After the end of the 2025 IPL Mega-Auction, a lot of teams have strengthened their respective batting units. The dominance of the batters is going to increase even more this time around in the Biggest T20 tournament in the entire world and it's going to be really interesting to see which teams walks out on to the field with the strongest batting unit. 
Every year, the batsmen create new records in the IPL and now the runs figure of 250 is looking pretty common these days. Not just this, scoring centuries has also become pretty common for the batters. In such a situation, let's take a look at 3 teams who have the strongest batting-unit in IPL 2025
<h3>Three IPL Teams who have the strongest batting-unit in IPL 2025:</h3>
<h3>1. Sunrisers Hyderabad</h3>
Pat Cummins-led Sunrisers Hyderabad will once again walk out on the field in the IPL with the strongest batting unit. The likes of Travis Head, Ishan Kishan, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen are a part of the squad of SRH and these players have the potential in them to dominate any opposition bowling unit. 
While Kishan is a new addition, the other four players were a part of the Hyderabad team in the previous edition of the tournament too and they wrecked havoc in the 2024 edition of the IPL as they crossed the 260 run mark twice verus the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and five time winners Mumbai Indians (MI).The presence of these four players and the addition of hard hitting Indian batter Ishan Kishan makes the IPL 2024 runners-up a force to reckon with. 

<h3>2. Kolkata Knight Riders</h3>
IPL 2024 winners and reigning champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are blessed to have a solid and a strong batting unit ahead of IPL 2025. The presence of the likes of Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rinku Singh, Sunil Narine, Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell, Quinton de Kock and Ajinkya Rahane can target any bowler from the word go. The aggressive batting nature of Gurbaz, De Kock, Narine and Venky Iyer along with the solid middle order presence of the duo of Russell and Rinku make the team of KKR look like a complete and a really formidable one. The Reigning Champs are surely going to be a dangerous side to bowl against.

<h4>3. Delhi Capitals </h4>
After the conclusion of the 2025 IPL Mega-Auction, the Delhi Capitals managed to include some really incredible batters in their squad which consists of the likes of KL Rahul, Tristan Stubbs, Jack Fraser McGurk and Harry Brook. Besides them, the presence of experienced all-rounder Axar Patel provides a lot of stability to their middle-order. This time around, the Delhi franchise have set up themselves as a batting-heavy team, which will create a lot of difficulties for the opposition bowlers.

Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ipl-csk-s-strongest-playing-11-if-conway-and-ravindra-miss-the-start-of-ipl-2025/">IPL: CSK's strongest Playing 11 if Conway and Ravindra miss the start of IPL 2025</a>

Many IPL teams have strengthened their squads after the end of the 2025 Mega-Auction and three teams have the strongest batting-unit ahead of IPL 2025. We will be taking a look at those three teams in this article.

IPL 2025: 3 Teams who have the strongest batting unit, they can blow away any bowling attack

ipl-2025-3-teams-who-have-the-strongest-batting-unit-they-can-blow-away-any-bowling-attack

Everything is set for a smooth and entertaining 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). All 10 franchises have readied their squads, the dates of the beginning of the competition and the all-important Final have also been revealed but the list of all the captains has not been unveiled yet. 
While franchises like Mumbai Indians (MI), Gujarat Titans, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) have confirmed captaincy choices, the same cannot be said regarding the other franchises like Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Delhi Capitals (DC), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS). 
However, the captaincy situation for Lucknow Super Giants (Rishabh Pant) and Delhi Capitals (KL Rahul) is becoming clearer and clearer. In this article, we will be taking a look at the players who are the favourites to handle the leadership duties of both Delhi and Lucknow. 
<h2>IPL 2025: Who will lead the team of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)? </h2>
<img alt="Image" draggable="true" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Gd7HTKCaYAAOScc?format=jpg&amp;name=medium" class="css-9pa8cd" width="294" height="368" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">

The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) scripted history in the 2025 IPL Mega-Auction as they secured the services of star Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant for a humongous price tag of 27 crore Indian rupees and this purchase became the highest ever one in the history of the competition. 
Ahead of the Mega-Auction, Pant had decided to leave the Delhi Capitals (DC) and made himself available in the auction and that's the reason why he's now a part of the Lucknow based team. The owner of the franchise, Sanjiv Goenka had clearly stated that he had made up his mind to spend around 25-27 Crore rupees on the former Delhi Capitals skipper. 
Goenka knew that Delhi were in search of a captain too, so he also placed a bid of 26.5 Crore Indian rupees on former KKR skipper Shreyas Iyer. However, Punjab ended up signing Iyer instead and then Delhi focused on retaining Pant. 
LSG also needed a suitable captaincy replacement for KL Rahul and then Goenka went all out for the elite Indian Wicketkeeper and secured his services for 27 crore Indian rupees. Having bet such a huge amount on him, surely Pant will become the new skipper of the Super Giants.
<h2>IPL 2025: Who will handle the leadership duties of the Delhi Capitals? </h2>
<img alt="Image" draggable="true" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GdKMRFdbIAA91Oy?format=jpg&amp;name=medium" class="css-9pa8cd" width="402" height="314" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">

Ace Indian player Rishabh Pant was handling the leadership duties of the Delhi Capitals (DC) till the 2024 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). As we told you before, the Delhi based team came to the Mega-Auction with the intention of securing the services of their former skipper Shreyas Iyer, but instead he ended up joining the Punjab Kings (PBKS) for a huge price tag of 26.75 Crore Indian rupees. 
The RTM card strategy on Rishabh Pant also didn't materialize in the end for DC so their team management in the end ended up buying KL Rahul for a price tag of 14 crore Indian rupees. 
A few days ago, Parth Jindal, the co-owner of the Capitals had given a strong hint that both Axar Patel and KL Rahul can end up leading the team ahead of IPL 2025. But keeping in mind the captaincy experience of the latter, he will definitely have the edge over the former in terms of becoming the next leader of the 2020 IPL Runners-up.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/sa-vs-pak-second-consecutive-odi-series-win-for-pakistan-in-proteas-land-shaheen-babar-rizwan-played-the-anchor/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SA vs PAK: Second Consecutive ODI Series Win for Pakistan in Proteas Land, Shaheen-Babar-Rizwan played the Anchor</a>

IPL 2025: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and the Delhi Capitals (DC) have not announced their captains yet ahead of the next edition of the IPL. Pant and Rahul are considered as the strongest candidates to become their captains

IPL 2025: Captains of LSG and Delhi Capitals confirmed! These star players will handle the leadership duties

ipl-2025-captains-of-lsg-and-delhi-capitals-confirmed-these-star-players-will-handle-the-leadership-duties

