The Border Gavaskar Trophy begins on February 9, 2023. Both teams will be looking to give their best in this test. The Australian cricket team is coming off an elite WTC cycle. Their cycle started with the Ashes, where they washed away the England cricket team. Further, they visited a few nations and crushed them to defeat. not that they will be hosted by India. In the past 10 years, India has lost only 2 test matches in the country. One of them is the Pune Test match of the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2017. So, Australia has been a tough contender. Here is a look at the 3 players' battles to watch out for:&nbsp;



<h2>David Warner VS Ravichandran Ashwin will be a Key Battle in the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2023:&nbsp;</h2>



Ravichandra Ashwin has a feast over the left-handers. One of the top left-handers on the planet is David Warner. Ravichandran Ashwin has enjoyed decent success against Warner. He has managed to get the wicket of the ?Pocket-Size Dynamite? 10&nbsp;times in international cricket. Here is a look at the batsmen who have been dismissed by Ashwin the greatest number of times. We notice that the ones at the top are all left-handers:&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Batter Name&nbsp;</td><td>Country&nbsp;</td><td>Number of Dismissals&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Ben Stokes&nbsp;</td><td>England&nbsp;</td><td>11&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>David Warner&nbsp;</td><td>Australia&nbsp;</td><td>10&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Alastair Cook&nbsp;</td><td>England&nbsp;</td><td>9&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Ed Cowan&nbsp;</td><td>Australia&nbsp;</td><td>7&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>James Anderson&nbsp;</td><td>England&nbsp;</td><td>7&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



But Warner?s trike rate has improved in the past few years and his skill to negotiate with off-spinners has also improved. Hence it will be great to see the battle between one of the best openers on the planet and one of the best off-spinners that the game has ever witnessed. The Border Gavaskar Trophy will be graced with this contest.



<h2>Virat Kohli VS Pat Cummins will be a Key Battle in the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2023:&nbsp;</h2>



Pat Cummins has made Virat Kohli look very mediocre in front of him. He has got his wicket quite a few times now. Every cricket fan awaits a contest between Stac and Kohli and it is Cummins who comes like an out-of-syllabus question. Pat Cummins has dismissed Kohli 9 times in international cricket. It is always that one delivery outside of off-stump that bothers Virat Kohli. At the same time, Kohli?s strike rate against Pat revolves around 90-95 against Pat. This number is pretty impressive in the context to test cricket. The Border Gavaskar Trophy will be graced with this contest.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="http://www.icccricketschedule.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/King-1.jpg" alt="Border Gavaskar Trophy 2023" class="wp-image-100982"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">King Kohli celebrating his 73rd International century (Twitter)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Rohit Sharma VS Mitchell Starc:&nbsp;</h2>



Rohit Sharma going up against Mitchell Starc will be a real contest. It will be a bit difficult for Sharma as he has difficulty facing a left-arm pacer. Here are the stats of Rohit Sharma against left-arm pace since 2019:&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Stat&nbsp;</td><td>Value&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Matches&nbsp;</td><td>24&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Dismissals&nbsp;</td><td>6&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Strike Rate&nbsp;</td><td>85&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Average &nbsp;</td><td>24.3&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



But Rohit Sharma has something that neutralizes Starc?s biggest weapon. Starc?s biggest weapon is his chin music. When he bowls short balls, it becomes lethal. But Rohit is known for his pull shot. His game against fast short balls is elite. It is so good that Rohit sends the ball to the deep square leg or fine leg from the front foot itself. &nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="http://www.icccricketschedule.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Rohit-Sharma-min.jpg" alt="Border Gavaskar Trophy 2023" class="wp-image-100870"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sharma will be keen on neutralizing Mitchell Starc. IMG SRC: BCCI</figcaption></figure>



To know more go to <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-vs-australia-2023-indian-squad-announced-for-the-first-two-tests-suryakumar-yadav-and-ishan-kishan-included/" target="_blank" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-vs-australia-2023-indian-squad-announced-for-the-first-two-tests-suryakumar-yadav-and-ishan-kishan-included/" rel="noreferrer noopener">India VS Australia 2023: Indian Squad Announced for the First Two Tests. Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan Included.</a>



Read more such articles at <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/sa20-league-x-factor-players-from-each-team-best-players-in-sa20-league/" target="_blank" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/sa20-league-x-factor-players-from-each-team-best-players-in-sa20-league/" rel="noreferrer noopener">SA20 League: X-Factor Players from Each Team. Best Players in SA20 League.</a>



