Elite Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant is set to be named as the new captain of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ahead of the 2025 edition of the IPL. The 27-year-old became the most expensive player in the history of the cash-rich T20 league after the Lucknow-based team purchased him in the 2025 Mega-Auction for a massive sum of 27 crore Indian rupees. 
KL Rahul handled the leadership duties of the franchise in their first 3 seasons in the tournament i.e 2022, 2023, and 2024 editions of the Indian Premier League. Rahul led them to back-to-back playoff finishes in 2022 and 2023 but the 2024 edition of the cash-rich T20 league proved to be a disastrous one for Lucknow and they finished at the seventh position in the overall standings. 
For Pant, this will be his second franchise where he become the captain, having led the Delhi Capitals (DC) since 2021. But, it was the captaincy duties that turned to be the deciding factor in the 27-year-old's decision to head into the Mega-Auction after failing to reach an appropriate decision with the Capitals, who wanted to retain the Wicketkeeper batsman but were not keen on letting him handle the leadership duties again. 
Ahead of the Mega-Auction, LSG had retained five players: Ravi Bishnoi, Mohsin Khan, Mayank Yadav, Nicholas Pooran and Ayush Badoni. 
However, the franchise were on the lookout for an Indian captain who could replace Rahul in the team. Pant along with former KKR skipper Shreyas Iyer were the main targets for the Lucknow-based team and at the auction, they fought hard to secure the services of Iyer but were then outbid by the Punjab Kings (PBKS). 
Then as soon as Pant's name popped up, Lucknow went all out for him, winning a fierce bidding-battle versus the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to bag Rishabh at the price tag of 20.75 crore Indian Rupees. However, Delhi Capitals (DC) who had the Right-To-Match-Card available for Pant, decided to execute it but LSG placed an unbelievable bid of 27 crore Indian Rupees which was more than enough for them to secure the services of Rishabh Pant.
27-year-old Rishabh Pant, who represented the team of Delhi Capitals (DC) since 2016, took over the leadership duties of the franchise in IPL 2021 and was the skipper in 2022 and 2024 but missed the 2023 edition of the tournament after getting injured in a life-threatning car accident in December of 2022.
The former DC captain will have the support of overseas T20 specialists David Miller, Nicholas Pooran, Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh and Indian pace bowling duo of Avesh Khan &amp; Akash Deep in the fully changed Lucknow Super Giants squad. 
The likes of Markram, Miller and Pooran were apparently considered for the captaincy role but the LSG team management decided to go ahead with Rishabh. 
The 27-year-old will also be working closely with Australian legend and the head coach of the franchise Justin Langer and newly appointed mentor, Zaheer Khan. It remains to be seen how well the franchise performs under the captaincy of Rishabh Pant and whether he can lead them to their IPL title victory or not is going to be an interesting thing to watch.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ipl-2025-rishabh-pant-or-nicholas-pooran-lucknow-super-giants-to-announce-new-captain-on-/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IPL 2025: Rishabh Pant or Nicholas Pooran? Lucknow Super Giants to announce new captain on...</a>

Rishabh Pant of Delhi Capitals sets the field in the IPL 2024 match versus Kolkata Knight Riders | Image: BCCI

Rishabh Pant, who became the most expensive player in the history of the IPL after the Lucknow Super Giants secured his services in the Mega-Auction for a ming boggling price tag of 27 crore Indian Rupees is set to become the new captain of the franchise.

RISHABH PANT - THE NEW CAPTAIN OF LSG,  Pant is set to be named as the new Captain of Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025.

IPL 2025: Rishabh Pant set to be appointed as the captain of Lucknow Super Giants