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) owner Sanjiv Goenka has made a massive revelation about Rishabh Pant being given such a big price in the IPL 2025 auction. He claimed that they knew Delhi Capitals were crazy for keeper batter and could get him easily. 
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction took place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia last month. The event saw a lot of records getting shattered, and one among them was the highest bid for any player. It was broken by none other than Indian Superstar Rishabh Pant, who was brought by Lucknow Super Giants. 
Rishabh Pant, who parted ways with Delhi Capitals ahead of the auction, was expected to fetch a huge amount of bid because of the kind of impact that he brings into the team. The keeper-batter was involved in a bidding war between Lucknow Super Giants and Sunrisers Hyderabad. 
However, it was Delhi Capitals who had almost sealed the deal at INR 20.75 crore. This came after they used the RTM card when the bid went in favour of Lucknow Super Giants. But the Sanjiv Goenka-owned franchise came up with a massive bid for Delhi Capitals. 
Sanjiv Goenka raised the peddle at INR 27 crore and it was difficult for Delhi Capitals to match the bid. As a result of that, Rishabh Pant was sold to Lucknow Super Giants, and he became the costliest buy in the history of the league. 
<h2>Parth Jindal is so crazy for Rishabh Pant, he would go one up at the IPL Auction’ - Sanjiv Goenka </h2>
Sanjiv Goenka claimed that Parth Jindal was crazy for Rishabh Pant and they knew that they went at 26.5 Cr for Shreyas Iyer and could go till there for Pant. He added that they had three scenarios for the keeper-batter and he was important for them. Speaking on TRS, he explained: 
"There was science behind, going at 27 Cr for Rishabh Pant. They went at 26.5 Cr for Shreyas Iyer. So, then my feeling was, ‘Parth Jindal is so crazy for Rishabh Pant, he would go one up at the IPL Auction’. So the idea was to go two up from him, or even three up, and that is where he would stop. For Rishabh, we had calculated three scenarios, and in all of them, he was very important to us." 
<h2>We knew we would go for him and we had kept around 25-27 Cr for him - Sanjiv Goenka on Rishabh Pant</h2>
While further talking about the same, Sanjiv Goenka claimed that they sensed that Delhi Capitals were willing to go to the full extent. He added: 
“We knew we would go for him and we had kept around 25-27 Cr for him. So when the bidding stopped for Rishabh at 21-22 Cr, DC did not waste even a second to RTM him. So that means they were willing to go to the full extent. He wasn’t retained in a different circumstance, and it is not right for me to discuss all that, but they were keen for sure,”  
Rishabh Pant was the heart and soul of Delhi Capitals. He has played 111 games in the tournament and has also mustered 3284 runs at an average and strike rate of 35.31 and 148.93 respectively. He also has hit 18 fifties and one ton.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/delhi-capitals-ipl-2025-captain-this-all-rounder-is-likely-to-become-the-captain-of-dc-over-kl-rahul/#google_vignette">Delhi Capitals IPL 2025: This all-rounder likely to get the preference for becoming the captain of DC over KL Rahul</a>

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) owner Sanjiv Goenka has made a massive revelation about Rishabh Pant being given such a big price in the IPL 2025 auction

Revealed- Why Rishabh Pant was given INR 27 crore by Lucknow Super Giants

Revealed--Why-Rishabh-Pant-was-given-INR-27-crore-by-Lucknow-Super-Giants

Axar Patel of DC and KL Rahul of LSG (Image Credits: Twitter

Delhi Capitals IPL 2025 New Captain: Who will be the contender for the captaincy of Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025? many discussions have taken place on social media platforms about this. It is believed that Axar Patel is regarded as a strong contender. Can KL Rahul also take over the captaincy of the the team? Team owner Parth Jindal has given a clarification on this.

Delhi  Capitals IPL 2025: This all-rounder likely to get the preference for becoming the captain of DC over KL Rahul

delhi-capitals-ipl-2025-captain-this-all-rounder-is-likely-to-become-the-captain-of-dc-over-kl-rahul

DC Squad For IPL 2025: Delhi Capitals, a franchise that has been a big challenge for every team in every season and has played the party spoils for other teams towards the end of the seasons. But this time, they seem strong enough to make it to the elimination round. Will they? Let's find out!
Delhi Capitals went hunting down on Shreyas Iyer but couldn't win the bidding war against Punjab Kings. They also used the RTM Card for Rishabh Pant but on LSG's call for Rs 27 Cr, they lost him too. Their last chance was on KL Rahul and surprisingly, they got him for just Rs 14 Cr.
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_674fd4255a969.jpg" alt="">
DC got their best seasons recently under Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant, and both are gone now. They have two faces for the captaincy duties in the form of Axar Patel and KL Rahul. They have a backup skipper option as Faf which concludes that they have good three names for captain. 
<h2>DC Squad For IPL 2025</h2>
Capitals retained the 8 overs of spin and that must have taken a lot of pain out of their heads. They got Starc under 12 Cr, Mukesh Kumar for 8 Cr, and Mohit Sharma for 2.20 Cr making them the best death bowling attack. They have some big names in their batting order as well.
<table border="1" style="width: 37.8321%; height: 1252px;">
<thead>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<th scope="col" style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Player
</th>
<th scope="col" style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Price
</th>
<th scope="col" style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
Country
</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Axar Patel
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 16 Cr
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 68px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 68px;">
Kuldeep Yadav
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 68px;">
Rs. 13.25 Cr
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 68px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Tristan Stubbs
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 10 Cr
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
South Africa
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Abhishek Porel
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 4 Cr
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 68px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 68px;">
KL Rahul
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 68px;">
Rs. 14.00 Cr
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 68px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Mitchell Starc
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 11.75 Cr
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
Australia
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Jake Fraser-McGurk
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 9.00 Cr
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
Australia
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 68px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 68px;">
T. Natarajan
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 68px;">
Rs. 10.75 Cr
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 68px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Mukesh Kumar
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 9.00 Cr
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Harry Brook
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 6.25 Cr
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
England
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Ashutosh Sharma
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 3.80 Cr
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Mohit Sharma
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 2.20 Cr
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Faf Du Plessis 
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 2.00 Cr
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
South Africa
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Sameer Rizvi
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 95 lakh
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 68px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 68px;">
Dushmantha Chameera
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 68px;">
Rs. 75 lakh
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 68px;">
Sri Lanka
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Donovan Ferreira
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 75 lakh
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
South Africa
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Madhav Tiwari
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 40 lakh
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Karun Nair
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 50 Lakh
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 68px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 68px;">
Vipraj Nigam
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 68px;">
Rs. 50 Lakh
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 68px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Darshan Nalkande
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 30 Lakh
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Ajay Mandal 
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 30 lakh
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Manvanth Kumar
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 30 Lakh
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px;">
<td style="width: 46.5947%; height: 48px;">
Tripurana Vijay 
</td>
<td style="width: 24.6395%; height: 48px;">
Rs. 30 Lakh
</td>
<td style="width: 25.8621%; height: 48px;">
India
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<ul></ul>
<h2>SWOT Analysis of DC Squad</h2>
Delhi Capitals retained four players and they had their best players all set for the first 11. With the acquisition of Brook, JFM, Faf, and Mitchell Starc, they got some of the best names in the cricket World with them. 
<ul>
<li>Batters: Faf du Plessis, Karun Nair, Sameer Rizvi, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Harry Brook, Ashutosh Sharma</li>
<li>Wicketkeepers: KL Rahul, Abishek Porel, Donovan Ferreira,</li>
<li>All-rounders: Axar Patel, Tristan Stubbs, Madhav Tiwari, Tripurana Vijay, Manvanth Kumar, Vipraj Nigam, Ajay Mandal, Darshan Nalkande</li>
<li>Fast bowlers: Mukesh Kumar, Mohit Sharma, T Natarajan, Mitchell Starc, Dushmantha Chameera</li>
<li>Spinners: Kuldeep Yadav</li>
</ul>
<ul></ul>
<h3>STRENGTHS of DC Squad</h3>
Bowling! Whenever you take a look at this Capitals side, you must notice that they have the best spinners of the tournament. With Kuldeep and Axar Patel retained, they already had the best 8-over-spin-bowling options in their bag. Not only the spinners, they arguably have the best death bowling attack of the tournament. They have Mukesh Kumar, Mohit Sharma, and the best among them T Natarajan. 
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_674fd4c2ef692.jpg" alt="">
They have a good, aggressive, and dependable top order as well. KL Rahul, JFM, Harry Brook, and Tristan Stubbs. They also roped in Faf du Plessis strengthening their batting order. Axar Patel and Samir Rizvi to finish the innings gives them a lot of options and combinations to play with. 
<h3>WEAKNESSES of DC Squad</h3>
The inexperienced and young middle order is going to be a big issue for them. JFM hasn't got runs, Abhishek Porel and Ashutosh Sharma are future stars but not that promising. Harry Brook also hasn't much in the Indian subcontinent and this might be another challenge for DC staff to address. 
<h3>OPPORTUNITIES in the DC Squad</h3>
The 'going to be' skipper KL Rahul has eaten a lot of criticism in the last couple of years for his strike rate and form, and this time, he has a good opportunity to stand tall and reply with a brainstorming season with the bat. He has that ability and only he can help himself to unleash the beast. 
<h3>THREATS for DC Squad</h3>
Just like the other franchises, they too don't have any sort of backup options. For bowling, they have Dushmantha Chameera and Denoven Ferreira and for batting, they have Faf only among the known faces. No backup when mixed up with an inexperienced lineup creates a big threat for them. 
READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ipl-2025-mi-squad-players-prices-and-full-swot-analysis/">IPL 2025: MI Squad, Players, Prices, and Full SWOT Analysis</a> 
SOURCE: <a href="https://www.delhicapitals.in/">DC OFFICIAL</a>

