Category Cricket

Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal has left fans guessing about his relationship with wife Dhanashree Verma after sharing a mysterious post on Instagram. The couple, who tied the knot in 2020, are now at the center of separation rumors.

Chahal’s cryptic post on his Instagram story read:
“Hard work spotlights the character of people. You know your journey. You know your pain. You know what all you have done to reach here. The world knows. You stand tall. You have worked with all your sweat to make your father and your mother proud. Keep standing tall like a proud son always.”

This message, combined with other recent developments, has left fans wondering about the state of Chahal and Dhanashree’s marriage.

Signs of Trouble in Their Relationship

The rumors began after the couple unfollowed each other on Instagram. Reports also claim that Chahal deleted all pictures of Dhanashree from his profile. These actions have intensified speculation about an impending divorce.

Sources close to the pair suggest they have been living separately for a few months, making separation seem likely. However, neither Chahal nor Dhanashree has publicly addressed these rumors, and the exact reasons for their reported issues remain unclear.

Past Instances of Speculation

This isn’t the first time the couple’s relationship has faced rumors. In 2023, Dhanashree removed “Chahal” from her Instagram handle, which sparked similar discussions. Around the same time, Chahal posted a message on social media saying, “New life loading.”

At that time, Chahal denied the breakup rumors, asking fans not to believe or spread unverified news. Despite his clarification then, the recent developments have reignited questions about the couple’s relationship.

Fans Left in Suspense

Neither Chahal nor Dhanashree has made an official statement about their current situation. Fans of the couple are now waiting for clarity on whether these rumors are true or just another misunderstanding.

For now, Chahal’s cryptic post and their activity on social media continue to spark curiosity, leaving everyone guessing about the future of their marriage.

Rohit Sharma is expected to be dropped from the fifth and deciding Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Sydney due to his poor batting form. This would mark the first instance of an Indian captain being dropped for performance reasons.

Rohit’s struggles with the bat have been evident throughout the series. After joining the team for the second Test, he initially batted at No. 6 in Adelaide and Brisbane before moving to the opening position for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. However, he has managed just 31 runs in five innings, averaging only 6.20. This is the lowest batting average ever recorded by a visiting captain in Australia.

While head coach Gautam Gambhir avoided confirming Rohit’s exclusion, reports suggest the decision has already been made. “Everything is fine with Rohit. I don’t think there’s any issue,” Gambhir said when asked about the captain skipping the pre-match press conference. “The head coach is here, and that’s enough.”

With Rohit out, KL Rahul is expected to return as the opener alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. Shubman Gill, who was dropped for the fourth Test, is likely to make a comeback at No. 3.

The final decision on the playing XI will be announced on the morning of the match, according to the coach. Fans are now waiting to see how the team reshuffle will affect India’s chances in this crucial series decider.

South Africa has become the first team to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) final after a thrilling two-wicket win against Pakistan in Centurion. The final is set to be played at Lord’s next June.

The race for the second spot in the final is now between Australia, India, and Sri Lanka. All three teams have four matches left to play in the current WTC cycle.

Australia’s recent 184-run win over India in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has strengthened their chances of qualifying. A victory in their next Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) would secure their place in the final, regardless of how their two-match series against Sri Lanka turns out.

If Australia wins at the SCG, their win percentage will rise to 57, a number neither India nor Sri Lanka can surpass. However, if the SCG Test ends in a draw, Australia will need at least one draw in their series against Sri Lanka to qualify. This is because Sri Lanka could win both matches against Australia and reach a win percentage of 53.85, potentially overtaking them.

India’s chances depend on several factors. If they win the SCG Test, they could achieve a win percentage of 55.2. In that case, Australia would need at least one win against Sri Lanka to stay ahead.

Currently, India is in third place with a win percentage of 52.78, having dropped from the top spot after their series against Bangladesh. They are behind both South Africa and Australia, who have win percentages above 60.

India’s loss at the MCG marked the first time in this WTC cycle that their qualification is not entirely in their control. Their best hope now is to win their remaining matches and hope other results go in their favor.

The upcoming matches will be crucial for all teams as they fight for a chance to play in the WTC final.

Nitish Kumar Reddy’s stunning performance in the fourth Test against Australia has earned him praise from cricket legends, including Sunil Gavaskar, who called it one of the greatest innings in India’s Test history.

On Saturday, the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) announced a cash reward of Rs 25 lakh for the 21-year-old batter in recognition of his brilliant unbeaten 105 in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Reddy’s century was key in helping India reach 358 for 9 on Day 3.

Speaking about the achievement, ACA President Kesineni Sivanath said, “This is a proud and happy moment for the Andhra Cricket Association. Nitish Kumar Reddy has made us proud by being selected for the Test and international T20 formats. To honour his effort, we are awarding him Rs 25 lakh.”

Reddy, who has been impressive throughout the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, once again showcased his skill and determination. He partnered with Washington Sundar, adding 127 crucial runs for the eighth wicket. Sundar scored a gritty 50 off 162 balls, while Reddy’s century kept India in the game.