ipl-2025-rishabh-pant-set-to-be-appointed-as-the-captain-of-lucknow-super-giants

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is just around the corner, and cricket enthusiasts worldwide are buzzing with excitement. The BCCI announced the Indian squad on January 18. Led by the experienced Rohit Sharma, the team’s journey begins in Dubai, where all their group-stage matches will be played.
For Indian fans, the stakes are high as the Men in Blue prepare to make a mark on the global stage. India’s campaign starts with a clash against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by a Sunday showdown bound to attract millions of viewers.
With the tournament adopting a hybrid model, the Indian squad, selected with a mix of youth and experience, is raring to go. Adding to the intrigue, several players are returning from injuries, raising questions about their fitness and form.
Jasprit Bumrah, one of the world’s most feared pacers, is under the spotlight, recovering from a stress-related injury. Kuldeep Yadav, the team’s wrist-spinning maestro, also makes a comeback post-surgery, and their readiness could be a game-changer.
<h2>A Closer Look at India’s Squad</h2>
The 15-man squad combines seasoned stars and emerging talent. Vice-captain Shubman Gill and skipper Rohit Sharma would lead the charge at the top, and Yashasvi Jaiswal might wait in the wings as the reserve opener.
The middle-order sees familiar faces like Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul, while all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya, and Axar Patel add depth and balance. Notably, Rishabh Pant returns as a wicketkeeping option, with Washington Sundar offering versatility with both bat and ball.
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_6770bfe836cb4.jpg" alt="">
India’s bowling attack is spearheaded by Mohammed Shami, fresh from his impressive World Cup campaign, and Arshdeep Singh, who has been rewarded for his consistent domestic performances. However, the team’s reliance on Bumrah’s fitness and Kuldeep’s return to form remains a pivotal aspect of their strategy. Harshit Rana is in the setup as Bumrah’s backup, ready to step in if needed during the pre-tournament ODIs against England.
India Squad for ICC Champions Trophy: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja
<h2>India Fixtures and Tournament Format </h2>
India is placed in Group A, alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. The group stages promise intense competition, with the top two teams advancing to the semi-finals. The format ensures every match is crucial, especially given the high-stakes encounter against Pakistan, a fixture that never fails to electrify the cricketing world.
With the tournament’s knockout games scheduled in neutral venues, India’s progress could see them playing semi-finals and finals in the UAE, depending on their performance.
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_67677a50637c1.jpg" alt="">
The tournament’s hybrid hosting model adds a layer of complexity. While India plays exclusively in Dubai due to political tensions, other Group A matches are spread across Pakistan. This unique arrangement, finalized between the ICC and cricket boards, ensures that all matches remain accessible to global audiences while respecting geopolitical sensitivities.
India’s campaign starts with a clash against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by the highly anticipated encounter against Pakistan on February 23, a Sunday showdown bound to attract millions of viewers. Their final league match will see them face New Zealand on March 2, concluding the group stage with high drama.
With defending champions Pakistan kicking off the tournament on February 19 against New Zealand, the Champions Trophy promises high-octane cricket. Group B, featuring heavyweights like Australia, England, South Africa, and Afghanistan, also offers nail-biting contests. The semi-finals and final, scheduled for early March, are expected to be fiercely competitive, with India aiming to lift the trophy after a hiatus of over a decade.
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; height: 100px;"><colgroup><col style="width: 24.9433%;"><col style="width: 24.9433%;"><col style="width: 24.9433%;"><col style="width: 24.9433%;"></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px;">Date</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Match</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Venue</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Time</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 40px;">
<td style="height: 40px;">20 February</td>
<td style="height: 40px;">India vs Bangladesh</td>
<td style="height: 40px;">Dubai International Cricket Stadium</td>
<td style="height: 40px;">02:30 PM IST</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px;">23 February</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">India vs Pakistan</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Dubai International Cricket Stadium</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">02:30 PM IST</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px;">02 March</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">India vs New Zealand</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Dubai International Cricket Stadium</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">02:30 PM IST</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>India’s Preparations: ODIs Against England</h2>
Ahead of the Champions Trophy, India will face England in three ODIs on February 6, 9, and 12. These matches are critical for testing the squad’s readiness, particularly for players returning from injuries. Bumrah, Kuldeep, and others will use this series to regain match fitness and rhythm. Moreover, Yashasvi Jaiswal’s ODI debut will be closely watched as he looks to establish himself as a dependable opener for the future.
The Men in Blue have the talent, experience, and hunger to reclaim the Champions Trophy. Their journey begins in February, and cricket fans worldwide will eagerly follow every moment as India takes on the world in their quest for glory.
Will they emerge victorious? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the excitement is unparalleled!

INDIA SQUAD AND SCHEDULE FOR ICC CHAMPIONS TROPHY

India’s 15-man squad, led by Rohit Sharma, begins its ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign in Dubai, facing Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand. Key players include Bumrah, Kuldeep, and Kohli.

India’s Champions Trophy squad mixes experience and youth, aiming for glory in Dubai under Rohit Sharma’s leadership. High expectations await!