With a steal deal of KL Rahul, Delhi Capitals are ready to set fire to the IPL 2025 with their almighty strong squad. With almost every box checked, Delhi is set to rule the other 10 teams this season. We review DC Squad, Players, Prices, and Full SWOT analysis here. 

Delhi Capitals was one of the happiest teams after the IPL Auction 2025 as they bagged some big names in International cricket for a very reasonable price. 

IPL 2025: DC Squad, Players, Prices, and Full SWOT Analysis

ipl-2025-dc-squad-players-prices-and-full-swot-analysis

The IPL 2025 mega-auction marked every franchise bringing in some new players in their squads, while many teams are also in the hunt for a new player in the role of a skipper. 
 
Though every team has included the likes of several players in their squad, they are yet to announce who would be seen in a captain’s role. Likes of great <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MS_Dhoni">MS Dhoni</a> and Rohit Sharma, the most successful among IPL skippers, have now decided to end their role as they continue to feature for their sides as players. 
 
With five of the franchises being certain over their captains, only the likes of the remaining sides are looking for a new captain, while some teams’ like the Punjab Kings went all loose to acquire the likes of last season's title-winning skipper Shreyas Iyer. 
 
<h2 dir="ltr">Let's see a list of skipper choices from all 10 franchises:</h2>
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Chennai Super Kings</h3>
 
CSK have been the most legendary side in the history of the IPL under the captaincy of MS Dhoni, and now the captaincy has passed onto the next generation of players in Ruturaj Gaikwad. Gaikwad will continue in the role of captain. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Mumbai Indians</h3>
 
The veteran all-rounder, Hardik Pandya, who replaced Rohit Sharma as the MI skipper, would once again be resuming duties in the IPL as the skipper, having the national skippers, SKY and Rohit Sharma, play under him. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Gujarat Titans</h3>
 
The Gujarat Titans have included several new players in the role, while Shubman Gill, the rising Indian sensation, remains to be the captain of the side, as per speculations made. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Sunrisers Hyderabad</h3>
 
The SRH side was led by World Cup-winning skipper Pat Cummins last season, as he led them to another final against the KKR, which they eventually lost. The skipper was retained with a whopping INR 18 crore and will resume his duties. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Rajasthan Royals</h3>
 
Sanju Samson, the skipper of the Royals side, seems fixed from the last few years, and he will continue to do so while also being their prime gloveman and opening batter. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Lucknow Super Giants</h3>
 
The LSG side looked very interested in Rishabh Pant, as they spent almost 1/3rd of their remaining purse, as Pant was included for a whopping INR 27 crore. However, if reports were to be considered and Pant unwilling to continue as skipper, then he might be seen playing under Nicholas Pooran; otherwise, Pant would take up captaincy for LSG from IPL 2025. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Delhi Capitals</h3>
 
The Capitals have made choices that seem to be significant for their future, as KL Rahul, who was swapped in from LSG to the Capitals squad, might be considered their ideal option for the role of the Capitals skipper. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Royal Challengers Bangalore</h3>
 
RCB are in the biggest dilemma over their choice of skipper, having not retained Faf. Earlier speculations suggested that Virat Kohli might be resuming his role as the skipper; however, no confirmed reports have been made from either end of the player or the management. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Punjab Kings</h3>
 
The Punjab Kings have not included Shreyas Iyer just for fun, as Iyer, the captain with the defending title, was bought in for a whopping INR 26.75 crore to be termed the captain of the side under Ponting. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Kolkata Knight Riders</h3>
 
The defending champions have let go of their skipper and are not looking to bring any such player who can be decisive as a captain, Sunil Narine who captains their other sides, Andre Russell, while also their heavily invested Venkatesh Iyer, all would stand a chance to be seen in the role of a skipper. 

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ipl-2025-csk-squad-after-auction-players-prices-and-full-swot-analysis/">Chennai Super Kings Full Team SWOT analysis </a>

Let's take a good look at the players who can fit into the shoes of a captain.

Like Virat Kohli resuming as RCB captain, Hardik Pandya continuing as MI skipper, and Shreyas Iyer moving to PBKS as their skipper, let's take a good look at the players who can fit into the shoes of a captain.

