Wednesday, April 23
Young opener Abhimanyu Easwaran’s patience continues as his impressive domestic performances, including consistent centuries, have yet to earn him a spot in India’s playing XI. Despite repeated inclusions in the Test squad, his chances have been thwarted by sub-par performances in crucial moments, highlighting the competitive nature of Indian cricket selection.
The Pakistan Cricket Board on Wednesday shifted the upcoming tri-series venues to Lahore and Karachi from Multan. The decision follows the renovations at Gaddafi Stadium and National Bank Stadium, where upgrades, including expanding seating, installing modern LED lights for broadcast, and enhancing player and spectator amenities, are nearing completion. The tri-series starts on February 8.
Pretoria Capitals, the 2023 SA20 finalists, aim for a comeback in 2025 with new captain Rilee Rossouw and head coach Jonathan Trott. Key additions, including Liam Livingstone and Evin Lewis, bolster the squad. After a disappointing 2024 season, the team aims to reclaim its form, starting against Durban's Super Giants on 10 January.
Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman's half centuries powered New Zealand to a 113-run victory against Sri Lanka in the second ODI, securing a 2-0 series win. Ravindra scored 79 and Chapman contributed 62 as New Zealand posted 255-9. Sri Lanka faltered at 22-4 and despite Kamindu Mendis' career-best 64, they were bowled out for 142 in 30.2 overs.
As the Paarl Royals gear up for the 2025 SA20 season, they aim to capture their maiden title. The team has strengthened their squad with international stars like Dinesh Karthik and Joe Root, despite Jos Buttler's absence. Under David Miller's leadership, the Royals are set to face Sunrisers Eastern Cape in their opening match.
Jasprit Bumrah captained the Indian team during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, leading them to a victory in Perth but suffering a loss in Sydney. With Rohit Sharma's Test career in doubt, there are discussions about Bumrah as the full-time Test captain. However, Mohammad Kaif has suggested that this added responsibility could put extra pressure on the fast bowler.
Jasprit Bumrah retains his top spot in the ICC Men's Test Bowling Rankings with a career-best rating of 908, despite missing bowling in the second innings of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy finale. Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja also secure significant positions in the rankings, while Australia's Scott Boland and South Africa's Kagiso Rabada make notable gains.
Bahadur Singh Sagoo, a former shot-put gold medalist and Olympian, has been appointed the new president of the Athletics Federation of India. Rising from the first junior national camp in 1989-90, Sagoo enjoyed significant success as an athlete and rose through the ranks to become the Asian Games gold medallist in 2002.
Former cricketer Sanjay Bangar has suggested India's spin-bowling lineup for the T20I series against England, with Kuldeep Yadav as the top choice if fit. Varun Chakaravarthy is recommended as backup, and Axar Patel is favored for the spin all-rounder role due to his ability to bowl in the powerplay.