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: India Schedule, Full Squad, dates and fixture and more!

icc-champions-trophy-2025-india-schedule-full-squad-dates-and-fixture-and-more-

The Indian Cricket Team's squad for the forthcoming mega event of this year i.e Champions Trophy 2025 recently got announced in a press conference held under the presence of skipper Rohit Sharma and Selection Committee Chief Ajit Agarkar. 
Rohit Sharma will be seen handling the leadership duties of the team once again while Shubman Gill has been elected as his deputy for the forthcoming tournament. 
The 2025 edition of the Champions Trophy is scheduled to begin from the 19th of February in Pakistan but Team India will be playing all of their matches in the city of Dubai as per the Hybrid-Model system. The 2013 Champions Trophy winners will kick off their campaign in the competition with the Group-A contest versus Asian Rivals Bangladesh on the 20th of February. 
While everything about the 15-player squad of Team India looks perfect, there's one point which is very shocking. Elite Seamer Mohammed Siraj's name is not there in the squad and he has been dropped from the team ahead of the Champions Trophy. 
Siraj has played an important role in helping the Men in Blue win many important games in the 50 over format, including his phenomenal spell in the Asia Cup final where he single handedly destroyed the entire batting unit of Sri Lanka. 
But, he has still been dropped from the ODI Team and left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh has replaced him in the squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 event. 
<h2>What's the reason behind the omission of Mohammed Siraj from the Champions Trophy squad? </h2>
Captain Rohit Sharma explained the omission of Mohammed Siraj from the Indian team for the Champions Trophy. In the squad announcement press conference, he said that it was unfortunate that Siraj had to be omitted.
"It's very unfortunate that he (Siraj) had to be dropped from the team. It is a fact that Siraj cannot excel with the old ball. He is not being used with the new ball now. Therefore, Siraj was dropped because there was no other option. Bowlers who can bowl in the new ball, middle overs and death overs were considered for the team", Rohit clarified.
Mohammed Siraj, who took 24 wickets in ODIs at an average of 23.4 in 2022, was in brilliant form in 2023, taking 44 wickets at an average of 20.6. The 29-year-old also reached the top of the ODI bowling rankings with his performance of six wickets for just 21 runs against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup final. However, last year, when India played only six ODIs, Siraj took only three wickets.
The right arm pacer is currently ranked eighth in the ODI Bowling Rankings. The 30-year-old is also the last Indian bowler to reach the prestigious the top rank in the One-Day International rankings. But, his form has been hampered by a lackluster display last year and a disappointing BGT series in Australia. 
Mohammed Shami's highly anticipated return from injury and Jasprit Bumrah being the main seamer has also put Siraj's spot in the team in danger. Arshdeep Singh has been in phenomenal form with the ball in T20 Internationals since 2024 and him being a left arm seamer gives him more advantage over the former RCB seamer, which is the reason why Siraj has been dropped from the team ahead of Champions Trophy.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/shubman-gill-named-as-the-vice-captain-of-team-india-for-champions-trophy-indian-squad-finalized/#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shubman Gill named as the Vice-Captain of Team India for Champions Trophy, Indian Squad finalized</a>

Mohammed Siraj of India had a great view of the Eden Gardens Stadium in all it's glory | Image: Getty Images

In what proves to be a shocking decision, Mohammed Siraj has been dropped from Team India's ODI squad for Champions Trophy 2025 and Arshdeep Singh has replaced him in the team

MOHAMMED SIRAJ DROPPED FROM TEAM INDIA SQUAD FOR CHAMPIONS TROPHY 2025

Why did Mohammed Siraj get dropped from India's Champions Trophy squad? EXPLAINED