Before the action resumes for IPL 2025, let's look at the possible choices for the franchises in the role of a skipper.

IPL 2025: Predicted Captains of All 10 Franchises for the upcoming season of the IPL

IPL-2025:-Predicted-Captains-of-All-10-Franchises-for-the-upcoming-season-of-the-IPL

The IPL 2025 mega-auctions marked one of the biggest auctions in the history of the IPL, consisting of one of the largest pools of players in over a decade. Every franchise included a huge bunch of players, as over 200 players went sold in the auction. 
 
This time around, a huge entrustment in Indian pacers was shown by the IPL franchises, as several Indian as well as overseas pacers went for some immense amount of money. From Arshdeep Singh’s whopping 18 crores to Mohammad Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Mohammed Shami getting a double-digit bid for the first time, the Indian pacers specially aced the IPL mega-auction. 
 
Among overseas options as well, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trent_Boult">Trent Boult</a>, Jofra Archer, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazelwood emerged as a few of the most heavily invested bowlers, over whom teams went on to spend a huge amount of their purses. 
 
<h2 dir="ltr">Let’s rate every team based on their Pace bowling deck:</h2>
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Chennai Super Kings: Mateesha Pathirana, Mukesh Choudhary, Jamie Overton, Khaleel Ahmed, Gurjapneet Singh, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Nathan Ellis, Sam Curran, and Anshul Kamboj. </h3>
 
Rating: 7/10
 
Though the Chennai Super Kings have one of the finest blends of pace and spin on their side, their pace deck looks a bit inexperienced. With the Lankan speedster Pathirana leading from the front, Khaleel Ahmed and Anhsul Kamboj, who recently gained stardom owing to his 10-wicket in a single inning, might turn out to be options sharing the new ball. 
 
While English all-rounders Sam Curran, Jamie Overton, and Aussie ace T20I bowler Nathan Ellis seem to be the backup options for CSK if their bowling trio fails to capitalize. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Royal Challengers Bangalore: Josh Hazelwood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Romario Shepherd, Rasikh Dar, Yash Dayal, Nuwan Thusara, and Lungi Ngidi</h3>
 
Rating: 7/10
 
Rating: Owing to their lack of interest in spinners, the Challengers are not left with much except Krunal Pandya on their side. Hence, in the bowling deck, RCB would go with an all-pace attack, with experienced Bhuvi and Hazelwood leading alongside the two young Indian stars Yash and Rasikh Dar. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Rajasthan Royals: Jofra Archer, Yudhvir Singh, Sandeep Sharma, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Tushar Deshpande, and Akash Madhwal. </h3>
 
Rating: 7/10
 
The Royals came much later into the party, and their biggest among bids lay in Jofra Archer, the ex-Royals pace bowler who was brought back into the side. Meanwhile, Afghan pacer Farooqi might back up Archer owing to his prone injury status. 
 
Tushar Deshpande The rising talent from the CSK academy and Sandeep Sharma might be crucial to the team alongside Madhwal and Yudhvir, all not eminent yet aspiring names in the history of the game. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Delhi Capitals: Mitchell Starc, Thangarasu Natrajan, Mohit Sharma, Mukesh Kumar, and Dusmantha Chameera. </h3>
 
Rating: 8/10
 
The Delhi Capitals do not have the most promising bowling lineup, as they have the least number of pacers on their side. Still, with a fine set of picks, they have included the hot favourites in the last auction's biggest buy, Mitchell Starc, and Indian medium pacers Mukesh Kumar and Natrajan as their other key seamers. 
 
Mohit Sharma played a very vital role for the Gujarat Titans last season during the death overs, while Natrajan and Mukesh were also the finest with the ball during the end phase. Now they would all play for the Delhi Capitals. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Kolkata Knight Riders: Harshit Rana, Andre Russell, Anrich Nortje, Vaibhav Arora, Spencer Johnson, and Umran Malik. </h3>
 
Rating: 8/10
 
The Kolkata Knight Riders have almost retained their entire deck of quick bowlers in Harshit Rana and Vaibhav Arora, the stars who bowled last time alongside the Aussie speedster. The Protea pacer Nortje or Aussie left-arm seamer Spencer Johnson might be placed to replace Starc in the XI. Umran Malik brings a raw pace alongside him; however, his way into the team doesn’t seem very likely, especially in the presence of an additional golden arm from Andre Russell. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Sunrisers Hyderabad: Pat Cummins, Mohammed Shami, Harshal Patel, NK Reddy, Brydon Carse, Simarjeet Singh, and Eshan Malinga. </h3>
 
Rating: 8/10
 
The Sunrisers Hyderabad have completely brought in new players to their bowling side alongside skipper Pat Cummins. Cummins will be leading a pace attack now comprised of another experienced hat, Mohammed Shami. 
 
Harshal Patel, the highest wicket-taker from the seasons of 2022 and 2024, will now be seen for the Orange Army, alongside fellow all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, currently dominating Aussies in the BGT. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Lucknow Super Giants: Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, Avesh Khan, Akash Deep, Shamar Joseph, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Mitchell Marsh, and Digvesh Singh</h3>
 
Rating: 8/10
 
The Lucknow Super Giants, having bought Rishabh Pant, were not left with much to invest in a lot of talented pacers; hence, though their pace deck doesn’t look fancy, it seems of great futuristic scope, especially under Zaheer Khan, the new LSG mentor. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Punjab Kings: Marco Jansen, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Aaron Hardie, Arshdeep Singh, Yash Thakur, Xavier Bartlett, Vyshak Vijay Kumar, and Lockie Ferguson. </h3>
 
Rating: 9/10
 
Punjab Kings have used their RTM to bring back their most trustworthy bowler, Arshdeep Singh, currently India’s most budding player in the shortest format. While alongside him, Marco Jansen, the lanky fast bowler from South Africa, will be an asset to Ponting’s side. 
 
Their deck would also comprise Vyshak, Stoinis the all-rounder, Omarzai, Hardie, Lockie Ferguson, and Yash Thakur, who among the main seamers can be of immense importance. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Mumbai Indians: Hardik Pandya, Raj Angad Bawa, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, Deepak Chahar, Reece Topley, and Lizaad Williams. </h3>
 
Rating: 9.5/10
 
Undoubtedly, the Mumbai Indians are one of the deadliest-looking teams when their bowling deck is considered. Other than their pacers, the overall team looks stunning on the team sheets. 
 
Led by world-class pace sensation Jasprit Bumrah, the MI pace deck will now have the services of Deepak Chahar and Trent Boult sharing the new ball in the powerplay, while middle-overs can have Pandya at the best services he can provide. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Gujarat Titans: Gerald Coetzee, Arshad Khan, Mohammad Siraj, Kagiso Rabada, Prasidh Krishna, and Ishant Sharma. </h3>
 
Rating: 10/10
 
Probably, the second pacer deck looks like a nightmare to the franchises, as Kagiso Rabada will lead the pace bowling options alongside the Indian pace maestro Mohammad Siraj. 
 
