-75ffc583ec29}{117}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Explosive opening pair: </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran&rsquo;s consistent opening stands (48.83 average partnership) set the tone for strong batting starts. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Their complementary styles ensure a balance of aggression and stability.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="506709327" paraeid="{234878f8-4953-402d-b9ce-75ffc583ec29}{173}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Familiar conditions:&nbsp;</span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Playing in Karachi and Lahore offers Afghanistan a home-like advantage, with spin-friendly pitches that suit their strength. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Many players have PSL experience, which helps them acclimatise quickly.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="174495284" paraeid="{234878f8-4953-402d-b9ce-75ffc583ec29}{213}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Weaknesses</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></strong></h2>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1227894875" paraeid="{234878f8-4953-402d-b9ce-75ffc583ec29}{229}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Middle-order inconsistency: </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Hashmatullah Shahidi, Rahmat Shah, and Gulbadin Naib have struggled for form, with averages below 33 since 2024. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Over-reliance on the top order makes Afghanistan vulnerable to collapses.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="227223250" paraeid="{b494191e-dddb-40f8-82ed-56b54f81cfc1}{22}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Inexperienced pace attack: </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Fazalhaq Farooqi leads the seam unit, but the support cast (Azmatullah Omarzai, Fareed Ahmad, Naveed Zadran) lacks experience against top-tier teams. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">High economy rates and inconsistent wicket-taking could hurt them on batting-friendly tracks.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="798391803" paraeid="{b494191e-dddb-40f8-82ed-56b54f81cfc1}{70}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Opportunities</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></strong></h2>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1919788337" paraeid="{b494191e-dddb-40f8-82ed-56b54f81cfc1}{134}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Young guns to shine:&nbsp;</span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Sediqullah Atal, Noor Ahmad, Nangeyalia Kharote, and Naveed Zadran have a chance to make a name for themselves on the world stage. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">A breakout tournament from any of these young talents could give Afghanistan a competitive edge.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW12912027 BCX0">
<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="623599004" paraeid="{b494191e-dddb-40f8-82ed-56b54f81cfc1}{182}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Favourable spin conditions: </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">With pitches likely to offer turn, Afghanistan&rsquo;s spinners could dominate and create match-winning scenarios.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="804895409" paraeid="{b494191e-dddb-40f8-82ed-56b54f81cfc1}{214}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Threats</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></h2>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1294981189" paraeid="{b494191e-dddb-40f8-82ed-56b54f81cfc1}{230}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Formidable group stage opponents: </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Facing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/australia-cricket">Australia</a>, England, and South Africa means Afghanistan cannot afford any slip-ups. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">All three teams have strong batting lineups and seam attacks that can expose Afghanistan&rsquo;s weaknesses.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="887505251" paraeid="{8a4679e0-eb44-480d-9aba-ef55fa16205e}{23}"><strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Lack of ODI exposure: </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Afghanistan&rsquo;s last ODI series was in December 2024 against Zimbabwe, which may leave them undercooked in the 50-over format. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">This lack of match practice could impact their rhythm and ability to perform under pressure.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW12912027 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW12912027 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1729730137" paraeid="{8a4679e0-eb44-480d-9aba-ef55fa16205e}{71}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW12912027 BCX0">Afghanistan have the talent and conditions to create upsets in the Champions Trophy 2025. Their spin attack is their biggest strength, and if they exploit the pitches well, they could challenge even the strongest teams. However, to progress beyond the group stage, they must address their middle-order woes, strengthen their pace unit, and improve their chasing record. A semi-final spot is within reach, but only if they bring their A-game consistently.</span></span></p>
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Cricket, Sports: Placed in a challenging group with Australia, England, and South Africa, Afghanistan have an opportunity to showcase their growth as a cricketing powerhouse.

Afghanistan's journey to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 marks a historic milestone for the team as they make their maiden appearance in this prestigious 50-over tournament. Placed in a challenging group with Australia, England, and South Africa, Afghanistan have an exciting opportunity to showcase their growth as a cricketing powerhouse. With their formidable spin attack, dynamic opening pair, and familiarity with the conditions in Pakistan, they could surprise many. Here’s a SWOT analysis of their prospects. Strengths World-class spin attack: Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, Noor Ahmad, and Nangeyalia Kharote form one of the most lethal spin departments in the tournament. Rashid Khan’s exceptional economy rate (4.2) and wicket-taking ability provide a huge advantage on spin-friendly tracks. Even with the absence of Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Afghanistan’s depth in spin remains unmatched. Explosive opening pair: Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran’s consistent opening stands (48.83 average partnership) set the tone for strong batting starts. Their complementary styles ensure a balance of aggression and stability. Familiar conditions: Playing in Karachi and Lahore offers Afghanistan a home-like advantage, with spin-friendly pitches that suit their strength. Many players have PSL experience, which helps them acclimatise quickly. Weaknesses Middle-order inconsistency: Hashmatullah Shahidi, Rahmat Shah, and Gulbadin Naib have struggled for form, with averages below 33 since 2024. Over-reliance on the top order makes Afghanistan vulnerable to collapses. Inexperienced pace attack: Fazalhaq Farooqi leads the seam unit, but the support cast (Azmatullah Omarzai, Fareed Ahmad, Naveed Zadran) lacks experience against top-tier teams. High economy rates and inconsistent wicket-taking could hurt them on batting-friendly tracks. Opportunities Young guns to shine: Sediqullah Atal, Noor Ahmad, Nangeyalia Kharote, and Naveed Zadran have a chance to make a name for themselves on the world stage. A breakout tournament from any of these young talents could give Afghanistan a competitive edge. Favourable spin conditions: With pitches likely to offer turn, Afghanistan’s spinners could dominate and create match-winning scenarios. Threats Formidable group stage opponents: Facing Australia, England, and South Africa means Afghanistan cannot afford any slip-ups. All three teams have strong batting lineups and seam attacks that can expose Afghanistan’s weaknesses. Lack of ODI exposure: Afghanistan’s last ODI series was in December 2024 against Zimbabwe, which may leave them undercooked in the 50-over format. This lack of match practice could impact their rhythm and ability to perform under pressure. Afghanistan have the talent and conditions to create upsets in the Champions Trophy 2025. Their spin attack is their biggest strength, and if they exploit the pitches well, they could challenge even the strongest teams. However, to progress beyond the group stage, they must address their middle-order woes, strengthen their pace unit, and improve their chasing record. A semi-final spot is within reach, but only if they bring their A-game consistently.

SWOT analysis | Champions Trophy 2025: Spinners, stars, and surprises-Can Afghanistan spin their way to success?

