<p dir="ltr"><span>The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League will be played in 2025, as it is scheduled to begin on the 21st of March. The IPL, considered one of the greatest leagues in the world in terms of franchise-level T20 cricket, has turned out to be a massive platform for younger talents from around the world. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The IPL has given high standards to players like <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glenn_Maxwell"><strong>Glenn Maxwell</strong></a>, David Miller, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shikhar Dhawan, who later went on to establish themselves as greats of the game in international cricket. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Many senior players and Indian domestic scouts look out for and keep track of the domestic games that recognize junior uncapped players who are instead picked in the IPL mega-auction. </span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span></span></h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Top scouted players who can make it big post the IPL 2025:</span></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span></span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Jacob Bethell </span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The English batting all-rounder, Bethell, has been a standout talent in international cricket. The player stepped up from the English Vitality T20 Blast, and later the world witnessed his rise in both T20, ODI, and test cricket for England, as the kiddo has made his mark across all formats. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Currently, Bethell is being seen making his mark in Australia in the ongoing Big Bash League while he is about to make his debut for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL. </span><span></span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Anshul Kamboj </span><span></span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span><img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_67848209821ff.jpg" alt="" width="791" height="492"></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Anhsul Kamboj starred in IPL 2024 for the Mumbai Indians (Image Credit: X)</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The player who made his debut in the IPL with the Mumbai Indians has been picked up by the Chennai Super Kings for the upcoming season of the IPL in 2025. Kamboj has been a stunning player in the T20 domestic tournament in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, while he also left his mark in the Duleep Trophy and the Ranji Trophy as well. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>He recently made the cut of news headlines as he picked all 10 wickets in a single innings of a test match and made it to the unique record books. Kamboj is sure to earn some name for himself after his contributions with both bat and ball. </span><span></span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Vipraj Nigam</span><span></span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The youngster has been stunning with his recent performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and later in the UP T20 League. Nigam does not have stats in his favour; while he has been a superb hitter of the white ball, his services have also been outstanding with the promising medium pace he bowls. </span><span></span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Allah Ghazanfar </span><span></span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Mumbai Indians have picked the young Afghan spinner as their lead spin option if Mitchell Santner is not featured in the games. Ghazanfar is known to have taken the place of Mujeeb Ur Rahman, as the new off-spinner has brought immense glory to the Afghan team. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The spinner might excel in the subcontinent and hence might be a standout player to look after the IPL 2025 concludes. </span><span></span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Suryansh Shedge</span><span></span></h3>
<p><span><img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_6784827bb9d5a.jpg" alt="" width="786" height="489"></span></p>
<p><span>The explosive down the order batsman for Mumbai (Image Credit: India Today)</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Promising down the order, batting all-rounder Shedge has been a stunning performer down the order while the batter has played for the Mumbai team in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. On many occasions, the batter has played with a strike rate of over 250 in the shortest format. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While with the ball, he has been effective as well and has picked wickets at regular intervals. Shedge has been picked by the Punjab Kings for a very minor cost, though his effectiveness will be a major effort to watch out for in the upcoming season of the IPL. </span><strong></strong></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/rohit-sharma-categorically-tells-selector-he-wants-to-captain-india-in-tests-and-odis-till-/"> Rohit Sharma informs selectors that he will remain India's test and ODI captain until they can find a replacement for the skipper </a></strong></p>
<p></p>

A look into the underdog players picked for IPL 2025 who can excel in this season

The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League will be played in 2025, as the IPL 2025 is scheduled to begin on the 21st of March. The IPL, considered one of the greatest leagues in the world in terms of franchise-level T20 cricket, has turned out to be a massive platform for younger underdog talents from around the world. 

Top 5 underdog talents who can be star favourite players post IPL 2025

top-5-underdog-talents-who-can-be-star-favourite-players-post-ipl-2025

<p><strong>ICC Men's Test Team Rankings: </strong>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. </p>
<p>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.</p>
<h2><strong>Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25</strong></h2>
<p>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.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<p><img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_67738a0bddf09.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>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.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<h2><strong>Pakistan Tour of South Africa 2024/25</strong></h2>
<p>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.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<p><img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_677de4a3187ba.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>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.</p>
<p>After these two series, here is the ICC Men's Test Team Rankings updated recently:</p>
<h2><strong>ICC Men's Test Team Rankings</strong></h2>
<p>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.</p>
<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);"><strong>Pos</strong></td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.87" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>Team</strong></td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.79" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>Matches</strong></td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.07" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>Pts</strong></td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.97" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>Rating</strong></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>
<p> </p>

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.

ICC Men's Test Team Rankings Latest Updated After BGT 2024/25 and SA vs PAK Test Series

icc-men-s-test-team-rankings-latest-updated-after-bgt-2024-25-and-sa-vs-pak-test-series

