Monday, July 13
India's hope for a third consecutive series win in Australia faltered as poor batting performances led to a 1-3 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Inconsistent displays from both young and senior players, along with ineffective partnerships and inadequate rest for bowlers, were highlighted by former chief selector Sunil Joshi as key factors in the loss.
A Pakistan Cricket Board official has ensured that preparations for the Champions Trophy are on track, with renovations at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and the National Bank Stadium in Karachi to be completed by early February. The tournament begins on February 19, with India playing their matches in Dubai as part of an agreement between the ICC, PCB and BCCI.
Varun Chakaravarthy's exceptional five-wicket haul led Tamil Nadu to bowl out Rajasthan for 267 in the Vijay Hazare Trophy pre-quarterfinals. His crucial spell helped dismantle Rajasthan's strong position, turning the game after a significant second-wicket stand. Chakaravarthy's form continues to bolster his case for a consistent spot in India's T20I squad.
Mohammed Shami showcased his form with a three-wicket spell for Bengal in the Vijay Hazare Trophy preliminary quarterfinal against Haryana. Despite being slightly expensive, 3 for 61, Shami's performance boosts his prospects for a comeback to the Indian team, having been absent since the 2023 ODI World Cup because of injury and subsequent flare-up issues during rehab.
SA20 League Commissioner Graeme Smith highlighted the league's uniqueness due to its professional and competitive franchises, strong local and international player rosters, and passionate fan support. He emphasised the positive global image the league projects, with filled stadiums and exciting matchups. Season 3 starts with Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs MI Cape Town.
As Team India faces England in a three-match ODI series, all eyes are on Virat Kohli's strategy. Former coach Sanjay Bangar and Sanjay Manjrekar believe ODIs are the ideal format for Kohli to rediscover his form, given his success in the 2023 ODI World Cup. Kohli aims to excel in ODIs, having retired from T20 Internationals.
Former New Zealand cricketer Martin Guptill has announced his retirement from international cricket after a 14-year career, expressing disappointment with how it ended. He played 367 matches and scored 23 international centuries. Guptill remains New Zealand's leading T20I run-scorer and played a pivotal role in notable innings, including a record-breaking double century in the 2015 World Cup.
Aakash Chopra announced his squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy, backing Rohit Sharma as captain and opener. He included players like Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and a mix of seasoned bowlers and spinners.
Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar anticipates Indian captain Rohit Sharma to adopt a conservative approach in the upcoming ODI series against England, aiming to regain his form. Bangar highlights the potential of Yashasvi Jaiswal as a backup player, favouring Shubman Gill alongside Sharma and Kohli as the top three.
Sunrisers Eastern Cape face MI Cape Town in the SA20 Season 3 opener at St George’s Park, with a sold-out crowd expected. Key players include Ottneil Baartman, Marco Jansen, Aiden Markram, and Tristan Stubbs for the Sunrisers, while MI Cape Town's squad features Trent Boult, Kagiso Rabada, and Reeza Hendricks. The match promises high energy and entertainment.