why-did-mohammed-siraj-get-dropped-from-india-s-champions-trophy-squad-explained

The marquee event of this year Champions Trophy 2025 is slated to be held in the months of February and March as the tournament will kick off from the 19th of February. Pakistan are the main hosts of the forthcoming tournament but it will be played in Hybrid-Model system as the Indian Team will be playing their matches in Dubai. 
The Rohit Sharma-led team will kick off their Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh on the 20th of February in the city of Dubai. They are a part of Group - A alongside New Zealand, Fierce-Rivals Pakistan and Bangladesh. 
The highly awaited Pakistan versus India contest will be played in Dubai too on the 23rd of February. Post the conclusion of this contest, Rohit Sharma &amp; CO will lock horns versus New Zealand on the 2nd of March and that will be their final Champions Trophy Group Stage match. 
Another big update related to the Indian Team is that their squad for the upcoming tournament has been announced too. The squad is similar to that of the 2023 ODI World Cup but a massive change has been made in Vice Captaincy. 
<h3>Shubman Gill named as the Vice-Captain of Team India for Champions Trophy 2025</h3>
Young Shubman Gill has been handed a huge responsibility by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee as he has been named as the Vice-Captain of Team India for the forthcoming Champions Trophy 2025 event. He will also be the main opening batter for the Men in Blue in the mega event of this year alongside skipper Rohit Sharma. 
The 25-year-old has succeeded Hardik Pandya in the role of the Vice-Captain. The squad of the Indian Team for the Champions Trophy was announced in a press conference on Saturday in the presence of Captain Rohit Sharma and Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector. 
Ahead of the tournament, there were many reports that one of Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya or KL Rahul will be elected as the Vice-Captain of the Indian Team but the selection committee decided to go ahead with the Prince of Indian Cricket instead. 
The 25-year-old was also the Vice-Captain during the India versus Sri Lanka One-Day International series last year and also he has leadership experience, having led the Gujarat Titans in the IPL.
<h2>Gill has slammed 6 centuries in ODI cricket for India</h2>
Shubman Gill, the Prince of Indian Cricket made his ODI debut for Team India in the year 2019. After this, he played many strong innings and cemented his place in the squad as an opener. He has scored 2328 runs in 47 ODIs so far, in which 6 centuries and 13 half-centuries have come from his bat. The 25-year-old has played cricket in all three formats for the Men in Blue. He has scored 1893 runs in 32 Tests and a total of 578 runs in 21 T20 Internationals. He also has centuries to his name in all three formats. 
<h2>The leadership of the team is in the hands of Rohit </h2>
Rohit Sharma has been made the captain of Team India for the Champions Trophy. Fast bowling duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Shami have also been included in India's 15-member team. Bumrah was injured on the Australia tour and could not bowl in the second innings of the last Test, after which speculations started that he might be out of the group stage of the Champions Trophy, but now after the announcement of the team, it has become clear that he will be a part of the team in the tournament. However, Bumrah's fitness is still in question. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar said that they are waiting for Jasprit Bumrah's fitness and his condition will be known from the BCCI medical team in early February.
<h2>Champions Trophy 2025 squad of the Indian Team</h2>
Rohit Sharma (Captain), Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill (Vice-Captain), Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Axar Patel and Arshdeep Singh.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/exclusive-india-announce-squad-for-icc-champions-trophy-2025-shubman-gill-back-as-vice-captain-bumrah-and-shami-return/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Exclusive: India announce squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025; Shubman Gill back as vice-captain; Bumrah and Shami return</a>

Shubman Gill of India celebrates his century versus Australia in Indore | Image: BCCI

Young Shubman Gill has been handed a huge responsibility by the Indian Cricket Team's selection committee as he has been named as the Vice-Captain of the Men in Blue for the forthcoming Champions Trophy 2025

SHUBMAN GILL - VICE CAPTAIN OF TEAM INDIA AT THE 2025 CHAMPIONS TROPHY.

Shubman Gill named as the Vice-Captain of Team India for Champions Trophy, Indian Squad finalized

shubman-gill-named-as-the-vice-captain-of-team-india-for-champions-trophy-indian-squad-finalized