To know more go to the<a href="https://www.bcci.tv/" target="_blank" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.bcci.tv/" rel="noreferrer noopener"> official website of the BCCI</a>. &nbsp;

Border Gavaskar Trophy 2023: Top 3 Key Battles to Watch Out for in India VS Australia Test Matches. ?

border-gavaskar-trophy-2023-top-3-key-battles-to-watch-out-for-in-india-vs-australia-test-matches

Star batsman Virat Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma are traveling&nbsp;for spirituality. Since the focus of the entire Indian team is only on the ODI World Cup to be held this year, all the big players, including Virat Kohli, have been rested. Kohli and Anushka traveled&nbsp;to Rishikesh. They both arrived at&nbsp;Swami Dayanand Saraswati's ashram at this time. Prime Minister Narendra Modi received spiritual guidance from Swami Dayanand. 



Prime Minister Modi's spiritual mentor was Swami Dayanand. In order to meet with Swami Dayanand Saraswati, the PM personally traveled to his ashram in Sheesham Jhari, Rishikesh. Kohli and Anushka initially visit Dayanand Saraswati's grave before arriving at his ashram, they also spent 20 minutes in meditation.



Later, Swami Sakshatkrita Nand Maharaj, the head of the Dayanand Ashram, bestowed his blessings on Kohli and Anushka as well. He will spend the night in the ashram. Apart from that, all three consumed food that was made in the ashram kitchen. All three of them ate bread, vegetables, khichdi, and curries throughout this time.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1620306169188483072
</div></figure>



Prior to the ODI series against Sri Lanka, Virat Kohli also went on a visit to Vrindavan with Anushka and Vamika. All three of them received Shri Parmanand ji's blessings at Vrindavan during this time. Kohli put on an incredible performance in the ODI series against Sri Lanka after his return from Vrindavan. He will now take part in the Australian Test series.



<h2>India's squad for the first two Tests against Australia</h2>



Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (Vice-Captain), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (Wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (Wicketkeeper), R.K. Ashwin, Akshar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav.



<h2>Schedule of Border Gavaskar Trophy</h2>



<ul>
<li>First Test: February 9 to 13, Nagpur</li>



<li>Second Test: February 17 to 21, Delhi</li>



<li>Third Test: March 1 to 5, Dharamsala</li>



<li>Fourth Test: March 9 to 13, Ahmedabad</li>
</ul>



Don't Miss: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-vs-australia-2023-schedule-test-odi-team-time-table-squad-matches-live-streaming-complete-details/">India vs Australia 2023 Schedule Test &amp; ODI, Team, Time Table, Squad, Matches, Live Streaming Complete Details</a>.

IND vs AUS: Kohli-Anushka reached Rishikesh before the Border Gavaskar Trophy

ind-vs-aus-kohli-anushka-reached-rishikesh-before-the-border-gavaskar-trophy

Every time Ishan Kishan walks out to bat, the commentators seem to pull out a few familiar phrases out of their vocabularies: "Pocket-sized Dynamite", "Explosive Opener", "Dangerous Batter" etc. Though clich?d and grossly overused, there is a reason why the left hander is described using those particular expressions. 



Anybody who's watched an Ishan Kishan special - like <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-vs-bangladesh-3rd-odi-match-report-ishan-kishans-phenomenal-double-century-helps-india-get-a-consolation-win/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">this one recently</a> in Bangladesh - knows how menacing he can be. Yet, when you look at his numbers, they paint an image that is the complete opposite. Having said that, Team India seems to have put an immense amount of faith in the wicketkeeper-batsman. Kishan has been a regular in the T20 team for a while now. After his double century against Bangladesh, he is undoubtedly expected to be given a rope in the ODIs. And with <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/rishabh-pant-ruled-out-from-cricket-for-most-of-2023-reports/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rishabh Pant missing</a>, he's also got a <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-vs-australia-2023-indian-squad-announced-for-the-first-two-tests-suryakumar-yadav-and-ishan-kishan-included/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">call-up for the Test team</a>.



He is young, left-handed, can bat anywhere in the order and keep wickets. Furthermore, he has also been a successful captain at the U19 level. It's a package that, despite India's bountiful resources of talent, is not easily available. However, are we looking at more smoke than fire?