However, what seems eminent on the Titans' side would be their backup options, and the 3rd or 4th pace options look equally promising alongside the frontline pacers. Prasidh Krishna, Coetzee, and young left-arm pacer Arshad Khan are expected to have a dream track under their belt in Ahmedabad.
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/bgt-2024-australia-unveil-their-squad-for-the-2nd-test-this-player-has-been-added-as-cover-for-mitch-marsh/">Aussies call in debutant for Second Test at Adelaide </a>
<h1 class="jsx-12b9302b376ac3cf Introheading"></h1>

Pacers will be crucial from the point of view of the IPL franchises for the upcoming edition

The IPL 2025 mega-auctions marked one of the biggest auctions in the history of the IPL, consisting of one of the largest pools of players in over a decade. Every team looked to bolster their pace attack and hence rate them based on their bowling strengths.

The upcoming IPL will be an event to remember for their bowlers, as it's the pace deck that will bring glory to every franchise to their extent.

Rating All 10 IPL 2025 Franchises based on the strength of their pace bowling deck

rating-all-10-ipl-2025-franchises-based-on-the-strength-of-their-pace-bowling-deck

The IPL 2025 auction is seemingly getting exciting as the franchises slowly lose their huge purse amounts, especially with Punjab Kings reduced to less than INR 50 crores despite them entering the auction with a huge purse of INR 110.5 crores. Having made some crazy deals over the likes of captain Shreyas Iyer and iconic batsman <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rishabh_Pant">Rishabh Pant</a>, who surpassed his fellow mate further to be IPL?s highest-ever bid player with INR 27 crore.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Let?s take a look at the auction purses left after the end of the 2nd set of Marquee Players with 12 players bought.</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Delhi Capitals: INR 47.25 crore</h3>



They have roped in two invaluable players, KL Rahul and Mitchell Starc, for much less money.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Chennai Super Kings: INR 55 crores</h3>



Chennai Super Kings successfully tried on several players but still await their first inclusion.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rajasthan Royals: INR 41 crore</h3>



Rajasthan Royals have also tried their luck hard, though nothing went in their favor as they, despite trying, could not acquire any players.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Royal Challengers Bangalore: INR 74.25 crore</h3>



RCB have also made some good attempts, though only ending up with Liam Livingstone for 8.75 crores.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Kolkata Knight Riders: INR 51 crore</h3>



KKR, the defending champions, are trying harder but still looking for their first player addition.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Lucknow Super Giants: INR 34.50 crores</h3>



The Super Giants have the most unique auction, having made the highest bid of Rishabh Pant and then followed by dynamic middle-order finisher David Miller.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sunrisers Hyderabad: INR 35 crores</h3>



The SRH have now roped in Mohammed Shami as their only inclusion to their pace bowling deck as of yet.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mumbai Indians: INR 45 crores</h3>



The Indians, in the quest for many players, have not bid eagerly for any except for Jos Buttler and Mitchell Starc, though withdrawing very early.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Gujarat Titans: INR 30.25 crore</h3>



The Titans can be arguably said to have the best auction day till now with the likes of Mohammad Siraj, Jos Buttler, and finally Kagiso Rabada, the best three inclusions possible for them.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Punjab Kings: INR 47.75 crore</h3>



The people with the highest purse have spent a significant amount of money to acquire the likes of Arshdeep Singh for a huge INR 18 crore, while next getting Yuzi Chahal for another 18 crore and skipper Iyer for a record-breaking INR 26.75 crore.



ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/indias-yashasvi-jaiswal-creates-history-becomes-the-batsman-to-hit-the-highest-number-of-sixes-in-a-calendar-year-of-test-cricket-ind-vs-aus/"> India?s Yashasvi Jaiswal creates history, becomes the batsman to hit the highest number of sixes in a calendar year of Test Cricket | IND vs AUS</a>

IPL 2025 Auction Updates: Every Franchise Purse Left After the Completion of the Marquee Set 2

ipl-2025-auction-updates-every-franchise-purse-left-after-the-completion-of-the-marquee-set-2

Pacers are having a day out here at Jeddah on the second day of the much anticipated IPL auction, as after several among batters and all-rounders went unsold, the pacers are making the banks of the franchises shaken up. First of all, Marco Jansen, the lanky pace bowling all-rounder from the Proteas, goes for the biggest bid of the day from the first session, with the Punjab Kings showing immense interest in the left-arm seamer.



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<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1860991686236647806</div>
</figure>



 Followed by a short break, the teams now seemed too determined, with the likes of Rajasthan Royals, Gujarat Titans, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, and RCB all looking forward to decking up their pace bowling set. India?s one of the most anticipated pacers, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, also the greatest ever Indian in the history of the IPL, gets rewarded for his consistency, as RCB bring him in for a whopping INR 10.75 crore, the only double-digit bid for the day.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter">
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1861003917598883891</div>
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 While Indian pacers other than Bhuvi, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deepak_Chahar">Deepak Chahar</a> earns a huge bid going to the arch-rivals MI from the Men in Yellow. While followed by him are Tushar Deshpande to the Rajasthan Royals, while Mukesh Kumar was retained by the Capitals using the RTM.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter">
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1861003858396451129</div>
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Coetzee is the only overseas bowler now going to the Gujarat Titans pace deck alongside national mate Kagiso Rabada, pairing for a breathtaking pace bowling duo.



Akash Deep gets a new franchise in the Lucknow Super Giants, who have their first player of the day and quite intriguing a futuristic option seemingly for the Super Giants.



Lockie Ferguson off at base price to the Punjab Kings.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/live-ipl-auction-2025-live-updates-day-2-latest-news-and-more-on-auction/">[LIVE] IPL Auction 2025 Live Updates DAY 2, Latest News and More on Auction</a>

The IPL Auction  Day 2 sees its first major jump; A pacers day out Bhuvneshwar Kumar sold for INR 10.75 Crores to RCB

the-ipl-auction-day-2-sees-its-first-major-jump-a-pacers-day-out-bhuvneshwar-kumar-sold-for-inr-10-75-crores-to-rcb

According to reports made by the Times of India, Indian star wicket-keeper, Rishabh Pant will not lead the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025, and they have conveyed their source to be reliable. The latest reports from the TOI have also mentioned that the new coaching staff on the Delhi Capitals side are considering a new player in the role of a captain. Rishabh Pant might be replaced by the likes of teammate <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Axar_Patel">Axar Patel</a>, as he is being considered as the next Capitals skipper. Not only Axar, but the Delhi Capitals would also be in quest of a new player who can be a reliable captaincy source in the IPL. The auction is supposed to take place at the end of November, in a possible venue like Dubai. 