The highlight of Reddy’s innings was a straight drive off Scott Boland that brought up his maiden Test hundred. Even Boland, Australia’s fast bowler, praised the young Indian batter’s potential, saying, “He played really well. Coming in lower down the order, he tried to put pressure back on us. It looks like he has every shot in the book.”

Sunil Gavaskar described Reddy’s knock as a historic achievement, adding that it would be remembered as one of India’s finest in Test cricket.

Reddy’s unbeaten 105 has given India a fighting chance in the fourth Test. His determination and skill at such a young age have earned him admiration from fans and players alike, and his future in international cricket looks bright.

India’s star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah made history on Sunday by becoming the bowler with the best average among those who have taken 200 or more wickets in Test cricket. He also became the fastest Indian pacer to reach 200 Test wickets.

Bumrah achieved this milestone on Day 4 of the fourth Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. He dismissed Travis Head to claim his 200th Test wicket, marking a historic moment in his career.

Bumrah’s bowling average of 19.56 is now the best in Test cricket history among bowlers with over 200 wickets. He surpassed the previous record held by West Indies legend Joel Garner, who had an average of 20.34. Bumrah’s incredible consistency puts him ahead of other greats like Malcolm Marshall (20.94), Garner (20.97), and Curtley Ambrose (20.99). This makes him the only bowler with an average below 20 in this elite group.

The 30-year-old pacer also set a record as the fastest Indian to reach 200 wickets in terms of balls bowled, achieving the feat in just 8,484 deliveries. On the global list, he ranks fourth, behind Waqar Younis (7,725), Dale Steyn (7,848), and Kagiso Rabada (8,153).

Fastest to 200 Test Wickets (Balls Bowled):
– 7,725 – Waqar Younis
– 7,848 – Dale Steyn
– 8,153 – Kagiso Rabada
– 8,484 – Jasprit Bumrah

Bumrah achieved this milestone in his 44th Test, equaling Ravindra Jadeja. Only Ravichandran Ashwin, who took 38 matches, reached 200 wickets faster for India.

Bumrah’s amazing series continued as he clean-bowled Alex Carey to claim his 202nd Test wicket. With 29 wickets in this series, he became the most successful Indian pacer in a Test series in Australia.

Bumrah’s performance has set a new standard for Indian fast bowlers. His precision and skill have earned him a place among cricket’s legends, inspiring future generations of players.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has released the schedule for the Champions Trophy 2025. This big event will have eight teams and be played in a hybrid format, with matches held in both Pakistan and Dubai.

The tournament starts on February 19, with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi. The final is planned for March 9 in Lahore. However, if India reaches the final, it will be played in Dubai instead.

This is a special moment for Pakistan as it is hosting an ICC event after almost 30 years. The last time was during the 1996 World Cup. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said hosting the Champions Trophy is a proud moment. “This is a big achievement for Pakistan cricket. It shows our ability to organize top-level events and promote the game,” he said.

Naqvi thanked the ICC for allowing Pakistan to co-host the tournament with Dubai. “We are excited to welcome teams and fans from around the world. We are ready to show our hospitality and love for cricket,” he added.

In this hybrid format, most matches will be held in Pakistan. Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi will host three group matches each. Dubai will host all of India’s games, including their opener against Bangladesh on February 20 and their much-anticipated match against Pakistan on February 23.

The semi-finals will take place on March 4 in Dubai and March 5 in Lahore. The ICC has also set reserve days for the semi-finals and the final.

ICC Chairman Jay Shah shared his excitement on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Very excited for the @ICC Men’s Champions Trophy to start in February.”

The Champions Trophy 2025 is expected to bring thrilling matches and unite cricket fans worldwide. For Pakistan, this is a proud chance to host a major event and celebrate the spirit of cricket on the global stage. Fans are looking forward to an exciting tournament filled with memorable moments.

India will play all their matches in the 2025 Champions Trophy in the UAE. This decision, expected for some time, was confirmed after Mohsin Naqvi, the PCB chairman, met with Sheikh Nahyan Al Mubarak in Pakistan. Sheikh Nahyan is a senior UAE minister and also leads the Emirates Cricket Board.

A spokesperson for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Amir Mir, said, “The PCB has picked the UAE as a neutral venue for the Champions Trophy.”

India’s group includes Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. India will play their first match against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by the much-anticipated game against Pakistan on February 23, a Sunday. Their last group match will be against New Zealand on March 2. All of India’s games are expected to be held in Dubai.

Pakistan, the defending champions, will open the tournament against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi. They will play their final group match against Bangladesh on February 27 in Rawalpindi.

The second group features Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa. Matches in this group, and other games excluding India’s, will take place in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi.

The semi-finals are set for March 4 and March 5, with only the second semi-final having a reserve day. The final is scheduled for March 9, with a reserve day in place. If India reaches the semi-final, it will be played in the UAE; otherwise, it will be held in Pakistan. Similarly, if India qualifies for the final, it will also be moved to the UAE. If not, it will take place in Lahore.

The hybrid hosting model was agreed upon with the understanding that Pakistan’s matches in ICC events hosted by India until 2027 will also be held at neutral venues. This arrangement covers all knockout matches, such as semi-finals and finals, ensuring neutrality.