<p>Former Australian cricket captain and ICC Hall of Famer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ricky-ponting">Ricky Ponting</a> has endorsed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/arshdeep-singh">Arshdeep Singh</a> as the ideal replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah in India&rsquo;s pace attack for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.</p>
<p>India's preparations for the tournament took a significant hit when star pacer Bumrah was ruled out due to a back injury earlier this month. With their opening match against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20, India have limited time to finalise their bowling combination.</p>
<p>While young seamer Harshit Rana impressed during India's recent ODI series against England, Ponting believes Arshdeep&rsquo;s experience and skill set in T20 cricket make him the best candidate to partner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-shami">Mohammed Shami</a> with the new ball.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-babar-azam-eyes-pakistan-glory-on-home-soil-8733626">Champions Trophy 2025: Babar Azam eyes Pakistan glory on home soil</a></strong></p>
<p>"I would go with the left-armer and I'd go with Arshdeep (to replace Bumrah)," Ponting was quoted saying on The ICC Review.</p>
<p>"We know how good he's been in T20 cricket. If you think about the skill set, he probably provides a similar skill set to what Bumrah does with the new ball and death overs, and that's what India will miss.&rdquo;</p>
<p>Ponting acknowledged Harshit Rana's promise but highlighted Arshdeep&rsquo;s superior ability at the death.</p>
<p>"That's taking nothing away from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/harshit-rana">Harshit Rana</a> because I think he has a lot of talent and we know what he can do with the new ball. But I don't think his death skills are as good as what Arshdeep Singh&rsquo;s are," Ponting remarked.</p>
<p>The former Australian skipper emphasised the importance of having a left-arm bowler who can swing the new ball, especially against right-handed top orders in big tournaments.</p>
<p>Ponting also noted the depth in India&rsquo;s 15-player squad, suggesting that Hardik Pandya&rsquo;s all-round abilities could ease the pressure on Shami, while spinner Varun Chakravarthy might have a significant impact on the Champions Trophy.</p>
<p>&ldquo;I think (Varun) Chakravarthy can have a huge impact on the tournament as well for India. He&rsquo;s probably pretty much through his career been pigeonholed as a T20 bowler only, but with his variations and skill, he can be a game-changer," Ponting added.</p>
<h2>'India a formidable contender even sans Bumrah'</h2>
<p>Despite Bumrah's absence, Ponting believes India remain a formidable contender. &ldquo;Even with Bumrah not being there, yes, it's very hard to replace someone like that. But if any team can do it with the amount of talent that the Indians have got, it might be them,&rdquo; he said.</p>
<p>India&rsquo;s recent ODI series win over England also provided positive signs, with multiple batters finding form. Shubman Gill emerged as the top scorer, Shreyas Iyer anchored the middle order, and senior stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were among the runs.</p>
<p>"It&rsquo;s great to see Shreyas Iyer back in the team and playing well in the middle order. More importantly for India, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were back scoring runs and that's what they need going into big tournaments," Ponting observed.</p>
<p>He concluded by emphasizing the importance of momentum:&nbsp;&ldquo;Winning's a habit and to have that behind you, you can take some positives out of that. That confidence can carry over.&rdquo;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: India's preparations for the tournament took a significant hit when star pacer Bumrah was ruled out due to a back injury earlier this month

Former Australian cricket captain and ICC Hall of Famer Ricky Ponting has endorsed Arshdeep Singh as the ideal replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah in India’s pace attack for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. India's preparations for the tournament took a significant hit when star pacer Bumrah was ruled out due to a back injury earlier this month. With their opening match against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20, India have limited time to finalise their bowling combination. While young seamer Harshit Rana impressed during India's recent ODI series against England, Ponting believes Arshdeep’s experience and skill set in T20 cricket make him the best candidate to partner Mohammed Shami with the new ball. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Babar Azam eyes Pakistan glory on home soil "I would go with the left-armer and I'd go with Arshdeep (to replace Bumrah)," Ponting was quoted saying on The ICC Review. "We know how good he's been in T20 cricket. If you think about the skill set, he probably provides a similar skill set to what Bumrah does with the new ball and death overs, and that's what India will miss.” Ponting acknowledged Harshit Rana's promise but highlighted Arshdeep’s superior ability at the death. "That's taking nothing away from Harshit Rana because I think he has a lot of talent and we know what he can do with the new ball. But I don't think his death skills are as good as what Arshdeep Singh’s are," Ponting remarked. The former Australian skipper emphasised the importance of having a left-arm bowler who can swing the new ball, especially against right-handed top orders in big tournaments. Ponting also noted the depth in India’s 15-player squad, suggesting that Hardik Pandya’s all-round abilities could ease the pressure on Shami, while spinner Varun Chakravarthy might have a significant impact on the Champions Trophy. “I think (Varun) Chakravarthy can have a huge impact on the tournament as well for India. He’s probably pretty much through his career been pigeonholed as a T20 bowler only, but with his variations and skill, he can be a game-changer," Ponting added. 'India a formidable contender even sans Bumrah' Despite Bumrah's absence, Ponting believes India remain a formidable contender. “Even with Bumrah not being there, yes, it's very hard to replace someone like that. But if any team can do it with the amount of talent that the Indians have got, it might be them,” he said. India’s recent ODI series win over England also provided positive signs, with multiple batters finding form. Shubman Gill emerged as the top scorer, Shreyas Iyer anchored the middle order, and senior stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were among the runs. "It’s great to see Shreyas Iyer back in the team and playing well in the middle order. More importantly for India, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were back scoring runs and that's what they need going into big tournaments," Ponting observed. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of momentum: “Winning's a habit and to have that behind you, you can take some positives out of that. That confidence can carry over.” (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Not Harshit, former Australia captain says THIS bowler will be crucial for India

<p>Babar Azam, Pakistan&rsquo;s star batter, is preparing to lead his team in the highly anticipated ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> on home soil. Nearly eight years after playing a key role in Pakistan&rsquo;s triumphant 2017 campaign, Babar is eager to guide his nation to another historic victory&mdash;this time in front of their passionate supporters.</p>
<p>"I am very excited," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/babar-azam">Babar</a> was quoted saying to ICC. "It&rsquo;s been a long time since we hosted an ICC tournament. As a player, I&rsquo;m thrilled, and the fans are equally excited."</p>
<p>Pakistan&rsquo;s emphatic 180-run win over India in the 2017 final remains a cherished memory, but Babar emphasises on staying focused on the present. "A lot has changed since 2017. We have new players in the squad, with only three or four remaining from that winning team. But the belief, confidence, and execution remain the same."</p>
<p>Pakistan kicks off its campaign against New Zealand in Karachi, where Babar will face off with fellow modern-day great Kane Williamson. The tournament features cricketing superstars like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/joe-root">Joe Root</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/steve-smith">Steve Smith</a>, and Virat Kohli, but Babar, the world&rsquo;s No. 1 ranked ODI batter, carries the hopes of a cricket-obsessed nation.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-babar-is-the-right-man-to-open-says-pakistan-skipper-rizwan-8733515">Champions Trophy 2025: 'Babar is the right man to open', says Pakistan skipper Rizwan</a><br><br></strong>"When you have responsibility as a senior player, and the team relies on you, I take it positively," Babar said. "I try to give my best in every match so that Pakistan wins, and I truly enjoy my cricket."</p>
<h2>'There is no pressure'</h2>
<p>Despite Pakistan&rsquo;s recent struggles in ICC tournaments, Babar remains confident. "There is no pressure. What&rsquo;s in the past is beyond us. We&rsquo;ve discussed our mistakes, worked on them, and we will try not to repeat them."</p>
<p>With the advantage of playing at home, Pakistan is hopeful for a turnaround. Lahore, Babar&rsquo;s hometown, is one of three host cities, and he believes familiarity with local conditions will play a crucial role. "Playing at home gives you an edge, as you know the conditions well. But you still have to play good cricket because all the teams are world-class."</p>
<p>Beyond cricket, Babar is excited about Pakistan hosting a global event. "It means a lot to us. The hospitality in Pakistan is amazing, and people here love cricket. Cricket brings everyone together&mdash;it unites the whole country, and everyone is praying for Pakistan&rsquo;s victory. That unity is special."</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Pakistan’s stunning 180-run victory over India in the 2017 final remains a cherished memory, but Babar insists that his focus is on the present