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 However, Rishabh Pant is all set to be the franchise's top priority player in their retention list, with the highest slab of retention amount. It is just that the Delhi Capitals leadership group feel that he is much better without the pressure of captaincy. Hence, the new DC management looks to try him over completely as a batter. Though the Delhi Capitals have been a very convincing side, they last reached the playoffs back in IPL 2021 while the finals of 2020 was their best-ever finish where Shreyas Iyer was the skipper of the Delhi Capitals side. Back then Rishabh Pant was their second-highest scorer in the IPL for the Capitals alongside Shikhar Dhawan. After having led the Delhi Capitals initially, he missed the 2023 edition of the IPL and returned to the tournament after a horrific accident in 2022. Pant led the Delhi Capitals in the last season when they finished in the sixth position. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/Iyer-might-be-brought-back-min-1024x768.png" alt="" class="wp-image-148669" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Shreyas Iyer might be considered to be brought back as Delhi Capitals skipper (Image Credit: Hindustan Times) </figcaption></figure>



 There also is a possible option if Kolkata Knight Riders are ready to part ways with their IPL title-winning skipper back in 2024. Shreyas Iyer might be returning to the Capitals squad and leading them in the role of a skipper. The Delhi Capitals have recently named Hamang Badani as their head coach and hence there might be significant changes brought to the Capitals squad. Rightly, Indian World Cup winner, Munaf Patel might be considered for the role of bowling coach as a support staff in the Mumbai Indians camp.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/womens-t20-world-cup-2024-australia-eliminated-as-south-africa-stun-them-in-the-1st-semi-final/">Women?s T20 World Cup 2024: Australia eliminated as South Africa stun them in the 1st semi-final</a>

Rishabh Pant likely to step down as Delhi Capitals skipper; this Indian player to emerge as their new captain for IPL 2025|

Rishabh Pant likely to step down as Delhi Capitals skipper; this Indian player to emerge as their new captain for IPL 2025

rishabh-pant-likely-to-step-down-as-delhi-capitals-skipper-this-indian-player-to-emerge-as-their-new-captain-for-ipl-2025

The Delhi Capitals are a franchise cricket team that represents the city of Delhi in the Indian Premier League. Founded in 2008 as the Delhi Daredevils, the franchise is jointly owned by the GMR Group and the JSW Group. The team's home ground is Arun Jaitley Stadium, located in New Delhi.

Delhi Capitals

Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar is all set to meet captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir along with the BCCI officials to do the post martom of of the team's poor outing in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The India team faced a 3-1 thrashing at the hands of Australia in a five-match series. 
Ajit Agarkar will be meeting Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir on Sunday, the same day when the BCCI will be appointing Devajit Saikia as the new BCCI secretary. While this is one development, other claims the captain Rohit and Gambhir will be at the receiving end of some harsh questions by the BCCI.
The reports claimed that there will be informal and formal meetings among selectors and all the issues will be addressed. This will also include India's poor performances in the Tests last year. India faced a 3-0 whitewash at home against New Zealand and then suffered a loss to Australia. 
Another issue that will be addressed by the BCCI will be the poor form of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both the stalwarts of the Indian team failed badly in the entire Test season, and hence, discussions related to their future will be taking place as well among the board members and head coach. 
<h2>Ravichandran Ashwin's announcement of retirement during mid-tour will also be discussed - Reports</h2>
It is also learned that Ravichandran Ashwin's announcement of retirement during mid-tour will also be discussed, along with the rumours of things not good in the dressing room will be addressed as well. The source close to the developments told Hindustan Times: 
"The Australian tour, which immediately followed the 0-3 rout at home to New Zealand, was expected to decide the fate of many senior players. The 3-1 loss shut the door on India’s WTC final hopes, which is seen as a big setback. 
" Off-spinner R Ashwin’s mid-tour retirement and return home, murmurs of team discontent on tour, Rohit’s free fall in form that resulted in his sitting out the final Test at Sydney and the prolonged lean run of Virat Kohli has left Indian cricket faced with several searching questions. 
"All these are likely to be addressed in a number of formal and informal meetings among selectors and the administrators in the coming days." 
It remains to be seen what conclusion will come out once the BCCI officials meet. The next Test match of India will be played in June when the team will tour England. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-dynamic-opening-combinations-india-can-try-in-the-icc-champions-trophy-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">3 Dynamic Opening Combinations India can try in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a>

Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar is all set to meet captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir along with the BCCI officials to do the post martom of of the team's poor outing in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir all set to be questioned by BCCI after debacle in Australia

rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-and-gautam-gambhir-all-set-to-be-questioned-by-bcci-after-debacle-in-australia-