The agreement starts with the Champions Trophy and applies to other tournaments, including the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup in India, the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, and the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup, which will be held in Pakistan.

This hybrid hosting model aims to address concerns between the two countries while ensuring that tournaments are conducted smoothly.

Pakistan secured an 81-run victory over South Africa in the second one-day international at Newlands on Thursday, taking an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Babar Azam (73) and Mohammad Rizwan (80) were the key players for Pakistan, putting together a solid 115-run partnership for the third wicket. Their total of 329 all out was built on their steady batting.

South Africa fought back with Heinrich Klaasen scoring a valiant 97, but they were eventually bowled out for 248. Shaheen Afridi (four wickets for 47 runs) and Naseem Shah (three wickets for 37 runs) were the standout bowlers for Pakistan.

This win made Pakistan the first team in the 21st century to win three ODI series in South Africa. It was their fifth consecutive series win and the third one in the southern hemisphere this season, following victories in Australia and Zimbabwe.

“It’s a team effort, and every player has contributed from start to finish,” said Rizwan after the match.

Babar and Rizwan, both experienced players with a combined total of 204 one-day caps, set a strong foundation with their careful batting. Babar was dismissed for 73 when the score was 192 in the 33rd over. Rizwan was out three overs later, caught in a spectacular diving effort by 18-year-old debutant Kwena Maphaka.

The stage was set for some aggressive hitting, and Kamran Ghulam delivered with a quick-fire 63 off just 32 balls, including five sixes.

South Africa’s batsmen scored at a faster rate than Pakistan for most of their innings, but while all of their top six made starts, only Klaasen managed to put up a big score. Klaasen, who had made 86 in the first match, hit eight fours and four sixes from 74 balls before he was caught at deep midwicket to end South Africa’s chase.

Former Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke has strongly criticized the national selectors’ decision to drop Nathan McSweeney from the squad for the upcoming Boxing Day Test against India in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. McSweeney, 25, made his debut for Australia during the recent series in Perth but struggled with the bat in his six innings, scoring 10, 0, 39, 10*, 9, and 4. Despite these low scores, Clarke believes McSweeney should have been given more time to prove himself in the series.

Speaking on the Beyond 23 Cricket podcast, Clarke expressed his disbelief at the selectors’ decision. “Nathan McSweeney has been dropped, and I can’t believe that. No matter who they picked to open the batting, they should have given him the entire series. I think the selectors have got this wrong,” Clarke said. He added that McSweeney’s exclusion was especially surprising given the current form of other players, specifically Usman Khawaja, who has been struggling for runs.

Clarke pointed out that Khawaja, at 38 years old, has not been in good form, which makes his place in the team more questionable. “We have Usman Khawaja, who is 38 years old and hasn’t made any runs. He’s a senior player, but he’s not contributing at the moment,” Clarke said. The former captain argued that, despite McSweeney’s early struggles, he should have been backed for the entire series to help him build confidence and improve his game.

Although McSweeney is not a traditional opener – he typically bats one-down in domestic cricket – Clarke praised his technique and work ethic. He highlighted that McSweeney faced 212 balls in the first three Tests, which was a lot more than Mitchell Marsh (141 balls) and Khawaja (136 balls). Clarke believes this shows McSweeney’s ability to handle pressure and build innings, something selectors should consider when making team selections.

In conclusion, Clarke expressed his surprise and disappointment at McSweeney’s removal from the squad, calling it a missed opportunity for the young player. His comments have sparked debate about the selectors’ decisions, with many agreeing that McSweeney deserved more time to find his form in the Test series.

The Gabba Test between India and Australia is likely to end in a draw as heavy rain is expected on Day 5. Weather reports predict a 90% chance of rain, which could wash out play completely. Both teams have fought hard in this exciting match, but the weather might not allow a result.

As players prepare for the final day in Brisbane, the rain forecast has taken center stage. Any hopes for a thrilling finish seem to be fading as the weather is expected to decide the outcome.

Only 192 overs have been played so far over the first four days, and Wednesday’s weather looks even worse. According to Accuweather.com, the morning will be cloudy and very humid, making conditions tricky for players. In the afternoon, thunderstorms are expected with a 90% chance of rain.

The temperature will be around 31°C, but due to humidity, it will feel like 38°C. Weather experts say about 15.8 mm of rain could fall, and a minor flood alert has already been issued. The skies will remain heavily covered with clouds, with 96% cloud cover expected.

On Day 4, Team India showed great determination to avoid a follow-on and an innings defeat. KL Rahul played a calm and steady innings of 84 runs (139 balls, 8 fours), while Ravindra Jadeja contributed a crucial 77 runs (123 balls, 7 fours and 1 six). Akash Deep (27* off 31 balls, 2 fours and 1 six) and Jasprit Bumrah (10* off 27 balls, 1 six) also made valuable contributions.

At the end of Day 4, India reached 252/9 and managed to avoid the follow-on. The team is still 193 runs behind Australia’s total.

With heavy rain predicted on the final day, it looks like the weather will play the deciding role in this Test match.