Babar Azam, Pakistan’s star batter, is preparing to lead his team in the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy on home soil. Nearly eight years after playing a key role in Pakistan’s triumphant 2017 campaign, Babar is eager to guide his nation to another historic victory—this time in front of their passionate supporters. "I am very excited," Babar was quoted saying to ICC. "It’s been a long time since we hosted an ICC tournament. As a player, I’m thrilled, and the fans are equally excited." Pakistan’s emphatic 180-run win over India in the 2017 final remains a cherished memory, but Babar emphasises on staying focused on the present. "A lot has changed since 2017. We have new players in the squad, with only three or four remaining from that winning team. But the belief, confidence, and execution remain the same." Pakistan kicks off its campaign against New Zealand in Karachi, where Babar will face off with fellow modern-day great Kane Williamson. The tournament features cricketing superstars like Joe Root, Steve Smith, and Virat Kohli, but Babar, the world’s No. 1 ranked ODI batter, carries the hopes of a cricket-obsessed nation. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: 'Babar is the right man to open', says Pakistan skipper Rizwan "When you have responsibility as a senior player, and the team relies on you, I take it positively," Babar said. "I try to give my best in every match so that Pakistan wins, and I truly enjoy my cricket." 'There is no pressure' Despite Pakistan’s recent struggles in ICC tournaments, Babar remains confident. "There is no pressure. What’s in the past is beyond us. We’ve discussed our mistakes, worked on them, and we will try not to repeat them." With the advantage of playing at home, Pakistan is hopeful for a turnaround. Lahore, Babar’s hometown, is one of three host cities, and he believes familiarity with local conditions will play a crucial role. "Playing at home gives you an edge, as you know the conditions well. But you still have to play good cricket because all the teams are world-class." Beyond cricket, Babar is excited about Pakistan hosting a global event. "It means a lot to us. The hospitality in Pakistan is amazing, and people here love cricket. Cricket brings everyone together—it unites the whole country, and everyone is praying for Pakistan’s victory. That unity is special." (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Babar Azam eyes Pakistan glory on home soil

<p>As Pakistan gears up for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> opener on Wednesday (Feb 19), captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rizwan">Mohammad Rizwan</a> has stressed the importance of heightened awareness and professionalism in the team&rsquo;s approach to high-stakes tournaments. After back-to-back defeats in the Tri-series, Pakistan is set to face New Zealand in their third clash this month, with Rizwan expressing confidence in his squad's potential despite recent challenges.</p>
<p>Speaking at a press conference at Karachi's National Stadium, Rizwan addressed the team's inconsistent performances in global tournaments. Since their Champions Trophy triumph in 2017, Pakistan reached the T20 World Cup semifinal in 2021 and the final in 2022 but have often struggled in ICC events, frequently bowing out in the group stages. &ldquo;On a personal level, I think we need to improve our awareness and professionalism,&rdquo; Rizwan remarked. &ldquo;Even now, there are players from whom our people might have less hope, but the outside world is watching and talking about them.&rdquo;</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-bcci-allows-indian-players-wives-to-stay-in-dubai-but-with-a-catch-reports-8733399">Champions Trophy 2025: BCCI allows Indian players wives to stay in Dubai but with a catch-Reports</a></strong></p>
<p>Rizwan noted that while local fans may question certain selections, international cricketing circles recognize and respect the talent within the squad. When asked about Pakistan's reputation for thriving as underdogs, Rizwan joked, &ldquo;If this is how we can win, then you should underrate us only.&rdquo; He emphasised the team&rsquo;s work ethic, courage, and intelligence, asserting that divine help would guide them toward success.</p>
<p>On the team&rsquo;s lineup and tactical approach, Rizwan indicated that the core combination remains unchanged. &ldquo;When Babar Azam was captain, we played a semifinal and a final, but we are trying to achieve that one percent that has been eluding us towards the end,&rdquo; he said.</p>
<h2>'Babar is a technically strong batter'</h2>
<p>A key talking point has been the opening pair, with Rizwan clarifying <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/babar-azam">Babar Azam</a>&rsquo;s position. &ldquo;If you look at the conditions and analyze what is best for the team, then it is Babar who should open,&rdquo; Rizwan stated. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not that we don&rsquo;t have options, but given the needs of the team, Babar is the right man to open. He is a technically strong batter and our opener.&rdquo;</p>
<p>The decision to persist with Babar as an opener was driven by strategic considerations, including home conditions and the necessity of a left-right batting combination. &ldquo;We needed someone to tackle the spinners, and Babar can do it. He is a solid and technical player,&rdquo; Rizwan explained.</p>
<p>Pakistan's pace attack received a boost with the news that Haris Rauf has recovered from a muscular sprain in his lower chest wall, which had kept him out of their last two matches. Rizwan confirmed that Rauf has regained fitness and is eager to perform in the Champions Trophy.</p>
<p>&ldquo;He is about 80 per cent fit and managed to bowl six to eight overs yesterday. Earlier, he was at 60 per cent, but today, he is back in full rhythm. He put in a lot of effort at the gym, bowled with intensity, and assured us that he was feeling no discomfort. We are hopeful that he will be fully fit,&rdquo; Rizwan stated.</p>
<p>Pakistan will open their campaign against New Zealand, followed by a highly-anticipated clash against India on February 23 in Dubai, before facing Bangladesh on February 27.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Pakistan will open their campaign against New Zealand, followed by clash against India on February 23 in Dubai, before facing Bangladesh on February 27

As Pakistan gears up for the Champions Trophy opener on Wednesday (Feb 19), captain Mohammad Rizwan has stressed the importance of heightened awareness and professionalism in the team’s approach to high-stakes tournaments. After back-to-back defeats in the Tri-series, Pakistan is set to face New Zealand in their third clash this month, with Rizwan expressing confidence in his squad's potential despite recent challenges. Speaking at a press conference at Karachi's National Stadium, Rizwan addressed the team's inconsistent performances in global tournaments. Since their Champions Trophy triumph in 2017, Pakistan reached the T20 World Cup semifinal in 2021 and the final in 2022 but have often struggled in ICC events, frequently bowing out in the group stages. “On a personal level, I think we need to improve our awareness and professionalism,” Rizwan remarked. “Even now, there are players from whom our people might have less hope, but the outside world is watching and talking about them.” Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: BCCI allows Indian players wives to stay in Dubai but with a catch-Reports Rizwan noted that while local fans may question certain selections, international cricketing circles recognize and respect the talent within the squad. When asked about Pakistan's reputation for thriving as underdogs, Rizwan joked, “If this is how we can win, then you should underrate us only.” He emphasised the team’s work ethic, courage, and intelligence, asserting that divine help would guide them toward success. On the team’s lineup and tactical approach, Rizwan indicated that the core combination remains unchanged. “When Babar Azam was captain, we played a semifinal and a final, but we are trying to achieve that one percent that has been eluding us towards the end,” he said. 'Babar is a technically strong batter' A key talking point has been the opening pair, with Rizwan clarifying Babar Azam’s position. “If you look at the conditions and analyze what is best for the team, then it is Babar who should open,” Rizwan stated. “It’s not that we don’t have options, but given the needs of the team, Babar is the right man to open. He is a technically strong batter and our opener.” The decision to persist with Babar as an opener was driven by strategic considerations, including home conditions and the necessity of a left-right batting combination. “We needed someone to tackle the spinners, and Babar can do it. He is a solid and technical player,” Rizwan explained. Pakistan's pace attack received a boost with the news that Haris Rauf has recovered from a muscular sprain in his lower chest wall, which had kept him out of their last two matches. Rizwan confirmed that Rauf has regained fitness and is eager to perform in the Champions Trophy. “He is about 80 per cent fit and managed to bowl six to eight overs yesterday. Earlier, he was at 60 per cent, but today, he is back in full rhythm. He put in a lot of effort at the gym, bowled with intensity, and assured us that he was feeling no discomfort. We are hopeful that he will be fully fit,” Rizwan stated. Pakistan will open their campaign against New Zealand, followed by a highly-anticipated clash against India on February 23 in Dubai, before facing Bangladesh on February 27. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: 'Babar is the right man to open', says Pakistan skipper Rizwan