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#has-ishan-kishan-been-overvalued-by-team-india">Has Ishan Kishan been overvalued by team India?</a></li><li class=""><a href="#kishan-in-t-20-is-a-em-not-so-explosive-em-opener">Kishan in T20Is: A 'not so explosive' opener</a></li><li class=""><a href="#kishan-in-od-is-satisfactory-or-skewed-by-one-innings">Kishan in ODIs: Satisfactory or skewed by one innings?</a></li><li class=""><a href="#kishans-selection-in-the-test-squad">Kishan's selection in the Test squad</a></li><li class=""><a href="#so-is-kishan-being-overrated-by-team-india">So, Is Kishan being overrated by team India?</a></li></ul></nav></div>



<h2 id="has-ishan-kishan-been-overvalued-by-team-india">Has Ishan Kishan been overvalued by team India?</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">
"All that glitters is not gold."
<cite>- Popular Saying</cite></blockquote>



He is into just the second year of his international career and a few times already, he's sparkled. But with a talent pool as big as India's, putting on a show once in a while isn't good enough. The loud inconsistency depicted by his numbers begs the question, "Is he actually gold or just glitter?"



Here is a look at Kishan's performances across formats:-



<h2 id="kishan-in-t-20-is-a-em-not-so-explosive-em-opener">Kishan in T20Is: A 'not so explosive' opener</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://img1.hscicdn.com/image/upload/f_auto,t_ds_w_1280,q_80/lsci/db/PICTURES/CMS/349400/349440.jpg" alt=""/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A strike rate of just 113.62 in the powerplay tells you that Kishan is a slow starter. (<a href="https://www.espncricinfo.com/cricketers/ishan-kishan-720471/photos">Image Source</a>) ? Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



Ishan Kishan's overall record in T20Is:-



<figure class="wp-block-table aligncenter"><table><tbody><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Innings</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center"> 27</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Runs</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">653</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Average</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">25.11</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Strike Rate</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">122.74</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">100s/50s</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">0/4</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Highest Score</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">89 (56)</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ishan Kishan's overall record in T20I</figcaption></figure>



<hr class="wp-block-separator aligncenter has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



While there should be no complains about a batter averaging 25 in T20Is, it's the strike rate that is disappointing. An "explosive opener" is expected to make the most of the powerplay, which Kishan clearly hasn't been able to. In fact, his strike rate in the power play plummets to 113.62. Here's a look at his numbers in the powerplay:-



<figure class="wp-block-table aligncenter"><table><tbody><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Innings</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">26</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Runs</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">392</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Balls Faced</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">345</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Dot Ball%</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">52.46%</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Strike Rate</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">113.62</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">4s/6s</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">47/14</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ishan Kishan in powerplay in T20Is</figcaption></figure>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



That tells you that more often than not Kishan starts sedately and makes up for it afterwards. However, for a long time now, he hasn't quite been able to notch up a big innings. His last fifty was 15 matches ago and this is how his record looks like since:-



<figure class="wp-block-table aligncenter"><table><tbody><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Innings</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">14</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Runs</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">200</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Average</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">14.28</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Strike Rate</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">105.26</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Highest Score</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">37(29)</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">4s/6s</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">19/9</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ishan Kishan since his last T20I fifty</figcaption></figure>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



Surely those numbers aren't good enough to keep your place in the side, let alone with openers like Shaw and keepers like Samson and Jitesh waiting in the wings.



<h2 id="kishan-in-od-is-satisfactory-or-skewed-by-one-innings">Kishan in ODIs: Satisfactory or skewed by one innings?</h2>



Ishan Kishan's ODI record:-



<figure class="wp-block-table aligncenter"><table><tbody><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Innings</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">12</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Runs</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">507</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Average</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">46.09</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Strike Rate</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">107.18</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">100s/50s</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">1/3</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Highest Score</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">210(131)</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ishan Kishan's overall record in ODIs</figcaption></figure>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



His ODI record looks far more handsome. The fact that he's been floated up and down the order as per team's requirements, makes it even prettier. But how much of it is skewed by that one mammoth innings against Bangladesh? What happens when we take that innings out? This is how his record looks without the double century knock:-



<figure class="wp-block-table aligncenter"><table><tbody><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Innings</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">11</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Runs</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">297</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Average</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">29.70</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Strike Rate</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">86.84</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">100s/50s</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">0/3</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Highest score</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">93(84)</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ishan Kishan's ODI record without the double century innings</figcaption></figure>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



As you can see, the record plummets to fairly ordinary numbers. Although one can argue that the sample size is not huge; and after all, this is after we've cherry-picked and taken out his best innings. Yet, there is a counter argument to that. And that is Kishan's List A record.