Get ready for another action-packed season of the South Africa T20 League. After two successful seasons, the fans will welcome the third season of the league. SA20 2025 is all set to get underway on January 9, 2025. The coming season will have a total of 34 matches, including the final on February 8.
These games will be played across six different venues in South Africa. The teams to take part in the competition are Sunrisers Eastern Cape, MI Cape Town, Durban Super Giants, Pretoria Capitals, Joburg Super Kings, and Paarl Royals. The Eastern Cape won the first two editions, and they will defend their title in the SA20 2025 and will be aiming to make a hat trick of titles.
This league will produce some thrilling games of cricket, and fans will be able to witness some nail-biters. This season will have a number of T20 superstars competing against each other in the tournament. The tournament will be played in a double round-robin format followed by playoffs. Fans around the world will be able to watch the live action, which we will talk about here below.
<h2>SA20 2025: Teams and Captains</h2>
Six teams will be taking part in the competition. Here are the teams and captains for all six franchises.
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 99.9702%; height: 140px;"><colgroup><col style="width: 50.0159%;"><col style="width: 50.0159%;"></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="text-align: center; height: 20px;">Teams</td>
<td style="text-align: center; height: 20px;">Captains</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px; text-align: center;">Sunrisers Eastern Cape</td>
<td style="height: 20px; text-align: center;">Aiden Markram</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px; text-align: center;">Durban Super Giants</td>
<td style="height: 20px; text-align: center;">Keshav Maharaj</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px; text-align: center;">Paarl Royals</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">David Miller</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px; text-align: center;">Joburg Super Kings</td>
<td style="height: 20px; text-align: center;">Faf du Plessis</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px; text-align: center;">Pretoria Capitals</td>
<td style="height: 20px; text-align: center;">Rilee Rossouw</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px; text-align: center;">MI Cape Town</td>
<td style="height: 20px; text-align: center;">Rashid Khan</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>SA20 2025: Schedule</h2>
Below You can catch the complete schedule of SA20 2025 with venues and time.
<table style="width: 78.4905%; height: 700px;">
<thead>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<th style="width: 10.7349%; height: 20px;">Date</th>
<th style="width: 11.7627%; height: 20px;">Date</th>
<th style="width: 38.4788%; height: 20px;">Match</th>
<th style="width: 29.3568%; height: 20px;">Venue</th>
<th style="width: 9.70712%; height: 20px;">Time (IST)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 9</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Thursday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs MI Cape Town</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">St George's Park, Gqeberha</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 10</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Friday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Durban Super Giants vs Pretoria Capitals</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Kingsmead, Durban</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 11</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Saturday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Paarl Royals vs Sunrisers Eastern Cape</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Boland Park, Paarl</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">4:30 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 11</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Saturday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Joburg Super Kings vs MI Cape Town</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 12</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Sunday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Pretoria Capitals vs Durban Super Giants</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">SuperSport Park, Centurion</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">7:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 13</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Monday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">MI Cape Town vs Paarl Royals</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Newlands, Cape Town</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 14</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Tuesday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Pretoria Capitals vs Sunrisers Eastern Cape</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">SuperSport Park, Centurion</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">4:30 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 14</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Tuesday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Durban Super Giants vs Joburg Super Kings</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Kingsmead, Durban</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 15</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Wednesday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Paarl Royals vs MI Cape Town</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Boland Park, Paarl</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 16</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Thursday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Joburg Super Kings vs Pretoria Capitals</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 17</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Friday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Durban Super Giants vs Sunrisers Eastern Cape</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Kingsmead, Durban</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 18</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Saturday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Pretoria Capitals vs Paarl Royals</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">SuperSport Park, Centurion</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">4:30 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 18</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Saturday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">MI Cape Town vs Joburg Super Kings</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Newlands, Cape Town</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 19</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Sunday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs Durban Super Giants</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">St George's Park, Gqeberha</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">7:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 20</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Monday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Paarl Royals vs Joburg Super Kings</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Boland Park, Paarl</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 21</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Tuesday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Durban Super Giants vs MI Cape Town</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Kingsmead, Durban</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 22</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Wednesday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs Pretoria Capitals</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">St George's Park, Gqeberha</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 23</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Thursday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Durban Super Giants vs Paarl Royals</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Kingsmead, Durban</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 24</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Friday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs Joburg Super Kings</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">St George's Park, Gqeberha</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 25</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Saturday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">MI Cape Town vs Durban Super Giants</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Newlands, Cape Town</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">4:30 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 25</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Saturday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Paarl Royals vs Pretoria Capitals</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Boland Park, Paarl</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 26</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Sunday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Joburg Super Kings vs Sunrisers Eastern Cape</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">7:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 27</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Monday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Paarl Royals vs Durban Super Giants</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Boland Park, Paarl</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 28</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Tuesday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Pretoria Capitals vs Joburg Super Kings</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">SuperSport Park, Centurion</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 29</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Wednesday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">MI Cape Town vs Sunrisers Eastern Cape</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Newlands, Cape Town</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 30</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Thursday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Joburg Super Kings vs Paarl Royals</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Jan 31</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Friday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Pretoria Capitals vs MI Cape Town</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">SuperSport Park, Centurion</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Feb 1</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Saturday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs Paarl Royals</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">St George's Park, Gqeberha</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">4:30 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Feb 1</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Saturday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Joburg Super Kings vs Durban Super Giants</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Feb 2</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Sunday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">MI Cape Town vs Pretoria Capitals</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Newlands, Cape Town</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">7:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Feb 4</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Tuesday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Qualifier 1</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">St George's Park, Gqeberha</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Feb 5</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Wednesday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Eliminator</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">SuperSport Park, Centurion</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Feb 6</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Thursday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Qualifier 2</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">SuperSport Park, Centurion</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 10.7349%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Feb 8</td>
<td style="width: 11.7627%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Saturday</td>
<td style="width: 38.4788%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Final</td>
<td style="width: 29.3568%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg</td>
<td style="width: 9.70712%; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9:00 PM</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>SA2025: Live Streaming Details in India</h2>
In India, fans can enjoy the game as the matches are scheduled at a time when Indian fans can enjoy the action completely. The match will start at 7 and 9 PM. In the case of a doubleheader, the first game will begin at 4:30 PM.
Fans can watch the live telecast of the SA20 2025 on Star Sports 2 and Sports 18 channels. Meanwhile, to enjoy the action live, fans can switch to the Disney+ Hotstar app or website to catch the live stream.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/when-was-the-last-time-virat-kohli-and-rohit-sharma-played-first-class-cricket-at-the-domestic-level-/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">When was the last time Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma played first-class cricket at the domestic level?</a>

The third edition of the South Africa T20 League (SA20 2025) will begin on January 9. Sunrisers Eastern Cape will defend their title against other five teams.

SA2025 Schedule and Live Streaming: When and Where to Watch South Africa T20 2025 League in India?

sa2025-schedule-and-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-south-africa-t20-2025-league-in-india-

In what has been the latest development as per the reports in India Today, it is learned that there is no certainty over the place of KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The Indian squad for the tournament is all set to be announced next week. 
The reports claimed that KL Rahul might not make it into the Indian squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This is because his batting has been under the radar, especially after the poor innings that he played in the final of the ICC World Cup 2023 against Australia, which the Indian team lost. 
KL Rahul was recently dropped from the Indian ODI XI during the series against Sri Lanka. As per the reports, it is learned that Rishabh Pant will be the first-choice keeper-batter in the team, while Sanju Samson might get the nod as the second keeper in the team. 
<h2>Ravindra Jadeja hasn't impressed the BCCI selectors with his efforts with the bat and ball in the white-ball cricket. </h2>
On the other hand, Ravindra Jadeja hasn't impressed the BCCI selectors with his efforts with the bat and ball in the white-ball cricket. Those in charge feel that Axar Patel is much more effective than Jadeja as the latter's batting hasn't been good since the last few times. 
Coming to Mohammed Shami, there is no clarity over the fitness of a fast bowler as of yet. However, if unfit, he won't be rushed into the team. He bowled 16 overs in the two games that be played in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25 and if he is deemed fit, he might be there. 
Shami has been out of action for a while. If the fast bowler achieves full fitness and will be there for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. He played a huge role for the team in the ICC World Cup 2023 and would want to continue the same form in the upcoming tournament as well. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-s-squad-for-the-icc-champions-trophy-2025-finalised-/">India's squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 finalised</a>
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be played in Pakistan and India will be playing their games in Dubai. The Rohit Sharma-led side will play their first game against Bangladesh on 20th February.