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/board-of-control-for-cricket-in-india">BCCI</a>) has decided to allow Indian cricketers&rsquo; families to accompany them to Dubai during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, sources close to the development told WION. This move comes as a partial relaxation of their usual policy, which typically restricts family members from traveling with players for short tournaments.</p>
<p>However, there is a key condition: players&rsquo; families will be permitted to stay in Dubai only for a limited period and will not be allowed to stay for the entire tournament. Reports indicate that families can be present for only one match, and players must decide collectively which match they want their families to attend. A formal request will need to be submitted to the BCCI, after which necessary arrangements will be made.</p>
<p>This decision is expected to provide players with some emotional support while maintaining the focus on cricket.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ranji-trophy-2025-vidarbha-in-control-against-mumbai-advantage-kerala-vs-gujarat-8733214">Ranji Trophy 2025: Vidarbha in control against Mumbai; advantage Kerala vs Gujarat</a></strong></p>
<p>Earlier, the Indian Cricket Board barred wives and family members of cricket players from accompanying them for not more than 14 days on a 45-day long tour, alongside making it compulsory for all team members to travel together in the team bus. Per the latest report, the board issued these mandates to ensure better connectivity among players, leading to improved team performance.</p>
<p>Team India failed to qualify for the WTC Final 2025 following losing the away <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/border-gavaskar-trophy">BGT</a> Down Under for the first time in ten years.&nbsp;Despite winning the first Test in Perth, India conceded the lead, going down (1-3), and with that, lost the chance to make it to their third straight <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wtc">WTC</a> Final.</p>
<p><span>After India lost the home Test series to New Zealand (for the first time in history) before conceding the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (for the first time in a decade), the BCCI came down hard on the centrally contracted Indian cricketers,&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/domestic-cricket-participation-mandatory-for-india-selection-bcci-8628805" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">putting in several restrictions</a><span>.</span></p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: This move comes as a partial relaxation of their usual policy, which typically restricts family members from traveling with players for short tournaments

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to allow Indian cricketers’ families to accompany them to Dubai during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, sources close to the development told WION. This move comes as a partial relaxation of their usual policy, which typically restricts family members from traveling with players for short tournaments. However, there is a key condition: players’ families will be permitted to stay in Dubai only for a limited period and will not be allowed to stay for the entire tournament. Reports indicate that families can be present for only one match, and players must decide collectively which match they want their families to attend. A formal request will need to be submitted to the BCCI, after which necessary arrangements will be made. This decision is expected to provide players with some emotional support while maintaining the focus on cricket. Also Read: Ranji Trophy 2025: Vidarbha in control against Mumbai; advantage Kerala vs Gujarat Earlier, the Indian Cricket Board barred wives and family members of cricket players from accompanying them for not more than 14 days on a 45-day long tour, alongside making it compulsory for all team members to travel together in the team bus. Per the latest report, the board issued these mandates to ensure better connectivity among players, leading to improved team performance. Team India failed to qualify for the WTC Final 2025 following losing the away BGT Down Under for the first time in ten years. Despite winning the first Test in Perth, India conceded the lead, going down (1-3), and with that, lost the chance to make it to their third straight WTC Final. After India lost the home Test series to New Zealand (for the first time in history) before conceding the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (for the first time in a decade), the BCCI came down hard on the centrally contracted Indian cricketers, putting in several restrictions. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: BCCI allows Indian players' wives to stay in Dubai but with a catch-Reports

<p>With just a day left for the start of the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc">ICC</a> is going all out to bring the cricket fans closer to the action than ever before.</p>
<p>A minimum of 36 cameras, along with cutting-edge analytical tools and stunning visual enhancements, will capture every thrilling moment of the tournament, as per a statement from the ICC issued on Tuesday (Feb 18). Whether it&rsquo;s a diving catch or a powerful six, you won&rsquo;t miss a thing.</p>
<p>One of the most exciting innovations this year is Field 360&deg;. This virtual field model will illustrate fielding positions and strategies in real-time, giving viewers an in-depth understanding of the game as it unfolds.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-from-home-advantage-to-too-many-pacers-swot-analysis-of-pakistan-8732783">Champions Trophy: From home advantage to too many pacers - SWOT analysis of Pakistan</a></strong></p>
<p>The broadcast will also feature breathtaking aerial views thanks to drone cameras, while the roving buggy cam will take fans right to the heart of the action with immersive ground-level visuals. And, of course, the signature Spidercams will deliver stunning aerial shots and dynamic perspectives, adding a whole new dimension to the viewing experience.</p>
<p>For fans on the go, ICC TV is teaming up with JioStar to create a dedicated vertical feed, optimised for smartphones.</p>
<h2>Commentary panelist</h2>
<p>The commentary panel is packed with cricketing legends ready to bring you expert insights and lively discussions. Representing India are Sunil Gavaskar, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravi-shastri">Ravi Shastri</a>, Dinesh Karthik, and Harsha Bhogle. Pakistan's lineup features&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wasim-akram">Wasim Akram</a>, Bazid Khan, and Ramiz Raja. From England, Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton will share their expert analysis alongside West Indies great Ian Bishop.</p>
<p>New Zealand's commentary team includes the dynamic duo of Ian Smith and Simon Doull, while the Australian perspective will come from Matthew Hayden, Mel Jones, and Aaron Finch. South African legends Dale Steyn and Shaun Pollock round out this world-class panel.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: A minimum of 36 cameras, along with cutting-edge analytical tools and stunning visual enhancements, will capture every thrilling moment of the tournament