<figure class="wp-block-table aligncenter"><table><tbody><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Innings</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">90</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Runs</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">3056</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Average</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">38.20</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Strike Rate</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">94.00</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">100s/50s</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">5/15</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Highest Score</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">210(131)</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ishan Kishan's List A record</figcaption></figure>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



Again, a modest record without anything remarkable really. And as a matter of fact, 90 games is a huge sample size even if the first of those was played back when he was a 15 year old. 



<h2 id="kishans-selection-in-the-test-squad">Kishan's selection in the Test squad</h2>



Even with his numbers imploring that inconsistency is consistent with Kishan, you understand why teams tend to rate him well in white ball cricket. It is because when he gets going he can single-handedly obliterate opposition's attacks and win you matches. However, his selection in the Test team against Australia is bewildering and unfathomable.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://img1.hscicdn.com/image/upload/f_auto,t_ds_w_1280,q_80/lsci/db/PICTURES/CMS/351000/351000.jpg" alt=""/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ishan Kishan has played just 4 Ranji Trophy matches over last 3 seasons. He didn't keep wickets in the 2022/23 season. ?PTI</figcaption></figure>



With Rishabh Pant unavailable, KS Bharat - who is largely considered the best gloveman in the country - is expected to take his spot. Bharat, pretty much like Wridhimann Saha, is not the best batter who can keep wickets, but purely the best wicketkeeper. And it makes sense to pick him. After all, you need a skilled keeper on turning tracks and the fact that Ashwin, Jadeja and Axar can bat will allow India to include him in the XI. 



Yet, it's hard to understand why would you pick Ishan Kishan as his backup? Here is a look at Kishan's first-class record:-



<figure class="wp-block-table aligncenter"><table><tbody><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Innings</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">82</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Runs</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">2985</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Average</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">38.76</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Strike Rate</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">69.80</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">100s/50s</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">6/16</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Highest Score</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">273</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ishan Kishan's first class record</figcaption></figure>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



Neither is Kishan the best keeper in the country, nor is his batting record worth turning heads. In fact, the Jharkhand southpaw has only played a total of 4 Ranji Trophy matches across last 3 seasons: Two in 2019/20, none in 2021/22 and again two in 2022/23. Moreover, in the two matches he played this season, he didn't even keep wickets. 



Now compare that to, say, Akshay Wadkar who averages 53.31 across 60 first class innings and has been Vidarbha's first choice keeper. (Not to forget the first Test is at Nagpur, Vidarbha's home ground). Or Sheldon Jackson, who averages 48.79 with the bat and is a far superior gloveman. 



Perhaps, the selectors wanted a player in the mould of Pant: left handed dasher who can take the game on and turn it on its head. Howbeit, there is the difference of day and night in the first class records of Pant and Kishan.



<h2 id="so-is-kishan-being-overrated-by-team-india">So, Is Kishan being overrated by team India?</h2>



Sports can be funny at times. I am pretty sure, a lot of articles along the same lines were written for Rohit Sharma as well as Ravindra Jadeja at the beginning of the last decade. Both of them, metamorphosed into players who can walk into any international XI today. Similarly, there is little doubt about Kishan's talent and potential. Albeit, it would not be wrong to say that he hasn't quite delivered as per expectations yet. In the upcoming months, he will have the opportunities to set that right. Though, with many people biting at his heels, those opportunities will diminish fast.

Is Ishan Kishan being overrated? Should he play all 3 formats for India?