In what has been the latest development as per the reports in India Today, it is learned that there is no certainty over the place of KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami likely to be dropped from India squad

icc-champions-trophy-2025-kl-rahul-ravindra-jadeja-and-mohammed-shami-likely-to-be-dropped-from-india-squad-

Team India have had a hard time in the last few months. Especially in test cricket, where they were clear swept for the first time at home and then went on to lose the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as well. The poor form of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli was also one of the reasons behind India's poor show.
This has raised questions over the test futures for both Virat and Rohit. Though India don't have any red-ball games until June, that is why a number of former cricketers and cricket pundits have asked these two Indian stalwarts to go and participate in the domestic circuit to get back to their best form.
Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri, who was part of India's BGT trophy win in 2018 and 2021, urged these stars to participate in domestic cricket to regain their form. Irfan Pathan and Sunil Gavaskar also shared their opinions and asked every Indian international star to feature in domestic cricket.
Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir also made a statement during the Sydney press conference about the importance of domestic cricket. Does playing at the domestic level help to regain form? But have you ever thought about when was the last time Rohit or Virat played in domestic cricket?
<h2>When was the last time Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma played domestic cricket?</h2>
Virat Kohli played ten tests in 2024 and scored 417 runs at an average of 24.52, which is half of his career average. His first test of 2025 saw him scoring 17 and 6 in two innings at the SCG. So, Virat is clearly struggling to manage the requirements of test cricket. But do you know it has been over a decade since he has played a domestic game?
The last domestic match for Virat Kohli was back in 2012 for his state team, Delhi. He played a Ranji Trophy match against Uttar Pradesh in Ghaziabad and scored 14 and 43 across two innings of that game. This was the end of his domestic red-ball career. Since then, he has not returned to Delhi again at the FC level.
If we look at Rohit Sharma, it has been over nine years now. The Test captain featured in his last domestic game back in 2016. It was during a Duleep Trophy match when he played for India Blue. He used to bat in the middle order back then and batted at No. 4 and 3 in two innings, scoring 30 and 32, respectively.
It has been a long time since these two batted at the domestic level. Though playing at the domestic level won't guarantee you gaining the form back, it can certainly help when you spend more time on the crease. Will we see Virat and Rohit playing domestic cricket? It is something that totally depends on both of them.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-dynamic-opening-combinations-india-can-try-in-the-icc-champions-trophy-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">3 Dynamic Opening Combinations India can try in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a>

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are struggling with their form. Hence, many former cricketers have advised them to play domestic cricket.

When was the last time Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma played first-class cricket at the domestic level?

when-was-the-last-time-virat-kohli-and-rohit-sharma-played-first-class-cricket-at-the-domestic-level-

ICC Men's Test Team Rankings: After a series of what we would say was a disaster for Team India in Australia and for Team Pakistan in South Africa, the International Cricket Council has come up with the latest updated ICC Men's Test Team Rankings where India slipped past South Africa. 
Two big teams from Asia toured two different countries in December.  The positive of the Pakistan Tour of South Africa was that they are the only nation to whitewash South Africa in the ODI format in South Africa. The end result of the test series is disappointing for both nations as they failed to deliver the best. Let's take a look at both tours in brief.
<h2>Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25</h2>
India’s struggles in Test cricket continued as they suffered a crushing 3-1 defeat against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. This marked the second consecutive Test series loss for the team, adding to the earlier 3-0 drubbing against New Zealand at home. Despite starting the series with high hopes, Rohit Sharma’s leadership failed to inspire consistency, allowing Australia to dominate and reclaim the trophy after a decade.
The series began on a promising note for India with a commanding 295-run victory in Perth, led by stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah. However, that early success turned out to be the only bright spot in an otherwise disappointing campaign.
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_67738a0bddf09.jpg" alt="">
Australia roared back with a 10-wicket triumph in Adelaide, while the rain-affected draw in Brisbane did little to shift the momentum. The Boxing Day Test in Melbourne saw Australia crush India by 184 runs, leaving the visitors on the back foot heading into the series finale.
India entered the decisive fifth Test in Sydney needing a win to salvage the series and avoid their first defeat to Australia since 2014-15. Unfortunately, their performance faltered once again, and the hosts sealed a comfortable six-wicket victory. With this win, Australia not only secured the series 3-1 but also ended India’s recent dominance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, delivering a strong statement in world cricket.
<h2>Pakistan Tour of South Africa 2024/25</h2>
South Africa clinched a 2-0 series win against Pakistan, securing their place in the World Test Championship final. The first Test at SuperSport Park was a nail-biting affair, with South Africa chasing 148 and narrowly winning by two wickets after a dramatic collapse, thanks to their lower-order resilience. Pakistan’s bowlers fought hard but couldn’t break South Africa’s eight-match losing streak in the country.
The second Test in Cape Town saw South Africa dominate with a 10-wicket victory. The proteas, batting first put up 600+ runs on the board, already winning the pressure game. Despite following on, Pakistan put up a spirited fight with a strong second-innings total of 478. However, South Africa's bowlers limited the target to just 58, which the hosts chased with ease, sealing the series in just four days.
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_677de4a3187ba.jpg" alt="">
This series highlighted South Africa’s consistency and ability to deliver under pressure. Their strong bowling attack and solid team performance throughout ensured they remained unbeaten in the 2024/25 season. With this victory, South Africa carries significant momentum heading into the WTC final at Lord’s.
After these two series, here is the ICC Men's Test Team Rankings updated recently:
<h2>ICC Men's Test Team Rankings</h2>
India were leading the ICC Test Team Rankings a couple of months back in the time. The home series loss against New Zealand put them in a 121 rating and India slipped to the second spot. The Australia tour was also disappointing for the Indian team as they lost 3 matches which further damaged their rating and India are now ranked third with a 109 rating.
<table id="table_1" class="table table-bordered table-hover" border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 62.561%; background-color: #F2EEFA; border-color: #000000; border-style: double;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.5" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Pos</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.87" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Team</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.79" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Matches</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.07" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Pts</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.97" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Rating</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=71.89" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">01</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.84" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">AUSTRALIA</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.98" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">36</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.98" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">4531</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.97" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">126</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=89.39" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">02</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">SOUTH AFRICA</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.93" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">30</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.75" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">3355</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.9" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">112</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=91.51" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">03</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.79" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">INDIA</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">39</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.91" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">4248</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.96" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">109</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=93.03" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">04</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.64" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">ENGLAND</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.88" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">46</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">4815</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.93" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">105</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=83.5" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">05</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.88" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">NEW ZEALAND</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">33</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.95" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">3216</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.95" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">97</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=79.98" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">06</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.59" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">SRI LANKA</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.9" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">28</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.96" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">2436</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.79" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">87</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=87.86" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">07</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=80.77" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">PAKISTAN</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.95" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">27</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.96" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">2237</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.64" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">83</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=81.49" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">08</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.77" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">WEST INDIES</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.93" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">29</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.71" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">2184</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.86" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">75</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=77.44" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">09</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.72" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">BANGLADESH</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">29</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.47" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">1884</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.9" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">65</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=89.56" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">10</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=64.23" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">IRELAND</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.56" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">5</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.91" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">131</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.91" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=84.32" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">11</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=56.91" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">AFGHANISTAN</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.87" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">6</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.89" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">112</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.91" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=72.44" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">12</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.09" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">ZIMBABWE</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">6</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.31" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">0</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.18" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

India dropped to third in the ICC Test Rankings after series losses against New Zealand and Australia. South Africa’s dominant 2-0 win over Pakistan secured their spot in the World Test Championship final.

India’s Test struggles continue as South Africa overtakes them in rankings following dominant performances against Pakistan and Australia.