With just a day left for the start of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the ICC is going all out to bring the cricket fans closer to the action than ever before. A minimum of 36 cameras, along with cutting-edge analytical tools and stunning visual enhancements, will capture every thrilling moment of the tournament, as per a statement from the ICC issued on Tuesday (Feb 18). Whether it’s a diving catch or a powerful six, you won’t miss a thing. One of the most exciting innovations this year is Field 360°. This virtual field model will illustrate fielding positions and strategies in real-time, giving viewers an in-depth understanding of the game as it unfolds. Also Read: Champions Trophy: From home advantage to too many pacers - SWOT analysis of Pakistan The broadcast will also feature breathtaking aerial views thanks to drone cameras, while the roving buggy cam will take fans right to the heart of the action with immersive ground-level visuals. And, of course, the signature Spidercams will deliver stunning aerial shots and dynamic perspectives, adding a whole new dimension to the viewing experience. For fans on the go, ICC TV is teaming up with JioStar to create a dedicated vertical feed, optimised for smartphones. Commentary panelist The commentary panel is packed with cricketing legends ready to bring you expert insights and lively discussions. Representing India are Sunil Gavaskar, Ravi Shastri, Dinesh Karthik, and Harsha Bhogle. Pakistan's lineup features Wasim Akram, Bazid Khan, and Ramiz Raja. From England, Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton will share their expert analysis alongside West Indies great Ian Bishop. New Zealand's commentary team includes the dynamic duo of Ian Smith and Simon Doull, while the Australian perspective will come from Matthew Hayden, Mel Jones, and Aaron Finch. South African legends Dale Steyn and Shaun Pollock round out this world-class panel. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: 36 cameras and virtual reality - get ready for a unique and 360-degree experience - know the details

<p>As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025, New Zealand&rsquo;s star batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kane-williamson">Kane Williamson</a> took to Instagram to share his fond memories of playing against Pakistan.</p>
<p>In a video shared by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc">ICC</a>, Williamson reflected on one of his most unforgettable moments&mdash;a stunning catch to dismiss Abdullah Shafique during the 2023 World Cup.</p>
<p>&ldquo;In the moment, you&rsquo;re just trying to focus on what&rsquo;s important, where you need to be, and try to get there as quickly as possible, keeping your head nice and still, and hoping that it goes in&mdash;and on that occasion, it did,&rdquo; Williamson recalled.</p>
<p>The clip featured Williamson watching his incredible diving catch from the New Zealand vs. Pakistan clash in Bengaluru. Sprinting back, the Kiwi batter pulled off one of the tournament&rsquo;s most spectacular grabs, sending Shafique back to the pavilion.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-hope-india-team-will-deliver-says-bccis-vice-president-rajeev-shukla-8732647">Champions Trophy: 'Hope India team will deliver', says BCCI's vice-president Rajeev Shukla</a></strong></p>
<p>&ldquo;It was nice to be back on the field. The finger injury felt insignificant compared to the knee injury, which took six months to recover from. Taking that catch, I kind of dug into the ground,&rdquo; he shared, reflecting on his journey back to fitness.</p>
<p>Williamson also acknowledged how rain played a decisive role in that thrilling match, with Pakistan securing a stunning victory via the DLS method.</p>
<p>Watch the video here:</p>
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<p>&ldquo;An incredible game, actually. Rain-affected, and we ended up getting 400, and then the shortened match&mdash;Pakistan chased it down,&rdquo; he reminisced.</p>
<p>In that high-stakes World Cup encounter, New Zealand had posted a mammoth 401 for 6, powered by Rachin Ravindra&rsquo;s brilliant 105 and Williamson&rsquo;s composed 95. However, Pakistan&mdash;buoyed by Fakhar Zaman&rsquo;s blistering 126 off 81 balls&mdash;stayed ahead of the DLS target, claiming a crucial 21-run victory to keep their tournament hopes alive.</p>
<h2>'Great atmosphere playing against Pak'</h2>
<p>The two sides last met in the Tri-Nation Series final in Karachi on February 14, where New Zealand claimed a comfortable five-wicket victory. Will O&rsquo;Rourke&rsquo;s four-wicket haul and half-centuries from Daryl Mitchell and Tom Latham helped the Blackcaps chase down 243 with 28 balls to spare.</p>
<p>Looking ahead to the Champions Trophy, Williamson expressed his excitement: &ldquo;Always a great atmosphere playing against Pakistan, and I&rsquo;m sure that&rsquo;ll be the same, certainly with them playing at home.&rdquo;</p>
<p>Pakistan and New Zealand will kick off the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on February 19 in Karachi, with the much-anticipated opening match set to take place at the National Bank Cricket Stadium. A brief opening ceremony will mark the start of what promises to be a thrilling tournament.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Pakistan and New Zealand will once again face off in the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on February 19 in Karachi

As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, New Zealand’s star batter Kane Williamson took to Instagram to share his fond memories of playing against Pakistan. In a video shared by the ICC, Williamson reflected on one of his most unforgettable moments—a stunning catch to dismiss Abdullah Shafique during the 2023 World Cup. “In the moment, you’re just trying to focus on what’s important, where you need to be, and try to get there as quickly as possible, keeping your head nice and still, and hoping that it goes in—and on that occasion, it did,” Williamson recalled. The clip featured Williamson watching his incredible diving catch from the New Zealand vs. Pakistan clash in Bengaluru. Sprinting back, the Kiwi batter pulled off one of the tournament’s most spectacular grabs, sending Shafique back to the pavilion. Also Read: Champions Trophy: 'Hope India team will deliver', says BCCI's vice-president Rajeev Shukla “It was nice to be back on the field. The finger injury felt insignificant compared to the knee injury, which took six months to recover from. Taking that catch, I kind of dug into the ground,” he shared, reflecting on his journey back to fitness. Williamson also acknowledged how rain played a decisive role in that thrilling match, with Pakistan securing a stunning victory via the DLS method. Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) “An incredible game, actually. Rain-affected, and we ended up getting 400, and then the shortened match—Pakistan chased it down,” he reminisced. In that high-stakes World Cup encounter, New Zealand had posted a mammoth 401 for 6, powered by Rachin Ravindra’s brilliant 105 and Williamson’s composed 95. However, Pakistan—buoyed by Fakhar Zaman’s blistering 126 off 81 balls—stayed ahead of the DLS target, claiming a crucial 21-run victory to keep their tournament hopes alive. 'Great atmosphere playing against Pak' The two sides last met in the Tri-Nation Series final in Karachi on February 14, where New Zealand claimed a comfortable five-wicket victory. Will O’Rourke’s four-wicket haul and half-centuries from Daryl Mitchell and Tom Latham helped the Blackcaps chase down 243 with 28 balls to spare. Looking ahead to the Champions Trophy, Williamson expressed his excitement: “Always a great atmosphere playing against Pakistan, and I’m sure that’ll be the same, certainly with them playing at home.” Pakistan and New Zealand will kick off the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on February 19 in Karachi, with the much-anticipated opening match set to take place at the National Bank Cricket Stadium. A brief opening ceremony will mark the start of what promises to be a thrilling tournament. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Kane Williamson reminisces on rivalry with Pakistan ahead of opener