is-ishan-kishan-being-overrated

Australia has suffered a massive blow ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. As per the reports in ESPNCricinfo, it is learned that captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood are all set to be ruled out of the tournament, which will begin on 19th February. 
Pat Cummins suffered an ankle injury during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 and missed the ongoing Test tour to injury due to the same and also the birth of his second child. The fast bowler since then has been out of action and hasn't resumed any kind of bowling. 
Pat Cummins hasn't gained his full fitness and it is highly likely that he will be missing the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This will be a massive blow as not only will they miss the quality bowler but also the captain, who took them to win the ICC World Cup 2023. 
In the absence of Pat Cummins, Australia is likely to give the leadership role to either Travis Head or Steve Smith. The latter has been leading the team in the ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka, and under his leadership, Australia won the first game of the series by a massive margin. 
The development was confirmed by Australia head coach Andrew McDonald, saying that Pat Cummins is highly likely to be unavailable. He also talked about giving leadership roles to Steve Smith and Travis Head. Speaking to SEN, he said:
"Pat Cummins hasn't been able to resume any type of bowling so he's heavily unlikely, so that would mean that we do need a captain. Steve Smith and Travis Head are the two that we've been having conversations with while we've been building out that Champions Trophy team along with Pat back home. They'll be the two that we look at for that leadership post." 
<h2>Josh Hazlewood is expected to be ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025</h2>
Apart from Pat Cummins, star pacer Josh Hazlewood also is expected to be ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The fast bowler is battling with a hip issue, which he faced in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. He, too, hasn't bowled since then and is against time to recover. 
His absence could be a big blow as well as he has been one of the consistent players for the team. Pat Cummins, along with Hazlewood, are now among the three Australia players to be ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Earlier, Mitchell Marsh was ruled out of the tournament.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/shock-to-team-india-before-champions-trophy-jasprit-bumrah-ruled-out-of-entire-england-odi-series/"> </a><a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/shock-to-team-india-before-champions-trophy-jasprit-bumrah-ruled-out-of-entire-england-odi-series/">Shock to Team India before Champions Trophy, Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of entire England ODI Series</a>

Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 {PC:X}

Australia has suffered a massive blow ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

As per the reports in ESPNCricinfo, it is learned that captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood are all set to be ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Massive blow for Australia! Pat Cummins and star pacer ruled out of the tournament

icc-champions-trophy-2025-massive-blow-for-australia-pat-cummins-and-star-pacer-ruled-out-of-the-tournament-

In today's world, there is hardly any youth who does not know Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo is not just famous for football but is also considered an inspiration. He is one of the richest footballers and a billionaire. His garage is filled with luxury cars. <o:p></o:p>
On this special occasion of Cristiano Ronaldo birthday, we have brought you details of his car collection along with information about some of his major achievements. So, let's begin today's article.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Cristiano Ronaldo Birthday - Top 5 Expensive Cars<o:p></o:p></h2>
The first car in Cristiano Ronaldo's garage is the Bugatti Centodieci, which costs £9 million. This hypercar is extremely rare, with only 10 units produced globally. It features a highly powerful engine capable of reaching top speeds. This car is a perfect blend of luxury and performance and is one of Ronaldo's prized possessions.<o:p></o:p>
<h3 class="MsoNormal">Bugatti Chiron<o:p></o:p></h3>
The second rare car in his garage is the Bugatti Chiron, valued at €2 million. Known for its speed and engine excellence, this is another high-performance vehicle owned by Ronaldo.<o:p></o:p>
<h3 class="MsoNormal">McLaren Senna<o:p></o:p></h3>
The third car, which is both powerful and expensive, is the McLaren Senna, priced at €1 million. Designed for both road and track use, this car is named after the legendary Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna. It is an exceptional vehicle in Ronaldo's collection.<o:p></o:p>
<h3 class="MsoNormal">Ferrari F12 TDF<o:p></o:p></h3>
The fourth car in Ronaldo’s garage is the Ferrari F12 TDF. This is a limited edition car, produced in very small numbers worldwide. It is celebrated for its powerful engine and is a favorite among car enthusiasts.<o:p></o:p>
<h3 class="MsoNormal">Rolls-Royce Cullinan<o:p></o:p></h3>
The fifth car, which makes Cristiano Ronaldos birthday even more special, is the Rolls-Royce Cullinan. Known for its luxury and comfort, this car offers a rare combination of performance and a lavish driving experience.<o:p></o:p>
Cristiano Ronaldo birthday special car collection is truly exciting and amazing. Apart from these, he owns many more cars, but today, on this special occasion, we have highlighted only five of them. Each of these cars represents a significant financial investment, showcasing Ronaldo’s immense love for cars and the luxurious lifestyle he leads.<o:p></o:p>
Recently, Samay appeared in Kaun Banega Crorepati, where he did comedy with Indian legend Amitabh Bachchan. A special influencer episode of the show featured other famous YouTubers and comedians like Bhuvan Bam and Tanmay Bhat.<o:p></o:p>
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Mangal; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-ansi-language: EN-IN; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Samay’s journey from printing engineering to stand-up comedy has been quite inspiring. His life is full of humor, and he is an incredibly talented comedian. Watching his videos can instantly lift your mood, as his natural humor connects with millions of people in India.