<p>RCB fans are crazy, aren’t they? While the BCCI is working with the IPL administration team to finalize the IPL 2025 schedule, we’ve been busy discussing what could be the possible combinations of the playing XI for the best RCB team, based on the pitch and opponent strengths.</p>
<p>Let’s first take a look at the full squad. Then, we’ll explore the <strong>Balanced XI</strong>, <strong>Spin-Heavy XI</strong>, and <strong>Pace-Dominant XI</strong> combinations. Finally, we’ll determine the best possible playing XI for RCB in IPL 2025.</p>
<p>So, friends, what do you say—shall we get started?</p>
<p></p>
<h3><strong>RCB Full Squad for IPL 2025</strong><strong></strong></h3>
<table border="1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th>Player Name</th>
<th>Role</th>
<th>Price</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Virat Kohli</td>
<td>Batsman</td>
<td>Retained</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rajat Patidar</td>
<td>Batsman</td>
<td>Retained</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Yash Dayal</td>
<td>Bowler</td>
<td>Retained</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Liam Livingstone</td>
<td>All-Rounder</td>
<td>₹8.75 Crore</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Phil Salt</td>
<td>Wicketkeeper-Batsman</td>
<td>₹11.50 Crore</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jitesh Sharma</td>
<td>Wicketkeeper-Batsman</td>
<td>₹11 Crore</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Josh Hazlewood</td>
<td>Bowler</td>
<td>₹12.50 Crore</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rasikh Dar</td>
<td>Bowler</td>
<td>₹6 Crore</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Suyash Sharma</td>
<td>Bowler</td>
<td>₹2.60 Crore</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Krunal Pandya</td>
<td>All-Rounder</td>
<td>₹5.75 Crore</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bhuvneshwar Kumar</td>
<td>Bowler</td>
<td>₹10.75 Crore</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Swapnil Singh</td>
<td>All-Rounder</td>
<td>₹50 Lakh</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tim David</td>
<td>All-Rounder</td>
<td>₹3 Crore</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Romario Shepherd</td>
<td>All-Rounder</td>
<td>₹1.50 Crore</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nuwan Thushara</td>
<td>Bowler</td>
<td>₹1.60 Crore</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Manoj Bhandage</td>
<td>All-Rounder</td>
<td>₹30 Lakh</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jacob Bethell</td>
<td>All-Rounder</td>
<td>₹2.60 Crore</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Devdutt Padikkal</td>
<td>Batsman</td>
<td>₹2 Crore</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Swastik Chhikara</td>
<td>Batsman</td>
<td>₹30 Lakh</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lungi Ngidi</td>
<td>Bowler</td>
<td>₹1 Crore</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Abhinandan Singh</td>
<td>Bowler</td>
<td>₹30 Lakh</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mohit Rathee</td>
<td>All-Rounder</td>
<td>₹30 Lakh</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><strong></strong></p>
<h3><strong>Combination 1: Balanced XI</strong></h3>
<p>Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Liam Livingstone, Phil Salt (WK), Jitesh Sharma, Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Suyash Sharma</p>
<h3><strong>Combination 2: Spin-Heavy XI</strong></h3>
<p>Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Liam Livingstone, Phil Salt (WK), Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Swapnil Singh, Jacob Bethell, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Suyash Sharma, Rasikh Dar</p>
<h3><strong>Combination 3: Pace-Dominant XI</strong></h3>
<p>Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Phil Salt (WK), Liam Livingstone, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Lungi Ngidi, Nuwan Thushara</p>
<h2><strong>Best Playing XI for RCB in IPL 2025 [Predicted]</strong></h2>
<p>Virat Kohli<br>Devdutt Padikkal<br>Liam Livingstone<br>Phil Salt (WK)<br>Jitesh Sharma<br>Tim David<br>Krunal Pandya<br>Bhuvneshwar Kumar<br>Josh Hazlewood<br>Yash Dayal<br>Suyash Sharma</p>
<p></p>

Best Playing XI for RCB in IPL 2025 [Predicted]

Predicting the top 3 playing XI combinations for RCB in IPL 2025—Balanced XI, Spin-Heavy XI, and Pace-Dominant XI—and revealing the best XI for ultimate success!

IPL 2025 RCB Playing 11: Top 3 Combinations Predicted, See the Best

IPL 2025: Predicted RCB Playing XI and Top 3 Combos

ipl-2025-predicted-rcb-playing-xi-and-top-3-combos

<p><strong>NZ vs ENG 3rd Test: </strong>The third and last test of the England tour of New Zealand 2024 came to an end after the home team cleared up the lower order of England and clinched a consolation win in the series. This win has pushed New Zealand up to the fourth rank from the sixth.</p>
<p>The hosts had already lost the series after heavy defeats in the first two Tests, but this final match carried special significance—it was Tim Southee’s farewell game. A victory here would have offered a much-needed silver lining. As the match ended, Southee picked up a stump and led his team off the field, basking in the applause from the crowd.</p>
<p><img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_6760ec257790c.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>The moment was made even more special when he received a warm hug from former teammate and current England coach, Brendon McCullum, bringing a heartfelt close to his illustrious Test career.</p>
<p>England may have won the series, but their tour ended on a sour note with New Zealand’s commanding victory in the final Test. Despite the setback, England had plenty to celebrate, including Harry Brook’s brilliant batting and Brydon Carse’s leadership of a sharp seam attack in the first two matches. Beating New Zealand at home is a tough challenge, and England can still take pride in their overall performance.</p>
<h2><strong>WTC 2025 Points Table Updates</strong></h2>
<p>New Zealand are fairly happy with the win in the last test. However, they would have been a lot happier if they had won the series. The two back-to-back losses in the first two tests brought down the PCT of New Zealand and dropped them from 4th rank to sixth rank with a <span>44.230 winning percentage. </span></p>
<p><span>Just after winning the last match, New Zealand got their rank back. The massive 423-run win helped New Zealand to go to a 48.21 winning percentage. England, who were in 5th spot with over 45 PCT, now are sixth again with 43.18 PCT.</span></p>
<h2><strong>WTC 2025 Points Table Updated after NZ vs ENG</strong></h2>
<table id="table_1" border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 1140px; height: 191px; background-color: #dee5f7; border-color: #000000; border-style: double;">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 11px;">
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.68" style="height: 11px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>POS</strong></td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.96" style="height: 11px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>TEAM</strong></td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.97" style="height: 11px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>PLAYED</strong></td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.85" style="height: 11px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>WON</strong></td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.97" style="height: 11px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>LOST</strong></td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.88" style="height: 11px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>DRAW</strong></td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.84" style="height: 11px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>DED</strong></td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.88" style="height: 11px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>POINTS</strong></td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.69" style="height: 11px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>PCT</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.79" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">1</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.93" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">SOUTH AFRICA</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.84" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">10</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.72" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">6</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.79" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">3</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.87" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">1</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.17" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">0</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.94" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">76</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.51" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">63.33</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.6" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">2</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.91" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">AUSTRALIA</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.81" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">14</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.96" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">9</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.65" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">4</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.84" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">1</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.83" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">10</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.94" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">102</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.8" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">60.71</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.89" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">3</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.73" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">INDIA</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.87" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">16</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.95" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">9</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.75" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">6</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.7" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">1</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.79" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">2</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.87" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">110</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.33" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">57.29</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.9" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">4</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.91" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">NEW ZEALAND</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.83" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">14</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.59" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">7</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.7" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">7</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.5" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">0</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.6" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">3</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.84" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">81</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.56" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">48.21</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.83" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">5</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.67" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">SRI LANKA</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.75" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">11</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.76" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">5</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.81" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">6</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.37" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">0</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.5" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">0</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.76" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">60</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.23" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">45.45</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">6</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.73" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">ENGLAND</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.83" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">22</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.9" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">11</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">10</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.75" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">1</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.93" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">22</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.87" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">114</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.66" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">43.18</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.78" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">7</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.55" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">PAKISTAN</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.91" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">10</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.77" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">4</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.86" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">6</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.7" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">0</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.49" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">8</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.88" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">40</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=95.09" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">33.33</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.85" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">8</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.76" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">BANGLADESH</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.84" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">12</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.77" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">4</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.89" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">8</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.39" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">0</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.73" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">3</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.94" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">45</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=92.24" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">31.25</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">9</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=69.77" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">F WEST INDIES</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.88" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">11</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.69" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">2</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.49" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">7</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.77" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">2</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=91.54" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">0</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.87" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">32</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.06" style="height: 20px; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">24.24</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><strong>READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/rishabh-pant-is-struggling-to-trouble-the-aussies-with-the-bat-this-bowler-has-found-a-way-to-stop-his-rampage/">Rishabh Pant is struggling to trouble the Aussies with the bat, this bowler has found a way to stop his rampage</a><br></strong></p>
<p><strong>SOURCE- <a href="https://www.icc-cricket.com/tournaments/world-test-championship/standings">WTC OFFICIAL</a></strong></p>

The farewell test of Tim Southee and the New Zealand team gifted him the win in his last test. NZ secured a massive win of 423 runs in the last test of the series.