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice-president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rajeev-shukla">Rajeev Shukla</a> has expressed confidence that Team India will perform well in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, which begins on February 19.</p>
<p>India&rsquo;s campaign will start with a match against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 19, followed by high-profile encounters against Pakistan on February 23 and New Zealand on March 2. As part of the hybrid model, India will play all its matches in Dubai instead of Pakistan.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-shikhar-dhawan-picks-harshit-rana-as-x-factor-for-india-here-is-why-8732478">Champions Trophy: Shikhar Dhawan picks Harshit Rana as 'X' factor for India | Here's Why</a></strong></p>
<p>"The ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> is about to start, and our team is prepared for the matches against Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand. I&rsquo;m hopeful this team will deliver," Shukla was quoted saying to ANI.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, India will be without their pace spearhead <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah">Jasprit Bumrah</a>, who has been ruled out due to a lower back injury. His absence will be a significant blow for the team. Bumrah has been sidelined since January, with his last appearance being in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test against Australia in Sydney. After bowling 10.1 overs in the first innings, he experienced discomfort, went for scans, and was advised not to continue in the match. Although he batted in the second innings, he did not resume bowling duties.</p>
<p>Spinner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/varun-chakaravarthy" rel="dofollow">Varun Chakaravarthy</a> has been drafted into the squad following impressive performances against England in the home T20I series. Meanwhile, young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who was initially named in the main squad, has been moved to the non-travelling reserves after a disappointing ODI debut against England, where he managed only 15 runs off 22 balls in the series opener. He was dropped for the second ODI, with Virat Kohli replacing him in the playing XI, while Chakaravarthy made his ODI debut, taking 1/54 in his 10-over spell.</p>
<h2>India's squad for ICC Champions Trophy</h2>
<p>Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wicket-keeper), Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohd. Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Ravindra Jadeja, Varun Chakaravarthy.</p>
<p><strong>Non-traveling substitutes: </strong>Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mohammed Siraj and Shivam Dube. The three players will travel to Dubai as and when required.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

Cricket, Sports: India’s campaign will start against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 19, followed by encounters against Pakistan on February 23 and New Zealand on March 2

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice-president Rajeev Shukla has expressed confidence that Team India will perform well in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, which begins on February 19. India’s campaign will start with a match against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 19, followed by high-profile encounters against Pakistan on February 23 and New Zealand on March 2. As part of the hybrid model, India will play all its matches in Dubai instead of Pakistan. Also Read: Champions Trophy: Shikhar Dhawan picks Harshit Rana as 'X' factor for India | Here's Why "The ICC Champions Trophy is about to start, and our team is prepared for the matches against Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand. I’m hopeful this team will deliver," Shukla was quoted saying to ANI. Unfortunately, India will be without their pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who has been ruled out due to a lower back injury. His absence will be a significant blow for the team. Bumrah has been sidelined since January, with his last appearance being in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test against Australia in Sydney. After bowling 10.1 overs in the first innings, he experienced discomfort, went for scans, and was advised not to continue in the match. Although he batted in the second innings, he did not resume bowling duties. Spinner Varun Chakaravarthy has been drafted into the squad following impressive performances against England in the home T20I series. Meanwhile, young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who was initially named in the main squad, has been moved to the non-travelling reserves after a disappointing ODI debut against England, where he managed only 15 runs off 22 balls in the series opener. He was dropped for the second ODI, with Virat Kohli replacing him in the playing XI, while Chakaravarthy made his ODI debut, taking 1/54 in his 10-over spell. India's squad for ICC Champions Trophy Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wicket-keeper), Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohd. Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Ravindra Jadeja, Varun Chakaravarthy. Non-traveling substitutes: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mohammed Siraj and Shivam Dube. The three players will travel to Dubai as and when required. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: 'Hope India team will deliver', says BCCI's vice-president Rajeev Shukla

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<p class="Paragraph SCXW183376513 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="429213903" paraeid="{c154c945-cc05-4c8a-b6f4-48811139b949}{125}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0">During India&rsquo;s triumphant 2013&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> campaign, the cricketing world&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0">witnessed</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0"> the birth of what is now fondly called the 'Dhoni Review System.' Former India all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suresh-raina">Suresh Raina</a> recently shared insights into <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ms-dhoni">MS Dhoni</a>'s tactical brilliance during a show on official broadcaster Star</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0">.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW183376513 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW183376513 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="664841008" paraeid="{c154c945-cc05-4c8a-b6f4-48811139b949}{185}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0">India&rsquo;s commanding run in the tournament featured an unbeaten streak, with their emphatic eight-wicket victory against the West Indies standing out as a testament to their dominance. Raina highlighted how Dhoni&rsquo;s exceptional game management, including </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0">accurate</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0"> DRS calls, aggressive field setups, and bold decisions, played a pivotal role in their success.</span></span></p>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW183376513 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="664841008" paraeid="{c154c945-cc05-4c8a-b6f4-48811139b949}{185}"><strong><span class="EOP SCXW183376513 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-top-records-most-runs-most-wicket-highest-individual-score-best-bowling-in-an-innings-8731515">Champions Trophy: From most runs to most wickets - Check top records</a><br></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0"><br>"The Oval is a batting-friendly surface, but playing in Wales requires you to look up at the skies as much as down at the pitch," Raina remarked. "This is where the Dhoni Review System began. Every DRS he called was correct. His attacking field placements made </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0">a big difference</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0"> too. Virat Kohli was in the slips, Ashwin at leg slip, and Dhoni orchestrating everything from behind the stumps. He knew how to build pressure."</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW183376513 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW183376513 BCX0">
<p class="Paragraph SCXW183376513 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="559989252" paraeid="{c154c945-cc05-4c8a-b6f4-48811139b949}{217}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0">A key highlight of that West Indies match was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravindra-jadeja">Ravindra Jadeja</a>'s brilliant bowling performance, returning with figures of 5-36. Raina heaped praise on his teammate&rsquo;s accuracy and aggressive mindset, noting that Jadeja&rsquo;s ability to keep it at the stumps made him a unique all-rounder.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW183376513 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW183376513 BCX0">
<p class="Paragraph SCXW183376513 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1516738370" paraeid="{c154c945-cc05-4c8a-b6f4-48811139b949}{233}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0">"Jadeja was in top form that year across formats," Raina said. "If the wicket was dry, he became even more lethal. He bowled fast spin, straight deliveries, and Dhoni knew that if Jadeja could target the stumps for 35-40 deliveries out of 60, he would take five wickets."</span></span></p>
<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW183376513 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1516738370" paraeid="{c154c945-cc05-4c8a-b6f4-48811139b949}{233}"><span class="EOP SCXW183376513 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">'Virat enjoyed bowling'&nbsp;</span></h2>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW183376513 BCX0">
<p class="Paragraph SCXW183376513 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1730593645" paraeid="{c154c945-cc05-4c8a-b6f4-48811139b949}{249}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0">Raina also touched upon the role of part-time bowlers in the squad, crediting Dhoni&rsquo;s leadership for seamlessly integrating their contributions.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW183376513 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW183376513 BCX0">
<p class="Paragraph SCXW183376513 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1428936367" paraeid="{fb03963e-d642-4977-aff8-0a5f745b177f}{10}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0">"Virat enjoyed bowling a lot until he developed back tightness," Raina shared. "In England, if you're a slow medium pacer, you can contribute 3-4 overs. Dhoni knew how to extract those overs: 'Virat, come here. Rohit, come here. Raina, come here.' That&rsquo;s 10 overs right there."</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW183376513 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW183376513 BCX0">
<p class="Paragraph SCXW183376513 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="2054827134" paraeid="{fb03963e-d642-4977-aff8-0a5f745b177f}{26}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0">The combination of five frontline bowlers&mdash;Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja&mdash;along with the part-timers created a perfect balance, orchestrated masterfully by Dhoni.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW183376513 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW183376513 BCX0">
<p class="Paragraph SCXW183376513 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="737957874" paraeid="{fb03963e-d642-4977-aff8-0a5f745b177f}{42}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW183376513 BCX0">As India gears up for the upcoming Champions Trophy, with Rohit Sharma leading the side against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20, the echoes of Dhoni&rsquo;s leadership continue to inspire the team and its supporters.</span></span></p>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW183376513 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="737957874" paraeid="{fb03963e-d642-4977-aff8-0a5f745b177f}{42}"><span class="EOP SCXW183376513 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>