In today's world, there is hardly any youth who does not know Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo is not just famous for football but is also considered an inspiration. He is one of the richest footballers and a billionaire. His garage is filled with luxury cars. 

Cristiano Ronaldo Birthday, Top 5 Luxury Cars Owned By Ronaldo Will Amaze You

Cristiano Ronaldo Birthday: Top 5 Luxury Cars Owned By Ronaldo Will Amaze To You

cristiano-ronaldo-birthday-top-5-luxury-cars-owned-by-ronaldo-will-amaze-to-you

IND vs ENG 1st ODI: The ODI series between India and England, the two powerhouse teams, will commence on February 6 with the first ODI at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur. As the two big guns prepare to take on each other, all eyes will be on the thrilling individual battle that can shape the series. 
This high-stakes encounter promises some intense face-offs between world-class players. With the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma at the top order of India and Jos Buttler and Joe Root for England, the series is going to be tough for bowlers and the stakes are high for the contest. Let's take a closer look at the key player battles to watch out for in IND vs ENG 1st ODI:
<h2>Key Player Battles to Watch Out For in IND vs ENG 1st ODI</h2>
<h3>1- Rohit Sharma vs Jofra Archer</h3>
Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has been struggling with form in recent times, particularly against pace. His vulnerability around the off-stump was exposed during the Test series against Australia, where he repeatedly fell to deliveries in that channel. The trend continued in his only Ranji Trophy appearance, where he failed in both innings against similar deliveries. Additionally, short-pitched bowling is emerging as another concern, making him a prime target for England’s pace spearhead, Jofra Archer.
Archer has already enjoyed success against Rohit in the T20 format, dismissing him three times in just 29 deliveries while conceding only 23 runs. This translates to an impressive strike rate of under 10 balls per wicket against the Indian captain. However, Rohit is known for his ability to adapt quickly to different conditions, and he has proven his resilience time and again. If he can counter Archer’s pace and movement, this battle could be a defining one in the first ODI.
<h3>2- Virat Kohli vs Brydon Carse/Gus Atkinson</h3>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202502/image_430x256_67a2cfa1cda02.jpg" alt="">
With only one of Brydon Carse or Gus Atkinson likely to feature in England’s playing XI, whoever gets the nod will have a crucial role to play against Virat Kohli. Both pacers possess the skill set needed to challenge the modern master of white-ball cricket, especially around his well-documented weakness outside the off-stump. During the Test series against Australia, Kohli repeatedly fell to deliveries in the fifth-stump channel, edging behind—a vulnerability that Atkinson and Carse have the accuracy to exploit.
Unlike express pacers like Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, who rely on raw speed, Atkinson and Carse focus more on control and precision. This makes them an even bigger threat to Kohli early in his innings, as they can keep him guessing with disciplined lines. While there aren’t many head-to-head statistics available for this contest, the impact of this battle could be significant in shaping the match’s outcome.
<h3>3- Jos Buttler vs Mohammed Shami</h3>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202502/image_430x256_67a2cfa7148b9.jpg" alt="">
Jos Buttler, one of England’s most recognized cricketers in India, has been in fine form recently. A well-rounded and technically sound batter, he has very few weaknesses that bowlers have successfully exploited. However, if there is one bowler who could trouble him, it is India’s seasoned pacer, Mohammed Shami.
Shami holds a statistical edge over Buttler in ODIs, having dismissed him five times in just 67 deliveries. While Buttler has managed to score 57 runs off those balls, Shami’s ability to generate movement and maintain a probing line makes him a serious threat. With his knack for producing sharp seam movement and late swing, Shami will look to unsettle Buttler early and continue his dominance in this intriguing contest.
4- Joe Root vs Axar Patel/Ravindra Jadeja
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202502/image_430x256_67a2cfa35fdae.jpg" alt="">
England’s right-handed batting maestro, Joe Root, has historically struggled against Jasprit Bumrah, particularly in Indian conditions. However, with Bumrah unavailable for this series, India may turn to spin as their primary weapon against him.
Despite being an exceptional player of spin, Root has shown vulnerability against left-arm off-spinners in the past. With no Bumrah to trouble him with pace and movement, India could look to exploit this weakness by deploying their spinners strategically. In the absence of their pace spearhead, setting a spin trap for Root might be India’s best bet to keep him in check.