New Zealand made a big jump on the WTC points table after the win in the last Test of the series.

WTC 2025 Points Table Updated after New Zealand's Massive win against England in Farewell test for Tim Southee

wtc-2025-points-table-updated-after-new-zealands-massive-win-against-england-in-farewell-test-for-tim-southee

<p>The IPL 2025 mega-auctions are knocking at the doorstep, and every team management is gearing alongside their coaches, mentors, and skippers. Every possible team has looked to retain their core team, though some teams have made some startling retentions, leaving out several crucial players. <br> <br>After the retentions were announced at the end of last month,<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Challengers_Bangalore"> Royal Challengers Bangalore</a> and Punjab Kings retained the least number of players. RCB only retained the likes of their veteran batters Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, and Yash Dayal, the two promising youngsters. <br> <br>While PBKS retained only two of their vital uncapped players, Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh, these two teams will be left with the highest purse amount in the history of the IPL. RCB have INR 83 crores, while PBKS entered the mega-auction with a record INR 110.5 crores in their bag. </p>



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#5-players-who-can-instill-a-bidding-war-between-rcb-and-pbks">5 players who can instill a bidding war between RCB and PBKS:</a><ul><li class=""><a href="#liam-livingstone">Liam Livingstone</a></li><li class=""><a href="#kagiso-rabada">Kagiso Rabada</a></li><li class=""><a href="#yuzvendra-chahal">Yuzvendra Chahal</a></li><li class=""><a href="#rishabh-pant">Rishabh Pant</a></li><li class=""><a href="#faf-du-plessis">Faf du Plessis</a></li></ul></li></ul></nav></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="5-players-who-can-instill-a-bidding-war-between-rcb-and-pbks"><strong>5 players who can instill a bidding war between RCB and PBKS:</strong></h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="liam-livingstone"><strong>Liam Livingstone</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/11/Liam-Livingstone-PBKS-New-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-149652" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Liam Livingstone - The dynamic all-rounder for Punjab Kings (Image Credit: Times of India)</figcaption></figure>



<p>The English all-rounder has had a dream form since his return to the English side following the T20 World Cup. Livingstone has been equally effective with the bat and ball, though he has recently been replaced as the ICC's No. 1 T20I all-rounder. <br> <br>Livingstone might be one of the RTM options in head for the Punjab Kings, while RCB will also look to acquire his services in order to reinstall their side for the IPL. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="kagiso-rabada"><strong>Kagiso Rabada</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/11/Kagiso-Rabada-IPL.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-149653" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rabada in the IPL mega-auction (Image Credit: X.com)</figcaption></figure>



<p>Rabada, the most veteran overseas bowler in the recent few years in the IPL, has been an ever-effective pace option for the teams; hence, he might be the second RTM option considered by the Punjab Kings. <br> <br>However, other than the Kings and RCB, even the likes of several other franchises like CSK and LSG, who are in the quest for an experienced pacer, would look to target the Protea legend. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="yuzvendra-chahal"><strong>Yuzvendra Chahal</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/11/Yuzi-Chahal-IPL-1.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-149654" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chahal - The highest wicket getter in IPL (Image Credit: NDTV Sports)</figcaption></figure>



<p>The Royals released their spin option while also not having much of a retention option left with them; hence, Chahal might be travelling to some other part of India. <br> <br>Chahal?s spin capacity turned him into the highest wicket-taker in the format and the tournament, which might find him travelling back to the Chinnaswamy or to the hills in Dharamshala or Mohali. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="rishabh-pant"><strong>Rishabh Pant</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/11/Pant-IPL.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-149657" style="width:688px;height:auto" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pant in the IPL mega-auction for the first time (Image Credit: X.com) </figcaption></figure>



<p>Pant has been anticipated by many, like Irfan Pathan and Suresh Raina, to be the IPL 2025 mega-auction?s highest-bid player. Some have also predicted that he might break Starc's record for the highest bid amount in the mega-auction. <br> <br>Pant might be backed only by the two biggest IPL franchises, who have the secured purse amount required for acquiring a high-stakes player like Pant. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="faf-du-plessis"><strong>Faf du Plessis</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/11/faf-from-RCB-1024x538.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-149658" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Faf Du Plessis won the CPL trophy as a skipper in 2024 (Image Credit: NDTV Sports) </figcaption></figure>



<p>Faf was not retained by the Royal Challengers, maybe because he could be received for a lower amount than the retention slab. Hence he might be said to be RCB?s prime target in the form of an RTM. <br> <br>Du Plessis recently led the St. Lucia Kings in the CPL, a daughter franchise of the Kings, and since then he might highly be in demand in the IPL as well, especially with a new mentor and hopes of lifting the title for the first time in the IPL.</p>



<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong> <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/border-gavaskar-trophy-2024-when-and-where-to-watch-the-series-in-india/">Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024: When and Where to watch the series in India?<br></a></p>

5 players who can stir up a bidding contest between RCB and PBKS; two teams with the highest purse in the IPL 2025 mega-auction|||||||

5 players who can stir up a bidding contest between RCB and PBKS; two teams with the highest purse in the IPL 2025 mega-auction

5-players-who-can-stir-up-a-bidding-contest-between-rcb-and-pbks-two-teams-with-the-highest-purse-in-the-ipl-2025-mega-auction

<p>RCB have had an immense legacy in the history of the IPL; though they have not been able to secure a position as title winners, they are among the teams with the highest fanbases in the Indian Premier League. <br> <br>The Royal Challengers Bangalore have retained the second-fewest players and are hence contained with a whopping second-highest purse in the mega-auction. RCB have retained the likes of veteran <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virat_Kohli">Virat Kohli</a> for a huge INR 21 crore, Rajat Patidar for INR 11 crore, and lastly, uncapped Yash Dayal for INR 5 crore. <br> <br>Entering the mega-auction with a huge purse amount of INR 83 crore, RCB will look to rebuild a squad having let go of their core squad. Now RCB veteran AB de Villiers picked a set of four players who will be vital from the team?s point of view.  </p>