The announcement for Team India's squad for the forthcoming Champions Trophy 2025 is delayed once again. There were reports that captain Rohit Sharma and Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector will attend the press conference at 12:30 PM IST (Indian Standard Time) to announce the Indian squad. However, both of them have not reached the press conference yet. 
Although both of them are present at the BCCI headquarters, discussions related to the Indian squar are still in progress. Indian Cricket fans are very curious about which 15 players will get selected for the Champions Trophy squad led by Rohit Sharma and while the discussions have been going on since the last two hours, no concluaive decision has been made yet. Apart from the Champions Trophy squad, the team for the three-match One-Day International series versus England is also going to be announced. 
<h2>Team India's expected squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy </h2>
Since Team India haven't taken part in a lot of ODI matches in recent times, it's expected that the squad which was chosen for the 2023 ODI World Cup where the team ended up finishing as the runners-up, will be chosen for the Champions Trophy too. 
Shubman Gill, who has a good record with the bat in One-Day International matches, will continue to open the inning alongside captain Rohit. It's almost certain that Yashasvi Jaiswal will act as the back up opening batter. The legendary Virat Kohli will continue to bat at his preferred number three position and he will be followed by the duo of Shreyas Iyer &amp; KL Rahul in the batting order. 
Both of them played an important role in helping the Men in Blue reach the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup, so they will retain their places in the squad. Hardik Pandya will continue being the main fast-bowling all rounder and the bowling department will be the same too, with Jasprit Bumrah set to lead the fast bowling unit alongside Mohammad Siraj and Shami while Kuldeep Yadav &amp; Ravindra Jadeja will handle the spin bowling department.
The main headache of the selectors is going to be the selection of the wicketkeepers. Some news reports claim that the selection committee have given KL Rahul the assurance that he will retain his place in the team. The main Head-to-Head though is going to be between Sanju Samson and Rishabh Pant for the 2nd wicketkeeper's spot. 
Pant was a part of the T20 World Cup winning team and he played an important role in the team's victory too, but he hasn't done much in the 50-over format and hasn't played in many ODI's too since making his historic comeback from his life threatning road accident. 
Sanju on the other hand, slammed a brilliant century in his last One-Day International appearance for the Men in Blue. However, it is not known whether the fact that he has not played in the ODI format and the Vijay Hazare Tournament recently will be a setback for the Malayali player. 
Cricket fans in the country are eagerly waiting to see if India's bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah will be in the team. Bumrah, who was injured during the Border Gavaskar Tournament, is resting. If Bumrah is likely to play at least in the final stages of the tournament, the player will be included in the 15-member squad. Mohammed Shami, who is returning after the T20 series against England, is also likely to be in the ODI team. Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh are also at the top of the list of pacers. 
It remains to be seen whether Ravindra Jadeja will be given a chance among the spinners. Jadeja last played in the World Cup held in India in the ODI format. If he proves his form and fitness, Kuldeep Yadav will become the first spinner. Axar Patel, who is the vice-captain in T20Is, Varun Chakravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi and others are also in the list of spinners.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/virat-kohli-fakes-injury-to-defy-bcci-s-orders-of-playing-ranji-trophy-reports-make-a-massive-claim-/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Virat Kohli fakes injury to defy BCCI's orders of playing Ranji Trophy? Reports make a massive claim</a>

Indian Cricket Team Captain Rohit Sharma along with Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar addressing to media during the press conference for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup at BCCI office on May 2, 2024 in Mumbai, India | Image: Getty Images

The Indian squad for the Champions Trophy has not been unveiled yet as the duo of Ajit Agarkar and Rohit Sharma have not arrived for the press conference yet

Team India Champions Trophy squad delayed again

Discussions continue, waiting continues! Announcement of Team India's Champions Trophy Squad delayed again

discussions-continue-waiting-continues-announcement-of-team-india-s-champions-trophy-squad-delayed-again

India batter Virat Kohli is all set to miss the second round of the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 for Delhi despite BCCI making it mandatory for all the players to feature in domestic cricket. The Delhi team is slated to play against Saurashtra from 23rd January. 
Since the last few days, Virat Kohli's name has been doing rounds, and there have been several reports that have claimed that the batter will be featured for Delhi. However, all of those were put to rest when ESPNCricinfo claimed that Batter would be missing the match. 
The reports claimed that Virat Kohli will be missing the match due to the niggle in the neck and he has informed BCCI about the same. The batter also has got a green signal from the governing body to miss the game; hence, the long wait to see him in Delhi colours will remain a wait. 
Virat Kohli has been battling issues with his neck since the latter stage of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. He reportedly took an injection on 8th January, two days after the last match of the series concluded. This means that the batter was struggling with the neck problem even during the last match. 
<h2>Virat Kohli didn't have any issues with his neck during the last game of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 </h2>
But, as per the reports in RevSportz, it is learned that Virat Kohli didn't have any issues with his neck during the last game of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 and also didn't take any injections. The information was made public by Journalist Rohit Juglan. 
If the reports are to be believed, then it means Virat Kohli isn't battling any neck issue, and there is some other reason for him to miss the game. Along with him, KL Rahul too has reported an elbow issue and won't be playing for Karnataka in the next match of Ranji Trophy 2024-25. 
BCCI recently issued strict guidelines for the players, and one among them was players need to play domestic cricket. And if they fail to do so then they might face salary cut and will be sanctions will be imposed on them from playing the IPL as well. 
This step was taken by the BCCI to improve the performances of the team as there were a lot of indiscipline issues reported during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The decision was taken during the review meeting, which took place in the presence of head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma.
<div class="article_articleContent__XBn4f">
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ms-dhoni-of-csk-has-a-chance-to-create-history-might-break-these-records-in-ipl-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MS Dhoni of CSK has a chance to create history! Might break these records in IPL 2025</a>
</div>

