Wednesday, April 30
India's star pacer Jasprit Bumrah's participation in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is uncertain due to a back swelling. His absence could weaken India's bowling attack and increase pressure on the team, especially ahead of crucial matches against strong contenders like Pakistan and New Zealand.
With the arrival of New Zealand legend Tim Southee as captain, the Sharjah Warriorz are optimistic about improving their ILT20 performance. The team has a promising mix of experience and youth. Southee is looking forward to working with head coach JP Duminy. Significant players like Jason Roy and Adam Milne are expected to make game-changing impacts.
UAE cricketers gain invaluable experience sharing the ILT20 stage with global cricket legends. Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull emphasises the benefits of local players learning from seasoned internationals, predicting long-term growth for UAE cricket. Season 3's commentary team features renowned names, ensuring the tournament's continued excitement and strategic depth.
During a Big Bash League match between Adelaide Strikers and Brisbane Heat, debutant Liam Haskett experienced a memorable moment. His father, Lloyd Haskett, caught a six hit by Nathan McSweeney in the stands. Commentators were surprised by this unexpected yet unique event.
Gautam Gambhir's tenure as India's head coach is under scrutiny. While he has had success in T20 cricket, his results in Tests and ODIs have been inconsistent. Dinesh Karthik highlighted the challenges Gambhir faces, especially after Rahul Dravid's successful era. Gambhir's comments on senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have also drawn attention.
Eighteen-year-old Lhuan-dre Pretorius made a remarkable debut with 97 off 51 balls to lead Paarl Royals to a nine-wicket victory over Sunrisers Eastern Cape in SA20 on Saturday. Pretorius and Joe Root's 132-run opening partnership was crucial, with Root praising Pretorius's skills and composure. Royals' bowlers restricted the Sunrisers to 175/5.
Hashmatullah Shahidi will captain Afghanistan in their first ICC Champions Trophy, starting February 19. Key players include Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rashid Khan, and Mohammad Nabi. Spinner Mujeeb-Ur-Rahman will miss the tournament. Afghanistan's group matches are against South Africa, England, and Australia.
The BCCI is likely to seek an extension to announce India's provisional squad for the Champions Trophy by January 19, past the ICC deadline of January 12. The decision follows the selection of the squad for the T20I series against England, with ODIs and the Champions Trophy squad announcement postponed.
Jemimah Rodrigues' maiden ODI century helped India secure a dominant 116-run victory over Ireland, clinching the series 2-0 in Rajkot. Rodrigues anchored the innings with 102 runs, while Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, and Harleen Deol also contributed significantly. Deepti Sharma's three-wicket haul led India's bowling attack.
Manchester City trounced Salford City 8-0 in the FA Cup, with youngsters Divin Mubama and Nico O'Reilly contributing significantly. Liverpool, Chelsea, and Brighton advanced convincingly, while Plymouth upset Brentford 1-0. Bournemouth, Leicester City, and Wolverhampton also secured wins, continuing their strong performances in the competition.