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#abd-picks-the-likes-of-chahal-and-rabada-as-vital-picks-for-rcb-in-the-mega-auction">ABD picks the likes of Chahal and Rabada as vital picks for RCB in the mega-auction</a><ul><li class=""><a href="#yuzvendra-chahal">Yuzvendra Chahal</a></li><li class=""><a href="#kagiso-rabada">Kagiso Rabada</a></li><li class=""><a href="#bhuvneshwar-kumar">Bhuvneshwar Kumar</a></li><li class=""><a href="#ravichandran-ashwin">Ravichandran Ashwin</a></li></ul></li></ul></nav></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="abd-picks-the-likes-of-chahal-and-rabada-as-vital-picks-for-rcb-in-the-mega-auction">ABD picks the likes of Chahal and Rabada as vital picks for RCB in the mega-auction</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="yuzvendra-chahal">Yuzvendra Chahal</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/11/Yuzi-Chahal-RCB-1024x740.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-149287" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">(Image Credit: X.com)</figcaption></figure>



<p>The Rajasthan Royals have parted ways with their lead spinner and the highest wicket-taker in the IPL. Yuzi Chahal, a former RCB veteran, went on to achieve his peak in his career with the Royal Challengers. <br> <br>The leggie often relishes his spells at the Chinnaswamy despite the ground dimensions being in favour of big hitters. It is one of India?s best six-hit arenas, and Chahal can be an asset to his side if back with the Challengers. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="kagiso-rabada">Kagiso Rabada</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/11/Rabada-New-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-149288" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Protea veteran Rabada (Image Credit: ESPNcricinfo)</figcaption></figure>



<p>Veteran Protea pacer Rabada has also had a scintillating record in the Indian Premier League and will also be, in a true sense, a very high-value player in the mega-auction. <br> <br>Rabada's pace will hand RCB the first unique pacer in the shortest format, which traced the second-best-ever RCB pacer since <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dale_Steyn">Dale Steyn</a> last played for the franchise. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="bhuvneshwar-kumar">Bhuvneshwar Kumar</h3>



<p>Ace Sunrisers pacer, who has had a long legacy of a decade with the franchise, went on to feature for them since 2013, the first season played by the Sunrisers Hyderabad. <br> <br>For the first time, Bhuvi comes into the auction, and a player of his calibre will remain one of the finest auction bids in the season. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="ravichandran-ashwin">Ravichandran Ashwin</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/11/Ravi-Ashwin-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-149289" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">(Image Credit: Sportstar - The Hindu )</figcaption></figure>



<p>The major Southpaw will be vital as a spin bowler and an all-rounder as well when Ashwin can come in to bat under pressure situations. <br> <br>Ashwin is expected to return to the South teams, with the likes of CSK and RCB both in need of a spinner of Ashwin?s calibre and experience.</p>



<p><strong>ALSO READ</strong>: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/updated-icc-player-rankings-following-the-india-vs-new-zealand-test-series-kohli-out-of-top-20-pant-enters-top-6/">Updated ICC Player Rankings following the India vs New Zealand Test-Series | Kohli out of top 20, Pant enters top 6</a></p>

RCB veteran picks his four priority players for RCB in the IPL mega-auction in 2024||||

RCB veteran picks his four priority players for RCB in the IPL mega-auction in 2024

rcb-veteran-picks-his-four-priority-players-for-rcb-in-the-ipl-mega-auction-in-2024

<p>The LSG will restore the likes of a firm squad, with the first priority retention being in the overseas captivating finisher, Nicholas Pooran. </p>



<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/1850793746356449545
</div></figure>



<p><br>With Pooran being the only overseas option that has been included on the side, while the likes of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mayank_Yadav">Mayank Yadav</a>, the new debutant pacer for the Indian team, have also placed Mohsin Khan and Ayush Badoni, the two uncapped players who might be retained for the Lucknow Super Giants for IPL 2025. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/ESPNcricinfo/status/1850789690242474284
</div></figure>



<p><br>KL Rahul, who led the franchise since their debut in 2022, led them to two successive IPL playoffs before falling behind in the previous season of 2024. He is unlikely to be retained, which was indicated by reports for long. <br> <br>If the LSG team retains five players, they would still be left with one RTM card. Likes of veteran T20I all-rounder <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcus_Stoinis">Marcus Stoinis</a> have also not been shown the way of retention; hence, RTM might come into use here. <br> <br>According to the player retention slabs defined by the IPL committee, a minimum amount of INR 51 crores would be reduced from their purse owing to the retention of the five players. Likely, Pooran, Mayank, and Bishnoi can be retained for INR 18, 14, and 11 crores, as the two uncapped players might be placed at INR 4 crores each.  </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Zaheer Khan took over the role of LSG?s mentor for IPL 2025</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/Zaheer-Khan-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-149022" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Zaheer Khan to step in as mentor for Lucknow Super Giants ahead of IPL 2025 (Image Credit: NDTV Sports)</figcaption></figure>



<p>The LSG side has left their mentor seat vacant since Gautam Gambhir went from the franchise to the Kolkata Knight Riders back before the IPL edition of 2024. <br> <br>Since then, only the head coach, Justin Langer, took over the role, as he continues to be the head coach in the upcoming season as well. While alongside the head coach, players like Adam Voges seen as the assistant coach and batting coach Lance Klusner might also be seen in their positions. <br> <br>Jonty Rhodes, the best man known for his role, continues in his role. While they also parted ways with Morne Morkel, their previous bowling coach, the new mentor Zaheer Khan would be an asset for them in the dual role of a bowling coach as well.</p>



<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong> <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-tour-of-south-africa-vvs-laxman-to-step-in-as-indias-new-head-coach-for-the-4-match-t20i-series/">India tour of South Africa: VVS Laxman to step in as India?s new head coach for the 4-match T20I series</a><br></p>

LSG to retain only 2 capped players alongside 3 uncapped Indian players for IPL 2025 ft. Nicholas Pooran suggests reports from ESPNcricinfo|

LSG to retain 3 capped players alongside 2 uncapped Indian players for IPL 2025 ft. Nicholas Pooran suggests reports from ESPNcricinfo

lsg-to-retain-3-capped-players-alongside-2-uncapped-indian-players-for-ipl-2025-ft-nicholas-pooran-suggests-reports-from-espncricinfo