India batter Virat Kohli is all set to miss the second round of the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 for Delhi despite BCCI making it mandatory for all the players to feature in domestic cricket.

Virat Kohli fakes injury to defy BCCI's orders of playing Ranji Trophy? Reports make a massive claim

virat-kohli-fakes-injury-to-defy-bcci-s-orders-of-playing-ranji-trophy-reports-make-a-massive-claim-

The 2025 edition of the Champions Trophy is getting closer and closer and the marquee event of this year is set to commence on the 19th of February as tournament hosts Pakistan will be taking on 2019 ODI World Cup runner's up New Zealand in the opening clash. While majority of the participating teams have unveiled their squads for the competition, the squad of Team India has not been revealed yet by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). 
Many fans are waiting eagerly for the squad announcement and much to the joy of the fans, a big announcement has come forward and the BCCI now is fully prepared to unveil the squad of the Men in Blue. The squad is set to be announced tomorrow i.e on Saturday, 18th of January. 
Before the commencement of the Champions Trophy, the Indian team will be participating in a bilateral white ball series event versus England, where both the Fierce-Rivals will be locking horns versus each other in five T20 International contests and three One-Day Matches. 
The three ODI's will be really important as they will act as a preparatory ground for the Men in Blue ahead of the Champions Trophy. The five-match T20 International series versus the Three Lions kicks off from the 22nd of January and the squad for that series has already been announced, but the ODI series squad is yet to be announced. It's anticipated that the BCCI will simultaneously announce the Indian Team squad for the ODI Series and the Champions Trophy 2025.
A press conference will take place after the conclusion of the meeting of the selectors and this conference will take place at 12:30 PM IST (Indian Standard Time) in the afternoon. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma and Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector will be taking part in this conference.
<h2>Champions Trophy 2025 will be played in the months of February &amp; March</h2>
It's worth noting that the 2025 Champions Trophy will commence from the 19th of February, while the all-important Final will be played on the 9th of March. Pakistan are the hosts of the tournament but the Indian Cricket Team will be playing all of their matches in the city of Dubai, UAE. 
The eight participating teams of Champions Trophy 2025 have been divided into two groups of four teams each, which includes Group - A and Group - B. The Indian Team are a part of Group-A alongside Fierce-Rivals Pakistan, New Zealand &amp; Bangladesh. The Rohit Sharma-led team will play their first match versus the Bangladeshi Tigers on the 20th of February. 
<h2>India lifted the Champions Trophy title in 2013 </h2>
It is worth noting that Team India won the Champions Trophy title in 2013 under the leadership of the legendary MS Dhoni. After this, in the Champions Trophy played in 2017, Team India had to face defeat against versus Fierce-Rivals Pakistan in the final. Now it will be interesting to see how the Men in Blue perform in the tournament this time around.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ms-dhoni-of-csk-has-a-chance-to-create-history-might-break-these-records-in-ipl-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MS Dhoni of CSK has a chance to create history! Might break these records in IPL 2025</a>

Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma (L) and selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar address the T20 World Cup 2024 press conference at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai on May 2, 2024 | Image: Getty Images

Team India's squad for the forthcoming  Champions Trophy 2025 is set to be announced tomorrow and captain Rohit Sharma will be addressing the media in a press conference tomorrow at 12:30 PM in the afternoon alongside the selection committee chief Ajit Agarkar

Champions Trophy: Team India's squad set to be announced tomorrow, everything you need to know

champions-trophy-team-india-s-squad-set-to-be-announced-tomorrow-everything-you-need-to-know