Cricket, Sports: India’s run in the tournament featured an unbeaten streak, with their eight-wicket win against the West Indies standing out as a testament to their dominance

During India’s triumphant 2013 Champions Trophy campaign, the cricketing world witnessed the birth of what is now fondly called the 'Dhoni Review System.' Former India all-rounder Suresh Raina recently shared insights into MS Dhoni's tactical brilliance during a show on official broadcaster Star. India’s commanding run in the tournament featured an unbeaten streak, with their emphatic eight-wicket victory against the West Indies standing out as a testament to their dominance. Raina highlighted how Dhoni’s exceptional game management, including accurate DRS calls, aggressive field setups, and bold decisions, played a pivotal role in their success. Also Read: Champions Trophy: From most runs to most wickets - Check top records "The Oval is a batting-friendly surface, but playing in Wales requires you to look up at the skies as much as down at the pitch," Raina remarked. "This is where the Dhoni Review System began. Every DRS he called was correct. His attacking field placements made a big difference too. Virat Kohli was in the slips, Ashwin at leg slip, and Dhoni orchestrating everything from behind the stumps. He knew how to build pressure." A key highlight of that West Indies match was Ravindra Jadeja's brilliant bowling performance, returning with figures of 5-36. Raina heaped praise on his teammate’s accuracy and aggressive mindset, noting that Jadeja’s ability to keep it at the stumps made him a unique all-rounder. "Jadeja was in top form that year across formats," Raina said. "If the wicket was dry, he became even more lethal. He bowled fast spin, straight deliveries, and Dhoni knew that if Jadeja could target the stumps for 35-40 deliveries out of 60, he would take five wickets." 'Virat enjoyed bowling' Raina also touched upon the role of part-time bowlers in the squad, crediting Dhoni’s leadership for seamlessly integrating their contributions. "Virat enjoyed bowling a lot until he developed back tightness," Raina shared. "In England, if you're a slow medium pacer, you can contribute 3-4 overs. Dhoni knew how to extract those overs: 'Virat, come here. Rohit, come here. Raina, come here.' That’s 10 overs right there." The combination of five frontline bowlers—Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja—along with the part-timers created a perfect balance, orchestrated masterfully by Dhoni. As India gears up for the upcoming Champions Trophy, with Rohit Sharma leading the side against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20, the echoes of Dhoni’s leadership continue to inspire the team and its supporters. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Ex India all-rounder reveals what led to birth of ‘Dhoni Review System’ in 2013

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/south-africa-cricket" rel="dofollow">South Africa</a> had come close to winning an ICC event several times before, including at last year&rsquo;s T20 World Cup in the Americas, where they lost the grand finale by a whisker (to India). However, with them not dropping their guard, having qualified for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wtc-final-2025" rel="dofollow">WTC Final 2025</a>, and looking strong as a white-ball unit, they might have their shot at glory this time in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a> in Pakistan.</p>
<h2>Here is the SWOT Analysis of South Africa at the Champions Trophy 2025 &ndash;</h2>
<h3>Strengths &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>South African team&rsquo;s unique blend of youth and experience keeps them ahead of everyone in the competition.</li>
<li>Their ultra-strong batting line-up, with all posing great ability to win matches off their own, further puts them on the pedestal to end a trophy drought &ndash; their last being the Champions Trophy title in the inaugural edition (1998). &nbsp;</li>
<li>South Africa&rsquo;s middle and lower order is perhaps the strongest among all teams, with power hitters like Heinrich Klaasen, who has the second-best strike rate among batters who have scored 150 or more runs since the last World Cup, David Miller and lanky all-rounder Marco Jansen.</li>
<li>Kagiso Rabada spearheading the pace attack is the best thing that happened to them since his debut, and they aim to make the most of it this time.</li>
<li>The selection of two prime ODI bowlers &ndash; Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi will boost their chances of chasing glory.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-at-champions-trophy-2025-swot-analysis-does-india-have-what-it-takes-to-win-their-second-icc-trophy-in-2-years-8729216" rel="dofollow">India at Champions Trophy 2025, SWOT Analysis &ndash; Does India have what it takes to win their second ICC trophy in 2 years?</a></strong></p>
<h3>Weaknesses &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>Of all the factors that denied South Africa an ICC trophy over the years, a weakened temperament leads the chart.&nbsp;</li>
<li>South African batters struggle against spin on most days, with their ODI series loss to Afghanistan (in Sharjah) last year being the prime example.</li>
<li>Too much reliability on their middle order could turn against them, as they must have their top three keeping wickets at least till the first Powerplay in most games.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Their dismal record of just five wins in 16 ODIs played since the last World Cup (2023) could be another factor haunting them in this eight-team tournament.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Opportunities &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>South Africa has perhaps the best chance to win an ICC trophy, their Champions Trophy title with the current squad.</li>
<li>Aiden Markram, their seasoned campaigner, has it in him to be their hero, both with the bat and his leadership skills.</li>
<li>Bavuma&rsquo;s captaincy could also propel the Proteas to upset some of the best teams in this competition, with winning the event being the ultimate aim.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Threats &ndash;</h3>
<ul>
<li>A six-match losing streak heading into the Champions Trophy might give an advantage to other teams.</li>
<li>Proteas' inability to strike gold and absorb the pressure has cost them all these years, and despite a banger of a squad at the helm, the chances of them suffering the same fate are higher.</li>
<li>South Africa has to face three prime semis contenders &ndash; Australia, England and Afghanistan, and though they can beat the heavyweights, going down in crucial matches could hamper their chances.</li>
</ul>
<p>South Africa is placed in Group B, with their first match scheduled against Afghanistan (Feb 21) before taking on Australia (Feb 25) and finally England (Mar 1) in the league stages.&nbsp;</p>