<p>The Rajasthan Royals are often known to be the first-ever winners of the IPL; however, since then they have never made it to the finals, until the first time in 2022, when they lost to the Gujarat Titans in the finals. <br> <br>The Rajasthan Royals had some exemplary seasons in the recent past since they made it to the knockouts twice in the last three seasons. All these great IPL achievements came under the guidance of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumar_Sangakkara">Kumara Sangakkara</a>. <br> <br>The Royals brought in the likes of World Cup-winning Indian coach Rahul Dravid as their mentor for the season, while they also brought in Vikram Rathour as their batting coach. With the IPL retention slabs paced quite high and all of the Indian players in the side being capped, Rajasthan would have a tough job to retain a set of players.  </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/Rahul-Dravid-to-Rajasthan-Royals.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-148759" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rahul Dravid has returned to the Rajasthan Royals camp for IPL 2025 (Image Credit: NDTV Sports)</figcaption></figure>



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#top-players-who-might-be-retained-ahead-of-the-ipl-mega-auction">Top players who might be retained ahead of the IPL mega-auction</a><ul><li class=""><a href="#trent-boult">Trent Boult</a></li><li class=""><a href="#yashasvi-jaiswal">Yashasvi Jaiswal </a></li><li class=""><a href="#sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</a></li></ul></li></ul></nav></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="top-players-who-might-be-retained-ahead-of-the-ipl-mega-auction">Top players who might be retained ahead of the IPL mega-auction</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="trent-boult">Trent Boult</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/Boult-RR-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-148761" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Trent Boult for Rajasthan Royals (Image Credit: ESPNcricinfo)</figcaption></figure>



<p>The Kiwi pacer has been a veteran across different T20 global franchises, while he has also been a wonderman in the IPL. After Boult was included in the Royals' side, he has been the most successful bowler with the new ball. Boult has mastered the art of picking up a wicket in the first over of the powerplay. Often seen completing a major portion of his spell in the powerplay, he is a maestro in himself. <br> <br>Boult can be the third retained player in the RR camp, as deducting a sum of INR 11 crore doesn?t seem very unlikely for the veteran pacer from the Kiwi Islands. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="yashasvi-jaiswal">Yashasvi Jaiswal </h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/Jaiswal-RR-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-148762" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Yashasvi Jaiswal - The rising face of Rajasthan Royals (Image Credit: India Today)</figcaption></figure>



<p>The young Indian batting sensation, Jaiswal, has been their star batter since he batted stunningly alongside Jos Buttler, as the duo have scored the most runs for the Rajasthan Royals. <br> <br>Young Jaiswal is a very promising talent and is undoubtedly a scope for the future on the Royals side. With Dravid recognizing such a unique talent, he can be the future of IPL and a major target for all teams; hence, even retaining him for a whopping amount seems quite likely. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/Samson-RR.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-148763" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sanju Samson as RR skipper (Image Credit: ANI News)</figcaption></figure>



<p>The India domestic batter, or most correctly said to be an IPL veteran, Sanju Samson, is most likely to be retained by the Royals. Since the days he came into the Royals side from the Daredevils side, he has been stunning in the IPL. <br> <br>Next to be coined the skipper to the side, Sanju Samson has led from the front as he has repeatedly produced runs as well as results for his side. Samson will be an asset to the team, whatever price they have to bear for the star cricketer. </p>



<p><strong>ALSO READ</strong>:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/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</a><br> <br>Also, the likes of Jos Buttler, last season's highest scorer Riyan Parag, and veteran spinners Ravi Ashwin and Yuzi Chahal are a part of the Royals side; however, they might not look to retain these players, with some of them being retained using the RTM card if their bids suit the budget of the franchise.<br></p>

Top player retentions for Rajasthan Royals ahead of the IPL mega-auction||||||

Top player retentions for Rajasthan Royals ahead of the IPL mega-auction

top-player-retentions-for-rajasthan-royals-ahead-of-the-ipl-mega-auction

<p>The Mumbai Teams are among the best-credited franchises in the history of the IPL. The Mumbai Indians are the joint most successful franchise in the competition alongside Chennai Super Kings with 5-IPL trophies. </p>



<p>However, unlike their closest rivals, CSK, the Mumbai Indians are not the team with many playoffs, as Mumbai has the highest conversion rate. They have won all of their final appearances except one, which they lost to the Chennai Super Kings. </p>



<p>However, last time around, the Mumbai Indians faced sheer humiliation as they ended their IPL 2024 campaign as the last team on the points table. This was in turn a humiliation for the new skipper, Hardik Pandya, who was brought into the side owing to the huge amount of money used to draft him from the Gujarat Titans. </p>



<p>After a dismaying campaign in the IPL 2024, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Boucher">Mark Boucher</a>, who was brought in as their head coach in 2023, went on to fade his role in the side. Boucher has now been dropped, and Mahela Jayawardene has again been brought back into the side as their head coach. </p>



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<p>Jayawardene was their most successful coach, leading them to three IPL titles. The Mumbai Indians have also hinted towards retaining the likes of veteran batter Rohit Sharma alongside the Indian legendary trio of Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Three possible players who might be targets for MI in the mega-auction </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/MI-target-Players-in-auction-min-1024x768.png" alt="" class="wp-image-148711" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Most Likely Players Mumbai Indians might target for IPL mega-auction (Image Credit: X.com)</figcaption></figure>



<p>3. <strong>Liam Livingstone:</strong> The English all-rounder who currently sits at the top of the ICC?s rankings for men?s T20I all-rounders, seems to be on the auction list of every possible franchise in the IPL if the Punjab Kings look to release him. </p>



<p>Playing for the Punjab Kings, he pushed himself to rescue the Kings several times they needed. The overseas batter can be a good recruit for the Mumbai Indians since they do not have a heavy back of foreign players. Livingstone can play the role of a big-hitting all-rounder down the order and can add his spin to his quality for the Mumbai Indians. </p>



<p>2. <strong>Tristan Stubbs: </strong>The South African batter who started off his career in the Indian Premier League as he was first picked up by the Mumbai Indians, though his weak performances found him released after the very first season. He was then picked by the Delhi Capitals in order to set the tone of their middle order in the absence of Harry Brook.</p>



<p>Stubbs since the last IPL has been in the form of his life playing for the Capitals and several other franchise-level teams while also for South Africa internationally. Leaving out Ishan Kishan, he can also be a wicketkeeping choice for the Mumbai Indians. </p>