The legendary Mahendra Singh Dhoni is all set to take part in the 18 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Indian fans will once again get the opportunity to witness him play in the Yellow jersey once again. 
He got retained by the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for a price tag of 4 crore Indian Rupees and fans cannot wait to see him play in the IPL again. 
While he had a good IPL 2024, managing to score 161 runs in 14 games at a really good average of 53.67 at a monstrous strike-rate of 220.55, his exploits weren't enough to help the Chennai based team lift the IPL trophy for a record 6th time. 
Many also believe that the upcoming edition of the IPL is going to be the final season of MSD and it will indeed be a really emotional moment for Cricket fans across the globe. 
Ahead of IPL 2025, the 43-year-old is close to creating history as he has a chance of breaking three magnificent records in the 18th season of the tournament. Let's take a look at them
<h2>Chance to become the oldest player to score a half-century in the IPL</h2>
MSD is currently 43-years-old. To be precise, 43 years and 194 days old. If the former CSK skipper slams a fifty in the upcoming season of the IPL, then he will become the oldest player ever to slam a fifty in the history of the tournament. 
The legendary Adam Gilchristun who played an amazing beaten knock of 85* runs versus the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in 2013 currently holds the record of being the oldest player ever in the tournament's history to score a fifty. 
Dhoni is at the 2nd position in this list, having slammed a fifty at the age of 40 years and 262 days old versus the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2022.
<h2>Chance of becoming the highest run getter for CSK in the IPL</h2>
Dhoni is on the verge of becoming the highest run getter for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the history of the IPL. Currently, Suresh Raina holds that record, having amassed a total of 4,687 runs for the franchise. MSD though needs just 18 runs to break this record. It's worth noting that the former skipper of the franchise had already managed to score 4,669 runs for the Yellow Army. 
<h2>Dhoni has a chance to become the only player to effect 200 dismissals as a wicketkeeper in the IPL</h2>
The Legendary Mahendra Singh Dhoni so far in IPL career has effected 190 dismissals as a wicketkeeper. He is at top of the list of the wicketkeepers to have effected the highest number of dismissals in the history of the competition. If he manages to dismiss 10 batters from behind the stumps, he will become the first player to achieve this feat in the IPL. Currently, among the wicketkeepers playing in the IPL, Rishabh Pant has dismissed 90 batters from behind the stumps. Thus, if Dhoni dismisses 10 more batters from behind the stumps, he will likely be the only wicketkeeper to achieve this feat.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/delhi-capitals-to-announce-this-player-as-captain-kl-rahul-ditched-/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Delhi Capitals to announce this player as captain, KL Rahul ditched</a>

MS Dhoni of CSK walks out to bat in the IPL 2024 match versus Lucknow Super Giants | Image:  BCCI

CSK's Mahendra Singh Dhoni is on the verge of creating history in the IPL and he can do so by breaking these 3 records in the upcoming IPL 2025 season

MS Dhoni of CSK has a chance to create history! Might break these records in IPL 2025

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India head coach Gautam Gambhir is on a mission to eliminate the indiscipline from the Indian dressing room. As per the reports in India Today, it is learned that the coach complained to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about the discipline in India during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. 
The off-field antics of the Indian team are taking more hype than the on-field performances. While the Rohit Sharma-led side suffered the 3-1 loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, there were also some rumours of the rift that came out from the Indian camp during the series. 
Following the poor performances in the Test series against Australia, the BCCI conducted the review meeting. During the meeting, a lot of issues came forward, and one that was put forward by head coach Gautam Gambhir was indiscipline in the camp. 
<h2>Gautam Gambhir, during the review meeting, spoke about indiscipline in the Indian dressing room - BCCI source</h2>
Gautam Gambhir told BCCI that there was an indiscipline in the Indian dressing room, and it is one of the reasons why BCCI is reverting to pre-COVID rules. The coach, however, wants to end all this going forward. Speaking to the Times of India, he explained: 
"Gautam Gambhir, during the review meeting, spoke about indiscipline in the Indian dressing room following the loss in the Border-Gavaskar series. Indiscipline is the reason why the BCCI is reverting to pre-COVID rules, allowing two weeks of family presence on tour. Gautam and the players were on the same page regarding the topic of family stays." 
Gautam Gambhir has come under massive pump for the team's poor performances in Tests of late. The head coach, ever since being appointed as the coach, has faced some poor losses. Under him, the team lost to Sri Lanka in the ODI series after 27 years. After that, it faced a whitewash against New Zealand in Tests at home. 
After that India went on to lose the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 as well for the first time in 10 years and also failed to reach the final of the ICC World Test Championship.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/fakhar-zaman-and-babar-azam-climb-rizwan-and-shaheen-afridi-slip-in-icc-player-rankings/">Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam climb, Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi slip in ICC Player Rankings</a>

India head coach Gautam Gambhir is on a mission to eliminate the indiscipline from the Indian dressing room.

