Friday, April 25
Danish badminton player Mia Blichfeldt criticizes the playing conditions at the India Open Super 750 tournament, citing pollution and unsanitary surroundings. Amid stomach infection and exhaustion, she pushed through her matches but expressed frustration over wasted efforts. The Badminton Association of India acknowledges logistical challenges and is exploring alternate venue options with the Badminton World Federation.
Gulf Giants secured their first win of ILT20 Season 3, defeating Dubai Capitals by six wickets. Contributions from Gerhard Erasmus and Shimron Hetmyer helped chase down 166 runs with 11 balls remaining. The Giants' bowlers, especially Aayan Afzal Khan, were instrumental in restricting Dubai to 165/7. Dubai Capitals aim to address their fielding issues for better results ahead.
Selectors are optimistic about Jasprit Bumrah's recovery for the ICC tournament despite his back injury, while Mohammed Shami returns to the ODI squad. Shubman Gill has been named vice-captain, and Yashasvi Jaiswal receives his maiden ODI call-up. Mohammed Siraj is excluded, with Arshdeep Singh preferred for the seam bowling role.
Coldplay’s Mumbai concert was memorable for music and cricket fans as Chris Martin mentioned Indian cricketer Jasprit Bumrah during the show. Although Bumrah didn't appear on stage, the crowd cheered loudly. The band will perform again in Mumbai on January 19 and 21 before heading to Ahmedabad for two shows.
Rinku Singh, a renowned T20 cricketer, is set to marry Priya Saroj, the youngest woman MP in the current Lok Sabha. Their families are finalising the engagement and wedding plans after the parliamentary session and England T20I series. This rare pairing of a cricketer with an active politician has generated excitement on social media.
India captain Rohit Sharma and selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar announced the 15-member squad for the Champions Trophy. A viral video revealed Rohit's concerns over new BCCI guidelines, including family travel restrictions on long tours. Agarkar confirmed the implementation of a new travel policy document post Australia's series defeat.
Ajit Agarkar and Rohit Sharma announced India’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, omitting Sanju Samson despite his impressive T20I performance against South Africa. Samson’s absence from the Vijay Hazare Trophy and his last-minute unavailability for the preparatory camp influenced this decision, according to Kerala Cricket Association president Jayesh George.
Ryan Rickelton led MI Cape Town to victory against Joburg Super Kings with a stunning 89 off 39 balls. Joe Root's unbeaten 92 powered the Royals to an eight-wicket win over Pretoria Capitals. Faf du Plessis crossed 11,000 T20 runs, and remarkable catches by fans were celebrated in both matches.
The Gulf Giants secured their first victory of ILT20 Season 3 by defeating the Dubai Capitals by six wickets, thanks to a crucial 80-run partnership between Gerhard Erasmus and Shimron Hetmyer. Despite a challenging start, the Giants successfully chased down the target of 166 in 18.1 overs.
Wankhede Stadium celebrated its 50th anniversary with an event hosted by the Mumbai Cricket Association, featuring Rohit Sharma's playful antics and heartfelt speeches. Cricket legends like Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar were honored. Rohit promised to bring the 2025 Champions Trophy to Wankhede, and Ravi Shastri reminisced about his six-sixes feat from 1985.