<p>1. <strong>Yuzvendra Chahal: </strong>The Mumbai Indians have been a very convincing team, but since Harbhajan Singh, they have never had the likes of an expert spinner on their side. With some speculations suggesting the probable release of IPL's highest wicket-taking spinner Yuzi Chahal from the Royals side, Mumbai can go all ends to rope in the great leggie. Chahal inclusion in the Mumbai Indians side will add a sense of completeness to their side.</p>



<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong> <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-nz-what-happens-to-indias-qualification-scenario-for-the-wtc-final-if-india-loses-the-first-test-against-new-zealand/">IND vs NZ: What happens to India?s qualification scenario for the WTC final if India loses the first test against New Zealand?</a><br></p>

3 players Mumbai Indians can target in mega auctions for IPL 2025|

3 players Mumbai Indians can target in mega auctions for IPL 2025

3-players-mumbai-indians-can-target-in-mega-auctions-for-ipl-2025

<p>IPL 2025: Over the years, the Indian Premier League has served as a common platform for players worldwide, allowing them to establish themselves in international franchise cricket after making their debut in the league.<br> <br>Many players, even before their commanding debut in international cricket, have been recognized in the IPL, and their stunning shows in the IPL have placed them into their national teams. The likes of players like Glenn Maxwell, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tristan_Stubbs">Tristan Stubbs</a>, and Sunil Narine have been among the world?s most recognized talents who have been hand-picked owing to their special performances in the different editions of the IPL. <br> <br>Alongside these overseas superstars, countless Indian talents have made their way into the Indian team from being placed in IPL teams, which include the likes of Indian genius all-rounder Hardik Pandya, current skipper Suryakumar Yadav, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, and the latest inclusions like Rinku Singh, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riyan_Parag">Riyan Parag</a>, and Mayank Yadav. <br> <br>Hence, let's take a look at some of the most underrated players who can be included by the franchises, and they might make a revolution in their career. </p>



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><h2>Top 5 underrated players who can be crucial picks in IPL 2025 mega-auction </h2><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#marco-jansen">Marco Jansen</a></li><li class=""><a href="#glenn-phillips">Glenn Phillips </a></li><li class=""><a href="#will-jacks">Will Jacks </a></li><li class=""><a href="#noor-ahmed">Noor Ahmed</a></li><li class=""><a href="#sikander-raza">Sikander Raza</a></li></ul></nav></div>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="marco-jansen">Marco Jansen</h3>



<p>The Protea all-rounder has not been included in recent times in the national side, since the Proteas are looking to load an entirely new setup since the T20 World Cup. He was last seen in the World Cup final against India. <br> <br>Jansen has previously starred for SRH, and not many teams have an all-rounder of his quality. Jansen can share the new ball and can also be a very effective run-scorer down the order who can also add quick runs while playing cameos. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="glenn-phillips">Glenn Phillips </h3>



<p>Phillips has been New Zealand?s top-choice all-rounder option across all formats, as he surpassed the likes of Michael Bracewell as well as Mitchell Santner, not only in terms of runs scored but also the number of wickets he has starred for. <br> <br>Phillips is one of the most sound all-rounders who can be an asset in the IPL, as he can often be effective with his off-spin, while also being known as one of the most aggressive players on any team. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="will-jacks">Will Jacks </h3>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/Will-Jacks-RCB-1-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-148275" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Will Jacks scored maiden IPL century in debut season (Image: NDTV Sports)</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<p>English opener, Jack has been for long a considerable face for global franchises around the world. Will Jacks is often considered one of the finest top-order batters, with stunning roles played as an opener or a batsman among the top 3. <br> <br>Last time around, he was seen playing for the Royal Challengers and was not seen much sharing the ball; however, for England as well as other franchises in global leagues, he has proved himself effective with the ball. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="noor-ahmed">Noor Ahmed</h3>



<p>Noor Ahmed, the Afghan rising spinner, often makes his place into the side after Mujeeb has been often turned down since his dismal show in the World Cup 2023. Noor has been an often-featured player for the Gujarat Titans. <br> <br>A spinner of Noor?s quality would be in high demand in the Indian subcontinent, as several teams would be in the hunt for a spinner of this much class. Franchises like Mumbai Indians, SRH, and Punjab Kings have faced serious trouble in the spin department. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="sikander-raza">Sikander Raza</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/S.Raza-PBKS-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-148276" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sikandar Raza portrays all-round brilliance for PBKS (Image: IPL)</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<p>Zimbabwe all-rounder and current skipper of the national side should be the perfect example of an underrated player, as Raza has been the most special performer one can be across all white-ball formats. <br> <br>Raza is one of the finest middle-order batters, while he is also the best among off-spinners, and his quality as a bowler is undoubtedly profound. Previously picked by PBKS for a minor 50 lakh INR only, and still, he served to the best of his level while replacing the injured Liam Livingstone from the first half of the competition. <br> <br>This time around, his price might take a new level, owing to the brilliance he brings with him and the demand for an all-rounder for several teams. </p>



<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong> <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/top-5-wicketkeepers-who-can-be-among-the-big-fish-in-the-ipl-mega-auction/">Top 5 wicketkeepers who can be among the big fish in the IPL mega-auction</a><br></p>

5 underrated players who might be picked in the IPL 2025 mega-auction||

5 underrated players who might be picked in the IPL 2025 mega-auction

5-underrated-players-who-might-be-picked-in-the-ipl-2025-mega-auction

Top 5 and top 10 news and updates for all the area of crickets, current year and past years.