Gautam Gambhir reports indiscipline in the Indian camp to BCCI, the governing body to take this huge step now

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India wicketkeeper batter Rishabh Pant is all set to be appointed as the captain of the Delhi team for the upcoming game of the Ranji Trophy against Saurashtra. As per the reports in Times of India, it is learned that Delhi and District Cricket Association will be announcing the squad for the match on 17th January. 
The second round of Ranji Trophy 2024-25 is all set to begin on 23rd January, and Delhi will be taking on Saurashtra. In the last few weeks, BCCI has taken several strong steps, with one being asking the players to take part in domestic cricket. 
Several Indian players, including Rishabh Pant, are all set to play the Ranji Trophy to get some rhythm and form under their belt ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This is because batters looked in torrid form during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, which India lost by the margin of 3-1. 
Rishabh Pant also didn't have the kind of outing he would've wanted as he managed just 255 runs across nine innings, with an average of 28.33. He managed just one half-century, which came during the last game of the series at the Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney. 
<h2>Rishabh Pant will likely be the skipper for the away game versus Saurashtra - DDCA official</h2>
But with him returning to the Ranji Trophy, it will be a massive step, and if he gets some runs under his belt, it will be a massive boost for the team. The official of DDCA confirmed that he will be leading the team and said: 
"A selection meeting will happen in the afternoon tomorrow and Rishabh Pant will likely be the skipper for the away game versus Saurashtra." He told the Times of India. 
Rishabh Pant being set to be announced as the captain of the team comes at the time when India is in a need of a skipper. The keeper-batter's name is being discussed as the potential vice-captain with Jasprit Bumrah being given the full-time leadership role. 
If Delhi performs well under the leadership of Rishabh Pant, then it surely will send a message to selectors. It remains to be seen how the batter performs in the format. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/fakhar-zaman-and-babar-azam-climb-rizwan-and-shaheen-afridi-slip-in-icc-player-rankings/">Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam climb, Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi slip in ICC Player Rankings</a>

India wicketkeeper batter Rishabh Pant is all set to be appointed as the captain of the Delhi team for the upcoming game of the Ranji Trophy against Saurashtra

Rishabh Pant announced as captain of red-ball team

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The BCCI is thinking about hiring a new batting coach for the Indian men’s cricket team. While no official announcement has been made, discussions within the team suggest that changes are needed in the support staff to improve results.

The coaching staff has been under pressure after India’s poor tour of Australia and their struggles in Test cricket recently. The batting has been a major concern, with key players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma not living up to expectations. Kohli’s habit of getting out in the same manner repeatedly has raised questions about the team’s approach to batting and whether fresh ideas are needed.

According to a report by Cricbuzz, the BCCI is considering strengthening Gautam Gambhir’s coaching team. Currently, the setup includes bowling coach Morne Morkel, assistant coaches Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate, and fielding coach T Dilip. Interestingly, former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has expressed interest in taking the batting coach role if the BCCI decides to make the position available.

India has had well-known batting coaches in the past. Vikram Rathour served in the role under Rahul Dravid and Ravi Shastri, while Sanjay Bangar was also a part of the setup earlier. Both brought their own styles to the team, but some feel it’s time for a new specialist to bring in fresh ideas.

A meeting held in Mumbai on January 11 reportedly included discussions about the coaching staff. While it’s unclear if any decisions were made, there are suggestions that a new batting coach could help address the team’s current problems.

For now, the BCCI hasn’t made any moves, but it’s clear that improving the batting setup is a priority for the team going forward.

BCCI Search For New Member For Indian Coach's Team | BCCI  Announce New Indian Coach's Soon ...

The BCCI is thinking about hiring a new batting coach for the Indian men’s cricket team. While no official announcement has been made, discussions within the team suggest that changes are needed in the support staff to improve results.  With a poor performace of Indian team in India Vs Australia match, BCCI take strict action for upcoming match.