The IND vs ENG 1st ODI will feature key battles, including Rohit vs Archer, Kohli vs Atkinson/Carse, Buttler vs Shami, and Root vs India’s spin trap. These matchups could shape the game’s outcome.

Crucial player battles—Rohit vs. Archer, Kohli vs. Atkinson/Carse, Buttler vs. Shami, and Root vs. spin—will define IND vs ENG 1st ODI.

Key Player Battles to Watch Out For in IND vs ENG 1st ODI Ft. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma

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IND vs ENG: After the T20 series concluded, as Mohammed Shami returned to the shortest format for India after a huge span of absence from the format, the World Cup 2023 hero is back playing a crucial hand in the ODI series against England, which will begin on the 6th of February. 
 
<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohammed_Shami">Mohammed Shami </a>has had a decent T20 return with 3 wickets across 2 games played and is considered one of the greatest ODI bowlers for India of all time. Especially in the absence of legendary pacer Bumrah, Shami is the most experienced pacer to lead the Indian pace attack. 
 
Ever since the 2023 Cricket World Cup, Shami will play his first one-day international match, supposedly at the Vidarbha Stadium tomorrow. Ahead of the vital clash, Mohammed Shami will enter the field with 195 wickets to his name in the longest limited-overs format. 
 
<h2 dir="ltr">A Glimpse into Mohammed Shami’s Career </h2>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_679066d186630.jpg" alt="" width="799" height="497">
A peek into Mohammed Shami's stunning career despite injuries (Image Credit: X)
Shami, the Indian fast bowler, began his journey from the T20 Trophy starring for Bengal back in 2010, where he had one of the best debuts ever. Shami played for several franchises in the IPL the Delhi Daredevils, Punjab Kings, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kolkata_Knight_Riders">Kolkata Knight Riders</a>, and Gujarat Titans, where he picked 127 career wickets in the franchise-level cricket tournament. 
 
Shami has played over three World Cups for India ever since his debut in 2013, as he has been India’s highest wicket-taker in the history of the CWC, playing over three editions in 2015, 2019 and 2023. With 450+ career wickets in the Men in Blue’s jersey, Shami, despite participation in several WTC and CWC games, could never be seen on the podium, though he won several individual records, the last being named the Player of the Tournament in the 2023 World Cup. 
 
<h2 dir="ltr">List of Bowlers fastest to reach 200 ODI wickets</h2>
 
Shami, who has appeared in 101 games and is only 5-wickets away from the remarkable 200 wicket mark, is like Australian modern-day legendary fast bowler <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitchell_Starc">Mitchell Starc</a>, who also has 200+ wickets and reached the milestone in just 102 matches and the 101 bowling innings. 
 
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Saqlain Mushtaq (Pakistan) – 104
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Trent Boult (New Zealand) – 107
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Brett Lee (Australia) – 112
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Allan Donald (South Africa) – 117
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Waqar Younis (Pakistan) – 118
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Shane Warne (Australia) – 125
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Makhaya Ntini (South Africa) – 126
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka) – 127
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Mitchell Johnson (Australia) – 129
</li>
</ul>
Other bowlers included the above-written, who also achieved the amazing 200 wickets in least time, with Shami threatening the top spot of Mitchell Starc since he will play his 102nd match in the ODI format and will also play his 101 innings in the white-ball match, as he is just 5-wickets away from being named the greatest ever in the game. 
 
<h2 dir="ltr">Fastest to 200 ODI wickets for India</h2>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202502/image_430x256_67a2c0b463d76.jpg" alt="" width="791" height="492">
Shami to surpass Agarkar for fastest 200 ODI Wickets for India (Image Credit: X)
The current Indian selection committee head,<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajit_Agarkar"> Ajit Agarkar</a>, picked the fastest 200 wickets for India as the veteran pacer achieved the feat in just 133 games and ended his career with 288 wickets in the format. 
 
So far, only 7 Indian bowlers have crossed the 200-wicket mark; Anil Kumble and Javagal Srinath have picked over 300+ ODI wickets, while Zaheer Khan, Agarkar, Harbhajan Singh, Kapil Dev, and Ravindra Jadeja have also picked over 200 wickets for the Men in Blue. 
 