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW146314325 BCX0">
<p class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0" paraid="546317278" paraeid="{ee5dcfdb-e996-4517-8eee-0d334951e560}{34}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">The 2025 ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> is on the horizon, yet the cricketing world is abuzz with concerns over the alarming number of player withdrawals due to injuries. Notable absentees who would have played pivotal roles for their respective teams include India</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">&rsquo;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah">Jasprit </a></span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah">Bumrah</a>, Australia</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">&rsquo;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pat-cummins">Pat Cummins</a></span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">, Mitchell Starc,</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> and Josh Hazlewood, and South Africa</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">&rsquo;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">s Anrich Nortje, among others. </span></span></p>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0" paraid="546317278" paraeid="{ee5dcfdb-e996-4517-8eee-0d334951e560}{34}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">This spate of injuries raises a pressing question: Is the relentless cricketing calendar, amplified by&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">numerous</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> international fixtures and burgeoning franchise leagues, overburdening </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">players</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> and compromising their well-being?</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0" paraid="546317278" paraeid="{ee5dcfdb-e996-4517-8eee-0d334951e560}{34}"><strong><span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/swot-analysis-champions-trophy-2025-can-blackcaps-end-their-25-year-title-drought-8727803">SWOT Analysis: Champions Trophy 2025-Can Blackcaps end their 25-year title drought?</a><br></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><br>Over the past decade, cricket has&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">witnessed</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> an explosion of franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide. The Indian Premier League (IPL) set the precedent</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> back in 2007</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">, inspiring similar tournaments like Australia</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">&rsquo;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">s Big Bash League (BBL), the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and The Hundred in England</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">, among others</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">. These leagues offer lucrative contract</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">s </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">to top</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> talent. </span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">However, the overlapping schedules of these tournaments with international commitments have led to a congested calendar, leaving players with minimal downtime.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW146314325 BCX0">
<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="199079560" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{53}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">Physical </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">t</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">oll on </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">p</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">layers</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></h2>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW146314325 BCX0">
<p class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1482919697" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{69}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">Fast bowlers, in particular, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">bear the brunt of</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> this demanding schedule. </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">As per a study done on the topic, &lsquo;To determine if the comparison of acute and chronic workload is associated with increased injury risk in elite cricket fast bowlers&rsquo;, by Billy T Hulin, Tim J Gabbett, Peter Blanch, Paul Chapman, David Bailey, John W Orchard, it was observed </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">that significant increases in acute workload are associated with a heightened risk of injury among elite fast bowlers. The repetitive </span><span class="NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW146314325 BCX0">high intensity</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> demands, coupled with insufficient recovery periods, predispose them to stress fractures, muscle tears, and other debilitating injuries. </span></span></p>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1482919697" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{69}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">For instance, Australia's Mitchell Starc has previously grappled with injuries exacerbated by</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> continuous play, leading to decisions about prioritising rest over participation in certain series.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW146314325 BCX0">
<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="653434884" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{85}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">Mental </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">f</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">atigue</span></span><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></h2>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW146314325 BCX0">
<p class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="163412456" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{109}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">Beyond the physical ramifications, the relentless schedule contributes to mental fatigue</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> as well</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">. Players are often confined to bio-secure bubbles, isolated from family and friends, which can lead to feelings of burnout and disillusionment. </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">For example, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">England</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">&rsquo;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">s Tom Banton&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">candidly discussed in an interview how the pressures of constant competition and life within these bubbles led him to fall out of love with the game, highlighting the psychological strain players endure.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW146314325 BCX0">
<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="680794758" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{133}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">Impact on </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">m</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">ajor </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">t</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">ournaments</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></h2>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW146314325 BCX0">
<p class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1423335487" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{149}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">The timing of injuries often means that players are sidelined during&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">important</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">&nbsp; tournaments. The absence of key </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">players </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">not only </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">minimises</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">the quality of the competition but also affects team strategies. The 2025 Champions Trophy serves as a stark example, with several marquee </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">players</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">missing due to injuries </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">likely linked</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> to their exhaustive playing schedules.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW146314325 BCX0">
<p class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="336491537" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{165}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">While franchise leagues have </span><span class="NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW146314325 BCX0">revolutioni</span><span class="NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW146314325 BCX0">s</span><span class="NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW146314325 BCX0">ed</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> cricket by providing financial incentives and expanding the sport</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">&rsquo;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">s global reach, they also present challenges in balancing commercial interests with </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">player</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">s'</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> health.</span></span></p>
</div>
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<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1241588223" paraeid="{4a105ddd-edf5-439b-b3b6-f59edc998088}{235}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">What can be done?</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;</span></h2>
</div>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="1084122906" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{213}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">To mitigate the adverse effects of an overcrowded cricket calendar, several measures can be taken into action:</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW146314325 BCX0">
<ul>
<li class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="560644624" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{229}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">Strategic </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">s</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">cheduling: Cricket boards and league </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">organi</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">s</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">ers</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> must collaborate to create a cohesive schedule that allows players adequate rest between series and tournaments.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
<li class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="560644624" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{229}"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">Workload&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">m</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">anagement: Implementing rotation policies can help manage player workloads, especially for fast bowlers who are more susceptible to injuries.</span><span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li>
<li class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="560644624" paraeid="{f4207fff-6803-4592-af43-7ef6873de9db}{229}"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">Player&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">e</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">ducation: Educating players on the importance of rest and recovery can empower them to make informed decisions about their participation in various leagues and series.</span><span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}">&nbsp;</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW146314325 BCX0">
<p class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="2094538364" paraeid="{41d7ce78-72d0-463e-985d-ca21d9b91a36}{38}"><span data-contrast="auto"  lang="EN-US" class="TextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">At the&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">end of the day,&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">while the expansion of cricket through various leagues has enriched the sport, it is necessary to address the unintended consequence of player overexertion. Ensuring </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">a balance</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> between the game</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">&rsquo;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">s commercial growth and the health of its players is </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0">important</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW146314325 BCX0"> for the longevity and integrity of cricket.</span></span></p>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW146314325 BCX0"  lang="EN-US" paraid="2094538364" paraeid="{41d7ce78-72d0-463e-985d-ca21d9b91a36}{38}"><span class="EOP SCXW146314325 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}"><em>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</em>&nbsp;</span></p>
</div>

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

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

The price of non-stop cricket: Injuries and exhaustion

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

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

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

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

<p>With just two days before the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc">ICC</a> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy 2025</a>, a video was doing rounds on social media platform X, where the Indian flag was purportedly not hoisted at Karachi's National Bank stadium, one of the ICC tournament venues.</p>
<p>But what is the truth? WION's correspondent in Pakistan, Anas Mallick, has confirmed that the video is from the recently-concluded tri-nation series, which featured hosts Pakistan, South Africa and New Zealand. Hence, no Indian flag. Also, the flags shown in the video are of the teams who are set to practice in Karachi, which explains Afghanistan flag being included.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>See the viral video here:</strong></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">No Indian flag in Karachi: As only the Indian team faced security issues in Pakistan and refused to play Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan, the PCB removed the Indian flag from the Karachi stadium while keeping the flags of the other guest playing nations.<br><br>- Absolute Cinema,&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/2zmcATn7iQ">pic.twitter.com/2zmcATn7iQ</a></p>
&mdash; Nawaz 🇵🇰 (@Rnawaz31888) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rnawaz31888/status/1891070145314906408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p><strong>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</strong></p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/ugandan-runner-jacob-kiplimo-shatters-half-marathon-world-record-in-barcelona-8727525">Ugandan runner Jacob Kiplimo shatters half-marathon world record in Barcelona</a></strong></p>
<h2>India to play at a neutral venue</h2>
<p>The BCCI had previously communicated its decision to the International Cricket Council (ICC), citing the Indian government's refusal to grant clearance for the team's travel to Pakistan. Consequently, a hybrid model was adopted, allowing India to play its matches in Dubai.</p>
<p>The Champions Trophy is set to commence on February 19, with Pakistan hosting New Zealand at Karachi's National Stadium. India's campaign will begin on February 20 against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Stadium. The much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai, a match expected to draw huge viewership across countries.</p>
<p>This incident underscores the ongoing political tensions between the two cricketing nations, adding a complex layer to the tournament's dynamics.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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

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

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

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