Top 5 / Top 10

<p>Smriti Mandhana has been the best all-format women's cricketer for Team India for a while now. She is consistently scoring runs and breaking records with her bat. That's what she did in the ongoing ODI match against the Ireland women. The third game between India women and Ireland women is underway at Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot.</p>
<p>India won the toss and decided to bat first. Captain Mandhana, along with youngster Pratika Rawal, went on to register a massive opening stand. Both batters added 233 runs in just 26.4 overs. This is the fourth 100-run opening stand between the opening duo for India in just 6 innings.</p>
<p>Mandhana slammed her 10th WODI ton and reached the landmark in just 70 balls. With that, she recorded the fastest ODI hundred by an Indian women's cricketer. She went past Harmanpreet Kaur's tally of an 87-ball hundred. With this, the Indian opener also achieved a number of records.</p>
<h2>Smriti Mandhana creates havoc with her 70-ball ton in third ODI in Rajkot</h2>
<p>The left-hander reached her century off just 70 balls and registered the fastest ODI ton by an Indian women cricketer. This was her 10th ton in this format, and she became the first Indian to reach the double figure in ODI centuries by an Indian women cricketer. Now, she has the joint-third most centuries in WODIs.</p>
<p>Australia's Meg Lanning (15), New Zealand's Suzie Bates (13), and England's Tammy Beaumont (10) are ahead of her only. Mandhana got out after scoring 135 runs off just 80 balls, with 12 fours and seven sixes, with a strike rate of 168.75. With this, she also equalled Harmanpreet's record for most sixes by an Indian women cricketer in an ODI innings.</p>
<p>Harmanpreet did it against Australia during the 2017 Women's ODI World Cup when she slammed an unbeaten 171 off 115 balls. The left-hander has scored 996 runs since 2024 in WODIs in just 16 innings with four half-centuries and five centuries, while no other batter has reached even the 700-run mark.</p>
<p>She also added the third-highest opening stand of 233 along with Pratika in this game. Notably, Mandhana is leading the team as Harmanpreet has been rested from this series. India have already won the first two games, and they are looking for a 3-0 whitewash here.</p>
<p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/jasprit-bumrah-adds-another-feather-to-his-wings-wins-major-icc-award-after-historic-bgt-performance/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jasprit Bumrah adds another feather to his wings; wins major ICC award after historic BGT Performance</a></p>

Smriti Mandhan reaches her 10th WODI century off just 70 balls.

Smriti Mandhana scores her 10th century in ODIs. She completed her hundred off just 70 balls.

Record Alert: Smriti Mandhana shatters World Record; achieves rare feat with her stunning ton in 3rd ODI in Ranjkot

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<p>Jasprit Bumrah has been the best all-format player, not just for Team India but in the whole cricket world. The pacer has been at the peak of his career and has been delivering across all formats in different situations. He was India's MVP during the T20 World Cup 2024 and helped India to win the long-awaited ICC title after a decade.</p>
<p>As a result, he won the Player of the Tournament award in the T20 World Cup 2024. Even in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, he was India's best player, and one can say the best player across two teams.</p>
<p>He finished the series with the most wickets and went on to take the most wickets in the series. Hence, the International Cricket Council (ICC) awarded him with another big ICC award for his phenomenal performances in Australia.</p>
<h2>Jasprit Bumrah wins "Player of the Award" for December after a historic BGT performance.</h2>
<p>Jasprit Bumrah has been at the top of his game since he made his comeback from the injury. He has been performing consistently across all formats and was India's best bowler in the BGT 2024-25. Bumrah finished the series with 32 wickets in five tests at an unbelievable average of 13.06.</p>
<p>He took three fifers and two four-wicket hauls in the nine innings he bowled. As a result, he won the "Player of the Award" for December for his exceptional performance. Not just this, the ace pacer also achieved the rare feat of the highest rating in a test by an Indian bowler ever. With his consistent performance last month, he moved to the No. 1 ranking in Test and achieved this feat.</p>
<p>He competed with the Australian captain Pat Cummins and South Africa's Dane Paterson for this award. Apart from the "Player of the Month" award, Jasprit Bumrah is also nominated for two other awards. He is nominated for the ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year award and the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year as well. Bumrah finished 2024 with the most wickets in international cricket.</p>
<p>His performance across formats was commendable, and he would be hoping to win the other two ICC awards as well. Bumrah will be a key player for India in the coming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, but his availablity is still a concern. Team India will hope that he gets fully fit before the time.</p>
<p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/no-ind-vs-pak-final-kiwi-star-rachin-ravindra-predicts-icc-champions-trophy-2025-finalists-leaves-out-last-edition-s-finalists/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">No IND vs PAK final;  Kiwi star Rachin Ravindra predicts ICC Champions Trophy 2025 finalists; leaves out last edition's finalists</a></p>

Jasprit Bumrah defeated Pat Cummins and Dane Paterson to win this ICC award.

Jasprit Bumrah finished the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 with most wickets. He took 32 wickets in five tests.

Jasprit Bumrah adds another feather to his wings; wins major ICC award after historic BGT Performance

jasprit-bumrah-adds-another-feather-to-his-wings-wins-major-icc-award-after-historic-bgt-performance

<p>The 38-year-old Indian spinner, known for his sharp cricketing mind and mastery over the ball, recently opened up about his unexpected decision to retire mid-series during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.</p>
<p><em><strong>“For me, what matters is playing with honesty and passion. I don’t need a farewell game. The happiness and experiences the game has given me are more than enough,” </strong></em>said Ravichandran Ashwin, addressing his retirement from international cricket. </p>
<p>Ashwin's announcement, made after the third Test in Brisbane, sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. Fans and pundits were taken aback by the abruptness of the decision, especially since he had been a key figure in Indian cricket for over a decade.</p>
<p><img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_67871d1bda113.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>However, Ashwin made it clear that the decision was instinctive, coming from a place of self-awareness rather than external pressures. He revealed on his YouTube channel,<em><strong> “When you know your time is up, there’s no point in dragging it further. My creativity on the field felt like it had run its course.”</strong></em></p>
<p>Reflecting on the events leading to his retirement, Ashwin explained how his fluctuating role in the team influenced his decision. <em><strong>“You think what happened? I did not play the first Test. I played the second but did not play the third. It was possible I could play the next or not play the next. This is a side of my creativity and I was looking to explore it. At that time, I felt my creativity was over, so it was over. It was simple”</strong></em> he said. The Tamil Nadu cricketer, who has always been known for his articulate thoughts, emphasized that his retirement was not about controversies or conflicts but about moving forward when he felt ready.</p>
<p>The idea of a farewell game, often seen as a ceremonial way to honor a cricketer’s career, was something Ashwin dismissed outright. <em><strong>“Imagine if I want to play a farewell Test but I do not deserve a place. Imagine, I am only in the team because it is my farewell Test. I don't want that,”</strong></em> he remarked. He elaborated that the essence of cricket lies in the joy it brings, not in grand exits or extended applause.</p>
<p>Ashwin's humility and grounded approach to the sport shone through as he said, <em><strong>“The game has given me so much already; I have no complaints.”</strong></em></p>
<p><em><strong><img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_67871d1871c43.jpg" alt=""></strong></em></p>
<p>Ashwin also touched upon his aspirations post-retirement. While he left the Indian dressing room, he hinted at continuing his cricketing journey elsewhere. <em><strong>“I still have cricket left in me, but it’s about finding the right space to explore it. For now, I’m happy to leave when people are asking ‘why’ instead of ‘why not,’”</strong></em> he said with a smile.</p>
<p>As one of India’s finest off-spinners, Ashwin's legacy is monumental. With 537 Test wickets in 106 matches and a combined total of 765 international wickets, he stands as one of the country’s greatest bowlers. Only Anil Kumble has more wickets for India. Beyond numbers, his ability to outthink batters and adapt to different conditions made him a game-changer on the field.</p>
<p>While his departure may seem sudden, it is quintessential Ashwin—methodical, introspective, and unafraid to take bold steps. As fans come to terms with his decision, one thing is clear: Ravichandran Ashwin’s contribution to Indian cricket will remain etched in history, not for how it ended, but for how it unfolded with brilliance and integrity.</p>

Ravichandran Ashwin retired mid-series during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, citing self-awareness. Rejecting a farewell game, he emphasized cricket's joy over ceremonial exits, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy in Indian cricket.