<h3>Most Wickets for India in ODIs:</h3>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Anil Kumble – 334
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Javagal Srinath – 315
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Ajit Agarkar – 288
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Zaheer Khan – 269
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Harbhajan Singh – 265
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Kapil Dev – 253
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Harbhajan Singh – 220
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Venkatesh Prasad – 196
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Zaheer Khan – 195
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Irfan Pathan – 173
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Kuldeep Yadav – 172
</li>
</ul>

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/abhishek-sharma-turns-heads-with-iconic-milestone-surpasses-the-likes-of-his-mentor-yuvraj-singh-and-chris-gayle-to-be-the-second-cricketer-to-reach-this-feat-in-t20-internationals/">Abhishek Sharma's unique milestone in the Final T20 against England</a>

IND vs ENG: Indian veteran pacer Mohammed Shami nearing big record in ODIs ahead of the First ODI vs England

Mohammed Shami returns to the ODI format and will be eyeing a world record on his return in the first ODI against England.

IND vs ENG: Indian veteran pacer Mohammed Shami eyeing a World record in the 1st ODI against England

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In what promises to be an exciting and thrilling contest, Steve Smith-led Australia and Dhananjaya de Silva's Sri Lanka are set to lock horns versus each other in the second and the last match of the two-match Test-Series at the Galle International Stadium of Galle from the 6th of February onwards (Wednesday). 
In the opening encounter of the series, the Mighty Aussies secured a comfortable victory by an inning and 242 runs and this win helped them to take an unassailable lead of 1-0 in the two-match series. In such a situation, the Dhananjaya de Silva-led Sri Lanka would be looking to make a strong comeback by rectifying their mistakes in the second match. 
Ahead of this exciting contest, some thrilling player battles will be seen taking place between the star players of both teams which can go on to affect the outcome of the match. We will be taking a look at those player battles in this article
While the Kangaroos have already taken the lead in the series, the home side will have the chance to make a strong comeback by taking advantage of the home conditions on offer. It will be interesting to see which team finishes out on top in these player battles and which team succumbs to the pressure. 
<h2>Dinesh Chandimal versus Matthew Kuhnemann</h2>
Australia's left-arm orthodox spinner Matthew Kuhnemann failed to create an impact with the ball in the first ball, ending the match with 0 scalps to his name but he can trouble Sri Lankan batters on the spinning track of Galle. 
This will be especially very challenging for experienced wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Chandimal. He is a good player of spin, has a good record against them and also he knows the conditions of Galle quite well but the variations of Kuhnemann can trouble him in the second Test-Match.
<h2>Prabhat Jayasuriya versus Usman Khawaja</h2>
Australia's experienced opening batter Usman Khawaja is in great form with the bat and he also possesses' an excellent batting record on Subcontinental surfaces. While the Australian team management would be happy to see him performing, they might be a little worried in the 2nd match as experienced left-arm spinner Prabhat Jayasuriya can trouble him a lot. 
The 33-year-old has excellent variations up his sleeve and has knack of performing brilliantly in spin-friendly conditions and home conditions. He also got the better of the Southpaw in the opening encounter, dismissing him when he was batting on the score of 232 runs and Jayasuriya would be looking to get the better of Khawaja again in the final match of the series. 
<h2>Other notable player battles</h2>
Apart from the two above-mentioned player battles, the battle between elite Aussie off-spinner Nathan Lyon and promising Sri Lankan batter Kamindu Mendis will also be worth watching out for. 
Angelo Mathews will have to rely on his batting technique to tackle the speed and swing of Mitchell Starc and at the same time, Asitha Fernando has the ability to trouble the Australian duo of Josh Inglis and Marnus Labuschagne with his pace and bounce.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/shock-to-team-india-before-champions-trophy-jasprit-bumrah-ruled-out-of-entire-england-odi-series/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shock to Team India before Champions Trophy, Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of entire England ODI Series</a>

Mitchell Starc had Kamindu Mendis strangled down leg side, Sri Lanka vs Australia, 1st Test, Galle, 3rd day, January 31, 2025 | Image: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

Australia led by Steve Smith secured an easy victory in the opening match of the series by a margin of an innings and 242 runs and took an unassailable 1-0 lead in the series. In such a situation, the Sri Lankan team would like to make a strong comeback in the series by correcting its mistakes in the second match. In this match, some interesting player battles will be witnessed between the star players of both teams, which can surely affect the outcome of the match

Sri Lanka and Australia are set to lock horns versus each other in the 2nd and final Test match of the two match series and while the Kangaroos have already secured an unassailable 1-0 lead, the home side would not like to lower their morale as they would want to execute a perfect comeback in the series. Some exciting player battles are also going to take place and we will be taking a look at them