Ashwin's instinctive retirement highlights humility and self-awareness, valuing cricket's joy and legacy over traditional farewell gestures. A remarkable journey concludes.

Ashwin Opens Up on his Retirement, Says "I am only in the Team Because..."

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<p><span>In what will be disappointing news for the Sanju Samson fans, the keeper-batter is unlikely to cut into the Indian team for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. As per the reports in PTI, it is learned that the Kerala batter is unlikely to be part of the ODI setup for India.</span><span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>
<p><span>There were reports earlier that suggested that Sanju Samson would be the second-choice keeper in the team, with Rishabh Pant being the first-choice keeper. However, that won't be the case, as even after KL Rahul was touted to play as a specialist batter, Samson won't be part of the squad.</span><span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>
<p><span>As per the reports, it is learned Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan and Dhruv Jurel are the three players who are fighting for the place of second keeper for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. However, it is learned that Jurel is expected to get the preference in the team along with Rishabh Pant.</span><span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>
<h2><span><span class="Apple-converted-space">BCCI has decided that they will be backing Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel as two keepers in Test and ODI </span></span></h2>
<p><span>The reports claimed that BCCI has decided that they will be backing Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel as two keepers in Test and ODI setup. While Sanju Samson, who hit three centuries in T20Is in 2024, will be the first-choice keeper in the shortest format of the game.</span><span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>
<p><span>Dhruv Jurel hasn't made his debut for India in the ODIs. But has performed exceptionally well in Tests. The keeper-batter has shown great maturity in the longest format of the game, which impressed the selectors as they decided to give a long rope.</span><span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>
<p><span>Dhruv Jurel also has been named in the Indian squad for the T20I series against England. With Sanju Samson being the first-choice keeper, it is likely that Jurel will get a chance in the XI for the five-match series. He has played two games in the shortest format of the game.</span><span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>
<p><span>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will be announcing the Indian team for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on 19th January. Rohit Sharma is set to lead the team, and it will be a massive opportunity for the team to make a comeback after having a horrendous outing in Test cricket of late.</span></p>
<p><span>Also Read: </span><a href="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/admin/Gautam%20Gambhir's%20fate%20decided!%20BCCI%20to%20take%20this%20massive%20step%20amid%20head%20coach's%20desire%20to%20" end%20superstar%20culture""="">Gautam Gambhir's fate decided! BCCI to take this massive step amid head coach's desire to "end superstar culture"</a></p>

Sanju Samson to play the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan and Dhruv Jurel are the three players who are fighting for the place of second keeper for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Sanju Samson to play the ICC Champions Trophy 2025? HUGE update arrives from the Indian camp

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<p>England's Bilateral tour of India is set to commence with the five-match T20 International series which is slated to start from the 22nd of January onwards. The Three Lions have also unveiled their squad for this upcoming tour of India and now they are preparing to travel to India but before this, one player of England's team is facing certain issues. </p>
<p>It has been learned that he has not received his Indian visa yet, due to which the picture regarding him travelling with the English team to India is not clear yet. We are talking about Saqib Mahmoud, a fantastic fast bowler of the Three Lions. </p>
<h2><strong>England have set up their training camp in Abu Dhabi</strong></h2>
<p>Whenever the 2019 World Cup winners travel to India for a bilateral series assignment, they first set up a training camp in Abu Dhabi. This time around too, the situation is the same. A news report of ESPNCricinfo has revealed that Saqib may not be a part of the Abu Dhabi training camp till his visa issues get sorted out. </p>
<p>The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) are hopeful that the 27-year-old speedster receives his visa before the commencement of the T20 International series on the 22nd of January.</p>
<h2><strong>Due to his Pakistani origin, the visa approval is getting delayed</strong></h2>
<p>It's believes that the main reason behind the delay in the visa approval of 27-year-old Saqib Mahmood is his Pakistani origin. In the past too, English players who have a Pakistani origin have encountered such issues. Last year, when the Three Lions came to India for the Test-Series, spinner Shoaib Bashir also faced issues related to his Indian visa. </p>
<p>Due to this, he missed the opening Test-Match in Hyderabad but after sorting out the problems, he played in the remaining matches of the series. </p>
<h2><strong>The case of Rehan Ahmed &amp; Adil Rashid is clear</strong></h2>
<p>Although the ECB has not commented on this entire matter, the board still hopes that Saqib will land on Indian soil before the start of the first T20I between the Suryakumar Yadav-led team and England. The squad announced by the ECB consists of two more players who have Pakistani origin and they are, Rehan Ahmed &amp; Adil Rashid. </p>
<p>Adil Rashid has played a lot of matches on Indian soil so his visa was never an issue while Rehan also played the Test-Series in India last year so his case is pretty clear too.</p>
<h2><strong>This is how Saqib's International career has been so far</strong></h2>
<p>27-year-old Saqib Mahmood is not only included in the T20I series team, he has also been given a chance in the ODI team. He will also go to Pakistan and play the Champions Trophy matches for England . If we talk about his career so far, Saqib has played 18 T20 International matches for England and has dismissed 18 batters in this format so far. At the same time, he also has 14 scalps next to his name by featuring in nine One-Day International contests.</p>
<p>Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/captain-rohit-sharma-likely-to-travel-to-pakistan-due-to-this-reason-everything-we-know-so-far/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Captain Rohit Sharma likely to travel to Pakistan due to this reason! Everything we know so far</a></p>

Saqib Mahmood of England celebrates picking up a wicket versus West Indies | Image: Getty Images

Saqib Mahmood, England Cricket Team's Pakistani origin star has not received his Indian visa yet which is causing issues for the team ahead of their tour of India

England's star seamer Saqib Mahmood has not received his Indian visa yet